An erotic story of people with perplexing requirements, while giving us a look inside show business, CHAINS AND CANES casts some light on a side of sexuality that most of us don't understand. Daniel, a rugged businessman, and his lovely girlfriend Naya seem perfectly suited. But she needs someone to hurt her during lovemaking, and Daniel can't bring himself to do her any harm. As Naya is a dancer in a club she meets Remy, a new alluring Cajun choreographer, and he decides straightaway how to handle the girl. There is no suggestion of his coming between the close couple, but they invite him back to the penthouse and he promptly beats Naya with a leather belt, giving satisfaction.

CHAINS AND CANES takes us into the mindset of a girl who would not stand for domestic abuse from her partner, and wants to be respected as a performer on stage, but somehow enjoys relaxing by taking orders and being beaten. I did feel uncomfortable reading of lashes and welts on the dancer's back, and how happy her male partner was to see her being beaten. However we are clearly shown that Naya has a safe word to stop the beatings and this is a distinct boundary for the activity. Remy has no wish to do her a permanent injury and respects the couple as being in control of the evening.

Of course matters do not end there and Remy appears to be getting in between the two lovers, creating jealous tension. Daniel, trying to carry on a packed business life, realises he might find contentment in taking orders from Remy too. The story is well written and does highlight some of the possible dangers of sado-masochistic activity.

Katie Porter is the pen-name of Carrie Lofty and Lorelie Brown and with CHAINS AND CANES they have collaborated on a hot story about three being more exciting than two. Those who want to read about living dangerously, or just a deeply erotic romance, will find it thrilling.