I admit that in terms of reading BDSM romance, I am prejudiced toward an emphasis in the development of relationships. This particular story seems to focus--at least as far as I can tell--on Annette's relationship with her own self. This, I am told by a couple of Doms I know, is not an unusual circumstance. Perhaps because I had such trouble identifying with the main character My Pet wasn't my cup of tea. I also find the title misleading, because it sounds as if the story is written by the "pet" owner or in his voice. It isn't.

My Pet begins in a chat room, where Annette Ryder meets Paul, a Dom who trains dozens of slaves at a time and who becomes the online Dom to take on Annette's training. During her training Annette satisfies a succession of gradually more adventurous demands, including flashing, masturbation, exhibitionism, and the seduction and physical manipulation of strangers. Photographs (which fortunately we are spared seeing) sent to Master Paul verify all of this. Her boundaries are constantly pushed until finally Annette visits her Master for a weekend.

My Pet is Annette Ryder's journey from online pet to a slave sold at auction. Graphic sequences of escalating sexual behaviors make up the main body of the work. It is particularly for you if you're interested in BDSM and exhibitionism, and if the word "slut" does not send up warning signals in your head. My Pet is not a fantasy for everyone--here you will find sexual gymnastics in lieu of "romance."

It is notable that the Dom really did not protect her at all, but only provided lip service. He literally sent her out into the world vulnerable and unprotected. How could he protect her when he wasn't even in the same state? He did not deserve the trust he demanded. However, if you normally enjoy J.W. McKenna, you will probably enjoy this rather self-centered and predictable fictional account of voluntary slavery.

Reviewer: Maîtresse
Copyright 2006