Anything for a Byline

Anything for a Byline
Sean Michael
Torquere Press
ISBN: 1934166421
Fiction, Erotica
Reviewed by Jean Roberta

Nathaniel, eager young copper-haired cub reporter, has heard about a mysterious men's club, the Velvet Glove, where willing men play rough sexual games. Nathaniel can't be sure this "club" is not a hoax, and he knows that the only way to find out is to get inside. He wants a career in journalism, and he knows that getting an exclusive scoop on something juicy could put him on the fast track.
However, Nat's "interview" doesn't go the way he expected. He is asked to sign a consent form to be interviewed as a "workerbee" at the club. "Workerbees" are submissive employees, and they are tested and trained by experienced trainers who are very thorough.
Nat is introduced to Richmond, a devilishly handsome older man wearing leather pants and nothing else. Nat tries asking his interviewer how long the club has existed, and he is immediately put in his place.
Nat's obvious innocence, curiosity and growing trust captivate Richmond as much as the boy's pale, easily-marked skin invites his touch. Richmond's skill, patience and affection can transport Nat into subspace within seconds. The next time that Richmond is told to go meet a workbee for a training session, he is delighted to see that his boy has come back.
Nat discovers his submissive side and his willingness to please the first Sir who brings it out. Both men have to find a way to work around the rules of the club, in which trainers and their trainees rarely have exclusive relationships. Both Nat and Richmond realize from their first scene that the connection between them is something special, and they convince the management that their relationship can be developed in a way that will benefit other club-members, including the other Top-men who will appreciate Nat once he is fully trained.
The story of Nat's training is told by Nat and by Richmond in alternate chapters. The reader is allowed to learn about Richmond's moments of doubt and melting tenderness as well as Nat's as they both plan for the grand finale, a public scene in which Nat is to be shown off by his trainer. The plot proceeds at a satisfying pace.
This narrative fills the requirements of erotic romance, while it deals with the age-old issue of snoopy outsiders who try to gain knowledge of communities that are more-or-less hidden because public exposure would be dangerous for them. Like many other young folks who have "come out" in various ways, Nat learns to be discreet as he becomes increasingly committed to his new community.
Sean Michael has a deft touch with this genre, and this is not his only "Velvet Glove" story. The club is worth visiting more than once.