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Trust in Me #2
Reluctant Surrender
A tightly wound woman with a secret persona meets a prominent Dom who’s itching to unravel her.
When opportunity arises, renowned Dom Ethan White seizes the excuse and offers straitlaced Colin Reneaux an escape from her conventional life. Reluctant at first, she eventually agrees when offered a chance to explore her secret desires with BDSM tapas—small bites of erotic D/s scenarios featuring him as her captor, boss, interrogator, professor and Master. Each eye-opening and sex-fueled scene leaves her more breathless than the last.
Ethan’s surprised to find himself challenged by her strength. He quickly connects with her inner submissive, which draws them deeper into the D/s dynamic. Soon she becomes the woman he swore he’d never need and he, the Master she craves. Together they find the perfect balance… Until someone from Ethan’s past bent on revenge returns and he’s left with no choice. He must break Colin’s heart to free her from the vengeance that threatens her dream.
Unfortunately for him, she has other ideas. Like whose heart should break and who should ultimately surrender…
When opportunity arises, renowned Dom Ethan White seizes the excuse and offers straitlaced Colin Reneaux an escape from her conventional life. Reluctant at first, she eventually agrees when offered a chance to explore her secret desires with BDSM tapas—small bites of erotic D/s scenarios featuring him as her captor, boss, interrogator, professor and Master. Each eye-opening and sex-fueled scene leaves her more breathless than the last.
Ethan’s surprised to find himself challenged by her strength. He quickly connects with her inner submissive, which draws them deeper into the D/s dynamic. Soon she becomes the woman he swore he’d never need and he, the Master she craves. Together they find the perfect balance… Until someone from Ethan’s past bent on revenge returns and he’s left with no choice. He must break Colin’s heart to free her from the vengeance that threatens her dream.
Unfortunately for him, she has other ideas. Like whose heart should break and who should ultimately surrender…
260 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 1, 2012
14 people are currently reading
1181 people want to read
About the author
Riley Murphy
33 books406 followersRiley Murphy writes sexy, humorous, and emotional romance, happy ending guaranteed. An optimist, she believes life is awesome, people are complicated, but in a good way, and we should never stop learning. Riley currently has a whole mess of grandkids who are keeping her very busy! When Riley's not working she enjoys oil painting, designing furniture-who knew? And, traveling to see those grandbabies every chance she gets.
If Riley wasn't a writer, she'd be an international spy with top-level security so she could have a peek at Area 51 and decide for herself if those green guys are for real. Failing that she'd likely go with chicken sexer. Riley loves her characters and she hopes you do too. For more information about all of Riley's books and upcoming releases you can visit her at www.AuthorRileyMurphy.com
If Riley wasn't a writer, she'd be an international spy with top-level security so she could have a peek at Area 51 and decide for herself if those green guys are for real. Failing that she'd likely go with chicken sexer. Riley loves her characters and she hopes you do too. For more information about all of Riley's books and upcoming releases you can visit her at www.AuthorRileyMurphy.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
October 5, 2012
Review completed October 5, 2012
"I'm not afraid of your tears. Let me own them, even if it's just for a little while."
I will be straightforward here. Reluctant Surrender was hard to rate. Overall I liked it, it was good enough but I'm going to put it on my shelf books-everyone-loved-but-Baba.
After reading Reluctant Surrender I know for sure why I prefer to read Femdom stories. I'd like to make it very clear that my aversion for naked, crawling women who submit to their Master's every wish did not influence my rating for this book in any way.
It's been a long time since I've read a BDSM book and I'm glad that I read this particular story. Women who are waiting at home, completely naked in submissive pose, wanting to serve and please their Master, are a mystery to me. Being humiliated, addressed in a demeaning manner and ultimately enjoying all this is a rather baffling concept.
"Here's something you do know. My normal is as follows. I like to spank, suck, f*ck, cherish, challenge, discipline, correct, entice and control my woman. You may think that seems demeaning. I know you like that word, but I'm smart enough to know there's no honor in degrading a girl who thinks she's worthless. I make sure my woman knows her value because I don't do all these things to her, I do them for her. There's a vast difference between the two."
Agreed, there is a difference. However, I don't care about this power exchange and people who tell me that the sub has ALL the power and the Dom does everything for the sub. That said, don't get me wrong please, I am not judging any woman who feels comfortable with this concept, however, I'm stating a fact how this story affected me in a way…I don't know…this goes way deeper than I thought it would.
I am ashamed to say that my very progressive and democratic country (Switzerland) denied our female population the right to vote up until 1972 (by the by this is the year I was born). That said, I don't think that I'm a feminist, however, I believe in equality. Very much so. I want equal rights for everyone. And when I see strong women like Colin who like and ultimately enjoy to be treated like that, then a lot of things I believe in are vanishing into thin air. To give up the right of self-determination is unthinkable for me. This is my very personal hang-up and again, it has nothing to do with my rating. Hence, if BDSM thenI think I'm sure that I prefer it the other way round. Femdom. Definitely.
The Good
This may seem a bit odd but I really like the author's voice. The dialogue is witty and entertaining. For a BDSM story it was refreshingly funny at times.
"I don't want to quibble. So let's just say I'd rather die than sleep with you. Is that better?"
His eyes twinkled. "No, because with me you can do both."
Those words made her squirm. "You're nuts."
"I prefer resourceful. It's true. I've been known to deliver la petite mort in multiples."
"With multiple partners I'd wager," she grumbled and looked away.
"Sometimes."
Ethan is tall, dark, very yummy. Simply put, he is a great hunk. However, what I found so appealing about the story was the heroine, Colin; she is intelligent, curious, sassy and at times even a bit snarky and yet she is a bit insecure which made her even more accessible. Yeah, cute Colin gave as good as she got. Oh my, I really enjoyed to see little Miss Smarty Pants arguing with Ethan. Way to go, Colin! Then again, throughout the whole story I was never quite convinced if she would fit in Ethan's world. Yes, of course there is a HEA and you know what that means.
I was kinda surprised and at the same time very pleased to see that Ethan and Colin didn't hit the sack immediately. Unfortunately the hitting-the-sack part fell into a less than pleasant category. Yes, scroll down to The Bad
And then there was this oh so rare moment when Baba was on the edge of her seat and she said to herself….HALLELUJAH!! Well, maybe it was more of a yell. Ah, yes, before I forget it let me express my sincere gratitude to Ms. Murphy. Thank you so much for this huge and very special moment when Colin used her safeword. Whew. I can't remember when this happened for the last time. As it is, I have read quite a lot of BDSM books and if memory serves me right then Colin is the second heroine who made use of her safeword. How nice is that for a change?
The Bad
The worst of the worst was the endearment "baby girl". By the by, it's not related to any particular play scene. No matter how you look at it, it's a turn-off, creepy as hell and it evokes connotations of babies and toddlers--in fact, cute little girls. Every time I heard him saying baby girl I had to roll my eyes. No,…J.U.S.T. N.O.
Imagine, I have an alternative for you. How about little girl? Gee! I'm sorry, but I didn't like that either.
While I liked a few of the BDSM Tapas scenes, I was downright disappointed by their first "real" sex scene. I was waiting and waiting and then…this quick, pitiful f*ck…I mean what the h*ll? That's all? In fact, it didn't do anything for me, and it felt so incredibly anticlimactic. Well, it saddens me to say that I didn't appreciate any of the intercourse scenes. They were the opposite of inspiring--just too bland and boring. And have you ever heard of the term "sawing" in and out of a woman's p*ssy? Er…I found that mighty odd, to say the least.
What I find very intriguing is that even though the steam and eroticism were palpable, the lack of real intimacy and sensuality left me rather perplexed. But again, I think that achieving a nice steam level is so much easier than writing an all-encompassing intimacy that would have won me over in the end. But that's exactly what will make the difference between a good erotic story and one that is outstanding, simply sublime. A story that I'd devour in a heartbeat.
Interestingly I will be reading more by this author. As I mentioned before I like her voice and I know that she will publish an erotic contemp romance. And in case she'd decide to write a Femdom story I'd be so there to read it as well.
"I'm done with chasing after the queen and being distracted by the rest of the pieces on the board. I want to capture the king, that's my end game."
Baba's Sexilicious Coefficient for Reluctant Surrender
I'm talking about a range from 1 (very low) up to 5 (very high). Keep in mind that steam ratings are going to be just as subjective as book ratings. And my steam rating does not reflect in any way how well written the sex scenes are.
Chemistry 2
Sensuality 1
Steam 4
Eroticism 4
"I'm not afraid of your tears. Let me own them, even if it's just for a little while."
I will be straightforward here. Reluctant Surrender was hard to rate. Overall I liked it, it was good enough but I'm going to put it on my shelf books-everyone-loved-but-Baba.
After reading Reluctant Surrender I know for sure why I prefer to read Femdom stories. I'd like to make it very clear that my aversion for naked, crawling women who submit to their Master's every wish did not influence my rating for this book in any way.
It's been a long time since I've read a BDSM book and I'm glad that I read this particular story. Women who are waiting at home, completely naked in submissive pose, wanting to serve and please their Master, are a mystery to me. Being humiliated, addressed in a demeaning manner and ultimately enjoying all this is a rather baffling concept.
"Here's something you do know. My normal is as follows. I like to spank, suck, f*ck, cherish, challenge, discipline, correct, entice and control my woman. You may think that seems demeaning. I know you like that word, but I'm smart enough to know there's no honor in degrading a girl who thinks she's worthless. I make sure my woman knows her value because I don't do all these things to her, I do them for her. There's a vast difference between the two."
Agreed, there is a difference. However, I don't care about this power exchange and people who tell me that the sub has ALL the power and the Dom does everything for the sub. That said, don't get me wrong please, I am not judging any woman who feels comfortable with this concept, however, I'm stating a fact how this story affected me in a way…I don't know…this goes way deeper than I thought it would.
I am ashamed to say that my very progressive and democratic country (Switzerland) denied our female population the right to vote up until 1972 (by the by this is the year I was born). That said, I don't think that I'm a feminist, however, I believe in equality. Very much so. I want equal rights for everyone. And when I see strong women like Colin who like and ultimately enjoy to be treated like that, then a lot of things I believe in are vanishing into thin air. To give up the right of self-determination is unthinkable for me. This is my very personal hang-up and again, it has nothing to do with my rating. Hence, if BDSM then
The Good
This may seem a bit odd but I really like the author's voice. The dialogue is witty and entertaining. For a BDSM story it was refreshingly funny at times.
"I don't want to quibble. So let's just say I'd rather die than sleep with you. Is that better?"
His eyes twinkled. "No, because with me you can do both."
Those words made her squirm. "You're nuts."
"I prefer resourceful. It's true. I've been known to deliver la petite mort in multiples."
"With multiple partners I'd wager," she grumbled and looked away.
"Sometimes."
Ethan is tall, dark, very yummy. Simply put, he is a great hunk. However, what I found so appealing about the story was the heroine, Colin; she is intelligent, curious, sassy and at times even a bit snarky and yet she is a bit insecure which made her even more accessible. Yeah, cute Colin gave as good as she got. Oh my, I really enjoyed to see little Miss Smarty Pants arguing with Ethan. Way to go, Colin! Then again, throughout the whole story I was never quite convinced if she would fit in Ethan's world. Yes, of course there is a HEA and you know what that means.
I was kinda surprised and at the same time very pleased to see that Ethan and Colin didn't hit the sack immediately. Unfortunately the hitting-the-sack part fell into a less than pleasant category. Yes, scroll down to The Bad
And then there was this oh so rare moment when Baba was on the edge of her seat and she said to herself….HALLELUJAH!! Well, maybe it was more of a yell. Ah, yes, before I forget it let me express my sincere gratitude to Ms. Murphy. Thank you so much for this huge and very special moment when Colin used her safeword. Whew. I can't remember when this happened for the last time. As it is, I have read quite a lot of BDSM books and if memory serves me right then Colin is the second heroine who made use of her safeword. How nice is that for a change?
The Bad
The worst of the worst was the endearment "baby girl". By the by, it's not related to any particular play scene. No matter how you look at it, it's a turn-off, creepy as hell and it evokes connotations of babies and toddlers--in fact, cute little girls. Every time I heard him saying baby girl I had to roll my eyes. No,…J.U.S.T. N.O.
Imagine, I have an alternative for you. How about little girl? Gee! I'm sorry, but I didn't like that either.
While I liked a few of the BDSM Tapas scenes, I was downright disappointed by their first "real" sex scene. I was waiting and waiting and then…this quick, pitiful f*ck…I mean what the h*ll? That's all? In fact, it didn't do anything for me, and it felt so incredibly anticlimactic. Well, it saddens me to say that I didn't appreciate any of the intercourse scenes. They were the opposite of inspiring--just too bland and boring. And have you ever heard of the term "sawing" in and out of a woman's p*ssy? Er…I found that mighty odd, to say the least.
What I find very intriguing is that even though the steam and eroticism were palpable, the lack of real intimacy and sensuality left me rather perplexed. But again, I think that achieving a nice steam level is so much easier than writing an all-encompassing intimacy that would have won me over in the end. But that's exactly what will make the difference between a good erotic story and one that is outstanding, simply sublime. A story that I'd devour in a heartbeat.
Interestingly I will be reading more by this author. As I mentioned before I like her voice and I know that she will publish an erotic contemp romance. And in case she'd decide to write a Femdom story I'd be so there to read it as well.
"I'm done with chasing after the queen and being distracted by the rest of the pieces on the board. I want to capture the king, that's my end game."
Baba's Sexilicious Coefficient for Reluctant Surrender
I'm talking about a range from 1 (very low) up to 5 (very high). Keep in mind that steam ratings are going to be just as subjective as book ratings. And my steam rating does not reflect in any way how well written the sex scenes are.
Chemistry 2
Sensuality 1
Steam 4
Eroticism 4
September 3, 2012
This book…
This book!
I freaking loved it!
I loved everything about it.
With as much erotica as I read, it’s often hard to find something that doesn’t seem derivative of something else. Especially within the BDSM genre. And fortunately for me, different is exactly what I found with Reluctant Surrender.
Our heroine is Colin. She is snarky and strong and smart, but the author balances her wit beautifully with believable insecurity and a need she’s not sure she’s ready for. I adored her. She felt real to me. Nothing about her seemed contrived. She is loyal, hard-working, and determined. All of which are traits I relate to.
Our hero is Ethan. And fuck me, Ethan is just about the swooniest man I have read in a long time. But one of my pet-peeves about Erotica heroes is the way they always seem to be far too much of a good thing and not enough of another. Riley Murphy gives us a hero that is equal parts swoony and strong. He’s sensitive enough to admit that he needs Colin, and man enough to be strong when she needs him to be. It was refreshing to read.
BDSM isn’t my favorite erotica genre. It’s generally hit or miss for me. Often times, I find that I am unaffected by the dominant man because he (more often than not) comes across as an asshole. This never happened for me. In fact, this is one of the best explanations of power exchange that I have ever read. Ethan wants and needs her to submit, but at the same time, he’s explaining to her why.
She is never once treated as property.
And fuck me, that’s so damn important.
From Ethan:
“My normal is as follows. I like to spank, suck, fuck, cherish, challenge, discipline, correct, entice and control my woman. You may think that seems demeaning. I know you like that word, but I’m smart enough to know there’s no honor in degrading a girl who thinks she’s worthless. I make sure my woman knows her value because I don’t do all these things to her, I do them for her. There’s a vast difference between the two.”
GTFO with that perfection!
I couldn’t put this book down. And after a period of reading highly overrated and disappointing erotica, this came as such a welcome surprise.
Definitely recommend!
I hope that you will enjoy this as much as I did.
5 Stars!
This book!
I freaking loved it!
I loved everything about it.
With as much erotica as I read, it’s often hard to find something that doesn’t seem derivative of something else. Especially within the BDSM genre. And fortunately for me, different is exactly what I found with Reluctant Surrender.
Our heroine is Colin. She is snarky and strong and smart, but the author balances her wit beautifully with believable insecurity and a need she’s not sure she’s ready for. I adored her. She felt real to me. Nothing about her seemed contrived. She is loyal, hard-working, and determined. All of which are traits I relate to.
Our hero is Ethan. And fuck me, Ethan is just about the swooniest man I have read in a long time. But one of my pet-peeves about Erotica heroes is the way they always seem to be far too much of a good thing and not enough of another. Riley Murphy gives us a hero that is equal parts swoony and strong. He’s sensitive enough to admit that he needs Colin, and man enough to be strong when she needs him to be. It was refreshing to read.
BDSM isn’t my favorite erotica genre. It’s generally hit or miss for me. Often times, I find that I am unaffected by the dominant man because he (more often than not) comes across as an asshole. This never happened for me. In fact, this is one of the best explanations of power exchange that I have ever read. Ethan wants and needs her to submit, but at the same time, he’s explaining to her why.
She is never once treated as property.
And fuck me, that’s so damn important.
From Ethan:
“My normal is as follows. I like to spank, suck, fuck, cherish, challenge, discipline, correct, entice and control my woman. You may think that seems demeaning. I know you like that word, but I’m smart enough to know there’s no honor in degrading a girl who thinks she’s worthless. I make sure my woman knows her value because I don’t do all these things to her, I do them for her. There’s a vast difference between the two.”
GTFO with that perfection!
I couldn’t put this book down. And after a period of reading highly overrated and disappointing erotica, this came as such a welcome surprise.
Definitely recommend!
I hope that you will enjoy this as much as I did.
5 Stars!
September 11, 2012
Ok... so I'm stretching and giving this book 3 stars. I figured I can't give it 2 because I stayed up late the last two nights reading it, but I can't tell if it's because I really was into it, or if I was just powering through it to get it done with. LOL
*sigh*
I really actually like bdsm books and this one is actually good, I just couldn't get into it. I didn't feel like the chemistry between the two characters was believable at all and they both actually rubbed me the wrong way for most of this book.
I get the idea of bdsm and this book does a really good job of explaining the draw of it for people. but it all felt very ... clinical to me. Quite often throughout this book, I found myself skimming, and that's a bad sign. That means I'm not riveted by the story or the characters.
I also couldn't keep my hackles from rising a couple of times when Ethan would talk to Colin.
"Colin be a good girl and go do your nails. I'll call you when dinners ready."
As my BFF said... which nail... this one??
At times it felt very fatherly for me, and I get the basis of that for these characters. I really do, but it just didn't work for me.
When we first meet Colin... yes, Colin is a girl - this is not M/M (even though I had to catch myself going that's a dude's name!) She's this tightly wound woman who has a few secrets. The attraction between her and a well known Dom named Ethan White is instant... or so I'm told. I just didn't feel the chemistry as I said earlier.
Something happens that forces Colin to participate in a 10 day BDSM 'tapas' "small bites of erotic D/s scenarios with Ethan leading her way. Ethan senses the challenge in her, quite often referring to her sassy or bratty. She's a strong character with an idea that she will participate in this 10 day experience and move on. Of course that doesn't quite happen.
Of course Ethan's past comes back to haunt him and put a damper on his and her happiness.
Overall the book was well written and the story was pretty good. I don't even know who to recommend this to, the sexy stuff was ok for me, and while I liked Ethan, I didn't love him. Apparently I don't take well to being given orders.
I will say that there was one passage in this book I highlighted because I loved it.
"How do you make something so outrageous seem normal?"
He let go of her neck and brought his hand to the top of her chest. It was a kind of hold. Pressure but no force. "Who defines normal? You? Society? Your Parents? Your neighbors? Who?
"I-" She frowned because now that she thought about it she had no answer for him. "I don't know."
He pressed his jaw against her temple. "Here's something you do know. My normal is as follows. I like to spank, suck, fuck, cherish, challenge, discipline, correct, entice and control my woman. You may think that seems demeaning. I know you like that word, but I'm smart enough to know there's no honor in degrading a girl who thinks she's worthless. I make sure my woman knows her value because I don't do all these things to her, I do them for her. There's a vast difference between the two."
That right there is something I had to reread to enjoy a second time.
This review can be found on my blog, Fic Fare
*sigh*
I really actually like bdsm books and this one is actually good, I just couldn't get into it. I didn't feel like the chemistry between the two characters was believable at all and they both actually rubbed me the wrong way for most of this book.
I get the idea of bdsm and this book does a really good job of explaining the draw of it for people. but it all felt very ... clinical to me. Quite often throughout this book, I found myself skimming, and that's a bad sign. That means I'm not riveted by the story or the characters.
I also couldn't keep my hackles from rising a couple of times when Ethan would talk to Colin.
"Colin be a good girl and go do your nails. I'll call you when dinners ready."
As my BFF said... which nail... this one??
At times it felt very fatherly for me, and I get the basis of that for these characters. I really do, but it just didn't work for me.
When we first meet Colin... yes, Colin is a girl - this is not M/M (even though I had to catch myself going that's a dude's name!) She's this tightly wound woman who has a few secrets. The attraction between her and a well known Dom named Ethan White is instant... or so I'm told. I just didn't feel the chemistry as I said earlier.
Something happens that forces Colin to participate in a 10 day BDSM 'tapas' "small bites of erotic D/s scenarios with Ethan leading her way. Ethan senses the challenge in her, quite often referring to her sassy or bratty. She's a strong character with an idea that she will participate in this 10 day experience and move on. Of course that doesn't quite happen.
Of course Ethan's past comes back to haunt him and put a damper on his and her happiness.
Overall the book was well written and the story was pretty good. I don't even know who to recommend this to, the sexy stuff was ok for me, and while I liked Ethan, I didn't love him. Apparently I don't take well to being given orders.
I will say that there was one passage in this book I highlighted because I loved it.
"How do you make something so outrageous seem normal?"
He let go of her neck and brought his hand to the top of her chest. It was a kind of hold. Pressure but no force. "Who defines normal? You? Society? Your Parents? Your neighbors? Who?
"I-" She frowned because now that she thought about it she had no answer for him. "I don't know."
He pressed his jaw against her temple. "Here's something you do know. My normal is as follows. I like to spank, suck, fuck, cherish, challenge, discipline, correct, entice and control my woman. You may think that seems demeaning. I know you like that word, but I'm smart enough to know there's no honor in degrading a girl who thinks she's worthless. I make sure my woman knows her value because I don't do all these things to her, I do them for her. There's a vast difference between the two."
That right there is something I had to reread to enjoy a second time.
This review can be found on my blog, Fic Fare
September 27, 2012
Is it possible to convert a vanilla woman into a willing submissive? This is a question many debate. In RELUCTANT SURRENDER, this question is put to the test. Will Colin Reneaux take a walk on the dark side with Dom Ethan White and want to stay with him?
Colin is a highly sought after photographer who blogs under the name of Riling Rita. Prim and proper Colin comes across as a boring wallflower whose only kink would be if she slept wrong and woke up with a sore neck. Dom Ethan is determined to show her how the other side lives not only because his business needs a good review from Riling Rita, but because there is something about Colin that pulls him.
Ethan suffers from Dom ennui. His last submissive, Jade, was a mentally unstable woman who drained him to the point he no longer enjoys dominating. Colin is the first person in a long time to wake him out of his zombie-like state. Ethan knows something that Colin does not know. He's read all of her blog posts and he sees her submissive side waiting to be discovered. His plan to help Colin become his submissive while earning a rave review for his BDSM hotel is diabolical.
Ethan trains her in D/s with an easy non-threatening manner. Although Colin resists at first, she quickly falls in line. Ethan's reputation as The Hypnotist is warranted. What really pushes this story over the top and into happy smexy land is the BDSM tapas Ethan offers to Colin. Yes, this is correct - BDSM tapas. This is where Ethan offers little tastes of different role-playing scenes for Colin to sample. Where do I go to find some BDSM tapas? Two of my favourite kinks were covered in here – medical and interrogation. Both were sensually hawt.
Ms. Riley creates some very delicious BDSM scenes perfect for those who want to get their feet wet. It's hot, kinky and with the right Dom, out of this world! Ethan is definitely the right Dom. His masterful control and sexy dialogue will melt most submissives. Inexperienced Colin is no match for his careful strategy. Watching Colin submit is a delightful thing. Colin's wary attitude and her caution are just right and expected from someone trying the lifestyle out. Ethan systemically takes out each of her walls and helps her discover what she really wants.
This kinky story is recommended to both new and experienced BDSM lovers. It's filled with sexy role-playing delight.
July 28, 2012
This was about the best dang BDSM book I've ever read!Rarely does a book hit all my happy switches. It was funny, emotional and super sexy and when it was over, I sighed out loud. A satisfying ending, but at the same time, I felt a little wistful it was over. I can't wait until a few months go by so I can re-discover these characters, and even better, judging by the ending, I'm thinking sequel!
Things I liked: When Colin and Ethan meet, it's off the charts chemistry right from the word go. I'm a sucker for a book that grabs me from the first page. Even better, as things progressed between them and (panty-melting sexy) Ethan opens Colins eyes to the world of BDSM, we get to sort of walk through it with her and believe me, there is no better person to walk through it with, because Colin is laugh out loud hilarious. If you love spunky female protaganists like Stephanie Plum you will love her as much as I do. I would enjoy this character in any setting.
Things I LOVED: Tapas. I don't want to spoil it, but I think it's okay to say that, in order to help Ethan decide what types of scenes Colin might enjoy, he takes her on a journey through about half dozen mini-scenes that he calls tapas. I won't say what they are, but MAN, get out a fan! Totally original, fun and sooooo steamy. Then, let's talk about the bj scene O_0 Yeah, I said it. And it's the best damn bj scene I've ever read. If bj's were cars and I read that scene, I'd be signing on the dotted line and driving that puppy home RIGHT NOW! It was fog the mirrors hot, y'all. And last but not least, this story was also really emotional. There was a real connection between the characters but they also each grew as people over the course of the book, making the HEA extremely satisfying. All in all, if you're in the market for visceral, authentic-feeling BDSM, this is the one to get. It's definitely on my keeper shelf.
Things I liked: When Colin and Ethan meet, it's off the charts chemistry right from the word go. I'm a sucker for a book that grabs me from the first page. Even better, as things progressed between them and (panty-melting sexy) Ethan opens Colins eyes to the world of BDSM, we get to sort of walk through it with her and believe me, there is no better person to walk through it with, because Colin is laugh out loud hilarious. If you love spunky female protaganists like Stephanie Plum you will love her as much as I do. I would enjoy this character in any setting.
Things I LOVED: Tapas. I don't want to spoil it, but I think it's okay to say that, in order to help Ethan decide what types of scenes Colin might enjoy, he takes her on a journey through about half dozen mini-scenes that he calls tapas. I won't say what they are, but MAN, get out a fan! Totally original, fun and sooooo steamy. Then, let's talk about the bj scene O_0 Yeah, I said it. And it's the best damn bj scene I've ever read. If bj's were cars and I read that scene, I'd be signing on the dotted line and driving that puppy home RIGHT NOW! It was fog the mirrors hot, y'all. And last but not least, this story was also really emotional. There was a real connection between the characters but they also each grew as people over the course of the book, making the HEA extremely satisfying. All in all, if you're in the market for visceral, authentic-feeling BDSM, this is the one to get. It's definitely on my keeper shelf.
September 3, 2012
I don't dole out 5 star reviews very lightly so y'all know I'm serious about it when I do. THIS BOOK, y'all, THIS BOOK IS FANTASTIC!
The BDSM genre is not always a slam dunk for me, too many "wannabes" and too many "trying to hards" and not enough "just rights" well, this book is just right in all the important ways.
Riley Murphy created two very realistic characters in Colin and Ethan. Colin is a funny, smart, sassy woman who meets her match in Ethan, who is equally funny and smart, he is also domineering without being a jerk. The way he approaches Colin and how he wants to help her explore and uncover some secret and not-so-secret desires was extremely attractive. He made it about HER and wanting to help her unlock things she had hidden away and refused to acknowledge because of how she feared people would judge her. Colin's complete understanding of the BDSM scene and his confidence in himself and his proclivities allowed her to feel safe, free and encouraged her to be who she really is. Also, he never treated her as anything but a woman to be loved and cherished. Any "scenes" they did together were just scenes and once they were over, always brought back to that place of feeling safe and loved.
I feel like I'm rambling so I'll wrap it up. Please give this book a shot, it is smart, hot, funny and just a great read.
The BDSM genre is not always a slam dunk for me, too many "wannabes" and too many "trying to hards" and not enough "just rights" well, this book is just right in all the important ways.
Riley Murphy created two very realistic characters in Colin and Ethan. Colin is a funny, smart, sassy woman who meets her match in Ethan, who is equally funny and smart, he is also domineering without being a jerk. The way he approaches Colin and how he wants to help her explore and uncover some secret and not-so-secret desires was extremely attractive. He made it about HER and wanting to help her unlock things she had hidden away and refused to acknowledge because of how she feared people would judge her. Colin's complete understanding of the BDSM scene and his confidence in himself and his proclivities allowed her to feel safe, free and encouraged her to be who she really is. Also, he never treated her as anything but a woman to be loved and cherished. Any "scenes" they did together were just scenes and once they were over, always brought back to that place of feeling safe and loved.
I feel like I'm rambling so I'll wrap it up. Please give this book a shot, it is smart, hot, funny and just a great read.
September 7, 2012
This story was just WOW!!
I've read a couple of BDSM books and nothing compares to this one. I was totally engrossed and lost myself in this story for hours.
Ethan the prominent Dom and Colin the straitlaced but secretive woman are a match made in heaven.
The chemistry between the two was just right. His demeanor and her stubbornness made it that much better. Ethan was very thoughtful and understanding but forceful when the situation required it.
Overall this was just a great book from start to finish.
I've read a couple of BDSM books and nothing compares to this one. I was totally engrossed and lost myself in this story for hours.
Ethan the prominent Dom and Colin the straitlaced but secretive woman are a match made in heaven.
The chemistry between the two was just right. His demeanor and her stubbornness made it that much better. Ethan was very thoughtful and understanding but forceful when the situation required it.
Overall this was just a great book from start to finish.
November 6, 2012
A really great BDSM book that I ripped through in a matter of hours. Loved it!
January 29, 2015
4.5 Stars —
Reluctant Surrender
is an erotic romance by Riley Murphy.
Straight-laced Colin Reneaux is a reputable photographer who has handled events for some of New England’s most prominent citizens. But behind closed doors she secretly blogs as Riling Rita—a fictitious persona—her personal account of the events she attends and the people she meets. Having earned the collective support of a fair number of people in the BDSM community after the collaring ceremony she blogged about at Christmas, the owners of The Carlyn, looking for some good publicity for their preopening, hire her to photograph a wedding/collaring ceremony being held at their resort. But the day of the event, things go terribly wrong when a full-out brawl ensues and her images are stolen then posted on YouTube. Her clients, seeing a fortuitous opportunity at their disposal, present her with a choice … For not having ensured her images were properly secured, she either agrees to stay at the resort for ten days and ‘glowingly’ blog an in-depth piece on The Carlyn, or they sue her for breach of contract.
Ethan White, co-owner of The Carlyn, is a renowned Dominant whom others refer to as The Hypnotist—the Dom with special powers around women. He’s a Master, both figuratively and literally, who is purported to be able to make a woman climax with words alone. As a Dom, he’s felt uninspired—burnt out—for quite some time. He’s grown tired of having his pick of naked, willing women. In truth, his instinct to totally possess a woman had all but vanished … until he meets Colin Reneaux. Ethan offers to give Colin a crash course in basic BDSM principles and some practical experiences to relay to her readers if she chooses to stay at The Carlyn with him. Reluctant at first, she eventually agrees, because the more she reads about the different facets and philosophies behind the BDSM lifestyle, the more convinced she is that she has a few submissive qualities herself. Surprised to find himself challenged by her strength, Ethan quickly connects with Colin’s inner submissive drawing them deeper into the D/s dynamic. Together, they find the perfect balance as she becomes the woman he swore he’d never need, and he, the Master she craves … until someone from his past returns. Someone bent on revenge.
Reluctant Surrender is a well-written, erotic story about a woman exploring her secret D/s fantasies. Colin is genuine and smart. She has an outward confidence and endearing sense of humor. She becomes a jittery, nervous mess around Ethan, and has a tendency to babble, but overall, she’s a very likeable character. Ethan was a wonderful Dom. He was always calm, controlled, and non-threatening in his approach with Colin. He consistently displayed understanding and patience with her even when she was being impulsive and stubborn. She fired all of his primal instincts to dominate, and together they had intense chemistry. Since role play/playacting is a facet of BDSM that does nothing for me, Ethan’s BDSM tapas—sampling of scenes that Colin might encounter in a club—were just meh in my opinion. In all fairness however, many other readers seemed to have really enjoyed them. Despite my issues with the tapas, this was a very enjoyable read overall. Reluctant Surrender is a sexy, erotic and emotional story of self-discovery, desire, sacrifice, and love. It contains light to moderate BDSM and a satisfying HEA.
Content: graphic language, explicit sex, oral, anal play, toys, bondage, spanking, impact play, discipline, and exhibitionism.
I also recommend:
Straight-laced Colin Reneaux is a reputable photographer who has handled events for some of New England’s most prominent citizens. But behind closed doors she secretly blogs as Riling Rita—a fictitious persona—her personal account of the events she attends and the people she meets. Having earned the collective support of a fair number of people in the BDSM community after the collaring ceremony she blogged about at Christmas, the owners of The Carlyn, looking for some good publicity for their preopening, hire her to photograph a wedding/collaring ceremony being held at their resort. But the day of the event, things go terribly wrong when a full-out brawl ensues and her images are stolen then posted on YouTube. Her clients, seeing a fortuitous opportunity at their disposal, present her with a choice … For not having ensured her images were properly secured, she either agrees to stay at the resort for ten days and ‘glowingly’ blog an in-depth piece on The Carlyn, or they sue her for breach of contract.
Ethan White, co-owner of The Carlyn, is a renowned Dominant whom others refer to as The Hypnotist—the Dom with special powers around women. He’s a Master, both figuratively and literally, who is purported to be able to make a woman climax with words alone. As a Dom, he’s felt uninspired—burnt out—for quite some time. He’s grown tired of having his pick of naked, willing women. In truth, his instinct to totally possess a woman had all but vanished … until he meets Colin Reneaux. Ethan offers to give Colin a crash course in basic BDSM principles and some practical experiences to relay to her readers if she chooses to stay at The Carlyn with him. Reluctant at first, she eventually agrees, because the more she reads about the different facets and philosophies behind the BDSM lifestyle, the more convinced she is that she has a few submissive qualities herself. Surprised to find himself challenged by her strength, Ethan quickly connects with Colin’s inner submissive drawing them deeper into the D/s dynamic. Together, they find the perfect balance as she becomes the woman he swore he’d never need, and he, the Master she craves … until someone from his past returns. Someone bent on revenge.
Reluctant Surrender is a well-written, erotic story about a woman exploring her secret D/s fantasies. Colin is genuine and smart. She has an outward confidence and endearing sense of humor. She becomes a jittery, nervous mess around Ethan, and has a tendency to babble, but overall, she’s a very likeable character. Ethan was a wonderful Dom. He was always calm, controlled, and non-threatening in his approach with Colin. He consistently displayed understanding and patience with her even when she was being impulsive and stubborn. She fired all of his primal instincts to dominate, and together they had intense chemistry. Since role play/playacting is a facet of BDSM that does nothing for me, Ethan’s BDSM tapas—sampling of scenes that Colin might encounter in a club—were just meh in my opinion. In all fairness however, many other readers seemed to have really enjoyed them. Despite my issues with the tapas, this was a very enjoyable read overall. Reluctant Surrender is a sexy, erotic and emotional story of self-discovery, desire, sacrifice, and love. It contains light to moderate BDSM and a satisfying HEA.
Content: graphic language, explicit sex, oral, anal play, toys, bondage, spanking, impact play, discipline, and exhibitionism.
I also recommend:
April 10, 2013
Shey's review posted on Guilty Pleasures Book Reviews
4.5 Stars
Having read many BDSM books over the past several years I think I have become somewhat cynical in the area mainly because the theme is pretty much the same. I have to say though I was extremely pleased with Riley Murphy’s Reluctant Surrender. I loved her writing style she added that I had not seen in a lot of these books a Dom willing to take the time and be patient with the submissive explain and show how things were to be and what he wanted from the submissive in his life. Each scene was played out like an appetizer before ever getting to the “main course”. I found that rather refreshing as well as hot and exciting as a reader.
Ethan White could tell that under Colin Reneaux vanilla exterior shell was submissive waiting to be released. Colin had been fascinated about the BDSM world for some time but to her it was only that a curiosity. Until she meet Ethan.
I loved how fun and bratty Colin could be even though it was just her personality she wasn’t willing to give up that independent side of herself. Ethan wanted a true submissive he loved the challenge that Colin gave him and the strength that she had to be who she was. Ethan referred to as an “Alpha submissive” which made her a treasure to him as a Dom. He was so patient with her even though it went against his nature as a dominate. I loved that about him but when his patience finally ran out and his true Dominate came out Ethan White was one HOT DOM! Holy Hell I wanted to kneel at his feet!
Even though sometimes it takes a psycho to open your eyes into taking the chance of a life time in the end the surrender is worth it.
You cannot go wrong with this book. Ethan and Colin are wonderful together the secondary characters are great and I can’t wait for their stories now. Ms. Murphy has weaved a spell with this book and I am totally sucked into it wanting more and can’t wait to get my hands on more of her work. If you haven’t read anything of hers yet, I highly recommend her!
Review copy provided for an honest review.
4.5 Stars
Having read many BDSM books over the past several years I think I have become somewhat cynical in the area mainly because the theme is pretty much the same. I have to say though I was extremely pleased with Riley Murphy’s Reluctant Surrender. I loved her writing style she added that I had not seen in a lot of these books a Dom willing to take the time and be patient with the submissive explain and show how things were to be and what he wanted from the submissive in his life. Each scene was played out like an appetizer before ever getting to the “main course”. I found that rather refreshing as well as hot and exciting as a reader.
Ethan White could tell that under Colin Reneaux vanilla exterior shell was submissive waiting to be released. Colin had been fascinated about the BDSM world for some time but to her it was only that a curiosity. Until she meet Ethan.
I loved how fun and bratty Colin could be even though it was just her personality she wasn’t willing to give up that independent side of herself. Ethan wanted a true submissive he loved the challenge that Colin gave him and the strength that she had to be who she was. Ethan referred to as an “Alpha submissive” which made her a treasure to him as a Dom. He was so patient with her even though it went against his nature as a dominate. I loved that about him but when his patience finally ran out and his true Dominate came out Ethan White was one HOT DOM! Holy Hell I wanted to kneel at his feet!
Even though sometimes it takes a psycho to open your eyes into taking the chance of a life time in the end the surrender is worth it.
You cannot go wrong with this book. Ethan and Colin are wonderful together the secondary characters are great and I can’t wait for their stories now. Ms. Murphy has weaved a spell with this book and I am totally sucked into it wanting more and can’t wait to get my hands on more of her work. If you haven’t read anything of hers yet, I highly recommend her!
Review copy provided for an honest review.
October 21, 2012
Ethan <3 The Hypnotist, SO FUCKING HOT!!!
Collin :D Strong and sweet
I really enjoyed the book, especially the Tapas scenes... They were swoon
The story picks up slowly slowly and fuck is it oh so ever hot ;)
“Are you going to tell me, Colin? Or do I have to slide my hand under your skirt and dig into your panties to find the answer?” *melts*
“Chess again?”
“Yes,” he drew out slowly. “You need to improve your game.”
Boy did she ever. Here she was in nothing but a skimpy butt-cleaving thong and she still couldn’t get laid.
“Is that a gun between your legs or are you just happy to see me?”- LOL
Collin :D Strong and sweet
I really enjoyed the book, especially the Tapas scenes... They were swoon
The story picks up slowly slowly and fuck is it oh so ever hot ;)
“Are you going to tell me, Colin? Or do I have to slide my hand under your skirt and dig into your panties to find the answer?” *melts*
“Chess again?”
“Yes,” he drew out slowly. “You need to improve your game.”
Boy did she ever. Here she was in nothing but a skimpy butt-cleaving thong and she still couldn’t get laid.
“Is that a gun between your legs or are you just happy to see me?”- LOL
October 29, 2012
I was so blown away by this book that I went right out an read Reclaimed Surrender. Riley Murphy does an amazing job of writing about two strong personalities. Her heros are super alpha males and her heroines are strong, independent women. I absolutely loved Colin's self discovery and could really identify with quite a few of her sentiments. She was such a believable character that reading this book felt like getting to know a new friend. I was instantly swept away and found it incredibly difficult to put the book down.
This was an amazing story by an author that I'm hoping to read more from. I would highly recommend this book!
This was an amazing story by an author that I'm hoping to read more from. I would highly recommend this book!
October 10, 2012
Great book! Ethan was a to-die-for Dom and Colin was really funny. Loved the scenes toward the end w/her two friends. Speaking of them, are they getting their own books? I can only hope...
July 14, 2014
If you liked 50 Shades of Grey, you will love Reluctant Surrender. From my perspective, the only thing 50 Shades has over Reluctant Surrender is the hype. On every other count, Reluctant Surrender wins. It has better character development, a more believable plot line, and far more titillating sex scenes.
The stage for Reluctant Surrender is set before the story even begins. Colin Reneaux is stubborn, difficult, challenging, and curious. Ethan White is patient, understanding, insightful, and smoking hot. Together, they're a combustible mix.
I loved how we start out with Colin and Ethan as business associates, essentially. Colin has been hired to do a blog piece on collaring ceremony at Ethan and his partners new, soon to be opened BDSM resort. Due to the nature of the proceedings, Colin has to sign a confidentiality agreement, and everything goes downhill for her (or maybe it really starts looking up all things considered) there. This interlude perfectly sets the tone for the whole story. It's clear that Colin will not go quietly into the dungeon even though she kind of desperately wants to.
Ethan is controlling and not controlling all at the same time. He has ground rules that are not to be broken under any circumstances, but he's flexible about them with Colin, maybe because she's new to the BDSM scene or maybe because he's always flexible with a new sub, and that feels realistic to me. There is not a doubt in my mind that although she is naturally submissive, Colin would have bolted if Ethan had attempted to be as heavy handed with her as Christian Grey is with Anastasia in the beginning.
I had some trouble wrapping my mind around the idea that Colin is female, a lot of trouble actually. In my mind Colin is a guy, always. In this story it is made very clear early on that Colin is female, but while reading conversations between Ethan and Colin I continued to have trouble remembering that it was a man and woman talking, and not two men. I also had an issue with Ethan treating Colin like a child, which happens every time he even slightly goes into Dom mode, but that is largely because I myself have no desire to be treated like a child. I'm sure that floats some people's boats. Neither of these issues were significant enough to affect my rating however (not even combined), and I will definitely be reading more from Riley Murphy. - Katie
The stage for Reluctant Surrender is set before the story even begins. Colin Reneaux is stubborn, difficult, challenging, and curious. Ethan White is patient, understanding, insightful, and smoking hot. Together, they're a combustible mix.
I loved how we start out with Colin and Ethan as business associates, essentially. Colin has been hired to do a blog piece on collaring ceremony at Ethan and his partners new, soon to be opened BDSM resort. Due to the nature of the proceedings, Colin has to sign a confidentiality agreement, and everything goes downhill for her (or maybe it really starts looking up all things considered) there. This interlude perfectly sets the tone for the whole story. It's clear that Colin will not go quietly into the dungeon even though she kind of desperately wants to.
Ethan is controlling and not controlling all at the same time. He has ground rules that are not to be broken under any circumstances, but he's flexible about them with Colin, maybe because she's new to the BDSM scene or maybe because he's always flexible with a new sub, and that feels realistic to me. There is not a doubt in my mind that although she is naturally submissive, Colin would have bolted if Ethan had attempted to be as heavy handed with her as Christian Grey is with Anastasia in the beginning.
I had some trouble wrapping my mind around the idea that Colin is female, a lot of trouble actually. In my mind Colin is a guy, always. In this story it is made very clear early on that Colin is female, but while reading conversations between Ethan and Colin I continued to have trouble remembering that it was a man and woman talking, and not two men. I also had an issue with Ethan treating Colin like a child, which happens every time he even slightly goes into Dom mode, but that is largely because I myself have no desire to be treated like a child. I'm sure that floats some people's boats. Neither of these issues were significant enough to affect my rating however (not even combined), and I will definitely be reading more from Riley Murphy. - Katie
October 7, 2013
Awesome - awesome, awesome, awesome, awesome and a little bit more awesome! It is hard to pinpoint exactly what I loved about this story, but I do know I was over half way through and went to reflect on a sex scene when I realized actual sex had not yet occurred - I was so wrapped up in the story, I didn't even notice or miss it!
So we have Ethan, Dom extraordinaire, having an immediate attraction to blogger Colin. Now I have to say, I was turned around by her name, and everytime it was used fully, I had to remind myself it was a girl not a boy. Collie worked, Colin did not.
Colin is very uptight and upright and completely icy and vanilla, except, around Ethan. This and that occur, and they end up having to spend 10 days together so she can give a good blog review because her initial attempt was kiboshed by a brawl.
This is the story, the ten days of them together, exploring what is between them and getting to know each other and themselves. I actually laughed out loud a few times, and snickered as well, there is insight by each character into themselves but they are quite self-aware and talk to each other. Of course, there has to be an arc because each is holding a bit back and they need to be shaken out of the isolated world they are in, and in this case, it is H, as in Ethan, who needs the awareness and the push, unlike most stories where it is the h. That was the crying portion of the story, but quickly overtaken by Collie's buddy Jo and her antics to lighten the mood
The ending was the clincher for the string of awesome's that start the review, the simple 'now you've done it' is breathtaking in it's simplicity and honesty, and awesome!
So we have Ethan, Dom extraordinaire, having an immediate attraction to blogger Colin. Now I have to say, I was turned around by her name, and everytime it was used fully, I had to remind myself it was a girl not a boy. Collie worked, Colin did not.
Colin is very uptight and upright and completely icy and vanilla, except, around Ethan. This and that occur, and they end up having to spend 10 days together so she can give a good blog review because her initial attempt was kiboshed by a brawl.
This is the story, the ten days of them together, exploring what is between them and getting to know each other and themselves. I actually laughed out loud a few times, and snickered as well, there is insight by each character into themselves but they are quite self-aware and talk to each other. Of course, there has to be an arc because each is holding a bit back and they need to be shaken out of the isolated world they are in, and in this case, it is H, as in Ethan, who needs the awareness and the push, unlike most stories where it is the h. That was the crying portion of the story, but quickly overtaken by Collie's buddy Jo and her antics to lighten the mood
The ending was the clincher for the string of awesome's that start the review, the simple 'now you've done it' is breathtaking in it's simplicity and honesty, and awesome!
August 20, 2014
Wow! What a ride!
How does a Dom cope when he seems to have lost his way? When he's spent a year tied to a sub to whom it no longer has a connection? A sub who he's had to blacklist for her own safety.
Ethan (The Hypnotist) has had a terrible year. He's in a rut and just wants to get his new venture with his two friends off the ground.
This leads him to meeting the lady his friends have named The Ice Queen, Colin. She's a straight-laced, business savvy, career driven mouse with a stick up her ar*e. She has her own life mapped out and it doesn't involve men. Why would she want to chance getting her heart shattered yet again?
But when they are forced together in a locked room, sparks fly but they're interrupted. Then Ethan is put in the position of saving his business and also getting the chance to show Colin what his life as a Dom is like and what he believes she's hiding within herself - 10 days locked away together.
However, who would have thought that once they started on this journey, things wouldn't go quite according to plan?!
I loved Ethan and really wanted him to find a sub that he could connect with but just when it looks like things are going to work out, he sacrifices his own happiness to save the one woman he wants.
This is book #2 in the Trust In Me series and just like book #1, it's not failed to deliver. The characters are well thought out (as is the story) and it drew me in instantly. Delve in for a quick, enjoyable read.
I also liked Ethan's friends, Ted and David, and hope they each have a story of their own.
I look forward to reading book #3.
How does a Dom cope when he seems to have lost his way? When he's spent a year tied to a sub to whom it no longer has a connection? A sub who he's had to blacklist for her own safety.
Ethan (The Hypnotist) has had a terrible year. He's in a rut and just wants to get his new venture with his two friends off the ground.
This leads him to meeting the lady his friends have named The Ice Queen, Colin. She's a straight-laced, business savvy, career driven mouse with a stick up her ar*e. She has her own life mapped out and it doesn't involve men. Why would she want to chance getting her heart shattered yet again?
But when they are forced together in a locked room, sparks fly but they're interrupted. Then Ethan is put in the position of saving his business and also getting the chance to show Colin what his life as a Dom is like and what he believes she's hiding within herself - 10 days locked away together.
However, who would have thought that once they started on this journey, things wouldn't go quite according to plan?!
I loved Ethan and really wanted him to find a sub that he could connect with but just when it looks like things are going to work out, he sacrifices his own happiness to save the one woman he wants.
This is book #2 in the Trust In Me series and just like book #1, it's not failed to deliver. The characters are well thought out (as is the story) and it drew me in instantly. Delve in for a quick, enjoyable read.
I also liked Ethan's friends, Ted and David, and hope they each have a story of their own.
I look forward to reading book #3.
November 9, 2012
I usually only rate the books that I read. However after reading Reluctant Surrender I feel the need to share how I felt about this book. This book was everything. Many books in this genre are sex with a story buried in between the sex. Do not get me wrong I enjoy them and have given some of them the same rating because I enjoyed them. That is one of the reasons that I felt I needed to write this. Generally I would just share with friends what I felt about a book (tend to tell them the whole story). The story in was deep there was a lot of thought put into it. It was easy to relate to both Colin and Ethan. They where very believable. As most great books tend to do the end left me wanting more. I do not want to go into the plot as I would not want to ruin it for any one who has not read the story. Many times even in a good book the characters are missing something or they are too naive. I really loved the fact that Colin was not the typical naive weak-minded female that tend to make you wish you could just slap them. Sorry if my thoughts are not coherent but I guess all I am trying to convey is this is a must read book. I have read lots of good books but I have to put this up there with my favorites.
February 20, 2013
Reluctant Surrender
Riley Murphy
Ellora’s Cave Taboo
4.5 STARS
Wow! This book Deserves 5 Stars because Riley Murphy is a great writer. This book will suck you in and bring out all your emotions. I had to finish reading in one day because my emotions were seriously in the ringer. I’m not saying I agree with every concept, in reality there were a few ideals Ethan had and Colin put up with that I personally wanted to smack him around for. There were good times, bad, disgraceful, disrespectful, hot, sexy, sweet, nurturing, kind, irritating, egotistical, and What the Hell moments throughout the story and they were all written so well that I enjoyed everything even though my bullshit meter was beeping at me sometimes.
What Riley Murphy does is create characters and a situation and make it believable. I was completely invested with Colin. I understood her need and I was all for Ethan showing her that release. The little tapas scenes were definitely steamy and a great way to introduce someone different aspects.
I will definitely be looking into more of Ms. Murphy’s writing and I sincerely hope we get to read more about the secondary characters in another book (or 2)!
Riley Murphy
Ellora’s Cave Taboo
4.5 STARS
Wow! This book Deserves 5 Stars because Riley Murphy is a great writer. This book will suck you in and bring out all your emotions. I had to finish reading in one day because my emotions were seriously in the ringer. I’m not saying I agree with every concept, in reality there were a few ideals Ethan had and Colin put up with that I personally wanted to smack him around for. There were good times, bad, disgraceful, disrespectful, hot, sexy, sweet, nurturing, kind, irritating, egotistical, and What the Hell moments throughout the story and they were all written so well that I enjoyed everything even though my bullshit meter was beeping at me sometimes.
What Riley Murphy does is create characters and a situation and make it believable. I was completely invested with Colin. I understood her need and I was all for Ethan showing her that release. The little tapas scenes were definitely steamy and a great way to introduce someone different aspects.
I will definitely be looking into more of Ms. Murphy’s writing and I sincerely hope we get to read more about the secondary characters in another book (or 2)!
January 17, 2015
When we first meet Colin she seems almost meek, but one scorching hot encounter with Ethan cracks that facade. We find out that she has a few secrets hidden deep inside with at least one that is just bursting to get out. She longs to have a man dominate her and Ethan gave her a small taste of what is possible in that kind of relationship. When she is coerced into spending a week with him Colin knows that her world is about to change. Through a series of BDSM tapas Ethan reveals her inner submissive and brings her out to play. Damn that man is one hot bossy man. I loved this time that they spent together both in and out of scenes. These two have some sizzling chemistry between them and I couldn't help but want more of their story when it came to an end. I love that Colin was learning her strength through her submission. She is such a strong character and I would've hated to see her compromise in the process of finding herself and her man too. I also loved that throughout her journey that she never lost that witty sense of humor. Such a fantastic story. I can't wait to read the next one in the series.
I give Reluctant Surrender 4 hearts!
I give Reluctant Surrender 4 hearts!
January 7, 2013
This guy sure thought alot of himself.
I want to connect with your inner submissive. I want you to trust me above all else. And when you do, you will discover that serving the desires of someone else, serving my desires will lead you to a kind of freedom you have never known.
You need a man in your life , sweetheart. A man so you can satisfy his demands instead of chasing your own.
ARE YOU KIDDING?
Those vanilla ideas of equality you are clinging to are at war with your sexuality. You don't want to be my equal, Colin, because submission is your power.
If I let you play with my cock anytime you wanted to, the privilege will become commonplace and the experience will lose it's specialness.
SERIOUSLY?????
What is sad is that he believed all that drivel. Another turn off is him requesting she kneel by his feet at one point even snapping his fingers at her to show her where she should kneel.
It was not a bad read however his statements to Colin where stupid and insulting. I liked Colin she had spunk.
I want to connect with your inner submissive. I want you to trust me above all else. And when you do, you will discover that serving the desires of someone else, serving my desires will lead you to a kind of freedom you have never known.
You need a man in your life , sweetheart. A man so you can satisfy his demands instead of chasing your own.
ARE YOU KIDDING?
Those vanilla ideas of equality you are clinging to are at war with your sexuality. You don't want to be my equal, Colin, because submission is your power.
If I let you play with my cock anytime you wanted to, the privilege will become commonplace and the experience will lose it's specialness.
SERIOUSLY?????
What is sad is that he believed all that drivel. Another turn off is him requesting she kneel by his feet at one point even snapping his fingers at her to show her where she should kneel.
It was not a bad read however his statements to Colin where stupid and insulting. I liked Colin she had spunk.
October 25, 2012
I've got to give it all the stars because I haven't stopped reading since yesterday! I didn't dare close my eyes!
This book! That man! Dear lord there are not enough Ethan Whites in this world. And Colin (strange female name where I'm from) well, Im just so proud of her for overcoming her fears!
Loved it! So much!
October 7, 2012
This is a good book to read but am not to crazy about him displaying her in front of others to see but am glad that he took her away and not wanting to share her with others anymore then he had to. Not too crazy about putting the condom on using her mouth, that's kind of gross and Ginger in her? Hmm interesting. but Ethan is very sweet and caring even thou he pretends not to.
September 15, 2014
Love these characters!
I read this last year and still remember the story. It is one of the first erotic books I read after 50 Shades and I really liked the book and author. I guess I just never got around to a review!! I recently read it again after searching through many purchases and finally finding it.
I read this last year and still remember the story. It is one of the first erotic books I read after 50 Shades and I really liked the book and author. I guess I just never got around to a review!! I recently read it again after searching through many purchases and finally finding it.
September 25, 2012
Oh. My. God.
I was sad to see this book end because I fell head over heels in love with the characters.
This is a must read for anyone who enjoys romance or BDSM!
When is the story for Jo and Ted coming out??!! I need that love story in my life!!!
I was sad to see this book end because I fell head over heels in love with the characters.
This is a must read for anyone who enjoys romance or BDSM!
When is the story for Jo and Ted coming out??!! I need that love story in my life!!!
November 9, 2012
LOVE this book! Love Colin and Ethan. I couldn't put the book down. love this angle of BDSM. it always seems like being a submissive is easy but there's a lot more to it. can't wait for the follow up book. I know Ted and Jo will be a hoot!
July 22, 2015
Reviewed on behalf of Fictional Mens Room...
READ AND REVIEWED ON BEHALF OF FICTIONAL MENS PAGE FOR BOOK HOS
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https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/2...
READ AND REVIEWED ON BEHALF OF FICTIONAL MENS PAGE FOR BOOK HOS
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Fictio...
https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/2...
August 26, 2018
I’ve had this book for a few years and have read it 4 or 5 times. Every time I read it, I enjoy it more.
It’s the story of a young woman who wants to explore her submissive side and her interest in BDSM. Through her quick wit and courage she ‘saves’ a jaded Dom from himself and his previous Sub.
This is the funniest BDSM book I have read (I’ve read about 100) - the first chapter is a riot and the author keeps it up throughout the book.
I liked the tapas scenes; they’re a spur to the imagination. I wonder how many of us can fall completely into a role the way the two main characters do to make the scenes so enjoyable for both parties?? I particularly enjoyed the repartee the the medical scene.
I did have some issues with parts of the book, particularly when the Dom wants honesty and openness and starts his 10 days with Colin through deception.
But the shortcomings were well outweighed by the strengths; for example the scene at the zoo was priceless.
I have read the rest of this series and enjoyed them, but this book is my favorite!
It’s the story of a young woman who wants to explore her submissive side and her interest in BDSM. Through her quick wit and courage she ‘saves’ a jaded Dom from himself and his previous Sub.
This is the funniest BDSM book I have read (I’ve read about 100) - the first chapter is a riot and the author keeps it up throughout the book.
I liked the tapas scenes; they’re a spur to the imagination. I wonder how many of us can fall completely into a role the way the two main characters do to make the scenes so enjoyable for both parties?? I particularly enjoyed the repartee the the medical scene.
I did have some issues with parts of the book, particularly when the Dom wants honesty and openness and starts his 10 days with Colin through deception.
But the shortcomings were well outweighed by the strengths; for example the scene at the zoo was priceless.
I have read the rest of this series and enjoyed them, but this book is my favorite!
June 22, 2017
One of my favourite Riley Murphy books. Ethan takes on the challenge of turning Colin into his sub within 10 days. She supposedly is doing it for what it will contribute to her blog. He supposedly is doing it for the publicity for his new BDSM resort. Really - they are both hot for each other and maybe they both have a lot to learn. A great diversity of sex scenes as he trains Colin.
April 2, 2018
Ms. Riley is a good writer and creates some very interesting characters. It's fun to get what feels like a "real" peek into a world most of us will never encounter IRL.
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