Innocence to the Max

I spent some time recently discussing this book with the author, and what she had to say only whet my appetite even more. The description alone thrilled me down to the core as 'Innocence to the Max' has every trope I adore. BDSM, vampires, power plays, ruthlessness, innocence, mythical lore, and a possibility of a forever love story. Sigh. Yes, this book was mine from the first moment I knew of it.
\"Remember I asked you to throw out everything you thought you knew about BDSM?”
“Yes, Sir.”
“It wasn’t a flippant statement. This is not your typical club, nor am I a typical Master. Out there, in your world, you can safeword—as a submissive you have the most power. But not here, Cisco. My kind are but animals with a tentative hold on humanity. Here, you fuck up, you die. I won’t let that happen.”
From the moment human Cisco and vampire Max's eyes met, they knew they'd found the one for them. It's not as simple as that, however, when you're the most powerful vampire in the area, and your mate is an innocent human. In the five years Cisco waited to be with Max, he did his research on vampires and BDSM, but nothing, and I mean nothing, prepared him for the first time he stepped into Wicked Ground. Max had planned to wait, to watch Cisco learn, and to slowly guide him, before allowing the clan to see that Cisco is his blood bond mate. Unfortunately for them both, the very first night, Zeke, a blight upon Max, causes a ruckus, and Max shows his hand too soon. Max can't be seen as weak, so he must do everything he can to keep Cisco safe. And, above all, he cannot allow anyone to know that he believes Cisco and himself are fated to be Iunctiō Cōpula. A lore that most believe to be myth. A myth that would allow Max and Cisco to not only bond, but would allow Max's heart to beat again.
Now, remember what I said at the beginning regarding all of my favorite tropes? There are so many political and power machinations going on that it increased my enjoyment level by a thousand, easily. Max is, of course, right in the middle as he's spent years gathering evidence against the vampire king of California, and now it is time for Max to send his right-hand man, Angelo, to the king of the vampires with this information. For you see, in this author's vampire world, there are a lot of rules they are held to so they can live side by side with humans. But, as is often the case, there are some who believe they should rule over the humans. And they will stop at nothing to get what they want.
Oh, Jo, my friend…you've outdone yourself here! Seriously. I loved Max. Completely loved him. I understood exactly why there were times he had to be harsh with Cisco. This vampire world isn't full of any that sparkle. Every minute that Cisco spent in their world, his life was in danger. So yes, I understood. Not so sure I appreciated my sweet Cisco having to suffer at the end, but the bloodbath fight Max partakes in was magnificent. I'm a bloodthirsty girl at heart, especially if someone wrongs me, so Max had every right and I cheered at the gore!
Loved it. Loved everything about it. I especially liked the way the author left it. There's still work to be done by both Max and Cisco in order for them to find their happiness and peace. I was thrilled the author didn't tie it up in a pretty little bow. I am so looking forward to the next book. I want to see more of Max and Cisco, and I'd love some exploration into Angelo and Benny. I'm definitely sure Jo has plans for them.