C.J. Riggs' Idée Fixe is a provocative exploration of desire, obsession, and the blurred lines between fantasy and reality. The novel plunges readers into a world where the ordinary is left at the door, and the extraordinary becomes the norm. With its intense focus on the fetish scene, Riggs crafts a narrative that is both daring and intimate, inviting readers to question their own perceptions of love and possession.

At the heart of Idée Fixe is the unnamed protagonist, a man consumed by his fixation on a woman he describes as "perfection personified." This character is a complex blend of vulnerability and dominance, a man who is both haunted by his past decisions and driven by an insatiable need to reclaim what he believes is rightfully his. Riggs does an exceptional job of delving into the psyche of this character, offering readers a glimpse into the mind of someone who is both relatable and unsettling.

The woman at the center of his obsession is equally compelling. She is portrayed as a figure of mystery and allure, a woman who embodies the fantasies of the protagonist while maintaining an air of independence and strength. Riggs' depiction of her is nuanced, avoiding the pitfalls of reducing her to a mere object of desire. Instead, she is given depth and agency, making her a formidable counterpart to the protagonist's intense fixation.

The setting of the fetish rave serves as more than just a backdrop; it is a character in its own right. Riggs paints a vivid picture of this world, capturing the sensory overload of sights, sounds, and sensations that define the experience. The rave is a place where societal norms are suspended, and individuals are free to explore their deepest desires without judgment. This setting is crucial to the novel's exploration of themes such as liberation, identity, and the power dynamics inherent in relationships.

One of the most striking aspects of Idée Fixe is its exploration of the concept of ownership in relationships. The protagonist's desire to "own" the woman is a recurring motif, raising questions about the nature of love and possession. Riggs challenges readers to consider whether true love can exist without a sense of ownership, or if the two are inextricably linked. This theme is handled with sensitivity and depth, encouraging readers to reflect on their own beliefs and experiences.

The novel's pacing is expertly managed, with Riggs maintaining a steady tension that keeps readers engaged from start to finish. The narrative unfolds with a sense of inevitability, as the protagonist's obsession drives him towards a climax that is both satisfying and thought-provoking. Riggs' prose is both lyrical and raw, capturing the intensity of the characters' emotions while grounding the story in a gritty realism.

In comparison to other works in the genre, Idée Fixe stands out for its psychological depth and character-driven narrative. While it shares thematic elements with novels such as E.L. James' Fifty Shades of Grey or Anne Rice's The Claiming of Sleeping Beauty, Riggs' work is distinguished by its focus on the internal struggles of its characters and its refusal to shy away from the darker aspects of desire. The novel's exploration of the fetish scene is handled with authenticity and respect, avoiding sensationalism in favor of a more nuanced portrayal.

Overall, Idée Fixe is a compelling and thought-provoking read that will appeal to fans of erotic fiction and psychological drama alike. Riggs has crafted a story that is both entertaining and intellectually stimulating, offering readers a chance to explore the complexities of human desire in a safe and engaging way. The novel's themes of obsession, ownership, and the transformative power of fantasy are sure to resonate with readers long after they have turned the final page.

In conclusion, C.J. Riggs' Idée Fixe is a masterful exploration of the human psyche, offering a fresh and insightful take on the themes of love, desire, and identity. With its richly drawn characters, evocative setting, and thought-provoking narrative, it is a novel that demands to be read and discussed. Whether you are a seasoned reader of erotic fiction or new to the genre, Idée Fixe is a book that promises to captivate and challenge in equal measure.