'Willing Victim' by Cara McKenna revolves around the unconventional relationship between Laurel, a waitress, and Flynn, an underground fighter. Despite the initial hesitation due to the book's title and synopsis, readers find themselves engrossed in the dynamic between the characters. Flynn, who enjoys rough sex and enacting rape fantasies, is portrayed as a complex character with a surprising depth of kindness and honesty. Laurel, drawn to Flynn from their first encounter, embarks on a journey of exploring her desires and boundaries with him. delves into their evolving relationship, filled with explicit sexual encounters and moments of genuine tenderness.

The narrative of 'Willing Victim' is praised for its authenticity and character development, particularly in portraying Flynn as a multifaceted individual beyond his sexual preferences. The story unfolds through Laurel's perspective, offering insights into her emotional journey and the complexities of their interactions. Despite the controversial themes of BDSM and rape fantasies, the book is commended for handling these topics with sensitivity and ensuring that all intimate encounters are consensual and respectful.

Characters:

The characters are well-developed, with Laurel embodying insecurity and curiosity, while Flynn balances a tough demeanor with genuine care and complexity.

Writing/Prose:

The prose is engaging, focusing on the heroine's perspective and characterized by strong dialogue that enhances character development.

Plot/Storyline:

The narrative focuses on a waitress and a construction worker who engage in consensual non-consensual role-play, blending their dark sexual fantasies into a complex relationship.

Setting:

The setting is authentically Bostonian, presented as a vibrant backdrop that enhances the characters' experiences.

Pacing:

The pacing is quick, drawing readers in, but some feel it could benefit from a slower exploration of character relationships.

The afternoon had started out idyllic—a perfect July day in Boston, sunny with a cooling breeze, and a prime, shaded bench all to herself off the waterfront’s beaten tourist path. A pleasant escape fr...

Notes:

The book is set in Boston, which plays a significant role in the story.

Laurel is a 30-year-old waitress living in a small apartment with two roommates.

Flynn is a construction worker with a background in underground boxing.

The story explores themes of consensual non-consent (CNC) and rape fantasies.

Flynn and Laurel have a 'friends with benefits' relationship that deepens over time.

The book is written exclusively from Laurel's perspective, which enhances the reader's connection to her character.

Flynn has a strong personality, often depicted as both brusque and caring.

There are explicit and intense sexual scenes, including elements of role-play.

Laurel's character development revolves around her being drawn into Flynn's kinks and exploring her own desires.

Despite the dark themes, consent is always emphasized during their encounters.

Readers appreciated the open communication between characters to ensure mutual consent and safety.

The story's ending is somewhat ambiguous, leaving readers wanting more resolution.

The book challenges traditional romance tropes by focusing on kinks and raw emotions.

Flynn is characterized as a blue-collar worker, which is a common theme in Cara McKenna's works.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

Content warnings for consensual non-consent, explicit sexual content, and themes of emotional vulnerability are advised, given the nature of the fantasies explored.

Has Romance?

Yes, there is a significant romantic element to the story, though it intermingles with explicit themes.

explicit steam level

From The Publisher:

For the past couple years Laurel's been coasting, hiding in the backseat while her life drifts off course. Then one summer afternoon a tall, built bruiser named Flynn strides in and steers her straight into an infatuation she never saw coming. Flynn introduces Laurel to things she's never imagined before-to the violent but exciting realm of the underground boxing circuit, to rough sex and even rougher role-playing, and to an attraction she craves even as it intimidates her. As Flynn invites her deeper into his world and his life, Laurel has to make a choice-let fear keep her holed up where it's safe, or take a chance and fight for the man who makes her feel more alive than she'd dreamed possible.

Ratings (12)

Incredible (3)
Loved It (4)
Liked It (4)
It Was OK (1)

Reader Stats (40):

Read It (13)
Want To Read (22)
Not Interested (5)

What can you read after
Willing Victim?

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About the Author:

Since she began writing in 2008, Cara McKenna has published nearly forty romances and erotic novels with a variety of publishers, sometimes under the pen names Meg Maguire and C.M. McKenna. Her stories have been acclaimed for their smart, modern voice and defiance of convention. She was a 2015 RITA Award finalist, a 2014 RT Reviewers' Choice Award winner, a 2012 and 2011 RT Reviewers' Choice Award nominee, and a 2010 Golden Heart Award finalist. She lives with her husband and son in the Pacific Northwest, though she'll always be a Boston girl at heart.

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Willing Victim

Cara McKenna

Book 1 in the series:Flynn and Laurel