Review: Mastered (The Enforcers #1) by Maya Banks

Mastered (The Enforcers #1) by Maya Banks

From the #1 New York Times bestselling author of the Breathless Trilogy comes the first novel in the Enforcers series—a bold new direction in erotic romance that explores the games men and women play, and the price they’re willing to pay for pleasure.

What he wants, he takes with no remorse or guilt.

She stood out in his club like a gem, unspoiled and untouched. A lamb among wolves, she clearly didn’t belong. Drawn to her innocence he watched as she was surrounded by men who saw what he did—but no one but him could touch her. He summoned her to his private quarters. He sensed her fear. He also recognized the desire in her eyes. And he knew she wouldn’t leave before he possessed her. She had no need to know his secrets. Not until he had her under his complete and utter control.

What he wants, she isn’t sure she can give him.

The moment he told her want he wanted, she couldn’t resist. Instinct told her to run, but her heart said stay and walk the fine line between pleasure and pain. Though she wasn’t sure she could ever completely surrender, the primal part of her wanted to try, even knowing this man could break her in ways she never imagined. Because once he possessed her, he owned her and it would be too late to turn back. She can only pray that he doesn’t destroy her in the end.

4 out of 5 stars

This story was so captivating! I was completely pulled in and fascinated by this very dominating man that is Drake Donovan. An intense and erotic read!

Wow. I'm not sure how to describe all that I am feeling. The world that Drake Donovan lives in is like nothing I've experienced and I had a million questions about him and what he did. Intense and controlling doesn't even cover it! Evangeline Hawthorne is so genuinely sweet and sincere, honest to a fault and a bit naïve. Loved the dynamic of the two of them together and the relationship that was formed. It was interesting and complex, sexy, and super hot. I put me out of my comfort zone a little somehow I was still completely absorbed.

I loved getting to know all of Drake’s men. They each had such distinct personalities and it was fun to watch how they regarded Evangeline. There is so much potential for future stories and I'm excited about that. Seriously, I must know all the things about Silas, that man is a mystery. The interactions with the men created some lighter moments and they were definitely needed. Did I mention Drake was intense?!

There are a lot of ups as and downs between Evangeline and Drake. He is just so controlling and she's very prideful so it creates some issues. They both have their own growth and I enjoyed seeing it. Watching Drake get a clue at the end was so hard because the ending was KILLER. My heart was breaking and there is some insight into why Drake made certain choices but it made for a hell of a cliffhanger. Seriously gut wrenching.

This book has a slow build, it doesn't reveal all its secrets at once but pulls you in and has you turning the page. I went into this knowing that Drake and Evangeline’s story didn’t conclude with this book so I was prepared for something major at the end (and the wicked cliffhanger!). Since there is a slow build, it left me feeling like some parts were a bit drawn out but the story itself had me hooked and I just went with it! I was truly fascinated with Drake Donovan's world and the power he exuded. Bring on the next book!

Complimentary copy received for honest review.