Catalyst

by S.L. Armstong and K. Piet

CCCC

Blood, pain and perfection--I dangerous mix.

Admit what is needed and accept that.

Fine advice unless it's used for rationalization.

Damn. Intensely mindfucking with the convergence of two individuals whose needs are truly a dangerous mix that needs to be handled properly. A catalyst for an uncontrolled explosion that could destroy them both. Neither Kasper nor Logan are psychotic, but their respective compulsions drive them in ways that make their combination hazardous.

Edge play is dicey at the best of times, but with a sub who won't safeword--suicidal.

"Not having limits isn't a limit."

What I loved most about this book? 

The Dom's needs and thoughts are expressed. The majority of the story is told from Logan's viewpoint. His desires, his worries, his concerns and sense of responsibility. What happens when his trust is broken?

"I hurt you more than I wanted to. Did you even think about what I might have wanted?"

So much is concentrated on the submissive's side in many stories except when it goes wrong. BDSM is a symbiotic relationship. Abuse is a parasitic one. Here the dynamics of power are explored and what happens when there isn't balance. 

This is not an entry level book and I would not recommend it to most. It deals with extremes. Elements of blood play, humiliation, intense SM, mild CBT, and sounding.

Favorite quote:

"That space is yours, Kas, and I don't need to flay your back for you to reach it."