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The Science of Temptation #1
The Theory of Attraction
Camilla can set her watch by her hunky rocket-scientist neighbor who jogs past her window each day. She relishes each glimpse of his shirtless abs, and is dying to see more. But it's hard to connect with a man who doesn't seem to know she exists...
Ivan feels at home in the lab, not in social situations. When he finally approaches his attractive neighbor, it's not for a date—he wants tutoring in how to behave at an important fundraiser. Ivan doesn't expect the chemistry between them to be quite so explosive, and is surprised when Cami actually accepts his proposal to embark on a series of "lessons."
Cami soon discovers Ivan's schedule isn't the only thing he likes to be strict about—he needs to be charge in the bedroom as well. She's shocked at how much she comes to enjoy her submissive side, but wonders if a real relationship is in the equation...
Ivan feels at home in the lab, not in social situations. When he finally approaches his attractive neighbor, it's not for a date—he wants tutoring in how to behave at an important fundraiser. Ivan doesn't expect the chemistry between them to be quite so explosive, and is surprised when Cami actually accepts his proposal to embark on a series of "lessons."
Cami soon discovers Ivan's schedule isn't the only thing he likes to be strict about—he needs to be charge in the bedroom as well. She's shocked at how much she comes to enjoy her submissive side, but wonders if a real relationship is in the equation...
136 pages, ebook
First published July 9, 2012
119 people are currently reading
3813 people want to read
About the author
Delphine Dryden
38 books369 followersI write contemporary and erotic romance, and sometimes steampunk romance! To contact me, go to my website or find me on social media.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 566 reviews
June 14, 2012
Wow! This was a short but decidedly hot and sexy story. Ivan and Camilla are neighbours in an apartment complex near the university where they work. He is an astrophysicist with an intelligence of near genius proportions but with a social ineptitude that borders on Aspergers. Camilla, a computer script monkey at the same university, is his friend and neighbour.
He hardly seems to notice her as a woman but she’s been harbouring a secret crush on Ivan who has, innocently, been showing off his gorgeous physique by jogging topless in the oppressive Texan summer heat. He’s a man of routine, set in his ways, hyper focussed on anything he sets his mind to – Camilla can set her watch by him. Their relationship never really progresses beyond this until Ivan has a proposition for Camilla.
Ivan has an upcoming social function where he will need to charm potential donors for his faculty. He knows he doesn’t have the social skills required so he asks Camilla to help him. She takes him on thinking she can perform a Mr Darcy style transformation with her Flirting for Evil Geniuses 101 lessons. As they spend time together working on his manners and behaviour, Camilla is aware that he is starting to look at her in a way that he has never looked at her before.
It turns out that Ivan needs control in everything that he does and that includes sex and beneath that very nerdy exterior, he is a Dom of Steel!! What follows is a highly erotic, very sexy affair. It’s BDSM lite, no clubs, no edgeplay but it is still extremely hot. Camilla finds that submitting to Ivan satisfies her in ways she could never have anticipated and takes to D/s like she was born to it.
Ivan is a real revelation. He is the epitome of an eccentric but brilliant professor but he’s also very passionate and surprisingly tender. They start to develop a beautiful closeness and how does a geeky and socially inept professor tell his submissive in an email that he misses her? This is how….
Sense memories of you persist and do not seem to abate as the day progresses. It’s disconcerting, Camilla. I don’t like it when my mind plays tricks on me. I would much rather simply have you here in the flesh, to feel and taste and smell with my actual senses. Instead my mind keeps conjuring this false perception of your presence. I think it means I miss you.
Please excuse me while I melt into a submissive puddle at the feet of Professor Ivan.
I really loved Ivan. He’s completely without pretence, brutally honest, socially clueless but also a very passionate and tender man and their affair is very steamy. All that intense focus that he employs in his science is deeply erotic when it’s applied to the D/s dynamic – lucky Camilla!
This was my first novel by Delphine Dryden but it definitely won’t be my last.
I received an ARC of this book from net galley for a fair and honest review.
For more of my reviews, please visit my Sinfully Sexy Book Blog
He hardly seems to notice her as a woman but she’s been harbouring a secret crush on Ivan who has, innocently, been showing off his gorgeous physique by jogging topless in the oppressive Texan summer heat. He’s a man of routine, set in his ways, hyper focussed on anything he sets his mind to – Camilla can set her watch by him. Their relationship never really progresses beyond this until Ivan has a proposition for Camilla.
Ivan has an upcoming social function where he will need to charm potential donors for his faculty. He knows he doesn’t have the social skills required so he asks Camilla to help him. She takes him on thinking she can perform a Mr Darcy style transformation with her Flirting for Evil Geniuses 101 lessons. As they spend time together working on his manners and behaviour, Camilla is aware that he is starting to look at her in a way that he has never looked at her before.
It turns out that Ivan needs control in everything that he does and that includes sex and beneath that very nerdy exterior, he is a Dom of Steel!! What follows is a highly erotic, very sexy affair. It’s BDSM lite, no clubs, no edgeplay but it is still extremely hot. Camilla finds that submitting to Ivan satisfies her in ways she could never have anticipated and takes to D/s like she was born to it.
Ivan is a real revelation. He is the epitome of an eccentric but brilliant professor but he’s also very passionate and surprisingly tender. They start to develop a beautiful closeness and how does a geeky and socially inept professor tell his submissive in an email that he misses her? This is how….
Sense memories of you persist and do not seem to abate as the day progresses. It’s disconcerting, Camilla. I don’t like it when my mind plays tricks on me. I would much rather simply have you here in the flesh, to feel and taste and smell with my actual senses. Instead my mind keeps conjuring this false perception of your presence. I think it means I miss you.
Please excuse me while I melt into a submissive puddle at the feet of Professor Ivan.
I really loved Ivan. He’s completely without pretence, brutally honest, socially clueless but also a very passionate and tender man and their affair is very steamy. All that intense focus that he employs in his science is deeply erotic when it’s applied to the D/s dynamic – lucky Camilla!
This was my first novel by Delphine Dryden but it definitely won’t be my last.
I received an ARC of this book from net galley for a fair and honest review.
For more of my reviews, please visit my Sinfully Sexy Book Blog
October 14, 2012
This was EXACTLY what I was looking for! Why is it so hard to find BDSM books that aren't cringe-worthy? I understand (and like) having my boundaries pushed. But I still like to ENJOY my book, and I like to actually keep some lines that I won't cross. This book was perfect!
I love the nerd that is Ivan! I love how literal he is, his obsession with order, the way he needs everything to make sense to HIM. He's a control freak, and why have I never read of another Dom nerd? They have the perfect temperament...patient and quiet, with a controlling nature and the ability to make astute observations. Not to mention that Ivan isn't the pasty, paunchy nerd that normally springs to mind when I think of a science geek. No, no, no!!! This man keeps in shape, so he's a super smart and sexy alpha nerd! Whodathunk that would flip my trigger?
The story starts out explaining the relationship between Camilla and Ivan. They're acquaintances and neighbors, they both work at the same college. They know each other casually, and have hung out with the same group of friends a few times. But they grow closer when socially inept Ivan asks her to prepare him to schmooze some rich people at an upcoming fundraiser for his research. This includes taking him on social outings...like a date...where Ivan FINALLY, FINALLY realizes that Camilla seems interested in more than a casual friendship. Problem is, Ivan is a Dom. When Camilla shows an interest in trying a night as his submissive, WHEW!!! This story quickly heats up!
There is a really unexpected romance to the story. Ivan is so endearingly awkward. He voices all of his insecurities (because he doesn't know any better), and he's just a super sweet, nerdy geek of my dreams!
“Sense memories of you persist and do not seem to abate as the day progresses. It’s disconcerting, Camilla. I don’t like it when my mind plays tricks on me. I would much rather simply have you here in the flesh, to feel and taste and smell with my actual senses. Instead my mind keeps conjuring this false perception of your presence. I think it means I miss you.”
The D/s play is wonderfully done. No over the top scenes...in fact they never even go to a club. All of the fun stuff is confined to their apartments, so there is no exhibitionism or sharing, and while there is a tiny bit of name calling, it's done in such a way that for me, it wasn't demeaning. It added to the titillation and shock factor.
I loved this book! If anyone has any more recs that are similar to this style, I'm totally down, so let me know!!
I love the nerd that is Ivan! I love how literal he is, his obsession with order, the way he needs everything to make sense to HIM. He's a control freak, and why have I never read of another Dom nerd? They have the perfect temperament...patient and quiet, with a controlling nature and the ability to make astute observations. Not to mention that Ivan isn't the pasty, paunchy nerd that normally springs to mind when I think of a science geek. No, no, no!!! This man keeps in shape, so he's a super smart and sexy alpha nerd! Whodathunk that would flip my trigger?
The story starts out explaining the relationship between Camilla and Ivan. They're acquaintances and neighbors, they both work at the same college. They know each other casually, and have hung out with the same group of friends a few times. But they grow closer when socially inept Ivan asks her to prepare him to schmooze some rich people at an upcoming fundraiser for his research. This includes taking him on social outings...like a date...where Ivan FINALLY, FINALLY realizes that Camilla seems interested in more than a casual friendship. Problem is, Ivan is a Dom. When Camilla shows an interest in trying a night as his submissive, WHEW!!! This story quickly heats up!
There is a really unexpected romance to the story. Ivan is so endearingly awkward. He voices all of his insecurities (because he doesn't know any better), and he's just a super sweet, nerdy geek of my dreams!
“Sense memories of you persist and do not seem to abate as the day progresses. It’s disconcerting, Camilla. I don’t like it when my mind plays tricks on me. I would much rather simply have you here in the flesh, to feel and taste and smell with my actual senses. Instead my mind keeps conjuring this false perception of your presence. I think it means I miss you.”
The D/s play is wonderfully done. No over the top scenes...in fact they never even go to a club. All of the fun stuff is confined to their apartments, so there is no exhibitionism or sharing, and while there is a tiny bit of name calling, it's done in such a way that for me, it wasn't demeaning. It added to the titillation and shock factor.
I loved this book! If anyone has any more recs that are similar to this style, I'm totally down, so let me know!!
September 7, 2016
3.5 'Nerds are Sexy Too' Stars
Not bad! THE THEORY OF ATTRACTION is a light BDSM romance, and has a nice spin as the Dom is a socially inept scientist who struggles coping with normal social situations. He prefers a life with rules, structure and even routines. Oddly, the BDSM life is perfectly suited for him. I do wish this one had more romance in it, especially towards the end, but it was a pretty good read for some light erotica BDSM.
Ivan enlists his neighbor Camilla's help to teach him how to better socialize in group situations. If he stands a chance of earning a large grant, he will need to win over a tough group of financial donors.
What he didn't realize is that Camilla has a huge crush on him, and despite being 'just friends' she desperately wants more from him.
I enjoyed this story, but wasn't particularly blown away. Once Ivan reveals his preferred lifestyle, it doesn't take long for Camilla to be a willing submissive in training. What transpires opens both of them up to new ideas, and stretches both of them out of their comfort zones, but I didn't feel it went far enough to really satisfy this story as a romance.
I was hoping Ivan would become a bit more 'adjusted' and ready for a relationship then what transpires, which I didn't think happened. So not sure how much I bought their 'HEA'. There was a lot of talk about the club scene too, which I felt went a bit unresolved as well.
It was a cute story with some steamy BDSM kink, but it really had nothing particularly special in the romance area (if I am going to be honest). Overall, not bad.
June 13, 2012
I absolutely loved this book! It was right up my alley with it being The Big Bang Theory goes BDSM and all!!
Camilla has slight stalker tendencies towards her neighbor Ivan, the hunky rocket scientist, whom she watches like clockwork daily as he takes his jogs, works in the garden, etc. Ivan and Camilla are friends and colleagues but Cami isn’t sure Ivan even realizes she is a woman most of the time. He has rigid schedules and likes to control in his lab and environment and Cami soon realizes that this is not the only place Ivan likes control.
Ivan asks Cami for a favor, he needs her to coach him on how to interact socially with people, which btw is something Ivan is NOT good at. In your basic geek/genius way Ivan speaks his mind, doesn’t lie and doesn’t really have a filter for what comes out of his mouth. Not realizing what he says or how he says it may not be appropriate or politically correct. He asks Cami to help him with this so he can solicit money at an upcoming fundraiser for his departments research. Ok, this is where the similarity to Dr. Sheldon Cooper from The Big Bang Theory comes to a screeching halt!! Cami is trying to get Ivan’s attention showing a little cleavage or wearing short skirts, all around flirting a little, which seems to go right over Ivan’s head. But, as I said, Ivan is a freakin’ genius and does not miss much! At this point Ivan explains to Cami that she is indeed playing with fire and he would like to try an ‘experiment’ with her. Cami has no idea that Ivan is a Dom and visits BDSM clubs on a regular basis. As a matter of fact she really has no idea about BDSM at all!! Professor Ivan Reynolds changes that in a big way!!
As they begin to explore each other, very sexually I might add (Holy smokin’ hot sex!) feelings begin to develop, as you can imagine. But with Ivan being the way that he is Cami is afraid that the feelings are one sided and as much as she doesn’t want to lay her heart right out on the line she knows that Ivan won’t understand unless she is completely direct with him and just flat out asks how he feels about her. When she is hurt that he introduced her at the fundraiser as his friend, neighbor and or colleague all night and not his girlfriend she is confused and hurt. His response that she is not his girlfriend, she is his submissive breaks her heart, even though to him this means so much more. Now, that being said, this book had a lot of great quotes but this one was my favorite as I think it sums it all up…
“The thing is,” Ivan went on, his voice soft and soothing over the counterpoint of the howling wind outside, the insistent thrumming of the rain on the rooftop, “I think this is love. But I’ve never been in love before, either, so I don’t know.”
“No basis for comparison,” I concurred.
He nodded solemnly. “Nevertheless, it’s my working hypothesis.”
So as you can see this book absolutely has a HEA and I have to say I completely loved it!!
***This book was provided to me as an ARC by Netgalley
Camilla has slight stalker tendencies towards her neighbor Ivan, the hunky rocket scientist, whom she watches like clockwork daily as he takes his jogs, works in the garden, etc. Ivan and Camilla are friends and colleagues but Cami isn’t sure Ivan even realizes she is a woman most of the time. He has rigid schedules and likes to control in his lab and environment and Cami soon realizes that this is not the only place Ivan likes control.
Ivan asks Cami for a favor, he needs her to coach him on how to interact socially with people, which btw is something Ivan is NOT good at. In your basic geek/genius way Ivan speaks his mind, doesn’t lie and doesn’t really have a filter for what comes out of his mouth. Not realizing what he says or how he says it may not be appropriate or politically correct. He asks Cami to help him with this so he can solicit money at an upcoming fundraiser for his departments research. Ok, this is where the similarity to Dr. Sheldon Cooper from The Big Bang Theory comes to a screeching halt!! Cami is trying to get Ivan’s attention showing a little cleavage or wearing short skirts, all around flirting a little, which seems to go right over Ivan’s head. But, as I said, Ivan is a freakin’ genius and does not miss much! At this point Ivan explains to Cami that she is indeed playing with fire and he would like to try an ‘experiment’ with her. Cami has no idea that Ivan is a Dom and visits BDSM clubs on a regular basis. As a matter of fact she really has no idea about BDSM at all!! Professor Ivan Reynolds changes that in a big way!!
As they begin to explore each other, very sexually I might add (Holy smokin’ hot sex!) feelings begin to develop, as you can imagine. But with Ivan being the way that he is Cami is afraid that the feelings are one sided and as much as she doesn’t want to lay her heart right out on the line she knows that Ivan won’t understand unless she is completely direct with him and just flat out asks how he feels about her. When she is hurt that he introduced her at the fundraiser as his friend, neighbor and or colleague all night and not his girlfriend she is confused and hurt. His response that she is not his girlfriend, she is his submissive breaks her heart, even though to him this means so much more. Now, that being said, this book had a lot of great quotes but this one was my favorite as I think it sums it all up…
“The thing is,” Ivan went on, his voice soft and soothing over the counterpoint of the howling wind outside, the insistent thrumming of the rain on the rooftop, “I think this is love. But I’ve never been in love before, either, so I don’t know.”
“No basis for comparison,” I concurred.
He nodded solemnly. “Nevertheless, it’s my working hypothesis.”
So as you can see this book absolutely has a HEA and I have to say I completely loved it!!
***This book was provided to me as an ARC by Netgalley
January 15, 2013
I don't read much contemporary ... anything. I get bored if there isn't fantasy, honestly. Sometimes copious amounts of sex can make up for that though, and it helped that this was the perfect length for erotica (a bit over 100 pages) and that it didn't feel too short or underdeveloped.
Dryden wrote this smartly and concisely and I never felt like things dragged on or that the sex got mechanical. Both characters had their strengths and weaknesses which added a bit more realism to the story than just "hot girl and hot guy have hot sex." There were a couple of things that happened sex-wise that I didn't care for, though obviously your mileage may vary. I did think that some of the side characters were a waste of space, but that's mostly because Ivan and Camilla's story was strong enough not to need them.
I identified with Ivan, which probably seems like TMI, but I'm (mostly) talking about his introverted-ness. Definitely a rare occurrence for me to examine my own personality quirks while reading about a male rocket-scientist dominant.
I'm really glad I gave this one a chance; it's a relatively short book with a well-fleshed out couple and a story that's neither boring nor contrived. And of course you've got the wild monkey sex. Can't go wrong there. I'll be keeping an eye out for her next release, for sure.
Dryden wrote this smartly and concisely and I never felt like things dragged on or that the sex got mechanical. Both characters had their strengths and weaknesses which added a bit more realism to the story than just "hot girl and hot guy have hot sex." There were a couple of things that happened sex-wise that I didn't care for, though obviously your mileage may vary. I did think that some of the side characters were a waste of space, but that's mostly because Ivan and Camilla's story was strong enough not to need them.
I identified with Ivan, which probably seems like TMI, but I'm (mostly) talking about his introverted-ness. Definitely a rare occurrence for me to examine my own personality quirks while reading about a male rocket-scientist dominant.
I'm really glad I gave this one a chance; it's a relatively short book with a well-fleshed out couple and a story that's neither boring nor contrived. And of course you've got the wild monkey sex. Can't go wrong there. I'll be keeping an eye out for her next release, for sure.
June 26, 2014
4 Geeky Good Stars! I'm HOT for teacher!
Of course I'm late to the party again, but better late than never! So much for my social inadequacies. The geek/nerd in this book, Ivan, might have trouble relating to people in a group setting, but one on one in the bedroom, he RULES! Ivan's got his moves and dirty talk down to a science. I never thought clinical commanding sex could be so HOT! Lucky for Camilla the 'Professor' is a great teacher, and he'll take no less than a 100% grade! Great couple, with off-the-charts chemistry!
Best quote in the book:
“I’ve never done this,” he whispered, seeming concerned.
“Done what?”
“Post-coital demonstrations of affection.”
Wow...be still my heart, so much better than "snuggling after sex"...who knew?!?!
Quick read, and so very scrumptious! Well on its way to being a 5 star read, but the ending fizzled out. Hopefully I'll get see these two in the next book in the series, The Seduction Hypothesis.
June 14, 2012
Dryden did something really interesting here -- created a hero who is clearly somewhere on the autism spectrum, with the accompanying literalness, rigidity, anxiety, and lack of social skills, but who's also the world's best Dom.
Camilla has been attracted to her geeky neighbor Ivan ever since she saw him respond calmly during an emergency; the hot bod he shows while running past her window -- "6:30 in the morning, out for a run each and every day" -- doesn't hurt either. When Ivan enlists her help in learning how to behave appropriately at an important social event. Camilla is happy to have the chance to get closer to him. What she discovers when she does is quite a shock -- far from the inexperienced virgin she envisioned, Ivan is an extremely adept Dom. And he has a lot to teach her, as well.
If you asked me to name three romance tropes I hate, "lessons" would be right up there. Here it works, because Camilla's instructions to Ivan about social interactions are so insightful. His lessons for her are rather more commonplace, if you read erotic romance, but still interesting and well done. (And probably super hot if you don't mind reading about pain; I'm easily unnerved by anything that involves clamps on sensitive parts.)
Whenever I read a book featuring a character with Asperger's Syndrome, I can't help but filter it through my knowledge of my son and other Aspies I know (which in this case, made me pretty uncomfortable a few times!) Ivan was generally believable to me, especially with this explanation of how BDSM was suggested to him by a therapist: "He suggested I try a venue where people were more open-minded and communicative about sex, and the roles might be a little easier to understand." Ivan approaches domination and submission in an experimental fashion -- which buttons to push to get the results you want? It's surprising, but authentic, that he has areas in which he is particularly competent.
In many ways, this was a story filled with contradictions. Camilla's narration is generally lighthearted and funny -- "Two arguing geeks were unstoppable. Three arguing geeks created an infinite argument vortex of doom that sucked time down like a black hole" -- but her feelings during the sex scenes are extraordinarily intense. Ivan is often anxious, but in his Dom role he's completely confident. The narrative doesn't always feel entirely cohesive, but it all made sense when I thought about it. And the depiction of the differences between Camilla and Ivan's Dom/sub relationship and their everyday relationship was very well drawn; Camilla quickly learns when to take on her sub role and when it's okay to drop it.
My biggest problem with the story was that it copped out in the end. Camilla has some concerns about Ivan, and they're quite reasonable:
'Will you come upstairs with me?' He seemed not just hesitant about asking, but actively uneasy, and I wasn't sure what answer he wanted to hear. I was pretty sure about the answer I wanted to give, however.
'Of course.'
His eyes shifted over to his plants. But then his fingers moved over my skin again, weaving into my hair, and he turned back to me, looking perplexed and frustrated. And like a light bulb going on over my head, I realized both the problem and the solution.
'But, Ivan, you should probably finishing taking care of your tomatoes first. And I need to deadhead a few roses. And then we can go up, okay?'
The sheer relief on his face was equally gratifying and worrisome. Gratifying to know I'd gotten it right in one shot. Worrisome to know that he was really bound by his routine, and by all the compartmentalizing he did to minimize his exposure to the unknown. Almost as though his entire life was one big coping strategy. I really wasn't quite sure how to feel about that.
At the end though, Camilla has swept all doubts under the rug; the last words of the story promise a rosy future, which pissed me off. Not that I don't believe they can be happy together, but it would have to be with the understand that Ivan has limitations which aren't going to magically go away.
Overall, this was an original and entertaining story; I might have liked it even more if it weren't for the previously mentioned clamp thing. (Shudder.)
(reviewed from e-arc provided by netGalley)
Camilla has been attracted to her geeky neighbor Ivan ever since she saw him respond calmly during an emergency; the hot bod he shows while running past her window -- "6:30 in the morning, out for a run each and every day" -- doesn't hurt either. When Ivan enlists her help in learning how to behave appropriately at an important social event. Camilla is happy to have the chance to get closer to him. What she discovers when she does is quite a shock -- far from the inexperienced virgin she envisioned, Ivan is an extremely adept Dom. And he has a lot to teach her, as well.
If you asked me to name three romance tropes I hate, "lessons" would be right up there. Here it works, because Camilla's instructions to Ivan about social interactions are so insightful. His lessons for her are rather more commonplace, if you read erotic romance, but still interesting and well done. (And probably super hot if you don't mind reading about pain; I'm easily unnerved by anything that involves clamps on sensitive parts.)
Whenever I read a book featuring a character with Asperger's Syndrome, I can't help but filter it through my knowledge of my son and other Aspies I know (which in this case, made me pretty uncomfortable a few times!) Ivan was generally believable to me, especially with this explanation of how BDSM was suggested to him by a therapist: "He suggested I try a venue where people were more open-minded and communicative about sex, and the roles might be a little easier to understand." Ivan approaches domination and submission in an experimental fashion -- which buttons to push to get the results you want? It's surprising, but authentic, that he has areas in which he is particularly competent.
In many ways, this was a story filled with contradictions. Camilla's narration is generally lighthearted and funny -- "Two arguing geeks were unstoppable. Three arguing geeks created an infinite argument vortex of doom that sucked time down like a black hole" -- but her feelings during the sex scenes are extraordinarily intense. Ivan is often anxious, but in his Dom role he's completely confident. The narrative doesn't always feel entirely cohesive, but it all made sense when I thought about it. And the depiction of the differences between Camilla and Ivan's Dom/sub relationship and their everyday relationship was very well drawn; Camilla quickly learns when to take on her sub role and when it's okay to drop it.
My biggest problem with the story was that it copped out in the end. Camilla has some concerns about Ivan, and they're quite reasonable:
'Will you come upstairs with me?' He seemed not just hesitant about asking, but actively uneasy, and I wasn't sure what answer he wanted to hear. I was pretty sure about the answer I wanted to give, however.
'Of course.'
His eyes shifted over to his plants. But then his fingers moved over my skin again, weaving into my hair, and he turned back to me, looking perplexed and frustrated. And like a light bulb going on over my head, I realized both the problem and the solution.
'But, Ivan, you should probably finishing taking care of your tomatoes first. And I need to deadhead a few roses. And then we can go up, okay?'
The sheer relief on his face was equally gratifying and worrisome. Gratifying to know I'd gotten it right in one shot. Worrisome to know that he was really bound by his routine, and by all the compartmentalizing he did to minimize his exposure to the unknown. Almost as though his entire life was one big coping strategy. I really wasn't quite sure how to feel about that.
At the end though, Camilla has swept all doubts under the rug; the last words of the story promise a rosy future, which pissed me off. Not that I don't believe they can be happy together, but it would have to be with the understand that Ivan has limitations which aren't going to magically go away.
Overall, this was an original and entertaining story; I might have liked it even more if it weren't for the previously mentioned clamp thing. (Shudder.)
(reviewed from e-arc provided by netGalley)
August 26, 2016
Amazon freebie! http://www.amazon.com/Theory-Attracti...
What a great spin on a BDSM novel! It would be 4.5 stars had I not envisioned Sheldon Cooper for at least half the book.
Ivan is a post-doc astro-physicist, so analytical and structured he has difficulty with friendships...or any human interaction at all...can we say SHELDON? When he has an important fund-raiser to attend to raise money for his research, he's afraid his lack of social skills will ensure failure. He's freaking out a bit.
Neighbor and probably only friend to Ivan, Camille, knows every aspect of Ivan's schedule. He's as structured as they come. But ever since she set eyes on him jogging shirtless, she's had more than just "friendly" thoughts. Can we say HOT NERD?
(thanks Nicole)
What I didn't brace for is Ivan in the bedroom! When Cami agrees to instruct Ivan on all things human interaction, their instructive dates turn more...personal.
Can their friendship turned physical withstand?
I mean, seriously, Dominant Ivan? I couldn't believe it! I went from frigid to smoking hot!
So if you want a great spin on BDSM where a quirky nerd turns hot Dom in the sack, this one delivers! Who would've thunk?
What a great spin on a BDSM novel! It would be 4.5 stars had I not envisioned Sheldon Cooper for at least half the book.
Ivan is a post-doc astro-physicist, so analytical and structured he has difficulty with friendships...or any human interaction at all...can we say SHELDON? When he has an important fund-raiser to attend to raise money for his research, he's afraid his lack of social skills will ensure failure. He's freaking out a bit.
Neighbor and probably only friend to Ivan, Camille, knows every aspect of Ivan's schedule. He's as structured as they come. But ever since she set eyes on him jogging shirtless, she's had more than just "friendly" thoughts. Can we say HOT NERD?
(thanks Nicole)What I didn't brace for is Ivan in the bedroom! When Cami agrees to instruct Ivan on all things human interaction, their instructive dates turn more...personal.
Can their friendship turned physical withstand?
I mean, seriously, Dominant Ivan? I couldn't believe it! I went from frigid to smoking hot!
So if you want a great spin on BDSM where a quirky nerd turns hot Dom in the sack, this one delivers! Who would've thunk?
June 24, 2012
The Theory of Attraction by Delphine Dryden
Print Length: 121 pages
Read: 6/22/2012
Heat Factor: 5/5 – Smoldering-Hot Love Scenes/BDSM
My Rating: 4/5
I received this eArc courtesy of Netgalley/Carina Press
Expected Release Date: 7/9/2012
Ivan is a geek in most every way. Routine in his life is a must and while he is brilliantly smart his social skills are lacking. With an important fundraiser looming ahead, he asked his friend Camilla to help “socialize” him. He needed her to show him how to interact with other professionals in his field and make them want to donate huge sums of money to the university where he works and fund his department’s research.
My thanks to Netgalley and Carina Press for providing me with a copy of this eBook in exchange for an honest review.
Print Length: 121 pages
Read: 6/22/2012
Heat Factor: 5/5 – Smoldering-Hot Love Scenes/BDSM
My Rating: 4/5
I received this eArc courtesy of Netgalley/Carina Press
Expected Release Date: 7/9/2012
A Red-Hot, Sexy Read!Camilla is totally surrounded by astrophysicists and computer scientists in her townhouse complex but there is one who is her own personal eye candy, Dr. Ivan Reynolds. This sexy as sin rocket scientist jogs each day and with the heat wave Houston is experiencing, Camilla certainly appreciates catching glimpses of him shirtless and lusting after those perfect six-pack abs! She shouldn’t have been surprised to find this beautiful man also had such a stunning body!
Ivan is a geek in most every way. Routine in his life is a must and while he is brilliantly smart his social skills are lacking. With an important fundraiser looming ahead, he asked his friend Camilla to help “socialize” him. He needed her to show him how to interact with other professionals in his field and make them want to donate huge sums of money to the university where he works and fund his department’s research.
While not stated it seems evident that Ivan is possibly borderline autistic. Ms. Dryden handled this matter with caring and sensitivity giving us an interesting and appealing hero who may be somewhat lacking in charm but utterly drips with sensuality! And while there were a few minor things I wished had been different they did not distract from my overall enjoyment. This is such a sexy, fun read and I completely fell in love with Ivan Reynolds.Realizing this would allow them to spend more time together, Cami agrees. And while she is coaching Ivan in socialization, he is teaching her things she had no idea her geeky sexual friend knew anything about.
…. “You know how I was assuming he had no experience with sex?”…. “I could not have been more wrong about that. And last night I learned a thing or two. Or five. Dozen. Because he schooled me. He schooled me good.
“Libidinous Basket Case” pretty much sums up Camilla’s state from this point on! As Ivan takes her into his world of Dom/Sub the pages nearly burn from the heat. The story is well-written and while it’s loaded with hot, sexy love scenes, there’s also a sweet tenderness that leaves Camilla feeling “valued beyond measure” and cherished. I also enjoyed the humor as well as the dynamics between these two.This is my first read by this author but it won’t be my last! The Theory of Attraction is the near perfect mix of blazing heat and sweet romance with a super sexy nerd hero that I adore and a heroine that is his perfect match!
My thanks to Netgalley and Carina Press for providing me with a copy of this eBook in exchange for an honest review.
July 23, 2012
I expected a geek hero, but here it’s clear the hero has Asperger’s syndrome although it’s never mentioned (we get only heroine’s pov). My curiosity kept me glued as I wondered how a love story between such a hero and a heroine clueless about bdsm would turn out –and I really liked it, which was a surprise because I prefer the guy chasing the girl in my romances. The heroine loves him despite his flaws which made me believe in their HEA. I also liked author’s writing, light and often funny.
HERO is a Performer, a brilliant scientist with AS, rigid, literal, he maintains control with an inflexible schedule and by being a Dom. He asks his neighbor to coach him in social skills for a project and tries to wipe her attraction to him by showing her his Dom side, but instead finds himself emotionally involved for the first time.
SCENES/CONTENT: several/bdsm
GENRE/TONE: contemporary/light
LENGTH: 134 pages
HERO is a Performer, a brilliant scientist with AS, rigid, literal, he maintains control with an inflexible schedule and by being a Dom. He asks his neighbor to coach him in social skills for a project and tries to wipe her attraction to him by showing her his Dom side, but instead finds himself emotionally involved for the first time.
SCENES/CONTENT: several/bdsm
GENRE/TONE: contemporary/light
LENGTH: 134 pages
October 30, 2012
The Theory of Attraction
Favorite Lines - "oh, holy fuck. In the national geographic movie of my twisted mind, the lion had just leaped on the Gazelle, pinned it to the ground and mounted it from behind."
I will let you all in on a little secret, i used to be a computer geek and because of this i have a soft spot for nerds. I think this really helped me like Ivan as he did come across pretty odd at times (as the author meant him too) apart from that i did find him adorable in a lost puppy kind of way.
The story was basically about Ivan teaching & introducing Camilla into BDSM, Ivan being the dom & Cam being the sub. The sex between them was hot & kinky, i enjoyed reading it. The story was ok, a bit artificial feeling at times but i did enjoy it & i was satisfied with the ending.
I really liked Camilla & felt surprisingly connected to her within a short time. She had some amusing thoughts/dialog which made me laugh out loud.
Click here for my book review blog!
Favorite Lines - "oh, holy fuck. In the national geographic movie of my twisted mind, the lion had just leaped on the Gazelle, pinned it to the ground and mounted it from behind."
I will let you all in on a little secret, i used to be a computer geek and because of this i have a soft spot for nerds. I think this really helped me like Ivan as he did come across pretty odd at times (as the author meant him too) apart from that i did find him adorable in a lost puppy kind of way.
The story was basically about Ivan teaching & introducing Camilla into BDSM, Ivan being the dom & Cam being the sub. The sex between them was hot & kinky, i enjoyed reading it. The story was ok, a bit artificial feeling at times but i did enjoy it & i was satisfied with the ending.
I really liked Camilla & felt surprisingly connected to her within a short time. She had some amusing thoughts/dialog which made me laugh out loud.
Click here for my book review blog!
May 5, 2015
4.5 Nerdy Sexy Stars
Combine Sheldon in Bing Bang Theory, Ian MacKenzie in The Madness of Lord Ian MacKenzie och Christian Gray in Fifty and it miraculously works wonders! I adored Ian and Camilla and chuckled multiple times over this little gem.
Combine Sheldon in Bing Bang Theory, Ian MacKenzie in The Madness of Lord Ian MacKenzie och Christian Gray in Fifty and it miraculously works wonders! I adored Ian and Camilla and chuckled multiple times over this little gem.
December 10, 2013
12/10/2013: Free on Kindle!
3.75 Stars - Originally reviewed at Risque Reviews
Erotic Dominance-and-submission power plays meets Big Bang Theory in Delphine Dryden's eminently entertaining The Theory of Attraction. Begin with a hero that’s different from the norm, sexy at times, and has geeky conversations--an intriguing hero who was so strict in his schedule and needs, and more than slightly a nerd. Add in BDSM, and you’ve got something I couldn’t resist. Ms. Dryden delivered one hell of a great story! Yes, this was everything I could have hoped for.
Ivan reminded me quite a bit of Sheldon (from Big Bang Theory) in his need for a set schedule and his social ineptitude, but without the skinny physique. Brains and the delicious muscles are what Camilla is so drawn to as she watches him head out each morning for his run. The great thing about Ivan is that he is really well developed, with a ton of quirks, insecurities in some areas, strength and confidence in others, and an extremely straight-forward way that demanded the same from Camilla. He seems to be on the borderline of being able to be diagnosed with Aspergers, and I think the Ms. Dryden did a fantastic job of portraying this.
After being neighbors for a little over a year Camilla went from being ambivalent towards Ivan to lusting after him pretty strongly. Her PhD in social anthropology eventually led to working at a University writing computer scripts and living in a complex that houses most of the other PhDs from the University, and Camilla is at ease in her environment--even though, socially, she tends to fall on the fringes of it. I loved Camilla’s ability to feel at ease in nearly any situation, with anybody.
While Ms. Dryden's story is generally labeled as ‘erotic’ romance, due to the BDSM, I feel like it was actually fairly tame in that respect. The sex scenes mattered – a lot – to the development of the relationship, which is something I really appreciate in a story. The BDSM is mostly about dominance and submission with some spanking and flogging thrown in, creating some incredibly sexy times. I also really enjoyed the way they worked the D/s into their lives, and the fact that they both clearly respected each other helped with that. A great surprise bonus was the sometimes subtle jokes layered into the dialogue and Camilla’s thoughts. More than once I started grinning and chuckling while reading The Theory of Attraction, laughing right along with Camilla at the absurdity of certain situations.
Written entirely in Camilla’s first-person point-of-view can often present some challenges in developing the romance. These are challenges that Ms. Dryden deftly tackles. Throughout the book I was right there rooting for these two to get together and for things to work between them. There were a couple of word choices throughout the book that pulled me out of the story, and the ending felt slightly abrupt--tied up a bit too neatly. Ultimately, The Theory of Attraction was a fun, quick, sexy read that entertained me greatly.
3.75 Stars - Originally reviewed at Risque Reviews
Erotic Dominance-and-submission power plays meets Big Bang Theory in Delphine Dryden's eminently entertaining The Theory of Attraction. Begin with a hero that’s different from the norm, sexy at times, and has geeky conversations--an intriguing hero who was so strict in his schedule and needs, and more than slightly a nerd. Add in BDSM, and you’ve got something I couldn’t resist. Ms. Dryden delivered one hell of a great story! Yes, this was everything I could have hoped for.
Ivan reminded me quite a bit of Sheldon (from Big Bang Theory) in his need for a set schedule and his social ineptitude, but without the skinny physique. Brains and the delicious muscles are what Camilla is so drawn to as she watches him head out each morning for his run. The great thing about Ivan is that he is really well developed, with a ton of quirks, insecurities in some areas, strength and confidence in others, and an extremely straight-forward way that demanded the same from Camilla. He seems to be on the borderline of being able to be diagnosed with Aspergers, and I think the Ms. Dryden did a fantastic job of portraying this.
After being neighbors for a little over a year Camilla went from being ambivalent towards Ivan to lusting after him pretty strongly. Her PhD in social anthropology eventually led to working at a University writing computer scripts and living in a complex that houses most of the other PhDs from the University, and Camilla is at ease in her environment--even though, socially, she tends to fall on the fringes of it. I loved Camilla’s ability to feel at ease in nearly any situation, with anybody.
While Ms. Dryden's story is generally labeled as ‘erotic’ romance, due to the BDSM, I feel like it was actually fairly tame in that respect. The sex scenes mattered – a lot – to the development of the relationship, which is something I really appreciate in a story. The BDSM is mostly about dominance and submission with some spanking and flogging thrown in, creating some incredibly sexy times. I also really enjoyed the way they worked the D/s into their lives, and the fact that they both clearly respected each other helped with that. A great surprise bonus was the sometimes subtle jokes layered into the dialogue and Camilla’s thoughts. More than once I started grinning and chuckling while reading The Theory of Attraction, laughing right along with Camilla at the absurdity of certain situations.
Written entirely in Camilla’s first-person point-of-view can often present some challenges in developing the romance. These are challenges that Ms. Dryden deftly tackles. Throughout the book I was right there rooting for these two to get together and for things to work between them. There were a couple of word choices throughout the book that pulled me out of the story, and the ending felt slightly abrupt--tied up a bit too neatly. Ultimately, The Theory of Attraction was a fun, quick, sexy read that entertained me greatly.
March 13, 2015
Theory of Attraction is the story of how Ivan and Camilla, two people who have been neighbours for the past two or more years, fall in love. Ivan is a professor of astrophysics at Houston University and a complete geek. Camilla who's studied social anthropology, accepts the task of preparing Ivan for a big fund-raising event that will help Ivan secure his tenure, as Ivan on his own is completely inept socially. Camilla has been drawn to Ivan for a long time, ever since she noticed him running without his shirt in front of her window, but has Ivan noticed Camilla as well? And if he is interested in her, can Camilla accept to follow his orders in the bedroom, since Ivan is a Dom?
Ivan at first seems a lot like Sheldon from Big Bang Theory: always speaks what's in his mind regardless of how rude it can be, doesn't know the rules of socializing, indulges in video games and long nerdy discussions and most of all, follows his own strict daily schedule to the minute. I'm nottoo ashamed to admit that I find Sheldon kind of sexy; add a fantastic body and a handsome face to his personality, and you have a very hot hero in Ivan:)
What kind of annoyed me is that Ivan of the second part, where his 'lessons' with Cami begin, is a different person: he's confident, self-assured, and mostly, not too obtuse and unable to keep his mouth shut or speak rudely as Ivan of the first half. For example, he knows that Camilla is trying to get his attention with her sexy dresses, but says nothing of it and pretends to ignore her until provoked, where he proves he's not as clueless as she (or the reader) thought. This and the fact that we don't get to know Camilla as a person besides her infatuation with Ivan, are the only two things I didn't appreciate in this book.
Now, to the good stuff: The writing was excellent! Sparkling with wit and humour, it was a true delight to read. The sex scenes were hot, hot, HOT and the fact that we have a heat wave right now, caused me to read this with the air-conditioning on all the time:) The sexual tension between Ivan and Camilla was palpable, their encounters emotional as well as steamy, and Ivan as a Dom managed to be both tender and sexy at the same time. Another unique thing about this book, is that although it belongs more to the erotica rather than the contemporary romance shelf, we get to know the hero and heroine and see their flirting turn into something more, instead of jumping right into a sex scene by the end of chapter one. In short, The Theory of Attraction is one of the best romances I've read this summer and I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a steamy and still light and well written book that just barely touches the basic BDSM aspects.
ARC provided by NetGalley
Ivan at first seems a lot like Sheldon from Big Bang Theory: always speaks what's in his mind regardless of how rude it can be, doesn't know the rules of socializing, indulges in video games and long nerdy discussions and most of all, follows his own strict daily schedule to the minute. I'm not
What kind of annoyed me is that Ivan of the second part, where his 'lessons' with Cami begin, is a different person: he's confident, self-assured, and mostly, not too obtuse and unable to keep his mouth shut or speak rudely as Ivan of the first half. For example, he knows that Camilla is trying to get his attention with her sexy dresses, but says nothing of it and pretends to ignore her until provoked, where he proves he's not as clueless as she (or the reader) thought. This and the fact that we don't get to know Camilla as a person besides her infatuation with Ivan, are the only two things I didn't appreciate in this book.
Now, to the good stuff: The writing was excellent! Sparkling with wit and humour, it was a true delight to read. The sex scenes were hot, hot, HOT and the fact that we have a heat wave right now, caused me to read this with the air-conditioning on all the time:) The sexual tension between Ivan and Camilla was palpable, their encounters emotional as well as steamy, and Ivan as a Dom managed to be both tender and sexy at the same time. Another unique thing about this book, is that although it belongs more to the erotica rather than the contemporary romance shelf, we get to know the hero and heroine and see their flirting turn into something more, instead of jumping right into a sex scene by the end of chapter one. In short, The Theory of Attraction is one of the best romances I've read this summer and I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a steamy and still light and well written book that just barely touches the basic BDSM aspects.
ARC provided by NetGalley
July 20, 2012
I loved this one!
I'm a complete sucker for an emotionally/socially handicapped hero so when I read the book blurb from this little gem I was SOLD. Well, the reality of 'The Theory of Attraction' actually far surpassed my already high expectations and IMO Dryden delivers a top-notch touching and sexy story that now lives on my "favorites" shelf.
Ivan (God, I even love his name!) is either a borderline or high-functioning autistic rocket scientist genius who works as a "Professor" and researcher at a university in Houston, TX. Although he's a confident leader in his field, Ivan is limited by his socially moronic tendencies when it comes to the tedious schmoozing at the fund-raising events he's expected to attend as part of his position. In a serious effort to improve his social skills, he approaches his neighbor Camilla, a social anthropologist who has been secretly lusting after the ritualistic and clueless Ivan, to provide social etiquette lessons. During their sessions, Camilla learns that the attraction is far from one-sided, and while Ivan may seem like a mild-mannered Clark Kent-type character he's actually an experienced Dom - and the tables turn as Ivan masterfully instructs Camilla in the bedroom.
What I loved about 'The Theory of Attraction' was how well everything fit together - Ivan's idiosyncrasies and need to control his surroundings totally fit into the D/s bedroom play. His matter-of-fact way of instructing and training Camilla provided a great job of explaining D/s and while Ivan could have come across as a bit cold and unaffected by it all, we get to see how his rigid control slips when he becomes lost to the moment and his feelings for Camilla deepen and grow. Camilla's understanding and acceptance of who Ivan is and needs to be in order to function makes her the perfect submissive/girlfriend/lover for Ivan. While we're left with more of a happy-for-now ending with declarations of possible love, I hypothesize that Ivan and Camilla will have little trouble growing into a happily-ever-after.
So if you love yourself a Sheldon Cooper or Lord Ian Mackenzie then give this one a try - it doesn't disappoint!
I'm a complete sucker for an emotionally/socially handicapped hero so when I read the book blurb from this little gem I was SOLD. Well, the reality of 'The Theory of Attraction' actually far surpassed my already high expectations and IMO Dryden delivers a top-notch touching and sexy story that now lives on my "favorites" shelf.
Ivan (God, I even love his name!) is either a borderline or high-functioning autistic rocket scientist genius who works as a "Professor" and researcher at a university in Houston, TX. Although he's a confident leader in his field, Ivan is limited by his socially moronic tendencies when it comes to the tedious schmoozing at the fund-raising events he's expected to attend as part of his position. In a serious effort to improve his social skills, he approaches his neighbor Camilla, a social anthropologist who has been secretly lusting after the ritualistic and clueless Ivan, to provide social etiquette lessons. During their sessions, Camilla learns that the attraction is far from one-sided, and while Ivan may seem like a mild-mannered Clark Kent-type character he's actually an experienced Dom - and the tables turn as Ivan masterfully instructs Camilla in the bedroom.
What I loved about 'The Theory of Attraction' was how well everything fit together - Ivan's idiosyncrasies and need to control his surroundings totally fit into the D/s bedroom play. His matter-of-fact way of instructing and training Camilla provided a great job of explaining D/s and while Ivan could have come across as a bit cold and unaffected by it all, we get to see how his rigid control slips when he becomes lost to the moment and his feelings for Camilla deepen and grow. Camilla's understanding and acceptance of who Ivan is and needs to be in order to function makes her the perfect submissive/girlfriend/lover for Ivan. While we're left with more of a happy-for-now ending with declarations of possible love, I hypothesize that Ivan and Camilla will have little trouble growing into a happily-ever-after.
So if you love yourself a Sheldon Cooper or Lord Ian Mackenzie then give this one a try - it doesn't disappoint!
March 10, 2016
I really enjoyed this novella.
This is the first book I've read by Ms. Dryden, and it certainly wasn't the last because I proceeded to read the next book in the series immediatley upon finishing this one.
The synopsis of "The Theory of Attraction" had my Geek-O-Meter standing at attention.
(I love stories that have nerdy-awkward-genius characters, and that's exactly what Ivan is).
I was wondering how I could effectively describe Ivan in a way that would do him any justice.
.. and then it came to me.
Imagine if you will the character Sheldon from "The Big Bang Theory
okay, now imagine that character as a Dom, and yes he only answers to "Sir" of "Professor" in the bedroom (his life is so structured that he not only has to be in control in his professional life, but also in the bedroom).
And there you have it Ladies and Gents... the lead male character in this book - Ivan.
Camilla on the other hand has it bad for Ivan.
Ivan's her neighbour. She's lived next to him for over a year, and has been watching him.
She knows his schedule probably better than he does. Unfortunately, Ivan doesn't seem to know Camilla exists.
..until one day Ivan askes Camilla for lessons in how to "socialize" him for a huge fundraising event for his department at the University.
This is were the story gets really good and Camilla soon discovers that there are more to Ivan that what there appears to be on the surface.
In the end however, after the 3 week lesson period is up, will Camilla just be another experiment for Ivan?
This is the first book I've read by Ms. Dryden, and it certainly wasn't the last because I proceeded to read the next book in the series immediatley upon finishing this one.
The synopsis of "The Theory of Attraction" had my Geek-O-Meter standing at attention.
(I love stories that have nerdy-awkward-genius characters, and that's exactly what Ivan is).
I was wondering how I could effectively describe Ivan in a way that would do him any justice.
.. and then it came to me.
Imagine if you will the character Sheldon from "The Big Bang Theory
okay, now imagine that character as a Dom, and yes he only answers to "Sir" of "Professor" in the bedroom (his life is so structured that he not only has to be in control in his professional life, but also in the bedroom).
And there you have it Ladies and Gents... the lead male character in this book - Ivan.
Camilla on the other hand has it bad for Ivan.
Ivan's her neighbour. She's lived next to him for over a year, and has been watching him.
She knows his schedule probably better than he does. Unfortunately, Ivan doesn't seem to know Camilla exists.
..until one day Ivan askes Camilla for lessons in how to "socialize" him for a huge fundraising event for his department at the University.
This is were the story gets really good and Camilla soon discovers that there are more to Ivan that what there appears to be on the surface.
In the end however, after the 3 week lesson period is up, will Camilla just be another experiment for Ivan?
November 12, 2012
I only have two words for this.....yes, Professor.
April 14, 2016
**3-3.5 stars**
Camilla lives near a group of scientists from the university that enjoy getting together. One of them happens to be her neighbor, Ivan. Turns out he needs some help with his social skills for an upcoming fundraiser. Little does Camilla know but she will be the one that will be learning some things as well.
This was just an okay read for me...I think because I was expecting something...else? more? I loved Ivan being so awkward and nerdy and I really enjoyed Camilla schooling him how to be more socially interactive but...the "bedroom" Ivan was a bit much. It was almost like Ivan was two different people and I guess he was. I really would've liked more focus on the ending of the book instead of all the BDSM stuff.
Towards the end when Ivan was realizing what Camilla wanted...that's what I really liked. It would've been nice to see him meshing his two sides ~ bringing his awkward side together with his domineering side. While the sex/BDSM parts were steamy, I guess I wanted more romance. Maybe this could have happened if the book was longer.
Definitely an interesting, quick and hot read if that's what you're looking for.
Favorite quotes:
♥ “Sense memories of you persist and do not seem to abate as the day progresses. It’s disconcerting, Camilla. I don’t like it when my mind plays tricks on me. I would much rather simply have you here in the flesh, to feel and taste and smell with my actual senses. Instead my mind keeps conjuring this false perception of your presence. I think it means I miss you.”
♥ “I think this is love. But I’ve never been in love before, either, so I don’t know.”
Camilla lives near a group of scientists from the university that enjoy getting together. One of them happens to be her neighbor, Ivan. Turns out he needs some help with his social skills for an upcoming fundraiser. Little does Camilla know but she will be the one that will be learning some things as well.
This was just an okay read for me...I think because I was expecting something...else? more? I loved Ivan being so awkward and nerdy and I really enjoyed Camilla schooling him how to be more socially interactive but...the "bedroom" Ivan was a bit much. It was almost like Ivan was two different people and I guess he was. I really would've liked more focus on the ending of the book instead of all the BDSM stuff.
Towards the end when Ivan was realizing what Camilla wanted...that's what I really liked. It would've been nice to see him meshing his two sides ~ bringing his awkward side together with his domineering side. While the sex/BDSM parts were steamy, I guess I wanted more romance. Maybe this could have happened if the book was longer.
Definitely an interesting, quick and hot read if that's what you're looking for.
Favorite quotes:
♥ “Sense memories of you persist and do not seem to abate as the day progresses. It’s disconcerting, Camilla. I don’t like it when my mind plays tricks on me. I would much rather simply have you here in the flesh, to feel and taste and smell with my actual senses. Instead my mind keeps conjuring this false perception of your presence. I think it means I miss you.”
♥ “I think this is love. But I’ve never been in love before, either, so I don’t know.”
October 18, 2012
I was in the mood for a hot, steamy read & boy did this book deliver.
The tension, buildup between Cami & Ivan was fantastic!
Ivan, a very intelligent but socially awkward nerd, and Camilla, the next door girl who hides her feelings, were such a good fit.
So ...when did Ivan, the nerd, become incredibly attractive to me as a reader?
Here:
Before I could open the door, a pair of hands slapped against the wall on either side of me, trapping me between two lean arms. My world constricted in a heartbeat to the cinderblock wall in front of me, cold and gray with layers of glossy institutional paint…and the body behind me, hot and firm and undeniably male.
“Camilla,” he growled, “I want to make some things perfectly clear to you, and you are going to listen to me. Do you understand?”
Ohhh, alpha behavior gets me every time.
Their chemistry was great, the sex scenes were unbelievably hot and their relationship growth was believable ... This book checked off all boxes for me.
Pick it up!
The tension, buildup between Cami & Ivan was fantastic!
Ivan, a very intelligent but socially awkward nerd, and Camilla, the next door girl who hides her feelings, were such a good fit.
So ...when did Ivan, the nerd, become incredibly attractive to me as a reader?
Here:
Before I could open the door, a pair of hands slapped against the wall on either side of me, trapping me between two lean arms. My world constricted in a heartbeat to the cinderblock wall in front of me, cold and gray with layers of glossy institutional paint…and the body behind me, hot and firm and undeniably male.
“Camilla,” he growled, “I want to make some things perfectly clear to you, and you are going to listen to me. Do you understand?”
Ohhh, alpha behavior gets me every time.
Their chemistry was great, the sex scenes were unbelievably hot and their relationship growth was believable ... This book checked off all boxes for me.
Pick it up!
July 1, 2012
This was a short read with humour and sex. Think of this book as Sheldon in The Big Bang Theory meets BDSM. But think of Ivan as an even hotter version of Sheldon without looking like a praying mantis. *giggles* Sorry, Sheldon, I still love you, though!
I loved Ivan. He is professor who is socially inept and very much likes controls in every aspect of his life... including the bedroom. He spoke to clinically but it worked because of the character he is. He was also suprisingly sweet and tender, probably without him even realising it.
I really enjoyed Camilla as a character. She was very patient with Ivan and his obliviousness. I don't think I could ever be as patient with a man like him as she was. She was a very enjoyable character to read.
This book was highly enjoyable, a bit on the kinky side and I would definitely reccomend this to anyone who loves their men controlling, nerdy and utterly sexy.
I loved Ivan. He is professor who is socially inept and very much likes controls in every aspect of his life... including the bedroom. He spoke to clinically but it worked because of the character he is. He was also suprisingly sweet and tender, probably without him even realising it.
I really enjoyed Camilla as a character. She was very patient with Ivan and his obliviousness. I don't think I could ever be as patient with a man like him as she was. She was a very enjoyable character to read.
This book was highly enjoyable, a bit on the kinky side and I would definitely reccomend this to anyone who loves their men controlling, nerdy and utterly sexy.
May 2, 2013
Woohoo! I liked this. Bunches.
Story was (almost?) plausible, CHARACTERS WERE GROWN UPS, kink was steamy but not too much. This is what I wish I'd read 2 years ago instead of FSoG. Or perhaps this book was possible because of FSoG? Oh, who cares.
Anyway, this story starts off as a standard contemporary - heroine lusting after her neighbour, believing he doesn't notice her. I love these stories; this one has the added bonus of some bdsm thrown in.
I liked the characters, I liked the writing, I thought the ending was a little bit sudden, but not enough to tarnish my enjoyment.
The second book in the series comes out soon, I'm looking forward to it.
Story was (almost?) plausible, CHARACTERS WERE GROWN UPS, kink was steamy but not too much. This is what I wish I'd read 2 years ago instead of FSoG. Or perhaps this book was possible because of FSoG? Oh, who cares.
Anyway, this story starts off as a standard contemporary - heroine lusting after her neighbour, believing he doesn't notice her. I love these stories; this one has the added bonus of some bdsm thrown in.
I liked the characters, I liked the writing, I thought the ending was a little bit sudden, but not enough to tarnish my enjoyment.
The second book in the series comes out soon, I'm looking forward to it.
July 3, 2012
Cami has been crushing on her neighbour for a year but although they have become friends he doesn't seem to notice her as a woman. Ivan may be highly intelligent but he is hopeless in social situations. With his job on the line unless he learns to woo potential investors at a fundraiser he asks Cami to teach him how to act. Cami jumps at the chance of spending time with Ivan and decides to use the situation to her advantage and try to seduce him. What she doesn't expect is that instead of being the teacher she is about to become the student as Ivan shows her how much he likes to take control in the bedroom.
The Theory of Attraction is a short but intensely erotic read and I think it makes a great introduction to the dominant / submissive lifestyle. I know very little about d/s relationships so I found that side of the story a revelation and really interesting. The story also includes some light BDSM with spanking and mild flogging involved.
Ivan is like no other hero I've read about before. He is very much a geek, super intelligent but completely out of his comfort zone when he is forced into social situations. I actually think he has at least a mild case of aspergers because he has absolutely no concept of social boundaries - I have a friend with aspergers and the way Ivan interacts with the people around him really reminded me of her. Although he comes across as rude he is actually a really nice guy, he is just misunderstood because of the way he acts. Ivan is honest to a fault and can be very blunt because he has no idea that what he says might hurt someone's feelings. He likes to be in control and has OCD tendencies that show in his need for routine. That and the fact he demands honesty from those around him explain why being a dominant suits him so well. It is a lifestyle where everything is very upfront, boundaries are agreed in advance and there are safe words in place to make sure he doesn't over step the mark. It helps him avoid confusion because he struggles to read people and it allows him to be in charge of everything that happens. He can make his own rules so that nothing surprises him.
I think it would be fair to say that I developed a bit of a crush on Ivan but I think in reality life with him would probably drive me insane! I don't think I could cope with the way he finds it so hard to show his emotions, not because he doesn't have them but because he doesn't know how to express them. Luckily for him Cami is a lot more understanding than I would have been, she sees the things he doesn't know how to say and they make a really good couple because of that. She may be new to being a submissive but it is obviously a role that suits her well and Ivan introduces her to things gently enough to not scare her away.
Ivan and Cami are definitely compatible in the bedroom and the sex scenes are Hot with a capital H. The story isn't just one long sex scene though and there are some really funny and sweet moments between them. I laughed out loud at the lessons Cami gives Ivan on how to behave in public - she has to point out things that are so obvious to most of us but he is completely clueless about. No one would suspect that under Ivan's geeky exterior lurks a kinky and controlling dominant who knows exactly what he wants both in the bedroom and out of it. I think Cami actually learns more from him than he does from her and she certainly enjoys every one of her lessons. It just goes to show that it's always the quiet ones!
The Theory of Attraction is a short but intensely erotic read and I think it makes a great introduction to the dominant / submissive lifestyle. I know very little about d/s relationships so I found that side of the story a revelation and really interesting. The story also includes some light BDSM with spanking and mild flogging involved.
Ivan is like no other hero I've read about before. He is very much a geek, super intelligent but completely out of his comfort zone when he is forced into social situations. I actually think he has at least a mild case of aspergers because he has absolutely no concept of social boundaries - I have a friend with aspergers and the way Ivan interacts with the people around him really reminded me of her. Although he comes across as rude he is actually a really nice guy, he is just misunderstood because of the way he acts. Ivan is honest to a fault and can be very blunt because he has no idea that what he says might hurt someone's feelings. He likes to be in control and has OCD tendencies that show in his need for routine. That and the fact he demands honesty from those around him explain why being a dominant suits him so well. It is a lifestyle where everything is very upfront, boundaries are agreed in advance and there are safe words in place to make sure he doesn't over step the mark. It helps him avoid confusion because he struggles to read people and it allows him to be in charge of everything that happens. He can make his own rules so that nothing surprises him.
I think it would be fair to say that I developed a bit of a crush on Ivan but I think in reality life with him would probably drive me insane! I don't think I could cope with the way he finds it so hard to show his emotions, not because he doesn't have them but because he doesn't know how to express them. Luckily for him Cami is a lot more understanding than I would have been, she sees the things he doesn't know how to say and they make a really good couple because of that. She may be new to being a submissive but it is obviously a role that suits her well and Ivan introduces her to things gently enough to not scare her away.
Ivan and Cami are definitely compatible in the bedroom and the sex scenes are Hot with a capital H. The story isn't just one long sex scene though and there are some really funny and sweet moments between them. I laughed out loud at the lessons Cami gives Ivan on how to behave in public - she has to point out things that are so obvious to most of us but he is completely clueless about. No one would suspect that under Ivan's geeky exterior lurks a kinky and controlling dominant who knows exactly what he wants both in the bedroom and out of it. I think Cami actually learns more from him than he does from her and she certainly enjoys every one of her lessons. It just goes to show that it's always the quiet ones!
October 12, 2012
NERDGASM ALERT
I mean with lines like :
"Even your external labia are wet, Camilla. Are you craving penetration by now?"
and
"I've never done this," he whispered, seeming concerned.
"Done what?"
"Post coital demonstrations of affection." How could you not?!?!
Astrophysicist Dr Ivan Reynolds is borderline OCD. He has a schedule that he keeps to very strictly, how do we know?
Because his next door neighbor Camilla has a crush on him and also is a borderline stalker. She doesn't need a watch. She just needs to look out the window to see what the very sexy Ivan is doing, to know what time of day it is.
They are friends and hang out, but he does not fit well into social events. You have to know him to be able to talk to him.
Things change when Ivan asks Cami for help. He needs to be able to fit into a social event to gain a grant. She offers to help him "be more normal."
Cami is throwing herself at Ivan, well maybe not throwing herself at him. She's subtle about it. Revealing tops, dresses etc. He just doesn't pick up on it.
Until, he raises an experiment with her.
After all he is human as has definitely noticed Cami's advances.
What if he approaches this new "socializing" thing as he would if he were interviewing someone to be his new Submissive at the Club he attends.
YEP shy, geeky, OCD Professor Ivan Reynolds is a Dominant.
Before you know it your on a venture of all things BDSM well not all, as they don't do hardcore! but you get to go along for the ride as Ivan and Cami explore what they have together.
This was a great short sweet read.
The perfect amount to get you fall for the characters, the story, the steamy sex, and a perfect ending.
Def recommend it.
July 9, 2012
I am not one who normally flounces books. I seriously try to finish. But this book? I don't even know what was going on.
First, I have to say that the cover is hot. I love the title, and...it's hot. Other than the overall idea of this book, that's about all I liked.
Cami has a thing for her hot, geeky-to-the-extreme neighbor, Ivan. She wants him. Honestly, I think she'd want anyone, but I'm not going to argue that point here. The first third of this book was boring. There was so much detail about pretty much nothing to me. Then when it got to the first sex scene...I don't even know what to say. I'm certainly no BDsm expert, but I'm pretty sure stuff shouldn't work that way. Ivan himself calls his lifestyle "weirdness" at one point. Another thing that I didn't like is that Cami didn't seem to be totally into Ivan--she just wanted to get laid, regardless of if it made her uncomfortable. I also do not like how technical he is.
By the time I made it to the next sex scene, I knew that was enough for me. I only read 52%, so it could have turned completely around and been the hottest, most-compelling book ever in the last half. I don't know. It reads like bad fanfic, and if you want to read good fanfic, just ask me. I'll send you links to lots of amazing stories. I just didn't like this book, and I'm surprised that Carina Press published it.
First, I have to say that the cover is hot. I love the title, and...it's hot. Other than the overall idea of this book, that's about all I liked.
Cami has a thing for her hot, geeky-to-the-extreme neighbor, Ivan. She wants him. Honestly, I think she'd want anyone, but I'm not going to argue that point here. The first third of this book was boring. There was so much detail about pretty much nothing to me. Then when it got to the first sex scene...I don't even know what to say. I'm certainly no BDsm expert, but I'm pretty sure stuff shouldn't work that way. Ivan himself calls his lifestyle "weirdness" at one point. Another thing that I didn't like is that Cami didn't seem to be totally into Ivan--she just wanted to get laid, regardless of if it made her uncomfortable. I also do not like how technical he is.
"I've never done this," he whispered, seeming concerned.
"Done what?"
"Post-coital demonstrations of affection."
By the time I made it to the next sex scene, I knew that was enough for me. I only read 52%, so it could have turned completely around and been the hottest, most-compelling book ever in the last half. I don't know. It reads like bad fanfic, and if you want to read good fanfic, just ask me. I'll send you links to lots of amazing stories. I just didn't like this book, and I'm surprised that Carina Press published it.
May 14, 2013
This was a very enjoyable book. Two smart people get together under the pretense of Ivan, the hero, learning how to deal with people without putting them off. He lacks the ability to pick up on social cues, hence the reason he turned to BDSM, because "scenes" are negotiated beforehand. Then he watches a partner scientifically to see how they respond to treatment. It's worked for him.
Enter Cami, his friend and neighbor. She's bright and capable and accepts Ivan for who he is. She throws a monkey wrench into Ivan's controlled, scheduled to the minute world.
Bonus for Michele: cum play AND condoms are used!!! Wha, wha? See- when smart people get together, the practice safe sex!
Enter Cami, his friend and neighbor. She's bright and capable and accepts Ivan for who he is. She throws a monkey wrench into Ivan's controlled, scheduled to the minute world.
Bonus for Michele: cum play AND condoms are used!!! Wha, wha? See- when smart people get together, the practice safe sex!
Want to read
December 31, 2012A nerd Dom. Intrigued, I am.
July 10, 2012
I'm firstly going to admit that I read this book in one sitting. So it is not a bad book by my standards if it kept me glued to the pages so well. However, after I've now slept on it, I can't really pinpoint what exactly kept me interested in the storyline except maybe insomnia.
The two main characters are Camilla, a computer geek who is really a social anthropologist, and Ivan, a rocket scientist. The issue at hand is Ivan's social awkwardness, his inability to socialize and act normally in everyday situations. Camilla and Ivan are neighbours and friends and it comes as no surprise that Ivan asks her to help him prepare for a fundraiser where he is expected to mingle and convince people with deep pockets that they should fund his research. Oh, did I mention that Camilla is attracted to Ivan and wants his body? So things happen, the attraction is apparently mutual and we then find out that Ivan is a ... Dom?! We are led to think that he has borderline Asperger's (my guess) in everything he does, except in the bedroom where he becomes dominant, confident, totally in-sync with the woman's feelings and desires. Sort of a cross between Sheldon from Big Bang Theory and Christian Grey ... ? I won't pretend to know that much about Asperger's but I found it hard to believe that a person with those traits could in fact be into BDSM. I don't know much about BDSM either except what I have (extensively) read about it, and it all just did not add up. And then the female character simply goes for it, he tells her to undress, kneel down and call him 'Sir' after he pretty much told her he was a Dom 5 seconds ago and what does she do? What any normal woman who just found out that her socially inept friend/neighbour is into BDSM would do, of course! She undresses and kneels in from of him. In a lab. At night. Pfffff... I did not "buy it".
I have no problem "buying it" when it comes to fantasy, heck, I'll even start believing in vampires when the story calls for it, but it bugged me that this story was meant to be about a "real" situation between two "real" characters, so it was inevitable that we, as readers, would try to get into their psyche. So I found it difficult to like the characters since I did not understand them.
My other objection was the storyline itself. There is only one major event in the book - Ivan's fundraising event. Nothing else. Dates here and there and ... sex. Nothing else. The dialogues are scarse, thin, and used as fillers in between the sex scenes. Don't get me wrong here, I do like those sexy times scenes but there needs to be more. That can't be it. Ivan introduces Camilla more and more to his (very mild) BDSM tastes and she simply follows. He tells her to trust him and she just... does.
So the fundraiser happens, Ivan shows off his amazing new social skills, gets his funding, Camilla is so proud of him - "My baby's walking on his own." - but she finally has an issue with it all - Ivan is not introducing her to all his colleagues as his 'girlfriend'! Well, I guess if I had gone all down and kinky with a guy for a month, no questions asked, allowed him to spank me because I did not address him as 'Sir' or 'Professor', tie me to beds and do all sorts of unspeakable things to my body, heck, I would be pissed off as well if he didn't call me Queen of Sheeba!
The ending was just like the rest of the story - unlikely. Ivan is meant to have an epiphany, finally understand Camilla, why her feelings are hurt, he "hypothesizes" that he loves her and we have our nice little happy ending. Oh yeah, and another sex scene. Just for kicks.
Do I recommend reading this? Sure, enjoy the kink. Will this be one of those memorable books that I'll remember and think about for a while? Unlikely. But I'm still giving it 3 stars because ultimately I did enjoy reading it, my issues with it only started once I started analysing it, and maybe this is one of those books that is not meant to be analysed.
~ N ♥
See this review on my blog!
The two main characters are Camilla, a computer geek who is really a social anthropologist, and Ivan, a rocket scientist. The issue at hand is Ivan's social awkwardness, his inability to socialize and act normally in everyday situations. Camilla and Ivan are neighbours and friends and it comes as no surprise that Ivan asks her to help him prepare for a fundraiser where he is expected to mingle and convince people with deep pockets that they should fund his research. Oh, did I mention that Camilla is attracted to Ivan and wants his body? So things happen, the attraction is apparently mutual and we then find out that Ivan is a ... Dom?! We are led to think that he has borderline Asperger's (my guess) in everything he does, except in the bedroom where he becomes dominant, confident, totally in-sync with the woman's feelings and desires. Sort of a cross between Sheldon from Big Bang Theory and Christian Grey ... ? I won't pretend to know that much about Asperger's but I found it hard to believe that a person with those traits could in fact be into BDSM. I don't know much about BDSM either except what I have (extensively) read about it, and it all just did not add up. And then the female character simply goes for it, he tells her to undress, kneel down and call him 'Sir' after he pretty much told her he was a Dom 5 seconds ago and what does she do? What any normal woman who just found out that her socially inept friend/neighbour is into BDSM would do, of course! She undresses and kneels in from of him. In a lab. At night. Pfffff... I did not "buy it".
I have no problem "buying it" when it comes to fantasy, heck, I'll even start believing in vampires when the story calls for it, but it bugged me that this story was meant to be about a "real" situation between two "real" characters, so it was inevitable that we, as readers, would try to get into their psyche. So I found it difficult to like the characters since I did not understand them.
My other objection was the storyline itself. There is only one major event in the book - Ivan's fundraising event. Nothing else. Dates here and there and ... sex. Nothing else. The dialogues are scarse, thin, and used as fillers in between the sex scenes. Don't get me wrong here, I do like those sexy times scenes but there needs to be more. That can't be it. Ivan introduces Camilla more and more to his (very mild) BDSM tastes and she simply follows. He tells her to trust him and she just... does.
So the fundraiser happens, Ivan shows off his amazing new social skills, gets his funding, Camilla is so proud of him - "My baby's walking on his own." - but she finally has an issue with it all - Ivan is not introducing her to all his colleagues as his 'girlfriend'! Well, I guess if I had gone all down and kinky with a guy for a month, no questions asked, allowed him to spank me because I did not address him as 'Sir' or 'Professor', tie me to beds and do all sorts of unspeakable things to my body, heck, I would be pissed off as well if he didn't call me Queen of Sheeba!
The ending was just like the rest of the story - unlikely. Ivan is meant to have an epiphany, finally understand Camilla, why her feelings are hurt, he "hypothesizes" that he loves her and we have our nice little happy ending. Oh yeah, and another sex scene. Just for kicks.
Do I recommend reading this? Sure, enjoy the kink. Will this be one of those memorable books that I'll remember and think about for a while? Unlikely. But I'm still giving it 3 stars because ultimately I did enjoy reading it, my issues with it only started once I started analysing it, and maybe this is one of those books that is not meant to be analysed.
~ N ♥
See this review on my blog!
November 4, 2012
Actual Rating 3.5
Review also posted at Darkest Addictions Book Reviews
I’ve died and gone to GeekDom Heaven! ;o I don’t know about you all, but when you mention a smart man, I can picture him strong, hot, and completely drool worthy, yes. But never in my 23yrs would I have imagined anything BUT vanilla sex with a man like Ivan, but oh boy did the cat come out of this Kink filled bag!
“Let’s just say I can do that role. Of a guy who plans to get you into bed. However, I will almost certainly not do it the way you’re used to.”
Camilla’s been stal—I mean observing her smexy rocket-scientist neighbor, Dr. Ivan Reynolds for a year. But Ivan doesn’t seem to notice her as she would like and hopes for, they’re neighbors, yes, but it seems Ivan doesn’t do well socializing, his expertise are in the lab. Dying for a peak at the gorgeous rocket-scientist, Camilla jumps at the chance to help Ivan when he comes to her for tutoring lessons for an important fundraiser. What neither expected was the power play exchange that results in explosive chemistry.
This was my first Dryden book, and I really enjoyed reading it! The writing was light, which allowed for a fast paced read. The only set back I had was that the characters seemed a bit bland for me. They had their moments, but as I kept going I was dreading the result for fear of reading another FSoG based book. Any regular on my blog knows I detest that series with a passion, but thankfully the similarities were sparse and not to do with the story but the characters themselves.
As far as protagonists go, Camilla is a likeable character, albeit, I find it hilarious that this time it wasn’t the man stalking the woman, but the other way around. As Camilla helps Ivan with his socializing problems they begin to explore other aspects of their personal life. Did Camilla expect Ivan to come out and admit to being a sexy controlling sex fiend? Actually, no she expected him to be gay. True story. Their first sexual encounter is hot, and every sexual experience thereafter is just as equally mesmerizing.
I liked Ivan and I found myself drawn to him, if only for his sex appeal; and there’s just something utterly sexy about a man who looks like he should be in the cover of a magazine, and has the brain of a boy genius. And oh.my.lanta! Discovering he was a GeekDom (yes, I’ve totally just made up that word), excited me in ways I never could have imagined ;) He’s definitely not your usual male protagonist, but he was a refreshing change to all the HOT HEROES I’m crazy about!
For a short story it packed quite the punch, and is perfect for any reader looking to squeeze in a naughty read in between lunch breaks and busy schedules. Don’t worry, it’s not just, sex sex sex, ‘Oh My!’, and it’s light BDSM, but it sure doesn’t disappoint!
Review also posted at Darkest Addictions Book Reviews
I’ve died and gone to GeekDom Heaven! ;o I don’t know about you all, but when you mention a smart man, I can picture him strong, hot, and completely drool worthy, yes. But never in my 23yrs would I have imagined anything BUT vanilla sex with a man like Ivan, but oh boy did the cat come out of this Kink filled bag!
“Let’s just say I can do that role. Of a guy who plans to get you into bed. However, I will almost certainly not do it the way you’re used to.”
Camilla’s been stal—I mean observing her smexy rocket-scientist neighbor, Dr. Ivan Reynolds for a year. But Ivan doesn’t seem to notice her as she would like and hopes for, they’re neighbors, yes, but it seems Ivan doesn’t do well socializing, his expertise are in the lab. Dying for a peak at the gorgeous rocket-scientist, Camilla jumps at the chance to help Ivan when he comes to her for tutoring lessons for an important fundraiser. What neither expected was the power play exchange that results in explosive chemistry.
This was my first Dryden book, and I really enjoyed reading it! The writing was light, which allowed for a fast paced read. The only set back I had was that the characters seemed a bit bland for me. They had their moments, but as I kept going I was dreading the result for fear of reading another FSoG based book. Any regular on my blog knows I detest that series with a passion, but thankfully the similarities were sparse and not to do with the story but the characters themselves.
As far as protagonists go, Camilla is a likeable character, albeit, I find it hilarious that this time it wasn’t the man stalking the woman, but the other way around. As Camilla helps Ivan with his socializing problems they begin to explore other aspects of their personal life. Did Camilla expect Ivan to come out and admit to being a sexy controlling sex fiend? Actually, no she expected him to be gay. True story. Their first sexual encounter is hot, and every sexual experience thereafter is just as equally mesmerizing.
I liked Ivan and I found myself drawn to him, if only for his sex appeal; and there’s just something utterly sexy about a man who looks like he should be in the cover of a magazine, and has the brain of a boy genius. And oh.my.lanta! Discovering he was a GeekDom (yes, I’ve totally just made up that word), excited me in ways I never could have imagined ;) He’s definitely not your usual male protagonist, but he was a refreshing change to all the HOT HEROES I’m crazy about!
For a short story it packed quite the punch, and is perfect for any reader looking to squeeze in a naughty read in between lunch breaks and busy schedules. Don’t worry, it’s not just, sex sex sex, ‘Oh My!’, and it’s light BDSM, but it sure doesn’t disappoint!
October 24, 2012
This was a sweet story, and I definitely enjoyed it. At times, I really liked the dichotomy of Ivan’s personality. He’s a genius who is absolutely ignorant about social situations, and that made him come off as both rude and sweet.
“Cami, what are we supposed to do now? Do we go to sleep? Do you go home?” I would have preferred a passionate insistence that I stay, but I couldn’t help smiling at Ivan’s cluelessness. “Do you want me to go home?” “I’m not sure,” he admitted. “I want you here. And it would be more convenient if we wanted to have sex again later. But I don’t know if I can sleep with another person in the bed.””
I love these times when he can’t really work out what he’s feeling, or what he’s “supposed” to do. He’s definitely not a go-with-the-flow kind of guy.
As clueless as Ivan is in regards to anything non sexual, he’s completely opposite when sex is involved. He’s like Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, but in a really hot, master-of-orgasms kind of way. This worked really well for me most of the time, but sometimes it irritated me .
I didn’t always love the practical, astrophysicist side of Ivan when mixed with sex. Ivan was extremely anal—no pun intended—and I hated that when things are supposed to be hot and heavy. For example, he tells Camilla to strip, but then stops her when she’s naked to fold a blanket and place it neatly on a chair. Personally, I prefer the scenes where the couple is so lost in each other they don’t think of such mundane things. They rip off each other’s clothes without worrying about wrecking them, just because they can’t wait to touch each other. I found myself thinking the same thing in a few other places as well.
Before I finish I want to say one more thing about this review. I would have given this book 4 stars if not for one other scene at the end of the book when Ivan decided it was time to conquer a particular fear he’d always had. I have never read anything so stupid in my life. You will never believe what he was afraid of—no I won’t tell—but it was stupid enough that I downgraded my rating a star. Overall, even though there were some parts I didn’t like there were way more parts I really enjoyed. It’s a cute, short novella that has a good storyline.
“Cami, what are we supposed to do now? Do we go to sleep? Do you go home?” I would have preferred a passionate insistence that I stay, but I couldn’t help smiling at Ivan’s cluelessness. “Do you want me to go home?” “I’m not sure,” he admitted. “I want you here. And it would be more convenient if we wanted to have sex again later. But I don’t know if I can sleep with another person in the bed.””
I love these times when he can’t really work out what he’s feeling, or what he’s “supposed” to do. He’s definitely not a go-with-the-flow kind of guy.
As clueless as Ivan is in regards to anything non sexual, he’s completely opposite when sex is involved. He’s like Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, but in a really hot, master-of-orgasms kind of way. This worked really well for me most of the time, but sometimes it irritated me .
I didn’t always love the practical, astrophysicist side of Ivan when mixed with sex. Ivan was extremely anal—no pun intended—and I hated that when things are supposed to be hot and heavy. For example, he tells Camilla to strip, but then stops her when she’s naked to fold a blanket and place it neatly on a chair. Personally, I prefer the scenes where the couple is so lost in each other they don’t think of such mundane things. They rip off each other’s clothes without worrying about wrecking them, just because they can’t wait to touch each other. I found myself thinking the same thing in a few other places as well.
Before I finish I want to say one more thing about this review. I would have given this book 4 stars if not for one other scene at the end of the book when Ivan decided it was time to conquer a particular fear he’d always had. I have never read anything so stupid in my life. You will never believe what he was afraid of—no I won’t tell—but it was stupid enough that I downgraded my rating a star. Overall, even though there were some parts I didn’t like there were way more parts I really enjoyed. It’s a cute, short novella that has a good storyline.
July 10, 2012
Posted on Under the Covers
Nerds + BDSM = The Theory of Attraction
That’s the basic equation of this book, but my reaction to it was not exactly raving. I was recommended this book because of the interesting nerd Dom and because I love to read BDSM. I jumped on it, but didn’t exactly feel entirely connected to this book.
Here’s why:
-Camilla has been attracted to Ivan, her neighbour who happens to be smart rocket scientist. She has had this crush on him for a long time and when Ivan asks her to teach him to be more sociable, Camilla takes this opportunity to be a little more closer to him. I never really connected with Camilla’s character. Her POV just never really captured my attention. While I did think she was funny, in the end, it wasn’t enough for me to warm up to her.
-Ivan is an interesting character. He isn’t your usual Dom, that’s for sure and it’s the main reason why I decided to read this book, but I felt that a lot of the time he was a jerk. I think the author was trying to make him more of a stern Dom, but for me, it just didn’t translate that well.
So while I liked the idea of this nerd hero, he actually felt more like an arrogant nerd rather than one who was shy since that’s what I normally associate with “nerds”. He just happened to be extremely smart.
Though The Theory of Attraction wasn’t a home run for me, there are some good parts and sexy times in this book. It could be worth the read!
*ARC provided by NetGalley
Nerds + BDSM = The Theory of Attraction
That’s the basic equation of this book, but my reaction to it was not exactly raving. I was recommended this book because of the interesting nerd Dom and because I love to read BDSM. I jumped on it, but didn’t exactly feel entirely connected to this book.
Here’s why:
-Camilla has been attracted to Ivan, her neighbour who happens to be smart rocket scientist. She has had this crush on him for a long time and when Ivan asks her to teach him to be more sociable, Camilla takes this opportunity to be a little more closer to him. I never really connected with Camilla’s character. Her POV just never really captured my attention. While I did think she was funny, in the end, it wasn’t enough for me to warm up to her.
-Ivan is an interesting character. He isn’t your usual Dom, that’s for sure and it’s the main reason why I decided to read this book, but I felt that a lot of the time he was a jerk. I think the author was trying to make him more of a stern Dom, but for me, it just didn’t translate that well.
So while I liked the idea of this nerd hero, he actually felt more like an arrogant nerd rather than one who was shy since that’s what I normally associate with “nerds”. He just happened to be extremely smart.
Though The Theory of Attraction wasn’t a home run for me, there are some good parts and sexy times in this book. It could be worth the read!
*ARC provided by NetGalley
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