Step into the sultry world of the Mastered series, where passion, trust, and self-discovery collide in a modern-day romance that’s as intense as it is captivating! Written by New York Times bestselling author Lorelei James, this contemporary western and erotic romance saga follows the electrifying relationship between Amery Hardwick and Ronin Black. Set against the vibrant backdrop of Denver and the exotic allure of Japan, Mastered weaves a tale that’s both steamy and emotionally rich, earning praise for its bold storytelling and unforgettable characters.
With four novels and a novella, the series dives deep into themes of control, vulnerability, and personal growth, all wrapped in James’ signature blend of sensuality and heart. If you’re ready for a romance that pushes boundaries and tugs at your heartstrings, Mastered is your next obsession!
How Mastered Began
Lorelei James, a South Dakota native known for her Rough Riders and Blacktop Cowboys series, launched Mastered in 2014 with a vision to explore a new facet of erotic romance. Inspired by her love for complex characters and modern western settings, James crafted a series centered on a martial arts dojo in Denver, infusing it with Japanese cultural elements like shibari (artistic rope bondage). Her goal? To balance raw passion with emotional depth, creating a story that’s as much about love as it is about self-discovery.
The series kicked off with Bound, published by NAL, and quickly gained traction for its fresh take on BDSM romance. James’ meticulous research into martial arts and Japanese rope artistry added authenticity, making Mastered a standout in the genre.
The Heart of Mastered
The Mastered series begins with Bound (2014), where Amery Hardwick, a graphic designer from a small town, meets Ronin Black, the enigmatic owner of Black Arts dojo. Their chemistry ignites as Ronin introduces Amery to his world of sensual rope play, but secrets threaten their trust. Unwound (2014) continues their journey, testing Ronin’s need for control against Amery’s growing strength. The novella Schooled offers a spicy interlude, while Unraveled (2015) shifts focus to Shiori Hirano and Knox Lofgren, exploring a bold Domme-submissive dynamic. Caged (2015) rounds out the series with Deacon and Molly’s fiery romance.
Mastered’s themes of trust, empowerment, and vulnerability resonate deeply. James masterfully blends the rugged charm of Denver’s urban west with the disciplined artistry of Japanese culture, creating a setting that feels both grounded and exotic. Her characters evolve through emotional and sensual challenges, making the series a compelling mix of heart-pounding romance and personal growth. The inclusion of shibari adds a unique, artistic layer, distinguishing Mastered from typical romance narratives.
James’ writing style is vivid and immersive, balancing steamy scenes with heartfelt moments. Fans praise her ability to craft characters who feel real, from Amery’s bold independence to Ronin’s guarded intensity, ensuring every book is a page-turner.
Why Mastered Resonates
Mastered has carved a niche in the erotic romance genre, earning accolades like the Romantic Times Reviewer’s Choice Award and a devoted fanbase. Its blend of western grit and Eastern elegance offers a fresh perspective, while its focus on trust and empowerment speaks to readers seeking more than just spice. The series’ impact lies in its ability to normalize complex dynamics like BDSM, presenting them as consensual and emotionally rich.
James’ storytelling has inspired countless readers to explore her other works, cementing her as a powerhouse in romance. Mastered’s legacy endures through its fearless exploration of love’s boundaries, making it a must-read for fans of bold, heartfelt stories.
- Publication Years: 2014–2015
- Books: 4 novels (Bound, Unwound, Unraveled, Caged) and 1 novella (Schooled)
- Awards: Romantic Times Reviewer’s Choice Award
Ready for a romance that’s as daring as it is heartfelt? Grab Bound and dive into the sizzling world of Mastered today!