Black Light: Bred (Black Light Series Book 25)

When I read the beginning of this story in the Roulette anthology, I knew I needed more. These two captured my heart and I wanted to know what happened after those 3 hours they spent together. Imagine my surprise when I found out the author was already working on a full length book for Davis and Jess. The story was everything I hoped for and even more. I loved the snark and the connection between these two, even after they had been apart for awhile. The kink they shared is something unique and it isn't written about that much but Mr. Starrett has a knack for writing about "special" kinks. It basically blew me away and I couldn't stop reading it and in the process, I found another character who I would love to see a story for...*hint...at the beginning*. We don't get a name but I think Mr. Starrett could easily fix that if he wanted too. LOL This book fits in so well with the whole Black Light series and I can already say that it is going to be one of my favorite reads for this year. I loved everything about this book, the drama, the tension, the snark, the hot steamy times *make sure you have cold water nearby* but most of all, the characters are awesome! Shane is the first male author to write a book in this world and I sincerely hope that he considers writing more in the future! He's that good!! If you love Black Light, you will absolutely LOVE this book!!

Honestly this kink is just not my thing so I skipped those parts of the sex scenes but the relationship outside of the sex was honestly what I had the most problem with. Like I don’t feel like I get why they like each other that much. Also, and I hate saying this because I usually think the female characters are mostly in the right but Jenn kind of sucked in some ways. I love a strong, smart female character but Jenn was mean, crossed boundaries (the kind of teasing and pushing she did to Mina would be friendship ruining for most people I know), and then the author wrote that weird science plot that just felt out of place. Like why make the main female character seem like such an idiot, I didn’t like it and it didn’t do anything for the plot in my opinion. But the worst thing was actually the non-consensual punishment at work scene. You can never give consent if you are being coerced, plus Davis and Reyes were so big on following rules and their careers being on the line and then they broke rules themselves by doing that. It was icky and gross and felt like a fantasy thrown in for fun but that just made me really dislike Reyes and Davis. Overall the plot seems solid at first glance but really none of the relationships or behavior made much sense to me. I honestly can’t recommend this book for all of those reasons even though the author is a decent writer.

First, any preconceived notions that men can write erotica for men, but not as well for women went right out the window. The original short had me invested in Jess and Ben so that when I found that their story was continuing, I immediate preordered.The book did not disappoint. Yes, it was hot, spicy, erotic and all that (and in a way that certainly appealed to me as a woman), but the storyline was more than just the sex and developing relationship. Not only was there a plot line in addition to interaction between Dr. Bain and Captain Davis, but it had twists that were not predictable. Of course, the way to happiness and a baby for Jess and Ben was not a road paved smoothly, which also added to the story. Even the secondary characters (Mina and Alex, for instance) were well written and interesting. In fact, it makes me hope that maybe there is a story beyond Black Light for Mina and Alex someday.This book is about much more than the primal issues of both Jess and Ben to have a child. It focuses also on a very nontraditional relationship, as well as the plot that puts both Jess and Ben together on a project. It also focuses on issues of trust and understanding, not only between the two main characters, but also beyond.Great book!

Not going to lie, I did Skip around some chapters around the middle, because the story was dragging. Then I got to page 222 where it just got gross. And by that I mean a gross abuse of power and a gross abuse of power dynamics. DNF.

Bred was an unusual kink in the BDSM world, but Captain Benjamin Davis and Dr. Jessica Bain had a kink to bred. They originally met during Black Light Rematch on the West Coast. In the beginning they really didn’t like each other even though Jessica was a submissive, she had a strong will to her independence. They agreed to try their kink and that was supposed to be his last weekend in California because he was being shipped out. So Jessica didn’t think she would see him again even though she had agreed that they would co-parents. They met again in Virginia at Ft Belvoir. She was working on a project and he was handling the security for the project. They decided to work on the kink and build their unique relationship through their adversity. Jessica strong will almost cost her her career, but Davis continued to be her friend, lover and dom to help her adjust to her strong personality. Jessica and Davis became parents and building a stronger relationship. Great book, enjoyed reading.

I was intrigued with the initial character development of this book and had high hopes for its depth. I also enjoyed the banter of the characters. The struggle to trust each other was the primary conflict point in the story and especially Jess had issues with doubting other people's motives. I felt like I was left hanging after the book was over. Everything just ended so quickly without very clear resolution. I didn't feel like the characters grew much, especially Jess. Sure she was proved wrong, but it didn't feel like she internalized that and moved on a better person. I was hoping for conflict that led to the characters having a deeper understanding of themselves and each other. But the ending was just kind of abrupt and without that warm fuzzy depth.

I love how the Black Light series explores many different kinks. This was certainly a new one on me. It was the first book I've read by this author, but won't be the last. He created strong characters with a lot of depth and dynamic, natural, insightful dialogue, as well the sexy bdsm scenes I'm sure all Black Light fans including me crave.I really liked army Captain Ben Davis, he was sexy and dominant but not overpoweringly so as some alpha doms can be. He was considerate and caring but tough and took control exactly when it was needed. He had his own insecurities and imperfections, but he had the strength to own it when he put his foot in his mouth and he definitely did that at times even with the best intentions.I had mixed feelings for Dr Jessica Bain. She was submissive in the bedroom and very alpha'ess at work, but she was quite abrasive at times and very defensive. She was determined, stubborn and driven but despite her obvious intelligence, quick to anger, prone to making assumptions and was quick to judge on first appearances which caused a few issues. The more we got to know her however and learnt what she had to contend with to be so successful, I could understand her reactions and lack of trust. She was strong, independent, loyal and dedicated to doing the right thing. Davis was perfect for her.Both thought they'd never find anyone to share and make their more unusual kink fantasy a reality. With fiery chemistry, their mutual desires forged a fateful connection even they couldn't ignore.I really enjoyed this, it was a very different bdsm dynamic, although to be honest I didn’t completely understand if by the end it was still classed as a kink and not just a life choice as they were a couple by then. I look forward to reading more from Shane Starrett and Black Light.4.25 starsRead via KU

This was a story of an unusual rare kinkThe fiery chemistry between this couple so very dominant in character outside the BDSM scene/bedroomJess and Benjamin are a product of "the magic" of the roulette wheelThis was an addictive read

OMG what a brilliant continuation of Ben and Jess’ connection which started in a roulette rematch!This was an interesting and emotional second chance romance with a hefty side of science and military intrigue.Loved these characters and this story.Highly recommended.

Really glad their story became a stand alone. Not going to say anymore, no spoilers. Different and highly recommended.

Jess and Davis have their own specific Kink and ideas on a relationship. Both thought they would never find what their heart desired, but a brief interlude at Blacklight brought their Kink to light.Months later they meet again but they will deal with, mystery, misunderstandings, heat, desire, communication and a future tailor made just for them.