Flaming Hearts

Luxe Escape #2

by Red Phoenix

Imagine a place where your fantasies become reality

I'm Sophie Lane. Ever since the party at the Luxe Escape, my life has become a whirlwind of new experiences! Weekly challenges that test my body, international travel, and scorching hot scenes that have me begging for more.
I feel stronger.
I feel empowered.
I feel like I'm teetering on the edge…
Sometimes you have to crash and burn before you can soar, right?

Luxuriously rich and deliciously sexy!

258 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 20, 2025

About the author

USA Today Bestselling Author

Red Phoenix is an award-winning romance author who gained popularity with her BDSM series, Brie's Submission.
To join in the Brie experience begin with the 1st Boxed Set (Books 1-3) and start your journey into a sensual world...

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Reviews

[Jahda · Rating 3 out of 5]

Ehhh it’s dragging a bit to me

[Karen Komarinski · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sophie Lane is holding her breath hoping she is not the student being left go before the board the plain for their first auction, to her nemesis Charles Nash surprise another student is not only let go, but asked for her KeyCard for the Luxe Escape. I never could imagine loving another submission train center as much as I loved Bries story without feeling guilty, but I was wrong. Flaming Hearts to me is a love letter to the characters that came before them. I love Sophie and watching her grow and the friendship she has with Gwen, they both have a learning moment which could of broken them & their friendship but it strengthens it & neither give up their journeys. I’m so excited for new readers to go on Sophie training center journey meeting new trainers but meeting mentors, Doms, Subs & trainers from Brie & Sir. I smiled with Anton’s Piano lesson and cried as they toasted their loved one’s with vodka & a Pickle.
I love how surprised Sophie gets when she realizes that all the trainers have her best interest and believe in her abilities. So many old friends show up and it’s such a delight. If you thought teasing flames left you with your mouth hanging open & you think whattttt????This ending made me smile but i can’t believe you’re going to make us all wait until May 2026 to find out what happens. Thank you again Red Phoenix for another amazing story with Characters that touch your heart & stay with you!

[Mache · Rating 5 out of 5]

Flaming Hearts is a powerful continuation of Sophie Lane’s journey—a story steeped in self-discovery, emotional vulnerability, and the difficult but necessary lessons that come with learning who you are and what you truly need. Red Phoenix deepens the intensity of the series in this installment, showing Sophie caught between the excitement of possibility and the weight of her own fears.

As Sophie takes her next steps in submissive training, the book shines brightest in its exploration of trust and communication. Phoenix doesn’t shy away from the reality that intimacy—especially in this dynamic—requires honesty, openness, and a willingness to let go. For someone like Sophie, whose trust issues run deep, these lessons hit hard. And that internal struggle becomes one of the most compelling parts of the story.

Her stubbornness, her instinct to protect herself, and her habit of pulling back when things get too real all create both tension and heartbreak. But they also make her growth incredibly satisfying. Sophie begins to uncover parts of herself she never allowed to surface, and the result is empowering, messy, and beautifully human. The book captures the idea that sometimes you have to crash, lose control, and confront the fire head-on before you can rise stronger.

Flaming Hearts balances vulnerability and empowerment in a way that feels raw yet hopeful. Sophie’s journey is far from easy, but watching her challenge herself, fight her fears, and slowly step into her power makes this second installment a captivating and emotional read.

A bold, intimate continuation that shows growth isn’t always graceful, but it’s always worth it.

[Heather Miller · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sophie Lane is a piano teacher by day. But, a student at the BDSM club Luxe Escape. Sophie has always been the shy timid wallflower girl. She doesn't want to stand out. She doesn't want to have anyone attention on her for too long. In book #1, Teasing Flames we saw her come out of her shell a little bit and be more open to what she wants from life. We saw her going Luxe Escape for the first time for the BDSM classes. Now in book #2, they are exploring the fantasties they are writing down in the books they are given during class. Will Sophie write what she wants? Will she be able to work through her struggles during the classes?

Sophie's best friend was in her own play / musical on Broadway but now that the main actress is back, her friend Gwen is no longer on stage for a 'main' part. Sophie doesn't like that Gwen is being pushed aside. But, what can either of them do?

Will Sophie be able to work on her trust issues through Luxe?

This is a shorter novella length book.

Thank you Ms. Red Phoenix for a ARC review copy.

[Sue · Rating 5 out of 5]

Flaming Hearts is the second part of the new series from Red Phoenix. Told in first person, we continue to see Sophie, her friend Gwen and the New York Submissive Training Center trainers along with other students and past characters from the Brie series. Those from the Brie series are a welcome part. I hope we see more of them in future books. Sophie’s interactions with the others was interesting to see. I enjoyed seeing her support of her friend Gwen and encouragement of the others in her class. It was a relatively quick read and did leave you hanging slightly at the end. There are other installments to come so you can predict some of what is coming. This book is much like the Brie series with different people yet a somewhat different feel to it. I enjoyed continuing to get to know or meet the characters as Sophie continues the course. I look forward to seeing what the future brings for all of the students and teachers at the STC. I received an ARC copy of this book and this is my freely given review.

[Laura · Rating 4 out of 5]

Extravagant fantasy

In Flaming Hearts, we return to the ARC-New York, and Sophie Lane as she continues her journey into BDSM.

The trainees experience their first auctions, Luxe Escape Style. And Sophie comes face to face with a trigger that she denies, nearly costing her placement at the training center.

We have visits from old friends, and I have my own triggers with that. I feel very protective of our old friends, and due to Sophie's trust issues, I'm not happy with her around these old friends.

I find the character of Sophie to be a dichotomy between her pedagogy and her lack of self centering. And because of that, I found the practicum with Mistress Kim to be especially powerful.

As to meeting with old friends, get ready for a very big surprise at the end of Flaming Hearts. It's a huge cliffhanger for fans of the Brie series, leaving us all with so many questions!

[Sharon Wingo · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the second book of the Luxe Escape series and it follows Sofie Lane, piano teacher by day and submissive student by night. This book focuses on her trust issues and her aversion to bondage. Can Sofie learn to trust herself, her instructors, and her Doms? We will see where Red takes us in Sofie’s journey. The concert hall where the second auction fantasy fulfillment takes place sounds amazing! And the surprise appearance at the end of the book ..just Wow!
Gwen is still having troubles with Helen but has decided to not quit. And is taking steps to show how horrible Helen has been to her.
Lots of feelings in this novella sized book. And some spicy scenes will make you wonder about things in the book.
Thanks for the ride this story is taking us on Red! Need answers and the next book soon!🤤🔥🤗

[Karen_Lee_Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

Flaming Hearts
(Luxe Escape)
by Red Phoenix

Flaming Hearts is book two in the Luxe Escape series. New students, new teachers (ok the Head Master is a favorite from the original series) and new adventures.

I love the new auctions….a whole new way to learn from the Doms who bid on the students. Although students still have their wish books, I love the way that Sophie writes about her wishes, wants and needs. She may still have issues but she is working on things that she initally was sure she did not want to participate in.

She’s growing as a person and a submissive….yet continues her strong friendship with Gwen.

That sweet piano teacher is coming into her own at the submission school and all those she meets there. I’m looking forward to seeing more people I know as well as more new people that will be showing up in Sophie’s life.

[Jo-Ann Forrest · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sophie continues on her journey of discovery at Luxe Escape, she will soon discover her aversion panic attack causing towards rope, tape etc. However, Sophie doesn’t trust easily and it almost make her question her future at the school but after two auctions and a meeting with Anton she will slowly regain her footing. The mystery behind Nash’s animosity towards Sophie is something that I am sure we will explained later but it is starting to worry Sophie. The that grief is addressed in this story is so real and if you have any linguering griefs it will open the floodgates for you and maybe you will find peace and solace with it. BEautifully written and hearwarming with the surprise appearance at the end that will excite you for what’s nexr.

[Tracie Rogers · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have never felt all the feels that I felt reading the Brie series in any other series till now. Sophie is a breath of fresh air. She manages to overcome some of her fears in this one and also strong enough to admit them and grow from that experience even after losing the trust with the trainers and doms and herself. I love seeing the strong friendship she has with Gwen and how they help each other with their problems. The best is watching all the characters from the Brie series come in and help with her. From the friendship with Rystar to mentoring with Wallace and the cliff hanger so excited to read the next book with Tono. If anyone can help Sophie with her fear of bondage (rope) it will be Tono. Way to go Red Amazing book 2. Looking forward to May 2026.

[Cyndie Tomkins · Rating 5 out of 5]

WOW!! this is book 2 in this series, starting where we left of. Sophie, piano teacher by day, taking the training course by night has really started to learn more about herself as a submissive. She knows that bondage is triggering, but how bad is it for her, and can she work through it...still waiting to find out that one, but, like before, we have some of our old friends, besides Wallace (who is the headmaster in this series) appear in this book. like before we end off on a cliffhanger with Sophie meeting Tono...I can't wait for book 3!!! be prepared for some spicy scenes while the training center heads to Paris, and Barcelona.
I received a free ARC copy from the author and freely give my review.

[Debbie Brown · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sophie Lane and her BDSM training at the submissive student training at the Luxe Escape continues. I've come to love her as much as Brie from the previous training program. She's making friends and some enemies at the center, but she's determined to finish the program, to find herself and where she feels like she belongs. I love the auctions and how their fantasy plays out. It's so nice to see Anton in this story again, I love the way as she's teaching how to play the piano to our very handsome Russian. She faces weekly challenges and new experiences. She has her struggles, her hidden fears come to light, and it's fascinating to see how they help her work through them as a team. I have voluntarily read and reviewed this book.

[Patti · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reviewed in the United States on November 24, 2025

Format: Kindle

Sophie continues to embrace her lessons and really has some patience. I'm not sure if I could board a plane and not know where I'm going. She is growing and learning and I'm sure enjoying her experiences. I love than Anton is funding the center and that she calls him Anton. :) I'm so, so, so looking forward to her session with our resident rope master. I read the other reviews and was also wondering if I'd connect with a new character and fall in love with her like I did with Brie and the gang. Let me tell you that I completely did!! Sophie is her own character and very easy to connect with, I'm enjoying her so much and eagerly await the next installment. 5*****

[Debbie Brown · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sophie Lane and her BDSM training at the submissive student training at the Luxe Escape continues. I've come to love her as much as Brie from the previous training program. She's making friends and some enemies at the center, but she's determined to finish the program, to find herself and where she feels like she belongs. I love the auctions and how their fantasy plays out. It's so nice to see Anton in this story again, I love the way as she's teaching how to play the piano to our very handsome Russian. She faces weekly challenges and new experiences. She has her struggles, her hidden fears come to light, and it's fascinating to see how they help her work through them as a team. I have voluntarily read and reviewed this book.

[Heather Ambrose · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am falling more in love with this series. We finally get to experience the famous auctions of the training center. They are just as creative as from the original Brie series. Once again you hear names that you will recognize if you are a Brie fan. Sophie is still so relatable! She has made mistakes and is learning a lot about herself and what she wants. Unfortunately we have to deal with her interactions with Nash and I can't wait to find out what makes him the way he is. Once again this book does not lack in the spicy department. Oh and the cliff hanger in this one is a doozy (iykyk). My husband laughed when he saw my face when I finished the book. LMAO I highly recommend picking up this book. You will not be disappointed!!

[Kim · Rating 5 out of 5]

Red Phoenix has released Flaming Hearts, the second book set in the new Training Center. While similar in purpose to the original, the new characters, preferences and challanges are different. This is my review, not a book report, so you can look for specifics elsewhere. Red describes a depth feeling and understanding of the life style that is compehensive and thorough. The characters are full bodied and relatable, providing an immersive experience. While very descriptive, the plot is well paced, not overdone or redundant. Flaming Hearts is an erotic romance with heart and heat, where losing yourself in the story is assured.

[M G · Rating 5 out of 5]

As the story unfolds I’m sure Sophie will change as she learns and discovers her self worth and her inner beauty as well as her inner strength under the tutelage of Mr Wallace et al. Gwen, her bestie, continues to encourage her despite having difficulties of her own with a diva.
The book holds strong connections as readers can relate to Sophie and understand the struggles that she has in trying to fit into what is perceived as normal. Great story of self Discovery, not to mention delicious insights to the new Lux Escape and the exciting luxurious places visited to hold the first two auction for the new recruits.
Brilliant read and will excitedly have to wait for the next!

[Linda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this!

Second in Sophie's story. I just love her. I'm hoping she picks "Mr Wallace", but I'm liking seeing more of Rystar, and the introduction of Lēon and the French male character that starts with an M (Marisse?). Yum!

I also love seeing oth characters from Brie's world. The benefits of a spinoff from a long beloved series.

Sophie has had her challenges in this book too. She's been there for her best friend Emma and vise versa.

I find these peaks into this lifestyle so fascinating, definitely not for everyone. I don't think I'd be so adventurous. Ah to be young and carefree again. Ha!

I'm hoping we get more in the back stories if the trainers and

[Courtney Kim · Rating 5 out of 5]

I so enjoyed following Sophie's adventures at the training center! I was hesitant at first, having read all of Red Phoenix's previous books, but I fell in love with Sophie much in the same way I fell in love with Brie. I loved reading about familiar characters as well as meeting some new ones. While learning new things alongside Sophie, I found myself completely swept up in her journey of self-discovery and growth. The new training center setting is unique and fascinating, and Red Phoenix's writing is as captivating as ever. If you're a fan of BDSM romance and personal growth, you won't want to miss this incredible story!

[Leigh · Rating 3 out of 5]

A gentle intro into this subject

By book two I was kind of hoping for some more hotness and spice . Clearly this is more of a gentle approach to the subject of BDSM and I’ve come to understand that maybe this is the series to read before Brie’s books to see if this subject matter appeals to you. Brie’s books were OUTSTANDING and so compared to that series , this series is a little more tame . A good story though and I love the cameo appearances of some past characters we’ve met previously in Brie’s books. I’ll definitely read the rest , however I think a re-read of Brie’s story is what’s needed for some spicy hot sorcery .

[Shafeequah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Her journey continues

Oh this was sooo good. Sophie's lessons continue and she is awestruck at the places they travel to. But Sophie learns a hard lesson and it almost costs her quitting the programme. But one meeting with Anton Durov and she is back to prove to herself that she can overcome her fears. I love how the characters from Brie's Submission makes appearances and I cannot wait for the next installment to see else is instore for Sophie on her journey at the Submissive Training Centre.

[Michelle Lagstrom · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh my gosh… How do I even put into words how this book made me feel? I love the new set up for the auctions. What a special treat for the subs in training! If you want to know, you just have to read.

Sophie is learning more about herself in Flaming Hearts. As I read, I could feel her emotions flowing as if I were her. Her sadness, her anger, and her full on happiness! She has had lessons to learn and is flourishing!

And my oh my! Familiar faces? Who, you ask?… well I will leave that as a mystery for you to solve. Trust me, Flaming Hearts is very much worth reading!

[Foodiegirl · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm so happy to read Teasing Flames it's splendid to return to the Submissive Training Center where Wallace is the Headmaster. This book didn’t disappoint me. Sophie is studying at the center, but finds her fear of bondage might jeopardize her process there.
I loved seeing so many old friends from Brie's series during this series. I'm looking forward to seeing more of our favorite characters who pop up throughout the story. I can’t wait for the next book to continue especially since we have a new instructor appearing!!

[Leah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sometimes when you start a new adventure you have to grow from your lessons as it helps you in the process . Sophia does just this in her journey of self discovery and as she comes out of her shell into the woman she is ment to be she has learn from mistakes in order to grow even more . This is a lesson that all of can use in real life and apply it . We all fall and get back up and dust ourselves off and try again and use the mistakes to help us be a better person . This is a great read and encouraging as well

[Lauren · Rating 4 out of 5]

Always excited to get to read another Red Phoenix story of the Submissive Training Center! Such a guilty pleasure! I devoured Sophie's experiences as she navigates this new world. She is learning that this is challenging her in every way; especially emotionally, learning her triggers. The supporting characters in this story all have an important voice and some mentors are louder than others in the best ways possible. So excited for the next book! It looks like an old friend maybe returning!

[Margo Boutell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Flaming Hearts

Red is a beautiful writer. She let's her muse take her on a beautiful journey. Anton is my favorite. I am hoping for a scene with him and Sophia. It is nice to see a different side of him. He does like his vodka and pickles. I had to giggle when I saw that. When she tells him what she is into ,I thought to myself oh girl you are in for it. Enjoyed reading this so much. So sad we have to wait until May for the next part.

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mistress of cliffhangers!

This was just another amazing book by this author! The story truly made me feel like I was there. The details added allowed me to visualize the scenes so clearly including the spicy scenes (still fanning myself). After book 1s cliffhanger I could hardly wait for book 2! Now I am going to wait impatiently for Book 3 but I know it will be worth the wait!

[Linda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantasies and Desires 🔥

Red Phoenix brings the heat with Flaming Hearts, Luxe Escape's second installment! Sophie's journey is a wild ride of self-discovery, empowerment, and scorching hot scenes that'll leave you fanning yourself! Haha 😉 The Luxe Escape's unique concept is pure genius, who wouldn't want to indulge in their deepest fantasies? Can't wait for the next book in the series! 🤓

[Dana · Rating 5 out of 5]

Flaming Hearts was great from the very beginning. This book gives you a different view into the BDSM world. I cannot wait to see who Sophie meets along her journey. You get invested with the people of the training center. I cannot wait to see who pops in for a visit! Red is a favorite author. I want to read more!
If you liked this series, I also recommend the Brie Series.. I am glad to be a part of her ARC team.

[Jennifer Eaton · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sublime!

Red Phoenix is her usual brilliant self!! Luxe Escape manages to weave a new set of characters with the well known of Brie's Submission while giving us insight into another world - full of artists. The sensitive writing of inner thoughts giving us insight into new theatres showcasing the wonders of a submissive journey whilst travelling the globe. Superb as usual Red, you never disappoint!!