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Masters of the Castle #3
Saving Sara
Once upon a time, Jackson and Sara were friends. Close friends. Friends with benefits, even. For him, making that leap into a committed relationship seemed like a no-brainer. For her, it was scary as hell. Having seen more than one submissive become lost in the illusion of a relationship that was then incapable of surviving in real life, Sara was terrified. She knew she was falling in love, and she had no idea with what: Jackson the reality, or the masterful illusion. Then the accident happened and Jackson was there for her. And that's when Sara knew - she was going to lose herself in the illusion. Terrified, she ran.
Now, years later, Jackson is chief of security for The Castle - the hottest BDSM fantasy resort in the country. Summoned to the dungeon on a trouble call, Sara is the last person he expects to find huddled up against the bathroom wall. After three long years filled with even longer nights, he's had plenty of time to consider all he'd do if ever she fell back into his life. When he sees his chance, he doesn't hesitate. One day - that's all he has before the buses come and Sara runs again. One day to rekindle old passions, to bury old fears, to prove once and for all just what is illusion and what is not.
Now, years later, Jackson is chief of security for The Castle - the hottest BDSM fantasy resort in the country. Summoned to the dungeon on a trouble call, Sara is the last person he expects to find huddled up against the bathroom wall. After three long years filled with even longer nights, he's had plenty of time to consider all he'd do if ever she fell back into his life. When he sees his chance, he doesn't hesitate. One day - that's all he has before the buses come and Sara runs again. One day to rekindle old passions, to bury old fears, to prove once and for all just what is illusion and what is not.
ebook
First published October 1, 2013
81 people are currently reading
114 people want to read
About the author
Maren Smith
152books1,124followersFortunate enough to live with my Daddy Dom, I am a Little, coffee fanatic, dog and cat mom, was an administrator for six years at my local BDSM dungeon, and have since become a Utah resident and submissive to the love of my life. An International and USA Bestselling Author several times over, I have penned more than 160 novels, novellas and short stories, and am the author of the Masters of the Castle and Daddy’s Little series.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
April 24, 2019
This is one of those series that stand out,that is fast becoming a favorite of mine.
Sara’s story is painfully beautiful. Painful as in what she wanted,but didn’t think she could have for real. Painful as in what happened to her when a scene went horribly wrong,scarring her inside as much as out. So,she ran. From that one person she wanted,but didn’t think she could have. Especially now.
Three years later,she meets him again. Her current “Dom� took her to visit the Castle,and wanted her to watch the kind of scene she hated. When she panicks and flees the scene,security is called in and it’s HIM. Jackson,the one person she still wants and trusts. He takes her from her “Dom�,to find out why she ran all those years ago,and to make her want to stay. Because,contrary to her belief,he dóes want this sweet sub.
But he has just one day to convince her.....
The emotions are so recognisable,so heartfelt...each person brought to life with such care,you can’t help but love them.
I want to meet the other members of this family!
Sara’s story is painfully beautiful. Painful as in what she wanted,but didn’t think she could have for real. Painful as in what happened to her when a scene went horribly wrong,scarring her inside as much as out. So,she ran. From that one person she wanted,but didn’t think she could have. Especially now.
Three years later,she meets him again. Her current “Dom� took her to visit the Castle,and wanted her to watch the kind of scene she hated. When she panicks and flees the scene,security is called in and it’s HIM. Jackson,the one person she still wants and trusts. He takes her from her “Dom�,to find out why she ran all those years ago,and to make her want to stay. Because,contrary to her belief,he dóes want this sweet sub.
But he has just one day to convince her.....
The emotions are so recognisable,so heartfelt...each person brought to life with such care,you can’t help but love them.
I want to meet the other members of this family!
April 9, 2019
BDSM Romance as it should be done
This book is written by someone who’s active in the lifestyle and you can feel that experience while reading. I appreciate that.
But it isn’t just a book with actual scenes and exciting discipline and sex, it has enticing characters and great character build. Jackson and Sara aren’t perfect, they are like real people with emotions and (irrational) thoughts. It made me connect with them and turning the pages.
I’m certain I will reread this book over and over again.
This book is written by someone who’s active in the lifestyle and you can feel that experience while reading. I appreciate that.
But it isn’t just a book with actual scenes and exciting discipline and sex, it has enticing characters and great character build. Jackson and Sara aren’t perfect, they are like real people with emotions and (irrational) thoughts. It made me connect with them and turning the pages.
I’m certain I will reread this book over and over again.
October 23, 2016
Another great book in this series. Sara was burned during a fire play episode three years ago and comes to the Castle with her current boyfriend to try and re-establish their relationship. She sees that Jackson is a dom. She hasn't seen Jackson since her accident. Jackson isn't going to let her run from him again. I really enjoyed this book.
November 11, 2013
Wow. I have loved every book in this series. The strong attraction and deep emotions in this story are amazing. Sexually it was a powerful story but the relationship and emotions are just as strong. You just want to cheer for them.
February 1, 2016
Very poignant and yet, uplifting with some wonderful and sweet moments
June 30, 2020
"Saving Sara" is a second chance romance filled with heart, soul, drama, angst, and determination. Oh, and let's not forget the kink! If you've read any of the "Masters of the Castle" series, then you know Jackson - even-tempered, never rattled - head of security. Well, that's about to be blown all to kingdom come. Literally. Jackson knew Sara from three years ago at a BDSM club in California. That was before Sara's accident. Jackson was the only person who visited her every day while she was in the hospital healing. The plan was for her to be discharged into Jackson's care. Rather than waiting for discharge day, Sara convinced the doctor to release her a day early and she left without a word and went to her sister's house, leaving Jackson angry, hurt, and confused. Now three years later at the Castle, he received a call over the walkie stating there was an emergency with a submissive down in the dungeon. Imagine his surprise when he got there and found Sara having completely broken down with a panic attack in the men's restroom. This is such a compelling story that put me through a wringer of emotions, both good and bad. Just one more thought. I just absolutely wanted to deck Dickwad.
January 2, 2021
I loved Jackson's story. The mountain sized Head of Security fo the Castle deserved his HEA and he was given the best sub. Sara has been traumatized by an accident at a club and is broken even further when her non-understanding boyfriend/dom pushes her beyond her limits. Thankfully, Jackson is there to put Sara back together again. Jackson's understanding, caring, and protectiveness draw Sara out of her shell and lets her experience life like she once did. Great Story. I really enjoy the Masters of the Castle stories.
September 27, 2021
Saving Sara
The title is a good description of this story. Sara and Jackson were close friends until she had an accident then fled the hospital before he could take her home. That was three years ago and she's still traumatized. She was burned during a scene with fire and has some bad scarring. Her current Dom scares her and Jackson steps in.
He tries to help her and give her what she needs. Several scenes are intense but she doesn't safe word. I think he was often harsh but it seemed to be what she needed.
The title is a good description of this story. Sara and Jackson were close friends until she had an accident then fled the hospital before he could take her home. That was three years ago and she's still traumatized. She was burned during a scene with fire and has some bad scarring. Her current Dom scares her and Jackson steps in.
He tries to help her and give her what she needs. Several scenes are intense but she doesn't safe word. I think he was often harsh but it seemed to be what she needed.
August 19, 2024
Girls YouTube Channel � Stacked with Reviews (not this book though!)
NOTE: This is a bit of a series review rather than each book in the series!)
Okay let's put my cards on the table shall we - I needed smut, I needed Alpha, I needed 'Sir's and 'Sweetheart' endearments and control. I found it in these. They are written by different authors but they keep the continuity of the whole 'Castle' really well. You have the BDSM Resort through it's early stages, through big events like disaster and Charity Auctions - and I have loved ALL of them.
I have read 10 single titles in two weeks, plus the chunk of Witness Protection books that come in one compendium - and I just realised I missed a whole other chunk so I will be back to them soon... but...
It's not high flying writing, it's mostly realistic, certainly all the BDSM play stuff is but some of the quickly falling for each other is a little squiffy. I will say that the psychological issues dealt with by the 'Masters' or 'Sir's throughout the books was really well done and quite affecting in places.
OF NOTE: Owning 'O' is deeply affecting, or at least it was to me.
PLEASE READ THE TRIGGERS - there are quite a few in there and mention of quite a full things.
Many of the books are written by authors who are in the lifestyle and I think that shines through in the writing.
P.S. Love bookmarks? Want to print them out and use them as often as you like? Love ephemera and junk journal’s and prints too? Try out my new website .IES Review
NOTE: This is a bit of a series review rather than each book in the series!)
Okay let's put my cards on the table shall we - I needed smut, I needed Alpha, I needed 'Sir's and 'Sweetheart' endearments and control. I found it in these. They are written by different authors but they keep the continuity of the whole 'Castle' really well. You have the BDSM Resort through it's early stages, through big events like disaster and Charity Auctions - and I have loved ALL of them.
I have read 10 single titles in two weeks, plus the chunk of Witness Protection books that come in one compendium - and I just realised I missed a whole other chunk so I will be back to them soon... but...
It's not high flying writing, it's mostly realistic, certainly all the BDSM play stuff is but some of the quickly falling for each other is a little squiffy. I will say that the psychological issues dealt with by the 'Masters' or 'Sir's throughout the books was really well done and quite affecting in places.
OF NOTE: Owning 'O' is deeply affecting, or at least it was to me.
PLEASE READ THE TRIGGERS - there are quite a few in there and mention of quite a full things.
Many of the books are written by authors who are in the lifestyle and I think that shines through in the writing.
P.S. Love bookmarks? Want to print them out and use them as often as you like? Love ephemera and junk journal’s and prints too? Try out my new website .IES Review
February 2, 2018
So good
I loved Jackson & Sara! The way he helped her overcome her fears and help her see she was still beautiful was heartwarming. He was so persistent and patient he literally wore her down until she stayed. This was a sweet second chance love story with a heroine who overcame so much. Highly recommended.
I loved Jackson & Sara! The way he helped her overcome her fears and help her see she was still beautiful was heartwarming. He was so persistent and patient he literally wore her down until she stayed. This was a sweet second chance love story with a heroine who overcame so much. Highly recommended.
May 28, 2021
I liked this one, loved most of it. The only thing that I felt was lacking was a conversation she needed to have that never happened. The WHY was certainly clear with the READER but that same conversation needed to vocalized outside of the characters heads in my opinion. Other wise its certainly a melt your heart kind of story.
January 2, 2019
Wonderful
As always, this book was amazing. Maren is excellent at describing scenes and makes you feel right in the book. At times the dynamic of the main characters was hard for me to swallow but Maren didn't fail to write the difficult and sometimes tough relationship.
As always, this book was amazing. Maren is excellent at describing scenes and makes you feel right in the book. At times the dynamic of the main characters was hard for me to swallow but Maren didn't fail to write the difficult and sometimes tough relationship.
February 6, 2019
This one was also amazing but did dip a little deeper into the BDSM word than I was comfortable for. But maybe that was the intent. Maren's writing is amazing so I wouldn't give it anything less than 5 stars.
June 19, 2019
I love it 😍
I love this series it’s great getting to know each and every one of the characters 😊 I look forward to reading the rest 🥰
I love this series it’s great getting to know each and every one of the characters 😊 I look forward to reading the rest 🥰
July 19, 2014
This book is the 3rd in Maren's "Masters of the Castle" series, although I found so much of the story to be focused on Jackson and Sara in such a way that reading the first 2 books- "Kaylee's Keeper" and "Holding Hannah"- only marginally added to the experience. The book is again set in the BDSM fantasy resort "The Castle," but what is shown between Jackson and Sara is so much about reality, real BDSM relationships, regardless of the fantastical setting. Sara arrives at the Castle wounded, both physically and mentally, and with "Dickwad," as Jackson christens Robert, the wanna-be dom (in my less than humble opinion) whom she arrives with. I enjoyed the back story that we got in drips and drabs about Sara's accident and Jackson's relationship with her. I especially appreciated Jackson's struggles to be the dom, the man Sara needs, which he doesn't automatically "just know" like too many doms in books. Even so, the journey of healing he eventually takes her on through the book is beautiful, even with its hiccups when Jackson is trying to figure out what to do. I gushed and giggled when Sara didn't get on the bus, but instead accepted Jackson's ride to get her things from the apartment she's sharing with "Dickwad."
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 30, 2020
"Saving Sara" is a second chance romance filled with heart, soul, drama, angst, and determination. Oh, and let's not forget the kink! If you've read any of the "Masters of the Castle" series, then you know Jackson - even-tempered, never rattled - head of security. Well, that's about to be blown all to kingdom come. Literally. Jackson knew Sara from three years ago at a BDSM club in California. That was before Sara's accident. Jackson was the only person who visited her every day while she was in the hospital healing. The plan was for her to be discharged into Jackson's care. Rather than waiting for discharge day, Sara convinced the doctor to release her a day early and she left without a word and went to her sister's house, leaving Jackson angry, hurt, and confused. Now three years later at the Castle, he received a call over the walkie stating there was an emergency with a submissive down in the dungeon. Imagine his surprise when he got there and found Sara having completely broken down with a panic attack in the men's restroom. This is such a compelling story that put me through a wringer of emotions, both good and bad. Just one more thought. I just absolutely wanted to deck Dickwad.
February 16, 2014
I enjoyed the third book in the Masters of the Castle series, Saving Sara. (I am currently reading the 2nd I just loved Sara so much I had to read her story first) She is traumatized after being burned during a fire play session gone terribly amiss. She goes to visit the castle with a new Dom, aka jerkface, to make new memories. He drags her down to the dungeon, knowing her history with fire and winds up throwing her into a full on flashback moment.
Jackson, security there and a very yummy sounding Dom, finds her in the bathroom afterwards and cleans her up. He takes her in as his for the remainder of the time.
Their tension and attraction is palpable. He is deliciously sexy and caring and I LOVE the alpha in him. Sara has a hard time trusting he means what he says but eventually begins to trust.
I will not spoil the ending but I could barely put my IPAD down to see the outcome. Hot, hot, BDSM scenes complete with spankings and punishments. I look forward to the next Masters of the Castle, Sweet Sinclair. 5 Stars all the way.
Jackson, security there and a very yummy sounding Dom, finds her in the bathroom afterwards and cleans her up. He takes her in as his for the remainder of the time.
Their tension and attraction is palpable. He is deliciously sexy and caring and I LOVE the alpha in him. Sara has a hard time trusting he means what he says but eventually begins to trust.
I will not spoil the ending but I could barely put my IPAD down to see the outcome. Hot, hot, BDSM scenes complete with spankings and punishments. I look forward to the next Masters of the Castle, Sweet Sinclair. 5 Stars all the way.
January 20, 2014
Absolutely loved this book!
I loved Jackson's scenes in Kaylee's Keeper, and was anxiously awaiting his story!
I loved the confliction between fantasy and reality that both MC's felt.
I adored his dominance, but loved him even more for his empathy.
Sara, being scarred (both inside and out), and confused over her emotions about the "scene" made for the perfect Castle story.
I loved it!
It was sexy as hell.
Lots of delicious D/S, spankings, romance, sex, and a very well done plot with amazing internal confliction and emotions.
What a great story!!
** This one eased a bit more into the dungeon, and introduced fireplay, which I had not read until this point. It was very well done. And introduced me to a new "play".
I can't wait to see what she brings to the next story!
I loved Jackson's scenes in Kaylee's Keeper, and was anxiously awaiting his story!
I loved the confliction between fantasy and reality that both MC's felt.
I adored his dominance, but loved him even more for his empathy.
Sara, being scarred (both inside and out), and confused over her emotions about the "scene" made for the perfect Castle story.
I loved it!
It was sexy as hell.
Lots of delicious D/S, spankings, romance, sex, and a very well done plot with amazing internal confliction and emotions.
What a great story!!
** This one eased a bit more into the dungeon, and introduced fireplay, which I had not read until this point. It was very well done. And introduced me to a new "play".
I can't wait to see what she brings to the next story!
March 28, 2015
Saving Sara is another story in the Master's of the Castle series that deals with serious issues. Sara has had a traumatic experience that makes it almost impossible for her to enjoy the submission she craves and once loved.
Although this story is longer than and thus spends a little more time explaining Sara's situation, it still doesn't work well for me. The Castle is a place of fantasies and frolic, and for me the more lighthearted stories work better.
Although this story is longer than and thus spends a little more time explaining Sara's situation, it still doesn't work well for me. The Castle is a place of fantasies and frolic, and for me the more lighthearted stories work better.
November 19, 2013
I love books about BDSM clubs and though this one isn't about a club it has the same "family" appeal. You get to know characters and their stories carry over from book to book.
This book tells the story of a sub who has been severely injured in a scene. She has a lot to overcome on her long road back to self acceptance and finds just the right dom to help her on her way. It is sweet story but not syrupy sweet. The sex is HAWT. The BDSM scenes are creative and fun. There is a lot to like about this book.
I will definitely be reading more books by this author.
This book tells the story of a sub who has been severely injured in a scene. She has a lot to overcome on her long road back to self acceptance and finds just the right dom to help her on her way. It is sweet story but not syrupy sweet. The sex is HAWT. The BDSM scenes are creative and fun. There is a lot to like about this book.
I will definitely be reading more books by this author.
May 21, 2015
This was a great story about Jackson helping Sara trust again and work through her demons. Sara's boyfriend was a real butthead and that's how Jackson and Sara reunited. Jackson has tried for three years to get Sara out of his head and figure out what why she left him before he could help her. It took Jackson awhile but with Hannah's help Jackson finally figured out what was holding Sara back. Sara was brave and faced her fears head on with the help of Jackson. I enjoyed watching these two work through their feelings for each other and the way it ended was really good!
October 24, 2013
I enjoyed the first two books in this series, but this one added an emotional component that gave it even more of a boost. But more than that, that emotion was brought to life by a terribly injured (in all ways) sub, and a Dom who exemplifies what we think/wish a Dom should be.
Well written, a bit abrupt at ending, but I'm hoping we will be made privy to Sara's progress in future installments.
I am beginning to love this Castle "family" much as I do the Shadowlands crew...
Well written, a bit abrupt at ending, but I'm hoping we will be made privy to Sara's progress in future installments.
I am beginning to love this Castle "family" much as I do the Shadowlands crew...
November 5, 2021
Just keep getting better
This is the third of this series I have read and I loved, loved, loved it. I love that Jackson truly sees what Sara needs and does all he can to help her. I love that Sara is genuinely afraid and is not playing Jackson. He treasures her submission and he truly loves her. Just needs for Sara to think better of herself. If you love BDSM books and alpha Doms and gorgeous submissive this is the series for you. Go on - have a read.
This is the third of this series I have read and I loved, loved, loved it. I love that Jackson truly sees what Sara needs and does all he can to help her. I love that Sara is genuinely afraid and is not playing Jackson. He treasures her submission and he truly loves her. Just needs for Sara to think better of herself. If you love BDSM books and alpha Doms and gorgeous submissive this is the series for you. Go on - have a read.
October 18, 2013
More like 3.5 stars because I thought the ending was rushed. It didn't help that the actual book ended at 85% of the Kindle book, with the remaining 15% excerpts from the other two books in this series, so I was expecting more. I decided to round up because I did like the characters and the emotional components of the story.
September 7, 2019
Enjoyable to the Last!
You instantly have sympathy for Sara, not only for her past but also the guy she is stuck with. We've all been there. Jackson is a wonderful guy, dominant and so very much in love with her and willing to do what it takes to heal her and make her his. Great book in a fantastic series.
You instantly have sympathy for Sara, not only for her past but also the guy she is stuck with. We've all been there. Jackson is a wonderful guy, dominant and so very much in love with her and willing to do what it takes to heal her and make her his. Great book in a fantastic series.
September 8, 2016
4,5 star
I put only 4,5 because I likedit a lot but not as Kaylee the previous book. Sara had an accident and she has lost her pleasure in BDSM. A Master in the castle will be her saviour? Maren Smith has become one of my favourite author.
I put only 4,5 because I likedit a lot but not as Kaylee the previous book. Sara had an accident and she has lost her pleasure in BDSM. A Master in the castle will be her saviour? Maren Smith has become one of my favourite author.
May 14, 2014
A very good spanking story
I enjoyed reading this story and found myself caught up in the developing relationship between the two main characters. I enjoyed th brief glimpses of this series other book characters as well. It is a emotional and sexy book.
I enjoyed reading this story and found myself caught up in the developing relationship between the two main characters. I enjoyed th brief glimpses of this series other book characters as well. It is a emotional and sexy book.
February 2, 2014
Enjoyed this book and will be getting the others in the series.
May 28, 2014
This series is alot of fun to read. I have learned so much of a life style I knew nothing about. I will read eveybook in this series!
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