He's the quiet set designer with a fragmented heart
She's an adult film star with hidden scars
Cohen Steele has been living a lonely, quiet life for the last four years. Believing he's undeserving of more, he keeps his head down and his focus on work.
Lucy Lovegood, real name Scarlett, is the top female adult film star who comes to Crave & Cure for a healthy career. But the damage and pain she's endured with her previous studio, director and boyfriend has left her scarred and fearful.
Each carrying their own baggage and painful pasts, Cohen and Lucy inadvertently rescue each other, all while working through their trauma.
But can two people so broken become whole together? Or is some trauma too deep to mend?
Author's Please visit the reading guide on the author's website for all content warnings and other information. For Adult Readers.
Daisy Jane is a forbidden love romance author, inspired by VC Andrews and more . When she's not penning a hot age gap novel or dreaming up steamy stories, she's enjoying the sunshine and warmth at her home in California. She enjoys reading, true crime, exercise and, of course, romance.
IRL I went through a very abusive relationship in my past… so this book was a refreshing story to read where the fmc heals and moves on after a similar experience. Both MCs are trying to move on after very heartbreaking & life changing moments. They find that peace and healing together.
Daisy has an amazing way of creating fiction that readers can relate to. The characters have realistic story arcs & always promote good messages. No matter if it’s… going to therapy is healthy for everyone or this kink is normal and you shouldn’t be ashamed for having it. There’s always a hidden message that should be shared with the masses.
Now- the spice. The spice was definitely spicin. This is a slow burn. But it’s 100% worth the slowness. These characters needed to go slow in order to heal but once the spice happens… it really happens. It was fucking hot lol.
If you’ve never read a femdom romance- this is a great one to start with because it’s a subtle femdom. She has control but it’s vital to the story & just how its labeled… it’s subtle.
Femdom, no matter how subtle, is just not for me. And I get what DJ was trying to do here but it became borderline melodramatic, to the point where I even kept skipping past sex scenes. This took me all week to read when I usually fly through books in less than a day.. I guess the good news for me is that Daisy Jane has shown me two tropes that are a hard pass - CNC (The Man I Know) and now femdom. I just want a dominant man okay!! Cohen was a great hero but Scarlett definitely overpowered the story.
Scarlett comes to Crave after leaving Jizz and Pete the owner and her abusive ex. She has been through a lot and is slowly trying to heal. Cohen does the set design and lighting for the set and he has his own demons for the past. When they see each other they can see the pain in each others eyes and slowly start to become friends. Pete is leaving a bunch of texts and voice messages trying to harass her. Cohen wants Scarlett to be save and realizes he will do anything for her at her pace. Pete keeps coming after Scarlett. Can these two damaged people find their way to each other or will fear keep them apart? Great characters and storyline Highly recommended Amazing book. I love Cohen and Scarlett and their dynamic. Great supporting characters. This book deals with tough topics like mental abuse, mental Illness, and more. The character development is excellent. Read your trigger warnings. This is one of the best books I’ve read this year.
I know that I've never disliked a book b y this author but wow did this book really do it for me. I loved how we got to see growth within the dmc, she wasn't just in a bad relationship one day and then a good one the next, the way that everything panned out between the Macs in this novel felt very realistic to me and had me super locked in from the start.
As usual with Daisy's book the plot was more than unique and had me devouring this read in a day! lots of spice and an entertaining story line that honestly will get you sucked in. I can't wait to red more form this series.
4.25⭐️ Scarlett has just escaped a dangerous situation when she lands at Crave. It’s a new, fresh start for her. Cohen has lived through the worst trauma you can imagine, and he lives his days putting in work and barely surviving. But Scarlett catches his eye immediately and starts to make him feel again. Will feeling be enough though?
This was truly a story of healing together…but like in a hot af way. Both characters needed so much caring, and then found it in one another.
A bit dramatic but a sweet read. I really loved the first 75% which covered their trauma, them building a relationship together and healing their trauma through and with each other. I liked the intimacy and seeing how they worked through both of their issues together and separately. Loved the positive emphasis on therapy. The end got dragged too deep into breeding kink for my tastes. Happy with the hea.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
What an amazing book! I got it early thanks to Daisy's Patreon and I'm so happy I did! This book was amazing and heartwrenching but also touching and funny. The book touches on some heavy topics, but they are treated with care and respect and it didn't feel too heavy. I will definitely re-read this book in the near future <3
This is the second book in Daisy Jane's Crave and Cure series! I really recommend reading Stuck with Tuck first, but it does work as a standalone.
Features- Workplace romance(he's a set designer, she's a p*rn star) Friends to lovers Sick/comfort C*ck warming Subtle femdom Breeding k!nk Cinnamon roll hero Strong, loving heroine
Cohen's Control follows Cohen and Scarlett. If you read Stuck With Tuck, that book is much lighter in tone than this book. I was gripped from the beginning and so invested in Cohen and Scarlett unpacking their issues while growing their relationship. Daisy Jane consistently has perfect pacing with intimacy. I've said this before but the way she represents k!nk on the page is always healthy and respectful, and of course totally hot. I loved Cohen and Scarlett's story and can't wait for the next book in this series.
Please check CWs because this was an intense read!
Cohen's Control is book two of Daisy's Crave and Cure series. Book two follows Cohen and Scarlett (also known as Lucy Lovegood).
‼️PLEASE MAKE SURE TO READ CONTENT AND TRIGGER WARNING‼️this book has heavy content and it might not be for everyone.
Now.. on to my thoughts of the book.
I honestly loved this book. I have always loved Daisy's writings. So I was excited when she finishes something new.
I was intrigued by the relationship that would come from Scarlett and Cohen when it was first hinted in Stuck with Tuck! Knowing briefly that Scarlett dealt with a lot of mistreatment when it came to her old company, by the owner/newly ex boyfriend. Who was abusive and and overall scumbag.
Cohen has been thr quiet guy who works on set, who battles his own demons on the daily. His traumatic past made him believe that he was undeserving of another chance to start over.
Some rapid fire thoughts: - I cried when I found out what Cohens past was about. - Scarlett deserved better than what she got from her previous company and scummy ex and im so glad her and Cohen found eachother - the slow burn in this book was SO well done, that I wasn't even mad it was a slow burn. 🤣 - I dont think I've ever highlighted a book so much with sections that I loved. - when picking quotes to add to the review there were so many more I wanted to add. SO. MANY. MORE. - I can't wait for book three 😤
daisy jane’s writing is one of my favorites. realistic and simple, adding representation of extraordinary activities to ordinary people. yet the past couple of books just don’t have the spark. this one was plain okay, even though the beginning was so good and so painful the emotion kept decreasing until i reached the point of skimming. i simply miss the good old days of “stray” and “with force”.
Prior to finishing up this series I’ve glanced at the next book just to see what I’m getting into. This series is different for me because it’s definitely more smut and sexual than other books I’ve been reading. I just want to mentally prepare myself and get my head in that state of mind rather than being shocked. This one was categorized as femdom and I’m not familiar with all the kinks people are interested in so I had to look it up. What I was expecting based on the definition is not at all what happened in this book. I see elements of it but to classify it as strictly that, I wouldn’t say is the case. I don’t understand why some people weren’t happy with this book. I found myself really drawn into Cohen and Scarlett because of their trauma and pain. This book is about healing after experiencing something so profound and sad that they can’t get intimate with anyone. Their pain blocked them both from experiencing pleasure and intimacy the way it’s supposed to be. It was a long journey for both of them and to experience what happened to them I cannot fathom because I haven’t been through it. It’s a different vibe compared to Tucker and Vienna’s story. While there was so much love and connection, this one had despair, depression and emptiness. It explores tough topics, things I would imagine are hard to talk about. I felt their pain and struggles in the pages and experienced their joy when they realized they are not broken and can find love, pleasure and intimacy again. There were complaints that there was too much sex in this book, but I disagree right up until the end of the book. Then it gets to be too much and oversaturated, plus other kinks come out that I’m not fully comfortable with. However, everything leading up to them getting to that point in their relationship was exciting and good. I enjoyed it and reading how they overcame their demons and realized that they deserve all that is good, and nothing is their fault. I was so happy they found each other and healed together, even if it was in a different way. The book did feel long but I felt it was necessary in telling their stories, but at least the chapters weren’t as long as the last book. Daisy got that part down, the next one might be different or the same but I guess I’ll find out. The only reason I’m giving this one a 4 is because of how the book leads to the ending and some of the things they do was slightly uncomfortable for me to get into but I can understand it was necessary for their healing. Everything else besides that is a solid 5.
This book is a masterpiece. Everyone has their own issues and trauma. This one hit extra close to home for me. As always make sure to check the TW. I knew going into this it would be deep. I didn't read all TW knowing it was going to be heavy and wanting to experience it all. The twist of Cohens back story was unexpected (I'm not saying that in a bad way at all) it helped me heal a little part of my soul.
I don't think I've genuinely connected and loved characters as much as I did Scarlett and Cohen. Their past, their focus on healing and working on themselves. It inspired me to quit treading water. I've read several of Daisy Janes books and I know I always think "this is my new favorite" and I do genuinely love them all. But this one is special. At least to me. She is an amazing author. I'm thankful every day that I came across her books on tiktok and fell in love. I saw another reader describe them as a Hallmark movie, and I could've agree more.
The spice - okay okay I can't leave that out but I needed to get the heartfelt stuff out of the way. Holy cow. Oh. My. Stars. DAISY! You are a goddess and please never stop writing. First of all. The spice and kink in this book. *chef's kiss* absolute perfection. 100/10 I love how well done they are. And I love how not all of her books follow the same lines. You can read all over the spectrum with her books. Discover things you like, love, and maybe things you don't. Perfection. Pure. Perfection. I'm honestly at a loss for words and can't properly express my obsession with this book. This is one of those books that I will read again and again and again.
Emotional read with sensitive issues keeps you glued till the end!
This one gives you two flawed and broken individuals who find hope and peace from their traumas.
Cohen was the nice quiet loner type at work not many knew him or his past and that's the way he wanted it. After a tragedy strikes he can't bear his guilt anymore he finds himself at Crave and Cure Productions as a set designer, who meets a woman who will forever change his life for the better. Enter the new favorite actress Lucy Lovegood/Scarlett. She's about to give Cohen a new lease on life and help him find his groove back into intimacy.
Lucy Lovegood is Scarlett's adult film star persona who is hailed the new rising star at Crave and Cure. She's got a messy past with an abusive ex/boss who wants her back no matter the consequences. She has her own issues facing intimate acts and feels broken until she meets Cohen her shining knight in armor who helps her just as much as she helps him.
These two have an instant connection due to their unique trauma issues. You will be rooting for them both to find a HEA finally. This story touches on sensitive issues so check those TW's beforehand if needed. If not get ready for an emotional rollercoaster of a read with this one. The chemistry is palpable and the scars are fresh but they heal organically as the story unfolds. So if you need a story with heart, heat, forgiveness, and self healing this one is a definite must read! Cohen is book boyfriend material for sure! Scarlett brings a healing heart and acceptance making this a satisfying story to get lost in.
I was not emotionally prepared for this book. It may very well be the most emotionally wringing yet satisfying book of hers I have read to date. Both Cohen and Scarlett are two characters that have been ravaged and damaged by events and circumstances in their lives. They are completely isolated and closed off by choice to protect themselves....and yet....their eyes meet for the barest of seconds and a connection is formed. They both work for an adult entertainment company; Scarlett in front of the camera and Cohen as a set director. I have to admit that the early chapters were hard to read because you are immersed in their pain, but it makes the relationship that much more poignant and beautiful, IMO.
The way that they slowly slowly slowly make the tiniest baby steps towards each other almost against their own volition, and how they even more slowly come together was truly beautiful. The dichotomy of watching these two characters interact in slow, emotionally intense but non-sexually (at first) against the backdrop of the industry they work in should have been jarring. Instead, all of the 'work' scenes were handled matter of factly, taking away the salaciousness of it and readjusting my perspective.
This book was sex positive and kinky but it never lost the deeply emotional connection that a truly satisfying romance should have. I loved this more than I thought it would.
From the moment we met Cohen and Scarlett aka Lucy Lovegood in Stuck With Tuck. I needed more of both of them. Did I know I needed them together? Absolutely not. Did I absolutely love their relationship? Yes I did.
As we learned previously, Scarlett has signed with Crave & Cure after some bad experiences at Jizzabelle and with her ex. She is adjusting to her new life, her new job and her new coworkers are supporting her through that journey.
One of my favorite things about this book was that Cohen and Scarlett were both going through their own healing processes from different traumas while simultaneously helping each other through. Cohen gives Scarlett the respect of her setting the pace of how their relationship moved forward not only physically but emotionally. This is definitely a slow burn but it plays into the plot so well considering what they have been through and where they want to be together and as individuals.
🖤As always, check your trigger warnings because your mental health matters🖤
My thoughts: •Cohen must be protected at all costs. And if the epitome of “if he wants to, he will.” •I love that these characters are in therapy and willing to be open about those journeys.
This started out as a 4 star book, then dwindled down to a 3 star.
Starts off SO strong. Scarlett (Lucy is her stage name) and Cohen are both characters that you absolutely FEEL for. They're both sweet, hardworking, and have had simply awful things happen to them. Together they grow, heal, and become stronger. I was hooked right away, couldn't put it down. It's a slow burn--they start as work acquaintances, then friends, then grow to more (though the actual timeline is REALLY fast...a bit too fast imo, but in terms of pacing of the book it works). However, after about 50-60% of the book, it started to REALLY drag. There were SOOOO many sex scenes, SO many...that I started to skim them (which is not like me), and I felt like she just threw random kinks in there. Out of kinda no where. Very soft femdomme, and breeding kink (two kinks that I'm VERY much NOT into--but to each their own, fyi I am not ranking down due to the kinks). It just really started to drag and my attention started to drift. Again, it started off as a 4 star read. Daisy Jane touches on some VERY sensitive subjects in a very respectful way. The characters are people you root for. I recommend this book, I just wish it ended as well as it started.
Daisy does it again. Bringing the taboo of smex working together with small town feels and all the spice! This is a story of two broken main characters, one escaping an abusive relationship and job, and the other still struggling years later with a tragic loss.
Scarlett is the lead actress at a terrible adult studio and is brought to Crave & Cure where she finds a safe and respectful working environment and the stoic and reverent Cohen. A man who has spent years surviving but not living. He’s drawn to her and as the story unfolds and Scarlett’s past refuses to let her go, Cohen assumes the role of her protector. Her loyal knight.
Because of their pasts this is a relatively slow burn but that doesn’t mean it’s not got heat… and when it hits… wow. This couple explore non-conventional intimacy in a way that’s perfect for their pace but also their mental health throughout the story.
Check your trigger warnings (listed in the book) as these two have been through a lot but they do get their happy ever after.
Could’ve been so good. Why didn’t she change her number? Why didn’t she get a restraining order? Why didn’t they call the police when the crazy ex showed up with a freaking gun??! It would’ve made more sense if he was evading getting caught but they just let him continue to be a stalker. I read spoilers about the ending because after forcing myself through 85% of this book I can’t finish it atm and just had to write a review incase I never do. Loved the first book in the series but definitely will not be trying the third.
Also the way they act towards each other is super weird to me. He’s also controlling but it’s expected to be viewed as good because he wants to do things for her. Like when he grabbed her throat to tell her not to do dishes? Wtf… spoiler said the ex went on to kill his new gf. I don’t see how they wouldn’t feel guilt over that. He spent the entire book blaming himself for his daughter’s death when he wasn’t even there yet he could’ve stopped this death soo… does that not eat him up after? Can’t be bothered to read more to find out.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
I wish I could give this ♾️ number of stars bc baby it’s with that and more! Daisy Jane, you my friend have never ceased to amaze me with the way you can write trauma and tragedy & turn it into something beautiful! Let’s not forget the spice you add into the mix, cuzzzzz honey that’s my jam. 🥵🥵🥵
Cohen and Scarlett will forever be ingrained in my little 🖤. The way they healed together, individually, and learned to trust each other was so beautiful - I can’t get over it. You have really made me love things I thought I never would in my books Daisy & that just goes to show you how much of an amazing writer you are!
Y’all don’t go into this story blind, bc there are some heavy topics discussed, some heavy trauma both MC’s go through, and it may be triggering! So please check CW/TW!! But overall such a good story, such a good plot, so many yummy and spicy scenes! Ugh. So well written! I loveeed this one - I think it’s in my top three DJ books! 😍😍
I can’t even put into words how impactful this book was to me. Cohen’s Control is simply a beautiful love story with two main characters who have suffered from unbelievable trauma. This is a story about healing and learning how to move on from pasts that haunt us. Accepting that we are worthy of happiness despite what the voices in our heads tell us. I cried more times than I can count.
This is definitely a slow burn, with Cohen and Scarlett focusing on healing and taking things slow. But once the spice hits 🥵
One of my favorite things about this book is how Cohen takes care of her. Simple gestures from cooking her dinner, to braiding her hair, to making sure she locks her door at night. Reading their story made my heart full.
You’ll definitely want to check your triggers and make sure this story is something you feel comfortable reading. I, myself, coming from an emotionally abusive relationship in the past found it healing and cathartic to read, but others may not.
Cohen’s Control is simply a beautifully written story. Daisy Jane truly delivered with this one.
🔥Subtle Femdom 🔥Slow burn 🔥 Broken MC 🔥C*ck warming 🔥Female s*x worker 🔥Cinnamon Roll Hero
This has to be one of the most beautifully written stories about healing from trauma and abuse that I’ve read.
Scarlett is an adult film star and come from a background of abuse from her ex boyfriend/producer. She has closed herself off from people to protect herself. That is, until she comes to Crave and begins to feel safe again.
Cohen is the set director at Crave. Like Scarlett, he has his own trauma he is dealing with. He has a history of loss and struggles with “what if’s?”
Watching these two connect on such an intimate level to gain each others trust and begin to heal together was beautiful and intense at times. It’s a slow burn, which it needed to be with the heaviness and to really capture the characters and their stories.
Don’t worry, Daisy didn’t leave out the spice at all! Who knew c*ck warming could be 🥵!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
This book was breathtakingly beautiful. It’s probably my favorite book Daisy’s ever written. Cohen and Scarlett are both two very broken people. They’ve endured things most people wouldn’t wish on their worst enemy- when Scarlett starts working at C&C under the name Lucy Lovegood they’re both so closed off yet still catch one another’s eye. The trust they build together is so heart wrenching. The way Daisy approached their healing journeys was SO refreshing- they’re both in therapy and address it with one another. There’s a subtle femdom aspect but the way it’s portrayed feels so natural and realistic. The characters (even if you’re not into what they do, in real life) are so relatable and lovable. I found myself so attached to these characters it’s insane. The cameos from Tuck and Vienna from book 1 (Stuck with Tuck) was also so great because I loved them as well. I am a forever Daisy fan and have been recommending this book to everyone. It’s a must read!!!
Such an emotional story. She comes from a background of abuse in a relationship, he has a history of loss and struggles with feelings of worth. He is her broken knight in shining armor, who fights for her, dotes on her, and supports her. With her background of abuse, she struggles to open herself to the physical aspects of their relationship, so she needs things in her control and on her terms.
The representation of these characters and their struggles, supported with their experiences with therapy, really presents a healthy viewpoint of overcoming personal struggles and working on oneself. But, of course, the spice was still there and magnificent (femdom vibes with some "warming"). All in all, an excellent book and a great follow up to Stuck With Tuck. I am very much looking forward to the dynamic in the third book.
Right from the beginning, I fell for Scarlett and Cohens broken souls. I loved how their souls seemed to call out for each other. "Fated lovers" is one of my favorite tropes, and if there's one thing about this book, it's that Cohen and Scarlett are meant to be together!! 🥰
This is a slow burn, recovering after a trauma but still so spicy story of two people who are brought together at the perfect time to save each other.
There are honestly times I truly believe that Daisy sees into my soul and writes what I love based on that. And as I say, I'm pretty sure EVERY TIME I read another one of her books, this one is my fav!
*side note** I may or may not, but I totally did take, "Cohen notes." Ways my husband need to start stepping it up bc goodness is Cohen just THE ABSOLUTE book boyfriend!
My heart absolutely broke for both of these characters. But there is something about watching them grow, seeing the healing take place, and watching them become the person that they are truly meant to be. Together. It was a beautifully told story surrounded by so much ugliness and deep rooted, rip your soul out pain.
Cohen has got to be the world’s strongest willed man around to be able to maintain the good guy persona all while working in the industry that he does. He is absolutely the sweetest, most kindest man I have read about in some time. I truly loved him.
But don’t let those good boy, kind acts fool you. While yes, he is all those things, our boy can get down right dirty and wants to do everything he can to please and pleasure Scarlett.
This book was just as brilliant as the first in their series but unique to itself. No same story, different name happening here. 5 Stars!
Daisy Jane always has a knack for hitting me in the feels but this one really got me! I was not expecting Scar and Cohen’s story to be so heartbreaking but I loved it!
I’ve said it before and I’m sure I’ll say it again, Daisy blows me away with her ability to combine these beautiful stories with totally filthy kinks. She has introduced me to so many kinks that I never thought I would enjoy all the whole making me bawl my eyes out. The sweet development of Scar and Cohen’s relationship and their patience with one another as they over came their traumas was a thing of beauty.
This series has been great so far, and despite the fact that I felt the tempo of the writing was a bit off at times (I felt it dragged a bit in the beginning but then it was rushed when dealing with Scar’s ex), I still absolutely loved this book. I can’t wait till Daisy gives us the next one!
Cohen Steele (age 30) has been living a lonely, quiet life for the last four years. He is the art and set designer for porn studio Crave & Cure. Lucy Lovegood, real name Scarlett (age 23), is an adult film star who just escaped an abusive relationship.
This was a very difficult subject as both Cohen and Scarlett are in fragile state of minds due to their traumas. It’s sweet how they find each other and learn to trust and be intimate. While it is slow burn the buildup is good. I especially love how Scar sits on Cohen’s ‘lap’ as a way to be close and feel less anxious. Love the HEA these two so greatly deserved 🥰
This is my first Daisy Jane book, and I picked it up to read about a female character as a dominant character in the relationship. I wasn’t really sure what I was expecting going into this story, but the writing and the story really hooked me. I was worried after reading the blurb that it would be a little cheesy since the FMC works in the adult entertainment industry (as well as the MMC), but the way Daisy wrote their story? Cheesy wouldn’t even begin to describe this story. The FMC grabbed control with both hands to reclaim her power, and the way the MMC allowed her to take what she needed without being a doormat was so incredibly well done. It was a beautiful story of two broken people coming together and pulling each other from the depths. I will definitely be reading more of Daisy Jane’s books.