Book Review: S/submit (The Tabu Series Book 3) - Ava Bell
Synopsis:
Author Emma Sparks struggles with a decision that could change her life forever. Does she stay with Daniel, the only man she's known and loved, the man that has given her everything except what her mind and body craves? Or should she set out on a journey of self-discovery with Markus, a Dominant that promises to teach her about who she really is and who makes her body come alive with excitement. Torn between a life of discontent and a life that promises excitement and passion, Emma's heart is at war with her mind and body, she must come to terms with what she truly desires and what is best for her. Daniel and Markus each give her something she needs, but those needs are completely different from the other. It's now up to Emma to decide which one will make her life complete.
My Thoughts:
Emma is the typical housewife and mother. She married young and had children and like most housewives, she puts herself on hold and does everything for her children. Including losing herself in the process. Emma discovers that she wants to become an author and starts researching into the BDSM lifestyle for the book. Feeling disconnected from her husband, what started out as research for the book became so much more for her. Emma must decide what she really wants however she is torn between what she wants and tearing her family apart. Emma wants to please Markus and is happy when she doesn’t disappoint.
Markus meets Emma through Fetlife, an online BDSM social networking site. After seeing Emma’s profile, Markus messages her and strikes up a friendship with her. Markus and Emma meet and the chemistry between them sparks. Markus tries to convince Emma that he is the man for her and can give her what she really needs.
Daniel, Emma’s husband, worries about her as she is changing and not acting like her usual self. He tries to show her affection but Emma pushes him away. One night Daniel sees the texts between Emma and Markus and knows that his gut intuition was right – Emma has been cheating on him. Daniel is angry and wants Emma back and doesn’t understand why she would choose to be with someone that hits her instead of with him, the man that has loved her for years.
The premise of the story is unique and the writing is good. Of the three books this one I liked the least. Markus starts treating Emma badly, very dominant and power driven. Emma goes back to her husband and pretends that everything okay. She is drawn into their sexual encounters and it appears everything is great – she is feeling the connection that every woman needs and wants. However, the ending, blew my mind. I had a WTH moment. I had to reread it to see if what I read was not a fluke. I don’t always read between the lines well but it hinted at one thing when Emma went back to her husband yet then you start second guessing what you thought to be true. I did not like the ending at all and wonder if there will be a 4th book that will have a conclusion or was that the conclusion that keeps you guessing. Overall, my least liked book of the three.