If you are, then I may have just found the perfect flogger for you! Did I mention that it doubles as an artistic glass dildo? No? (It slices, it dices--but wait, there's more!)

The Icicles No. 38, by Pipedream, is one of the first toys I really lusted after here on EF. I finally got my chance to snatch it up during a sale, and I'm so glad I did. I bought the whip knowing that it would be used largely on me, as my husband isn't a fan of receiving impact play. That said, the balance of the blown borosilicate glass handle in my hand is fabulous. When we first received our flogger, it was hard to hand it over, because I couldn't stop staring at the bulbous end of the handle, as well as all of the lovely swirls and ridges further up. So far, we have used it purely as a flogger (more on that in the experience section), but I'm intrigued by its potential as a dildo. I've never used a glass dildo before; there's something about the majesty of this one that makes it intimidating.

Your Icicles piece comes with about 30 bull leather falls, which are separated from the glass handle by a leather binding. Keep in mind that leather is prone to mold when exposed to moisture and be extra careful to protect the leather end from any bodily fluids the dildo might pick up. Be extra careful when washing your dildo. I would suggest a damp washcloth and gentle soap rather than rinsing out under a sink, for example.

The handle is about 1 1/2" in diameter and 8" long. I would estimate, just from eyeballing it, that about 6" of that length is insertable. You'll want to be careful with this application, especially if you choose to use the dildo-half as an anal toy. However, the icicles' glass side is more than just a pretty dildo. It holds opportunities for temperature play as well. As long as you're careful to keep the falls dry, this is a toy that will give you plenty of choices for your buck.

Another valuable note: the handle is made of the same glass as Pyrex dishes, so it is fairly sturdy. It is very difficult, but not impossible, to break, should you drop it on a hard surface. If it does break, it should do so in chunks and not shatter, at least. Please take care of your new showpiece. If a sex toy were capable of showing gratitude for loving care, this one certainly would.

Hubby and I found out the first night we used this flogger that it can deliver a lot of sting, even though it doesn't look vicious. I think this toy is fine for couples with the kind of communication needed to start any healthy BDSM relationship; that is to say, as long as you both respect safe words, both beginners and more advanced users can adjust to this baby. I really enjoyed the sound of the falls coming through the air toward me that first night, and it still delivers. I think the best thing about the leather falls is that they still have that fresh leather smell that I was sure would wear off after the first couple of uses. I love the smell of leather in the morning--and pretty much every other time. (Wink.)

In examining this piece for my review, I found myself imagining a scenario wherein a sub could wear the dildo, leaving the falls hanging out like a tail. Who knows, maybe Eden should sell it in a kit deal with a rubber bit gag. Your mileage may vary, sugar cubes and apples not included.

In all seriousness, I love the versatility of this piece and believe it was worth every penny I paid for it. You are only limited by your own imagination and sexual comfort zone here.