Review Tour: Exploration by Quinn Ward (Giveaway)

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Length: 65,000 words approx.

Cover Design: Marisa @ Cover Me Darling

Blurb

The reluctant manager of his family’s restaurant, Frankie attempts to live up to the legacy of his father and grandfather. Running a business that isn't his passion and trying to do it without asking for help leaves him turning to less-than-legal means when he wants to surrender control.

Newly divorced, Calvin no longer lives in the closet, leaving him searching for what he most desires- control. So when he finds Frankie on his knees in the back room of a local bar, Calvin sees the sub he’s only ever fantasized about having.

Can Calvin find the confidence to explore his dominant side while showing his younger roommate that submission isn't only about whips and pain?

4.5 stars

I really enjoyed reading this May/December romance with two men just beginning to explore their kinks together.

Frankie is trying hard to live up to his father's example, but the stress is too much. The way he gets his stress relief isn't the safest either. Calvin has a teenage son and is friends with his ex-wife. Dating and finding someone who fits with Calvin's needs and his family responsibilities seems daunting until he finds his roommate, Frankie, in a compromising situation.

To be honest, I had a bit of a hard time getting into the first chapter. I felt like I was dropped into a situation that I should have already known more than I did. However, once Calvin and Frankie run into each other in the back room of a bar, things flowed much better for me. They clearly have chemistry and a strong attraction to each other. It was wonderful to see how much Calvin's simple suggestions helped Frankie keep focus and relax. While there is some Dom/sub like interactions, this is isn't a typical BDSM story. They are exploring what works for them; it's not a formal agreement and they are still learning and trying to see what works and interests them. Frankie has a lot of preconceived notions, and his initial research and interactions with Calvin help him understand himself and his needs better. The introductory course they attend really opened Frankie's eyes to more than he ever considered. I liked that Calvin was strong enough to admit that he was just as new to kink as Frankie and that they decided to explore and learn things together. I loved how patient Calvin was and the caring he gives to Frankie.

I liked pretty much the whole cast of characters in this book. Frankie's big family is close and do their best to take care of each other. I liked seeing Frankie finally realize that his brothers were willing and able to take on more at their family's restaurant, that he didn't have to take on everything himself. I can't wait to read more about their family (hopefully) in future books. Calvin's son and ex-wife only appeared a few times in the book, but were welcome additions as well.

I really enjoyed this book and am looking forward to the next book in the series.

*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***   

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May 25 - Bayou Book Junkie, Book Review By Virginia Lee

Quinn writes LGBTQ romance with a kick. Their stories center around the relationship building between the characters, but also shows how compatible they are in the bedroom (or wherever else the urge strikes).

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Email Quinn at: quinn(at)quinnwardwrites(dot)com
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