bfdbookblog 's review for:

On His Knees by Laura Kaye
3.0

So, my first experience with Laura Kaye was an m/m novella in the middle of one of her other series. The storyline of that series was so complex I was completely confused and had to bow out. Interestingly enough, one of the MC’s from that book plays a pretty big role in this book however, this book can be read as a standalone.

Novellas are always a challenge for me…I’m always left wanting more, I don’t like the ‘instalove’ that seems to always happen, but I usually like the lack of extraneous story and angst that sometimes come with the longer novels. Adding in the BDSM relationship, especially the type these two forge, really complicates the length of the story for me.

I was pleasantly surprised by most of this book. I’m guessing because of the length of the book, we don’t have to suffer through Jamie’s inner struggle with his newly discovered sexuality and his desires for something different from his romantic partners. He discovers his new tastes and different sexuality and just embraces it which I appreciated. Even as he discovers his submissive side, he is bold and honest, asking for exactly what he wants. Alex’s struggle – his inner debate on whether or not to start something with Jamie – also doesn’t last long. He is exactly what Jamie needs…a strong-handed Dom who is super sweet with aftercare and in everyday life.

I thought the ‘scenes’ they shared were pretty great, full of what they both needed and palpable emotions between them. My only issue with any of the scenes was when Jamie’s mouth was full, he was not instructed how to ‘safeword’ out of the scene. There should have been a bell to ring, a ball to drop, an advance discussed hand signal…something to get him out of the scene if need be.

The angst was believable which isn’t always the case in novellas. Jamie absolutely BROKE MY HEART with how he tried to get through to Alex and right his wrong. He brought me to tears and I could absolutely feel his emotions down to my soul. However, I felt completely robbed of what should have been the best parts of this book by the way the author ended this story. I’m hiding what happens as it is absolutely a huge spoiler so read at your own risk.

Spoiler I was extremely disappointed that we didn’t get to read about the proposal or get any information about it. Also, did Alex collar Jamie or did they just go for marriage? When did they discuss their future and familial desires and plans? Up until this point…basically until the epilogue…I would have said this was a 4.5 – 5-star book which is unheard of in a novella length book. However, the way this ended knocked this down to at most 3 stars but probably should be 2.5 stars.


If Ms. Kaye ever decided to write a complete novel-length m/m story, I’d definitely read it however, I don’t know if I can go for another mid-series, novella length m/m story by her.