Norris's friend Kendra came back from an exclusive invitation-only spa so slim and motivated that Norris convinced her to provide a referral. Kendra had had to wait for six months before her slot came through, but due to a cancellation, Norris had gotten her invitation in only weeks. She had misgivings about the contract, and nearly didn't sign up because of the discipline and non-disclosure clauses. But the director had prevailed and Norris had been escorted to her room; it wasn't until she was sitting on a stool in a darkened room and heard her male trainer's voice that she realized she was in for more than she had anticipated.

Norris had expected a regular spa atmosphere. She had expected the kind of amenities for which spas this exclusive were famous. But all that was in her bathroom was toothpaste--no sign of the signature toiletries she had reason to expect. She was a successful businesswoman, accustomed to having people obey her, accustomed to successfully negotiating deals with clients. She was a powerful woman in her venue--just overweight and, while accustomed to being in charge, was "undisciplined" and found it made her uneasy to give up control. When her trainer, Adrian, made her undress, she complained and tried to switch to another trainer; she was given the option to leave. He promised her discipline for failure and rewards for success. He promised her sex.

Adrian keeps Norris off balance; the two of them are sexually attuned, compelled with a deep attraction that Adrian stokes with his masterful treatment. Could what is between them be more than just the relationship between trainer and trainee? Ms. Hamre does an excellent job in showing Norris's development from who she was, through her trials to who she will be, as well as showing Adrian's torment. We are in Norris's point of view the entire story, and yet Ms. Hamre manages to present Adrian as a rounded, complete and sympathetic character. The story contains really hot erotica, details of a developing D/s relationship, bondage and sexual practices some might find objectionable, but that is one of the very reasons why SWEET DISCIPLINE is not only a scorching read but also one that is riveting and entertaining. This is no vanilla fairy tale. You may guess by my name that I find the power exchange is more potent than a vanilla story any day. Definite kudos to Bonnie Hamre, and I am wishing her a long career at Ellora's Cave and waiting impatiently for her next release.

Reviewed By: Maitresse
© Sept 2004