Published in 2013 as part of the Men’s Guide to BDSM series, Elizabeth Cramer’s Dom’s Guide to Submissive Training sets out to provide a step-by-step framework for dominants who want to “train” a new submissive. It positions itself less as a broad philosophical guide and more as a blueprint for building structure, rituals, and protocols in a Dom/sub relationship.

Content Note: This book uses an authoritarian model of dominance/submission that may feel rigid, outdated, or unsafe for some readers. It should be approached critically, and not taken as the only or default way to practice D/s.

What It’s About

The book takes a traditionalist approach, drawing heavily on the language of “training” and “mastery.” Its chapters include:

• Foundations of dominance. How to step into authority, command respect, and embody confidence.
• Establishing structure. Building routines, rituals, and expectations for submissives.
• Communication and contracts. How to set rules, negotiate agreements, and define protocols.
• Discipline and correction. Approaches to punishment, reinforcement, and keeping dynamics consistent.
• Long-term relationships. Maintaining power exchange while navigating real-world challenges.

It’s written in a practical, almost instructional style, with the aim of giving dominants a sense of order and progression.

Strengths

• Clear and structured. Offers a step-by-step approach that appeals to those who like order.
• Confidence-building. Helps new dominants imagine how to create consistent dynamics.
• Practical rituals. Provides examples of tasks, protocols, and ways to structure submission.

Weaknesses

• Rigid framing. The “training” language can feel authoritarian, potentially off-putting for readers looking for more egalitarian or flexible dynamics.
• Dated tone. Written in 2013, it doesn’t reflect newer consent frameworks or inclusivity in BDSM culture.
• Limited nuance. Focuses on control and correction but doesn’t deeply engage with psychology or emotional intelligence.

Why It Still Matters

For dominants who resonate with the idea of training and ritualised structure, this book can serve as a basic blueprint. However, it’s best read alongside more contemporary and nuanced texts, such as Anton Fulmen’s The Heart of Dominance or Easton & Hardy’s The New Topping Book, which provide the ethical grounding and emotional sophistication missing here.

Dom’s Guide to Submissive Training reflects a particular style of BDSM relationship — one steeped in hierarchy, discipline, and formality. It won’t resonate with everyone, but it can still spark ideas for those interested in building structured D/s dynamics.

Related reading

These pieces continue the same thread around books and resource reviews.

• BDSM Guide for New Doms – Edward Boyle
• SM 101: A Realistic Introduction – Jay Wiseman
• Submissive’s Guide to BDSM Vol. 1 – Lucy Fairbourne