A NIGHT OWL REVIEWS BOOK REVIEW | Reviewed by: Terrihawk
Out of Balance is the story of two young men who have troubled pasts and don't make things easy for themselves in the present. Ryan has come out of a horribly abusive situation and is trying to live a normal life. Jeremy is a jock who secretly craves the firm hand of a master. The two become roommates and friends in college, each unaware of the other's secrets - until the day Ryan finds Jeremy's browsing history on his laptop. This is the beginning of both a beautiful love story and a cluster of bad decisions by each man. Parts of this story made me want to scream at one or both of the heroes, parts made me want to cry, and the BDSM scenes between the two gave me the best kind of shivers. There was never a question in my mind that Jeremy loved Ryan with all he was, and I was very frustrated and worried while waiting for Ryan to step up and claim his man. Though Ryan was in therapy throughout the story, I kept thinking that Jeremy should be there, too - not for his masochism or his need to submit, but for the chances he kept taking with his own safety. Once I read the last pages, I gave a deep sigh of relief after this rollercoaster ride. Lyn Gala is a new-to-me author, but I have already looked up her backlog. I plan on reading much more from her. She made me feel so many emotions while reading this story; I will be prepared with tissues - and possibly a stiff drink - as I peruse more of her work.
Jan 26, 2012 | 9781419937040
5 - Rare Top Pick | 4.5 - Top Pick | 4 - I Liked It | 3.5 - Enjoyable | 3 - OK | 2.5 - It just didn't click
Book Blurb for Out of Balance
College students Jeremy and Ryan both have rocky pasts, but when Ryan discovers his friend has a dangerous fascination for gay bondage, he decides to show Jeremy that giving up control isn't safe or sexy. He should know-he's seen the dark side of BDSM up close. However, his plan backfires as the two men find that their needs and desires dovetail nicely. Lust drives them both deeper into a 24/7 lifestyle, but neither of them is prepared to deal with the emotional backlash. When fear threatens to destroy their relationship, Jeremy has to not only submit but also find a way to help his Master heal well enough to admit to his own needs. If Jeremy can find a way to confront the past, maybe he can repair their relationship and rediscover their balance as Dominant and submissive. If he fails, they both lose. Reader Advisory: Jeremy and Ryan both make some unsafe choices and decisions. Their way is by no means a safe exploration of BDSM. Don't try this at home! Publisher's Note: Previously published elsewhere, but has been revised and expanded for Ellora's Cave.
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