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Broken Shelves #3

Resisting The Temptation

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Emma Price has rules in place to protect her heart.

No kissing.

No sleepovers.

No repeats.

Benjamin Rossi has a job to focus on and no extra time for a relationship, but he occasionally participates in activities at The Temptation Lounge when the mood strikes.

When Emma gets a one night pass to the lounge to explore her kinks in a safe environment, she and the man she’s paired with hit it off immediately.

It goes so well, they plan to meet again the following week.

Emma starts her dream job a few days later and, much to her dismay, finds out the mystery man from the club is not only her new coworker, but the owner’s son and the man in charge of training her.

She can’t risk her job, and he doesn’t like his pleasure bleeding into his business. So they agree ending the arrangement is for the best.

But will they be able to resist the temptation of each other? Or will they both break their own rules?

427 pages, Kindle Edition

Published April 28, 2025

9 people are currently reading
203 people want to read

About the author

Daisy Wren

8 books56 followers

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5 stars
50 (34%)
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70 (47%)
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18 (12%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews
Profile Image for Hany entre letras.
606 reviews32 followers
April 28, 2025
Every time someone else makes her laugh, I want to grab her by the back of the neck and cover her mouth with mine so I can taste the sound.


4.5💐

I connected with the story and the protagonist very quickly; I saw myself in her right away, which made me very curious to keep reading.

After Emma and Ben’s first encounter, you can't wait for the day they meet at the office 🤭

Both protagonists are somewhat distrustful of long-term relationships due to their past experiences, but sometimes when love knocks on your door, all you have to do is open it.

Emma is a strong, hardworking, sensitive, and emotional character. She’s a ray of light who unfortunately carries a lot of mistreatment and sadness on her shoulders. At first, I thought 'okay, it can't be that bad,' but then I got to chapter 54 and 😦😠😮‍💨

But it was beautiful to see her and Ben grow as characters, face their fears, set their boundaries, and finally give happiness a chance.

I liked it a lot, although I'm not a huge fan of open-door sex, but in this case, it didn’t feel overwhelming. There was a reason for it, like their domxsub preferences.

A huge thank you to Luna Literary Management and Daisy Wren for trusting and giving me the opportunity to discover this story through an arc💗🫶🏼🤧
Profile Image for Lyn ♡.
284 reviews24 followers
September 28, 2025
4.5 ⭐️

♡ Grumpy x Sunshine
♡ Co-worker/Work romance
♡ BDSM exploration (review TW)
♡ Dom/sub relationship

WHEW. This is my favorite book of the series so far. This book is for all the girlies who’s ever been told they’re too much, too sensitive and emotional. To all the hopeless romantics scared to give someone a chance because they’ve been burned so many times before. There are also heavier topics so please read the TWs — fat shaming, mention of self harm, mention of suicide, death & rape, religious trauma, toxic family dynamics, victim blaming, racist commentary.

Emma and Ben were so delicious hehe I’d went from giggling, squealing, sweating to crying. So many emotions with the trauma Emma went through, the connection she was building with Ben but refused to give in and allow herself to be loved, the way he was patient, the way he stood up for her, the way he was so dominant but gentle and loving, the way he was the one on his knees for her, the filth coming out of his mouth 🥵 He was the perfect book boyfriend and the perfect dom oml I can’t get enough of them!!

“I want to be your peace. I want to be your comfort. I want to hear every through that crosses your brain, even the dark ones you don’t want anyone else to know. I want to hold your heart in the palm of my hand and have you trust me to treat it with the utmost care.” 🥹
Profile Image for Kara Bowling.
123 reviews17 followers
May 13, 2025
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐✨ (4.5)

*ARC Review*

Holy hell this book was hot 🥵

This was my first read of Daisy’s but it will definitely not be my last.

I was hooked from the get go, Emma really drew me in and had me intrigued. I loved her tenacity and how quickly she was able to connect and excel at her job, even being new to the field. Her tumultuous relationship with her family, especially how they spoke to/about her broke my heart. I enjoyed her as a character and I loved her emotional growth.

Ben was such a daddy. His caring nature was so evident, even if he was such a grump. I loved how he cared for Emma and always made her feel confident and sexy in whatever they were doing. When he stood up for her, I was a goner. I love when a man is down bad for his girl and that was for sure Ben.

Their connection was so good and I was really interested in their D/s dynamic. The spice began early and was pretty prevalent throughout the book. It was delicious and I think it was balanced out really well with the plot. I thoroughly enjoyed them together and wish I had more!

I will definitely be going back to read the rest of the series!

Thank you Daisy and Luna for the ARC! 💜
Profile Image for Kelsie.
109 reviews
August 26, 2025
Ben giving Emma a key to his house: ok a romantic “move in with me” gesture, sweet

Ben giving Emma 2x collars immediately afterwards - a pink leather showy one for the house and club, a dainty necklace one for always: uhh we’ve taken a different turn here, but I understand it I guess…

Ben giving Emma an engagement ring immediately after that: ok great but it’s a lot of messages and that’s honestly how I’ve felt reading this entire book

Also, I wouldn’t describe her as the “sunshine” to his grump. She’s very anxious at all times, but the fact that she can hold a conversation successfully doesn’t make her a sunshine character imo.

Lots of things annoyed me about this book, but Ben’s parents were lovely, 10/10 give me their story tbh
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Kayla B.
178 reviews21 followers
May 18, 2025
Let me start off by saying I liked the book, I just didn't love it. I honestly can't even pinpoint what I didn't love about it. It just didn't draw me in and hold my attention.

⭐⭐⭐.5
🌶️🌶️🌶️

🌼Workplace Romance
🌼Forced Proximity
🌼Plus Sized FMC
🌼Grumpy x Sunshine (Masked)
🌼Found Family
🌼One Night Stand Turned More
🌼Kink Exploration
🌼Neurodivergence Rep

Emma is a ball of sunshine when she wears her mask, other times she feels like she can be herself and show more emotions. Her past traumas have caused this and she is careful who she let's her guard down for. She has just completed her degree in Construction Project Management and has accepted a new job. She has also decided to let herself explore her sexual desires at a local club her best friend works at, where she meets 'B'. Unbeknownst to her she will see him again soon, she just wasn't aware how soon. On her first day of work she is set to be training under the owners son Ben, the broody, grumpy man she met the night before.

Ben has always had a grumpy demeanor, but for those he loves he shows his soft caring side. After having an outlet for frustration night at the club he belongs to, he is a little less annoyed at his father. But when he is set to meet the newest hire, he can't believe he's staring at the woman he met at the club, the same one he can't get out of his head. His rule about not mixing work with pleasure is going to be in for a test.

I enjoyed watching their dynamic play out. Emma seemed like such a joy to be around, given she has endured such hard hitting topics in life. She is sent curveballs throughout the book, and having Ben by her side as a friend and fake boyfriend, has proven to be her rock and allows her to get through tough situations. With Ben's help, she is able to be strong and stand up for herself after years of being treated terribly. And she finds herself being able to lower her wall around her heart again.

Thank you to Luna Lit for allowing me to read this book early. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Robert Collins.
71 reviews1 follower
May 9, 2025
Daisy Wren’s novel is packed with everything you’d want with a romance: complex characters, a real, strong heroine, and a slow-burn romance with a huge happy ever after payoff.

Emma is such an amazing heroine; resilient, compassionate, sentimental, and loving. She’s a golden light of sunshine who carries the weight of neglect and sorry on her shoulders. Once she finds her professional direction, Emma seeks to prove herself in the office, but seeks acceptance in the physical sense. This takes her into The Temptation Lounge under the alias, E.

Ben, our grumpy MMC, is a cranky introvert. But under that tough business only layer, he has a big heart. Ben also frequents the Temptation Lounge under the letter, B. These two have an intense intimate meeting with the promise of one night. The twist comes the next day as they meet at work and the revelation is that Ben is the owner’s son and her new trainer.

Both protagonists are distrustful of long-term relationships due to their past experiences, but it was wonderful to watch these two characters grow together, face their fears, set their boundaries, and finally give happiness a chance.

I enjoyed how Daisy Wren wrote characters with care, respect, agency and so much love. Emma’s world and her growth - both in world of pleasure and the personal world - matters on every page. While Ben is layered, that makes me cheer for him more, even when he messes up. Ben and Emily deserve their happy ending and earned it by the last page.

Fans of forbidden romance, a one night stand that turns into more, workplace vibes, plus-size heroines, and a story that is steamy, empowering, vulnerable and healing, Resisting the Temptation is for you!

Thank you Luna Literary Management and Daisy Wren for the opportunity to read this ARC!
Profile Image for Felly Day.
79 reviews4 followers
April 27, 2025
Love the MMC, struggled to get into the FMC.

There were aspects of this book that I really liked, the club scenes, the relationship building, the religious trauma but the one thing I struggled with was the FMCs conviction.

4 years without kissing anyone, only one night stands and refusing to even potentially consider the good thing standing in front of you? The timeline of the breakup was confusing as at times it sounds like her relationship recently ended and then it's mentioned that it's been 4 years. With the constant talk of hiding everything from the friends and not actually getting into detail with her best friend whos a therapist and her roommate, she only really has herself to blame for the distance she's creating with everyone.

There were parts that felt contradictory to the type of person she was, in therapy, open conversation, aware of her trauma. But then still being secretive. At first, she even acknowledges that the logic is flawed but to stick to it for 4 years? And even after he confesses to his parents?

Anyways, made me love the MMC because the man repeatedly confessed his feelings and made grand gestures while she turned a blind eye to everything and then says she doesn't even know if he likes her after saying he wants to marry her. They get their happily ever after but it was definitely hard fought on Bens side.

I guess this is the "she's worth it" trope.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Chiara^•^.
438 reviews116 followers
May 1, 2025
𝐑𝐞𝐬𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐓𝐞𝐦𝐩𝐭𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐛𝐲 𝐃𝐚𝐢𝐬𝐲 𝐖𝐫𝐞𝐧
4,5/5⭐
3,5/5🌶️

This book caught me off guard in the best way! I remember applying for the ARC because I was drawn to the tropes and had a good feeling about it. Honestly, I went in with no expectations at all, and I was pleasantly surprised by how much I ended up loving it. Right from the first chapter, the writing grabbed my attention, and I knew I was in for a treat. The characters are so rich and relatable, especially Emma. Her struggles and pain felt incredibly real, and I connected with her. She deserves all the happiness in the world! The chemistry between her and Ben is electric, and I love how he is the one for her.

After experiencing heartbreak too many times, Emma decides to stay away from relationships. For four years, she sticks to hookups and one-night stands, putting up a wall around her heart. Then she meets Ben at a BDSM club, and they instantly hit it off. The next day, they find out they work at the same company—Emma is the new project manager at Ben’s dad’s firm. They try to keep things professional and avoid discussing their night at the club. But the attraction between them is undeniable, and they decide to explore their D/s dynamic without letting feelings get in the way.

Emma has been through so much in her life, and it breaks my heart. I want to give her a big hug! I was so mad at her family and it was frustrating to see how they treated her. But I admire how she stays true to herself. Emma has such a sunny personality—she's kind, bubbly, and compassionate, and it's lovely how everyone seems to be drawn to her light. While she’s confident in her body and sexuality, she also has insecurities, making her even more relatable. Witnessing her growth throughout the story was so inspiring. I loved seeing her slowly open up to Ben and learn to believe she was worthy of love.

Ben is quite different from Emma. He’s grumpy and dominant, but he’s completely obsessed with her! He tries to keep his distance when he realizes they're coworkers, but it doesn't work out. I appreciated how patient and understanding he was with her. He recognizes that she's cautious about relationships, so he never pushes her to share her story. Instead, he’s just there for her—being her rock and offering a shoulder to cry on. He makes sure she knows her worth and that she’s an amazing person. I loved how he stood up for her, especially in front of her family.

Their relationship is both sweet and steamy! I enjoyed the D/s dynamic in this book. It was incredible to see Emma become comfortable with herself and trust Ben enough to submit to him. I loved how Ben always communicated openly with her. Watching their relationship blossom was such a joy. Plus, I adored how Ben's family took an instant liking to Emma. It was so heartwarming to see them welcome her with open arms and warm hugs!

Overall, this book is just fantastic. The characters are deep and relatable, and the chemistry is sizzling. There are plenty of swoon-worthy and heartwarming moments as well. I'll read the previous books and can’t wait for the next one!
Profile Image for Virginie.
332 reviews3 followers
April 20, 2025
I think that this April, two authors have decided that it is important to leave a mark on my heart and soul, and Daisy Wren is definitely one of them. Resisting The Temptation is an incredibly moving book and I loved every chapter of it with equal intensity. I already knew I was going to love the story thanks to the snippets Daisy Wren shared on her social media, but I couldn’t have imagined how much this book would resonate with me.

I don’t think I’ve ever highlighted so many passages in a book on my Kindle as I have with Resisting The Temptation. I think Emma is one of the characters I’ve felt closest to since I started reading three decades ago. Of course, I haven’t experienced exactly the same things as her, especially in terms of religion as I’ve never had one, but some of her thoughts and actions have been my own at some point in my life (I want to make it clear that I’m not someone who sees herself as the FMC of the books I read, what I feel is more a strong sense of sisterhood towards Emma, who is like a ‘sister-in-arms’ to me).

Speaking of Emma, I find her to be an inspiring and very courageous FMC. Although she has had a hard time finding her path professionally, you can tell that she is fully committed to it now that she has found it. I liked both parts of her personality equally. Whether she’s being a bubbly ray of sunshine or letting her sensitivity shine through, she remains herself, and I think people who are able to see and love her for who she is are lucky to know her. Although life has not spared her, it hasn’t stopped her from living it to the fullest, and I am and always will be in awe of people like her.

On to Ben now. My top 5 book boyfriends has definitely been altered by my April readings. I’ve always had a soft spot for those grumpy MMCs who only blossom when illuminated by the presence of their own personal sunshine. Yes, Ben is undoubtedly a grumpy introvert, but he hides a huge heart underneath his gruff exterior. He is really attuned to Emma in every way imaginable. I think he has an ‘Emma-sense’ and is able to pick up on the slightest change in her, probably before she notices it herself. I really liked that he respected the pace she set for them, even though he accepted long before she did that there was more to it than a ‘simple’ arrangement between them. Without giving too much away, by the end of the book, Ben has taken the title of champion in my heart for what he does for Emma.

To anyone who has been told they are ‘too emotional, too needy, too much’, this book is absolutely for you. To anyone who has been lucky enough to never hear those words from the people they love, this book is also for you, because no matter what you’ve been through, no matter what you’ve heard, this book is just amazing and deserves to be read by as many people as possible.

In the space of three books and a few months, Daisy Wren has undeniably become an author whose books I will definitely keep reading.

Thanks to Daisy Wren and Luna Literary Management for giving me the opportunity to read an ARC of Resisting The Temptation. This review is my own. All opinions expressed are mine.
Profile Image for Cuban Ana Reads.
96 reviews5 followers
April 29, 2025
🌼Forced Proximity
🍯Workplace Romance
🌼Grumpy/Sunshine
🍯Player Reformed
🌼Plus Size FMC
🍯Hurt/comfort
🌼Found Family
🍯ONS turned more
🌼He Falls Hard

TW:
🚩Mentiones of suicide/death
(non descriptive)
🚩Racism towards the MMC
🚩Religious trauma (Mormonism)
🚩Fat shaming/fat phobia
🚩D/s relationship

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

What am amazing read as my first Daisy Wren book.

Emma Price is our beautiful, smart and sassy FMC. She is hilarious and her quick comebacks had me laughing out loud. She is 27, the youngest of 10 kids and has a very complicated relationship with her family. She just landed her dream job, a project manager at Rossi construction, and has finally found a way to escape and release her stress. But things are about to get sticky because the hottie with chocolate eyes is her new coworker and also her new boss’s son.

Benjamin Rossi is our MMC. He is half Puerto Rican, half Italian and 100 % a sexy grump. He is the oldest of 3, he takes his job very seriously and has no time or place for nonsense. Imagine when he finds out his rule about not mixing business with pleasure, is about to implode. His new club partner is the new PM. He now has been tasked with training Emma, and Ben is not happy about it. He also isn’t happy that his father didn’t ask him before hiring Emma. He is protesting Emma’s presence too much, but just remember one thing Ben “C'è una linea sottile tra amore e odio” ( There’s a fine line between love and hate).

I really enjoyed this book. Emma had a lot of trauma to work through. Her family is horrible. With a capital H. They were so rigid in their religious beliefs, they were not willing to bend. The way they treated her was just so heartbreaking. But regardless of the things that had happened to Emma I loved how she didn’t let those events dull her shine. She did however close herself off from a relationship but as soon as Ben was introduced I knew her walls would be crumbling soon. Ben was so moody and grumpy, he was a little too much against Emma at the beginning. I knew he had it bad for her. All his attempts at covering up his feelings were uber failures. Once those walls started crumbling it was wonderful to see. Ben is strong, sexy, smart, has the dirtiest mouth on him but at the same time he is attentive, conscious of Emma’s needs and what makes her comfortable and uncomfortable. I loved how he would ask her for permission and would then take care of her afterwards. Beniamino Rossi, outstanding book boyfriend!

I had so many favorite parts in this book, but my ultimate favorite part was when Emma finally realized and believed she was worthy of love. Deep down we all sometimes question ourselves “are we enough?” And I’m so glad Emma finally believed that Yes, my darling! You are enough!
Profile Image for Londyn Strandquist.
282 reviews9 followers
April 28, 2025
Resisting the Temptation is an incredibly moving, unforgettable book. I knew I’d love it from the snippets Daisy Wren shared on social media, but nothing could have prepared me for how deeply it would resonate with me.

Emma is such an inspiring heroine—whether she’s radiating sunshine or showing her sensitive side, she remains authentically herself. Despite her hardships, she lives life fully, and her strength is awe-inspiring. Her no-kissing rule keeps hookups emotion-free, but everything changes when she meets Ben, the Dom she’s paired with at a BDSM club. Their chemistry is explosive... and discovering that Ben is the son of Emma’s new boss only raises the stakes.

Watching them fight—and lose—their battle against their feelings was pure joy. Ben falls hard for Emma, and no matter how much she resists, Emma can’t help but fall too. The emotional depth, religious trauma healing, longing, and spicy scenes are blended masterfully, as only Daisy Wren can do. Ben’s unwavering support, respect for Emma’s boundaries, and fierce defense of her against her awful family made me fall just as hard for him.

The character growth in this story is beautiful. Ben shows Emma that being “too much” just means being perfect for the right person, and Emma helps Ben open up to love. Their journey is filled with banter, sass, spice, and so much heart—it had me laughing, crying, cheering, and completely hooked.

Daisy Wren is an incredible writer and has the ability to weave trauma, healing, and sizzling romance is truly unmatched. Resisting the Temptation is top-tier, and I loved every minute of it. Daisy is an auto buy author for me and she literally puts her heart and soul into these books!
Profile Image for Amber.
72 reviews1 follower
May 13, 2025
Rating: ★★★★☆ | Spice Level: 🌶🌶🌶🌶
Emotional, Empowering, and Intensely Steamy

Resisting the Temptation by Daisy Wren had me deep in my feelings and holding my breath more than once. This emotional, heart-wrenching read explores the pain of being rejected by the people who are supposed to love you most—and the healing power of finding someone who sees, protects, and chooses you.

Emma’s story hit hard. She’s the kind of character that stays with you—vibrant on the outside, but weighed down by years of emotional wounds inflicted by those who used religion to shame her into silence. Watching her carry the weight of being “too much” was gutting. But then there’s Ben: intense, grumpy, and quietly fierce in the way he shows up for her. Their chemistry? Off the charts. The tension is delicious and the spice is perfectly balanced with the plot. From their steamy first encounter to their complicated workplace dynamic and beyond, their connection only deepens.

I loved how Wren took her time peeling back Ben’s stoic layers and showing the way he comes to truly understand Emma. Their journey is equal parts steamy and soul-deep. Yes, there’s plenty of heat (an abundance, honey) but the vulnerable moments? They’re what truly shine.

A story about worth, chosen family, and the kind of love that protects you even when you’re not sure you’re worth protecting. Emma and Ben? They’ll stick with you.

This isn’t just a spicy romance (though, the spice is 🔥 and absolutely lives up to the hype); it’s a story about finding safe love after experiencing rejection, and about learning to trust someone enough to be seen in all your complexity.

If you love emotionally rich plots with characters who feel real, themes of healing, and a dominant who will go to war for the woman he loves—this one’s for you.
Profile Image for Randi Gulledge.
16 reviews1 follower
May 16, 2025
Sometimes when we try to distance ourselves from trauma and pain, we could potentially close ourselves off to something wonderful. There is no better example of this than Daisy Wren's Resisting The Temptation. As someone who grew up in a strict religious household, I can relate to Emma's desire to explore aspects of her life like her sexuality and sex. I also understood how even though she was making smart choices about her sexual partners and laying clear boundaries, she still used sex as a way to shield herself from exploring emotional connections. I admire how Wren displayed how Ben became willing to open himself up emotionally. Even if it did take some moments of jealousy and putting his foot in his mouth, it was very clear to me that he understood what it took to win Emma's heart. One of the things that I love about Wren is how she taught me about the BDSM community in a way that did not feel foreign or intimidating. Oftentimes when aspects of the BDSM community are written about like the relationship between a dom and sub, it can get dark. But Wren's emphasis on the importance of consent, and providing safe spaces removes the dark stigma. Wren's attention to detail not only extends to the communities she highlights but also the setting. If I close my eyes, I could picture the Rossi offices down to the cubicles. My only critique is that to me some of the chapters could have been combined. But I look forward to partaking in more of Wren's captivating works.
Profile Image for Holly Schwartz.
835 reviews37 followers
June 16, 2025
Another fantastic book by Daisy Wren! And just like the other two at its core it was about finding a home, finding your place, finding your people and it was so beautifully written! I loved catching up with the characters from the other books, seeing them supporting each other and Emma. I loved Ben and his family, they were the exact opposite of Emma’s family and it was exactly what she needed in her life. I also know how much of herself Daisy wrote into this book, and it was done so well. It was hard and heartbreaking but it felt SO good to see Emma get everything she deserved and so much more!

And Emma and Ben were DELICIOUS! This one was HOOOOOOT. Their chemistry was perfect from the moment they met. And then THE TENSION from their circumstances made everything SO GOOD! They complimented each other so well. I LOVED watching them fight their feelings!? Acting like their “simple” arrangement wasn’t going to lead to more?? I REALLY appreciated how much Ben cared for Emma, and really went out of his way to show her. How easily he stood up to her family for her?? All the little things he remembered about her and all the things he did for her. It WAS SO FREAKING SWEET! And Emma really is the girl of my heart. She’s had her heart brolen so many times

I am a FAN of Daisy Wren! I know her next book is coming out so soon! And then I think there’s one more in this series?? Needless to say I’ll be forever reading her books!
Profile Image for Jess Pierce.
255 reviews2 followers
May 23, 2025
Resisting the Temptation is a sweet, emotional, spicy roller coaster that will live in my brain rent free.

Emma is a sweet, sassy FMC with trauma from a purity upbringing and the mental harassment she suffered from those around her. Being plus sized, bi, and not quite fitting the mold of her family are just a few of the trauma related subjects the FMC has to work through.

Ben is a dominant, grumpy guy who unknowingly gets paired with Emma as a submissive at his club and is entranced from the first moment.

Wren tackles some really tough issues in this story about Emma and Ben that quite frankly left me in an emotional mess. I love when I can identify with the characters, and Wren wrote beautiful MCs and side characters that will allow readers to do just that.

The story itself showcased trauma that is experienced all too often in our society while also blending in sweet and funny moments to show how found family can often times be the best family. The tension and heat between the MCs is off the charts as they are the perfect grumpy/sunshine duo. The growth Wren portrays in Emma throughout the story is pretty inspirational.

If you’re looking for your next read, Resisting the Temptation is easily on of my top reads of the year so far. I take no responsibility when your emotions shattered.
Profile Image for Curvy Girls Read Romance.
599 reviews70 followers
April 19, 2025
KISS! KISS! KISS! KISS!

Daisy Wren had me chanting this at my Kindle at 11pm lat night as I was finishing this book.

Emma has a firm no kissing rule when it comes to hookups. No kissing, no relationships. No relationships, no heartbreak. As part of her deconstructing from the religion in which she was raised, Emma also began exploring her sexual preferences. Enter Ben, the Dom with whom she is paired at an exclusive BDSM club. Their chemistry is immediate and their night explosive. Only to find on Monday morning that Ben is the son of Emma's new boss.

Watching these two fight their feelings was delightful, knowing they were done for the minute they met. Ben falls HARD and is so ridiculously enamored with Emma. Hard as she fights it, for fear of getting hurt, Emma can't resist Ben either.

So many spicy scenes paired with so much longing and angst. In classic Daisy Wren fashion, the processing of religious trauma plays a key role in this romance. The way Ben shows up for Emma again and again is perfectly done. I laughed, I cried (a lot), I cheered, and I LOVED this romance. Daisy Wren is unmatched in her ability to intertwine trauma, growth, relationships, and spice. I bow to her skills!
Profile Image for L.
416 reviews4 followers
April 28, 2025
Emma has just finished her degree in construction management but can’t break into the field as a woman until her boss recommends her to a friend and he hires her without even an interview. Ben’s dad owns a construction company where he is a no nonsense project manager getting ready to take over the company soon so of course he’s upset when his dad hires a new project manager without even an interview and he has to train them. To prepare for the stress he decides to blow off some steam and head to the BDSM club where he meets a new sub and has a great time. Until Monday morning comes around and his new sub is the new PM and he was so not ready for that.

I devoured this book in less than 24 hours, it was great. Awesome body positivity, plus sized FMC. Great spice and kink and all kinds of other sensitive topics that were handled very well. As someone with religious trauma of my own it was very realistic unfortunately but set a great tone for what is and isn’t acceptable and everything for Emma and Ben was done so well for a healthy relationship even when it started out as only FWB or whatever they wanted to call it. Ben is a top tier book boyfriend, I love the grumpy/sunshine trope but this was next level. Loved it! Ready to read it all over again.
243 reviews
May 4, 2025
*plus size FMC
*forced proximity
*grumpy/sunshine
*workplace romance
*a dash of Dom/sub dynamic

Emma is a resilient, diligent, compassionate, and sentimental individual. She’s a beam of sunshine who, sadly, bears a heavy weight of neglect and sorrow, she struggled to find her professional direction, but now that she has, it’s clear she is completely dedicated to it. I appreciated both aspects of her character equally. Regardless of whether she’s radiating joy or allowing her sensitivity to come forth, she stays true to herself, and that is something I think every person should think about themself.

I've always had a weakness for those grumpy MMCs who only thrive when warmed by the glow of their unique sunshine. Indeed, Ben is certainly a cranky introvert, yet beneath his harsh surface lies a big heart. He is deeply in tune with Emma in every possible way. I truly appreciated that he honored the pace she established for them, even though he acknowledged much earlier than she did that there was greater depth to their ‘simple’ arrangement.

Following Emma and Ben's initial meeting, you're eager for the day they reunite at work, it was awesome to see these two struggle with their emotions, aware that they were doomed from the moment they encountered each other. Ben falls deeply and is utterly infatuated with Emma. No matter how much she tries to resist for fear of pain, Emma finds herself unable to ignore Ben, both main characters exhibit some skepticism toward long-term relationships because of their previous experiences, but hey, if life gives you lemons...

These two has affected me so much, mainly because i have a soft spot for a plus size FMC, but also because they found a way to complete each other, an I love when this happens.
Profile Image for Ashlee.
31 reviews
May 8, 2025
Thank you so much to Daisy Wren and Luna Literary for a chance to read and review this ARC.


If you love a grumpy sunshine then Resisting the Temptation is the one for you. Emma is our beautiful FMC who has sworn off serious relationships for years. She’s attempting to explore her BDSM kinks in a Kink Club where she runs into Ben. Our MMC Ben is a brooding dominant man who is immediately drawn to Emma. The issue comes on Monday when they show up to work and Emma is the new employee his Dad hired and he is tasked with training her.

Resisting the Temptation follows from what is thought of as a ONS and then develops into a friends with benefits to more. As a reader we get to watch as the characters explore their feelings and how they learn to trust in love again. Daisy Wren does an amazing job at pulling you in from the beginning with spicy scenes and witty characters. I enjoyed seeing Emma’s character work through her past traumas and learn to trust Ben. My only criticism if I’m being picky is that in the middle it felt a little repetitive but overall a great read with beautiful characters.


Tropes
💕Protective MMC
❤️‍🔥Kink Exploration
👫 Forced Proximity
🛌 One Night Stand
☀️Grumpy/ Sunshine
Profile Image for Cassidy Dreier.
41 reviews
October 5, 2025
I absolutely adored this book! As the third book in the series, it continues to focus on leaving Mormonism. This time, we are following Emma, Hannah, and Elli’s cousin, and Ben. Emma does not want anything serious and has only had hookups for 4 years. I really resonated with Hannah, and I think a lot of people will. She is on the spectrum, and the way Daisy writes her is absolutely perfect. She eventually meets Ben, but they don’t exactly know who each other is until later on. BEN omg, the way he understands Elli’s neurodivergence and pays attention to her needs/wants/ preferences is everything!!! The representation of neurodivergence in this book was amazing and extremely relatable. A lot of current-day issues like immigration and women’s rights are also touched on, which I really appreciated. As always, below I will list some of my favorite tropes, details, and character characteristics.



- deconstructing religion
- plus-size FMC
- grumpy/sunshine
- members-only club
- found family
- neurodivergence that is actually accurate
- accurate depiction of anxiety from someone who’s also on the spectrum
- interconnected standalone
- trans representation
- bi representation
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Kate Gordon.
48 reviews
April 20, 2025
4 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

I have never rooted for a couple to kiss in a book more than this book!!

Resisting the Temptation follows the story of Emma and Ben, the former an ex-Mormon with religious trauma trying to navigate the world of relationships and hookups without religious guilt, and Ben, who wants a love like his parents but doesn’t believe it’s in the cards for him.

After a bad breakup, Emma has sworn off love and kissing in favour of hookups in a bid to explore her sexuality post religious trauma. When she’s offered a spot at a new kink club in the area and is matched with a prospective Dom the week before she starts a new job, what could go wrong? After a steamy night of what could hopefully be reoccurring, Emma arrives to work on Monday to find her new boss is her paramour!

A forbidden romance, grumpy MMC vs sunshine FMC, found family read that is as spicy as it is heartwarming, Daisy Wren now officially has a new fan in me!

*ARC reader honest review*

Thanks to Daisy Wren and Luna Literary for this ARC opportunity!
Profile Image for AnnaRobyn.
327 reviews
May 22, 2025
Rating ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Swoon 🫦🫦🫦
LMAO 🤣🤣
Tears 🥹🥹🥹
Banter 😉😉😉

Workplace Romance / Grumpy Sunshine / Forced Proximity / HEA

Broken Shelves Book 3 - Emma Price has sworn off relationships … she falls so quickly, and then when it’s over, she’s devastated. She wants to explore her sexuality, so a friend gets her an invite to an adult club. Her friend pairs her up with a regular that will protect Emma while she explores. She’s wants to escape for one night fore she starts her new job. Ben Rossi runs a construction company with his father and has been told that he will be showing a new employee around on Monday. He gets a call from the club to come help out a newbie. They meet but don’t use their names, just initials. They have an incredible night together, and he wants to see her again. To keep her from catching feelings, she has one big rule … no kissing above the shoulders. They make plans to meet up again the following weekend … until she walks into her new job, and there he is. I really enjoyed this story and how he stood up for her with her judgmental family.
Profile Image for Stacey Kelley.
368 reviews30 followers
April 16, 2025
One of the things I really, really love about Daisy Wren’s books is her depiction of religious trauma. I wasn’t raised Mormon, but I was raised in a strict religious household that stunted my emotional growth when it came to sexuality. Daisy handles this topic expertly.

I love a grumpy/sunshine book, and this one is excellent. Ben is the very definition of grumpy. Emma is a genuinely sunshiny person, but she also uses it as a mask to hide her anxiety. Growing up in a family like hers would make anyone anxious.

The character growth and development these two go through in this story is beautiful. Watching Ben help emma learn to trust herself and her feelings is amazing. He shows her that her because she was too much for some, she’s perfect for him. Ben also discovers that it’s okay to let someone in. Together they learn to breakdown those walls and barriers they’ve each erected and just love each other.
Profile Image for Dara Wasalino Tremblay.
379 reviews49 followers
May 3, 2025
FMC Emma is smart, sassy, and quick witted. She’s the youngest of 10 kids from a Mormon family. MMC Benjamin is Emma’s coworker at her new job, and he’s the bosses son. Benjamin is a sexy grump. He is serious about work and doesn’t mix business with pleasure. Emma is treated terribly by her family, but she doesn’t let them dull her sparkle, but it has caused her to close herself off from relationships. Once Ben and Emma’s walls start to crumble and they let each other in, they realized they were both worthy of love. Ben is a strong, serious guy with a dirty mouth (who doesn’t love that??!!), and he is very attentive to Emma’s needs.

Tropes and Triggers:
Forced Proximity
Workplace Romance
Grumpy/Sunshine
Player Reformed
Plus Size FMC
Hurt/comfort
Found Family
ONS turned more
He Falls Hard
Mentions of suicide/death
Racism towards the MMC
Religious trauma
Fat shaming/fat phobia
D/S Relationship
Profile Image for Ashlley.
188 reviews38 followers
May 14, 2025

𝙍𝙚𝙨𝙞𝙨𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙏𝙝𝙚 𝙏𝙚𝙢𝙥𝙩𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣 𝙗𝙮 𝘿𝙖𝙞𝙨𝙮 𝙒𝙧𝙚𝙣

★★★★☆

Thank you, Daisy and Luna Literary for the ARC ♡

I had no idea what I was getting into when I first picked this up—but wow, it completely exceeded my expectations, especially for my first Daisy Wren book. Her writing is so captivating; it pulls you in right away. I connected with Emma almost instantly, which really surprised me. I think it’s because I saw parts of myself in her. Daisy wrote her in such a relatable and honest way that made her easy to understand.

And Ben? He gets her. He’s patient and gentle, knowing that Emma’s past has made her guarded. But he didn’t push—he slowly tore down her walls, one brick at a time, with so much care.

Their relationship starts off steamy, yes, but it’s not just about the spice. There are so many sweet, heartwarming moments that make you want to root for them with your whole chest.

All in all, it’s a fun, emotional, and spicy read that I definitely recommend!
Profile Image for Em.
254 reviews3 followers
May 26, 2025
📚✨ Resisting the Temptation by Daisy Wren
⭐️ 5/5 | 🌶️ 4/5

I immediately connected with the main character—like, within the first few pages. She felt so real, and I saw a lot of myself in her. That made the whole book hit even harder.

This was my first Daisy Wren read, and now I need her whole backlist. 😭

The story deals with some heavy stuff—mainly being rejected by your own family. Her parents were awful. But watching her slowly open up and find love? So healing.

And the romance? Sooo good. The spice shows up early and stays consistent, but it never takes over. The emotional connection made everything feel even more intense.

It’s steamy, yes—but also sweet, emotional, and surprisingly comforting. A story about being truly seen and loved, even in your messiest moments.

If you’re into healing arcs, soft-but-dirty love interests, and a romance that feels earned—this one's for you. 💘
Profile Image for Miss Zeets.
255 reviews8 followers
April 22, 2025
This book was somehow so different from the previous in the series, yet so familiar at the same time. I think being neurodivergent, this hits that much harder. The indecision about a future career, the need to get it right on the first try, the need for everyone to like you, and the need for someone to take over and make all the decision spoke to me on another level.

What to expect:
*plus size FMC
*forced proximity
*grumpy/sunshine
*workplace romance
*a dash of Dom/sub dynamic

What I loved:
When Ben thought that she would be clingy and unprofessional, but Emma being neurodivergent meant that she could mask really well, so he ended up being the pining one.

When Ben was just there for her in any way she needed.

I loved this book so much because it somehow validated my own experience in life. It might not be for everyone, and that's ok. But it made me *feel, and that's why it got 5 stars from me.

Thank you to the author and Luna Literary Management for including me in the ARC team. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for Kat.
69 reviews
April 23, 2025

Emma, spunky but guarded, lands her dream job but finds out the man training her is the same man training her at The Temptation Lounge. Emma has a no-kissing rule to protect her from getting attached, but Ben’s charms make him hard to resist!

I feel like I was holding my breath, WAITING for them to kiss. Emma’s such a ray of sunshine and a no-nonsense woman simultaneously, and I LOVE that.
Emma and Ben’s flavor of banter was the best blend of sweet and spicy.

I could tell that Emma’s story was very near and dear to the author’s heart. Thank you so much for sharing Emma’s religious and family trauma; it is definitely healing to see it represented.

Thank you to Daisy Wren and Luna Literary Management for the ARC and for sharing Emma and Ben’s story!

Came for: The Temptation Lounge
Stayed for: Their first kiss!

Overall: 4/5
Spice: 4.5/5
Profile Image for Hales The Bibliophile.
92 reviews6 followers
April 28, 2025
💜ARC REVIEW🖤

I have been waiting to read Emma’s story for the longest and my oh my was it everything and more.

Emma has been made to feel like she is too much and so if she just spends one night with someone and kissing is an off the table, she won’t get hurt. She wants to explore BDSM and the Dom/Sub dynamic. Now enters Ben, an experienced Dom and he and Emma have a very fun night together. Little do they know, they are now coworkers and Ben is the owner’s son.

Daiissssyyyyy!
This was your hottest story yet! Emma and Ben’s chemistry was off the charts smoking. I love the grumpy/sunshine dynamic between the two and did I mention how hot these two are together? And even though Ben is a major grump, but the way he takes care of Emma and is her safe place to be just herself, even when she’s been told she’s too much.

I absolutely LOVED it!

5⭐️
674 reviews2 followers
April 26, 2025
📚🌶🌶🌶

Resisting The Temptation was a book I was not expecting to love. Daisy Wren is a new to me author and did an amazing job of creating story with so much emotion! The found family, religious trauma and a little BDSM was absolutely perfect!!

Emma has rules for this exact reason. No kissing, sleepovers and repeats! Rules go out the window when the mysterious stranger she had an amazing scene with at the club turns out to be her new boss's son, Ben. Ben has always focused on work and didn't have time for relationships. That is until his new coworker turned out to be the mystery women that he can't seem to stop thinking about. Now he just has to convince her that they would be worth the temptation.
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