Review: Shocking but in a bad way...
Rating: 1 out of 5
Date: 04 4, 2014
I wanted to like this series.  The premise was interesting, and the sample didn't show evidence of overtly awkward writing, so I was prepared to enjoy.  Spoilers ahead as to what made me give a one-star rating:1.  I don't have a problem with a D/s relationship, obviously, as I chose to read this book.  But I found the use of the word "slave" creepy, especially as it seemed to be a fitting term for the sub's role as described here: simply a body or vessel to be used by the master, with no mention of the obligations a Dom has toward his sub.  Wanting to be dominated is one thing, but I don't believe "slavery" can be a sane choice for any person.2.  The female protagonist, Renee, is portrayed as child-like, naive, uneducated and valued only for her looks.  The male protagonist, Stefan, is educated, wealthy and worldly.  The other male-female couples in the book had the same dynamic.  I don't understand why more women haven't commented on this.3. I lost all respect for Stefan when, upon hosting an acquaintance who brought along a slave obtained through an underage sex trafficking ring, and witnessing a clearly abusive and non-consensual relationship, told Renee that it was none of their business and they shouldn't get involved unless they witness abusive physical torture first-hand.  I was shocked at this callous and cowardly attitude.4.  When that teen-age slave is "lucky" enough to be abused in a way they can't turn a blind eye to, Stefan's only thought is to find her a nicer master, not to go to the police, help the girl get an education so she has other options, track down her family, etc.  And this is made to seem romantic because it turns out this slave really *loves* being a slave, she just needed a handsome, non-psychotic master.  Because being kidnapped, raped and tortured for years apparently leaves no trauma (except for blocking all past memories, even her real name, but no big deal!). I don't even know what to say about this because it is so disturbing.5.  The whole story was just mawkish and cheesy.  Cliches abounded.  If drama could be added, it was added liberally and unrealistically.  Sadly, this seems minor compared to all the above stuff.Anyway, I urge you to stay away from this horrendous book/series.  There are plenty of good books in this genre to read instead.