One Gold Heart (Dominant Cord Book 1) by Sadie Haller

Review of One Gold Heart (Dominant Cord Book 1) by Sadie Haller:


As with most people, the closest I have gotten to the BDSM genre is Fifty Shades of Grey, so this book was about 20 steps outside of my comfort zone. After talking myself in and out of it about a thousand times, I finally just dug in and started reading. Surprisingly, I really enjoyed this novella!

I struggle to understand the mindset of the Dominants and Subordinates in the BDSM world so there were a couple of spots where I was slightly uncomfortable and confused. As with most new genres, if you continue to read, the characters and the world start to make more sense. Eventually, you end up completely falling in love with our Hero, Finn Taylor. He always seems to know exactly what our damaged heroine, Mac Wallis, needs both emotionally and physically. With patience, kindness, and complete honesty he is able break down barriers that they had both built around themselves. Of course, both Finn and Mac have troubled pasts that make for some pretty heavy prejudices and miscommunications but, once walls start coming down and common ground is found, it is a quick and lovely fall to their happily ever after.

In all honesty, I've always hated novellas. I never feel like I have enough time to get to know the characters or truly immerse myself in the world. On top of that, the story always feels rushed. Conversations are stinted, and the timelines are usually shortened significantly (at times to the detriment of plot and character developments). This book was no different but I did enjoy the ride and, in fact, wished there was more. If this had been a full length novel I would have been in hog heaven!

Needless to say, this book was a new and strange world for me to step into but I'm very glad I did. Finn and Mac were captivating and I've already gone looking for the next book in the series! If you've never stepped into the BDSM world, I will tell you it's not as frightening, daunting, or awkward as I thought it would be. I was quite judgmental and this genre definitely does not deserve it. Go give it a try!!


Hero: ★★★★
Heroine: ★★★★
Plot: ★★★
Steam: ★★★★★
OVERALL RATING: ★★★★

Favorite Scene: Finn trying to get out of Mac's bed at Sully's house.

Favorite Quote: "Does something need to change, or do you just need a minute?"

Fun Fact: This is a fantastic book to break into the BDSM genre with. The "scenes" are light, and the world is explained quite well. So much fun!

***I was given a free copy from NetGalley for an honest review***