Rating: 5 stars
Genre: Erotic Romance
ASIN: B00UCD7454
File size: 690  KB
ISBN-10: 1517058449
ISBN-13: 978-1517058449
Print length: 312 pages

Even with the many steamy scenes, Contrasting Lives by Leah Dempster is more suspenseful than titillating. The riveting storyline unfolds from two points of view. Matt Pendleton, a widower with four children, meets Emily Coulter, an escort with a dark past. Sparks fly from the get-go, but each must come to terms with personal demons before they can develop a mutual trust. Many things happen that test the budding relationship.

Emily is a sub who likes to be dominated sexually. Can Matt become the person she can submit to? This is the first book I’ve read about BDSM, a “variety of erotic practices or roleplaying involving bondage, dominance and submission, sadomasochism.” The author successfully demonstrates the  interpersonal dynamics involved in this form of sexual expression. Without becoming pedantic, Ms. Dempster stresses the importance of respect and demonstrates how out-of-hand BDSM can get.

The characters are multidimensional. As a result, there are many subplots that need resolution, which makes the story interesting. Whether you root for Matt or Emily, you will keep the pages turning to see the outcome.

If you enjoy reading thrilling steamy romances with likable characters, I recommend Contrasting Lives by Leah Dempster.