The Southern Submission

Southern Gods #4

by Adrian R. Hale

Payton

Managing the PR and tech departments of Olympus International leaves me with zero time for relationships, which is fine since running scenes with subs is more than enough to satisfy my unique desires. I don’t crave the pretty wife or perfect life my family seems so intent on finding for me. The bachelor lifestyle suits me. When Ainsley Montgomery cannonballs into my life needing a favor, it presents the ultimate opportunity for us to both get what we She pretends to be my girlfriend to get my family off my back, and I solve her little tech problem. But the longer the charade goes on, the more I want her. If this captivating woman would allow me past her prickly exterior, she’d discover I’m willing to sell my soul for her. The only issue is she’s keeping secrets. Secrets that once revealed, could mean I’ll lose more than just my soul.

Ainsley

I just want to make it as a legitimate journalist. I’m busting my butt at a second-rate paper to get by, but when my laptop goes on the fritz and threatens my last-minute deadline, I’m about to give up entirely… Until Payton-freaking-Olsen fixes it and saves my story. Life has taught me nothing is free, so I insist on repaying him for this unconventional favor. I just wasn’t expecting the arrangement he proposed. I can’t stand the entitled, infuriatingly cocky man who seems to revel in my discomfort, but I don’t have a better option. When I find out the smiley billionaire has a dark side, I’m craving him like I never thought possible. Just as he starts breaking down my walls and has me questioning what I really want, my past threatens to ruin me again. When the truth comes out, I’ll have to decide if pursuing the career of my dreams is worth losing the man of them.

Genres: Fake Dating, BDSM, He Falls First, Contemporary Romance

460 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 1, 2024

About the author

Adrian R. Hale is an enthusiastic lover of life who embraces big dreams, both for herself and in her books. She writes spicy contemporary romance featuring alpha heroes with secret cinnamon roll sides and dream-chasing heroines. There’s always a little angst, a lot of swoon, and all the steam lovingly sprinkled into her stories.

Adrian loves fast cars, baking sweet treats, hiking, and is affectionately known as an agent of chaos to those closest to her. A self-professed caffeine addict, she loves a good latte, and will never turn down a tea party, especially in celebration of little milestones. When she’s not writing or reading, Adrian can be found cuddling with her five dogs and husband, watching the 2005 Pride & Prejudice, DIY renovating her home near Austin, Texas, or listening to Taylor Swift.

She loves hearing from her readers at adrianrhale@gmail.com or www.Facebook.com/adrianrhaleauthor.

Reviews

[Book Chick · Rating 5 out of 5]

Where do I even begin? Payton is everything! This man has become one of my top MMCs. Who doesn’t love a golden retriever with a dirty mouth?

The Southern Submission is a Posideon retelling and follows Payton and Ainsley. Payton is the middle Olsen brother and the family’s peacekeeper, and Adrian saved the best for last! I like degradation kink, but hot damn, did Payton make me love it. The mouth on this man! Emoji

I loved the banter between these two! It was such a pleasure watching these two grow and fall for each other. Ainsley is the grumpiest black cat ever and it was heartbreaking learning her story but so satisfying seeing her overcome and thrive. Payton is made for her and the way he helps her through her issues is hot. Yes, daddy Payton!

Favorite quote: “I like a challenge, and, oh boy, is this woman a f*cking challenge.” She really is, and is probably the only one that could’ve tamed Payton.

I could not put this book down! This series is one of the best billionaire series I’ve read because of the world that Adrian has created. It feels real and I want to live there and have my own Olsen brother. This is book four in the series but can totally be read as a standalone. It’s available now in KU!

🏊 Billionaire
👙 Age gap
🏊 Fake dating
👙 Golden retriever x black cat
🏊 He falls first
👙 Different worlds
💻 Cyberstalking
🐨 Secret identities
🐝DSM/Kink
📰 Touch her and die

[Calypso✨ · Rating 5 out of 5]

✨The Southern Submission by Adrian R. Hale is a captivating blend of steamy romance and emotional depth. This book explores the complexities of love, trust, and vulnerability in a way that feels both raw and authentic. The chemistry between the Payton and Ainsley is electric,🔥and their journey is filled with passion and tender moments that keep you hooked from start to finish.

Ainsley has a computer problem and Payton helps fix it. When Ainsley asks what she can do to repay him, Payton uses this opportunity to get his family off his back and have Ainsley to be his fake girlfriend.🤌🏽When things get real, secrets that Ainsley hold come to light. They are secrets that could break what Payton and Ainsley built.🤭 This book was literally HOT!🥵

Ainsley is a such a strong independent woman who show such vulnerability in the book which I loved. ❤️‍🩹Payton is such an amazing character. Helping and being there for Ainsley warms my heart. 🥹I love the witty banter, steamy scenes, character development and the epic twist. I just couldn’t put the book down. 🙌🏽

🔱It’s a book that will leave you thinking about the characters long after the final page. I recommend the entire series!✨

Thanks you so must to the Author Adrian R Hale for this ARC read.

[Tiffany · Rating 5 out of 5]

"When she looks my way again, the fading sunlight catches on her hazel eyes, turning them amber and gold, highlighting a small scattering of light freckles across her cheeks. I find myself smiling at the constellation marking summer on her skin."

5 out of 5 Stars
4 out of 5 Spice

I want to thank Adrian R. Hale for blessing me with a spot on her amazing Adrian's Good Girls Street Team. Because of that, I was again blessed with an ARC. This has been a serious journey. If you have read my previous reviews of her books, you know that I had never read her books before and wanted to take a chance on a new author. Boy, I am so thankful for taking a chance to sign up for her ARC.

The Southern Gods series comes to an end in such a beautiful way.

We have finally reached the final Southern God of this amazing series, the middle brother Payton Olsen. We finally get to meet the final Goddess of the series Ainsley Montgomery. Let me tell you when you read this story, you will simply fall in love with Payton who has the personality of a smiley golden retriever, and Ainsley with the personality of a feisty black cat. The banter between the two is so cute that I couldn't get enough.

Get ready to fall in love with this story. Adrian R. Hale did an amazing job of ending her Southern Gods series. Everything was beautifully written. Both characters were amazing and fit perfectly together. They each were what the other one needed in their lives.

I can't wait to see what future projects Adrian has in store for us readers.

[Jenn · Rating 5 out of 5]

This might be the fastest I've ever read a 400+ page book—it was just that good!

I had so many thoughts about Payton throughout this series, like who he would end up with (I was WAY off on that one 😂) and who he would be outside of Olympus International. He’s like the world’s spiciest cinnamon roll, and I wanted 👏 a 👏 bite 👏.

Ainsley might be one of my favorite FMCs of all time. She’s prickly, but once you get to know her and understand her story, you realize it’s a means of protection, not just her being mean. She and Payton balanced each other perfectly! ⚖️

I loved seeing all the previous characters and the surprises in this book. I definitely think this is the spiciest of the three, but it feels essential to their story and character development. 🥹

And that glimpse into the next series!?! There’s no one I trust more to write a hockey series than Adrian. 🏒 It’s going to be ✨amazing✨.

TYSM for the ARC, Adrian! And for constantly blowing my mind that you’re not from Georgia because you write it so well! 🍑

[an6ra · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed the banter between Payton and Ainsley 😄 and the plot twist near the end was very predictable, I knew that thing was coming since book 1 🙈

[Annette ~ wellstothebellsbee · Rating 2 out of 5]

The following review contains my personal opinions.

After further consideration, I updated my rating to accurately reflect 2.25/2.5⭐ instead of rounding up to 3⭐.

STORY LIKES
⭐⭐✨

SPICE
🌶️ medium(ish)

RECOMMEND
💳 ***

Reading The Southern Submission by Adrian R. Hale was like being becalmed at sea with barely a ripple in sight and with no breeze to propel the story forward, despite Poseidon's dominating presence. It was a frustrating experience waiting for the story to pick up again.

As the final book in the Southern Gods series, it left me feeling disappointed. The story and the characters didn't hit the mark for me. There's a fine line between being a "brat" and being outright "bitchy." Unfortunately, the FMC, intended to be a "black cat," crossed that line too often for my liking and came off as a "bitch," which made her unlikable. Additionally, Harlowe, my favorite FMC in the series, was transformed from a strong, independent woman into a pushy, manipulative sister-in-law. This drastic personality shift served only to push Payton and the FMC together. The Southern Submission is the spiciest book of the series, but it felt forced. The spice wasn’t enough to mask the rest of its shortcomings.

The ending was as underwhelming as a wave that promises a tsunami but fizzles out upon reaching the shore. The hacking incident involving the Olsen brothers' corporation, Olympus, was abruptly resolved and became a missed opportunity for a gripping climax. Though the story sets up the next series, it missed the mark in concluding the Southern Gods series. Much like Poseidon's notorious temper, the story takes advantage of its characters, tossing them around to fit the plot’s needs rather than letting them develop naturally.

***Despite my disappointment, I believe readers will find The Southern Submission enjoyable. If you give it a read, I hope you enjoy it more than I did.***

Thank you for giving me the opportunity to read The Southern Submission in advance in exchange for an honest review.

[Dahlia’s Library · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC REVIEW

⭐⭐⭐⭐,75
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
The Southern Submission is like Southern Gossip Girl, but with a lot more spice.
Meet Payton, the middle Olsen brother (you might recognize his family from the previous books). He’s a man who spends his life working—working, working, and... oh yes, more working. That is, until his beloved sister-in-law, Harlow, decides he needs a girlfriend or wife to bring some of the happiness his two brothers have found in their families.
Ainsley Montgomery is a journalist at a small Atlanta newspaper. One Saturday, while working on an article at Unicorn Coffee Shop, her computer suddenly crashes. Enter Payton, the charming Southern gentleman, who offers to help fix her tech issue—in exchange for a favor. When Harlowe shows up at their meeting and announces that it’s a setup for a blind date with another woman, Payton quickly decides to collect his favor and asks Ainsley to pretend to be his girlfriend to get out of the mess his sister-in-law has created.
At times, I’ve honestly wondered why Payton is so drawn to Ainsley, especially when she’s so cold toward him when he hasn’t done anything to deserve it. I understand that her resistance stems from past trauma, especially with men who remind her of the one who hurt her, but I still don’t fully grasp why she doesn’t just say no instead of being rude. Despite this, Payton sees something deeper in her and refuses to take her behavior personally. The chemistry between them is undeniable, and the "Fuck it" moment is nothing short of electric.
Payton's patience and emotional intelligence shine through as he helps Ainsley see her own worth. He’s determined to care for her and love her, despite how their relationship began, and he’s ready to prove it at every turn.
Their play time moments are undeniably sexy, and I love how Ainsley eventually lets go of her need for control, allowing Payton to give her exactly what she needs. And, of course, Daddy Payton and his Jacob’s ladder bring some very steamy moments.

[Mars Rads · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars

This is book 4 in the series and the first that I have read. I haqd never read anything by this author, so I was going into this book completely blind. But I was pleasantly surprised with how much I enjoyed this book. Apparently, this is the last book in this series. I have no idea about the first three, but if they are similar to this one, I will definitely enjoy going back to read them. This story has so many of the tropes I enjoy reading. There was fake dating, an age gap, a golden retriever MMC, a black cat FMC, and some amazing spice that will have you clutching your pearls. I enjoyed the depth of the characters and the amazing chemistry they had with each other. Hale did such an amazing job writing the complex dynamics of a D/s relationship and how this dynamic can be so much deeper than just a physical connection.

The characters in this book were written so well and more than what they appeared on the surface. On the surface, it appears that Ainsley is a mega bi*ch and just a huge grump. She can almost seem unlikeable. On the other hand, we have Payton who seems like the lovable golden retriever that would do anything to be helpful. But these characters are not one dimensional. They each have a depth to them and its this that makes them so perfect to each other. When we actually learn Ainsley’s past, we are able to understand why she is the way she is and I felt that I was able to finally connect to her. Payton is such an amazing character and honestly, I think the best doms are actually golden retrievers outside of the bedroom. He has such fantastic dirty talk and I really couldn’t help but love him. The banter between these two was off the charts and their interactions made this story.

This was a decent length story at over 400 pages, but it flowed so nicely. I never felt like I was hung up on any one part. I really enjoyed reading this story and found these two characters to be entertaining. I kept reading and wanted to see where the story headed. The spice was so fantastic and this was such a great spicy romance.

[Kayla · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 🌟 | 4.5 🌶️

Payton’s a billionaire tech genius who’s married to his work. Now the sole single Olsen brother, his sister-in-law is set on him settling down. He’s 100% against her plan & goes to great lengths to prove his point. When he meets Ainsley, she ends up owing him a favour, so they start a fake dating scheme to keep his family off his back.

Payton is absolute perfection. I knew he’d be my favourite Olsen brother & 𝗪𝗢𝗪 he doesn't disappoint. He’s somehow exactly & nothing like I was expecting all at once. He’s the gooey-ist of cinnamon rolls & when it comes to Ainsley there’s nothing he won’t do to take care of her.

Ainsley is a journalist who’s rebuilt her life & career after fleeing an abusive relationship. Now she’s put up wall after wall to keep others out & protect herself. On the outside she uses quick wit & sharp claws to keep people away, but beneath it she's incredibly driven & insanely funny.

Payton & Ainsley are so much fun with their crazy banter. Payton's set on getting through to Ainsley, but she hurls insult after insult to keep him at arms length. Thankfully Payton has some very spicy ways of breaking down her walls. The dom/sub relationship is explained so beautifully. It goes beneath the surface, explaining the deeper meaning behind the kinks.

I also love that Payton isn’t your typical cinnamon roll. Adrian has previously described him as a crunchy cinnamon roll & it’s so accurate. He’s got all the gooey stuff romance readers love but with a slight darkness. It’s a side that rarely comes out, but when it does it’s to protect those he loves. These scenes were so well written. They show the emotion behind Payton's actions & how love is the center of all he does. (To be clear, this isn’t a dark romance. There’s a couple scenes where we see Payton’s darker side, but it’s very minor & minimally graphic.)

If you like fake dating, billionaires, age gap, and 𝗦𝗣𝗜𝗖𝗬 hot scenes, make sure to check out The Southern Submission.

Thanks to Adrian for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.

[Booksnliftsdiary · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rating: 4⭐️/5

“It’s like what Jane Austen wrote in Pride and Prejudice. ‘It is a truth universally acknowledged, that a single man in possession of a good fortune, must be in want of a wife.’”

Payton Olsen, a famous billionaire managing PR and tech at Olympus International, isn’t looking for love, especially with his siblings and their spouses trying to set him up. He first met Ainsley Montgomery, a tough journalist from Charleston, when he sat beside her because it was the only available spot. She wore a pink Yankees baseball cap pulled low over her face, working on her laptop with her blonde hair tied in a low bun held by a pen—something about her casual look struck him as unexpectedly sexy. He smiled when she quietly lost it on her misbehaving laptop, and he came to the rescue. It’s heartbreaking knowing Ainsley hides her hard emotions—control, anger, hostility, hate, and venom—to keep everything good at bay, knowing how easily it could be taken or used against her. They start a fake relationship to keep his family off their backs, but the act quickly turns real as Payton falls for her despite her guarded nature and secrets. Their whirlwind romance, full of public displays of affection, lavish dates, expensive gifts—including an Aston Martin DBX SUV—and intense emotions, brings challenges neither expected, especially as Ainsley struggles with guilt and regret over their unusual pairing.

I loved how this book highlights a great sibling relationship—something rare in billionaire stories. The brothers Payton, Hayes, and Zander felt so real and well done. The story has a modern fairytale vibe with a Fifty Shades edge—age gap, golden retriever x black cat chemistry, he falls first, and different worlds colliding. It also includes cyberstalking, secret identities, and some intense BDSM/kink elements. The fake dating trope turning into a spicy happily ever after was just perfect, and the story flowed so smoothly—it was a blast to read!

A big thanks to Luna Literary Management and Adrian R. Hale for sending me a digital ARC of this book!
—
#lateARCreview

[Nikki Carlson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Picking up in book 4 on Payton, our cocky but levelheaded middle child of the Olsen Brothers, who is also Olympus Internation’s PR manager and security tech. He’s the most devoted to the company than any of his brothers, by taking little to no time off and keeping work, his main priority always.

Now remember Harlowe? Zander’s supermodel booth thing? Well, she makes her mission by completely overstepping to find Payton a girl. She even goes as far as to one day having him meet her at a coffee shop so they can ‘talk’.

Add this coffee shop, as he waits for his nightmare sister-in-law, he helps acute blonde girl with her computer before she has a complete crash out due to computer failure. So in Payton fashion, he tells her she owes him one. But once Harlowe shows up blindsiding him with news, she was setting him up with her friend, he pulls in his favor to the blonde he just helped.

Ainsley Montgomery, a staff reporter for the gazette, which is a small community paper. She is grumpy, annoyed, rude, and keen on insulting Payton for smiling too much and being so full of himself. When Payton pulls her on the spot to fulfill his favor, she has only seconds to go along with it or be the two-faced journalist he implied she was, so she dives in.

These two divulge into a fake relationship which leads to Payton‘s secret life becoming the main focus of her interest. And Ainsley and her indestructible walls being Payton‘s goal to breakdown. But once broken down, he may not like what he finds.


I really enjoyed this book, especially Ainsley and her ability to let down her walls for Payton, or own up to her mistakes. Seeing our favorite Olsen ladies pop-up and support of Ainsley, especially Paige, and finally getting the closure we have been anticipating for the Olsen business. This was such a great book. I highly recommend.

Adrian wrote a true dream of a series, and you will love this if you are more of a contemporary romance girl!

[huriana · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC - Firstly I would like to thank Adrian R.Hale and the team for allowing me a chance to firstly read this novel


OMG, this book blew me away. Despite it being the 4th book in the series I started out with an uncertain mind however grew incredilously fond of the writing in this book.

From the chemistry between the FMC and the MMC and also the new found understanding to kinks that somewhat brought interest into my own life it's amazing that I now have this same kink !!! and I am absolutely here for it.

I love how Payton is not only overly drop dead gorgeous but the way the author has presented him in this novel has me salivating for more.
I love the insight into the mind of the confident billionaire and understanding how he feels throughout the story. And by golly gosh don't we love the possessive hunk willing to burn the world for their woman.

As for the FMC it's also amazing to feel a connection with the FMC in any story as it draws you in more and wanting to just jump straight into the book. I love how Ainsley is a "spitfire" using her anger as a means to protect herself aswell as learning the ways Payton just brings everything about her to light not wanting to dim her fire but to feed it and when its low and exhausted he allows her to have a break, gather herself and acknowledge what she needs in that given time.

Its also amazing to learn of the basics of "aftercare" during the intimate times and ladies we really need to find ourselves a Payton of our own !!!!

Over all this book gave me chills, made me giggle and furthermore had me itching to read more and fast.
I couldn't get enough.

Once again thank you for the ARC, I absolutely loved this book and am itching to read the others in this series

[Michelle | the_unexpected_reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC Review: The Southern Submission
Stars: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️

Adrian Hale delivers a masterclass in blending fiery chemistry, emotional depth, and gripping storytelling in The Southern Submission. This book is an absolute page-turner with a perfect balance of spice, wit, and heart.

Payton Olsen is a refreshing twist on the billionaire trope—a golden retriever personality cloaked in the commanding aura of a Dom. His charm and depth make him impossible not to root for. On the other hand, Ainsley Montgomery is raw, relatable, and fiercely independent, making her the perfect foil to Payton’s smooth confidence. Watching these two navigate their fake relationship-turned-all-too-real connection is an emotional rollercoaster you won’t want to end.

The spice level is absolutely on point, but what truly sets this story apart is the unexpected plot twist that keeps you guessing. Adrian Hale doesn’t just deliver a romance; she builds a world of secrets, tension, and vulnerability that makes every interaction between Payton and Ainsley sizzle with authenticity.

I especially loved how Hale layered in Ainsley’s struggles with self-worth and career ambition against Payton’s journey of self-discovery. Their growth as individuals and a couple is beautifully interwoven with the central storyline, making their romance feel both aspirational and deeply human.

Whether you’re here for the chemistry, the darkly alluring undertones, or the emotional payoffs, The Southern Submission is a must-read. Highly recommend it for fans of spicy, emotionally charged romances with complex, unforgettable characters!

Thank you to @adrianrhale for providing me with an ARC to review! Hands down one of my fave reads of the year! 🥰

[Lauren Curley · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ - 5 Stars
🌶🌶🌶 - Spice Level

Ainsley meets Payton at a unicorn coffee shop where he's supposed to meet his meddling sister in law who was featured in her own book in this series previously. The SIL is trying to set up Payton with any available skirt in her friends list. Payton wants to say no, but it's hard. So he cooks up a story that Ainsley, who he just met and fixed her computer issue, is his girlfriend. Ainsley owes him a favor and is going to be his fake girlfriend for 6 months. Ainsley isn't thrilled and bucks him at every turn, but she does this as she's denying her attraction to Daddy Payton. Daddy Payton can't even have a conversation without throwing in sexual innuendos. He's a dominant and has observed her submissive side even if she doesn't see it.

They finally have their F it moment after some pretending, and boy did Daddy Payton deliver her some wild submission. Payton is all in to build her back up after her last traumatic boyfriend years ago, who has yet to get over her. With the Billionaire Payton and Ainsley in the spotlight due to the arrangement, the ex-boyfriend and becomes unhinged. Payton steps up to protect what's HIS! This book was really great as Ainsley comes into her secure self. You can't help but applaud her when she finally grows that backbone and tells the ex take a hike. Little do both Ainslsy and Payton know how connected they were through the ex, but that connection will help protect from the ex. I highly recommend this interconnected stand-alone. Even if it's just the Jacob's Ladder 🍆 and Daddy k1nk that gets you intrigued to read.

Thank you, author, for the ARC!
Release Date: December 12, 2024

[Nicole R Snyder · Rating 5 out of 5]

Review:
Adrian R. Hale's The Southern Submission
5 ⭐️'s

Tropes:
● Billionaire
● Age Gap
● Fake Dating
● Golden Retriever x Black Cat
● He Falls First
● Different Worlds
● Cyberstalking
● Secret Identities
● BDSM/Kink
● Touch Her and Die

Adrian R. Hale brought the heat with The Southern Gods fourth book The Southern Submission. Between Ainsley our bratty smart mouth FMC with her back-talk and sass alongside our kinky dirty-talking MMC Payton they are surely a force to be reckoned with. With loose ties and correlations to the Greek Gods and Goddesses, this story is quite compelling. Ainsley a journalist in Atlanta with a dramatic relationship past causing her to have a guarded heart and Payton Atlanta's most eligible bachelor and workaholic billionaire/part owner of Olympus alongside his brothers, take us along quite a ride throughout their story. If you love dirty talk and kinks then this story is for you. There are definite big delvopments and plot twists along the way in this story that keep you on your toes as Payton and Ainsley's arrangement becomes more real by the day. I loved the characters banter and passion throughout the story. They had sparks flying from day one which I knew would make for a great read, which only intensified as the pages kept turning. Hale brought so much life to her characters, thier relationship and the moments they had together. If your ready to play and follow Ainsley and Paytons story then check out The Southern Submission by Adriane R. Hale.

[Tiffany W · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the final book in the Southern Gods series and we finally get Payton’s book and it was worth the wait! I love a broody billionaire, and Payton gave me everything I needed, also let me say I’ve read a lot of romance books and I think the best doms also make the best golden-retriever boyfriends!

Ainsley I know she has had a very rough few years, however I have to be honest. I know she was written as a classic black-cat FMC, but boy was she was super unlikable to me for most of the book. Butttt the chemistry and banter between her and Payton were so good that I was willing to overlook her attitude.

I enjoyed both of their individual backstories. They each had secrets and insecurities, which added depth to their characters and their romantic journey and another reason I was able to forgive Ainsley’s bratty attitude . Lastly y’all know how much I love whirlwind romances—clearly, so did these two. I’ll admit I was surprised by how easily Ainsley’s secrets were forgiven, but in the end, everyone got what they deserved, especially Donovan.

One thing I really appreciated about this book was how the epilogue essentially started at Chapter 48. I’m so glad it was numbered like a regular chapter instead of just being labeled as an “epilogue.” Personally, I tend to skip epilogues in romance books, and I would’ve missed out on some great moments.

I’ll end this by saying, I love about this series, while the books technically can be read as stand-alone , I highly recommend starting from the beginning because Payne and Hayes are absolute perfection and hurry up so you can get just as excited as I am for the upcoming hockey romance series!

[Readsbyraz · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Southern Submission is the last and fourth book within the Southern God's Series by the amazing @adrianrhale and can be read as a stand-alone novel. I recommend reading the other books, though, as these Olsen brothers sure know how to entertain 😉.

I will start this review by saying that this book was fantastic and a great ending to an incredible book universe that has a running storyline throughout all four books that deals with the running of the Olympus empire. This plot weaves everything together really well and allows for each book to be read on its own if need be.

Our characters in this story give off cinnamon roll male X black cat female energy as they delve into a fake relationship that is beneficial to both of them. I enjoyed reading the banter between these two as well as their insane chemistry. (Ms Hale sure knows how to write some spicy scenes 🔥).

Without spoiling much more of this story, we get to see all the precious characters with some surprises, too (Ahem, that glimpse into the next series. SIGN ME UP ASAP!!!).

Having recently joined this beautiful authors' street team, I would just like to say thank you for this ARC, I really enjoy being here with everyone.

This dynamite read is releasing tomorrow, 12th December, and I hope you all grab a copy as it's just so good!

[Joey | Fiction.and.Friction · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was fan-f*cking-tastic and easily takes a spot on my top faves of the year. The writing style was so good - realistic, on trend, and conversational. I am weak for authors that SHOW you instead of TELL you. It makes the experience much more enjoyable for my neurospicy brain. A huge thank you to @adrianrhale and @lunaliterary.management for the ARC!

‘The Southern Submission’ has ALL the tropes and I loved every one of them. I don’t think I’ve ever made so many highlights in a book. Daddy Payton's dirty talk was SO. HOT. and it was plen-ti-ful. Payton turned out to be the biggest Alpha Roll - the kind that brings you breakfast in bed after breaking it the night before. There were parts of him that I was definitely not expecting (wink wink nudge nudge).

At first, I thought Ainsley sucked big time. The hostility towards Payton was unfounded and cruel. I couldn’t understand why he was still so hard up for her when she was so unnecessarily mean to him. It was amusing for a minute, but after awhile it got old…until about 50% in. Then it was “ohhh, now I get it”. It all makes sense now.

Once these two really connected and Payton finally managed to break down Ainsley’s walls, their chemistry was so good - in and out of the bedroom. He wants nothing more than to take care of her, and she is reluctantly trying to let him in.

And that twist? I did not see it coming! It had shades of a certain 2000s TV show, and my millennial heart absolutely loved it. I have so many thoughts on it but don’t want to spoil anything! Slide into my DMs if you’re dying to chat about it, too.

The Easter Egg for the next series?! I cannot wait for that one!

Final note: Harlowe needs to mind her own beeswax.

Gonna go re-read The Princess Bride now #IYKYK

[BeccaFay · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ainsley Montgomery is as prickly as they come. Payton Olsen is the exact opposite. She’s a journalist who’s hiding a BIG secret. He’s part of the Olsen family who are very powerful in Atlanta.

Ainsley has written many articles about the Olsen family much to their dismay, some even harmful to them and their dealings.
One day Payton meets his sister in law at a cafe (where she plans to blindside him with a date setup). There he meets Ainsley. She’s working on an article when her laptop stops working. Payton is a tech genius who offers to fix it for her, which he does. When his sister in law shows up, he convinces Ainsley to be his fake girlfriend to get his meddling SIL off his back. Ainsley only agrees because she thinks she owes him after he fixed her laptop. They sign a contract agreeing to 90 days of being in a fake relationship. Obviously along the way the lines get blurred and it becomes real. Just when things become real is when Ainsley’s ex makes his reappearance to reveal her big secret that threatens to ruin the now real relationship.


I LOVED this book! I haven’t read the first 3 in the series, but it wasn’t necessary. I will for sure go back and read them though. The story was great and the spice was HOT 🥵 the kinks were top tier 🥵 Payton’s piercings 👀 🤤

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️/5

[OneShelfIsNeverEnough · Rating 5 out of 5]

Woah! Daddy's home!

Payton, COO of Olympus International is Atlanta's most eligible bachelor but he's not interested in settling down, finding a wife or starting a family. Ainsley is a struggling journalist, trying to start over and rebuild her career when her laptop decides to through a fit. She's at risk of losing her story when Payton happens to be in the same at the same time and, being the tech wizard he is, swoops in and saves the day on the condition that Ainsley owes Payton a favour in return.

He cashes in his favour in the form of Ainsley fake dating him to put an end to his family's meddling trying to find him a bride. As much as Ainsley despises Payton, she begrudgingly agrees. Payton is so intrigued by Ainsley he's nothing if not persistent to find out what makes this spitfire tick.

Ainsley tries to ignore Payton's innuendoes and advances under the guise of their agreement. What she didn't see coming was Payton's dirty mouth and the kinks she didn't even know she had. Enter "Daddy" and the pair are in flames 🔥

This book was so much hotter than I expected it to be so don't let the pretty cover art fool you! 😂 Personally I think this be book is five chilli spice hot it's that good!!! 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️

[S · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m a huge fan of this series and own physical copies of them all, although you can read them all in KU.

Absolutely love the latest addition to this series! While it may be helpful for context and is recommended to read the rest of the Southern Gods series, I think folks could enjoy almost everything this particularly steamy finale has to offer as a standalone too.

This is a billionaire, fake dating, he falls first BDSM/kink story about the middle Olsen brother. Payton has far more depth to him than I expected, and the banter between him and the FMC, Ainsley is just *chef’s kiss*.

This is a book about love, trust, vulnerability, and has two MCs whose character development and chemistry is lovely to follow. Plenty of spice, and a golden retriever who knows just how to empower his black cat journalist.

Favorite quote with no context: “Please eat your breakfast before I feed you by hand.”

Hale has yet again delivered two strong MCs who sit beautifully within the Southern Gods world, and get their HEA. While this is the finale for the Olsen brothers, I get the distinct impression there are plenty of characters we’ve already met who we’ll be seeing more of in the future!

[Faith · Rating 4 out of 5]

Overall I liked this book, especially considering it's the 4th book in a series I was brand spanking new to, I didn't feel left out at all and I feel like that speaks volumes to Adrian's writing.

The Southern Submission follows Payton Olsen, COO of Olympus International, a big Atlanta company run by he and his 2 brothers, Zander and Hayes, stars of the first books in the series. He's a single guy living the Dom life and loving it while admittedly being a workaholic.
His sister-in-law, Harlowe sets him up on a surprise blind date at a frou frou café, but Payton gets there early, gets a text from his brother clueing him in, and happens to meet Ainsley Montgomery, local smalltime journalist, who just so happens to be trying to write a story on him for the business section. When tech-savvy Payton rescues Ainsley's work laptop and she refuses to accept it as a favor, she agrees to "owe him one" and with that the beginnings of a deal are made... Payton decides to pose Ainsley as his new girlfriend to friends and family alike, to get Harlowe off his back, and in return he agrees to let her write a story on him so long as he gets approval. You'll have to read to see where it goes. 😉

[Fatma · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐⭐⭐⭐

ARC Review

Check TWs

Tropes:
Age Gap (10 Years)
Golden Retriever x Black Cat
Billionaire Romance
Journalist FMC
Soft Dom/sub
Revenge Plot
Fake Dating
Daddy/Brat
One Bed

I love a fake dating & golden retriever x black cat romance, add in a revenge plot with surprises! This book was just that & more!

Ainsley & Payton meet at an unusual cafe, where Payton helps Ainsley with her laptop and in return asks her to be his fake girlfriend to get Payton sister-in-law off his back about dating.

The banter, push & pull dynamic between these two were hilarious, frustrating (in the best way possible), but was exactly what they both needed. Payton needs someone to lower his ego and Ainsley was just that! Constantly challenging him & making him work for attention. Ainsley has been hurt and her defenses are high, but Payton saw right through her act and knew what needed to be done to win Ainsley over.

I wasn't expecting the surprise towards the end, but I loved it! The way it lead to Payton finally getting his revenge was a bonus! I was glad Ainsley & Payton were able to work past this surprise and finally truly be together!

I loved the soft Dom/sub relationship they had. Payton is amazing at giving his girl the attention she needs.

I'm excited for what's to come in this world that Adrian has created! I need Octavius & Luca's stories!

[Ada’s Book Review · Rating 5 out of 5]

✨ I received this book as an ARC for my honest review✨

Rate: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨

The Southern Submission wraps up the Southern Gods series in a way that’s both steamy and emotionally satisfying, with plenty of twists to keep you hooked. It's a rollercoaster of emotions—one minute you’re blushing, and the next you’re gasping. If you’re into billionaire romances, you’ll definitely want to dive into this one.

Let’s talk about Payton—he’s a billionaire tech genius with a cocky side, but also super sweet and totally devoted. When he helped Ainsley with her laptop at a café, I was HOOKED. He’s got that mix of golden retriever energy and determination that makes it impossible not to fall for him. His loyalty to Ainsley is exactly what she needs to drop her guard, and his love for her? Chef’s kiss. This guy doesn’t give up, no matter what.

Ainsley is a powerhouse—sharp wit, a secretive past, and all kinds of walls up. She’s cautious with Payton at first, but as their fake dating turns real, her guard starts to fall and you can't help wanting a HEA for her.

The dynamic between Payton and Ainsley is everything—the banter, the push and pull, the challenges—total grumpy x sunshine vibes that kept me hooked the whole time. And the spice? Payton and Ainsley together is pure fire. From kinky to sweet, they’re delicious together. The chemistry is off the charts, and Payton helps Ainsley explore a side of herself she didn’t even know existed. Their trust? Next level. It's real, raw, and HOT 🔥. Honestly, I'm a sucker for a black cat trope, and this one did not disappoint!

There is a major plot twist but I won’t spoil it for you. I will say that my jaw hit the floor. There’s also a moment where Ainsley and Payton get some much-needed revenge, and it was the perfect cherry on top!

Sad to see this series end, but I’m so excited about the hockey spinoff (Gods of the Ice)

[Emily Knaus · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Southern Submission is the PERFECT read for lovers of romantic suspense with LOTS of delicious spice!

I absolutely adored Ainsley - although she feels broken at times, she is incredibly brave and tenacious. The sass she gave Payton was hilarious, as she didn’t take his BS which was refreshing. Over time, he built her trust and constantly showed up for her - his feelings were truly reflected in his actions. And let me tell you…Payton is the Dom of your dreams. He is patient, kind, and attentive - he truly cares for Ainsley and all of her needs, in and outside of the bedroom.

The romance between Payton and Ainsley is scorching hot! Their chemistry is off the charts, which helps to create incredibly raw and realistic intimacy between the two. Ainsley thrives when someone takes control to get her out of her head and Payton is the perfect man to nurture such vulnerability to provide maximum pleasure.

The pacing of this story was everything that I wanted and more- I was completely sucked in and enamored by each twist and turn. There are some HUGE plot twists that I absolutely did not see coming, which was huge. Nothing about this book felt predicable or forced; things flowed so naturally.

Thank you so incredibly much to Adrian R. Hale and Luna Literary for the early copy! This was a top read of the year for me!

[Rohini · Rating 5 out of 5]

Payton is billionaire and never been interested to be in a relationship. But when his sister-in-law set up a date in a cafe. There he meets Ainsley Montgomery who is a reporter who just become a mystery Payton wants to solve.🤭





And he asks Ainsley to be his fake girlfriend and help him to convince his sister in law.


Their sex was too hot and made me Obsessed with them. The way Payton understands her and reads her like a book is too impressive.


The spice was too food and so hot. I am really a Sucker for great spicy romance and I loved this story more bcoz of it.

Tropes
*Age gap
*Fake dating
*BDSM
*Kinks
*Touch her and die

The spice:🌶🌶🌶🌶
The rating:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

I really love how Payton was so gentle with Ainsely. The way he consoles her, the ways he understands her , the way he tells her to cry out if you are in pain or sad, the way he never makes her feels insecure , the way he is so possessive about her and claims her, the way he makes her understand that he is all hers and she is all his.😭🤌😩💘

[Katherine Stewart · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is book 4 of Adrian’s Southern Gods book but this is my first time reading her work and let me just say, I will be reading books 1-3! Thank you Adrian for giving me the chance to read this.

Payton is a rich business man in Atlanta, Georgia, whose sister-in-law is trying to get him to finally settle down. As the last bachelor among his brothers, Payton is just not interested in tying himself to someone.

Ainsley is a journalist just trying to survive life after dealing with a difficult past. When she meets the handsome Payton, he proposes an arrangement between them to help one another. He helps fix her laptop and she plays along being his fake girlfriend.

Like I said, this is my first time reading anything from Adrian and I just didn’t really know what to expect. I love the fake dating troupe which is what initially interested me but what I got was so much more! I love how hard Payton falls for Ainsley and the way he treats her, especially in the bedroom! Like seriously, this man had one of the filthiest mouths! He made degradation hot🥵 He knew exactly what to say and when to say it! I loved how his words (even though super dirty) was able to empower Ainsley and make her feel better about herself. He was perfect for her and I loved seeing him break down her walls.

[Janiece Dasilva · Rating 4 out of 5]

✨ARC REVIEW✨
The Southern Submission
By @adrianrhale

Tropes: Fake Dating, Reverse Grumpy/Sunshine, Banter, Age Gap, SPICY, He Falls First

This book on was one of my most anticipated reads for the year due to the way Adrian developed Payton’s character!! Let me tell you she did not disappoint!! Lord help me this book was hot!!

Payton has me melting and in a chokehold all at the same time- he was flirty, had amazing banter. Payton is the peacekeeper making sure his family is alright, he doesn’t date but he does indulge. The degradation kink was everything!! He absolutely fell for Ainsley and loved the challenge

Ainsley was a sassy, black cat of a female with trust issues due to her ex. She meets Payton and he INFURIATES her, but something about him draws her to him and she indulges in her fantasies. She learns to let go of the control she had for her life and I thought it was very cathartic for her.

This series was one of the best billionaire series I have ever read!! Adrian did us readers right by these books!! I loved Payton and Hayes but Zander will always and forever be my man.

*thank you Adrian for the Arc in exchange for an honest review*

[tash.bookish · Rating 5 out of 5]

An amazing finale to the Southern Gods series! Payton + Ainsley's story was WILD! This book had some great tropes, and a plot twist - no spoilers here!

Payton is 35, the middle Olsen brother and the last to get his story in Southern Gods. He's a hot nerdy workaholic that doesn't have time for relationships.

Ainsley is a 25yr old prickly journalist who just wants to mind her own business after some past relationship drama.

A chance meeting in a sparkly magical café leads to fake dating for these two that come from very different worlds.

A true golden retriever/black cat dynamic - this made for some amazing banter, I was absolutely eating it up. Ainsley's feisty clapbacks translated into her being Payton's dream brat in the sack🌶️ The BDSM/kink was filthy and had me hiding my face in my Kindle while silently screaming WHAAAAT🥵

I'm devastated this series is over but so looking forward to the upcoming hockey romance spinoff series Gods of the Ice!

[Sabrina · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5⭐ 3.5 🌶️

The Southern Submission is the fourth and last installment in the Southern Gods series. We get the story of the last Olsen’s brother. Payton PR manager and tech genius of Olympus International hide got me speechless! He is a dangerous man, I’m telling you. He will make you fall fast for him. I fall in love with their storyline.

Ainsley is a journalist who loves pink chaos and who struggles to believe in herself after her past mistakes that still hunt her. I love her journey, opening herself to all the potential she has. I loved her stubbornness with Payton and her koala side as she likes to call it. Payton helped her on her journey and I loved him for it. One of my favorite scenes is just him listen, like really listening to her telling her past. The writing was beautiful.

For real, this man is husband material! He is possessive, protective, listens, and proposes to build her a bookshelf. The minute, he said that I was sold and melting. He aspires to take care of her and it was both attractive and amusing at the same time. The spice and dirty talk in this book, omg! Hayes and Zander are vanilla compared to their brother. 😆

It was so funny reading their interaction! The banter was perfect! The more mean she is to him, the more he flirts. He loves solving the puzzle that he's Ainsley Montgomery. Also, I didn’t see the twist coming even with all the hints!

I can’t recommend you enough to read this series even more with the amazing news of the end!!

You will find in this book:

💛Golden Retriever X Black Cat
💵Billionaire Romance
😈Touch her and die
🔗BDSM/Kink
🤐Fake dating
🥵Dirty Talk
✌️Dual POV
📅Age Gap
🌶️Spice