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To Please Her
Sabrina Doyle doesn’t have time for romance. Working two jobs, she’s resigned herself to having a life only after she’s achieved her goals. The universe has other ideas, as a chance meeting—and a spilled coffee cup—introduces her to Delilah Holte, who seems to be everywhere Sabrina needs to be.
Now Sabrina can’t keep Delilah off her mind, despite how much she tries. As Delilah leads her into the world of BDSM, Sabrina discovers a new submissive side to her sexuality. But Delilah only promises her one night: one night of play, of fun, of pleasure.
Sabrina isn’t sure she can handle just one night. And worse, Delilah isn’t in town for long. Desperate to please her, Sabrina must decide: miss out on the opportunity of a lifetime or pine for the woman who tempts her with such pleasure.
Now Sabrina can’t keep Delilah off her mind, despite how much she tries. As Delilah leads her into the world of BDSM, Sabrina discovers a new submissive side to her sexuality. But Delilah only promises her one night: one night of play, of fun, of pleasure.
Sabrina isn’t sure she can handle just one night. And worse, Delilah isn’t in town for long. Desperate to please her, Sabrina must decide: miss out on the opportunity of a lifetime or pine for the woman who tempts her with such pleasure.
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First published May 13, 2025
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
July 4, 2025
This has been a somewhat disappointing story; at least I was expecting something different. Even the title doesn't really match the content. I wouldn't want my opinion to be critical just because BDSM and trans themes aren't usually what I look for in stories. I have read some from time to time, and for the most part, I've liked them or at least not disliked them. But this time, I'm not sure if the author's intention was more to show an initiation into submission, rather than really addressing the topic of domination. However, there are scenes that are far too degrading, and I couldn't find a purpose for them within the context; in fact, they even seemed ridiculous to me. I also don't see Delilah's behavior as consistent.
Bold Strokes Books was kind enough to send me a copy via NetGalley for an honest review
Bold Strokes Books was kind enough to send me a copy via NetGalley for an honest review
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May 2, 2025lesbian bdsm? hello???
April 19, 2025
This is a short read that discusses Erotica and BDSM between two females. However, there are much deeper meanings in this book. I enjoyed reading it and it had likable characters in it! This book was fast paced, easy to read and had short chapters. With this being an erotica book, there was a lot of spice in it!
It revolves around a woman named Sabrina Doyle, who works two jobs and has zero time for romance in her life. We know that nothing in life ever goes as planned though. She ends up meeting a girl named Delilah Holte, after spilling coffee on her. This ended up making Sabrina late for work! These two seem to keep running into one another, while having sparks between them. This book explores the complexities of love, identity and self discovery. I found this to be a good read! I think that people who love to read erotica books will enjoy this one! I give it a 3.5 stars out of five!
Thank you to NetGalley, author Elena Abbott and Bold Strokes Books, Inc. for this digital advanced reader’s copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
It revolves around a woman named Sabrina Doyle, who works two jobs and has zero time for romance in her life. We know that nothing in life ever goes as planned though. She ends up meeting a girl named Delilah Holte, after spilling coffee on her. This ended up making Sabrina late for work! These two seem to keep running into one another, while having sparks between them. This book explores the complexities of love, identity and self discovery. I found this to be a good read! I think that people who love to read erotica books will enjoy this one! I give it a 3.5 stars out of five!
Thank you to NetGalley, author Elena Abbott and Bold Strokes Books, Inc. for this digital advanced reader’s copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
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May 28, 2025This one just wasn't for me. I couldn't connect with the characters and I think it was mainly due to the writing style. It was a tad too casual for me.
There were also moments where I thought that some scenes went a tad too far on the degrading side of things.
Not my cup of tea but I'm sure lots of others will enjoy it.
Many thanks to Netgalley and Bold Strokes Books for a copy of this novel. ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.
There were also moments where I thought that some scenes went a tad too far on the degrading side of things.
Not my cup of tea but I'm sure lots of others will enjoy it.
Many thanks to Netgalley and Bold Strokes Books for a copy of this novel. ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.
May 1, 2025
I have been crushing on the idea of To Please Her since December, when Elena Abbott first mentioned it on her blog. The promise of a trans woman, love and kink, a rope class demo bunny, and a woman with reasons for avoiding relationships caught my attention, and the cover . . . well, it had all the elements to make me shiver with anticipation.
So, how does the read stand up to such lofty expectations? Much to my delight, it not only meets them, but exceeds them in every way. I absolutely adored this book. Seriously, it got into my head and my heart early on, and I had to fight myself to not read it all in one sitting, but to stretch it out and enjoy it over the course of a few days.
Sabrina Doyle is a driven young trans woman with no time for love, few friends, and no family. Shunned for her choice to be true to herself, she’s working two jobs and saving for surgery. When she stumbles into a beautiful woman on the street, spilling coffee all over the woman’s blouse, she has no idea where her promise to make it up to her will lead. That woman is Delilah Holte, a bold, confident, kinky professional with her fingers in two local businesses and her heart in domination. She needs a demo bunny for a rope class, and the cute young woman suddenly in her debt is the perfect candidate.
If there’s a more perfect meet-cute in the genre, I have yet to come across it. This is the kind of accidental encounter that dreams are made of, and the blend of awkward, adorable blend of cute and kink is immediately endearing. Sabrina finds herself caught up in this beautiful woman’s wake, powerless to resist as she discovers the surprises of her inner submissive – and for a scene that is largely clothed and chaste, the rope class is as erotic as it is empowering. What’s more, the casual way in which Delilah accepts and embraces Sabrina being trans is fabulous, and that simple acceptance carries through the whole story, with nary a hint of doubt or fetishizing. More authors can learn from how Abbott so sensitively approaches the subject.
There’s so much I loved about this, but it all starts with the dynamic between Sabrina and Delilah. Even though this is a Domme/sub relationship with very different personalities, their life experiences have a lot of parallels, slowly uncovering complementary needs and desires. Abbott explores themes of family and friendship, being true to one’s self, and finding strength in relationships. There are some dark moments in the story, including some deplorable homophobia and transphobia, but it’s not without purpose. We have to understand where these women have come from, along with what they’ve faced (and are facing) to appreciate their relationship journey.
To Please Her is a story that’s beautifully told, an easy read that welcomes you in with open arms and holds you close, right through to the end. The cast of support characters is small, but delightful, including one we don’t meet until near the very end who made me smile. The power-exchange relationship is just that – a relationship, not a scene – and the way Abbott explores submission, subspace, and protocol rings true. I expected to love this . . . I wanted to love this . . . but even I didn’t expect to love it this much.
https://sallybend.wordpress.com/2025/...
So, how does the read stand up to such lofty expectations? Much to my delight, it not only meets them, but exceeds them in every way. I absolutely adored this book. Seriously, it got into my head and my heart early on, and I had to fight myself to not read it all in one sitting, but to stretch it out and enjoy it over the course of a few days.
Sabrina Doyle is a driven young trans woman with no time for love, few friends, and no family. Shunned for her choice to be true to herself, she’s working two jobs and saving for surgery. When she stumbles into a beautiful woman on the street, spilling coffee all over the woman’s blouse, she has no idea where her promise to make it up to her will lead. That woman is Delilah Holte, a bold, confident, kinky professional with her fingers in two local businesses and her heart in domination. She needs a demo bunny for a rope class, and the cute young woman suddenly in her debt is the perfect candidate.
If there’s a more perfect meet-cute in the genre, I have yet to come across it. This is the kind of accidental encounter that dreams are made of, and the blend of awkward, adorable blend of cute and kink is immediately endearing. Sabrina finds herself caught up in this beautiful woman’s wake, powerless to resist as she discovers the surprises of her inner submissive – and for a scene that is largely clothed and chaste, the rope class is as erotic as it is empowering. What’s more, the casual way in which Delilah accepts and embraces Sabrina being trans is fabulous, and that simple acceptance carries through the whole story, with nary a hint of doubt or fetishizing. More authors can learn from how Abbott so sensitively approaches the subject.
There’s so much I loved about this, but it all starts with the dynamic between Sabrina and Delilah. Even though this is a Domme/sub relationship with very different personalities, their life experiences have a lot of parallels, slowly uncovering complementary needs and desires. Abbott explores themes of family and friendship, being true to one’s self, and finding strength in relationships. There are some dark moments in the story, including some deplorable homophobia and transphobia, but it’s not without purpose. We have to understand where these women have come from, along with what they’ve faced (and are facing) to appreciate their relationship journey.
To Please Her is a story that’s beautifully told, an easy read that welcomes you in with open arms and holds you close, right through to the end. The cast of support characters is small, but delightful, including one we don’t meet until near the very end who made me smile. The power-exchange relationship is just that – a relationship, not a scene – and the way Abbott explores submission, subspace, and protocol rings true. I expected to love this . . . I wanted to love this . . . but even I didn’t expect to love it this much.
https://sallybend.wordpress.com/2025/...
June 17, 2025
Expressive and Surprising!
Sabrina, a trans woman, bumps into Delilah on her way to work, and it’s an introduction neither of them can forget. With Delilah occupying her every thought, when a chance to explore being a submissive with Delilah comes along, Sabrina is excited, even if it is just the promise of one night.
I was really surprised with how fantastic this story was at not shying away from the BDSM theme it promises early on, and bravely exploring the topic with lots of different scenarios between Delilah and Sabrina. What I loved most was the connection they shared, and just how affected by meeting Sabrina Delilah really was. In different ways, they both had their lives turned upside down. The relationship that was forming between them was putting Delilah out of her comfort zone, while Sabrina was vulnerable to getting hurt emotionally if Delilah couldn’t be in her life more permanently.
There were a lot of themes and scenes that were not for the faint hearted, but so many as well that while they were uncomfortable for the characters, really helped to inject a bit of humour into the story. The passion flowed between these two at every moment, and we were really taken on the journey from Sabrina’s perspective. In a way she was sharing her experience and that excitement at the new and unknown, but also that wariness and hesitance sometimes turning up really came through.
I really enjoyed the story. Loved the uniqueness and the representation for trans women in a more erotic story, and anyone who like erotic fiction is likely to really enjoy this too.
Sabrina, a trans woman, bumps into Delilah on her way to work, and it’s an introduction neither of them can forget. With Delilah occupying her every thought, when a chance to explore being a submissive with Delilah comes along, Sabrina is excited, even if it is just the promise of one night.
I was really surprised with how fantastic this story was at not shying away from the BDSM theme it promises early on, and bravely exploring the topic with lots of different scenarios between Delilah and Sabrina. What I loved most was the connection they shared, and just how affected by meeting Sabrina Delilah really was. In different ways, they both had their lives turned upside down. The relationship that was forming between them was putting Delilah out of her comfort zone, while Sabrina was vulnerable to getting hurt emotionally if Delilah couldn’t be in her life more permanently.
There were a lot of themes and scenes that were not for the faint hearted, but so many as well that while they were uncomfortable for the characters, really helped to inject a bit of humour into the story. The passion flowed between these two at every moment, and we were really taken on the journey from Sabrina’s perspective. In a way she was sharing her experience and that excitement at the new and unknown, but also that wariness and hesitance sometimes turning up really came through.
I really enjoyed the story. Loved the uniqueness and the representation for trans women in a more erotic story, and anyone who like erotic fiction is likely to really enjoy this too.
May 13, 2025
This was such a delightful surprise of a book - however, I think the marketing may get this into the hands of the wrong kinds of readers. I would have loved to see the summary celebrating that this is a trans-inclusive lesbian story - I absolutely loved the exploration of Sabrina, the bitter realities balanced with this incredible and validating connection with Delilah, and her overall badassness as an incredibly sexy sub. I was swooning right along with both women - Sabrina & Delilah.
I adore the agency that Sabrina has even as she’s been whisked into subspace by this powerful woman. There’s even great discussions about the dynamics between them, even to the point of Delilah not being able to let go of some power because that’s all she’s ever known as a rich child of privilege. I think the author being a trans woman really brought all the nuances needed to the perfect light. It all read so smoothly and was so achingly romantic alongside the more severe sexual relationship between the two women.
.
A heads up for one thing though, readers only surface level familiar with domme/sub will also be surprised at the puppy play that develops between the two - it’s not my personal kink, but hey, I had a great time reading it anyway and it wasn’t a turn off in anyway - though it does come on a bit unexpectedly.
.
Nevertheless, To Please Her was a delicious little book and I’m eager to see what this author writes next. I am so intrigued!
*I received an eARC from Bold Stroke Books & NetGalley. All opinions are my own.*
I adore the agency that Sabrina has even as she’s been whisked into subspace by this powerful woman. There’s even great discussions about the dynamics between them, even to the point of Delilah not being able to let go of some power because that’s all she’s ever known as a rich child of privilege. I think the author being a trans woman really brought all the nuances needed to the perfect light. It all read so smoothly and was so achingly romantic alongside the more severe sexual relationship between the two women.
.
A heads up for one thing though, readers only surface level familiar with domme/sub will also be surprised at the puppy play that develops between the two - it’s not my personal kink, but hey, I had a great time reading it anyway and it wasn’t a turn off in anyway - though it does come on a bit unexpectedly.
.
Nevertheless, To Please Her was a delicious little book and I’m eager to see what this author writes next. I am so intrigued!
*I received an eARC from Bold Stroke Books & NetGalley. All opinions are my own.*
April 22, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley, author Elena Abbott and Bold Strokes Books, Inc. for this digital advanced reader’s copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
To Please Her is a bold, tender, and refreshingly honest sapphic romance that dives deep into themes of identity, pleasure, and emotional vulnerability. Elena Abbott does a good job of making a story that’s as steamy as it is heartfelt.
I found the protagonist, Sabrina, relatable from the start. Her exhaustion, ambition, and emotional guardedness are portrayed with nuance, and I enjoyed reading about her slowly opening up to desire and connection. It was rewarding, especially as she explores her submissive side and learns to take up space in her own pleasure. The dynamic between her and her love interest is electric, and their scenes are spicy while still grounded in deep care and consent. Abbott handles kink and power exchange dynamics with a sensitivity that feels both empowering and intimate.
One of the standout elements is the representation. This isn’t just a story with a trans lead, it’s a story for her, about her growth and joy, not her trauma. It’s warm, affirming, and sexy all at once. The secondary characters also shine and add layers to the narrative without overshadowing the central romance.
If I had one critique, it would be that the pacing lagged slightly in the middle; a few internal monologues felt a touch repetitive. But that’s a small note in an otherwise beautifully written, sex-positive, and emotionally resonant novel. If you’re looking for queer romance that’s unapologetically hot and healing, then To Please Her is absolutely worth the read.
To Please Her is a bold, tender, and refreshingly honest sapphic romance that dives deep into themes of identity, pleasure, and emotional vulnerability. Elena Abbott does a good job of making a story that’s as steamy as it is heartfelt.
I found the protagonist, Sabrina, relatable from the start. Her exhaustion, ambition, and emotional guardedness are portrayed with nuance, and I enjoyed reading about her slowly opening up to desire and connection. It was rewarding, especially as she explores her submissive side and learns to take up space in her own pleasure. The dynamic between her and her love interest is electric, and their scenes are spicy while still grounded in deep care and consent. Abbott handles kink and power exchange dynamics with a sensitivity that feels both empowering and intimate.
One of the standout elements is the representation. This isn’t just a story with a trans lead, it’s a story for her, about her growth and joy, not her trauma. It’s warm, affirming, and sexy all at once. The secondary characters also shine and add layers to the narrative without overshadowing the central romance.
If I had one critique, it would be that the pacing lagged slightly in the middle; a few internal monologues felt a touch repetitive. But that’s a small note in an otherwise beautifully written, sex-positive, and emotionally resonant novel. If you’re looking for queer romance that’s unapologetically hot and healing, then To Please Her is absolutely worth the read.
April 28, 2025
I went into To Please Her, relatively blind. This was a very quick read that promotes body positivity, lust and love at first sight and the dualities of family obligation and “unconventional love. That being said, I would have to rate this book at 3.5/5 stars. I think that the characters were well developed for a short novel. There was a bit of lag in the middle and inner monologue from Sabrina that I found confusing and somewhat redundant. There was a good amount of spice, considering this was in the erotica genre and there was a lot of descriptions of sexual activity that surrounded BDSM.
The book follows Sabrina, a trans woman, who is trying to navigate in her world as a woman seeking gender reassignment surgery. There are a lot of mentions of her ex-fiance and how their relationship ended because she chose to live her life in her truth. Stumbling, literally with coffee, upon a woman who seeks to challenge Sabrina’s norms and assist in regaining her self-confidence, Delilah is introduced as Sabrina’s love-interest. As much as this is a love-story, this is almost a coming of age book that explores the themes of trans-identity, queer love and BDSM. Without too many spoilers, the book makes the reader ask the question, can love from two unlikely partners, conquer all?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 11, 2025
☆ 3,75
I went into this book completely blind—I have never read anything by Elena Abbott—but the blurb of this book intrigued me and I ended up really enjoying this.
This book dives into themes like trans identity, domme/sub dynamics, and personal growth, and Abbott handles all of it with care and depth. I especially appreciated the representation—it was the first book I’ve read featuring a trans main character, and it felt so refreshing and important.
I absolutely loved Abbott’s writing style. It’s super easy to read, flows naturally, and pulled me in from the very first page. The whole cast of this book was diverse and well-written, but the dynamic between Sabrina and Delilah stole the show. Their chemistry? Off the charts from the very first meeting.
If you’re looking for a queer BDSM romance that also has real emotional weight, To Please Her is definitely worth checking out. I’m absolutely planning to read more from Elena Abbott in the future.
Huge thanks to NetGalley, Elena Abbott, and Bold Strokes Books, Inc. for the ARC in exchange for an honest review 📚
I went into this book completely blind—I have never read anything by Elena Abbott—but the blurb of this book intrigued me and I ended up really enjoying this.
This book dives into themes like trans identity, domme/sub dynamics, and personal growth, and Abbott handles all of it with care and depth. I especially appreciated the representation—it was the first book I’ve read featuring a trans main character, and it felt so refreshing and important.
I absolutely loved Abbott’s writing style. It’s super easy to read, flows naturally, and pulled me in from the very first page. The whole cast of this book was diverse and well-written, but the dynamic between Sabrina and Delilah stole the show. Their chemistry? Off the charts from the very first meeting.
If you’re looking for a queer BDSM romance that also has real emotional weight, To Please Her is definitely worth checking out. I’m absolutely planning to read more from Elena Abbott in the future.
Huge thanks to NetGalley, Elena Abbott, and Bold Strokes Books, Inc. for the ARC in exchange for an honest review 📚
July 2, 2025
I love this author! Haven’t read one of their books that I didn’t like and this one was no exception! Well paced. Spice and bdsm flows well with the story and the developing relationship. Emotional depth and growth was also well paced. No miscommunication although at times things may not have been said right away due to a developing relationship and lifestyle. Wonderful queer rep with dialogue, actions and understanding.
Be sure to read tw including homophobia and transphobia.
Highly recommend!
Be sure to read tw including homophobia and transphobia.
Highly recommend!
August 2, 2025
Not even a mere page in and immediately yes. It was hot, spicy and sexy as hell.
Abbott always does a blinding job writing trans MCs. 🫶
BDSM. Dom x Sub. Puppy Play.
Abbott always does a blinding job writing trans MCs. 🫶
BDSM. Dom x Sub. Puppy Play.
May 18, 2025
So, most of the less than five star reviews here complained about not expecting the story to be the way it is or something, or don't usually read trans or BDSM stories. To that I can only say if you're not the intended audience obviously you're not going to enjoy this book as much, but that's true of any book. So! Expect a pre-op trans woman, thank you for the rep there isn't nearly enough of it, and BDSM and kink done in one of the more healthy, consensual manners I've found in fiction. If those things don't excite you...read something else?
I loved this book. It was great to read something with so much authentic rep. There is plenty of trans rep, including a trans butch woman. Amazing. There is less idealized and more accurate BDSM/kink rep. There are no weird sex clubs or anything like that. There are a few rope/shibari classes, BDSM done in private, and playing with more than just your dynamic partners. All very accurate things going on in the real world in most dynamics like this that I know of.
The romance between Sabrina and Delilah does move a little quickly, but not inauthentically. They both have their own troubles, hangups, and blind spots that impacts how their relationship proceeds. They both help each other with their insecurities, and it is really sweet. Starting their relationship, either romantic or BDSM doesn't automatically fix everything though. There is no third act breakup. Though their relationship isn't smooth sailing at all. I'd love to hear more of their story. Maybe later on opening up to polyamory or something along those lines would be a lot of fun.
I loved this book. It was great to read something with so much authentic rep. There is plenty of trans rep, including a trans butch woman. Amazing. There is less idealized and more accurate BDSM/kink rep. There are no weird sex clubs or anything like that. There are a few rope/shibari classes, BDSM done in private, and playing with more than just your dynamic partners. All very accurate things going on in the real world in most dynamics like this that I know of.
The romance between Sabrina and Delilah does move a little quickly, but not inauthentically. They both have their own troubles, hangups, and blind spots that impacts how their relationship proceeds. They both help each other with their insecurities, and it is really sweet. Starting their relationship, either romantic or BDSM doesn't automatically fix everything though. There is no third act breakup. Though their relationship isn't smooth sailing at all. I'd love to hear more of their story. Maybe later on opening up to polyamory or something along those lines would be a lot of fun.
April 22, 2025
To please her is an explicit BDSM love story written with a lot of emotion and depth and with an incredibly sweet main character.
Sabrina is a trans woman who has never had it easy in life. She is often full of self-doubt and rather pessimistic.
She has to juggle two jobs so that she has enough money when her surgery is finally due.
She is a little clumsy and in a bit of a hurry when she first meets Delilah and spills her coffee all over her blouse when she runs into her in her haste.
This woman has something authoritarian about her and the way she talks to Sabrina and looks at her is simply stunning. She is also beautiful and graceful.
Everything Sabrina wishes for and after they say goodbye, she never leaves her mind. As luck would have it, the two meet again and again and a world opens up for Sabrina that she had read a lot about but never thought she would experience! It gets a little dramatic, but overall, it's a fairly fast-paced love story with a high spice factor, which I personally really like.
It was nice that the main topic was often Sabrina's struggle with her transformation, and that it was incorporated naturally into their scenes.
I've read a lot of BDSM stories, but none with a trans woman as the main character, and I found it very interesting and beautifully written!
Sabrina is a trans woman who has never had it easy in life. She is often full of self-doubt and rather pessimistic.
She has to juggle two jobs so that she has enough money when her surgery is finally due.
She is a little clumsy and in a bit of a hurry when she first meets Delilah and spills her coffee all over her blouse when she runs into her in her haste.
This woman has something authoritarian about her and the way she talks to Sabrina and looks at her is simply stunning. She is also beautiful and graceful.
Everything Sabrina wishes for and after they say goodbye, she never leaves her mind. As luck would have it, the two meet again and again and a world opens up for Sabrina that she had read a lot about but never thought she would experience! It gets a little dramatic, but overall, it's a fairly fast-paced love story with a high spice factor, which I personally really like.
It was nice that the main topic was often Sabrina's struggle with her transformation, and that it was incorporated naturally into their scenes.
I've read a lot of BDSM stories, but none with a trans woman as the main character, and I found it very interesting and beautifully written!
May 7, 2025
To Please Her is a beautiful, emotional story about vulnerability, healing, and finding the courage to live your truth—even when the world makes it hard.
This book follows two women from very different walks of life who collide in an unforgettable moment of chemistry. What starts as a chance encounter quickly becomes something deeper: a journey of trust, intimacy, and self-discovery. One woman is learning to reclaim her power and body on her own terms, while the other is finally confronting the fears that have kept her guarded for years.
The romance is raw and magnetic, full of tender moments and deep emotional resonance. The spice? It’s not just there for heat—it enhances the plot and reveals character growth in ways that feel intentional and intimate. The dom/sub dynamic is handled with care, clarity, and genuine connection.
This book has it all: a grounded plot, rich emotional arcs, and yes—definitely some crying moments. It’s about pushing past the expectations of others and choosing to live boldly, authentically, and with love.
A must-read for fans of queer romance, emotional depth, and spice with purpose.
This book follows two women from very different walks of life who collide in an unforgettable moment of chemistry. What starts as a chance encounter quickly becomes something deeper: a journey of trust, intimacy, and self-discovery. One woman is learning to reclaim her power and body on her own terms, while the other is finally confronting the fears that have kept her guarded for years.
The romance is raw and magnetic, full of tender moments and deep emotional resonance. The spice? It’s not just there for heat—it enhances the plot and reveals character growth in ways that feel intentional and intimate. The dom/sub dynamic is handled with care, clarity, and genuine connection.
This book has it all: a grounded plot, rich emotional arcs, and yes—definitely some crying moments. It’s about pushing past the expectations of others and choosing to live boldly, authentically, and with love.
A must-read for fans of queer romance, emotional depth, and spice with purpose.
May 9, 2025
To Please Her by Elena Abbott is a bold and emotionally layered exploration of power, pleasure, and identity. Steeped in S&M themes and sizzling with intensity, this novel goes beyond eroticism to present a deeply affirming and inclusive story that celebrates the complexities of desire and the strength found in vulnerability.
Abbott weaves a compelling narrative that features a richly diverse cast of LGBTQIA+ characters, offering authentic representation without falling into stereotype. The relationships are nuanced, the emotional stakes are high, and the depiction of kink is both respectful and empowering. Beneath the heat lies a strong current of empathy, making space for themes of acceptance, consent, and chosen family.
What makes To Please Her especially powerful is its message: love, in all its forms, deserves to be seen and honored. This is a story that resonates not only with members of the LGBTQIA+ community but also invites broader audiences to reflect on compassion, authenticity, and the freedom to love without shame.
Provocative, heartfelt, and unapologetically honest, To Please Her is a standout erotic romance that both entertains and enlightens.
Abbott weaves a compelling narrative that features a richly diverse cast of LGBTQIA+ characters, offering authentic representation without falling into stereotype. The relationships are nuanced, the emotional stakes are high, and the depiction of kink is both respectful and empowering. Beneath the heat lies a strong current of empathy, making space for themes of acceptance, consent, and chosen family.
What makes To Please Her especially powerful is its message: love, in all its forms, deserves to be seen and honored. This is a story that resonates not only with members of the LGBTQIA+ community but also invites broader audiences to reflect on compassion, authenticity, and the freedom to love without shame.
Provocative, heartfelt, and unapologetically honest, To Please Her is a standout erotic romance that both entertains and enlightens.
July 23, 2025
(3.5 Stars) I requested this book because I enjoyed a couple of other novels by the author. But they were a different genre. Instead of shapeshifting fantasy this steps into the world of BDSM. Sabrina is a trans woman who gets asked by the woman at the store next door if she can demonstrate some rope work for a class she is teaching. Sabrina agrees and is surprised at how much she enjoys being submissive. Delilah Holte is the mistress who originally agrees to only one night together with Sabrina. I appreciated how carefully Sabrina’s trans character is handled. Delilah wants her submissive to have more confidence in who she is becoming. There is a good amount of consent and check-ins throughout the story. This isn’t my world and I won’t mark down my rating because of areas where I was less comfortable. The book is classified as erotica but it isn’t only intimate scenes. There is a full and complete story with both characters experiencing growth and sharing tenderness.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books for the eARC and I am leaving an honest review.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books for the eARC and I am leaving an honest review.
April 29, 2025
To Please Her is a heartwarming and exciting story about Sabrina, a trans woman, exploring her fantasies for the first time through BDSM. What starts as saying yes to be Delilah’s demo bunny for her rope class quickly turns into a desire for more. Delilah, however, isn’t particularly interested in giving more than just one night… or is she?
While Sabrina explores her desires and yearns to be owned by someone, Delilah struggles to let Sabrina–or anyone for that matter–into her heart despite how she obviously feels towards Sabrina.
This is a tale of sexual exploration, personal growth, overcoming trauma, standing up for oneself, and learning to love oneself and others. One of the aspects I truly appreciated was the important, yet underrepresented point of view of a trans woman main character who hasn’t undergone bottom surgery. I adored the way Delilah treated Sabrina.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books for an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
While Sabrina explores her desires and yearns to be owned by someone, Delilah struggles to let Sabrina–or anyone for that matter–into her heart despite how she obviously feels towards Sabrina.
This is a tale of sexual exploration, personal growth, overcoming trauma, standing up for oneself, and learning to love oneself and others. One of the aspects I truly appreciated was the important, yet underrepresented point of view of a trans woman main character who hasn’t undergone bottom surgery. I adored the way Delilah treated Sabrina.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books for an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
April 29, 2025
This book was not really what I expected, a lot more sex and BDSM than I anticipated. It did however also contain other interesting story lines so all in all a read I can recommend. It was so nice to see how the Mistress, Delilah, handled her pet, Sabrina. I am not into BDSM in any way but after reading this book I can relate to why some people may like this in their life. Before Sabrina meets Delilah she is missing something in her life and so do Delilah. Together they find something unique in each other and that is great to read about.
The whole thing with the fact that Sabrina is in the middle of her transition and the book plays out before her planned bottom surgery is all dealt with so much care and love. Sabrina is a woman no matter what and that is great to read about, everyone (except for Delilah’s dad) treats her like any other woman.
I received a free ARC via NetGalley and leave a review voluntarily.
The whole thing with the fact that Sabrina is in the middle of her transition and the book plays out before her planned bottom surgery is all dealt with so much care and love. Sabrina is a woman no matter what and that is great to read about, everyone (except for Delilah’s dad) treats her like any other woman.
I received a free ARC via NetGalley and leave a review voluntarily.
October 26, 2025
First things first, this book is Queer and Kinky. There are depictions of adult activities. And it is worth the read if you like Girls loving Girls in an authentic way.
This book was a genuine pleasure, in so many ways. it handles many subjects and does so with a grace and ease that few can handle. The characters are authentic, the plot flows, the kink is REAL (which few authors I've read have managed, opting for unhealthy dynamic and play), and the conflict, while abrupt and possibly painful (depending on your experiences), felt like something that could truly happen.
The one thing I think this book could use is a list of triggers, as it hits on a few pretty big ones. While this is in no way a comprehensive list, I will write the ones I remember here.
Trigger Warnings: Substance Abuse, Physical Violence, Restraints, Misgendering, Interrupted during Adult Activities, Misgendering, Attempted Deadnaming
This book was a genuine pleasure, in so many ways. it handles many subjects and does so with a grace and ease that few can handle. The characters are authentic, the plot flows, the kink is REAL (which few authors I've read have managed, opting for unhealthy dynamic and play), and the conflict, while abrupt and possibly painful (depending on your experiences), felt like something that could truly happen.
The one thing I think this book could use is a list of triggers, as it hits on a few pretty big ones. While this is in no way a comprehensive list, I will write the ones I remember here.
Trigger Warnings: Substance Abuse, Physical Violence, Restraints, Misgendering, Interrupted during Adult Activities, Misgendering, Attempted Deadnaming
April 29, 2025
To Please Her is a heartfelt, sex-positive romance that follows Sabrina, a trans woman, as she navigates BDSM, desire, and self-discovery. What begins as a casual rope demo with the guarded but magnetic Delilah evolves into a deeper emotional journey. The novel shines in its sensitive portrayal of kink, consent, and trans joy, centering a protagonist who is complex, relatable, and learning to embrace her pleasure and power. The emotional depth and authentic representation more than make up for any slow portions that happen throughout the storytelling. A warm, affirming, and steamy read that celebrates growth, love, and connection.
May 15, 2025
what a super fun read! as a queer woman, i really really felt the parts of not being "enough" in the community, and those really tugged at my heartstrings. overall the first half was a bit slow but i definitely couldn't put it down in the second half. i loved the blossoming of Sabrina's relationship, there were points i was angry with her for being angry with Delilah, but then she would reassess and understand certain decisions and i really liked that!! this is a wonderful BDSM book and i appreciate the amount of times consent was established. there is spice in this book but it's not overwhelming!
*this is an arc review*
*this is an arc review*
May 23, 2025
This is my second Abbott book )and also my second running-into-a-person-holding-coffee meet cute) and i was NOT disappointed. here are times where the messaging in the writing is a little ham-fisted, especially when talking about romance tropes and BDSM advice, but the overall messaging in this story is really important and the author is really talented at writing honest trans lives.
this story was extremely romantic for a high heat sexy BDSM novel, and it was my first experience with a puppy play novel which was so much fun. and just as a wee extra note — ‘Vibe Check’ is the best sex shop name i’ve ever seen
4⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✖️
this story was extremely romantic for a high heat sexy BDSM novel, and it was my first experience with a puppy play novel which was so much fun. and just as a wee extra note — ‘Vibe Check’ is the best sex shop name i’ve ever seen
4⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✖️
April 28, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley, Elena Abbott and Bold Strokes Books, Inc. for the ARC!
Upon first glance at this book you think you're just reading a spicy sapphic book with BDSM exploration. You get that but you also get so much more. This was beautifully written and fast easy pacing.
Upon first glance at this book you think you're just reading a spicy sapphic book with BDSM exploration. You get that but you also get so much more. This was beautifully written and fast easy pacing.
May 8, 2025
Delilah ending up with Cora after a long fight to be with each other 3.5/10 stars
Elena Abbott you did a wonderful job writing this novel and beautiful story and writing thank you 5/5 stars on the writing
Elena Abbott you did a wonderful job writing this novel and beautiful story and writing thank you 5/5 stars on the writing
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 20, 2025
A strong sapphic book with a trans fmc, kink and a heart wrenching story about acceptance and belonging. Really enjoyed this. As others have said, feel like the marketing needs to be adjusted slightly to make sure this book is received as well as it should be!
Thank you to NetGalley for the arc
Thank you to NetGalley for the arc
May 25, 2025
I loved every minute of reading this,
And found there to still be enough of a plot to keep me engaged while also just being there for the ride.
I enjoyed the character development from both characters and look forward to more books from this author
And found there to still be enough of a plot to keep me engaged while also just being there for the ride.
I enjoyed the character development from both characters and look forward to more books from this author
September 24, 2025
One of the *sweetest* romances involving a transwoman I've ever read, while also one of the *few* honestly detailing the topics of being outed/harassed in front of your partner, as well as genuinely lovely on page s-x scenes ♡ (note, I'm *not* biased just cos I feel like Sabrina, I swear)
May 14, 2025
I say I read it however technically I read 3 pages and stopped because this book if you can call it a book was not good personally it's more a script or discussion it's not a book
September 4, 2025
An interesting book
- I would like to thank Netgalley for the eARC -
STANDALONE
Sabrina doesn't have time for romance. With her two jobs, she's barely making ends meet. But when she runs into Delilah - spilling coffee on her - her world is turned upside down. Delilah is now all she can think about, and when she inadvertedly introduces Sabrina to the world of BDSM, she caves to the one night of pleasure and fun she offers. But can Sabrina handle only one night? Whill she ever get enough of Delilah?
It's not often I come across a kinky wlw romance so I was intrigued to start this one. I'll be honest upfront, BDSM is not my thing, and therefore, some of the scenes felt a bit strange and cringy to me, but I'm not taking that into account to rate and review the book, because it's stricktly a personal preference and the whole point of the book. However, the book in itself was ver educative and entertaining. Both Sabrina and Delilah were really interesting characters, and despite their very different pasts and backgrounds, seeing them grow together and learn from their mistakes was truly inspiring. It was also my first time reading a book with a transfem main character, and that was quite immersive as well. The author delt with all those deep subjects very well in my opinion, and I really like that she gave the two women time to develop feelings and trust one another. Some scenes did feel a bit slow or rushed, however, the pacing being a bit off at times, but otherwise, good book.
I recommend if you like kinky wlw romance that is hot and emotional.
TW: violence, homophobia, transphobia, sexual content, BDSM
- I would like to thank Netgalley for the eARC -
STANDALONE
Sabrina doesn't have time for romance. With her two jobs, she's barely making ends meet. But when she runs into Delilah - spilling coffee on her - her world is turned upside down. Delilah is now all she can think about, and when she inadvertedly introduces Sabrina to the world of BDSM, she caves to the one night of pleasure and fun she offers. But can Sabrina handle only one night? Whill she ever get enough of Delilah?
It's not often I come across a kinky wlw romance so I was intrigued to start this one. I'll be honest upfront, BDSM is not my thing, and therefore, some of the scenes felt a bit strange and cringy to me, but I'm not taking that into account to rate and review the book, because it's stricktly a personal preference and the whole point of the book. However, the book in itself was ver educative and entertaining. Both Sabrina and Delilah were really interesting characters, and despite their very different pasts and backgrounds, seeing them grow together and learn from their mistakes was truly inspiring. It was also my first time reading a book with a transfem main character, and that was quite immersive as well. The author delt with all those deep subjects very well in my opinion, and I really like that she gave the two women time to develop feelings and trust one another. Some scenes did feel a bit slow or rushed, however, the pacing being a bit off at times, but otherwise, good book.
I recommend if you like kinky wlw romance that is hot and emotional.
TW: violence, homophobia, transphobia, sexual content, BDSM
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