REVIEW: Mastered by Maya Banks

In Mastered (The Enforcers #1) by Maya Banks, Businessman Drake Donovan has never been tempted to spend more than just a night or two with a woman. Ever. They all want his name, his money, his social contacts, but never the man behind the persona. So when blonde haired beauty Evangeline wandered into his club Impulse and all hell broke loose around her, Drake knew he wanted her. But he didn’t realize she would be the most sincere, loving person he’s ever had in his life. And now he will do anything in his power to protect and gain the love of his beautiful Angel.

‘For the first time in his life, he wanted to let someone in. He just prayed that when that happened, and she saw the monster he truly was, that he wouldn’t lose the precious gift staring at him as though he were her entire world.’

Evangeline Hawthorn has never dealt with a man such as Drake. His power, his arrogance, his utter gorgeousness makes her melt and renders her speechless. She knows he’s asking for her submission in all things, especially the bedroom, and while she’s new to physical romance Evangeline is so tempted to give in. But with her friends thinking she’s making a mistake and the fear of having to go back to her real life when it’s said and done, what is the right thing to do?

‘Could it really be as easy as he made it appear? That this man, this beautiful, dominant man would cherish her, pamper her, spoil her, protect her, take care of her and in return, all she had to do was obey?’

Mastered was the first novel–and an emotional roller coaster–in a new erotic series by the very talented Maya Banks. If you’re a fan of really getting into a character’s mind while going on a journey of the heart, I think Drake and Evangeline will have you intrigued.

This story spoke to me on two levels. First was the heroine and hero, Evangeline and Drake. Some may find Evangeline’s naivety and lack of self-confidence unreal but I found it refreshing. She was unsure of herself, doubted her looks and her appeal, but knew she was a loyal friend and would protect those she loved. I could relate to her very easily and did throughout the story. Drake started off all badass alpha so it was a rocky beginning, but he turned out to be such a tortured character. I won’t spoil the details, but let’s say that finding his ‘angel’ was the best thing that ever happened to him. If anyone could heal Drake, it was Evangeline.

The second thing I enjoyed about Mastered was the time we spent in Drake and Evangeline’s heads. This had a big psychological element to the plot, both with how the main characters evolved and with how they were becoming accustomed to their Dominant/submissive relationship. I really liked that progression they took and then in following along with them thinking how I would react in a similar situation. The only gripe I have is the mess Drake made at the end of this and that we have to wait until May 2016 for the conclusion of their story! 😉 I can’t wait to see how it all works out…

I think whether you are already a fan of Maya Banks or not, Mastered will catch your attention and not let go until the very final page.

Book Info:

Publication: December 29th 2015 | Berkley | The Enforcers #1

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.

Coming May 2016: The Enforcers Book II: Dominated