On my first night working at an exclusive adult club—a club where we have to wear masks to conceal our identities—my stranger comes to life.
My attachment to him is instantaneous, but how could he be real when I created him in my mind more than a decade ago to shield me from the abuse I suffered at home?
And when the club owner’s nephew sets his sights on me, I want to resist his playboy charm, but I find I’m quickly falling under his spell.
How can I fall for two men at once? And what happens when my fantasy and reality finally collide?
Jackson: From the moment we laid eyes on each other, she’s hated me. Which is why making the little spitfire my latest conquest will be so much fun.
Imagine my surprise when I recognize the feisty redhead working at my uncle’s underground adult club. She doesn’t know it’s me, mistaking me for someone she refers to as her stranger.
She’s inexperienced. Nearly virginal. Everything I’ve always avoided in a woman.
But Ginny ends up being exactly what I didn’t know I needed.
The more time I spend with her in and out of the club, the hotter the flame between us grows—a passionate inferno just waiting to be released.
But if she finds out it’s me behind the mask, she’ll burn me alive.
D.L. Darby lives in Anchorage, Alaska with her husband, dog, and cat. When she’s not working at her salon, she enjoys reading, hiking (when the weather is nice), and watching silly reality t.v. shows. She loves to travel and one day hopes to be able to attend all of the bookish conventions in one year.
You can find her on TikTok @d.l.darby_author
Or join her reader group on FB at D.L. Darby’s Darlings
I read this is one sitting and stayed up late to finish it. It was fantastic.
I lovedddd our FMC Ginny and her journey throughout this book. Jackson was also a loveable MMC. Essentially, Ginny works for anonymously (masked) for a sex positive club as a side gig to help get past some sexual trauma due to repeated sexual assault. Jackson is a billionaire known name who gets rejected when Ginny turns down his advances. Jackson recognizes her in a mask and immediately begins exclusively booking her at the sex club. Jackson quickly becomes obsessed and our story takes off.
I read the triggers but was a bit surprised that the book immediately started with the repeated sexual assaults. I think I’m used to seeing these as a flashback instead of seeing everything in truly chronological order. It threw me for a loop but I’m so glad I pushed through.
This was my first book by this author and I’ll be reading more!!
I'm bored as fuck, I couldn't care less about this MCs. I think it's a me problem, I kinda hate manwhore x virgin/almost virgin fmc. Page 1 he's 'I don't like inexperienced women' and three pages later he's already obsessed with our almost virginal fmc. And, I can't get over the fact that she doesn't recognize him. She spoke to him with and without the mask and she doesn't hear the same voice? she doesn't see the same hair? body? eyes? I was going to pretend our FMC was partially blind and deaf to enjoy this book, but I can't. Let's not talk of the whole family, it's creepy.
One of my favorite authors and her books DO NOT disappoint. This book was written beautifully and deliciously. For the spicy book lovers, the spice was top notch. I’m excited for the next book in the series.
There are trigger warnings so please read them before reading this book.
This was my first read of 2024 and it started out with a bang! Literally and figuratively! The story is about Ginny whose mom died and was taken in by a well-off foster family. The brother doesn’t want a foster sister and starts to treat Ginny poorly eventually sexually abusing her. He begins college and so does Ginny and the abuse continues. She is traumatized by it.
Ginny starts to find her own way and in comes Jackson to the picture. Jackson is a rich, playboy and never had a relationship before. Ginny rejects him realizing he’s trouble but Jackson won’t take no for an answer.
From there there is an exclusive sex club, the friendship starting between Jackson and Ginny and the brother getting more angry. Things go from bad to worse but in the meantime there is spice and heat and depth of characters and an interesting storyline.
I loved how even though this is really spicy there is a real story here and it also beautiful! I say add this to your TBR now!
The only reason I didn’t give this book a higher rating was because all the “bad” constantly fell onto the guy. Nothing that the girl did, that I thought wasn’t the best, was mentioned at all and he was always the bad guy. That was frustrating to read for me. Yes what he did was maybe worse, but she was also lying to him… working where she did AND all the while, begging another man to have sex with her AND constantly being mad that Jackson was seen as a player and couldn’t be trusted… so yes, was what he did wrong? Yes, but what she did was also wrong and manipulative and a double standard.
Sadie Provost & James Cassid REALLY knocked it out of the park with D.L. Darby’s characters! Sadie brought Ginny’s personality and quirks to life beautifully, while James gave broody Jackson the depth and presence he needed. Hearing it play out in my ears had me feeling it all. Ginny has faced some tough things in her life, and Sadie’s expressive delivery made me feel every bit of it. (Damn that part) Jackson, on the other hand, had that strong personality I love in an MC, and James’s commanding voice made it shine. He was willing to do whatever needed to be done for his little ember, and it showed. The story moved at a great pace, with strong world-building and banter that kept me hooked. The push and pull between Ginny and Jackson had me wanting to grab them both and say, “just get it over already, behind closed doors!” The tension practically dripped off every page. I loved every bit of it and even did the audio + ebook combo, which made the experience even better. I highly recommend grabbing this audiobook when it releases. Be prepared, it’s hot! Kudos to D.L. Darby for writing such a raw, beautiful love story for Jackson & Ginny.
~Burn With Me~The Angels of Désirer Book 1~D.L. Darby~
~Duet Narration~Sadie Provost & James Cassidy~
~Produced By~Blue Nose Audio~
“I would burn the world for you, Ginny. Say the word, and I’ll turn it all to ashes so you can recreate it into whatever you want.”
♡This was my first read by D.L. Darby & I devoured it in one sitting! Once I started listening I couldn’t stop, this book became my only responsibility for that day & it left me on my knees begging for the next book! The plot was amazing, the spice was top-tier, & the MCs have my entire heart!
The duet narration for this audiobook was perfection! Sadie & James brought so much chemistry & emotion to life between Ginny & Jackson that you felt everything they felt. I laughed, I cried, I got so mad, & then I healed right along with this amazing couple. James also did a phenomenal job switching from being the good guy to being the villain, it was like having whiplash between loving him & hating him!
If you love dark spicy books that take you on an emotional rollercoaster ride & mend your broken heart at the same time look no further you've found it!♡
Prepare to have your heart stolen faster than Jackson's stolen glances and Ginny's fiery comebacks! This dark romance is like a decadent dessert – sweet, spicy, and impossible to put down! Jackson's cockiness and Ginny's firing personality create a deliciously combustible mix, while their banter will have you laughing out loud and swooning in equal measure. As they navigate their insecurities with all the finesse of a bull in a china shop, you'll find yourself rooting for them with every turn of the page. Absolutely loved this book—solid 4 stars for its perfect blend of romance, humor, and heart!
This is the first book in the Temptangels series. I happened to read the second book first and I could not go back fast enough to this one.
I loved the way Jackson was written, how he lived pre"Red" and how he realized there was more to life than how he was living it. My heart broke for Ginny so many times. The lies and the growth of these two was huge in such a short time, but when you know, you just know.
I am eagerly awaiting book three, Play With Me.
Thank you for the copy, this is my honest opinion.
This book was insanely good! Ginny & Jackson were perfect for one another. I loved how it had a element of surprise and drama. I honestly was not sure what to expect but I LOVED IT. If you need a juicy billionaire romance with a twist. Add this to your TBR immediately!
This is D.L. Darby's best book to date! The story line/plot is SOLID. The spice is INTENSE.
I loved every minute of it.
Ginny and Jackson's relationship is not your typical relationship at first. It's a dare that eventually turns into an intense love between the two they can't deny, no matter how hard they both try.
The way Jackson helps Ginny, without her even knowing it's him, is beautiful. This story made me laugh, swoon, blush and cry. THE MOUTH ON JACKSON TAILOR! 😜👌
If you read Sweet as Sin, you'll get some revisits from past characters which perfectly enhances the story.
This is by far my favorite read of 2023/2024. I 10/10 recommend pre-ordering, adding to your TBR and sharing with ALL your friends!
My first book by Darby but not my last. Burn with me is in a series but I had no problems reading as a standalone.
Jackson is a rich playboy just living his life for himself until he stumbles across Ginny. Ginny lives with her past as her present and don’t want anything to do with men like Jackson. It starts as a game to him with secrets identity to have access but turns into more then he bargains for.
Jackson and Ginny where both great characters you really get all there back story to understand them both and the decisions that are made. Jackson wants to be that playboy but underneath all that he is just lonely and a little bit lost. Ginny was vulnerable and not very confident in herself. They both complete each other. They get there happy ending while Chris, well he gets what he deserves….
Ehhh. Easily could have been a 200 page book instead of 400. Jackson was alright, Ginny pissed me off a couple of times, Chris was a FREAK honestly F him. Had cringy parts- “my fiery little ember” Boo 🍅🍅 . Ending was very wack. A lil spicy
Hot Take: The first 75% was fire. Really great story. Engaging plot and characters. The last 25%, was either written by a Tina-esque fan fiction prepubescent girl, or AI. That last quarter was awkward, childish, and whiny. Whereas, I can appreciate that the author made them more like a real life couple, where the MMC shows vulnerability, I am sad to say, i didn't like that. I didn't like that he held her to a higher standard than he held himself and then doubled down on it. He made himself pretty unlikeable while he gaslit her, and then SHE had to crawl back to him. Fuck that. He needed to grovel. Also, in the epilogue, during their engagement party, he called her his prison warden? NUHUH! Run away Ginny, he isn't changing and her certainly doesn't respect you. I will not be continuing this series. Main Characters: Ginny (24) and Jackson (34) Other Characters of Note: Tripp and Lenni Spice level: 3/5 1st kiss: 36% 1st actual sex scene: 53% Pet names: Ginny, Scarlett, Red, Little Ember.. eh. rRecap: Ginny is a foster child who endured years of sexual abuse from her foster brother Christopher (Chris) Calloway, beginning when she was twelve years old. Though the Calloways treated her well, they never adopted her at Chris's request, allowing him to justify his predatory behavior. Ginny coped with the trauma by mentally escaping to an imaginary "stranger" companion. At eighteen, she accepted a college scholarship that required living with Chris, planning her eventual escape. Years later, living in New York while attending NYU, Ginny works multiple jobs including waitressing at Decadence restaurant and secretly at Désirer, an exclusive sex-positive club where she performs as an Angel named Miss Scarlett. Jackson Tailor is a wealthy playboy billionaire who runs Tailor Industries and has a reputation for meaningless sexual encounters. He was abandoned by his mother as a baby and lost his father to suicide as a teenager, leaving him emotionally guarded and raised primarily by his uncle Scott. Jackson's world collides with Ginny's when he visits Decadence and becomes intrigued by her cold response to his advances, unlike other women who typically fall for his charm and wealth. Jackson becomes obsessed with Ginny after meeting her at both Decadence and Désirer, where he discovers her working as an Angel in the Confessional wing. Without revealing his identity, Jackson creates an alter ego using an English accent and a mask, booking Ginny exclusively at the club as her anonymous "stranger." Meanwhile, he pursues her in real life as himself, challenging her to a thirty-day celibacy agreement before she'll date him. Ginny finds herself drawn to both men, unaware they're the same person. Through their encounters at Désirer, the stranger helps Ginny explore her sexuality and rebuild confidence after years of abuse, while Jackson in real life shows her genuine care and protection. Their relationship deepens as Jackson introduces her to his world, helps her find a new apartment to escape Chris, and demonstrates unexpected tenderness despite his playboy reputation. As their romance develops, complications arise from Jackson's deception and Ginny's secrets. Jackson's uncle Scott, who owns part of Désirer, knows about Jackson's dual identity but keeps the secret. Ginny struggles with feelings for both Jackson and her stranger, not realizing they're one person. When Chris returns and discovers Ginny's relationship with Jackson, he becomes violently possessive, revealing the extent of his abuse to Jackson. The relationship faces multiple crises: paparazzi photos suggesting Jackson's infidelity, Ginny's inability to choose between Jackson and her stranger, and the revelation that Ginny knew about Scott's terminal cancer but kept it secret at his request. These betrayals and misunderstandings create distance between them, with both struggling to trust fully despite their deep love. The truth about Jackson's dual identity eventually comes out when Ginny overhears his English accent during a business call at Désirer. She confronts him about the manipulation, though she acknowledges he helped her escape abuse and find herself. Jackson admits he initially pursued her as a conquest but genuinely fell in love. Their reconciliation is interrupted when Chris kidnaps Ginny from her workplace, taking her to their old apartment where he attempts to sexually assault her. Scott arrives to help but Chris produces a gun, leading to a violent confrontation when Jackson bursts in to save Ginny. During the struggle between Jackson and Chris, the gun discharges and Scott is fatally shot while protecting Ginny. Scott dies in their arms after asking them to tell his ex-wife Sadie he loves her and requesting they sing his wedding song. Chris is arrested for murder and assault. In the aftermath, both Jackson and Ginny struggle with grief and trauma, with Jackson initially pushing Ginny away as he processes losing his only family member. Scott's will reveals he left Ginny the apartment at The Bryant and Jackson significant assets and control of the business empire. After the funeral, Jackson's friends convince him to stop giving Ginny unwanted space. He arranges a meeting at Désirer where he proposes they can return monthly for him to be her "stranger" again, allowing them to maintain both the fantasy and reality of their relationship. Ginny assures him she only wants him, not the persona. Six months later, at their engagement party, they reflect on their intense love and continued monthly visits to Désirer, having found a healthy balance exploring boundaries together. Ginny has learned to trust completely, and Jackson has learned how to love, with both having healed each other from their respective traumas.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
I love James Cassidy's narration so I didn't think twice about purchasing the audiobook.
I should have.
It took me a while to get into the story, and when I finally did it went to shit again. The FMC got on my last damn nerve... and, how is she counseling other women and not getting counseling herself (especially with all of THAT happening) is beyond me.
The female narrator didn't help the situation and I could barely finish this thing. I had to skip a half chapters here and there just I could keep moving on and finish already.
There's nothing particularly special about the MMC either aside from the narrator so yeah, meh.
I am obsessed. D.L.Darby has once again demonstrated why she’s a firm favourite author of mine.
Burn with me had trauma & healing, sass & banter & sizzling chemistry, slow burn & spice. What is there not to love?!
When Ginny finds herself having caught the attention of playboy billionaire Jackson and being asked on a date, she makes a bet with him- 30 days without dates, touching or sex with another woman. . . But he has an alter ego she’s not aware of
oh now this is a story that i can get behind… spicy club? a good plot? TENSION? spice that lives rent free? yes pls. and yes my jaw was on the floor the whole time i was reading😚
(and thank you hope for recommending you a real one💯)
3.8 ⭐️ story was interesting. Please be aware that there is a heavy trigger in this. It was hard for me to continue to read at times, so be prepared, overall it was a good read and I got it for free so it’s a win-win.
Phew! What an incredible story, from start to finish it’ll take up every single bit of your time! D.L.Darby had me completely hooked as James swoon worthy Cassidy and Sadie Provost out performed themselves in Burn With Me. They were perfection!
Burn with Me: Angels of Désirer, Book 1 * Author: D.L. Darby * Narrator: Sadie Provost & James Cassidy 5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️//4🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️//10/10🎧🎤
Jackson and Ginny, (Little Ember, Little red, Scarlet ) story!
Jackson Cocky gorgeous and a filthy rich playboy with an attitude to match, From the moment he laid eyes on the little Redhead at his uncle’s unground adult club he was instantly attracted. Only this woman seems immune to his advances, this fuel him to making her his latest conquest which ended up being so much more as he took on the persona as her dream stranger. But …The question is can she trust the playboy or the stranger when all is revealed.
⚜️ Ginny torn between fantasy and reality, it’s her coping mechanism, her only way of escape since being adopted. So her first night working at an exclusive adult club where they have to wear masks to conceal their identities she met the owner’s nephew an arrogant playboy who seems to both intrigued and infuriate her. But that night at work after putting in her mask and wings after being requested she came face to face with her dream stranger. How could that be?..her attraction to him was instantaneous, he was there-the stranger she conjured up to Sheild her from the abuse she’d endured.
⚜️ But when Jackson continues pursuing Ginny, it became hard for her to resist him and his charming ways. This girl was quickly falling but for both men in her life. And both men? Well they have fallen hard for the beautiful red head whose traumatic past is about to reign Chaos that may challenge them both.
But Listennnn! The narrators on this … the production of it .. the Duet dual style.. phew! James Cassidy had me eating out of hands hanging on to his every word especially as the stranger.. and not to be outdone Sadie Provost smoky tenor was perfect as the FMC Ginny. They. Were. Perfection!
Definitely a must Listen!
Burn with Me: Angels of Désirer, Book 1 By Author: D.L. Darby, a first time author for me who gave sweet seductive emotional intriguing story that was incredibly narrated Sadie Provost and James Cassidy that I absolutely ate up! The storytelling was incredibly entertaining and swoon worthy especially when James Cassidy gave his rendition of the sexy English stranger who is the dream guy of the FMC
✨I’ll be the pyre for your flames to reach the heavens .✨
✨I love you for everything you are and for everything you’ll become✨
✨loving you doesn’t frighten me, it gives me hope. ✨
Burn With Me is the first book in the Angels of Désirer series, which is an interconnected stand-alone series. It can be listened to alone.
This book deals with heavy themes and possibly triggering content. Please check the warnings.
Vibes in Burn With Me🎧🎤📚 ⚜️Billionaire 🖤Adult club ⚜️Enemies to lovers 🖤Alter ego ⚜️Playboy 🖤Secret identity ⚜️Emotional scars 🖤Found Family ⚜️Burn the world for her 🖤Morally Gray ⚜️He Falls First. 🖤Steamy ⚜️who did this to you! 🖤Dual POV 🖤Incredible Narration ⚜️HEA
A Must Listen!
A Shout to BNA for this incredible opportunity and to you for reading my review and ramblings. Until next time One Love 💕 and One book at a time 📚 Georgious 🦋
D.L. Darby’s Burn With Me is a sizzling, emotionally charged exploration of fantasy, desire, and the blurred lines between reality and the imagination. This dark romance pulls you into a world of masked identities, forbidden passions, and the psychological complexities of love and trauma.The story centers on Ginny, a young woman grappling with the ghosts of her past while stepping into the intriguing and dangerous world of an exclusive adult club. The concept of a club where identities are concealed behind masks is both alluring and unsettling, setting the stage for a narrative steeped in mystery and tension. Ginny's internal struggle—torn between the fantasy figure she's conjured in her mind and the very real, very dangerous men who now orbit her—is a fascinating psychological journey.Darby does an excellent job of portraying Ginny’s vulnerability and resilience. Her creation of "the stranger" as a coping mechanism for past abuse is a heart-wrenching yet powerful aspect of the story, giving depth to her character. The connection she feels with this fantasy figure is immediate and intense, making her journey through the club both a quest for empowerment and a battle with her inner demons.Enter Jackson, the enigmatic and cocky nephew of the club’s owner. His mission to seduce Ginny is driven by more than just lust—there’s a deeper, almost primal need to connect with her, despite the emotional walls she has erected. The dynamic between Ginny and Jackson is electric, filled with witty banter, sizzling tension, and a chemistry that practically leaps off the page. The dual perspectives in the narrative allow readers to fully immerse themselves in both Ginny’s and Jackson’s minds, understanding their motivations and vulnerabilities.One of the novel’s strengths is its exploration of the idea that people are not always what they seem. The contrast between Jackson’s public persona and the man Ginny slowly discovers adds layers to his character and keeps the reader guessing. The revelation of Jackson as Ginny’s stranger is a masterstroke of tension and drama, challenging the very foundation of their relationship.However, Burn With Me is not without its flaws. Some readers might find the pacing uneven, particularly in the middle sections where the plot meanders slightly as it builds towards its climax. Additionally, while the tension between fantasy and reality is compelling, the resolution of this conflict might leave some readers yearning for a deeper exploration of Ginny’s psychological journey.That being said, Darby’s writing is vivid and passionate, pulling you into a world where the stakes are high, and the consequences of desire are dire. The blend of eroticism and emotional depth is well-balanced, making Burn With Me a gripping read for fans of dark romance who appreciate a touch of psychological complexity.In conclusion, Burn With Me is a fiery, intense romance that delves into the darker corners of love, lust, and identity. D.L. Darby has crafted a story that is as emotionally charged as it is provocative, with characters that linger in your mind long after the final page. If you’re looking for a romance that challenges the boundaries of fantasy and reality, this book is definitely worth the read.
Burn With Me Angels of Désirer Book 1 By: D.L. Darby Narrated by: Sadie Provost, James Cassidy
I’m newly acquainted with D.L. Darby’s books, not sure how that is, but this book is fantastic and she has a new fan in me. This is an impressive start to the series, and I am enjoying her unique take on the exclusive adult club. The story drew me immediately, grabbing my attention and holding it captive the entire time. I found it interesting that both lead characters, Ginny and Jackson, took on two separate personas, one in the club, one outside the club, yet their worlds collided. Jackson’s uncle owns the club where Ginny works, and there was an instant attraction the moment he met her, but he is a player, and she resists his charm, at least she wants to. Jackson is used to getting what he wants and comes up with a plan to have her for himself while in the club. Traumatic events in Ginny’s life left her broken and insecure, but she feels comfortable with her new masked stranger, who helps her come out of her shell. Outside the club, Jackson is growing on her, and they are closer to one another. The information he learns about her as her stranger puts him at an advantage, but he needs to come clean to make it right, or it may all blow up in his face. These are two complex individuals, and it was great watching them get to know each other, explore her wants and needs, while he held back his own. Ginny’s deranged and obsessive foster brother is a thorn in her side and has been nothing but trouble and pain for her, and continues to wreak havoc in her life. I loved all the layers of this story and how it all played out, with the perfect balance of drama, angst, heartfelt emotions, and steamy romance. The writing, plot and world building are incredible, as are the character development and growth, a journey of growth for both lead characters. D.L. Darby, thank you for this fabulous story and emotional rollercoaster ride.
🎧📚🎧 Another amazing Blue Nose Production performed in duet by Sadie Provost and James Cassidy, who are fantastic at bringing the characters to life, with voices that are fitting for a perfect portrayal of each. They were a natural in each role, delivering a convincing performance with Cassidy nailing it as Jackson, as himself and as the British stranger, showcasing both their personalities perfectly. Provost was just as fabulous in Ginny’s role, grasping every aspect of her personality and demeanor, from her vulnerabilities to her fierceness and all in between. They captured the chemistry between the characters, as well as their every emotion, and had you feeling them all. These two made a great team, with talent and voices that complemented each other and a captivating performance that kept you glued to the story. They are entertaining storytellers and a pleasure to listen to.
By: D.L. Darby Narrated by: Sadie Provost, James Cassidy
Oh Holy WOW, Yes, In Every Way YES!
Overall: 5 of 5 stars :Performance: 5 of 5 stars Story: 5 of 5 stars Reviewed: 09-28-25
Two damaged souls … Ginny, she has her “Stranger” … a comforting presence … one created in the deep recesses of her mind. He carries her through the darkness, fulfilling her “needs”, helping her to survive unspeakable abuse … yet always a figment of her imagination ... until he isn’t. Jackson … to him anyone and everyone is a tool to be used as he sees fit, especially women, UNTIL he meets the one he can’t have, the one he wants above all others. Both have secrets, both have fears, both are hiding who they REALLY are … from each other … and from themselves. Are they brave enough to let the raging inferno of their love be their guide … are they brave enough to say to each other, for all eternity, “Burn with Me”! Oh holy WOW, this story has everything! Raw passion, subterfuge, nefarious ne’er-do-well’s, brilliantly beautiful characters, some in need of redemption, some in need of salvation, some in need of a SST to regions warmer than the equator at high noon! I was on the edge of my seat … wondering HOW in the world is there going to be resolution … but without playing spoiler, let me just say our author did it, and did it masterfully! All the while I was completely engaged, feeling every emotion under the sun! There were so many times I was itching to up the speed just to get off the EDGE! I didn’t, and I urge you to resist that urge too! Believe me, you don’t want to chance missing a second! The characters are all so beautifully developed, so resoundingly REAL, so perfectly imperfect! As I listened, some brought out some very strong feelings! I’ll hold close the who’s, when’s and why’s to avoid spoilers, but know the ongoing character development (as the story plays out) is astounding! The narration bringing these beautiful beings, and Ne’er-do-wells to life was unbelievable! Both narrators were absolutely on point! Accents and infections were perfect, consistent and stable throughout! Emotion was perfectly conveyed, absolutely one hundred percent authentically believable throughout! They had me feeling what the characters felt! My emotions were RAW by the time the closing words echoed, and I LOVED it! I absolutely loved it! I don’t know whether I need a cigar, a drink, a nap or all three! I do know that there is no doubt that this, THIS was the author’s beautiful vision and it was absolutely brilliant! Without hesitation, FIVE fabulous stars across all categories!