BDSM is not generally a genre I read. In fact, if you look at my overflowing bookshelves, 7 With 1 Blow will be the only one there. The only other BDSM that I’ve read are Anne Rice’s Sleeping Beauty Trilogy, which my husband gave to me twenty years ago.

I am however a huge fan of good writing, and Caraway Carter delivers. This is not a book about sex. It’s about the dark side that we all have, the place where we hide our misdeeds to others or justify our bad behavior. Carter weaves a spellbinding story of cruelty, abuse, compassion and deliverance.

I can’t wait for his next book.

I loved this part in the series. I really appreciate stories with more diversity. Ujaruk, a native Aleut, is such a fantastic character. He’s very well-written. Don’t get me wrong, I loved Anders too, but Ujaruk is the real reason to read this story. I loved how complex and interesting he was as well as how struggles he’d experienced as an Aleut were not swept aside for the sake of storytelling–they were very much a part of who he was.

The whole thing was terrific. I really like smart men and interesting discoveries, and everything about this felt just right. The pacing was perfect for the plot, and the whole thing delighted me. This is my favorite part of the series so far.

What can I say? Caraway Carter is always wildly unique and refreshing in his plot lines, tropes, and exploration of sexual mores. Some people can find his themes taboo, but that’s why I’m continually impressed by his work. He doesn’t let conventions rule him or his writing. 

I found Brandon’s story beautifully written, touching, and deeply romantic. I enjoyed the use of letters to tell the story and how the book captured the sensuality of Paris and of food so well! Definitely worth a read.