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Pieces of Us #1
Look, Don't Touch
Hailey Fitzpatrick
When people see me walking on a New York City sidewalk, they think mousey b*tch and stuck-up c*nt. How do I know? It’s NYC. They yell it to my face. I smile to myself and keep walking. After all, I have clients that need me.
I’m wrapping up my first decade as a licensed clinical psychologist. Things are as good as they’ve ever been. Still, I get the itch. The tattoos worked into my skin take the edge off.
When one of my first clients goes on s*icide watch and on of my newest challenges the very ground on which I stand, I seek relief only being blindfolded and bound can bring.
Arlo Judge
Look all you want. Don’t f*cking touch me. No one does.
I’m no longer that little boy who cowers in fear. I’m six three, two hundred fifteen pounds of muscle, and own the largest conglomerates in the States. Still, that boy’s demons live inside me. One in particular looms over my shoulder, always ready to strike.
When I see her, perfectly poised and in command, I think nothing of the beautiful exterior. Then I see the demons lurking in her striking green eyes. I’m intrigued. Hooked. Obsessed.
I need to know how they came to be and how she hides them so well. I need to dig them out and set her free. I never expected that she could do the same for me.
Doctor Fitzpatrick is now accepting new clients!
Look, Don’t Touch is a dark romance. It is the first in the Pieces of Us Trilogy. It’s an MF, four jalapeño, HFN novel with graphic depictions of s*x and k*nk. Trigger Warning for talks of ab*se, death by s*icide, and m*rder.
Pieces of Us is a polyamorous romance trilogy. Book 2, Forever We Fall is an MM, three jalapeño, HFN novel. Book 3, Hard to Judge is an MMF, four flaming jalapeño, HEA novel.
When people see me walking on a New York City sidewalk, they think mousey b*tch and stuck-up c*nt. How do I know? It’s NYC. They yell it to my face. I smile to myself and keep walking. After all, I have clients that need me.
I’m wrapping up my first decade as a licensed clinical psychologist. Things are as good as they’ve ever been. Still, I get the itch. The tattoos worked into my skin take the edge off.
When one of my first clients goes on s*icide watch and on of my newest challenges the very ground on which I stand, I seek relief only being blindfolded and bound can bring.
Arlo Judge
Look all you want. Don’t f*cking touch me. No one does.
I’m no longer that little boy who cowers in fear. I’m six three, two hundred fifteen pounds of muscle, and own the largest conglomerates in the States. Still, that boy’s demons live inside me. One in particular looms over my shoulder, always ready to strike.
When I see her, perfectly poised and in command, I think nothing of the beautiful exterior. Then I see the demons lurking in her striking green eyes. I’m intrigued. Hooked. Obsessed.
I need to know how they came to be and how she hides them so well. I need to dig them out and set her free. I never expected that she could do the same for me.
Doctor Fitzpatrick is now accepting new clients!
Look, Don’t Touch is a dark romance. It is the first in the Pieces of Us Trilogy. It’s an MF, four jalapeño, HFN novel with graphic depictions of s*x and k*nk. Trigger Warning for talks of ab*se, death by s*icide, and m*rder.
Pieces of Us is a polyamorous romance trilogy. Book 2, Forever We Fall is an MM, three jalapeño, HFN novel. Book 3, Hard to Judge is an MMF, four flaming jalapeño, HEA novel.
378 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 27, 2024
134 people are currently reading
1253 people want to read
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March 16, 2025
MF Romance
Book 1 of 3
HFN BUT NOT A STAND-ALONE
Book 1 of 3
3.5 Stars ⭐️
This book is NOT a stand-alone but part of a MMF trilogy that needs to be read in order. Book one is MF, takes place in present day and starts the romance between Hailey and Arlo. Book two is MM but it goes back to the past when Arlo and his best friend Hota are 15-18 years old. It’s a coming of age story and it DOES NOT have a happy ending. The happy ending will be in book three which is MMF with Hailey, Arlo and Hota.
Hmm 🤔 So I’ve been doing netgalley arcs again for some reason 🤷🏻♀️ and I requested the second book of this series not realizing it wasn’t a stand-alone so I had to read this to catch up. It’s been ages since I’ve read MF romance but this series is not a typical romance and now that I’ve read this, I’m intrigued to continue on. So, book one takes place in present day when our characters are in their 30s and we see a romance develop between Hailey and Arlo, both of which are irrevocably broken. They have been beat down physically, mentally and had extremely traumatic things happen to them over the course of their lives but in each other they find solace and healing. While this book ends with a HFN, it’s very unfinished because by the end of this trilogy it will be a MMF romance.
Arlo has a very close friend named Hotaru who he met while in boarding school as a teen. It was clear in this book that both of them have feelings for the other but due to Arlo’s demons, they have never had a chance to act on those feelings. Hailey also picked up on their connection and while I had no idea how these three were going to get on the same page for most of the book, the scene at 90% made me see the chemistry between them and boy do I want more.
So, the arc I have, is for book 2 in this trilogy, a MM romance that will take us back to the past to when Hotaru and Arlo are in boarding school as teenagers. I hope it also goes through present day because I am so excited to see this dynamic they had while young and how it has morphed over the years into what they have now and how they got into what was happening at 90% in this one. I am so so intrigued and incredibly happy that I decided to read this book first even after reading that book two could be considered a prequel of sorts and read separately because while this book had some pacing issues and some other glaring issues due to it being a debut, I am super smitten by these characters and cannot wait to read the arc and eventually book 3 which will release in February of 2025.
My reason for not rounding up to 4 stars is because I felt the pacing was off with Arlo and his touch issues, I needed more of Arlo’s POV and I started to lose interest around 70% until 90% pulled me back in hardcore but I did ultimately enjoy this and am glad I found this series.
Book 1 of 3
HFN BUT NOT A STAND-ALONE
Book 1 of 3
3.5 Stars ⭐️
This book is NOT a stand-alone but part of a MMF trilogy that needs to be read in order. Book one is MF, takes place in present day and starts the romance between Hailey and Arlo. Book two is MM but it goes back to the past when Arlo and his best friend Hota are 15-18 years old. It’s a coming of age story and it DOES NOT have a happy ending. The happy ending will be in book three which is MMF with Hailey, Arlo and Hota.
Hmm 🤔 So I’ve been doing netgalley arcs again for some reason 🤷🏻♀️ and I requested the second book of this series not realizing it wasn’t a stand-alone so I had to read this to catch up. It’s been ages since I’ve read MF romance but this series is not a typical romance and now that I’ve read this, I’m intrigued to continue on. So, book one takes place in present day when our characters are in their 30s and we see a romance develop between Hailey and Arlo, both of which are irrevocably broken. They have been beat down physically, mentally and had extremely traumatic things happen to them over the course of their lives but in each other they find solace and healing. While this book ends with a HFN, it’s very unfinished because by the end of this trilogy it will be a MMF romance.
Arlo has a very close friend named Hotaru who he met while in boarding school as a teen. It was clear in this book that both of them have feelings for the other but due to Arlo’s demons, they have never had a chance to act on those feelings. Hailey also picked up on their connection and while I had no idea how these three were going to get on the same page for most of the book, the scene at 90% made me see the chemistry between them and boy do I want more.
So, the arc I have, is for book 2 in this trilogy, a MM romance that will take us back to the past to when Hotaru and Arlo are in boarding school as teenagers. I hope it also goes through present day because I am so excited to see this dynamic they had while young and how it has morphed over the years into what they have now and how they got into what was happening at 90% in this one. I am so so intrigued and incredibly happy that I decided to read this book first even after reading that book two could be considered a prequel of sorts and read separately because while this book had some pacing issues and some other glaring issues due to it being a debut, I am super smitten by these characters and cannot wait to read the arc and eventually book 3 which will release in February of 2025.
My reason for not rounding up to 4 stars is because I felt the pacing was off with Arlo and his touch issues, I needed more of Arlo’s POV and I started to lose interest around 70% until 90% pulled me back in hardcore but I did ultimately enjoy this and am glad I found this series.
February 13, 2025
Re-read
This is book 1 in a polyamorous trilogy which follows Hailey - a therapist and Arlo - a man who can’t touch and be touched.
Reading it while knowing Arlo’s past and Arlo&Hota’s story made this experience wholesome. And I hunted pieces of Hotaru cause I knew he’s more important than I thought when I first read it.
Hailey experienced a severe trauma in her childhood and she’s shut her heart ever since. I loved to see how she overcomes her fears and prejudices and slowly opens up.
“If love wasn’t the hardest, most terrifying thing for me to do, I would have loved you weeks ago.”🖤
Characters in this book have such huge hearts it’s unreal.
Arlo’s feelings are so unadulterated and strong. Granted he didn’t have a connection for a long time but still his certanty and patience left me in awe.
“Heaven, if the damned place exists, will be her. At my feet. By my side. On my bed. In my head. Devouring my heart.“🖤
“Just being in the same room as you is enough to make my best days a year ago seem downright pathetic in comparison.”🖤
Their therapy sessions are one of the most interesting scenes for me.
“You seem quite comfortable in a blindfold.”
“It’s not my first time.”
“Other clients require your blindness?”
“No.”
“Interesting, Doctor.”
There are few special moments for me in books. One of them is acceptance and support. I felt Arlo’s struggle and fears when he came clean to Hailey. He was certain he can lose her. But her reaction and unwaverng confidence in him let us breathe and I loved her more after that.
If I’m not mistaken this is Meg’s first book and that’s an amazing debut. It’s well-written, balanced between plot and smut and with a knowledge of the subject👏
____________________________
It's quite a heavy book for me so I'll definitely need smth lighter after this one. But despite that I enjoyed it sm. The idea of him being averted to the touch is interesting. Even better to see how he overcomes it. Their past is so dark (please check TW) and I hope to see more healing in the future. Spice is so spicing🔥, however it's well-balanced with the plot.
This is book 1 in a polyamorous trilogy which follows Hailey - a therapist and Arlo - a man who can’t touch and be touched.
Reading it while knowing Arlo’s past and Arlo&Hota’s story made this experience wholesome. And I hunted pieces of Hotaru cause I knew he’s more important than I thought when I first read it.
Hailey experienced a severe trauma in her childhood and she’s shut her heart ever since. I loved to see how she overcomes her fears and prejudices and slowly opens up.
“If love wasn’t the hardest, most terrifying thing for me to do, I would have loved you weeks ago.”🖤
Characters in this book have such huge hearts it’s unreal.
Arlo’s feelings are so unadulterated and strong. Granted he didn’t have a connection for a long time but still his certanty and patience left me in awe.
“Heaven, if the damned place exists, will be her. At my feet. By my side. On my bed. In my head. Devouring my heart.“🖤
“Just being in the same room as you is enough to make my best days a year ago seem downright pathetic in comparison.”🖤
Their therapy sessions are one of the most interesting scenes for me.
“You seem quite comfortable in a blindfold.”
“It’s not my first time.”
“Other clients require your blindness?”
“No.”
“Interesting, Doctor.”
There are few special moments for me in books. One of them is acceptance and support. I felt Arlo’s struggle and fears when he came clean to Hailey. He was certain he can lose her. But her reaction and unwaverng confidence in him let us breathe and I loved her more after that.
If I’m not mistaken this is Meg’s first book and that’s an amazing debut. It’s well-written, balanced between plot and smut and with a knowledge of the subject👏
____________________________
It's quite a heavy book for me so I'll definitely need smth lighter after this one. But despite that I enjoyed it sm. The idea of him being averted to the touch is interesting. Even better to see how he overcomes it. Their past is so dark (please check TW) and I hope to see more healing in the future. Spice is so spicing🔥, however it's well-balanced with the plot.
September 3, 2024
ugh
The trauma these two went through 😭 i wanna see them happy and thriving! Once they were happy and i had 100 pages left i was worried something was going to happen but it was not the twist i expected. Curious to find out where the story goes after this.
The trauma these two went through 😭 i wanna see them happy and thriving! Once they were happy and i had 100 pages left i was worried something was going to happen but it was not the twist i expected. Curious to find out where the story goes after this.
September 25, 2024
4.5/5⭐️ 4/5🌶️
---- 🖤
Here was my dumbass thinking it's an interconnected series when NO it's a freaking TRILOGY... as it was stated here "Pieces of Us is a polyamorous romance trilogy. Book 2, Forever We Fall is an MM, HFN novel. Book 3, Hard to Judge is an MMF, HEA novel." ... The other books are not even out yet because this one was only release last month... I never start any duet or trilogy until they are all out because I am the most impatient person alive... what an absolute epic fuckup on my end anyway moving on...
Arlo Judge, a self made billionaire refuses to touch or be touched by anyone after years of abuse until one day he see's Hailey Fitzpatrick, a licensed clinical psychologist. They dynamic between these two was written so perfectly, despite their relationship coming from such heavy trauma, they showed nothing but raw love and treated each other as equals in every single aspect.
The story line was far from what I was expecting and I know it is far from being over which only gets me more excited but it was an incredible read. The last few chapters had me sweatinggggg and I am way to excited to see how Hotaru fits into all of this.
That ending thoughhhhh, hot damn I am SO annoyed at myself for now having to wait...
---- 🖤
Here was my dumbass thinking it's an interconnected series when NO it's a freaking TRILOGY... as it was stated here "Pieces of Us is a polyamorous romance trilogy. Book 2, Forever We Fall is an MM, HFN novel. Book 3, Hard to Judge is an MMF, HEA novel." ... The other books are not even out yet because this one was only release last month... I never start any duet or trilogy until they are all out because I am the most impatient person alive... what an absolute epic fuckup on my end anyway moving on...
Arlo Judge, a self made billionaire refuses to touch or be touched by anyone after years of abuse until one day he see's Hailey Fitzpatrick, a licensed clinical psychologist. They dynamic between these two was written so perfectly, despite their relationship coming from such heavy trauma, they showed nothing but raw love and treated each other as equals in every single aspect.
The story line was far from what I was expecting and I know it is far from being over which only gets me more excited but it was an incredible read. The last few chapters had me sweatinggggg and I am way to excited to see how Hotaru fits into all of this.
That ending thoughhhhh, hot damn I am SO annoyed at myself for now having to wait...
August 5, 2024
5
"For so many, love is conditional. I'll love you if... That's fine for them. Not for me. I love you unconditionally.
First off, let me start by saying that the writing of this novel is PHENOMENAL!!! From the first page of this book I knew that I was going to love the characters, everything from the very small part ones straight to Arlo and Hailey.
Honestly, I cannot describe how much I really enjoyed Meg Everly's writing. This book had me on the edge of my seat to the very last page with wondering what and where everything was going to go.
So if that alone isn't enough to convince you to read this book, let's talk about our main characters why don't we:
Arlo Judge isn't someone who likes to be touched. From the very beginning he's established boundaries and made it clear what will happen to those that cross them. But when finally confronted with his problem, he chooses to seek help from no one other than Dr. Hailey Fitzpatrick. As boundaries are crossed will he learn to finally see what is right in front of him or will his trauma and burdens become his undoing?
If I have anything to say about the writing of Arlo is that, the progression from beginning to end of the book is unbelievable. To see the connections but also differences within the character so well written and experienced is so beautifully done.
Dr. Hailey Fitzpatrick has some trauma of her own but has come to terms with a lot of it and set strict boundaries for herself. She has made her life's work helping those that can't be helped so when a dark and mysterious new man comes to her for help she can't help but wonder how he got here and how rewarding it will be to help him. But as all good things must come to an end, what will Hailey do when confronted with her dark and brutal past?
Hailey is such a relatable character for so many different reasons. She is beyond just being a therapist, from the beginning you can relate to some of her mannerism and watch as she helps herself through others. But as the book goes on so does her journey and it's quite interesting to see the rise and fall and rise of her character throughout everything. I can't wait to see what more is in store for the rest of her journey.
This is by far one of the top 5 books I have read this month and I am beyond grateful I received an ARC.
Thank you Meg Everly & Booksirens for opportunity.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
"For so many, love is conditional. I'll love you if... That's fine for them. Not for me. I love you unconditionally.
First off, let me start by saying that the writing of this novel is PHENOMENAL!!! From the first page of this book I knew that I was going to love the characters, everything from the very small part ones straight to Arlo and Hailey.
Honestly, I cannot describe how much I really enjoyed Meg Everly's writing. This book had me on the edge of my seat to the very last page with wondering what and where everything was going to go.
So if that alone isn't enough to convince you to read this book, let's talk about our main characters why don't we:
Arlo Judge isn't someone who likes to be touched. From the very beginning he's established boundaries and made it clear what will happen to those that cross them. But when finally confronted with his problem, he chooses to seek help from no one other than Dr. Hailey Fitzpatrick. As boundaries are crossed will he learn to finally see what is right in front of him or will his trauma and burdens become his undoing?
If I have anything to say about the writing of Arlo is that, the progression from beginning to end of the book is unbelievable. To see the connections but also differences within the character so well written and experienced is so beautifully done.
Dr. Hailey Fitzpatrick has some trauma of her own but has come to terms with a lot of it and set strict boundaries for herself. She has made her life's work helping those that can't be helped so when a dark and mysterious new man comes to her for help she can't help but wonder how he got here and how rewarding it will be to help him. But as all good things must come to an end, what will Hailey do when confronted with her dark and brutal past?
Hailey is such a relatable character for so many different reasons. She is beyond just being a therapist, from the beginning you can relate to some of her mannerism and watch as she helps herself through others. But as the book goes on so does her journey and it's quite interesting to see the rise and fall and rise of her character throughout everything. I can't wait to see what more is in store for the rest of her journey.
This is by far one of the top 5 books I have read this month and I am beyond grateful I received an ARC.
Thank you Meg Everly & Booksirens for opportunity.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 16, 2024
4.25 ⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Did i go into this book blind because i kind of forgot the plot?
yes
Did i absolutely devour this book in a single sitting?
also yes
Meg did such a fantastic job with Hailey & Arlos relationship i was blown away the whole time. Therapist Hailey was one of my favorite parts of this whole book and the fact she didn't put up with any sass kept me cackling. I loved most of all Arlo working through his struggles and seeing him become this mega softy (only for her tho) and their overall dynamic. The side characters are what also made this book for me between Hailey's aunt & bestfriend to Arlos number one, everyone belonged in this twisted story just as much as our mcs.
On to the not so mushy stuff... YALL THE SMUT????? THE ENERGY THESE TWO HAVE TOGETHER UGGH
I'm sorry but that last chapter too? 😮💨😮💨😮💨😮💨 Im gonna need book two ASAP because that felt absolutely illegal and made me remember this isn't a standalone and my god i am sat ready for book 2
Thank you again Meg Everly & Greys Promotions for this e-arc
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Did i go into this book blind because i kind of forgot the plot?
yes
Did i absolutely devour this book in a single sitting?
also yes
Meg did such a fantastic job with Hailey & Arlos relationship i was blown away the whole time. Therapist Hailey was one of my favorite parts of this whole book and the fact she didn't put up with any sass kept me cackling. I loved most of all Arlo working through his struggles and seeing him become this mega softy (only for her tho) and their overall dynamic. The side characters are what also made this book for me between Hailey's aunt & bestfriend to Arlos number one, everyone belonged in this twisted story just as much as our mcs.
On to the not so mushy stuff... YALL THE SMUT????? THE ENERGY THESE TWO HAVE TOGETHER UGGH
I'm sorry but that last chapter too? 😮💨😮💨😮💨😮💨 Im gonna need book two ASAP because that felt absolutely illegal and made me remember this isn't a standalone and my god i am sat ready for book 2
Thank you again Meg Everly & Greys Promotions for this e-arc
August 26, 2024
✨Arc Review✨
4.5/5⭐️
what to expect:
- mf romance
- dark billionaire romance
- therapist x client
- book one in a poly trilogy
- ⚠️check TWs before reading
wow I loved this! I started and finished this book in one sitting. This was such a unique story and something I haven’t read before. Hailey and Arlo were incredibly intriguing characters with heartbreaking back stories. Their dynamic was fun to read since there is a forbidden element to it and their relationship progression was very enjoyable to read. The spice was also incredible and had me blushing 😮💨
Meg crushed this and I am beyond excited for the next book in this series!!
4.5/5⭐️
what to expect:
- mf romance
- dark billionaire romance
- therapist x client
- book one in a poly trilogy
- ⚠️check TWs before reading
wow I loved this! I started and finished this book in one sitting. This was such a unique story and something I haven’t read before. Hailey and Arlo were incredibly intriguing characters with heartbreaking back stories. Their dynamic was fun to read since there is a forbidden element to it and their relationship progression was very enjoyable to read. The spice was also incredible and had me blushing 😮💨
Meg crushed this and I am beyond excited for the next book in this series!!
August 20, 2024
I did not enjoy this one as much as I thought I would. I haven't read a book where the MC was a therapist and I actually really enjoyed that part of the book. And even though she is a therapist she still goes to one and she is still working on things for herself. I think Hailey and Arlo were great together and they were just so understanding of the other. Both of our MCs have very dark backstories and the trauma they went through is harder to read. So please take the TWs serious. I loved how they fell for each other and seeing them both heal the other person.
My problem with the book was that there was too much spice. And I say this as a reader who likes spice. To me it would have been better if some of the spice was left out. I thought it took away from the story at some points. I was also confused because Arlo has touch aversion yet he could have sex? There were a couple other things while reading that I had to stop and question, but nothing too big that caused a problem. I think the ending sets up the next book nicely.
Overall for me I wasn't the biggest fan of the book, but I think if you like a lot of spice with a more heavy story then you will really like the book.
Rating: 3.5/5
My problem with the book was that there was too much spice. And I say this as a reader who likes spice. To me it would have been better if some of the spice was left out. I thought it took away from the story at some points. I was also confused because Arlo has touch aversion yet he could have sex? There were a couple other things while reading that I had to stop and question, but nothing too big that caused a problem. I think the ending sets up the next book nicely.
Overall for me I wasn't the biggest fan of the book, but I think if you like a lot of spice with a more heavy story then you will really like the book.
Rating: 3.5/5
November 14, 2024
NetGalley eARC Review:
Rating: 4.25
Spice: 🥵
I absolutely LOVED this book that I had to support the author and buy a copy as soon as it came out. The darkness throughout the novel is a reality for a lot of people who’ve suffered from physical, emotional, and financial trauma. Please do check the content warnings because it does push moral boundaries.
Meg Everly's *Look, Don’t Touch* explores the intoxicating tension between desire and restraint. The novel follows the story of two characters caught in a tantalizing game of attraction, where the boundaries between lust and love are constantly tested but never fully crossed—until, of course, the moment when it all becomes too much to contain.
Everly’s writing is sharp, engaging, and witty. She captures the push-and-pull dynamic between her characters with finesse, using banter, chemistry, and emotional undercurrents to create a sense of anticipation that keeps the reader turning pages. The premise of "look, don’t touch" serves as a metaphor for the emotional walls her protagonists have built around themselves, walls that gradually come down as they grow closer.
The romantic tension is electric, making the story a slow burn that pays off in a satisfying way. At the same time, Everly manages to delve deeper into themes of vulnerability, self-worth, and trust, giving the novel more emotional heft than your typical romance.
While *Look, Don’t Touch* leans heavily into romantic tropes, it does so with a refreshing modern twist, making it feel both familiar and original. The characters are well-developed and readers who enjoy tension-filled romance will find this book highly rewarding.
Overall, *Look, Don’t Touch* is a seductive and smart romance that balances steamy attraction with heartfelt emotional development.
Thank you, XpressoReads and Meg Everly for this eARC 🖤
Rating: 4.25
Spice: 🥵
I absolutely LOVED this book that I had to support the author and buy a copy as soon as it came out. The darkness throughout the novel is a reality for a lot of people who’ve suffered from physical, emotional, and financial trauma. Please do check the content warnings because it does push moral boundaries.
Meg Everly's *Look, Don’t Touch* explores the intoxicating tension between desire and restraint. The novel follows the story of two characters caught in a tantalizing game of attraction, where the boundaries between lust and love are constantly tested but never fully crossed—until, of course, the moment when it all becomes too much to contain.
Everly’s writing is sharp, engaging, and witty. She captures the push-and-pull dynamic between her characters with finesse, using banter, chemistry, and emotional undercurrents to create a sense of anticipation that keeps the reader turning pages. The premise of "look, don’t touch" serves as a metaphor for the emotional walls her protagonists have built around themselves, walls that gradually come down as they grow closer.
The romantic tension is electric, making the story a slow burn that pays off in a satisfying way. At the same time, Everly manages to delve deeper into themes of vulnerability, self-worth, and trust, giving the novel more emotional heft than your typical romance.
While *Look, Don’t Touch* leans heavily into romantic tropes, it does so with a refreshing modern twist, making it feel both familiar and original. The characters are well-developed and readers who enjoy tension-filled romance will find this book highly rewarding.
Overall, *Look, Don’t Touch* is a seductive and smart romance that balances steamy attraction with heartfelt emotional development.
Thank you, XpressoReads and Meg Everly for this eARC 🖤
November 28, 2024
ARC REVIEW:
Rating: ★★★★★
Spice: ♡♡♡♡♡
Give me the next two books ASAP!
THIS IS A DEBUT!!? OH. MY.GOD.
The writing, the plot, the characters—everything was just incredible. I was feeling everything and nothing at the same time. It was indescribable! Also, topics like mental health, sexual kinks, trauma, and addiction were handled very well.
Arlo & Hailey *on my knees* The dragon and his siren had me in a chokehold the whole time. It was impossible to look away from them - they had this undeniable connection and tension between them. Such a powerful, mature couple, definitely one of my all-time favorites. And Hota — what an intriguing character! I can't wait for his story.
The smut? *chef's kiss*. It wasn't just about physical attraction but sensual and deeply meaningful, about accepting and appreciating themselves and each other. That made it even hotter!
In short, this book was a wild ride. Emotional, romantic, and everything in between. Thank you, BookSirens and Meg Everly for the e-ARC.
TROPES:
Dark Romance
BDSM
Sex Club
MCs dealing with trauma
Found Family
Psychologist FMC
Billionaire MMC
CHECK TW!!!
Reread: 12 Sept '24
I'M STILL OBSESSED!! AAAHSKFHDJS
28 Nov '24
Arlo's trauma and Hota's character make so much sense after Forever We Fall
Seriously guys, if those tropes are your cup of tea, give this book (and the series) a try. You won't be disappointed ⏑‿⏑
Rating: ★★★★★
Spice: ♡♡♡♡♡
Give me the next two books ASAP!
THIS IS A DEBUT!!? OH. MY.GOD.
The writing, the plot, the characters—everything was just incredible. I was feeling everything and nothing at the same time. It was indescribable! Also, topics like mental health, sexual kinks, trauma, and addiction were handled very well.
Arlo & Hailey *on my knees* The dragon and his siren had me in a chokehold the whole time. It was impossible to look away from them - they had this undeniable connection and tension between them. Such a powerful, mature couple, definitely one of my all-time favorites. And Hota — what an intriguing character! I can't wait for his story.
The smut? *chef's kiss*. It wasn't just about physical attraction but sensual and deeply meaningful, about accepting and appreciating themselves and each other. That made it even hotter!
In short, this book was a wild ride. Emotional, romantic, and everything in between. Thank you, BookSirens and Meg Everly for the e-ARC.
TROPES:
Dark Romance
BDSM
Sex Club
MCs dealing with trauma
Found Family
Psychologist FMC
Billionaire MMC
CHECK TW!!!
Reread: 12 Sept '24
I'M STILL OBSESSED!! AAAHSKFHDJS
28 Nov '24
Arlo's trauma and Hota's character make so much sense after Forever We Fall
Seriously guys, if those tropes are your cup of tea, give this book (and the series) a try. You won't be disappointed ⏑‿⏑
August 30, 2024
I think this is my first 5 Star read of the year😮💨
Honest to god this is up there with my favorite reads of 2024! Most books begin, have some heartbreak that makes you feel like the MCs are not gonna make it then end with a happily ever after — not this book. This book is a WHOLE different story and it was SO. FREAKING. GOOD.
The plot, THE PLOT is amazingly written. It doesn’t just have a beginning, middle, and end. It’s messy from the second both characters are introduced and it’s SO real! Normally I don’t read M/F books because I need ✨more spice✨ but that didn’t even matter to me in this book that’s how well written it was, it immediately screamed to my soul and just made me wanna tattoo it on me.
Arlo Judge is a morally grey man you are gonna wish you had in your life.
Hailey Fitzpatrick is a woman that demonstrates strength while also admitting to her weaknesses which I think makes her one badass female.
So many points about mental health are touched in this book and honestly? 12/10
Read. This. Book. 👏🏽
Honest to god this is up there with my favorite reads of 2024! Most books begin, have some heartbreak that makes you feel like the MCs are not gonna make it then end with a happily ever after — not this book. This book is a WHOLE different story and it was SO. FREAKING. GOOD.
The plot, THE PLOT is amazingly written. It doesn’t just have a beginning, middle, and end. It’s messy from the second both characters are introduced and it’s SO real! Normally I don’t read M/F books because I need ✨more spice✨ but that didn’t even matter to me in this book that’s how well written it was, it immediately screamed to my soul and just made me wanna tattoo it on me.
Arlo Judge is a morally grey man you are gonna wish you had in your life.
Hailey Fitzpatrick is a woman that demonstrates strength while also admitting to her weaknesses which I think makes her one badass female.
So many points about mental health are touched in this book and honestly? 12/10
Read. This. Book. 👏🏽
August 5, 2024
DNF 68%. I received this ARC through Book Siren. I really tried to finish this book, but there was nothing about these characters that made me want to read any more of the story. I enjoyed the first 40% for the most part, but then everything just felt bland and the relationships between certain characters was a little cringe. The FMC’s aunt in the story acted more like her 20 something bff. The relationship between them was super odd, and I felt having to remind myself that this woman was over 50.
If I’m being honest the dialogue was also hard to read at times. I’m not sure if it was the grammar or how it was written? But I felt like I kept having to reread sentences, which I never have to do. There were words in the writing that felt like a thesaurus had been used to make things sound more “important.” I just want to read a book and not have to look up weird fancy words, okay?
If I’m being honest the dialogue was also hard to read at times. I’m not sure if it was the grammar or how it was written? But I felt like I kept having to reread sentences, which I never have to do. There were words in the writing that felt like a thesaurus had been used to make things sound more “important.” I just want to read a book and not have to look up weird fancy words, okay?
February 13, 2025
Wow just wow, I Loved this first book, looking forward to book two and three!
September 8, 2024
⭐ - 3.5/5 - ⭐
Hailey Fitzpatrick is a psychologist who spends most of her time at work. She dives in to drown out her past. In walks Arlo Judge, a broken, enigma of a man who occupies too much of her mind. When secrets come to light and histories are shared, these two people collide in ways they never imagined.
Thank you #netgalley for the ARC of this book!
✦ Dark romance
✦ Billionaire Romance
✦ Dual POV
✦ Dom/sub
✦ Therapist/client
⚠️ - SA, abuse, murder, trauma, etc
🌶️ - 4/5
💕 - 3/5
👥 - 3/5
🌎 - 2/5
🗡️ - .5/5
💀 - .5/5
I had a hard time figuring out if I liked this book or not. In the end, yes and no. I liked it enough to be hooked into wanting to read the next book in the trilogy, but not enough that I'd read this book again. The first quarter of the book is sloooowwww. I actually had a hard time getting through it. And while the book picks up a bit, it reads like a 500 page book, versus the 378 that it sits at. There are moments when I couldn't get enough, and moments that I wished were over faster.
The spice is SPICY. I haven't read a book in a while that did spice and kink the way this book does. Praise to the author for getting that right. There was nothing toxic about any of spicy moments, which is saying a lot for a dark romance.
Hailey is a complex, intelligent, and passionate character. I really enjoyed her throughout the book. She grew so much, and like an actual human, had some backslides that didn't deter her from said growth.
Arlo is kind of a confusing character. In the beginning, he's all broody and enigmatic. But soon after their relationship shifts he's a big ol' softy...with a dark side. Sexy and hell throughout, but sometimes his motivations and reactions are...odd.
I loved the supporting characters. The author is setting us up for the whole trilogy, so she definitely had to leave some thing hanging, but there are certain characters that I'd love to see more of, or even see them in their own books.
Overall, it was an interesting read for sure. It was a great dive into the human psyche and trauma. The spice was scorching, and the chemistry of the MCs over time became incredible. I'm glad this book ties off this story with a neat little bow, but definitely leaves us wanting more.
Hailey Fitzpatrick is a psychologist who spends most of her time at work. She dives in to drown out her past. In walks Arlo Judge, a broken, enigma of a man who occupies too much of her mind. When secrets come to light and histories are shared, these two people collide in ways they never imagined.
Thank you #netgalley for the ARC of this book!
✦ Dark romance
✦ Billionaire Romance
✦ Dual POV
✦ Dom/sub
✦ Therapist/client
⚠️ - SA, abuse, murder, trauma, etc
🌶️ - 4/5
💕 - 3/5
👥 - 3/5
🌎 - 2/5
🗡️ - .5/5
💀 - .5/5
I had a hard time figuring out if I liked this book or not. In the end, yes and no. I liked it enough to be hooked into wanting to read the next book in the trilogy, but not enough that I'd read this book again. The first quarter of the book is sloooowwww. I actually had a hard time getting through it. And while the book picks up a bit, it reads like a 500 page book, versus the 378 that it sits at. There are moments when I couldn't get enough, and moments that I wished were over faster.
The spice is SPICY. I haven't read a book in a while that did spice and kink the way this book does. Praise to the author for getting that right. There was nothing toxic about any of spicy moments, which is saying a lot for a dark romance.
Hailey is a complex, intelligent, and passionate character. I really enjoyed her throughout the book. She grew so much, and like an actual human, had some backslides that didn't deter her from said growth.
Arlo is kind of a confusing character. In the beginning, he's all broody and enigmatic. But soon after their relationship shifts he's a big ol' softy...with a dark side. Sexy and hell throughout, but sometimes his motivations and reactions are...odd.
I loved the supporting characters. The author is setting us up for the whole trilogy, so she definitely had to leave some thing hanging, but there are certain characters that I'd love to see more of, or even see them in their own books.
Overall, it was an interesting read for sure. It was a great dive into the human psyche and trauma. The spice was scorching, and the chemistry of the MCs over time became incredible. I'm glad this book ties off this story with a neat little bow, but definitely leaves us wanting more.
August 23, 2024
4.5/5 ⭐️
3.5/5 🌶️
this book was so 👏 damn 👏 good! 👏
character driven books can be very hit or miss for a lot of people, but for me, when they're done well like this one, they are MY FAVE. the amount of character and relationship building, trust building, growth, all the things. this book had so many good moments 🫶
hailey is a psychologist who has a load of her own trauma & she uses anonymous s*x at a club to "cope". hailey's character growth thru this book was stellar and i just adored her personality. i loved her so much.
then we have arlo, hailey's patient, who has an aversion to touch. arlo was one of my favorite MMCs i have read in awhile. he had so much trauma, but never let it completely take over him and truly wanted to heal. the way he loved hailey so fiercely and unapologetically was PRECIOUS 🥹
obviously, psychologist x patient.... I'M IN. i live for that taboo ass trope 🤣 but i have never read one where the FMC was the psychologist so i really loved that!
these two find such a love in each other that they didn't know existed and i loved every second of watching them fall. it was the most beautiful story 🫶 also the spice... was SPICING. 🔥 especially in that last 10% ok!!!! 🫠🥵
and don't even get me started on hailey's aunt, nat. i loved that woman 🤣 absolute comedic gold. i LOVE when a dark/darker romance has some sort of comedic relief, even if it's small, and nat was exactly that. i'm also very intrigued by astor and her situation... wondering if that will uncover a bit in the next two books? 👀
okay now i can't wait for the next two books in the trilogy! the second one may just have to be my first MM bc i am dying to know what goes on between arlo and hotaru.. yes you heard that right. 👀🤭
and yes, it was an HFN. that's honestly one of the things i loved about this book is that you *could* technically stop reading the story after book one and be 100% satisfied and happy. but if you were intrigued by the dynamic that was teased between arlo and hailey + hotaru, you can continue. it's such a stellar way of writing!!! 👏
• psychologist x patient
• s*x club
• found family
• billionaire
3.5/5 🌶️
this book was so 👏 damn 👏 good! 👏
character driven books can be very hit or miss for a lot of people, but for me, when they're done well like this one, they are MY FAVE. the amount of character and relationship building, trust building, growth, all the things. this book had so many good moments 🫶
hailey is a psychologist who has a load of her own trauma & she uses anonymous s*x at a club to "cope". hailey's character growth thru this book was stellar and i just adored her personality. i loved her so much.
then we have arlo, hailey's patient, who has an aversion to touch. arlo was one of my favorite MMCs i have read in awhile. he had so much trauma, but never let it completely take over him and truly wanted to heal. the way he loved hailey so fiercely and unapologetically was PRECIOUS 🥹
obviously, psychologist x patient.... I'M IN. i live for that taboo ass trope 🤣 but i have never read one where the FMC was the psychologist so i really loved that!
these two find such a love in each other that they didn't know existed and i loved every second of watching them fall. it was the most beautiful story 🫶 also the spice... was SPICING. 🔥 especially in that last 10% ok!!!! 🫠🥵
and don't even get me started on hailey's aunt, nat. i loved that woman 🤣 absolute comedic gold. i LOVE when a dark/darker romance has some sort of comedic relief, even if it's small, and nat was exactly that. i'm also very intrigued by astor and her situation... wondering if that will uncover a bit in the next two books? 👀
okay now i can't wait for the next two books in the trilogy! the second one may just have to be my first MM bc i am dying to know what goes on between arlo and hotaru.. yes you heard that right. 👀🤭
and yes, it was an HFN. that's honestly one of the things i loved about this book is that you *could* technically stop reading the story after book one and be 100% satisfied and happy. but if you were intrigued by the dynamic that was teased between arlo and hailey + hotaru, you can continue. it's such a stellar way of writing!!! 👏
• psychologist x patient
• s*x club
• found family
• billionaire
July 9, 2024
This novel really delves into past traumas and how love can make or break those traumas. The budding love between the two MCs is a roller coaster ride of sweetness and murky waters. The side characters and their romances and life problems really made you have a realistic point of view while reading this novel. I will admit the two last chapters left me 🥵 and looking forward to books 2 and 3. I wouldn’t mind a storyline for Nat or Astor as well just to see what happens in their lives moving forward as well. All in all, this novel does a great job of capturing trauma at its core and how one is able to maneuver themselves away from it or by having friends to talk and walk them through such painful memories. Definitely check the trigger warnings. Abuse is a topic throughout the book when slowly uncovering one of the characters past.
Plot 📝📝📝📝📝
Writing ✍️✍️✍️✍️
Spice 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Stalker Vibes 😈😈😈😈
Overall : 5️⃣⭐️
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Plot 📝📝📝📝📝
Writing ✍️✍️✍️✍️
Spice 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Stalker Vibes 😈😈😈😈
Overall : 5️⃣⭐️
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 21, 2024
This book is about Hailey Fitzpatrick, a psychologist, and Arlo Judge, a billionaire. Both of them have their traumas in life and Hailey is Arlo’s therapist. It’s a romance book so you can say it’s a typical “conquering traumas in the name of love” kind of book.
Let’s talk about our MMC first, Arlo Judge.
I must admit, he was a little bit weird at the beginning of the book. He attends therapy with Hailey as his doctor but he never lets her see him. They do therapy with Hailey facing the floor-to-ceiling window of her office while Arlo sits on a chair behind Hailey’s.
Arlo was a no-touch kind of guy. Like he doesn’t even shake hands with his business partners. He was almost boring and flat during the beginning of the book, while they were still doing the therapy.
In Hailey’s head, Arlo is an interesting man; a mysteriously interesting man. Maybe he is but I did not feel it right away.
When he started sharing his traumas though, the life he lived when he was young, that’s when he started being interesting to me. And his past was actually pretty dark. The things he experienced when he was young that made him recoil to physical touch were… I can’t find the right word, it’s not pitiful but it is also worse than sad.
Just for a little bit, his past and trauma kind of reminded me of Christian Grey. But to be honest, if I were to compare, Arlo had it worse than Christian.
Now onto the FMC, Hailey Fitzpatrick.
Hailey is a strange narrator for me. I mean, there were times that I could not understand the things that were going on because of the way she described it. Or maybe it’s just me not understanding the first few chapters of the book in general.
Her emotions also confuse me sometimes. She’s quick to change emotions in a snap but it’s not often enough that I have to stop reading to keep up.
Hailey’s past and traumas were also dark. While Arlo’s trauma stemmed from wanting to survive, Hailey’s was witnessing a tragedy. And she’s also a hard shell to crack.
It took her a long time before she was ready to open up and share her past with Arlo. She also developed an addiction that wasn’t clear at the beginning of the book. I thought it was just a hobby or like an exploration for her but no, she mentioned she was addicted to it.
The story was okay, I guess.
The traumas they both experienced were revealed little by little. However, Arlo's changes were borderline abrupt. It was instant. Like Hailey touched him for the first time and suddenly years and years of trauma disappeared and now he can't get enough of her touch?
Even went as far as shaking hands with other people when he couldn't even stand to touch somebody else's clothes before.
Sure, I love their romance but it took almost halfway through the book for their trauma to be shared and now it suddenly snowballed so fast?
It felt like when the romance happened, it was instant.
It's a trilogy. While I'm glad their closeness progressing, I feel like the trauma conquering for Arlo is too fast after the long build-up.
I don’t usually talk about this in my review but it’s kind of essential to the plot of the book so here goes…
The smut scenes in this book were sinful. Especially the ones around the end. I’m not new to BDSM type of kink when reading books. But after reading a handful of books that include that kind of kink, I think it’s safe to say that people who enjoy that stuff experience very serious traumas of some sort in their lives.
On the narration…
This book has dual POVs. Around the first 50% of the book, it was mostly Hailey’s POV but I honestly liked reading Arlo’s POV more than Hailey's.
In Hailey’s mind, Arlo sounded like a brooding type but really he’s a cinnamon. He practically worships Hailey.
The writing style is not that gripping, I keep saying this in my other posts that feature this book. It is so easy to get distracted from this because the narration will not keep you reading.
It is both a slow burn and insta-love type of book.
To wrap this up, this book was okay at the beginning and good around the end. I’d still read the second book of this and the third. I’m curious to know about them especially since this is a polyamorous relationship and that was only hinted in the first book. I wanna know how this ends.
Let’s talk about our MMC first, Arlo Judge.
I must admit, he was a little bit weird at the beginning of the book. He attends therapy with Hailey as his doctor but he never lets her see him. They do therapy with Hailey facing the floor-to-ceiling window of her office while Arlo sits on a chair behind Hailey’s.
Arlo was a no-touch kind of guy. Like he doesn’t even shake hands with his business partners. He was almost boring and flat during the beginning of the book, while they were still doing the therapy.
In Hailey’s head, Arlo is an interesting man; a mysteriously interesting man. Maybe he is but I did not feel it right away.
When he started sharing his traumas though, the life he lived when he was young, that’s when he started being interesting to me. And his past was actually pretty dark. The things he experienced when he was young that made him recoil to physical touch were… I can’t find the right word, it’s not pitiful but it is also worse than sad.
Just for a little bit, his past and trauma kind of reminded me of Christian Grey. But to be honest, if I were to compare, Arlo had it worse than Christian.
Now onto the FMC, Hailey Fitzpatrick.
Hailey is a strange narrator for me. I mean, there were times that I could not understand the things that were going on because of the way she described it. Or maybe it’s just me not understanding the first few chapters of the book in general.
Her emotions also confuse me sometimes. She’s quick to change emotions in a snap but it’s not often enough that I have to stop reading to keep up.
Hailey’s past and traumas were also dark. While Arlo’s trauma stemmed from wanting to survive, Hailey’s was witnessing a tragedy. And she’s also a hard shell to crack.
It took her a long time before she was ready to open up and share her past with Arlo. She also developed an addiction that wasn’t clear at the beginning of the book. I thought it was just a hobby or like an exploration for her but no, she mentioned she was addicted to it.
The story was okay, I guess.
The traumas they both experienced were revealed little by little. However, Arlo's changes were borderline abrupt. It was instant. Like Hailey touched him for the first time and suddenly years and years of trauma disappeared and now he can't get enough of her touch?
Even went as far as shaking hands with other people when he couldn't even stand to touch somebody else's clothes before.
Sure, I love their romance but it took almost halfway through the book for their trauma to be shared and now it suddenly snowballed so fast?
It felt like when the romance happened, it was instant.
It's a trilogy. While I'm glad their closeness progressing, I feel like the trauma conquering for Arlo is too fast after the long build-up.
I don’t usually talk about this in my review but it’s kind of essential to the plot of the book so here goes…
The smut scenes in this book were sinful. Especially the ones around the end. I’m not new to BDSM type of kink when reading books. But after reading a handful of books that include that kind of kink, I think it’s safe to say that people who enjoy that stuff experience very serious traumas of some sort in their lives.
On the narration…
This book has dual POVs. Around the first 50% of the book, it was mostly Hailey’s POV but I honestly liked reading Arlo’s POV more than Hailey's.
In Hailey’s mind, Arlo sounded like a brooding type but really he’s a cinnamon. He practically worships Hailey.
The writing style is not that gripping, I keep saying this in my other posts that feature this book. It is so easy to get distracted from this because the narration will not keep you reading.
It is both a slow burn and insta-love type of book.
To wrap this up, this book was okay at the beginning and good around the end. I’d still read the second book of this and the third. I’m curious to know about them especially since this is a polyamorous relationship and that was only hinted in the first book. I wanna know how this ends.
July 28, 2024
*ARC REVIEW*
Wow, wow, wow. This was the debut?! I’ll be honest at first I was a little worried…but maybe four chapter in I was sucked in. This is truly a beautiful story, and not like anything I’ve read before! I really appreciate the attention to trauma and dealing with said traumas between two individuals who have very unfortunate histories. The build of this love story between two ‘broken’ souls was incredible, passionate, and really quite inspiring.
Although, I questioned a few times the friend dynamic I was still shocked when that particular spicy scene came up 😉
This was really great! Kudos to Meg Everly!! Can’t wait for the next one!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Wow, wow, wow. This was the debut?! I’ll be honest at first I was a little worried…but maybe four chapter in I was sucked in. This is truly a beautiful story, and not like anything I’ve read before! I really appreciate the attention to trauma and dealing with said traumas between two individuals who have very unfortunate histories. The build of this love story between two ‘broken’ souls was incredible, passionate, and really quite inspiring.
Although, I questioned a few times the friend dynamic I was still shocked when that particular spicy scene came up 😉
This was really great! Kudos to Meg Everly!! Can’t wait for the next one!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 1, 2024
I am blown away. Meg’s debut novel is unmatched. Absolutely incredible writing. Such heartbreakingly beautiful characters. God, they own my heart. I loved this story so fucking much. Hailey is a psychologist who is a sex addict and Arlo is her new patient and his has a diversion to touch which set us up for some DELICIOUS sexual tension but the way my heart bled when both of their walls started to crumble and they started to fall in love 😫😭🖤 I cannot wait for book 2 and the bound to be heart wrenching journey of bringing Hotaru into the relationship. I love him so much 🥺 Meg did an absolutely outstanding job writing such complex, relatable and culturally diverse characters. It has been a minute since I read such organic side characters. I love them all so much.
September 8, 2024
This book is easily one of my top reads of the year, and I don’t say that lightly—especially as someone who usually avoids series with the same main characters throughout. But this one felt like a breath of fresh air in the dark romance genre. It wasn’t the usual wild and unhinged dark romance; instead, it focused on the emotional, traumatic, and healing side of things.
The steamy scenes? They weren’t just hot—they were healing and full of exploration. The character development and relationship building were absolutely stunning. And the ending? It left me with the perfect mix of satisfaction and craving for the next part of the story. I seriously cannot wait to get my hands on the next book! Meg, you absolutely nailed it with your debut novel!!
The steamy scenes? They weren’t just hot—they were healing and full of exploration. The character development and relationship building were absolutely stunning. And the ending? It left me with the perfect mix of satisfaction and craving for the next part of the story. I seriously cannot wait to get my hands on the next book! Meg, you absolutely nailed it with your debut novel!!
July 29, 2024
This is a very emotionally charged story. There aren't twists and turns like usual; there are ups and downs steeper than a mountain. There are many facets to each part of this storyline. Each one builds off of another and connects to everything. It can be a challenging read, but it is also well worth it. I am voluntarily leaving a review.
Read
August 27, 2024Content Edited Manuscript
September 11, 2024
This was going so well… Booooooooo 😒😒😒😒
September 13, 2024
Meg’s story telling is so visual especially during spicy scenes.. I was blushing hard. This read so quickly and was so fun and unique.
its-a-no-for-me-dawg
January 30, 2026Not interested - sharing
July 5, 2024
If you would tell me that this is a debut book I wouldn't believe you. It's so well written and developed. I really enjoyed it.
The characters and their plots were well developed, which is very important for me. Of course, they had some attitudes that I didn't like, but that is the only negative thing I have. I liked reading and seeing how Hayley and Arlo's relationship evolved. And the spice? Let me tell you, it has a lot of it. Chef kiss.
Now I can't wait to read the second book! I need it.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The characters and their plots were well developed, which is very important for me. Of course, they had some attitudes that I didn't like, but that is the only negative thing I have. I liked reading and seeing how Hayley and Arlo's relationship evolved. And the spice? Let me tell you, it has a lot of it. Chef kiss.
Now I can't wait to read the second book! I need it.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 2, 2024
The book was a really fun read and I'm looking forward to read book 2 and see how their relationship progresses, specially because of Hotaru.
I think there was a part towards the end where it seemed to drag on which is why i won't give this book 5 stars, even though it was worth it in the end. Also, the main character is supposed to be a psychologist but she's not a very good one, which bothers me.
Overall, I really enjoyed reading the book, the characters were interesting and some bits of the book made me want to genuinely root for them.
I think there was a part towards the end where it seemed to drag on which is why i won't give this book 5 stars, even though it was worth it in the end. Also, the main character is supposed to be a psychologist but she's not a very good one, which bothers me.
Overall, I really enjoyed reading the book, the characters were interesting and some bits of the book made me want to genuinely root for them.
July 12, 2024
First and foremost, I want to thank BookSirens and Meg Everly for providing me with an advance copy of this book to give my thoughts. All opinions expressed are entirely my own and I am leaving this review voluntarily!
I cannot believe this is a debut novel! This genuinely reads better than some established author’s works. I am in awe! I cannot recommend this highly enough, fans of dark romance and tortured hero types will thoroughly enjoy this. I truly loved every minute of this book, and I’m so excited for the next!
Meg Everly has done a fantastic job of delving into trauma and its implications for different people, and how this can affect relationships, work and lives. The exploration of undoing the damage of trauma and living with the consequences of traumatic events was gritty, dark and oftentimes difficult - a raw and honest representation of how it is in real life. Everly certainly didn’t shy away from the brutal honesty of it, normalising therapy, unexpected triggers, and the slow process of healing. As for spice? It’s plentiful and expertly written, with emphasis on BDSM safety. “Safe, sane and consensual” is repeated throughout the book and adhered to by all characters at all times during these scenes.
A little about our main characters:
Dr. Hailey Fitzpatrick - our FMC in this novel, a 32 year old clinical psychologist who runs her own practice. Hailey specialises in sex and relationship therapy. We quickly learn she has trauma of her own and isn’t dealing with it very well. Hailey’s parents were brutally murdered and she was left in the care of her Aunt Nat, her mother’s twin sister. Hailey had been using sex and getting tattoos as a way of coping for years. She is a member of a local BDSM club named Crave, and attends to escape her feelings. Hailey likes the anonymity while there, with no opportunity for love and attachment - the one thing she fears most. For a while before the start of the book, she has been splitting her time between work and the psychiatric ward at the hospital, where her first ever patient is currently being held on suicide watch. Hailey is determined to help him, but sadly he succeeds in taking his own life while Hailey is at work, throwing Hailey into a tailspin.
Arlo Judge - our MMC, a 32 year old billionaire and sole owner of The Judge Conglomerate. Arlo is a new patient of Hailey’s, seeking help for his hatred of physical touch. Both being touched and touching someone else is described as feeling like “fire branding”. The root cause of this aversion to touch is the abuse he faced as a child after going to live with his uncle following a tragic accident which claimed the lives of his parents and brother. Initially a difficult patient for Hailey, he slowly begins to make progress. It is soon established that there is a mutual attraction between them, which Hailey resists, and Arlo decides to stop seeing her and seek a new therapist. No longer a client, he and Hailey get closer to one another and begin helping each other with their trauma, eventually falling in love. Dark secrets from the past are revealed by both Arlo and Hailey, but can their relationship survive these revelations?
Overview:
Dark romance
Therapist x patient
Kink
Excellent spicy scenes
HFN
Book 1 of a trilogy
Trigger and Content Warnings:
BDSM
Sex addiction
Rape (off page, past, discussed, not perpetrated by our MCs)
Animal abuse (off page, past, discussed, not perpetrated by our MCs)
Suicide (off page event, happens during book’s timeline, discussed but not in detail)
Discussions of physical and sexual abuse (past, off page, childhood)
Murder (off page, past, discussed)
Sexual assault (on page, not perpetrated by our MCs)
**Please check trigger warnings before reading. Look after yourself, your mental health is important. You are loved and you matter**
I cannot believe this is a debut novel! This genuinely reads better than some established author’s works. I am in awe! I cannot recommend this highly enough, fans of dark romance and tortured hero types will thoroughly enjoy this. I truly loved every minute of this book, and I’m so excited for the next!
Meg Everly has done a fantastic job of delving into trauma and its implications for different people, and how this can affect relationships, work and lives. The exploration of undoing the damage of trauma and living with the consequences of traumatic events was gritty, dark and oftentimes difficult - a raw and honest representation of how it is in real life. Everly certainly didn’t shy away from the brutal honesty of it, normalising therapy, unexpected triggers, and the slow process of healing. As for spice? It’s plentiful and expertly written, with emphasis on BDSM safety. “Safe, sane and consensual” is repeated throughout the book and adhered to by all characters at all times during these scenes.
A little about our main characters:
Dr. Hailey Fitzpatrick - our FMC in this novel, a 32 year old clinical psychologist who runs her own practice. Hailey specialises in sex and relationship therapy. We quickly learn she has trauma of her own and isn’t dealing with it very well. Hailey’s parents were brutally murdered and she was left in the care of her Aunt Nat, her mother’s twin sister. Hailey had been using sex and getting tattoos as a way of coping for years. She is a member of a local BDSM club named Crave, and attends to escape her feelings. Hailey likes the anonymity while there, with no opportunity for love and attachment - the one thing she fears most. For a while before the start of the book, she has been splitting her time between work and the psychiatric ward at the hospital, where her first ever patient is currently being held on suicide watch. Hailey is determined to help him, but sadly he succeeds in taking his own life while Hailey is at work, throwing Hailey into a tailspin.
Arlo Judge - our MMC, a 32 year old billionaire and sole owner of The Judge Conglomerate. Arlo is a new patient of Hailey’s, seeking help for his hatred of physical touch. Both being touched and touching someone else is described as feeling like “fire branding”. The root cause of this aversion to touch is the abuse he faced as a child after going to live with his uncle following a tragic accident which claimed the lives of his parents and brother. Initially a difficult patient for Hailey, he slowly begins to make progress. It is soon established that there is a mutual attraction between them, which Hailey resists, and Arlo decides to stop seeing her and seek a new therapist. No longer a client, he and Hailey get closer to one another and begin helping each other with their trauma, eventually falling in love. Dark secrets from the past are revealed by both Arlo and Hailey, but can their relationship survive these revelations?
Overview:
Dark romance
Therapist x patient
Kink
Excellent spicy scenes
HFN
Book 1 of a trilogy
Trigger and Content Warnings:
BDSM
Sex addiction
Rape (off page, past, discussed, not perpetrated by our MCs)
Animal abuse (off page, past, discussed, not perpetrated by our MCs)
Suicide (off page event, happens during book’s timeline, discussed but not in detail)
Discussions of physical and sexual abuse (past, off page, childhood)
Murder (off page, past, discussed)
Sexual assault (on page, not perpetrated by our MCs)
**Please check trigger warnings before reading. Look after yourself, your mental health is important. You are loved and you matter**
March 24, 2025
I don't know why I had the feeling I already reviewed this book but WHERE??? Am I imagining writing reviews now???
Anyway, I read this book in November and I knew that I was hooked from the beginning. This is a debut book so I'm very touched that I got to read it and review it. This is kind of a taboo book as it involves a patient and a client. Funny, it is at the end of the book when they realize they actually have a past together. They both go to the same sex club and it is there they find passion in each other's arms, unknowingly to them.
I couldn't put the book down and I was surprised to see it ended on a cliffhanger. I knew that going in but the second book focuses on Arlo's relationship with a guy and Arlo's past in high school (I think), followed by the third book that I think focuses on a throuple.
As much as I loved reading the first book, I'm just not into reading high school romances or going back to the past with the story. So I am stopping at this book and hoping I get to someday read another book by Meg Everly.
4 stars.
ARC was provided via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Anyway, I read this book in November and I knew that I was hooked from the beginning. This is a debut book so I'm very touched that I got to read it and review it. This is kind of a taboo book as it involves a patient and a client. Funny, it is at the end of the book when they realize they actually have a past together. They both go to the same sex club and it is there they find passion in each other's arms, unknowingly to them.
I couldn't put the book down and I was surprised to see it ended on a cliffhanger. I knew that going in but the second book focuses on Arlo's relationship with a guy and Arlo's past in high school (I think), followed by the third book that I think focuses on a throuple.
As much as I loved reading the first book, I'm just not into reading high school romances or going back to the past with the story. So I am stopping at this book and hoping I get to someday read another book by Meg Everly.
4 stars.
ARC was provided via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
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