Perhaps you could be of service?

Mistress Erin welcomes back Mistress Justine Cross

2011-04-05T15:09:00.000-07:00

I'm so pleased to have my dear friend Mistress Justine Cross back for a visit from the 14th through the 18th of April. You can find out all about this amazing woman at her site http://losangelesdominatrix.com/.

We will be available for double sessions that weekend, but please book early! We have limited time available. If you are interested in being our designated pool boy on one of our trips to the Country Club, submit your list of qualifications and your budget as soon as possible, and we will consider letting you serve us.

A Change of Scenery

2010-10-15T11:31:00.000-07:00

After deciding to take the summer off for travel, I'm back in New Orleans and excited to accept sessions again this month. Since I attend University, summer tends to be a time for me relax and concentrate on personal projects, and to visit friends and family outside of The South. This summer Kitten and I decided to move our household from Uptown to the French Quarter, so I'm happy to announce that I now have convenient premises located on Bourbon Street in which to conduct sessions.
While my Uptown location was in a safe neighborhood with plenty of parking, I realized that it was not convenient to my many clients who are traveling to New Orleans and staying in the French Quarter or CBD. I can now offer discrete sessions in a location that is easy to access for all potential guests, and am excited to get back to play!

Charity Auction Sunday night at Moulin View

2010-04-10T21:31:00.000-07:00

Kitten and I will be attending a charity event at the Ruby Fruit Jungle, 1135 Decatur, Sunday night. We have volunteered to be part of the auction, if you attend you can bid to play with either or both of us all to benefit the New Orleans Musician's Clinic. The following is from the event's information:

This month Moulin Vieux is bringing back 'Kink for a Cause' with a Charity Slave and Toy Auction to benefit the New Orleans Musician's Clinic and also the groundbreaking, multi-platfom documentary, Land of Opportunity!

Slaves (and a few Doms) both male and female, of all persuasions, will be up for auction as well as graciously donated toys from Lucky Stars Leather, JT Stockroom, and many others! Bidding to begin at Doors, 11pm, and to continue through 1:30am at which time slaves and items will be turned over to their "owners."

This would be an excellent time for anyone to come support a good cause, chat with either of us, and maybe play!

A lovely new addition to my household

2010-03-27T11:36:00.000-07:00

I've reached an important point in my personal BDSM lifestyle, I've decided to take on my first live in submissive. Kitten and I have known each other since we were in high school, and were actually functioning as a successful D/S relationship before we knew what it meant. I feel like this is going to be very beneficial to the both of us, and during this consideration period we will be finding ways to work together towards common goals. I was describing this arrangement to an aquantance a few days ago, and he seemed confused about what this entailed. I don't blame him, even individuals more savvy to BDSM terms have conflicting ideas about how these relationships work. 24/7 relationships and TPE (or true power exchange) are thrown around, and for some people they are an ideal or ultimate kinky goal. This has never been a goal for myself, I feel they are not realistic for most people, and while I've known many people that have attempted them, their success has varied wildly.

Controlling someone's actions entirely; all day, every day doesn't particularly appeal to me. I need someone smart enough to anticipate what I may want or need, and clever enough to accomplish tasks without constant supervision. Kitten will be spending her time acclimating to New Orleans from her move, working, training, and completing various chores and responsibilities. It is much more viable for the two of us to participate in this relationship because neither of us have arranged our lives to involve highly structured demands on our time, and therefore are free to pursue our various academic and artistic interests as well as play around in the dungeon. I know that by giving her structure and responsibilities, it will inspire me to explore my own potentials. Also, having a beautiful girl around to give me pedicures and serve me tea makes me a happy, spoiled mistress.

International Sex Workers Rights

2010-03-03T11:27:00.000-08:00

March 3rd is International Sex Workers Rights day.

I had the opportunity to be involved in SWOP-LA (sex worker's outreach program) while in Los Angeles, and there are a lot of very passionate women on the front lines of the west coast championing this cause. Everyone should champion this cause. Just like in times of prohibition, when small moralist groups succeed in criminalizing something that can just as easily be regulated and enjoyed, criminals profit. By decriminalizing prostitution, we can help real women being victimized and concentrate on real issues; like human trafficking.

New Orleans has a proud history of prostitution, legal in the district of Storyville up until WWI. When the federal government shut it down under protest from the local New Orleans city government, the mayor at the time is quoted as saying, "[y]ou can make it illegal, but you can't make it unpopular."

Decriminalizing sex work is not a radical new idea. Allowing women control over their own bodies, morality and sexual agency is natural, and should be encouraged. I politely ask the government to keep out of my bedroom, and out of my dungeon for that matter. To honor all my sisters that worked in Storyville, today you can find me lounging on a balcony in the French Quarter wearing the signature striped stockings of Storyville temptress. I'll be thinking of the Storyville motto, the crest published on all their 'blue books':

"Order of the Garter: Honi Soit Qui Mal Y Pense (Shame to Him Who Evil Thinks.)"

Accepting new clients again

2010-02-27T16:55:00.000-08:00

The holiday season in New Orleans is a unique experience, especially in the sense that: its very hard to pinpoint when it begins, and when its over.

I spent Thanksgiving with other another sex worker hosting a traditional dinner for all of our orphaned bartenders and service industry friends; those away from their families or forced to work. We opened the french doors onto the St. Peter street balcony and enjoyed the temperate weather, cooking in a sunny kitchen with the sounds of Bourbon Street drifting in.

Christmas was spent in the snow with family, free from academic stress and surrounded with my oldest friends. New Years Eve; sharing kisses in Jackson Square, drinking champagne with strangers and watching fireworks over the Mississippi River.

The new year meant back to the books, and the city's growing excitement over the Saints. The city celebrated a Super Bowl win, and didn't take a break all through Carnival til after Mardi Gras. It feels like I've been celebrating for ages, but that's hardly something to complain about, is it?

Between all these festivities, I decided to spend the holiday season without taking new clients, and instead working on the relationships that I have with those that have been so supportive and engaging since I decided to come to New Orleans. I feel I've been able to concentrate on both people and skills that are important to me, and have a fresh outlook.

I'm happy to announce that I am again accepting new clients. Be sure to follow the instructions on the contact page of my website; otherwise you may not get a timely response, or one at all.

Nation's Nipples Severely Under-Clamped, U.S. Bureau Of Masochism Reports

2010-01-06T06:37:00.000-08:00

http://www.theonion.com/content/news/nations_nipples_severely_under

Southern Hospitality

2009-10-10T19:51:00.000-07:00

I'm so proud of all my southern gentlemen for showing Ms. Justine such a good time while she was down here. She and I really enjoyed all the double sessions we booked, and it was great to play with her again on my new turf. My 'visiting mistresses' program is working out so well, I'll be having another visitor or two by the end of the month. Check back for a confirmation soon!

A busy fall

2009-09-18T20:36:00.000-07:00

My time is fairly limited in the next week, it's time to remodel the dungeon! I'm so excited to be updating equipment, painting in passionate reds, and creating a sexy and luxurious space to play in. I have always felt that surroundings are key to creating an experience, and I want to give my playmates the best atmosphere I can, to encourage them to let go. Having a clean and beautiful space inspires my clients to be confident in my abilities, and their safety. In short, I can't wait to post pictures.
Which brings me to my new toy, The Flip:

The Flip is essentially a tiny high def camcorder that is the shape and size of a cell phone. A very devoted friend in New York provided this for me, and I'm excited to try it out. Now I can document all sorts of things I do, naughty and nice, so you can expect some video blogs in the future. I have been getting a lot of requests to provide a wishlist, so if you want to show your appreciation, you can find it on the right side bar. Do know your patronage is graciously appreciated, but never expected. Unless of course, you've done something to deserve it?

Mistress of the Monarchy

2009-09-17T15:44:00.000-07:00

Not the kind of mistress we know and love, but close enough. I'm currently reading Mistress of the Monarchy: The Life of Katherie Swynford, Duchess of Lancaster; I'm fascinated with her life and the era she lived in. Katherine survived the Black Death, managed to overcome the unfortunate circumstances of her first husband's death, went on to marry her lover John the Gaunt, and her descendants with him include the Tudor dynasty as well as 6 American Presidents. I recommend the book to anyone with an interest in the middle ages, especially the lesser talked about lives of women of the time.
Katherine was named after St Catherine of Alexandria, a Catholic saint that historically probably never existed. The lore surrounding her is what gives The Catherine Wheel it's name. The Breaking Wheel was used as a torture device throughout the middle ages, and was even used right here in colonial Louisiana to execute rebelious slaves from 1730 to 1854.
Do you think Katherine was kinky after all?

A much anticipated visit from Ms. Justine Cross

2009-09-09T11:23:00.000-07:00

New Orleans is lucky I'm so well liked, because my 'visiting Mistresses' program is gaining popularity! September 30th to October 7th, the wickedly smart Ms. Justine Cross will be in town; and you may find yourself desiring to be at her mercy.

Kinky, smart AND beautiful is a triple threat we can all appreciate, and I'm excited to have an old friend of mine from Los Angeles grace the Crecent City with her talents. Ms. Justine will be available to session on my premises solo at her leisure, but we will also be offering a special rate of $400 per hour double sessions. Contact me regarding double session requests, if you missed out on the chance in July don't make the same mistake twice.

Ms. Justine is a dedicated blogger, learn more about her interests, as well as sharp commentary on a myriad of subjects at http://www.justineplays.blogspot.com/.
Justine can be contacted through her stunning website.

Summer in New Orleans

2009-09-01T11:04:00.000-07:00

Summer is quiet time for me in New Orleans. There are less tourists, more heat, and I usually take the summer off from school to relax, concentrate on personal projects, and lay around reading. Being the lady of leisure I am, I was very excited when I found the perfect spot to relax and enjoy my summer; The Country Club.

I really have to rave about this 'clothing optional' retreat I've found, and for so many reasons. Although my porcelain complexion doesn't lend to tanning, I do enjoy laying about topless enjoying blender drinks in the shade. My new favorite haunt is immaculate, the food is delicious, and best of all: encourages exhibitionism. So if you are someone who enjoys public humiliation, or are an exhibitionist; contact me and we'll schedule some time for a poolside foot massage. Or perhaps some other adventure?

Double Trouble

2009-07-16T11:26:00.000-07:00

If you've been dreaming of two redheads at the same time (and who doesn't?), now's your chance. My beautiful friend Damian will be in town visiting me this week from Los Angeles, and she happens to be a very talented switch! We enjoyed playing with each other in clubs all over Hollywood, and now I'm excited to take her out on the town in New Orleans. If you'd like to arrange a session with the two of us, hop to it and you will not be disappointed. In the mean time, watch for us leading a lucky slave down Bourbon Street on his leash, we had such a blast with him last time!

It's been so long

2009-07-12T22:37:00.000-07:00

I have no real justification for not posting on my blog for so long, but the wonderful thing about being a mistress is; I don't need one. The truth is, I've been awfully busy with my education. I've been pursuing my masters degree, and when you have to write all the time for business, it's hard to do it for pleasure.
However, the reason I started this blog was to find a way to connect with both current and potential playmates, especially when I don't get to see them as much as we'd both like. I've had people email me asking if I'm still in town, and I'm taking the hint to update! I've got lots of stories to tell and updates on the kinky life in New Orleans, and I might even fit in a photo shoot or two. So, check back! The mistress will do her best to make up for lost time.

New Beginnings

2008-10-20T17:05:00.000-07:00

I'm delighted with the warm welcome I've received so far from the local submissive gentlemen I've had contact with so far. A foot devote, a tickle enthusiast, and an extremely masochistic floor rug are at the top of my list of favorites so far. I look forward to meeting more subjects willing to submit to my investigations...

Saturday at the Museum

2008-10-12T10:11:00.000-07:00

I decided to spend yesterday at the World War II museum here in New Orleans. I find my appreciation of history becomes richer the older I get, and this beautiful museum deserved my donation to it's expansion. It had very interesting multimedia exhibits, and I was fascinated by a section dedicated to the misinformation campaign surrounding D-day. Apparently with the help of Hollywood prop masters, and fake radio transmissions, the allies created huge dummy armies on the coast of England to re enforce Hitler's assumption that the Allied invasion would occur at Pas de Calais instead of the intended site of Normandy. The museum had pictures of soldiers moving inflatable balloon tanks and airplanes off the ground, and even showed cloth dummies disguised as paratroopers that were actually dropped from planes to mislead and confuse the enemy further. More information on Operation Quicksilver.

Another topic of interest was knitting. With the trendiness of knitting making it's resurgence in the past 5 years or so, I thought I might draw attention to the original gangsters of knitting, the knitters for victory. Knitting became the way for women, and even children to contribute to the war effort; knitting socks, sweaters and helmets for soldiers over seas. Women formed knitting circles and produced garments while listening to radio news of the war, and the propaganda and morale contributions were not underestimated. Makes me wonder what kind of craftiness modern dames could get up to for our current 'war effort'. Remember Pearl Harbor -- Purl Harder.

NOBLE

2008-10-08T12:44:00.000-07:00

I was invited to attend a social gathering for local kinksters under 40 last night, and was happy to meet some young like-minded people through NOBLE, or New Orleans Bondage and Leather Enthusiasts. It’s definitely a different scene in the south from the glitterati of the west coast, but it’s also much more relaxed. I was disappointed that Hurricane Gustav ruined my chance to enjoy the yearly event Southern Decadence this year, so I’m glad I found a way to meet my local perverts! I’ll be stopping by the play party this Saturday, so have a look at their website and come say hello.

From the Mistress's bookshelf

2008-10-04T13:00:00.000-07:00

The French Quarter by Herbert Asbury

I decided instead of taking a walking tour, I would get to the real gritty history of my new city. This history is written by the author of Gangs of New York, which the Scorsese movie was based on. The back cover promises stories of famous murdering prostitutes, gambling dens, I can’t wait to put this sordid history to the current face of my favorite place to stroll.

Male Chastity: A Guide for Keyholders by Lucy Fairbourne

I haven’t found any BDSM books that grabbed me of late, but I’ve got a budding interest in chastity training and thought I could use some alternative viewpoints. I know why the idea is appealing to me, but I look forward to learning the rewarding aspects for a potential submissive. I’m also looking forward to finding an local subject suitable for this activity.

From the Mistress's bookshelf

2008-09-15T16:10:00.000-07:00

Couple books I’m reading right now:

The Affair of the Poisons: Murder, Infanticide, and Satanism at the Court of Louis XIV by Anne Somerset

I got this book as a gift (thank you J) and it combines my love of history with my love of a good scandal. It’s a non fiction account of the court of King Louis XIV, and a series of bizarre events that lead to accusations of poisoning, attempted poisoning, and miscellaneous voodoo; ranging from the dregs of the Paris underworld to the highest levels of society. The author does an amazing job of citing both witty correspondence of the day and legal documents to track this story of intrigue and outrageous fortune in a very entertaining read. I would recommend to lovers of history and costume dramas alike.

Five Points by Tyler Anbinder

A recent history of one of New York City’s most infamous slums, situated where China Town now stands. I’ve always been fascinated with this time period, and was hoping to find a book to keep me busy when I’ve finished with my textbooks. I’m convinced there is something magical about this used book store on Decatur street I frequent, for when I close my eyes and imagine the kind of book I want, I invariably find on the shelves there for $2. I’ll keep my eyes peeled for any stories of famous dominant ladies in this account of a younger New York.

Fleur de Tease - School of Rock

2008-09-08T16:48:00.000-07:00

My friends in Fleur de Tease performed at One Eyed Jack’s last night. The show was rescheduled to this weekend after Hurricane Gustav set the business of life back by about a week. It was nice to see a full house for both shows, and the solidarity of wonderful artists of New Orleans. I met these fancy ladies at their Los Angeles shows, and they have given me a very warm welcome to my new home. Check out these beautiful ladies in the future, and enjoy a few pictures of the post hurricane show.

Return

2008-09-06T20:08:00.000-07:00

Have come home to minimal damage to my property, and now that I know all my friends are safe, I am grateful for the excuse I had to spend some time with family and friends in the Midwest. I’m hopeful everyone was as lucky as I was, and I look forward to getting back to school and back to the delightful business of behavioral correction.

Evacuation

2008-08-30T18:55:00.000-07:00

Thanks to those that have expressed concern: I’ve decided to evacuate, and I’m safely out of the potential harm’s way. It’s a shame I had to leave so soon after I arrived, but I have faith that I’ll be back by next week, and available for sessions.

A Warm Welcome

2008-08-15T15:03:00.000-07:00

I've been having a wonderful time getting settled and visiting old friends. I'm taking a break from work and focusing on some recreational hedonism. I'll be back to my old tricks in no time, and ready to take on my new playthings.

Leaving Los Angeles

2008-08-12T19:57:00.000-07:00

I've finished with my responsibilities in L.A., and now it's time for my road trip to LA. I'm thankful to everyone I learned from in Los Angeles, and all the hard lessons I learned. I'll be back to visit often, and I look forward to hosting reunions in my beautiful new home.

Birthday Thanks

2008-07-30T16:34:00.000-07:00

My birthday celebration was amazing, and I'm so happy I got to see so many people I love before I left town. I decided to hold court at Jumbo's Clown Room, the arguably historic and always intriguing girlie show in Hollywood. Due to the local laws governing naked ladies dancing, the Jumbo's girls are strictly burlesque, but they put on an amazing show. It's nice to see some alternative beauties celebrated in Hollywood, even if it is in a club decorated like the Black Lodge from Twin Peaks, and featuring clown paintings.

The after party was held at the dungeon of Mistress Nina Sparks, and there were plenty of spankings to rival my own birthday spanks I begrudgingly received from the beautiful hostess. After the Disney Princess cake I was presented with, how could I refuse?

I list of guests and friends I want to thank for the lovely gifts. Knowing I'll soon have my very own play space in the south to furnish, I was lavished with generous gifts from the following: Mistress Nina, Jill, Mistress Rebekah, Ms. Justine, Mistress Claire, Saint Leather, Switch Renae, Mistress Melissa, Mistress Ashley, Mistress Foxxxy, Mistress Auralia, Mistress Violette , Joanne, and everyone who came out to celebrate with me!

As I recovered from the festivities this afternoon, there was an earthquake I felt as wrote this. Mistress Nina called to see if I felt it. I thought it was just all the vodka I drank last night...

Secret Diary of a Call Girl

2008-07-24T21:05:00.000-07:00

Billie Piper is starring in the new Shotime series based on Belle de Jour's blog and book. The fourth episode features her novice venture into BDSM. It's actually one of the better portrayals of professional domination on television I've seen. When her accountant reveals that he want her to 'stop being so nice' and give him a crack, she asks her agency contact for a little guidance. She's put in touch with an experienced London dominatrix who gives her a crash course in the principals of BDSM. I won't give away the details of that conversation, it's well worth watching for yourself. I will show this clip that shows what happens when escorts try to cross over to domination without the background to do it properly. Caveat Emptor!

Thank you to The Dominion

2008-07-10T00:02:00.000-07:00

The decision to move is bittersweet, going on to my new adventures means leaving a group of women who have provided me a beautiful and safe nest, but not without a few new tricks up my sleeve.

I wanted to take the time to thank everyone at the Dominion for all the support and friendship I've enjoyed over the past year. It was a gift to share so much time and advice with all of you amazing warrior women, to have a home away from home, and a lifetime of stories to retell. I've never known such a sorority of perverse princesses, and I'll never be able to replace you. The strength I've gained from you will give me the confidence to meet any problems with grace and perseverance, or with a swift kick to the groin. Who can say what my first reaction will be?

When You Are Engulfed In Flames

2008-06-29T21:45:00.000-07:00

I love David Sedaris, and I love hearing him read his own stories even more. My best friend A and I went to Vroman's books in the Valley today to attend a reading of his new book, When You Are Engulfed In Flames. We got together a few years ago and saw him on a lecture tour at a local university, but this was much more intimate; only a few hundred tickets were sold for this event.
A is an actress, and many years ago she auditioned for a part in a play called The Book of Liz, co-authored by David and his sister Amy Sedaris. She didn't get the part, but David signed her book 'I'd have cast you'. I got a silly drawing of a turtle, and he tried to guess my sign. It only took a few tries to get to Leo, he must be gifted :-)
I loved all the stories in his latest collection of essays, but the best part of his readings are when he reads aloud from his various diary entries. He also read a new essay called 'Understanding Owls' that I can't wait to find when it's eventually published. I hope he continues to provide me with giggles while reading in the bath tub for so many years to come.

Making a move

2008-06-23T19:28:00.000-07:00

I've been accepted to Tulane University in New Orleans, and I've decided to make the transfer. This means that I'll have to move my home base away from Los Angeles, but I'll be looking forward coming back and visiting often. One of my goals for the next year is expanding my traveling schedule, so this will be a welcome excuse to do so.

I'm excited to be able to make this announcement, and I'm very excited to start making plans to move my little operation to such a decadent city. I'll have the details to work out in the next few months, check my schedule to see when I'm available this summer, my time will be limited!

A change of scenery

2008-06-03T18:34:00.000-07:00

I've recently been presented with an interesting opportunity that would require leaving Los Angeles. Hollywood has become just as much home as anywhere, and I've made so many amazing friends. Moving here has provided me with an excellent network to advance my kinky trade, and a virtually unlimited stomping ground in which to do it. My support network is undeniable, and I've met so many amazing clients and contemporaries; it would be a bold step to move away from all of it. Sometimes a change of scenery is good? We shall see.

Club Hell

2008-05-21T20:02:00.000-07:00

A picture of myself and my beautiful date from The Dominion at Club Hell. Club Hell is the last Wed of every month, and is a pretty elaborate fetish event. You can always find my good friend Mistress Melissa terrorizing the submissives, her new fire flogging show is par for the theme!

Switch Yhenna on the left, lucky me getting smooches...

About Photos

2008-04-14T13:59:00.000-07:00

Every once and a while, I get an email requesting photos. Do I have one of myself wearing leather? Brandishing x tool in y position?

I don't particularly enjoy having photos taken of myself. I understand why others indulge, but of all the sins I cherish, vanity isn't one of them. I have photos on my website to provide an accurate representation of what I look like, I don't believe in photoshopping them to counter nature. There have been a few occasions where I've met someone at a social function, and been startled at the difference between her advertisements and her actual appearance. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, and I think many women should trust that there are so many men with a broad spectrum of tastes, it's best to show your beautiful self and let them find you.

Regarding the photo request; it's rude to presume I want you to have access to any photos other than the one's I've provided. If you would like to commission a photo set to your distinct tastes, you may email a request for my consideration.

St. Patrick's Day at Mistress Shae's

2008-03-18T21:41:00.000-07:00

In short order Mistress Shae has become a wonderful inspiration to me. Beautiful, clever, and a fellow Irish lady to drink Jameson with... Oh, and the bitch can cook! I attended her St. Patrick day's party last night, and was happy to celebrate the opening of her new play space The Academy with her. It's truly a beautiful space, and a rival to anything else I've seen downtown. Do check out her website and her beautiful premises The Academy. Tell her Mistress Erin sent you, and I'll give you a cookie if you can bring me back her recipe for corned beef and cabbage!

Kinkball 2008

2008-02-18T12:09:00.000-08:00

Kinkball Los Angeles was the de rigueur event this past weekend. I decided to attend the actual ball with the ladies of The Dominion, and it required quite the limousine to ferry all that latex and beauty to the Sunset Strip. We had a lovely VIP area reserved for us, and it was nice to see all my friends in one place looking so posh. There were some interesting stage shows, and an amazing performance by Mistress Shae and Submissive Natalie. I love any reason to go out and play with friends, and kink events are an amazing opportunity to see such a creative community come together and perv. It was nice to see Los Angeles throw an event on par with the international scene, and it was a pleasure to be invited by the host to attend the VIP play party afterwards.

Mistress Violette and I attended the Sunday night event Masque at the El Cid. We sipped cocktails and watched some fire play, then headed to the after party downtown. There's something to be said for public play, but I feel much more comfortable without the restrictions implied. Mistress Violette and I found the surroundings very satisfactory, and it's not surprising they are available for vacation rental. I'd recommend this space for anyone interested in video production or an overnight play session. Violette and I agree, we're putting this year's Kink in the Caribbean on our wish list!

Synergy

2008-02-08T01:43:00.000-08:00

Thursday I went into West Hollywood to check out a new fetish night at Club 7969, Synergy. I’ve been to 7969 with Mistress Melissa before, looking to meet TV/TG girlies that might want to join us for scenes they would add invaluable energy to. I was excited to see this venue was going to start hosting a new weekly event, and very excited to meet up with both Mistress Melissa and the fabulous Mistress Nina Sparks. I’ve teamed up with both these ladies to extraordinary results, and always look forward to play time.

Mistress Nina and I

The scenery was explicit, the wardrobe extensive, and the cocktails delicious, I hope to be making a weekly appearance from now on!

Heartsick

2008-01-10T16:47:00.000-08:00

While making my way down Decatur Street last week I happened upon the opening of a used bookshop. There was a table set up outside on the sidewalk, and propped up on the stacks of books was a copy of Chelsea Cain’s Heartsick, a novel I’ve been looking forward to reading. Snatching up the abandoned advanced readers’ edition I felt like I’d found buried treasure when the owner asked only $2 for it. I happily spent the next hour or so starting it at Molly’s having a delicious frozen Irish coffee and feeling very pleased with myself for finding it.

My interest in Heartsick was piqued when it was recommended by my favorite author …

"With Gretchen Lowell, Chelsea Cain gives us the most compelling, most original serial killer since Hannibal Lecter." - Chuck Palahniuk

Amazon’s description:

Chelsea Cain steps into a crowded, blood-soaked genre with Heartsick, a riveting, character-driven novel about a damaged cop and his obsession with the serial killer who...let him live. Gretchen Lowell tortured Detective Archie Sheridan for ten days, then inexplicably let him go and turned herself in. Cain turns the (nearly played out) Starling/Lecter relationship on its ear: Sheridan must face down his would-be killer to help hunt down another. What sets this disturbing novel apart from the rest is its bruised, haunted heart in the form of Detective Sheridan, a bewildered survivor trying to catch a killer and save himself. --Daphne Durham

I love to encourage others to read, to recommend stories I think might resonate with some truth in their lives. It wasn’t until I finished this book that I realized how it might apply to those interested in reading about dominant/submissive relationships in a non-sexual context. Or relatively non-sexual.

Chelsea Cain presents three prominent narrative threads in Heartsick. Her Detective Archie hunting down a budding serial killer, Susan the awkward hipster journalist following the story, and the third being a series of flashbacks to two years previous when Gretchen Lowell captured and tortured Archie, ultimately killing him only to revive him and turn herself in. I find the interactions between Gretchen and Archie to be the most fascinating, as throughout Archie’s imprisonment he begins to submit absolutely to the beautiful woman’s sadism. After several days of Gretchen forcing a funnel down his throat to administer her cocktail of sedatives and hallucinogens, he volunteers to begin swallowing them for her. After she announces she will be sending a part of his body to the media to prove he is still alive, she forces him to be a co-conspirator by allowing him to choose which part. She eventually confesses that she wants to poison him slowly by making him swallow a dose of drain cleaner everyday, but her fantasy is that Archie takes the poison willingly. Archie begins to give in, to actively participate in his own destruction for her. When the novel shows us the relationship they have in the present, she holds power over him still; he visits her in prison every week to convince her to reveal the locations of her hundreds of victim, and she revels in the way she controls him mentally and sexually all the way to the last page of the book.

I’m not going to give up all the gory details, but I was delighted to find out that this is the first book in a series which will visit Gretchen again; so when you read all the way to the twist at the end of Heartsick you can be sure this isn’t the last you’ll see of her.

New Year's Eve

2008-01-01T11:15:00.000-08:00

New Year’s Eve was amazing. After eating and checking out what I’ve been missing on lower Decatur, we settled in at the recently opened Pravda. Pravda is a beautifully decorated Russian themed bar offering absinthe as well as fully stocked vodka bar. You can see why I’d want to be lounging in such a decadent establishment

When midnight struck, I could be found strolling down the street with a bottle of champagne, turning my face up to beautiful gold, purple and green fireworks over the French Quarter. It was easily the happiest New Years I’ve ever had, and I’m sure it bodes well for this fresh calendar.

Happy New Years to all my friends back in Los Angeles, I hope it was as amazing as mine! Lots of love.

New Orleans

2007-12-30T14:30:00.000-08:00

My boyfriend and I arrived in New Orleans early this morning, and I’m so excited to be spending time just the two of us here. We’ve lots of shopping to do and old friends to visit, and oooo the food. As touristy as it is, I can’t wait to have a beignet at Café du Monde; just like I loved to do when I was a little girl. As vast as Los Angeles is, and as much as it has to offer, it’s no match for the 24 hour city of New Orleans. It’s so wonderful to be back.

Knots & Ropework

2007-12-20T23:50:00.001-08:00

A man who knows my tendencies for tying up any damsels in distress I might find gave me this wonderful book as a Christmas gift. I own quite a few books about Shibari, as well as other kinky rope work, but I’m excited to peruse this. Seeing what others have developed, and then trying to recreate it on an enthusiastic subject can be an interesting way to pass the hours, but I can’t wait to find some knots I haven’t used yet and work out some of my own useful ties. Thank you so much B.R. for this generous and well thought out gift, it will go to evil use!

Travel to New Orleans

2007-12-18T21:39:00.000-08:00

I’m going to be in New Orleans for New Year’s Eve, and for a few weeks following. I love New Orleans, and have visited twice this year to delightful results. Mardi Gras was fantastic, and my visit in April was equally as memorable. The food, the beautiful architecture, and most importantly; the ability to socialize in bars 24 hours a day are all things that agree with me (arguably). I’m considering a transfer to Tulane University, and am going to set aside both the time to investigate the campus and what the housing market is like there these days.

I’ve got all my session time spoken for, but I’m looking forward to seeing what kind of scene is going on in the night life there. The French Quarter has so many crooks and crannies begging for use it boggles the imagination.

Away from it all

2007-12-15T17:21:00.000-08:00

There are many reasons one can be excited about the holiday season, and twice as many to be decidedly unexcited by as well. I’m thrilled to be staging my own escape from LA, and enjoying the open road for a few weeks. Los Angeles is a city of orphans in my experience, and it empties out in late December when everyone who came here to be a big, big star! goes back to family in Gary, Indiana; or Xenia, Ohio; or Des Moines, Iowa where I’m from.

I’m very pleased to go home where there’s only one freeway in the whole city, where I don’t have to pay to park my car, where driving all the way across town to visit a friend only takes 20 minutes. I’m happy to go home and visit where everything is relaxed and comfortable and easy for about 3 days, and then I’m so bored I could scream.

I didn’t move to Los Angeles to be in the movies, I don’t have a screenplay, or a band, or delusions of grandeur. I wanted to go to college, and I wanted a challenge. There’s a reason some people never stray 50 miles away from the place they were born, and there’s another kind of person who gravitates away. Some people need comfort and stability, and some people like to throw the dice and let things fall where they may. I love having access to all kinds of adventures, to so many different people, and I’ve been lucky enough to be able to build a kinky world here everything is possible. So I guess vacation for me is going home and sleeping in my childhood home, seeing the friends I’ve had since I was 13, and drinking in the bars I used sit in and dream about the life I have now.

Lost and Found

2007-12-10T14:12:00.000-08:00

Off the lobby of my apartment building, there is a front room that I’m sure used to be a room that was rented, but now it stands as a sort of common room for the tenants. There’s a soda machine, a couch, a coffee table, and it’s a nice place to sit and perhaps wait for ride, or spread out when you need some space for an art project (which is what I guiltily use it for.) My friend claims that it is haunted, and that’s why it’s no longer rented. I never see anyone else in there, but I agree it does serve a mysterious function; trade in absentia.

When I’m through with magazines, I leave them there for others. Every time I clean out my closet, I leave the nicest items in there, and they disappear. Whenever anything seems just a little too new to put out on the curb for strangers, it gets stashed in there and presumably, it’s free to a good home.

I popped in to get mixers for cocktail hour out of the vending machine the other night, and found two paperbacks on the coffee table. The one on top was called Domination, and featured a bloodthirsty Catwoman look alike on the cover. It was too good to pass up, and so I grabbed the small stack and returned to my rooms with arms cradled with cold drinks and hand me down books.

Domination, by Michael Cecilione joined me in the bathtub for it’s first few chapters. It seems to be some sort of vampire/romance/BDSM novel set in New York City, so I suppose the latex covered vampire on the cover was a good representation of what to expect, however I just can’t bring myself to read much more of it. When I checked the inside cover, it was published in 1993, so that explains a little of why this title managed to get printed. Vampire fiction was very popular, as well as BDSM becoming more mainstream, but this book was so cheesy I took to reading passages aloud to friends. There’s the Congressman’s wife who, along with her goon, drug women outside major high society events so she can retire to her super-secret dungeon and kill them in super-secret BDSM ways and then masturbate in the resulting gore. Then there’s the lady vampire who travels from her European estate to enslave her Manhattan hotel’s bell hop to do her sexual bidding. The character I think I’m supposed to like is the plucky journalist who, while going undercover to investigate New York’s BDSM underworld, ends up at a joint called ‘Masters and Paddles’ where she meets a dominatrix. The dominatrix randomly invites her to start working as a mistress, and that’s about when I had to put the book down. If I ever have the courage to pick it up again, count on a full review, and that IS a threat.

Along with Domination came Poppy Z Brite’s Lost Souls, an author I had at least heard of. Ms Brite is a fancy lady residing in New Orleans, who wrote homoerotic fiction about mostly vampires through the ‘90’s; although my understanding is that she now writes about a broad range of subjects concerning her hometown. Lost Souls is her first novel, and is set mostly in the French Quarter of New Orleans (a.k.a. my favorite place in the universe). Published in 1992, Lost Souls begins with 3 rock n’ roll vampires rampaging through Mardi Gras, drinking Chartreuse and blood with equal enthusiasm. The leader Zillah impregnates an adolescent girl obsessed with vampires, and she later dies giving birth to a boy who grows up to call himself Nothing, and returns 15 years later to rendezvous with his father’s clan and learn the business of being a beautiful killer. There are other waifish characters; rock musicians and tragic women entangled in the world of spirits and witchcraft this book romanticizes.

I enjoyed reading it for it’s vivid and beautiful descriptions of New Orleans the way I remember it before Katrina, and it’s has made me curious to try the green liquor Chartreuse on my upcoming visit. Surely if it’s good enough for a band of sadistic beauties in fiction, it’s good enough for the ones in reality?

Spanksgiving

2007-11-22T11:27:00.000-08:00

I’ve got plenty to celebrate today. I’m lucky enough to be adopted for Thanksgiving and invited to dinner by my friend’s wonderful extended family, so I’ll be stuffed to the gills with all the delicacies one could hope for. But I’m also looking forward to attending Mistress Nina Spark’s Spanksgiving party… spankings for everyone!

Thanks to friends, family, playmates, and my love.

The humiliating facts

2007-11-20T18:34:00.000-08:00

When working in a professional house of domination, one of the advantages I feel is the ability to be available for short in person interviews with someone interested in doing a scene with me. When communicating with a potential play partner through email or on the phone, it’s hard to take body language and other visual cues into consideration determining compatibility. When it’s feasible to meet for 5 minutes in person to discuss interests and negotiate in a low pressure setting, it gives me a chance to determine if this is someone I’d be interested in sessioning with; or if I think they might be better suited seeing another dominant.

I had this rather strange interview regarding cross dressing some time ago that I thought might highlight the importance of communication when negotiating a scene. There are certain kinds of cross dressing scenes that are far removed from another sort of scene. Some cross dressing scenes I enjoy doing are more of a domestic discipline scenario, still others are more of a transformation session where one is trained in the delicate art of being a lady. Still yet are those little tramps that need to be corrected in a far more invasive manner. You can see where when someone says, “I like cross dressing,” this requires me to ask many questions to determine where this might be going.

A submissive man interested in seeing me described a scene he’d like to do involving some light cross dressing, some spanking, and name calling. Explicitly, he wanted to be called a ‘sissy little whore’, be teased about taking cock, things of that nature. Alright, fine, sounds delightful. I asked him if there are any types of humiliation that might be a hard limit, totally off limits. He looked at me and said, “Oh! I don’t like humiliation at all.”

OK, let’s back up. I would say that 99% of men, straight or gay, would find being put in a pair of panties and then mocked a humiliating experience. Obviously a portion of those same men would find the scenario erotic under some circumstances; but being teased about being a ‘sissy little whore’ is generally humiliating. Some might find being ‘forced’ to suck a cock the height of sexual excitement, but if teased about having a small penis, real or imagined, that would be the end all challenge to their manhood. I don’t want to find out mid-scene which of these, if any, is the deal breaker. That’s why I ask before hand.

I briefly explained to my little subject all of this, and how it’s important that we be able to share our ideas. I asked him again, now that I realize we perhaps don’t have the same definitions of these activities, what sort of activities he wouldn’t enjoy. He stared at me blankly for about 3 seconds, and then blurted out, “I think I need to talk to someone else.”

Yes… I think I agree. Upon reflection, I started to think about how important self-perception can be when dealing with our kinks. I think if this man had been able to speak freely about his exciting proclivities, we would have had such a good time… especially if he really is a sissy little whore.

Contacting a Dominatrix

2007-08-14T23:17:00.000-07:00

I have, over the course of my career as a domina, had the pleasure of working in two commercial dungeons, as well as off and on stints booking appointments independently through my website. I get a steady stream of emails, ranging from the ridiculous to sincere; often the most difficult task sometimes is determining which the author actually intended. Rather than list all the horrifying examples of what NOT include in an introductory email, I’ll concentrate on what I would like to read. While by no means the definitive guide, here are some suggestions for contacting a Mistress you would like to session with.

I am constantly amazed when generally accepted practices seem to fly out the window when I am contacted via the internet. In grade school, we learned about correspondence; the difference between a business letter, and a friendly letter. Which you choose to employ is up to you, but the basics must be included. A greeting, a body consisting of paragraphs, capital letters, punctuation, and a closing should all be implemented here. I am an intelligent woman, and I don’t wish to spend my time and attention on someone who can not master these small niceties of communication. Nothing gets deleted faster than an email typed in all lower case with no punctuation. Please… I do not need all references to myself to be capitalized (i.e. ... i think that You are the most ____, while i am a lowly ____). I don’t derive my dominance from capital letters, so it’s not necessary for you to show your submission by butchering the English language.

After the greeting of your choice, here is your chance to convince me I would like to take an interest in your training. The most important thing to remember while drafting this proposal is that you are addressing a lady who you have not met, and to show respect accordingly. My suggestion would be to include a short description of your age, health, and interests. What do you think your experience level is? Is there something you know you love? Something you’ve always wanted to try? A reason you think we’d make good playmates? Great, put those things in the email. A bullet list is appropriate, a 3 page detailed description of your fantasy is not welcome at this point. Never send naked pictures. It is not acceptable to send cock pictures to a woman with a letter of introduction, no one wants to see that. Close your email with any questions you might have regarding availability, location, and requests for any information you feel is not clearly explained on the Mistress’s website.

If you present yourself as a sincere submissive, an intriguing masochist, or whatever your choice of kinky explorer is, then all sorts of possibilities present themselves. Don’t ruin your chances with a introduction that doesn’t highlight your potential to be Mistress’s favorite pet!

The Female Dominant

2007-07-12T20:46:00.000-07:00

Last Christmas, I created a wishlist of books on Amazon.com, and was lucky enough to receive many heavy packages for being such a good girl. Most of my selections were in the BDSM realm, as I’m always interested in reading about the kinky exploits of others. However, I was somewhat disappointed in most of the literature I looked over. This may be because many of it falls under of what I would consider 101 type play, and wasn’t necessarily pointing out anything I wasn’t well aware of. Things pretty much anyone interested in BDSM should be aware of. On reflection, this is probably how it should be. You really can’t for legal reasons be presenting anything that all edgy in our litigious climate without a disclaimer exceeding the text’s initial length anyway, so be it. I thought instead of appearing dismissive to the time others have spent educating, it might be better to base some recommendations on who it might be helpful to. While many books aren’t that useful to BDSM professionals, or sex workers; they might be very useful to couples exploring, and to submissive individuals educating themselves in preparation to see a professional.

The Female Dominant: Games She Plays is somewhat an exception. Written by Claudia Varrin, it contains what I would describe as somewhat fictionalized accounts of her sessions and private play. A forward/disclaimer says as much, telling the reader that all the activities contained in her book are most likely illegal somewhere. I enjoyed nearly all of it; from her kinky three way hijinks, to the scene where she drives a nail through a man’s genitals. There’s something for everyone, and I responded well to her strong voice. She comes across as confident without sounding vain, and lists an interesting variety of references in the back as well, which lend to her authenticity.

I would recommend The Female Dominant to both Professional Dominants and women looking for a bit of home schooling, it offers insight into a very experienced kinky mind and her positive outlook on the men who deserve to be at her feet.

Introductions are in order

2007-07-10T21:07:00.000-07:00

I moved to Los Angeles in 2005, and have been working in the professional BDSM scene here since. When your daily work is observing the relationship between dominance and submission, you begin to see it everywhere. When your social life and your wonderful circle of friends revolve around Hollywood’s most perverted, you realize you’re not alone. Beautiful and creative people are always at play, and since I go out in Hollywood like it IS my job, I really should be keeping track.