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What happens when you fall for the resident playboy?

In a perfect world, Hudson Millen would be exactly the type of man I’d go for; tall, dark and handsome.

Did I mention he’s also the new personal trainer at the gym I teach dance classes?

It seems like fate; the way the universe has thrown us together.

Except for one small issue.

He’s the resident playboy and I… I’ve been celibate for the past five years.

So, what am i supposed to do when Hudson starts ensnaring me in his grasp with his boyish charm?

Can I trust him to be careful with my heart?

Or will he fall back into his old habits?

330 pages, Kindle Edition

Published February 20, 2025

14 people are currently reading
196 people want to read

About the author

Elle Knox

3 books14 followers
Elle Knox is a romance author from the North East of England.

She’s always adored reading and writing since she was a little girl and always dreamed of becoming an author.

When she’s not reading vivaciously or writing, she can be found outside in the fresh air, mucking out her horses, lounging about in the sun like a cat and spending time with the people closest to her -- her family and friends.

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5 stars
17 (25%)
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28 (41%)
3 stars
13 (19%)
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9 (13%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
Profile Image for Summer Buck.
123 reviews1 follower
February 9, 2025
I received this as an ARC read in exchange for an honest review.

This review will mostly be Hudson hate… You have been warned.

Hudson pissed me off from the jump. His new boss offers him a simple suggestion, and this man immediately throws a tantrum in his head like, “I don’t need him to tell me what to do—that’s between me and my clients.” Okay, baby boy, relax. It’s not that deep.

Then there’s the absolute audacity of hooking up with a woman in her house, then acting like she doesn’t exist the next morning… while still in her house. Yes, one-night stands don’t come with breakfast and conversation, but ignoring her completely until he was basically out the door? Infuriating.

And let’s not forget the reason he got fired from his previous job: sleeping with his boss’s daughter and then ghosting her. In what world did he think that would not have consequences?

Honestly, how old is this man? Because based on both his behaviour and the way his family treats him, I would’ve guessed about fifteen. The way they celebrated him landing his fourth job in just a few months like it was some huge accomplishment? Sir, please.

Oh, and just to really highlight his stellar personality, here’s a gem of a quote:

“I just want to empty my balls and then sleep, and I don’t care how selfish that sounds.”

…What a catch.

Now, Giselle. I actually liked her at first—she was sexy, sarcastic, and had fun energy. But the moment Hudson entered the picture, her insecurity took over, and it was exhausting.
The second she hit me with “You could have had your pick of any of those women tonight. Why are you here?” I mentally checked out.

She also claimed to be proud of her celibacy, but her actions said otherwise. If she was truly confident in her choice, why was she so afraid of Hudson’s reaction? And the way she spiralled when he didn’t text her back? Not sleeping, crying, and completely unraveling—girl, please. You’ve had maybe three full conversations with this man. Let’s not do this.

And speaking of expectations, you can not expect a guy to show up for you and be emotionally supportive when you’ve barely spoken and have almost hooked up once. What exactly did she need support for?

As for the writing itself… it was okay. But instead of progressing the story, the alternating POVs often just repeated entire scenes from the other person’s perspective. I get the appeal of dual POV, but if nothing new is being added, it starts to feel redundant.

Final thoughts? This book had potential, but between an insufferable hero, a heroine who lost her spark, and some pacing issues, it just didn’t work for me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Angela.
258 reviews7 followers
June 13, 2025
Another quick, easy to read book. Although there was no real wow factor to it, it was still a decent book to read. Its one of those books that would serve well as a palette cleanser. Its definitely going to be one of those ones you ether like, dislike or sit firmly on the fence with and thats really going to come down to your feelings towards the characters. The only major thing that threw me in this book was how quickly their individual feelings progressed when it felt like nothing had really happened between them yet.
Overall this was a 3.75 ⭐️ read for me but rounded up to 4 for Goodreads sake.

Starting this book, I'm not going to lie, I wasn't sure if I was going to like it. And the main reason for that was the mmc, Hudson. He gave the classic douchey, playboy vibes that didn't care too much about the girls he was with. As the book progressed and he grew closer to Giselle, his facade, quickly broke. Turns out he was actually just a sensitive wee soul who was scared to fall in love for fear of him potentially loosing that person one day. A bit of childhood trauma if you will from his Mum's breast cancer battle, and him never truly speaking out about it to anyone. I love the support and love his family always gave him, even when he felt like his life was a chaotic mess. I especially loved seeing his relationship with his Dad and the supoort and advice he provided him when he was unsure on where he sat with Giselle.

I did enjoy seeing Giselle hold her own, have her female empowerment and stick to the morals she set for herself. It was also nice to see Hudson embrace that too and not force her into anything. She didn't shy away from why she set out those rules for herself. Seeing her take back control of herself and her sexuality was awesome to see.
Profile Image for nettysbooknook.
71 reviews
February 20, 2025
I’ll probably scream for darling Elle until the end. Ever since I got familiar with her writing, I instantly knew I’m found a gem to keep in my dearest possession. Sometimes I’m honestly forgetting that I’m reading and isn’t actually in her stories. I’m so in love with the chemistry and depth her stories has to offer. Her characters are on a personal level for me, and Crawl to Me finally got me my dear dear Hudson.

Hudson and Giselle are my babies. He’s a playboy and she’s promised to keep her value safe and remain celibate. Both have their reasons from past wounds that are well hidden beneath the surface, love have put a scar on them. The tension is cracking though and when their vulnerability comes to peak through, it’s with such care and gentleness they carry each other. Beautiful and heartbreaking at the same time. They can’t deny it no matter how hard they try to fight their feelings, falling into something so much deeper than they could imagine.

It’s a lot of swooning and clutching your heart in Crawl to Me. I admire Giselle so much for her strength with herself, but also her relationship with Hudson. To believe in herself that she’s worthy to be loved and her value is hers to claim. Always. And Hudson proves her beyond everything. Also to see how he battles with his fear, the internal struggles, for their relationship is rewarding and heart warming. He’s come such a long way, my heart is picking up speed for him. Where’s the ring Hudson, I’m waiting for my turn.
Profile Image for Betsy Contreras.
10 reviews2 followers
March 9, 2025
Indie author- this is only her second book! Alll of the smut 🔥🌶️🌶️🌶️ I love the Millen brothers!!! Cute love story, easy & fun to read!
Profile Image for The Book Of Gem .
5 reviews
February 11, 2025
ARC REVIEW

if the dedication doesn’t do it for you I don’t know what will!

I didn’t want to put this down! I devoured it in 2 days!

Amazing writing! Character development is well done and it’s just a fantastic read 🩷

Love Hudson! Love Giselle! I’m now going to have to purchase the first book as I haven’t read that but if this book is anything to go by I will love it!
Profile Image for Hannah Rose.
14 reviews
February 7, 2025
ARC Review 💋

Tropes to expect:
💋Dancer FMC
💋enemies to friends to lovers
💋HEA
💋reformed Playboy
💋open door spice
💋dual POV

Rating: 4⭐️
Thoughts & Feelings:
I didn’t know how to feel at first about this book but once I got into it I enjoyed this book! I loved the enemies to friends then to lovers and I loved the main characters Giselle and Hudson. Now I haven’t read this type of sports romance before but I did fairly enjoy it and would recommend it to others!
Profile Image for Shan.
131 reviews1 follower
February 20, 2025
✨Book Rec✨
Crawl to Me by Elle Knox
Can be stand-alone

1st person dual POV
Spice: 2/3🔥

This was such a good, easy read! I flew through it! And you guyssss this is some spicy spice. Such a fun ride. This man has quite the mouth on him. I adore Elle and I adore this book and you should start reading it right this second.

What you’ll find:
- they work at the same gym
- she’s a dancer
- reformed playboy
- forced prox
Profile Image for Diane Matson.
2 reviews1 follower
February 12, 2025
Crawl to Me
by Elle Knox, Author

POV
Workplace romance
Reformed playboy
Men’s mental health rep
She’s a dancer
He’s the newest personal trainer
‘Crawl to me’ scene
Forced proximity
Tattooed MMC
Black cat FMC

I just finished reading "Crawl to Me" by Elle Knox, and I wanted to share my thoughts. It's a captivating addition to the Millen Brothers series, focusing on the relationship between Giselle, a vibrant dancer and meditation instructor, and Hudson, an athletic and very handsome playboy but initially somewhat jaded personal trainer.

Their connection is immediate and intensely physical, fueled by undeniable chemistry. However, their contrasting personalities and past experiences create a compelling dynamic. Giselle's fiercely independent nature and commitment to self-reliance clash with Hudson's history as a playboy, initially leading to a push-and-pull that forms the core of the narrative. I found myself particularly drawn to Giselle's strength and passion, both in her professional life and her evolving relationship with Hudson. Her close friendship with Rosie provides a heartwarming counterpoint to the central romance.

Hudson's character arc is equally compelling. While initially portrayed as a stereotypical "stud-muffin," Knox skillfully reveals his vulnerabilities, gruthor masterfully balances the steamy romance with introspective moments, allowing us to witness the internal struggles and self-discovery of both characters. The pacing is excellent; the story flows naturally, keeping the reader engaged from beginning to end.

The intimate scenes are well-written and contribute authentically to the overall narrative, feeling both honest and raw without being gratuitous. Knox's descriptive prose effectively captures both the physical and emotional aspects of their relationship. The supporting characters, particularly Hudson's family, add depth and warmth to the story.

Overall, "Crawl to Me" is a highly enjoyable and well-written romance novel. The blend of sizzling romance and emotional depth, combined with the engaging characters and satisfying pacing, makes it a five-star read for me. I eagerly anticipate the next installment in the Millen Brothers series. Thank you, Elle Knox for such a captivating story!

@ELLEKNOXAUTHOR
@BOOKBABESPR

#currentlyreading #elleknox #bookbabespr #sportsromance #bbpr #dancerromance #playboyenergy #forcedproximity #workplaceromance #lovereading #spicybook
Profile Image for Jaye Winkley .
235 reviews8 followers
February 10, 2025
ARC Review💗

Dual POV
Workplace romance
Reformed playboy
Men’s mental health rep
She’s a dancer
He’s the newest personal trainer
‘Crawl to me’ scene
Forced proximity
Tattooed MMC
Black cat FMC

“For the girlies who like their men tall, dark and a smidge emotionally unavailable. And for the Alex Turner girlies…this ones for you.”

If that dedication did not convince you alone I don’t know what will😍

This is the second book in the Millen brothers series and I ate it up!! Did not want to put this one down, totally bingeable🤩If you like the easy-reading, spicy romance vibes you will love this series!! I think it has the same feel as chestnut springs following the brothers through the books…

Hudson is definitley my fav brother and I don’t think I can see him being taken from the top spot as the series continues …

“If I was a better man, an honest gentleman, I’d ignore that little show you’ve just put on, Giselle,” “So, it’s a good job I never claimed to be.”

“Eyes on me… not on him, Giselle.”

“On your hands and knees. Crawl to me.”🥵🥵

The banter, the spice, just🤌🏻🤌🏻 I also love how it is dual pov so we get both perspectives on the situation, this will always be my fav thing in a book👏🏼 I don’t read as much romance now so this was an absolute treat to throw me back in, would definitely recommend this series to anyone (anyone who loves a bit of smut of course🤭🤭)

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Profile Image for Sidra Hoorain.
53 reviews
February 23, 2025
ARC REVIEW

I loved the writing! Super easy to follow and just flows so well. No dragging, no overcomplicated stuff—just smooth.

Now, I won’t lie… Hudson? Yeah, didn’t like him at first. Typical playboy energy, and I was just waiting for him to mess up. But then his character development happened, and I was like… okay fine, I'm starting to like you now.. 👀 The way he actually gives Giselle time and space, and genuinely cares? Yeah, I loved that.

And Giselle? I love how she knows what she wants. She’s not about to let herself get hurt, and I respect her for that. She seems all strong and put together, but deep down, she’s such a softie, and I just love her! She's the person that would be there for you when you're down and try to make you feel better, and would brighten your mood with just her presence!💗😭

Now, Hudson’s family?? I want a family like that. They have each other’s backs, celebrate each other’s wins, and show up when it really matters. I love reading about families like that.

Also, I needed more of Rosie. She’s so rational, always there for Giselle, and honestly?? A queen. And don’t even get me started on Rex—I don’t know why, but I need more of him. 👀💗

Overall, this book had me hooked, and I really enjoyed it!! You should totally read this if you want a light hearted read.
Profile Image for Alyssa Smith.
8 reviews
February 20, 2025
Hudson, is the youngest brother in the Mullen family and the second to have his story told in this book series. Hudson is a personal trainer who can’t seem to find the right workplace fit for him, and is also struggling with his romantic relationships due to his own personal struggles with potentially losing someone he loves and cares about. Hudson’s journey of self discovery and growth throughout this book is great to see and he really comes into his own by the end.

Giselle is a bright, passionate and empowered women whose also struggled romantically in the past and now has unresolved trust issues. Previous to the book, she has worked on her self-worth and knows she deserves better for herself. She seems to be a sassy woman who will take no shit from anyone. The issues she seemed to have gotten over do come back and her and Hudson have to work together to overcome these together.

The pacing and writing style of this book is really well done. I enjoyed this book a lot and how the story unfolded. I did have a slight problem with the amount of smutty content there was and the times these piped up, only because it didn’t seem to move the story on at points. I enjoyed the dual POV’s of telling the same part of the story, this enables the reader to have both sides of the story for that chapter and gives greater insight into the characters.

Overall, a great book and would recommend anyone who loves a good smutty romance.
Profile Image for Amber Rogers.
225 reviews
February 17, 2025
Giselle
People thinks she is married but the ring is on the wrong finger
Hudson
He tells his parents that he has a new job as a personal trainer.
And they are very happy for him to even celebrating it.
He starts his new job.
But he is a playboy.
She is stalking Hudson to out more information on him.
He asked her to help with hiw to do squats
He told her any way she want him he will take it.
Are we about to get a kissing scene?
No but he tells her he likes her.
Hudson is staying over but nothing happens
Well he got that kiss and something else 😏
He made her breakfast even though she doesn't eat breakfast not she doesn't want to.
She was mad at him but he explained why he did what he did and he felt sorry to the point he couldn't eat sleep till it was sorted.
She tells him about the ring.
1st date.
Playing crazy golf and they are flirting with each other it's cute.
The fact is he is giving In to her and making sure she feels safe to do more while he is struggling for it.
The ending was more doing it and being addicted to each other.
But their relationship was cute and I cannot wait for book 3
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
5 reviews
February 7, 2025
I read this book in a whole day - I just couldn't put it down!
This was my first book from Elle Knox and I am for sure going to pick up the first book as well as any others!
The relationship between Giselle and Hudson is so wholesome, I found myself routing for them from the very beginning. I would say that she falls first but he falls HARDER.

I would call this book a "baby dark romance", for me Hudson feels like he could fit the vibe of a dark romance boyfriend, with how protective, jealous and spends money on Giselle without a care in the world, I tend to see these qualities in dark romance boys but the romance/spice in this book are so fluffy and relatable (no knife play in this one ladies - sorry)

Rosie and Giselle's friendship is so pure and I would absolutely love to read a book about Rosie (please make this happen).

"Why are you always fucking watching me?"
"Because I can't help myself," Hudson replies without missing a beat.

10/10 would recommend <3
Profile Image for Mercedesss.
58 reviews5 followers
February 8, 2025
Crawl to me by Elle Knox is book two in the Millen Brothers Series. This is a fluffy romance with some tinges of possessiveness, which has been much needed recently. couldn't put this book down and finished it in a few hours.
The tropes include
- reformed playboy
- workplace romance
- open door spice
- celibacy
- sports romance
- HEA
Hudson is the resident playboy, and Giselle has been celibate for years they couldn't be any more different, but they both work at the same gym, Hudson is used to relationships with those he works with as a personal trainer, but giselle is not, she easily falls for his charm,but she is refusing to trust these feelings due to her past experiences, can they get past this and accept what they know they need?

The spice is good and sweet!! I love it.

I love Rosie and Giselles friendship, I hope we get a book for Rosie!!

Overall, it is definitely worth the read if you are a fan of light romance, with praise kinks and a slightly dominating man!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
91 reviews1 follower
July 13, 2025
4.5 ⭐️
Did i expect to like this book as much as this? Tbh, no.
Did i expect it to be so emotional? Also, no.
This SHOCKED me. I have become familar with Elle's writting and i was really impressed with this one.
There was emotional depth, banter, lots of relatable moments and character development.
Also, sorry but Hudson hate?! Absolutely not from me. I LOVED him. I thought he gave off f*ckbody energy at first but isn't that what character development is? The way his character turned into such a loveable one by the end! I loved it.
Giselle, she was sarcastic and such a strong ass fmc. I loved her.
The story was good - i honestly didn't expect the book to be so emotional but it was hitting me right in the feels. I thought the two had really good chemistry and the tension at the start? Yes please.

I thought it was very well written with lots of good balance. The pace was a good one, I devoured this! Can't wait to read book 3!
Profile Image for Starlight Reader.
49 reviews
March 24, 2025
2.5 ⭐️

There were so many high hopes for this book given how much i adored Book 1, but sadly this did not meet the mark. I got bored after 20%, nothing really happens. The characters became boring, predictable and eventually got a bit on my nerves. It’s set in a gym, but the setting was hardly ever there. The famous Millen Sundays were hardly mentioned compared to book one, we visit the Millen Household at the beginning but sadly it’s never brought up again.

This book lacked a lot of plot, compared to the first book. It felt like we were just following the characters around and not really getting anywhere. A lot of motivation was required to push through, putting me almost in a slump and half DNFing.

However, I did enjoy the cliff hanger ending for Book 3. I’m hoping this will reach the mark of Book 1 again.
Profile Image for Laura.
363 reviews12 followers
February 21, 2025
🌟Workplace Romance
🌟Playboy MMC
🌟Celibate FMC
🌟He Falls Hard
🌟Only Has Eyes For Her
🌟Forced Proximity
🌟Emotional Healing
🌟Dual POV
🌟🌶️🌶️🌶️

I’m a sucker for the ‘playboy falls hard and only has eyes for her’ tropes, and Crawl to Me absolutely nailed it. Hudson and Giselle’s story had everything I love—intense chemistry, emotional depth, and just the right amount of angst to keep my heart racing.

From the moment Hudson sets his sights on Giselle, he wants her. But Giselle isn’t impressed—she knows his type, and she’s not interested in being another name on his list. But he’s not deterred, and when workplace forced proximity comes into play, the tension between them becomes undeniable.

But beneath the sizzling attraction, both Hudson and Giselle carry past wounds that shape the way they approach love. Hudson isn’t a playboy without reason, and Giselle’s choice to remain celibate comes from a place of self-protection. As their layers are peeled back, their vulnerabilities surface in ways that are both heartbreaking and beautiful. And when the angst comes crashing in? My heart was in my throat, bracing for impact.

What truly made this book shine was the depth of their connection. Their chemistry is electric, their tenderness feels real, and the way they open up to one another is nothing short of swoon-worthy. I loved watching them fight their feelings, fall hard, and ultimately find something deeper than either of them expected.

This book had me grinning, swooning, and clutching my heart. If you love a romance that delivers both heat and heart, Crawl to Me is an absolute must-read!

Thanks to Book Babes for the gifted copy 💕
Profile Image for Chloe.
73 reviews
February 19, 2025
Book 2 in the Millen Brother series and wow, what a journey it was. I absolutely loved how this book didn’t look down on celibacy like so many people do. I loved the way Hudson and Giselle manoeuvred through their relationship. I do think Hudson is such a great character and I might be in love with him a little more than I am with Grey (oops). But I will have to wait until book 3 to make that decision!! I really enjoy reading Knox’s work!! Thank you to the author and book babes pr for allowing me to read this ARC.
Profile Image for georgia..
7 reviews
February 19, 2025
ARC REVIEW.

BookbabesPR.

Having only really got fully back into reading a short while ago, this was something new for me & a step into something different than what I would usually choose to read.

I enjoyed the plot, and the characters were well written. Although I haven’t read the first one, I will definitely be getting a copy of it to read and will be looking forward to reading any other books by Elle!

The character development is very well done, and I really do love Hudson and Giselle.

I look forward to the next book! :)
Profile Image for Ashlyn Romero .
182 reviews2 followers
February 9, 2025
Was hooked from the bringing of this book. It was a fun read and very enjoyable. I love a good reformed playboy and enemies to lovers book.
This book starts off with Giselle and Hudson working at the same gym, and you could say the moment they met you could feel the energy. Giselle doesn’t trust to easy but Hudson slowly breaks that wall down. I love how much Hudson is possessive. Looove that about a MMC.

Overall, this book is great and spicy. I absolutely loved it and highly recommend it!
Profile Image for ruthreadsromance.
139 reviews
February 17, 2025
Thanks to the author for this ARC copy through Book Babes PR
This was an easy enough read but nothing really happened. The characters were cute and the banter between the FMC and MMC was fun to read.
There was a lot of spice, which I would normally love but I just felt like the writing of it was a bit cringey, some of the words used were just giving me the ick.
Profile Image for Kez Marie.
1,241 reviews77 followers
February 20, 2025
I enjoyed the tension in this, the enemy to lover theme, and the complexity of the characters. Hudson is a playboy but he's finally met someone that makes him want to change. Giselle is on a self healing journey after her ex, celibate for 4 years, but can't help being drawn to Hudson.
I liked seeing their ups and downs, and the steamy scenes that built up their chemistry.
Profile Image for Zsuzsanna  Csonka-Bonevacz.
183 reviews2 followers
February 19, 2025
I'm a bit disappointed. I was hoping for a better, more deeper story or just for something more based on the blurb, tropes and the glimpses we got of Hudson from the previous book. This book simply just felt flatt and lacking.
Profile Image for Roisin Robbins.
264 reviews12 followers
February 24, 2025
This was my first book by this author. It is also the second book in the series. I will be going back to read book 1. It was such a fun, easy read. It is one of those books that you can just devour in one sitting.
Profile Image for Parris Wilson.
25 reviews2 followers
March 19, 2025
Absolutely loved this book from start to finish! The chemistry the sarcasticness!!! Hudson and Giselle are made for each other 🩷 obsessed with this authors writing! Had me hooked the whole way through I couldn’t put it down. Such a cute book but very filthy especially Hudsons mouth 😏
Profile Image for Nicole Gritt.
54 reviews
July 1, 2025
“The mental image of taking photos of Giselle while on her knees, sucking me off, strands of the glossy hair of hers wrapped around my fist, fill my brain, making all the blood in my body rush south rapidly.”🤭🔥
184 reviews5 followers
July 25, 2025
Gives me the ick when a MMC sleeps with someone else AFTER they’ve met the FMC. Hate it. Happened right at the start and it kinda ruined it from the off for me then. He had zero redeeming qualities. Douche told her there had been nobody else.
Profile Image for Anj.
168 reviews5 followers
February 21, 2025
Stars: ⭐️⭐️⭐️ .5
Spice: 🌶️🌶️

I got the chance to read this ARC and after book 1 my expectations were HIGH! I loved book 1, It was literally *chefs kiss*. Book 2 was a decent read but it didn’t hold a torch to book 1. I liked the book but something about it just didn’t have me hooked.

I really liked Hudson’s character and tbf I liked Giselle too but together idk I felt like we were missing something. The story between them was interesting but I felt like we needed more. I would have loved to explore more of them individually and their traumas.

I would have liked to have seen more of their relationship building up after the big event they had with each other. I felt like I wanted them to wait it out a little more until the Big Bang. I needed Hudson to work for it a little more, especially since Giselle take on her life decisions was something HUGE it then needed to be a harder decision.

The spicy scenes in this book were good! I enjoyed the scenes, I liked that they weren’t rushed and I LOVED that we got different POVs for the scenes on some occasions. That was such a good idea and I wish more authors did that.

Overall it was a decent read but i would have liked moreeeee
Profile Image for Thelibaryofloz_xo.
34 reviews2 followers
February 20, 2025
I loved this book so much it gave me good vibes and was worth the wait after the first one Hudson and Giselle where amazing xx
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