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Afterglow

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IZZY
From a young age, I knew who I was and what I liked. So when Leo became a part of the picture, I thought he could be my Mr. Right.
Things seemed perfect for over a year before I started to really see his true colors. He started by slowly breaking the rules we set up at the beginning of our relationship, then he wasn’t coming home until almost 2 am most nights, but my final straw was when he stonewalled me and refused to talk about the issues we were having.
Realizing quickly he wasn’t the person I thought he was, I knew I needed to get out.
Only, he wasn’t on board, and instead left me beaten and bruised. I couldn’t turn to the cops, so I went to the only person I thought could help. Dax– my brother's best friend. I never expected his help to stir up old feelings, though, and a new secret to keep…

DAX
Isabella Thatcher was never anything more than my best friend's little sister until she called me asking for a favor.
Being the Dom I am, I’m no stranger to secrets, so when she called in the middle of the night crying for my help without telling her family, I felt obligated to say yes.
It was the doctor in me that took her into my home and helped nurse her wounds. It let me see her in a light I never would have imagined.
Izzy isn’t the kid I used to know. Now she’s a woman, begging for dominance in the bedroom and comfort outside of it.
Ignoring how wrong our relationship may seem to others, I keep her close and vow to help her in any way I can, no matter the price.

274 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 25, 2023

10 people are currently reading
31 people want to read

About the author

Laura John

29 books495 followers
Hi i am Laura, a Canadian girl who loves to write romance. I write swoon worthy romances that will take you on emotional rollercoasters!

Visit me on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorLauraJ/

Visit me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/authorlaura...

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
Profile Image for Amos24601.
1,287 reviews44 followers
May 9, 2023
This might be my favorite Laura John book to date. I say that from the bottom of my kink loving heart. To see the community represented in a positive and loving light was wonderful.

The communication alone between Dax and Izzy won the book for me. Dax was always checking in with Izzy and keeping everything Safe, Sane and Consensual. I loved them going over their lists/limits together and making sure they meshed well. I was also grateful that we didn’t have to do the angst dance with the best friends little sister bit. Once Dax decides Izzy is it for him, he’s all in. I was also really impressed that therapy for Izzy was not only discussed, but followed up on. I felt like that was an important step after the trauma she suffered at the hands of Leo. It was also lovely to see Izzy gain confidence and stand up for herself when she needed to.

Now. Let’s talk about steam. Because there was plenty! These two were smoking hot together and you could feel the electricity arcing between the two. The scenes they did at Afterglow were so yummy. The amount of heat these two put off made my kindle steam.

I enjoyed this book from start to finish and really, really hope there are more in the series. (I’m looking at you Nixon and Marcus.)
Profile Image for Jennifer Leigh (jenjenbookfan).
1,410 reviews31 followers
May 24, 2023
Afterglow by Laura John is a suspenseful, spicy romance guaranteed to keep you entertained. Izzy knew early on that she wanted a relationship with a Dominant, but it was a process to find the right one. She thought she found that in Leo, until he left her beaten and broken on the floor. She called the one person she knew in the lifestyle who might help her… her brother’s best friend, Dax, the man she has measured every guy against since she was a teenager. As danger swirls around them, Dax begins to see Izzy as the woman she has become and quickly succumbs to the attraction. Will they find long-lasting happiness together, or will the lurking threats get in the way?

I was pleasantly surprised by this book! Many books that are set in the kink community focus heavily on the steamy scenes and have little to no substance. This book has it all—tons of heat, compelling characters, suspense and intrigue, drama, angst, action, and love! One of my favorite things about the book was the open communication. In so many romance books of any trope, people just don’t communicate with one another, which gets frustrating. Even when issues came up that needed discussed with Izzy’s family, they listened, adjusted, and were supportive. It was just a nice change of pace. This author always seems to write emotional and difficult situations authentically and in an entertaining way as well. Izzy and Dax were relatable and noteworthy individually, and made a divine couple. I’m hoping this becomes a series, so I can see more glimpses of them. Plus, Nixon and Marcus totally need a story.😂

I received an advanced review copy for free, and am leaving this review voluntarily.⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

#laurajohn #brothersbestfriendromance #spicyromance #doctorromance #kinkyromance #NewRelease #kindleunlimited #kindleunlimitedromance #ARCreview #bookreview
Profile Image for Abigail Hayden.
81 reviews3 followers
June 10, 2023
Laura John, what did you put in this book! Afterglow was amazing! I love her writing style as well as her storytelling! I could not put this book down!

Afterglow is centered around friends turned lovers named Dax and Izzy! Izzy has had a crush on her older brother’s best friend Dax since she was 16. Dax and Izzy are also apart of the kink community. I thought Laura John did a fantastic job portraying the kink community. After getting into a fight with her ex-boyfriend Leo and him abusing her, Izzy knew exactly who to call in her time of need and that person was Dax. Dax and Izzy’s relationship was perfection from the start. I loved how Dax helped Izzy heal by helping her find a therapist after her domestic violence incident with her ex-boyfriend. I thought was amazing. I liked how Izzy knew exactly what she wanted when it came to her relationship with Dax and she put it all out there for him. I love that they went over their hard limits and lists together. Dax always made her feel safe, loved and cared for. I loved how Dax always ask for content when they were doing certain things! We love a contenting king over here!

The spice was chefs kiss! Dax and Izzy had some insane chemistry. Their spicy scenes were incredible. Their club scene is sooo hot! I couldn’t get enough of these two! I could read five more books about them!

*ARC REVIEW*
Profile Image for Jenn the Readaholic.
2,178 reviews70 followers
May 6, 2023
There’s a lot more to this story than just the heat. There’s a bit of angst, some wonderfully done communication skills, familial support, sibling torment until it comes time to have Izzy’s back, and love. Yeah, she and Dax may be quick to some, but they’ve known each other for years and when he’s the one called upon to help, he suddenly realizes just what he’s never allowed himself to see…and what could possibly be.

While there is danger to be had, the communication is top notch. There aren’t stupid, OTT dramatic tantrums. There’s a very well explained set of rules and commitments. And honestly? This is far less toxic than the “vanilla” couples in many books of both this genre and others. The reactions from Izzy’s family when the secrets are shared, Dax’s refusal to allow anyone to cause even the slightest bit of misery for Izzy, and the maturity of these relationships and characters make for a book I was desperate to have more time with before I hit the end. I can only hope we see more of this family and maybe some of their friends, because I could easily spent much more time in their world!
Profile Image for Albi (albireadingromance).
397 reviews10 followers
May 5, 2023
Afterglow by Laura John

Setting:
Contemporary

Characters:
Isabella Thather "Izzy"
Dex
Leo

Tropes:
Sub Dom
Brother's Best Friend
Romantic Suspense

Goodreads:
🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟

Spice:
🌶 🌶 🌶

Review:
I really enjoyed this spicy, suspenseful romance. Izzy was such a wonderful heroine, I really liked how her character developed throughout the story. Dex was a very sexy hero. I really enjoyed the spice in the book, and I also enjoyed Dex and Izzy's S/D relationship. I thought the author did a really good job at showcasing the kink, without going into stereotypes. I can not wait to read Ms. John's next work.

Content Warnings;
Physical Assault
Kidnapping
Profile Image for Bourbon N Books.
125 reviews40 followers
September 15, 2024
Laura John nails this kinky romance.

Dax is Isabella Thatchers brother's best friend.

Isabella has had a crush on Dax forever. But Dax only saw her as the little sister, until one fateful night when she call Dax for help.

Dax doesn't expect the explosion of emotion he has for Isabella, and she tries to fight the emotions she feels as well.

As chaos swirls around them, they grow closer and allow themselves to fall.

I was absolutely so satisfied when i finished this book. Not one detail of the D/s relationship was skewed.

Laura did amazing, and i hope to read more kinky books from her.

It such a privilege to be an ARC reader for Laura!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for M Will.
963 reviews14 followers
May 18, 2023
I truly enjoyed this book. Dax and Izzy's story has all the elements of a great story: strong characters, witty banter, suspense, angst and plenty of spice. Izzy may be the only girl in her family, but she is far from a pampered princess. I loved her resilience in the face of so many challenges. This brother's best friend romance was expertly written and well paced. Great story. I loved so many of the secondary characters as well. Please note the trigger warnings. Overall wonderful read.

I received an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Mary.
34 reviews
May 21, 2023
I just discovered my favorite Laura John book yet!!
I loved the Izzy/Dax dynamic so much. The book was a wonderful combination of sweet, spice, mystery, and kink.
Well written, it keeps you interested from first word to last! I'm so honored to be able to be a part of Laura's ARC team and can't wait for the next one!!
175 reviews2 followers
May 30, 2023
Izzy has always had a crush on her brothers friend Dax. When she saw what he did to that girl while she watch she was intrigued. She studied up on the kink lifestyle and when she became of age, she jumped right in.
Dax always thought of Izzy as he best friend's little sister. Completely off limits. But no she is grown up and gorgeous. He knows he shouldn't, but wow!!!
Loved this book so much!!!
Profile Image for Memphisgirlreads.
225 reviews3 followers
May 25, 2023
This has to be my favorite by Laura yet!! I absolutely love love loved Izzy and Dax together! They were perfect! The sexual chemistry between them is ON POINT! Also, the little bit of drama with Leo made it that much better, and it definitely kept me on my toes.
Profile Image for Shannon Downing.
282 reviews
May 29, 2023
Hot, hot, hot! Kink at its finest! I was hanging on every word, wanting a DOM like DAX. This will not disappoint. There is some triggers of DV so be warned.
Profile Image for Dana zamora.
865 reviews7 followers
May 28, 2023
Forbidden fruit

From teenage crush to forever love, after Izzy is saved by Dax her teenage crush blooms again hot and heavy, when her ex starts harassing her they have to tell her family what happened and breaking the news to his best friend and her brother first then her parents, will they survive the threats to her, such a beautiful heartfelt love story, exciting, laughter and tears, so totally recommend, I have voluntarily and review this ARC, thank you for the privilege, Dana Zamora
Profile Image for C.A. Lovheart.
Author 6 books11 followers
May 28, 2023
This book was amazing. Some pretty darn good spice, some darkness, some kink an two characters that you can’t stop yourself from falling in love with.
I love Laura’s books and this one blew me out of the water.
I wish I could read it for the first time again.
This will be my go to recommendation for this author.
Profile Image for Krista.
88 reviews14 followers
June 1, 2023
Let me start this off by saying as always check TW!
I absolutely love this author! She is a must read author for me and I’ve loved everything I have read by her! But let me tell you she hit this one out of the park!
My favorite book that she has written so far!
If you like kink you should read this one!

We follow Izzy and since she was younger she figured out what she likes and is into. She has a secret… a secret she hides from her family the only ones that know are her brothers best friend dax and her best friend Candice. she has an encounter with her brothers best friend and his girlfriend. Then she started doing some research…
Then we find Izzy and her friend go into this club. It’s not any kind of club… it’s a kink club. Guess who she runs into in this club?

She ends up marrying someone else and things aren’t going the way they were planned. Dax to the rescue! He takes her in and we watch them together..

I highly highly recommend this book. I absolutely loved Dax and Izzy together. I love the way he cares for her.
Profile Image for MJ's Book Blog and Reviews.
3,048 reviews65 followers
June 3, 2023
Review by: Jennifer
(4 Stars)

Izzy found out very early what interested her, and once she discovered it there was nothing stopping her from getting what she wanted. She also had a huge crush on her brother's best friend but knew that he saw her as nothing more than his best friend's little sister, so she pushed those feelings away and moved on with her life. A few years later, Izzy finds out that the man she thought was her HEA is not the person she thought he was and ends up calling Dax to help her with the situation she found herself in. For the first time ever, Dax actually sees Izzy as more, but the timing is all wrong. Will the timing every be right for the pair?

If you are looking for a story that gives us some really great naughty moments with a side of kink, really nicely done drama, and a spot of danger and violence, then this is the perfect read! I was sucked into this story from the first page, and enjoyed watching Izzy and Dax's journey. I'm hoping a certain brother and maybe a certain bodyguard get a story, but for now I give Izzy and Dax 4 stars.
Profile Image for Ash Lovesbooks.
175 reviews5 followers
May 7, 2023
I don’t have enough words to express just how much I ADORE this author! Laura John’s books are guaranteed to include a great storyline, interesting characters, normalization of mental health issues and treatment including therapy and/or medication while proving LOVE comes in a variety of ways and providing a wonderful HEA for the story’s couple.

This particular story, Afterglow, dips into the world of the kink community and does a fantastic job of providing some information and details to help those who don’t have much knowledge a good starting point and possibly wet the readers appetite to learn more on their own. I’m definitely doing more research after reading it. It is a M/F romance with unique and interesting characters that are realistic and pretty relatable. The story is fast paced and had enough action to keep me entranced and devouring the book.

Profile Image for Maddy Matos.
949 reviews10 followers
May 12, 2023
Izzy is young but since her 16th birthday she knew exactly what she wanted. Dax was her childhood crush, he’s eight years older than her but she knows he’ll never look at her as anything other then his best friends little sister. These two are kinky, she likes to watch, and she wants a Dom and that’s exactly what Dax is. She’s been living with her boyfriend who went nuts and beat her up. She didn’t want to involve her family so she calls Dax. He immediately takes over her care, he’s very protective but there’s so much more. The chemistry of these two is off the hook, and how can you not love a man who loves smut books?
When these two got together it was hot, hot and more hot. This story is sexy as well as a roller coaster ride. It grabs you from the first pages and doesn’t let you go. I’m giving this book five stars and highly recommend it.
Profile Image for Summerlynn83_reads.
767 reviews8 followers
May 25, 2023
Oh, this book is hands down my favorite book by Laura John to date!! Age gap, brother’s best friend, kink…omg, need I say more??
Dax and Izzy couldn’t have been more perfect for one another. The way they fit together like puzzle pieces was swoon worthy and steamy and just awesomeness.
While the circumstances that lead Dax and Izzy to discover their amazing chemistry was heartbreaking their connection made things bearable. I loved the care and affection that was so pure between them from the start.
And when you add in the suspense and possible danger that threatens their newly developing relationship you get that extra wow factor that amped up an already fantastic book.
I literally read this book in one go because I enjoyed all things Izzy and Dax. Clear up to the very ending I was completely and utterly hooked. I loved every minute of their unique love story.
Profile Image for Biggs_bookshelf.
1,603 reviews27 followers
May 25, 2023
One of my favorites from this author!


Falling in love with your brothers best friend after watching him dominate his girl friend at a young age introduces Izzy to the lifestyle. She learns young she wants to be in a dom/sun relationship.

After a relationship goes sour she calls the one person she can trust that Will understand and help her. That’s when it gets real good.


The story is riveting. It’s heart felt with some seriously anxiety inducing moments. Shining positive light on the lifestyle after a bad experience it will melt your heart when she truly finds peace. It will cause all the feels which in my book makes this one a winner. I love experiencing the moments like I am right there and this book does it in spades.
Profile Image for Katie Williams.
73 reviews9 followers
May 30, 2023
This was an awesome brother's best friend romance! Laura John is an excellent writer. Her characters are always lovable and relatable. I love the whole kink club vibes in this book.. its definitely reminding me of another series I really enjoyed about a $ex club (SPC by Sara Cate). The story line of Afterglow was easy to follow, smut was completely on point and of course I love a good HEA. There are several set ups within this story for the other characters to have books of their own also. Thank you as always to the author for an ARC!
Profile Image for Hollie.
782 reviews37 followers
June 19, 2023
This was my first Laura John book, and I loved it. I read it all in one sitting and I couldn’t get enough. Dax and Izzy’s story takes you on a roller coaster ride of emotions. It had suspense and plot twists I didn’t see coming along with the perfect amount of kink. Izzy had been through a lot, and Dax was absolutely perfect in trying to help her through it all. When they decided to give their feelings a chance it was like they were always meant to be together. A definite must read.
Profile Image for Vinessa.
1,951 reviews23 followers
May 25, 2023
Dax and Izzy.

She knew her limits set the rules for her long term relationship only lines were crossed and evil stands out.

So when when the going gets tough and Izzy needs help she reaches out to the only person to keep her secrets. Dax answers the call and is amazed how much Izzy has grown, she is the siren that calls to him and feels the protective desires roll over him. She is a natural submissive and he is the Dom that will heal her.
Profile Image for Victoria Dipaul.
20 reviews
May 29, 2023
A great read from Laura John! Izzy has a crush on her brothers best friend and when she’s in trouble she turns to him for help. Dax doesn’t hesitate to come to her rescue and shortly after sparks fly!
A spicy kinky romance with some suspense thrown in for good measure! I look forward to Laura John’s next work!
Profile Image for Sue Smith.
741 reviews6 followers
May 11, 2023
Loved it!!
Laura John is a new author to me and I'm so glad that I decided to review this ARC.
This book is told from the POV of both characters and I throughly enjoyed reading Dax and Izzy exciting story.
Izzy's ex is stalking her and threatening her new relationship with Dax. Things turn nasty and lives put at risk!
Brilliant storyline, wonderful characters and loved the HEA.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Alex Murphy.
273 reviews2 followers
May 26, 2023
I absolutely loved Dax and Izzy. The hardships that Izzy faced while Dax pushed her to do what’s best for her was amazing! Having someone that supportive during the domestic violence ordeal and everything after was great. Laura John’s characters are always amazing!
Profile Image for Ashley  Perrigan.
156 reviews17 followers
May 26, 2023
I loved this book. I had the immense privilege of getting an ARC it was so good. I have nothing bad to say about it.
Profile Image for RomanceReader1.
801 reviews
May 26, 2023
𝐼 𝑗𝑢𝑠𝑡 𝑐𝑎𝑚𝑒 𝑎𝑐𝑟𝑜𝑠𝑠 𝑡𝑜 𝑤ℎ𝑎𝑡 𝐼 𝑡ℎ𝑖𝑛𝑘 𝑖𝑠 𝑎 𝐜𝐢𝐧𝐧𝐚𝐦𝐨𝐧 𝐃𝐨𝐦!!!

𝐼 𝑙𝑖𝑘𝑒𝑑 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑚𝑜𝑠𝑡 𝑡ℎ𝑎𝑡 𝑫𝒂𝒙 𝑤𝑎𝑠𝑛'𝑡 ℎ𝑎𝑟𝑏𝑜𝑟𝑖𝑛𝑔/𝑓𝑖𝑔ℎ𝑡𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑓𝑒𝑒𝑙𝑖𝑛𝑔𝑠 𝑓𝑜𝑟 𝑰𝒛𝒛𝒚 𝑓𝑟𝑜𝑚 𝑤ℎ𝑒𝑛 ℎ𝑒 𝑤𝑎𝑠 𝑦𝑜𝑢𝑛𝑔𝑒𝑟. 𝐵𝑢𝑡 𝑟𝑎𝑡ℎ𝑒𝑟 𝑤𝑎𝑠 𝑠𝑒𝑖𝑛𝑔 ℎ𝑒𝑟 𝑤𝑖𝑡ℎ 𝑛𝑒𝑤 𝑒𝑦𝑒𝑠!!

𝑂𝑓 𝑐𝑜𝑢𝑟𝑠𝑒 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑎𝑢𝑡ℎ𝑜𝑟 𝑐𝑜𝑢𝑙𝑑𝑛'𝑡 𝑙𝑒𝑎𝑣𝑒 𝑢𝑠 𝑤𝑖𝑡ℎ 𝑜𝑢𝑡 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑠𝑢𝑠𝑝𝑒𝑛𝑠𝑒 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑤𝑜𝑛𝑑𝑒𝑟𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑤ℎ𝑎𝑡 𝑤𝑎𝑠 𝑛𝑒𝑥𝑡 𝑓𝑜𝑟 𝑡ℎ𝑖𝑠 𝑡𝑤𝑜!!




I received an ARC of this story and this is my voluntary review.
37 reviews2 followers
January 19, 2024
This my first read by this author. I am in the minority here but I just didn’t feel anything while reading this book. I didn’t connect with the characters at all.
Profile Image for Xanthe.
2,531 reviews46 followers
May 21, 2023
**4.5**
This is a very well written kinky romance with a strong plot about an ex-boyfriend who doesn't want to take no for an answer.
Izzy used to have a crush on her brother's best friend, Dax, as a teenager and he's actually the reason that she got interested in the kinky lifestyle. Now, she needs to break up with her boyfriend as he's not taking their commitment or contract seriously but it turns out he's not fond of being turned down/away and beats her up. Dax is the only one she can think of that can help her get away and recover without treating her any differently. Dax hasn't seen Izzy in at least a couple of years and cannot believe how she has grown up. He's burning with rage at what has been done to her but follows her wishes of not going to the police or telling her family.
They quickly reconnect and build a strong bond, Dax shocked at the speed of his feelings for Izzy. When it comes to what they both want from a relationship and dom/sub commitment, they are perfectly aligned and they work so well together. It's so sweet reading how Dax takes care of Izzy, both physically and mentally, dealing with the aftermath of the attack and Leo (ex-boyfriend) stepping up his tirade towards them. Izzy doesn't want to involve her family due to them still treating her as a child and a princess but at some point, it will become necessary to talk to her parents and, very protective, older brothers.
This is a really great all round story. I enjoyed all aspects of it and felt the emotions from both MC's. I thought that the BDSM community and those aspects of their relationship are very well written, ensuring consent and communication is clear between everyone involved.
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews

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