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Masters of the Shadowlands #4
Lean on Me
"From beginning to end a sinfully delicious story of one woman's struggle to trust who she is inside and accept herself as well as the love of the man that she loves with all her heart." ~ Book Junkie
Andrea wants to submit, but not to just any so-called Dom. He has to be tougher than the slum-bred bullies she grew up with. She’d given up finding a true Dom when her friend finagles her a place as a trainee in an exclusive BDSM club with the powerful Shadowlands Masters. Andrea’s thrilled… and terrified.
Forced to accept an unknown submissive into his carefully run trainee program, Master Cullen is furious. Not only is the young woman new to BDSM, but she’s unsuited to her role--armoured in leather like a Domme, she’s more liable to punch a Dom than kneel. He decides to push her right back out the door. But as he ruthlessly intimidates her, punishes her, then cuddles her, his glimpses of the woman inside the emotional armour intrigue him and her utter surrender captures his heart.
Although Master Cullen is famous for his unfettered lifestyle, Andrea believes he might be interested in her, until she discovers he’s not just a bartender--he’s a cop. Maybe he’d overlook her past brush with the law, but when another trainee accuses her of stealing money, Andrea knows she’s lost the Master she wanted with all her heart.
Andrea wants to submit, but not to just any so-called Dom. He has to be tougher than the slum-bred bullies she grew up with. She’d given up finding a true Dom when her friend finagles her a place as a trainee in an exclusive BDSM club with the powerful Shadowlands Masters. Andrea’s thrilled… and terrified.
Forced to accept an unknown submissive into his carefully run trainee program, Master Cullen is furious. Not only is the young woman new to BDSM, but she’s unsuited to her role--armoured in leather like a Domme, she’s more liable to punch a Dom than kneel. He decides to push her right back out the door. But as he ruthlessly intimidates her, punishes her, then cuddles her, his glimpses of the woman inside the emotional armour intrigue him and her utter surrender captures his heart.
Although Master Cullen is famous for his unfettered lifestyle, Andrea believes he might be interested in her, until she discovers he’s not just a bartender--he’s a cop. Maybe he’d overlook her past brush with the law, but when another trainee accuses her of stealing money, Andrea knows she’s lost the Master she wanted with all her heart.
315 pages, ebook
First published March 30, 2010
407 people are currently reading
6721 people want to read
About the author
Cherise Sinclair
64 books8,313 followersA New York Times and USA Today bestselling author, she’s renowned for writing heart-wrenching romances with laugh-out-loud dialogue, alpha males, and absolutely sizzling sex.
I met my dearheart when vacationing in the Caribbean. Now I won’t say it was love at first sight. Actually since he stood over me, enjoying the view down my swimsuit top, I might have been a tad peeved—as well as attracted. But although we were together less than two days and lived on opposite sides of the country, love can’t be corralled by time or space.
We’ve now been married for many, many years. (And he still looks down my swimsuit tops.)
Nowadays, I live in the west with this obnoxious, beloved husband and a seventy-pound lap-puppy. I’m a gardener, and I love nurturing small plants until they’re big and healthy and productive…and ripping defenseless weeds out by the roots when I’m angry. I enjoy thunderstorms, collecting eggs from the chickens, and visiting the local brewery for the darkest, maltiest beer on tap. My favorite way to spend an evening is curled up on a couch next to the master of my heart, watching the fire, reading, and…well…if you’re reading my books, you obviously know what else happens in front of fires.
I met my dearheart when vacationing in the Caribbean. Now I won’t say it was love at first sight. Actually since he stood over me, enjoying the view down my swimsuit top, I might have been a tad peeved—as well as attracted. But although we were together less than two days and lived on opposite sides of the country, love can’t be corralled by time or space.
We’ve now been married for many, many years. (And he still looks down my swimsuit tops.)
Nowadays, I live in the west with this obnoxious, beloved husband and a seventy-pound lap-puppy. I’m a gardener, and I love nurturing small plants until they’re big and healthy and productive…and ripping defenseless weeds out by the roots when I’m angry. I enjoy thunderstorms, collecting eggs from the chickens, and visiting the local brewery for the darkest, maltiest beer on tap. My favorite way to spend an evening is curled up on a couch next to the master of my heart, watching the fire, reading, and…well…if you’re reading my books, you obviously know what else happens in front of fires.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 641 reviews
September 2, 2019
Master Cullen finally finds his perfect sub.
Andrea wants to submit but she is confused whether she should submit and to whom. She is a tough cookie a strong stubborn character who just needs the perfect master to dominate her.
She will give control and trust to Cullen, although she needs to struggle a lot with her inner alarms: Cullen is a cop. Cullen is too scary. Cullen will hurt her.
Cullen on the other hand is a real catch. One of the most favourite Masters in the series. He will be sweet and patient in this book. He tried to keep his distance from the subs under training in the previous books and now Andrea will prove to be his weakness.
Overall a really entertaining book that it can also be educated if you are curious about the BDSM clubs.
Nothing says ‘I love you’ like a well-made implement of pain.
Andrea wants to submit but she is confused whether she should submit and to whom. She is a tough cookie a strong stubborn character who just needs the perfect master to dominate her.
She will give control and trust to Cullen, although she needs to struggle a lot with her inner alarms: Cullen is a cop. Cullen is too scary. Cullen will hurt her.
Cullen on the other hand is a real catch. One of the most favourite Masters in the series. He will be sweet and patient in this book. He tried to keep his distance from the subs under training in the previous books and now Andrea will prove to be his weakness.
Overall a really entertaining book that it can also be educated if you are curious about the BDSM clubs.
Nothing says ‘I love you’ like a well-made implement of pain.
June 15, 2021
**3.25 stars**
I'm beginning to wonder if maybe this series just isn't for me?? Or if I'm going in with too high of expectations?
I've been looking forward to Master Cullen's story from the very first book. And I'm pretty much left wondering when he'll get a story because this book certainly didn't feel like the Cullen that I got to know over the course of three previous books. There were barely there sprinkles of his personality, but not enough to piece together the man that I thought I knew a bit about.
Now, I understand that when he's in the role of Master or Trainer he has to be more serious and turn on his "professional" personality, but even when we got his POV during "off time" he didn't seem himself.
Also, based on what I thought I knew about Master Cullen, Andrea doesn't really fit the picture I had in my head of the type of woman he'd end up with. Size and build, yes.....personality, not quite. Andrea was too stubborn, too self-conscious about her "poorer" background, too insecure......even though she was suppose to come off strong and independent.
While I was super excited to see a non-white leading lady, Andrea's constant use of "Dios" was way overkill and the Spanish insertions felt forced and didn't come naturally....it screamed "Look I have a POC character in my book!" It just didn't feel authentic, but rather a stereotypical caricature of a Latin woman.
All the other parts of the book that I've come to expect certainly did not disappoint. Ms. Sinclair certinly knows how to maneuver you around the Club and fully visualize what the atmosphere must be like. And it was great seeing how the other couples are doing and catching up with them. Master Z sure does have an inventive (and entirely unfair) way of playing volleyball in the pool. Major points for creativity. We are introduced to Master Marcus in this book and I'm looking forward to seeing how he applies his southern hospitality and charm to a sub of his own :)
February 14, 2023
I have not picked up.erotic book lately. Lean On Me just happened to catch my attention. Not having high hope, except good time listening to the audiobook. Lean On me is more like a clensing book between more serious books.
Miss Sinclair repeating her min drama, min plot writing style. I do like it. The BDSM aspect is hot. But the rest loke characterd and plot is none existence.
3 stars
Miss Sinclair repeating her min drama, min plot writing style. I do like it. The BDSM aspect is hot. But the rest loke characterd and plot is none existence.
3 stars
September 28, 2014
Aww...What to say about this book... Cullen. Oh, dear God Cullen. He is sooo my favorite this far. I think I fell in love with a book character(again).
My Cullen
Reading about him in the previous books I expected a player, someone who would play hard to get due to "commitment phobia" and I was partly right. He was a player and he liked screwing around until a certain sub walked into his life. I like the fact that in this series the heroes aren't afraid to go after what they want, they don't resist because of some innate need to be free.
If I was into BDSM for any reason it would be the fact that doms know what they want and get it. In theory and in books it seems great(I'm sure if I came across someone like this in real life I'd test how much damage my fist can cause). A pity really.
Andrea
With an attitude equal to any Domme, Andrea has a hard time finding the right dom for her until she walks into Shadowlands and a very attractive trainer decides to take on the challenge. I both liked and disliked Andrea. I loved her humor and the way she didn't give up and disliked her insecurities concerning her background and family. I strongly believe that origins don't matter, just what a person does with himself or herself. It's rediculous to be ashamed of what other people do.
I like how the books in this series gradually evolve and each hada more interesting story than the previous. Yes, it's still erotica and has all kinds of sex scenes but the author gives us more substance. The story behind every person, a development in feelings, a more consistent ending.
I also loved the fact that Cullen didn't want to share Andrea. I enjoy the BDSM side of things but I still can't stomach the fact that these people are willing to share their partners even with boundaries. I would be constantly green with jealousy if my bf even kissed someone else. I'll take territorial and jealous(in a certain extend) over this any day.
My Cullen
Reading about him in the previous books I expected a player, someone who would play hard to get due to "commitment phobia" and I was partly right. He was a player and he liked screwing around until a certain sub walked into his life. I like the fact that in this series the heroes aren't afraid to go after what they want, they don't resist because of some innate need to be free.
If I was into BDSM for any reason it would be the fact that doms know what they want and get it. In theory and in books it seems great(I'm sure if I came across someone like this in real life I'd test how much damage my fist can cause). A pity really.
Andrea
With an attitude equal to any Domme, Andrea has a hard time finding the right dom for her until she walks into Shadowlands and a very attractive trainer decides to take on the challenge. I both liked and disliked Andrea. I loved her humor and the way she didn't give up and disliked her insecurities concerning her background and family. I strongly believe that origins don't matter, just what a person does with himself or herself. It's rediculous to be ashamed of what other people do.
I like how the books in this series gradually evolve and each hada more interesting story than the previous. Yes, it's still erotica and has all kinds of sex scenes but the author gives us more substance. The story behind every person, a development in feelings, a more consistent ending.
I also loved the fact that Cullen didn't want to share Andrea. I enjoy the BDSM side of things but I still can't stomach the fact that these people are willing to share their partners even with boundaries. I would be constantly green with jealousy if my bf even kissed someone else. I'll take territorial and jealous(in a certain extend) over this any day.
September 24, 2019
Lean on Me by Cherise Sinclair
Genres: Adult, Contemporary, Erotica, Romance
4.75 Stars
Well, I may change my favorite in this series so far.
I really loved this one.
Andrea and Cullen were fantastic characters. Their interactions with each other was off the charts fantastic. I easily felt the connection to both of them and absolutely adored Andrea. She is just so 'normally neurotic'. She sees herself as independent. But she is really obsessed. Her refusal to ask for help no matter what goes to the point of self harm.
Cullen is hot and sexy and completely smitten. But he sees how dangerous her refusal to ever show what she considers weakness can be.
All of this leads to a very hot and steamy romance. This one burned up the pages. I laughed out loud many times. Other times I swear my toes curled for the steamy adult scenes.
There isn't much of any suspense as far as crime. The action is mostly between Cullen and Andrea. But, honestly I did not miss it. Cullen and Andrea's story didn't need it. They created their own action suspense. And lord have mercy did they have Action! I don't think there was any room for anything else but them. They were just that fantastic of a couple!
Definitely recommend this to lovers of Erotic Romance!
Genres: Adult, Contemporary, Erotica, Romance
4.75 Stars
Well, I may change my favorite in this series so far.
I really loved this one.
Andrea and Cullen were fantastic characters. Their interactions with each other was off the charts fantastic. I easily felt the connection to both of them and absolutely adored Andrea. She is just so 'normally neurotic'. She sees herself as independent. But she is really obsessed. Her refusal to ask for help no matter what goes to the point of self harm.
Cullen is hot and sexy and completely smitten. But he sees how dangerous her refusal to ever show what she considers weakness can be.
All of this leads to a very hot and steamy romance. This one burned up the pages. I laughed out loud many times. Other times I swear my toes curled for the steamy adult scenes.
There isn't much of any suspense as far as crime. The action is mostly between Cullen and Andrea. But, honestly I did not miss it. Cullen and Andrea's story didn't need it. They created their own action suspense. And lord have mercy did they have Action! I don't think there was any room for anything else but them. They were just that fantastic of a couple!
Definitely recommend this to lovers of Erotic Romance!
January 25, 2012
Cullen looking like Boramir...RAWR! Liked Cullen and Andrea's story but I did have some problems with it...
There was a situation with Andrea and Master Dan(Master Asshole)and Master Marcus took care of it. And then when Cullen was brought aware of it and pointed it out to Master Asshole, he took a step back and felt bad about it. Whatever! Thought they were too harsh on Andrea. Then they blame Andrea and her pride for not crying about it. I was like, SERIOUSLY?!! I would have love to take a flogger, especially on Master Asshole.
Now one part that I really liked was the scene with Master Marcus and Andrea and that was H-O-T HOT!! That scene did more for me than any scene with Andrea and Cullen.
There was a situation with Andrea and Master Dan(Master Asshole)and Master Marcus took care of it. And then when Cullen was brought aware of it and pointed it out to Master Asshole, he took a step back and felt bad about it. Whatever! Thought they were too harsh on Andrea. Then they blame Andrea and her pride for not crying about it. I was like, SERIOUSLY?!! I would have love to take a flogger, especially on Master Asshole.
Now one part that I really liked was the scene with Master Marcus and Andrea and that was H-O-T HOT!! That scene did more for me than any scene with Andrea and Cullen.
April 7, 2024
This series is so much fun to read,and read,and read,time and time again.
Even though you already know what’s going to happen in each story,it’s still got you in it’s grip from start to finish.
And Lean on Me is another good example….the emotions still affect me as much now as when i first read this beauty.
Andrea is fiercely independent,but at the same time she’s looking for a Dom that she can submit to.
A Dom that can command her without any effort,not like the wannabes she’s seen so far.
When her best friend Antonio finds a way to get her into Shadowlands,she’s over the moon…..and very nervous.
It’s a club that’s very exclusive and she can’t pay the membership fees…..
The solution? Become a trainee!
Only the Master in charge of those is a man that’s not too happy with her attending.
And it looks like he’d rather see her gone than accept his guidance.
If only he wasn’t the only Dom to stirr something in her…..something like a need to submit to him.
The more she’s around him,the more she wants him.
But what he wants from her….hand over her independence,use a safeword….like a wussy….
She just can’t…..can she?
They’re worlds apart for starters,she may have her own cleaning business now,but she ís from the slums….and he’s an arson investigator,a cop!
And there are those that agree…..
At first Cullen is angry his friend asks a favor from him…..allowing someone he doesn’t know,a girl that’s clearly new to the lifestyle,to enter the trainee program of Shadowlands.
But once he gets to know her,he starts to see the sweet sub underneath the tough exterior.
Finding ways to unravel her,to make her submit,is something he enjoys.
Before long,he has to admit it’s the whole package he likes….
Andrea may be the one he’d been waiting for.
If only she’d ask for help when she needed it,instead of doing everything by herself!
She clearly enjoys helping others…..so why does she have so much trouble accepting it herself?
Andrea has had a rough childhood,and has learned to only rely on herself because of it.
Has learned to do everything herself,including selfdefence from aggressive men….
Letting go of that was só hard for her,allowing others to help….to admit there were moments she needed a timeout….
Cullen wants to be there for her,just as she’s there for him when he’s having trouble dealing with what he encounters because of his work.
Finding out about her past,he understands where she’s coming from.
But that doesn’t mean it’s healthy…..and even though it hurts him just as much as it hurts her,he can’t help,but step back until she’s ready.
Will she see the light before she loses the only man she’s ever loved??
Even though you already know what’s going to happen in each story,it’s still got you in it’s grip from start to finish.
And Lean on Me is another good example….the emotions still affect me as much now as when i first read this beauty.
Andrea is fiercely independent,but at the same time she’s looking for a Dom that she can submit to.
A Dom that can command her without any effort,not like the wannabes she’s seen so far.
When her best friend Antonio finds a way to get her into Shadowlands,she’s over the moon…..and very nervous.
It’s a club that’s very exclusive and she can’t pay the membership fees…..
The solution? Become a trainee!
Only the Master in charge of those is a man that’s not too happy with her attending.
And it looks like he’d rather see her gone than accept his guidance.
If only he wasn’t the only Dom to stirr something in her…..something like a need to submit to him.
The more she’s around him,the more she wants him.
But what he wants from her….hand over her independence,use a safeword….like a wussy….
She just can’t…..can she?
They’re worlds apart for starters,she may have her own cleaning business now,but she ís from the slums….and he’s an arson investigator,a cop!
And there are those that agree…..
At first Cullen is angry his friend asks a favor from him…..allowing someone he doesn’t know,a girl that’s clearly new to the lifestyle,to enter the trainee program of Shadowlands.
But once he gets to know her,he starts to see the sweet sub underneath the tough exterior.
Finding ways to unravel her,to make her submit,is something he enjoys.
Before long,he has to admit it’s the whole package he likes….
Andrea may be the one he’d been waiting for.
If only she’d ask for help when she needed it,instead of doing everything by herself!
She clearly enjoys helping others…..so why does she have so much trouble accepting it herself?
Andrea has had a rough childhood,and has learned to only rely on herself because of it.
Has learned to do everything herself,including selfdefence from aggressive men….
Letting go of that was só hard for her,allowing others to help….to admit there were moments she needed a timeout….
Cullen wants to be there for her,just as she’s there for him when he’s having trouble dealing with what he encounters because of his work.
Finding out about her past,he understands where she’s coming from.
But that doesn’t mean it’s healthy…..and even though it hurts him just as much as it hurts her,he can’t help,but step back until she’s ready.
Will she see the light before she loses the only man she’s ever loved??
April 24, 2012
Liked the characters, good story, hot read. Now on to the complaints:
Cherise Sinclair makes the same mistake as many romance authors when writing a Latina/Hispanic character--she has her using random Spanish words to make her seen authentic. To all writers out there...
DON'T DO THAT!
Maybe non-Spanish speakers don't notice, but those of us who do know the language can tell you that there is nothing less authentic than a bilingual character mixing up both languages when speaking to someone who only speaks one of them. It's particularly egregious in "Lean on Me," because:
1)Andrea was born and raised in the US, which means she's fluent in English and therefore wouldn't randomly throw in a Spanish word;
2)Her mother was Hispanic, but her father wasn't. And since her mother died when she was a child and she lived with her father until her late teens, that makes it even less likely that she would think in Spanish. It would have been more realistic to make her not very fluent in Spanish. Every time she said or thought, "Oh, Dios!" and "Jesus, Maria, y Jose!" and "Senor," I was taken out of the story.
Another issue I had was Andrea's cleaning business. Now, I was perfectly happy to let that stereotype slide, but making her broke on top of that? Did Sinclair not do any research there? Because cleaning businesses make big money. And Andrea OWNS her own cleaning business, she has employees, and her clientele includes offices. What, did Sinclair fear that a financially successful Latina business owner would be too much for her readers' to believe?
Cherise Sinclair makes the same mistake as many romance authors when writing a Latina/Hispanic character--she has her using random Spanish words to make her seen authentic. To all writers out there...
DON'T DO THAT!
Maybe non-Spanish speakers don't notice, but those of us who do know the language can tell you that there is nothing less authentic than a bilingual character mixing up both languages when speaking to someone who only speaks one of them. It's particularly egregious in "Lean on Me," because:
1)Andrea was born and raised in the US, which means she's fluent in English and therefore wouldn't randomly throw in a Spanish word;
2)Her mother was Hispanic, but her father wasn't. And since her mother died when she was a child and she lived with her father until her late teens, that makes it even less likely that she would think in Spanish. It would have been more realistic to make her not very fluent in Spanish. Every time she said or thought, "Oh, Dios!" and "Jesus, Maria, y Jose!" and "Senor," I was taken out of the story.
Another issue I had was Andrea's cleaning business. Now, I was perfectly happy to let that stereotype slide, but making her broke on top of that? Did Sinclair not do any research there? Because cleaning businesses make big money. And Andrea OWNS her own cleaning business, she has employees, and her clientele includes offices. What, did Sinclair fear that a financially successful Latina business owner would be too much for her readers' to believe?
January 12, 2011
Quite liked this story- but did not like the continual use of the word "Dios" just bugged the hell out of me.
I realise she was of Spanish origin and maybe it is because I do not hear this type of language in RL- not being from the US.
I wasn't keen on Andreas personality either.
I did enjoy the smexy scenes, but was wondering why the writer did not give us the full detail of their first night together in his bed. I thought that was a very special occasion and we only get glimpses of it in flashback.
I did not enjoy this as much as the first books in the series and that may be the problem. They all run along the same plot lines and maybe I am just not as interested in that plot device as I was when I initially came across this series.
Having said that I would read another Masters book as the environment was comfortable and familiar.
I realise she was of Spanish origin and maybe it is because I do not hear this type of language in RL- not being from the US.
I wasn't keen on Andreas personality either.
I did enjoy the smexy scenes, but was wondering why the writer did not give us the full detail of their first night together in his bed. I thought that was a very special occasion and we only get glimpses of it in flashback.
I did not enjoy this as much as the first books in the series and that may be the problem. They all run along the same plot lines and maybe I am just not as interested in that plot device as I was when I initially came across this series.
Having said that I would read another Masters book as the environment was comfortable and familiar.
May 20, 2018
**
Edit: I feel it's only right to make a note after having read the entire series now. I stand by my words on this book, BUT I'll also kind of eat them too, as Lean on Me has definitely turned out to be the anomaly in this series for me. Almost every single thing I disliked about this book is fixed in every following book. I am absolutely in love with this series as a whole, just not this particular volume of it. Though I didn't like this particular book, I would not advise taking my review on it as reason to disregard the series. This has been a lovely and respectful insight into the BDSM lifestyle. I will definitely be revisiting the Shadowlands down the line, and I'm sad to see it end.
2 Stars
It sucks, but this book didn't work for me. All the negative will be in a spoiler link. Not much positive, but if all it takes are some overall thoughts to convince a potential reader one way or the other, then you can skip right to it. :)
Here we go:
Overall thoughts: Reading this book was not the most enjoyable experience. I cringed a lot, was confused a lot, in disbelief a lot, and just purely frustrated a lot. I am willing to, in small part, admit that it's possible that I simply expected too much from this book and Cullen as a character, which is why I'm going to continue on to the next book. However, if it's more of the same, I'll reevaluate. I'm interested in giving some of this author's other series a shot, and likely will, but as far as Masters of the Shadowlands goes, I'm teetering on the fence right now.
**********************************************
This review has been revised. If this message appears on a review, it's because I edited the f**k out of it because I either didn't like it, I trashed the author's work too much and felt I was too harsh, my review was wordy to the point of wanting to even knock my own lights out, my outlook on the book has changed, or I just didn't want to delete a review I once painstakingly wrote that was liked, commented on, or for the most part true. I'm overwhelmed at how different of a reader I am now versus when I started my Goodreads page. My reading habits were fairly narrow once upon a time, and I felt like putting a disclaimer on every review I've written that needed editing was easier than going through every single book again, and doing entire re-reviews. I'll be slowly doing this across my reviews in the coming year so it will better reflect me as a reader now. Thanks for visiting!
**********************************************
Edit: I feel it's only right to make a note after having read the entire series now. I stand by my words on this book, BUT I'll also kind of eat them too, as Lean on Me has definitely turned out to be the anomaly in this series for me. Almost every single thing I disliked about this book is fixed in every following book. I am absolutely in love with this series as a whole, just not this particular volume of it. Though I didn't like this particular book, I would not advise taking my review on it as reason to disregard the series. This has been a lovely and respectful insight into the BDSM lifestyle. I will definitely be revisiting the Shadowlands down the line, and I'm sad to see it end.
2 Stars
It sucks, but this book didn't work for me. All the negative will be in a spoiler link. Not much positive, but if all it takes are some overall thoughts to convince a potential reader one way or the other, then you can skip right to it. :)
Here we go:
Overall thoughts: Reading this book was not the most enjoyable experience. I cringed a lot, was confused a lot, in disbelief a lot, and just purely frustrated a lot. I am willing to, in small part, admit that it's possible that I simply expected too much from this book and Cullen as a character, which is why I'm going to continue on to the next book. However, if it's more of the same, I'll reevaluate. I'm interested in giving some of this author's other series a shot, and likely will, but as far as Masters of the Shadowlands goes, I'm teetering on the fence right now.
**********************************************
This review has been revised. If this message appears on a review, it's because I edited the f**k out of it because I either didn't like it, I trashed the author's work too much and felt I was too harsh, my review was wordy to the point of wanting to even knock my own lights out, my outlook on the book has changed, or I just didn't want to delete a review I once painstakingly wrote that was liked, commented on, or for the most part true. I'm overwhelmed at how different of a reader I am now versus when I started my Goodreads page. My reading habits were fairly narrow once upon a time, and I felt like putting a disclaimer on every review I've written that needed editing was easier than going through every single book again, and doing entire re-reviews. I'll be slowly doing this across my reviews in the coming year so it will better reflect me as a reader now. Thanks for visiting!
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March 16, 2012
I liked Cullen more in the previous books. I guess when he's in 'Master Mode,' its a little harder for him to be a playful guy. However, each book in the series so far gets more and more emotional depth, and bring up some big issues.
June 6, 2016
Love this book! I can't wait to read the next!
April 4, 2010
Where do I begin... I absolutely adore this author and this series. The stories are always very intense and thought provoking. It is not difficult to become invested in all these amazing characters and the author does a fantastic job of weaving the stories tightly between all of them throughout every book. I'm simply drooling for continuing stories in her other stand-alone books. So, that being said, I was so happy to read Master Cullen's story. The big, intimidating Dom who so easily scared everyone.
I typically can't stand the bratty, overly-independent females (especially 'sub' characters) who just drive me crazy with their defiant attitudes and can't do anything without first kicking and screaming. Its very difficult for me to identify with that personality characteristic. As a matter of fact, I don't think I've met many females in my life that are truly like that. However, Andrea's character, though understandably stubbornly independent and prideful due to her upbringing, did not bother me as much. Sure there were moments when I wanted to grab her and shake her. But I understood what she was about and how difficult it was for her to even give in to the submission thing easily. When you know you are a strong person but there is just something in you that knows you need to submit and be dominated. Master Cullen... the big strong scary dom, who in reality was really the sweetest and most caring, considerate alpha male you could every hope to land! His overwhelming need to protect and care for Andrea in every way definitely warred with her blind need to always take care of herself and never ask for help at all. It was interesting, devious, and also a bit painful for me to read how Master Cullen finally got her to 'see the light'. But in the end, all was right with the world and it was a sweet ending to the story. OH!...also, I adored the fun snarky comments Andrea constantly made in spanish. That was cute and entertaining. You might need to brush up on your spanish swear words and exclamations!
*****spoiler comment coming....beware*****
It bothered me that we didn't get to bear witness to a nice heartfelt apology from certain Doms in the story who treated her badly because they believed the horrible lies Vanessa told. It would have gone a long way in making me feel more settled about how yucky she was treated when she was 'accused'. Also, the biggest thing that bothered this gooey romantic reader, is that they never said the "L" word... its a romance story, please let us have that. I was just waiting for such a momentous proclamation from these two very passionate characters and it never came.... that was kind of a bummer. But I still LOVE the stories. I can't wait for more!!!
I typically can't stand the bratty, overly-independent females (especially 'sub' characters) who just drive me crazy with their defiant attitudes and can't do anything without first kicking and screaming. Its very difficult for me to identify with that personality characteristic. As a matter of fact, I don't think I've met many females in my life that are truly like that. However, Andrea's character, though understandably stubbornly independent and prideful due to her upbringing, did not bother me as much. Sure there were moments when I wanted to grab her and shake her. But I understood what she was about and how difficult it was for her to even give in to the submission thing easily. When you know you are a strong person but there is just something in you that knows you need to submit and be dominated. Master Cullen... the big strong scary dom, who in reality was really the sweetest and most caring, considerate alpha male you could every hope to land! His overwhelming need to protect and care for Andrea in every way definitely warred with her blind need to always take care of herself and never ask for help at all. It was interesting, devious, and also a bit painful for me to read how Master Cullen finally got her to 'see the light'. But in the end, all was right with the world and it was a sweet ending to the story. OH!...also, I adored the fun snarky comments Andrea constantly made in spanish. That was cute and entertaining. You might need to brush up on your spanish swear words and exclamations!
*****spoiler comment coming....beware*****
It bothered me that we didn't get to bear witness to a nice heartfelt apology from certain Doms in the story who treated her badly because they believed the horrible lies Vanessa told. It would have gone a long way in making me feel more settled about how yucky she was treated when she was 'accused'. Also, the biggest thing that bothered this gooey romantic reader, is that they never said the "L" word... its a romance story, please let us have that. I was just waiting for such a momentous proclamation from these two very passionate characters and it never came.... that was kind of a bummer. But I still LOVE the stories. I can't wait for more!!!
January 19, 2012
OMG!...I LOVE ME SOME MASTER CULLEN!!! YUM-MY!!! Did i say that the last one was my favorite in this series so far? Well this one has just bumped THAT ONE right off the top! There's still not a whole lot of actual "story" per se...it's pretty much just very HOT BDSM sex...with some sweet and romantic parts thrown in...and then MORE HOT BDSM sex! ;)
However, i do like that with each book the author is bringing us a little bit of "life" outside the club. In the last book we got to spend some time at Master Nolan's home..having hot BDSM sex, of course... but it WAS outside of the club. In this book we got to spend some time at Master Cullen's home...haaaving hot BDSM sex again (teehee) BUT it was Cullen and Andrea spending time together in the real world. We did also get to meet and spend time with Andrea's best friend and her family...with all the craziness surrounding a Dom/Sub relationship that kind of brought in some "reality"..or should i say "normality" (if that's even a word?) to the story.
Even with the lack of huge story lines i'm finding this series strangely addicting and i'm moving on to the next one. Here i come Master Marcus! :)
However, i do like that with each book the author is bringing us a little bit of "life" outside the club. In the last book we got to spend some time at Master Nolan's home..having hot BDSM sex, of course... but it WAS outside of the club. In this book we got to spend some time at Master Cullen's home...haaaving hot BDSM sex again (teehee) BUT it was Cullen and Andrea spending time together in the real world. We did also get to meet and spend time with Andrea's best friend and her family...with all the craziness surrounding a Dom/Sub relationship that kind of brought in some "reality"..or should i say "normality" (if that's even a word?) to the story.
Even with the lack of huge story lines i'm finding this series strangely addicting and i'm moving on to the next one. Here i come Master Marcus! :)
July 12, 2010
OK people if you are after some super hot..bad ass...sexy as hell. controlling Doms then the shadowlands series is one for you.
A good friend recommended these books and whilst i am a little naive when it comes to BDSM i can honestly say that these books will heat you to the core... I have been lucky in the past and managed to read a few really good BDSM however this book number 4 in the shadowlands was simply "ECSTASY"
Master Cullen is a Bartender/Dom who works at the shadowlands club a private BDSM club.. he runs a trainee program there where he takes on new members and teaches them how to enjoy the pleasures of BDSM.
Andrea is a new trainee at the club who in some forms thinks she is also a Dom .. however Master Cullen soon entices Andrea to submit in the most erotic, seductive, passionate sexy as hell ways ...that it will leave you with a dam temperature from overheating ..
The shadowlands Masters are NOT sadistic freaks these books aren’t hardcore BDSM so if your looking for fetish and hardcore these aren’t the books for you ..
but if you looking for an hot experience into the DBSM world then you will love these books ..
ENJOY
A good friend recommended these books and whilst i am a little naive when it comes to BDSM i can honestly say that these books will heat you to the core... I have been lucky in the past and managed to read a few really good BDSM however this book number 4 in the shadowlands was simply "ECSTASY"
Master Cullen is a Bartender/Dom who works at the shadowlands club a private BDSM club.. he runs a trainee program there where he takes on new members and teaches them how to enjoy the pleasures of BDSM.
Andrea is a new trainee at the club who in some forms thinks she is also a Dom .. however Master Cullen soon entices Andrea to submit in the most erotic, seductive, passionate sexy as hell ways ...that it will leave you with a dam temperature from overheating ..
The shadowlands Masters are NOT sadistic freaks these books aren’t hardcore BDSM so if your looking for fetish and hardcore these aren’t the books for you ..
but if you looking for an hot experience into the DBSM world then you will love these books ..
ENJOY
July 15, 2016
Roll me over and fuck me again!! Follow the rules of Shadowlands. Do as you are told or else endure delightful shockers, kittens! Move over Zachary! Master C is here to rule the roost or should I emphasize Cullen’s ability to stimulate pain with every caress of divine pleasure. All through the bartending /Dom activities Cullen comes across as a tender heart veiled behind a rigid persona. Andrea wants a hardcore Dom and desires it real bad. Rough around the edges due to her street endurance credo, Andrea comes in her own catering to Cullen’s commands. Provide Cullen a black robe, few velvet ropes and gaze at the whiz spank steep ecstasy on his apprentice. And that sly grin plastered on his face when he sees Andrea stripping down to the last leather boots is purely breathtaking.
I greatly fear that my soaring infatuation to Shadowlands elite may cultivate wicked fetishes. Ms. Sinclair when will you bring fresh sexual prowess of Joey, Cody and Adrienne? I anticipate it to be rather promptly. Hurry Cherise! Hurry!
I greatly fear that my soaring infatuation to Shadowlands elite may cultivate wicked fetishes. Ms. Sinclair when will you bring fresh sexual prowess of Joey, Cody and Adrienne? I anticipate it to be rather promptly. Hurry Cherise! Hurry!
August 29, 2014
I admit I've been looking forward to Cullen's book since we first met the charismatic bartender in the first book Club Shadowlands. He's always seemed so easy-going, definitely my mistake as we (and Andrea) learn here, but I wasn't wrong about his kindness and his innate sexiness.
See my full review at my blog or booklikes
See my full review at my blog or booklikes
August 13, 2016
I admit I had some troubles with this book. And by troubles I mean, fuck you, Andrea. She's not independent, just irritating. I wanted more for Cullen, Shadowlands' hot and hilarious bartender. It never really felt like Andrea was submissive enough for such a big dom.
October 5, 2011
3 1/2 stars
Favorite book in the series.
Favorite book in the series.
November 4, 2012
Love the Masters of the Shadowlands! Let me just say Master Cullen... HOT! Andrea and his story was great! On to the next :D
Want to read
February 21, 2013Hoping to start on this tonight.....Cullllllllllleeeeeen!!
April 7, 2011
I wasn't supposed to give this a 5, but I changed my mind at the last minute because I really felt connected with Andrea's character. I love her! She's really kickass. Although the other heroines in the series were independent and sassy like her, she has this certain something, maybe because she grew up in different circumstances unlike Jessica, Kari, and Elizabeth, and to others, from "the wrong side of the tracks".
I was always wondering what type of sub would bring Cullen to his knees (pun intended), and Cherise Sinclair just made it right between them, they are alike in some ways when it comes to family, but mostly different. I loved their chemistry, and because of Andrea's fast reflexes, and maybe it's a force of habit to strike back when manhandled. Her upbringing really did a number on her, and another thing that drew me to her is she knows how to defend herself - though she really got in a lot of trouble with the DMs.
Moving on, there's Master Cullen, the trainer who fell - and fell hard. He flits from sub to sub because that's his job, but he just couldn't resist his little tiger (I also liked that pet name 'cause I'm fond of tigers). I noticed that the Doms call their subs pet (literally) names, except for Dan. Z calls Jessica kitten, and Nolan calls Beth little rabbit. I found it affectionate, how Cullen viewed Andrea as an Amazon because of the way she's built, and how well matched they were in all aspects.
Andrea has a difficult time relying on someone because it was inculcated in her youth that asking help is a form of weakness. It's a Dom's job to look after his sub, and Cullen tries and tries to be there for her, she just wouldn't ask for his help. Sometimes, I feel the same way about things and I understood where she's coming from, that she didn't want to bother anyone, that she can do everything on her own, and there's nothing wrong with that. Because that's the way she's used to doing things, it was difficult for her to adjust to Cullen's demands. Although what he did really shocked me - breaking it off with her while she's in that state, I couldn't blame him. It reminded me of the song that goes "...you left me...just when I needed you most". In that case, he still risked losing her but it taught her a lesson.
I was amused by some of the scenes. There was really explosive sex scenes here that I love, and I didn't even mind the pain. Ms Sinclair really writes with clarity I felt the tension and the sexual torture Andrea felt. I laughed at the quip "He took me on a doghouse, does that make me a bitch?". I love her sense of humor and I always forget mentioning how I also laud the apt titles. This series gets better and better I'm looking forward to reading the next.
I was always wondering what type of sub would bring Cullen to his knees (pun intended), and Cherise Sinclair just made it right between them, they are alike in some ways when it comes to family, but mostly different. I loved their chemistry, and because of Andrea's fast reflexes, and maybe it's a force of habit to strike back when manhandled. Her upbringing really did a number on her, and another thing that drew me to her is she knows how to defend herself - though she really got in a lot of trouble with the DMs.
Moving on, there's Master Cullen, the trainer who fell - and fell hard. He flits from sub to sub because that's his job, but he just couldn't resist his little tiger (I also liked that pet name 'cause I'm fond of tigers). I noticed that the Doms call their subs pet (literally) names, except for Dan. Z calls Jessica kitten, and Nolan calls Beth little rabbit. I found it affectionate, how Cullen viewed Andrea as an Amazon because of the way she's built, and how well matched they were in all aspects.
Andrea has a difficult time relying on someone because it was inculcated in her youth that asking help is a form of weakness. It's a Dom's job to look after his sub, and Cullen tries and tries to be there for her, she just wouldn't ask for his help. Sometimes, I feel the same way about things and I understood where she's coming from, that she didn't want to bother anyone, that she can do everything on her own, and there's nothing wrong with that. Because that's the way she's used to doing things, it was difficult for her to adjust to Cullen's demands. Although what he did really shocked me - breaking it off with her while she's in that state, I couldn't blame him. It reminded me of the song that goes "...you left me...just when I needed you most". In that case, he still risked losing her but it taught her a lesson.
I was amused by some of the scenes. There was really explosive sex scenes here that I love, and I didn't even mind the pain. Ms Sinclair really writes with clarity I felt the tension and the sexual torture Andrea felt. I laughed at the quip "He took me on a doghouse, does that make me a bitch?". I love her sense of humor and I always forget mentioning how I also laud the apt titles. This series gets better and better I'm looking forward to reading the next.
August 1, 2011
Next to DOM in the dictionary, there has to be a picture of Master Cullen. I've read the first 3 books in this series and I couldn't wait until I got my hands on him. Since he walked onto the page, he's the kind of character you want to know more about. I'm a total sucker for a guy with a good sense of humor (married to one) and Cullen keeps me laughing, whether it's his book or any of the others, he always steels the show with his one liners. But don't let his sense of humor fool you, he is 100% DOM and he has no problem punishing you as he sees fit. I'm in love with this series and the characters. If you are even remotely interested in BDSM, this series is perfect because Cherise Sinclair does such an awesome job introducting you into the Club scene and educating you in this world. She tells me she is not an expert but I beg to differ.
September 16, 2018
¡¡¡Cullen!!! Creo que he babeado a lo largo de todo el libro con este barman/dom tan sexy XD La relación entre él y Andrea es muy bonita y son tal para cual los dos, una novela espectacular más dentro de la saga y muy recomendable
Relectura: ¡¡¡Cullen!!! Sigo babeando por este muchacho, pero ahora he podido llegar más profundo a lo que lo hace como es, todos sus miedos y deseos ocultos, al igual que los que también posee Andrea y que cada tanto les causan unos cuantos problemas.
Verdaderamente Cullen y Andrea hacen la pareja perfecta, lástima los inconvenientes que se presentan y que evitan que su amor pase sin incidentes, de todas formas son de las parejas mejor constituidas de la saga a mi parecer. Muy recomendable.
Relectura: ¡¡¡Cullen!!! Sigo babeando por este muchacho, pero ahora he podido llegar más profundo a lo que lo hace como es, todos sus miedos y deseos ocultos, al igual que los que también posee Andrea y que cada tanto les causan unos cuantos problemas.
Verdaderamente Cullen y Andrea hacen la pareja perfecta, lástima los inconvenientes que se presentan y que evitan que su amor pase sin incidentes, de todas formas son de las parejas mejor constituidas de la saga a mi parecer. Muy recomendable.
May 13, 2013
3.5 This is a good, light, BDSM story. I like the female in this story more than any other female character I've read from this author. She has a strong back bone and isn't overly submissive. I also like the male character. This author always has likable characters. She gives enough of a backstory on her characters to be interested in them, but not enough for me to become passionate about them and their story. I can put down these books rather easily when I need to get something done. This is the first story I've read in this series but the fourth I've read from this author.
October 10, 2017
4 stars!!
Loved this one! The interaction between Andrea and Cullen was beautiful! Not my favorite in the series, still nothing to sneeze at ;)
Can't wait for more of this series!
Loved this one! The interaction between Andrea and Cullen was beautiful! Not my favorite in the series, still nothing to sneeze at ;)
Can't wait for more of this series!
April 1, 2011
Si, Si Senior!
So I wasn’t going to start Lean on Me (Book 4 in the Shadowlands series) so soon after finishing book 3. Not because I haven’t loved all the books so far - they are some of the most intensely erotic books I have ever read and seriously the Masters at Club Shadowlands are highly addictive. I just planned on taking a little break since there is only 1 more book left in the series and I wanted to delay and savour and extend my series reading experience as long as possible.
Needless to say last week after finishing Breaking Free and finding out book 4 was about the easy-going, laid-back bartender Cullen O’Keefe - I started Lean on Me right away. So much for any delayed gratification on my part. But then again, I’ve never been good at denying myself anything.
Sexy Cullen O’Keefe - Arson Investigator by day, bartender and Trainer of the subs by night at Club Shadowlands. As their trainer - he doesn’t “do” the subs...well at least he didn’t before Andrea Eriksson entered the program. Cullen was somewhat forced/blackmailed, call it what you will to accept her in the trainee program at Shadowlands, but he was going to make sure she deserved the opportunity to be a trainee.
Andrea is no shrinking violet...she’s tall and muscular from hours spent working hard at her day job at her cleaning agency...in fact her best friend Antonio (whose acquaintance with Cullen was her in at Shadowlands) calls her Rambolita. Her first night at the Club she acts and dresses more like a Domme in her leather pants and kick-ass boots. How the heck was she ever going to survive and submit to being a sub? Me thinks Andrea is going to try Master Cullen’s patience hard. Ay dios mio...holla, hot damn another winner! I was well and truly hooked with this storyline early on and any thoughts I had about putting off reading this book flew right out the window.
Andrea has a problem with men getting to close. She barely survived an attempted rape when she was younger and it’s made her wary around men...she tends to strike out first and ask questions later...not exactly a good quality to have in a Dom/s setting. Also Doms tend to frown upon that kind of behaviour and then they tend to dish out some creatively delicious forms of punishment.
Andrea pushed one such Master a little to far and I must says Master Nolan must have excelled in the Boy Scouts and earned ALL his rope tying badges - except I don’t think they teach his kind of skill with knots in the Boy Scouts - holy Muy Caliente *turns the fan on high speed*!!!
Andrea also learned a very important lesson about faking or lying about anything - another very serious offence at Club Shadowlands...saddle up Sweetie and ride’em cowboy! Add Master Cullen to the mix or maybe in this case it was Cowboy Cullen and this lesson on the perils of lying or faking it was hot, hot, hot *fans self repeatedly*!
And Master Cullen also brings new meaning to the tern “in the doghouse”...errr I mean “on the doghouse”! I told you these Doms are one creative bunch.
In Lean on me we got to see a lot relationship building between Cullen and Andrea outside the Shadowlands environment and a glimpse into their every day lives more so than the other books. Sinclair’s books just keep getting better with each one I read. I love these books and sadly I only have one left to read. How long will I last before I start it? Knowing me...not long.
So I wasn’t going to start Lean on Me (Book 4 in the Shadowlands series) so soon after finishing book 3. Not because I haven’t loved all the books so far - they are some of the most intensely erotic books I have ever read and seriously the Masters at Club Shadowlands are highly addictive. I just planned on taking a little break since there is only 1 more book left in the series and I wanted to delay and savour and extend my series reading experience as long as possible.
Needless to say last week after finishing Breaking Free and finding out book 4 was about the easy-going, laid-back bartender Cullen O’Keefe - I started Lean on Me right away. So much for any delayed gratification on my part. But then again, I’ve never been good at denying myself anything.
Sexy Cullen O’Keefe - Arson Investigator by day, bartender and Trainer of the subs by night at Club Shadowlands. As their trainer - he doesn’t “do” the subs...well at least he didn’t before Andrea Eriksson entered the program. Cullen was somewhat forced/blackmailed, call it what you will to accept her in the trainee program at Shadowlands, but he was going to make sure she deserved the opportunity to be a trainee.
Andrea is no shrinking violet...she’s tall and muscular from hours spent working hard at her day job at her cleaning agency...in fact her best friend Antonio (whose acquaintance with Cullen was her in at Shadowlands) calls her Rambolita. Her first night at the Club she acts and dresses more like a Domme in her leather pants and kick-ass boots. How the heck was she ever going to survive and submit to being a sub? Me thinks Andrea is going to try Master Cullen’s patience hard. Ay dios mio...holla, hot damn another winner! I was well and truly hooked with this storyline early on and any thoughts I had about putting off reading this book flew right out the window.
Andrea has a problem with men getting to close. She barely survived an attempted rape when she was younger and it’s made her wary around men...she tends to strike out first and ask questions later...not exactly a good quality to have in a Dom/s setting. Also Doms tend to frown upon that kind of behaviour and then they tend to dish out some creatively delicious forms of punishment.
Andrea pushed one such Master a little to far and I must says Master Nolan must have excelled in the Boy Scouts and earned ALL his rope tying badges - except I don’t think they teach his kind of skill with knots in the Boy Scouts - holy Muy Caliente *turns the fan on high speed*!!!
Andrea also learned a very important lesson about faking or lying about anything - another very serious offence at Club Shadowlands...saddle up Sweetie and ride’em cowboy! Add Master Cullen to the mix or maybe in this case it was Cowboy Cullen and this lesson on the perils of lying or faking it was hot, hot, hot *fans self repeatedly*!
And Master Cullen also brings new meaning to the tern “in the doghouse”...errr I mean “on the doghouse”! I told you these Doms are one creative bunch.
In Lean on me we got to see a lot relationship building between Cullen and Andrea outside the Shadowlands environment and a glimpse into their every day lives more so than the other books. Sinclair’s books just keep getting better with each one I read. I love these books and sadly I only have one left to read. How long will I last before I start it? Knowing me...not long.
April 10, 2015
Two things I really love about a book, first is a brilliant story and second is the ability to capture a subject/theme and expound on causing the reader to fully understand what the author is trying to convey. Author Cherise Sinclair has did that for so many fans of her BDSM series including myself. I was reluctant to read a series about BDSM because my fear was I get this wildly outrageous beating and flogging but never opening up to the real and true relationship nature of a Dom and his Sub. Author Cherise Sinclair did that for me in my opinion and has made me love BDSM stories (not all) and since this wonderful author was recommended to me I will pay it forward by recommending her to others.
This is Master Cullen's story and oh how I was looking forward to reading about him. Although Master Cullen is a Shadow Master, there are certain things that don't get him off or excited and if you read the last story you will know exactly what I am speaking about. Master Cullen is head of the sub trainee program and has been for quite some time, he wasn't interested in a relationship, he had sex only once with a sub trainee and that was it. But Master Cullen is about to find out that sometimes, the no relationship or no feeling anything beyond sex is about to run its course and her name is Andrea.
Andrea has always wanted to have a Dom, the prospect intrigued and frightened her at the same time. She had already been to a couple of places and with no luck she was about to give up. Her cousin Antonio told her about Shadowlands and said he may be able to get her in, especially since one of the Doms owe him a favor. Andrea is excited to think she may have finally found a place where she can actually find a Dom. Her cousin makes the call to Master Cullen who accepts but clearly is not happy about it and here is where the true fun begins.
Andrea is a sub at heart but her upbringing and heartbreak makes her unwilling to submit, she is fiery tempered, a fighter and completely independent. Those traits alone would make it almost impossible for her to have a Dom want to take her on. Master Cullen sees these traits as rather annoying and is pissed so he decides to push her to the brink so she will quit because he has no time for disobedient and mouthy trainees. But one thing Master Cullen is, he is observant and he sees something within Andrea that speaks to his Dom. Can he get Andrea into total submission or will he have to reject her from the program.
Andrea is determined to not only make it through the trainee program but she is determined to have Master Cullen for her Dom. Two strong willed people who will battle it out in the Shadowlands and outside of it. Who will win or will this be a case of two people so ingrained in their own beliefs that the mark will be missed, causing neither one of them to get their hearts desire?
Amazing story with amazing leads, it is always good to see the other Doms and their subs, also being introduced to new Doms. A great series that I look forward to continue reading.
Well Until My Next Review Ciao Bellas!
This is Master Cullen's story and oh how I was looking forward to reading about him. Although Master Cullen is a Shadow Master, there are certain things that don't get him off or excited and if you read the last story you will know exactly what I am speaking about. Master Cullen is head of the sub trainee program and has been for quite some time, he wasn't interested in a relationship, he had sex only once with a sub trainee and that was it. But Master Cullen is about to find out that sometimes, the no relationship or no feeling anything beyond sex is about to run its course and her name is Andrea.
Andrea has always wanted to have a Dom, the prospect intrigued and frightened her at the same time. She had already been to a couple of places and with no luck she was about to give up. Her cousin Antonio told her about Shadowlands and said he may be able to get her in, especially since one of the Doms owe him a favor. Andrea is excited to think she may have finally found a place where she can actually find a Dom. Her cousin makes the call to Master Cullen who accepts but clearly is not happy about it and here is where the true fun begins.
Andrea is a sub at heart but her upbringing and heartbreak makes her unwilling to submit, she is fiery tempered, a fighter and completely independent. Those traits alone would make it almost impossible for her to have a Dom want to take her on. Master Cullen sees these traits as rather annoying and is pissed so he decides to push her to the brink so she will quit because he has no time for disobedient and mouthy trainees. But one thing Master Cullen is, he is observant and he sees something within Andrea that speaks to his Dom. Can he get Andrea into total submission or will he have to reject her from the program.
Andrea is determined to not only make it through the trainee program but she is determined to have Master Cullen for her Dom. Two strong willed people who will battle it out in the Shadowlands and outside of it. Who will win or will this be a case of two people so ingrained in their own beliefs that the mark will be missed, causing neither one of them to get their hearts desire?
Amazing story with amazing leads, it is always good to see the other Doms and their subs, also being introduced to new Doms. A great series that I look forward to continue reading.
Well Until My Next Review Ciao Bellas!
December 19, 2011
Posted on Under the Covers
FINALLY! Cullen’s book! Since the first book CLUB SHADOWLANDS , I have been interested in the bartender, Cullen O’Keefe for awhile. His presence throughout the series has made LEAN ON ME, one of the most anticipated stories so far in this series. I was so ready to dive into Cullen’s story!
Andrea has been mistaken for a Domme before. With her height and attitude, she can definitely pull it off. However, Andrea is a submissive at heart and it is now Master Cullen’s job to take this little tiger and tame the claws on this one. Andrea has had a taste of Master Cullen before she becomes one of his trainees in the club, so she knows that he isn’t the care-free easy-going bartender we know him as. He is still a strict Dom. Cullen’s job now is to master Andrea with a firm hand while Andrea needs to control her attack instincts before acting.
Cherise Sinclair takes another route in LEAN ON ME. Instead of the suspense subplot like in the previous book, the obstacle here is the heroine itself. Andrea has had a rough childhood so settling into a fight-or-flight mode is easy for her. Master Cullen teaches her to trust him slowly and have her realize that she doesn’t have to do things on her own all the time. She can ask for help.
Again, Sinclair does a fantastic job of building trust in a relationship. I’m always so fascinated in how she does this. She’s very skilled at what she does and it only enhances the story more.
Cullen was a great Dom. He was demanding, but not overly so. And I loved the fact that his personality still showed through even when he was using his Dom voice.
Sinclair delivers with another great book in the Masters of the Shadowlands series. LEAN ON ME mixes raw sensuality with the underlying basis of trust to make a story that readers can’t miss!
FINALLY! Cullen’s book! Since the first book CLUB SHADOWLANDS , I have been interested in the bartender, Cullen O’Keefe for awhile. His presence throughout the series has made LEAN ON ME, one of the most anticipated stories so far in this series. I was so ready to dive into Cullen’s story!
Andrea has been mistaken for a Domme before. With her height and attitude, she can definitely pull it off. However, Andrea is a submissive at heart and it is now Master Cullen’s job to take this little tiger and tame the claws on this one. Andrea has had a taste of Master Cullen before she becomes one of his trainees in the club, so she knows that he isn’t the care-free easy-going bartender we know him as. He is still a strict Dom. Cullen’s job now is to master Andrea with a firm hand while Andrea needs to control her attack instincts before acting.
Cherise Sinclair takes another route in LEAN ON ME. Instead of the suspense subplot like in the previous book, the obstacle here is the heroine itself. Andrea has had a rough childhood so settling into a fight-or-flight mode is easy for her. Master Cullen teaches her to trust him slowly and have her realize that she doesn’t have to do things on her own all the time. She can ask for help.
Again, Sinclair does a fantastic job of building trust in a relationship. I’m always so fascinated in how she does this. She’s very skilled at what she does and it only enhances the story more.
Cullen was a great Dom. He was demanding, but not overly so. And I loved the fact that his personality still showed through even when he was using his Dom voice.
Sinclair delivers with another great book in the Masters of the Shadowlands series. LEAN ON ME mixes raw sensuality with the underlying basis of trust to make a story that readers can’t miss!
August 10, 2022
Reread 2022
I liked this one better on the re-read. Still only a 3.75 star book.
I think I understood Andrea better, so her attitude at the start didn't bother me as much. I still hated Dan's reaction to what happened and believe he got off pretty easy. He Sid he wanted to apologise but never actually did.
Cullens reactions were harder to read this time, while I understood where he was coming from his actions were a little harsh
3.75 ⭐️
This one is not my favourite which is disappointing as Cullen was one of my favourite Dom’s, but in this one I struggled to connect with his character for a lot of the book. He just didn’t seem like the fun loving Dom we have seen in other books.
I didn’t connect well with Andrea either as her take care of myself attitude didn’t work for me at the start, so the first part of the book was a struggle, then part way in something connected (and I’m not sure what) and I enjoyed it, I flew through the middle of this book, and then again lost some interest at the end, about the part where she didn’t call. I agreed with him but didn’t really like his reaction either. I finished it because I was so close to the end.
I was disappointed with Dan and his reaction to scenes in this one. He is a cop as well as a Dom and meant to look at things from all sides, he shouldn’t have been taken in by manipulative subs.
Yes I want to read Marcus’s book, but I think I’ll have a rest first.
I liked this one better on the re-read. Still only a 3.75 star book.
I think I understood Andrea better, so her attitude at the start didn't bother me as much. I still hated Dan's reaction to what happened and believe he got off pretty easy. He Sid he wanted to apologise but never actually did.
Cullens reactions were harder to read this time, while I understood where he was coming from his actions were a little harsh
3.75 ⭐️
This one is not my favourite which is disappointing as Cullen was one of my favourite Dom’s, but in this one I struggled to connect with his character for a lot of the book. He just didn’t seem like the fun loving Dom we have seen in other books.
I didn’t connect well with Andrea either as her take care of myself attitude didn’t work for me at the start, so the first part of the book was a struggle, then part way in something connected (and I’m not sure what) and I enjoyed it, I flew through the middle of this book, and then again lost some interest at the end, about the part where she didn’t call. I agreed with him but didn’t really like his reaction either. I finished it because I was so close to the end.
I was disappointed with Dan and his reaction to scenes in this one. He is a cop as well as a Dom and meant to look at things from all sides, he shouldn’t have been taken in by manipulative subs.
Yes I want to read Marcus’s book, but I think I’ll have a rest first.
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