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The Dirty Version
Named a Best Book of the Year by Library Journal
"This is a super smart take on the genre that even non romance girlies will enjoy." —Red Magazine
Heat rises and sparks fly when a surf-town author and an intimacy coordinator are thrown together to write new, steamy sex scenes for a TV series based on her hit novel in this deliciously fun debut romance.
Tash was thrilled when the dramatic rights to her surprise-hit feminist novel were snapped up by an indie film studio. But no one warned her that a Hollywood shuffle could land her smart, literary epic in the hands of a huge action-movie franchise director more famous for his machismo than his artistry.
And now this big shot director wants “the dirty version” of her book, demanding Tash transform the strong, complex female warriors she created into eye candy. Despite her best efforts to stall, the studio assigns Tash to its golden-boy intimacy coordinator to help her add spice to the script. Tash resents Caleb from the first word of the first sentence they write together, certain he's the enemy and too handsome to be trusted. But the longer they collaborate on her characters, the more she's attracted to his firm grasp of emotional (and fine, physical) nudity. Soon they're burning up the bedsheets along with their new pages, blurring romantic storylines.
But just when Tash feels it’s all coming together, the whole plot falls apart. Can she find a narrative that saves her show and her own love story, or are both lost forever?
"This is a super smart take on the genre that even non romance girlies will enjoy." —Red Magazine
Heat rises and sparks fly when a surf-town author and an intimacy coordinator are thrown together to write new, steamy sex scenes for a TV series based on her hit novel in this deliciously fun debut romance.
Tash was thrilled when the dramatic rights to her surprise-hit feminist novel were snapped up by an indie film studio. But no one warned her that a Hollywood shuffle could land her smart, literary epic in the hands of a huge action-movie franchise director more famous for his machismo than his artistry.
And now this big shot director wants “the dirty version” of her book, demanding Tash transform the strong, complex female warriors she created into eye candy. Despite her best efforts to stall, the studio assigns Tash to its golden-boy intimacy coordinator to help her add spice to the script. Tash resents Caleb from the first word of the first sentence they write together, certain he's the enemy and too handsome to be trusted. But the longer they collaborate on her characters, the more she's attracted to his firm grasp of emotional (and fine, physical) nudity. Soon they're burning up the bedsheets along with their new pages, blurring romantic storylines.
But just when Tash feels it’s all coming together, the whole plot falls apart. Can she find a narrative that saves her show and her own love story, or are both lost forever?
240 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 1, 2025
61 people are currently reading
10272 people want to read
About the author
Turner Gable Kahn
2 books44 followersTurner Gable Kahn is the author of THE DIRTY VERSION, *out now* from Harper Perennial and VERVE Books.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 204 reviews
August 29, 2025
Solid 3.5⭐️
Tash is the author of a surprise-hit feminist novel and is excited when the film rights are sold. What she doesn’t expect is for the director to want a “dirty version” that reduces her strong female characters to eye candy. Caleb, the film’s intimacy coordinator, is brought in to help navigate those changes.
I thought the premise of this book was really interesting and I especially enjoyed learning about the role of an intimacy coordinator in film production. Until some recent headlines, I had no idea that was even a thing.
Caleb was my favorite part of the story. He was a well-written MMC—open, patient, and dare I say capable of communicating like an adult, which is rare for this genre. He was always respectful, even when she was downright rude to him. Tash, on the other hand, was a bit harder for me to connect with, which probably lessened my overall enjoyment. I understand that she had her issues and insecurities, but she often came across as aggressive, overly defensive, and confrontational, which became tiring.
The title might suggest otherwise, but there’s nothing dirty here. It’s as clean as they come with no spice to be found. This was another book where I wavered on whether to round up or round down. In the end, Tash’s character arc felt a bit too late in the story for me, so I decided to round down. Despite some issues, this is a solid debut and still worth reading for anyone looking for a quick romance.
The audiobook is narrated by Natalie Naudus, who does a fantastic job giving each character their own voice. It isn’t easy for women to voice male characters, but she nailed it and I’m very picky when it comes to that.
My thanks to HarperAudio Adult | Harper Perennial and NetGalley for my audio ARC. It's available now.
Tash is the author of a surprise-hit feminist novel and is excited when the film rights are sold. What she doesn’t expect is for the director to want a “dirty version” that reduces her strong female characters to eye candy. Caleb, the film’s intimacy coordinator, is brought in to help navigate those changes.
I thought the premise of this book was really interesting and I especially enjoyed learning about the role of an intimacy coordinator in film production. Until some recent headlines, I had no idea that was even a thing.
Caleb was my favorite part of the story. He was a well-written MMC—open, patient, and dare I say capable of communicating like an adult, which is rare for this genre. He was always respectful, even when she was downright rude to him. Tash, on the other hand, was a bit harder for me to connect with, which probably lessened my overall enjoyment. I understand that she had her issues and insecurities, but she often came across as aggressive, overly defensive, and confrontational, which became tiring.
The title might suggest otherwise, but there’s nothing dirty here. It’s as clean as they come with no spice to be found. This was another book where I wavered on whether to round up or round down. In the end, Tash’s character arc felt a bit too late in the story for me, so I decided to round down. Despite some issues, this is a solid debut and still worth reading for anyone looking for a quick romance.
The audiobook is narrated by Natalie Naudus, who does a fantastic job giving each character their own voice. It isn’t easy for women to voice male characters, but she nailed it and I’m very picky when it comes to that.
My thanks to HarperAudio Adult | Harper Perennial and NetGalley for my audio ARC. It's available now.
August 19, 2025
Listened to this audiobook in one day! I’m rounding it up to 4 because the audio was so enjoyable.
Absolutely recommend this to be done on audio because the narrator did a phenomenal job and it was a quick listen. It’s hard to rate a book that is less than 250 pages because my critique is always that it needed a bit more development overall. I thought the author brought up a lot of interesting topics to discuss about spicy content and what it does for women. I doooooo wish there was a smidge more emotion between Caleb and Tash. This book is not spicy at all, just a heads up if you think there is based on the title 😆 1 spicy chili pepper level.
Absolutely recommend this to be done on audio because the narrator did a phenomenal job and it was a quick listen. It’s hard to rate a book that is less than 250 pages because my critique is always that it needed a bit more development overall. I thought the author brought up a lot of interesting topics to discuss about spicy content and what it does for women. I doooooo wish there was a smidge more emotion between Caleb and Tash. This book is not spicy at all, just a heads up if you think there is based on the title 😆 1 spicy chili pepper level.
August 27, 2025
3.25 / 5 Stars
I struggled with how to rate this book because there were a lot of great parts and then a few parts that just weren’t for me. But read on, because maybe this book is for you and might make you feel incredibly seen! Quick plot synopsis: Tash has written a feminist, dystopian, girl warrior novel that is being turned into a TV series by this book’s equivalent of Michael Bay. He wants a hot, dirty version of the book and Tash is contractually stuck. She must work with Caleb, the intimacy coordinator, to help flesh out (pun intended) the scripts. And sparks fly.
This book is a quick, well-written read. It has a really intriguing plot and learning about the intricacies of script negotiation, intimacy coordinator, and script translation was fascinating. Caleb is incredibly patient and shows Tash a lot of grace. He likes her barbs and her fiery personality. He has nuance and decency. There was a good chunk of the book where their romance felt swoony and very fun.
However, I struggled with Tash as a character. I think there are folks who may feel incredibly seen in Tash’s complicated relationship with her parents, siblings, and her former romantic partners. But overall, I found that for most of the book, Tash shoots first and asks questions later. She lives life in a very black and white way with no shades of gray. She is quick to judge people, especially other women, whether rightly or wrongly. She views compromising on her artistic vision as selling out and as letting other people control her. Her go-to emotion is anger which is hyper realistic – oftentimes we learn that there is an emotion that we can express more safely and that becomes our replacement for other less safe to express emotions (thanks, therapy!)– so she expresses her fear, sadness, insecurities as anger. I think she was purposefully written this way so that she has room to grow (for example, her views on feminism and exploitation evolve). AND YET, it was not particularly pleasant to read and her growth happened really late in the book. I will never, ever call a female character (or human woman for that matter) unlikeable (men, I will call unlikeable every damn day). I don’t believe that all female characters need to be pleasant to be liked, but because her growth happens so late in the book, I felt like that meme of Tyra Banks yelling “we were rooting for you” at Tash.
If any of the book’s description speaks to you then you should definitely check it out. Or if you have a soft spot for Florida (someone must have a soft spot for Florida), you may like reading all of the well-written setting descriptions. Personally, I think I will read other books by this author based on the quality of writing alone.
Thank you Harper Perennial and NetGalley for providing the eARC! All opinions are my own.
Publication Date: July 1, 2025
I struggled with how to rate this book because there were a lot of great parts and then a few parts that just weren’t for me. But read on, because maybe this book is for you and might make you feel incredibly seen! Quick plot synopsis: Tash has written a feminist, dystopian, girl warrior novel that is being turned into a TV series by this book’s equivalent of Michael Bay. He wants a hot, dirty version of the book and Tash is contractually stuck. She must work with Caleb, the intimacy coordinator, to help flesh out (pun intended) the scripts. And sparks fly.
This book is a quick, well-written read. It has a really intriguing plot and learning about the intricacies of script negotiation, intimacy coordinator, and script translation was fascinating. Caleb is incredibly patient and shows Tash a lot of grace. He likes her barbs and her fiery personality. He has nuance and decency. There was a good chunk of the book where their romance felt swoony and very fun.
However, I struggled with Tash as a character. I think there are folks who may feel incredibly seen in Tash’s complicated relationship with her parents, siblings, and her former romantic partners. But overall, I found that for most of the book, Tash shoots first and asks questions later. She lives life in a very black and white way with no shades of gray. She is quick to judge people, especially other women, whether rightly or wrongly. She views compromising on her artistic vision as selling out and as letting other people control her. Her go-to emotion is anger which is hyper realistic – oftentimes we learn that there is an emotion that we can express more safely and that becomes our replacement for other less safe to express emotions (thanks, therapy!)– so she expresses her fear, sadness, insecurities as anger. I think she was purposefully written this way so that she has room to grow (for example, her views on feminism and exploitation evolve). AND YET, it was not particularly pleasant to read and her growth happened really late in the book. I will never, ever call a female character (or human woman for that matter) unlikeable (men, I will call unlikeable every damn day). I don’t believe that all female characters need to be pleasant to be liked, but because her growth happens so late in the book, I felt like that meme of Tyra Banks yelling “we were rooting for you” at Tash.
If any of the book’s description speaks to you then you should definitely check it out. Or if you have a soft spot for Florida (someone must have a soft spot for Florida), you may like reading all of the well-written setting descriptions. Personally, I think I will read other books by this author based on the quality of writing alone.
Thank you Harper Perennial and NetGalley for providing the eARC! All opinions are my own.
Publication Date: July 1, 2025
July 16, 2025
Loved this debut rom com, it needs more attention! Main character Tash wrote a feminist dystopian novel which was an unexpected hit, and now it’s being made into a tv series. Too bad the producer is not her style, and he has insisted she add more sex to the scripts. Enter Caleb, part of an intimacy coordinator business who they have brought in to work with Tash to sex up the scripts.
And I just enjoyed every minute of this one and flew through it. Loved both Tash and Caleb’s unique backgrounds, loved the banter, loved Tash’s best friend - and kind of wish I could read Tash’s dystopian book too!
For those who know me and are surprised to see me reviewing a book with “dirty” in the title, rest assured that the title is not representative of the book - the studio may want “the dirty version” of the script from Tash, but just like the work she ends up doing with Caleb, the book is more subtle - a slow burn that is sexy but not explicit at all. So if you’re someone who is looking for 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ you might be disappointed with that title, but for me it was perfect.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my copy (out now); all opinions are my own.
And I just enjoyed every minute of this one and flew through it. Loved both Tash and Caleb’s unique backgrounds, loved the banter, loved Tash’s best friend - and kind of wish I could read Tash’s dystopian book too!
For those who know me and are surprised to see me reviewing a book with “dirty” in the title, rest assured that the title is not representative of the book - the studio may want “the dirty version” of the script from Tash, but just like the work she ends up doing with Caleb, the book is more subtle - a slow burn that is sexy but not explicit at all. So if you’re someone who is looking for 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ you might be disappointed with that title, but for me it was perfect.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my copy (out now); all opinions are my own.
January 22, 2025
4 🌟
Thank you to the author, NetGalley and Verve Books for the opportunity to read this ARC! All opinions are my own.
Tash is the author of The Colony - a feminist dystopian novel being turned into a TV show - forced to work with Hollywood hot shot intimacy coordinator, Caleb. She resents him and the studio, believing they are trying to over-sexualise her precious story, but she has no choice but to continue working with Caleb to stage those scenes and meet the studios deadline.
This was a really interesting plot. I went in to this expecting lighthearted and fun, and while this is a very enjoyable read, the subject matter takes a very interesting exploration of women’s sexuality and gender dynamics in Hollywood.
This portrayed these themes in a way that was still fun and digestible and I thoroughly enjoyed reading it!
Thank you to the author, NetGalley and Verve Books for the opportunity to read this ARC! All opinions are my own.
Tash is the author of The Colony - a feminist dystopian novel being turned into a TV show - forced to work with Hollywood hot shot intimacy coordinator, Caleb. She resents him and the studio, believing they are trying to over-sexualise her precious story, but she has no choice but to continue working with Caleb to stage those scenes and meet the studios deadline.
This was a really interesting plot. I went in to this expecting lighthearted and fun, and while this is a very enjoyable read, the subject matter takes a very interesting exploration of women’s sexuality and gender dynamics in Hollywood.
This portrayed these themes in a way that was still fun and digestible and I thoroughly enjoyed reading it!
April 7, 2025
Tash sold her book rights for a TV adaptation to an indie filmmaker who promised to bring her vision to life, only for the script to be traded several times until it ended up in the hands of a big action movie director who seemed like a completely wrong fit for Tash's feminist dystopian novel. She then has to work with Caleb, the intimacy coordinator who is her best bet to both keep her vision alive while giving the movie studio what they want.
This novel was a breath of fresh air. The dialogues are witty, the connection between Tash and Caleb electric, and the idea to have them choreographing intimate scenes while falling for each other was brilliant and sexy.
The writing is also really convincing in making me care about the novel within the novel. I could feel Tash's anguish when things started slipping out of her control and her protectiveness over the integrity of her creation. I went in expecting a cute romance, but got so much more. I found the plot original and it made me think of the process of adaptation from a whole new angle.
Thank you, NetGalley and Verve Books, for the ARC!
This novel was a breath of fresh air. The dialogues are witty, the connection between Tash and Caleb electric, and the idea to have them choreographing intimate scenes while falling for each other was brilliant and sexy.
The writing is also really convincing in making me care about the novel within the novel. I could feel Tash's anguish when things started slipping out of her control and her protectiveness over the integrity of her creation. I went in expecting a cute romance, but got so much more. I found the plot original and it made me think of the process of adaptation from a whole new angle.
Thank you, NetGalley and Verve Books, for the ARC!
February 20, 2025
Sweet & sexy romance! I received an advance copy in exchange for an honest review. This was the perfect read for my 6-hour flight -- the dialogue was fun and witty, and the romance stayed suspenseful enough to keep the pages turning. Sexy, smart, and fun to read! Caleb (an intimacy coordinator!) and Tash have such good sexual tension. The characters and their issues feel so real, and the book transports you to the unexpected beauty of coastal Florida. Their banter made me laugh and truly captured the headiness of two people falling in love!
July 7, 2025
Tash’s feminist dystopian novel has been picked up by a studio, which most authors would be thrilled about, but in this case the indie studio that originally picked it up no longer exists and a new large studio now is making the series. Unfortunately Tash feels that her strong feminist vision of the book is being buried by the need to make money - they want it to be sexier. The studio even goes so far as to hire an intimacy coordinator, Caleb to help Tash write the new spicy scenes. As much as Tash is resistant to Caleb and his role, the sparks between them are undeniable, and it may even make the series better in the end.
Despite the name, this is not a spicy book. I read it by the pool and it was actually the perfect respite for me, I read it in between some truly sad books. I really liked the characters, their dynamics and the story itself. While I always enjoy a book about writing, this added the additional element of adapting your book to a script which added a nice layer to the trope. This is a fun, read in a day novel.
Despite the name, this is not a spicy book. I read it by the pool and it was actually the perfect respite for me, I read it in between some truly sad books. I really liked the characters, their dynamics and the story itself. While I always enjoy a book about writing, this added the additional element of adapting your book to a script which added a nice layer to the trope. This is a fun, read in a day novel.
July 14, 2025
I enjoyed The Dirty Version by @turnergablekahn so much that I read it in one sitting!
Thank you, Partner @bibliolifestyle @harperperennial .
I’m always impressed when an author creates another “book” in the story that I also want to read! I would read the fictional book The Colony in an instant.
This book touches on some deeper subjects like gender roles and conflicts as well as past traumatic experiences with violence but it’s done in a really thoughtful way.
Tash could be frustrating at times but learning why made my heart sad for her. And Caleb is the man we want our sons to be - kind, smart, and strong.
This is a great summer read!!
Thank you, Partner @bibliolifestyle @harperperennial .
I’m always impressed when an author creates another “book” in the story that I also want to read! I would read the fictional book The Colony in an instant.
This book touches on some deeper subjects like gender roles and conflicts as well as past traumatic experiences with violence but it’s done in a really thoughtful way.
Tash could be frustrating at times but learning why made my heart sad for her. And Caleb is the man we want our sons to be - kind, smart, and strong.
This is a great summer read!!
June 21, 2025
Reading the blurb after the title pulled me in and made me eager to read this book. Now, was it worth it?
We have Tash, an author whose first novel, a female-centric dystopian piece, has reached the level of fandom that it is being commissioned for adaptation as a TV series. Only the producer wants it to be 'sexed-ed up' more for the screen, as well as a significant change to the ending.
Tash battles with this idea, as it is so far from her ideals and the book's concept.
Threatened with the loss of any say, she teams up with an Intimacy Co-ordinator, Caleb, celebrated in his field for helping to create, well, hot scenes!
Here, we end up with a bit of a grumpy-sunshine workplace romance, as Tash battles with her more visceral feelings towards her work partner and her strong feelings about her book, which is going to be 'butchered' for the screen, losing all integrity.
An easy-to-read summer romance, but considering the title The Dirty Version, any action is very much closed-door!
Many thanks to NetGalley and Verve Books for an ARC.
We have Tash, an author whose first novel, a female-centric dystopian piece, has reached the level of fandom that it is being commissioned for adaptation as a TV series. Only the producer wants it to be 'sexed-ed up' more for the screen, as well as a significant change to the ending.
Tash battles with this idea, as it is so far from her ideals and the book's concept.
Threatened with the loss of any say, she teams up with an Intimacy Co-ordinator, Caleb, celebrated in his field for helping to create, well, hot scenes!
Here, we end up with a bit of a grumpy-sunshine workplace romance, as Tash battles with her more visceral feelings towards her work partner and her strong feelings about her book, which is going to be 'butchered' for the screen, losing all integrity.
An easy-to-read summer romance, but considering the title The Dirty Version, any action is very much closed-door!
Many thanks to NetGalley and Verve Books for an ARC.
January 26, 2025
What a fun and perfect concept for a spicy romance novel! A feminist writer and a male intimacy co-ordinator working side by side on adapting her book for screen. This made for some fantastic scenes and spicy and romantic moments. Not to mention the lighthearted 'enemies to lovers' trope, with Tash adamant she wouldn't co-operate with Caleb; and stuck in her mindset that a man couldn't provide the right outlook on the intimate scenes between her two characters. How wrong she was proved!
Caleb showed Tash the comfort in vulnerability, and gave her a safe space to let her carefully crafted guard down from her last unlucky encounters with men, intimacy and love.
The themes of power dynamics within Hollywood, and the s*xual and female empowerment throughout this novel were extremely thought provoking. I loved Tash and Calebs back and forth regarding these topics. They both had plenty to teach each other, and lots to learn! This was a very clever, well crafted book, whilst still being packed full of romantic tension, craving and desire.
Unfortunately, the 'spicy' aspect was a bit of a let down for me, which is surprising as this book is quite literally all about s*x scenes. At one point, Caleb explains to Tash that intimate scenes being 'shown' and not just 'told' to the viewer are very important for film, being a visual media, to keep the audiences attention; I think this should be the same for written media too, as I was disappointed to find that all of the lead up to Tash and Caleb being intimate together ended with 'fade to black'.
This was so well written, with beautifully formed sentences, however I did find some parts of it a little difficult to read at times, with maybe almost too much embellishment to the sentences. This author is clearly very intelligent, as were the characters themselves, with Tash and her friends and colleagues working in literature at a University. It took me a while to get used to the writing style, and I was still left confused many times by a lot of terms and descriptions which were new to me, which made it difficult to easily craft the scenes in my head.
Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for giving me the chance to read and review this!
*I received this book as an Advanced Readers Copy (ARC) for free in exchange for an honest review*
Caleb showed Tash the comfort in vulnerability, and gave her a safe space to let her carefully crafted guard down from her last unlucky encounters with men, intimacy and love.
The themes of power dynamics within Hollywood, and the s*xual and female empowerment throughout this novel were extremely thought provoking. I loved Tash and Calebs back and forth regarding these topics. They both had plenty to teach each other, and lots to learn! This was a very clever, well crafted book, whilst still being packed full of romantic tension, craving and desire.
Unfortunately, the 'spicy' aspect was a bit of a let down for me, which is surprising as this book is quite literally all about s*x scenes. At one point, Caleb explains to Tash that intimate scenes being 'shown' and not just 'told' to the viewer are very important for film, being a visual media, to keep the audiences attention; I think this should be the same for written media too, as I was disappointed to find that all of the lead up to Tash and Caleb being intimate together ended with 'fade to black'.
This was so well written, with beautifully formed sentences, however I did find some parts of it a little difficult to read at times, with maybe almost too much embellishment to the sentences. This author is clearly very intelligent, as were the characters themselves, with Tash and her friends and colleagues working in literature at a University. It took me a while to get used to the writing style, and I was still left confused many times by a lot of terms and descriptions which were new to me, which made it difficult to easily craft the scenes in my head.
Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for giving me the chance to read and review this!
*I received this book as an Advanced Readers Copy (ARC) for free in exchange for an honest review*
April 1, 2025
What a fun fresh book! When the rights to Tash’s dystopian feminist novel are sold to action director Ram Braverman’s streaming studio, she is outraged. Known for his on screen violence and explicit sex scenes, Tash is heartbroken about this adaptation.
Tash is tasked with writing the sex scenes for the show. If she declines she will lose creative control to the all male writing team. When Ram hires Caleb Rafferty and his intimacy coordination business to help Tash work through the sex scenes, Tash is extremely hesitant. But the more she and Caleb work together, the clearer it becomes that he might actually be the elusive “good guy” that she was convinced didn’t exist.
This book was great. I loved the dynamic of fiery, hot-headed Tash alongside steady, calming Caleb. I think it can be hard to write an enlightened, feminist supporting man, but the author did a great job. Caleb was the perfect combo of supportive and vulnerable while pushing back when needed.
And I’m very into the single POV right now. It ratchets up the tension so much to not know what’s happening in Caleb’s mind.
I’d consider this a closed door romance. There is lots of talk around sex and references to them having sex, but nothing graphic on page.
I received this Advanced Reader’s Copy via NetGalley. It releases on July 1, 2025.
Tash is tasked with writing the sex scenes for the show. If she declines she will lose creative control to the all male writing team. When Ram hires Caleb Rafferty and his intimacy coordination business to help Tash work through the sex scenes, Tash is extremely hesitant. But the more she and Caleb work together, the clearer it becomes that he might actually be the elusive “good guy” that she was convinced didn’t exist.
This book was great. I loved the dynamic of fiery, hot-headed Tash alongside steady, calming Caleb. I think it can be hard to write an enlightened, feminist supporting man, but the author did a great job. Caleb was the perfect combo of supportive and vulnerable while pushing back when needed.
And I’m very into the single POV right now. It ratchets up the tension so much to not know what’s happening in Caleb’s mind.
I’d consider this a closed door romance. There is lots of talk around sex and references to them having sex, but nothing graphic on page.
I received this Advanced Reader’s Copy via NetGalley. It releases on July 1, 2025.
April 16, 2025
Tash was thrilled when the dramatic rights to her surprise sleeper-hit feminist novel were snapped up by an indie film studio. Then the Hollywood shuffle happens and her smart, literary epic ends up in the hands of a huge action-movie franchise director. This big shot director wants the “dirty version” of her books, demanding Tash transform the strong, complex warriors she created into eye candy. The studio assigns golden boy intimacy coordinator Caleb to help her add spice. Tash resents him at first but the longer they collaborate, the more she starts to fall for him. Soon they’re doing more than just writing, but then it falls apart. Can Tash find a narrative to save the show? I really enjoyed this quick, fun romance read. I loved Tash’s character and how hard she fought for her feminist retelling of her novel. I really enjoyed getting into her head, understanding her motivations and connecting with her through the story. I loved watching her slowly fall for Caleb, who was pretty dreamy himself.
May 8, 2025
Such a fun and easy read, I ended up finishing it in one sitting without even meaning to. The writing flows so well and it never felt like a slog to get through, which is exactly what I needed. It’s one of those books that pulls you in straight away and keeps you hooked.
I really loved the characters, they felt properly three dimensional, which isn’t always something you get with romance books. They were relatable and had a good bit of depth, and the chemistry between them actually made sense. Even the side characters added something to the story without feeling like extras just thrown in.
The premise was great too. It had just enough tension to keep things interesting, but overall it was such a feel-good read. If you’re in a bit of a reading slump or just fancy something light but well done, this one’s definitely worth picking up.
I really loved the characters, they felt properly three dimensional, which isn’t always something you get with romance books. They were relatable and had a good bit of depth, and the chemistry between them actually made sense. Even the side characters added something to the story without feeling like extras just thrown in.
The premise was great too. It had just enough tension to keep things interesting, but overall it was such a feel-good read. If you’re in a bit of a reading slump or just fancy something light but well done, this one’s definitely worth picking up.
September 3, 2025
FINALLY A BOOK WHERE THE FEMALE MAIN CHARACTER IS IN THE WRONG AND HAS FRIENDS THAT ACTUALLY TELL HER SHE’S IN THE WRONG!!!!!!
This was so fun. Don’t let the title be misleading because honestly this really wasn’t too spicy at all
These characters were made for each other.
The story follows Tash. Tash is an author whose bookrights have been sold to turn into a tv series. This itself has her nothing but excited! She can’t wait to see her work produced and on a screen! That is until she finds out her producer is planning on changing her whole story to make it more “sexy”. This, in Tash’s eyes, completely takes away from the whole point of her book. She wrote it based around a lot of her personal experiences. Therefore she has a connection to her story. Her producer trying to change it, does not sit well with her at all. And it gets even worse when he sends a hot, charming, tall, intimacy coordinator her way, to help her rewrite her own script. At first she can’t stand him. Who does he think he is? She isn’t just going to change her whole story just because some men want it to contain more boobs and sex.
But after spending some time with him, she slowly starts to realize he might not be so bad after all! And he might actually just have her best interests at heart!
Tash is a strong female character with a big opinion and a mind of her own. she doesn’t let people walk over her. She is not afraid to say what she thinks and to stick up for herself which is something I very much admire!
Caleb is at first a very secretive guy who we don’t know too much about but the more you read the more he opens up. He lost his mom at a very young age which really explains a lot about his character. He is honestly the definition of a green flag! He tries everything to help Tash and be on her side but also encourages her to be her own person. I love these two together so much!
A huge thank you to NetGalley, HarperAudio Adult and the author of this book Turner Gable Kahn, for allowing me the opportunity to listen to this ALC!!
This was so fun. Don’t let the title be misleading because honestly this really wasn’t too spicy at all
These characters were made for each other.
The story follows Tash. Tash is an author whose bookrights have been sold to turn into a tv series. This itself has her nothing but excited! She can’t wait to see her work produced and on a screen! That is until she finds out her producer is planning on changing her whole story to make it more “sexy”. This, in Tash’s eyes, completely takes away from the whole point of her book. She wrote it based around a lot of her personal experiences. Therefore she has a connection to her story. Her producer trying to change it, does not sit well with her at all. And it gets even worse when he sends a hot, charming, tall, intimacy coordinator her way, to help her rewrite her own script. At first she can’t stand him. Who does he think he is? She isn’t just going to change her whole story just because some men want it to contain more boobs and sex.
But after spending some time with him, she slowly starts to realize he might not be so bad after all! And he might actually just have her best interests at heart!
Tash is a strong female character with a big opinion and a mind of her own. she doesn’t let people walk over her. She is not afraid to say what she thinks and to stick up for herself which is something I very much admire!
Caleb is at first a very secretive guy who we don’t know too much about but the more you read the more he opens up. He lost his mom at a very young age which really explains a lot about his character. He is honestly the definition of a green flag! He tries everything to help Tash and be on her side but also encourages her to be her own person. I love these two together so much!
A huge thank you to NetGalley, HarperAudio Adult and the author of this book Turner Gable Kahn, for allowing me the opportunity to listen to this ALC!!
July 15, 2025
This book was so well written… in a few critical ways.
1. Profound metaphors… I won’t spoil anything but art imitating life imitating art. Layers of complex relationships and characters. (More on that)
2. Beautifully written. So many sentences made such an impression that I found myself reading them multiple times to sit and absorb their splendor.
3. Tash: our feminist lead character was extraordinarily relevant that even though I’ve been married for 15 years I instantly related to the struggles, the anger and pride of finding love as a feminist. I see other reviews not liking her but cmon… she’s flawed. We all are flawed. I too sometimes jump to conclusions to protect my ego or pride. Tash is an extraordinary character that is well written and relevant.
5 stars!!!!
1. Profound metaphors… I won’t spoil anything but art imitating life imitating art. Layers of complex relationships and characters. (More on that)
2. Beautifully written. So many sentences made such an impression that I found myself reading them multiple times to sit and absorb their splendor.
3. Tash: our feminist lead character was extraordinarily relevant that even though I’ve been married for 15 years I instantly related to the struggles, the anger and pride of finding love as a feminist. I see other reviews not liking her but cmon… she’s flawed. We all are flawed. I too sometimes jump to conclusions to protect my ego or pride. Tash is an extraordinary character that is well written and relevant.
5 stars!!!!
July 21, 2025
My first time reading a chick-lit about a man-hating woman and it felt so right. A very sweet and light story with dreamy landscapes and steamy tensions. I was lucky enough to meet the author a few times and hear about her writing process so it was a ton of fun finally getting to read her work 🫶
December 27, 2025
⭐️3.5 Stars⭐️
The Dirty Version by Turner Gable Kahn is a fun debut romance that looks into adapting a novel for a television series. You would think all your dreams have come true when your book is going to be on the screen but no, not exactly for one author! Tash is the author of a best selling feminist dystopian novel called The Colony and the director wants a ‘dirty version’ of her story.
Caleb the handsome ‘Intimacy coordinator’ is hired to help Tash write the new sexy scenes. Tash is outraged and tries to stall.
I had no idea that an intimacy coordinator was a thing, what an eye opener! As you can imagine Tash feels bitter and resents Caleb but they have to work together…..
An interesting plot and a view of how Hollywood exploits women’s sexuality in the film industry.
Don’t expect any spice in this one despite the book title. It was wonderfull to be transported to the dreamy coast of Florida. Tash is a strong character and a tad frustrating at times but I really adored Caleb.
An enjoyable and insightful summer romance read that balanced humour, romance and gender politics really well.
Publication Date 01 September 2025
Publisher Verve Books
Thank you so much New South Books Australia for a copy of the book.
The Dirty Version by Turner Gable Kahn is a fun debut romance that looks into adapting a novel for a television series. You would think all your dreams have come true when your book is going to be on the screen but no, not exactly for one author! Tash is the author of a best selling feminist dystopian novel called The Colony and the director wants a ‘dirty version’ of her story.
Caleb the handsome ‘Intimacy coordinator’ is hired to help Tash write the new sexy scenes. Tash is outraged and tries to stall.
I had no idea that an intimacy coordinator was a thing, what an eye opener! As you can imagine Tash feels bitter and resents Caleb but they have to work together…..
An interesting plot and a view of how Hollywood exploits women’s sexuality in the film industry.
Don’t expect any spice in this one despite the book title. It was wonderfull to be transported to the dreamy coast of Florida. Tash is a strong character and a tad frustrating at times but I really adored Caleb.
An enjoyable and insightful summer romance read that balanced humour, romance and gender politics really well.
Publication Date 01 September 2025
Publisher Verve Books
Thank you so much New South Books Australia for a copy of the book.
July 3, 2025
Thank you, @TurnerGableKahn and @HarperPerennial for my free advanced copy. #harperperennialpartner
Natasha “Tash” Grover excitedly sold the dramatic rights to her hit feminist novel to an indie film studio. What she didn’t expect was for her work to end up in the hands of a huge action movie franchise director who plans to sex up her novel into a steamy television series. In an effort to maintain some control over her work, she is forced to work closely with an intimacy coordinator on those spicy scenes. Soon, Tash is in the middle of her own enemies-to-lovers romance.
I really enjoyed this cute romcom, especially since enemies to lovers is one of my favorite romcom tropes. Despite the title, this isn’t a particularly dirty romance though, in case that’s what you’re looking for. It does have a compelling storyline and good characters though. And it’s available for free with #KindleUnlimited.
Natasha “Tash” Grover excitedly sold the dramatic rights to her hit feminist novel to an indie film studio. What she didn’t expect was for her work to end up in the hands of a huge action movie franchise director who plans to sex up her novel into a steamy television series. In an effort to maintain some control over her work, she is forced to work closely with an intimacy coordinator on those spicy scenes. Soon, Tash is in the middle of her own enemies-to-lovers romance.
I really enjoyed this cute romcom, especially since enemies to lovers is one of my favorite romcom tropes. Despite the title, this isn’t a particularly dirty romance though, in case that’s what you’re looking for. It does have a compelling storyline and good characters though. And it’s available for free with #KindleUnlimited.
June 25, 2025
A closed-door romance with a fun title that's not as dirty as you might think. Welcome to the book world, debut author Turner Gable Kahn!
*Thank you Harper Perennial for sharing this title with me.
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*Thank you Harper Perennial for sharing this title with me.
Follow me on
✿KTBookReviews✿Instagram✿Twitter✿Facebook✿TikTok
July 1, 2025
This rom com will have you laughing out loud with the banter between characters! This book follows Tash, an author, who has recently sold the rights to her book for a television show. The producer chosen is not her cup of tea and she is battling trying to keep the show true to her story while not losing the right to have a say at all. In comes Caleb, a sex designer, assigned to guide Tash in the way the producers want to go. And cue the battle. This has a miscommunication trope that is done extremely well and also an enemies to lovers element that you can't help but cheer for! The characters are funny, the story is very realistic, and it is just a fun palate cleanser! Grab your copy and sit by the pool! It is a quick and easy read and perfect for Summer!
**This review is sponsored by Harper Perennial. I was sent an ARC in exchange for an honest review**
**This review is sponsored by Harper Perennial. I was sent an ARC in exchange for an honest review**
July 6, 2025
A writer and an intimacy co-ordinator work together to hone a script for an online streaming adaptation of a feminist novel. SIZZLE ENSUES. I absolutely loved the build and ultimate resolution of the tension, our lead characters are both sexy-smart and the dialogue is devoid of cringe. Loved it.
January 26, 2025
Read this book for:
📚Workplace romance
📚Author x Intimacy coordinator
📚Forced proximity
📚Enemies to lovers
📚Grumpy/ Sunshine
Synopsis
Tash never imagined her fiercely feminist dystopian novel, the colony, would end up in the hands of a Hollywood action director bent on turning her nuanced characters into mere eye candy. Enter Caleb, the annoyingly confident intimacy coordinator tasked with turning her characters’ fiery battles into fiery romances. Determined to protect her creative vision, Tash resists his suggestions at every turn…until their brainstorming sessions turn into late-night confessions, and their work sparks a chemistry hotter than anything she’s ever written. When professional boundaries blur into passion, Tash is forced to rewrite the rules of both her script and her heart before everything she’s worked for goes up in flames.
My Thoughts
The storyline of this book was an absolute delight, filled with a slow-burn romance that kept me hooked from beginning to end. The dynamic between Tash and Caleb was particularly engaging—their creative collaboration sparked palpable tension, and watching their relationship evolve was so much fun. At first glance, based on the blurb and title, I expected a light, fluffy rom-com, but as I delved deeper, I was pleasantly surprised to discover a more profound layer within the story.
The underlying exploration of gender roles in Hollywood, paired with a thoughtful commentary on female sexuality within the film industry, gave the book a richness I didn’t anticipate. Those themes were woven into the story seamlessly, adding depth without feeling heavy-handed. That aspect, especially, stood out to me as incredibly well-written and thought-provoking.
The supporting characters—Janelle, Denise, Rohan, and Ilsa—were another highlight for me.
Despite that, the book overall was such an enjoyable read. The balance between humor, romance, and deeper social commentary worked beautifully, making it more than just a steamy love story. It was equal parts fun and thoughtful, and I’d absolutely recommend it to anyone looking for a romance with a deeper meaning.
I received an e-ARC from NetGalley of this book in exchange for an honest review.
📚Workplace romance
📚Author x Intimacy coordinator
📚Forced proximity
📚Enemies to lovers
📚Grumpy/ Sunshine
Synopsis
Tash never imagined her fiercely feminist dystopian novel, the colony, would end up in the hands of a Hollywood action director bent on turning her nuanced characters into mere eye candy. Enter Caleb, the annoyingly confident intimacy coordinator tasked with turning her characters’ fiery battles into fiery romances. Determined to protect her creative vision, Tash resists his suggestions at every turn…until their brainstorming sessions turn into late-night confessions, and their work sparks a chemistry hotter than anything she’s ever written. When professional boundaries blur into passion, Tash is forced to rewrite the rules of both her script and her heart before everything she’s worked for goes up in flames.
My Thoughts
The storyline of this book was an absolute delight, filled with a slow-burn romance that kept me hooked from beginning to end. The dynamic between Tash and Caleb was particularly engaging—their creative collaboration sparked palpable tension, and watching their relationship evolve was so much fun. At first glance, based on the blurb and title, I expected a light, fluffy rom-com, but as I delved deeper, I was pleasantly surprised to discover a more profound layer within the story.
The underlying exploration of gender roles in Hollywood, paired with a thoughtful commentary on female sexuality within the film industry, gave the book a richness I didn’t anticipate. Those themes were woven into the story seamlessly, adding depth without feeling heavy-handed. That aspect, especially, stood out to me as incredibly well-written and thought-provoking.
The supporting characters—Janelle, Denise, Rohan, and Ilsa—were another highlight for me.
Despite that, the book overall was such an enjoyable read. The balance between humor, romance, and deeper social commentary worked beautifully, making it more than just a steamy love story. It was equal parts fun and thoughtful, and I’d absolutely recommend it to anyone looking for a romance with a deeper meaning.
I received an e-ARC from NetGalley of this book in exchange for an honest review.
July 1, 2025
Thank you to Harper Perennial for sending me a copy of Turner Gable Kahn’s debut novel, The Dirty Version. In this fun, new romance, sparks fly between an author and an intimacy coordinator. The director wants to transform the strong female characters into eye candy, while spicing up the plot. Caleb is brought on as the intimacy coordinator helping Tash write and choreograph the “dirty version.” While they initially hate each other, they soon find they make the perfect pairing on and off the page.
I loved the mix of light-hearted romance and the more serious discussions of gender dynamics and sexuality in Hollywood. It provided a behind the scenes view of adapting a book into a tv series and why plots may change in the process. This was the first book I’ve read with an intimacy coordinator as a main character, but hopefully not the last! I loved following Caleb and Tash’s journey from enemies to lovers and all the witty banter they shared on the way. Overall, this was a quick summer read perfect for sitting poolside or sunning yourself on the beach.
I loved the mix of light-hearted romance and the more serious discussions of gender dynamics and sexuality in Hollywood. It provided a behind the scenes view of adapting a book into a tv series and why plots may change in the process. This was the first book I’ve read with an intimacy coordinator as a main character, but hopefully not the last! I loved following Caleb and Tash’s journey from enemies to lovers and all the witty banter they shared on the way. Overall, this was a quick summer read perfect for sitting poolside or sunning yourself on the beach.
June 22, 2025
An insightful look at the way the male gaze (aka the patriarchy) will do everything it can to dismiss female rage, particularly Hollywood and the way it handles women’s stories. But also, how anger can be both a healthy and unhealthy emotion, with women always penalised for expressing theirs. I loved that all of this was wrapped in a romance and the way love can be subconsciously political. Can you love or trust a man who is statistically women’s greatest threat to safety?
I found the style of writing at start felt a bit like over-describing, but once I got into the story, I was hooked. Tash was such an interesting character. I felt, understood and related to her rage. From the horrible violent date to her ex-fiance who left her after her feminist book with a shocking ending became successful. And yet, she also teetered many times over into self-sabotage with Gabe. I loved her relationship with her best friends, who shared her ire, but also gave her the kick when she needed to start trusting Gabe: ‘You cling to exaggerated principles because you like to be mad. Rage is your go-to, and you're letting your feelings about Men stop you from dealing fairly with one particular man - who legitimately sounds like he was trying.’
I also really loved Gabe and their back and forth, challenging each other as the collaborated. And speaking of the book, boy do I wish it existed.
A sharp and incisive romance tackling gender politics in a very satisfying way.
Thanks to Verve Books and NetGalley for the ARC.
I found the style of writing at start felt a bit like over-describing, but once I got into the story, I was hooked. Tash was such an interesting character. I felt, understood and related to her rage. From the horrible violent date to her ex-fiance who left her after her feminist book with a shocking ending became successful. And yet, she also teetered many times over into self-sabotage with Gabe. I loved her relationship with her best friends, who shared her ire, but also gave her the kick when she needed to start trusting Gabe: ‘You cling to exaggerated principles because you like to be mad. Rage is your go-to, and you're letting your feelings about Men stop you from dealing fairly with one particular man - who legitimately sounds like he was trying.’
I also really loved Gabe and their back and forth, challenging each other as the collaborated. And speaking of the book, boy do I wish it existed.
A sharp and incisive romance tackling gender politics in a very satisfying way.
Thanks to Verve Books and NetGalley for the ARC.
July 26, 2025
So much to love about this book: smart women, sisterhood, self-advocacy, compromise, professional ambition, and of course some awesome romance. Can’t wait for this author’s next project!!!
June 26, 2025
Thanks to Lisa at Verve Books for allowing me to take part in the blog tour for this title.
I love books that go behind the scenes of Hollywood and the writing process, and the fact that the romance happens between an author and her intimacy coordinator on the television adaptation of her novel grabbed my interest. I enjoyed understanding more about what goes on behind the scenes in television adaptations, and as a woman that wrote mainly feminist essays when I was at university, I liked the fact that Tash's novel is feminist. As I progressed through the novel, I was eager to read The Colony, despite it being a fictional novel, because it was used to emphasise various parts of Tash and Caleb's relationship and is referenced quite heavily throughout the narrative.
Tash and Caleb's chemistry is palpable in their verbal sparring, and there are beautifully written passages where it is obvious that they have found a lot of pleasure in each other. Caleb is a breath of fresh air and is quite a feminist book boyfriend. Whilst The Dirty Version deals with the writing of the intimate scenes, I felt the fade to black of closed door bedroom scenes a bit disappointing.
On the whole, this is an important romance in the post-Me Too movement, but I felt it was more dialogue-heavy than anything else.
I love books that go behind the scenes of Hollywood and the writing process, and the fact that the romance happens between an author and her intimacy coordinator on the television adaptation of her novel grabbed my interest. I enjoyed understanding more about what goes on behind the scenes in television adaptations, and as a woman that wrote mainly feminist essays when I was at university, I liked the fact that Tash's novel is feminist. As I progressed through the novel, I was eager to read The Colony, despite it being a fictional novel, because it was used to emphasise various parts of Tash and Caleb's relationship and is referenced quite heavily throughout the narrative.
Tash and Caleb's chemistry is palpable in their verbal sparring, and there are beautifully written passages where it is obvious that they have found a lot of pleasure in each other. Caleb is a breath of fresh air and is quite a feminist book boyfriend. Whilst The Dirty Version deals with the writing of the intimate scenes, I felt the fade to black of closed door bedroom scenes a bit disappointing.
On the whole, this is an important romance in the post-Me Too movement, but I felt it was more dialogue-heavy than anything else.
July 23, 2025
So fun!
June 16, 2025
thank you to verve books and the author for the opportunity to read the dirty version ahead of release and be part of the blog tour!
this was such a sharp, engaging read — equal parts fun and insightful. beneath the witty banter and slow-burn chemistry, it explores power dynamics, and how women navigate male-dominated spaces like hollywood. tash is a brilliant protagonist: complex, guarded, and unapologetically driven, while caleb brings both warmth and tension to the story in a way that feels earned, not forced.
the writing is clever and propulsive, and i appreciated how even the lighter moments didn’t shy away from nuance. if you’re after a smart, satisfying romance with something to say, this one’s worth picking up!
this was such a sharp, engaging read — equal parts fun and insightful. beneath the witty banter and slow-burn chemistry, it explores power dynamics, and how women navigate male-dominated spaces like hollywood. tash is a brilliant protagonist: complex, guarded, and unapologetically driven, while caleb brings both warmth and tension to the story in a way that feels earned, not forced.
the writing is clever and propulsive, and i appreciated how even the lighter moments didn’t shy away from nuance. if you’re after a smart, satisfying romance with something to say, this one’s worth picking up!
April 2, 2025
closed door romances when i catch you closed door romances..
things i liked about this book:
- caleb
- some of the discussions on intimacy coordination
- florida/florida noir/tash’s book
- the brown girl rep
- janelle & denise
things i did not like:
- tash ??? (from page 1 i was genuinely perplexed by her motivations & existence as a professor who somehow has the most rudimentary understanding of feminism possible and the only redeeming moment was the 3rd act breakup acknowledging that she was dead ahh wrong)
- i just felt like everytime tash expressed an opinion, i felt like “look at my professor dawg i am never going to fully understand feminism”
- idk i know i especially love to jokingly harp on closed door romances but its a little wild that this is called the dirty version and we hella are reading the clean version bc theres no open door scenes (this is more personal preference)
- caleb’s clothing descriptions
- it took me a bit to get into the writing style and i think though I was able to resist the urge to dnf, it wasn’t entirely for me bc it felt more detached than I usually feel reading in third person
overall, it was alright, not very memorable but a solid debut for people into closed door romances!
thank you so much to netgalley & harper perennial for this arc to review!
things i liked about this book:
- caleb
- some of the discussions on intimacy coordination
- florida/florida noir/tash’s book
- the brown girl rep
- janelle & denise
things i did not like:
- tash ??? (from page 1 i was genuinely perplexed by her motivations & existence as a professor who somehow has the most rudimentary understanding of feminism possible and the only redeeming moment was the 3rd act breakup acknowledging that she was dead ahh wrong)
- i just felt like everytime tash expressed an opinion, i felt like “look at my professor dawg i am never going to fully understand feminism”
- idk i know i especially love to jokingly harp on closed door romances but its a little wild that this is called the dirty version and we hella are reading the clean version bc theres no open door scenes (this is more personal preference)
- caleb’s clothing descriptions
- it took me a bit to get into the writing style and i think though I was able to resist the urge to dnf, it wasn’t entirely for me bc it felt more detached than I usually feel reading in third person
overall, it was alright, not very memorable but a solid debut for people into closed door romances!
thank you so much to netgalley & harper perennial for this arc to review!
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