Review: The Romance Reviews Top Pick
Rating: 5 out of 5
Date: 07 14, 2010
Blush inducing, pulse racing, wicked ride.Dark Citadel is book two in Cherise Sinclair's Masters of the Shadowlands series.Catholic school girl and conservatively raised Kerry has been told she is frigid in bed. Blaming the loss of her fiancé on her lack of bedroom skills, she agrees to join new acquaintance Buck at the beginner's class at a private BDSM club, Shadowlands. As uncomfortable with the idea as she is, Kerry sees it as an opportunity to overcome the obstacle keeping her from her own happily ever after. Unfortunately Buck and Kerry quickly clash wills and part ways. Kerry, ready to leave for home, is given the opportunity to stay and join the class under the care of Master Dan.Master Dan, having lost his wife three years ago, isn't looking for a relationship. He will take a sub for one night and one night only, and thanks to his prowess he is never short on subs. But after meeting Kerry, one night becomes two and his will begins to crumble.Of course the sex is HOT. Hello. We are in a BDSM club. Master Dan was pushing my comfort level right along with Kerry's. But the naked playing wasn't the only thing causing the blush on my cheeks. Master Dan's tender moments as he cuddled Kerry and encouraged her made me a puddle of goo. The way he paid close attention to every detail about her experience endeared him to me. My heart broke as he struggled to keep his heart closed off while everything about her was tearing those barriers down. Hand me a hanky, I've started to drool. Or cry. Or both.Kerry's journey of self-discovery moved the plot along with ease, but it was tension brought about by her ex's pursuit that kept my nerves on edge. Both plots combined for an explosive and climatic ending that absolutely satisfied.For those who are interested in what the BDSM scene is all about, this is a great book to read as a light introduction. It really helped me to see the caring intentions behind a Dominant's actions. And, for those who enjoy romances with strong well-written characters, Ms Sinclair delivers. She is a master of showing, not telling, and makes her cast come alive. So grab a cold drink (`cause you are going to need coolin' off), close the drapes and get ready for a wickedly-wild hot ride.