To Serve is Divine

The Divine Trilogy #1

by R.E. Hargrave

***Contains explicit sexual content (including multiple partners and gender pairings) and mature situations which could be trigger-inducing for some readers.***

Catherine O’Chancey is a reserved, demure, and graceful submissive. All traits she trained hard to enhance when she discovered the world of Dominance and submission in college. In an attempt to start fresh after the unexpected death of her last Dom, Catherine moves to Dallas, TX to escape the shroud of darkness he left behind in her life. She has tried to fight the need that resides deep within her to submit, but finally has to admit she can’t for it is not a choice, but part of who she truly is. After months of mental preparation, she ventures back into the lifestyle by attending a coveted open-night event at Dungeons and Dreams, an exclusive BDSM club.

Is it fate or coincidence that Catherine garners the attention of one of the club’s board members who happens to be on the hunt for the perfect sub – a partner who enjoys receiving pain and pleasure as much as he enjoys doling it out?

Jayden Masterson is many things: a firm Dom, a shrewd businessman, and a gentleman. What he isn’t, is someone who partakes in relationships outside of contractual ones with his multiple, un-collared, regular submissives. While he likes rough sex, he is not an animal, and can find pleasure only if it is consensual. What his harem is missing is a pain slut; could there be one in his future?

Upon meeting Catherine, Jayden feels an instantaneous spark inside him that has him wanting to know not just her body, but her mind. He wants to unravel her mysteries and discover her secrets. Through pain can they find the pleasure they seek? Can part-time pain lovers find full-time fulfillment when it’s not in their contract?

Genres: BDSM, Erotica, Romance, Menage, Contemporary Romance, Erotic Romance, Dark

276 pages, ebook

First published January 20, 2013

About the author

Domestic engineer. Dreamer. And quite possibly certifiable.

Believing every story can shine bright with a bit of tenacious tough love, R.E. Hargrave is thorough and to the point. An international bestselling author, she takes storytelling and manuscript polishing seriously, working with her authors and on her own creations to ensure they come to life, crawling from the pages and into the reader's souls.
Hargrave lives on the outskirts of Dallas, TX and is married to her high school sweetheart; together they are raising three children. A native 'mutt,' she has lived in New Hampshire, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Alabama, Texas, and California. She is fond of setting her stories--which range from the sweet to the paranormal, to the erotic and horrific--on location in South Carolina and Texas.
Hargrave is best known for her erotic BDSM series, The Divine Trilogy. The final book in the trilogy, Surreal, was a 2015 Golden Flogger Award Finalist with BDSM Writer's Con. In 2017, her short novella Brooklyn Blues was also a GFAFinalist.

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Reviews

[Chris- Bookaddict · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an ARC from the author for an honest review :)


This book is full of BDSM, Male on male, and threesome action, if this is not your kind of read , then I suggest not reading it . With that said Let's get to my review .

Book Blurb :

Catherine O’Chancey is a reserved, demure, and graceful submissive. All traits she trained hard to enhance when she discovered the world of Dominance and submission in college. In an attempt to start fresh after the unexpected death of her last Dom, Catherine moves to Dallas, TX to escape the shroud of darkness he left behind in her life. She has tried to fight the need that resides deep within her to submit, but finally has to admit she can’t for it is not a choice, but part of who she truly is. After months of mental preparation, she ventures back into the lifestyle by attending a coveted open-night event at Dungeons and Dreams, an exclusive BDSM club.

Is it fate or coincidence that Catherine garners the attention of one of the club’s board members who happens to be on the hunt for the perfect sub – a partner who enjoys receiving pain and pleasure as much as he enjoys doling it out?

Jayden Masterson is many things: a firm Dom, a shrewd businessman, and a gentleman. What he isn’t, is someone who partakes in relationships outside of contractual ones with his multiple, un-collared, regular submissives. While he likes rough sex, he is not an animal, and can find pleasure only if it is consensual. What his harem is missing is a pain slut; could there be one in his future?

Upon meeting Catherine, Jayden feels an instantaneous spark inside him that has him wanting to know not just her body, but her mind. He wants to unravel her mysteries and discover her secrets. Through pain can they find the pleasure they seek? Can part-time pain lovers find full-time fulfillment when it’s not in their contract?


I loved the Characters in this book .

Catherine a Submissive who was in the hands of a rude, uncaring Dom , who abused her and did whatever he wanted with her without a thought about her or her feelings . She escapes him when He dies ( I wont tell you how it comes out in the book) . A yr Later she NEEDS to get back into the life of being a Submissive and does some internet research and decides to go to an Open-night event at a the local BDSM Club Dungeons and Dreams. As she is standing in line waiting to get in she feels an electrical charge and looks up to see a Dark Handsome man at the door who is going in . they Make eye contact and she immediately puts her eyes to the ground .

Jayden , Hot, Alpha Sexy , Caring, Dom . Only he does not have just one Submissive , he has 2 at the moment and partakes in relationships outside of contractual ones with his multiple, un-collared, regular submissives.Until he see's Catherine .


The relationship they start to createis full of patience and care he extends to her helps heal her soul just a little bit every session. ridding her of her demons . Until she’s done confessing every detail of abuse from her last … Dom the abuser!


As the relationship between these two progress over the months Jayden is finding that he is having feelings for Catherine he never thought he would have or wanted to have with one person . he has collared her in the first week of being together ( something he has NEVER done before) but he is finding there are lots of things he has never done before with Catherine. Could Jayden be falling in Love with his submissive ? Could Catherine have fallen in love with Jayden and not told him her feelings ?

I did not realize at the time of starting this book it was a trilogy , with the next book due out in August . Although we get an Epilogue with this one as well as the first chapter of Book 2 it still leaves you with unanswered questions and wanting more NOW ...


Thank you R.E. For the opportunity to read and review this great Book and I look forward to reading more about Jayden and Catherine in the next one .

[AnnMarie · Rating 5 out of 5]

To Serve is Divine was truly a roller coaster of emotions for me. And while the relationship of the characters was one of a BDSM lifestyle, I found it to be more of a background to the story. And yes there are sexually graphic elements, it really was not at the forefront and not what the story was on a whole.

The BDSM lifestyle is one that is very misunderstood. People have very strong opinions as well. I personally find it fascinating as I always felt it was more about the emotions than the sex. Pretty much why I loved this story. It was the emotions and the relationship that was at the foreground in the story line.

Jayden Masterson is a Dom. He is also very powerful, self assured, successful, handsome, and knows exactly what he wants. Jayden is the type of character that when he walks in to a room, the air is sucked out of it by his presence. He has no interest or time for relationships or love.

He is as he says, "a cold hearted bastard."

Until Erin...

Catherine O'Chancey discovered the world of BDSM while in college. Erin, as she is informally known, thrived in her training and submissive tenancies. It wasn't until she meets Master Spencer that her world comes to a crashing end. He is a brutal and abusive excuse for a Dom on every level.The suffering, torment, and abuse Erin endures is just jaw dropping. After his untimely death and Erin's escape. She makes her way to Texas from California leaving everything behind, including her father, for a fresh start and to try an exercise the demons brought on by her previous relationship.

Erin has tried to fight the need that resides deep within her to submit, trying to live a so called "normal" life, she finally admits she can’t for it is not a choice, but part of who she truly is. After months of mental preparation, she ventures back into the lifestyle where she meets Jayden.

There is an instant spark between these two that they have never experienced before. These feelings are foreign to them both and something they both struggle with to understand all the while trying to stay within their agreement.

I loved watching their relationship unfold, change, and blossom in to something neither of them ever expected, dreamed of, or initially desired. I also loved Jayden's reactions to Erin once she finally started opening up about her abuse. You could actually feel the emotions rolling off of Jayden listening to Erin recall the demons.

I really wanted to hug these two so much. They were completely engaging. Very real in emotions and reactions.

I love R.E. Hargrave's writing. It is gritty, raw, powerful, and shakes you to core emotionally. I love her too and stalk her relentlessly to see what she is up to next.



I am looking forward to book 2 in the trilogy and the continuing blossoming relationship of Erin and Jayden.

Go ahead and give To Serve is Divine a try, it is a powerfully written emotional story, don't let the BDSM aspect scare you.


*As a side note - TSID is a P2P. The author has made no secret about that. Whether you are for or against them, TSID is one of those rare instances where the author truly reworked the story so that it no longer reads as the FF. Book 1 is all new material. It is actually the prequel to the FF. You have never read it, it has never been posted, or is it an outtake excluding chapter 1. In my opinion, if you are going to P2P, this is how it should be done. TSID is the epitome of a truly reworked story making it the authors own, including the characterizations that make FF derivative.

[Indy · Rating 2 out of 5]

To clarify my rating, this book's spin in BDSM was just not of my taste - however it was fairly well written and for others could warrant higher marks. My biggest gripe is the reference to sub Erin as "slut" throughout the novel, that and how Jayden was sharing his attentions with THREE submissives at once all juggling for his favors. I know there are elements of humiliation to the lifestyle, but this book just had more of them than were to my liking. I see Jayden beginning to lose his playboy ways at the end and starting to reveal vulnerability in his affection towards Erin, but I'm not committed enough to the pair to continue the series at this time. (*This book has plenty of kink for those who like that! ;-))

[Jennifer Garcia · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book. I loved the characters. Jayden was my fantasy man, tough as steel but such a soft and caring heart. Handsome, tall, dark, and very handsome.

The story of a natural and very well behaved submissive, Catherine was abused by a cruel and wanna-be Dom. She was rescued when he died and ran to a safe place. She scored the best Dom as his replacement, but honestly she deserved him and so much more. Her new Dom, Jayden was a multi-sub Dom that never believed in anything other than the D/s relationship. However, he's learning he can love ... I think. :) Maybe we'll see that in the next book.

The relationship they created and the patience and care he extends to her helps heal her soul just a little bit every session. Until she's done confessing every detail of abuse from her last ... abuser!

The growth and trust and his caring heart just touched me. Every descriptive Hargrave used enabled me to picture every detail of the story.

Truly amazing and I can't wait for the next one. ;)

For this and more reviews please go to my blog Italian Brat's Obsessions

[Katie(babs) · Rating 1 out of 5]

Twilight fanfic To Serve is Divine by TexasBella. You P2P Twilight fan fiction, you get 1 star from me.

[Tee Loves Books · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love finding a really sexy BDSM story that isn't glammed up to make it more of a contemporary romance with some kink to it. To Serve is Divine takes a realistic look into the erotic world, while dealing with the emotional and physical turmoil that Catherine (Erin) suffered and the healing that Jayden's devotion brings her. Jayden was the epitome of the sexy, strong, practiced Dom, exactly what Catherine needed to help her return to the life that had both freed her and broken her. But when the boundaries started to be crossed and lines blurred, Jayden's rules had both of them questioning if what they had was going to work out in the end.

I knew Jayden was going to have me mesmerized the moment he strolled into the story, because he was absolutely a commanding presence. Catherine was like this wounded animal who needed protection, and Jayden scooped her up and eased her into the sensual and comforting role as his submissive that she was so desperate to experience. She'd never known the life of a chosen, cared for sub, having had just a brief exposure in her training before she was thrown to the wolf that was Master Spencer. Jayden opened her eyes to a whole new world as they gave each other exactly what they needed in every way, and it was as though her healing brought out a side of him that he didn't know existed. Even though his intentions were to keep the emotions out of their Dom/sub relationship, the more of her painful past she shared, the more he became invested in her beyond the physical.

The romantic in me wanted Jayden to make a commitment to Catherine alone, and whenever he'd turn to one of his other subs it made me angry for her. But at the same time, this was a man who had never even had a collared submissive, so even making that choice with Catherine was a huge decision for him. She was happy enough with their situation, but every once in awhile there was a hint of hopelessness in her thoughts that made me wish for so much more for her. She sure as hell deserves it!!

Things are left with a bit of an open-ended question at the end of this first book of the series, and it's clear there are some tense moments coming up in the sequel, A Divine Life. This was one hell of a sexy, erotic story that drew me in with its intriguing characters, and I'm already itching to read on and see if Catherine/Erin and Jayden can find their happy place together!



Quotes:

When Jayden attempted to get the scoop behind her fear of canes, Erin felt the blood drain from her face, and whispered her request to save that talk for a sunny, warm place. ~p. 56

"You may come when you like, Catherine..."
Sir knelt between her legs, looking down at her with wanton desire. He grinned and licked his lips with a slowness that made her groan with an involuntary shiver. ~ p.73

He was everything to her, though, and Catherine would rather have a small part of him as opposed to none of him. She knew that if she allowed her feelings to be known, that's just what she would have. Nothing. ~ p. 130

[Sarah Aisling · Rating 4 out of 5]

When I was approached to read and review To Serve is Divine, I was a bit reluctant. Erotica is not usually my genre of choice, and I have no knowledge of the BDSM lifestyle.



I’m not going to spend a great deal of time explaining the storyline—that’s what the book blurb is for. Catherine (Erin) is a previously abused submissive who captures the attention of a Dom in search of a sub who enjoys pain play. As the story unfolds, readers are given an intimate look into their developing relationship.



R.E. Hargrave drew me into the story with her crisp, descriptive writing. She gives enough details for the imagination to take over without overloading the reader. I thought she did a great job “thinking like a man” when writing chapters from Jayden’s perspective. There was no question I was hearing Jayden’s “voice.” There was no love at first sight; it was a gradual change for both of them. Was it hard to read? At times, but it was far more realistic.



There wasn’t enough plot in the first half of the story to suit my taste. The beginning portions were hot but didn’t do much toward making me care about the characters. That completely changed in the second half of the book. I was able to connect and sympathize with Catherine and Jayden and found myself invested in the outcome of their relationship.



As I mentioned before, I don’t have any personal knowledge of the BDSM lifestyle, but my impression while reading was that the author did her research and portrayed it in a realistic way. Reading To Serve is Divine certainly gave me a new sense of respect for the BDSM community and a better understanding in general.



Poor editing has become one of my pet peeves when dealing with published works. Although this was an ARC (advanced reading copy), I’m pleased to say I only saw a few minor errors throughout the entire book. *big smile*



There were a few places in the book that allowed R.E. Hargrave’s descriptive writing ability to really show through for a few brief moments. I’d love to read a non-erotica story by her that lends itself to lengthy descriptive passages; it would surely be a treat.



The ending was a bit abrupt and unresolved for my liking, but I understand the necessity since this is a trilogy—and I’m looking forward to the next installment!



3.75 stars rounded to 4

[N. Wood · Rating 5 out of 5]

When I first began reading TSID, I wasn't sure I could finish it due to the genre. Reading BDSM has always been uncomfortable for me, and yet I just couldn't put TSID down!
The scenes R. E. Hargrave painted were easy to picture in my mind as I read them. The characters were easy to give form to in the mind's eye and though there were detailed scenes of a BDSM nature, it didn't unnerve me in the slightest.
The only downside to the book is that it ended so abruptly, I wanted to read more! Thank God for scrolling down to see a sequel is in the works. Can't wait!

[Erzabet Bishop · Rating 4 out of 5]

Story Rating: (paddles) 4/5
Sting Factor: (kink) 4.5/5
Review:
Sub recently relocated seeking new Dom to be her very own…
Catherine is dealing with some pretty heavy issues. After the death of her last Dom, she flees to Dallas and saves up enough money to go to a club. She misses the lifestyle with a burning passion that only those who know and understand it can feel. The connection with those of like mind and the experience of acceptance spurs her back to the club life. It is what Catherine longs for and is ecstatic to find again. Inside, she meets a variety of folk, like you would expect. When Jayden crosses her path, sparks fly and she feels something inside of her give way.
Jayden is entranced when he spies Catherine outside of the club. She is lovely and sets parts of him afire that have not been touched in a long time. He has two submissives, but they are not really his-they serve a sexual purpose but that is not enough. He longs for a sub to call his own. In Catherine, he finds just that.
The interesting dynamic in this story is Catherine and the wounds she received from her last Dom. They are surface and psychological and Jayden has to get past her inner walls to discover the beauty of his new sub. To do that he has to get beyond the horror she endured at the hands of a truly sadistic man who completely disgraced what it means to be a Dom.
From the first page, I was engaged in the story and how Catherine responded to the club and then to Jayden. Her inner fears and longings triggered something in me and I felt what she felt. That is why most of us read. To feel that escape. The club scene was good and the subsequent interaction with Jayden was toe curling. The kink factor in this story spans a large range. You have your BDSM elements (wax, impact play, nipple clamps, anal play, oral, voyeurism and the like) and you also have f/f and m/m. I loved it.
The story development was excellent and as Jayden breaches Catherine’s walls both physically and mentally, you see a very healthy BDSM dynamic. He is a caring Master. The contracts, the concern over her health as her body changes with all the sex, the aftercare…all the things that you don’t always see in a BDSM tale are here.
The only thing I had a hard time with was the shorter clips of chapters toward the end of the book and the abrupt cliffhanger ending. Everything else was top notch. From the way the author sucked you into the story to the different elements, I was hooked from page one. Catherine is a character that you get to know from the bottom most places in her heart. The journal entries she keeps for her Master are key to understanding the abuse she endured and how a BDSM relationship, just like any other, can go wrong if an abusive personality is at the helm. There are triggers for those who have been sexually traumatized in the journals but it is handled in such a way that it didn’t bother me at all, but only served to illustrate an integral part of the story.
This book brings living and breathing characters from the page and into the reader’s mind. I found myself wanting to get back to the book when I wasn’t reading it to see what the next scene would be. This author has really captured the BDSM experience and I am looking forward to the second installment.



Reviewed by: Erzabet
Tags: wax, anal, D/s, toys, voyeurism, f/f, m/f,

[Karisa · Rating 4 out of 5]

I won this book in a give away and was really happy because I would have purchased it anyway. I really enjoy this genre and because of this I a bit hesitant to add new authors to my must read list. I am glad I read this! The scenes were hot and realistic, the story line was pretty well developed especially toward the end and I am excited to read the next story about Erin's development as Jaydens sub. The only thing I really didn't like was Catherine spoke in the third person. I understand its a common practice in the lifestyle but personally I am not a fan! So really my only issue was not an author issue but my own!

[Sapphire Kande · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well to say this book is addicting is putting it mildly. The amount of details used in this story is incredible. Since the first paragraph of the book I instantly feel like I am the main character. I can feel the chill as the author describes the cold. The interior of the club was so detailed I actually felt like I was there. The mystery man she describes is enough to cause anyone shivers and then when they finally meet, the first words he says to her. Perfect.

The instant bond that Jayden and Catherine grow together has me falling in love with them. The moment they go into the locked room and he begins questioning her... it's obvious of the chemistry those two have. I've never read about two people so in tune with each other without even speaking. Then the truth coming about her previous Masters didn't dis-concern Jayden but in fact it made him want her more. Made him want to show her how it can be when done right. There first scene together was incredible. It had me shivering while reading. HOT!

The dirty talk and dominance of Jayden is wonderful and not overly done at all. He is dominant and caring, very rare for some stories. The game he creates is one of excitement and fun for her as she tries her best to beat it.. but when she sees the toy he wants to play with she becomes afraid and he cares for her instantly instead of becoming mad. Being a proper dom he ends the scene and takes her away from the club. He gives her a card and tells her to call him again if she wants to continue.

He helps her heal from her past abuse and then the unthinkable happens. That four letter word that we all know. LOVE. How can a cold hearted man learn to love so quickly? What happens now? What happens when other subs come into the picture? What happens when her submission is tested? Well I won't spoil anymore for you! You need to read it for yourself, you must! Go go go! Do it now!

I found myself unable to do anything until I finished the story... I couldn't put it down. The characters are brilliant, super thought out and detailed. I feel as if I've known Jayden and Catherine for a long time. At the end of the story... I needed more, I craved more. She drew me into the story so quickly, it became addicting! The story is so delicious it leaves you engrossed in the story unable to do anything until its complete! I'm easily going to read this story over and over again and then buy the sequel when it comes out this summer!

Can I just say, as a reader of Fifty Shades of Grey... this story beats it by 100% I am so thrilled with this story and love the BDSM aspect of it. The author really knows what she is talking about and her details are incredible. I highly recommend this book with all that is good and holy in this world.

[L.J. Harris · Rating 5 out of 5]

From the moment I began reading about the mysterious but confident, damaged but well-trained submissive, Catherine (Erin) O’Chancey, I was immediately hooked.

Jayden Masterson, who reluctantly visits an open night at the BDSM club he is a member of, cannot help but notice Catherine the moment he sees her standing alone outside its doors…

If the moment they catch one another's eye is electric, nothing can prepare you for the moment they actually meet. A Master who has another female and male sub to scratch his itch whenever he so pleases, Jayden has been searching for a third submissive...one who finds true pleasure in the pain he is capable of inflicting.

The moment he lays eyes on Catherine, he knows she will be the one to fulfil that need.

After an extremely intense and erotic test scene, Jayden decides that although she clearly has demons to contend with, Catherine is the submissive he's been searching for...a perfect addition to his stable of submissives.

And thus, their journey begins.

As the story progresses, it becomes apparent that Catherine’s feelings toward Jayden begin to change...and she finds herself thinking of possibilities which are well beyond the norm for a Dom/sub relationship. Though Jayden is essentially a man who requires nothing more of his Catherine than for her to be one of three submissives, the boundaries he himself has set, slowly begin to blur. It isn't long before Jayden discovers he has broken every one of his self-appointed rules.

Even coming from a traumatic past, Catherine continues to be the perfect submissive for her Master, but as her story unfolds, she finally begins to exorcise the demons that have continued to plague her.

What this story offers is more than a sensual portrayal of the first year of a relationship between a handsome Dom and his beautiful sub. Woven between the intense and thoroughly delicious encounters that she and Sir Jayden share, is a thoroughly engaging plot line…the story of a woman who has had to deal with a past that has left its indelible mark on her.

If you want to read a tale that not only hot as hell and gets your heart well and truly racing, but whose characters you can’t help but fall in love with, To Serve is Divine is the story for you.

Not only does R. E. Hargrave possess a wonderful way of drawing the reader in from the get-go, she continues to keep said reader thoroughly enthralled throughout.

I’m very much looking forward to reading the next part of the trilogy, and I give this wonderful story a rating of 5 stars!!

[Rara Loves to Read · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.

As an avid reader, I am always on the lookout for new books and authors. A friend recommended reading R.E. Hargrave and I am so glad that she did because with only one book Ms. Hargrave has won me over. As soon as I began reading To Serve is Divine, the first book in The Divine Trilogy, I was hooked. I was so absorbed in the relationship between Catherine and Jayden that I begrudged any interruption, including sleep. To Serve is Divine had everything I could want in a book from characters that I could admire and care about, to a story that pulled at all my emotions, and hot sexual encounters that left me panting and wanting more.

Catherine is a submissive who is seeking a new Master after the unexpected death of her last Dom. She immediately catches the eye of Jayden and the two embark on a relationship. At first glance, Catherine seems to be the perfect submissive, but she’s been hurt in the past and it has had a profound impact on her. Meanwhile, Jayden doesn’t believe in commitment and his growing feelings for Catherine are beginning to scare him.

I absolutely loved the two characters. Catherine had so much pain from a past relationship but her determination to get past it earned my respect and admiration. Her emotional journey to healing really touched me and I was so excited by the progress she made. Jayden was the perfect Dom for Catherine and I loved how caring he was of her and his efforts to help lead her to a good place caused me to fall in love with him.

The sexual scenes were full of the minute details that elevated it from just sex to a physical, emotional connection between two lovers. I could easily imagine each sigh of pleasure or gasp of pain as if I was in the room. Ms. Hargrave showcased the beauty of a D/s relationship and how pain can be healing. To Serve is Divine was the appropriate title as Ms. Hargrave was able to focus and shed light on why a submissive would want a Master and the fulfillment they receive from serving.

Because To Serve is Divine is part of a trilogy, the book ends mid-story. You will need to read the second book in order to know about the next stage in Catherine and Jayden’s relationship. Luckily I have the second book waiting for me on my e-reader. So if you’ll excuse me, I have some reading to do.

[Kati · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this read. It was heavy on both the sex and the plot and those are my favorite kinds of books. It is too intense to be something I read every month but it will definitely be making my re-read list. I think the second book will be even better.

Catherine has suffered a lot at the hands of an abuser who thinks he is a Dom. As I was reading it I got a little upset at the fact Catherine didn’t try and run but eventually my anger was re-focused on where it needed to be. She is submissive to the bone and the way R.E. wrote her was breath taking. I like the fact she refused to move in with Jayden saying she needed her independence.

Jayden oozes hotness and dominance. He is a great Dom but I struggled early on with him having more than one sub. Then I realized how many he cared for them and the Catherine was his main focus. He did his best to try and help Catherine through all of her “issues” and that made him even hotter.

The sex scenes were explosive. The BDSM was very well written and you could tell the author knows her stuff. The wax play scene was beautifully written and I thought I was going to need some ice water after because it is just so insanely hot. The only thing I really didn’t like was that Catherine was supposed to talk in third person about herself. That drove me batty, but eventually I got used to it. I can’t wait until the next book because I think it is going to be epic! This is a good read for BDSM readers or anyone looking to branch out.

[Jennifer Theriot · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book! Catherine (Erin) comes into her own meeting Jayden, her ultimate master. She's a submissive at heart and had a really bad relationship prior to meeting Jayden. She's damaged goods from that nasty relationship and just needed the right master to bring her around. I love how Jayden dominated her, yet made her feel like she was a queen. The journey was incredible. She was brought out of her tumultuous past and made to feel that being submissive to the right man was paramount. I felt like I was right there with her, experiencing her angst, her fears and her inability to fully let go. Her past tugged at my heart. She is an incredible woman, strong yet weak. She just needed the right man to let her play out her submissive side. Jayden took her to the height of being a good woman, submissive, desirable and a good person. I can tell you this is a page turner and will have you from page 1. The sex is incredible but the relationship that forms is more than incredible. It is a journey that you won't regret going on….and in book 2, A Divine Life you will fully see the depth, the love and the meaning of this crazy relationship. Thank you R.E. Hargrave for giving us a beautiful look at the BDSM lifestyle! R.E. is a master story teller…you won't regret any part of this series...

[Elena Reyes · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jesus this has been one hell of a ride. Most that know me know that while I enjoy a sexy scene as much as the next, know that it’s the telling of a grand love affair that pulls me in and leaves me breathless.
This is what I was served on To Serve Is Devine.
Master and his Sub have a relationship so deep of the bat that many of us would kill to have. Its that all consuming lust that quickly morphs into love that makes us lose ourselves in the wonderment of our world. Jayden and Erin are the perfect example of love conquers and makes us look deeper into our own lives. It makes us, the reader question how happy we are in our own skins and how can we achieve the freedom her provides and she gains after all she has been through in the hands of another. I am not afraid to admit the tears I shed as she blossomed before my eyes and cheered as he discovered the changes she left in him and how he sought more.
This truly is more than just A BDSM book…it goes beyond the trust and devotion a sub gifts her master and in return his admiration and the pleasure he gifts in form of play. I will read this wonderful story time and time again and I am truly on the edge of my seat in wait for the next installment.

[FS Meurinne · Rating 5 out of 5]

When I started to read To Serve is Divine I was imagining that I would be reading a story about BDSM, with lots of sex and little plot. Well, I was taken a back when I actually read how the author took the characters and really became more than a sexual relationship. Jayden Masterson is a very powerful, handsome dominant that has no inclination to have a real relationship or even find love. He just focuses in having any of his multiple submissive at his disposal.

That’s until he meets Catherine, a lonely young woman who knows what she wants in life and she agrees to be Jayden submissive. Little did they knew that the relationship that started would change them both. She needs someone to trust, her last abuser made her more reclusive and Jayden just happens to help her heal, she trusts him and he falls for her.

The story keeps you on a special kind of edge until the end, and even after you will be looking forward to read the next.

[Babus · Rating 4 out of 5]

At first I expected this to be a typical BDSM novel. You know the kind, sex scene after sex scene where the female is humiliated and the man is an ass without any substance or plot. Thankfully, this book is NOT like that! I was drawn to Catherine in a way that I felt sorry for her loneliness in life. She shows us that she is strong and knows who she is and what she wants, which is rare for someone her age. Jayden is the mega-mogul who controls everything in his life. He even uses his secretary as a submissive. Of course, I thought about the possible sexual harassment suit, but that doesn't seem to be his concern. Jayden keeps multiple submissives, but feels drawn to Catherine. He can't explain why, but he just is. As we follow this story, we watch their "relationship" blossom and change. We are left hanging at the end, but in a way that only makes me want to read the next book! 4 out of 5! {babusbookshelf.blogspot.com}

[Sandy Grassini · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have to say, this author is new to me. I came across her on facebook. Her book was recommended and I put it on my TBR list. Even though my TBR list is a million books long I tore into this one like it a kid in a candy store and I'm glad I did. I think R.E. Hargrave is my new love. I patiently wait book 2.

She was perfectly trained by a Dominant to serve, only to be put in the hands of an abuser. A year after death, she picks up and moves on. When Jayden sees Catherine, he knows he has to meet her. When he approaches her, her training gets put into action. He likes what he sees and he offers her his card with instructions to contact him. Once she contacts him, their journey begins.

No spoilers here, just enjoy the ride.

[Shenani Whatagans · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this story! Catherine and Jayden draw you into their hearts and lives. Her need to serve and submit and his need to dominate her and help her see what an amazing woman she is. Well researched BDSM is always a awesome read. R.E. Hargrave did a great job and you never thought that what was going on was impossible in that world. The characters evolve slowly and realistically. I recommend this to anyone that wants a glimpse into the mind of a true submissive and the Dom that we all wish we had. Just go read it...you won't be disappointed!

[Alison · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful start to the series. I loved this book. Well worth reading.

[Divas BookBlog · Rating 1 out of 5]

Let´s make this short and easy. I didn´t like this book. It was everything I hoped it wouldn´t be.
A while back, an author recommended this book to me, telling me: " Girl, this book is hotter than FUCK!". Well, Fuck was the right word to describe this novel. But after I finished reading my only thought was " WHAT the FUCK was that all about?"
I have no doubt the author thought this novel was going to become an enjoyable, sexy read. I can´t say I enjoyed half of it because of the emotionless characters and the strong, yet very detailed, Dom/Sub scenes. I´m not going to call those sex scenes because they rarely had sex. It was just your typical Master / Slave relationship.
OH WAIT! No no no no. Let me start on the story before I get to the steamy scenes.

Catherine ( or also Erin, which I consider 2 different names. Not a nickname ) was a broken sub standing infront of an exclusive club to gain access to the scene again. While standing outside in line, a man ( Jayden , aka: the Dom ) walks past her and makes sure she has access. Once in the club she takes a look around, searching for the hottie who let her in.

Now, I was okay with everything up until that point. Jayden found Catherine and his first words to her were:

" Follow me, slut. I want to see you come."

Jeez, what a way to be greated. Pfft. Call me old fashion, but a good ol´ " hey" or " Hi " or even a " Good evening " wouldn´t have hurt, right? I can see how this scene was meant to be raw, 100% sex dripping and all, but no woman should agree to go with a beautiful stranger if he calls her a slut. Am I missing something here? * confused * Has the term " slut " become a sensual word? * even more confused *. Just think for a second here: What would a guy say if a woman would call him " motherfucker" as an endearment? Something to think about. Lol I know at least one guy who would yell " What the fuck has gotten into you, woman?"

Anyways....Jayden can sense that Catherine is the perfect sub for him. Gosh, poor fellow, he´s had no luck with other subs at all before. All kind of disliked the stuff he enjoyed to do. Pain play wasn´t welcomed by others BUT Catherine had something that told him she could satisfy his needs.
So, both start to play and something is off. Although Catherine comes close to perfection with her submission, their playing doesn´t give Jayden the joy it should have. No, it gives him more.
Will Catherine be able to give Jayden access to her complete body and mind? Will she allow him to " use " her, crossing over her hard limits?
Okay....here´s the deal:

Some BDSM stories are sooooo good they even turn ME on. This one turned me off, left me dry, etc. Let´s do a list on what a reader gets out of this novel regarding the Dom / Sub scenes:

- dog play
- prepared pony play ( that seems to be in the works )
- M/M/F
- humiliation
- another round of HUMILIATION
- absolute slavery ( but still being decent about it, because it´s just play...uuuh huh )
- pain practice
and so much more.

I´m not prude at all. But pony play isn´t my thing, so reading about it makes me question why people don´t just buy themselves a horse to train. Fetching an object while both of your holes are stuffed with balls and crawling on the floor isn´t something I even find kinky. What I also didn´t appreciate reading about was how Jayden wanted to know EVERYTHING. He wanted to know about every little secret Catherine had. He even made her write a journal and present it to him when they had their dates.He wanted full control, he got it. He even wanted Catherine to see a Dom pal of his ( who was a therapist ) so that Catherine would over-come her fears and maybe....MAYBE reconsider her hard limits. Aaah, so that´s how it works. I see.
So, if my husband wants to invite 300 people to our house and party like teenagers, and he knows that that´s my hard limit ( meaning NO ) then it would be okay if he called a therapist to convince me that my husbands idea is great? ( dear Lord )

Another part disturbed me to no end was....(Oh God...I´m even having a hard time thinking about it) comparing freshly spanked ass cheeks with fresh salmon. NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO! Do not use fish if you want to describe the color of a whipped ass.
* screaming around the house holding my eyes shut banging my head against the wall to get rid of the visual, desperately thinking about my retirement on the Bora Bora Islands*
Do not....I repeat....DO NOT EVER use fish in a sex scene. That´s dusgusting. Now I may never be able to eat fresh salmon ever again without thinking about ass cheeks.

I might never calm down over that little fact.

What I also found odd was how Catherine always talked in the third person when she was around Jayden. For example:
" Master, this girl has to pee." ( that was not the exact dialogue from the book, but something like that was in there ). So instead of saying: " I need to pee" she spoke like a good little sub. How exhausting!!

The writing style from the author was way off key from the story, or even the dialogue. It just didn´t match. Catherine was an Irish girl, but other than her red hair/green eyes and the ocassional " Aye, Sir " ...I didn´t see any irish. Jayden was a Dom. But not just any Dom. He had the power over Catherine, or Erin, and Micah ( the guy he also dominated inbetween) and Samantha ( what her role was is still a mystery to me)

The end was a total cliffhanger. And I have no desire to continue the story. So.....I´ll never find out how it will end.

This book had a great start and went downhill after 7%. I tried really hard to see any beauty of the kink world in this book and came up with nothing.
And to make things clear...I do not have any insight on the lifestyle per se, but I do know what I like and don´t like. And comparing fish to sexual body parts is a NO GO! Plus I find nothing sexy about Catherine´s submission because it was ( in my opinion ) a poor excuse of a play-slave who was horny.


Would I recommend this book?
No.

Would I re-read this book?
No

The Divas are giving To Serve Is Divine by R. E. Hargrave 1 out of 5 champagne glasses.

[Tbird London · Rating 5 out of 5]

I joined the blog tour for the second book in this series, so make sure you check my blog this week for that review. Now back to this book, after reading book two first, I knew I had to get book one to see how Jayden and Catherine started on this journey. I am so glad I did because this one hooked me in the first chapter.

Catherine, or Erin, as she is also called, had just escaped a horrible situation with a former Dom. Battered and scared, she still decided the life style of BDSM was what she needed in her life. Gathering the courage and saving the money to go to an open night at the BDSM club she stands in line waiting to get in. This is when she sees the handsome Jayden walking to the front of the line. She knows her role as a sub, so she peeks at him with respect.

Jayden had pretty much given up on the idea of finding an appropriate sub for himself, but he felt he would give the open night at the club one more chance. Sure he had two others in his life that he could use for a quick release, but he longed for a sub who would handle and desire the same things as he did……….PAIN. He spots Catherine in line and arranges for her to be admitted into the club quickly. Could her of finally found a trained sub who knew how to show her Master respect. It appeared that Catherine could be his dream come true from just the way she stood in line and glanced at him. Shall I say the rest was history?

Jayden can’t figure out why Catherine overwhelms his body and head but he knows she is carrying a lot of baggage from her past and he is determined to find out what it is she is hiding. Does trying to help her heal and move forward really fit into his plans? Catherine knows she is falling in love with Jayden, but he made it clear that he wasn’t looking for forever, he just needed a current submissive now and a contract to provide the security that now would last a few weeks or months. So how does she handle her emotions and heart when her head is telling her that she can trust him and please him in all of his desires?

Through this book we find what Catherine endured at the hands of her former Dom, the horrific things that was done to her and it proves that she is one strong fighter. The author does a wonderful job of showing us the emotional transitions that Jayden and Catherine go through. Her description of events and characters are so well developed, it was easy to visualize in your head what was happening, which is important to me as it bring the characters to life for me. I can hardly wait for book three and I really suggest that you read this one before you start her second book A Divine Life. What a wonderful story of recovery, love, commitment and freedom.

[M.C. Rayne · Rating 5 out of 5]

First and foremost I need to point out, I don't read BDSM stories!

Picking up a novel and knowing it will be all sex, sex, sex does NOT interest me as a reader. I like my stories will plot, and yes a little sex is okay, but not what I look for. That been said, I still found myself wanting to read TSID by author RE Hargrave. I'd heard good things about this book, and I caved and thought I'd give it a go. I'm very glad I did.

TSID may be a BDSM erotica, but there is so much more to this book than just sex, which there is a lot of. Yes, I found the fact that there was a lot of sex a little hard to get my head around at first, but there's something about Jayden I just had to know more of; and Erin of course - but I prefer my men. You would have thought, that as a gay man, I'd want to read a M/M erotica, but it wasn't about the sex that had me purchasing this.

In the past I have thought about this lifestyle, but only to the point of finding a man hot in leather and having my wicked way, but RE Hargrave opened my once naive eyes to so much more. Okay, I'm focusing on the sex right now, but although a lot of it was new to me, it wasn't the seedy, pain filled encounters I guess I expected. The one word I can probably use to describe most of them is beautiful.

Erin likes her pain, it's handled very well and not portrayed in a way to put a reader off - most of it is left to the readers imagination. Isn't this why we read, to make up our own minds about whats happening and just enjoy?

Jayden and Catherine (Erin) may be the focus of this story, but the side character caught my eye - Micha. Jayden's driver isn't used enough for my liking, but when he is - wow. Applauds.

I also love the fact that Erica is hiding a past, something which haunts her, and when the author finally let me know what it was I had tears in my eyes.

This is a five star book for me, well written and interesting enough to catch the eye of a man who, even though squirmed at some of the female detail, still enjoyed every page. Will I be reading book two? Yes, after I have a little break to get over the impact of book one.

[AGirlAmongstBooks (Jess Green) · Rating 5 out of 5]

* I received a copy of this book for free from the author in exchange for an honest review.*

I really enjoyed this book. I don't typically read BDSM type novels. Not that I don't like them, I just never read one that I felt had more substance to it.

Starting this book, I had some pre-concieved notions about the BDSM lifestyle and was surprised to find that the author was able to make this book steamy but classy as well. YES, there is a lot of sex scenes and the words are in your face...but while reading the words that I would usually crinkle my nose up at, had I heard them in a normal converstation, I found myself not really being bothered by them.

I adored Catherine (Erin), she was sweet and kind, even though she's had some horrible experiences in her past. She was fiesty and empowered around Jayden and not at all the weak, abused woman people tend to associate with the dominant/submissive relationship. I also loved the way the fact that Erin (Catherine) was of Irish decent. It really helped me to picture her in my head and "hear" her distinct voice.

When I first came across Jayden in the book, I thought for sure I would wind up disliking him. I thought he was going to be overly controlling and somewhat abusive to Erin (Catherine). What I found was a man who is tender and caring. He was not at all the "abuser" that most Dominant's get the wrap of being. He didn't seem arrogant and/or self-righteous and he truly card about Catherine's/Erin's well being. I was hoping he would break his rule and pour his heart out to her. The connection between the two of them was definitely something that kept me turning those pages as fast as I could.

The sex scenes are definitely steamy and didn't take away from the real storyline/plot. It was fast-paced, the characters well developed and i can't wait to read the next book in the trilogy. I will be recommending this book to my friends!

*This review was done in conjunction with Nerd Girl Official. For more information on our reviews, please contact our Fan site: www.facebook.com/NerdGirl.NG*

[Aղցela W. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Let me start by saying this is my first time reading RE Hargrave, but it is not my last I loved this book. This was one of the best free reads that I have read in a long time. I adored Catherine/ Erin, she was sweet and kind, even though she's had some horrible experiences in her past. She was feisty and cheery around Jayden and not at all the weak as an abused woman that people tend to associate with the dominant/submissive relationship. Jayden oozed hotness and dominance. He is a great Dom but I struggled early on with him having more than one sub. Then I realized how much he cared for them and that Catherine was his main focus. He did his best to try and help Catherine through all of her "issues" and that made him even hotter. The sex scenes were explosive. The BDSM was very well written and you could tell the author knows her stuff. The wax play scene was beautifully written and I thought I was going to need some ice water after I read it because it was hot as hell. This book was an absolute joy to read. I also liked how Jayden helped Catherine with the abuse that she suffered at the hands of someone posing as a dom one of those slippery slopes in the BDSM community. I love reading BDSM and this one was really well written and I can't wait to read the continuing story of Jayden and Catherine.


"To Serve is Divine"

[Cynthia Ogg · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hot dang.
I mean. Whoa.

I demolished this book in a few hours, it was just that good. It took me 2.5 days to read the entire trilogy - and it only took me that long because I wasn't home for most of the second day!

Catherine is a sub that has been hurt by a previous Dom but knows that she needs the Lifestyle to put herself back together. Jayden is a Dom who is looking for a sub that fits his needs. Together, these two heal wounds that will leave you gasping for air.

This book was an incredibly intimate look at what the Lifestyle can truly be. I absolutely loved it. The truth rang out so clearly in this book that I truly wonder how anyone could have enjoyed 50 Shades of Grey. 50 Shades paled in comparison to this book series.

I was absolutely shocked at the reality this book portrayed. The truth is that many people think that the relationship between a D/s is simply abuse. To Serve is Divine actually explains a lot of things that many people don't understand about the relationship. Jayden and Erin are so attentive to each other's needs and Jayden is so incredibly protective of Catherine's mental and physical health that it's breath taking.

This book is a MUST read if you're curious about the D/s Lifestyle. It's an amazing read on it's own but I walked out with an awareness I didn't know I was missing.

[Evette · Rating 4 out of 5]

So, I have found that with this little blogging thing I am giving up many of my secrets. I am not a fan of BDSM or D/s stories. Just doesn’t do anything for me. Starting this series worried me. My internal dialogue screamed for me to put it down. I am glad that I didn’t listen. Instantly was drawn to Erin/Catherine. She is an experienced submissive that has recently escaped a painful and damaging relationship. The details are slowly revealed to us, and they are terrifying!
Jayden is an experienced Dom. He is well-known in the lifestyle and takes good care of his subs. He sees a kindred spirit in Erin. And he is determined to be with her.
Lots of nurturing, sex and experimenting ensue. Jayden finds he only wants Erin, and questions if his Dom/man side can coexist. And more importantly does Erin/Catherine feel the same?
I loved seeing the sense of calm and happiness Catherine/Erin found that had eluded her. She feels so much and is afraid to want more. She is determined to live with whatever Jayden has to offer.
I will admit that this well-written view into D/s life intrigued me. The fact that their story extended beyond the bedroom/playroom is what caught me. I am hooked and can’t wait to see where it goes from here.

[Sammie J. · Rating 4 out of 5]

Oh Come on, you can’t end it like that. I want more, no I need more, and I want to know what happens next. I have no knowledge of the BDSM world only from what I have read. So some of the things that Jayden said or did caused an eyebrow to rise, some in a good way some in a bad way. But as the book goes on I found myself intrigued. We get to know Erin and her past with Spencer, I loved the way Jayden handled her and helped her go forward. I found myself wanting a Jayden of my own. I loved that the Author gave us the duel POV’s so we get inside the heads of both of them. Yes there is an instant spark when they both meet and they both play the Sub and Dom roles well, while holding back on their true feelings. The sex scenes are well written and yes I fanned myself a few times. I’m starting the second book straight away as I was left hanging and need answers. I enjoyed this book and can’t wait for more from this author.

[Kelly · Rating 5 out of 5]

R.E Hargrave pulls you into a world that you may not be familiar with, one few have the strength and control to endure, she gives you a true account of a life you may not know but will have a better respect for when you’re done. Hargrave’s writing is full of rich vibrant descriptions that paint a picture, which will leave you breathless, panting and wanting for more. Falling in love with her characters Jayden and Catherine their needs, wants, and what this will mean for them along their journey … I can’t wait for the next installment of this series…Her writing has changed my life for the better.