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Cane Naughty: a dark college rom-com series
This series will become darker, kinkier, and funnier with each book. See it as a dark romance with each book, you delve deeper into the darkness, but with some humor and smut in the mix.
Cane
I’m such a cliché. For a class assignment, I started a business and created an app called "Flirt Buddy" to coach people on flirting, sex, and relationships—despite never having had a relationship myself. But who cares? As the campus player and rising quarterback, I’ve got no shortage of girls lining up for my attention. It’s always a one-time deal—but my body starts being picky. That is, until a shy, virgin bookworm reaches out to me. She’s full of contradictions, and I’m stumped until I figure out who she is. I try to keep my distance, knowing I can’t give her what she wants, but then she shares her fantasies. Suddenly, I’m a man falling hard for a girl who’s a little freak outside the sheets.
Lily
Everyone thinks I’m the cliché virgin—shy, bookish, secretly crushing on the campus player, and devouring smut like it’s my lifeline. But they’re wrong. I’ve got secrets that would shock them. When my friends push me to try "Flirt Buddy," I panic. Every time I get close to a guy, I’m scared I’ll lose control—and that’s dangerous. My flirt buddy tries to help, but after one drunken night, I spill a secret. We pretend it never happened, but when I’m desperate, he offers me control. He ties himself to a chair, letting me take over, and to my surprise, the man of my fantasies is right there, waiting for me. I’m in for a wild ride.
Now, I can only hope she won’t scare him away.
It’s quite a cliché, but it’s only meant for your guilty pleasure. It comes with a twist, but my oh my, what a twist it is.
This is an extra warning for the moms out there that popped out some babies. I advise you to use some Tena ladies while reading this if you don’t want to pee your pants by laughing too hard.
Never say I didn’t warn you.
See inside for trigger warnings!
Cane
I’m such a cliché. For a class assignment, I started a business and created an app called "Flirt Buddy" to coach people on flirting, sex, and relationships—despite never having had a relationship myself. But who cares? As the campus player and rising quarterback, I’ve got no shortage of girls lining up for my attention. It’s always a one-time deal—but my body starts being picky. That is, until a shy, virgin bookworm reaches out to me. She’s full of contradictions, and I’m stumped until I figure out who she is. I try to keep my distance, knowing I can’t give her what she wants, but then she shares her fantasies. Suddenly, I’m a man falling hard for a girl who’s a little freak outside the sheets.
Lily
Everyone thinks I’m the cliché virgin—shy, bookish, secretly crushing on the campus player, and devouring smut like it’s my lifeline. But they’re wrong. I’ve got secrets that would shock them. When my friends push me to try "Flirt Buddy," I panic. Every time I get close to a guy, I’m scared I’ll lose control—and that’s dangerous. My flirt buddy tries to help, but after one drunken night, I spill a secret. We pretend it never happened, but when I’m desperate, he offers me control. He ties himself to a chair, letting me take over, and to my surprise, the man of my fantasies is right there, waiting for me. I’m in for a wild ride.
Now, I can only hope she won’t scare him away.
It’s quite a cliché, but it’s only meant for your guilty pleasure. It comes with a twist, but my oh my, what a twist it is.
This is an extra warning for the moms out there that popped out some babies. I advise you to use some Tena ladies while reading this if you don’t want to pee your pants by laughing too hard.
Never say I didn’t warn you.
See inside for trigger warnings!
- GenresDarkDark Romance
336 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 28, 2025
14 people are currently reading
241 people want to read
About the author
Marissa Markx
6 books26 followersMarissa Markx writes spicy, chaotic, and sometimes uncomfortably funny romances where trauma meets temptation—and where no kink is too weird to play with. Her books are dark, emotional, and full of morally grey men, strong heroines, and the kind of found family you wish you could crash a party with (badass granny included).
When she’s not writing, Marissa can usually be found plotting new ways to torture her characters, laughing at her own jokes, or cuddling dogs who definitely think they’re the real stars of her books.
If you like your romance messy, bold, and with a side of “wait, did she really just write that?”—welcome to her world.
When she’s not writing, Marissa can usually be found plotting new ways to torture her characters, laughing at her own jokes, or cuddling dogs who definitely think they’re the real stars of her books.
If you like your romance messy, bold, and with a side of “wait, did she really just write that?”—welcome to her world.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 84 reviews
March 13, 2025
Cane freaking Naughty!!! Holy crap this book was so good!!! The dynamic between Lily and Cane is crazy!! I loved every minute of it! This is book two of a dark college rom-com. I laughed so hard in this one!! The spice is kicked up too!
Book one (King Kingston) doesn’t have to be read first but you will enjoy this one more if you do. Plus hello King is a giant tattooed broody man so get to reading it!
This is the story of Cane (the playboy) and Lily (the bookworm) and how two people can be absolutely perfect for each other without realizing it.
Cane meets Lily via an app but both are anonymous. He gives advice and she needs it because every time she sees “her crush” aka Cane she runs. She has had a crush on him forever but he being the player only noticed her recently at a party because for the first time she didn’t run. I typically love a damsel in distress but Lily is not your usual shy bookworm. She is a fierce virgin mafia princess who can save herself from anyone but can she save herself from the one person she can’t escape… herself.
Cane shocked me in this book. That guy had so much more to him than I ever expected. He is also the King of nicknames!
This book is a must read. Do not miss out on this book.
As with book one cover is fantastic and I would have read it solely based on the cover.
Book one (King Kingston) doesn’t have to be read first but you will enjoy this one more if you do. Plus hello King is a giant tattooed broody man so get to reading it!
This is the story of Cane (the playboy) and Lily (the bookworm) and how two people can be absolutely perfect for each other without realizing it.
Cane meets Lily via an app but both are anonymous. He gives advice and she needs it because every time she sees “her crush” aka Cane she runs. She has had a crush on him forever but he being the player only noticed her recently at a party because for the first time she didn’t run. I typically love a damsel in distress but Lily is not your usual shy bookworm. She is a fierce virgin mafia princess who can save herself from anyone but can she save herself from the one person she can’t escape… herself.
Cane shocked me in this book. That guy had so much more to him than I ever expected. He is also the King of nicknames!
This book is a must read. Do not miss out on this book.
As with book one cover is fantastic and I would have read it solely based on the cover.
March 30, 2025
Thank you to Marissa for having me on her ARC team for this release! I enjoyed this book, I found it a little hard to get into during the first couple of chapters, but once I was into the meat of the story I didn’t want to put it down. This book follows playboy Cane and shy book nerd Lily while they work through some trauma to grow the budding relationship between themselves. There are some twists with Lily’s personality that were a little out of the box but they did help the storyline carry along. Overall, I think this book shows a lot of growth in Marissa’s writing between her first book to this one. She did a great job at bringing individual personalities out of all the characters in the book, and the spice was even better and more adventurous in this book! Grab your copy now!!
March 24, 2025
THIS.WAS.A.MASTERPIECE!!!!!
This story was funny, hot and the story line was so amazing to read. I wanna read it all over again for the first time! Cane was hilarious and I laughed so hard throughout this book. 10/10 …. 10000% a must read!!!!
This story was funny, hot and the story line was so amazing to read. I wanna read it all over again for the first time! Cane was hilarious and I laughed so hard throughout this book. 10/10 …. 10000% a must read!!!!
March 28, 2025
Book 2 in the Assignment Series by Marissa Markx
Any story that has a playboy brought to his knees and begging for more is one that I will gladly read. The banter and interactions between Cane and Lily are highly entertaining! And let's just say that Cane's antics are legendary! 😅 This dark rom-com has twists and turns you may not be expecting, so buckle up and enjoy the ride!
Any story that has a playboy brought to his knees and begging for more is one that I will gladly read. The banter and interactions between Cane and Lily are highly entertaining! And let's just say that Cane's antics are legendary! 😅 This dark rom-com has twists and turns you may not be expecting, so buckle up and enjoy the ride!
March 28, 2025
I loved book one of this series, so reading book 2 was a given, and… wow this book is fab! And Marissa loved up to her statement, that each book would get darker, kinkier and funnier. I may have just found one of my new favourite authors.
The characters have layers, the chemistry is spicy and it an all round must read! Can’t wait for book 3.
The characters have layers, the chemistry is spicy and it an all round must read! Can’t wait for book 3.
March 14, 2025
⭐⭐⭐⭐ Cane Naughty by Marissa Makyx
If you love a book that makes you laugh out loud while delivering a fresh take on the college romance genre, Cane Naughty is definitely worth picking up. Marissa Makyx blends sharp humor, chaotic college antics, and just the right amount of dark romance to create a wildly entertaining read.
The story follows Cane, a character who constantly finds himself in ridiculous (yet somehow relatable) situations. The banter is fast, the wit is razor-sharp, and the comedy is non-stop. Makyx has a knack for writing dialogue that feels effortless and genuinely funny—no forced humor here.
But beneath all the laughs, there’s real substance. The book dives into themes of identity, personal struggles, and the messier sides of college life, giving it some emotional weight. It never gets too heavy, though—Makyx strikes a great balance between comedy and depth.
So why 4 stars instead of 5? While the humor is fantastic, there are moments where the chaos can be a bit overwhelming. Some scenes are so over-the-top that they might not hit the same for every reader. But overall, Cane Naughty is an absolute blast—perfect for rom-com lovers who like their books with a little extra bite.
Final Verdict: A hilarious, sharp, and refreshingly bold college rom-com. Definitely worth reading!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
If you love a book that makes you laugh out loud while delivering a fresh take on the college romance genre, Cane Naughty is definitely worth picking up. Marissa Makyx blends sharp humor, chaotic college antics, and just the right amount of dark romance to create a wildly entertaining read.
The story follows Cane, a character who constantly finds himself in ridiculous (yet somehow relatable) situations. The banter is fast, the wit is razor-sharp, and the comedy is non-stop. Makyx has a knack for writing dialogue that feels effortless and genuinely funny—no forced humor here.
But beneath all the laughs, there’s real substance. The book dives into themes of identity, personal struggles, and the messier sides of college life, giving it some emotional weight. It never gets too heavy, though—Makyx strikes a great balance between comedy and depth.
So why 4 stars instead of 5? While the humor is fantastic, there are moments where the chaos can be a bit overwhelming. Some scenes are so over-the-top that they might not hit the same for every reader. But overall, Cane Naughty is an absolute blast—perfect for rom-com lovers who like their books with a little extra bite.
Final Verdict: A hilarious, sharp, and refreshingly bold college rom-com. Definitely worth reading!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 20, 2025
So sorry it took me so long to upload the review for this book life has been lifing hard but I hope the wait was worth it.
Another absolute banger top tier banter and the spice leveled up too.
This dark college rom com did not fail to disappoint this is Cane and Lily’s story. Cane our playboy MMC king of the nicknames and Lily our FMC who’s an adorable book worm but also fierce mafia princess too quiet the pairing.
They meet via an app where Cane is giving her advice on how to approach her “crush” which happens to be him instead of always running away.
The sprinkle of tv shows and songs had me cracking up too.
I’ll admit the first few chapters of this one were a little struggling but once you were there you were there and it just sucks you right in so I give this a solid 5 ⭐️ and the heat increased too so 4🌶️.
Looking forward to book 3!
Another absolute banger top tier banter and the spice leveled up too.
This dark college rom com did not fail to disappoint this is Cane and Lily’s story. Cane our playboy MMC king of the nicknames and Lily our FMC who’s an adorable book worm but also fierce mafia princess too quiet the pairing.
They meet via an app where Cane is giving her advice on how to approach her “crush” which happens to be him instead of always running away.
The sprinkle of tv shows and songs had me cracking up too.
I’ll admit the first few chapters of this one were a little struggling but once you were there you were there and it just sucks you right in so I give this a solid 5 ⭐️ and the heat increased too so 4🌶️.
Looking forward to book 3!
March 18, 2025
I was not ready for this one. I thought I had an idea from book 1 but this book was gold! I was holding my breath! I had tears in my eyes from laughing so much! My cheeks were burning! Can I have Cane?
Don't get me wrong I loved King in the first book but Cane? He's is top tier I love them goofy. Cane and Lily were made for each other. They are literally joker and Harley Quinn. I also loved all the references to tv shows and songs throughout the book. I was dying when cane was "caught by Maxwell and his "performance" in front of Lilys brothers. This book was good. Definitely a mood booster probably, the only book that I've read so far that I was trying so hard not to laugh and wake up my kids. And the spice? Lily girlie you are inspiring🥵
Don't get me wrong I loved King in the first book but Cane? He's is top tier I love them goofy. Cane and Lily were made for each other. They are literally joker and Harley Quinn. I also loved all the references to tv shows and songs throughout the book. I was dying when cane was "caught by Maxwell and his "performance" in front of Lilys brothers. This book was good. Definitely a mood booster probably, the only book that I've read so far that I was trying so hard not to laugh and wake up my kids. And the spice? Lily girlie you are inspiring🥵
March 22, 2025
Lily was warned by her two best friends. Laney and Tracy, that if she didn’t make progress on losing her virginity, they would step in. Flirt Buddy: an app to help people learn how to approach their crushes. The person in charge? Lily’s crush, campus player, and star quarterback, Cane, but she doesn’t know that. Cane starts to learn just how spicy Lily’s books can be, and he’s intrigued to learn more about what makes her tick. As Cane and Lily grow closer, they also start to learn more about themselves and the secrets their friends keep.
I ATE THIS UP! I was laughing out loud at so many different scenes, and the spice had me panting. Cane’s antics had me cracking up and I absolutely adored the character development of them both.
I ATE THIS UP! I was laughing out loud at so many different scenes, and the spice had me panting. Cane’s antics had me cracking up and I absolutely adored the character development of them both.
September 14, 2025
Cane Naughty... my love! THE PERFECT MMC! How does Marissa Markx create such endearing characters? I already knew I loved Lily and Cane when I read "King Kingston" and "Dean Jensen", but to be able to read how their couple formed, I think they are my favorite lovers in the series! I laughed so hard, they are so perfect for each other!!! Cane has a big place in my heart!!! I have a soft spot for grumpy people like King but I love goofy men even more! Cane is funny, but has his dom moments that give chills and make our "hoo-ha" wet as Lily says! The story was perfect; laughs, perfectly spiced scenes and a little suspense! And like every end of book of this series, I wanted more!! I didn't want it to end! I can't wait for Axel's story!
September 26, 2025
One of the most hilarious dark rom-coms I've read. I was thoroughly entertained from beginning to end. The chapter titles alone had me cackling. The plot is not only fun and funny but then you add the extra thrilling suspenseful elements and the steamy romance and it's just the perfect mix to keep you hooked. I couldn't get enough of these amazing main characters and the side characters add so much to the story.
Lily and Cane couldn't be more perfect together. I LOVED their banter and dynamic. And they were so hawwwwt together I thought my Kindle might melt. Cane is a sexy beast and Lily is his bookworm beauty. I couldn't get enough of them.
Marissa Markx you just have a way of writing that easily pulled me into this fun creative world and had me devouring this book and laughing well after reading it. Your witty humor is unmatched.
You'll love this book if you're into these tropes:
Dark humor
Naughty Virgin FMC
Mafia
Bad boy player
Primal
Kinky
Lessons
Obssesive
Possesive
Dual POV
Check TW
Don't sleep on this one it's one of the best dark romantic comedy series I have come across.
Lily and Cane couldn't be more perfect together. I LOVED their banter and dynamic. And they were so hawwwwt together I thought my Kindle might melt. Cane is a sexy beast and Lily is his bookworm beauty. I couldn't get enough of them.
Marissa Markx you just have a way of writing that easily pulled me into this fun creative world and had me devouring this book and laughing well after reading it. Your witty humor is unmatched.
You'll love this book if you're into these tropes:
Dark humor
Naughty Virgin FMC
Mafia
Bad boy player
Primal
Kinky
Lessons
Obssesive
Possesive
Dual POV
Check TW
Don't sleep on this one it's one of the best dark romantic comedy series I have come across.
July 31, 2025
I was only about 20% in this book and I was hooked! This book has characteristics and a plot that aren’t original and are in a lot of other books but how it was all put together made it original. Lily being a hidden mafia princess and having ‘Lilith’ and a traumatic past made such an amazing character. Then there’s Cane a playboy that is getting tired of his antics and wants more, then finds someone that turns him possessive and obsessive, but he’s also hilarious, and such a golden retriever. And then add in the side characters, they have a nice little family group. then there’s the spicy scenes, all I will say is YES!!! Loved everything about this book. Can’t wait to read book 3, I’m so excited, if Dean is anything like King & Cane.
March 22, 2025
ARC Review
Cane Naughty was such a fun read! Cane is the classic campus player, and I loved seeing him get flustered by Lily, the shy bookworm. Their banter is hilarious, and I couldn’t help but root for them. The whole "Flirt Buddy" concept was such a cute twist, and I loved how it challenged both their characters in ways they didn’t expect.
I appreciated how Lily isn't just a stereotypical virgin; she has her own secrets and is full of surprises. The steamy moments were great, and I found myself laughing at all the awkward situations they found themselves in. Oh, and the songs sprinkled throughout the story? Perfect touch! The one at the end had me cracking up.
I'm definitely looking forward to more from this series, especially Dean's story! I need my next fix already because these characters are just so much fun. Overall, if you're up for a mix of humor, a bit of steam, and relatable characters, Cane Naughty is a must-read!
Cane Naughty was such a fun read! Cane is the classic campus player, and I loved seeing him get flustered by Lily, the shy bookworm. Their banter is hilarious, and I couldn’t help but root for them. The whole "Flirt Buddy" concept was such a cute twist, and I loved how it challenged both their characters in ways they didn’t expect.
I appreciated how Lily isn't just a stereotypical virgin; she has her own secrets and is full of surprises. The steamy moments were great, and I found myself laughing at all the awkward situations they found themselves in. Oh, and the songs sprinkled throughout the story? Perfect touch! The one at the end had me cracking up.
I'm definitely looking forward to more from this series, especially Dean's story! I need my next fix already because these characters are just so much fun. Overall, if you're up for a mix of humor, a bit of steam, and relatable characters, Cane Naughty is a must-read!
April 3, 2025
I liked this book, it was a fun and fast read.
I just couldn’t connect with the characters. I didn’t like Cane in book one. He’s definitely more likable in this book.
The first part with the flirt buddy app was also interesting to read about.
Afterwards I felt like it was a bit to cringe. The nicknames. The way body parts were discriped. It just wasn’t it for me.
The spice was very good though! So if you’re in a spicy maffia romance then I think this is a good book for you.
Be aware of the mental health triggers.
I just couldn’t connect with the characters. I didn’t like Cane in book one. He’s definitely more likable in this book.
The first part with the flirt buddy app was also interesting to read about.
Afterwards I felt like it was a bit to cringe. The nicknames. The way body parts were discriped. It just wasn’t it for me.
The spice was very good though! So if you’re in a spicy maffia romance then I think this is a good book for you.
Be aware of the mental health triggers.
March 11, 2025
Holy damn. This book was even better than the first one. Can I give six stars? Seven?
The book was funny, I laughed my ass off multiple times, I even cried from laughing one time. There were plottwists I didn't see coming and I'm more than excited for the third book.
The smut was even better than the first book, I had to put down my kindle in between reading to give myself a break, it was so damn good 🥵
The book was funny, I laughed my ass off multiple times, I even cried from laughing one time. There were plottwists I didn't see coming and I'm more than excited for the third book.
The smut was even better than the first book, I had to put down my kindle in between reading to give myself a break, it was so damn good 🥵
July 23, 2025
From the moment I read the dedication page I knew I was going to love it ! Iaughed from beginning to end and Cane Naughty is definitely top tier. I absolutely love how he grounds Lily and accepts her for how and who she is. He is such a goofball when it comes to her however, he’s very protective of her and we love a protective man!
I love the references that were made throughout the book with lion King ,Three 6 Mafia, Dr. Mc dreamy and I believe I even caught Rio from good girls being mentioned 🤭.
Overall I rate this book 5 stars ⭐️ and the spice was spicing 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️. However just like any other dark romance books please check the trigger warnings your mental health matters.
I love the references that were made throughout the book with lion King ,Three 6 Mafia, Dr. Mc dreamy and I believe I even caught Rio from good girls being mentioned 🤭.
Overall I rate this book 5 stars ⭐️ and the spice was spicing 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️. However just like any other dark romance books please check the trigger warnings your mental health matters.
August 2, 2025
I loved the characters in this! Cane was just goofy and fun, Lily was dark and quiet. There were some parts where I laughed out loud (cane in a muumuu!) and parts where I went oh Sh!t (Kelly rampage) and parts where I went that is so hot (tree in the cemetery). This honestly had a little bit of everything I love in a book! Some dark mafia ties, some fun lines, and some hot spice, I read this up all in one night, I didn't want to put it down!
March 27, 2025
Who doesn't like a bit of Naughty in their life? If you do, this book is the one for you. It has the witty banter, the laughs, the tragic back story and HOLY SHIT--THE SPICE. I am obsessed with these two characters. Cane & Lily are HOT AF and I loved their story. I hope to hell there's a Dean & Tracy story coming soon 🤞🤞
April 12, 2025
This is the second book in this series and again it made me laugh so hard on a few occasions. Lily and Cane love playing hard to get with each other. Cane stops history manwhoring ways and falls for the innocent or not so innocent virgin who is actually a closeted freak. I loved pompom coming back and making me laugh so hard. I am looking forward for the next book.
March 24, 2025
Such a cute dark ish romance!
We have the shy book girl who has a crush on the lead quarterback. He helps her to find someone but little did he know she wanted him!
And dang did she get him! The way that man is so freaking obsessed with her omg i love it! Lily and Cane are absolutely end game!
The banter was fantastic and the chemistry was great! The spice was dang SPICY 🌶🌶🌶 I loved it probably more than the first one!
Excited for book 3!
We have the shy book girl who has a crush on the lead quarterback. He helps her to find someone but little did he know she wanted him!
And dang did she get him! The way that man is so freaking obsessed with her omg i love it! Lily and Cane are absolutely end game!
The banter was fantastic and the chemistry was great! The spice was dang SPICY 🌶🌶🌶 I loved it probably more than the first one!
Excited for book 3!
March 23, 2025
Hot damn Lily & Cane🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥whew can’t wait to see what happens with Tracy! This book was all sorts of dark deliciousness
April 1, 2025
Agh my guuuudddd! This book is hands down a favorite read! It will forever live rent free in my head and I will never get tired of re reading it. Ladies charge up them toys and don’t forget a pad or two bc you will have tears running down your legs.
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
March 30, 2025
“Cane Naughty” is an 18+ Dark Romance Comedy. I would align it as a cousin to Navessa Allen’s “Lights Out” novel. It is an open door, spicy, contemporary college romance story. It is written with a casual voice that makes it an easily addictive page-turner. Tropes in “Cane Naughty” include: Bookish FMC v Quarterback MMC, he falls first, he falls harder, secret identity, found family, “he is mine”, and “touch him and die”.
There is a sizeable trigger warning menu/list and a list of kinks/play displayed in the first few pages so that readers can decide whether or not they want to proceed. (Obviously, I did.) There were moments when my mind got ahead of me, and I was concerned that events could occur that were not mentioned and that did genuinely rile up my anxiety, but fear not. The list is correct, and there are no additional triggers outside of those parameters, which gave me peace of mind.
The spice was HOT (in my opinion). I would rate this story confidently with 5 peppers (this book hit several of my “interests,” so to speak, which may not be for everyone, so my score may appear inflated to other readers). There are no bases (or holes to be cheeky) that were skipped. I don’t want to spoil anything, but I genuinely yelled, “ALREADY? I JUST OPENED THE BOOK?!” when I realized the spice started on page one. I wasn’t ready, my body wasn’t ready, and I had to take a minute (all in a good way. I was laughing). The two main characters explore their sexuality vivaciously, and being that this book is open door, you experience it all alongside them.
There is not a lot of detail in regards to world-building, other than it takes place near New York. This is name-dropped specifically because it is a part of the background history of the FMC. The book’s primary focus is on the relationship and interactions between characters rather than the world around them. The details of the environment fluctuate depending on what the characters are doing in said environment; for example, the college is not well described, but a warehouse area is. I didn’t mind the lack of physical descriptors in terms of locations because a lot of the world-building was organically discussed, even if I didn’t receive a mental map.
Although I didn’t read the first book, “King Kingston” (which I will be remedying shortly), I didn’t get lost while I read this book. The author did well relaying information in a way that didn’t make me feel confused for not having read the first book. All in all, I found the book to be hilarious; I like silly comedy. I like characters that rap or sing to break the ice, and Mr. Naughty himself was HILARIOUS to me. I found myself multiple times at 1:30 am trying to stop myself from laughing and waking up my husband. The banter, humor, and “ice breaker” comedy is amazing. I read scenes out to my husband multiple times so he would laugh with me or act them out for me so I can laugh harder.
Although I received the ARC copy digitally, I fully intend on buying a physical copy. I also FULLY plan on getting the next book about our boy Dean. When I checked Markx’s website, I was so excited to see that all of my boys would be getting a story! Now for the hard part…the waiting game.
One final note: Mr. Cane Freaky Naughty has taken the #1 spot for my favorite portrayal of “Get Low” by Lil Jon, having successfully beaten out “The Proposal” scene with Sandra Bullock and Betty White.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Marissa Markx
There is a sizeable trigger warning menu/list and a list of kinks/play displayed in the first few pages so that readers can decide whether or not they want to proceed. (Obviously, I did.) There were moments when my mind got ahead of me, and I was concerned that events could occur that were not mentioned and that did genuinely rile up my anxiety, but fear not. The list is correct, and there are no additional triggers outside of those parameters, which gave me peace of mind.
The spice was HOT (in my opinion). I would rate this story confidently with 5 peppers (this book hit several of my “interests,” so to speak, which may not be for everyone, so my score may appear inflated to other readers). There are no bases (or holes to be cheeky) that were skipped. I don’t want to spoil anything, but I genuinely yelled, “ALREADY? I JUST OPENED THE BOOK?!” when I realized the spice started on page one. I wasn’t ready, my body wasn’t ready, and I had to take a minute (all in a good way. I was laughing). The two main characters explore their sexuality vivaciously, and being that this book is open door, you experience it all alongside them.
There is not a lot of detail in regards to world-building, other than it takes place near New York. This is name-dropped specifically because it is a part of the background history of the FMC. The book’s primary focus is on the relationship and interactions between characters rather than the world around them. The details of the environment fluctuate depending on what the characters are doing in said environment; for example, the college is not well described, but a warehouse area is. I didn’t mind the lack of physical descriptors in terms of locations because a lot of the world-building was organically discussed, even if I didn’t receive a mental map.
Although I didn’t read the first book, “King Kingston” (which I will be remedying shortly), I didn’t get lost while I read this book. The author did well relaying information in a way that didn’t make me feel confused for not having read the first book. All in all, I found the book to be hilarious; I like silly comedy. I like characters that rap or sing to break the ice, and Mr. Naughty himself was HILARIOUS to me. I found myself multiple times at 1:30 am trying to stop myself from laughing and waking up my husband. The banter, humor, and “ice breaker” comedy is amazing. I read scenes out to my husband multiple times so he would laugh with me or act them out for me so I can laugh harder.
Although I received the ARC copy digitally, I fully intend on buying a physical copy. I also FULLY plan on getting the next book about our boy Dean. When I checked Markx’s website, I was so excited to see that all of my boys would be getting a story! Now for the hard part…the waiting game.
One final note: Mr. Cane Freaky Naughty has taken the #1 spot for my favorite portrayal of “Get Low” by Lil Jon, having successfully beaten out “The Proposal” scene with Sandra Bullock and Betty White.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Marissa Markx
March 23, 2025
ARC REVIEW
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
"Yes, like this. You know why? Because you deserve to be worshipped your first time. We've got all the time in the world to chase each other through the woods, f*cking each other like animals. But not this time. I don't want to start this relationship on that note. I will make love to you many times, I will f*ck you like I hate you many times, I will let you tie me up, and do all the things you want to do to me, but I'm not going to make you mine by forcing you. I will make you mine by showing you what a real man does."
Cane Naughty is the typical college quarterback playboy, not the relationship type and a one and done kind of guy, but he’s getting fed up of his vanilla lifestyle now and woman just appearing on his arm, he misses the chase and excitement of it all. He’s full of charm and he decides to use that charm to his advantage for a class project, making an app to help others with their insecurities when it comes to flirting or approaching the person they like - Flirt Buddy. Everyone thinks Lily is the shy virgin she portrays herself to be, she can never be in the same room as Cane because of the major crush she has on him, but not for the reasons everyone thinks, so she goes to flirt buddy for assistance, she wants to find the person who can fulfil her needs and specific kinks once and for all, little does she know that flirt buddy is the same guy she’s been avoiding for so long.
This book exceeded my expectations! It was hilarious yet also endearing, the only thing i found i didn’t really agree with was the type of pressure vibes i got from Lily’s friends when it came to losing her virginity, as amazing friends they are this just irked me a little, i know they wanted to give her a push in the right direction but there was one point where Lily seen a disappointed look from Laney and felt bad, we do get to understand abit more why further on but at that point it just wasn’t a vibe for me. The rest of the book was absolutely amazing, the way Cane treated Lily with her needs and handled her when her temper was out of hand and understood her completely was beautiful, whilst also a complete loveable goof, he truly was one of a kind. So i have to say it… the fanny fart!!! This got an extra star for that scene alone 🤣 me and a friend were only talking recently how we don’t see anything like this in books so this had me howling! Love it when it’s more realistic, cause we all know it happens!! Lily was even more badass than i thought she would be, i just loved her. She’d been through a hell of a lot so watching her confidence grow throughout was really inspiring. But yeah, a lovely read and the writing was great, it had progressed from book one i thoroughly enjoyed it! Bring on Dean & Tracey.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
"Yes, like this. You know why? Because you deserve to be worshipped your first time. We've got all the time in the world to chase each other through the woods, f*cking each other like animals. But not this time. I don't want to start this relationship on that note. I will make love to you many times, I will f*ck you like I hate you many times, I will let you tie me up, and do all the things you want to do to me, but I'm not going to make you mine by forcing you. I will make you mine by showing you what a real man does."
Cane Naughty is the typical college quarterback playboy, not the relationship type and a one and done kind of guy, but he’s getting fed up of his vanilla lifestyle now and woman just appearing on his arm, he misses the chase and excitement of it all. He’s full of charm and he decides to use that charm to his advantage for a class project, making an app to help others with their insecurities when it comes to flirting or approaching the person they like - Flirt Buddy. Everyone thinks Lily is the shy virgin she portrays herself to be, she can never be in the same room as Cane because of the major crush she has on him, but not for the reasons everyone thinks, so she goes to flirt buddy for assistance, she wants to find the person who can fulfil her needs and specific kinks once and for all, little does she know that flirt buddy is the same guy she’s been avoiding for so long.
This book exceeded my expectations! It was hilarious yet also endearing, the only thing i found i didn’t really agree with was the type of pressure vibes i got from Lily’s friends when it came to losing her virginity, as amazing friends they are this just irked me a little, i know they wanted to give her a push in the right direction but there was one point where Lily seen a disappointed look from Laney and felt bad, we do get to understand abit more why further on but at that point it just wasn’t a vibe for me. The rest of the book was absolutely amazing, the way Cane treated Lily with her needs and handled her when her temper was out of hand and understood her completely was beautiful, whilst also a complete loveable goof, he truly was one of a kind. So i have to say it… the fanny fart!!! This got an extra star for that scene alone 🤣 me and a friend were only talking recently how we don’t see anything like this in books so this had me howling! Love it when it’s more realistic, cause we all know it happens!! Lily was even more badass than i thought she would be, i just loved her. She’d been through a hell of a lot so watching her confidence grow throughout was really inspiring. But yeah, a lovely read and the writing was great, it had progressed from book one i thoroughly enjoyed it! Bring on Dean & Tracey.
April 29, 2025
Title: Cane Naughty
Series: Assignment Series #2
Author: Marissa Markx
Genre: Dark Rom-Com
Stars: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️.5
**I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review. **
Cane Naughty is book 2 in the Assignment Series. This follows Lily, a shy book worm with a deadly hidden side and Cane the college playboy who happens to be Lily’s crush.
Cane is your typical college playboy. A different woman every night. But for him it is starting to get boring. He creates an app called “Flirt Buddy” to help those who aren’t so confident in that department. Lily is a shy bookworm who can’t handle even been in the same room as her crush. So, her friends take matters into their own hands and sign her up for “Flirt Buddy” unbeknown to Lily it is Cane who is her new “Flirt Buddy”
Cane Naughty is book 2 in the series. It’s interconnected so I would read the first book if you are looking at this one, as I think you would be a bit lost if you went it into this without reading King Kingston. I really enjoyed book 1. However, I think Cane Naughty is so much better. The story is more intriguing, and the character development is more in-depth. I absolutely loved Lily’s character. Without giving too much away, she is shy and adorable, but I would not want to get her angry or jealous. Cane comes across as a player and he is. But he has such golden retriever
energy around Lily sometimes. Together they are cute, but both give off “touch or die” vibes.
When it comes to the plot, I absolutely love it. It had me hooked from page one. It’s exciting and engaging. Marissa really knows how to keep a reader gripped. My only issue with this was at times I did find some of the things the characters said to each other a bit cringe.
I will say if you are going to read this, please check your trigger warnings, while this story is adorable and funny there is a lot of dark themes. However, if you are like me and you use trigger warnings as a shopping list then buckle up for a wild but funny ride!!
Series: Assignment Series #2
Author: Marissa Markx
Genre: Dark Rom-Com
Stars: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️.5
**I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review. **
Cane Naughty is book 2 in the Assignment Series. This follows Lily, a shy book worm with a deadly hidden side and Cane the college playboy who happens to be Lily’s crush.
Cane is your typical college playboy. A different woman every night. But for him it is starting to get boring. He creates an app called “Flirt Buddy” to help those who aren’t so confident in that department. Lily is a shy bookworm who can’t handle even been in the same room as her crush. So, her friends take matters into their own hands and sign her up for “Flirt Buddy” unbeknown to Lily it is Cane who is her new “Flirt Buddy”
Cane Naughty is book 2 in the series. It’s interconnected so I would read the first book if you are looking at this one, as I think you would be a bit lost if you went it into this without reading King Kingston. I really enjoyed book 1. However, I think Cane Naughty is so much better. The story is more intriguing, and the character development is more in-depth. I absolutely loved Lily’s character. Without giving too much away, she is shy and adorable, but I would not want to get her angry or jealous. Cane comes across as a player and he is. But he has such golden retriever
energy around Lily sometimes. Together they are cute, but both give off “touch or die” vibes.
When it comes to the plot, I absolutely love it. It had me hooked from page one. It’s exciting and engaging. Marissa really knows how to keep a reader gripped. My only issue with this was at times I did find some of the things the characters said to each other a bit cringe.
I will say if you are going to read this, please check your trigger warnings, while this story is adorable and funny there is a lot of dark themes. However, if you are like me and you use trigger warnings as a shopping list then buckle up for a wild but funny ride!!
March 20, 2025
💖 𝔸ℝℂ ℝ𝔼𝕍𝕀𝔼𝕎 💖
🌟🌟🌟🌟/🌶🌶🌶.5
Cane Naughty
Marissa Marx
381 pages
Spicy rom-com
I immediately ran to this book after finishing book one. This is book two in the Assignment Series and I was lucky enough to receive and arc copy! This book follows Cane & Lily (we were introduced to them briefly in book one) and PHEW this one was a wild ride. This book was definitely more of a slow burner but when that spice hit, holy moly it BURNED HOT 🔥 Cane is the campus playboy, known for having a different woman in his bed every night and never intends on settling down due to his future NFL career. Lily is our sweet little virgin (or so we're lead to believe) but she has a dark side. A mafia princess with past trauma and a split personality, she distances herself from everyone except her besties and she has a HUGE crush on Cane! The girls are on her back about letting her guard down and getting help at becoming confident around guys. Lily enlists the help of "Flirt Buddy", an app designed to give dating advice for campus students. And who just so happens to be the man behind flirt buddy? CANE FREAKING NAUGHTY!
God this book was Amazing! Lily's backstory is heart breaking but her development throughout this book is really amazing and Cane really helps her overcome her fear and battle her demons. Cane is literally my favourite character in this series so far, he's so god damn funny and he is such a softie for his girl (when he eventually gets her). The spice was off the charts hot here, check trigger warnings as this book deals with some heavy topics and CNC kink. If you like your romance hilariously funny, full of banter, amazing friendships/relationships, extra spicy with a sprinkling of dark elements? Then this is for you!! Cane Naughty releases on KU & amazon om 28/03/2025.
Thanks so much for Marissa for sending me the arc of Cane Naughty ❤️
🌟🌟🌟🌟/🌶🌶🌶.5
Cane Naughty
Marissa Marx
381 pages
Spicy rom-com
I immediately ran to this book after finishing book one. This is book two in the Assignment Series and I was lucky enough to receive and arc copy! This book follows Cane & Lily (we were introduced to them briefly in book one) and PHEW this one was a wild ride. This book was definitely more of a slow burner but when that spice hit, holy moly it BURNED HOT 🔥 Cane is the campus playboy, known for having a different woman in his bed every night and never intends on settling down due to his future NFL career. Lily is our sweet little virgin (or so we're lead to believe) but she has a dark side. A mafia princess with past trauma and a split personality, she distances herself from everyone except her besties and she has a HUGE crush on Cane! The girls are on her back about letting her guard down and getting help at becoming confident around guys. Lily enlists the help of "Flirt Buddy", an app designed to give dating advice for campus students. And who just so happens to be the man behind flirt buddy? CANE FREAKING NAUGHTY!
God this book was Amazing! Lily's backstory is heart breaking but her development throughout this book is really amazing and Cane really helps her overcome her fear and battle her demons. Cane is literally my favourite character in this series so far, he's so god damn funny and he is such a softie for his girl (when he eventually gets her). The spice was off the charts hot here, check trigger warnings as this book deals with some heavy topics and CNC kink. If you like your romance hilariously funny, full of banter, amazing friendships/relationships, extra spicy with a sprinkling of dark elements? Then this is for you!! Cane Naughty releases on KU & amazon om 28/03/2025.
Thanks so much for Marissa for sending me the arc of Cane Naughty ❤️
May 24, 2025
This is an outstanding steamy college romance. It's a strong, honest, and poignant reflection of how love can be the greatest revolutionary force in our lives. Lily and Cane are my favorite characters ever; their chemistry is extremely hot, and there are numerous stunning spice scenes that push the boundaries. They have a sense of humor and find a balance of darkness and brightness in each other. They eventually end up with their hard-won happily ever after, but the road was just as pleasant as the destination. They are over the top, a chaotic match that will keep you turning the pages.
.
Marissa Markx has written a novel that is thrilling on the surface, but it is the soul underneath that inspired me. Yes, the passion between Cane and Lily will cause you to blush, chuckle, and lean closer. However, the truth is that this book is about two people learning how to be noticed. How to be picked for who they are, rather than just the roles they have learned to play. There is something therapeutic about this story. It's fun certainly. Flirty, for sure. However, it also reminds us of the pleasure of being sought and valued. Of choosing love that does not degrade you, but rather enhances who you already are.
.
Furthermore, the writing is compelling , original, and bursting with life. This is the sort of romance that causes your heart to expand rather than just race. Pick up Cane Naughty if you've ever experienced intense love, feared your own genius, or needed a reminder that you deserve crazy, passionate, exceptional love. Between the pages, you might discover a part of yourself.
.
Marissa Markx has written a novel that is thrilling on the surface, but it is the soul underneath that inspired me. Yes, the passion between Cane and Lily will cause you to blush, chuckle, and lean closer. However, the truth is that this book is about two people learning how to be noticed. How to be picked for who they are, rather than just the roles they have learned to play. There is something therapeutic about this story. It's fun certainly. Flirty, for sure. However, it also reminds us of the pleasure of being sought and valued. Of choosing love that does not degrade you, but rather enhances who you already are.
.
Furthermore, the writing is compelling , original, and bursting with life. This is the sort of romance that causes your heart to expand rather than just race. Pick up Cane Naughty if you've ever experienced intense love, feared your own genius, or needed a reminder that you deserve crazy, passionate, exceptional love. Between the pages, you might discover a part of yourself.
May 24, 2025
I'm 100% in love with Marissa Markx's Cane Naughty; I was completely outraged by this novel from the first page. This novel is a full-on, epic, passionate love story that made my cheeks burn and my heart race. I swear that in order to repeatedly experience the stress, I was kicking my feet, screaming into my pillow, and rereading entire chapters.
.
Cane has all the qualities I look for in a book boyfriend: he's hot, dangerous, and forbidden. He owns every situation he's in, from the way he touches to the way he talks. I was melting, really. Not to mention Lily, who is tough and fearless yet incredibly gentle and kind when it counts. I was almost sweating from the tension because of their incredible relationship. When it eventually explodes, it's as intense as fireworks, and the push and pull between them is crucial.
.
In one sitting, this book gave me butterflies, whiplash, and a complete emotional breakdown. The angst. The spice. The tension. The way they destroy one another to create something even more powerful and beautiful. The pure deliciousness of each chapter left me gasping, laughing, and biting my lip.
.
Cane Naughty is the novel of your dreams if you enjoy steamy romance that is heavy on the feelings and even heavier on the spice. I'm still really upset over it and probably never will be, I really wanted more time with Cane and Lily. This was a masterpiece that I will not soon forget, I thought the first book was epic, but Goosh what would I have missed if I didn't read the second book, this was level GOD-TIER novel!
.
Cane has all the qualities I look for in a book boyfriend: he's hot, dangerous, and forbidden. He owns every situation he's in, from the way he touches to the way he talks. I was melting, really. Not to mention Lily, who is tough and fearless yet incredibly gentle and kind when it counts. I was almost sweating from the tension because of their incredible relationship. When it eventually explodes, it's as intense as fireworks, and the push and pull between them is crucial.
.
In one sitting, this book gave me butterflies, whiplash, and a complete emotional breakdown. The angst. The spice. The tension. The way they destroy one another to create something even more powerful and beautiful. The pure deliciousness of each chapter left me gasping, laughing, and biting my lip.
.
Cane Naughty is the novel of your dreams if you enjoy steamy romance that is heavy on the feelings and even heavier on the spice. I'm still really upset over it and probably never will be, I really wanted more time with Cane and Lily. This was a masterpiece that I will not soon forget, I thought the first book was epic, but Goosh what would I have missed if I didn't read the second book, this was level GOD-TIER novel!
May 24, 2025
Cane Naughty was wild, passionate, hilarious, and utterly addictive, it was like a blast of espresso right to my soul. I didn't anticipate falling so deeply, yet this novel ensnared me and held on to me. Even though Cane is a feisty quarterback with an excessive amount of charisma and swagger, he managed to surprise me. And our FMC Lily is a secretive, fierce, and quiet bookworm who was actually a storm in disguise. In all honesty, it was everything to watch her evolve from doubtful to consumed and powerful.
.
The way Cane and Lily fought and clicked was intriguing, a touch heartbreaking, and incredibly entertaining. Unforgiving and burning, the tension between them grew like thunder before a storm. However, there were also these gentle times when everything simply merged into something tender and heartbreaking. It was more powerful than I had anticipated, the way he saw her, the way he gazed at her. Not to mention the brilliant app concept, Flirt Buddy somehow made everything seem even more tumultuous and alluring. Some of the situations had me laugh so hard I cried, and others gave me the best kind of chest ache. Marissa's prose knows how to play with the reader's feelings just as she is having Taylor Swift's albums on shuffle, one chapter you're in folklore crying the other one you're in reputation angry and sensual, but we had and lover time with steamy moments that really were outstanding!
.
The way Cane and Lily fought and clicked was intriguing, a touch heartbreaking, and incredibly entertaining. Unforgiving and burning, the tension between them grew like thunder before a storm. However, there were also these gentle times when everything simply merged into something tender and heartbreaking. It was more powerful than I had anticipated, the way he saw her, the way he gazed at her. Not to mention the brilliant app concept, Flirt Buddy somehow made everything seem even more tumultuous and alluring. Some of the situations had me laugh so hard I cried, and others gave me the best kind of chest ache. Marissa's prose knows how to play with the reader's feelings just as she is having Taylor Swift's albums on shuffle, one chapter you're in folklore crying the other one you're in reputation angry and sensual, but we had and lover time with steamy moments that really were outstanding!
September 27, 2025
If you’ve ever wanted to watch a golden retriever boy spiral into primal chaos because a mafia princess looked at him sideways, Cane Naughty is your next obsession.
Lily is the kind of heroine who walks into a room and makes your inner good girl want to sin. Virgin, yes—but not innocent. She’s a mafia legacy with a past soaked in secrets and a hunger she’s barely learned to name. Her desires? Darker than her family’s reputation. Her vibe? “Touch her and die” meets “I want you to ruin me.”
Enter Cane Naughty: college football star, NFL hopeful, and the golden retriever energy incarnate. He’s sunshine with abs, owner of the Flirt Buddy app, and completely unprepared for the way Lily rewires his brain chemistry. Watching him discover his primal kink is like watching a golden retriever realize he’s actually a wolf—and Lily’s the moon he howls for.
This book is a masterclass in tension. The push-pull between Lily’s guarded dominance and Cane’s unraveling submission is pure chaos. The emotional devastation? Delicious. The spicy scenes? Annotate them with your 24-hour highlighter and prepare to spiral.
If you love:
• Mafia princesses who weaponize silence
• Himbo athletes who get feral when she says “please”
• Primal kink with emotional depth
• Flirt apps that turn into thirst traps
• And a body count that includes your sanity
Then Cane Naughty will wreck you in the best way.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Lily is the kind of heroine who walks into a room and makes your inner good girl want to sin. Virgin, yes—but not innocent. She’s a mafia legacy with a past soaked in secrets and a hunger she’s barely learned to name. Her desires? Darker than her family’s reputation. Her vibe? “Touch her and die” meets “I want you to ruin me.”
Enter Cane Naughty: college football star, NFL hopeful, and the golden retriever energy incarnate. He’s sunshine with abs, owner of the Flirt Buddy app, and completely unprepared for the way Lily rewires his brain chemistry. Watching him discover his primal kink is like watching a golden retriever realize he’s actually a wolf—and Lily’s the moon he howls for.
This book is a masterclass in tension. The push-pull between Lily’s guarded dominance and Cane’s unraveling submission is pure chaos. The emotional devastation? Delicious. The spicy scenes? Annotate them with your 24-hour highlighter and prepare to spiral.
If you love:
• Mafia princesses who weaponize silence
• Himbo athletes who get feral when she says “please”
• Primal kink with emotional depth
• Flirt apps that turn into thirst traps
• And a body count that includes your sanity
Then Cane Naughty will wreck you in the best way.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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