Review: Cutaway
Rating: 4 out of 5
Date: 12 10, 2012
Cutaway is the fabulous second installment in Liz Borino's series starring Steve Michaels and Zack Greene. Now five years into their D/s relationship, this couple's professional and personal lives are about to undergo some unexpected changes.The first thing I have to mention is how drastically improved the writing is in Cutaway. The sentences flow much better and point of view shifts are much more clearly defined. The plot is not as busy which makes the story much easier to follow.The dynamics of Steve and Zack's relationship begin to shift when Zack expresses his desire to explore the BDSM world a little more. When Steve is injured in a car accident and Zack takes on the role of caregiver, it is not easy for either Steve or Zack. As the Dom in their relationship, Steve is always in charge and he takes his role of protector very seriously. As the sub in the relationship, Zack harbors doubts about his ability to take care of Steve. Steve and Zach are clearly uncomfortable with the change in their roles but as they soon discover, their emotional bond and trust are strengthened by the experience.The addition of Steve's ex, Dom Peter Mansy and his slave Josh to the story provides a fascinating look into the darker side of BDSM. Steve and Zack's relationship is based on love, trust, respect and freedom of choice. Peter and Josh are in 24 hour a day true master/slave relationship with Peter in complete control. Peter thoroughly dehumanizes Josh by stripping away Josh's very identity. Zack's ability to stand up to Peter shows the growth of his character and beautifully showcases his growing self-confidence.Both of Zack and Steve's mothers make guest appearances in Cutaway. If you think you know how these two characters are going to react to Steve's accident, then you are in for a big surprise. I am still reeling in shock at the changes in these two characters and the subsequent repercussions of their behavior.Cutaway is a wonderful addition to the Ben's Life series. Steve and Zack are well-developed, three dimensional characters and their relationship is not only strong enough to overcome the obstacles in their path, but it becomes stronger because of them.I can hardly wait to see what Liz Borino planned for them in her next installment in this captivating series.I received a complementary copy for review.