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Knights of the Board Room #2
Unlaced
A collection of four stories from Jaci Burton, Jasmine Hayes, Denise Rossetti, and Joey W. Hill, that will have you gasping for breath even before the first tug of the corset laces.
The Ties that Bind by Jaci Burton
Sixteen years is a long time to carry a torch for your ex. It’s high time Lisa and Rick act on long-dormant desires and reignite the flame that still burns inside them both.
Unbound by Jasmine Haynes
A wanting woman arrives at the perfect solution for exploring sensual freedom: open herself up to an amateur photographer with no limits—and an uncensored appreciation for the female body.
Controlled Response by Joey W. Hill
After seeing his boss Matt find the love of his life in the high powered executive Savannah Tennyson, Lucas finds he’s wanting more out of a relationship than just fantastic sex. Then on a cycling trip in the Berkshires, he stumbles on the pin-up fantasy of his life, a beautiful blonde pleasuring herself on her Harley in a secluded glade. Can he have the fantasy and the reality both? When Cassandra Moira reappears in his life a month later as part of a negotiating team on a three-day business deal, he’ll have to use every strategy—including the sensual skills of his own multi-talented team—to convince her the two of them have more than sexual chemistry, before she’s gone from his life again.
Rubies and Black Velvet by Denise Rossetti
As the laces of a stunning ruby-trimmed corset tighten, so too does the grip of an inescapable sorceress’s curse—one with the power to transform any woman into a dominating femme fatale.
The Ties that Bind by Jaci Burton
Sixteen years is a long time to carry a torch for your ex. It’s high time Lisa and Rick act on long-dormant desires and reignite the flame that still burns inside them both.
Unbound by Jasmine Haynes
A wanting woman arrives at the perfect solution for exploring sensual freedom: open herself up to an amateur photographer with no limits—and an uncensored appreciation for the female body.
Controlled Response by Joey W. Hill
After seeing his boss Matt find the love of his life in the high powered executive Savannah Tennyson, Lucas finds he’s wanting more out of a relationship than just fantastic sex. Then on a cycling trip in the Berkshires, he stumbles on the pin-up fantasy of his life, a beautiful blonde pleasuring herself on her Harley in a secluded glade. Can he have the fantasy and the reality both? When Cassandra Moira reappears in his life a month later as part of a negotiating team on a three-day business deal, he’ll have to use every strategy—including the sensual skills of his own multi-talented team—to convince her the two of them have more than sexual chemistry, before she’s gone from his life again.
Rubies and Black Velvet by Denise Rossetti
As the laces of a stunning ruby-trimmed corset tighten, so too does the grip of an inescapable sorceress’s curse—one with the power to transform any woman into a dominating femme fatale.
464 pages, Paperback
First published December 1, 2008
21 people are currently reading
1206 people want to read
About the author
Jaci Burton
153 books8,294 followersJaci Burton is a New York Times and USA Today bestselling, award-winning author of over 85 books. She lives in Oklahoma and when she isn’t on deadline (which is often), she can usually be found wrestling with her uncooperative garden, wrangling her dogs, watching an unhealthy amount of television, or completely losing track of time reading a great book. She’s a total romantic and longs for the happily ever after in every story, which you’ll find in all her books.. Visit her website at www.jaciburton.com for excerpts, book information and contests.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews
December 6, 2008
Reviewed for queuemyreview.com; book release Dec08
This book is very hard to rate as I quite enjoyed a few stories and really didn't care much for the others. The overall rating would be more of a 3.5...
Well! I just finished “Unlaced”, a new erotica anthology published by Penguin. “Unlaced” contains four very different stories that run from sweet reunion romance to a demon-infested corset that craves sadistic acts and blood! The vast differences were rather jarring for me as they ripped me from mood to a totally new one, but there were certainly a couple of stories that I enjoyed. All of the stories revolve ‘loosely’ around lingerie.
Jaci Burton’s “The Ties That Bind” is a sweet, steamy, contemporary story about a couple who married and divorced when they were very young, yet stayed near each other and jointly participated in raising their child. Now their child is about to leave and neither one is willing to let go of their special connection. But if will take more than hot sweaty sex to convince one to take another chance on love.
“Undone” by Jasmine Haynes is an older woman, younger man story. She’s lost her self-confidence and is looking for something different to help her regain it. He’s ten years younger and looking for a ‘real woman’ to photograph. The connection is instant and electric, but it will take a strong woman to defy convention and gossip.
“Controlled Response” paints the scene of a strong, contemporary woman with myriad responsibilities who’s afraid of letting go; and the dominant master who won’t let her go. Joey W. Hill turns up the steam in this mild bondage and submission tale.
And finally, Denise Rossetti ends the anthology with “Rubies and Black Velvet”—a historical tale of black magic, loss, and the power of love.
Readers should be warned that this anthology is NOT for the faint of heart. Sexual escapades include sex in public places, bondage, submission, flogging, blindfolds, and a variety of other sexual activities described in graphic, explicit terms. My biggest complaint is the ‘cross-genre’ stories included in one anthology. While that means there’s something for everyone, I think it likely that readers who enjoy the harder erotica will be disappointed with a couple of the stories and vice versa. In some ways, each story becomes harder-edged as you work through the volume. But I found it jarring to go from sweeter stories to dominance and flogging.
I’m certainly not sorry I got to read “Unlaced” and it is an easy way to get the feel for the varying types of erotica available from the featured authors. But I don’t think this is one that will stay in my personal library.
This book is very hard to rate as I quite enjoyed a few stories and really didn't care much for the others. The overall rating would be more of a 3.5...
Well! I just finished “Unlaced”, a new erotica anthology published by Penguin. “Unlaced” contains four very different stories that run from sweet reunion romance to a demon-infested corset that craves sadistic acts and blood! The vast differences were rather jarring for me as they ripped me from mood to a totally new one, but there were certainly a couple of stories that I enjoyed. All of the stories revolve ‘loosely’ around lingerie.
Jaci Burton’s “The Ties That Bind” is a sweet, steamy, contemporary story about a couple who married and divorced when they were very young, yet stayed near each other and jointly participated in raising their child. Now their child is about to leave and neither one is willing to let go of their special connection. But if will take more than hot sweaty sex to convince one to take another chance on love.
“Undone” by Jasmine Haynes is an older woman, younger man story. She’s lost her self-confidence and is looking for something different to help her regain it. He’s ten years younger and looking for a ‘real woman’ to photograph. The connection is instant and electric, but it will take a strong woman to defy convention and gossip.
“Controlled Response” paints the scene of a strong, contemporary woman with myriad responsibilities who’s afraid of letting go; and the dominant master who won’t let her go. Joey W. Hill turns up the steam in this mild bondage and submission tale.
And finally, Denise Rossetti ends the anthology with “Rubies and Black Velvet”—a historical tale of black magic, loss, and the power of love.
Readers should be warned that this anthology is NOT for the faint of heart. Sexual escapades include sex in public places, bondage, submission, flogging, blindfolds, and a variety of other sexual activities described in graphic, explicit terms. My biggest complaint is the ‘cross-genre’ stories included in one anthology. While that means there’s something for everyone, I think it likely that readers who enjoy the harder erotica will be disappointed with a couple of the stories and vice versa. In some ways, each story becomes harder-edged as you work through the volume. But I found it jarring to go from sweeter stories to dominance and flogging.
I’m certainly not sorry I got to read “Unlaced” and it is an easy way to get the feel for the varying types of erotica available from the featured authors. But I don’t think this is one that will stay in my personal library.
December 4, 2008
Ties That Bind- Jaci Burton
At age 16 Lisa got pregnant by Rick who was 19 at the time. They got married, but being so young things just did not work out. Rick has always been there for Lisa and his child. Now that his daughter is 18 and going to college Rick deceides it's time to seduce Lisa and make her his wife once again. Very sweet love story with spicy love scenes.
Undone- Jasmine Haynes
Margo is 45 years old and just has been dumped by her boyfriend for not being sexually daring. She comes across an add of a photographer who wants to take erotic pictures. Dirk, the photographer turns out to be a 33 year old hunk. The more explicit pictures he takes of her the more daring she gets and feels sexually liberated. When Dirk talks about having a serious relationship with her she turns him down due to the age difference. Those photo shoots where hot and so was the sex.
Controlled Response- Joey Hill
The first time Lucas meets Cass she is on a motorcycle pleasuring herself. He joins her but before he can get her name she leaves. He meets her again when she comes to his company to negotiate a contract for her employer. Cass is raising her five siblings and is always in control. She does not make time for a relationship and she never submits to a man. Lucas makes it his mission to see her let go of the control and give in to her desires.
This one was super hot and erotic. Had to have my icetea close at all times.
Rubies And Black Velvet- Denise Rossetti
John is a farmer who plan on getting married to Maggie. Before he can do that he has a family emergency and leaves with his brother. He tells Maggie he will be back in 10 days. Well after waiting for John for years she gets the news that he is dead. Imagine her surprise when he shows up six years after leaving her. Both still love each other and Maggie puts on a corset to seduce John. What she does not know is that the corset is curesd and could destroy both of them. I did not really care for this story. It just did not flow along as the other three.
All in all the book was well worth a read.
At age 16 Lisa got pregnant by Rick who was 19 at the time. They got married, but being so young things just did not work out. Rick has always been there for Lisa and his child. Now that his daughter is 18 and going to college Rick deceides it's time to seduce Lisa and make her his wife once again. Very sweet love story with spicy love scenes.
Undone- Jasmine Haynes
Margo is 45 years old and just has been dumped by her boyfriend for not being sexually daring. She comes across an add of a photographer who wants to take erotic pictures. Dirk, the photographer turns out to be a 33 year old hunk. The more explicit pictures he takes of her the more daring she gets and feels sexually liberated. When Dirk talks about having a serious relationship with her she turns him down due to the age difference. Those photo shoots where hot and so was the sex.
Controlled Response- Joey Hill
The first time Lucas meets Cass she is on a motorcycle pleasuring herself. He joins her but before he can get her name she leaves. He meets her again when she comes to his company to negotiate a contract for her employer. Cass is raising her five siblings and is always in control. She does not make time for a relationship and she never submits to a man. Lucas makes it his mission to see her let go of the control and give in to her desires.
This one was super hot and erotic. Had to have my icetea close at all times.
Rubies And Black Velvet- Denise Rossetti
John is a farmer who plan on getting married to Maggie. Before he can do that he has a family emergency and leaves with his brother. He tells Maggie he will be back in 10 days. Well after waiting for John for years she gets the news that he is dead. Imagine her surprise when he shows up six years after leaving her. Both still love each other and Maggie puts on a corset to seduce John. What she does not know is that the corset is curesd and could destroy both of them. I did not really care for this story. It just did not flow along as the other three.
All in all the book was well worth a read.
January 31, 2012
4.5 For Controlled Response by Joey Hill
I said it in my review of the first book but I will say it again - I am really blown away by this series.
Controlled Response – the story of Lucas and Cassandra was chilli hot, scorching in the best of ways. Not only did it leave me panting, but the strong emotional connection left me giddy.
I want a ‘Lucas’ all of my own.
The men in this series know how to put a woman first and foremost, not only sexually (YOWZA) but emotionally. They treat their women as if they are something to be cherished. When they find that certain someone, nothing will stand in their way to obtain them and I love how all the men work together to reach the ultimate goal of making the woman theirs.
Every scene in this book was fantastically written. The sex is explicit but tasteful and erotic as all hell. The emotional and playful scenes are just as good, making the depth between the two characters not only heated sexually, but deep and meaningful making me believe their happily ever after will actually continue long after I’ve read the last page.
Merged review:
4.5 Stars to Controlled Response by Joey Hill.
I said it in my review of the first book but I will say it again - I am really blown away by this series.
Controlled Response – the story of Lucas and Cassandra was chilli hot, scorching in the best of ways. Not only did it leave me panting, but the strong emotional connection left me giddy.
I want a ‘Lucas’ all of my own.
The men in this series know how to put a woman first and foremost, not only sexually (YOWZA) but emotionally. They treat their women as if they are something to be cherished. When they find that certain someone, nothing will stand in their way to obtain them and I love how all the men work together to reach the ultimate goal of making the woman theirs.
Every scene in this book was fantastically written. The sex is explicit but tasteful and erotic as all hell. The emotional and playful scenes are just as good, making the depth between the two characters not only heated sexually, but deep and meaningful making me believe their happily ever after will actually continue long after I’ve read the last page.
I said it in my review of the first book but I will say it again - I am really blown away by this series.
Controlled Response – the story of Lucas and Cassandra was chilli hot, scorching in the best of ways. Not only did it leave me panting, but the strong emotional connection left me giddy.
I want a ‘Lucas’ all of my own.
The men in this series know how to put a woman first and foremost, not only sexually (YOWZA) but emotionally. They treat their women as if they are something to be cherished. When they find that certain someone, nothing will stand in their way to obtain them and I love how all the men work together to reach the ultimate goal of making the woman theirs.
Every scene in this book was fantastically written. The sex is explicit but tasteful and erotic as all hell. The emotional and playful scenes are just as good, making the depth between the two characters not only heated sexually, but deep and meaningful making me believe their happily ever after will actually continue long after I’ve read the last page.
Merged review:
4.5 Stars to Controlled Response by Joey Hill.
I said it in my review of the first book but I will say it again - I am really blown away by this series.
Controlled Response – the story of Lucas and Cassandra was chilli hot, scorching in the best of ways. Not only did it leave me panting, but the strong emotional connection left me giddy.
I want a ‘Lucas’ all of my own.
The men in this series know how to put a woman first and foremost, not only sexually (YOWZA) but emotionally. They treat their women as if they are something to be cherished. When they find that certain someone, nothing will stand in their way to obtain them and I love how all the men work together to reach the ultimate goal of making the woman theirs.
Every scene in this book was fantastically written. The sex is explicit but tasteful and erotic as all hell. The emotional and playful scenes are just as good, making the depth between the two characters not only heated sexually, but deep and meaningful making me believe their happily ever after will actually continue long after I’ve read the last page.
April 12, 2015
Only Joey Hill's Novella
2nd read: April 2015
Buddy read with Maru
I think this defines the "swept of your feet" concept!
1st read: January 2013
"And you don't think I'm capable of taking care of myself?"
"On the contrary. Which is why I expect, if you weren't trying to prove something to me, you wouldn't be contemplating taking an unnecessary risk. I like taking care of you. Is that so bad?"
"I should have run you over with the Harley. And rolled over your bike for good measure."
"Now that's just pure spite," he said, but found he had a desire to chuckle. Particularly when he noted a tiny curve at the corner of her luscious mouth as well.
This one is my favorite quote this year :D
She shook her head. "You're insane."
"We're human, Cass. That's all. We're all kids playing grown-up. We do the best we can."
2nd read: April 2015
Buddy read with Maru
I think this defines the "swept of your feet" concept!
1st read: January 2013
"And you don't think I'm capable of taking care of myself?"
"On the contrary. Which is why I expect, if you weren't trying to prove something to me, you wouldn't be contemplating taking an unnecessary risk. I like taking care of you. Is that so bad?"
"I should have run you over with the Harley. And rolled over your bike for good measure."
"Now that's just pure spite," he said, but found he had a desire to chuckle. Particularly when he noted a tiny curve at the corner of her luscious mouth as well.
This one is my favorite quote this year :D
She shook her head. "You're insane."
"We're human, Cass. That's all. We're all kids playing grown-up. We do the best we can."
July 20, 2012
Review for Controlled Response by Joey W Hill ONLY!
Originally read July 2012.....re-read April 2013
After reading about Lucas' talents in the previous book, I was so looking forward to his story. Although it was really good and I enjoyed it, I don't think it quite lived up to what I was expecting or hoping for ;)
Originally read July 2012.....re-read April 2013
After reading about Lucas' talents in the previous book, I was so looking forward to his story. Although it was really good and I enjoyed it, I don't think it quite lived up to what I was expecting or hoping for ;)
April 10, 2012
Novella 2 - ONLY read Joey Hill's Controlled Response.
Okey dokes, so in this series, with each installment Joey is clearly moving it up a notch, showing the reader the different levels of how hardcore the Dom/Sub relationship is.
This installment was for me a classic Joey Hill fail. Sure it was hot BUT the male character, Lucas was too perfect. A complete Gary-stu. His dialog was something out of an overly earnest Hallmark card. Totally purple and OTT. Cassandra was alright. She didn't do it for me and the big dominant 'takeover' scene didn't either. Points for being creative but utterly contrived.
There's always at least one in Joey series where I don't like the characters much for this reason.
Usually she manages to always pull me in to their emotional journey and I fall into complete understanding no matter how far out the environment and that's what I really enjoy about this author. In spite of her inconsistencies (due to my level of tolerance b'c she goes too purple) more often than not, she hones in on astute psychological perspectives in order to give her characters legitimacy to justify their actions and responses, but this one didn't work for me.
I think this will generally appeal to her fans though but as one myself, I know she can do better.
Okey dokes, so in this series, with each installment Joey is clearly moving it up a notch, showing the reader the different levels of how hardcore the Dom/Sub relationship is.
This installment was for me a classic Joey Hill fail. Sure it was hot BUT the male character, Lucas was too perfect. A complete Gary-stu. His dialog was something out of an overly earnest Hallmark card. Totally purple and OTT. Cassandra was alright. She didn't do it for me and the big dominant 'takeover' scene didn't either. Points for being creative but utterly contrived.
There's always at least one in Joey series where I don't like the characters much for this reason.
Usually she manages to always pull me in to their emotional journey and I fall into complete understanding no matter how far out the environment and that's what I really enjoy about this author. In spite of her inconsistencies (due to my level of tolerance b'c she goes too purple) more often than not, she hones in on astute psychological perspectives in order to give her characters legitimacy to justify their actions and responses, but this one didn't work for me.
I think this will generally appeal to her fans though but as one myself, I know she can do better.
February 11, 2012
I know people think smut is smut....but I find it truly amazing that an author can write a story so full of NON-VANILLA sex that it has your head spinning, but at the same time is such an emotional read that it has me crying throughout! I am truly in love with all of these characters. I knew after the first book that I was in love with all FIVE of the Knights of the Boardroom, but I knew off the bat that Lucas would be one of my favorites, and his story only made me love him even more.
Again - not a recommendation for most of my sweet reading GR friends, but if you like A LOT of kink in your sex (of the D/s and BDSM variety) you should give this series a try. It has a great storyline with characters that stick with you well after reading it!
Again - not a recommendation for most of my sweet reading GR friends, but if you like A LOT of kink in your sex (of the D/s and BDSM variety) you should give this series a try. It has a great storyline with characters that stick with you well after reading it!
October 24, 2010
Hot, Steamy, Sexy and Adventures is the best way to describe Unlaced. I was on the edge of my seat while involved deep in this steamy treat!
The stories were mostly about everyday people living their lives until some hot guy takes that over. I liked the fact these woman were strong, independent, and most of all memorizing. Once they knew what they wanted they took control from there. I loved that fact these stories weren't about younger woman. They are older, wiser, and can still turn up the damn heat for their men. I am for sure interested in the other authors who wrote in this book and will have to check them out. Over all it was for sure a steamy read.
The stories were mostly about everyday people living their lives until some hot guy takes that over. I liked the fact these woman were strong, independent, and most of all memorizing. Once they knew what they wanted they took control from there. I loved that fact these stories weren't about younger woman. They are older, wiser, and can still turn up the damn heat for their men. I am for sure interested in the other authors who wrote in this book and will have to check them out. Over all it was for sure a steamy read.
December 28, 2009
3.5 stars. The stories were decent. All had good sex scenes, but the first two stories were way better I thought. The last two weren't as interesting and the characters weren't as engaging. But worth a borrow from the library for a snowy night. Very easy reading.
April 19, 2012
Yup, Lucas is my favourite hands down... fair enough, i've only read about 2 out of the 5 Knights... but i just LLLUUUURRRRVVVEEEE Lucas... if i say anymore, it would be way to x-rated, so we'll just leave it at that i REALLY ENJOYED Let Loose *wink wink*
July 19, 2008
Vintage Jaci Burton only better, Jasmine Haynes tickles your imagination.
I couldn't get into the other two stories very much.
I couldn't get into the other two stories very much.
November 19, 2009
Four stories of pure TRASH! I'm giving it four stars.
April 15, 2012
Another Knight of the Boardroom finds the holy grail - his forever woman submitting to him.
Le sigh!
Le sigh!
June 7, 2024
Anthology
Two of these authors were known to me, and that let me meet two others. What fun.
This quartet is built around corsets, and that garment appears in each story. From a vacation sex-away to erotic photography to a need for self control that has morphed into a wall of resistance to a misguided attempt at seduction that goes cruely awry because magic and demons are a bad combo; four couples are challenged to create a new vision of their lives that includes someone to share and dare to love.
Beautiful.
Two of these authors were known to me, and that let me meet two others. What fun.
This quartet is built around corsets, and that garment appears in each story. From a vacation sex-away to erotic photography to a need for self control that has morphed into a wall of resistance to a misguided attempt at seduction that goes cruely awry because magic and demons are a bad combo; four couples are challenged to create a new vision of their lives that includes someone to share and dare to love.
Beautiful.
June 12, 2017
Story by Jaci B was good. the story by Jasmine Haynes was good. story by Joey hill became disjointed half way thru and I struggled to finish. then it just ended. didn't read story by Rossetti as not into British middle ages.
May 27, 2015
CONTROLLED RESPONSE
Finally the second story for Knights of the Boardroom this story has been a long time coming. It is appropriate that Lucas Adler would be the next to fall. He is Matt Kensington's best friend and CFO of K & A. All these men are drool worthy and it is hard to pick just one as the best of them all. Matt is the leader of this group and showed the others that finally a mate was a very good thing. Lucas is an accountant and a cyclist. He rides his bike to and from work every day and he competes in races across the country. All of these men are hardworking and hard playing. They have worked hard to make the company they are part of a huge success. Each has his strengths in the boardroom as well as the bedroom. Lucas is no exception but lately his sex life has become lackluster. When he happens upon a woman pleasuring herself in a remote glade he can’t resist taking over and showing her bandage is a gateway to greater pleasure. A month later he meets the woman Cassandra Moira in his boardroom and he knows that fate has had a hand in bring them together.
Cassandra is up to her neck in family and work responsibilities. She is raising her younger brother and three sisters. Her father ran off leaving a mentally ill mother and Cassie to take of the children. When her mother overdoses Cassie steps up and takes over raising the kids. Cassie has walled herself away behind walls of control and restraint. She trusts no one and is afraid of losing control of any aspect of her life. There has been very few that have stood by her as she earned her degree and worked to support her siblings. When she meets Lucas she finds someone that will take control and give her pleasure that she has only fantasied about. She fights to the attraction with all she is worth but her heart and soul knows that she has found someone that will help shoulder the responsibilities of the children and make her life easier in ways she never imagined.
There are times that this story is a little difficult to read. Cassie is so tired and so in need of someone relief from the stress of her life. She is just afraid to grab for the life line that Lucas throws her. In many ways Cassie is like Matt’s wife Savannah. They both had closed themselves off from the world. The scene with Cassie’s drug addict brother is the hardest scene for me. She loves him and hates him at the same time. She wants to help make things better but knows that they only one that can help is Jeremy. It was very enjoyable to watch Lucas show Cassie that she can trust him with whatever her family throws at him. He also shows her that it is all right to submit to a strong dominant. That giving all that control can be a very pleasurable experience.
If there is a flaw to this story it is that it is too short. I would have liked to find out if Lucas and Cassie could straighten Jeremy out. I have to hope that something finally made the kid realize that he is killing himself with his attitude and addictive personality. Ms. Hill does pack a lot of emotions into a very few pages and manages to bring a relationship to fruition in a believable way. I can’t recommend any of Ms. Hill’s work highly enough. She is a very talented writer and a very nice person.
Finally the second story for Knights of the Boardroom this story has been a long time coming. It is appropriate that Lucas Adler would be the next to fall. He is Matt Kensington's best friend and CFO of K & A. All these men are drool worthy and it is hard to pick just one as the best of them all. Matt is the leader of this group and showed the others that finally a mate was a very good thing. Lucas is an accountant and a cyclist. He rides his bike to and from work every day and he competes in races across the country. All of these men are hardworking and hard playing. They have worked hard to make the company they are part of a huge success. Each has his strengths in the boardroom as well as the bedroom. Lucas is no exception but lately his sex life has become lackluster. When he happens upon a woman pleasuring herself in a remote glade he can’t resist taking over and showing her bandage is a gateway to greater pleasure. A month later he meets the woman Cassandra Moira in his boardroom and he knows that fate has had a hand in bring them together.
Cassandra is up to her neck in family and work responsibilities. She is raising her younger brother and three sisters. Her father ran off leaving a mentally ill mother and Cassie to take of the children. When her mother overdoses Cassie steps up and takes over raising the kids. Cassie has walled herself away behind walls of control and restraint. She trusts no one and is afraid of losing control of any aspect of her life. There has been very few that have stood by her as she earned her degree and worked to support her siblings. When she meets Lucas she finds someone that will take control and give her pleasure that she has only fantasied about. She fights to the attraction with all she is worth but her heart and soul knows that she has found someone that will help shoulder the responsibilities of the children and make her life easier in ways she never imagined.
There are times that this story is a little difficult to read. Cassie is so tired and so in need of someone relief from the stress of her life. She is just afraid to grab for the life line that Lucas throws her. In many ways Cassie is like Matt’s wife Savannah. They both had closed themselves off from the world. The scene with Cassie’s drug addict brother is the hardest scene for me. She loves him and hates him at the same time. She wants to help make things better but knows that they only one that can help is Jeremy. It was very enjoyable to watch Lucas show Cassie that she can trust him with whatever her family throws at him. He also shows her that it is all right to submit to a strong dominant. That giving all that control can be a very pleasurable experience.
If there is a flaw to this story it is that it is too short. I would have liked to find out if Lucas and Cassie could straighten Jeremy out. I have to hope that something finally made the kid realize that he is killing himself with his attitude and addictive personality. Ms. Hill does pack a lot of emotions into a very few pages and manages to bring a relationship to fruition in a believable way. I can’t recommend any of Ms. Hill’s work highly enough. She is a very talented writer and a very nice person.
April 15, 2016
A very nice collection of four short romances with a common theme of a corset and love ranging from sweet to erotic to historical.
In 2008, Unlaced won the Cupid and Psyche Awards from The Romance Studio for Best Erotic Anthology and the OKRWA National Readers Choice Award for Novella (Undone).
Series:
"Controlled Response" (Knights of the Board Room, 2)
The Stories
Jaci Burton's "Ties That Bind" is a very sweet story of a couple who married too young, divorced as a coping mechanism, and, with their daughter graduating and off to college, want to start again. My only quibble is "why did they wait??"
Jasmine Haynes' "Undone" is a lovely story of affirmation. Dirk Araman intends to enter a national contest showing the female form in all its glory and wants to work on practice shots — posing the model, getting the lighting right, etc. But he wants a real woman. Margo is still hurting over her ex-boyfriend's remarks and decides to refute them by taking Dirk up on his ad. Although 12 years younger, Dirk falls in love with Margo during the shoot and pursues her, ignoring her evasions, figuring he has a chance until she says no.
Joey W. Hill's "Controlled Response" is a different perspective on bondage and control. Cassandra Moira is all about control and wearing a corset helps her maintain her cool during corporate negotiations. She's about to have that control tested when she encounters Lucas Adler CFO for K&A and its Knights of the Board: Ben O'Callahan is K&A's legal adviser; Jon Forte with his degrees in finance and engineering and genius-level mechanical skills; Matthew Lord Kensington, CEO; and, Peter Winston. They are a kinky bunch but with hearts of gold. As Cassandra finds out when Lucas insists on worming his way into her life and her family of five.
Denise Rossetti's "Rubies and Black Velvet" is the historical romance revolving around a young farm girl whose lover goes off to ensure his younger brother signs up safely for a mercenary unit. Only, he doesn't come home. When her father dies and the farm is foreclosed on, Meg heads off to the city to find out what happened to him where, six years later, she encounters a black velvet corset sprinkled with five blood red rubies.
The Cover and Title
The cover is all in pink from the draped background to the back of the corset with its pink cord and the satin ribbon barely encasing the blonde. The title is certainly appropriate as the ladies do get Unlaced.
In 2008, Unlaced won the Cupid and Psyche Awards from The Romance Studio for Best Erotic Anthology and the OKRWA National Readers Choice Award for Novella (Undone).
Series:
"Controlled Response" (Knights of the Board Room, 2)
The Stories
Jaci Burton's "Ties That Bind" is a very sweet story of a couple who married too young, divorced as a coping mechanism, and, with their daughter graduating and off to college, want to start again. My only quibble is "why did they wait??"
Jasmine Haynes' "Undone" is a lovely story of affirmation. Dirk Araman intends to enter a national contest showing the female form in all its glory and wants to work on practice shots — posing the model, getting the lighting right, etc. But he wants a real woman. Margo is still hurting over her ex-boyfriend's remarks and decides to refute them by taking Dirk up on his ad. Although 12 years younger, Dirk falls in love with Margo during the shoot and pursues her, ignoring her evasions, figuring he has a chance until she says no.
Joey W. Hill's "Controlled Response" is a different perspective on bondage and control. Cassandra Moira is all about control and wearing a corset helps her maintain her cool during corporate negotiations. She's about to have that control tested when she encounters Lucas Adler CFO for K&A and its Knights of the Board: Ben O'Callahan is K&A's legal adviser; Jon Forte with his degrees in finance and engineering and genius-level mechanical skills; Matthew Lord Kensington, CEO; and, Peter Winston. They are a kinky bunch but with hearts of gold. As Cassandra finds out when Lucas insists on worming his way into her life and her family of five.
Denise Rossetti's "Rubies and Black Velvet" is the historical romance revolving around a young farm girl whose lover goes off to ensure his younger brother signs up safely for a mercenary unit. Only, he doesn't come home. When her father dies and the farm is foreclosed on, Meg heads off to the city to find out what happened to him where, six years later, she encounters a black velvet corset sprinkled with five blood red rubies.
The Cover and Title
The cover is all in pink from the draped background to the back of the corset with its pink cord and the satin ribbon barely encasing the blonde. The title is certainly appropriate as the ladies do get Unlaced.
February 8, 2012
Ok, my honest responses to all 4 stories in this anthology:
Jaci Burton: She had me loving every minute of the reunion story until the heroine kept pushing the hero away again & again. And AGAIN. When you know you have your perfect man (and she knew she did because she had known him for 20 years), don't look for reasons to push him away. Kind of a bummer because I've really enjoyed some of this author's other books. 3.5/5
Jasmine Haynes: My favorite story of the book. The heroine almost blew it (for me) by turning him down one too many times, but I can overlook it because the rest of the story was very well-written, emotionally fantastic and smoking hot. 4/5
Joey W. Hill: I've heard so many good things about her books, and now I'm wondering if this is representative of her style or not. I only made it through the first scene in the woods, felt absolutely no connection to the characters and was too bored to continue. 1/5
Denise Rossetti: This really isn't even fair because I skipped this one entirely. The blurb didn't entice me at all, maybe partly because of the mood that I had after attempting the 3rd story. No rating.
Jaci Burton: She had me loving every minute of the reunion story until the heroine kept pushing the hero away again & again. And AGAIN. When you know you have your perfect man (and she knew she did because she had known him for 20 years), don't look for reasons to push him away. Kind of a bummer because I've really enjoyed some of this author's other books. 3.5/5
Jasmine Haynes: My favorite story of the book. The heroine almost blew it (for me) by turning him down one too many times, but I can overlook it because the rest of the story was very well-written, emotionally fantastic and smoking hot. 4/5
Joey W. Hill: I've heard so many good things about her books, and now I'm wondering if this is representative of her style or not. I only made it through the first scene in the woods, felt absolutely no connection to the characters and was too bored to continue. 1/5
Denise Rossetti: This really isn't even fair because I skipped this one entirely. The blurb didn't entice me at all, maybe partly because of the mood that I had after attempting the 3rd story. No rating.
January 5, 2009
This anthology definitely has some good points and bad points. From the perspective erotic fiction, I thought the Jaci Burton story was a bit slow and boring and the Denise Rossetti story was a bit unusual. The Joey Hill story was exciting and interesting, although a bit over-the-top in the usual fashion of this author (as in, I can't imagine it happening in real life...but, it is fantasy/fiction, so that's ok). The Jasmine Haynes story was my favorite, although I do wish it was longer to flesh out the relationship between the two characters a bit more.
September 5, 2010
This is a collection of 4 hot stories with the common theme of a corset. Burton's story was a sweet one of high school sweethearts with a twist. Haynes' story was a great one of a woman taking back her sexuality and empowerment. Hill's story about a woman who needs control so much, but yearns to loose it. While Rossetti's, for me was the weakest of the bunch, dealing with a possessed corset.
If you are looking for a fast read with some really hot couples make sure to check this book out.
If you are looking for a fast read with some really hot couples make sure to check this book out.
September 2, 2016
I am a fan of both Burton and Hill, and enjoyed both of their stories, except I would have liked a deeper dive into the story of Lucas and Cass of the Knights series by Hill. Ties that bind(Burton) is sweet and a story of rekindled love. Jasmine's story of an older women and younger photographer is sexy with a cougar twist, very enjoyable. The last story just wasn't for me. But over a good into to these authors if you haven't read them, if you did enjoy them look for some of their other stories.
February 13, 2012
I've only read the Knights of the Boardroom short in this book so far, but I liked it. 4/5 for that one. I'll update as I continue reading.
So far, I'm not loving KotB as much as I do the VQS, but I think these are some of her earlier novels, so that's expected. I'm looking forward to working my way through Joey's books. =) And also to checking out these other authors in Unlaced! I'm always on the prowl for great new authors!
So far, I'm not loving KotB as much as I do the VQS, but I think these are some of her earlier novels, so that's expected. I'm looking forward to working my way through Joey's books. =) And also to checking out these other authors in Unlaced! I'm always on the prowl for great new authors!
July 23, 2010
Loved sweet sexy Lucas and his wicked tongue. Need I say more? Mercy these Knights of the Boardroom are very naughty. My favorite was Matt but Lucas is a very close second. I also liked Cassie and had a lot of respect for how strong she was in taking care of 6 brothers and sisters. Christ, she deserves a medal.
December 23, 2011
I haven't read all three stories yet, but wanted to write a few words about Joey Hill's Knights of the Board Room #2. I liked it, but not as much as the first one. Right now I am kind of iffy about continuing the series. I think Ms. Hill's more current books are much better than her earlier ones.
I will come and update after I have read the other two stories.
I will come and update after I have read the other two stories.
December 30, 2011
The first 2 were WOW! I especially liked "Undone" by Jasmine Haynes. Scorching! The only reason I didn't give this book 5 stars is because of the last story. It was so bad I couldn't even read it. Why put a historical story that includes dragons (not at all my thing) in with 3 stories set in modern time?
Great read with TONS of spice if you exclude "Rubies and Black Velvet".
Great read with TONS of spice if you exclude "Rubies and Black Velvet".
September 3, 2016
I bought this primarily to read Controlled Response as part of the Board Room series. I thought this installment while it had parts that made me uncomfortable; it was still creative and HOT with a sweeter sentiment than the first. I read a couple of the other stories in there as well and they were okay--entertaining enough.
June 24, 2015
This is the beginning of Lucas and Cassandra's story which happens to be an amazingly steamy chance meeting off the beaten path in the Berkshires. Lucas realizes in this chance encounter that this woman is hold so much of herself back and he wants to be the man to give her that release. Can't wait for Controlled Response.
The other stories honestly did not hold my interest.
The other stories honestly did not hold my interest.
September 8, 2009
My favorite story was "Controlled Response" by Joey W. Hill
Although I pictured Lou Ferrigno in "Undone" by Jasmin Hayes, he wouldn't have been my first choice but I guess it got the point across of how large the character is.
Although I pictured Lou Ferrigno in "Undone" by Jasmin Hayes, he wouldn't have been my first choice but I guess it got the point across of how large the character is.
November 23, 2014
Unlaced
The Ties that Bind by Jaci Burton
3 Stars-I enjoyed this short story.
Undone by Jasmine Haynes
3 Stars-I enjoyed this short story.
Controlled Response by Joey W. Hill
2 Stars-It was okay.
Rubies and Black Velvet by Denise Rossetti
I didn’t like it.
The Ties that Bind by Jaci Burton
3 Stars-I enjoyed this short story.
Undone by Jasmine Haynes
3 Stars-I enjoyed this short story.
Controlled Response by Joey W. Hill
2 Stars-It was okay.
Rubies and Black Velvet by Denise Rossetti
I didn’t like it.
August 20, 2013
I am a big fan of Jaci Burton, however Joey W Hill wrote the best story in this anthology with-out-a-doubt!!! Controlled Response is something you will finish reading, and then begin re-reading again. It is just that good.
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