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The Line Trilogy #1
The Finest Line
When potential Olympic gymnast, Mairead Kavanagh wakes up in an Australian hospital after a drug and alcohol binge, her ordeal has only begun. The police are waiting to interview her over the death of her friend Joshua Mason who has plunged to his death from the balcony on which she was found. Frightened and a long way from her home in New Zealand, she has no one to turn to until the arrival of the one man who has intimidated and infatuated her more than any other.
James Vaughn has been her chauffeur and body guard for five years and the only person who has been able to subdue her. An ex soldier of the British Army, James is composed and disciplined, unlike his boss’s daughter who seeks constant excitement which sometimes can prove dangerous.
Forced together until he can get her home, the barriers of their relationship begin to break down. Mairead fears her attraction to him stems from the strange desires that she has fought to suppress.
As their relationship blooms, her happiness is short lived with the arrival of another man who knows a terrible secret about Mairead. Now she must choose between two men, one whom she loves and the other who can destroy her life.
Contains explicit sex scenes, graphic language and elements of BDSM
James Vaughn has been her chauffeur and body guard for five years and the only person who has been able to subdue her. An ex soldier of the British Army, James is composed and disciplined, unlike his boss’s daughter who seeks constant excitement which sometimes can prove dangerous.
Forced together until he can get her home, the barriers of their relationship begin to break down. Mairead fears her attraction to him stems from the strange desires that she has fought to suppress.
As their relationship blooms, her happiness is short lived with the arrival of another man who knows a terrible secret about Mairead. Now she must choose between two men, one whom she loves and the other who can destroy her life.
Contains explicit sex scenes, graphic language and elements of BDSM
283 pages, ebook
First published August 20, 2012
53 people are currently reading
1326 people want to read
About the author
Catherine Taylor
8 books124 followersCatherine Taylor is an erotic thriller/romance author, actor, poet and script writer from New Zealand.
Her first three books from The Line Trilogy, have been in Amazon’s Top 100 bestselling erotica lists, with her first book The Finest Line going number one in Free Kindle erotica in the US, UK and France.
Catherine is an enthusiastic supporter of Indie authors, and believes that those with a true passion for writing should have every opportunity to present their work to the world.
Her first three books from The Line Trilogy, have been in Amazon’s Top 100 bestselling erotica lists, with her first book The Finest Line going number one in Free Kindle erotica in the US, UK and France.
Catherine is an enthusiastic supporter of Indie authors, and believes that those with a true passion for writing should have every opportunity to present their work to the world.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 104 reviews
December 29, 2012
As I read this book, I spent a lot of my time just asking it, Why the Hell?! The things that Mairead would do, was exasperating, irritating, annoying, moronic, idiodic, just all around nimrodic!!!
I mean this girl placed herself into so much trouble for attention from her dad. At times just for the hell of it or to prove What to herself? She's selfish, inconsiderate, and immature. She doesn't think and the majority of the time, Mairead would cause me frustration and the urge to constantly shake my head with huge sighs. When the girl finally makes an "effort" to do the right thing, just an inkkling; the walls come toppling down like a house of cards. She makes one dumb mistake after another, in an all out assumption of protecting others, when in reality she is dumbly believing the douche bags that make things even worse for her. As oppose to trusting in James Vaughn. The man she supposedly loves, the man who countless times saves her hiney and the ONLY man who puts her in her place, especially when she is out of line. The only guy who has defended Mairead, even against her own father. I felt bad for all that the girl went through, especially at the hands of Mark! He was a huge Tool. She was self-destructive, especially because she couldn't handle what she was going through, there were times that Mark would show an inkling of humanity, but, oh-NO! Mark would do something even dumber to make me lose any ounce of humanity I saw. *SMH* I couldn't believe how Mark allowed his grotesque, animal of a father to do what he did to Mairead, I mean the Tool just stood there and watched. I have to just say it, WTF!?
As for the things James provided Mairead in the whole dominance and submissive situation...I mean it worked for her to understand where James was coming from and how serious he was. It also fulfilled those needs that Mairead had. It worked for her and I am glad that James was the person to do it. I guess, I have no experience in that *shrug shoulders* I personally think it was humiliating. Thats just me. Mark did that just to be animalisticly brute. I wanted to reach into the damn book and throttle the douche. I was happy with the ending, I especially loved when James said "...I want you to feel every bit of the hurt I have suffered over this so that you will never disobey me again when it comes to your safety..." in this case I am on James side. The girl had no regard for her safety and well being. In that regard, she is as inept as they come. pssh! Psycho!
This was an interestingly sad story. With Hope in the hopelessness of it all.
I mean this girl placed herself into so much trouble for attention from her dad. At times just for the hell of it or to prove What to herself? She's selfish, inconsiderate, and immature. She doesn't think and the majority of the time, Mairead would cause me frustration and the urge to constantly shake my head with huge sighs. When the girl finally makes an "effort" to do the right thing, just an inkkling; the walls come toppling down like a house of cards. She makes one dumb mistake after another, in an all out assumption of protecting others, when in reality she is dumbly believing the douche bags that make things even worse for her. As oppose to trusting in James Vaughn. The man she supposedly loves, the man who countless times saves her hiney and the ONLY man who puts her in her place, especially when she is out of line. The only guy who has defended Mairead, even against her own father. I felt bad for all that the girl went through, especially at the hands of Mark! He was a huge Tool. She was self-destructive, especially because she couldn't handle what she was going through, there were times that Mark would show an inkling of humanity, but, oh-NO! Mark would do something even dumber to make me lose any ounce of humanity I saw. *SMH* I couldn't believe how Mark allowed his grotesque, animal of a father to do what he did to Mairead, I mean the Tool just stood there and watched. I have to just say it, WTF!?
As for the things James provided Mairead in the whole dominance and submissive situation...I mean it worked for her to understand where James was coming from and how serious he was. It also fulfilled those needs that Mairead had. It worked for her and I am glad that James was the person to do it. I guess, I have no experience in that *shrug shoulders* I personally think it was humiliating. Thats just me. Mark did that just to be animalisticly brute. I wanted to reach into the damn book and throttle the douche. I was happy with the ending, I especially loved when James said "...I want you to feel every bit of the hurt I have suffered over this so that you will never disobey me again when it comes to your safety..." in this case I am on James side. The girl had no regard for her safety and well being. In that regard, she is as inept as they come. pssh! Psycho!
This was an interestingly sad story. With Hope in the hopelessness of it all.
Read
November 5, 2012Okay, let me be honest in saying that I have no idea how to rate this book. I kind of have a love/hate thing going on here.
First off, this book was NOTHING, let me repeat, NOTHING like what I had expected it to be. Let me clarify one thing before I continue. I usually am one to admit that I judge reading a book based first on it's cover and then on it's summary. This book had both going for it so I dove right in.
While trying first to come to understand Mairead and some of her actions, I thought I was in for one hell of a read. Well, that was definitely an understatement. This book had me in knots almost from the very beginning.
I can't even go on....
All I can say is that I'm glad it's over. Not because it was a horrible story, but more so because I can't handle the intensity between James and Mairead's relationship anymore.
This was by far one of the most difficult reads for me.
Talk about gut clenching, chest aching, eyes watering. Oh my gosh!!!
I would recommend this to any readers who have a strong and sound mind when it comes to brutal "punishment" or "disciplinary actions" involving a somewhat BDSM relationship.
First off, this book was NOTHING, let me repeat, NOTHING like what I had expected it to be. Let me clarify one thing before I continue. I usually am one to admit that I judge reading a book based first on it's cover and then on it's summary. This book had both going for it so I dove right in.
While trying first to come to understand Mairead and some of her actions, I thought I was in for one hell of a read. Well, that was definitely an understatement. This book had me in knots almost from the very beginning.
I can't even go on....
All I can say is that I'm glad it's over. Not because it was a horrible story, but more so because I can't handle the intensity between James and Mairead's relationship anymore.
This was by far one of the most difficult reads for me.
Talk about gut clenching, chest aching, eyes watering. Oh my gosh!!!
I would recommend this to any readers who have a strong and sound mind when it comes to brutal "punishment" or "disciplinary actions" involving a somewhat BDSM relationship.
November 5, 2012
Whiney, self destructive, spoiled brat makes life difficult for a decent man employed to watch over her by her father. But he falls in love with her because they are so compatible. I mean really...really? Too stupid and the writing style was infantile.
July 31, 2013
Must love brats.
Mairead. Spoiled brat blaming other people for the reasons for her bad behavior and lack of control. Total attention whore whose selfishness means it's all about ME--all the time.
James, the ridiculously rigid formal chauffeur/body guard who after years in service starts to take on additional duties.
The story has strengths in the sexual and domestic discipline interactions between James and Mairead--they're hot, wicked hot. On the other hand, there are issues with the plot and character developments that are far less successful.
Honestly, I wanted to stopped reading a couple times during the story because Mairead's actions were so stupid...like beyond eye-rolling, in a here we go again way. This is compounded by other character issues in both James and Mark and the underdeveloped villain, Richard.
Then, there's just bits that felt weird. James bizarrely formal dialogue shifts to corny lines during post-coital discussion. Just odd, conversation to be having after deflowering. And yeah...that's totally unrealistic. No chick willingly goes 4 times the first time--it friggin' hurts and then is ready for Energizer bunny Round Two the next morning. I get that this is erotica and Mairead is a masochist, but this stretches believability too much.
Then there's drama. More drama and the continual bad decision making and here's where the author starts to lose me. I don't like miscommunication/bad communication in stories and while it plays into Mairead's emotional underdevelopment--it's friggin' annoying. And her logic is so flawed all I can do is shake my head, I mean, seriously?!
Then we begin the parable. Mark in contrast to James and "What Mairead Doesn't Understand about Herself, Part Five". Mark's contribution to the story provides contrast and conflict, but the addition of Richard just makes me shake my head. I don't know what to say other than it goes for creepy and melodrama.
So if the yo-yo action, strange plot twists and the brattiness isn't a turn off for you, then perhaps you'll enjoy this story. I personally, found Mairead's character so unfocused that I was alienated. Plus, there was some very odd dialogue that just rubbed me the wrong way.
This really isn't a realistic response regarding the imminent threat/promise of upcoming sexual congress from a woman who is being blackmailed into a relationship. And if it is an attempt at sarcasm, it failed.
And nobody is this naive today about cocaine:
Recommended to brat lovers who enjoy domestic discipline stories and enjoy a reality television format.
~~ A copy was provided to me for a No Glitter Blown review~~
Reviewed for Hearts On Fire Reviews
Mairead. Spoiled brat blaming other people for the reasons for her bad behavior and lack of control. Total attention whore whose selfishness means it's all about ME--all the time.
James, the ridiculously rigid formal chauffeur/body guard who after years in service starts to take on additional duties.
The story has strengths in the sexual and domestic discipline interactions between James and Mairead--they're hot, wicked hot. On the other hand, there are issues with the plot and character developments that are far less successful.
Honestly, I wanted to stopped reading a couple times during the story because Mairead's actions were so stupid...like beyond eye-rolling, in a here we go again way. This is compounded by other character issues in both James and Mark and the underdeveloped villain, Richard.
Then, there's just bits that felt weird. James bizarrely formal dialogue shifts to corny lines during post-coital discussion. Just odd, conversation to be having after deflowering. And yeah...that's totally unrealistic. No chick willingly goes 4 times the first time--it friggin' hurts and then is ready for Energizer bunny Round Two the next morning. I get that this is erotica and Mairead is a masochist, but this stretches believability too much.
Then there's drama. More drama and the continual bad decision making and here's where the author starts to lose me. I don't like miscommunication/bad communication in stories and while it plays into Mairead's emotional underdevelopment--it's friggin' annoying. And her logic is so flawed all I can do is shake my head, I mean, seriously?!
Then we begin the parable. Mark in contrast to James and "What Mairead Doesn't Understand about Herself, Part Five". Mark's contribution to the story provides contrast and conflict, but the addition of Richard just makes me shake my head. I don't know what to say other than it goes for creepy and melodrama.
So if the yo-yo action, strange plot twists and the brattiness isn't a turn off for you, then perhaps you'll enjoy this story. I personally, found Mairead's character so unfocused that I was alienated. Plus, there was some very odd dialogue that just rubbed me the wrong way.
Her stomach was beginning to turn again but she smiled anyway. “Oh goody, I can’t wait. Hope I’m not a disappointment.”
This really isn't a realistic response regarding the imminent threat/promise of upcoming sexual congress from a woman who is being blackmailed into a relationship. And if it is an attempt at sarcasm, it failed.
And nobody is this naive today about cocaine:
Looking at Mark, she turned and smiled. “Could we do some more of your funny white powder?”
Recommended to brat lovers who enjoy domestic discipline stories and enjoy a reality television format.
~~ A copy was provided to me for a No Glitter Blown review~~
Reviewed for Hearts On Fire Reviews
July 23, 2013
Mairead is the daughter of a politician and a New Zealand gymnast . She is introduced at the beginning as a spoiled, junkie over indulged brat since the beginning of the book. She always gets in trouble and has a "Devil may care" attitude.
She is partying at a hotel with her friend Josh, and loses consciousness and when she wakes up she realizes she has gotten in a big trouble because her friend died ... What?! Yeap he did by falling from the balcony of hotel room they were the night before. She becomes somewhat a "suspect". She gets blackmailed and the chaos begins.
Who comes to her rescue?! James Vaughn. Since she was a teenager, her father hired an ex Army, HOT as hell guy to be her chauffeur/bodyguard. Although Mairead doesn't respect authority, he´s been the one and only capable of controlling her.
"What are you doing James?"
There was only silence but when he spoke his voice was eerily calm.
"If I hear one more disgusting word come out of your mouth, I will take you over my knee, take your pants down and spank your bare bottom to the colour of a ripe cherry."
Throughout the story she realizes that the party where Josh died was being held by Mark Lewis a man from whom she indulged in drugs and she was also video taped auctioning her virginity to him *SIGH*. Her rebellious behavior pushes James to discipline her and fulfill his promise of getting her bottom like a ripe cherry in a very humiliating way and she finds herself being sexually aroused by this act. He of course, sends her to sleep giving her no opportunity of release LOL (That bastard knew what he was doing to her).
She has been having a crush for James since she was a teenager even when she doesn't admit it. But after her bare ass spanking she starts showing her hidden feelings for him.
What will happen to these two. To whom is she going to give her virginity?
This book is a must read.!!! I got it from Amazon.. I wasn't convinced because as you know most of the freebies are horrible ... well not all of them apparently. This one has everything romance, sex, love/hate relationships, action, blackmail etc...I didn't expect this book would be so good and I have read it twice....Wowwwwww Mairead and James relationship was so cute..They are perfect for each other.. I fell in love with him instantly. I couldn't put it down... Pfff what else is there to say..?? This one is a keeper...I´m looking forward to read more of Catherine Talylor´s books in the future. Fortunately she wrote a trilogy. I read this book since Nov 2012.
Next installment A Line Crossed
She is partying at a hotel with her friend Josh, and loses consciousness and when she wakes up she realizes she has gotten in a big trouble because her friend died ... What?! Yeap he did by falling from the balcony of hotel room they were the night before. She becomes somewhat a "suspect". She gets blackmailed and the chaos begins.
Who comes to her rescue?! James Vaughn. Since she was a teenager, her father hired an ex Army, HOT as hell guy to be her chauffeur/bodyguard. Although Mairead doesn't respect authority, he´s been the one and only capable of controlling her.
"What are you doing James?"
There was only silence but when he spoke his voice was eerily calm.
"If I hear one more disgusting word come out of your mouth, I will take you over my knee, take your pants down and spank your bare bottom to the colour of a ripe cherry."
Throughout the story she realizes that the party where Josh died was being held by Mark Lewis a man from whom she indulged in drugs and she was also video taped auctioning her virginity to him *SIGH*. Her rebellious behavior pushes James to discipline her and fulfill his promise of getting her bottom like a ripe cherry in a very humiliating way and she finds herself being sexually aroused by this act. He of course, sends her to sleep giving her no opportunity of release LOL (That bastard knew what he was doing to her).
She has been having a crush for James since she was a teenager even when she doesn't admit it. But after her bare ass spanking she starts showing her hidden feelings for him.
What will happen to these two. To whom is she going to give her virginity?
This book is a must read.!!! I got it from Amazon.. I wasn't convinced because as you know most of the freebies are horrible ... well not all of them apparently. This one has everything romance, sex, love/hate relationships, action, blackmail etc...I didn't expect this book would be so good and I have read it twice....Wowwwwww Mairead and James relationship was so cute..They are perfect for each other.. I fell in love with him instantly. I couldn't put it down... Pfff what else is there to say..?? This one is a keeper...I´m looking forward to read more of Catherine Talylor´s books in the future. Fortunately she wrote a trilogy. I read this book since Nov 2012.
Next installment A Line Crossed
March 12, 2013
The Finest Line - Catherine Taylor was quite a surprise as it was a full length novel and a free read for me. It was very good, bar a few typos and therefore for me I rate it as 4 star
Mairead Kavanagh, a young New Zealand gymnast has been kicked off the Olympic Gymnast Team. She's loved by her widowed father Sean, a senior NZ politician, she appears initially to be a spoilt, over indulged, drinking and drug abusing brat...I disliked her initially, Josh who she agreed to go out with ends up dead and her presence leaves police suspicious as to her involvement. She has lost consciousness and awakens in hospital to the knowledge of Josh's death and realisation she has auctioned her virginity off to Mark, whose party and expensive drugs she has indulged in. Debt to Mark unclaimed at this stage, enter James an ex British soldier, whose served and been formerly injured in Afghanistan, now finds himself working as chauffeur/bodyguard to Sean Kavanagh and his daughter Mairead. Her wayward behaviour is taken in hand by James and eventually she pushes him with her disregard for her safety or father's reputation to discipline her and discipline her bottom with all the indignity and initial humiliation he does, and surprise surprise finds she is sexually aroused, but he leaves her no opportunity for self satisfaction.
Mairead was a surprise, my impressions of an over confident over indulged and under-disciplined brat and despite attempting to auction her virginity under the influence of drugs it seems she has had an infatuation and secret love for James and offers him her gift of her virginity. Initially rejected, Catherine Taylor eventually writes an extremely erotic scene, one of the best I've read in a long time combining erotic spanking and virginity gifted in a romantic interlude. There's a mystery as to how Josh died that runs through. Thwarted Mark, denied Mairead's virginity shows his even nastier side, but is positively angelic compared to his father Richard, who is vile, evil. What surprised me was how Catherine managed to alter my opinions of certain characters completely. Mairead, from disliking her, to being infuriated by her, to a grudging respect, to liking and admiring her despite her brattiness. Mark, I loathed virtually throughout but seeing him as the product of his vile all controlling parent and his redemption at the end, I can't say I disliked him totally and it showed he has a better side. The adage never take a book by its cover definitely comes to mind...but in this it is relating to characters. I find I am off to look at what else Catherine has written. There are a few typos that could be eradicated and that is about the only improvement I could see.
Thoroughly enjoyed it.
Mairead Kavanagh, a young New Zealand gymnast has been kicked off the Olympic Gymnast Team. She's loved by her widowed father Sean, a senior NZ politician, she appears initially to be a spoilt, over indulged, drinking and drug abusing brat...I disliked her initially, Josh who she agreed to go out with ends up dead and her presence leaves police suspicious as to her involvement. She has lost consciousness and awakens in hospital to the knowledge of Josh's death and realisation she has auctioned her virginity off to Mark, whose party and expensive drugs she has indulged in. Debt to Mark unclaimed at this stage, enter James an ex British soldier, whose served and been formerly injured in Afghanistan, now finds himself working as chauffeur/bodyguard to Sean Kavanagh and his daughter Mairead. Her wayward behaviour is taken in hand by James and eventually she pushes him with her disregard for her safety or father's reputation to discipline her and discipline her bottom with all the indignity and initial humiliation he does, and surprise surprise finds she is sexually aroused, but he leaves her no opportunity for self satisfaction.
Mairead was a surprise, my impressions of an over confident over indulged and under-disciplined brat and despite attempting to auction her virginity under the influence of drugs it seems she has had an infatuation and secret love for James and offers him her gift of her virginity. Initially rejected, Catherine Taylor eventually writes an extremely erotic scene, one of the best I've read in a long time combining erotic spanking and virginity gifted in a romantic interlude. There's a mystery as to how Josh died that runs through. Thwarted Mark, denied Mairead's virginity shows his even nastier side, but is positively angelic compared to his father Richard, who is vile, evil. What surprised me was how Catherine managed to alter my opinions of certain characters completely. Mairead, from disliking her, to being infuriated by her, to a grudging respect, to liking and admiring her despite her brattiness. Mark, I loathed virtually throughout but seeing him as the product of his vile all controlling parent and his redemption at the end, I can't say I disliked him totally and it showed he has a better side. The adage never take a book by its cover definitely comes to mind...but in this it is relating to characters. I find I am off to look at what else Catherine has written. There are a few typos that could be eradicated and that is about the only improvement I could see.
Thoroughly enjoyed it.
February 1, 2015
Fantastic Start to A Great Trilogy!, September 20, 2013
Review for The Kindle Romance Review
By Helen Karol
The Finest Line
The Finest Line by Catherine Taylor is the first in a truly excellent and authentic trilogy exploring myriad facets of domination, discipline and masochism while never departing from a heart-warming and deepening love story. Mairead and James's story has an air of credibility that convinces me that Ms Taylor has a real understanding of the exciting, dark world that she reveals to us while managing to show us that this supposed underworld is populated by human people who we come to love and applaud.
Readers might be forgiven for considering the trilogy a Fifty Shades of Grey clone, but at the risk of offending, I consider The Line Trilogy to be far superior in its depth and understanding of the sexual needs and desires in disciplinary relationships and sexual liberation from a woman's perspective. It also has a thriller element that I prefer as it provides entertainment and excitement that is not just about the endless sex or analyzing of emotions. Regardless, the sex and discipline scenes are super hot sizzlers and the depth and range of emotion gripping.
The main female character, Mairead is very strong with a complex character arc and quirky sense of herself. She isn't afraid to put herself on the line to help others and her skill as a gymnast is a strong element throughout the trilogy. Although she has serious self-esteem issues she has a strong inner core and sense of self-worth that although deeply buried still ultimately leads her to make the right choices a lot of the time. She certainly makes the right choice to pursue the man she knows she is in love with.
But then, what woman in her right mind, or any state of mind, wouldn't be willing to chase after the perfect, loving, every girl's wet dream, chauffeur James Vaughn. This sexy, gorgeous man, ex-army, ex professional disciplinarian knows just what Mairead needs. He's spent five years looking after her, and fighting his feelings that have grown from caring for a feisty, teenage handful to a stunningly beautiful woman he wants to help protect from the whole world and a lot of the time from herself. He is outstandingly alpha male in every sense, yet the author gives him vulnerabilities and shows he is as capable of making mistakes without affecting our sense of him as strong and dependable. A pretty fine line to navigate and Ms. Taylor does it with true finesse.
This is not a story that plays around with a few light spankings, contracts or ritualistic BDSM protocols. What makes it stand out from FSOG and its numerous clones is that this shows how a severe disciplinary relationship satisfies deep-seated needs from the woman's side. She is the one who needs it and craves it, not out of a desire to be submissive to her male partner but because it satisfies her disciplinary and masochistic needs. He fulfills these needs because he loves her and enjoys certain aspects of the dynamic but ultimately it is the woman's needs that are paramount and the driving force.
The New Zealand and Australian setting add an interesting depth as prostitution and the sex industry are not illegal in the way they are in the U.S and the U.K. and this allows for an interesting approach. Ms. Taylor presents the characters of a shunned world of sex workers, clubs and alternative sexual orientations and preferences beautifully, from Mairead's transgender best friend, Kylie, to James's lesbian, ex-army, professional dominatrix business partner, Vanessa, to all the various people in between. Although, like all novels in the trilogy, The Finest Line is stand-alone with no cliffhanger, I guarantee you will be so captivated by the lovers and their world you will find yourself going straight to the next two books without hesitation.
Highly recommended! Do not miss this trilogy!
The Kindle Romance Review received a free copy of this book for an independent, fair, and honest review. We are not associated with the author or Amazon.
Review for The Kindle Romance Review
By Helen Karol
The Finest Line
The Finest Line by Catherine Taylor is the first in a truly excellent and authentic trilogy exploring myriad facets of domination, discipline and masochism while never departing from a heart-warming and deepening love story. Mairead and James's story has an air of credibility that convinces me that Ms Taylor has a real understanding of the exciting, dark world that she reveals to us while managing to show us that this supposed underworld is populated by human people who we come to love and applaud.
Readers might be forgiven for considering the trilogy a Fifty Shades of Grey clone, but at the risk of offending, I consider The Line Trilogy to be far superior in its depth and understanding of the sexual needs and desires in disciplinary relationships and sexual liberation from a woman's perspective. It also has a thriller element that I prefer as it provides entertainment and excitement that is not just about the endless sex or analyzing of emotions. Regardless, the sex and discipline scenes are super hot sizzlers and the depth and range of emotion gripping.
The main female character, Mairead is very strong with a complex character arc and quirky sense of herself. She isn't afraid to put herself on the line to help others and her skill as a gymnast is a strong element throughout the trilogy. Although she has serious self-esteem issues she has a strong inner core and sense of self-worth that although deeply buried still ultimately leads her to make the right choices a lot of the time. She certainly makes the right choice to pursue the man she knows she is in love with.
But then, what woman in her right mind, or any state of mind, wouldn't be willing to chase after the perfect, loving, every girl's wet dream, chauffeur James Vaughn. This sexy, gorgeous man, ex-army, ex professional disciplinarian knows just what Mairead needs. He's spent five years looking after her, and fighting his feelings that have grown from caring for a feisty, teenage handful to a stunningly beautiful woman he wants to help protect from the whole world and a lot of the time from herself. He is outstandingly alpha male in every sense, yet the author gives him vulnerabilities and shows he is as capable of making mistakes without affecting our sense of him as strong and dependable. A pretty fine line to navigate and Ms. Taylor does it with true finesse.
This is not a story that plays around with a few light spankings, contracts or ritualistic BDSM protocols. What makes it stand out from FSOG and its numerous clones is that this shows how a severe disciplinary relationship satisfies deep-seated needs from the woman's side. She is the one who needs it and craves it, not out of a desire to be submissive to her male partner but because it satisfies her disciplinary and masochistic needs. He fulfills these needs because he loves her and enjoys certain aspects of the dynamic but ultimately it is the woman's needs that are paramount and the driving force.
The New Zealand and Australian setting add an interesting depth as prostitution and the sex industry are not illegal in the way they are in the U.S and the U.K. and this allows for an interesting approach. Ms. Taylor presents the characters of a shunned world of sex workers, clubs and alternative sexual orientations and preferences beautifully, from Mairead's transgender best friend, Kylie, to James's lesbian, ex-army, professional dominatrix business partner, Vanessa, to all the various people in between. Although, like all novels in the trilogy, The Finest Line is stand-alone with no cliffhanger, I guarantee you will be so captivated by the lovers and their world you will find yourself going straight to the next two books without hesitation.
Highly recommended! Do not miss this trilogy!
The Kindle Romance Review received a free copy of this book for an independent, fair, and honest review. We are not associated with the author or Amazon.
August 13, 2014
To be fair, I got this as a free ebook on my kindle without seeing the cover- so it is my fault I didn't pick up on those details and downloaded the book based on the summary. I'm no prude and read risque content here and there- but this one was just ridiculous for me start to finish. The review below has spoilers and a little bit of ranting...
Olympic hopeful and talented gymnist Mairead Kavanagh, daughter of a high ranking Australian politician, gets kicked off her gymnastic team and, during a period of excessive and flamboyant partying with strangers, almost gets raped, overdoses and lands in the hospital, and the young man she was with winds up dead after falling from a balcony. Her chaffeur and sometimes bodyguard, James, comes to fetch her from the hospital to bring her back home to 'daddy' and figure out her future, while also hiding from the media. After realizing her love for James, she follows him on his vacation, where her almost-rapist tracks her down and blackmails her into getting engaged by telling her he has video of her causing the death of the boy during her blackout. So, she ditches James (without telling him why and he is beside himself looking for her) only to show up on tv during a press conference announcing her sudden engagement to the blackmailing creep who also happens to be the son of her father's worst adversary (who also wants to ravage her sexually and assaulted her a couple times in the book). While on vacation she hooks up with her best friend who may be a transexual? and gets into pole dancing, which she realizes is now her dream in life, ditching the balance beam for the verticle pole. James finds her drugged by her soon to be father in law at her engagement party- where she pole danced drunk for all in attendance, her father looking on and so proud of her. James, who was invited, though the creep knows she actually loves him, grabs her from the FIL's limo and kidnaps her, eventually realizing why she feels blackmailed, explains what really happened since he found evidence from the dead boy's phone that was in Mairead's possession but didn't tell her before, there are a few power and physical struggles, but it seems to work out in the end...
And, throughout the story, there is a side S&M theme that is totally bizarre and ridiculous. James had threatened to spank her when she was younger (15) which has been a fantasy of hers ever since. When he reminds her of it after she does one of her multiple stupid things, she calls him on it and he proceeds to yank down her knickers and punish her- inciting feelings of humiliation and pain (welts, bruising and bleeding). But since she 'deserves' the punishment and gets turned on by it, it's all good. Coincidentally, the creep also bends her over and beats her with a cane, which she also enjoys at some point. She gets beaten like this a lot in the book and threatened even more. It's a prominent theme.
The main character was very hard for me to connect with; she is very spoiled and foul mouthed (the F word sprinkled throughout the book 169 times, mostly by her)and very hung up on her female organ beginning with a 'V' (47 times in the book), makes ridiculous choices without thinking them through at all, and seems more willing than not to marry the creep almost immediately- what?! Though she speaks of feeling responsible for the young man's death, it feels detached and easily pushed aside. He's dead! And James follows her everywhere because she is the best woman he's ever known and has undying love for her.. They truly were meant for each other.
Yes, the book itself was indeed as confusing and infuriating as the review above. Yikes.
Olympic hopeful and talented gymnist Mairead Kavanagh, daughter of a high ranking Australian politician, gets kicked off her gymnastic team and, during a period of excessive and flamboyant partying with strangers, almost gets raped, overdoses and lands in the hospital, and the young man she was with winds up dead after falling from a balcony. Her chaffeur and sometimes bodyguard, James, comes to fetch her from the hospital to bring her back home to 'daddy' and figure out her future, while also hiding from the media. After realizing her love for James, she follows him on his vacation, where her almost-rapist tracks her down and blackmails her into getting engaged by telling her he has video of her causing the death of the boy during her blackout. So, she ditches James (without telling him why and he is beside himself looking for her) only to show up on tv during a press conference announcing her sudden engagement to the blackmailing creep who also happens to be the son of her father's worst adversary (who also wants to ravage her sexually and assaulted her a couple times in the book). While on vacation she hooks up with her best friend who may be a transexual? and gets into pole dancing, which she realizes is now her dream in life, ditching the balance beam for the verticle pole. James finds her drugged by her soon to be father in law at her engagement party- where she pole danced drunk for all in attendance, her father looking on and so proud of her. James, who was invited, though the creep knows she actually loves him, grabs her from the FIL's limo and kidnaps her, eventually realizing why she feels blackmailed, explains what really happened since he found evidence from the dead boy's phone that was in Mairead's possession but didn't tell her before, there are a few power and physical struggles, but it seems to work out in the end...
And, throughout the story, there is a side S&M theme that is totally bizarre and ridiculous. James had threatened to spank her when she was younger (15) which has been a fantasy of hers ever since. When he reminds her of it after she does one of her multiple stupid things, she calls him on it and he proceeds to yank down her knickers and punish her- inciting feelings of humiliation and pain (welts, bruising and bleeding). But since she 'deserves' the punishment and gets turned on by it, it's all good. Coincidentally, the creep also bends her over and beats her with a cane, which she also enjoys at some point. She gets beaten like this a lot in the book and threatened even more. It's a prominent theme.
The main character was very hard for me to connect with; she is very spoiled and foul mouthed (the F word sprinkled throughout the book 169 times, mostly by her)and very hung up on her female organ beginning with a 'V' (47 times in the book), makes ridiculous choices without thinking them through at all, and seems more willing than not to marry the creep almost immediately- what?! Though she speaks of feeling responsible for the young man's death, it feels detached and easily pushed aside. He's dead! And James follows her everywhere because she is the best woman he's ever known and has undying love for her.. They truly were meant for each other.
Yes, the book itself was indeed as confusing and infuriating as the review above. Yikes.
October 17, 2012
Mairead Kavanagh is an Olympic-hopeful gymnast. She’s also a selfish, destructive, party girl. After being dismissed by her father, she puts herself in numerous dangerous situations, starting with a virginity auction to gain the attention of one man in particular. Mark Lewis forcibly attempts to collect his winnings, and her friend, Joshua Mason, dies after defending her honor.
When Mairead can’t recall the events that led to Joshua’s death, her ever present chauffer and bodyguard, James Vaughn, comes to her rescue. He knows that Mairead is in desperate need of discipline, but she’s incapable of listening and lacks the ability to preserve her safety. Mariead has loved James since the day she met him five years ago. He’s the only man that isn’t afraid to control her. His dominating personality and stiff hand might be the only way to save her.
But, Mariead soon realizes her actions hurt everyone she comes into contact with. In an effort to protect her family and friends, Mariead risks losing the love of her life.
Author Catherine Taylor provides more than a BDSM-focused story. Alongside the page-turning plot, she creates strong characters all around, proving that supporting characters should be just as entertaining as the main characters.
The Finest Line is an intriguing blend of romance, suspense, and erotica.
When Mairead can’t recall the events that led to Joshua’s death, her ever present chauffer and bodyguard, James Vaughn, comes to her rescue. He knows that Mairead is in desperate need of discipline, but she’s incapable of listening and lacks the ability to preserve her safety. Mariead has loved James since the day she met him five years ago. He’s the only man that isn’t afraid to control her. His dominating personality and stiff hand might be the only way to save her.
But, Mariead soon realizes her actions hurt everyone she comes into contact with. In an effort to protect her family and friends, Mariead risks losing the love of her life.
Author Catherine Taylor provides more than a BDSM-focused story. Alongside the page-turning plot, she creates strong characters all around, proving that supporting characters should be just as entertaining as the main characters.
The Finest Line is an intriguing blend of romance, suspense, and erotica.
January 10, 2013
3.5 STARS
"I'm going to treat your body a lot kinder than you have so far... I love you Mairead and I'm going to teach you how to love yourself in more ways than one."
This book was hot, sexy and bloody messed up. By messed up I am not talking about the BDSM. I'm talking about Mairead and her utter stupidity. I actually think she took the pain thing too far in that she seemed to look for not just physical pain but ultimately the emotional pain caused by her inability to stand up for herself and seek help when she needed it. Mairead was extremely self destructive and I think the problem with this book is that we didn't exactly find out why. At the beginning it was supposed to be her daddy issues but they were not reconciled with the glimpses we see of Sean (her dad) who seems to, for the most part care for his daughter and treat her as he should.
This book was full of drama. Just when you thought everything was fine and her and James are going to run off into the sunset something else would happen, or rather Mairead would do something else that would mess everything up. I found myself physically cringing at some (or most) of the things she had down, it was like watching a car crash waiting to happen. I wanted to put down my kindle and stop reading but god I couldn't because despite Mairead's stupidity I really wanted a HEA for her and James.
"I'm going to treat your body a lot kinder than you have so far... I love you Mairead and I'm going to teach you how to love yourself in more ways than one."
This book was hot, sexy and bloody messed up. By messed up I am not talking about the BDSM. I'm talking about Mairead and her utter stupidity. I actually think she took the pain thing too far in that she seemed to look for not just physical pain but ultimately the emotional pain caused by her inability to stand up for herself and seek help when she needed it. Mairead was extremely self destructive and I think the problem with this book is that we didn't exactly find out why. At the beginning it was supposed to be her daddy issues but they were not reconciled with the glimpses we see of Sean (her dad) who seems to, for the most part care for his daughter and treat her as he should.
This book was full of drama. Just when you thought everything was fine and her and James are going to run off into the sunset something else would happen, or rather Mairead would do something else that would mess everything up. I found myself physically cringing at some (or most) of the things she had down, it was like watching a car crash waiting to happen. I wanted to put down my kindle and stop reading but god I couldn't because despite Mairead's stupidity I really wanted a HEA for her and James.
May 24, 2014
I enjoyed the first half of this book so much more than the last. It's starts out strong with a great plot twist and well-defined characters. The relationship between Mariad and her chauffer/bodyguard was cute and had definite spark.
*spoiler alert*
This book had me until Mairead falls for Mark, who is cruel and evil one minute and good enough to hang out and party with the next. She is his captive, but able to visit friends alone. I held on through that, although the constantly changing plot points was getting irritating.
By 85% I decided this girl was an absolute box of rocks. She makes monumentally stupid decisions over and over (and over and over), yet men can't seem to not fall madly in love with her. At this point her dialogue and actions are also more that of a child than an adult, which is not a good change for this character. She doesn't grow, she regresses.
Great premise, some hot scenes between Mairead and Mark, but her regression kind of killed it for me.
*spoiler alert*
This book had me until Mairead falls for Mark, who is cruel and evil one minute and good enough to hang out and party with the next. She is his captive, but able to visit friends alone. I held on through that, although the constantly changing plot points was getting irritating.
By 85% I decided this girl was an absolute box of rocks. She makes monumentally stupid decisions over and over (and over and over), yet men can't seem to not fall madly in love with her. At this point her dialogue and actions are also more that of a child than an adult, which is not a good change for this character. She doesn't grow, she regresses.
Great premise, some hot scenes between Mairead and Mark, but her regression kind of killed it for me.
March 16, 2014
In the very first chapter of the book, we meet a conceited, drugged gymnastic named Mairead whose friend died and she’s in the hospital feeling tingles for her bodyguard. Talk about a book in fast forward motion. I wanted to stop reading the book at the first chapter but decided to continuing reading to give the story time to develop and hope Mairead starts acting her age. After a few chapters I still dislike her, she has the attitude that she’s better than everyone and continuously came off as a total b. She seems less of an adult and more like a 15 year old bratty teenager in the stages of rebellion, blaming everyone else for the things going wrong in her life. She’s about to be questioned by the police about the death of a friend and she’s giggling and more worried about her looks than what happened. I just could not continue reading this book.
August 29, 2013
This book drove me crazy, I just wanted to choke the main character as she was so frustrating!! However, a brilliant story had me gripped. It is pretty dark in places and the main character is quite messed up in my opinion. I preferred the first half when James was the bodyguard, it was quite funny. The start of the book had me sobbing and quite happy with the ending of the story.
January 18, 2014
I think this one really just wasn't for me. I found Mairead's actions to be unbelievably stupid at times, and James' actions totally implausible. I also found the punishment extreme - seemed like all these men did was beat up on her. Nothing sexy about that for me.
Sorry...I finished this, but just barely.
2 stars
Sorry...I finished this, but just barely.
2 stars
June 16, 2013
I've enjoyed James' & Mairead's story! Mairead is entertaining & frustrating as a brat. She definitely needs James to keep her in line. James is gorgeous & dominant! He has his hands full with Mairead, but I think he can handle her and will enjoy doing so!!
September 22, 2013
Wow, this book twisted and turned and was non stop! At first I thought Mairead was just a spoiled brat but started to like her, as well as feel sorry for her the further into the story we went. I'll definitely be reading other books from this author.
January 3, 2016
I give this book so many stars because of James.... I wish I could order up a man like that mmhmm!!
might-read-freebie
November 3, 2012Amazon freebie 11.03.12
November 16, 2017
I bought and read this book in 2013, it hit my favorite list and never left it. The writing and then character are amazing. Will Mairead, the all around spoiled, bad girl, ever get her happy ending with the man she has loved for years, who just so happens to be her driver?? I loved this book I hope you do too!! Happy reading!!!!
August 29, 2013
I really enjoyed all of the characters, especially James and surprisingly Mark. The book had a romantic but exciting ending and kept me guessing, even when I thought I knew what was coming next. The beginning was hard to get into, with all of the explanations of Mairead and her complicated family life, but it was well worth it with all of the twists and turns throughout the story. Most of the erotica was relatively tame and well integrated into the story. It kept me glued to the story. There were a few typos throughout the novel, but was well written, with plenty of romanticism and witty banter in the BDSM relationship between James and Mairead. My favorite part of the novel was the part about James educating Mairead on why the relationship was not crazy or weird...basically that relationships come in all shapes and sizes, and she was not to be self-destructive again (with partying, drugs, reckless behavior, and bad relationships).
As far as the erotic scenes go, I would call it a spanking fantasy novel more than anything because that is pretty much the entirety of the relationship, until near the end. It was interesting that Taylor describes the physicality of the beatings that Mairead took from Mark, Richard, and the other men she encountered but did not describe in depth anything beyond her "tanning" from James.
This was a free e-book on Amazon and I was pleased to have read it. It would have got a higher rating if towards the ending was not cheesy romantic...I liked the mysterious and dark side of James in the beginning much better than the predictable "boyfriend type". But he was a wonderful protector, and I really enjoyed it.
As far as the erotic scenes go, I would call it a spanking fantasy novel more than anything because that is pretty much the entirety of the relationship, until near the end. It was interesting that Taylor describes the physicality of the beatings that Mairead took from Mark, Richard, and the other men she encountered but did not describe in depth anything beyond her "tanning" from James.
This was a free e-book on Amazon and I was pleased to have read it. It would have got a higher rating if towards the ending was not cheesy romantic...I liked the mysterious and dark side of James in the beginning much better than the predictable "boyfriend type". But he was a wonderful protector, and I really enjoyed it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 12, 2014
This is an erotic BDSM (more SM than BD) about a bronze medalist gymnast named Mairead (rhymes with parade) who has been kicked off the Australian Olympic prep team because of her bad attitude and other myriad things. She's taken to a party by a guy she's recently met and auctions off her virginity in order to do drugs. She wakes up, the guy who purchases her virginity wants payment, her guy friend tries to help her, she passes out and the next thing she knows, she's in the hospital and her guy friend is dead. She's being interrogated by the police when her dad's (who is a politician) bodyguard/chauffer, name James, shows up with an attorney to help her out. She realizes she's in love with the chauffeur, he's in love with her and then...it all goes to crap. She continues to make poor choices that get her in to danger and James continues to be there to rescue her.
In my opinion, she's not worth it. She's an immature spoiled brat who someone (ANYONE) should allow to reap what she's sown. She is such an unlikable character that I could not understand how or why any of these men would fall in love with her. She had absolutely no redeeming qualities. Everyone told her she was beautiful but beauty is only skin deep. One of the only "heroic" things she does do begins with her cussing out an old woman. The ONLY reason I finished this book was so I could post a review for a group I'm in. If not for that, I would have deleted it from my Kindle.
I got this book free on Amazon and I'm glad. I think I would have purchased it and returned it halfway in to the story.
In my opinion, she's not worth it. She's an immature spoiled brat who someone (ANYONE) should allow to reap what she's sown. She is such an unlikable character that I could not understand how or why any of these men would fall in love with her. She had absolutely no redeeming qualities. Everyone told her she was beautiful but beauty is only skin deep. One of the only "heroic" things she does do begins with her cussing out an old woman. The ONLY reason I finished this book was so I could post a review for a group I'm in. If not for that, I would have deleted it from my Kindle.
I got this book free on Amazon and I'm glad. I think I would have purchased it and returned it halfway in to the story.
May 9, 2014
So, I'm really glad this book is over.
I had the urge to just drop the book at several points, but I had hope that it would get better. Somehow. I don't know.
I was wrong. So wrong.
The story revolves around Mairead and James.
Mairead, who's the most annoying, selfish, obnoxious girl ever known to mankind. She could be the sister of that annoying bitch (excuse the language) from Thoughtless by S. C. Stephens. I bet those two would get along mighty fine.
James is one of the few (and far in between) characters that I acutally liked. Though I really couldn't understand why he would like that brat. At all. That being said, I couldn't understand why anyone would like her, period.
Mairead knows that she is selfish and just impossible, she never listens, always does what she wants and she's forgiven for everything. Literally everything. I really don't get it.
There were several occasions where I just wanted to throw the book across the room, but I could restrain myself. But let me tell you - barely. She was called a at least 3 times. That was 3 times too many. I mean, seriously?
The only slightly good things in the book were the sex-scenes, although I've read better ones in that department as well.
Am I gonna read this again? Hell no!
Would I recommend anyone to read this? No with a captial N!
I had the urge to just drop the book at several points, but I had hope that it would get better. Somehow. I don't know.
I was wrong. So wrong.
The story revolves around Mairead and James.
Mairead, who's the most annoying, selfish, obnoxious girl ever known to mankind. She could be the sister of that annoying bitch (excuse the language) from Thoughtless by S. C. Stephens. I bet those two would get along mighty fine.
James is one of the few (and far in between) characters that I acutally liked. Though I really couldn't understand why he would like that brat. At all. That being said, I couldn't understand why anyone would like her, period.
Mairead knows that she is selfish and just impossible, she never listens, always does what she wants and she's forgiven for everything. Literally everything. I really don't get it.
There were several occasions where I just wanted to throw the book across the room, but I could restrain myself. But let me tell you - barely. She was called a at least 3 times. That was 3 times too many. I mean, seriously?
The only slightly good things in the book were the sex-scenes, although I've read better ones in that department as well.
Am I gonna read this again? Hell no!
Would I recommend anyone to read this? No with a captial N!
June 18, 2013
I loved this book! It was lovely and sexy and hot and painful. It follows the love of a brat and a dominant man who knows just what to do with her. It was very different than anything I've even read in erotica. It has a pretty interesting plot that was well thought out, a lot of buildup and downtime where there isn't any hot action, and a ton of harsh spanking. I love spanking, don't get me wrong, but in this story, it often went beyond what I felt the infraction warranted. Because the journey has such volume and it hits the right age bracket, as well as the right voice, I would call this New Adult with spanking and not Erotica, where it likely got dumped by Amazon censor bots. I don't even really remember if there are drawn out sex scenes because it's the relationship that sticks out in my mind, and the strappings, and that's why I wouldn't classify it as Erotica, which is usually written just for the titillation. The sexual energy really sizzled in various spots, which made it so fun and memorable. I find myself thinking about this book from time to time, so it definitely has glue and glitter. I'm glad I got it.
May 15, 2014
This book was free on Amazon, even if a book is free I tend to read the reviews before downloading them and this came highly rated on Amazon UK. I really enjoyed it, though I did find the main character Mairead a little too irritating for my tastes, I put aside my feelings however and accepted that this was the authors intention, to make her opinionated, stubborn and selfish. Whilst she was these things she was also plucky, fierce and brave. James, her chauffeur / bodyguard I liked even more and was intrigued to learn more of his past. I was routing for them as a couple throughout the book. The plot was involved and kept the pace of the book going and the sex scenes were enjoyable. There were plenty of other interesting characters throughout the book too, any of which seem to have enough about them for their own books. With a couple of villains to keep the story interesting and increase the drama it held my attention and I read it in one sitting. I'll look forward to trying the next in the trilogy.
February 20, 2013
There is sooooo much I want to say about this book because it had me twisted up! I will try to keep it to a minimum although I think that Yamile's review hit it right on the nail for me! First off Mairead drove me flippin' nuts! She was so immature, naive and inexperienced with just about every thing in general that she continued to make one bad choice after another and it was never ending! I couldn't understand why oh WHY she didn't ask the one man whom she claimed to love and trust for help??? That whole bit with Mark, WTFH!?..*gag*...I wanted to punch him in his throat and stab his dad in the eye! It's too bad they didn't meet the same fate as poor Josh! I'm on the fence if I want to read book 2 because I don't know if I can handle another dose of Mairead's ridiculousness although one can hope that she has learned and grown from everything she experienced in this book! =/
January 25, 2013
3.5 Stars
I couldn't get over how dumb Mairead was. Seriously, stupid stupid decisions.
The only reason for the 3.5 stars is because of James--although I wish he would have done more other than spanking. Obviously Mairead didn't listen to him or hell respect him since she kept disobeying. He's supposed to be in control, but it seemed like she was...unfortunately.
What I would have liked to have seen was James and Mairead's relationship before she left for Australia. Were they together all the time? She didn't know a lot about him, so obviously she never asked questions. It was just one day they are in love? I needed more of a back story besides the threat in the car 5 years prior.
I don't know, this just didn't do anything for me, but I got it for free so I can't complain that much.
I couldn't get over how dumb Mairead was. Seriously, stupid stupid decisions.
The only reason for the 3.5 stars is because of James--although I wish he would have done more other than spanking. Obviously Mairead didn't listen to him or hell respect him since she kept disobeying. He's supposed to be in control, but it seemed like she was...unfortunately.
What I would have liked to have seen was James and Mairead's relationship before she left for Australia. Were they together all the time? She didn't know a lot about him, so obviously she never asked questions. It was just one day they are in love? I needed more of a back story besides the threat in the car 5 years prior.
I don't know, this just didn't do anything for me, but I got it for free so I can't complain that much.
May 29, 2013
I wish I could rate this 3.5 stars. The characters only delve into pretty much domestic discipline, while hinting that more BDSM (and variety) will occur but it doesn't. Except for the abuse of her captor and the final scene of the book, it is just spanking. I want to give it the .5 extra stars just because the book was good enough to keep me coming back to finish it, even if the subject matter left something to be desired for me personally. I really enjoyed James' character, even though the main character was a ridiculous brat (who keeps running off to fight and convince psychos?). I just couldn't believe after everything she still went outside the house to get a stupid newspaper! Even though I was happy she continued to get what was coming to her, I really wished by the end her attitude had changed instead of trying to be more sneaky. Did she really learn anything?!?!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 18, 2014
Hmmmm, what do I think. More of a 3.5. Mairead has to be one of most frustrating and stupid heroines I've ever come across. Almost TSTL. It was only because of James that I scored this book higher than a 2. James was an absolutely delicious character. His dominant demeanor and cool approach to Mairead's antics made me love him. But the rest of the book - what a clusterfxxk. A mis-mosh of a little domestic discipline, bdsm-lite, romantic suspense and a smattering of romantic comedy. There was way too much going on. Almost like it was two books - the romantic suspense and solving the death of Josh and then this foolishness with Mark and oh yeah, Mairead loves to be spanked and that whole dynamic with James and now Mairead wants to train to be a pole dancer. It was just exhausting reading the book.
December 29, 2012
This book was so good that I had to finish reading it, even though I read "the end" at 1am. The relationship between James and Mairead- loved her name and the little joke she told about her name's pronunciation- fascinated throughout the book, all the way through plot twists... those wonderful plot twists that kept me from sleep as I just had to read what would happen to Mairead next. The cast of supporting characters were great fun, lovely human beings. I'm not sure how I didn't realize this book was set in Australia and New Zealand when I bought it, but I loved the spellings and different slang from a mixture of other countries' types of English. I am looking forward to buying, reading, and reviewing the sequel: "A Line Crossed."
January 28, 2013
Although I got this as a Kindle freebie, IMO it's excellent - worth paying money for! The h is a very complicated, interesting character. I will say that I could not get myself to believe in the h's motive for running away from the H midway through - and even less believable was her behavior during the separation. But if you can overlook the plot infirmities, which are not all that egregious by the standards of the genre, the love story itself is very emotionally satisfying . . . not to mention hot and kinky! Even though the h and H seem like oil and water for much of the book, I found their mutual attraction convincing. In order to truly enjoy the read, though, you need to be OK with - or better, somewhat titillated by - the idea of spanking as a turn-on.
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