Sweet Torture

by Caz Luan

Naz Adam's life is filled with anonymity, her art and her sexual adventures. She has made a vow that no man would ever steal that away from her. All of her lovers know that when her torturous games are over, so are they. But it all changes when she meets him.
Someone she simply must have, but is he villain enough to play her game?

Griffin Maxwell, CEO of Maxwell industries, sworn off dating women as they are all the same, selfish gold diggers. That all changes when he meets Naz. An artist that loves to showcase her sexual desires on a canvas. She is interested in him, but for a completely different reason, to submit to her sexual pleasure.
But she has ultimatums.
Griffin needs to be her villain and surrender fully to her desires to become a contestant.
Will he be able to surrender willingly?

Genres: Dark Romance, Dark

428 pages, Paperback

Published June 19, 2025

About the author

I am Caz Luan, and I have always loved the idea of love. Writing a romance novel has been a dream for as long as I can remember, and finally, with the love and support of my husband, it has become a reality. As an ex-lecturer in English and Communication with an Honors degree in English, I am acutely aware of the power words can hold. I do feel that is slightly more impressive if you know English is my second language. My sassiness and humor get me in trouble more often than not, and if it wasn’t for the fact that I don’t look good in prison colors, I might have had many more friends. I always say my superpower is fitting in everywhere and making friends, but honestly, it might be more that I am getting too old for these Shish kabobs. When I am not painting or trying new recipes with friends, I eat cake for breakfast and sing lousy karaoke on my backyard swing. I am also a professional cocktail taster until the third when my inner explorer escapes, and I go on a desperate hunt for the best milkshake in town. I am currently traveling around with my ex-pat husband and hope to use my newfound experiences in the next novel.

Reviews

[Megan · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC:
Can I have more femdoms PLEASE🥵

Naz and Griffin honestly I loved them together I wish authors write their dynamic more.

Naz (fmc) she is seductive, independent and a lot of confidence within her sexuality. Griffin (mmc) he is a straight up asshole in the first couple chapters, but his growth was so good.
The way he accepted and submitted to Naz had be gagging. He is so babygurl once he starts to lose some of his control and let her be in charge and dominate him. I will say it did feel slightly rushed their romance and instalust, but their relationship was based on a Dom/Sub contact at first.
I ate it up. Left no crumbs.

The plot did start to pick up in th last 30%, so I hope the second book will have more plot going on and a lot of angst. The cliff hanger wasn't as bad was imagined it would be, but makes you want to pick up the second book.

But you bet, imma apply for the second book.

[Jessica Baisley · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received this book as an ARC and wow did it have me hooked. The spice is extra spicy and the ending left me wanting the next book immediately. Our FMC is a very strong woman which I loved. The MC's fight for control in this book and their chemistry is amazing. I will be on the hunt for the sequel which is slated for a December release.

[Read_withchan · Rating 5 out of 5]

🖤Dark romance
💜He falls first
🖤Groveling
💜Both are morally grey
🖤Dual POV
💜Obsessive hero
🖤Sassy FMC
💜Contracts
🖤Spicy
💜Dark secrets

A Dark, Addictive Tale of Power, Pain, and the Redemption of Love
This story grips you from the very first page and refuses to let go. At its heart is Naz, a woman scarred by a past relationship that twisted the lines between domination and cruelty. Her former Dom, abused her both physically and emotionally, shattering her trust and leaving her vowing never to let another man hold that kind of power over her again. No longer a submissive by anyone else’s rules, Naz reclaims her control, building her own playroom and her own terms. She refuses love, commitment, or anything that might leave her vulnerable again.
Then comes Griffen also known as Chaos a morally grey, dangerous man deeply entrenched in the underworld, working with the Russians. He doesn’t do attachments either. Cold, calculated, and in control, Griffen lives by contracts, not emotions.
But fate has other plans.
When one of the Mafia associates sets his sights on Naz, Griffen intervenes violently. The fallout lands him behind bars, and Naz finds herself kidnapped once again… this time by her abusive ex, who has allied with Griffen’s enemies. The web tightens, the stakes rise, and in the chaos, both Naz and Griffen are forced to confront the walls they’ve built around their hearts.
Neither of them wanted a relationship.
Neither believed they were capable of love.
Yet somewhere between the pain and power plays, the contracts and cages, they began to break each other open piece by guarded piece. Naz, who had only ever known betrayal, finds someone who sees her strength. Griffen, the man who thought he couldn’t feel, finds someone who disarms him completely.
Their connection is magnetic,raw, and achingly intense.
The story dives deep into the complexities of trust, control, and healing through dominance and submission. But it’s not just a BDSM romance it’s a story about survival, transformation, and love in its most primal form.
And just when you think they might finally find peace… it ends on a devastating cliffhanger. Naz disappears again, and Griffen is released from prison with nothing but the fury of a man who has something to lose for the first time in his life.
This book is a storm dark, seductive, and unforgettable. I need the next one.
Now.

[Tarien Van · Rating 5 out of 5]

Superb

I was hooked from the first sentene. This is one of those dark romances that really lives up to its name. It’s intense, messy, and very emotionally driven, the kind of story that pulls you in slowly and then refuses to let go. The tension builds in a way that feels deliberate, making every interaction feel loaded with meaning.
What I enjoyed most was the emotional side of it. This isn’t just about attraction, it’s about control, vulnerability, and that uncomfortable space where love and pain blur together. The characters are flawed and frustrating at times, but in a very real way, which made their journey feel more believable rather than overdone.
The writing is immersive without being heavy, and it suits the darker tone of the story really well. Sweet Torture won’t be for everyone, but if you enjoy dark romance with emotional depth and a slow, aching burn, this one is definitely worth picking up.

[Nayeli C · Rating 3 out of 5]

ARC Review

-Multiple POV
-He Falls First
-Touch her and Die
-BDSM
-She’s the Dom

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spicy: 🌶️ 🌶️

I can’t wait to read what happens next!

The ending left me in suspense! Chaos thought he was always in control until he met Naz! This book had me hooked from the beginning but at times I felt like it was dragging.
Overall i enjoyed the book!

[Reandi Bronkhorst · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an awesome exciting book! Love the fact that Naz takes charge in this romantic novel. I sure wish that Caz Luan will bring out book nr 2 on this one...
Really good characters and awesome writing.

[Olivia Sekerak · Rating 2 out of 5]

Thank you NetGalley and Caz Luan for the ARC of this book.

Naz displays her creativity through her sexually charged art, and releases her deepest desires to whatever man is willing to play her torturous games. The one catch? She’s always in control. At least, until he comes along.

Griffin Maxwell, CEO and smuggling expert, swears to never get attached, to never have a real relationship. They are always after one thing; money. Until he meets her. She completely enamors him. He can’t get her out of his head, and needs to have her. But, is he willing to put aside his pride and let her domineer? Even more, can he finally let a woman into his world?

I had high hopes for this book. I was expecting to read a forbidden, corporate romance, with some suspense and thriller mixed in. I would say this really walks the line between dark romance and erotica.

The plot is very lacking for me. I didn’t get any sort of world building or character development from the beginning, and after getting about halfway through, I felt as though I wasn’t going to find what I was looking for out of this book. It is about 85% spice, 15% plot. I couldn’t find myself connecting with any characters, and their vague backstories didn’t give me any clear idea of who they are.

I did only get to about 48% through before DNF’ing. I don’t think this was my particular type of book. I will say, the writing is good, and if you are looking for something very spicy, with two equally dominant personalities, this might be for you! I personally felt it wasn’t my taste.

2 ⭐️

[Sylena Douville · Rating 3 out of 5]

ARC REVIEW:

I just finished Sweet Torture by Caz Luan .

I Definitely like the story, the characters are unique and not ones I’ve read about before . I mean cmon who has ever read about an artist who paints ducks for a living ?! Like duhh awesome !

There are a few inconsistencies that made my head spin , griffins personality was one of them, i felt like i was the plummeting down a tilt a whirl with his mood swings . But Naz being a dominant female is HOT

[Haley · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thank you to NetGalley and Caz Luan for providing an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.

If you enjoy dark, erotic romances where love and power collide—woven with high-stakes criminal tension—Sweet Torture delivers. The pacing dips briefly midway, but patient readers will be rewarded with a gripping climax and a cliffhanger that promises more heat and danger to come.

Spoilers ahead!

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First Impressions
From the moment I started Sweet Torture, I was drawn into a dark world where Griffin’s luxurious advertising empire masks a ruthless smuggling operation. He lives by three ironclad rules:

Rule 1 – need to know only
Rule 2 – never double-cross him
Rule 3 – never mix business with pleasure

But when he meets Naz, a masked stranger at a provocative art show, his entire world shifts from control to craving.



The Spark of Desire
Griffin’s orderly, domineering existence in boardrooms and shipyards is shattered by Naz’s bold, erotic challenge. She appears unannounced - draped in mystery - and forces Griffin to negotiate not a business deal, but a sexual contract in which he submits to her. Watching Griffin, the alpha dog of a criminal empire, kneel at Naz’s feet and beg for instruction felt electrifying. It was as if every piece of his tightly wound identity unraveled in a single moment.

Power Exchange & Role Reversal
In many BDSM stories, the man is the Dominant. In Sweet Torture, Naz flips that trope: she is the undisputed Dom, and Griffin, used to commanding boardrooms and harbor docks, must learn to obey. I loved how their first contract negotiation played out like a high-stakes business meeting. Naz’s calm control contrasted with Griffin’s disbelief. She explained, “I need a contract because damaged goods are considered worthless. And worthless things get broken and tossed away.” That line cut deep, revealing her scars from a brutal past D/s contract that nearly killed her.

Though Naz and Griffin’s D/s relationship continues to evolve, what stands out most is how instinctively Griffin yields to her. There’s a moment where he follows her commands with the eager loyalty of a little puppy dog—and it’s both endearing and revealing. It’s not weakness, but devotion. His submission isn’t performative; it’s emotional, rooted in a deep trust that makes their dynamic feel real rather than romanticized.



Character Reflections
Griffin (Chaos): A self-made billionaire, he built his fortune after a childhood of foster care and an abusive, alcoholic father whom he ultimately killed. Griffin thrives on control- both in business and in bed - until Naz forces him to kneel and “show me how to fuck.” His transformation from a predatory smuggler to a vulnerable submissive (“Chaos”) was both heartbreaking and exhilarating.

Naz (Queen): An erotic artist with fierce independence, Naz protects herself with rules and contracts. Her past bleeding and broken under a former Dominant haunts her every nightmare. But when she meets Griffin, she sees a man who can both challenge and heal her. Naz’s shift from cold, guarded survivor to a woman willing to bend her own rules for love felt deeply authentic.

Riley Deacon: Naz’s former abuser, now stalking her from the shadows, embodies the darker side of control. His reappearance at the Italian restaurant where he corners Griffin in the bathroom and taunts him with with the "have you seen the scars yet", sent chills down my spine.

Deeper Reflections on Trust & Control
Trusting someone to break every rule you once lived by is a bold gamble. In Sweet Torture, Griffin’s submission to Naz teaches him vulnerability he never knew he needed. Naz, in turn, must trust a man from a criminal underworld not to exploit her trauma. Their interplay reminds me that true intimacy requires surrender and that love can flourish even when two broken hearts hold the reins together.

“Have you ever met someone who knew exactly what you needed before you knew you needed it?”

That question, first whispered by Griffin in awe of Naz’s prescience, encapsulates their journey: a dance of power where each learns the other’s deepest needs before spoken. It’s a potent reminder that sometimes, love is the most dangerous submission.

The Danger & Climactic Twist
Just when their D/s bond seems solid, Naz’s past comes back with terrifying force. Riley Deacon ambushes her at home, handcuffs her, and drags her into a van—hauling her deep into the forest toward a house cloaked in menace. He doesn’t need a reason beyond obsession. He feeds on her fight, which is exactly why he keeps coming back. What awaits her in that house is unknown, but the danger is visceral, and Riley’s twisted desire to break her is horrifyingly clear.

Griffin has just been released from jail and is desperate to find her. How will he save Naz from Riley’s clutches, and what horrible things will she endure in that house in the forest?



Final Thoughts & Rating
Sweet Torture held me rapt at the beginning with its heady mix of criminal intrigue and BDSM intensity. Griffin’s gradual descent from ruthless smuggler to devoted submissive felt both surprising and inevitable. Naz’s emotional scars and unwavering dominance grounded the story in genuine pain and redemption. However, the pacing dragged in the middle, and I found myself craving more of the early erotic tension. Despite that, the climactic showdown with Riley and the raw honesty of Griffin and Naz’s bond left me deeply moved.

Overall Rating: 3★

If you enjoy dark, erotic romances where love and power collide—woven with high-stakes criminal tension—Sweet Torture delivers. The pacing dips briefly midway, but patient readers will be rewarded with a gripping climax and a cliffhanger that promises more heat and danger to come.

[Thebiblioholic · Rating 5 out of 5]

This dark romance story sucked me right in. We get a morally gray MMC, Griffin, with his borderline red-flag womanizer attitude—until he meets the woman who flips his world upside down. Naz, the badass FMC, is a powerful and confident artist with a taste for control, and she’s about to make Griffin her newest sub.

I loved seeing this dynamic—it felt like a total breath of fresh air. I’m not usually one for dom/sub stories, but this one might just be a new favorite.

The story doesn’t just stop at the intoxicating power play between two people learning to trust and heal through surrender; it also weaves in a suspenseful, fast-moving subplot that keeps you turning those pages.

And that ending? Painful! Cliffhanger city. It hit me like a brick wall! 😩😩 Definitely recommend for dark romance readers who crave a strong, commanding female lead and a bratty MMC.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Brittany · Rating 3 out of 5]

Sweet Torture by Caz Luan is the first book in the Torture Games series, a dark romance collection with interconnected stories.
This gripping debut follows Griffin—also known as Chaos—a powerful CEO who leads a double life as a criminal smuggler. He craves control in all aspects of his world, including the bedroom. Then he meets Naz at her art show, a woman with a painful past who is determined never to submit to a man again. She’s strong, guarded, and unwilling to be broken a second time.

This is definitely a dark romance, with heavy themes including BDSM, human trafficking, and graphic violence—particularly surrounding Griffin and his criminal dealings. If those topics are sensitive for you, proceed with caution.

I wish I could give half-star ratings, because this was a solid 3.5 stars for me. Caz Luan excels at character development, and both Griffin and Naz are layered and complex. That said, the first half felt a bit repetitive—like an extended power struggle that dragged longer than necessary. However, once the story found its stride in the second half, I couldn’t stop reading.

I especially admired how Naz held her ground and reclaimed her power. She refused to be a victim again, which made her a standout heroine. Still, I did question some of her choices near the end—especially given the very real dangers she was facing.

Thank you to the author and NetGalley for the advanced reader’s copy. I truly enjoyed it and appreciate the opportunity to read and review it.

[Stephanie Torres · Rating 4 out of 5]

✨Book Review✨
Sweet Torture by Caz Luan
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️/5

💥 Tropes: BDSM, Billionaire, Power Play, Artist x CEO, Forced Proximity

Sweet Torture is a dark, seductive rollercoaster that dives into obsession, control, and the deliciously twisted games we play in the name of desire. Naz is fierce, unapologetically dominant, and completely in control until Griffin Maxwell storms into her life. He’s brooding, powerful, and the perfect match for her twisted fantasies.

Their chemistry? Off-the-charts. Their power struggle? Addictive. Their dynamic? Electric! This book is not just steamy - it’s scorching, with scenes that blur the lines between dominance and surrender in all the best ways. From power play and pain to surrender and trust, Sweet Torture flips the Dom/sub script in the most hypnotic way. Naz’s complexity as an artist and sexual deviant is so well written, and Griffin’s internal tug-of-war makes the story even juicier. Naz doesn’t just demand obedience - she earns it, and Griffin’s submission? It’s not performative, it’s powerful. He falls hard—and watching him unravel was addictive.

Tropes you’ll love:
💥 BDSM
💰 Billionaire CEO x Artist
💥 Forced proximity
💰 Contracts
💥 Emotional trauma
💰 Morally grey MMC
💥 Dom/Sub
💰 Femdom

If you love your romance with a dark edge, emotionally charged dynamics, and unapologetically kinky characters, Sweet Torture will consume you. Just be ready to question who’s really in control… and who wants to be.

[Jeneane Meiring · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Bold. Filthy. Addictive.

Sweet Torture is exactly what the title promises — a wickedly sharp, unapologetically dark romance that grabs you by the throat (literally and figuratively) and doesn’t let go.

Naz Adams is unlike any heroine I’ve read before — powerful, sensual, and absolutely unrelenting in what she wants. A curvy erotic artist with a penchant for control and mind games, she’s the kind of character that owns every scene she's in. And Griffin? The arrogant billionaire CEO who’s used to being in charge — watching him unravel beneath Naz’s touch is nothing short of delicious.

The chemistry between them is electric — brutal, charged, and brimming with push-pull tension. The kink is intense and not for the faint of heart, but if you're here for femdom, power exchange, and psychological seduction, this book delivers tenfold.

But beyond the heat, there’s grit. Sweet Torture doesn’t shy away from real darkness — the trauma, the control, the pain of surrender. It’s raw and emotional, layered with sharp edges and vulnerable moments that linger long after the final page.

This book is not a love story. It’s a power play in stilettos, and I devoured every twisted page.

TW-heavy. Kink-forward. Absolutely unforgettable.
If you like your romance pitch black with no safe words in sight — this is your next obsession.

[TheLisaD · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sweet Torture by Caz Luan is a bold and seductive romance that delivers both heat and high-stakes drama. While it may initially draw comparisons to the Fifty Shades series, Luan’s storytelling quickly proves to be its own distinct and gripping experience.

The novel excels in its blend of intense romance and mounting suspense. What begins as a spicy, emotionally charged connection soon evolves into a darker, more dangerous journey that keeps the reader invested beyond the surface-level chemistry. The plot is well-developed, with twists that add depth and urgency, elevating the story from steamy escapism to a fully realized romantic thriller.

Luan’s writing style is sharp and engaging, balancing the erotic elements with strong character development and emotional stakes. The “spice” is undeniably present and well-crafted, but it’s the evolution of the characters and the tension of the unfolding danger that truly make this story shine.

Sweet Torture is a compelling, provocative read that satisfies both the desire for romance and the thrill of a high-risk narrative. A must-read for fans of dark, spicy love stories with substance.

[Samantha · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another local author to keep an eye on.

Overall, I really enjoyed this book. It is the second Femdom book I have read and I really enjoyed that there is full consent. There was discussions and negotiation. A contract to ensure that both parties are satisfied and well taken care of.

The writing was good. The plot was interesting. I consumed this book, enjoying the read. The MFC Naz Adams is a woman who is confident in her skin, she is independent and knows what she wants. Griffen Maxwell, the MMC, is a powerful CEO who is a major asshole before he allows himself to submit to Naz.

The cliff hanger ending though! So glad my pre-order of book two is at least loaded and ready to be consumed!

[Angiewagg · Rating 5 out of 5]

Naz & Griffin ( Chaos ) had their issues in the relationship field.
Naz was never going to be hurt or abused again. Chaos just doesn't open his heart or his life up to anyone.
But the fates intervene, and they are put into each other's lives.
They did not want relationships, and neither felt like they could be or offer real love.
But lust is real, and it is intense. BDSM is not only about trust, but it is about control and overcoming some of their deepest fears.
Where did Naz go? Now Griffin finally has something to lose.
I NEED book 2!
I received an advance review copy at no cost and am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Nicole Falcon · Rating 4 out of 5]

“You like that, don’t you? Knowing you have such a powerful man at your mercy is turning you on.”

Griffin “Chaos” Maxwell will leave you panting… but NAZ ADAMS!? She will leaving begging for more! Griffin and Naz find themselves having a one night stand at an art show. When Griffin cannot stop thinking about Naz he proposes “friends with benefits” arrangement..with a contract. What he doesn’t expect is for Naz to have a contract of her own that makes him question what he thought his limits are. This Dom/Sub relationship is more than he bargained for but he just can’t say no. I freakin LOVED THIS BOOK! I haven’t read anything like it before but I ate up all the teasing, the begging…. Make sure you have a cold glass of water while reading this! You’ll need it.

She’s the Dom, “Good Boy”, Chasity, BD$M, Touch Her and ☠️, He Falls First, 1st person POV, duo

[Marlie Roose · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved the role reversal with Naz being in charge! She is a strong FMC who takes charge of any situation to try & change her past. I liked the relationship build up with her and Griffin; they truly care for each other and you see how it progressed through the story. The crimes were also a great part of the plot that added mystery and suspense!
Loved the dual POV
Spice 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Thanks NetGalley for the ARC!

[Greylan Mlodzienski · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is one of those instance were you should really read the fine print.... in this case the book blurb....a lot more carefully. I had no idea that is was a domme/male submissive as I usually read the opposite. However, I was pleasantly surprised. I loved the dynamic between Naz and Griffin especially that he still had that Dom/Big D energy outside of the playroom. I loved Chpater 20 with the spicy Q+A.
Ladies the tables have turned and it is SWEET!

[Tanya · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book is well written but I feel like it's aimed at a particular reader. It's bordering on erotica and to be honest the plot doesn't take centre stage. I liked that Naz was a strong woman who wanted to be in control and that she had such a strong effect on Griffin. If you enjoy spice with some BDSM thrown into the mix then Sweet Torture is for you. Thank you to the author for kindly sending me an ARC of the book.

[Kaitlyn R · Rating 5 out of 5]

First of all, I don’t want to wait for the second book I need it nowwww. Delayed gratification and patience are not my strongest attributes 🤣
Naz and Griffin, such a complex relationship. I laughed. I swooned. I had the chills and I felt all the dark spicy spice! Highly recommend but be sure to read the tw’s just in case 🥰

[jor · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was an explosive read with high spice which I absolutely loved. I'm a sucker for a good dark romance book and the tropes of it made me want to sign up fr the ARC immediately. At times the pacing of the story felt a little slow but it was still enjoyable and I enjoyed getting to know the characters. Excited for book 2!

[ameera reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sweet Torture by is a dark, sizzling romance where power meets pain and pleasure.
Naz doesn’t fall for anyone, until Griffin. He’s cold, controlled, and exactly the kind of chaos she craves.
It’s not about love. It’s about dominance, desire... and losing control.

🖤 Dark. Addictive. Unforgettable.
I loved the book🔥🌶️

[Emma Venter · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow guys, you really need to get your hands on this amazing book. Definitely a 5 star read for me.
Not going to give any spoilers but trust me.... Not ever Christian Grey and Ana can compete with Griffin & Naz

[Edith Foster · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book!! The writing was amazing and I cannot wait for the next book! I have come to realize that sometimes I relate heavily with Naz. Griffin also sometimes reminds me of my husband. Can’t wait to see what is next!

[Angelique · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC review

Boy did i eat this book all the way up!

Naz and Griffin are goals! This read had me in a choke hold and seriously need more. It was funny, sweet, well paced, ALL the things for a billionaire romance we all need!

Available now! Make sure you run and get your copy ASAP no rocky.

[MARTHA BRONKHORST · Rating 5 out of 5]

Once I started reading the book I couldn't stop! Can't wait for the follow up that will be relished in December! This book was greater reading material than all the Shades of Grey books by EL James! Do uorself a favour get the book and start reading it is spellbound!

[Anne Marie · Rating 2 out of 5]

strong start, disappointing finish

It was a great read until you hit about 70% in the book, and then the characters’ personalities seemed completely different, as if they were suddenly written by a different author. Nothing about their personality changes felt authentic.

[Reba Densley · Rating 5 out of 5]

First book I have read by this author and I was not disappointed. It pulls you in; wanting more. It leaves you impatiently waiting for book 2.

Its a rabbit hole that you won't regret falling down and getting lost in.

[René · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved the book, not for the faint hearted.