Reviews
Holding The Cards
Sensual Romance
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TJ Booklist Blogspot
Reviewed by Aris
October 2007
http://tjbook-list.blogspot.com
The story speaks intimately about the emotional relationship between a Dom and sub. This story, although very steamy, is more about the depth of trust and the need to love one's self as much as others around you. This story is not about a game people play at parties and clubs, but a relationship that evolves because of need. The need to trust and accept love. It is a wonderful love story, which happens to include a Dom/sub relationship. Very moving.
Erotic Escapades
Reviewed by Nikita Steele
September 2006
Rating: 4 Stars
http://www.erotic-escapades.com/HoldingTheCards.html
Holding The Cards is about two damaged souls coming together to restore what was lost with the aid of a very compassionate friend. I was instantly caught up in the passionate, continuous foreplay between Lauren and Josh. And, with Marcus thrown into the heated mix, I was drooling during their scorching hot, sensual domination/submission scenes. I found Holding The Cards by Joey W. Hill to be a delightful BDSM story that dips deep into the emotional connection between a Dominant and submissive. Readers will immediately bond with Ms. Hill’s well-written characters and eagerly turn the pages to learn the outcome. This is definitely one great book to add to your bookshelf.
Reader Comments
December 2003
First off, the word that springs to mind is intense. Whoa, mama! I'm not sure why, but a lot of the Male Subs I have read thus far, for all their wonderful masculine bodies and gallons of testosterone, seem to come off a bit weak in some areas which I have found disappointing. Not Josh. At no time did I feel that he was subjugating any of his masculinity. This was one potent male who maintained every bit of the alpha characteristics I so love. It was quite a revelation, reading the process and the incredibly subtle nuances that make up the Dom/sub relationship. I can see how very easy it would be for that relationship to be abused; it is such a fine line that is stepped through, setting up the dynamics of the relationship. The intensity brought home to me like a steamroller just how much Josh was in control of the three of them; for all his bindings, he was the 'anchor', I believe you said. A sub surrounded by two very strong Doms - who was the silken thread that bound them together, the physical link. At that moment, he seemed stronger and more dominating than Lauren and Marcus rolled into one.
At times it was not an easy read, but I really like a book that makes me feel, that makes me think, that nudges me out of my personal comfort zone, stays on my mind and makes me think about it for days after I’ve finished the final page. I’m not sure how you did it, or if you intended for it to happen, but I didn’t feel like a ‘reader’ through the book. It was as though I was the silent fourth member of the group, but very much 'there'. I suspect that is because the writing was so vivid and my own emotions were pulled into play so strongly.
So, yes - I loved it! You were right <vbg> -- S.G.
July 2003
I just wanted to write you and let you know that I just finished reading Holding the Cards and it was wonderful. I didn't put it down except to go to the bathroom and grab something to eat. I had read Make Her Dreams Come True and had enjoyed it, but I passed over Holding the Cards because I don't really like reading Female Dom stories. [Then I] read the excerpt you had put out and I thought I would buy it and read it. I am so glad that I did because I don't think I have ever read a more loving story. I loved it so much that I felt I owed it to you to let you know how much I enjoyed it and to thank you for such a great read. -- R.M.
Risque Reviews
Reviewed by Barb
June 2010
http://risquereviews.weebly.com
Joey Hill is one of the best authors of erotica for a reason - her exceptional ability to bring together the difficult task of complex characters along with gripping romances that revolve around the world of BDSM. She also has the uncanny skill to bring together male subs and female doms in a way that is realistic and very sexy. Even though the male can be the sexual submissive in her stories they can never be mistaken as weak. They are very tough in body and mind and have a strong need to protect as well as please their mistress, a shrewdly decadent combination. In HOLDING THE CARDS she brings together three such characters, each from different backgrounds, yet similar enough to find a common bond among themselves. As the story unfolds, some very deep wounds are uncovered. Yet before any healing can be achieved each character will have to bring forth their unique talent to help accomplish that goal. Together they will discover new heights of ardor and absolution as each distinct personality becomes clear, and the roles they play in each other’s life become apparent.
HOLDING THE CARDS brings to the table an entrancing story, explicit sexual activity that will tantalize the imagination and executes every expectation one comes to look forward to from erotica. Ms. Hill’s talent in writing about the erotic world of BDSM comes through with immense detail as events unfold When Ms. Hill writes a love scene she brings all of the senses to life as she stimulates the reader’s imagination with her attention to details. This is such a necessary component in the richness this brings to her stories, especially when describing a moment of uninhibited sex. This is often missed by other writers of erotica and these are details, that when used correctly, bring so much more to the titillating effect of eroticism. Ms. Hill has an exemplary way of delicately bringing in the philosophy of the lifestyle involved in a D/s relationship so that anyone, no matter what their preference, can understand and relate to it. So if you are afraid that this may be out of your realm of taste in reading material, I highly suggest you rethink that equation and take a chance with one of Joey Hill books. You may find yourself just as captivated as I found myself the first time I picked up one of her books.
The Word on Romance E-zine
Reviewed by Brenda Gill
January 2003
www.thewordonromance.com
Lauren and Josh are both damaged by other relationships that turned out badly. Lauren managed to heal herself but Josh secluded himself on the island. The reader can feel Josh's need to just lose himself in Lauren's control, yet his fear almost overpowers that need. The chemistry between Josh and Lauren almost leaps off the page even before they become intimate. I found myself thinking of them as real people. Marcus is a wonderful addition to the mix. He is more than a secondary character, as some of his machinations are necessary to move the story along. It's just a darn shame, he's gay.
I've read one or two S/D stories before this one that I didn't really care for. The characters didn't seem like people I would want to know and the sexually activity was dead, cruel, and full of humiliation. HOLDING THE CARDS is different. Joey W. Hill's prose is lyrical and flows almost like poetry. A character driven plot with S/D activity playing an integral part in HOLDING THE CARDS, it's not the most important. The important parts of the story are Lauren and Josh. Author Joey W. Hill has written a story that will remain with you long after you turn the last page.
Romance Junkies
Reviewed by Gail Northman
July 2003
www.romancejunkies.com
Holding The Cards is an extremely well written novel, incredibly intense and emotional. I actually felt the pain these characters felt at the hands of their ex-partners and the joy and peace they found in each other. Joey W. Hill has created a novel that is not for the faint-hearted, but one that had a deep emotional impact on me, the reader. Highly erotic love scenes, explosive in their intensity, make for a very thought provoking book.
Holding The Cards is not the type of novel I would normally read, but I am so very glad I did. From the first chapter I was glued with the intensity created through the written word. I look forward to reading more novels by Joey W. Hill soon.
Romantic Times
Reviewed by Cindy Whitesel
July 2003
Rating: 4 Stars
www.romantictimes.com
Joey W. Hill has written an incredible story for readers of passion - a feast of delights sure to tease, please and appease!
In the Library Reviews
Reviewed by Lisa Lambrecht
April 2003
www.geocities.com/inthelibraryreviews
Holding The Cards is a very moving story of two broken spirits coming together to heal each other with the help of a very caring friend. The bond and closeness these three people create is very special and one you don't see very often. In Holding The Cards, Ms. Hill did a wonderful job creating very likeable characters and telling a very special story filled with romance and very hot sex. She shows that sometimes a little TLC can go along way in healing a broken spirit and heart.
Sensual Romance
Reviewed by Michelle Houston
March 2003
http://sr.thebestreviews.com/review11769
Although Holding The Cards was a bit slower to build than some of the other Ellora's Cave releases, this was one HOT book. Never have I seen D/s so wonderfully written and explored so passionately. Oftentimes when D/s is mentioned, visions of leather-clad women and men wielding whips and causing pain fill the mind. Yes, D/s can explore the boundaries between pleasure and pain, but it isn't always about total control. It isn't always the dominant's needs being met by the submissive. In Holding The Cards, the fine line the dominant walks is explored as well as the trust and devotion that is required of a submissive.
As for sizzle, slow to build this story may be, but in the end, it packs enough of a sensual punch it more that makes up for it. The slower pace is needed, the trust between the three characters must be built, for the story to evolve to its natural conclusion.
Love Romances
Reviewed by Miriam van Veen
December 2002
Rating: 4 1/2 Stars
www.loveromances.com
Holding The Cards takes readers into the world of D/s and the reasons behind their preferences. The characters come with intricate emotional scarring, but overcome their fears to trust and love once again. Lauren is hurt in a similar way to Josh, their partners used them for playing the game only - no emotional attachment went beyond the dungeon. This reviewer gained a better understanding of the complex relationship between a Dom and sub. The deep emotional bond created is explained in intricate detail.
The best part of Holding the Cards is the character development of Lauren and Josh. They grow despite the pain. They survive through the power of trust, love and passion. Of all the novels this reviewer has read, this couple grew the most together. It is totally believable that this couple will survive together after the story ends.
Readers should be a fan of the bondage and submission type genre, however, to totally enjoy this story, as it does get pretty intense towards the end.
A Romance Review
Reviewed by JaToya
December 2002
Rating: 5 Stars
www.aromancereview.com
Holding The Cards is not for the close-minded. And it’s definitely not for those who like their erotica soft. This is a story that shows us the insides of the main characters involved. It shows us the pain that they’ve endured. What they’re hiding from and what they’re afraid of. And it takes us along with them as they help each other to heal.
Holding The Cards is an emotional ride with characters that jump from the page. From the very start they intrigue you and you care about what they’ve gone through and what still lies ahead. In erotica it’s tricky walking the lines between taking something too far and not taking it far enough; and between creating characters who are nothing more than sexual machines and characters who’s emotions and realities are real to the reader. Joey W. Hill makes walking these lines seem effortless.
I loved reading this book and seeing the skill with which this story was created. But although I
enjoyed it, it wouldn’t be fair to send others to read it with out first making sure they understood some of the less vanilla sexual aspects of this story. One, Holding The Cards delves deep into the emotional aspects behind the relationship between a dominant and a submissive. It will dispel many of the myths that people believe about such relationships. It deals mainly with the relationship between a female dominant and a male submissive but also touches on other combinations as well. Two, there is homosexuality in this story, male with male. Blatant and unbelievably well written, but for those who shy away from such things, this is definitely not the story for you. For those who have never tried reading a story with it before, then this would be an incredible story to start with.
Timeless Tales
Reviewed by Patricia McGrew
January 2003
Rating: 4 Stars
www.timeless-tales.net
Holding the Cards takes readers into the world of Dominatrix and their special needs. The characters come with incredibly complex layers that slowly get peeled away so you understand the complex relationship they have. If you can remain open-minded about women who find the need to dominate and control, and men who are submissive, you will enjoy this read immensely. It is very well written, and the characters literally come alive. I felt I understood their feelings when I finished the book.
Ebook Reviews Weekly
Reviewed by Carrie White, Author of Erotogenic
January 2003
http://www.ebook-reviews.net/erotica.shtml
Holding the Cards is an erotic romance novel with the strong elements of Dom and Sub incorporated. An attractive cover adds also to the overall look and feel of this novel. Within the plot, many aspects of sexuality are considered and nothing excessively dominates the flow of the novel. One of the most erotic novels I have had to read, it did not fail to excite or move me with the clever use of power and domination. The whole effect makes for a compelling read with a good insight into the lives of the Dominatrix and their partners.
Joey W. Hill has created strong characters with their own interesting personalities and pasts. When brought together, they both stimulate and intrigue, so the novel is an excellent way to introduce novices, such as myself, to the control that Doms need over their Subs. By reading Holding the Cards, it has encouraged me to consider trying my own hand at extending my erotic talents! I would love to read more by this author.
Sensual Romance
Reviewed by Flora
January 2003
http://sr.thebestreviews.com/review10176
Ah, let the games begin...
I admit to admiring a tasteful tattoo, especially on a man. I thought Josh was absolutely great, absolutely beautiful. The problems the heroine and the hero must overcome are very well depicted. The descriptive scenes in this story are certainly a sensual delight. A lot of sexual teasing goes on. The author has a wonderful way with words.
