SHATTERED BONDS by Lynda Aicher

SHATTERED BONDS

(Wicked Play #7)

by Lynda Aicher

ARC Review

Released: September 15, 2014

My rating: 4 of 5 ⭐️

"Will the doors of The Den close forever?

When the lives and friendships of The Den owners are thrown into chaos, Noah Bakker steps in to deal with the fallout. He hasn’t had a sub or participated in a Scene since tragedy changed his life four years ago. But as an investor in the exclusive BDSM club, he can’t walk away from the lifestyle completely. As he works to keep the club running, he finds himself drawn to Liv Delcour, the seemingly naïve sister of one of the other owners.

Liv didn’t know about the naughty things her friends were up to behind closed doors, but when their secrets become headline news, she’s more curious than shocked. As she works with Noah to keep the media at bay, she finds that his dominant strength is more than a little arousing. Soon they’re exploring their mutual desires in the most wicked ways.

Liv isn’t sure if she can completely submit to Noah the way she thinks he wants her to—and Noah isn’t sure he can withstand the pain of falling in love…"

******

An impressive conclusion to a series that had me anticipating each new installment!

In SHATTERED BONDS, Lynda Aicher has put the spotlight on Noah Bakker, part owner of The Den - and Liv Delcour, the rather innocent sister of one of his partners. However, the full scope of the story encompasses all of the The Den clan. Every one of the main characters we have seen before, plays a role in this final episode of the series, bringing it to an at times heartwrenching conclusion.

As part owner, but also the one responsible for all legal matters regarding the club, Noah carries a stiff load on his shoulders. It isn't the only burden he carries, and it is almost as if he punishes himself with the weight. Very controlled and rather aloof, Noah tends to stick to the business side of the club, no longer venturing in to play - finding little to draw him in that direction. Although Vanessa's little sister Liv certainly seems to have awakened something in him. He doesn't trust himself, though. So despite her ability to cut straight through his protective layers, he feels the need to protect her against himself.

Liv keeps herself so busy making sure everyone around her is taken care of and happy, she doesn't think too much about what would make her happy. She has silently made herself a place in the tight circle of friends that make up the core of The Den, without even realizing its significance. When she finds out, and recognizes that Noah, who has had her eye for a while, likely is a part of that lifestyle, some doubt begins to form. She isn't sure whether she would be able to handle that side of the tightly controlled man who hides such pain in his eyes.

The book starts with a huge shocker and had me on the edge of my seat for quite some time. In contrast the ending was relatively mild, but it didn't take away from some important messages that are projected throughout the book. Mostly dealing with acceptance, non-judgement, the beauty of love in all its forms, and many more that should be straightforward, but unfortunately aren't. 

Lynda Aicher's books have opened my eyes to a new way of looking at the many faces and expressions of love and passion. And I will miss the wonderful variety of characters and their individual preferences and personalities, that make up The Den. 

✨An explosive, passionate, gut-wrenching and fitting finale!✨

**Copy provided in return for an honest review.**