Title: Calling the Shots by Christine d’Abo
Long Shots Series, Book Four
Publisher: Carina Press
Genre: Contemporary, Erotic, Romance, BDSM, Ménage
Length: 68,000 words
Book Rating: B
Review Copy Obtained from Publisher Through NetGalley
Summary:
He’s had a wild ride, and now sex club owner Josh Scott is looking for a change of scene. But first, he’s determined to bring two friends together, and he’s willing to be a third wheel to move things along…
Beth Norris is eager to be set up with hot bartender Oliver Stephenson, but she’s equally attracted to matchmaker Josh. Soon she’s fantasizing about both men at once–and about being the one to call the shots in the encounter…
Ready to move on with his life post-divorce, Oliver is conflicted by the realization that he’s attracted to women and men. Or more specifically, to Beth and Josh. He tries to keep his distance, but it’s not long before the chemistry between the trio combusts in a night of mind-blowing sex.
In the light of day, it’s clear something deeper than desire is growing between Josh, Beth and Oliver. But though Josh has helped others find love in unconventional relationships, is he willing to take a chance on one himself?
68,000 words
The Review:
Fans of the Long Shots series will be delighted to finally uncover all the fascinating secrets about the enigmatic character who so intrigued us in the first three installments of this captivating series. In Calling the Shots, Christine d’Abo delivers the much anticipated story of sex club owner Josh Scott. And WOWZA, what a story it is!
Matchmaker Josh Scott is at it again. He not only sees the sexual attraction between his employees Beth Norris and Oliver Stephenson, he throws them into situations where they are forced to acknowledge their passion for one another. What Josh does not realize is that Beth and Oliver reciprocate the intense desire he also feels for them.
I have been fascinated by Josh since his introduction in Double Shot. It was obvious right from the start there were hidden depths to his character but Josh is not one to give up his secrets willingly. Josh clearly maintains a close emotional connection to Paul Williams and in Calling the Shots we finally discover what brought the two men together. The answer to why Josh opened Mavericks lies in his very complicated relationship with his ultra-religious mother. My heart just ached for the emotional scars he carries from the traumatic events he experienced as a teenager.
Beth Norris and Oliver Stephenson are also dealing with their respective issues. Both were badly hurt in previous relationships and they are each dealing with low self-esteem. Oliver is also faced with his newfound attraction to another man, and Beth learns to embrace new aspects of her sexuality.
The relationship between Beth, Oliver and Josh is quite complex. The three definitely click on a sexual level. The chemistry between them is sizzling hot and the resulting sex is explosive. The sex scenes are explicit and quite erotic. The sex between Oliver and Josh is deliciously sexy and the ménage scenes are exquisitely sensual. The BDSM aspect of the storyline is fairly tame so if you are a newcomer to this genre, Calling the Shots is a good introduction.
A secondary storyline adds a bit of suspense and mystery to Calling the Shots. What first begins as attacks on all sex clubs quickly becomes personal when Mavericks becomes the main target. The vandalism to Mavericks brings up unpleasant and unresolved memories from Josh’s past.
What I like the most about Calling the Shots is the willingness of all of the characters to step out of their sexual comfort zones. They explore the different facets of their sexuality and they are comfortable with where their explorations lead.
Calling the Shots is a wonderful addition to the Long Shots series. The series is quite innovative with Christine d’Abo giving each of the books varied and unique plots. While they can be read as standalone stories, it is best to read the entire series to get the full effect of the various relationships and their dynamics.
To read my reviews of the other books in the Long Shots series, click HERE.
