After wasting years in a marriage founded on lies, betrayal, and manipulation, Christian Devereaux decides to not only take control of his life but his happiness.
Marrying for love feels amazing until Scotlyn realizes the sentiment isn’t returned. Unbeknownst to her, she has spent years in a marriage founded on a mutually beneficial agreement. After her divorce, Scotlyn learns that as much as she needs control, submission is the true key to locking down her heart.
When Christian meets Scotlyn, bedroom and boardroom deals create a beautiful blueprint for a foundation of new beginnings and love.
K.C. Mills is a USA Today bestselling author of over 100 traditionally and independently published novels, including Innocent Intent, Christmas in Spite of You, and You Could Do Damage. Since publishing her first novel in 2015 Mills has solidified her literary career by writing beautifully flawed characters and realistic, edgy stories displaying love in all shades of brown. She lives in Atlanta, Georgia and can be found online at theauthorkcmills.com.
The relationship between Scotlyn and Christian seems to be just getting started. This was unique in that there was an age difference, with the female being older. Christian is dealing with betrayal from his ex-wife Aja and seeks control through BDMS. Scotlyn just ended a 10-year marriage built on deceit and lies. So they both endure heartbreak in marriage, and they meet through a lakefront property business deal. Scotlyn outbids him, marking the start of their relationship. Losing a bet to her best friend Tez, this also puts her at Erogenous, a BDSM club where Christian and she connect as well. It was a calm story. Out of all the books in the series, it was okay... I wanted more, and we could have gotten way more with this relationship. Also, with Scotlyn being older and close to her fifties. I'm curious how pregnancies for older women will be handled in the next book. It is something that is rarely discussed, and I will be interested in reading it. Also, WTF is Jona doing??
I’ve been waiting for Christian’s book & he didn’t disappoint! This was a story on carving out your own lane & moving past betrayal and opening yourself up to experiencing joy again…on your own terms. I enjoyed Scotlyn as an FMC. She was definitely a boss in her career and I admired watching her navigate being a woman in a male driven field. My only “complaint” with the book is the age gap trope. While I loved seeing a woman nearing 50 getting sexed on properly & being taken care of, Christian and his desire for children has been a plot point for 3 books! I swear I never wanted an accidental pregnancy more in a book than now🤣K.C promised in her note that she’d bring Christian & Scotlyn full circle in Jona’s book and I really hope that means we get to see them experience parenthood in some respect.
After the false trafficking allegations were cleared up and finally divorcing his trash azz ex-wife, Christian is finally in a place of peace. He’s focused on his family’s business and tryin’ to completely fall back from The Collective. But, that’s easier said than done. While seeking release at Erogenous, Christian is approached by the owner for a favor. He’s not particularly happy with what’s being asked of him but, he begrudgingly agrees. Finding out her 10 year marriage was a lie has Scotlyn is seeking validation in the form of submission. Believing she needs to be dominated, she lets her BFF talk her into signing up for a sub contract with Erogenous. The lines are blurred when the Dom and the sub unexpectedly meet in the boardroom. Can Scotlyn and Christian keep it professional during the day while keepin’ it nasty at night behind closed doors at Erogenous?! Christian is exactly who he think he is and Scotlyn was the perfect match for him. You have two people who have been burned by love, worn down by obligation, and absolutely no trust left to give. So, love was the last thing either of them were looking for. But, when love came knockin’ on the door, they gladly opened up and let it in. I love how intentional Christian was with Scotlyn. My guy didn’t play about her at all and he let it be known. My only issue with this book is, it was an age gap (OW/YM) and their age never came up. Scotlyn is 9 years older than Christian and a conversation was never had with the main characters or anyone else about their age difference. I don’t understand the purpose of writing an age gap, especially when the FMC is older, and it not be a topic of conversation at least once. That’s just weird to me but, I digress. Emergence and Ascendance wasn’t necessarily my fave in this series but, I still enjoyed it. Now that we know why Jona has been dippin’ and dodgin’ her siblings, I’m really lookin’ forward to her book.
I could not connect with this complicated story or the relationship, nor the narrative. I could not believe the high level of sensual moments. However, I was stuck with pure interest about where this author was going with her storyline.. You'll see what I saw as you read. Wow, the story had a lot of intimate moments that carried this story over many and varied terrains. See what you think
I am so happy I picked this book up and finished the series. This story was very different from the other stories in the series which I really like. Overall good story
I am loving this entire series. I know this next one is going to be drama times 20. I'm interested to see who's going to be left as a couple. Y'all just read the damn series!!!
Oh Christian can be my Sir any day. I love how he and Scotlyn were both dealing with their trauma caused by their fathers. But babyyyyy Jona is a mess it seems. Whew
Loved Christian’s story. Both him and Scotlyn went there a lot in their last marriages. This book kept my attention from the very beginning. Great series.
📚 Book Review: Emergence & Ascendance (The Collective Book 3) by K.C. Mills – 5 FREAKING STARS!!!
Let me just say this right now: CHRISTIAN. DEVEREAUX. MR. GO-AND-GET-IT HIMSELF. Yeah… he got me in a BDSM chokehold—and I liked it. 😮💨
I went into this book not knowing what to expect. After the mess his ex-wife Aja put him through, I honestly didn’t think Christian had it in him to trust again—let alone fall in love. The heartbreak he experienced had him grasping for control in every area of his life, which led him straight to the world of BDSM. It’s all surface-level pleasure and no emotional connections… until she walks in.
Scotlyn Whitley is beauty and brains with a sprinkle of “I don’t have time for love.” Fresh out of a ten-year marriage built on lies and raised by a father with the emotional range of a shoe, she’s focused on creating her legacy. Period. Love? Not on her radar. But leave it to her hilarious, ride-or-die bestie Tezni to get her out of her comfort zone. A lost bet lands Scotlyn at Erogenous, a BDSM club, as a submissive—and that’s when her path crosses with the Christian Devereaux.
The gag? They’re already business rivals 👀 Christian is determined to secure the waterfront property in Crescent Falls—until someone named “Scot Whitley” outbids him. To say he was rocked by a woman being the real culprit, is an understatement. He knew Scot Whitley wasn’t just competition—she was a force. And her beauty? Floor’d him. Her presence? Unshakable. From the moment their paths crossed, Christian wasn’t just intrigued… he was claiming.
The chemistry? Electric. The banter? Razor-sharp. The tension? Let’s just say the walls of every room they shared needed a safe word. 😮💨🔥
And I’m a sucker for characters who swear they’re not falling in love but end up neck-deep in feelings before they can finish saying “temporary arrangement.” K.C. Mills delivered that trope on a silver platter.
Now let’s talk kink and care: THIS. IS. HOW. YOU. WRITE. BDSM. The spice?? Ten outta ten. The connection?? Deep as hell. And the aftercare scenes??? BABYYYYYYY. Christian wasn’t just dominant—he was attentive, nurturing, and sensual. If my man ain’t holding me like that afterward, I don’t want him. Period. He didn’t just know what Scotlyn liked—he learned what she needed. A man. A protector. A safe space. Whew.
And you already know I messaged K.C. to let her know: “I’m calling him Mr. Go and Get It from now on.” Because that man had tunnel vision for Scotlyn and I ate that UP!
Before I wrap this up, two more things I loved: 1. The friendship between Scotlyn and Tezni – 10/10, no notes. Their sisterhood was hilarious, loyal, and full of love. Everybody needs a Tezni in their corner hyping you up and talking you into questionable but fun decisions. 2. Scotlyn’s relationship with her siblings, especially Alex – I loved seeing the softness, the protection, the true family bond. In so many stories with powerful families, the brothers turn into mini-versions of toxic fathers. But Alex? He showed up with love, not control. It was so refreshing.
And now… I’m perched on the edge of my seat trying to figure out what the hell Jona got herself into because Christian was NOT with the shits. But I’m trusting my girl (kinda).
⸻
Final thoughts? If you love grown-and-sexy romance with depth, spice, a commanding but tender dom, and a woman with brains and backbone? This book is IT. You’ll fall in love, burn up, and laugh your ass off all in the same chapter.
K.C. Mills, YOU DID THAT. I’m not ready to say goodbye just yet, but I’ll be front row for Jona’s story next.
4.5/5 — BDSM is not a typical trope I enjoy but when it is done right, I have no complaints. This story here, gave me what it needed to give. I thoroughly enjoyed Christian and Scotland. — There was chemistry, banter, forced proximity and tension. I loved seeing this side of Christian, the vulnerable and tenderness he showed Scotlyn. — Sister Jona, I see you. I can’t wait to read her book soon.
I wasn't sure whose story was going to be next, what a treat to learn and understand Christian! Scotlyn represented the boss chics very well. I enjoyed the growth and development of their arrangement and knew it wss gonna end well. The spice was spicy and on point! After their past marriages they both deserved some passion and love.
Part 3! I absolutely adored the first books on this series! So I look forward to Christian story
I was kind of thrown off with the BDSM, it's not one of my favorite tropes, but I think it focused more on that. I love that the FMC was older, and I really really look forward to finding out if they have a chance at a family since they both really wanted that. I kind of wanted more karma for her ex-husband as well. Not over it 😂😂
Baby I love a good InstaLove plus a fun age gap! Scotlyn and Christian were everything!
This story was very sexy, BDSM vibes! Once it was determined that they were going to do it, they did it a lot! 🤭 So fya if that is something you aren't ready for. But this was soo good! An older woman with a younger man is always fun when the age gap is not too big and the man is in his 30s! Christian was not playing with Scotlyn and made it his mission to let everyone know not to play with her either. The climax at her family office was brutal, but I think that was best for all parties. I loved seeing the crew Eli/Cress, Ezi/Jhorie, and Jonah. But Jonah Girl, you are in danger. Big yikes! This book ended so beautifully and has me excited for book 4! Jonah’s book: I want a fun update on Scotlyn and Christian, but also the family she's dealing with - whew, that is trouble! I can't wait!
What a captivating page turner! Goes on the READ AGAIN PILE!
At first, I hesitated to read this book because of the BDSM factor. However, I was pleasantly surprised that there was way more fascinating plot than crazy sex scenes!
After Scotlyn's horrible betrayal by her sleazy husband and greedy father, she deserved a loving, compassionate man , like Christian, who let everyone know, you mess with her, you messed with him. Whatever she needed, he took care of it, sometimes before she even asked. Awesome, Awesome story!!!!!
Loved this! Christian and Scotlyn were everything. -These were grown folks! Not young and young minded characters that constantly start or are in drama. They communicated well and it was just refreshing. - I appreciated that Scotlyn didn’t live in the grief of her failed marriage. - The way Christian supported her without getting in her way or overstepping was so good. There was a good balance of dominance and submission for both.
I enjoyed this story so much, because it was so unique. Christian and Scotlyn are both divorcees who are healing from betrayals, both driven professionals, the added layer of their work relationship and their connection at Erogenous 🥵 It was steamy, but mature and I appreciate that we got a HFN ending. I love the age gap and that she was older! I love the way Christian catered to and was so soft with Scotlyn.
Jona’s book is next and I know it’s going to good- Kevren Parker 🫠😳
Emergence and Ascendance was a solid read. I was really excited to get into Christian’s story finally, and it didn’t disappoint. I’m not usually a fan of BDSM in books, but this one wasn’t over-the-top and felt pretty balanced. Scotlyn’s father was a deeply unlikeable character, and his fate felt fitting. Parker definitely should’ve faced harsher consequences. It’s frustrating seeing characters like him get away with so much. He deserved to have his whole life exposed, and his wife absolutely should know the truth about what he’s been doing. Characters like him often seem to escape accountability, and it would have been satisfying to see that addressed more fully. I’m really looking forward to Jona’s story; I have a feeling it’s going to be a good one. Overall, this was an enjoyable read.
It’s always that 3rd one! Christian “Sir” Devareaux….whew chile! I was squealing and kicking my feet the entire time!
Scotlyn and Christian are both bosses….big egos, big energy, and used to getting their way. They both live for control, survived failed arranged marriages, and keep their hearts locked away . So when these business rivals crossed paths….Walls started crumbling, boundaries got real blurry, and that tension turned into something that was magnetic. I absolutely loved watching Scotlyn trust Christian enough to submit and finally let go of control.
This was an immersive reading experience and the narrators didn’t disappoint. Highly recommend!
I loved the business rival turned lovers plot. Christian was the perfect balance of Dom and possessive; great representation of not being jealous of a boss lady like Scotlyn, but dominating where it was consented. Scotlyn’s history with her ex was definitely unique. Haven’t seen that extent in a book before; 10 years is wild. Evil man. And her father…he got what he deserved.
I wish the age gap would’ve been addressed better. It only came up in regard to having children, which makes sense, but then we didn’t get a resolution for that in this book. The author explains why in the afterward, but their story felt incomplete. It was disappointing given how important this was to Christian. We didn’t get a proper epilogue like in books 1 & 2.
4.5⭐️ Christiiiiiaaaannnnn 🤤 she did that! The character growth and angst we missed in book 2, she brought it back for book 3 yes yes! I loved the BDSM rep, I thought it was very well written and expressed, it is not solely about the Dom but about the Sub and the respect an trust they must have for the other for that relationship to work! I loved it! I love Mills’ writing style and can’t wait for little sis’ story hopefully 🤞🏽 one day!
I really enjoyed this book via audio. Narration was done well with bringing this story together. Loved the romance that developed between Christian and Scotlyn. I also enjoyed the cameos of the other Devereaux siblings. Would have love to find out if there was more to this relationship after the visit to the sweet shop for cake tasting ❤️❤️😊. This series was done well as I enjoyed each of the Collective Series stories. Thank you K.C. Mills for sharing your gift.⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐💖
Business rivals x spicy contract x second chance (not your typical second chance)
I loved everything about this book. K.C. Mills is one of my fav & most read authors plus I’ve read the first two books in this series so I knew this book was gonna be good but I was thoroughly surprised at how spicy it was. K.C. Was like let me show y’all how nasty my pen can get & I loved every bit of it.
I love them so much! I’m so happy that Christian got his happily ever after after all Aja put him through. Scotlyn was exactly what he deserved! Christian restored all of the doubt that her ex-husband caused her to have. I can’t wait to get updates on their story.
This book was really cute having me smiling from ear to ear, I really enjoyed how he took care of her and paying attention to her cues and I’m so happy that they got engaged