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The Pleasure Principle

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The Pleasure Principle plunges us into the chaotic life of Hazel, who’s deep in a existential crisis on her 25th birthday. Realising her life is more beige than a dental office wall, she drunkenly decides to spice things up.

Cue one ill-advised online shopping spree at a certain adult shop, and Hazel wakes up to a confirmation email and a series of texts inviting her to a curated in-store experience because one of her newly purchased, ahem, items is out of stock.

Mortified but committed to her buzzed promise to live a little, Hazel heads to the store and meets Khai the sexiest man she’s ever laid eyes on, a passionate advocate for female pleasure, and the genius behind the toys shop. 
He’s everything Hazel’s boring exes weren’ confident, playful, unapologetically seductive, and very well versed in the bedroom 🍆


A partnership blossoms, with Hazel getting a crash course in living boldly, while Khai gets to work closely with someone who sets his heart—and other things—racing.

But can their professional partnership evolve into something more? Can Manhattan’s notorious playboy Khai capture Hazel’s innocent heart? Will they find their happily ever after, or are they just paving the way for their next great loves?

🔥 Find out in this witty, modern romp that promises a lot of happy endings.

Tropes and 
✨ Shy clumsy girl meets irresistible bad boy
😏 Forced Proximity
☠️ “Touch her and you die”
👀 Tattoos, Greek God body, and rolled up sleeves
💌 dirty texting and super intense teasing
🌶️ Sexy to do list

🍆 Piercings
🤦🏻‍♀️ Bad boy player trope
🫀 He falls first. And hard.
🔥 A lot, like really A LOT of happy endings

383 pages, Paperback

Published February 22, 2025

6 people are currently reading
49 people want to read

About the author

A.D. Wrae

3 books8 followers
I write stories fueled by that messy magic of being human-imperfect people, high-stakes angst, and swoon galore. Yes, there will be tears.

I’ve been crafting tales since childhood, back when riding horses soothed my soul and I escaped the loneliness of an only-child life through words. Writing was my exit ramp and my freeway all at once.

Now I’m a spicy millennial living in glorious sin with my partner of eleven years, doting on our cat Bilbo like the queen she is. One second, I’m fancy in a tea-sipping dress; the next, I’m booted up, ready to bolt off. I’m half girly-girl, half tomboy-switching between them faster than you can say "yeehaw".

I devour books like my life depends on it-my TBR is a black hole of temptation. Way more fun than my day job often feels like.

So here I am: a horse-loving, midnight-writing, coffee-slurping romantic, hell-bent on giving you big drama, big feels, and big love - because life’s too short for anything less than a heart-thumping story.

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5 stars
8 (33%)
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8 (33%)
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4 (16%)
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2 (8%)
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Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
Profile Image for Chelsea Albright.
282 reviews
March 1, 2025
Dnf @ 13% - I’m not a huge fan of the instalove trope and I’m honestly trying to figure out the plot. IL needs to be done just right for me. FMC was too much for me and MMC just idk, god I’m disappointed!! Maybe I’m just wrecked from the last few books I’d read
Profile Image for Frances  Torres.
84 reviews2 followers
April 16, 2025
The Pleasure Principle by @thespicynook is a fresh, fun rom-com with the perfect dose of spice. I had the opportunity to be an ARC Reader, and I’m so grateful to the author for bringing us such an entertaining story.

The story follows Hazel, who, after celebrating her 25th birthday with a few too many drinks, wakes up to a surprise: a $450 accidental purchase from the store The Pleasure Principle. When she’s contacted about a replacement option, she ends up receiving a consultation with none other than the CEO, Kai.

Kai is the typical New York playboy, but from the moment he meets Hazel, he can’t get her out of his head, and their chemistry is explosive.

📌 If the title gives you a hint—yes, this book has a lot of spice. 😅

I loved the story and the dynamic between the main characters. It’s an easy, addictive, and super fun read. ⭐ 4/5 stars.

📖 Available on Amazon and Kindle Unlimited
Profile Image for Rielle.
170 reviews1 follower
February 28, 2025
I can't believe I'm saying this, but this had too much fluff. Maybe I'm just not used to it, but with all that fluff, the only word that comes to mind when I try to describe this book is... cute. This was cute - and you can take that in either a negative or positive way.

⭐ Rating Criteria ⭐

🩷 Plot:

I did expect there to be an overwhelming amount of spice in this, given the title as well as the premise of the story. However, I did not expect the general balance of the plot to be overrun by the spice as well as the fluff. In fact, there was little conflict in this story, and certainly not enough build-up to establish any emotional impact; I can only recall maybe two or three particular plot points that could remotely count as such. Now, I myself am not a fan of reading angst, but I do know that it is necessary for plot development.

🩷 Characters:

At the start of the story, I found Hazel to be quite funny and possibly relatable. Honestly, the girl was a mess and it was hilarious. When she met Khai, her internal monologues became even more unhinged. But, I noticed we lost some of those funny moments once things got serious - or at least as serious as they could get in this story. I would've wanted to see more consistency with her jolly personality throughout the story.

As for Khai, I loved how he was written in this story. I loved the women empowerment in this, and how we see that coming from a male's perspective. I think Khai is a green flag for doing what he's doing, advocating for sex positivity and empowering women to do whatever they want without judgement.

I also admire the healthy relationship between Khai and Hazel. The fact that they always try to communicate with each other is such a breath of fresh air from all the miscommunication tropes we usually find in romance books.

🩷 Writing Style:

I don't think I have much to say about the writing style. I do think the plot could have benefited more from consistency and cohesion.

As I mentioned, there wasn't much plot development to this story because of the amount of fluff, although I guess there are some "angst" points in this story that could count as such. But, I would also like to point out that those specific scenarios that were added in are cliché scenes found in most romance books. And the fact that we have at least three of them compiled into this one book makes them incongruous when looking at the bigger picture. Unfortunately, in my perspective, they just seemed to be inserted into the story, uncaring whether they came together nicely or not.

🩷 Overall:

Objectively, this was a good book. But, it did not hit enough for me. The thing is, it started off really well, but somewhere before or right at the halfway point, it started going downhill. I really think this had the potential to do better, but it unfortunately fell flat for me.

This might not have been for me, but I would still recommend this book to those who are looking for a spicy, fluffy, heartwarming romance book 🩷

Thank you to the author, A.D. Wrae, for providing me with an ARC copy of this book in exchange for my honest review 🩷
Profile Image for Jae S.
11 reviews
February 28, 2025
For starters, I want to thank A.D for gifting me this ARC. Writing & publishing a book is a big accomplishment & should be celebrated!

Now for my review,
I tried, I really did. I ended up DNF’ing at 31%. The dialogue and plot were my main reason for this. For starters, the story had no REAL plot. Other than the sexual exploration (which seems counterintuitive because her exploration was because of a man & she only focused on said-man during her explorative moments). Also, Khai & Hazel’s connection felt very plot-devicey rather than genuine connection. I love a good “love at first sight” but their draw to one another made ZERO sense beyond sexual attraction & that hazel was “not like other girls”.

That’s another thing, you would have thought Hazel was 16 MAX by the way she was acting, talking, & obsessing over a man she just met 5-minutes before.

I almost started a game where I took a shot everytime I read the phrase “Manhattan Manwhore”😭😭 There was no evidence of him being this hugeeee slut, other than the book telling us he was. There was a LOT of telling vs showing.

What made me stop reading was the moment where Khai was confused about their status (which was ?? because in the prior chapter or 2, they literally agreeed to start dating. They agreed to a literal relationship. How did we get back to the ‘what are we?’ convo???) & Hazel offered to just be casual (Even though that is completely out of character. She cried her eyes out when he didn’t text her back for 24hrs, so in what world would she offer being in a casual arrangement with him)—Anyway, right after they NOW agree to be casual, they cuddle on the couch & he immediately trauma dumps his entire life story on why he’s so fucked up. I thought we JUST agreed to be casual! Why are we trauma bonding & cuddling?

I think all authors have potential to get better, especially after their debut. I would focus on more mature, natural dialogue, real character motivations and showing, not telling.
Profile Image for Rithchellyne.
55 reviews
February 11, 2025
𝗕𝗲𝗰𝗮𝘂𝘀𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝘀—𝘂𝘀—𝘁𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝗶𝘀 𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗹. 𝗧𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝗶𝘀 𝘄𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗜’𝘃𝗲 𝗯𝗲𝗲𝗻 𝘀𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗰𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗳𝗼𝗿, 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗻𝗼𝘄 𝘁𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗜’𝘃𝗲 𝗳𝗼𝘂𝗻𝗱 𝗶𝘁, 𝗜’𝗺 𝗻𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗿 𝗹𝗲𝘁𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗴𝗼. 𝗦𝗵𝗲’𝘀 𝗺𝘆 𝗲𝗻𝗱𝗴𝗮𝗺𝗲.

First ARC READ ON JANUARY! (very late post) 🤫

So, you think drunk-ordering sex toys is a bad idea? Think again! The Pleasure Principle introduces us to Hazel, a "good girl" who's about to discover a whole new side of herself.

From the very beginning, I was drawn into Hazel's world. She's relatable, quirky, and undeniably charming. Her initial hesitation and awkwardness surrounding her newfound curiosity are perfectly portrayed, making her journey of self-discovery all the more compelling. It's not just about the sex toys; it's about Hazel learning to embrace her desires, shed societal expectations, and truly understand herself. This exploration of female sexuality is handled with both sensitivity and humor, making it feel authentic and empowering.

The supportive relationships Hazel builds along the way, especially with Khai, are a highlight of the book. Their connection goes beyond the initial awkwardness of the s*x toy incident, developing into a genuine and supportive partnership. The way they navigate their feelings, their pasts, and the challenges that come their way especially when faced with family challenges is both realistic and heartwarming. It's a reminder that true love is about acceptance, understanding, and unwavering support.

The Pleasure Principle is a must-read for anyone looking for a fun, sexy, and heartwarming romance with a touch of self-discovery, coming on February 22, 2025! 💜

Congratulations! @thespicynook looking forward to seeing what you have planned next.
Profile Image for Abi Reads.
24 reviews6 followers
March 1, 2025
Plot
Hazel who's a writer and failed in her 2 relationships. Khai Madsen who's CEO of The Pleasure Principle creating toys for female Pleasure and don't do dates. When Hazel wants to buy a toy for herself she met Khai. Khai fell for her at the very fisrt second he saw her. They were head over heels for each other even without knowing each other. She's in his every thoughts and he occupies her mind. They wanna know where it'll lead so they agree to be in relationship. Khai Madsen who don't date can be in a real relationship or Hazel gonna break her heart again?

My pov
I'm so in love with this book. The banter, the fun, the dialogues, the tension, the nicknames and spice omg everything was so perfectly written by author. Ahhh Mr. Khai Madsen he is one of a kind who can make a girl week. I loved him. I loved how much he supported her. Every little details came out so good. It's my fav read of this month.

Thank you so much author for sending me this early copy. Guys you will love it. Trust me and read this(so much spice).
Rating :⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Profile Image for Ali (bookishalireads).
275 reviews8 followers
January 31, 2025
I have no idea what Ada put in this book, but I'm totally here for it. Hazel is my spirit animal; she was hilarious, even unintentionally. And Khai? Oh my gosh, I was fanning myself the whole time! He was impossible not to love. Their connection was instant it was so prevalent from the moment they met but also the deep soul connection. I can't blame her. I mean, who wouldn't want a tattoed Greek god to try out toys and help you live your life to the fullest. Sign me up. It was so cute, I was laughing out loud so much and already wanting more! I loved Khai and Hazel. I enjoyed the writing style. I was so entertained. Seriously, get ready. It gets steamy fast. The banter, the tropes, the character development—chef's kiss! This is your adult version of toy story. Thank Ada later. 🫶 🫶
Profile Image for Maleny Roman-Ruiz.
63 reviews1 follower
February 5, 2025
Ok, so let me tell you this modern romcom will make you swoon, fan yourself, and make you go on a journey unlike any other! Hazel and Khai are phenomenal together. They were each other's biggest supporters. Their connection was instant- like insanely fast, but you do see it grow into something powerful and deep (soul-bearing deep). The chemistry was on fire, the tension sizzling, the banter hilarious, their interactions sassy. Hazel and Khai's journey was blissfully chaotic, empowering, and oh so hot!

There is also something about the way the author wrote this book and everything I've seen posted by her. It's like she's in my mind and we have the same type of personality. I just want to be friends with her!

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶🌶.5
Profile Image for Cass Goulding.
121 reviews1 follower
March 5, 2025
I think that for a first novel, the author shows promise. With an editor and a carefully crafted outline, I think this book would have been an easier read for me.

Some things that are turn ons for me with this book is the amount of spice and the side characters.

Some of the turn offs that were hard for me to ignore is the term of endearment "princess," the insta love on both sides, that everything just kept going their way, that the conflict didn't happen in the third act, that he makes a big purchase that I'd want a say in, and that it ended with a plotline that is a big nope for me.

I really admire the author for putting her ideas to paper and I hope that so many people love this book.
Profile Image for Ylan Lee.
12 reviews2 followers
February 22, 2025
This insta-love story had me laughing out loud within the first two chapters. Hazel’s awkwardness was hilarious (helped by the fact that she’s almost always a little drunk in the beginning ), and Khai was the perfect hot and sexy playboy without being cruel or grumpy. I love that!

The couple gets up to some very spicy activities 👀, but the book never felt too intense or smut-heavy. It was light-hearted, chick-flicky fun! That said, I do think the plot lacked depth, with very little conflict or resolution. (At least there was no third-act breakup!) It was just one happy adventure after another, which makes this the perfect book if you're just here for the good vibes and banter.
Profile Image for lovetoread.
241 reviews
February 26, 2025
I’ve been waiting months to read this but I am so disappointed I can’t take it anymore I have to dnf it @ 70%

A few things i really didn’t like about this book:

> I hate that the MMC slept with another woman on page

>I think hazel was written to come across as quirky and sarcastic but sometimes she was straight up mean to khai

> there was zero tension or attraction between the two idk their dialogue always felt awkward and forced, a lot of sentences and sayings were repeated

> the om/ow drama was so unnecessary

>The parents weren’t really that mean?? I was promised family drama but it was kinda disappointing
Plus she insulted her mom back every chance she got🤷🏼‍♀️
Profile Image for Sabrina Joy.
2 reviews
January 29, 2025
Five stars for modern storytelling and the courage to write a debut novel like this one. Grab your wine and a cozy spot, this is for women who are on a journey of self-exploration and discovering some of the things that make us feel good—without shame or judgment. A. D. Wrae’s writing is smart, sexy, and sassy. She has written a novel that’s a sexual journey full of pleasure and sprinkled with lots of romance and love. It proves that what might seem like one thing at first, can become so much more. This book gives permission to indulge without guilt, and I’m here for the journey.
Profile Image for Jeannette Davis.
244 reviews11 followers
February 22, 2025
I LOVED this book! The plot, storytelling, banter, and side characters were all amazing! The storyline of this book was engaging and different, I loved that hazel was just another FMC that needed a man, she wanted one. No third act breakup, which this book didn’t need any more conflict or tension as I think to side characters of the parents created that tension.

Overall loved this book and hope we get another book in the series with some specific side characters!

I received a free copy and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for Brittney Collier.
82 reviews2 followers
February 11, 2025
Ex “Manhattan Manwhore” meets sweet innocent girl ready to change her life? Yes please.

Hazel Joy is a writer who is struggling to figure out what makes her happy and how she can get away from her controlling and hateful parents.

Khai Madsen is CEO of The Pleasure Principle, Manhattans manwhore, and looks like a Greek god.

After a night of maybe too much wine and an online order that wasn’t able to be filled, Hazel finds herself face to face with the hottest man she’s ever seen. The orgasm activist himself, Khai Madsen.

I ate this book right up! The banter, the spice, the sex positivity and women empowerment? YES. All of the above. If you’re looking for a cute, fun but spicy romance to wash away the pain of real life, you’ve found it. There’s no slow burns here, it’s great from the start and only builds as the story continue. No spoilers but I did love the HEA that just kept on giving. 🥵

Hopefully, there’s more to come from some of our favorite side characters. Hannah, girly I’m looking at you!
46 reviews
February 18, 2025
Spice? Banter? Chemistry? Romance? This book had it all!! I was captivated from the beginning with the characters insta love! I love the steamy scenes and Khai is so so hot! 🥵😍 if you’re here for the spice, definitely pick up this book!
Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews

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