Laid Bare

Oh, wow, is the first two words that pop into my head when I think of this ultra hot menage a trois book. It was so sexy, and, as another reviewer said, it was hardcore. And by hardcore, I mean, it was a rocking, sexual (highly sexual) good time. I loved the sexual tension between the characters, too. All in all, if you are looking for some hot action erotica, get this one. I'd recommend it along with Male/Female/Male and Romantic Hedonism: Two Erotic Novels.

I loved this book for its brutal honesty. This story confronts many stereotypes from peoples prejudice against pierced and tattooed rock stars to "deviant sexuality". Dane captured the struggle many people feel about their interest in BDSM, the shame and confusion it can bring as well as showing the wonderful possibilities that can occur when it's overcome, as well as the pain of trying to stifle that side of yourself. She comprehends the difference between an abusive relationship and the love and trust that can come from a true partnership. This story also tackles a m/m/f menage in a situation where none of the players intended. In most m/m/f stories the men have a history of sharing, or have already determined they are looking for a female to complete them. The hesitancy and growing feelings, as well as fears and doubts of all three involved is insightful and touching. Dane also shows an amazing ability to understand the fear that can live on in someones life after a tragic life altering event. Many people do not understand true Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, and how it can affect every facet of someones life. Often people expect you to move on and don't understand how fears can live on and never be truly vanquished. I fell in love with artsy-fartsy little freak Erin, stoic and tough Todd, and arrogant and sensitive Ben. Lauren Dane did not write a story where every thing was perfect, while there is the happy ending we all love it wasn't perfect. Which is what the best writers do, because life is not perfect. There is joy and laughter as well as pain and tears.

Lauren Dane's Laid Bare was truly captivating. I have to admit to being unsure if the book would hold my interest, I am not the biggest fan of the menage. By the end of the first chapter I was in love with Erin. She was strong and she owned herself and her sexuality. She didn't shy away from who she was, it was such a wonderfully refreshing take on the female character and I couldn't get enough of her. Todd fought who he was, but eventually he accepted it and grew into male character that was fun to read and a great counterpart to Erin. These are not ready made characters who could slip into any story, these are characters you can see and feel. I liked the progression of the story and I enjoyed the plot. The story moved just quickly enough to keep you interested and the book was long enough that the plot and characters where fully developed and you did NOT feel cheated when the story came to a close. When Ben was introduced, I was skeptical as to how Ms. Dane would weave his character in with the other two. But he was worked in wonderfully and the relationship between all three characters felt very real. They learned to be together rather then just "knowing" how to be together, when Todd had always believed himself to be straight. They had to deal with the very real issues any relationship faces, not just their alternative relationship. Although the main focus of the plot is on the relationship between Erin, Ben and Todd, there was just enough action to keep you turning the page! The sex was in a word mind-blowing! I have never been so turned on by a male/female/male threesome before and I highly doubt I will be again. Ms. Dane ruined me for other authors. Laid Bare will tug your heart strings, it will make you cry, it will turn you on and sometimes it will break your heart and leave you completely satisfied.

Erin Brown makes no apologies for her wild, rocker appearance or her devil may care attitude. She loves making music and the magical feeling she gets just by stepping onto a stage. If the group never makes it beyond small, local rock clubs she'd still be happy. She's free-spirited with a love for life and a passion for neighbor Todd that can't be denied. Todd Keenan is equally attracted to Erin but she's not even remotely the type of woman he'd normally go for - besides they're worlds apart. He's a cop and likes country music; she's a rocker with tattoos. He has no doubt the sex between them would be explosive but doesn't believe they have anything more substantial that could bring them together. Erin and Todd come together with a passion so intense that it seems like nothing could come between them. However, their differences prove to be too much to overcome and they go their separate ways and travel down different life paths. It's been ten years since Erin and Todd last saw each other and he's forced to admit that he made a mistake breaking things off with Erin. The feelings between them are as strong as ever but Erin's suffered a personal tragedy and has erected a self protective barrier to protect herself from more heartache. Todd is determined to win Erin's trust - along with her heart, but is he prepared for everything that being with Erin will entail? Erin's never been one to live life according to what society deems acceptable so her Dom/sub relationship with Todd doesn't faze her a bit. However, when Todd's best friend, Ben, is welcomed into their bed they embark on a relationship which none of them is willing to attempt to define but all find mutually satisfying. Lauren Dane's LAID BARE is a uniquely satisfying read that touches the reader's heart through the characters plights. Erin's appearance is outlandish but that's definitely part of her charm. Todd is your typical clean cut man who's trying to fit into what's expected of him, but he enjoys being dominant with his sexual partner and isn't comfortable with this side of himself at first. Erin's tragedy broke my heart and left me with tears in my eyes but at the same time you can see the strength and determination that she possesses. What I especially love about LAID BARE is how Ms. Dane brings each character to life with distinctive personalities and problems yet she's able to mesh them so that you can care about them as individuals. LAID BARE is a fantastic read on many different levels but it's the way the story speaks to your heart that cements it as a `must read' title. COMING UNDONE, the sequel to LAID BARE, is due for release in January 2010. I can hardly wait to find out what happens next and which characters will be involved. I have to confess I adored them all but I'm really hoping for a story for Brody, Erin's older brother and a tattoo artist, and his on-again-off-again girlfriend Raven. Chrissy Dionne (courtesy of Romance Junkies)