Why do I prefer to read fanfiction rather than self-published, Kindle-unlimited romance novels, even though they're both free? I'm a character-driven girl at heart. With fanfic, you at least care about the characters, and often, the writing is superior, despite the lack of "editors".

This was pretty F***ed up.

But in a good way.

4.1 stars

This book was hard to read at times. That being said, It was very well done. It was an interesting take on BDSM with the undercover aspect. I liked how Dan had to struggle with the fine line of his love of BDSM and the idea of taking it non consensually (even if that was pretend). Quite the dichotomy.

A lot of authors write books that they term as DARK, and maybe to some those stories fit that title, but this is the first DARK read that I've read in a while. It's not just the physical elements that make this one dark, it's also the emotionally draining story. I don't believe I have any triggers after all the stories I've read, but this one was even difficult for me at times. I'm not ashamed to say that I loved every minute that pushed me beyond what I thought I could handle. It's was gripping, upsetting, sexy, over the top hot, and has raised the bar for what I'm looking for in a DARK read.

I had this book recommended to me and was not disappointed. In fact at just gone 1 a.m. I decided that I really should put this down and get some sleep.

It's dark, though I've now read so many dark books that I seem to be becoming immune to it! The fact that the 'hero' Dan is a good guy, even if he does treat Laura harshly at times, makes this easier to stomach.

The book is written dual POV, though it felt as though we had more from Laura than Dan (though that could be me!). I really liked Laura, she had amazing strength and I felt her reactions were believable especially when, at times, she rebelled at Dan or got angry with him. The scenes between the slaves were wonderful with the way they supported and cared for each other.

The story is really well written and, despite having looming arc deadlines. I just couldn't put the book down. This is my first read by the author but it most assuredly won't be my last.

**I borrowed this book through the kindle unlimited programme.

This is a very dark story and I had a few moments when I wasn't sure if I wanted to keep going. But I found myself liking Laura and Dan enough to want to know how this ends. All in all, it's a good story, well written, with characters of both the likeable and 'hateable' kind.