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Devoted
Devoted is a Rom-Com story with age gap (26F, 43M), workplace romance, he falls first, banter, and open-door spice.
Vivian
At twenty-six years old, I've finally begun to feel like my own person. Leaving my old life behind, I've moved, put myself through school, and landed my first job as a costume designer working alongside my brothers. There's a huge cast of characters at the Garden of Eden Burlesque Club, but one person is stuck under my skin. Knight Adler, my boss and a pain in my ass. He's grumpy, older, and mysterious—unfortunately, totally my type. There's a lot more to him than the businessman exterior he lets on, and every glimpse I get has me craving more.
And he just so happens to look good on his knees, too.
Knight
She owns me, but I cannot have her. Vivian Delgado, the newest employee at my burlesque club, haunts my dreams. Before her, my life was simple—detached and lonely but simple. One interaction with her flipped the switch in my mind. Now, I'm an obsessed man. I find myself lusting over the costume designer who is seventeen years my junior. Could she ever be mine? Demons from my past hide under my gruff facade, threatening to spill every time I find myself near her. But I'm quickly learning Vivian is the type of woman to face demons—and have them submit to her will.
Devoted is the second book in the Love and Burlesque Series, a trio of interconnected standalones that focus on each of the Delgado siblings and their HEAs ❤
Vivian
At twenty-six years old, I've finally begun to feel like my own person. Leaving my old life behind, I've moved, put myself through school, and landed my first job as a costume designer working alongside my brothers. There's a huge cast of characters at the Garden of Eden Burlesque Club, but one person is stuck under my skin. Knight Adler, my boss and a pain in my ass. He's grumpy, older, and mysterious—unfortunately, totally my type. There's a lot more to him than the businessman exterior he lets on, and every glimpse I get has me craving more.
And he just so happens to look good on his knees, too.
Knight
She owns me, but I cannot have her. Vivian Delgado, the newest employee at my burlesque club, haunts my dreams. Before her, my life was simple—detached and lonely but simple. One interaction with her flipped the switch in my mind. Now, I'm an obsessed man. I find myself lusting over the costume designer who is seventeen years my junior. Could she ever be mine? Demons from my past hide under my gruff facade, threatening to spill every time I find myself near her. But I'm quickly learning Vivian is the type of woman to face demons—and have them submit to her will.
Devoted is the second book in the Love and Burlesque Series, a trio of interconnected standalones that focus on each of the Delgado siblings and their HEAs ❤
- GenresM F RomanceContemporary
274 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 27, 2025
16 people are currently reading
113 people want to read
About the author
Van R. Som
3 books45 followersVan R. Som is a tired stay at home mom who runs off romance books and coffee. Located in the hotter-than-hell southwest , she stays inside a lot during the summer and emerges during the fall in a reverse hibernation. She is a first generation Mexican-American eldest daughter writing diverse romance stories.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews
June 23, 2025
Devoted is a book you’re never going to forget. Van R. Som is going to you make to crawl into the book to hug the characters and let them know that everything is going to be alright. Bumpy roads and all, worth it at the end.
June 26, 2025
This was an absolute delight to read and I was completely enraptured from the first page until the last. It is a beautiful story that left me feeling all squishy & happy and made me laugh out loud, cry and swoon along the way.
Vivian is a 26 year old seamstress/artist who works at a burlesque club. She is a gorgeous, dominant queen.
Knight is a 43 year old businessman and secret artist who owns a burlesque club. He is a beautiful, submissive pet.
He is obsessed with her. She is annoyed & confused by him. He does some stalking. She finds out because master criminal he is not. They agree to a secret casual, fun buddies arrangement while we all cackle because we know (even if they won't admit it) that there is nothing casual about this arrangement. And watching them figure it out and stumble along is so fun.
Vivian is a confident, sweet, loving, bright, and witty. She survived growing up with verbally & emotionally abusive parents who didn't like having kids who were gay or bi and she escaped from them a few years earlier to live her own life as she truly is. Knight is no stranger to childhood abuse and has his own past he is dealing with & working through. He comes across as a really gruff, grouchy & grumpy guy but he is actually super sweet & caring and does what he can to take care of people.
They are beautiful individuals and a stunning couple that I adored. Their journey of learning and accepting and loving is so wonderful. Yes, their spicy times are deliciously spicy but their sweet & gentle times are also deliciously sweet. And the cast of supporting characters is so fun, vibrant and loveable.
My brain adored the writing! The banter, the inner dialogues, the quirky characters. So good!
I received this as an ARC and am so grateful because it gave me that push to read someone new I've been wanting to check out. The ARC had zero inlfuence in my review which is based solely in my thoughts and feelings of the story.
Vivian is a 26 year old seamstress/artist who works at a burlesque club. She is a gorgeous, dominant queen.
Knight is a 43 year old businessman and secret artist who owns a burlesque club. He is a beautiful, submissive pet.
He is obsessed with her. She is annoyed & confused by him. He does some stalking. She finds out because master criminal he is not. They agree to a secret casual, fun buddies arrangement while we all cackle because we know (even if they won't admit it) that there is nothing casual about this arrangement. And watching them figure it out and stumble along is so fun.
Vivian is a confident, sweet, loving, bright, and witty. She survived growing up with verbally & emotionally abusive parents who didn't like having kids who were gay or bi and she escaped from them a few years earlier to live her own life as she truly is. Knight is no stranger to childhood abuse and has his own past he is dealing with & working through. He comes across as a really gruff, grouchy & grumpy guy but he is actually super sweet & caring and does what he can to take care of people.
They are beautiful individuals and a stunning couple that I adored. Their journey of learning and accepting and loving is so wonderful. Yes, their spicy times are deliciously spicy but their sweet & gentle times are also deliciously sweet. And the cast of supporting characters is so fun, vibrant and loveable.
My brain adored the writing! The banter, the inner dialogues, the quirky characters. So good!
I received this as an ARC and am so grateful because it gave me that push to read someone new I've been wanting to check out. The ARC had zero inlfuence in my review which is based solely in my thoughts and feelings of the story.
June 25, 2025
What if a dark romance read like a romcom? Here is the answer! Knight is obsessed with Vivian after one interaction with her. But she's his employee, seventeen years younger, and he once had a thing with her brother...so he decides to admire her form afar. More specifically, a tree outside her window...
It's a quick read, and while technically it contains tragic pasts and dark topics (ahem, stalking), these are brushed over quite quickly, so really there isn't much to worry and you can just enjoy watching Viv and Knight dance around each other - a light "in between" romance read.
For me personally, the story was lacking some depth (age gap romance should include a bit more discussion than "we don't care what people think" in my opinion; and how everyone was just like "oh, you're ok with his stalking, well, then we approve as well",and some interactions were a bit too unrealistic), and didn't quite live up to Allured, but I love the Delgado family, so I still finished this way past midnight and am very much looking forward to book three. I thank Van for the arc and will continue to support her!
It's a quick read, and while technically it contains tragic pasts and dark topics (ahem, stalking), these are brushed over quite quickly, so really there isn't much to worry and you can just enjoy watching Viv and Knight dance around each other - a light "in between" romance read.
For me personally, the story was lacking some depth (age gap romance should include a bit more discussion than "we don't care what people think" in my opinion; and how everyone was just like "oh, you're ok with his stalking, well, then we approve as well",and some interactions were a bit too unrealistic), and didn't quite live up to Allured, but I love the Delgado family, so I still finished this way past midnight and am very much looking forward to book three. I thank Van for the arc and will continue to support her!
June 25, 2025
⭐ ARC Review:
A guarded and mysterious club boss develops feelings for a fiery and independent costume designer. Vivan and Knight captured my heart in this book! She's truly the fire to his ice. Knight can't help but get closer to her (bad stalking - he's terrible at it), and aim to be the man she deserves. Vivian isn't sure about him at first, but slowly discovers the man beneath all of that glorious armor. Try as they might, neither could stay away from each other for long.
Devoted was powerful in the ways we see Knight grow and how Vivian chooses to welcome him. He lets Vivian see a side of him that he wouldn't have freely shown to anyone else. The found family that show up for both MCs in this story also took center stage, and nudged our sweet couple even closer together. You can't help but fall even more in love with the Delgado Family by the end of this book.
Absolutely worth the read! Especially if you love a good Age Gap Romance and "riding the stache". Lots of Heat and a beautiful HEA!
A guarded and mysterious club boss develops feelings for a fiery and independent costume designer. Vivan and Knight captured my heart in this book! She's truly the fire to his ice. Knight can't help but get closer to her (bad stalking - he's terrible at it), and aim to be the man she deserves. Vivian isn't sure about him at first, but slowly discovers the man beneath all of that glorious armor. Try as they might, neither could stay away from each other for long.
Devoted was powerful in the ways we see Knight grow and how Vivian chooses to welcome him. He lets Vivian see a side of him that he wouldn't have freely shown to anyone else. The found family that show up for both MCs in this story also took center stage, and nudged our sweet couple even closer together. You can't help but fall even more in love with the Delgado Family by the end of this book.
Absolutely worth the read! Especially if you love a good Age Gap Romance and "riding the stache". Lots of Heat and a beautiful HEA!
June 26, 2025
Rating ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Spice 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Oh sweet sweet Knight! How I love his oaf ish ways!! Knight doesn’t think he deserves Vivian but he still wants her. So what’s a guy to do when he is obessed and she’s off limits… find a tree near her home… right?
Vivian has a little crush on her boss and brother’s best friend Knight. No way that grumpy hunk a man would be into her. Or is he?
Such a fun book and getting to see an overlap to Alek’s story was sweet. I cannot wait for the next book!! There is so much more but I am afraid I already said too much and this is such a cute read you need to feel it for yourself!
#devoted #agegap
#allured #vanrsomauthor #vanrsom #romcom #booksta #booklover #bookworm #bookboyfriend #loveandburlesque #agegapromance
Spice 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Oh sweet sweet Knight! How I love his oaf ish ways!! Knight doesn’t think he deserves Vivian but he still wants her. So what’s a guy to do when he is obessed and she’s off limits… find a tree near her home… right?
Vivian has a little crush on her boss and brother’s best friend Knight. No way that grumpy hunk a man would be into her. Or is he?
Such a fun book and getting to see an overlap to Alek’s story was sweet. I cannot wait for the next book!! There is so much more but I am afraid I already said too much and this is such a cute read you need to feel it for yourself!
#devoted #agegap
#allured #vanrsomauthor #vanrsom #romcom #booksta #booklover #bookworm #bookboyfriend #loveandburlesque #agegapromance
July 1, 2025
4 stars 🌟
3 spice 🌶️
Tropes and Points:
- 1st person, Dual POV
- Low angst
- Boss x Employee
- Age gap
- Fem Dom
- Bad stalking
- He falls first
- Found Family
I saw "bad stalking" as a microtrope for this and signed up immediately!! Knight is kinda a chaos demon and I love that for him.
I absolutely LOVED having an FMC who held a more dominant role in the relationship, it's something I've very rarely seen, but it makes the dynamic so much more fun in my opinion. Vivian was an absolute baddie and I love her!🫶🏼
The writing is quite poetic, which I actually think paired really well with the silliness and rom-com aspect - I had many many giggles!!
Funny. Sweet. Spicy. All the things a cute book needs!!🫶🏼💕
3 spice 🌶️
Tropes and Points:
- 1st person, Dual POV
- Low angst
- Boss x Employee
- Age gap
- Fem Dom
- Bad stalking
- He falls first
- Found Family
I saw "bad stalking" as a microtrope for this and signed up immediately!! Knight is kinda a chaos demon and I love that for him.
I absolutely LOVED having an FMC who held a more dominant role in the relationship, it's something I've very rarely seen, but it makes the dynamic so much more fun in my opinion. Vivian was an absolute baddie and I love her!🫶🏼
The writing is quite poetic, which I actually think paired really well with the silliness and rom-com aspect - I had many many giggles!!
Funny. Sweet. Spicy. All the things a cute book needs!!🫶🏼💕
June 27, 2025
Absolutely loved this! The tension between Vivian and Knight was just the cherry on top, perfect for the story. I was completely captivated by Vivian, and I found myself wanting even more of her! I don’t often come across characters like her, which hooked me throughout the story. After devouring the first two books, I’m beyond excited for the third. I just know it’s going to be incredible!
Thank you so much for the opportunity to be an ARC reader!
Thank you so much for the opportunity to be an ARC reader!
June 27, 2025
“Only so many boundaries can be crossed before my stalking really makes me the villain.”
Holy guacamole! I am beyond obsessed with Knight and Vivian (almost as obsessed as they are with each other) this book has it all, stalking, true love, grumpyxsunshine, age gap, pegging, boss x employee and a raccoon
This book will take you absolutely no time to read because you will not want to put it down. The scenes between the two of them are so spicy you have to read them while applying burn cream.
If you enjoy books that make you laugh, cry and squirm in your seat this is the book for you!
Holy guacamole! I am beyond obsessed with Knight and Vivian (almost as obsessed as they are with each other) this book has it all, stalking, true love, grumpyxsunshine, age gap, pegging, boss x employee and a raccoon
This book will take you absolutely no time to read because you will not want to put it down. The scenes between the two of them are so spicy you have to read them while applying burn cream.
If you enjoy books that make you laugh, cry and squirm in your seat this is the book for you!
June 28, 2025
What can I say, I thoroughly enjoyed this.
I laughed a lot at the whole story and dynamic between the characters, this is a true Rom-Com.
As part of the Love and Burlesque series, this is book 2 of a set of interconnected standalones focusing on each of the Delgado siblings. There isn't a necessity to read book 1 (Allured) first but I feel like it would explain a few plot points that arise in book 2.
Although this isn't exactly a dark romance, there are content warnings due to past experiences, stalking and the kinkier side of the story, so please read them before reading the book.
Knight Adler, our grumpy MMC, gives total Pedro Pascal looks with a Henry Cavil build, moustache Daddy for the win! He tries to be all stoic and serious but he's a real softy and a total goof-ball. His attempts at stalking his new obsession are just adorable and his run in with Nosferatu is priceless.
The way he genuinely cares about Vivian but is so scared to actually admit he's fallen for her is so cute and a really refreshing look at this kind of relationship. He carries his own dark secrets but they're the kind of secrets that make you love him more.
Vivian Delgado, a curvy, sassy mouthed FMC with her own secrets to share, is a brilliantly written character and the way she looks at Knight and wants to take care of him is beautiful. I love the sexual dynamic between these two and the exploration of a D/s relationship that isn't the norm we see in a lot of romance.
The setting is perfect for the story and you can see where things are heading but not so much that it becomes cliché and boring. I'd certainly like to read more about the BDSM Magician and the sexy male dancers.
The spice is delectable due to the dynamic Knight and Vivian have and when Knight gives in to his needs, it's just *chef's kiss*
I will be going back and reading Allured and look forward to reading book 3 when that comes out too. I think Van has done a fantastic job exploring a new, fun side of darkness with different dynamics and representation throughout. And who doesn't love a feral racoon that becomes a pet and an integral part of the story.
I will give this a 3.5 chilli rating due to the D/s vibes and certain kinky spice.
I laughed a lot at the whole story and dynamic between the characters, this is a true Rom-Com.
As part of the Love and Burlesque series, this is book 2 of a set of interconnected standalones focusing on each of the Delgado siblings. There isn't a necessity to read book 1 (Allured) first but I feel like it would explain a few plot points that arise in book 2.
Although this isn't exactly a dark romance, there are content warnings due to past experiences, stalking and the kinkier side of the story, so please read them before reading the book.
Knight Adler, our grumpy MMC, gives total Pedro Pascal looks with a Henry Cavil build, moustache Daddy for the win! He tries to be all stoic and serious but he's a real softy and a total goof-ball. His attempts at stalking his new obsession are just adorable and his run in with Nosferatu is priceless.
The way he genuinely cares about Vivian but is so scared to actually admit he's fallen for her is so cute and a really refreshing look at this kind of relationship. He carries his own dark secrets but they're the kind of secrets that make you love him more.
Vivian Delgado, a curvy, sassy mouthed FMC with her own secrets to share, is a brilliantly written character and the way she looks at Knight and wants to take care of him is beautiful. I love the sexual dynamic between these two and the exploration of a D/s relationship that isn't the norm we see in a lot of romance.
The setting is perfect for the story and you can see where things are heading but not so much that it becomes cliché and boring. I'd certainly like to read more about the BDSM Magician and the sexy male dancers.
The spice is delectable due to the dynamic Knight and Vivian have and when Knight gives in to his needs, it's just *chef's kiss*
I will be going back and reading Allured and look forward to reading book 3 when that comes out too. I think Van has done a fantastic job exploring a new, fun side of darkness with different dynamics and representation throughout. And who doesn't love a feral racoon that becomes a pet and an integral part of the story.
I will give this a 3.5 chilli rating due to the D/s vibes and certain kinky spice.
June 26, 2025
Omfggggggggg Van R Som slayed with this one aswell. If you loved book 1 omgggg people you’ll love book 2 even more. ❤️Cause hello? The chemistry the tension a the plot was everything!!😝😍😍 This book was so good that it hooked me in from the moment I started it till to the end and 🙏🙏 Our MC’s Vivian and Knight had me in a chokehold especially Kinght cause damnnnn you hot asf !! 😝😝 I wish I could read this book for the first time😭😭 cause hello? I need more. Alsoooo heheheheheh I can’t wait for the third book in the series cause yess I need it like I need air 😭😭
Tropes
Age gap
Boss x employee
So much tension
Fem Dom
Found family
Bad stalking
Secret relationship
He falls first
Book 2 in the Love & Burlesque series 🩷🩷
Tropes
Age gap
Boss x employee
So much tension
Fem Dom
Found family
Bad stalking
Secret relationship
He falls first
Book 2 in the Love & Burlesque series 🩷🩷
June 27, 2025
I love them
When he says things like “Do you believe I want to be thinking of you at all hours of the day and dreaming of only you at night? You are everywhere, and it makes me feel insane," and thinks things like "I hopelessly miss her anger " and "A blood oath to my queen."
Knight and Vivian are adorable. It was definitely a pretty different journey here than Alek and Ez(Allured), but it was so much fun, and there was so much swoon.
They resist at first, despite admitting to themselves that they are interesting. Well, Knight resists. And, apparently, sans any grace or much forethought, attempts to stalk Vivian(it's not a secret for long as he's not good at it).
There's some secret dating. There's some sharing of secrets and trauma. There is lots of love. A raccoon named Nosferatu. And something pink and shiny. 🤭
We get glimpses of Alek and Ez being adorable.
And I'm gonna cry at all the hints to the pairing in the third book cause I was right, and I am SO EXCITED! 🎉🎉
Thank you, Van, for the opportunity to read these books. And I hope I catch the posts for book 3 also. 🥰
When he says things like “Do you believe I want to be thinking of you at all hours of the day and dreaming of only you at night? You are everywhere, and it makes me feel insane," and thinks things like "I hopelessly miss her anger " and "A blood oath to my queen."
Knight and Vivian are adorable. It was definitely a pretty different journey here than Alek and Ez(Allured), but it was so much fun, and there was so much swoon.
They resist at first, despite admitting to themselves that they are interesting. Well, Knight resists. And, apparently, sans any grace or much forethought, attempts to stalk Vivian(it's not a secret for long as he's not good at it).
There's some secret dating. There's some sharing of secrets and trauma. There is lots of love. A raccoon named Nosferatu. And something pink and shiny. 🤭
We get glimpses of Alek and Ez being adorable.
And I'm gonna cry at all the hints to the pairing in the third book cause I was right, and I am SO EXCITED! 🎉🎉
Thank you, Van, for the opportunity to read these books. And I hope I catch the posts for book 3 also. 🥰
June 14, 2025
Ever since reading Van's debut book, I've been eagerly awaiting for her next installments. And devoted did not disappoint. Following another of the Delgado siblings, Vivian is a fashion design major and seamstress working at the same burlesque club as her brothers. She's fierce, protective, and a little into the unhinged. But I mean who isn't. And of course she has a big ol' crush on her older boss. Who may or may not be already obsessed with her. Knight is our big grump who is secretly a submissive softie. I loved their relationship. Seemingly starting off rocky because they just seem to bicker all the time and end up pissing each other off. Knight slowly starts to slip in his minor stalking, literally and figuratively.
They end up being what each other needs with Vivian slowly breaking down his walls and Knight actually treating her like the adult she is. They find solace in each other by letting themselves bear the weight of their trauma and healing from it. I loved this book and I loved these characters.
They end up being what each other needs with Vivian slowly breaking down his walls and Knight actually treating her like the adult she is. They find solace in each other by letting themselves bear the weight of their trauma and healing from it. I loved this book and I loved these characters.
June 27, 2025
thank you so much for the arc of this amazing read 😚
if you’re looking for a workplace rom-com with an age gap, a bi latina fmc, a grumpy mmc, tension and a raccoon named nosferatu, this is exactly what you need!
this book had me giggling, swooning, screaming and cackling 🤭
ugh i’m absolutely in love with knight!! his way with words, his humor, him>>> when he was in the tree with nosferatu, i was crying from how hard i was laughing omg. he comes off as grumpy but this man is such a sweetheart 🥹 he’s so obsessed with vivian and it’s just the cutest thing to see!! and did i mention he’s a sub? 🤭 the epilogue was so freaking cute, he’s just the perfect man i’m convinced! he had me giggling and kicking my feet the whole damn time
vivian has me in a chokehold!! she is just so dreamy and i love her 😍 she’s so talented omg?? her confidence and bubbly personality had me falling for her almost immediately! she takes shit from no one and i absolutely love that. her taking lead always had me like “yes ma’am” 🫠😩 she’s could stab me with her fabric scissors ANY DAY. i’m so in love with her ugh
the banter and tension between viv and knight had me deceased y’all 😩
i love domingo so much, he had me dead and in love 🤣😍 nosferatu took me out pls 😭 i wanna work at the club with all of them, it just sounds so fun!! seeing alek and ezekiel together and so in love had my heart squeezing with love omg 🥹
girl, you absolutely devoured with this book and i love knight and vivian so much 🥹🖤
if you’re looking for a workplace rom-com with an age gap, a bi latina fmc, a grumpy mmc, tension and a raccoon named nosferatu, this is exactly what you need!
this book had me giggling, swooning, screaming and cackling 🤭
ugh i’m absolutely in love with knight!! his way with words, his humor, him>>> when he was in the tree with nosferatu, i was crying from how hard i was laughing omg. he comes off as grumpy but this man is such a sweetheart 🥹 he’s so obsessed with vivian and it’s just the cutest thing to see!! and did i mention he’s a sub? 🤭 the epilogue was so freaking cute, he’s just the perfect man i’m convinced! he had me giggling and kicking my feet the whole damn time
vivian has me in a chokehold!! she is just so dreamy and i love her 😍 she’s so talented omg?? her confidence and bubbly personality had me falling for her almost immediately! she takes shit from no one and i absolutely love that. her taking lead always had me like “yes ma’am” 🫠😩 she’s could stab me with her fabric scissors ANY DAY. i’m so in love with her ugh
the banter and tension between viv and knight had me deceased y’all 😩
i love domingo so much, he had me dead and in love 🤣😍 nosferatu took me out pls 😭 i wanna work at the club with all of them, it just sounds so fun!! seeing alek and ezekiel together and so in love had my heart squeezing with love omg 🥹
girl, you absolutely devoured with this book and i love knight and vivian so much 🥹🖤
June 19, 2025
I had the pleasure of being an Alpha reader for this book. I have to say this is one of my favorites of the year so far.
While I loved the first book in the series. I have to say Knight and Queen....I mean Viv, stole my heart.
These two are perfect for one another. This is my first age gap romance and she hit it out of the park.
If you love angst, boss romance, stalker (he's bad at it), a strong FMC, plus size FMC and a hunky mustache on your MMC then this is for you.
I do advise you read trigger warnings as there are some heavy topics.
While I loved the first book in the series. I have to say Knight and Queen....I mean Viv, stole my heart.
These two are perfect for one another. This is my first age gap romance and she hit it out of the park.
If you love angst, boss romance, stalker (he's bad at it), a strong FMC, plus size FMC and a hunky mustache on your MMC then this is for you.
I do advise you read trigger warnings as there are some heavy topics.
June 23, 2025
After everything he's been through, Knight has built a castle around his heart. As soon as he sees Vivian in his club for the first time , he's obsessed with her. Trying to stay away seems impossible, but he's determined to only ever admire her from afar. But Vivian has other plans with her grumpy, older boss....
These two 🥹!! I love them so much. The way their characters complete each other, how patient Vivian is with Knight who has a bit of a hard time coming to terms with opening up and letting Vivian in fully. So sweet and lovely! I loved that the age gap never really was an issue between these two, but merely addressed as such and moved in from. If you want a book with laugh out loud moments, swoon worthy characters, found family, hurt and comfort and amazing spice, you should definitely put "Devoted" on your TBR!!
These two 🥹!! I love them so much. The way their characters complete each other, how patient Vivian is with Knight who has a bit of a hard time coming to terms with opening up and letting Vivian in fully. So sweet and lovely! I loved that the age gap never really was an issue between these two, but merely addressed as such and moved in from. If you want a book with laugh out loud moments, swoon worthy characters, found family, hurt and comfort and amazing spice, you should definitely put "Devoted" on your TBR!!
June 27, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.75
🌶🌶🌶🌶
I absolutely loved the chemistry between Vivian and Knight!
The one thing I love in books is how they make friendship a wholesome and safe place and the author did just that in this book. I love how supportive Emma was and did not judge Vivian for loving a person who is different. And I love how Knight's friends try to guide him towards the right path without letting him know about it.
This is a very wholesome book and I really loved the cameo appearances that Ezekeil and Alek made throughout the book.
The book also highlighted how cruel and how loving parents can be and how necessary it is to send up for ourselves or have people around us who understand us and aren't afraid to take our side.
In all, I enjoyed this book, and I can't wait for whatever comes next!
Tropes-
Workplace Romance
Boss X Employee
He Falls First
Secret Relationship
Found Family
Bad Stalking
Fem Dom
🌶🌶🌶🌶
I absolutely loved the chemistry between Vivian and Knight!
The one thing I love in books is how they make friendship a wholesome and safe place and the author did just that in this book. I love how supportive Emma was and did not judge Vivian for loving a person who is different. And I love how Knight's friends try to guide him towards the right path without letting him know about it.
This is a very wholesome book and I really loved the cameo appearances that Ezekeil and Alek made throughout the book.
The book also highlighted how cruel and how loving parents can be and how necessary it is to send up for ourselves or have people around us who understand us and aren't afraid to take our side.
In all, I enjoyed this book, and I can't wait for whatever comes next!
Tropes-
Workplace Romance
Boss X Employee
He Falls First
Secret Relationship
Found Family
Bad Stalking
Fem Dom
June 17, 2025
ARC REVIEW - 4.75 ⭐️
"I was frightened, and my first thought was to come and see you." - Knight
I am a sucker for love by choice. The decision to choose your person even in fear is wholesome. It's raw. It's beautiful.
It was fun and easy falling in love with Knight and Vivian. The chemistry was there, and so was "fate" (aka stalking - as Ezekiel would say). I hope anyone who reads this chooses love over and over again. We all deserve and need it. And I hope you get your Knight to your Vivian and vice versa.
Cheers to Devoted and to Van. I deeply enjoyed this ARC.
"I was frightened, and my first thought was to come and see you." - Knight
I am a sucker for love by choice. The decision to choose your person even in fear is wholesome. It's raw. It's beautiful.
It was fun and easy falling in love with Knight and Vivian. The chemistry was there, and so was "fate" (aka stalking - as Ezekiel would say). I hope anyone who reads this chooses love over and over again. We all deserve and need it. And I hope you get your Knight to your Vivian and vice versa.
Cheers to Devoted and to Van. I deeply enjoyed this ARC.
June 25, 2025
“And honestly? I would give her whatever she wanted. I would bare my all to her and show her my secrets. If only she commanded it.”
I always have it down BAD for a grump who is a softy for his girl! Not only is Knight almost 17 years older than Vivian, but he’s also her boss. The instant attraction makes Knight not only want to SUBMIT but also makes him a little obsessed. From things like working in her office (when she’s not there) just to feel close to her … to things like falling out of the tree in her yard just to watch her. Little does he know, she’s got it down bad for him too! When a secret romance starts between these tortured souls.. they realize how much they need each other to heal.
St@lker, Age Gap, Workplace Romance, Acceptance, Found Family, 1st person/Dual POV
I always have it down BAD for a grump who is a softy for his girl! Not only is Knight almost 17 years older than Vivian, but he’s also her boss. The instant attraction makes Knight not only want to SUBMIT but also makes him a little obsessed. From things like working in her office (when she’s not there) just to feel close to her … to things like falling out of the tree in her yard just to watch her. Little does he know, she’s got it down bad for him too! When a secret romance starts between these tortured souls.. they realize how much they need each other to heal.
St@lker, Age Gap, Workplace Romance, Acceptance, Found Family, 1st person/Dual POV
June 18, 2025
YES OLDER MEN FOR THE WIN! 🙂↕️
Okay but seriously—I loved Vivian in this one and how she was written/paired with Knight. Their entire dynamic throughout the book made them feel so realistic, and they were just perfect together!
Okay but seriously—I loved Vivian in this one and how she was written/paired with Knight. Their entire dynamic throughout the book made them feel so realistic, and they were just perfect together!
June 27, 2025
ARC review
I really enjoyed this! Devoted is the second installment in the Love and Burlesque series. It's a standalone but I'd highly recommend Allured as it was one of my favorite books of 2025 so far.
Devoted follows Knight and Vivian. Grumpy stalkerish boss and confident costume designer, respectively. Both pining and obsessing over each other, some more obsessively and unhingedly than others. The stalking is bad (both morally and literally), but so funny. The push and pull and tension works, although I found myself wanting things to progress a bit faster.
Vivian and Knight were such enjoyable characters, and meeting all the side characters again that are familiar from Allured was a highlight. The spicy parts were hot, and I found myself really enjoying it even though femdom isn't always my thing.
This was a hit on many fronts, but mainly the pacing made me rate it 4⭐️. That said I'd absolutely recommend it to anyone who enjoys:
🌹 Age gap
🌹 Boss x Employee
🌹 Found family
🌹 Bad stalking
🌹 Fem dom
🌹 He falls first
A big thank you to the author for the ARC!
I really enjoyed this! Devoted is the second installment in the Love and Burlesque series. It's a standalone but I'd highly recommend Allured as it was one of my favorite books of 2025 so far.
Devoted follows Knight and Vivian. Grumpy stalkerish boss and confident costume designer, respectively. Both pining and obsessing over each other, some more obsessively and unhingedly than others. The stalking is bad (both morally and literally), but so funny. The push and pull and tension works, although I found myself wanting things to progress a bit faster.
Vivian and Knight were such enjoyable characters, and meeting all the side characters again that are familiar from Allured was a highlight. The spicy parts were hot, and I found myself really enjoying it even though femdom isn't always my thing.
This was a hit on many fronts, but mainly the pacing made me rate it 4⭐️. That said I'd absolutely recommend it to anyone who enjoys:
🌹 Age gap
🌹 Boss x Employee
🌹 Found family
🌹 Bad stalking
🌹 Fem dom
🌹 He falls first
A big thank you to the author for the ARC!
June 29, 2025
HOLY.HOT.DAMNNNN 🥵This was kind of a boss/employee romance where Knight is older than Vivian which honestly? It made the story more steamier because HE falls first, HE is the obsessive one and HE is a little bit of a stalker (who sucks at it btw) but the was that Vivian is the more dominant one in the relationship and ours Knight to his knees was just so powerful!! And the spice 🥵 especially towards the end there’s a certain scene that had me with wanting to take Knights place!!
July 15, 2025
I am not sure who I am more interested in, Knight or Viv. Let's just be honest, I want to join them both!
This book makes the world feel like a better place!
Such a fun and quick read. I am also glad we got a glimpse into what is going on with our MCs from Allured!!
This book makes the world feel like a better place!
Such a fun and quick read. I am also glad we got a glimpse into what is going on with our MCs from Allured!!
July 22, 2025
Vivian’s confidence is everything!! I loved the way she always outsmarted Knight. Vivian’s honesty made this story easy to read. Knight being a sub made complete sense to me and Dom 😂
Nosferatu having a happy ending was the cherry on top.
Nosferatu having a happy ending was the cherry on top.
June 17, 2025
Such a fun ride!
Forbidden love.
Secret love.
Workplace romance.
He’s an obsessed sub, she’s into all of him!
They’re both healing from childhood trauma and see each other for who they truly are!
It’s spicy and fun and they work at a burlesque club, you should expect nothing less!!
Forbidden love.
Secret love.
Workplace romance.
He’s an obsessed sub, she’s into all of him!
They’re both healing from childhood trauma and see each other for who they truly are!
It’s spicy and fun and they work at a burlesque club, you should expect nothing less!!
July 1, 2025
I absolutely ate up the power dynamic of Viv dominating Knight, and the way he finally felt comfortable with her in a way he never has with anyone. Both Vivian and Knight have been through a lot and it was so special to see their romance blossom and watch them let their guards down (Knight especially). Knight was a terrible st@lker but it was fun to read nonetheless, and I love how much that turned Viv on 🤪
Viv is so confident and comfortable with herself and l'd love to eventually be more like her in my own life ❤️
Viv is so confident and comfortable with herself and l'd love to eventually be more like her in my own life ❤️
July 1, 2025
A dark romance with an age gap, stalking and a workplace relationship that reads like a romcom?! Yes please!! This book was amazing and had me fully entertained from start to finish! I love that for Knight it’s very second chancey and that Vivian happens to just fill all his cracks perfectly 🖤🖤 very well done and cannot wait for book 3
June 26, 2025
Absolutely devoured this age-gap romance!
Knight and Viv’s story is both intricate and beautiful. Their forbidden romance (boss, brother's ex-lover sorta, and cousin to her brother's fiance) added tension and excitement to each steamy moment. I love how Viv knows who she is and doesn't allow anyone to dull her shine. The obsession Knight has with his queen is hilarious to watch unfold through his terrible attempts at stalking, to his use of her workspace, all so he can be near her in some way. I appreciate the celebration and adoration of bigger bodies, both male and female, something I haven't come across in other romances. Looking forward to the last book in this trio and know it will be filled Van's signature blend of spice and swoony romance!
Knight and Viv’s story is both intricate and beautiful. Their forbidden romance (boss, brother's ex-lover sorta, and cousin to her brother's fiance) added tension and excitement to each steamy moment. I love how Viv knows who she is and doesn't allow anyone to dull her shine. The obsession Knight has with his queen is hilarious to watch unfold through his terrible attempts at stalking, to his use of her workspace, all so he can be near her in some way. I appreciate the celebration and adoration of bigger bodies, both male and female, something I haven't come across in other romances. Looking forward to the last book in this trio and know it will be filled Van's signature blend of spice and swoony romance!
June 30, 2025
This read was so sweet and funny. I love Knight. He was such a gruff grumpy goose, lol. But he worships Vivian as his Queen and cannot get enough of her. His shenanigans in keeping tabs on her, being close to her, being around her things, these red flags turned comedic made me laugh and made this an entertaining romcom. Especially once Vivian catches on and uses it to her advantage.
Vivian is a girl who has worked hard to know her worth and I loved how she was so confident in her body and such a femdom over Knight. He definitely was the quintessential sub with craving letting go of control. Loved their dynamic in the bedroom!
They each have difficult pasts that added some angst and gave them some obstacles to work though but overall this is a low angst read. I love a cast of characters and enjoyed the glimpses we got of Vivian’s brothers and Knights family. I’m definitely looking forward to the next book in the series.
*honest ARC Review*
Vivian is a girl who has worked hard to know her worth and I loved how she was so confident in her body and such a femdom over Knight. He definitely was the quintessential sub with craving letting go of control. Loved their dynamic in the bedroom!
They each have difficult pasts that added some angst and gave them some obstacles to work though but overall this is a low angst read. I love a cast of characters and enjoyed the glimpses we got of Vivian’s brothers and Knights family. I’m definitely looking forward to the next book in the series.
*honest ARC Review*
July 12, 2025
Continue the series; I'm into that, and one of the most anticipated reads that year is this one, of course. Devoted is amazing, more after I read the novella on the plane after my moving on. So I need too much to remember them and also want to know more about Viv and Knight. Viv is mi reina, carajo.
Maybe I'm a little too late, but here I am. I continue that awesome series that makes that awesome discovery. Devoted is the second book in the 'Love and Burlesque' series of three interconnected stand-alones with HEA, where we follow the adventures of Delgado's trio with Alek in the first one, Viv in that second and our lovely Thomas in the third one. In this one, we get deep into Vivian, the little sibling of Delgado trio, and how he get into love with his grumpy Mister Mustache boss, and how the things are for both sides, and we can see a new side of Knight that we didn't expect because if she falls, he falls harder! But also, there's a 17-year age gap between them, but is something can’t deny between them.
That’s absolutely what I want and more, is just awesome, and perfect as it was knowing more about Viv is superb and amazing, also see more of Knight is awesome because I love him a lot in first one, and need to be involved it, and after read it, of course I love he has his happy ending HE DESERVES IT and my little queen too. Viv is more than I expected, impressive and reading her the more related I think with his taste, loving his bookish side. Knight the same, is fantastic to see more of that grumpy big man, a lot, makes me loves him more. The yearning, the submission, is so freaking delicious, the way he gets more layers to be how he is, the deep relationship with Ezequiel and what happened after the performance is just PERFECTION. The dynamic of Morticia and Gomez between them, is something wonderful, also they see it the love of that type of gothic romance. Also makes me love it a lot Domingo, is super cool and being a magician is too good, I’m so excited about his way to be and art and how easily he reads Knight. Of course, so glad to see the glances of the next book, I know something with Em because DESERVES to be treated well, Thomas too and Rhett, knowing something between them but then that, uff…
I really like that seeing those two as a couple, the little funny stalking I really love how make it into rom com so hilarious, Nosferatu is so lovely and adore it in the end, after all is a friend too. One of my favorites reads of this year, so good for the summer.
Maybe I'm a little too late, but here I am. I continue that awesome series that makes that awesome discovery. Devoted is the second book in the 'Love and Burlesque' series of three interconnected stand-alones with HEA, where we follow the adventures of Delgado's trio with Alek in the first one, Viv in that second and our lovely Thomas in the third one. In this one, we get deep into Vivian, the little sibling of Delgado trio, and how he get into love with his grumpy Mister Mustache boss, and how the things are for both sides, and we can see a new side of Knight that we didn't expect because if she falls, he falls harder! But also, there's a 17-year age gap between them, but is something can’t deny between them.
That’s absolutely what I want and more, is just awesome, and perfect as it was knowing more about Viv is superb and amazing, also see more of Knight is awesome because I love him a lot in first one, and need to be involved it, and after read it, of course I love he has his happy ending HE DESERVES IT and my little queen too. Viv is more than I expected, impressive and reading her the more related I think with his taste, loving his bookish side. Knight the same, is fantastic to see more of that grumpy big man, a lot, makes me loves him more. The yearning, the submission, is so freaking delicious, the way he gets more layers to be how he is, the deep relationship with Ezequiel and what happened after the performance is just PERFECTION. The dynamic of Morticia and Gomez between them, is something wonderful, also they see it the love of that type of gothic romance. Also makes me love it a lot Domingo, is super cool and being a magician is too good, I’m so excited about his way to be and art and how easily he reads Knight. Of course, so glad to see the glances of the next book, I know something with Em because DESERVES to be treated well, Thomas too and Rhett, knowing something between them but then that, uff…
I really like that seeing those two as a couple, the little funny stalking I really love how make it into rom com so hilarious, Nosferatu is so lovely and adore it in the end, after all is a friend too. One of my favorites reads of this year, so good for the summer.
June 19, 2025
Learning to Love Loudly 💼💘
Devoted by Van R Som gave me a sweet, spicy mix of romance and personal growth that I really appreciated 💗. I loved how the story explored vulnerability, especially from a male character who’s used to being in control and the boss — that’s always such a treat to read. And Vivian? She’s honestly the star of the show — strong, self-assured, and someone who absolutely knows her worth (which is so refreshing to see!). This book has its own unique charm and a few twists that kept things interesting. It had that quiet kind of depth that sneaks up on you the more you read 💫
What I Loved About This Book:
💪 Vivian is a Queen
Can we talk about her confidence?! Vivian is strong, fierce, and radiates self-worth. I love a woman who knows exactly what she brings to the table — she doesn’t wait for permission to be powerful, she just is. That kind of energy is always inspiring.
🫶 He Falls First (My Fave!)
There’s something so heart-squishy about watching a man fall first — especially when he’s the one who’s emotionally closed off and trying to resist it. Seeing him slowly accept that he’s worthy of love? Ugh, my soft spot. I adore a man on a journey of self-discovery. 🥹💘
👩💼💼 Boss/Employee Dynamic with a Twist
It’s a classic setup, but here, it feels layered. There’s the tension, sure — but also a depth to their relationship that’s built through learning and growing, especially on his side. And the found family element made things feel safe, even when secrets were flying around!
That being said why 3 stars...
Okay, if I’m being honest, I didn’t feel the spark I hoped for. Especially after book one — Alek & Ezkiel set the bar high! This one felt a bit more distant emotionally, and I just didn’t click with their chemistry in the same way. Still good, just not a perfect fit for me 💫.
The Tropes:
Age Gap
💖 He Falls First
💼 Boss * Employee
🔥 Fem Dom
🫂 Found Family
🤫 Secret Relationship
😬 Bad Stalking (just... yeah)
So while Devoted didn’t quite capture my heart like the first book, it still delivered a powerful female lead, a soft-yet-stubborn hero learning to love, and a spicy, emotional ride through secrets, self-growth, and found family. If you love a slightly angsty boss romance with heart and heat, this one might just be your vibe 💕.
Devoted by Van R Som gave me a sweet, spicy mix of romance and personal growth that I really appreciated 💗. I loved how the story explored vulnerability, especially from a male character who’s used to being in control and the boss — that’s always such a treat to read. And Vivian? She’s honestly the star of the show — strong, self-assured, and someone who absolutely knows her worth (which is so refreshing to see!). This book has its own unique charm and a few twists that kept things interesting. It had that quiet kind of depth that sneaks up on you the more you read 💫
What I Loved About This Book:
💪 Vivian is a Queen
Can we talk about her confidence?! Vivian is strong, fierce, and radiates self-worth. I love a woman who knows exactly what she brings to the table — she doesn’t wait for permission to be powerful, she just is. That kind of energy is always inspiring.
🫶 He Falls First (My Fave!)
There’s something so heart-squishy about watching a man fall first — especially when he’s the one who’s emotionally closed off and trying to resist it. Seeing him slowly accept that he’s worthy of love? Ugh, my soft spot. I adore a man on a journey of self-discovery. 🥹💘
👩💼💼 Boss/Employee Dynamic with a Twist
It’s a classic setup, but here, it feels layered. There’s the tension, sure — but also a depth to their relationship that’s built through learning and growing, especially on his side. And the found family element made things feel safe, even when secrets were flying around!
That being said why 3 stars...
Okay, if I’m being honest, I didn’t feel the spark I hoped for. Especially after book one — Alek & Ezkiel set the bar high! This one felt a bit more distant emotionally, and I just didn’t click with their chemistry in the same way. Still good, just not a perfect fit for me 💫.
The Tropes:
Age Gap
💖 He Falls First
💼 Boss * Employee
🔥 Fem Dom
🫂 Found Family
🤫 Secret Relationship
😬 Bad Stalking (just... yeah)
So while Devoted didn’t quite capture my heart like the first book, it still delivered a powerful female lead, a soft-yet-stubborn hero learning to love, and a spicy, emotional ride through secrets, self-growth, and found family. If you love a slightly angsty boss romance with heart and heat, this one might just be your vibe 💕.
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