Unwound (The Mastered Series)

"Unwound" is part 2 in Lorelei James "The Mastered " series duet. Before tackling this excellent erotic romance novel I strongly suggest you read book #1, "Bound." Otherwise you will be lost in this storyline . "In "Bound" the author weaves the tale of Ronin Black and Amery Hardwick. Sexual tension during a class in Sensei Ronin's dojo, "Black Arts," draws these two together. A series of events bind them to one another in more ways than one. Amery falls under Ronin's sensual and emotional spell. He is strong, exotic, lethal at his art. He is everything sexy on the outside and a total enigma, a paradox, on the inside - very intense. And Ronin finds himself deeply in love with Amery. She is a talented, smart, self-sufficient woman... and beautiful, of course . There is also a rebellious part of Amery that desires to be bold, free to explore her sexual desires without the guilt. These lovers, however, are unable to communicate their feelings to one another. While she bares her soul to him and accepts his darker side, Ronin holds his past close to his chest. **Spoiler Alert: At the conclusion of "Bound," Amery learns who Ronin really is and breaks off with him for what she believes are lies of omission on his part. Ronin, unused to experiencing such strong feelings for a woman is almost undone by his loss. As "Unwound" opens we find that Ronin's anger issues have skyrocketed after Amery leaves him. He returns to fighting in the ring; punishing himself in order to alleviate his guilt over his part in losing Amery. One fight leaves him severely damaged and he makes his way, unconsciously (psychologically), to Amery for help. Ronin's vunerability leads towards forgiveness on Amery's part. There is a lot of intimacy building in this novel: the rebuilding of trust. While there is a bit less obvious sex here, there is more sensuality and a much more complex storyline. I really felt the connection and chemistry between our lovers. As in "Bound" I enjoyed learning about shibari and kinbaku binding. Shibari refers to purely artistic, aesthetic rope, whilst kinbaku refers to the artistic, connective, sensual, sexual practice as a whole. I looked up this art form and found the images to be erotic, a true art form, without the usual S&M connotations. While I really enjoyed the well written "Bound, I think "Unwound" is the better novel. As noted above, "Bound" is more explicitly sexual in nature, but the characters are not as complex as they are in this book. Ronin is closed off emotionally. "Unwound," reveals Ronin's point of view. He gives us all the passion, sensuality and emotional vulnerability which is lacking in book #1. "Unwound" offers more witty dialogue, character development, and humor than its predecessor. I felt a real connection with our protagonists and that made all the difference when reading this installment. There are also plots and sub-plots here, much more so than in the typical erotic romance. And new characters are introduced. I have not read an erotic novel for some time and have never read any of the author's other books. "Bound" & "Unwound" are certainly different in the erotic romance genre - well worth the read. These books are exceptionally well written and the descriptive passages are quite sensual. The characters are fairly complex and their relationship is very intimate, not only sexually but emotionally. Obviously there are some steamy scenes, a wide variety of them. I really enjoyed both novels, especially the more complex "Unwound." JANA

Bound was a great story-all about Amery and Ronin getting to know and trust each other. Until he betrayed her trust with his secrets. Spoiler coming... I thought Amery was too quick to forgive him and resume their relationship. Ronin's sister stays in town and Naomi shows up, straining an already fragile truce. There is less focus on the couple and more on their businesses, but overall still an enjoyable read.

AMAZING! 5++++ stars The conclusion to Amery and Ronin's HEA exceeded my expectations. Breakups are never easy, especially when you know the couple should be together, THEY just may not know it yet. All the emotions came out in the writing, and I felt every bit of pain that Ronin felt until he was able to win her back......then, the feeling of elation when it all worked out. I could NOT put this book down until I knew all was going to be all right in their world. The story moved along at a steady pace and being as the first book was about them, you might think there wouldn't be enough of story left to tell. WRONG! There was plenty left and the side stories of the business as well as bringing in Ronin's family were an added bonus, and helped tie it all together for a gratifying ending. Ronin and Amery have to be one of my all-time favorite couples. If other books in the series are written, and they should be, I hope we can get a glimpse of what is happening with them. I will be sorely disappointed if we are not gifted with other books in the series because the supporting characters need their stories told. I would love to read a story about his sister and Knox. :) I've seen this series characterized as BDSM. I mean, there is bondage, but it's more of an art form, not just tying someone up. The descriptions are so sensual and beautifully written, it's really unlike anything else out there. Some aspects of BDSM do not appeal to me but I find myself drawn to and curious about this type of bondage. The stellar writing, interesting story, likable characters, toe curling sex, and made for TV dialog are reasons enough to give this series a try. I highly recommend.

This is the continuing story of Amery and Ronin. You MUST read the first book, Bound, in this series. Delving further into their relationship, their past, and their families. Any questions you may have had are answered in this second book of The Mastered Series. I feel privileged to be able to witness the love and erotic sensuality between these two. This book is not about BDSM. It is about Shibari and Kinbaku, Japanese rope bondage. It is an art form and when performed by Master Black, it's indescribable. I have read a lot of books and many different series. This series is definitely in my top 10 and maybe even in my top 5! Ms. James writes with such detail. As you're reading, the words are playing like a movie in your mind. This was not a cliff hanger but a book that leaves room for more characters to have their stories told. We can only hope! Master Black, Sensei, Sir, I definitely look forward to visiting your dojo again...SOON!

You just can't start a book by Lorelei James and not finish it in on go, they are so hard to put down. The story of how Ronin and Amery work out their story is just amazing.

Ronin Black, Sensei, rope master, MMA champion it is all the same man to Amery. Having decided his own penance Black finds his nurse Amery a very cute distraction. Enter left the ex Naomi who has more than a hidden agenda, she sends a poison package to Amery's parents who predictably round on her in a religious bigoted manner. Add in Ronin's sister and mother ...... go read it, seriously good

Another hit for miss Lorelei James!!! This series has been amazing! Its upbeat, fast-paced, lovable characters and sexy as hell! Great job!

Again, I was biting at the bit waiting to hear more about Ronin & Amery :) I loved the first book Bound and loved the second equally. They are by far my favourite books ever written. I love the connection these two have from start to end, and it keeps you wanting more & more, well done Lorelei James :) you deserve every bit of credit you get.

It was a good series really enjoyed the dynamtics of Ronin and Amery. Hope she writes more novels . I reality enjoy all her books and look forward to reading more.