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Mine
Good girl.
I am good.
I’m good at my job, running my company, and making a filthy amount of money.
But when a tattooed, dark-haired stranger a decade younger than me whispers Good Girl in my ear—I don’t want to be good anymore.
Behind closed doors, Salt shows me things I’ve never experienced.
He holds me captive with his burning touch and fevered demands of submission.
He brings me to my knees and makes me yearn to stay there forever, even as the clock ticks…
Everyone says what we’re doing is sinful.
That a woman like me shouldn’t have desires like this.
They say he’s too young for me, a sadistic beast incapable of falling in love.
And yet…
The way he says I belong to him…
The way he growls my name…
Can we find a way to be together? Or will our worlds tear us apart?
Mine
Age Gap (she's older)BDSM DynamicsHe's a singer-songwriter, she's a record label CEOBeauty & the Beast retellingBoth scarred from their pastMine is a standalone contemporary romance.
I am good.
I’m good at my job, running my company, and making a filthy amount of money.
But when a tattooed, dark-haired stranger a decade younger than me whispers Good Girl in my ear—I don’t want to be good anymore.
Behind closed doors, Salt shows me things I’ve never experienced.
He holds me captive with his burning touch and fevered demands of submission.
He brings me to my knees and makes me yearn to stay there forever, even as the clock ticks…
Everyone says what we’re doing is sinful.
That a woman like me shouldn’t have desires like this.
They say he’s too young for me, a sadistic beast incapable of falling in love.
And yet…
The way he says I belong to him…
The way he growls my name…
Can we find a way to be together? Or will our worlds tear us apart?
Mine
Age Gap (she's older)BDSM DynamicsHe's a singer-songwriter, she's a record label CEOBeauty & the Beast retellingBoth scarred from their pastMine is a standalone contemporary romance.
396 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 14, 2025
665 people are currently reading
2591 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 379 reviews
May 20, 2025
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
I just discovered Clio Evans last year after reading the Citrus Cove series, and she is quickly becoming a new favorite for erotic romance. Mine is definitely an erotic romance since the relationship evolves from the characters sexual relationship, but it was so much more. I was captivated by both of the characters, and I loved how BDSM was represented in this. I think this is a great introduction book to show the BDSM lifestyle and community.
Pepper is the CEO of a record company she created with her friend and ex-husband. She has been completely devoted to her company since her marriage fell apart. She is looking for a new artist and quickly falls under Salt's charismatic spell. Salt is a sexy tattooed artist who also films thirst traps where he performs with a mask. They actually had a run-in at the coffee shop first where she was arguing with her annoying ex-husband on the phone. Salt basically goes into his Dom persona and demands she hang up on him, and when she does, he calls her a "Good Girl."" The thing that shocked Pepper was how much she liked it.
Salt immediately asks to go home with her, and he shows her how to explore her fantasies through the world of BDSM. Things heat up from there, and something that was supposed to be one night turns into more. Pepper is worried about their big age difference, and they also have to keep their relationship secret because he is going to be one of her artists.
At first, I thought this was going to just be another spicy and kinky book, but Clio did such an amazing job with also building intimacy between the characters. I loved how they really bonded and opened up about their troubled parents and history. I also really appreciated the care she took with the whole Dom/Sub dynamic. Salt is so careful to make sure they explore their kinks safely and is constantly checking in with her. I loved how he truly put effort into her aftercare. The amount of trust and love that grew between them was beautiful.
The other thing I loved was Pepper's journey of self-discovery through this BDSM relationship. It gave her the power she needed to stand up for herself against her loser ex-husband and gave her happiness outside of her business. Salt was such a sweet and tender partner, and I adored him.
TW: Abusive & alcoholic parent, parental death of alcoholism
Kinks: BDSM, CNC, spanking, exhibitionism, voyeurism, impact play, shibari, butt stuff, edging, squirting, toys, sensation depravation, slight degradation, and praise.
Thank you to Grey Promos for providing the ARC.
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
I just discovered Clio Evans last year after reading the Citrus Cove series, and she is quickly becoming a new favorite for erotic romance. Mine is definitely an erotic romance since the relationship evolves from the characters sexual relationship, but it was so much more. I was captivated by both of the characters, and I loved how BDSM was represented in this. I think this is a great introduction book to show the BDSM lifestyle and community.
Pepper is the CEO of a record company she created with her friend and ex-husband. She has been completely devoted to her company since her marriage fell apart. She is looking for a new artist and quickly falls under Salt's charismatic spell. Salt is a sexy tattooed artist who also films thirst traps where he performs with a mask. They actually had a run-in at the coffee shop first where she was arguing with her annoying ex-husband on the phone. Salt basically goes into his Dom persona and demands she hang up on him, and when she does, he calls her a "Good Girl."" The thing that shocked Pepper was how much she liked it.
Salt immediately asks to go home with her, and he shows her how to explore her fantasies through the world of BDSM. Things heat up from there, and something that was supposed to be one night turns into more. Pepper is worried about their big age difference, and they also have to keep their relationship secret because he is going to be one of her artists.
At first, I thought this was going to just be another spicy and kinky book, but Clio did such an amazing job with also building intimacy between the characters. I loved how they really bonded and opened up about their troubled parents and history. I also really appreciated the care she took with the whole Dom/Sub dynamic. Salt is so careful to make sure they explore their kinks safely and is constantly checking in with her. I loved how he truly put effort into her aftercare. The amount of trust and love that grew between them was beautiful.
The other thing I loved was Pepper's journey of self-discovery through this BDSM relationship. It gave her the power she needed to stand up for herself against her loser ex-husband and gave her happiness outside of her business. Salt was such a sweet and tender partner, and I adored him.
TW: Abusive & alcoholic parent, parental death of alcoholism
Kinks: BDSM, CNC, spanking, exhibitionism, voyeurism, impact play, shibari, butt stuff, edging, squirting, toys, sensation depravation, slight degradation, and praise.
Thank you to Grey Promos for providing the ARC.
September 5, 2025
Very educational, this book. I think I learned a thing or two about myself…
May 21, 2025
*ARC review*
What a ride.
This book allowed me to see myself.
Story follows Salt and Peper. He is a musician whose lyrics, music and voice makes you a fan and devotee from the first seconds. Adding to this his mysterious persona (he wears mask) and we are getting book version of Vessel (from Sleep token). And our man knows what he wants. And he wants pr even needs Paper.
It should have been easier for him to convince her to give him a chance, but we have some obstacles. She is a SEO in label (talent agency), she is older than him and she is so stubborn and bratty.
So it was a great adventure seeing how he destroyed her walls, how she allowed herself to pursue her heart and body desires and just allow herself to feel and be free.
I loved how patient but slightly strict Salt was with Peper, how he constantly communicated with her and discussed her needs and reactions to his dominance.
I loved how Clio made a story about two adults who are in consensual relationship where they can explore and feel safe. Scene with rope? Chief’s kiss.
Many thanks to Clio Evans for providing the ARC for exchange of an honest review.
What a ride.
This book allowed me to see myself.
Story follows Salt and Peper. He is a musician whose lyrics, music and voice makes you a fan and devotee from the first seconds. Adding to this his mysterious persona (he wears mask) and we are getting book version of Vessel (from Sleep token). And our man knows what he wants. And he wants pr even needs Paper.
It should have been easier for him to convince her to give him a chance, but we have some obstacles. She is a SEO in label (talent agency), she is older than him and she is so stubborn and bratty.
So it was a great adventure seeing how he destroyed her walls, how she allowed herself to pursue her heart and body desires and just allow herself to feel and be free.
I loved how patient but slightly strict Salt was with Peper, how he constantly communicated with her and discussed her needs and reactions to his dominance.
I loved how Clio made a story about two adults who are in consensual relationship where they can explore and feel safe. Scene with rope? Chief’s kiss.
Many thanks to Clio Evans for providing the ARC for exchange of an honest review.
September 29, 2025
4.5⭐I'm not a fan of the reverse age gap, but I loved this one.
I also liked the way Clio deals with the kink and BDSM lifestyle and that we find characters with different sexual preferences. It's a very inclusive book with a critical take on closed-minded and morally prejudiced education, which is enough to win me over.
But, as well as being a hot-as-hell book, it shows us the evolution of two people with significant emotional needs that mark them in one way or another.
Salt and Pepper are a couple built on trust, the need for affection, explosive chemistry and free sexuality. And with that foundation, you can fight anything.
I also liked the way Clio deals with the kink and BDSM lifestyle and that we find characters with different sexual preferences. It's a very inclusive book with a critical take on closed-minded and morally prejudiced education, which is enough to win me over.
But, as well as being a hot-as-hell book, it shows us the evolution of two people with significant emotional needs that mark them in one way or another.
Salt and Pepper are a couple built on trust, the need for affection, explosive chemistry and free sexuality. And with that foundation, you can fight anything.
dnf
May 22, 2025DNF @ 4%
So... I don't think I vibe with Clio's contemporary romance novels. I am a big fan of her monster / paranormal stuff but I don't think the contemp is hitting for me. For this book specifically (this is a bit ranty):
The FMC is putting her career above her mental health - at least she thinks she is. She can’t stand up to her ex in the workplace despite being the CEO because she thinks it will reflect badly. I’ll note that this is inherently because she is a woman, hello misogyny, because if the roles were flipped, no one would bat an eye at a male CEO divorcing and firing his wife, who is the president of the company, for sleeping and getting pregnant with her intern and 2 years later bringing said child into the office and making small digs in meetings.
I don't blame the FMC for the way she feels about the situation, we live in a society that has made her feel that way, but if multiple people at the company ALSO think you should fire him in the first chapter, you probably should.
light spoilers ahead....
I DNF'ed this because I KNOW that this will not be a good book for me if she doesn’t end up putting herself first and firing her ex before . So I skimmed the book and it happens
So... I don't think I vibe with Clio's contemporary romance novels. I am a big fan of her monster / paranormal stuff but I don't think the contemp is hitting for me. For this book specifically (this is a bit ranty):
The FMC is putting her career above her mental health - at least she thinks she is. She can’t stand up to her ex in the workplace despite being the CEO because she thinks it will reflect badly. I’ll note that this is inherently because she is a woman, hello misogyny, because if the roles were flipped, no one would bat an eye at a male CEO divorcing and firing his wife, who is the president of the company, for sleeping and getting pregnant with her intern and 2 years later bringing said child into the office and making small digs in meetings.
I don't blame the FMC for the way she feels about the situation, we live in a society that has made her feel that way, but if multiple people at the company ALSO think you should fire him in the first chapter, you probably should.
light spoilers ahead....
I DNF'ed this because I KNOW that this will not be a good book for me if she doesn’t end up putting herself first and firing her ex before . So I skimmed the book and it happens
June 9, 2025
- Ters yaş farkı (37/25)
- Yasak aşk
- Plak şirketi CEO’su kadın kadın karakter
- Sahneye maskeyle çıkan müzisyen erkek karakter
- BDSM
- Çift bakış açısı
4,5⭐️
4🌶️
Pepper herkesin soğuk ve acımasız bulduğu bir patron. Sadece yakın birkaç arkadaşı gerçek halini biliyor ama onlar da tamamını bilmiyor (içinde yanan ateşi🔥) Erkek karakterimiz Salt ile yolları kesiştiği andan itibaren ise bu ateş ortaya çıkıyor. Pepper, Salt’ın müziğine sahip olmak isterken, Salt herşeyiyle Pepper’ı istiyor!
Kendi yaşıma yakın kadın karakter okumanın farklı bir tadı var🤭 Müzisyen karakterlere de her zaman ayrı bir zaafım olmuştur zaten. Sonuç olarak çok keyif aldığım bir kitap oldu. Bir iki yerde tekrara düştüğü ve sonunu kısa kestiği için yarım puan kırdım. Keşke finalden sonrasını da biraz okuyabilseydik.
“This was my church. This was where I’d kneel. His eyes were stained glass windows, his body a temple, and he was a god I wanted to worship. A kinder god than the one I’d been raised to love.”
“She was the melody of my heart. And I’d have the chance to sing that song forever.”
- Yasak aşk
- Plak şirketi CEO’su kadın kadın karakter
- Sahneye maskeyle çıkan müzisyen erkek karakter
- BDSM
- Çift bakış açısı
4,5⭐️
4🌶️
Pepper herkesin soğuk ve acımasız bulduğu bir patron. Sadece yakın birkaç arkadaşı gerçek halini biliyor ama onlar da tamamını bilmiyor (içinde yanan ateşi🔥) Erkek karakterimiz Salt ile yolları kesiştiği andan itibaren ise bu ateş ortaya çıkıyor. Pepper, Salt’ın müziğine sahip olmak isterken, Salt herşeyiyle Pepper’ı istiyor!
Kendi yaşıma yakın kadın karakter okumanın farklı bir tadı var🤭 Müzisyen karakterlere de her zaman ayrı bir zaafım olmuştur zaten. Sonuç olarak çok keyif aldığım bir kitap oldu. Bir iki yerde tekrara düştüğü ve sonunu kısa kestiği için yarım puan kırdım. Keşke finalden sonrasını da biraz okuyabilseydik.
“This was my church. This was where I’d kneel. His eyes were stained glass windows, his body a temple, and he was a god I wanted to worship. A kinder god than the one I’d been raised to love.”
“She was the melody of my heart. And I’d have the chance to sing that song forever.”
May 30, 2025
What a f-ing incredible introduction to a new-to-me author 👏
I love Salt and Pepper. These two characters could easily melt my Kindle with the intense chemistry they have between them.
From the coffee shop meet-cute moment (that is definitely more steamy than cute), I was obsessed.
The way Salt helps her explore her kinks with trust and consent is just as beautiful as it is blush inducing.
I am, and forever will be, and lover of the age gap trope where she's older, and this one shot straight to the top of my favourites list.
Not only is it hotter than hell in the spice department, but the emotional journey that they both go through to deal with their trauma was amazing to read ❤️
I love Salt and Pepper. These two characters could easily melt my Kindle with the intense chemistry they have between them.
From the coffee shop meet-cute moment (that is definitely more steamy than cute), I was obsessed.
The way Salt helps her explore her kinks with trust and consent is just as beautiful as it is blush inducing.
I am, and forever will be, and lover of the age gap trope where she's older, and this one shot straight to the top of my favourites list.
Not only is it hotter than hell in the spice department, but the emotional journey that they both go through to deal with their trauma was amazing to read ❤️
May 27, 2025
Clio Evans took the magic of her super spicy monster romances, and put it into a contemporary. And I absolutely loved it.
📕 𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸 𝗜𝗻𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻: Mine by Clio Evans
📙 𝗦𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗲𝘀: Standalone
📗 𝗥𝗲𝗮𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗗𝗲𝘁𝗮𝗶𝗹𝘀: E-book ARC on Kindle. 🆓️ on KU
📘 𝗚𝗲𝗻𝗿𝗲: Rockstar romance
📔 𝗧𝗿𝗼𝗽𝗲𝘀: Reverse age gap, BDSM vibes, divorced FMC, forbidden romance.
📖 𝗦𝘆𝗻𝗼𝗽𝘀𝗶𝘀: Pepper is reviewing potential new acts when she comes across Salt - a masked singer who is all the rage on social media. She's focused on getting him signed to her label, without the distraction of a forbidden attraction. She's obsessed with his music - and he's obsessed with her.
🌟 𝗥𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄: Whew! This one was HOT.
Clio Evans' cowboy romances were definitely not lacking spice, but Mine really ratcheted the levels up on her contemporary offerings. Salt and Pepper were deeply into BDSM, power dynamics, clubs, etc. and I was hanging on every word. And as Clio Evans tends to do, she melded the incredibly high spice with characters you can't help but root for, incredible character development, and a pace that set the pages on fire.
This entire book felt like a whirlwind. It had definite Baby Girl vibes - so if you liked the movie, definitely pick this up. If you didn't see it yet, but were interested, this book was better anyway, and had an excellent happily ever after.
𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 4.5/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐
𝗦𝗽𝗶𝗰𝗲 𝗟𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹: 4.5/5 🌶🌶🌶🌶
𝑰 𝒓𝒆𝒄𝒆𝒊𝒗𝒆𝒅 𝒂𝒏 𝑨𝑹𝑪 𝒐𝒇 𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒔 𝒃𝒐𝒐𝒌 𝒊𝒏 𝒆𝒙𝒄𝒉𝒂𝒏𝒈𝒆 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒂𝒏 𝒉𝒐𝒏𝒆𝒔𝒕 𝒓𝒆𝒗𝒊𝒆𝒘.
📕 𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸 𝗜𝗻𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻: Mine by Clio Evans
📙 𝗦𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗲𝘀: Standalone
📗 𝗥𝗲𝗮𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗗𝗲𝘁𝗮𝗶𝗹𝘀: E-book ARC on Kindle. 🆓️ on KU
📘 𝗚𝗲𝗻𝗿𝗲: Rockstar romance
📔 𝗧𝗿𝗼𝗽𝗲𝘀: Reverse age gap, BDSM vibes, divorced FMC, forbidden romance.
📖 𝗦𝘆𝗻𝗼𝗽𝘀𝗶𝘀: Pepper is reviewing potential new acts when she comes across Salt - a masked singer who is all the rage on social media. She's focused on getting him signed to her label, without the distraction of a forbidden attraction. She's obsessed with his music - and he's obsessed with her.
🌟 𝗥𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄: Whew! This one was HOT.
Clio Evans' cowboy romances were definitely not lacking spice, but Mine really ratcheted the levels up on her contemporary offerings. Salt and Pepper were deeply into BDSM, power dynamics, clubs, etc. and I was hanging on every word. And as Clio Evans tends to do, she melded the incredibly high spice with characters you can't help but root for, incredible character development, and a pace that set the pages on fire.
This entire book felt like a whirlwind. It had definite Baby Girl vibes - so if you liked the movie, definitely pick this up. If you didn't see it yet, but were interested, this book was better anyway, and had an excellent happily ever after.
𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 4.5/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐
𝗦𝗽𝗶𝗰𝗲 𝗟𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹: 4.5/5 🌶🌶🌶🌶
𝑰 𝒓𝒆𝒄𝒆𝒊𝒗𝒆𝒅 𝒂𝒏 𝑨𝑹𝑪 𝒐𝒇 𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒔 𝒃𝒐𝒐𝒌 𝒊𝒏 𝒆𝒙𝒄𝒉𝒂𝒏𝒈𝒆 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒂𝒏 𝒉𝒐𝒏𝒆𝒔𝒕 𝒓𝒆𝒗𝒊𝒆𝒘.
Read
August 11, 2025DNF @ 23% I’m just so sick and tired reading books where an FMC is inexperienced or has only had bad sex and her partner couldn’t make her orgasm while you have the MMC whom is experienced and has had good sex!!!! I also didn’t like the FMC from what I read.
May 30, 2025
This was hot. I usually am not really pulled toward musician or like fame stories but if Clio writes it I am going to read it...so it was a revelation. There was so much more emotion and connection mixed with heavy duty kink exploration than I expected.
These two, Salt and Pepper (ha ha ha it seems a little silly but actually really works in the industry and the world created) felt intensely connected from the first hearing/meeting. I could just feel the chemistry. Long story short they were hot hot hot. I also loved how the power imbalances were done with her being older than him and more elevated and powerful in the music business with her being CEO of the record label that wants to sign him. While he, Salt, definitely due to his early life was way more experienced sexually and in kink as well as navigating life from early abuse and homelessness. So because of this he has more actual emotional maturity as well.
The kink exploration was very intense but also had heavy emphasis on consent, discussion and aftercare which I realized I just do not see to this extent in books involving heavy topics and emotions after very involved power playing. It was really well done.
Be warned:
Talk of abusive parents
Homelessness
Sex work
Religious/Cult upbringing
Death of Parents
Grief
Has:
Dom/Sub Exploration
Exhibition
Impact Play
Shibari
CNC
Degradation
Praise
Breeding Kink but no to actual kids/pregnancy
Oh and do not sleep on the audio. Wow! Salt in audio is a whole ass mood...whew
These two, Salt and Pepper (ha ha ha it seems a little silly but actually really works in the industry and the world created) felt intensely connected from the first hearing/meeting. I could just feel the chemistry. Long story short they were hot hot hot. I also loved how the power imbalances were done with her being older than him and more elevated and powerful in the music business with her being CEO of the record label that wants to sign him. While he, Salt, definitely due to his early life was way more experienced sexually and in kink as well as navigating life from early abuse and homelessness. So because of this he has more actual emotional maturity as well.
The kink exploration was very intense but also had heavy emphasis on consent, discussion and aftercare which I realized I just do not see to this extent in books involving heavy topics and emotions after very involved power playing. It was really well done.
Be warned:
Talk of abusive parents
Homelessness
Sex work
Religious/Cult upbringing
Death of Parents
Grief
Has:
Dom/Sub Exploration
Exhibition
Impact Play
Shibari
CNC
Degradation
Praise
Breeding Kink but no to actual kids/pregnancy
Oh and do not sleep on the audio. Wow! Salt in audio is a whole ass mood...whew
June 13, 2025
3.5*
I wish there was more of a romance plot to it but overall it was great
I wish there was more of a romance plot to it but overall it was great
June 28, 2025
This is one of the hottest books I've read in a long time. Pepper is the CEO of a small but mighty record label, having cofounded it with her best friend and then husband. Now divorced and forced to face her ex-husband every day, along with seeing his toddler daughter with his new wife, she decides to finally find pleasure in sex. Salt and Pepper have immediate chemistry, practically before they'd even laid eyes on each other. That coffee shop meet cute? Shiiiiiiiit, you KNOW pheromones were at work, and delivered on one of the hottest first times I've ever read. The public and private power exchange between these two? The respect this man 12 years her junior AND her Dom has for her? Consent is a MAJOR theme, thankfully more and more authors are getting on board with putting it on the page. Interesting how they work through her religious trauma and his abusive childhood.
Tropes: FM age gap, forbidden love, instalove, sex in public, exhibitionism, kink - heavy, found family
Tropes: FM age gap, forbidden love, instalove, sex in public, exhibitionism, kink - heavy, found family
August 25, 2025
I’ve been loving Clio’s expansion into the contemporary world. And I think this has to be one of my favorites to date. The journey Salt and Pepper (LOL) go on together is filled with exploration - both emotional and sexual. I ate it right up! The ending was a little abrupt imo, but I still had the best time.
July 15, 2025
i hate the characters names so much 😭😭
May 29, 2025
Incredible!
The standard when it comes to:
-Reverse age gap
-BDSM and kink exploration
👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻 I will be suggesting this to everyone.
Cleo broke the mold!
Not only was it hot as hell. It was beautiful, tender, and heart warming. Everyone should be loved the way Salt loves Pepper (yes their names are salt and pepper) lol
The standard when it comes to:
-Reverse age gap
-BDSM and kink exploration
👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻 I will be suggesting this to everyone.
Cleo broke the mold!
Not only was it hot as hell. It was beautiful, tender, and heart warming. Everyone should be loved the way Salt loves Pepper (yes their names are salt and pepper) lol
May 20, 2025
This book was pretty incredible. Older woman/younger man age gap. Check! Healthy k ! n k communication and negotiation. Check! Rockstar trope. Check! A showing of positive masculinity in the MMC. Check! Banter and spice galore. Check and Chhhhhheck!
I had a blast reading this book! As someone who personally oftentimes prefers younger men I ate this up, as we are seriously lacking in the older woman/younger man romance dynamic in this community. The MMC is a local rockstar (gave Sleep Token vibes) that the MFC's music company wants to land, so it has that forbidden 'I'm gonna be your boss, we can't do this' theme throughout. While I did really love this book and have been recommending it to everyone, I did just want to note somethings I personally wasn't a fan of, in case anyone else would want to know about it. With this being an older woman age gap, EVERYONE even her friends s h ! t on her about it when they found out. She didn't have anyone in her corner till the very end and these were her best friends, so that was wildly disappointing. I can understand some trepidation and hesitation like 'I support you but please think about how this could affect you/your career'. But they were flat out like 'whoa you are way too old for him'. Like the MMC is a grown a s s adult, who knows what the MFC looks like and is obsessed with her anyway.
But in saying that I still really did love this book. I'm so happy that Clio is getting into writing more contemporary romance and it looks like she'd planning to do more so I so excited to see what's next!
I had a blast reading this book! As someone who personally oftentimes prefers younger men I ate this up, as we are seriously lacking in the older woman/younger man romance dynamic in this community. The MMC is a local rockstar (gave Sleep Token vibes) that the MFC's music company wants to land, so it has that forbidden 'I'm gonna be your boss, we can't do this' theme throughout. While I did really love this book and have been recommending it to everyone, I did just want to note somethings I personally wasn't a fan of, in case anyone else would want to know about it. With this being an older woman age gap, EVERYONE even her friends s h ! t on her about it when they found out. She didn't have anyone in her corner till the very end and these were her best friends, so that was wildly disappointing. I can understand some trepidation and hesitation like 'I support you but please think about how this could affect you/your career'. But they were flat out like 'whoa you are way too old for him'. Like the MMC is a grown a s s adult, who knows what the MFC looks like and is obsessed with her anyway.
But in saying that I still really did love this book. I'm so happy that Clio is getting into writing more contemporary romance and it looks like she'd planning to do more so I so excited to see what's next!
June 6, 2025
This was a super fun read!
I really enjoyed Salt and Pepper’s dynamic they were cute together and also very 🔥
I think everything wrapped up really quickly and there could have been more time spent on how their relationship would impact the company or even more of their lives outside of the relationship in general. But it didn’t really bother me because I was looking for an easy, spicy read and that’s exactly what this was!
I really enjoyed Salt and Pepper’s dynamic they were cute together and also very 🔥
I think everything wrapped up really quickly and there could have been more time spent on how their relationship would impact the company or even more of their lives outside of the relationship in general. But it didn’t really bother me because I was looking for an easy, spicy read and that’s exactly what this was!
May 20, 2025
I went into this book expecting pure debauchery.
Don’t get me wrong, there’s plenty of it.
But also, this was beautiful, fun and moving.
I absolutely love everything about Mine, one of my favorites this year so far and my new favorite from Clio. 🖤
Don’t get me wrong, there’s plenty of it.
But also, this was beautiful, fun and moving.
I absolutely love everything about Mine, one of my favorites this year so far and my new favorite from Clio. 🖤
May 20, 2025
So like, after receiving five ARCs from Clio, you'd think I would have learned to stop reading them on the plane. Instead, I will continue to receive terrified looks from the poor middle-aged men who end up in the middle seat next to me.
Mine was such an incredible experience, and so unlike some of Clio's books in the past. Watching her switch from monster romance to contemporary and back and forth has been so exciting because she tackles both genres with ease, and one doesn't suffer because of the other.
Salt and Pepper were characters with so much depth. They have traumas that are very unique from one another, but the way they tie together is truly beautiful They are able to understand each other despite such different experiences. Pepper's relationship with religion and infidelity gave her a personality that shows strength rather than showing a woman who has been beaten down by her struggle. Salt was a man you couldn't help but be enthralled by. He is so unapologetically himself in his public and private lives. He holds so much respect for the people who have shown him the respect he has earned, and he never shows anyone an ounce of malice unless they deserve it (as many characters do in this book.)
Something I love about Clio's writing is how the importance of consent and explanation of what true k!nk should be filter through everything. Sometimes, there are books where you can sort of move past the full, deep explanation because it's just spice. But Clio refuses to say that it's just spice. It displays a level of care for her characters, for the education of the broader community, and reminds us all that fantasy still needs to be safe.
This is a book where the romance is the plot. I loved the parallels of the chase between Pepper's company and Salt's music alongside the dominance of Salt chasing the submissiveness of Pepper. They very much learned from one another while incorporating their own desires into their daily life.
This is a book I will definitely go back and reread. If you love k!nk, reverse age gap, and spreader bars, dive right on into this one.
5/5 stars
4.5/5 spice
Mine was such an incredible experience, and so unlike some of Clio's books in the past. Watching her switch from monster romance to contemporary and back and forth has been so exciting because she tackles both genres with ease, and one doesn't suffer because of the other.
Salt and Pepper were characters with so much depth. They have traumas that are very unique from one another, but the way they tie together is truly beautiful They are able to understand each other despite such different experiences. Pepper's relationship with religion and infidelity gave her a personality that shows strength rather than showing a woman who has been beaten down by her struggle. Salt was a man you couldn't help but be enthralled by. He is so unapologetically himself in his public and private lives. He holds so much respect for the people who have shown him the respect he has earned, and he never shows anyone an ounce of malice unless they deserve it (as many characters do in this book.)
Something I love about Clio's writing is how the importance of consent and explanation of what true k!nk should be filter through everything. Sometimes, there are books where you can sort of move past the full, deep explanation because it's just spice. But Clio refuses to say that it's just spice. It displays a level of care for her characters, for the education of the broader community, and reminds us all that fantasy still needs to be safe.
This is a book where the romance is the plot. I loved the parallels of the chase between Pepper's company and Salt's music alongside the dominance of Salt chasing the submissiveness of Pepper. They very much learned from one another while incorporating their own desires into their daily life.
This is a book I will definitely go back and reread. If you love k!nk, reverse age gap, and spreader bars, dive right on into this one.
5/5 stars
4.5/5 spice
May 20, 2025
"We were all used up wishes waiting to be picked up and dried off, or forever forgotten."~Salt
This wasn't what I was expecting. I'm not sure how to feel about this one. I found the age gap between our main couple interesting. Pepper was 37 and Salt was 25. We need more of that dynamic in books. She's a business woman, a CEO of Rosethorn Records in Nashville. I know she had a reputation for being a b but honestly, it really wasn't there for me. She put up with far too much, from everyone, especially having her whining ex-husband Jeff being president of her company. I couldn't stand him! They were married for 15yrs till he cheated with an intern and she had his baby. It's a messy situation. If Pepper had truly been what her reputation proceeded her to be, then Jeff would have been given his walking papers sooner rather than later. The writing was fine. Buttt the majority of this book spun it's wheels in the extreme world of BDSM. Dom/Sub, cnc, rough play, hard hitting with belt or hand, biting, choking, spanking, toys, s*x club, voyeurism, bratty role-playing, degradation, and more in almost every single chapter. And if you like non-stop controlling smut then you will enjoy this one.💋 I wanted more than that. It got gritty. Codependency. If things spiraled, for Pepper who kept doubting herself on why Salt wanted her, she would want intimacy to not think about it. That's not good.
🚩🚩Be sure to read the TWs. There are things, situations, in the story that some readers may find uncomfortable.🚩🚩
You have two people with hurt and damaged pasts connecting by way of her looking for new musical talent and him being a musician, writing/singing songs about s*xy times, with no shirt and wearing a face mask on his social media. Think Orville Peck. The understanding moments, showing and giving support were too far and in between for Salt and Pepper. It was more physical as Pepper, a newbie, learns about her hidden drives/kinks and wanting to be dominated by Salt. The more hurt he gives, the better. He was always ready to go. Salt wants to hurt her but not harm her. That was what he said in the story but tbh, Pepper was always crying during intimate moments but she still begged for more.😳😬 Uhh. Yeah. Seems unrealistic to me. It's not my cup of tea. It's sadistic and Salt delivered. Harm was already happening imo. Sure he checked in, but dang dude, he didn't hold back. Pepper was a good girl b/c she could take it. It was too much.🪢😵🪢 If that much care can be given to the physical desires of exploration why not build up more of the emotional stages along with it?
There's no Beauty and the Beast vibes here. Not to me. Pepper left home due to her religious 'cult' family. Since women are to serve their husbands, do as your told etc etc. But isn't Pepper doing just that, serving her lover, submitting to him when he says to and when not to?🤔 Tell me that it's different b/c it's about pleasure and pushing limits, getting down and dirty, but for me, it's the same thing. But with the added pain. And none of her coworker/friends were very supportive of her being with Salt. Mind you Salt's about to be her client, which I understand, but the put downs were unnecessary. I figured they would have been more sympathetic, but I guess not. Salt has his damage from an abusive father. Salt's Moms Nancy and Beth were likable. As was Dan, Tommy's husband who was Pepper's friends. This story flat out didn't work. And then love suddenly happened.🤷🏽 Happy reading.*•>§<•*🖤💥🖤💥
💢🎭Thank you to Ms Evans and Grey's Promotions for an early book. The opinions shared here are my own.🎭💢
This wasn't what I was expecting. I'm not sure how to feel about this one. I found the age gap between our main couple interesting. Pepper was 37 and Salt was 25. We need more of that dynamic in books. She's a business woman, a CEO of Rosethorn Records in Nashville. I know she had a reputation for being a b but honestly, it really wasn't there for me. She put up with far too much, from everyone, especially having her whining ex-husband Jeff being president of her company. I couldn't stand him! They were married for 15yrs till he cheated with an intern and she had his baby. It's a messy situation. If Pepper had truly been what her reputation proceeded her to be, then Jeff would have been given his walking papers sooner rather than later. The writing was fine. Buttt the majority of this book spun it's wheels in the extreme world of BDSM. Dom/Sub, cnc, rough play, hard hitting with belt or hand, biting, choking, spanking, toys, s*x club, voyeurism, bratty role-playing, degradation, and more in almost every single chapter. And if you like non-stop controlling smut then you will enjoy this one.💋 I wanted more than that. It got gritty. Codependency. If things spiraled, for Pepper who kept doubting herself on why Salt wanted her, she would want intimacy to not think about it. That's not good.
🚩🚩Be sure to read the TWs. There are things, situations, in the story that some readers may find uncomfortable.🚩🚩
You have two people with hurt and damaged pasts connecting by way of her looking for new musical talent and him being a musician, writing/singing songs about s*xy times, with no shirt and wearing a face mask on his social media. Think Orville Peck. The understanding moments, showing and giving support were too far and in between for Salt and Pepper. It was more physical as Pepper, a newbie, learns about her hidden drives/kinks and wanting to be dominated by Salt. The more hurt he gives, the better. He was always ready to go. Salt wants to hurt her but not harm her. That was what he said in the story but tbh, Pepper was always crying during intimate moments but she still begged for more.😳😬 Uhh. Yeah. Seems unrealistic to me. It's not my cup of tea. It's sadistic and Salt delivered. Harm was already happening imo. Sure he checked in, but dang dude, he didn't hold back. Pepper was a good girl b/c she could take it. It was too much.🪢😵🪢 If that much care can be given to the physical desires of exploration why not build up more of the emotional stages along with it?
There's no Beauty and the Beast vibes here. Not to me. Pepper left home due to her religious 'cult' family. Since women are to serve their husbands, do as your told etc etc. But isn't Pepper doing just that, serving her lover, submitting to him when he says to and when not to?🤔 Tell me that it's different b/c it's about pleasure and pushing limits, getting down and dirty, but for me, it's the same thing. But with the added pain. And none of her coworker/friends were very supportive of her being with Salt. Mind you Salt's about to be her client, which I understand, but the put downs were unnecessary. I figured they would have been more sympathetic, but I guess not. Salt has his damage from an abusive father. Salt's Moms Nancy and Beth were likable. As was Dan, Tommy's husband who was Pepper's friends. This story flat out didn't work. And then love suddenly happened.🤷🏽 Happy reading.*•>§<•*🖤💥🖤💥
💢🎭Thank you to Ms Evans and Grey's Promotions for an early book. The opinions shared here are my own.🎭💢
May 9, 2025
[I was provided an ARC by the author in exchange for an honest review.]
I quite literally could not put this book down.
Pepper is a bad bitch CEO of a record label, Salt is a super sexy musician and songwriter, and together they make beautiful, kinky music😉
I am a slut for an age gap romance, and the FMC being older is always such a fun switch!
regardless of their ages, they both taught each other so much.
Salt teaches Pepper about kink and about believing in herself outside of being a CEO.
Pepper teaches Salt that he is worth loving and sticking around for.
I loved seeing Pepper find herself outside of her job. not just regarding kink and her preferences, but also with who she is and who she wants to be.
Salt helping Pepper explore her kinks and being so patient with her made me want to cry happy tears. he was so sweet to her while being such a good dom, explaining everything to her so she knew what she was getting into and what she may or may not enjoy.
that is proper kink!!!!!
I also liked that both Pepper and Salt dealt with grief that was similar, yet so different. seeing how they both handled their parental trauma and then worked through their past together was really amazing to read.
this book showed kink in such a beautiful light. it’s not always just about sex or sexual gratification, although that can be part of it. it’s about trust. it’s about acceptance, of yourself and of your preferences.
and fuck Jeff. I really hated that guy.
I would read Clio Evans’s grocery list tbh, because I love everything that she writes. but this book absolutely gripped me and would not let go! I was so excited for it, and I am so beyond happy that it lived up to my expectations.🩷
5/5⭐️
4/5 spice rating🌶️
I quite literally could not put this book down.
Pepper is a bad bitch CEO of a record label, Salt is a super sexy musician and songwriter, and together they make beautiful, kinky music😉
I am a slut for an age gap romance, and the FMC being older is always such a fun switch!
regardless of their ages, they both taught each other so much.
Salt teaches Pepper about kink and about believing in herself outside of being a CEO.
Pepper teaches Salt that he is worth loving and sticking around for.
I loved seeing Pepper find herself outside of her job. not just regarding kink and her preferences, but also with who she is and who she wants to be.
Salt helping Pepper explore her kinks and being so patient with her made me want to cry happy tears. he was so sweet to her while being such a good dom, explaining everything to her so she knew what she was getting into and what she may or may not enjoy.
that is proper kink!!!!!
I also liked that both Pepper and Salt dealt with grief that was similar, yet so different. seeing how they both handled their parental trauma and then worked through their past together was really amazing to read.
this book showed kink in such a beautiful light. it’s not always just about sex or sexual gratification, although that can be part of it. it’s about trust. it’s about acceptance, of yourself and of your preferences.
and fuck Jeff. I really hated that guy.
I would read Clio Evans’s grocery list tbh, because I love everything that she writes. but this book absolutely gripped me and would not let go! I was so excited for it, and I am so beyond happy that it lived up to my expectations.🩷
5/5⭐️
4/5 spice rating🌶️
May 22, 2025
Pepper is the co-owner of one of the biggest music labels. She’s strict, responsible, and loves to be in control. Salt is a musician who performs in a mask, and his music captivates absolutely everyone. But his main job? Crafting BDSM furniture and occasionally teaching at a BDSM club💅 The label is interested in Salt, so Pepper attends his concert to assess his music. Of course, his sound enchants her, and she can’t take her eyes off him. And Salt? He can’t stop staring at Pepper💅
I loved how Pepper dealt with her own prejudices—how she struggled with the idea that what she liked was "dirty" or "wrong." I hated her ex-husband with a passion and genuinely felt sorry for Pepper—I just wanted to hug her. Salt? An exquisite, perfect Dominant who took Pepper under his wing and taught her to embrace what she truly enjoys. This book is packed with fascinating kinks, BDSM dynamics, and scorching scenes that’ll leave you breathless. 🥵
Clio is the goddess of kinky romance, and I’d read anything she gives us!!! Before diving in, 𝐩𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞 check the trigger warnings and prepare your heart—because Salt and Pepper’s relationship will wreck you. 💅
I loved how Pepper dealt with her own prejudices—how she struggled with the idea that what she liked was "dirty" or "wrong." I hated her ex-husband with a passion and genuinely felt sorry for Pepper—I just wanted to hug her. Salt? An exquisite, perfect Dominant who took Pepper under his wing and taught her to embrace what she truly enjoys. This book is packed with fascinating kinks, BDSM dynamics, and scorching scenes that’ll leave you breathless. 🥵
Clio is the goddess of kinky romance, and I’d read anything she gives us!!! Before diving in, 𝐩𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞 check the trigger warnings and prepare your heart—because Salt and Pepper’s relationship will wreck you. 💅
September 2, 2025
Clio Evans - I think I have found a new favorite author!
Meet Pepper - she’s a 37 year old, divorcee, CEO of a record company, and a baddie with a kinky side 😉. Her own ex Jeff 🙄 couldn’t even handle her. Let’s face it Pepper, his loss is your gain!
Incoming - Salt — Salt n Pepper is here and we’re in effect, what you to push it, babe! OK maybe not that Salt N pepa. Salt - he’s single and ready to mingle. He is 25 and has some trauma (who doesn’t) and is a dom. 😮💨🤤. He’s a singer songwriter and a social media hunk.
When Salt slips into Pepper’s life, whispering “Good girl” in her ear, everything shifts. (I would have spilled my coffee) His commanding presence and intense kinks awaken desires Pepper had long suppressed. What starts as a charged physical connection soon evolves into something deeper.
Ladies and gentlemen - if you want a good dom read with newly desired kinks, look no further. Salt is everything a lady dreams of and Pepper is everything you want to devour. Such a good girl am I right?! ☺️🧂🌶️
Meet Pepper - she’s a 37 year old, divorcee, CEO of a record company, and a baddie with a kinky side 😉. Her own ex Jeff 🙄 couldn’t even handle her. Let’s face it Pepper, his loss is your gain!
Incoming - Salt — Salt n Pepper is here and we’re in effect, what you to push it, babe! OK maybe not that Salt N pepa. Salt - he’s single and ready to mingle. He is 25 and has some trauma (who doesn’t) and is a dom. 😮💨🤤. He’s a singer songwriter and a social media hunk.
When Salt slips into Pepper’s life, whispering “Good girl” in her ear, everything shifts. (I would have spilled my coffee) His commanding presence and intense kinks awaken desires Pepper had long suppressed. What starts as a charged physical connection soon evolves into something deeper.
Ladies and gentlemen - if you want a good dom read with newly desired kinks, look no further. Salt is everything a lady dreams of and Pepper is everything you want to devour. Such a good girl am I right?! ☺️🧂🌶️
May 28, 2025
[I received an advance reader copy from the author in exchange for an honest review.]
This book completely captivated me from the very first page! I was immediately drawn into the world of Pepper, a strong and successful CEO of a record label, and Salt, a charismatic and talented musician and songwriter. Their chemistry is undeniable, creating a dynamic that is both beautifully intimate and deliciously kinky 😉
What I particularly loved was the exploration of their age gap romance, featuring an older female main character. The author, Clio Evans, skillfully tackled the real-world dynamics of such a relationship, especially considering Pepper's powerful professional position and Salt's established reputation. Despite their age differences, Pepper and Salt had profound lessons to teach one another.
Salt introduced Pepper to the world of kink, fostering her self-belief beyond her identity as a CEO. Pepper, in turn, showed Salt his inherent worthiness of love and lasting commitment. Witnessing Pepper's personal growth outside of her career, both in exploring her desires and understanding her true self, was truly beautiful.
Salt's patient and gentle guidance as Pepper explored her kinks was incredibly heartwarming. His emphasis on communication and ensuring her comfort exemplified healthy and respectful kink dynamics. The book also thoughtfully explored the parallel yet distinct ways Pepper and Salt navigated their shared experiences of grief and parental trauma, highlighting the power of working through past hurts together.
Clio Evans beautifully illuminated the multifaceted nature of kink, showcasing that it extends beyond the physical to encompass trust, self-acceptance, and the embrace of one's desires.
UGH I hate Jeff! But honestly, I don't we all know a Jeff??
As a first-time reader of Clio Evans, I was thoroughly impressed with her writing. This book grabbed me instantly and held my attention until the very end. While I didn't have prior expectations, I can confidently say I will be eagerly anticipating her future work. I highly recommend this book to anyone looking for a compelling romance with depth, spice, and characters that truly resonate! 🩷
This book completely captivated me from the very first page! I was immediately drawn into the world of Pepper, a strong and successful CEO of a record label, and Salt, a charismatic and talented musician and songwriter. Their chemistry is undeniable, creating a dynamic that is both beautifully intimate and deliciously kinky 😉
What I particularly loved was the exploration of their age gap romance, featuring an older female main character. The author, Clio Evans, skillfully tackled the real-world dynamics of such a relationship, especially considering Pepper's powerful professional position and Salt's established reputation. Despite their age differences, Pepper and Salt had profound lessons to teach one another.
Salt introduced Pepper to the world of kink, fostering her self-belief beyond her identity as a CEO. Pepper, in turn, showed Salt his inherent worthiness of love and lasting commitment. Witnessing Pepper's personal growth outside of her career, both in exploring her desires and understanding her true self, was truly beautiful.
Salt's patient and gentle guidance as Pepper explored her kinks was incredibly heartwarming. His emphasis on communication and ensuring her comfort exemplified healthy and respectful kink dynamics. The book also thoughtfully explored the parallel yet distinct ways Pepper and Salt navigated their shared experiences of grief and parental trauma, highlighting the power of working through past hurts together.
Clio Evans beautifully illuminated the multifaceted nature of kink, showcasing that it extends beyond the physical to encompass trust, self-acceptance, and the embrace of one's desires.
UGH I hate Jeff! But honestly, I don't we all know a Jeff??
As a first-time reader of Clio Evans, I was thoroughly impressed with her writing. This book grabbed me instantly and held my attention until the very end. While I didn't have prior expectations, I can confidently say I will be eagerly anticipating her future work. I highly recommend this book to anyone looking for a compelling romance with depth, spice, and characters that truly resonate! 🩷
May 20, 2025
“I wanted her. Just her. Her submission and exploration were stray sparks that kindled the dry waste of my soul into a roaring flame.”
I do love a good reverse age gap every once in a while and Mine was just what I didn’t know I needed. Simon Salt and Pepper Jones absolutely consumed me for two days.
Pepper is 12 years older than Salt and yet inexperienced where he exudes experience. Having suppressed her desires so much of her life she hits the jackpot with Salt. Their attraction is strong and connection is instant.
I loved who these two are together. Both coming from loveless homes yet have so much love for each other. Pepper grows so much from the moment she meets Salt. If anyone deserves to finally love the life she has wanted, it is Pepper.
Ms. Evans does a phenomenal job of getting the reader immersed in this story. I thoroughly enjoyed this darker side of her writing as I have only read her small town series.
I do love a good reverse age gap every once in a while and Mine was just what I didn’t know I needed. Simon Salt and Pepper Jones absolutely consumed me for two days.
Pepper is 12 years older than Salt and yet inexperienced where he exudes experience. Having suppressed her desires so much of her life she hits the jackpot with Salt. Their attraction is strong and connection is instant.
I loved who these two are together. Both coming from loveless homes yet have so much love for each other. Pepper grows so much from the moment she meets Salt. If anyone deserves to finally love the life she has wanted, it is Pepper.
Ms. Evans does a phenomenal job of getting the reader immersed in this story. I thoroughly enjoyed this darker side of her writing as I have only read her small town series.
May 17, 2025
4.5⭐️ 5🌶️ (ARC REVIEW)
🥀 MF Romance
🖤 Record Label CEO
🎤 Masked Singer Songwriter
🪢 Beauty and the Beast Retelling
🥀 Opposites Attract
🖤 Reverse Age Gap (37/25)
🎤 BDSM
🪢 Dual POV
Hi, hi, so um, this book is addicting as fuck?? I got sucked in from the very first chapter because of Pepper. I fell in love with her immediately. And the drama? Yes, please!! It was fantastic.
So, Clio wasn’t lying when they said this is their spiciest book yet! The kink exploration was done impeccably, and there was such a variety! Not only was it spicy, it was also angsty, vulnerable, and wonderfully intimate.
This book is very character driven with a lot of spice that adds to the plot. Salt and Pepper’s relationship is at the center of everything, and it was not only fun to read, but emotional. Each of their backgrounds were unique. These two were so beautifully broken, and seeing them find the happiness and reassurance they deserved was everything I needed 🥹
I don’t think I’ve ever been attracted to an MMC the way I am Salt. Like holy hell. It was like he was picked right from my brain. That first scene in the coffee shop? 👀 Hello.
Thank you Clio and Greys Productions for this e-ARC! 🥰🫶🏻 This book was entertaining as hell.
🥀 MF Romance
🖤 Record Label CEO
🎤 Masked Singer Songwriter
🪢 Beauty and the Beast Retelling
🥀 Opposites Attract
🖤 Reverse Age Gap (37/25)
🎤 BDSM
🪢 Dual POV
Hi, hi, so um, this book is addicting as fuck?? I got sucked in from the very first chapter because of Pepper. I fell in love with her immediately. And the drama? Yes, please!! It was fantastic.
So, Clio wasn’t lying when they said this is their spiciest book yet! The kink exploration was done impeccably, and there was such a variety! Not only was it spicy, it was also angsty, vulnerable, and wonderfully intimate.
This book is very character driven with a lot of spice that adds to the plot. Salt and Pepper’s relationship is at the center of everything, and it was not only fun to read, but emotional. Each of their backgrounds were unique. These two were so beautifully broken, and seeing them find the happiness and reassurance they deserved was everything I needed 🥹
I don’t think I’ve ever been attracted to an MMC the way I am Salt. Like holy hell. It was like he was picked right from my brain. That first scene in the coffee shop? 👀 Hello.
Thank you Clio and Greys Productions for this e-ARC! 🥰🫶🏻 This book was entertaining as hell.
July 15, 2025
Oh. My. God.
This book was absolute perfection! I loved everything—the story, the spice, the characters (okay, maybe not Jeff 🖕🏻), and the writing style. The only thing that threw me off a little was how the main characters first met—it felt a bit odd—but honestly, that’s such a tiny blip in an otherwise incredible read.
Salt and Pepper as names? Adorable. Such a fun, clever touch!
If you’re looking for a good BDSM story, please read this. It seriously deserves to replace Fifty Shades—it’s just that much better.
The female lead was such a breath of fresh air. Strong, layered, and real. I saw so much of myself in her, especially in how she handled her insecurities. It made her feel incredibly relatable.
I originally bought this for the art, but ended up loving the story even more. OBSESSED. 💕
This book was absolute perfection! I loved everything—the story, the spice, the characters (okay, maybe not Jeff 🖕🏻), and the writing style. The only thing that threw me off a little was how the main characters first met—it felt a bit odd—but honestly, that’s such a tiny blip in an otherwise incredible read.
Salt and Pepper as names? Adorable. Such a fun, clever touch!
If you’re looking for a good BDSM story, please read this. It seriously deserves to replace Fifty Shades—it’s just that much better.
The female lead was such a breath of fresh air. Strong, layered, and real. I saw so much of myself in her, especially in how she handled her insecurities. It made her feel incredibly relatable.
I originally bought this for the art, but ended up loving the story even more. OBSESSED. 💕
May 20, 2025
Thank you to Grey's Promo for a chance to read an arc of this book! 🖤
5⭐️ reverse age gap is going to do it for me every time! |
tropes: reverse age gap, musician mmc x CEO fmc, BDSM dynamic | High steam | digital
Overall Thoughts 💭:
I cannot understate how much I loved this book! Pepper was an incredible fmc. I loved her journey of discovery throughout this book and how much confidence she gained. I loved Salt as well. A sexy masked singer... Sign me up! I love mmcs who fall first and harder and I loved how understanding he was with Pepper as she figured out what she wanted and if she was ready to risk it to be with him. This being a Clio Evans book means that the BDSM elements are both hot and respectfully done. I loved the push and pull between the main couple and how that translated in their physical relationship as well.
5⭐️ reverse age gap is going to do it for me every time! |
tropes: reverse age gap, musician mmc x CEO fmc, BDSM dynamic | High steam | digital
Overall Thoughts 💭:
I cannot understate how much I loved this book! Pepper was an incredible fmc. I loved her journey of discovery throughout this book and how much confidence she gained. I loved Salt as well. A sexy masked singer... Sign me up! I love mmcs who fall first and harder and I loved how understanding he was with Pepper as she figured out what she wanted and if she was ready to risk it to be with him. This being a Clio Evans book means that the BDSM elements are both hot and respectfully done. I loved the push and pull between the main couple and how that translated in their physical relationship as well.
May 16, 2025
Wow, this was a doozy.
Age gap…drool. Female cougar…drool. Rich FMC…drool.
Boss babe…drool. Famous masked singer/songwriter…drool.
A forbidden romance Beauty and the Beast retelling with kink. It covers it all! It was definitely not a slow burn, and got super spicy QUICKLY! I really enjoyed the storyline! It captivated me instantly and I was on board for the rest! I love a good badass FMC! Also, who doesn’t love main characters names Pepper and Salt?! 😉
You need to be open to the BDSM community to enjoy this one. Check the triggers prior to reading.
*Thank you to Grey’s Promotions for the eARC.
Age gap…drool. Female cougar…drool. Rich FMC…drool.
Boss babe…drool. Famous masked singer/songwriter…drool.
A forbidden romance Beauty and the Beast retelling with kink. It covers it all! It was definitely not a slow burn, and got super spicy QUICKLY! I really enjoyed the storyline! It captivated me instantly and I was on board for the rest! I love a good badass FMC! Also, who doesn’t love main characters names Pepper and Salt?! 😉
You need to be open to the BDSM community to enjoy this one. Check the triggers prior to reading.
*Thank you to Grey’s Promotions for the eARC.
May 17, 2025
Thank you so much to Grey’s Promotions for the earc, all opinions are my own.
Pepper is the CEO of a successful record label in Nashville, forced to work with her cheating ex-husband and not sure of her life. After an argument she goes to get coffee, only to get dommed by a stranger at a coffee shop. Later, she goes to a local bar to listen to an up and coming artist called Salt, made popular by social media. She recognizes his voice and their infatuation begins.
We have 2 very hurt people coming to terms with their shitty parents. A whole lot of kink, and heartfelt found family dynamics.
Pepper is the CEO of a successful record label in Nashville, forced to work with her cheating ex-husband and not sure of her life. After an argument she goes to get coffee, only to get dommed by a stranger at a coffee shop. Later, she goes to a local bar to listen to an up and coming artist called Salt, made popular by social media. She recognizes his voice and their infatuation begins.
We have 2 very hurt people coming to terms with their shitty parents. A whole lot of kink, and heartfelt found family dynamics.
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