Review: Bonds of Courage
Rating: 5 out of 5
Date: 07 2, 2014
***This book was provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.***First of all I just want to say that while this book is the sixth in a series, this is my first read from the author and I didn’t feel lost at all. This book can definitely stand alone, though I will definitely be reading the rest of the Wicked Play series!I loved this book. I thought Vanessa and Hauke were both likable characters, and I felt the connection between them instantly.Hauke was such a nice guy. Patient and kind, he was just what Vanessa needed. As a professional hockey player keeping a grueling schedule, Hauke has always longed to give up control in the bedroom. Unfortunately for him, the one time he tried to make it happen, it became public knowledge and almost ruined his career. I liked that his character was hesitant to try it again; Hauke was a level-headed character who thought things through and was afraid of the damage his sexual preferences could do to his career.Vanessa has spent her entire adult life compartmentalizing work, family, and her role as a Domme. It’s when her worlds really begin to mesh that Vanessa starts to realize she may not have the grip she thought she had on her life. Vanessa was stand-offish, but with her past, it’s not a surprise. When Hauke starts to break through her barriers, Vanessa begrudgingly begins exploring things outside of the ‘playroom.’The chemistry between Hauke and Vanessa was electric. This book was off the charts hot. I have to admit, I have been hesitant to read books with male submissives in the past, but this one really worked for me. Hauke may have been submissive during playtime, but he was a man who knew what he wanted, and he went for it. He knew exactly what Vanessa needed, and he never pushed for more than she was willing to give. I loved that about him. This book was a bit ‘softer’ with the BDSM than I’ve read in the past, but I liked that Vanessa was a Domme who just liked to be in control in the bedroom. Her past had definitely shaped her and haunted her, but I liked that she wasn’t angry because of it. She was doing her best to live her life.The pacing of this book was perfect. I didn’t feel like it moved too fast, and I thought the progression of their relationship was realistic. There was a lot of character growth in this one, particularly with Vanessa, but I think she was the one with the most to overcome.I really enjoyed this story, and I think if you like a book with lots of steam, a hard-bodied hockey player, and a solid plot, this book is definitely for you!I can’t wait to dive into the rest of this series!