Master of the Mountain

By Cherise Sinclair

[[ Reprint ]] When Rebecca’s lover talks her into a mountain lodge vacation with his swing club, she soon learns she’s not cut out for playing musical beds. But with her boyfriend “entertaining” in their cabin, she has nowhere to sleep. Logan, the lodge owner, finds her freezing on the porch. After hauling her inside, he warms her in his own bed, and there the experienced Dominant discovers that Rebecca might not be a swinger...but she is definitely a submissive.

Rebecca knows that no one can love her plump, scarred body. But, to her surprise, Logan disagrees and is quite happy to show her just how much he enjoys her curves. Under his skilled hands, Rebecca loses not only her inhibitions, but also her heart.

Damaged from the war, Logan considers himself too dangerous to be around the enticing little sub. He sends her away for her own safety, not realizing she thinks she’s been rejected because of her size. When Logan’s mountains echo with her voice long after she’s gone, he knows she’s left behind part of herself—and taken his heart. But when he arrives in the city to reclaim her, Rebecca’s phone has been disconnected and her apartment is empty...

• Language: English
• Publisher: Cherise Sinclair
• Release date: Aug 7, 2014
• ISBN: 9780991322237

Cherise Sinclair

Whenever I ask for BDSM recommendations, I am told the same two words all the time: Cherise Sinclair. ~ Under the Covers Reviews New York Times and USA Today Bestselling Author, Cherise Sinclair is renowned for writing heart-wrenching stories with laugh-out-loud dialogue, devastating Dominants, and absolutely sizzling sex. And did I mention the BDSM? Her awards range from a National Leather Award to a Romantic Times Reviewer’s Choice nomination to a Goodreads BDSM group’s Best Author of the Year. Cherise currently lives in the Pacific Northwest with her beloved husband and writes full-time under the supervision of a merciless feline.

Book preview

Master of the Mountain

Mountain Masters: 1

Master of the Mountain is a must read, and a definite keeper. If you’ve not experienced the fantastic work of Cherise Sinclair, now’s a good time to start.

~ Whipped Cream Reviews

When Rebecca’s lover talks her into a mountain lodge vacation with his swing club, she soon learns she’s not cut out for playing musical beds. But with her boyfriend entertaining in their cabin, she has nowhere to sleep. Logan, the lodge owner, finds her freezing on the porch. After hauling her inside, he warms her in his own bed, and there the experienced Dominant discovers that Rebecca might not be a swinger…but she is definitely a submissive.

Rebecca knows that no one can love her plump, scarred body. But, to her surprise, Logan disagrees and is quite happy to show her just how much he enjoys her curves. Under his skilled hands, Rebecca loses not only her inhibitions, but also her heart.

Damaged from the war, Logan considers himself too dangerous to be around the enticing little sub. He sends her away for her own safety, not realizing she thinks she’s been rejected because of her size. When Logan’s mountains echo with her voice long after she’s gone, he knows she’s left behind part of herself—and taken his heart. But when he arrives in the city to reclaim her, Rebecca’s phone has been disconnected and her apartment is empty…

Ms. Sinclair sets the bar for the BDSM erotica genre, especially with her hot dominant alpha males.

~ The Romance Reviews

Cherise Sinclair swept me away with her perfect blending of tenderness, healing, erotic discovery, and romance.

~ Joyfully Reviewed

* *

Other books in the Mountain Masters series:

Master of the Abyss

Want to be notified of the next release?

Sent only on release day, Cherise’s newsletters contain freebies, excerpts, and articles.

Sign up at:

http://www.CheriseSinclair.com/NewsletterForm

MASTER OF THE MOUNTAIN

Mountain Masters: 1

Cherise Sinclair

VanScoy Publishing Group

Copyright 2009 Cherise Sinclair

Master of the Mountain

Copyright © 2009 by Cherise Sinclair

Smashwords Edition

ISBN 978-0-9913222-3-7

Published by VanScoy Publishing Group

Cover Art: The Killion Group

~ Reprint ~

This book is a work of fiction. The names, characters, places, and incidents are products of the writer’s imagination or have been used fictitiously and are not to be construed as real. Any resemblance to persons, living or dead, actual events, locales, business establishments, or organizations is entirely coincidental.

All rights reserved. This copy is intended for the original purchaser of this eBook only. No part of this eBook may be reproduced, scanned, or distributed in any manner whatsoever without prior written permission from the author, except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical articles and reviews.

Warning: This book contains sexually explicit scenes and adult language and may be considered offensive to some readers. This book is for sale to adults only, as defined by the laws of the country in which you made your purchase.

Disclaimer: Please do not try any new sexual practice, without the guidance of an experienced practitioner. Neither the publisher nor the author will be responsible for any loss, harm, injury, or death resulting from use of the information contained in this book.

Author’s Note

To my readers,

The books I write are fiction, not reality, and as in most romantic fiction, the romance is compressed into a very, very short time period.

You, my darlings, live in the real world, and I want you to take a little more time in your relationships. Good Doms don’t grow on trees, and there are some strange people out there. So while you’re looking for that special Dom, please, be careful.

When you find him, realize he can’t read your mind. Yes, frightening as it might be, you’re going to have to open up and talk to him. And you listen to him, in return. Share your hopes and fears, what you want from him, what scares you spitless. Okay, he may try to push your boundaries a little—he’s a Dom, after all—but you will have your safe word. You will have a safe word, am I clear? Use protection. Have a back-up person. Communicate.

Remember: safe, sane, and consensual.

Know that I’m hoping you find that special, loving person who will understand your needs and hold you close.

And while you’re looking or even if you have already found your dearheart, come and hang out with the Moutain Masters.

Love,

Cherise

[e-mail]

Chapter One

‡ ‡

"You about there, babe? Matt sounded as if he was gritting his teeth as he pumped into her. You want me to rub you some more?"

Frustration congealed inside Rebecca like cold oatmeal. She was nowhere close to getting off, and every time he asked what to do, her orgasm receded further. No point in continuing. Oooh, she sighed, jerking her hips up and down and clenching her vagina.

Oh yeah. He groaned in relief, and again as he came a second later.

Well, hadn’t that been exciting? Not. As Matt rolled over onto the mattress with a satisfied groan, Rebecca considered pushing him right out of the bed. But it wasn’t his fault. He tried. He always tried, asking her if this technique worked or that one. How could she tell him that she wanted him to just know what to do?

She sure couldn’t tell him she faked a good half her orgasms. And she resented that he couldn’t tell, which was even more unfair. She didn’t get off in an unmistakable fashion, after all. For her, an orgasm felt more like a sneeze, certainly not the earthquake her friends described, and nowhere close to the shrieks of pleasure from the apartment next door. What would that feel like? To be so overwhelmed as to actually scream?

Matt spoke up as if he’d followed her train of thought. You know, Rebecca, you never seem all that enthusiastic about screwing. And my technique’s fantastic.

So informed by all his previous girlfriends, undoubtedly. Good to know. Thanks, Matt. Now she felt really inadequate. Heck, they’d just cosigned a lease and moved in together a couple of weeks ago, and he was already bored with her. She swallowed past a tight throat. Maybe we’re not a good match. She rolled over and stared out her bedroom window, where the next-door apartment building glowed pink in the sunset.

Oh, don’t get like that. Matt patted her shoulder. We’re great together. Where would I find a woman who could be so polite during business dinners? And what other guy would let you drag him to an art show on Mission?

Well, that’s true. She’d thought they were a perfect couple right from the beginning. Emulating her excruciatingly practical mother, Rebecca had created a list of the characteristics of her ideal man, and when she’d met Matt, she’d been stunned how well he matched her requirements. He was easygoing and charming. Well groomed with a sense of style. They enjoyed the same movies, books, and friends. They both had professional jobs, made about the same amount of money, and he was more metro than macho. He could actually converse about movie themes, and he liked Chinese food.

Maybe she should have included sex somewhere on the list, but she’d never considered it very important. Aside from sex, she and Matt were very compatible. She rolled back over with a sigh. I guess you’re right.

Lying on his back, Matt had a well-tended look with boutique shop-trimmed blond hair, muscles from dedicated gym usage, and a lingering tan from a business trip to San Diego. Tomorrow he’d get up, eat something low-fat and disgustingly healthy, and head off to his job at the brokerage house, content with life.

Her contentment matched his. Really. After all, the managing director of her ad agency was considering her for the position of senior art director, putting her on the fast track to the top. A gust of wind whipped the curtains inward, bringing the sea tang of San Francisco Bay and the scent of a spring rain. She lived in the best city in the world.

I have an idea, but you probably won’t like it. Matt turned to face her and propped himself up with an elbow. I belong to this group, and we’re taking a very long Memorial Day weekend in the mountains.

I remember you said you’d be out of town. She bit her lip. Maybe they weren’t as close as she’d thought. He’d never mentioned belonging to anything other than his fitness club and some business associations. What group is this?

It’s a swingers’ club.

Very funny. Only he wore no smile. He wasn’t joking. Seriously? Swingers, like in exchanging-partners swingers?

He shrugged, half-embarrassed and half-smug. That’s it. We get together for a weekend every couple of months… Uh, seems like last time we met, you were in Chicago for a seminar. Anyway, there’s about twenty in the club and—

You’ve been screwing around with twenty other people and are just now letting me know? God, Matthew, how many diseases have you given me?

He held up his hand. Don’t lose it, babe. Everyone uses condoms and gets tested routinely. It’s not like that.

The fist squeezing her insides relaxed slightly. Well, that’s good.

And it’s not like you and I have an exclusive relationship. Right?

True. Just because she didn’t go out and screw the neighborhood didn’t mean he couldn’t. They’d both agreed to keep it loose. But good grief. Sure, her…libido…didn’t match his, but who would have thought he’d take care of that little discrepancy in such a fashion?

And here she’d thought he was commitment-phobic because his last relationship had gone bad. She’d been forcing herself not to push him. Duh, Rebecca. So you’re going off to have an orgy?

In the dim light from the living room down the hall, she saw him roll his eyes. It’s not an orgy. We swap, and sometimes two couples get together in a foursome, but not more than that. Usually. He grinned.

Oh, well then, that’s all right, she said drily.

More can be really fun. Come with me this time, babe. He took her hand. We take over this great place up in the mountains. There’re rustic cabins scattered throughout the pines, and we’re the only people there. We go up Friday, spend the weekend, Memorial Day, and Tuesday, then drive back on Wednesday. Nice people, amazing sex. You could even bring your paints.

Rustic cabins? She stared at him in disbelief. Vacations, not that she’d taken one since she left college, should be spent somewhere warm and sunny with room service. But she’d gotten off the subject. He was talking about sex. Jumping in and out of bed with other people? Matt, I’m not into that.

The smile died from his face. Rebecca, we need to add some spice to this relationship. It’s…

Inadequate. Lacking. The echo of the door slamming behind her father twenty-some years ago seemed to reverberate in her ears. "You’re fat and boring, and so’s the kid. I’m leaving." Her ribs seemed to squeeze inward, compressing her lungs until she couldn’t get a breath. She shook her head at him.

Well, Matt added, it’s just not working out for me.

What he meant was she wasn’t working out for him. How could she not have realized, have seen this coming? What about my list and my plans? What about our lease? she asked through numb lips.

Oh, let’s not get carried away here, he said lightly. Just come with me this weekend. It’ll be good for you. Maybe help you lose some of those inhibitions.

She bit back her first response—no way—because, as bluntly as he’d put it, he had a point. Their sex life lacked something… No, be honest, she lacked something. But messing around with a group? Going to bed with strangers? She just couldn’t do something like that. Matt…

Only for a weekend, babe. Give it a try.

A try. She tried to imagine it… Probably some strange man would come into her room. And maybe she’d hesitate, so he’d grab her, pin her to the mattress, force her to cooperate. Her clit started throbbing like she was sitting on her vibrator. Well, maybe…

He rubbed her shoulder. I’ve really been wanting you to join us.

And if she didn’t go, their relationship would end. That was all too clear. No more boring. Amazing sex, huh? Why not?

* *

As the car bumped down the never-ending, rutted dirt road, Rebecca felt as if every bone in her body had turned to splinters. The car lights created a thin tunnel between the encroaching trees, then suddenly speared out across a wide clearing.

Serenity Lodge. Finally.

At last. Matt echoed her thoughts as he pulled the car into a small parking area well concealed behind bushes and trees.

She sighed in relief that the drive was over. Then apprehension prickled across her nerves. What happens now?

Matt patted her leg. Nothing’s going on tonight. We’ll just sign in, unpack, and make an early night of it.

Good plan. I’m exhausted. The only swinging she wanted to do tonight was into a bed. Before leaving, she’d finished off the work on her desk, met with one account team, then with a copywriter. She couldn’t afford to get behind, not with the manager watching her work.

She slid out of the BMW convertible and took a breath of air so cold and crisp, it burned her lungs. Looking up past the towering pines at the fat white dots in the black night, she blinked in surprise. Wow. Stars grew bigger outside of the city, didn’t they? Had the sky looked like this before she and Mom moved to San Francisco after her parents divorced? Can you believe these stars?

What, babe? Matt called, head buried in the trunk.

Nothing.

After pulling out the two suitcases, he slammed the trunk and handed over her bag.

They crossed the clearing to a massive two-story log building. Rebecca lugged her case across the wide, encircling porch and followed Matt into a huge room. Numerous leather couches, big armchairs in dark red upholstery, and brightly colored rag rugs created cozy sitting areas. On the left wall, a fire crackled in a stone fireplace bracketed by well-stuffed bookcases. Four men played cards at the far end.

A woman by the fire called a welcome to Matt, and suddenly people seemed to come out of the woodwork.

Matt beamed, shaking hands with the men and exchanging hugs with the women. Rebecca, this is Paul and Amy.

Rebecca nodded and smiled, trying to put names to faces. Paul and Amy: a tall, balding man and a slender brunette with a dark tan. Ginger and Mel: a redhead and a beefy man. Serena and Greg: blonde woman, nerdy man with glasses.

Then she started losing track, but not enough to miss the fact that the men came in different sizes, but all the women were toned and slender. She sure didn’t fit in if that was a criterion for acceptance. A sinking feeling pulled at her stomach; being the last person picked in gym class had sucked. Would these sexual calisthenics be the same?

Nice to meet you all, she said, noting the bulky sweaters, T-shirts, and jeans. Very casual. Why hadn’t Matt mentioned the dress code? She still wore her suit. Then again, she hadn’t had much choice. Aside from two pairs of Ralph Lauren jeans, her entire wardrobe contained only business clothes, sweats, and more sweats covered with paint.

Let’s get signed in. Then we can haul our stuff over to the cabin, Matt said, pulling her toward a desk to the right of the front door.

A low growl halted her in her tracks. A dog. Her suitcase dropped to the floor as she recoiled. Heart thudding inside her chest, she fought to stand still and not run out the door. Any dog allowed inside couldn’t be vicious. It couldn’t.

C’mon, Rebecca. Sign in. Matt gave her an impatient look.

Right. She forced her feet forward, one hard-won step after another. Where was the dog? As the man behind the desk shook hands with Matt, Rebecca checked the floor. There. Standing beside the man, it looked huge, with dark brown fur and a darker muzzle. It stared at her, and she heard another rumble.

Thor, the man said, his low voice almost a match for the dog’s. Down.

The dog flattened to the floor. It never stopped looking at her, though.

Rebecca, this is Logan Hunt. He owns the place, Matt said.

Hey, Matt! one of the women yelled from the front door. Come help us decide on tomorrow’s plans.

Be right there, he called back, then patted Rebecca’s arm. You go ahead and sign in. I’ll be on the porch with Paul and Amy.

She nodded, unable to tear her gaze from the dog.

Rebecca, eyes on me, not the dog. The deep, rough voice broke her free, and she turned to the owner. He looked as mean as his dog, with steel blue eyes in a deeply tanned face—a ruthless face decorated with a day-old beard and a white scar below his left cheekbone. After handing her a pen, he tapped the paper in front of him. Name and address. Signature on the release.

Release?

His firm lips curved. So you can’t sue us if you fall down the mountain and break your neck.

Right. After filling out the paperwork, she picked up her suitcase, holding it in front of her just in case the dog moved. When the owner rose, she retreated a step. He stood at least an inch over six feet, with muscles straining his dark red flannel shirt. The rolled-up sleeves displayed thick forearms with heavy-boned, corded wrists. More scars graced his hands. Whatever he’d done in the past must have been brutal.

I’ll show you to your cabin. He walked over to her, and when the dog followed him, she couldn’t seem to move. That animal would rend her to shreds, spilling her blood, tearing her…

Open your hand, sugar. A flash of amusement showed in his eyes as he tugged the suitcase from her hand.

Sorry, she whispered. Matt was already out the door; he’d left her, left her here with that dog.

It stared

Reviews for Master of the Mountain

[niandra-2 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Nice writing style. I liked the characters and the story. A nice introduction into bdsm without extreme and unnatural characters or reactions. Gentle, authentic and sexy. Best bdsm romance I've read so far. Will definitely read more of Sinclair's novels!

[hanneri_1 · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

Club Shadowlands was a great short story erotica that kept me entertained for a couple of hours. It was well written with charming characters that you can’t help but be enthralled with. It had the familiar plot point of an innocent, sheltered female who is exposed to the BDSM lifestyle by an alluring Dom of a man, but Cherise Sinclair made it enjoyable by having characters that just enthralled you. Jessica and especially Master Z were charismatic and what really made the book enjoyable.

[mlsimmons-1 · Rating: 3 out of 5 stars]

This story was not bad. I think it started slow as it introduced the reader and Jessica into the world of Club Shadowlands. Zachary is a psychologist who has almost an empathic ability to read peoples emotions. This story was not written as well as I thought it would be, but it has caught my attention. I will definitely read the next book and see if the world progresses at a better pace.

[grapeapril75-1 · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

This is one of the first BDSM books I ever read. It is very well written and a nice introduction to a lifestyle that was unknown to me.

I imagine that I would be rather like Jessica and try to jump in and save people from being abused. Having read more on the topic I know that is not needed but in the beginning I am sure I would be just like her!

Loved Master Z and seeing him find his match was wonderful!!

I am very excited to read the rest of this series!!

[selinalynn69 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

bad storms rolling through Florida. An accountant hydroplanes her car into a ditch. Rain still pours down on one of the worst ever days for Jessica. The only way out of this mess is to hike back about a mile where she last saw lights on in a house. Just a phone call and a wait is all she would need. She approaches the door and knocks. A large burly man opens it a crack and says, "Sorry doors are locked.". Jessica begged him to let her in out of the storm and he did...What she wasn't expecting at all was having to sign a 3 page document to enter. And especially read the fine print. And why does anyone sign something just to gain access to a place. It can't be that bad can it...
I have fallen in love with Cherise Sinclair's books. They are sweet, sensual, and REAL. I didn't feel like the characters were anything but normal people with normal problems and an normal amount of kink and fun! I love how the books go back to Safe, Sane, Concentual.
I think this is a great book for those wanting to broaden your interests and want to learn what BDSM is about.Or even if the bedroom has gotten a big laggy lately..spice it up!
I look forward to draining my book money in your direction for more steamy hot books! Thanks!

[azurestrawberry · Rating: 3 out of 5 stars]

A short novel that brings you sweetly (it seems strange to say so but it's true) in the BDSM world. Nice first installement for the series, I'll surely try the next story.
The male MC, Master Z, is the owner of the club where Jessica ends after her car broke along an isolated road. She is walking under heavy rain when she spots a villa with lights on. When Jessica asks for shelter, Z is all too eager to give her access to his home and to an entirely new level of passion. To Jessica he seems too good to be true but sometimes appearances... are true.

[heelgirl77-1 · Rating: 1 out of 5 stars]

Could not finish. Storyline? What storyline? Nothing else to say!

[scorchingrevs · Rating: 3 out of 5 stars]

I have completely read this series out of order! When I got to this one I dont know what I was expecting from the delectable Master Z. Whether Im becoming immune to the steamy stuff I dont know but this book didnt push any boundaries with me. Dont get me wrong I enjoyed the hell out if it and it certainly checked the steam factor button! I liked Jessica and Z together, they were nice. It just lacked the wow factor I expected from the owner of the club

[akaria-2 · Rating: 3 out of 5 stars]

What a sweet little story! Ok, sweet and BDSM don't sound like they go together but it really worked here. Master Z, Dom and owner of Shadowlands was gentle and kind yet firm and unrelenting as Jessica's guide into the world of pleasure and pain. I liked that for once the enjoyment of BDSM didn't end up being related to some childhood trauma. Also refreshing was a heroine with some meat on her bones. She had ample curves and felt self conscious about her body but through Master Z's strong and tender hand she slowly came to accept herself. Her struggle to accept the part of herself that enjoyed being a sub seemed really authentic. Too bad the story was so short. I could've stayed at Shadowlands a lot longer. Oh and seriously...I need a Master Z in my life. Cullen will do nicely also.

[decadent.kane · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

This is the first book I've read by Ms. Sinclair and I have to say I found myself quite delighted with Jessica being stranded and a Dom named Master Z enthralled with the new intruder he saved coming in out of a storm.

I haven't read many BDSM books, and many I read are on the verge of disappointment. Not Club Shadowlands.

Ms. Sinclair wove a sinfully erotic tale of a new sub learning she is a sub and a Dom willing to not only show her she is a sub, but that he wants her utter trust. Oh the things he does to pull the sub out of her are delicious, tantalizing, erotic, there are not enough wonderfully sexual words to describe it. The man stole my breath and the author kept me reading into all hours of the night- Is there much more I could ask for in the weaving of an erotic tale?

For someone new to BDSM wanting to try a good read- this would be an amazing start to find out if it's something you will enjoy. The author touches base on several parts of BDSM including public scenes, tied up, restrained, etc...this is not hardcore as i see in many books.

If you are looking for something to keep you awake at night end enjoy the sexual side...grab this book up quick.

Looking forward to reading more from this author.

[channellingcloretta · Rating: 3 out of 5 stars]

It was a good book, but so short. I really would love to know more about the characters. I really like both of the main characters and I learned a lot more, I think, about the lifestyle that is not described and other books that I read recently.

[sarahlou2709 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

i havent been reading erotic books for long and before i started i didnt really know much about the bdsm scene,sure i have seen it in porno movies but in them it always looks so fake and badly displayed its a right turn off. so i assumed it wouldnt arouse me.Then i read masters of the shadowlands and became aroused and hooked, the growing relationship between sexy master z and quiet shocked jessica drew me in, this has a good story line which is well written, its very descriptive (i could imagine myself there) it is erotic in many ways,and gave me shivers i found it exciting and fun to read. definately a series for reading again and again.loved it x

[nubian_princesa · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

I had high expectations for this book and even though It fell short at first it did not disappoint overall.A good read indeed.

[morana.mora · Rating: 3 out of 5 stars]

***3.5***
I don't know much about this world and I don't know much about this particular topic. As a first book in this series, this is a very good start. I am very interested in other characters.
I don't have any idea if the depiction of this way of life is any good, but I liked the things I've read here if that makes any sense.

[Tatenda · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

I am not really a fan of stories where the heroine has very low self esteem and/or disparage other women because they have a different body type??. Women who are big boned should be able yo feel comfortable in their own skins and should allow slimmer women the same courtesy. It works both ways. Having said that, the hero Logan more than makes up for the fact that I wasn't too impressed by Rebecca. He exercised his dominant persona in a responsible and sage manner and made his sub feel appreciated and cared for and more than anything- truly SEEN. Oh and were there some steamy scenes ?The story also highlighted PTSD and how it can affect relationships and dating. All in all it was a good story

[allandanybooks · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

I certainly enjoyed this book. It was hot, passionate and still there was other things too. It wasn't just sex and fucking. I personally enjoyed the characters the most because the relationships between them were beautiful and fascinating. My favorite were of course Master Z and I just hope I will someday find my own Master Z. He's just too perfect.
I cannot wait to read the next parts in the series and I really recommend this book to everyone. Especially all the ladies. I enjoyed!

[booklovre6 · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

Loved it! Very well done, good writing, good editing! And hottttt

[mikaela_l_1 · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

I tried to read one of Cherise Sinclairs novels a couple years ago, but I couldn't got into it. Still, I kept hearing good things about her, so when Allromance offered this one as a free e-book a couple of weeks ago I decided to take the chance.

I am glad I did.
This book sizzled. Yes, there were a lot of sex scenes. Normally, I have a lot of problems with that since they often feel like fillers and doesn't add anything to the book. Not this time. Each sex scene felt like they had an intent. But, I appreciated the non-sex scenes as much as I appreciated the sex scenes.
And the reason for that is the characters. The Swingers... well.. I didn't like Max. Actually, I thought he was a jerk. I wanted to strangle him when he hurt Rebecca's feelings. I digress. Back to the review.
The point is that Both Logan and Rebecca has scars. Physically and on their souls. Gradually, they work through the scars through the book.

I admired Rebecca for having the guts to leaving after Logan behaves like a jerk. But, it was something they both needed. They needed to know that it was they that had the chemistry. Not the BDSM aspects.


There weren't anything that I specifically disliked with it, but I didn't feel the tug I feel with really good, really memorable stories. Still I'll buy the sequel the next time Fictionwise has a good discount ( since a 170 pages story isn't worth 5 dollar. Sorry, Loose Id.)

[msromanticreads · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

What a time for her car to break down, right in the middle of a tropical storm out in the middle of nowhere. Muddy and wet, Jessica tries to find help, and she eventually ends up on the doorstep of a mansion (I heard the Rocky Horror Picture Show theme running through my head, lol). When she realizes that her shelter is actually a private BDSM club, it's too late. She's in the middle of it, and Master Z has set his sights on her.

Master Z is intrigued by the little newcomer. Her wide-eyed innocence, her intelligence, and her nurturing nature all call to him on a primal level.

She reminded him of a kitten freed from the kennel, faring forth on a new adventure, ears forward, tail held high. She was definitely a brave little ball of fluff.

When he notices that she's not adverse to knowing a little bit more about the lifestyle, he wants to be the one to show her everything.

Um, wow. This is definitely more intense than the Mountain Masters series. Ms Sinclair's characters are always infused with so much passion and carnality that they make your toes curl. I love the fact that the author writes about "real" women. By that I mean that they aren't stick figured size 2s. They're luscious, beautiful inside and out with a vulnerability that make them easy to identify with. But with the right man at their side, not only does their repressed passion bloom, but they also learn a lot about trust and love.

Jessica was really sweet woman. She may have been a little bit ignorant about what some people might find a turn on, but she took everything in in stride; clearly thinking things through before agreeing or protesting. I also loved how she stood up for the subs when she thought they were in danger. Clearly in a strange environment with strangers, she could have easily been outnumbered.

Master Z .... damn! The way he talked, the way he moved .... double damn. They way he talked ...

As if he could see into her head, he smiled slowly and whispered, "The trust that lets a woman be tied down and spread open for her master's use."
...
He cupped her cheek, leaned forward, his breath warm against her ear as he murmured, "And your reaction to that shows you are a submissive."

The way he saw Jessica, the way he thought of her, as a woman, he made my heart melt.

He shook his head. From a submissive to a spitfire in five easy minutes. The contrast was startling. Compelling. Her concern spilled through him like warmth from the sun.
Until now, he hadn't realized he'd been cold.

Thank you Ms Sinclair :)

[praj05_1 · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

I wouldn’t change a thing in this volume come what may. Being completely besotted by Master Z, my heart flutters even when I pen down words about him. Jessica’s fated admission to Club Shadowlands, her apprehensive foray into the BDSMers clique and enticing tutelage of Zachary flawlessly entwines a burgeoning Dom/Sub relation. Step by step revelation of a lifestyle of more than just hot kinky sex, liberating the stringent prude embedded within the cores of sexual explorations is greatly pleasing. Gosh! I am so enamored by the narrative that I can’t even be bitchy with the libretto. Sinclair observantly constructs a naively susceptible Jessica being captivated by the audaciously intricate Zachary. The modus operandi of molding a ravenous yet timorous obedient pursued by Zachary over Jessica is unthinkable and incredibly sexy. It is an all out goose bump fest culminating sinister eagerness into an addictive sexual outburst. How I fancied the prospect of Cullen joining the duo in their repressive exhibitionism. Ohhh! Silly me! I overlooked an entire manuscript chronicling Master Cullen’s fetishes. Can’t wait to get my dirty hands on it. More joy to my world!!!

[mzserena · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

I loved this book, seriously. Normally, I don't read erotica, as you will, but I saw this and thought it sounded good. I love the setting and scenario of it, love the BDSM aspect of it, especially having a novice submissive. I inhaled this book over the course of two reading sessions while reading other things as well and have already moved on to the second book and am close to half done with that one. I love the writing, it's not pure porn, but it has a plot to it as well. If you're looking for good BDSM/Erotica book/series, this might just be the series for you.

[guiltypleasures_1 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

I am not that into BDSM stories, but I started this series based on rave reviews by a fellow book club member. I AM SO GLAD I LISTENED TO HER!!These books are written so well that you feel like the characters are your friends and I don't feel the "ick" factor that some BDSM books give me. I actually read all 4 books in one weekend and can't wait until Master Marcus' story comes out. I love how Jess continues to get into trouble in the books following her own, and how Kari tends to fall right in with her. I would LOVE a Master Z or Master Dan of my own of course I wouldn't turn down Master Cullen or Master Nolan either.

[rtb_3 · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

Reviewed by EmmaRaeReview copy recieved via book giveaway on All Romance Ebooks Cover notes / Warnings: This book contains explicit sexual content, graphic language, and situations that some readers may find objectionable: Anal play/intercourse, strong BDSM theme and content (including/not limited to bondage, caning, restraints, spanking, etc), exhibitionism, voyeurism. Review: Book giveaways! Don't we just love them? Click-click-click and you have new books for free! Does anyone read the descriptions (or look at the covers)? Well, I don't...didn't. By now I have thousands of ebooks and am more selective. So imagine my surprise when I found myself reading a BDSM book. I'd never finished any of the other little fictions that include anything fetish-y, because they were just boring. In this book, I was drawn to Jessica from the beginning. She was stranded, freezing, and exhausted; and she stumbled into what she thought was just a huge stone mansion. Master Z is just a regular bossy, protective man who wants to take care of her--not always a bad thing. But then she walked into another world. I would be like her--in shock, horrified at some of the things I saw going on. This book is the perfect thing to read if you're curious or want something different. Cherise Sinclair is talented and weaves a fantastic story while making sure you know what BDSM is and what BDSM isn't. All the doms/masters in the club are perfectly loveable characters. Master Z, terminal bachelor, naturally finds himself smitten and takes Jessica under his wing. Jessica knows nothing about BDSM, so Master Z teaches her. I'm not part of that world, so I don't know if it's like this in real life, but it's a nice little fantasy vacation--which is what books are for! This is a strong storyline with deep characters set in a very taboo world. I'm still not sure about the psychology in this book. The romance, erotica and chemistry is there, you won't be disappointed. But it has another level. In another romance, the couple falls in love, has a falling out/misunderstanding, and gets back together. Well, Master Z doesn't let Jessica get away with running away or hiding from feelings. But I also still worry about submission. Is wanting to be collared and handcuffed healthy? Or does it just reflect low self-image and the D/s relationship just make it worse? I don't know. That's the thing--it's thought provoking. This book won't make you feel uneasy. The doms are perfect guardians, and the submissives all have their own personalities and friendships and love their doms and what they do together completely. So I recommend everyone try this book. Then you'll be hooked because the series just gets better. This novel isn't about men making slaves out of women. These men care strongly about people, and take everything seriously. There's a lot of laughter, love, friendship, emotional growth…oh and we can't forget the sex. It's always good to broaden your horizons, and never judge anything by a stereotype out of ignorance. And I left this as Lovely Rose just because it's the beginner book focused on Z and Jessica's relationship. The rest of the series has to have room for more stars because they build on each other and get deeper with more plot.

[ladyisis_1 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

I am loving this author's writing. Ms. Sinclair has once again written a wonderful story about Domination and submission. I have a weakness as many know for Alpha males that are dominat and have a little darkness in their souls. Master Z fits the bill to a T. I also loved the way she handled Jessica. I am sure she tlked to a number of submissives to get all the questioning and uncertainity so right. I can't wait to read the other books in this series and any other book Ms. Sinclair writes. I can see a lot of ebooks in my future.

[thewalkinggirl · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

Sweet story with a fairly believable romance given the compressed nature of the timeline. BDSM elements were presented frankly, but more with an educational, exploratory tone than with an intent to shock. The BBW elements were nicely handled; Master Z finds Jessica's Rubenesque figure attractive and helps her to see it that way also, without including negative comments about the bodies of other women. Also includes possibly the best author's note ever.

[amf0001 · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

Rebecca feels insecure with her boyfriend Matt, a feeling that intensifies after he tells her of the swingers group he belongs to. He encourages her to come with him to the mountain top retreat where they are planning a long w/e. Rebecca reluctantly tags along, but as anyone could have predicted, she has a terrible time. However, the retreat owner, Logan, is something else. He talks to her in a way that she hasn't experienced before, and they have the remarkable 4 day w/e, very intense, very hot. I liked it, liked Logan, the intensity, Rebecca's feelings. Felt real and grounded and that Cherise Sinclair knows her way around the world she describes. I count it a good new find and a keeper.