To G.G. Royale, my wonderful editor, who keeps the story on track-and made me lighten up the torture on the boat-and to the excellent line and proofing editors who made this book readable. To the Loose Id Quad who kindly ignore the way I tuck extra characters in…and how long these books have gotten. To the supremely talented artist, Christine Griffin, who’s created each Shadowlands cover and captured the ambience so well.

To Suede, who enthusiastically shares tales and answers questions. A big hug to you.

I’d like to thank Kane and careena at the Lair de Sade in Los Angeles for your warm welcome and for the tour of your huge dungeon…especially that sinister jail cell in the basement. Thanks to the generous Doms, Masters, submissives, and slaves there who shared their stories, and a special thanks to the awesome Dom who did the fireplay scene. Many hugs go to Fiona Archer from Australia, who joined me on the late-night dungeon jaunt despite an early flight. That’s friendship above and beyond the call of duty.

To my wonderful, creative, loving children, real and honorary, who put up with a mom who disappears for hours at a time. And last but never least, to my good-natured husband for his patience when I say “uh-huh” without hearing a word. You’re the reason I can write about love.

Bless you all.

Cherise

Author’s Note

To my readers,

This book is fiction, not reality and, as in most romantic fiction, the romance is compressed into a very, very short time period.

You, my darlings, live in the real world and I want you to take a little more time than the heroines you read about. Good Doms don't grow on trees and there's some strange people out there. So while you're looking for that special Dom, please, be careful.

When you find him, realize he can't read your mind. Yes, frightening as it might be, you're going to have to open up and talk to him. And you listen to him, in return. Share your hopes and fears, what you want from him, what scares you spitless. Okay, he may try to push your boundaries a little-he's a Dom, after all-but you have your safeword. You will have a safeword, am I clear? Use protection. Have a back-up person. Communicate.