Title: Topping from Below
Author: Laura Reese
First published June 1, 1995
384 pages, Paperback
ISBN: 9780312144357 (ISBN10: 0312144350)
Rating: 3.43
Overview
Laura Reese’s Topping from Below is a heart-racing novel about two sisters who embark on an adventure into the depths of darkness and pleasure. Nora, a successful and confident woman, discovers her younger sister’s diary after her tragic death.
The diary reveals a secret, dark affair with a seductive and mysterious man named M. Driven by a desire for justice, Nora sets out to seduce M in hopes of uncovering the truth about her sister’s murder.
But as she indulges in his twisted desires, she realizes she is in too deep, risking her life for a passion that knows no boundaries. She soon realizes that danger lurks closer than she ever imagined, and she might not escape unscathed.
Topping from Below is a gripping and provocative read that will leave readers on the edge of their seats.
About the Author
Meet Laura Reese, the brilliant author behind Topping from Below and Panic Snap. Her works have received critical acclaim, and she currently resides in the beautiful city of Davis, California.
Editoral Review
Laura Reese’s Topping from Below is a gripping and provocative thriller that explores the dark world of BDSM (bondage, dominance, submission, and masochism) relationships. First published in 1995, the novel remains a powerful and controversial work that challenges readers to confront their own desires and fears.
Reese is a skilled writer who knows how to blend sensual and psychological elements into a compelling narrative. Her prose is rich and evocative, and she creates a vivid sense of place and atmosphere.
At the same time, she probes deeply into the psyche of her characters, revealing their complex motivations and conflicting emotions.
The plot of Topping from Below centers around a successful young journalist named Nora Tibbs, who becomes fascinated by the world of BDSM after her sister commits suicide while involved in a dominant-submissive relationship. Nora begins to experiment with BDSM herself, first as a submissive and then as a dominant, and she soon finds herself drawn into a dangerous game of power and control.
The novel is populated by a range of intriguing and memorable characters, including Nora’s mysterious lover, Pierce, and her former mentor, the charismatic and manipulative psychologist Leo. Reese also creates a vivid portrait of San Francisco’s BDSM scene, with its clubs, parties, and rituals.
At its core, Topping from Below is a meditation on the nature of power and the human desire for control. Reese explores the ways in which BDSM can be both liberating and destructive, and she asks important questions about consent, agency, and the limits of sexual exploration.
While the novel is undoubtedly compelling and thought-provoking, it is not without its flaws. Some readers may find the BDSM scenes too explicit or disturbing, and others may feel that the plot is too contrived or melodramatic.
Additionally, the novel can be read as reinforcing gender stereotypes and promoting a narrow view of sexuality.
Overall, however, Topping from Below is a powerful and important work that raises important questions about sexuality, power, and consent. It is recommended for mature readers who are willing to engage with challenging and provocative material.
Rating: 4/5
