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Masters Unleashed #2
Playing Hard to Master
Abandoned by his submissive years before, Ambrose has avoided long term relationships. He amuses himself by hooking up with his buddy’s exes. That is, until he meets Everly—a curvy girl with a big personality, who refuses to be ignored. Just when he thinks he’s found a girl he can trust, he finds out she has big opinions about rich men. Telling her he’s wealthy will ruin everything, but he can’t collar her with this huge lie hanging over them.
Known as a brat in their small kink community, Everly can intimidate even the most experienced Doms, but Ambrose is different. Not only does he charm the pants off her, he makes her crave his mastery, too. However, Ambrose’s trust issues run deep, and Everly isn’t willing to be ‘temporary’ forever. Ambrose is hiding something from her, and that secret is keeping them apart. Can she get her scaredy-Dom to commit, or is he a lost cause?
Known as a brat in their small kink community, Everly can intimidate even the most experienced Doms, but Ambrose is different. Not only does he charm the pants off her, he makes her crave his mastery, too. However, Ambrose’s trust issues run deep, and Everly isn’t willing to be ‘temporary’ forever. Ambrose is hiding something from her, and that secret is keeping them apart. Can she get her scaredy-Dom to commit, or is he a lost cause?
214 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 20, 2015
About the author
Sparrow Beckett
15 books668 followersTwo writers in two countries transform into the super writing duo, Sparrow Beckett, each night after wrangling their housefuls of children and pets. They trade the cape and colorful tights for tattoos and cups of coffee then set out to create a world where readers fall in love with heroes and the women who willingly go to their knees for them. Their books are the products of two kinky minds who don’t take themselves too seriously.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 142 reviews
September 28, 2016
Reviewed for herding cats & burning soup.
Amazon: http://amzn.to/1WQr3KK
Playing Hard to Master was one of those books where I feel like I've read a completely different version than everyone else.
The quick of it is that Ambrose has gone in for a haircut and the stylist...totally catches his eye and in a slip of the tongue he finds out that she's just as kinky as he is. Woohoo! And he is in and the woo-ing is on!
While I liked a couple things there were just so many others that didn't work for me and they bothered me enough that I'm gonna break it down.
But first what I DID like. The hero.
Ambrose was a good guy. He was easy for me to like, good to his family and friends and cared about the people he employed. Plus...he's a foodie! He loves him some good food.
I didn't totally buy into him being a Dom/Master but I liked him and felt he deserved so much better than his heroine despite a flub up on his part in hiding something from her (his wealth which considering her attitudes I totally got).
The cover is fantastic too. I really love the covers for the entire series though that's not the hero as far as he was described. Only mentions were tats on his arms.
So what did NOT work. And it's quite a list.
The heroine--Immature, over-reactive, preachy. That pretty much sums up Everly. She just gave off a hostile judgmental attitude including thinking her mother (who she apparently loved) "had no class" because the way she did her hair wasn't what Everly liked. I'm sorry but seriously? My mom rocks overalls near every day and her hair does it's thing but my mom is awesome and her hairstyle doesn't make her classless. I would never think something like that about my mom over a freaking hairstyle. The entire time I just felt like Everly needed to grow up. She also thought he was classless over his decorating style at his apartment because he had a large tv, sparse furniture and paintings by friends on his walls. She's into protesting, petitions and aggressive advocacy.
Social Status Shaming---This was very in your face. Shame on anyone who has money. Who's done well for themselves. Likes nice things. How DARE you enjoy what you have or a fancy meal out. People with money are all, according to the heroine, "stuck-up asshole(s)"-- something she felt comfortable enough telling the hero within 5 minutes of meeting him. You know. When he was a client and had just walked in to get his hair cut.
"Rich people are entitled, selfish, and inconsiderate." she spouted off as if she'd said it a hundred times before.
She talked bad about rich people while enjoying their homes and pools and then using the hero's money when she got into a jam. It was just ridiculous and frustrating and went on for the entire book. Every chance she had she took a swipe at anyone who had done well for themselves.
And of course as the book goes along the hero becomes ashamed of his nice home and that he likes nice sheets or meals because god! how could he be so selfish. I mean. He pays his employees well and gives to charity but he doesn't organize protests or stand outside harassing shoppers with fliers and petitions <---something the heroine does. Shame on him! He's gotta change and downgrade what he has to be good enough for her. *rolls eyes* Social status shaming is never okay to me regardless of the way it goes. It's not right to judge others for not having much and not right to judge others for having more than you think they should.
The Writing--The writing felt very flat and clunky. This is by a writing duo and it felt that way.
There was no depth to the world or the characters and things just didn't mesh up. It was hard to actually differentiate the characters. They all sounded the same. The hero and heroine's parents sounded like 20 year olds when they were in scenes. The men sounded like women (with the hero saying things like how she made him feel all Dommy). There were also a handful of spots where it really felt like wrong words were used. Not typos but actual words where the meanings weren't quite what was intended I don't believe. It was just awkward. Plus the constant overuse of adorable and ugh by both throughout the book and seriously unfortunate terminology like calling it her 'bottom hole'.
The Romance/Heat/BDSM elements--I never felt the romance. The book supposedly took place over a number of months and I was crazy shocked when that was first mentioned by a secondary character because it honestly felt like the relationship was about 4 days old when the time frame was mentioned. And while some of the sex scenes were hot they didn't have a lasting impact because the romance wasn't really believable to me. As far as the BDSM elements went it felt clunky as well. Suddenly Master and slave were brandied about instead of them just being a Dom and bratty submissive and well. I'm not sure how that changed. The dynamic really felt off as well. I know she was a bratty submissive but the submissive side wasn't shown for the most part. It felt like she was constantly topping from the bottom and he just let her because she was adorable and he wanted the relationship to be fun. A couple times his Dom side come out but overall it felt like she called the shots and he want along with it. More like they were playing at BDSM instead of actually being in the lifestyle.
All in all, Playing Hard to Master was a massive miss for me. It's only 16 chapters but it felt like it took an eternity to read and really hit very very few high points. I never felt a connection to the characters or pulled into the writing. Or really any need to carry on with the series. Disappointed to say the least. There's a lot of fangirling out there over this one though so who knows. Maybe it'll work for you.
~~~~~~~~~~~~
10/7 Eh not feeling this at all. The writing is very flat and clunky. The heroine is just annoying as all get out. Blerg.
10/1 Ahhh did not realize this was two authors writing. Eh. We shall see. Awesome cover though.
Reviewing for herding cats & burning soup.
January 23, 2016
3 STARS!
I'm quite surprised to say that this book actually better than the previous. I was really excited to see how Ambrose's story will go. FYI, I didn't enjoy #1 Finding Master Right, but poor Ambrose need his happily ever after. Turns out it was quite okay and fast.
Ambrose and Everly met at the salon and they have quick talk about BDSM. They decide to spend the night for play at the BDSM club in the town. They seem comfortable with each other. Everly is a plus size girl who is positive with her body. She knows BDSM and known as a brat. Ambrose felt challenged by her sassy attitude. Because in Everly's mind, her brat side needs punishment, not intend to be disrespect.
Based on how his previous play in the first book, Ambrose is a firm and nice Dom. He could be playful but still has dominant aura. There are some minus like no story about how he get into the lifestyle. The only story is about his traumatic past and personal life. It's not enough for me. On the contrary, Although Everly is a nice person with confident, she's brat enough to drive me crazy. Sometimes her attitude is not about the lifestyle, but lack of attention. She's also judgmental person towards rich people. Over judgmental that makes me uncomfortable. I don't why she's in this lifestyle either. For me, both of them like role-play with D/s relationship.
I don't have any problem outside their lifestyle. I mean, their vanilla relationship seems more fun than BDSM. No pressure. The 'main' problem felt too shallow and I don't enjoy it. Not to mentioned it was a little shabby. The sex is just fine. But with so much thinking inside their heads, it was too stiff. Lack of chemistry. On the bright side, they're not that sucks than Banner and Kate's book. They're quickly realize the mistakes in the end. So, Playing Hard to Master isn't that bad. Whew... The last story about Konstantin. This man is really... 'mysterious' :p
I'm quite surprised to say that this book actually better than the previous. I was really excited to see how Ambrose's story will go. FYI, I didn't enjoy #1 Finding Master Right, but poor Ambrose need his happily ever after. Turns out it was quite okay and fast.
Ambrose and Everly met at the salon and they have quick talk about BDSM. They decide to spend the night for play at the BDSM club in the town. They seem comfortable with each other. Everly is a plus size girl who is positive with her body. She knows BDSM and known as a brat. Ambrose felt challenged by her sassy attitude. Because in Everly's mind, her brat side needs punishment, not intend to be disrespect.
Based on how his previous play in the first book, Ambrose is a firm and nice Dom. He could be playful but still has dominant aura. There are some minus like no story about how he get into the lifestyle. The only story is about his traumatic past and personal life. It's not enough for me. On the contrary, Although Everly is a nice person with confident, she's brat enough to drive me crazy. Sometimes her attitude is not about the lifestyle, but lack of attention. She's also judgmental person towards rich people. Over judgmental that makes me uncomfortable. I don't why she's in this lifestyle either. For me, both of them like role-play with D/s relationship.
I don't have any problem outside their lifestyle. I mean, their vanilla relationship seems more fun than BDSM. No pressure. The 'main' problem felt too shallow and I don't enjoy it. Not to mentioned it was a little shabby. The sex is just fine. But with so much thinking inside their heads, it was too stiff. Lack of chemistry. On the bright side, they're not that sucks than Banner and Kate's book. They're quickly realize the mistakes in the end. So, Playing Hard to Master isn't that bad. Whew... The last story about Konstantin. This man is really... 'mysterious' :p
February 19, 2021
Reread 2021
July 11, 2021
This is a re-read in 2021
October 8, 2015
I had quite a hard time with this read. I'm new to this series, so I was unfamiliar with the writing style and it just fell flat to me. I wasn't a fan of the characters at all. The secondary characters were okay, but there really was not connection there. I didn't feel any emotion towards the main characters or the storyline. The heroine was flat out annoying with her aversion to the wealthy. And the fact that the male lead kept that from her for so long made no sense. The BDSM scenes fell flat for me as well. Once again, I didn't feel any emotion during those scenes. The term Master was just thrown out there and the connection didn't feel real. So, the heroine hates wealthy people because of her past, I get it, I do. But the second she is in trouble and needs that wealth, she runs back to the hero of the story and suddenly everything is okay? I didn't like how that played out at all. I have a feeling I know who the next book is going to be about, and to tell you the truth, I'm not that interested in his story at all. Playing Hard to Master felt segmented and lacked the emotion that I crave when I read romance novels. Simply not for me.
October 5, 2015
Everly is a masochistic brat, and as such she´s had a tough time finding a Dom who appreciates bratty behaviour. When a gorgeous man enters the salon for a haircut, all senses starts tingling. Could this be the one?
Ambrose loves laughter with his dominance, and Everly seems to be just what he needs. But her aversion to wealth could be trouble, since Ambrose is a self-made man who loves to spend money on them he loves. Can they make it despite everything against them?
Emotions, Dominance and smutty fluff in a great combo, and can´t wait for Kon´s book *grabby hands*
Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book in return for an honest review.
Ambrose loves laughter with his dominance, and Everly seems to be just what he needs. But her aversion to wealth could be trouble, since Ambrose is a self-made man who loves to spend money on them he loves. Can they make it despite everything against them?
Emotions, Dominance and smutty fluff in a great combo, and can´t wait for Kon´s book *grabby hands*
Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book in return for an honest review.
July 17, 2020
The team that makes up Sparrow Beckett are really great writers. They can make you root for a hero even when they're being complete idiots.
After a bad breakup, Ambrose has sworn off relationships, preferring short term encounters with BDSM play partners. When he sees a BDSM themed tattoo on hairstylist Everly, he's intrigued, and when they meet again at a BDSM club, he discovers she's exactly the kind of woman he wants but never thought he'd find. Except he's rich, and she hates rich people. So, he's an idiot and lies about it, even going so far as to rent a cheap apartment for appearances. Yes, he's lying to her and he's a moron (but he's kind of an adorable moron).
Everly is also an idiot, letting her irrational prejudice against the wealthy keep her from being with the man she loves. Thankfully, these two are living in a romance novel, and not the real world, so they get their act together in time to live happily ever after.
After a bad breakup, Ambrose has sworn off relationships, preferring short term encounters with BDSM play partners. When he sees a BDSM themed tattoo on hairstylist Everly, he's intrigued, and when they meet again at a BDSM club, he discovers she's exactly the kind of woman he wants but never thought he'd find. Except he's rich, and she hates rich people. So, he's an idiot and lies about it, even going so far as to rent a cheap apartment for appearances. Yes, he's lying to her and he's a moron (but he's kind of an adorable moron).
Everly is also an idiot, letting her irrational prejudice against the wealthy keep her from being with the man she loves. Thankfully, these two are living in a romance novel, and not the real world, so they get their act together in time to live happily ever after.
October 12, 2015
Review for Playing Hard to Master by Sparrow Beckett
I am so, so happy I was able to read this book early. After reading Finding Master Right, I was desperate to read Playing Hard to Master — I wanted Ambrose and waiting was torturous. Makes me wonder if the author(s) might be a bit on the sadistic side. Everything about this book made my inner book whore happy. From a deliciously sexy storyline to the fantastically developed characters, I couldn’t ask for more.
I fell in love with Ambrose in book one; he is a loyal friend and a patient Master. He proved that repeatedly throughout Banner and Kate’s story, those qualities became essential to his relationship with Everly.
She is a brat, big time. After many failed attempts to find a Dominant to play with, she was convinced that she wasn’t going to find someone that could earn her submission. I really felt for Everly, it is hard for a vanilla woman to find a perfect match, add in the kink and it is nearly impossible. She has such passion for everything in her life. The way she protected her community and spoke up for people that didn’t have a voice added a lot of depth to her character.
She was starting to think that falling for someone wasn’t so bad. Sure, she felt a little out of control, but maybe that’s what love was. Free-falling and hoping someone would be there to catch you.
Watching Ambrose and Everly interact and grow as a couple really melted my heart. He earned every bit of submission she gave him and never stopped challenging her. Even when he was Mastering her, he respected her inner brat and never once tried to break her. Swoon worthy for sure. There are several challenges that pop up for them, but the growth of the individual characters as well as them as a couple shined through. Not only is this book about coming together as a Master/slave, but as a man and woman who have fierce loyalties and depth of emotion that swept me away.
“You’re too fucking perfect. I need to be inside you. Now, I can’t wait anymore.”
Lord have mercy, Playing Hard to Master is an erotic masterpiece. I read a lot of erotica, BDSM books are one of my favorite sub-genres, this series knocks it out of the park. Ambrose is Master in every sense of the word.
“Please, sir! Please fuck me. I’ll be a good girl or a bad girl or a fucking cantaloupe. Anything you want, just don’t make me wait!”
Sparrow Beckett has a masterful way of writing erotica that leaves you panting and begging for more. I predicted with book one that this would prove to be one of the hottest series of 2015 — I still stand behind this prediction. I can’t wait for Konstantin’s book!
Five Plus Stars for storyline and Five Plus Drenched Panties.
“You’re my toy, so that means we’ll play my games.”
ARC Review by Miranda at Mommy’s a Book Whore.
I am so, so happy I was able to read this book early. After reading Finding Master Right, I was desperate to read Playing Hard to Master — I wanted Ambrose and waiting was torturous. Makes me wonder if the author(s) might be a bit on the sadistic side. Everything about this book made my inner book whore happy. From a deliciously sexy storyline to the fantastically developed characters, I couldn’t ask for more.
I fell in love with Ambrose in book one; he is a loyal friend and a patient Master. He proved that repeatedly throughout Banner and Kate’s story, those qualities became essential to his relationship with Everly.
She is a brat, big time. After many failed attempts to find a Dominant to play with, she was convinced that she wasn’t going to find someone that could earn her submission. I really felt for Everly, it is hard for a vanilla woman to find a perfect match, add in the kink and it is nearly impossible. She has such passion for everything in her life. The way she protected her community and spoke up for people that didn’t have a voice added a lot of depth to her character.
She was starting to think that falling for someone wasn’t so bad. Sure, she felt a little out of control, but maybe that’s what love was. Free-falling and hoping someone would be there to catch you.
Watching Ambrose and Everly interact and grow as a couple really melted my heart. He earned every bit of submission she gave him and never stopped challenging her. Even when he was Mastering her, he respected her inner brat and never once tried to break her. Swoon worthy for sure. There are several challenges that pop up for them, but the growth of the individual characters as well as them as a couple shined through. Not only is this book about coming together as a Master/slave, but as a man and woman who have fierce loyalties and depth of emotion that swept me away.
“You’re too fucking perfect. I need to be inside you. Now, I can’t wait anymore.”
Lord have mercy, Playing Hard to Master is an erotic masterpiece. I read a lot of erotica, BDSM books are one of my favorite sub-genres, this series knocks it out of the park. Ambrose is Master in every sense of the word.
“Please, sir! Please fuck me. I’ll be a good girl or a bad girl or a fucking cantaloupe. Anything you want, just don’t make me wait!”
Sparrow Beckett has a masterful way of writing erotica that leaves you panting and begging for more. I predicted with book one that this would prove to be one of the hottest series of 2015 — I still stand behind this prediction. I can’t wait for Konstantin’s book!
Five Plus Stars for storyline and Five Plus Drenched Panties.
“You’re my toy, so that means we’ll play my games.”
ARC Review by Miranda at Mommy’s a Book Whore.
October 20, 2015
Leigh's review posted at Guilty Pleasures Book Reviews
3.5 stars
Having already met Ambrose in Finding Master Right, I already knew I’d like him. I just had to hope I’d enjoy his woman as much. And while I enjoyed Everly and her sass, and fell even more deeply for this charming and not-so-suave, regular guy, my feelings for this second book in the series were exactly the same as those I had for the first: the book was extremely readable and entertaining, but I found the conflict to be manufactured and at times I wanted to smack the characters to wise up.
Ambrose is a successful, wealthy (if somewhat tacky) business owner, who meets Everly, a quirky and bratty sub who is a perfect fit for him in all respects but one. She is a community activist, helping save homeless shelters and food kitchens, with an aversion to wealthy people. And he’s rich.
To me, this sounds like it would be a match made in fiscal heaven because now she would have the means to fund these projects, rather than having to stage protests and rallies for the money. But Everly has such an ingrained hatred for the wealthy that Ambrose is afraid she won’t give him a chance if she knew of his financial status. So he does what any sane person does in a story: he lies about it and pretends to be more working class than he actually is.
I enjoyed reading about Ambrose and Everly’s relationship, and I could sympathize more when the conflict moved away from the issue of wealth and to the matter of honesty. But it took a while to get there.
And similarly to the way Banner was portrayed in Finding Master Right, Ambrose was charming and likeable, and infinitely kinky, but he lacked the mastery outside of the bedroom that I think would be required for a Dom.
We have been given enough of a heads up into Konstantine’s situation with his arranged marriage that I am looking forward to his book, which is next in the series. But it is more due to the fact that the writing style is light and enjoyable and Kon is downright sexy, than it is of my hopes of a killer plot.
My issues aside, Sparrow Beckett can still write a book that is a pleasure to read and is full of enough kink to make you squirm.
Review copy provided for an honest review.
3.5 stars
Having already met Ambrose in Finding Master Right, I already knew I’d like him. I just had to hope I’d enjoy his woman as much. And while I enjoyed Everly and her sass, and fell even more deeply for this charming and not-so-suave, regular guy, my feelings for this second book in the series were exactly the same as those I had for the first: the book was extremely readable and entertaining, but I found the conflict to be manufactured and at times I wanted to smack the characters to wise up.
Ambrose is a successful, wealthy (if somewhat tacky) business owner, who meets Everly, a quirky and bratty sub who is a perfect fit for him in all respects but one. She is a community activist, helping save homeless shelters and food kitchens, with an aversion to wealthy people. And he’s rich.
To me, this sounds like it would be a match made in fiscal heaven because now she would have the means to fund these projects, rather than having to stage protests and rallies for the money. But Everly has such an ingrained hatred for the wealthy that Ambrose is afraid she won’t give him a chance if she knew of his financial status. So he does what any sane person does in a story: he lies about it and pretends to be more working class than he actually is.
I enjoyed reading about Ambrose and Everly’s relationship, and I could sympathize more when the conflict moved away from the issue of wealth and to the matter of honesty. But it took a while to get there.
And similarly to the way Banner was portrayed in Finding Master Right, Ambrose was charming and likeable, and infinitely kinky, but he lacked the mastery outside of the bedroom that I think would be required for a Dom.
We have been given enough of a heads up into Konstantine’s situation with his arranged marriage that I am looking forward to his book, which is next in the series. But it is more due to the fact that the writing style is light and enjoyable and Kon is downright sexy, than it is of my hopes of a killer plot.
My issues aside, Sparrow Beckett can still write a book that is a pleasure to read and is full of enough kink to make you squirm.
Review copy provided for an honest review.
October 19, 2015
I really enjoyed the first book and this second book was even better! I loved the Ambrose and Everly they were so fun and I feel they had a better connection that Kate and Banner did. Really fun read can't wait for Konstantin's book.
November 10, 2015
Great second book in the series. Maybe because I tend to identify more as a brat I understood Everly so well. Ambrose is just a hottie. Sparrow did good with the writing and putting their story together and setting us up for the next book. Loving the series so far.
October 13, 2015
I have been WAITING for Ambrose's book to come out ever since I met him in the first book of the Masters Unleashed series, Finding Master Right. I will tell you this right now, I'm sure the authors would love it if you read these books any which way, as long as you read them. I say that to get the most of out these stories, especially Ambrose's, please read the book one first. Ambrose is right there, front and center in the whole mess that is Banner and Kate's relationship/book. Poor guy...
Ambrose can NOT catch a break to save his soul. First, he's a big guy and tends to intimidate most people just by looking in their general direction. He can't help it. He actually tries to put on a "nice" face and it just doesn't work. And then there's the whole being left at the altar. You see, he was engaged to his former sub and she left him with no note, no text, nothing! Just walked out the door and never looked back. Broke the guy's heart. He refuses to get into another relationship for fear of getting left again. The guy may have the worst taste in decorating but he has a huge heart.
Everly has had her share of troubles finding a partner in the kink world and it's left her with a reputation, a broken heart, and trust issues. Okay, so the trust issues go waaaaay back to when her grandmother treated her and mother poorly because they didn't have money... all because Everly's mother chose to keep Everly when she got pregnant with her at a young age. Everly's maternal family is rich and treats anyone who isn't like they are unworthy of their time. Hence why Everly hates all rich people.
Did you catch that Ambrose is rich? Yep, started his own international shipping company from bottom up.
Sparrow Beckett were able to weave a classic tale of keeping an important secret from the one you love with a fascinating merger and surrender between a Dom and sub leading eventually to master/slave. Do you give up your principles? What do you do with the lie? Do you look beyond the lie? OUCH! Brain cramp again!
By this point, you can tell I had mad love for Ambrose. Weirdly enough, I wasn't a fan of Everly until the end of the book. I wish I could tell you why but then I would be giving too much of the story away. That kind of discussion is better left for a book club discussion.
Okay, your book club might not read this book but there's got to be a book club somewhere FUN enough to give this a try! If it's virtual, I'm in ;) ∗mouths "call me"∗
Review appears on
Ambrose can NOT catch a break to save his soul. First, he's a big guy and tends to intimidate most people just by looking in their general direction. He can't help it. He actually tries to put on a "nice" face and it just doesn't work. And then there's the whole being left at the altar. You see, he was engaged to his former sub and she left him with no note, no text, nothing! Just walked out the door and never looked back. Broke the guy's heart. He refuses to get into another relationship for fear of getting left again. The guy may have the worst taste in decorating but he has a huge heart.
Everly has had her share of troubles finding a partner in the kink world and it's left her with a reputation, a broken heart, and trust issues. Okay, so the trust issues go waaaaay back to when her grandmother treated her and mother poorly because they didn't have money... all because Everly's mother chose to keep Everly when she got pregnant with her at a young age. Everly's maternal family is rich and treats anyone who isn't like they are unworthy of their time. Hence why Everly hates all rich people.
Did you catch that Ambrose is rich? Yep, started his own international shipping company from bottom up.
Sparrow Beckett were able to weave a classic tale of keeping an important secret from the one you love with a fascinating merger and surrender between a Dom and sub leading eventually to master/slave. Do you give up your principles? What do you do with the lie? Do you look beyond the lie? OUCH! Brain cramp again!
By this point, you can tell I had mad love for Ambrose. Weirdly enough, I wasn't a fan of Everly until the end of the book. I wish I could tell you why but then I would be giving too much of the story away. That kind of discussion is better left for a book club discussion.
Okay, your book club might not read this book but there's got to be a book club somewhere FUN enough to give this a try! If it's virtual, I'm in ;) ∗mouths "call me"∗
Review appears on
June 20, 2017
LOVED THIS BOOK! Loved it even better than the first in the series!
A well written, quick, and easy read.
Even though this is the second book in a series, each of the books can be read as stand alones. Yay!
I was completely smitten with Everly from the start. She is such a phenomenal female protagonist. She's funny and spunky. She has a good head on her shoulders and a larger than life heart. She knows what she wants in life and goes after it, no holds barred. She knows who she is as a person and as a woman, and makes no apologies. She is 100% confident in who she is. She refuses to settle. Though we know she and her mother had a difficult past, it in no way hinders her. Her past shaped her into the woman she is, and she likes who she is. The memories of her past drive her to become a better person through her volunteerism. The one quirk she has, is that she really, really, really, really dislikes ALL rich people. To the point of prejudice.
Enter Ambrose. A gorgeous, dominate male. Rich, and keeping it a secret from Everly.
Ambrose was not as dominate as I would have liked him to be, but I still found him to be enjoyable. He is a bit broken from his past relationship, and he can't seem to move on, or get over it, until Everly comes into his life. But even then, he lets his past hurt dictate the way he interacts with Everly. It takes some convincing from his friends Banner and Konstantine in order for him to pursue Everly. Things get especially sticky, with all the lies and Houdini acts he has to pull in order to perpetuate his lie with Everly.
The sex scenes between Ambrose and Everly are sinfully delicious. I'd like to know where I can sign up!
I cannot wait for the third installment! We are going to get Konstantine!
A well written, quick, and easy read.
Even though this is the second book in a series, each of the books can be read as stand alones. Yay!
I was completely smitten with Everly from the start. She is such a phenomenal female protagonist. She's funny and spunky. She has a good head on her shoulders and a larger than life heart. She knows what she wants in life and goes after it, no holds barred. She knows who she is as a person and as a woman, and makes no apologies. She is 100% confident in who she is. She refuses to settle. Though we know she and her mother had a difficult past, it in no way hinders her. Her past shaped her into the woman she is, and she likes who she is. The memories of her past drive her to become a better person through her volunteerism. The one quirk she has, is that she really, really, really, really dislikes ALL rich people. To the point of prejudice.
Enter Ambrose. A gorgeous, dominate male. Rich, and keeping it a secret from Everly.
Ambrose was not as dominate as I would have liked him to be, but I still found him to be enjoyable. He is a bit broken from his past relationship, and he can't seem to move on, or get over it, until Everly comes into his life. But even then, he lets his past hurt dictate the way he interacts with Everly. It takes some convincing from his friends Banner and Konstantine in order for him to pursue Everly. Things get especially sticky, with all the lies and Houdini acts he has to pull in order to perpetuate his lie with Everly.
The sex scenes between Ambrose and Everly are sinfully delicious. I'd like to know where I can sign up!
I cannot wait for the third installment! We are going to get Konstantine!
September 19, 2015
In book 2 of this new series by Sparrow Beckett we get Ambrose and Everly.
Ambrose was left by his ex fiancé / sub years ago but it still haunts him. Now that Banner and Kate are getting married, Ambrose needs a hair cut and it just so happens Everly will be the lucky woman working on him.
Everly works as a hair dresser and when Ambrose comes into her shop she is struck speechless. They begin talking and Ambrose sees her tattoo which leads to questions about kink. They plan to meet up to play but what they find in each other isn't what they bargained for.
I absolutely loved Ambrose. Sure he was dominating but yet when he was with Everly you can see he has a sweet side. I liked how he wanted to do stuff for her and was confused why he was feeling the way he was so soon.
Everly was funny and had a cute way about how she acted with Ambrose. She is bratty in the bdsm world but it wasn't overly annoying. It was more of a fun loving type of thing. I liked how she wanted to make a difference and help other people out.
Although these two were such opposites they came together nicely. I get why Ambrose lied about being rich but I think she should have not walked out and maybe just listened to him more. Let him really explain.
This book contains a lot of hot sex scenes and dirty talk. I don't know much about the bdsm world but after reading this book I think I have a better feel for it.
Although the first book was my favorite so far I did enjoy reading this one.
I enjoyed the characters and how close the guys are. They joke around and have fun. I'm glad this is a new series that I am completely enjoying. The next book is Kon and I can't wait to see how his future wife acts to his kink.
Ambrose was left by his ex fiancé / sub years ago but it still haunts him. Now that Banner and Kate are getting married, Ambrose needs a hair cut and it just so happens Everly will be the lucky woman working on him.
Everly works as a hair dresser and when Ambrose comes into her shop she is struck speechless. They begin talking and Ambrose sees her tattoo which leads to questions about kink. They plan to meet up to play but what they find in each other isn't what they bargained for.
I absolutely loved Ambrose. Sure he was dominating but yet when he was with Everly you can see he has a sweet side. I liked how he wanted to do stuff for her and was confused why he was feeling the way he was so soon.
Everly was funny and had a cute way about how she acted with Ambrose. She is bratty in the bdsm world but it wasn't overly annoying. It was more of a fun loving type of thing. I liked how she wanted to make a difference and help other people out.
Although these two were such opposites they came together nicely. I get why Ambrose lied about being rich but I think she should have not walked out and maybe just listened to him more. Let him really explain.
This book contains a lot of hot sex scenes and dirty talk. I don't know much about the bdsm world but after reading this book I think I have a better feel for it.
Although the first book was my favorite so far I did enjoy reading this one.
I enjoyed the characters and how close the guys are. They joke around and have fun. I'm glad this is a new series that I am completely enjoying. The next book is Kon and I can't wait to see how his future wife acts to his kink.
September 16, 2015
I think Everly and Ambrose are going to be perfect for each other, "surprised, he barked a laugh and swatted her leg. “You missed my a**.” Her smile was a dare. “I told you, most Doms find me hard to handle.” Ambrose can be flirty...at times, “behave, woman,” he growled teasingly. “You wanted a date, so this is a date. If you wanted me to shove you to your knees and use your naughty mouth, you just had to ask.” He's not afraid to scold his woman when she needs it, “behave. First of all, you wanted a date, so you’re getting a damned date. I’m making dinner, and then we’re going to eat that dinner. We will have an interesting and meaningful conversation, so I can show you how fun and clever I am. Second, I have no intention of coming in my pants. I’m too old for that ***t.” I really enjoyed this book, but there were a few times when Kon caught my interest and kept it I'm hoping that boy's book is next.
October 7, 2017
Very steamy with some BDSM elements - I liked this better than the first one (Finding Master Right). I think the characters - Ambrose and Everly - were more fun. Ambrose is a rich guy, trying to hide it from his sub, Everly, a hairdresser who's also does a lot of volunteer work for antipoverty causes. She's a little militantly anti-rich, causing Ambrose some consternation. They are so compatible in other ways - he is adept at handling her bratty tendencies - and it does make me cringe at the lack of communication between these two. This novel sets up the final book in the series, centering on Konstantine and his Russian bride selected by his grandmother, and I'm looking forward to reading it.
October 11, 2015
This series is so freaking awesome. After loving book one, I was beyond excited for this one. Ambrose's story was everything I wanted and more. Everly is quite his match, and their story was just quite epic.
Ambrose and Everly steam up the pages on more than one occasion. It would probably be easier to count where they aren't. They are beyond compatible, and there are some hot scenes!
One incredibly awesome thing about Playing Hard to Master is that readers get to see quite a bit of Banner and Kate from book 1, and that was awesome as I loved their story.
I am DYING for book 3 now - Khan's story. From the bits Sparrow Beckett has dropped, it sounds like that will be quite the tale for us to read. Can January be here now please?
Ambrose and Everly steam up the pages on more than one occasion. It would probably be easier to count where they aren't. They are beyond compatible, and there are some hot scenes!
One incredibly awesome thing about Playing Hard to Master is that readers get to see quite a bit of Banner and Kate from book 1, and that was awesome as I loved their story.
I am DYING for book 3 now - Khan's story. From the bits Sparrow Beckett has dropped, it sounds like that will be quite the tale for us to read. Can January be here now please?
September 18, 2015
Copy from Netgalley
OMG OMG OMG! Just finished this book and well...OMG! I loved the first book in this series and I always worry when I love a book so much that the second book will be a letdown...but let me tell you...I was not disappointed in the slightest. I loved the story, the characters and the chemistry between them. At the heart of everything is an amazing love story, a story of finding love and even though its not with who you imagined its worth it all. And oh was it hot!! I love a bit of naughty in my books and this had it....and it was written perfectly! i loved the secondary characters, continuing the story for some and starting a new story for others. I can't wait for the next book....I will be clicking that one instantly!
OMG OMG OMG! Just finished this book and well...OMG! I loved the first book in this series and I always worry when I love a book so much that the second book will be a letdown...but let me tell you...I was not disappointed in the slightest. I loved the story, the characters and the chemistry between them. At the heart of everything is an amazing love story, a story of finding love and even though its not with who you imagined its worth it all. And oh was it hot!! I love a bit of naughty in my books and this had it....and it was written perfectly! i loved the secondary characters, continuing the story for some and starting a new story for others. I can't wait for the next book....I will be clicking that one instantly!
December 12, 2015
Playing Hard to Master is the 2nd in this series even though it could be read as a stand alone I recommend reading in order just to get the full effect for all the characters. This is Ambrose's story. He has been hurt in the past and is dealing with not being able to be with Kate (Banners and Kate's story). He meets Everly on the fly and it's an immediate attraction between them two. She is however considered a brat in the BDSM world. She doesn't think anyone can handle her. Ambrose can though but there is one thing that is a deal breaker for her. Rich people and Ambrose is one of them. Watch the sparks fly with these two. Always remember she is playing hard for her master and he is enjoying every bit of it.
September 21, 2015
I chose this book because it seemed interesting. A romance with a 50 Shades twist. I must say this book was great. I find many books in the romance/erotica genre with a little BDSM in it leave the story behind. In this case, you get the story, you get romance, you get a normal sized female, and you get steamy sexy scenes. I am sure to read the rest in the series. This is a must for your fans of 50 Shades. In fact, some will find this leaves 50 Shades in the dust.
April 1, 2016
Oh yes another BDMS Book that was yummy!!
Ok enjoyed the first book in this series.
But Ambrose in Playing Hard to Master stole my heart!!
He's one hell of a Dom. Plus he's a fucken sweet heart!!! Melting here!!!!
But be warned that his new sub Everly is a pain in the ass!!! Yes you may want to smack her up side the head a few times.
The book is simply hot, lustful and drool worthy.
Ok enjoyed the first book in this series.
But Ambrose in Playing Hard to Master stole my heart!!
He's one hell of a Dom. Plus he's a fucken sweet heart!!! Melting here!!!!
But be warned that his new sub Everly is a pain in the ass!!! Yes you may want to smack her up side the head a few times.
The book is simply hot, lustful and drool worthy.
July 21, 2024
Great book! I loved the connection the characters had, they had great chemistry like the previous book. I liked the plot and the whole shebang, I need me a man like him. Devoted, obsessed, and all other great qualities (except the mohawk, I just ignored that). I tried reading the third book before but DNF, going to try again now because I love Beckett’s works.
December 30, 2015
Loved this book!! Well written and love how it involved the characters from the first book as well. My favorite part in this is bratty Miss Everly. She makes you giggle. Love to hear how a Dom handles a brat very well. This is definitely a book and series I would recommend to other readers.
October 6, 2015
I love sparrow Beckett their work is amazing... I fell in love with ambrose and wanted to punch everly sometimes.... great read can't wait for Konstantin's story next.
February 14, 2020
A Sizzling but Disappointing Second Installment...
After reading the powerhouse first installment of Sparrow Beckett's, Masters Unleashed series, I had high hopes for this second installment. What especially excited me was the fact that this book, “Playing Hard to Master”, focused on Ambrose, the amusingly unique and intriguing Dom who brilliantly brought Banner to his senses in “Finding Master Right”. And while, here again Beckett writes a D/s romance the right way. Creating something that is not only factually accurate and believably realistic, but also containing multifaceted, emotionally intelligent characters. It doesn't have the same intimate aura as the first book did. Instead feeling far more distant, almost detached.
“Playing Hard to Master”, is the story of Ambrose, a huge, brutish, Viking-esque shipping industry magnate, who was emotionally gutted by his former sub and fiance abandoning him years earlier, and is now hesitant to pursue anything long-term. A Dom who, unlike his best friends, is looking for a woman who can give him her complete submission and sooth his sexually aggressive side, but also challenge him, and maintain an independent fire. Someone who can embrace sadomasochistic play while also keeping a big amount of sassy fun and humor within their lives, instead of the strict, always serious, M/s dynamic his best friends Banner and Konstantin maintain. And Everly, a sassy hairdresser, a woman who, in her spare time sticks it to as many rich people as possible by protesting, challenging the system, and making changes wherever she can to help those who need it most and make a difference in the world. By night, she is a bratty masochist who has scared away some Doms, and been deemed too much to handle by others. She is a woman in search of someone who can completely master her without suffocating her wildling spirit. What follows is a humor filled, sexy exploration of two people’s struggle to move past preconceived notions, doubt, and fear and accept the bond growing between them as truth.
It is a story that should have been a heartfelt examination of how hard it can be for people from two different places in life to let go and embrace what their hearts and souls are desperately working to hold onto. However, where the first book in this series was a raging storm of tumultuous, angst filled scenarios, this one, despite containing an almost sizzling sexual chemistry between the two protagonists, is dry, and almost completely devoid of the deeper, soul cracking emotions of the first.
Additionally, the complaint I had about book one, that it contained choppy, at times confusing transitions from chapter to chapter, is sadly worse in this installment. Issues that again, throw off the overall flow of the book, and make you feel as if you’re missing plot details.
And finally, and worst of all, are the continuity issues where Ambrose is concerned! In book one Ambrose is framed as a masterful Dom in his own right, yet one not interested in owning a slave. He is painted as being far more fun-loving and not nearly as strict as Banner. This more relaxed, witty nature is the reason Banner erroneously pushes Kate to be his sub, as he viewed Ambrose as the best choice for her. Yet here in this installment, Beckett paints a much different picture of what we were initially led to believe Ambrose wants, as well as, the very fabric of who he is. It is a continuity issue that is bothersome and honestly had me putting the book down part way through in order to go back to book one and reread the sections he was in just to ensure I wasn’t misremembering or losing my damn mind…
As a result, my review for this book has been difficult to articulate because while this installment, just as the first, brilliantly showcases the BDSM subject matter as it actually is, giving it the teeth it deserves. And while here too, the authors create real people, with real struggles, who navigate their D/s needs within the realms of their worlds as best they can. And here again, create a story landscape in which they include another round of gorgeously written erotic scenes that fully showcase the explosive chemistry between Ambrose and Everly. Their story is stunted, isn’t given its proper due, and doesn’t even come close to being at the same level as Banner and Kate’s.
This one is grossly lacking the attention to detail and soul cracking emotionality of the first, and sadly, almost dangerously teeters toward caricature in how Everly is portrayed, with her rich person hating ways. A hugely disappointing return to the Master’s realm and one I truly hope isn’t repeated with Konstantin’s story.
After reading the powerhouse first installment of Sparrow Beckett's, Masters Unleashed series, I had high hopes for this second installment. What especially excited me was the fact that this book, “Playing Hard to Master”, focused on Ambrose, the amusingly unique and intriguing Dom who brilliantly brought Banner to his senses in “Finding Master Right”. And while, here again Beckett writes a D/s romance the right way. Creating something that is not only factually accurate and believably realistic, but also containing multifaceted, emotionally intelligent characters. It doesn't have the same intimate aura as the first book did. Instead feeling far more distant, almost detached.
“Playing Hard to Master”, is the story of Ambrose, a huge, brutish, Viking-esque shipping industry magnate, who was emotionally gutted by his former sub and fiance abandoning him years earlier, and is now hesitant to pursue anything long-term. A Dom who, unlike his best friends, is looking for a woman who can give him her complete submission and sooth his sexually aggressive side, but also challenge him, and maintain an independent fire. Someone who can embrace sadomasochistic play while also keeping a big amount of sassy fun and humor within their lives, instead of the strict, always serious, M/s dynamic his best friends Banner and Konstantin maintain. And Everly, a sassy hairdresser, a woman who, in her spare time sticks it to as many rich people as possible by protesting, challenging the system, and making changes wherever she can to help those who need it most and make a difference in the world. By night, she is a bratty masochist who has scared away some Doms, and been deemed too much to handle by others. She is a woman in search of someone who can completely master her without suffocating her wildling spirit. What follows is a humor filled, sexy exploration of two people’s struggle to move past preconceived notions, doubt, and fear and accept the bond growing between them as truth.
It is a story that should have been a heartfelt examination of how hard it can be for people from two different places in life to let go and embrace what their hearts and souls are desperately working to hold onto. However, where the first book in this series was a raging storm of tumultuous, angst filled scenarios, this one, despite containing an almost sizzling sexual chemistry between the two protagonists, is dry, and almost completely devoid of the deeper, soul cracking emotions of the first.
Additionally, the complaint I had about book one, that it contained choppy, at times confusing transitions from chapter to chapter, is sadly worse in this installment. Issues that again, throw off the overall flow of the book, and make you feel as if you’re missing plot details.
And finally, and worst of all, are the continuity issues where Ambrose is concerned! In book one Ambrose is framed as a masterful Dom in his own right, yet one not interested in owning a slave. He is painted as being far more fun-loving and not nearly as strict as Banner. This more relaxed, witty nature is the reason Banner erroneously pushes Kate to be his sub, as he viewed Ambrose as the best choice for her. Yet here in this installment, Beckett paints a much different picture of what we were initially led to believe Ambrose wants, as well as, the very fabric of who he is. It is a continuity issue that is bothersome and honestly had me putting the book down part way through in order to go back to book one and reread the sections he was in just to ensure I wasn’t misremembering or losing my damn mind…
As a result, my review for this book has been difficult to articulate because while this installment, just as the first, brilliantly showcases the BDSM subject matter as it actually is, giving it the teeth it deserves. And while here too, the authors create real people, with real struggles, who navigate their D/s needs within the realms of their worlds as best they can. And here again, create a story landscape in which they include another round of gorgeously written erotic scenes that fully showcase the explosive chemistry between Ambrose and Everly. Their story is stunted, isn’t given its proper due, and doesn’t even come close to being at the same level as Banner and Kate’s.
This one is grossly lacking the attention to detail and soul cracking emotionality of the first, and sadly, almost dangerously teeters toward caricature in how Everly is portrayed, with her rich person hating ways. A hugely disappointing return to the Master’s realm and one I truly hope isn’t repeated with Konstantin’s story.
January 6, 2020
Not that it matters, but I "read" this in an audiobook, mostly while sitting at work (thank God for headphones).
I'm coming at this from a little different perspective, since my scan through the other comments showed that obviously, my gender is not exactly the target audience for this, not that THAT matters, either.
I started on this book, not realizing at the time that there were others in the series. It didn't take long to figure out that there was backstory I was missing. However, that realization didn't detract from the story.
Surprisingly enough, our heroine in this book knows from the start that she likes "the lifestyle." Not that I read a lot of this kind of story (romance, in particular), but it was refreshing for her to not start out vanilla and only realized she liked kink after meeting "the right man."
Was she annoying, particularly with the "brat" bit? Absolutely. In this man's opinion, Ambrose let her get by with it, with no repercussions, far too often. I understand his not attempting to change her. Not to mention how difficult it would be to train out such an ingrained, intrinsic behavior, it would also make her a completely different person. For whatever reason, Ambrose merely laughs when she mouths off at him (verbally, I mean).
Another annoying thing was the degree of angst Ambrose displays many times over the fact that Everly has a bug up her butt about the wealthy. The extents he goes to, to keep up the masquerade that he's a regular guy, just with rich friends, is more than a little creepy at times. And the fact that Everly is okay with taking advantage of the trappings of wealth, as long as they aren't his, seems just a tad hypocritical, and more than a little naive and willingly blind.
And I saw the "betrayal" coming a mile off. As I said earlier, I don't read romances much, but it doesn't take Sherlock Holmes to figure out that eventually, the big secret's going to come out and is going to put their whole relationship into question. Of course, the fact that it happens roughly three chapters from the end of the book said they were going to work it out.
I was impressed that the authors didn't shy away from terminology when the sex scenes rolled around. The last couple stories I've read of this ilk, the author(s) described genitalia and sex acts with cute little manufactured terms, even in dialog. That these authors had nerve enough to use the kinds of words that real people use was refreshing after that. I know that this kind of story is about the relationship and its ebb and flow, but if you're going to go as far as have the characters have sex, especially in a D/s setting, there's no real sense in wimping out on terminology. If nothing else, it at least sounds more real.
I'm coming at this from a little different perspective, since my scan through the other comments showed that obviously, my gender is not exactly the target audience for this, not that THAT matters, either.
I started on this book, not realizing at the time that there were others in the series. It didn't take long to figure out that there was backstory I was missing. However, that realization didn't detract from the story.
Surprisingly enough, our heroine in this book knows from the start that she likes "the lifestyle." Not that I read a lot of this kind of story (romance, in particular), but it was refreshing for her to not start out vanilla and only realized she liked kink after meeting "the right man."
Was she annoying, particularly with the "brat" bit? Absolutely. In this man's opinion, Ambrose let her get by with it, with no repercussions, far too often. I understand his not attempting to change her. Not to mention how difficult it would be to train out such an ingrained, intrinsic behavior, it would also make her a completely different person. For whatever reason, Ambrose merely laughs when she mouths off at him (verbally, I mean).
Another annoying thing was the degree of angst Ambrose displays many times over the fact that Everly has a bug up her butt about the wealthy. The extents he goes to, to keep up the masquerade that he's a regular guy, just with rich friends, is more than a little creepy at times. And the fact that Everly is okay with taking advantage of the trappings of wealth, as long as they aren't his, seems just a tad hypocritical, and more than a little naive and willingly blind.
And I saw the "betrayal" coming a mile off. As I said earlier, I don't read romances much, but it doesn't take Sherlock Holmes to figure out that eventually, the big secret's going to come out and is going to put their whole relationship into question. Of course, the fact that it happens roughly three chapters from the end of the book said they were going to work it out.
I was impressed that the authors didn't shy away from terminology when the sex scenes rolled around. The last couple stories I've read of this ilk, the author(s) described genitalia and sex acts with cute little manufactured terms, even in dialog. That these authors had nerve enough to use the kinds of words that real people use was refreshing after that. I know that this kind of story is about the relationship and its ebb and flow, but if you're going to go as far as have the characters have sex, especially in a D/s setting, there's no real sense in wimping out on terminology. If nothing else, it at least sounds more real.
July 11, 2018
The Delight
After Finding Master Right, I went head forward into Playing Hard to Master. The characters are different, the dynamics eerily the same and different. Bratting never has been so fun, but misunderstandings or lies can destroy. Despite being a BDSM story, I loved seeing two people fall in love and balance both BDSM and real life. Just that pesky word, slave, lead me to confusion on what the relationship was, but I guess I need to get over it. These two fit!
Review
We met Ambrose in Finding the Right Master when he took on Kate as his submissive. I won't give away what happens between the two, but this story isn't about that. Ambrose has been burned bad once in his past when his slave and fiance up and leaves him with no explanation. Even his time with Kate has wounded him in a way, although not as deeply. But this is one man you wants love and all that comes with it. He has examples of love from his grandparents and parents. Just because he is kinky, he still wants to find the one for him. Then he meets Everly as she cuts his hair for a wedding he is attending.
Everly is a hairdresser who makes ends meet, but also has savings built up. She's kinky, but also bratty, making it hard to find a Dom who wants to put up with her behavior beyond one session at a club. So good times is mostly what she gets while she dedicates herself more to her causes like keeping shelters open. She has a big chip on her shoulder about rich people and paints them all with the same brush without giving them a chance.
The two flirt over a haircut and make loose plans to meet up later where Ambrose deals well with her brattiness, but it doesn't go much further. A chance meeting later gets them closer as Ambrose finds her brattiness adorable (and the author uses adorable a lot in their stories) and begins to think she might be the one for him. Unfortunately, or fortunately, he is rich. It's not something you mention first or second dates, but as they go along, he keeps lying on his net worth wanting her to fall in love with him as him and not hate him just because he has money.
Everly is all about honesty and supporting her causes to the point of using her own money. She truly believes Ambrose is breaking even to struggling on his income. Falling in love is inevitable as they move forward more and more to a Master/slave relationship. Once again the whole slave word confused me because it felt like Dom/sub, but maybe I am just getting hung up on words. The lies build up to a point you Ambrose is damned if he does or doesn't tell her.
Now let's talk about anal sex. The authors seem to love introducing the heroines to anal sex. Yep, I know it's acceptable and really I am not against it. I just want it not to seem like a huge deal in every book. I keep getting hung up on the word slave, but also the word adorable is way overused in this story. He thinks she is adorable....a lot.
Ambrose rocks Everly's world, but Everly gives Ambrose what he craves and needs. The two work together well and progess the series stories with more on Konstantin taking a bride his grandmother in Russia has picked...which is what the next book is about.
This story probably is my favorite so far of the series. I loved Everly's brattiness and how she was not going to give that up. It was part of who she is. I loved Ambrose for the willingness to take on and enjoy Everely for who she was while also finding other parts of her personality to love. These two were so special to me and I fell in love with them!
After Finding Master Right, I went head forward into Playing Hard to Master. The characters are different, the dynamics eerily the same and different. Bratting never has been so fun, but misunderstandings or lies can destroy. Despite being a BDSM story, I loved seeing two people fall in love and balance both BDSM and real life. Just that pesky word, slave, lead me to confusion on what the relationship was, but I guess I need to get over it. These two fit!
Review
We met Ambrose in Finding the Right Master when he took on Kate as his submissive. I won't give away what happens between the two, but this story isn't about that. Ambrose has been burned bad once in his past when his slave and fiance up and leaves him with no explanation. Even his time with Kate has wounded him in a way, although not as deeply. But this is one man you wants love and all that comes with it. He has examples of love from his grandparents and parents. Just because he is kinky, he still wants to find the one for him. Then he meets Everly as she cuts his hair for a wedding he is attending.
Everly is a hairdresser who makes ends meet, but also has savings built up. She's kinky, but also bratty, making it hard to find a Dom who wants to put up with her behavior beyond one session at a club. So good times is mostly what she gets while she dedicates herself more to her causes like keeping shelters open. She has a big chip on her shoulder about rich people and paints them all with the same brush without giving them a chance.
The two flirt over a haircut and make loose plans to meet up later where Ambrose deals well with her brattiness, but it doesn't go much further. A chance meeting later gets them closer as Ambrose finds her brattiness adorable (and the author uses adorable a lot in their stories) and begins to think she might be the one for him. Unfortunately, or fortunately, he is rich. It's not something you mention first or second dates, but as they go along, he keeps lying on his net worth wanting her to fall in love with him as him and not hate him just because he has money.
Everly is all about honesty and supporting her causes to the point of using her own money. She truly believes Ambrose is breaking even to struggling on his income. Falling in love is inevitable as they move forward more and more to a Master/slave relationship. Once again the whole slave word confused me because it felt like Dom/sub, but maybe I am just getting hung up on words. The lies build up to a point you Ambrose is damned if he does or doesn't tell her.
Now let's talk about anal sex. The authors seem to love introducing the heroines to anal sex. Yep, I know it's acceptable and really I am not against it. I just want it not to seem like a huge deal in every book. I keep getting hung up on the word slave, but also the word adorable is way overused in this story. He thinks she is adorable....a lot.
Ambrose rocks Everly's world, but Everly gives Ambrose what he craves and needs. The two work together well and progess the series stories with more on Konstantin taking a bride his grandmother in Russia has picked...which is what the next book is about.
This story probably is my favorite so far of the series. I loved Everly's brattiness and how she was not going to give that up. It was part of who she is. I loved Ambrose for the willingness to take on and enjoy Everely for who she was while also finding other parts of her personality to love. These two were so special to me and I fell in love with them!
July 13, 2021
I was hoping to like this more than the first but no such thing.
Let's start with the fact that Everly is a self-righteous bitch with a major chip on her shoulder. This is only my second book by this author but so far they have yet to write a female lead that is enjoyable or even likable. I nearly DNFed this at 40% b/c I was so done with Everly and her attitude, but instead I just took a pause for the day and started it back the next and was able to get through it. (yay, gold star for me)
Also, what is it with BDSM authors thinking that bratty subs are the only subs they can write about? Bratty subs are obnoxious and you can write a sub female with backbone and them not be bratty, it is possible.
Ambrose for his part did lie, yes, and that is bad and hard to create trust around a lie, but if Everly had not been such a judgey-mc-judgerson then Ambrose would not have done what he did. It was almost self preservation at first. I might have lied if I was rich and having to deal with her. But other than that He tried and he was a good guy, worked hard and took care of his people. And all Everly does is shame him for what he has and makes him feel so bad he ends up down grading. I really would have liked a moment where she was put in her place with all her judging. It almost happened when He told her the art work was by his friends, but all she saw was "fancy" art and what it could be worth, she did not see the art itself or the artist behind the work.
Narration: there is a male POV so there should be a male narrator.
I am hoping the next is enjoyable b/c I am curious about the set up it has been given.
Let's start with the fact that Everly is a self-righteous bitch with a major chip on her shoulder. This is only my second book by this author but so far they have yet to write a female lead that is enjoyable or even likable. I nearly DNFed this at 40% b/c I was so done with Everly and her attitude, but instead I just took a pause for the day and started it back the next and was able to get through it. (yay, gold star for me)
Also, what is it with BDSM authors thinking that bratty subs are the only subs they can write about? Bratty subs are obnoxious and you can write a sub female with backbone and them not be bratty, it is possible.
Ambrose for his part did lie, yes, and that is bad and hard to create trust around a lie, but if Everly had not been such a judgey-mc-judgerson then Ambrose would not have done what he did. It was almost self preservation at first. I might have lied if I was rich and having to deal with her. But other than that He tried and he was a good guy, worked hard and took care of his people. And all Everly does is shame him for what he has and makes him feel so bad he ends up down grading. I really would have liked a moment where she was put in her place with all her judging. It almost happened when He told her the art work was by his friends, but all she saw was "fancy" art and what it could be worth, she did not see the art itself or the artist behind the work.
Narration: there is a male POV so there should be a male narrator.
I am hoping the next is enjoyable b/c I am curious about the set up it has been given.
October 6, 2022
Me gustó más este que el primero ya que hubo más datos sobre los protagonistas, los personajes secundarios fueron menos y con mayor enfoque lo que hizo que no se sintiera una historia hueca como la anterior por lo tanto se empatizaba más con ellos y su relación en lugar de solo ver como se enamoraban solo porque si.
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Me gustó que se dieron más detalles sobre la relación y se logró sentir el match entre ellos sin que fuera tan forzado
También estuvo mejor que no se usaron tan repetidamente los términos del BDSM.
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Lo único que si me sacó de onda y que me hubiera gustado saber más es sobre el POV de Ambrose cuando estuvo con Kate ya que en este se menciona que si tuvo un ligero enamoramiento de ella cuando tuvieron en una “relación” en el libro pasado y que por eso tenía todavía ciertos traumas cosa que anteriormente no se pudo notar ya que el libro anterior fue muy superficial y porque fue narrado parte por Kate pero la parte en la que estuvo con Ambrose fue minima por lo que cuando dan ese dato en este libro me quedé con cara de “WTF! ¿En qué momento pasó eso?”
Por lo que creo que por eso hubo un breve preludio de Konstantin ya que la siguiente historia es sobre él y así conocer un poco más su trama para que no pase lo mismo que con Ambrose.
.
Me gustó que se dieron más detalles sobre la relación y se logró sentir el match entre ellos sin que fuera tan forzado
También estuvo mejor que no se usaron tan repetidamente los términos del BDSM.
.
Lo único que si me sacó de onda y que me hubiera gustado saber más es sobre el POV de Ambrose cuando estuvo con Kate ya que en este se menciona que si tuvo un ligero enamoramiento de ella cuando tuvieron en una “relación” en el libro pasado y que por eso tenía todavía ciertos traumas cosa que anteriormente no se pudo notar ya que el libro anterior fue muy superficial y porque fue narrado parte por Kate pero la parte en la que estuvo con Ambrose fue minima por lo que cuando dan ese dato en este libro me quedé con cara de “WTF! ¿En qué momento pasó eso?”
Por lo que creo que por eso hubo un breve preludio de Konstantin ya que la siguiente historia es sobre él y así conocer un poco más su trama para que no pase lo mismo que con Ambrose.
May 30, 2022
I'm going to write a review for all of their books because i love them so much, google told me their were no more books to be read and i literally stopped reading for about 2 weeks(no long i know) but then good reads said their were more so.. I have arrived
I will say all the books have the same feel to them so if you looking for diversity(different kinks, dynamics, ect..) look else where not to say i didn't loveeeeeee the dynamics it's hard to find books where the brat is actually a brat and not just topping from the bottom with absolutely no consequences.
The books do all kind of have the same thing happening
"I don't like being touched there"
"Why?"
"I'm not used to it"
I think just to make at least One of the books different anal could have been a hard limit for one of them.
Not saying they didn't execute it well, each book everyone gave full consent and i literally couldn't stop reading them my personal fav is (To have and to master) #curuption-kink.
overall I love these books,
I will say all the books have the same feel to them so if you looking for diversity(different kinks, dynamics, ect..) look else where not to say i didn't loveeeeeee the dynamics it's hard to find books where the brat is actually a brat and not just topping from the bottom with absolutely no consequences.
The books do all kind of have the same thing happening
"I don't like being touched there"
"Why?"
"I'm not used to it"
I think just to make at least One of the books different anal could have been a hard limit for one of them.
Not saying they didn't execute it well, each book everyone gave full consent and i literally couldn't stop reading them my personal fav is (To have and to master) #curuption-kink.
overall I love these books,
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