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Passing Through Cafe #3
Luxuries of Lust
When it came to love, Rusty had resigned himself to never being enough, and Gem knew he would always be too much. Turns out, they were both wrong.
As a Pyclon from Lust, Rusty learned early the cruel rules of the Pentagram. Happiness is for the privileged. Hope for the weak. And absolutely nothing comes free. So he accepts a life of happy enough, of good enough, of just… enough. Anything more is impossible for someone like him.
That is, until he meets Gemae Akyllo.
With a brain that never rests and an ass that won’t quit, Gem is objectively a lot. His physical size is rivaled only by that of his personality—neither of which he will ever apologize for—but there’s a cost. He’s fun for a night, chosen first for a good time, but come morning, his bed is cold and empty. Always wanted, but never kept.
That is, until he meets Rusty Róisyn.
Rusty never wanted love, and Gem doesn’t need it. But together, they find it all the same.
Join Gem and Rusty and the rest of the eccentric staff of the Passing Through Cafe in Nik Knight’s rom-com, urban fantasy series, full of found family, absurd antics, healing hope, and a love that takes their hearts by storm.
As a Pyclon from Lust, Rusty learned early the cruel rules of the Pentagram. Happiness is for the privileged. Hope for the weak. And absolutely nothing comes free. So he accepts a life of happy enough, of good enough, of just… enough. Anything more is impossible for someone like him.
That is, until he meets Gemae Akyllo.
With a brain that never rests and an ass that won’t quit, Gem is objectively a lot. His physical size is rivaled only by that of his personality—neither of which he will ever apologize for—but there’s a cost. He’s fun for a night, chosen first for a good time, but come morning, his bed is cold and empty. Always wanted, but never kept.
That is, until he meets Rusty Róisyn.
Rusty never wanted love, and Gem doesn’t need it. But together, they find it all the same.
Join Gem and Rusty and the rest of the eccentric staff of the Passing Through Cafe in Nik Knight’s rom-com, urban fantasy series, full of found family, absurd antics, healing hope, and a love that takes their hearts by storm.
505 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 13, 2025
91 people are currently reading
313 people want to read
About the author
Nik Knight
30 books595 followersNik Knight (they/them) is a born and bred Hoosier living in a top-secret location in Europe. They are a single parent to two wonderful gremlins, and they write love in all its forms.
When they aren’t busy adulting, Nik can be found in their writing nook, typing away as their fingers turn to nubs.
When they aren’t busy adulting, Nik can be found in their writing nook, typing away as their fingers turn to nubs.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 152 reviews
July 4, 2025
I am a puddle of mushy goo. Rustyyyyyyy 🩷🩷🩷🩷🩷
Cuteness overload …
Despite all the euphoria, I have to say that this book was exhausting for me, which I expected, so it's not bad. But I knew that even though Gem is a great main character, he would be a pain in my ass.
But if you've read the first two books in this series, then you just know that this is going to be a basket case and you should probably only read this book if you liked the first two? I don't know, I'd be careful about recommending it because actually all three books up to this point require a lot of patience. And my eyes have also gotten a good workout from all the rolling.
However, Rusty is simply the best and I knew I would love his story.
I have to admit, I couldn't imagine him with Gem ... it just didn't fit visually in my head. But the book won me over.
These two together are truly unique.
Rusty had loved the rain, once upon a time. Back when his mother had been happy. And healthy. And alive. But then she’d died, and she’d taken every ounce of wonder and hope and love with her. 😭😩😪🤧
“Choke on my dick.”
“Honey, I only choke when I want to.” Gem flipped his hair obnoxiously. “But it’s adorable that you think I still have a gag reflex.”
On the threshold of the bathroom, Rusty paused, whiskers twitching madly before something naughty gleamed in his eyes, and he smirked. “Finally something we have in common.”
Gem’s jaw dropped as Rusty swung the door shut between them. “Ahhh, Rusty! You just made a sex joke. I’m so proud of you.” 🤭🤭🤭
Gem huffed and puffed until he seethed, “Oh, you are—sometimes, you drive me up the fucking wall!”
“Me?” Honestly, Rusty had never been more offended. “Have you met you? Your whole personality consists of driving me crazy.” 🤣😂🤣
“Did you just call my stomach a snack pack?”
“No,” Gem said dubiously.
“Yeah, you did,” Rusty insisted, and Gem shook his head, turning his face into Rusty’s belly completely.
His voice came out muffled as he said, “I would never call your tummy your snack pack. Or your cookie jar. Or your cupcake clutch. I would never say that. Even if I think it,” he added quietly at the end, like he thought Rusty couldn’t hear him. 🫠🫠🫠
Cuteness overload …
Despite all the euphoria, I have to say that this book was exhausting for me, which I expected, so it's not bad. But I knew that even though Gem is a great main character, he would be a pain in my ass.
But if you've read the first two books in this series, then you just know that this is going to be a basket case and you should probably only read this book if you liked the first two? I don't know, I'd be careful about recommending it because actually all three books up to this point require a lot of patience. And my eyes have also gotten a good workout from all the rolling.
However, Rusty is simply the best and I knew I would love his story.
I have to admit, I couldn't imagine him with Gem ... it just didn't fit visually in my head. But the book won me over.
These two together are truly unique.
Rusty had loved the rain, once upon a time. Back when his mother had been happy. And healthy. And alive. But then she’d died, and she’d taken every ounce of wonder and hope and love with her. 😭😩😪🤧
“Choke on my dick.”
“Honey, I only choke when I want to.” Gem flipped his hair obnoxiously. “But it’s adorable that you think I still have a gag reflex.”
On the threshold of the bathroom, Rusty paused, whiskers twitching madly before something naughty gleamed in his eyes, and he smirked. “Finally something we have in common.”
Gem’s jaw dropped as Rusty swung the door shut between them. “Ahhh, Rusty! You just made a sex joke. I’m so proud of you.” 🤭🤭🤭
Gem huffed and puffed until he seethed, “Oh, you are—sometimes, you drive me up the fucking wall!”
“Me?” Honestly, Rusty had never been more offended. “Have you met you? Your whole personality consists of driving me crazy.” 🤣😂🤣
“Did you just call my stomach a snack pack?”
“No,” Gem said dubiously.
“Yeah, you did,” Rusty insisted, and Gem shook his head, turning his face into Rusty’s belly completely.
His voice came out muffled as he said, “I would never call your tummy your snack pack. Or your cookie jar. Or your cupcake clutch. I would never say that. Even if I think it,” he added quietly at the end, like he thought Rusty couldn’t hear him. 🫠🫠🫠
June 18, 2025
⭐️ ALL THE STARS ⭐️
🎧𝓈𝑜𝓃𝑔 𝓂𝒶𝓉𝒸𝒽 — 𝒞𝒽𝒾𝒽𝒾𝓇𝑜 𝒷𝓎 𝐵𝒾𝓁𝓁𝒾𝑒 𝐸𝒾𝓁𝒾𝓈𝒽🎧
// But there's a part of me that recognizes you
Do you feel it too? //
I’ve been waiting for a Rusty and Gem book since we met them in Passing Through Purgatory, and at the time I didn’t dare dream of them getting together, but they did and now I read it and my heart is bursting and I kinda want to read it all over again.
Luxuries Of Lust was emotional, hilarious, heartwarming. I’m so in love with the crazy Café family. Rusty, though. Rusty I love the most. He’s a grumpy pink fox/raccoon creature, touch-starved, fluffy care bear — what’s not to love?? Plus, the purring and the scent-marking had me giggling and awww-ing every two seconds, and I just want to cuddle him so so much.
From coworkers, to improbable friends, to a beautiful love story.
Sleepovers, secrets under blanket forts, friend dates, anime marathons.
Grumpy vs sunshine, chatty vs silent, the sweetest slow burn.
I loved seeing Rusty slowly get more comfortable around Gem, how they embraced each others differences, the lovely building-up of feelings, the tension between them.
I could honestly go on forever, gushing about this book.
I’m a bit sad it’s over, but I’m looking forward to whatever Nik Knight will bring in the next installments. I’m hoping for Dex, the newly hired Himbro, or Zef and his growing friendship with his human roommate. I adore this demon world, but Rusty and Gem will forever be the best couple, and I’m legit tearing up now ‘cause I just love them so much.
I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review.
CW and NSFW info (spoilers):
- Grief/death of a parent (off page)
- Discussions of previous sex work
- Allusions to SA/abuse (past)
- Themes of classism/sexism/bigotry
- Non-consensual drugging (not between characters)
- Top/bottom
- Feminization
- Light power play
- Tail play
- Demon-docking (tbh I’m still confused about this one)
- Biting/scratching
- Discussions of mental health
- Non-human genitalia
- Just the tip
- Rimming
- 69
🎧𝓈𝑜𝓃𝑔 𝓂𝒶𝓉𝒸𝒽 — 𝒞𝒽𝒾𝒽𝒾𝓇𝑜 𝒷𝓎 𝐵𝒾𝓁𝓁𝒾𝑒 𝐸𝒾𝓁𝒾𝓈𝒽🎧
// But there's a part of me that recognizes you
Do you feel it too? //
Gem touched him so easily, like it was the most natural thing in the world to get close to him, and Rusty wasn’t sure what to do with it.
I’ve been waiting for a Rusty and Gem book since we met them in Passing Through Purgatory, and at the time I didn’t dare dream of them getting together, but they did and now I read it and my heart is bursting and I kinda want to read it all over again.
“I don’t want to inspire your fantasies, Gem!”
“Then don’t send me sexy pictures!”
Luxuries Of Lust was emotional, hilarious, heartwarming. I’m so in love with the crazy Café family. Rusty, though. Rusty I love the most. He’s a grumpy pink fox/raccoon creature, touch-starved, fluffy care bear — what’s not to love?? Plus, the purring and the scent-marking had me giggling and awww-ing every two seconds, and I just want to cuddle him so so much.
Gem was like the sun, and after so long living in shadow, Rusty had forgotten what it felt like to bask in the light.
From coworkers, to improbable friends, to a beautiful love story.
Sleepovers, secrets under blanket forts, friend dates, anime marathons.
Grumpy vs sunshine, chatty vs silent, the sweetest slow burn.
“I guess I stopped believing in magic a long time ago,” he finally said, soft as a secret. Gem reached up and dragged his knuckle along Rusty’s furry jaw. “I’ll help you remember how, if you want.”
I loved seeing Rusty slowly get more comfortable around Gem, how they embraced each others differences, the lovely building-up of feelings, the tension between them.
I could honestly go on forever, gushing about this book.
He’d already fallen, hadn’t he? Tripped head over ass before Rusty had even kissed him for the first time.
I’m a bit sad it’s over, but I’m looking forward to whatever Nik Knight will bring in the next installments. I’m hoping for Dex, the newly hired Himbro, or Zef and his growing friendship with his human roommate. I adore this demon world, but Rusty and Gem will forever be the best couple, and I’m legit tearing up now ‘cause I just love them so much.
He was allowed to be happy; he was allowed to have beautiful things. And by gods, if this wasn’t the most beautiful thing of all. ❤︎
I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review.
CW and NSFW info (spoilers):
- Grief/death of a parent (off page)
- Discussions of previous sex work
- Allusions to SA/abuse (past)
- Themes of classism/sexism/bigotry
- Non-consensual drugging (not between characters)
- Top/bottom
- Feminization
- Light power play
- Tail play
- Demon-docking (tbh I’m still confused about this one)
- Biting/scratching
- Discussions of mental health
- Non-human genitalia
- Just the tip
- Rimming
- 69
June 5, 2025
Oh my god 🥹🥹🥹🥹 No, but seriously, how the fuck are these guys so fucking adorable 😍
I have wanted Rusty and Gem's story since book one and this was so perfect!!!
Rusty and Gem are just so sweet. I loved how we got to see them really getting to know each other by spending so much quality time together, and the pair of them falling in love just felt so special.
Rusty opening up to Gem about his past was so beautiful, and the way Rusty cares for Gem and finds him such perfect gifts was amazing to read.
Gem wanting Rusty to have everything that makes him happy was so heartwarming, and introducing him to his family just determined that these two are my favourite couple in the series.
There was a lot of humour again too, particularly Gem's rambling in nervous situations, which was like watching a slow mo car crash 😂
I'm excited to see what comes next for this found family of demons!
*****
I received an ARC of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review
I have wanted Rusty and Gem's story since book one and this was so perfect!!!
Rusty and Gem are just so sweet. I loved how we got to see them really getting to know each other by spending so much quality time together, and the pair of them falling in love just felt so special.
Rusty opening up to Gem about his past was so beautiful, and the way Rusty cares for Gem and finds him such perfect gifts was amazing to read.
Gem wanting Rusty to have everything that makes him happy was so heartwarming, and introducing him to his family just determined that these two are my favourite couple in the series.
There was a lot of humour again too, particularly Gem's rambling in nervous situations, which was like watching a slow mo car crash 😂
I'm excited to see what comes next for this found family of demons!
*****
I received an ARC of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review
November 30, 2025
This was perfect I loved it so much! I’ve been waiting on gem & Rusty’s book & it was perfection. So excited for more of the series!
June 15, 2025
Ugh I may have cried several times while reading this. Gem has been my fave since book one and I was ecstatic for his book. He just never stops digging a hole he’s started digging unless someone else stops him (if they can). He has no chill and is mostly unapologetically himself, but Rusty gave him the rest of the unconditional acceptance he thought he was missing. I knew I was going to cry during Rusty’s book as soon as he had his first real conversation with Oliver in book one. He was defensive, but for a reason, and needed a steamroller of a person to help break down those barriers in a safe way. They were so precious together and I love them.
Spice: 4/5
Triggers: discussion of past teen sex work, grief, death of parent (past), poverty (past), speciesism, allusions to past SA, drugging by potential sex partner that doesn’t end in SA (not between main characters), classism, bigotry, mental health discussions, sexual harassment of teen (side character)
Spice: 4/5
Triggers: discussion of past teen sex work, grief, death of parent (past), poverty (past), speciesism, allusions to past SA, drugging by potential sex partner that doesn’t end in SA (not between main characters), classism, bigotry, mental health discussions, sexual harassment of teen (side character)
July 24, 2025
Gem and rusty🥹😫 I loved this book so much like this deserves all the stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ I cried, I laughed and blushed this book is literally everything 😭😭😭😭😭 both getting the HEA they deserve 🩷🩷🩷🩷
October 12, 2025
I’ve enjoyed this series so much, but this book was on another level. The amount of emotions between these two characters was just incredible all while keeping its signature humor.
Gem and Rusty have been hinted at since book one and the wait was well worth it. This is a slow burn, friends to lovers story that shows some amazing growth in these characters. These two are crazy in the best way! Rusty is the best grump and deserves everything, and Gem is so sunny, he’s just the one to give it to him. One of my favorite part of this is how Gem is always shrieking in laughter. It just felt so good to see the way he makes Rusty feel. Just loved everything about this story. There are so many characters, but they all feel so individual and have so many great quirks. So much fun.
MM Urban Fantasy
Friends To Lovers
Hurt / Comfort
Unapologetic Sunshine
Grumpiest Grump
Found Family
Slow Burn
Spice: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Gem and Rusty have been hinted at since book one and the wait was well worth it. This is a slow burn, friends to lovers story that shows some amazing growth in these characters. These two are crazy in the best way! Rusty is the best grump and deserves everything, and Gem is so sunny, he’s just the one to give it to him. One of my favorite part of this is how Gem is always shrieking in laughter. It just felt so good to see the way he makes Rusty feel. Just loved everything about this story. There are so many characters, but they all feel so individual and have so many great quirks. So much fun.
MM Urban Fantasy
Friends To Lovers
Hurt / Comfort
Unapologetic Sunshine
Grumpiest Grump
Found Family
Slow Burn
Spice: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
June 16, 2025
absolutely adored
This book was everything. Very emotional at times. Gem was so relatable. Loved that this plot developed organically, and without the need for a third act break up. It had many comedic moments, that absolutely made me laugh my ass off.
This book was everything. Very emotional at times. Gem was so relatable. Loved that this plot developed organically, and without the need for a third act break up. It had many comedic moments, that absolutely made me laugh my ass off.
July 30, 2025
OBSESSED 😍
June 25, 2025
Series: Passing Through Cafe #3
Rating: 5 stars - I loved it!
After reading the previous books, I was so excited to get to this book because Rusty and Gem were my two favorite characters. We have also seen small teases of how their relationship was getting closer in the previous books, so I was excited to read what happened. Not only that, this is dual POV, which made me extremely happy because I needed both sides of the story with these two.
Rusty has had a rough life but working at the Passing Through Cafe has been the best part of the past few years. He now has friends who actually care about him but he still keeps barriers between them out of fear. I have adored Rusty since the first book and I fell even more in love with him after this book. He was so closed off but wanted desperately to be a part of the group. I really loved the progression of him letting Gem in and opening up about his past. Also, his courting of Gem was beautiful and sweet. I couldn’t get enough of it.
“I don’t know. I think it’s, like, I’m generally a lot. I overwhelm and annoy people, maybe? Or like, I’m too intense or just too much for people.” “Then they’re not your people,” Rusty said simply. “You’re a lot of you, sure. But no one can be too much of themselves. Like you’re just you, and that should be okay.”
Gem was spunky, snarky, and so sweet. I loved how fun and open Gem is about his life. It was a great contrast with Rusty being grumpy and closed off. Gem was just perfect with Rusty. He sets out to just become a better friend of Rusty’s and helps him start to have fun, but quickly starts falling for him. The best part, for me, was that Gem let Rusty set the pace and never pushed Rusty to do anything he didn’t want to do. He even helps Rusty get over some of the trauma and make new memories to replace it.
“You’re more beautiful than the rain and the stardust and the desert combined.”
Rusty and Gem were just absolutely adorable! They are definitely my favorite couple for this series! Their friends to lovers romance was perfectly paced and full of emotion. Their friendship was adorable to begin with, but how these two supported each other was the icing on the cake. Their friendship was so strong and realistic that I couldn’t put the book down. I adored that Gem let Rusty set the pace of their relationship and never pushed for anything. Also the banter between Rusty and Gem was hilarious and perfect. I laughed and smiled so much while reading this book. Basically, I just really loved these two and I have no complaints with their relationship.
Overall, this was perfect and I adored these two so much. I am actually a bit sad that their book is over because I couldn’t get enough of them, and their banter. I can’t wait to read more of this series.
TW: PTSD and flashbacks; sexual harassment; death of mother discussed; grief; discussions of being a teenage sex worker; teenage homelessness; one MMC has their drink spiked; alcohol use;
Rating: 5 stars - I loved it!
After reading the previous books, I was so excited to get to this book because Rusty and Gem were my two favorite characters. We have also seen small teases of how their relationship was getting closer in the previous books, so I was excited to read what happened. Not only that, this is dual POV, which made me extremely happy because I needed both sides of the story with these two.
Rusty has had a rough life but working at the Passing Through Cafe has been the best part of the past few years. He now has friends who actually care about him but he still keeps barriers between them out of fear. I have adored Rusty since the first book and I fell even more in love with him after this book. He was so closed off but wanted desperately to be a part of the group. I really loved the progression of him letting Gem in and opening up about his past. Also, his courting of Gem was beautiful and sweet. I couldn’t get enough of it.
“I don’t know. I think it’s, like, I’m generally a lot. I overwhelm and annoy people, maybe? Or like, I’m too intense or just too much for people.” “Then they’re not your people,” Rusty said simply. “You’re a lot of you, sure. But no one can be too much of themselves. Like you’re just you, and that should be okay.”
Gem was spunky, snarky, and so sweet. I loved how fun and open Gem is about his life. It was a great contrast with Rusty being grumpy and closed off. Gem was just perfect with Rusty. He sets out to just become a better friend of Rusty’s and helps him start to have fun, but quickly starts falling for him. The best part, for me, was that Gem let Rusty set the pace and never pushed Rusty to do anything he didn’t want to do. He even helps Rusty get over some of the trauma and make new memories to replace it.
“You’re more beautiful than the rain and the stardust and the desert combined.”
Rusty and Gem were just absolutely adorable! They are definitely my favorite couple for this series! Their friends to lovers romance was perfectly paced and full of emotion. Their friendship was adorable to begin with, but how these two supported each other was the icing on the cake. Their friendship was so strong and realistic that I couldn’t put the book down. I adored that Gem let Rusty set the pace of their relationship and never pushed for anything. Also the banter between Rusty and Gem was hilarious and perfect. I laughed and smiled so much while reading this book. Basically, I just really loved these two and I have no complaints with their relationship.
Overall, this was perfect and I adored these two so much. I am actually a bit sad that their book is over because I couldn’t get enough of them, and their banter. I can’t wait to read more of this series.
TW: PTSD and flashbacks; sexual harassment; death of mother discussed; grief; discussions of being a teenage sex worker; teenage homelessness; one MMC has their drink spiked; alcohol use;
June 11, 2025
"𝙷𝚎 𝚠𝚊𝚗𝚝𝚎𝚍 𝚢𝚎𝚊𝚛𝚜. 𝙷𝚎 𝚠𝚊𝚗𝚝𝚎𝚍 𝚏𝚘𝚛𝚎𝚟𝚎𝚛. 𝙵𝚘𝚛 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚏𝚒𝚛𝚜𝚝 𝚝𝚒𝚖𝚎 𝚒𝚗 𝚑𝚒𝚜 𝚕𝚒𝚏𝚎, 𝙶𝚎𝚖 𝚠𝚊𝚗𝚝𝚎𝚍 𝚝𝚘 𝚋𝚎 𝚌𝚑𝚘𝚜𝚎𝚗; 𝚑𝚎 𝚠𝚊𝚗𝚝𝚎𝚍 𝚝𝚘 𝚋𝚎 𝚔𝚎𝚙𝚝."
This book was so freaking cute!! I just loved Gem and Rusty. Watching their friendship grow was lovely and then to see it organically and slowly move into romantic territory was just a joy. Both Rusty and Gem came into this with their own emotional baggage. Gem believed his personality was always going to be too much for a long-term partner, while Rusty continuously thought of himself as unworthy of a person like Gem. It was heartbreaking to see how the cruelty of other people had led to their self-doubt.
"𝙿𝚎𝚘𝚙𝚕𝚎 𝚕𝚒𝚔𝚎 𝚖𝚎 𝚍𝚘𝚗'𝚝 𝚍𝚎𝚜𝚎𝚛𝚟𝚎 𝚋𝚎𝚊𝚞𝚝𝚒𝚏𝚞𝚕 𝚝𝚑𝚒𝚗𝚐𝚜, 𝙶𝚎𝚖."
It was fun seeing everyone's reactions to finding out these two were dating. And just like Gem and Rusty, I was definitely worried about Toni. I couldn't decide if I thought it would have been better for Gem to get it over with and tell him before he found out from someone else or if he was smart keeping it under wraps as long as he did in order for him and Rusty to get some time to themselves before things got crazy.
"𝙸 𝚖𝚎𝚊𝚗, 𝚝𝚑𝚊𝚝 𝚒𝚜 𝚜𝚘𝚖𝚎 𝚌𝚎𝚛𝚝𝚒𝚏𝚒𝚊𝚋𝚕𝚎 𝚜𝚑𝚒𝚝 𝚛𝚒𝚐𝚑𝚝 𝚝𝚑𝚎𝚛𝚎, 𝚋𝚞𝚝 𝚠𝚑𝚘 𝚒𝚜𝚗'𝚝 𝚊 𝚕𝚒𝚝𝚝𝚕𝚎 𝚌𝚛𝚊𝚣𝚢 𝚝𝚑𝚎𝚜𝚎 𝚍𝚊𝚢𝚜."
Meeting Gem's enormous family was definitely a highlight. I loved seeing them take to Rusty like he was one of their own. I think he needed that after being alone for so long. Rusty's snark hid a kind and generous heart and I was so glad that everyone was finally able to see it shine through in the end.
This book was so freaking cute!! I just loved Gem and Rusty. Watching their friendship grow was lovely and then to see it organically and slowly move into romantic territory was just a joy. Both Rusty and Gem came into this with their own emotional baggage. Gem believed his personality was always going to be too much for a long-term partner, while Rusty continuously thought of himself as unworthy of a person like Gem. It was heartbreaking to see how the cruelty of other people had led to their self-doubt.
"𝙿𝚎𝚘𝚙𝚕𝚎 𝚕𝚒𝚔𝚎 𝚖𝚎 𝚍𝚘𝚗'𝚝 𝚍𝚎𝚜𝚎𝚛𝚟𝚎 𝚋𝚎𝚊𝚞𝚝𝚒𝚏𝚞𝚕 𝚝𝚑𝚒𝚗𝚐𝚜, 𝙶𝚎𝚖."
It was fun seeing everyone's reactions to finding out these two were dating. And just like Gem and Rusty, I was definitely worried about Toni. I couldn't decide if I thought it would have been better for Gem to get it over with and tell him before he found out from someone else or if he was smart keeping it under wraps as long as he did in order for him and Rusty to get some time to themselves before things got crazy.
"𝙸 𝚖𝚎𝚊𝚗, 𝚝𝚑𝚊𝚝 𝚒𝚜 𝚜𝚘𝚖𝚎 𝚌𝚎𝚛𝚝𝚒𝚏𝚒𝚊𝚋𝚕𝚎 𝚜𝚑𝚒𝚝 𝚛𝚒𝚐𝚑𝚝 𝚝𝚑𝚎𝚛𝚎, 𝚋𝚞𝚝 𝚠𝚑𝚘 𝚒𝚜𝚗'𝚝 𝚊 𝚕𝚒𝚝𝚝𝚕𝚎 𝚌𝚛𝚊𝚣𝚢 𝚝𝚑𝚎𝚜𝚎 𝚍𝚊𝚢𝚜."
Meeting Gem's enormous family was definitely a highlight. I loved seeing them take to Rusty like he was one of their own. I think he needed that after being alone for so long. Rusty's snark hid a kind and generous heart and I was so glad that everyone was finally able to see it shine through in the end.
July 5, 2025
I was so excited to read Gem and Rusty's story, and this did not disappoint! It was hilarious, but also had some emotional moments where we learned about Rusty's past, but also about how Gem has been treated by past partners. The banter between Gem and Rusty was awesome, and I was cackling and laughing so much! I loved Gem's rambling and his stream of conciousness talking and how Rusty listened to it all, because he just enjoyed listening to Gem talk. I loved that they felt so safe with each other that they could be themselves right from the start with traumas, quirks, interests and over the top antics. I love the drama Gem brings, and I love how much fun him and Rusty have. Rusty is a complex character and he rarely lets down his walls, but it was great to see him open up to Gem. Both of them were exactly what the other needed and it was great to see their relationship progress.
It was great to be back at the Passing Through Cafe and see everyone. As usual, their scenes are hilarious and so much fun! The banter in this group is so good, I look forward to reading group scenes when it comes to this crew. It's always great to see what this crew gets up to. And now I'm excited to see what the future holds for all of these great characters.
If you're searching for a demon/monster romance with a great found family, grumpy/sunshine vibes, a lot of humor and laughs and some hurt/comfort, then this is the book for you!
It was great to be back at the Passing Through Cafe and see everyone. As usual, their scenes are hilarious and so much fun! The banter in this group is so good, I look forward to reading group scenes when it comes to this crew. It's always great to see what this crew gets up to. And now I'm excited to see what the future holds for all of these great characters.
If you're searching for a demon/monster romance with a great found family, grumpy/sunshine vibes, a lot of humor and laughs and some hurt/comfort, then this is the book for you!
June 25, 2025
If I wasn't so busy right now, I would have devoured this book in two point five seconds. Rusty and Gem were just so adorable. I really couldn't get enough of their cuteness!
November 9, 2025
Luxuries of Lust by Nik Knight
💎💎💎💎💎 5 Gem's Stars
📚 Book Three of Passing Through Cafe Series
👉 Can Be Read as a Standalone
⬆️ Ebook ARC
😏 Adult MM Contemporary Urban Fantasy Romance
👆 Hurt & Comfort
📖 Rom-Com
🖤 Dark & Unhinged Humor 🤣
😈 Hell World (Pentagram)
&
😏 "Wild/Kinky" Demons Hilarious Shenanigans
👉 Two POV Third-Person Narrative
🦝 Pyclon x Araknis 🕷 (Demons)
Straight-up Pinky Furry x Very... Very "Bad Girl" Vibes
🐈⬛ Black Cat Energy x Golden Retriever Energy 🐶
😡 Grumpy x Sunshine 😁
🌈 Co-Workers to ☺️ Friends to 💘 Lovers
🥰 Talkative Chaos Gremlin x Quiet Care Bear
🧲 Opposites Attract
🐮 Crazy Cow Fan
🌜 Sleepovers & Girl-Talk & Anime Binge-watching 🤩
😏 Size Difference (I love it🥵)
🌶🌋 Kinky Spice Menu... feminization, light power play, tail play, demon-docking, hair-pulling, biting, and scratching
🍆 Collection of all Kinds of Dildos and "Assortments" 😏
🥵 Slow-Burn (but... hot damn)
🔥 Spicy Level: 🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶
MC's:
👉😊💎☕️🕷 Gemae 'Gem' Akyllo:
"Araknis: Species of demon resembling a spider. Common features include eight eyes, eight spindly limbs, wider hips/butts, and tall heights."
🕷 A sunshiney, quirky, multitasking barista at the Passing Through Cafe. He works with his bestie Toni (from the second book) and, as expected, is friendly with everyone, a true and trusting friend.
🕷 He’s open, loud, and a big presence. So genuinely Gem... he says exactly what he thinks and is a rollercoaster of rambling!
🕷 His family is very unique and present in his life.
👉🤨🎨☕️🦊/🦝 Rusty 'Rus' Róisyn (25):
"Pyclon: Species of demon resembling a raccoon. Common features include fur, canines, fuzzy ears, striped tails, and claws."
🦝 Server at the Passing Through Cafe.
🦝 Rus is a reserved pink fox/raccoon and the sweetest caretaker (a true care bear).
🦝 In his teens, life became very dark and difficult.
He was a homeless teenage orphan who had to become a sex worker to survive until he started working at the cafe... and was finally embraced by friendships and a new family. 🥹
🦝 My sweet and fluffy Rus is so touch-starved... I wanted to hug him and take care of him with so much love!
🦝 His passion is drawing. He’s a self-taught amateur artist.
⚠️ Content Warnings:
⚠️ Low Angst
⚠️ Alcohol Consumption
⚠️ Grief/Death of a Parent (off page)
⚠️ Poverty (past)
⚠️ Mental Health Discussions
⚠️ Previous Sex Work Discussions
⚠️ Allusions to SA/Abuse (past)
⚠️ Themes of Speciesism, Classism, Sexism, Bigotry
⚠️ Sexual Harassment of Teen (side character)
⚠️ Non-Consensual Drugging (not between MCs)
⚠️ On-Page Marijuana Use
💫 Perfect Misfit Found Family
👏 Solid Character Development
💯 Best Side Characters
🥰 Love The Ending
😍 HEA
Cover: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5 Demonlicious Stars
🦝🕷💬 My Thoughts🕷🦝:
📖👉 An easy read with uniquely written demon fantasy world-building.
🤗 Since the first book, I’ve been waiting for Rus and Gem’s story... I couldn’t stop thinking about them.
❤️🔥 This book tells the beautiful, funny, and emotional journey of Gem and Rus’s friendship and love, with their eccentric coworkers at the Passing Through Cafe (the best side characters ever 😍).
It’s full of banter, moments of reflection, and heartfelt moments.
🥹 🫠 Our grumpy Rus and sunshine Gem... they melted my heart!
👌 These two are simply wonderful. Their personalities complement each other so well. There's balance and authenticity in their dynamic.
🥰 Gem’s eccentric personality and sincerity bring the energy, while Rusty’s more reserved, crunchy nature balances him out perfectly. You can’t help but love them.
💞 Their relationship develops naturally... platonic and truly a friendship at first, built on trust and understanding, which makes their connection so special.
🥵 The spice was chef’s kiss 🤌... steamy, kinky, and emotional, but never too much.
Nik Knight always finds the perfect balance between plot, action (so many shenanigans 🤭), romance, and heat.
😂🤣 I laughed so much, swooned, and cried too. 😢🤧
😵💫 I’m OBSESSED with this series.
🥳 The whole series is a gem and deserves to be read in order. Every detail matters, and every character is unforgettable.
▪︎FAV QUOTES▪︎
🕷🦝🌜 I'm definitely going to read this again 🌛🦝🕷
💯 I'm looking forward to reading the following books in this Series... Zef and Bryce!
😉 Thanks for reading hope this helps you out!
I received this book as a gift from the author and am voluntarily leaving this review.
StoryGraph Review
BookBub Review
Reviews On Goodreads
My Socials
💎💎💎💎💎 5 Gem's Stars
📚 Book Three of Passing Through Cafe Series
👉 Can Be Read as a Standalone
⬆️ Ebook ARC
😏 Adult MM Contemporary Urban Fantasy Romance
👆 Hurt & Comfort
📖 Rom-Com
🖤 Dark & Unhinged Humor 🤣
😈 Hell World (Pentagram)
&
😏 "Wild/Kinky" Demons Hilarious Shenanigans
👉 Two POV Third-Person Narrative
🦝 Pyclon x Araknis 🕷 (Demons)
Straight-up Pinky Furry x Very... Very "Bad Girl" Vibes
🐈⬛ Black Cat Energy x Golden Retriever Energy 🐶
😡 Grumpy x Sunshine 😁
🌈 Co-Workers to ☺️ Friends to 💘 Lovers
🥰 Talkative Chaos Gremlin x Quiet Care Bear
🧲 Opposites Attract
🐮 Crazy Cow Fan
🌜 Sleepovers & Girl-Talk & Anime Binge-watching 🤩
😏 Size Difference (I love it🥵)
🌶🌋 Kinky Spice Menu... feminization, light power play, tail play, demon-docking, hair-pulling, biting, and scratching
🍆 Collection of all Kinds of Dildos and "Assortments" 😏
🥵 Slow-Burn (but... hot damn)
🔥 Spicy Level: 🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶
MC's:
👉😊💎☕️🕷 Gemae 'Gem' Akyllo:
"Araknis: Species of demon resembling a spider. Common features include eight eyes, eight spindly limbs, wider hips/butts, and tall heights."
🕷 A sunshiney, quirky, multitasking barista at the Passing Through Cafe. He works with his bestie Toni (from the second book) and, as expected, is friendly with everyone, a true and trusting friend.
🕷 He’s open, loud, and a big presence. So genuinely Gem... he says exactly what he thinks and is a rollercoaster of rambling!
🕷 His family is very unique and present in his life.
👉🤨🎨☕️🦊/🦝 Rusty 'Rus' Róisyn (25):
"Pyclon: Species of demon resembling a raccoon. Common features include fur, canines, fuzzy ears, striped tails, and claws."
🦝 Server at the Passing Through Cafe.
🦝 Rus is a reserved pink fox/raccoon and the sweetest caretaker (a true care bear).
🦝 In his teens, life became very dark and difficult.
He was a homeless teenage orphan who had to become a sex worker to survive until he started working at the cafe... and was finally embraced by friendships and a new family. 🥹
🦝 My sweet and fluffy Rus is so touch-starved... I wanted to hug him and take care of him with so much love!
🦝 His passion is drawing. He’s a self-taught amateur artist.
⚠️ Content Warnings:
⚠️ Low Angst
⚠️ Alcohol Consumption
⚠️ Grief/Death of a Parent (off page)
⚠️ Poverty (past)
⚠️ Mental Health Discussions
⚠️ Previous Sex Work Discussions
⚠️ Allusions to SA/Abuse (past)
⚠️ Themes of Speciesism, Classism, Sexism, Bigotry
⚠️ Sexual Harassment of Teen (side character)
⚠️ Non-Consensual Drugging (not between MCs)
⚠️ On-Page Marijuana Use
💫 Perfect Misfit Found Family
👏 Solid Character Development
💯 Best Side Characters
🥰 Love The Ending
😍 HEA
Cover: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5 Demonlicious Stars
🦝🕷💬 My Thoughts🕷🦝:
📖👉 An easy read with uniquely written demon fantasy world-building.
🤗 Since the first book, I’ve been waiting for Rus and Gem’s story... I couldn’t stop thinking about them.
❤️🔥 This book tells the beautiful, funny, and emotional journey of Gem and Rus’s friendship and love, with their eccentric coworkers at the Passing Through Cafe (the best side characters ever 😍).
It’s full of banter, moments of reflection, and heartfelt moments.
🥹 🫠 Our grumpy Rus and sunshine Gem... they melted my heart!
👌 These two are simply wonderful. Their personalities complement each other so well. There's balance and authenticity in their dynamic.
🥰 Gem’s eccentric personality and sincerity bring the energy, while Rusty’s more reserved, crunchy nature balances him out perfectly. You can’t help but love them.
💞 Their relationship develops naturally... platonic and truly a friendship at first, built on trust and understanding, which makes their connection so special.
🥵 The spice was chef’s kiss 🤌... steamy, kinky, and emotional, but never too much.
Nik Knight always finds the perfect balance between plot, action (so many shenanigans 🤭), romance, and heat.
😂🤣 I laughed so much, swooned, and cried too. 😢🤧
😵💫 I’m OBSESSED with this series.
🥳 The whole series is a gem and deserves to be read in order. Every detail matters, and every character is unforgettable.
▪︎FAV QUOTES▪︎
😅🤣■ “If I ever went to jail, I’d create a harem of beefy guys to protect me,” Gem said as he slid several drinks over the counter to waiting customers. “They’d be my security bitches, and I’d reward them.” He waggled his eyebrows at Rusty as he added, “Generously.”
Oliver laughed as Rusty rolled his eyes, and Toni paused in the kitchen doorway, holding the swinging doors open as he gave Gem a proud onceover. “Gemmy, if anyone could reign as queen in prison, it’d be you.”
Gem preened. “You’re godsdamned right. My rule would be firm but fair, and I’d petition the prison execs for cuter uniforms because orange is not my color.”
“I’d feel safer in prison if you were in charge,” Oliver said sincerely, and Gem pressed two hands to his chest.
“Aw, Ollie. That’s so sweet. I’d make you my favorite bitch.”
Chest swelling, Oliver shot Rusty a smug grin. “Hear that? I’d be Gem’s favorite.”
...
With a snort, Rusty shook his head and folded a new bakery box. “How about we just avoid prison all together?”
“He’s so jealous,” Gem whispered loudly in Oliver’s ear.
“So jealous,” Oliver agreed, mouth twitching with the need to smile. A growl rumbled in Rusty’s chest, making both Gem and Oliver laugh, but their conversation was derailed as another wave of customers flowed into the cafe. Even though Rusty was scowling, the amused sway to his tail gave him away, and it filled Gem’s belly with crackling warmth as he returned to his spot behind the espresso machine.
🥹 🫠■ “Maybe different would have been better,” Rusty admitted.
“But then we’d be different,” Gem said, framing Rusty’s face in his top hands as he smiled so fondly at him. “And I happen to like you exactly as you are.”
🕷🦝🌜 I'm definitely going to read this again 🌛🦝🕷
💯 I'm looking forward to reading the following books in this Series... Zef and Bryce!
😉 Thanks for reading hope this helps you out!
I received this book as a gift from the author and am voluntarily leaving this review.
StoryGraph Review
BookBub Review
Reviews On Goodreads
My Socials
June 30, 2025
I've been looking forward to Rusty's story since book 1, and when I found out he'd be paired with Gem? Yes, please! This was absolutely lovely, yet not without its flaws.
Okay, let's start with the things I wasn't that big a fan of. While part of me understands why Gem and Rusty's story needed a bit of an overlap with the previous two books... I'm never a fan of series that do this unless it's done really well and for a good reason, but the fact is that we've essentially seen a lot of these events three times in a row now and it's a bit much. Second, the world building is very impressive, but I feel like I need to study the glossary at the end of the book like it's the final exam of the school year to be able to get all of it. There are so many mentions of the different species in this world and every single time I have to check the glossary and it takes me out of the story a bit.
And yet, I'm still giving it four stars because of Rusty and Gem. I love these two so much. Gem is a big personality and we love him for it. He's fabulous, he's amazing, he's Gem. And then we have Rusty, who just... casually breaks my heart all over the place and I want to hug him and love on him and pet him and feed him snacks, okay? He's the most precious and I adore him so much. Their growing bond and romance are so beautiful and I loved it so very much. It's everything.
I really enjoy Nik's books, and I think they have a lot of potential as an author! I look forward to what they'll bring us in the future.
Okay, let's start with the things I wasn't that big a fan of. While part of me understands why Gem and Rusty's story needed a bit of an overlap with the previous two books... I'm never a fan of series that do this unless it's done really well and for a good reason, but the fact is that we've essentially seen a lot of these events three times in a row now and it's a bit much. Second, the world building is very impressive, but I feel like I need to study the glossary at the end of the book like it's the final exam of the school year to be able to get all of it. There are so many mentions of the different species in this world and every single time I have to check the glossary and it takes me out of the story a bit.
And yet, I'm still giving it four stars because of Rusty and Gem. I love these two so much. Gem is a big personality and we love him for it. He's fabulous, he's amazing, he's Gem. And then we have Rusty, who just... casually breaks my heart all over the place and I want to hug him and love on him and pet him and feed him snacks, okay? He's the most precious and I adore him so much. Their growing bond and romance are so beautiful and I loved it so very much. It's everything.
I really enjoy Nik's books, and I think they have a lot of potential as an author! I look forward to what they'll bring us in the future.
June 8, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thank you so much for this ARC copy! This was one of my most anticipated reads and it did not disappoint.
First of all, I have never laughed so much- the dialogue is spectacular. There were also several tears. But I had a smile on my face the whole time.
I cannot even express how much I love this world and the characters that Nik has created. Gem and Rusty’s book was the one I was most looking forward to- and it was everything I wanted and more. Gem is quite possibly my favorite character ever. He is so beautifully developed. You can see how his brain works through the words on the page and his dialogue.
This is truly one of the most creative and unique series.
It was beautiful how they gave each other the space to be who they were. Rusty never, not once, asked Gem to stop talking and being his authentic self. And Gem embraced Rusty’s past and helped him take ownership of it. I also really appreciated how they grew their friendship within the same timeline; nothing was rushed.
The descriptions were so perfect, as with the other books, but it really helps with a world like this where the anatomy is different.
Found family is one of my all time faves and this family they have created at the cafe is so beautiful and supportive or each other- I can’t wait for more books!!
Thank you so much for this ARC copy! This was one of my most anticipated reads and it did not disappoint.
First of all, I have never laughed so much- the dialogue is spectacular. There were also several tears. But I had a smile on my face the whole time.
I cannot even express how much I love this world and the characters that Nik has created. Gem and Rusty’s book was the one I was most looking forward to- and it was everything I wanted and more. Gem is quite possibly my favorite character ever. He is so beautifully developed. You can see how his brain works through the words on the page and his dialogue.
This is truly one of the most creative and unique series.
It was beautiful how they gave each other the space to be who they were. Rusty never, not once, asked Gem to stop talking and being his authentic self. And Gem embraced Rusty’s past and helped him take ownership of it. I also really appreciated how they grew their friendship within the same timeline; nothing was rushed.
The descriptions were so perfect, as with the other books, but it really helps with a world like this where the anatomy is different.
Found family is one of my all time faves and this family they have created at the cafe is so beautiful and supportive or each other- I can’t wait for more books!!
June 8, 2025
5 stars
I mean, how could this not be 5 stars? This whole series has been amazing so far, and I have been looking forward to Gem and Rusty's since the beginning. They did not disappoint. This had the same ridiculous shenanigans with the PTC crew, but it also had a bit more emotion and vulnerability compared to the first two books. Somehow, this book did manage to be both too long and not long enough, but I'm not mad about it. I love this series so much, and I absolutely LOVE Gem and Rusty. They must be protected at all costs. This definitely needs to be read in order, so I highly recommend checking out the first two books in this series.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I mean, how could this not be 5 stars? This whole series has been amazing so far, and I have been looking forward to Gem and Rusty's since the beginning. They did not disappoint. This had the same ridiculous shenanigans with the PTC crew, but it also had a bit more emotion and vulnerability compared to the first two books. Somehow, this book did manage to be both too long and not long enough, but I'm not mad about it. I love this series so much, and I absolutely LOVE Gem and Rusty. They must be protected at all costs. This definitely needs to be read in order, so I highly recommend checking out the first two books in this series.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 15, 2025
This is by far my favorite book in this series. These two are perfect grumpy/sunshine and hurt/comfort, which are two of my favorite tropes ever.
Rusty's past is painful. Gem is a precious angel. I loved the build-up of their friendship and later their relationship. It was a natural progression and just felt so realistic with Rusty being demisexual.
I can't tell you how many times I laughed or cried while reading this book. All I know is I never wanted it to end. Ever.
The found family is all there, and there's been some new additions.
I recommend reading books 1 and 2, or else you might be missing something when it comes to Rusty, Gem, and the whole gang.
Rusty's past is painful. Gem is a precious angel. I loved the build-up of their friendship and later their relationship. It was a natural progression and just felt so realistic with Rusty being demisexual.
I can't tell you how many times I laughed or cried while reading this book. All I know is I never wanted it to end. Ever.
The found family is all there, and there's been some new additions.
I recommend reading books 1 and 2, or else you might be missing something when it comes to Rusty, Gem, and the whole gang.
June 8, 2025
Luxuries of Lust is the third book in the Passing Through Cafe series. This book could be read as a standalone but book 1 and 2 run concurrently with each other and most of the world building is done there I would suggest reading the series in order. This is the story of Gem and Rusty which I have really been looking forward to since the first book. This story didn't disappoint either. This book felt like it had more emotional content than the first two books in the series. Like the other stories we get plenty of humor. I loved how Gem and Rusty started as friends before becoming something more. These two were just perfect for each other. I loved the found family aspect of the story. I hope there will be more books in the series. I would definitely recommend this book and series.
June 21, 2025
I knew that Gem and Rusty’s book was going to be smutty but this took it to a whole other level.
Hoping the next book is Zef’s ?
Hoping the next book is Zef’s ?
June 24, 2025
Gem and Rusty make a great couple and I did enjoy their romance! But this overlaps significantly in timeline with the last two books, to the point where we don’t reach any new events in the timeline until about 60%. The first two books are very heavy on found family vibes and hilarious group scenes that were just… nowhere to be found for most of this book? I understand this is a romance novel but everything felt SO insular on Rusty and Gem that I really missed the rest of the crew. The events of the first half of the book also felt extremely low stakes since I already knew about them from the timelines of the other books. Love this series and excited to continue it but this wasn’t my favorite installment. Very solid romance but the overall pacing and vibes didn’t match my expectations from the previous books.
November 13, 2025
I LOVEDDDDDD this book so much. I honestly think it’s the best so far in this series. I’m so obsessed with Rusty and Gem. Like I’ve been so ready for this book, so excited that I purposely made myself read slower so I could truly saviour their story 😍
I laughed and cried so hard throughout this book. I loved the build up of Gem and Rusty as friends and eventually into boyfriends. IT WAS SO FREAKING PRECIOUS. Gem and Rusty are so freaking precious.
I laughed and cried so hard throughout this book. I loved the build up of Gem and Rusty as friends and eventually into boyfriends. IT WAS SO FREAKING PRECIOUS. Gem and Rusty are so freaking precious.
July 5, 2025
❊ Blog | Instagram | ❊
Do you understand how long I've been waiting for this? This whole series is amazing, hilarious and a must read if you love found family, beautiful romances and lots of laughs. But even though I loved the first two books, I couldn't wait for Rusty and Gem.
At first, they come as a weird pairing. In the first book you just ship them becuase they are completely different and while Gem is an absolute gem (lol), funny and a bit insane if the best of senses, Rusty is closed off, grumpy and a bit grouchy. And yet they share some moments and conversationsa that make you ship them like crazy. Then the second book happened, and we read some scenes from book 1 from Toni's POV, and considering Toni and Gem are besties and glued to the hip most of the time, that means we have a lot of Gem in his book... and also more of Rusty!!
After book 2 the shipping became end goal, and I just NEEDED to see them being happy together.
There are so many things I loved with this book. It was precious, just a bit sad, super funny and adorable. Rusty hasn't lived an easy life, but it was amazing watching him open up to Gem, getting confortable with him and starting to trust him. It was funny and sweet how they start being friends, and how that friendship evoles in something bigger and deeper (while I'd say they were already half in love with each other, without them even knowing it), and how in the end they take that last step that make them gaiz, family.
And the story is sad, obviously. Because Rusty has been so lonely for so long. So ready to be left behind, or to be mistreated, or just used and thrown. But the sadness never gets overwhelming becuase Gem is the funnies character ever written and I'm not even exaggerating!! He's hilarious, and Rusty (even if he looks grumpy at first) balances his crazyness the best way.
But Gem is not just a funny and sexy being. He's so much more and we get to see his most vulnerable side thorugh Rusty. Because Rusty understand and supports him, he is, in the end, Gem's biggest fan. Even though they have had their issues in the past, Rusty admires the shit out of Gem, and he's ready to make him love himself just the way he is.
Their romance is the best mix between coworkers to friends to lovers and slowburn, and the book is full of tender, funny and sexy times.
Of course, we can't forget the crew of the Passing Through Cafe, the cafe they both work at. Together, they make one of the best and funniest found family every, and I just love them all to pieces.
This book was just perfect, and I hope the upcoming books are up to this one. I can't deny I'm not as exited for the coming books as I was for this particular one... But I'll be waiting to discover what the author brings us next.
Do you understand how long I've been waiting for this? This whole series is amazing, hilarious and a must read if you love found family, beautiful romances and lots of laughs. But even though I loved the first two books, I couldn't wait for Rusty and Gem.
At first, they come as a weird pairing. In the first book you just ship them becuase they are completely different and while Gem is an absolute gem (lol), funny and a bit insane if the best of senses, Rusty is closed off, grumpy and a bit grouchy. And yet they share some moments and conversationsa that make you ship them like crazy. Then the second book happened, and we read some scenes from book 1 from Toni's POV, and considering Toni and Gem are besties and glued to the hip most of the time, that means we have a lot of Gem in his book... and also more of Rusty!!
After book 2 the shipping became end goal, and I just NEEDED to see them being happy together.
“Oh for deities’ sake!” Gem sniffed as he sat back up. “You’re being so dramatic right now.”
“I can still feel it,” Rusty coughed out between bouts of vomit. “It’s the worst thing that’s ever happened to me.”
“Are you seriously throwing up because my dick was in your general vicinity?” Gem accused, and Rusty angled his head just enough to glare at the Araknis with one eye.
“I’m throwing up because I’ve never been this hungover in my life and because your dick was in my general vicinity.”
Somehow, Gem had the audacity to pout. “That is shockingly hurtful, even coming from you.”
There are so many things I loved with this book. It was precious, just a bit sad, super funny and adorable. Rusty hasn't lived an easy life, but it was amazing watching him open up to Gem, getting confortable with him and starting to trust him. It was funny and sweet how they start being friends, and how that friendship evoles in something bigger and deeper (while I'd say they were already half in love with each other, without them even knowing it), and how in the end they take that last step that make them gaiz, family.
“Honey, I only choke when I want to.” Gem flipped his hair obnoxiously. “But it’s adorable that you think I still have a gag reflex.”
On the threshold of the bathroom, Rusty paused, whiskers twitching madly before something naughty gleamed in his eyes, and he smirked. “Finally something we have in common.”
Gem’s jaw dropped as Rusty swung the door shut between them. “Ahhh, Rusty! You just made a sex joke. I’m so proud of you.”
The only response Gem received was a husky chuckle.
And the story is sad, obviously. Because Rusty has been so lonely for so long. So ready to be left behind, or to be mistreated, or just used and thrown. But the sadness never gets overwhelming becuase Gem is the funnies character ever written and I'm not even exaggerating!! He's hilarious, and Rusty (even if he looks grumpy at first) balances his crazyness the best way.
But Gem is not just a funny and sexy being. He's so much more and we get to see his most vulnerable side thorugh Rusty. Because Rusty understand and supports him, he is, in the end, Gem's biggest fan. Even though they have had their issues in the past, Rusty admires the shit out of Gem, and he's ready to make him love himself just the way he is.
With a huff, Rusty scratched behind his ear and grimaced. “I’ve heard you say that before, but it sounds like you’re reciting something other people have told you, not something that’s real. Because what does that actually mean? What are you a lot of, exactly?”
For a moment, Gem was speechless, which was not something he was accustomed to. “I don’t know. I think it’s, like, I’m generally a lot. I overwhelm and annoy people, maybe? Or like, I’m too intense or just too much for people.”
“Then they’re not your people,” Rusty said simply. “You’re a lot of you, sure. But no one can be too much of themselves. Like you’re just you, and that should be okay.”
Their romance is the best mix between coworkers to friends to lovers and slowburn, and the book is full of tender, funny and sexy times.
Of course, we can't forget the crew of the Passing Through Cafe, the cafe they both work at. Together, they make one of the best and funniest found family every, and I just love them all to pieces.
“I don’t know how to do this,” Rusty admitted, and Gem’s brows furrowed. “I don’t know what you want from me.”
The look the Araknis gave him was full of adoration as he said, “Everything.”
“I’m scared,” Rusty confessed.
“Me too,” Gem agreed.
This book was just perfect, and I hope the upcoming books are up to this one. I can't deny I'm not as exited for the coming books as I was for this particular one... But I'll be waiting to discover what the author brings us next.
June 13, 2025
Luxuries of Lust by Nik Knight is the 3rd book in their Passing Through Café series. I suggest that you read the others first to understand this amazing world they have created as well as getting to know some of the characters that appear in this one. Rusty Roisyn is a Pyclon from Lust. (He looks like a furry pink raccoon.) Pyclons are lower class in the Pentagon and looked at with distaste. He had a good beginning to his life with a mother who loved him but when she died at 15, he had to sell his body to be able to live. Luckily, Glyma and Quin found him and invited him to work at the Passing Through Café so he could leave that life behind and have a job where he felt useful. But he didn’t have anyone else in his life and he built up walls to protect himself which left him surly and not well liked wherever he went. Gemae Akyllo is an Araknis. He has 6 arms and 8 eyes and is a sweetheart with absolutely no filter on his mouth and is constantly talking, usually about his exploits with other men. He has known Rusty for 6 years as they both work at the café and have a funny shared experience from 16 months ago in common. While Rusty acted like he didn’t care, he really did and after helping to save a girl from 3 guys at a bus stop, he ends up at Gem’s place because he had been hurt and it was too far for him to walk home and he takes him in. Later at a club Rusty notices someone Gem is trying to pick up put something in his drink so they dragged him back to Gem’s best friend Toni’s penthouse. Rusty was never interested in anything casual but when he brought Gem some soup, he took his hand and he liked it. This is the start of what turns into a tentative relationship as Rusty tells him about his mother, they spend time together watching anime, and have a slumber party, where he learns about Gem’s obsession with cows. He started to feel an attraction to Gem because he’s not scared of him and truly likes him. He’s also worried that he’ll lose him just like he’s lost the other important things in his life because Gem signified joy, hope and belonging and he wasn’t used to having that in his life. They continue being together as they visit where Rusty grew up and talk about how they both love the rain and had a great time visiting Ollie’s ranch in Montana with the others at the café and Gem got to see real cows. Eventually they kiss which leads to more but Gem is always careful because he doesn’t want Rusty to feel used. Instead, he feels safe with him and for the first time in his life wants everything with Gem. He meets Gem’s family and when they go back to his room Gem discovers that Rusty is working on a graphic novel and has 10,000 followers. They continue to see each other and have many hot love scenes and finally decide to become boyfriends. But Toni has never liked Rusty so they say they will be “chill” at work, which of course backfires because Gem likes to touch Rusty. When Ollie corners Rusty and asks why he has become so happy it finally comes out that they are together, even though everyone at worked guessed it. But when Toni finds out things almost end until they talk it out, apologize, and Gem says he’s not sorry for choosing Rusty, which leads to them saying I love you. I really enjoyed this book. Nik Knight has created a intricate and unique world in the Pentagram with lots of different kinds of demons as well as humans who live and work there. You see Rusty grow and change from an isolated curmudgeon who acts like he hates everyone and everything into someone who finds his gaez (family) in Gem and finally gets the love he deserves as well hope for the future. Gem is such a funny character who can’t control what comes out of his mouth but he really sees Rusty for who he is and when he does, he never wants to let him go. The other workers at the café as well as new characters met along the way also play a big part in the story. And while there were places in it that made you almost want to cry there were also times I was laughing out loud at Gem’s hijinks which Rusty luckily found endearing. I highly recommend this book, especially if you like stories that take place in the underworld with unique characters who seem to be opposites but as they grow together find they are just what the other needs and fall in love.
June 29, 2025
5 cow Stars
⭐
ARC Read: 22/06/2025
I received this ebook for free from the author and I'm leaving this review of my own accord. Thank you, Nik Knight & GRR for this gift. 🥰
🫶 MM Adult Monster Romance 🫣 🥵🤌
👉 Monster x Demon (Spider x Racoon)
👉 Friends To Lovers
🤌 Size Difference
👉 Co-Workers
👉 Grumpy x Sunshine
👉 Feminization Kink
👉 Small Top x Big Bottom
👉 Light Power Play
👉 Demon-Docking
👉 Non-human Genitalia
👉 Tail Play
👉 Biting & Cratching
👉 Hair Pulling
👉 ADHD Rep
👉 Genderqueer Rep
👉 Demisexual Rep
👉 Bisexual Rep
👉 Cow Closet
😈 Hell Dimension
🫂 Found Family
🎉 Tons Of Shenanigans & Tomfoolery
☕️ Cozy Coffe Place
👉 Rom-Com HILARIOUS
+ Dark Humor
👉 Medium-Angst
👉 Hurt/Comfort
🙌 Loving All The Characters In This World
Content/Trigger Warnings:
Cover: 5/5
Story: 5/5
Series: Passing Through Cafe #3
Format: Ebook/ARC
POV: 3rd Person - Single POV
Plot: 5/5
Main Characters:
5/5 - Rusty: he/him, cis-male, monster racoon, a Pyclon.
5/5 - Gem: he/him, genderqueer-man, monster spider, a Araknis.
Side Characters: 5/5
Steam Level: 5/5
Romance: High Focus
Humor: Over The Roof
Angst: Low Focus
Cheating?
The Ending: 5/5
HEA/HFN/Cliffhanger
Favorite character?
This is my 3rd book by Nik Knight.
Enjoyment: 5/5
Passing Through Cafe Series:
1.
Passing Through Purgatory
- 5 stars
2.
Gratification In Gluttony
- 5 stars
3.Luxuries of Lust
- 5 stars
!! I don't equate fiction stories to real life. It's a matter of personal taste and what you are willing or want to tolerate in the books you read. We all have different opinions and preferences when it comes to the kind of books we enjoy, so it's important to respect and remember that it's just a book!!
Hope this review was helpful.
Click Here For: My StoryGraph Review|My Bookbub Review|
Where To Find My Reviews: GOODREADS|STORYGRAPH|BOOKBUB|
My Socials: LINKTR.EE|INSTAGRAM|BLUESKY|TIKTOK|FACEBOOK|TUMBLR|AO3|
ARC Read: 22/06/2025
I received this ebook for free from the author and I'm leaving this review of my own accord. Thank you, Nik Knight & GRR for this gift. 🥰
🫶 MM Adult Monster Romance 🫣 🥵🤌
👉 Monster x Demon (Spider x Racoon)
👉 Friends To Lovers
🤌 Size Difference
👉 Co-Workers
👉 Grumpy x Sunshine
👉 Feminization Kink
👉 Small Top x Big Bottom
👉 Light Power Play
👉 Demon-Docking
👉 Non-human Genitalia
👉 Tail Play
👉 Biting & Cratching
👉 Hair Pulling
👉 ADHD Rep
👉 Genderqueer Rep
👉 Demisexual Rep
👉 Bisexual Rep
👉 Cow Closet
😈 Hell Dimension
🫂 Found Family
🎉 Tons Of Shenanigans & Tomfoolery
☕️ Cozy Coffe Place
👉 Rom-Com HILARIOUS
+ Dark Humor
👉 Medium-Angst
👉 Hurt/Comfort
🙌 Loving All The Characters In This World
Content/Trigger Warnings:
Cover: 5/5
Story: 5/5
Series: Passing Through Cafe #3
Format: Ebook/ARC
POV: 3rd Person - Single POV
Plot: 5/5
Main Characters:
5/5 - Rusty: he/him, cis-male, monster racoon, a Pyclon.
5/5 - Gem: he/him, genderqueer-man, monster spider, a Araknis.
Side Characters: 5/5
Steam Level: 5/5
Romance: High Focus
Humor: Over The Roof
Angst: Low Focus
Cheating?
The Ending: 5/5
HEA/HFN/Cliffhanger
Favorite character?
This is my 3rd book by Nik Knight.
Enjoyment: 5/5
Passing Through Cafe Series:
1.
2.
3.
!! I don't equate fiction stories to real life. It's a matter of personal taste and what you are willing or want to tolerate in the books you read. We all have different opinions and preferences when it comes to the kind of books we enjoy, so it's important to respect and remember that it's just a book!!
Hope this review was helpful.
Click Here For: My StoryGraph Review|My Bookbub Review|
Where To Find My Reviews: GOODREADS|STORYGRAPH|BOOKBUB|
My Socials: LINKTR.EE|INSTAGRAM|BLUESKY|TIKTOK|FACEBOOK|TUMBLR|AO3|
July 1, 2025
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 5 STARS
Genre Tags: M/M Romance · Queer · Urban Fantasy · Found Family · Monsters · Paranormal · Friends to Lovers · Humor
📝 Synopsis (Non-Spoiler):
Luxuries of Lust is book 3 in Nik Knight’s urban fantasy rom-com series set in the delightfully chaotic Passing Through Cafe. This installment follows Rusty, a guarded Pyclon from the realm of Lust, and Gem, a larger-than-life whirlwind of confidence, color, and compassion. Rusty believes he’s too broken for love. Gem believes he’s too much to be loved. But when the two collide, what they find is something neither expected: a love that heals, a friendship that grounds, and a passion that finally feels like home.
💭 My Thoughts:
I WAS DESPERATELY WAITING FOR RUSTY'S STORY — and wow, it did not disappoint!
Rusty and Gem are my absolute favorite couple in this series. Their dynamic is everything I crave in a romance: grumpy/sunshine perfection, deep emotional growth, found family vibes, and beautifully balanced support.
Rusty’s journey absolutely broke me in the best way. His trauma and pain were handled with such tenderness and honesty. I teared up more than once, especially when we got deeper into his backstory (those flashbacks—devastating but necessary). And Gem? God, what a perfect match. His ability to brighten a room while giving Rusty space to grow and feel safe was so powerful. The way he never pushed, always waited, always showed up? That’s real love.
Their banter was hilarious and heartwarming. I smiled and laughed so much, but I also cried and sat with the heavier parts. The pacing of their friends-to-lovers relationship was spot-on. I adored how naturally their bond evolved.
This was found family, queer joy, and monster romance done right. No notes.
📚 Favorite Quote:
" People like me don't deserve beautiful things, Gem."
(Queue ugly sobbing. This line shattered me.)
🚨 Spoiler Section – Proceed With Caution!
Rusty’s trauma from being a teenage sex worker and homeless deeply impacted his views on love and self-worth. Watching him slowly open up to Gem and realize he deserves happiness? Absolutely healing.
Gem getting spiked at the bar was such a tense and painful moment. But the way Rusty cared for him afterward—with gentle, wordless support—was one of the most tender scenes in the entire book.
The death of Rusty's mother and the way he carries that grief still hits so hard. Especially when he admits he doesn't even remember what love looked like until Gem.
The staff at the Passing Through Cafe (aka the found family of dreams) continue to be chaotic, hilarious, and so important to the emotional foundation of this series.
Content Warnings:
PTSD · Flashbacks · Grief · Alcohol Use · Sexual Harassment · Drink Spiking · Teenage Homelessness · Past Teenage Sex Work · Death of a Parent
If you love queer romance with emotional bite, monster magic, witty banter, and characters that feel real—read this. Immediately.
✨ 10/10 would cry again.✨
I received this book as an ARC from GRR.
Genre Tags: M/M Romance · Queer · Urban Fantasy · Found Family · Monsters · Paranormal · Friends to Lovers · Humor
📝 Synopsis (Non-Spoiler):
Luxuries of Lust is book 3 in Nik Knight’s urban fantasy rom-com series set in the delightfully chaotic Passing Through Cafe. This installment follows Rusty, a guarded Pyclon from the realm of Lust, and Gem, a larger-than-life whirlwind of confidence, color, and compassion. Rusty believes he’s too broken for love. Gem believes he’s too much to be loved. But when the two collide, what they find is something neither expected: a love that heals, a friendship that grounds, and a passion that finally feels like home.
💭 My Thoughts:
I WAS DESPERATELY WAITING FOR RUSTY'S STORY — and wow, it did not disappoint!
Rusty and Gem are my absolute favorite couple in this series. Their dynamic is everything I crave in a romance: grumpy/sunshine perfection, deep emotional growth, found family vibes, and beautifully balanced support.
Rusty’s journey absolutely broke me in the best way. His trauma and pain were handled with such tenderness and honesty. I teared up more than once, especially when we got deeper into his backstory (those flashbacks—devastating but necessary). And Gem? God, what a perfect match. His ability to brighten a room while giving Rusty space to grow and feel safe was so powerful. The way he never pushed, always waited, always showed up? That’s real love.
Their banter was hilarious and heartwarming. I smiled and laughed so much, but I also cried and sat with the heavier parts. The pacing of their friends-to-lovers relationship was spot-on. I adored how naturally their bond evolved.
This was found family, queer joy, and monster romance done right. No notes.
📚 Favorite Quote:
" People like me don't deserve beautiful things, Gem."
(Queue ugly sobbing. This line shattered me.)
🚨 Spoiler Section – Proceed With Caution!
Rusty’s trauma from being a teenage sex worker and homeless deeply impacted his views on love and self-worth. Watching him slowly open up to Gem and realize he deserves happiness? Absolutely healing.
Gem getting spiked at the bar was such a tense and painful moment. But the way Rusty cared for him afterward—with gentle, wordless support—was one of the most tender scenes in the entire book.
The death of Rusty's mother and the way he carries that grief still hits so hard. Especially when he admits he doesn't even remember what love looked like until Gem.
The staff at the Passing Through Cafe (aka the found family of dreams) continue to be chaotic, hilarious, and so important to the emotional foundation of this series.
Content Warnings:
PTSD · Flashbacks · Grief · Alcohol Use · Sexual Harassment · Drink Spiking · Teenage Homelessness · Past Teenage Sex Work · Death of a Parent
If you love queer romance with emotional bite, monster magic, witty banter, and characters that feel real—read this. Immediately.
✨ 10/10 would cry again.✨
I received this book as an ARC from GRR.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 27, 2025
I would like to thank GRR for the opportunity to read and review this ARC.
I did not know my happy place was gonna be in Purgatory but here we are!
*These are my thoughts in no particular order as i was silly for this story -AND GEM OFC- right from the jump!
💎Gem made/makes me shriek with glee!~ Every. Single. Run-on thought had me unapologetically making the most joy-filled ruckus imaginable! Gem's gorgeous energy was the no-filter sunshine jolt i could not get enough of and i loved every second of it!
🐮Ngl when Rusty turned up the romance, leaving Gem sweet little presents and making sure Gem knew how cherished and loved he was, it made me swoon hard.
💎And when Gem was talking about reclaiming "firsts" from less than stellar past experiences I was bawling like a baby. Sovereign Gem was so supremely healing and honestly Gem's EVERYTHING was primo uplifting and empowering! There's just not enough of THIS voice in the world, but i'm glad Nik Knight delivered some of the most lovable, audacious and provocative characterizations i have read to date!
🖤The tender love story was exquisite, my feelings had feelings on top of feelings, and i must have cried a few thousand times over all the highs and the lows. This narrative worked some sh!t out and both Rusty and Gem were precious gold star babes who DID. THE. WORK. and i absolutely adored them for it!
🕷️And ok YES i admit that i was a bit squeamish when these particular monster bits got their sexy on. But beyond the hot stuff there was something so real and life-affirming in Rusty and Gem's expressing their vulnerabilities which then led to such authentic intimacy i was able to forget myself and share in their love moments.
🎄i also loved that for the last 20% of Luxuries of Lust i was straight up guffawing like a donkey and it felt really good to give into the elation. After that emotional ride i felt like the laughter was a very rewarding release, and Luxuries of Lust was the most satisfying, most scrumptious high-note to leave the Passing Through Cafe on!
☕Passing Through Cafe was 7832464598276 kinds of wonderful and i'm here for whatever Nik Knight has coming up next because this was a darling series with remarkable characters i'm sure to remember for a very long time to come!! Loved this!
I did not know my happy place was gonna be in Purgatory but here we are!
*These are my thoughts in no particular order as i was silly for this story -AND GEM OFC- right from the jump!
💎Gem made/makes me shriek with glee!~ Every. Single. Run-on thought had me unapologetically making the most joy-filled ruckus imaginable! Gem's gorgeous energy was the no-filter sunshine jolt i could not get enough of and i loved every second of it!
🐮Ngl when Rusty turned up the romance, leaving Gem sweet little presents and making sure Gem knew how cherished and loved he was, it made me swoon hard.
💎And when Gem was talking about reclaiming "firsts" from less than stellar past experiences I was bawling like a baby. Sovereign Gem was so supremely healing and honestly Gem's EVERYTHING was primo uplifting and empowering! There's just not enough of THIS voice in the world, but i'm glad Nik Knight delivered some of the most lovable, audacious and provocative characterizations i have read to date!
🖤The tender love story was exquisite, my feelings had feelings on top of feelings, and i must have cried a few thousand times over all the highs and the lows. This narrative worked some sh!t out and both Rusty and Gem were precious gold star babes who DID. THE. WORK. and i absolutely adored them for it!
🕷️And ok YES i admit that i was a bit squeamish when these particular monster bits got their sexy on. But beyond the hot stuff there was something so real and life-affirming in Rusty and Gem's expressing their vulnerabilities which then led to such authentic intimacy i was able to forget myself and share in their love moments.
🎄i also loved that for the last 20% of Luxuries of Lust i was straight up guffawing like a donkey and it felt really good to give into the elation. After that emotional ride i felt like the laughter was a very rewarding release, and Luxuries of Lust was the most satisfying, most scrumptious high-note to leave the Passing Through Cafe on!
☕Passing Through Cafe was 7832464598276 kinds of wonderful and i'm here for whatever Nik Knight has coming up next because this was a darling series with remarkable characters i'm sure to remember for a very long time to come!! Loved this!
June 28, 2025
Here's Nik Knight's "Luxuries of Lust." Its the third novel in their Passing Through Cafe series.
["When it came to love, Rusty had resigned himself to never being enough, and Gem knew he would always be too much. Turns out, they were both wrong.
As a Pyclon from Lust, Rusty learned early the cruel rules of the Pentagram. Happiness is for the privileged. Hope for the weak. And absolutely nothing comes free. So he accepts a life of happy enough, of good enough, of just… enough. Anything more is impossible for someone like him.
That is, until he meets Gemae Akyllo.
With a brain that never rests and an ass that won’t quit, Gem is objectively a lot. His physical size is rivaled only by that of his personality—neither of which he will ever apologize for—but there’s a cost. He’s fun for a night, chosen first for a good time, but come morning, his bed is cold and empty. Always wanted, but never kept.
That is, until he meets Rusty Róisyn.
Rusty never wanted love, and Gem doesn’t need it. But together, they find it all the same."]
I've said it before, and I'll say it again, but I looove that this series takes place along the same timeline. It's fun to see the same scenes from different POVs, see the before and the after.
I also love that's we've been waiting for this couple since the first book. The second one just kept teasing us for more. It also made watching them slowly fall in love all the more pining and angsty and sad.
Because of course their story had tons of sad parts in it. As the blurb says, Rusty never wanted love, and Gem doesn't need it. They were both so seemingly happy with their lives, but when their friendship grew and then grew again, they realized they were happier now, together.
Trigger Warnings: on-page grief, death of a parent (past), discussions/inner monologue about previous sex work and the aftermath thereof—including allusions to sexual assault/abuse (past), themes of classism, speciesism, and bigotry, non-consensual drugging/spiking of a drink, and more.
#gayromancereviews #grr #arcs #arcteammember
#passingthroughpurgatory #gratificationingluttony #luxuriesoflust #nikknight #passingthroughcafe #passingthroughcafeseries #books #queerbooks #queererotica #bodicerippers #bookstagram #bookphotography #ilovebooks
["When it came to love, Rusty had resigned himself to never being enough, and Gem knew he would always be too much. Turns out, they were both wrong.
As a Pyclon from Lust, Rusty learned early the cruel rules of the Pentagram. Happiness is for the privileged. Hope for the weak. And absolutely nothing comes free. So he accepts a life of happy enough, of good enough, of just… enough. Anything more is impossible for someone like him.
That is, until he meets Gemae Akyllo.
With a brain that never rests and an ass that won’t quit, Gem is objectively a lot. His physical size is rivaled only by that of his personality—neither of which he will ever apologize for—but there’s a cost. He’s fun for a night, chosen first for a good time, but come morning, his bed is cold and empty. Always wanted, but never kept.
That is, until he meets Rusty Róisyn.
Rusty never wanted love, and Gem doesn’t need it. But together, they find it all the same."]
I've said it before, and I'll say it again, but I looove that this series takes place along the same timeline. It's fun to see the same scenes from different POVs, see the before and the after.
I also love that's we've been waiting for this couple since the first book. The second one just kept teasing us for more. It also made watching them slowly fall in love all the more pining and angsty and sad.
Because of course their story had tons of sad parts in it. As the blurb says, Rusty never wanted love, and Gem doesn't need it. They were both so seemingly happy with their lives, but when their friendship grew and then grew again, they realized they were happier now, together.
Trigger Warnings: on-page grief, death of a parent (past), discussions/inner monologue about previous sex work and the aftermath thereof—including allusions to sexual assault/abuse (past), themes of classism, speciesism, and bigotry, non-consensual drugging/spiking of a drink, and more.
#gayromancereviews #grr #arcs #arcteammember
#passingthroughpurgatory #gratificationingluttony #luxuriesoflust #nikknight #passingthroughcafe #passingthroughcafeseries #books #queerbooks #queererotica #bodicerippers #bookstagram #bookphotography #ilovebooks
June 7, 2025
🕷️ARC REVIEW🕷️
Ok, when I got this ARC I was kinda worried about it's length, because I'm a lil' bean and books over 300 pages intimidate me. But I sat down to read and suddenly I was 40% in and I hadn't even noticed I'd been reading for that long. It's THAT good. I could probably have read a couple of hundred pages more.
Having loved the first two books, I knew I was getting impeccable found family, comedic gold moments, and a beautiful romance. But I didn't expect the depth of emotions. This is a very slow burn friends to lovers stories. And it's true friends, in the way that they aren't even attracted to each other at first. If you've read the previous books, you know Rusty is a bit grumpy and closed off. And with good reasons, as we learn in this book. But Gem is his perfect counterpart. He is open, and loud, and takes up a lot of space and says exactly what he thinks. And he was so good for Rusty.
Their platonic intimacy was delightful and I really enjoyed how it slowly turned to feelings and romantic intimacy. How Gem coaxes Rusty to open up and trust and share who he is little by little. And how Rusty offers Gem complete acceptance and understanding of his supposed "toomuchness" (which isn't a word but it is now...).
I cried a few times. I stg I didn't even noticed I started crying until tears were running down my cheeks. They were good tears, the ones that come from witnessing the deep connection between two people who truly deserve it but think they don't. My dudes, that hug scene 🥹. Top tier.
And of course, I laughed a lot, because this little misfit family is hilarious and a bit unhinged.
This book was amazing and lovely and sweet and cute and beautiful and funny.
Also, there are always great and subtle takes on gender, sexuality and social issues that I loooove.
Enjoy!
Ok, when I got this ARC I was kinda worried about it's length, because I'm a lil' bean and books over 300 pages intimidate me. But I sat down to read and suddenly I was 40% in and I hadn't even noticed I'd been reading for that long. It's THAT good. I could probably have read a couple of hundred pages more.
Having loved the first two books, I knew I was getting impeccable found family, comedic gold moments, and a beautiful romance. But I didn't expect the depth of emotions. This is a very slow burn friends to lovers stories. And it's true friends, in the way that they aren't even attracted to each other at first. If you've read the previous books, you know Rusty is a bit grumpy and closed off. And with good reasons, as we learn in this book. But Gem is his perfect counterpart. He is open, and loud, and takes up a lot of space and says exactly what he thinks. And he was so good for Rusty.
Their platonic intimacy was delightful and I really enjoyed how it slowly turned to feelings and romantic intimacy. How Gem coaxes Rusty to open up and trust and share who he is little by little. And how Rusty offers Gem complete acceptance and understanding of his supposed "toomuchness" (which isn't a word but it is now...).
I cried a few times. I stg I didn't even noticed I started crying until tears were running down my cheeks. They were good tears, the ones that come from witnessing the deep connection between two people who truly deserve it but think they don't. My dudes, that hug scene 🥹. Top tier.
And of course, I laughed a lot, because this little misfit family is hilarious and a bit unhinged.
This book was amazing and lovely and sweet and cute and beautiful and funny.
Also, there are always great and subtle takes on gender, sexuality and social issues that I loooove.
Enjoy!
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