Switch V: The PossASSion of Felicia
Guthrie is the latest installment in Ardie Stallard's Switch
series, which examines the complex dynamics of dominant-submissive
relationships. This novel delves deeper into the lives of Felicia Guthrie, a
submissive, and her husband, Joe, a dominant, as they navigate their roles and
relationships with others. The story begins with Felicia and her best friend,
Jessica, waiting for Joe to return from a business trip. Felicia Culbertson
Guthrie is a mother and wife who loves her husband, Joe. That is why she goes
to get a tattoo on Joe's name while he is away on a business trip. But the
tattooist turns out to be a substitute and an amateur magick practitioner who
falls in lust with Felicia and is determined to have her by casting a spell on
her. His spell is also designed to make Joe irresistible to submissives. Now that
Joe and Felicia are in hot water, can the spell be broken?
This well-crafted entry in the series can be read as a standalone
story. The scenes are focused, the POV is clear, and the conflict greets the
readers from the first page. The conflict is brilliantly developed at the
psychological and emotional levels, and readers encounter characters struggling
with their deepest desires and longings. Felicia is anxious about Joe's safety
and the upcoming conference he will be attending, while Joe is more concerned
about getting his work done and adjusting his antique microscope. The intense
tension and their conversation reveal their deep desires and needs. As the
story progresses, we learn more about Felicia's past and her relationships with
others. She has a complicated history with Callie, a fellow submissive who has
been trying to find a trustworthy dominant in Las Vegas. Felicia is wary of
Callie's intentions and is hesitant to allow Joe to engage with her. Meanwhile,
Joe is approached by Callie's husband, Desmond, who suggests that Joe can trust
him and that he would be happy for Joe to have an impact-play session with
Callie.
Throughout the book, Stallard expertly explores the themes of
power dynamics, intimacy, and communication in relationships. The characters
are well-developed and complex, with rich inner lives that make them relatable
and engaging. The dialogue is witty and realistic, capturing the nuances of
human interaction. One of the standout aspects of this book is its attention to
detail. The author explores the various forms of BDSM (bondage, discipline,
sadism, and masochism) and has woven them seamlessly into the narrative. The
descriptions of scenes are vivid and sensual, making it easy for readers to
imagine themselves in the character's shoes. The author captures emotions with
intelligence and infuses the writing with compelling, sensual imagery. Switch V: The PossASSion of Felicia
Guthrie is a thought-provoking and delightful romp for fans of BDSM
romance.