Stable Hand

Omg, where to start with this one. Stable hand was like a turbulent and hella entertaining landing in the Candy wonderland but for the lovers of the kinks, not the sweets.
“Home, home on the range. Where the kinksters and the ponyboys play.” - it's the heart of the book in a nutshell but a lot more in same time. In her fictional world, AE Lister has created a cozy, warm and safe environment for her characters and an opportunity for them to let go of their inhibitions, embrace their inner kinky side and enjoy freedom.
One unreceived email turns Jensen Moriarty's calm and sheltered life into absolute chaos, sending him into a completely unknown and uncharted territory. Instead of looking after real horses, digging sh*ts and cleaning stalls, he agrees to try and learn how to look after human ponies. The story is a never-ending entertainment that begins with Jensen's first awkward, clumsy, surprisingly well executed attempts to master his pony stable duties. The opportunity to see his inner monologue was so insightful and provided a steady supply of funny moments. The story isn't just about the kinks but also about Jensen discovering his partners on the ranch - Noah and Luke - and the formation of their triad. I would have loved to see Noah and Luke's POV in the book, but no such luck. This is a light, low-angst, kinky awakening full of wonders - a tight knitted found family, exploring new relationships , setting personal boundaries and uncovering hidden desires and all of this accompanied with a sprinkling of shenanigans. Jensen's inner poise was an excellent bridge between Noah's quiet and shy demeanor and Luke's wilder brattines.

Stable Hand is a culturally diverse novel as there are all types of humans involved in the BDSM world. Lister also gives us the humor along with the pleasure and pain. There is plenty of steam and mental self-exploration.

Lister factually and sensitively explains this side of the fetish world to Jensen and to readers who are not familiar with pony play and other forms of BDSM. I applaud Lister for including safe words, safe sex, and safe practices. This is not a how-to, but a romance between three men.

I am so glad that this is just the first in the series called “The Braided Crop Ranch”. I cannot wait for the next one!

I received an ARC of this book and I am writing a review without prejudice and voluntarily.