Seeking His Command: An MM Romance of Second Chances (Intricate Ties, Book 1)

I have read other BDSM books with a power exchange between Dom and sub, but this one is the first I have read to use Shibari as a method for healing through relinquishing the power over oneself totally to another while trusting the one with the power to use it for their benefit. Miles completely submits to Darren in all ways, finding safety and protection in Darren’s caring demeanor, his insistence on consent, frequently checking in for Miles’s comfort, and explaining to Miles exactly what he will do and what he expects so the goals are clear, all while working to build up his self esteem. I could just feel Miles releasing his tension, anxiety, all the feelings which led him here in the first place and putting total trust in Darren not to hurt him, to make sure he is safe. The narrative is step-by-step, I almost feel like I am in the room with them, feeling the release that Miles feels, and soothed by Darren’s calm patience, his measured delivery, and his praise through word and touch. The fact that Miles is developing feelings for Darren doesn’t feel strange to me at all, and it isn’t stated, but I get the impression Darren isn’t as unaffected as he appears to be. Both characters come across as very real to me, and I am invested in their developing relationship and Miles’s continued growth. Whether or not both feel it, the chemistry is there, and I thought it came through the page with each successive session between them. I do remember from other books I have read that…

While kink and love aren't the only things involved in healing and certainly aren't a cure-all, this book does a good job at detailing an experience that many traumatized and suffering people have. Relief through release, and relief via taboo means. Not only does the author do a good job at exploring a safe, sane, and consensual dynamic, but they do a great job at making the steamy scenes feel like they are there for a reason rather than just happening. I didn't vibe with the style of the writing sometimes, but over all this is a solid read.

This is my first BDSM read and I was extremely surprised. The dynamics that bloom between Miles and Darren hook you immediately as they build their trust and vulnerability together. The book is short but also easy to read and well written, I think it was ideal for me to dive in the genre since I believe it exposes a really respectful and therapeutic side of BDSM. I'll be definitely reading the entire series.