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Gilded #1
Sugar
From USA Today Bestselling Author Layla Frost, a sexy new age-gap series about LA’s most exclusive club.
Welcome to Gilded… Leave your inhibitions at the secret entrance, and indulge your wildest fantasies.
I thought I was chasing a big scoop.
Did I follow a man? Maybe.
Did that man also happen to be lawyer to the stars, Easton Wells? Perhaps.
Okay, fine. Yes.
But who among us wasn’t guilty of mildly stalking a hot older man who didn’t seem to know how to smile?
Rather than finding a groundbreaking story worthy of the front page, I stumbled into something far different. Far more exciting. And definitely more illicit.
Gilded.
I wanted to explore the secret adult club to the elite. I wanted to finally understand the dark desires that lurked in the back of my head. More than that, I wanted Easton to be my guide.
But he wasn’t interested in a college student fifteen years younger than him. Not even when I served myself up on a golden platter. Misconstruing my curiosity as naive recklessness, he offered me a business arrangement instead.
I would get access to exclusive parties, powerful connections, and his influence. And he would get access to my time, attention, and company.
I would be Easton Wells’s sugar baby.
Welcome to Gilded… Leave your inhibitions at the secret entrance, and indulge your wildest fantasies.
I thought I was chasing a big scoop.
Did I follow a man? Maybe.
Did that man also happen to be lawyer to the stars, Easton Wells? Perhaps.
Okay, fine. Yes.
But who among us wasn’t guilty of mildly stalking a hot older man who didn’t seem to know how to smile?
Rather than finding a groundbreaking story worthy of the front page, I stumbled into something far different. Far more exciting. And definitely more illicit.
Gilded.
I wanted to explore the secret adult club to the elite. I wanted to finally understand the dark desires that lurked in the back of my head. More than that, I wanted Easton to be my guide.
But he wasn’t interested in a college student fifteen years younger than him. Not even when I served myself up on a golden platter. Misconstruing my curiosity as naive recklessness, he offered me a business arrangement instead.
I would get access to exclusive parties, powerful connections, and his influence. And he would get access to my time, attention, and company.
I would be Easton Wells’s sugar baby.
406 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 1, 2025
402 people are currently reading
693 people want to read
About the author
Layla Frost
26 books3,420 followersGrowing up, Layla Frost used to hide under her blanket with a flashlight to read the Sweet Valley High books she pilfered from her older sister. It wasn’t long before she was reading hidden Harlequins during class at school. This snowballed into pulling all-nighters after the promise of “just one more chapter”.
Her love of reading, especially the romance genre, took root early and has grown immeasurably until it was time to write her own stories.
When she's not writing, Layla Frost is an insomniac with a deep love of iced coffee, tchotchkes, plants, and her hens. She's also the world's okayest mom, but her kids think she's cool... ish.
Her love of reading, especially the romance genre, took root early and has grown immeasurably until it was time to write her own stories.
When she's not writing, Layla Frost is an insomniac with a deep love of iced coffee, tchotchkes, plants, and her hens. She's also the world's okayest mom, but her kids think she's cool... ish.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 147 reviews
July 14, 2025
The slump has been broken! I’ve read Layla Frost for years so I felt pretty good about picking up Sugar and it did not disappoint thankfully. I loved the vibe of this story, though I did wish it delved a little deeper in places. Still Easton (H) and Maddie (h) had excellent chemistry and tension and I also loved them aside from their relationship dynamic. It is a relationship-driven story so many scenes of the two of them going to events, just spending time together, navigating what they both want, and tackling a couple situations that spring up. This does also have a sex club, though that’s one aspect that’s not explored too deeply other than some main room scenes and general tour of a few back rooms (really hoping one of the other books in the series utilizes the chase area). Neither one is interested in watching others and Easton’s not sharing views of Maddie so I feel like some readers who avoid sex club books may find this tolerable.
Written in first person, dual POV. No ow/om drama (a couple of instances of the H getting jealous over someone showing interest in the h that she did not return) and both are experienced (h thinks about how it’s been a while for her but she has had good sex in the past; H had been with subs before, which is briefly mentioned maybe twice with no specific details and h never sees anyone that he’s been involved with in the past - he also didn’t seem to have been active at the club).
Some tropes/themes:
☆ Secret sex club
☆ Some BDSM elements mentioned without diving deep into kink
☆ Age gap (15 years)
☆ Senior journalist student FMC with established lawyer MMC
☆ Club auction and contractual agreement (that does not include sex *gasp*)
☆ She wants to be owned and he wants that control
☆ Nicknames - guppy, mine, tyrant
☆ Slow burn (more *gasp*)
☆ One semi-public steamy scene (where no one actually catches them)
☆ Lots of positive female friendships (for the FMC and her group plus their moms)
☆ Friendships for the MMC too
☆ Touch of angst over the age gap
☆ Solid consent and the power dynamic never felt icky to me
☆ Drug use seen and mentioned of side characters
Maddie and Easton meet at a friend’s house because her friend’s dad is considering retaining his services. There’s instant attraction but Easton feels too old for her, even as he arranges to be able to see her again. Maddie is a bit overwhelmed and on edge around this insanely good looking man, which is unusual for her. I liked how down bad both were for each other and how they got some nudges to pursue something after Maddie follows Easton and discovers the secret club. Maddie wants to be able to explore these interests she has and Easton has just the dominant side to give her that, plus there’s all that chemistry.
The sugar baby set-up could have been iffy, but never felt like that for me because Maddie’s not actually interested in the money and Easton’s just trying to be near her in some capacity while he still thinks a relationship wouldn’t be appropriate. They’re both a little dumb in places regarding their relationship, but never in a throw-my-kindle kind of way. I also adored how one of the scenes where Maddie is insecure, once Easton finds out, he’s ready to yell to anyone around whatever will disabuse her of her incorrect notions. They have some wonderful moments that are both sweet and hilarious, cementing how genuinely perfect they are for the other. I do think the emotional intimacy could have been built a little more deeply on page with some heart to hearts, but their closeness is still developed well that’s true to them. Same with their backgrounds, they’re fleshed out characters, however I think there were places to build more on their motivations and how some of their present circumstances grew to where they are now.
This is a sugar baby/daddy romance that involves a sex club and it’s a Layla Frost book so there are some good spicy scenes. He finishes just from going down on her, they do have some roughly described, but consensual scenes. Lots of touching and edging and that one semi-public place where they could have gotten caught but didn’t (that wasn’t why they were there either). Very little spiciness occurs at the actual club either, it’s mostly more regular places. She does sit/kneel next to him at times but is happy doing so and she’s not supposed to tell him no, though she absolutely can.
Loved Maddie’s best friends, her parents, and Easton’s friends. I’m not sure if her friends match up with his friends or what but I want stories for all of them lol. I did like that Easton spends some time with her friends, though I wish that she could have been more open with them about her desires and what their relationship entailed at first given their closeness. There’s an element of keeping some things hidden to start.
Relationship progression aside, some third act angst hits close to the end, unrelated to their romance, which is solid at that point. It was interesting to both enjoy how Maddie and Easton responded but also have some answers, yet other questions that I know won’t get answers til the series continues. I also love a Layla Frost epilogue and this one jumps forward a month, a few months, and then a few years. It’s perfect and gave me all the cute HEA I could want for these two, esp knowing that they’ll be side characters in the next book. I can’t wait to see what those tropes will be (hoping I’ll be able to read). I do recommend this. It is slow in a couple of places and like I said at the start, it could have dived a little deeper, but it’s entertaining and was just right for where I was mentally, so might be for some of my friends too.
Written in first person, dual POV. No ow/om drama (a couple of instances of the H getting jealous over someone showing interest in the h that she did not return) and both are experienced (h thinks about how it’s been a while for her but she has had good sex in the past; H had been with subs before, which is briefly mentioned maybe twice with no specific details and h never sees anyone that he’s been involved with in the past - he also didn’t seem to have been active at the club).
Some tropes/themes:
☆ Secret sex club
☆ Some BDSM elements mentioned without diving deep into kink
☆ Age gap (15 years)
☆ Senior journalist student FMC with established lawyer MMC
☆ Club auction and contractual agreement (that does not include sex *gasp*)
☆ She wants to be owned and he wants that control
☆ Nicknames - guppy, mine, tyrant
☆ Slow burn (more *gasp*)
☆ One semi-public steamy scene (where no one actually catches them)
☆ Lots of positive female friendships (for the FMC and her group plus their moms)
☆ Friendships for the MMC too
☆ Touch of angst over the age gap
☆ Solid consent and the power dynamic never felt icky to me
☆ Drug use seen and mentioned of side characters
Maddie and Easton meet at a friend’s house because her friend’s dad is considering retaining his services. There’s instant attraction but Easton feels too old for her, even as he arranges to be able to see her again. Maddie is a bit overwhelmed and on edge around this insanely good looking man, which is unusual for her. I liked how down bad both were for each other and how they got some nudges to pursue something after Maddie follows Easton and discovers the secret club. Maddie wants to be able to explore these interests she has and Easton has just the dominant side to give her that, plus there’s all that chemistry.
The sugar baby set-up could have been iffy, but never felt like that for me because Maddie’s not actually interested in the money and Easton’s just trying to be near her in some capacity while he still thinks a relationship wouldn’t be appropriate. They’re both a little dumb in places regarding their relationship, but never in a throw-my-kindle kind of way. I also adored how one of the scenes where Maddie is insecure, once Easton finds out, he’s ready to yell to anyone around whatever will disabuse her of her incorrect notions. They have some wonderful moments that are both sweet and hilarious, cementing how genuinely perfect they are for the other. I do think the emotional intimacy could have been built a little more deeply on page with some heart to hearts, but their closeness is still developed well that’s true to them. Same with their backgrounds, they’re fleshed out characters, however I think there were places to build more on their motivations and how some of their present circumstances grew to where they are now.
This is a sugar baby/daddy romance that involves a sex club and it’s a Layla Frost book so there are some good spicy scenes. He finishes just from going down on her, they do have some roughly described, but consensual scenes. Lots of touching and edging and that one semi-public place where they could have gotten caught but didn’t (that wasn’t why they were there either). Very little spiciness occurs at the actual club either, it’s mostly more regular places. She does sit/kneel next to him at times but is happy doing so and she’s not supposed to tell him no, though she absolutely can.
Loved Maddie’s best friends, her parents, and Easton’s friends. I’m not sure if her friends match up with his friends or what but I want stories for all of them lol. I did like that Easton spends some time with her friends, though I wish that she could have been more open with them about her desires and what their relationship entailed at first given their closeness. There’s an element of keeping some things hidden to start.
Relationship progression aside, some third act angst hits close to the end, unrelated to their romance, which is solid at that point. It was interesting to both enjoy how Maddie and Easton responded but also have some answers, yet other questions that I know won’t get answers til the series continues. I also love a Layla Frost epilogue and this one jumps forward a month, a few months, and then a few years. It’s perfect and gave me all the cute HEA I could want for these two, esp knowing that they’ll be side characters in the next book. I can’t wait to see what those tropes will be (hoping I’ll be able to read). I do recommend this. It is slow in a couple of places and like I said at the start, it could have dived a little deeper, but it’s entertaining and was just right for where I was mentally, so might be for some of my friends too.
July 5, 2025
This book was everything!!
I love Madeline she owned her shit! She knew she had a crush on Easton when she first met him but didn't think too much of it. But Easton is making sure they are at the same spot giving her an interview all that to get a snip of her. Hehe, I love him. And when he tries to push her away when they meet inside a bdsm club. His friends show that Mad is auctioning herself off.
Not happening so Easton buys Mads and is sorta her sugar daddy but doesn't give her any like sugar (Sexually yet) more money wise lol. This causes them to banter have a pull that Mad wants and Easton FINALLY gives in.
I love that no matter what he has the best interest of his girl. I love the OG moms and I love the girl group of friends I'm worried about Wren. She and the teacher I'm sus. Greer's book is next and I wonder who her man is. Since her ex is now? Out of the picture hopefully. And her father.
Safety- Mad and Easton have a sorta public scene at the club in front of Easton's friends the friends don't acknowledge it. It's not their kink.
No ow/om drama, no cheating, secondary characters, drama, sexy times, no virgins or manwhores
Recommend-yes
Cover-⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Heat level-🌶🌶🌶
Slowinsta
Age gap
37H/22h
Praise kink
Sub/Dom undertones
Sorta public oral
Tiny Edgying
No condom
Hea
Epilogue
I love Madeline she owned her shit! She knew she had a crush on Easton when she first met him but didn't think too much of it. But Easton is making sure they are at the same spot giving her an interview all that to get a snip of her. Hehe, I love him. And when he tries to push her away when they meet inside a bdsm club. His friends show that Mad is auctioning herself off.
Not happening so Easton buys Mads and is sorta her sugar daddy but doesn't give her any like sugar (Sexually yet) more money wise lol. This causes them to banter have a pull that Mad wants and Easton FINALLY gives in.
I love that no matter what he has the best interest of his girl. I love the OG moms and I love the girl group of friends I'm worried about Wren. She and the teacher I'm sus. Greer's book is next and I wonder who her man is. Since her ex is now? Out of the picture hopefully. And her father.
Safety- Mad and Easton have a sorta public scene at the club in front of Easton's friends the friends don't acknowledge it. It's not their kink.
No ow/om drama, no cheating, secondary characters, drama, sexy times, no virgins or manwhores
Recommend-yes
Cover-⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Heat level-🌶🌶🌶
Slowinsta
Age gap
37H/22h
Praise kink
Sub/Dom undertones
Sorta public oral
Tiny Edgying
No condom
Hea
Epilogue
July 26, 2025
4.5 stars
This book completely sucked in from the very beginning. I loved every moment of it. The writing, the characters, the story....loved it! I'm not even exaggerating when I say this had me in complete chokehold. I didn't even mind that it was lengthy(well, except the beginning) or a slowburn(can't believe I'm saying this but I wouldn't have had any other way).
I've enjoyed every book I've read by this author so I guess it no surprised that enjoyed this one and loved the writing style. And I definitely cannot wait for the next book in the series.
This book completely sucked in from the very beginning. I loved every moment of it. The writing, the characters, the story....loved it! I'm not even exaggerating when I say this had me in complete chokehold. I didn't even mind that it was lengthy(well, except the beginning) or a slowburn(can't believe I'm saying this but I wouldn't have had any other way).
I've enjoyed every book I've read by this author so I guess it no surprised that enjoyed this one and loved the writing style. And I definitely cannot wait for the next book in the series.
August 3, 2025
Thank you SO much Layla for trusting me with this ARC in exchange for an honest review. Opinions below are entirely my own.
Rated: 5/5
Favorite Quotes:
"I wanted the implication of that money. I liked the fact that he'd bought me. That I belonged to him. That I was powerless. A purchase."
"I don't ask you. I control your life. I control you. Or do you need the reminder?"
"I think you need to get your toy home before she breaks herself."
^ I'm limiting myself to just these.
What I liked:
💖 Maddie, my darling, my baby angel child who feels a little too much like me but like... all the best parts... I love her and I love Easton for her. And I love Easton. And I love Tripp, who I've adopted as my own child. And Greer and Wren too.
💖 It's hard to explain this, but as someone who has only read the Black Resorts series, and who holds that series in such high regards and puts it on a pedestal... This book felt entirely different and yet so familiar and just as all encompassing and I just really, really loved that.
💖 The whole idea and concept of Gilded/Golden. Like OMG. I won't say much because I don't want to spoil it for anyone else but OMG.
💖 The mother fucking whiskey scene and that's all I'll say.
What I didn’t:
✋ Having to read the word 'Donald' with my own two eyes but it was in reference to the duck not the orange, so that's good.
Additional Thoughts:
☝️ There were a lot of characters right up front, BUT it didn't overwhelm me like it has in other books. I just don't know that I could safely say I remembered all of them, but that's on me and my shit memory.
Characters:
MMC: Easton Wells, 37
FMC: Madeline Baker, 22
Nicknames: Guppy, Mine, Baby, Tyrant (her name for him)
Children: The main character (& her friends) are seen together as teens in the opening chapter, but that's it.
Pets: four fishies!
POV: Alternating first person with the FMC having the majority
Pace: Medium
Type: First in a series of standalones
Cliffhanger?: No
Setting: California
🚨Trigger warning list below could have potential spoilers, depending on your definition of ‘spoiler’
Tropes:
📚 Age Gap (15 years)
📚 BDSM club
📚 Auction
📚 Possessive MMC
📚 Rich MMC
📚 College Student FMC
📚 Lawyer MMC
📚 Banter
📚 Fake dating-esque for a lil bit
Spice:
🐱: Fucking, fingering, eating, creampies
🍆: Blowjob, face fucking, swallowing
🌶 Dom/Sub & power dynamics
🌶 Bondage (handcuffs)
🌶 Kneeling
🌶 "Fuck it" moment
🌶 "You can take it" moment
🌶 Edging
🌶 Spitting (Alcohol)
🌶 He's a munch
🌶 An actual safe sex convo, we love it!
🌶 He comes in his pants once
🌶 Big dicked MMC
Triggers:
⚠️ Alcohol & drunken antics
⚠️ Drug use (not by MCs)
⚠️ Talk of infidelity (not by MCs or major side characters)
⚠️ Blackmail (not by MCs)
⚠️ Pregnancy (short mention)
Rated: 5/5
Favorite Quotes:
"I wanted the implication of that money. I liked the fact that he'd bought me. That I belonged to him. That I was powerless. A purchase."
"I don't ask you. I control your life. I control you. Or do you need the reminder?"
"I think you need to get your toy home before she breaks herself."
^ I'm limiting myself to just these.
What I liked:
💖 Maddie, my darling, my baby angel child who feels a little too much like me but like... all the best parts... I love her and I love Easton for her. And I love Easton. And I love Tripp, who I've adopted as my own child. And Greer and Wren too.
💖 It's hard to explain this, but as someone who has only read the Black Resorts series, and who holds that series in such high regards and puts it on a pedestal... This book felt entirely different and yet so familiar and just as all encompassing and I just really, really loved that.
💖 The whole idea and concept of Gilded/Golden. Like OMG. I won't say much because I don't want to spoil it for anyone else but OMG.
💖 The mother fucking whiskey scene and that's all I'll say.
What I didn’t:
✋ Having to read the word 'Donald' with my own two eyes but it was in reference to the duck not the orange, so that's good.
Additional Thoughts:
☝️ There were a lot of characters right up front, BUT it didn't overwhelm me like it has in other books. I just don't know that I could safely say I remembered all of them, but that's on me and my shit memory.
Characters:
MMC: Easton Wells, 37
FMC: Madeline Baker, 22
Nicknames: Guppy, Mine, Baby, Tyrant (her name for him)
Children: The main character (& her friends) are seen together as teens in the opening chapter, but that's it.
Pets: four fishies!
POV: Alternating first person with the FMC having the majority
Pace: Medium
Type: First in a series of standalones
Cliffhanger?: No
Setting: California
🚨Trigger warning list below could have potential spoilers, depending on your definition of ‘spoiler’
Tropes:
📚 Age Gap (15 years)
📚 BDSM club
📚 Auction
📚 Possessive MMC
📚 Rich MMC
📚 College Student FMC
📚 Lawyer MMC
📚 Banter
📚 Fake dating-esque for a lil bit
Spice:
🐱: Fucking, fingering, eating, creampies
🍆: Blowjob, face fucking, swallowing
🌶 Dom/Sub & power dynamics
🌶 Bondage (handcuffs)
🌶 Kneeling
🌶 "Fuck it" moment
🌶 "You can take it" moment
🌶 Edging
🌶 Spitting (Alcohol)
🌶 He's a munch
🌶 An actual safe sex convo, we love it!
🌶 He comes in his pants once
🌶 Big dicked MMC
Triggers:
⚠️ Alcohol & drunken antics
⚠️ Drug use (not by MCs)
⚠️ Talk of infidelity (not by MCs or major side characters)
⚠️ Blackmail (not by MCs)
⚠️ Pregnancy (short mention)
July 9, 2025
4.7 stars.
This is exactly the kind of ‘sugar baby’ romance that I’m into. Layla played it perfectly. My biggest ick with that kind of trope is the money aspect. I don’t like when the ‘baby’ seems more interested in the financial gain, and I don’t like when the ‘daddy’ feels more interested in the power the money he dishes out makes him believe he has.
Maddie gives zero fucks about having the money, only that the money makes her feel extra wanted. And Easton only uses the money as an excuse to get in where he thinks he’s completely undeserving, and only likes the power that Maddie explicitly gifts him.
It’s perfect, and I devoured this book. Couldn’t put it down.
I am absolutely in love with their relationship and how Easton takes care of her. 🥹
This is exactly the kind of ‘sugar baby’ romance that I’m into. Layla played it perfectly. My biggest ick with that kind of trope is the money aspect. I don’t like when the ‘baby’ seems more interested in the financial gain, and I don’t like when the ‘daddy’ feels more interested in the power the money he dishes out makes him believe he has.
Maddie gives zero fucks about having the money, only that the money makes her feel extra wanted. And Easton only uses the money as an excuse to get in where he thinks he’s completely undeserving, and only likes the power that Maddie explicitly gifts him.
It’s perfect, and I devoured this book. Couldn’t put it down.
I am absolutely in love with their relationship and how Easton takes care of her. 🥹
June 30, 2025
Holy sin and silk! I wasn’t ready for this one, and I mean that in the best way. This book pulled me in fast and had me completely wrapped up in the tension, the chemistry, and all the deliciously complicated emotions flying between the characters.
The dynamic here? Whew! Intense doesn’t even cover it. It’s sharp, addictive, and so full of heat I had to remind myself to breathe. The setting added an extra layer of temptation. It’s exclusive, private, and practically hums with control and desire.
What I really loved was how quickly I got pulled into not just the steamy parts (though, trust me, those are on point), but the whole emotional unraveling that happens along the way. I could feel every shift, every unspoken moment, and it all just worked.
The dynamic here? Whew! Intense doesn’t even cover it. It’s sharp, addictive, and so full of heat I had to remind myself to breathe. The setting added an extra layer of temptation. It’s exclusive, private, and practically hums with control and desire.
What I really loved was how quickly I got pulled into not just the steamy parts (though, trust me, those are on point), but the whole emotional unraveling that happens along the way. I could feel every shift, every unspoken moment, and it all just worked.
July 23, 2025
Spoilers ahead 3.5*.........my first book in months
I enjoy this author's writing style and though this one was a little turn from her usual I enjoyed it just as much. I do think the "club" aspect of things is just lightly touched on really, as a matter of fact even Maddie's interests aren't fully explored, it's like stepping a toe into the "world" and not full immersion 🤭. Nevertheless......
Maddie had her three besties are second generation best friends who grew up wealthy but grounded. She meets Easton at one of her friends houses and is instantly attracted to the older man, "coincidentally" running into him on campus some weeks later and being asked to interview him for the school's paper opens the door for them to spend a little time together...... following Easton after the interview, however opens Maddie's eyes to a world......and desires she's always left upspoken.
As much as I enjoyed Easton's manipulation,his possessiveness, his jealousy, the "mine"........I wanted a little more exploration into Maddie's desires and the world of Gilded but I guess if the owners get their own books 🤔...... nevertheless I'm here for everything in this series.......bring on book 2 right now!!!!!!!!!!!!!
No cheating
Age gap
H 37 h22
H wasn't a manwhore though he gave the impression he'd been in "the life"
h wasn't a virgin
No condom though discussion of stds and sexual health 👏🏽
J/P H
Elements of BDSM 🤔
I enjoy this author's writing style and though this one was a little turn from her usual I enjoyed it just as much. I do think the "club" aspect of things is just lightly touched on really, as a matter of fact even Maddie's interests aren't fully explored, it's like stepping a toe into the "world" and not full immersion 🤭. Nevertheless......
Maddie had her three besties are second generation best friends who grew up wealthy but grounded. She meets Easton at one of her friends houses and is instantly attracted to the older man, "coincidentally" running into him on campus some weeks later and being asked to interview him for the school's paper opens the door for them to spend a little time together...... following Easton after the interview, however opens Maddie's eyes to a world......and desires she's always left upspoken.
As much as I enjoyed Easton's manipulation,his possessiveness, his jealousy, the "mine"........I wanted a little more exploration into Maddie's desires and the world of Gilded but I guess if the owners get their own books 🤔...... nevertheless I'm here for everything in this series.......bring on book 2 right now!!!!!!!!!!!!!
No cheating
Age gap
H 37 h22
H wasn't a manwhore though he gave the impression he'd been in "the life"
h wasn't a virgin
No condom though discussion of stds and sexual health 👏🏽
J/P H
Elements of BDSM 🤔
June 25, 2025
If Layla Frost writes it, I will read it! Everything she writes is absolutely amazing and this new book did not disappoint!! Full of Giggles, swoons, and spice 🫠 its definitely one of those books i will get every copy available and re read!
July 15, 2025
4 🌟
This was such a good age gap, D/s romance! My thoughts on this are overwhelmingly positive, but there were a few small nitpicky things I didn’t love too.
Madeline/Maddie (h) is a senior college student majoring in journalism. She’s got a nosy disposition and it leads her to follow the older lawyer she’s interviewing for her college paper, who she happened to meet through her friend’s dad, into a sex club. Easton (H) has been obsessed with Maddie since he met her in a potential clients home, but as he’s 15 years older than her, he knows his obsession can’t go past just trying to spend some time with her. When he realises she’s interested in BDSM/kink, he offers her the opportunity to dip her toes into the lifestyle… but only with him, of course.
Gosh, I loved Maddie and Easton. They had such a hot, authentic and honest dynamic. Maddie was perfect for Easton, who wanted total obedience and control over her. She naturally wanted those things too, but she still came across as having a backbone and questioned him when necessary. I also thoroughly enjoyed the way, despite not having his POV until a good chunk into the book, it was so obvious that Easton was down bad for Maddie from the start. He really was boy obsessed and I loved it.
Other things I loved were both of their friendship groups, although particularly the girls and their mums, or as they call them, the OGs. I also really enjoyed Cohen and his scheming to get Easton to pull his head out and pursue Maddie. I have a feeling I know who the next book will be about but I won’t speculate more until an announcement is made.
Some super small things that slightly hindered my reading enjoyment; I had legit secondhand embarrassment over her stalking him to the club… but I realise that’s a me thing and not everyone will hate that part the way I did! Also, this did move at a slightly slower pace than I would have liked. The romance, despite their sugar baby/daddy dynamic, was very slow burn (or at least the physical side of it). I would have maybe liked a bit more exploration of Maddie’s physical desires earlier on, but the wait was well worth it in this one. Once they’re together, the sparks well and truly fly between them. Some of the kink in this wasn’t necessarily my vibe but overall the spice was very hot and so was their dynamic.
I do wish there would have been a conversation about dating op and celibacy when they were “negotiating” their initial sugar baby/daddy agreement. It left a lot of room for misunderstanding and whilst there was zero chance either of them would sleep with or date someone else given how obsessed they both were, they didn’t actually know that and some clarity would have been nice.
Ultimately, the positives on this one significantly outweigh any negatives and I really enjoyed reading it. If I’m able, I definitely will pick up the next book in the series when it’s out.
Safety:
- No virgins; no recent history other than it seemed to have been a little while for both and no others after meeting.
- No ow or om* drama.
- *H is very j/p and has some jealous moments when om hit on the h, including one where he takes it out on her and does end up needing to apologise for it. It wasn’t terrible, he just felt a bit insecure and it came out a little harshly, but he feels bad afterwards and the h doesn’t really get upset over it.
- 15 year age gap.
- H has previously had submissive’s before, although supposedly only in a casual and purely sexual capacity and there’s very little mention of it with no other details. I didn’t love this as I tend to like when the D/s dynamic is new and special to the H and h, but I guess he hadn’t exactly been in a relationship with the ow so 🤷🏼♀️ clearly he hadn’t felt for anyone how he felt for the h and that helped a lot.
- These two also spend time in a sex club , although it’s mostly non-sexual hanging out and maybe one scene in one of the “back rooms”. The H is a member there but seems not to have been active for the most part, as he mentioned he spent most of his time there in the bar area. Although it was a little ambiguous and I couldn’t help wondering if he had already f*cked ow in the rooms there and feeling just teeniest bit icky about it. He clearly wasn’t a regular attendee at the club though, so it does seem unlikely.
- This is a Dom/sub relationship and the H exerts significant control over the h’s life. It was a little much for me personally and if this kink isn’t something you enjoy then this book may not be for you.
This was such a good age gap, D/s romance! My thoughts on this are overwhelmingly positive, but there were a few small nitpicky things I didn’t love too.
Madeline/Maddie (h) is a senior college student majoring in journalism. She’s got a nosy disposition and it leads her to follow the older lawyer she’s interviewing for her college paper, who she happened to meet through her friend’s dad, into a sex club. Easton (H) has been obsessed with Maddie since he met her in a potential clients home, but as he’s 15 years older than her, he knows his obsession can’t go past just trying to spend some time with her. When he realises she’s interested in BDSM/kink, he offers her the opportunity to dip her toes into the lifestyle… but only with him, of course.
Gosh, I loved Maddie and Easton. They had such a hot, authentic and honest dynamic. Maddie was perfect for Easton, who wanted total obedience and control over her. She naturally wanted those things too, but she still came across as having a backbone and questioned him when necessary. I also thoroughly enjoyed the way, despite not having his POV until a good chunk into the book, it was so obvious that Easton was down bad for Maddie from the start. He really was boy obsessed and I loved it.
Other things I loved were both of their friendship groups, although particularly the girls and their mums, or as they call them, the OGs. I also really enjoyed Cohen and his scheming to get Easton to pull his head out and pursue Maddie. I have a feeling I know who the next book will be about but I won’t speculate more until an announcement is made.
Some super small things that slightly hindered my reading enjoyment; I had legit secondhand embarrassment over her stalking him to the club… but I realise that’s a me thing and not everyone will hate that part the way I did! Also, this did move at a slightly slower pace than I would have liked. The romance, despite their sugar baby/daddy dynamic, was very slow burn (or at least the physical side of it). I would have maybe liked a bit more exploration of Maddie’s physical desires earlier on, but the wait was well worth it in this one. Once they’re together, the sparks well and truly fly between them. Some of the kink in this wasn’t necessarily my vibe but overall the spice was very hot and so was their dynamic.
I do wish there would have been a conversation about dating op and celibacy when they were “negotiating” their initial sugar baby/daddy agreement. It left a lot of room for misunderstanding and whilst there was zero chance either of them would sleep with or date someone else given how obsessed they both were, they didn’t actually know that and some clarity would have been nice.
Ultimately, the positives on this one significantly outweigh any negatives and I really enjoyed reading it. If I’m able, I definitely will pick up the next book in the series when it’s out.
Safety:
- No virgins; no recent history other than it seemed to have been a little while for both and no others after meeting.
- No ow or om* drama.
- *H is very j/p and has some jealous moments when om hit on the h, including one where he takes it out on her and does end up needing to apologise for it. It wasn’t terrible, he just felt a bit insecure and it came out a little harshly, but he feels bad afterwards and the h doesn’t really get upset over it.
- 15 year age gap.
- H has previously had submissive’s before, although supposedly only in a casual and purely sexual capacity and there’s very little mention of it with no other details. I didn’t love this as I tend to like when the D/s dynamic is new and special to the H and h, but I guess he hadn’t exactly been in a relationship with the ow so 🤷🏼♀️ clearly he hadn’t felt for anyone how he felt for the h and that helped a lot.
- These two also spend time in a sex club , although it’s mostly non-sexual hanging out and maybe one scene in one of the “back rooms”. The H is a member there but seems not to have been active for the most part, as he mentioned he spent most of his time there in the bar area. Although it was a little ambiguous and I couldn’t help wondering if he had already f*cked ow in the rooms there and feeling just teeniest bit icky about it. He clearly wasn’t a regular attendee at the club though, so it does seem unlikely.
- This is a Dom/sub relationship and the H exerts significant control over the h’s life. It was a little much for me personally and if this kink isn’t something you enjoy then this book may not be for you.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 5, 2025
First off I love Layla Frost books. She writing is fun, sexy with the best hero’s. This one had all things I love but it was missing something. I kept waiting for something to happen for the pace to hook me. And it fell a little flat for me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 2, 2025
NOW LIVE!
Amazon US * Amazon UK
I'm slightly on the fence with this book. On one hand, I enjoyed it. I liked the characters, their differences, the way Easton was so enamored with Madeline. It was perfect and honestly so cute to see.
But on the other hand, this was also the biggest and most frustrating edging experience for a very big part of the story. They were so close to being in a D/s dynamic but it wasn't feeling like it crossed that line. And there were too many times that chunk of time would be skipped over with a "weeks have gone by since that dinner" or "we went on another date, and another, and another" and we'd hear about things that Easton had done for Mads but didn't get to actually see. Enter the frustration. And again, for how sexy and erotic these characters could be at times, especially with the control aspects, it. never. went. anywhere.
Until it did. From about 70% until the end, these characters had every bit of my attention. And I was back to loving them and eating up every scene. I mean top tier erotic scenes. Because it wasn't just throwaway sexy scenes one after the other. The connection, the trust, the romance, it was all there through the control and bindings and it made those scenes just perfect. And it made me fall in love all over again and it kept this book a solid 4 Stars for me. And of course now I'm dying to get more from this series.
So overall, I had some issues with the reading experience for a good chunk of the book. And I still wish there wasn't so much time that was dragged out and kept us waiting for that big scene where the characters just say "fuck it" and give in (P.S that scene was totally there and amazing once we finally got it). But as a whole, I really did like this story and the characters.
Amazon US * Amazon UK
I'm slightly on the fence with this book. On one hand, I enjoyed it. I liked the characters, their differences, the way Easton was so enamored with Madeline. It was perfect and honestly so cute to see.
But on the other hand, this was also the biggest and most frustrating edging experience for a very big part of the story. They were so close to being in a D/s dynamic but it wasn't feeling like it crossed that line. And there were too many times that chunk of time would be skipped over with a "weeks have gone by since that dinner" or "we went on another date, and another, and another" and we'd hear about things that Easton had done for Mads but didn't get to actually see. Enter the frustration. And again, for how sexy and erotic these characters could be at times, especially with the control aspects, it. never. went. anywhere.
Until it did. From about 70% until the end, these characters had every bit of my attention. And I was back to loving them and eating up every scene. I mean top tier erotic scenes. Because it wasn't just throwaway sexy scenes one after the other. The connection, the trust, the romance, it was all there through the control and bindings and it made those scenes just perfect. And it made me fall in love all over again and it kept this book a solid 4 Stars for me. And of course now I'm dying to get more from this series.
So overall, I had some issues with the reading experience for a good chunk of the book. And I still wish there wasn't so much time that was dragged out and kept us waiting for that big scene where the characters just say "fuck it" and give in (P.S that scene was totally there and amazing once we finally got it). But as a whole, I really did like this story and the characters.
July 1, 2025
I was so so excited to receive an ARC for this book, and it did NOT disappoint. I didn't want to put it down, I was hooked. It was such a fun read, and I loved that there wasn't a third act break up and very little angst. Which always makes me so happy.
Easton was hot as hell, he was a definite Dom, and oh boy, did I have fun with that. I loved his caring side too, he was so sweet to Maddie with taking care of not only her but his friends too. I swooned so hard over so many things he did.
Maddie was such a good character, she was so real and super relatable with her inner dialogue I laughed so much. I loved her friendship, and I can't wait to see more of that. Her chemistry with Easton was sooooo hot honestly, the spice starts just after 65%, but once it gets going *fans self*.
I loved this book, and I really can't wait to read more in this world!!
4 🌶
Easton was hot as hell, he was a definite Dom, and oh boy, did I have fun with that. I loved his caring side too, he was so sweet to Maddie with taking care of not only her but his friends too. I swooned so hard over so many things he did.
Maddie was such a good character, she was so real and super relatable with her inner dialogue I laughed so much. I loved her friendship, and I can't wait to see more of that. Her chemistry with Easton was sooooo hot honestly, the spice starts just after 65%, but once it gets going *fans self*.
I loved this book, and I really can't wait to read more in this world!!
4 🌶
July 2, 2025
ARC Review
4.5⭐️
This was a strangely cute and cozy romance set in a smex club? Is there a subgenre called Cozy Filth? if yes, then this is it.
Easton and Madeline make a wonderful pair - him all grumpy and serious but experienced, and her all curious and snarky. I enjoyed their push and pull, the chemistry worked and the smut was hot.
That said, considering a sex club is a big part of this book, it was a rather slow burn. Made sense with these characters and their hangups (*cough* Easton *cough*), but I guess i expected something different.
The pacing in general was a bit on the slower side, and most of the plot was intra relationship, with a bit of plot outside of Easton and Maddie thrown in at the end.
I'd recommend this if you like:
💛 Age gap (15y)
💛 Secret sex club
💛 He Falls First and Hard
💛 Dom/sub
Sugar is a standalone, with books coming up for their friends. I'm excited to read the rest of the series whenever they release!
Big thanks to Layla Frost for the ARC.
4.5⭐️
This was a strangely cute and cozy romance set in a smex club? Is there a subgenre called Cozy Filth? if yes, then this is it.
Easton and Madeline make a wonderful pair - him all grumpy and serious but experienced, and her all curious and snarky. I enjoyed their push and pull, the chemistry worked and the smut was hot.
That said, considering a sex club is a big part of this book, it was a rather slow burn. Made sense with these characters and their hangups (*cough* Easton *cough*), but I guess i expected something different.
The pacing in general was a bit on the slower side, and most of the plot was intra relationship, with a bit of plot outside of Easton and Maddie thrown in at the end.
I'd recommend this if you like:
💛 Age gap (15y)
💛 Secret sex club
💛 He Falls First and Hard
💛 Dom/sub
Sugar is a standalone, with books coming up for their friends. I'm excited to read the rest of the series whenever they release!
Big thanks to Layla Frost for the ARC.
August 20, 2025
This is the first book I’ve read by this author and I happened upon it while searching my favorite trope on KU! I was pleasantly surprised! It wasn’t a book that I would rave about but it was definitely solid! I am very interested in the next book because I loved Maddie’s two besties and Greer’s book is next. I don’t know there was something about it that I can’t put my finger on that didn’t “do it” for me. I’m also in a horrible book funk right now so it’s most definitely me and not the author, the writing ir the story. Sadly I will have to wait a year…yep you heard that right A DAMN YEAR for book two! Thank Goodness this isn’t a duet because I would be pissed🤣
So I may look at some of her other stuff during that time but all in all it was a solid read!
So I may look at some of her other stuff during that time but all in all it was a solid read!
July 1, 2025
ABSOLUTE CONTROL PERFECTION
Layla absolutely killed it with this, as a devout little dove reader, and number one fan, I went into this hoping it would give me a taste of what I enjoyed from that series and I wasn’t disappointed. Easton is everything - dominant controlling older MMC with an absolute obsession with Madeline. I loved their dynamic and Madeline’s curiosity towards her submissiveness and enjoy of being controlled and owned. The book delves deeper into their relationship and exploring their enjoyments. Surprisingly the first spicy scene isn’t until about 65% of the way through, which I enjoyed because it allowed the relationship to develop and made the spicier scenes that much better. Highly recommend!!!
Layla absolutely killed it with this, as a devout little dove reader, and number one fan, I went into this hoping it would give me a taste of what I enjoyed from that series and I wasn’t disappointed. Easton is everything - dominant controlling older MMC with an absolute obsession with Madeline. I loved their dynamic and Madeline’s curiosity towards her submissiveness and enjoy of being controlled and owned. The book delves deeper into their relationship and exploring their enjoyments. Surprisingly the first spicy scene isn’t until about 65% of the way through, which I enjoyed because it allowed the relationship to develop and made the spicier scenes that much better. Highly recommend!!!
June 23, 2025
I loved absolutely EVERYTHING about this book!
From the OG moms, Maddie’s best friends, and Mr. Easton Wells himself. I also loved Easton���s friends and hope desperately they will be the love interests for Maddie’s friends. The banter is so funny, and even with the bit of angst, this was such a sweet read!
Easton is so stern and serious, yet loosens up a bit for Maddie. His dominance shows not through punishments but through the commands and care that Maddie adores. Honestly, he was a type of dominant I don’t feel like we get to see often.
While this is mainly relationship centered, we do get some jaw dropping drama thrown in. Along with a mix of spice I loved.
From the OG moms, Maddie’s best friends, and Mr. Easton Wells himself. I also loved Easton���s friends and hope desperately they will be the love interests for Maddie’s friends. The banter is so funny, and even with the bit of angst, this was such a sweet read!
Easton is so stern and serious, yet loosens up a bit for Maddie. His dominance shows not through punishments but through the commands and care that Maddie adores. Honestly, he was a type of dominant I don’t feel like we get to see often.
While this is mainly relationship centered, we do get some jaw dropping drama thrown in. Along with a mix of spice I loved.
January 5, 2026
Would give it more stars if I could.
Extra points for an appropriately slow build with an excellent payoff and NO third act breakup.
Perfection.
Extra points for an appropriately slow build with an excellent payoff and NO third act breakup.
Perfection.
July 23, 2025
3.5 ⭐
It certainly wasn't bad but it also wasn't great. I have devoured books from this author in the past but for some reason, it was hard for me to get into Maddie's and Easton's dynamic. Still looking forward to the rest of the series tho!!
It certainly wasn't bad but it also wasn't great. I have devoured books from this author in the past but for some reason, it was hard for me to get into Maddie's and Easton's dynamic. Still looking forward to the rest of the series tho!!
June 27, 2025
Is this book different than what’s she’s written before? Yes! Is it just as good, if not better than previous books? Absolutely, 100%! I can’t recommend this book enough. I couldn’t put it down! Easton is 100% OTT alpha! I loved him and Maddie! They were perfect. It was the perfect start to this new series. I can’t wait until more books.
July 4, 2025
I loved it! I really love the new relationship driven way this book was as compared to Layla’s other books. Madeline is so strong and I like that she knows what she wants and doesn’t falter from it. Easton is perfectly possessive. He’s a Mr Bossy Pants who actually would do anything Madeline wanted. In fact, he might be up there with Nox as my favorite of Layla’s men 😉 I definitely recommend this book to any romance lovers and I’ll definitely be rereading it again soon!
December 23, 2025
*Updated to include Audio review.*
OVERALL: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟/5
•Storyline: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
•Narrator:🎧🎧🎧🎧🎧/5
•Spice Level: 🌶🌶🌶/ 5
•Swoon level: 🫠🫠🫠🫠🫠/5
•Emotional:🥹/5
•Banter: 😂😂😂/5
•Platform:Ebook
•Trope: Age-gap, BDSM club, Obsessed Hero, Relationship driven, Grumpy-sunshine.
• THOUGHTS:
Well,well, well, Ms Layla, another success! I really enjoyed this book and the series that is being built. it was completely consuming, and Layla's words and writing are straight up beautiful and elegant. her books are so easy to get into and read quickly.
Now for the characters. Easton is a straight-up dream boat. Madeline is the perfect sunshine,comedic, happy girl! How they messed and folded into one another's lives is so swoony! it just makes me so happy! seriously, I love all of her books, and I can't wait to see all the fun we get with this series!
•Narrator Thoughts:
Duet Narration @1.7x
Ryan West and Desiree Ketchum
These two did such an incredible job bringing Easton and Madison to life. The audiobook just highlighted and elevated and already amazing book to the next level. Hearing Ryan and Desiree bring the intensity and emotion to these characters it's so easy to get lost into the audiobook. sigh. I just loved it. I highly recommend this audio.
Thanks, Layla, for another amazing book
OVERALL: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟/5
•Storyline: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
•Narrator:🎧🎧🎧🎧🎧/5
•Spice Level: 🌶🌶🌶/ 5
•Swoon level: 🫠🫠🫠🫠🫠/5
•Emotional:🥹/5
•Banter: 😂😂😂/5
•Platform:Ebook
•Trope: Age-gap, BDSM club, Obsessed Hero, Relationship driven, Grumpy-sunshine.
• THOUGHTS:
Well,well, well, Ms Layla, another success! I really enjoyed this book and the series that is being built. it was completely consuming, and Layla's words and writing are straight up beautiful and elegant. her books are so easy to get into and read quickly.
Now for the characters. Easton is a straight-up dream boat. Madeline is the perfect sunshine,comedic, happy girl! How they messed and folded into one another's lives is so swoony! it just makes me so happy! seriously, I love all of her books, and I can't wait to see all the fun we get with this series!
•Narrator Thoughts:
Duet Narration @1.7x
Ryan West and Desiree Ketchum
These two did such an incredible job bringing Easton and Madison to life. The audiobook just highlighted and elevated and already amazing book to the next level. Hearing Ryan and Desiree bring the intensity and emotion to these characters it's so easy to get lost into the audiobook. sigh. I just loved it. I highly recommend this audio.
Thanks, Layla, for another amazing book
September 25, 2025
DNF @ 86%
The whole guise of the book was about the BDSM club and the MMC having total control over the FMC, but the club barely came into play and it was mostly him telling her what to wear or insignificant little stuff like that. I probably should’ve stuck it out, but after them saying “i love you” when virtually nothing happened between them, I just could not do it anymore. Like what the hell are you in love with?? Everything just fell so flat.
The whole guise of the book was about the BDSM club and the MMC having total control over the FMC, but the club barely came into play and it was mostly him telling her what to wear or insignificant little stuff like that. I probably should’ve stuck it out, but after them saying “i love you” when virtually nothing happened between them, I just could not do it anymore. Like what the hell are you in love with?? Everything just fell so flat.
July 9, 2025
Dnf after less than 3 chapters. The writing style was not good. It was very detailed in a way that was annoying and it just felt very childish.
July 3, 2025
Sugar by Layla Frost kicks off her new Gilded series with a sizzling age gap romance that promises steam, intrigue, and a secretive BDSM underworld. I went in expecting bold kink and an immersive club setting. However, what I got was more of a tease than a full deep dive—and that left me slightly underwhelmed.
Easton Wells, the hero, is all power and precision. He’s a high-powered attorney with an ironclad need for control—both in and out of the bedroom. It’s clear he knows what he wants, and he wants Madeline Baker. Even when he doesn’t want to admit it, so he suggests a sugar baby scenario. Madeline is a college student that knows she wants more in the bedroom, but hasn’t met the right person. Until now. The chemistry? Off the charts. The emotional build? Solid.
Where Sugar faltered for me was in the BDSM club element.
Gilded is an elite, behind-closed-doors kind of place, and I expected it to play a bigger role in the plot. Instead, it hangs in the background—intriguing, but never fully realized. If you’re hoping for a strong BDSM romance vibe, this leans more toward light kink adjacent.
There’s also a mystery subplot that simmers beneath the surface. It adds tension, but the execution didn’t fully deliver for me. It worked—technically—but didn’t pull me deeper into the world the way Layla Frost’s stories usually do.
That said, the supporting characters are what really kept me invested. Frost introduces enough complexity and shadow in her side cast to make me curious about what’s coming next in the Gilded series. I’m already eyeing book two to see who gets the spotlight next.Buy bestselling books online
While Sugar wasn’t my favorite Layla Frost book, it’s still an enjoyable read with compelling leads, sharp dialogue, and just enough heat to keep the pages turning. If you’re into dominant heroes, college heroines, and slow-burn romantic suspense with an edge, this one’s worth the read—even if it didn’t fully hit all my expectations.
Easton Wells, the hero, is all power and precision. He’s a high-powered attorney with an ironclad need for control—both in and out of the bedroom. It’s clear he knows what he wants, and he wants Madeline Baker. Even when he doesn’t want to admit it, so he suggests a sugar baby scenario. Madeline is a college student that knows she wants more in the bedroom, but hasn’t met the right person. Until now. The chemistry? Off the charts. The emotional build? Solid.
Where Sugar faltered for me was in the BDSM club element.
Gilded is an elite, behind-closed-doors kind of place, and I expected it to play a bigger role in the plot. Instead, it hangs in the background—intriguing, but never fully realized. If you’re hoping for a strong BDSM romance vibe, this leans more toward light kink adjacent.
There’s also a mystery subplot that simmers beneath the surface. It adds tension, but the execution didn’t fully deliver for me. It worked—technically—but didn’t pull me deeper into the world the way Layla Frost’s stories usually do.
That said, the supporting characters are what really kept me invested. Frost introduces enough complexity and shadow in her side cast to make me curious about what’s coming next in the Gilded series. I’m already eyeing book two to see who gets the spotlight next.Buy bestselling books online
While Sugar wasn’t my favorite Layla Frost book, it’s still an enjoyable read with compelling leads, sharp dialogue, and just enough heat to keep the pages turning. If you’re into dominant heroes, college heroines, and slow-burn romantic suspense with an edge, this one’s worth the read—even if it didn’t fully hit all my expectations.
September 27, 2025
Sugar is the first book in the Gilded (BDSM) Series by Layla Frost, and I had an absolute BLAST!!
First, the girls, their friendship that they've had since they were teeny tiny things was just lovely. And the fact that it went with the OG's (their Mom's) was even better. None of the girls acted like they were estranged from their Mom's, and they even were friends with their siblings, even if it was just surface level it just made me feel that much better in the end.
When Madeline and Easton have their meet cute at Mads friends house, Easton was meeting with Doug about who knows what, and Madeline was there with the girls for movie night before they all headed back to school. Mads couldn't believe what she was dressed in - sweats, a tee and her hair up in a sloppy bun while Easton is in a suit complete with cufflinks. CUFFLINKS! Even though she's sure they brushed hands at one point, and it felt like he definitely touched her back at some point, Mads knows Easton is never going to remember her. Even though it definitely seemed like he was giving her an order when he asked what she was majoring in, surely he'll just forget about her, he's an adult after all.
Easton made sure he was there to pull Madeline aside right before she could really start rushing. He knew she was running late somewhere, she almost always was.
I love, LOVE the way Easton is there to slow Madeline down and Madeline is the just right vibes to kick Easton into doing what he's always wanted to do - oh there's a club? Easton doesn't do those things. BUT, he will if he knows Madeline is throwing herself headfirst into whatever danger is available there without any protection!
SUGAR is one of my favorite books of 2025, Layla Frost has done it again, and I absolutely am SAT for the next one in the series!!
*I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review *
First, the girls, their friendship that they've had since they were teeny tiny things was just lovely. And the fact that it went with the OG's (their Mom's) was even better. None of the girls acted like they were estranged from their Mom's, and they even were friends with their siblings, even if it was just surface level it just made me feel that much better in the end.
When Madeline and Easton have their meet cute at Mads friends house, Easton was meeting with Doug about who knows what, and Madeline was there with the girls for movie night before they all headed back to school. Mads couldn't believe what she was dressed in - sweats, a tee and her hair up in a sloppy bun while Easton is in a suit complete with cufflinks. CUFFLINKS! Even though she's sure they brushed hands at one point, and it felt like he definitely touched her back at some point, Mads knows Easton is never going to remember her. Even though it definitely seemed like he was giving her an order when he asked what she was majoring in, surely he'll just forget about her, he's an adult after all.
Easton made sure he was there to pull Madeline aside right before she could really start rushing. He knew she was running late somewhere, she almost always was.
I love, LOVE the way Easton is there to slow Madeline down and Madeline is the just right vibes to kick Easton into doing what he's always wanted to do - oh there's a club? Easton doesn't do those things. BUT, he will if he knows Madeline is throwing herself headfirst into whatever danger is available there without any protection!
SUGAR is one of my favorite books of 2025, Layla Frost has done it again, and I absolutely am SAT for the next one in the series!!
*I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review *
June 26, 2025
Not only is this scorching, it’s got humor and friendship and loyalty and love and a guy who I’m pretty sure we’re going to see more of soon. And I don’t mean Easton or Madeline. Nope. I mean someone else.
But before we get to that, you have to know that Easton is not a man to be trifled with. He’s a tad…focused. And his focus is on Maddie. He can’t help it. He doesn’t want to be the creep (hint: he’s not!). But when Maddie proves to be far more resourceful and accidentally stumbles into his world, he’s all about keeping her. Even when Maddie beats him at his own game, Easton can’t help but want her. And he’s a lucky man because she clearly wants him in return.
This is so much more than spice. This is literally finding love, finding yourself, and finding acceptance. It’s learning to embrace the chaos and enjoy the ride. And it’s the start of a series I already want to demand more of right now.
But before we get to that, you have to know that Easton is not a man to be trifled with. He’s a tad…focused. And his focus is on Maddie. He can’t help it. He doesn’t want to be the creep (hint: he’s not!). But when Maddie proves to be far more resourceful and accidentally stumbles into his world, he’s all about keeping her. Even when Maddie beats him at his own game, Easton can’t help but want her. And he’s a lucky man because she clearly wants him in return.
This is so much more than spice. This is literally finding love, finding yourself, and finding acceptance. It’s learning to embrace the chaos and enjoy the ride. And it’s the start of a series I already want to demand more of right now.
June 26, 2025
I was so excited when I heard Layla Frost was starting a new series. She told us it was going to be something different and just hoped that we would be interested. Well, let me tell you, this author never ceases to amaze me with her writing. Yes this was different than what she’s written before but let me tell you different can be a very good thing.
I was sucked in from the very first page.
Easton captured my heart in all his Alfa-ness!! He had so many layers to him and page after page I just kept peeling more back.
Maddie was an absolute surprise. I loved everything about this character. She was a take, no prisoners, kind of gal with all the confidence and spunk I love in a character.
These two were absolute fire together. I loved everything about this book. I am so sad it’s over and now I have to wait for Greer‘s book.
I highly recommend this. Definitely a 5 star read for me!
I was sucked in from the very first page.
Easton captured my heart in all his Alfa-ness!! He had so many layers to him and page after page I just kept peeling more back.
Maddie was an absolute surprise. I loved everything about this character. She was a take, no prisoners, kind of gal with all the confidence and spunk I love in a character.
These two were absolute fire together. I loved everything about this book. I am so sad it’s over and now I have to wait for Greer‘s book.
I highly recommend this. Definitely a 5 star read for me!
June 26, 2025
I’m constantly amazed by the wickedly talented mind of Layla Frost. Though by this point, I shouldn’t be at all surprised by the way this author is able to suck me into her story, then freaking hold me hostage until the very end. Maddie & Easton did more than that. I actually found myself purposefully slowing my reading pace because I didn’t want it to be over.
Unfortunately, it did end (sad, crying face), and now I’m forced to await the arrival of book two (again…sad, crying face). It may be time for a Layla reread to pass the time.
Unfortunately, it did end (sad, crying face), and now I’m forced to await the arrival of book two (again…sad, crying face). It may be time for a Layla reread to pass the time.
July 3, 2025
Seriously, anything this author writes I will gobble up. I did not want to put this book down. Easton and Maddie….chef’s kiss.
Easton practically exudes Dom vibes. Grumpy, possessive, and oh so delicious. Maddie is his perfect match. All sunshine and snark. I loved the slowish burn to their relationship. Made the spice burn that much hotter.
Overall, 10 out of 10 would recommend. The setting, the characters, the story….just everything so good. If this teases your sense of curiosity then step into Gilded.
Easton practically exudes Dom vibes. Grumpy, possessive, and oh so delicious. Maddie is his perfect match. All sunshine and snark. I loved the slowish burn to their relationship. Made the spice burn that much hotter.
Overall, 10 out of 10 would recommend. The setting, the characters, the story….just everything so good. If this teases your sense of curiosity then step into Gilded.
June 26, 2025
ARC ✨🤍
Is it too soon to request the rest of the series?!
Maddie & Easton… I’m a big fan of both these characters. Maddie being the sassy gal who pushes Easton… who in return is VERY happy to take her to Gilted 😏
This book had it all:
Spice ✅
Drama ✅
Character development ✅
Side character growth ✅
Welp. What am I meant to do now until the next? 🫣🤣
Is it too soon to request the rest of the series?!
Maddie & Easton… I’m a big fan of both these characters. Maddie being the sassy gal who pushes Easton… who in return is VERY happy to take her to Gilted 😏
This book had it all:
Spice ✅
Drama ✅
Character development ✅
Side character growth ✅
Welp. What am I meant to do now until the next? 🫣🤣
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