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In Your Head
A spicy sapphic novella for fans of Black Mirror, Women (Chloé Caldwell) and Want (Gillian Anderson).
Natalie Harris is a 29-year-old Psychologist who isn’t getting enough.
She hasn’t been on a date in years. Her appetite is non-existent. Even her creative hobbies have lost their appeal.
So, when Natalie’s best friend, Rhea, invites her to take part in a clandestine research project, the Vie Lab, she accepts, hoping to broaden her horizons.
What Rhea doesn’t reveal is that the lab allows testers to be virtually immersed in any scenario they can imagine. And that most scenarios are sexual.
Ellen, the lab’s beautiful and enigmatic Engineer, draws Natalie into her world, offering space to explore her desires. Orchestrating hands-on scenarios outside of lab hours. Rekindling her dormant appetites.
But as the edges of their relationship start to blur, Natalie wonders whether Ellen will let her get close enough to experience what she truly wants.
Or if she’s just another experiment in the lab.
tropes/
women in STEM (Sexual Tension, Engineering and Mixed signals)
spicy academia
queer awakening
overachiever X overachiever
questionable research
anxiety / overthinking
Natalie Harris is a 29-year-old Psychologist who isn’t getting enough.
She hasn’t been on a date in years. Her appetite is non-existent. Even her creative hobbies have lost their appeal.
So, when Natalie’s best friend, Rhea, invites her to take part in a clandestine research project, the Vie Lab, she accepts, hoping to broaden her horizons.
What Rhea doesn’t reveal is that the lab allows testers to be virtually immersed in any scenario they can imagine. And that most scenarios are sexual.
Ellen, the lab’s beautiful and enigmatic Engineer, draws Natalie into her world, offering space to explore her desires. Orchestrating hands-on scenarios outside of lab hours. Rekindling her dormant appetites.
But as the edges of their relationship start to blur, Natalie wonders whether Ellen will let her get close enough to experience what she truly wants.
Or if she’s just another experiment in the lab.
tropes/
women in STEM (Sexual Tension, Engineering and Mixed signals)
spicy academia
queer awakening
overachiever X overachiever
questionable research
anxiety / overthinking
226 pages, Paperback
Published September 2, 2025
2 people are currently reading
90 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
August 20, 2025
thank you to NetGalley and Victory for the advanced digital copy of this fun novella.
this is out September 4th, 2025.
--
though it wasn't the point of this novella (the novella was steamy and romantic in its purpose), i found myself wishing for more flesh to the plot. i wanted more about women in stem, more questionable ethics around the technology (these things were briefly touched on, but again, not expanded on).
because i want more, i was relieved to see that the story would be continuing in a second novella.
i found the concept of tech being coded to allow people to live out sexual fantasies to be interesting but also harrowing. at the beginning, natalie was brought into vie labs by her friend. her friend received an immersive sexual experience via this tech and... multiple people bore witness to it. these fantasies are sometimes even created and written by lab technicians. the openness and vulnerability of that was kind of shocking to me, but then it made me think about how people that google erotica are essentially doing the same thing. the internet catalogs everything and nothing is really private, so why shouldn't something like this exist? i like that this made me think.
now we come to natalie and ellen. i love how they connected. it felt natural and not too insta-lovey, particularly considering the subject matter that ellen was working on for natalie (her fantasy). a lot of steamy looks here. very well written. i can't wait for part two.
this is out September 4th, 2025.
--
though it wasn't the point of this novella (the novella was steamy and romantic in its purpose), i found myself wishing for more flesh to the plot. i wanted more about women in stem, more questionable ethics around the technology (these things were briefly touched on, but again, not expanded on).
because i want more, i was relieved to see that the story would be continuing in a second novella.
i found the concept of tech being coded to allow people to live out sexual fantasies to be interesting but also harrowing. at the beginning, natalie was brought into vie labs by her friend. her friend received an immersive sexual experience via this tech and... multiple people bore witness to it. these fantasies are sometimes even created and written by lab technicians. the openness and vulnerability of that was kind of shocking to me, but then it made me think about how people that google erotica are essentially doing the same thing. the internet catalogs everything and nothing is really private, so why shouldn't something like this exist? i like that this made me think.
now we come to natalie and ellen. i love how they connected. it felt natural and not too insta-lovey, particularly considering the subject matter that ellen was working on for natalie (her fantasy). a lot of steamy looks here. very well written. i can't wait for part two.
October 3, 2025
(rounded up from 4.5)
Thank you, NetGalley for an ARC of this novella
I don't normally care very much for spicy books but I wanted to check this one out because of the premise: using technology to create tailored scenarios/experiences for people, some of which are sexual in nature (with obvious limitations).
Natalie is an engaging protagonist because she's curious, exploring her attraction to people of different genders, and also kind of a prude (and lovingly made fun of by her friends for it). Her work bestie, Rhea, asks her to come along to a secret lab, and Natalie, despite being sceptical about the neighbourhood and the "Secret lab", does indeed tag along and is exposed to more of her bestie's fantasies than she would have liked, but also meets the enigmatic engineer at the lab, Ellen. As Natalie and Ellen work together to outline ideas for Natalie's own scenarios, Natalie finds herself drawn to Ellen, who blows hot and cold based on interactions at her work and in her home.
I do especially enjoy how the speculative fiction premise is presented in the story: in a way that is integral to the plot as part of Ellen's decade of labour, but also as a way to safely explore situations and desires in a controlled environment where you can specify as much of what happens as you wish. The implications of this techonology (particularly those of it falling into the hands of someone narcissistic and unbound by ethical concerns) is really interteresting and I'm glad there is already a second novella in progress to explore this further.
All in all, this was a very easy and engaging read.
Thank you, NetGalley for an ARC of this novella
I don't normally care very much for spicy books but I wanted to check this one out because of the premise: using technology to create tailored scenarios/experiences for people, some of which are sexual in nature (with obvious limitations).
Natalie is an engaging protagonist because she's curious, exploring her attraction to people of different genders, and also kind of a prude (and lovingly made fun of by her friends for it). Her work bestie, Rhea, asks her to come along to a secret lab, and Natalie, despite being sceptical about the neighbourhood and the "Secret lab", does indeed tag along and is exposed to more of her bestie's fantasies than she would have liked, but also meets the enigmatic engineer at the lab, Ellen. As Natalie and Ellen work together to outline ideas for Natalie's own scenarios, Natalie finds herself drawn to Ellen, who blows hot and cold based on interactions at her work and in her home.
I do especially enjoy how the speculative fiction premise is presented in the story: in a way that is integral to the plot as part of Ellen's decade of labour, but also as a way to safely explore situations and desires in a controlled environment where you can specify as much of what happens as you wish. The implications of this techonology (particularly those of it falling into the hands of someone narcissistic and unbound by ethical concerns) is really interteresting and I'm glad there is already a second novella in progress to explore this further.
All in all, this was a very easy and engaging read.
September 3, 2025
4.5 stars
ARC Review
In Your Head is a sapphic novella described as "spicy academia", and it is TOTALLY outside of my usual reading habits, but I liked the way the author descirbed it so thought I'd give it a shot. Safe to say I LOVED IT! Alicia Vane's version of romance and spice evidently is my type!!
Natalie is a psychologist who's lacking passion for her life, when a friend invites her to join her at a sketchy hole-in-the-wall lab where scientists are making dreams come true (usually explicitly). After seeing her friend in a little too much detail, Natalie is intrigued and kind of horrified of the capabilities of this experiment, and the woman behind the scenes, Ellen. As Ellen and Natalie get involved in many fantasy sessions together, the lines start to blur between professional and personal. As someone who cringes out of my skin when reading spice, I just have to say I do not mean THIS SPICE. I'm not sure if it was the age of the characters (around 30) or that no man is involved (likely) but I really ate it up.
While their specific situation is obviously unique, a lot of readers will relate to the hot-and-cold dynamic, as Ellen fights her feelings in fear of jeopradising her life's work, and Natalie feels unsure exploring her sexuality. This book is told from Natalie's perspective and I really saw myself in her, as someone who always feels more invested in my relationships than my partners. I could feel the chemistry coming off the page and I appreciated that they shared a great emotional bond and similar interests, as opposed to purely physical attraction.
The experiment and academic elements are super interesting and I like how neuroscience is woven in without overwhelming the reader. Plus the author does a great job of building suspense around this project and the mostly-absent head of the company. We love to see intelligent, unapologetic women in STEM, so the queerness is just a cherry on top. I am SO EXCITED to get inside Ellen's head because I just know she's gonna be a bad bitch.
If you enjoy STEM romance, this is for you. If you don't enjoy romance, join the club, but this may be for you too!
ARC Review
In Your Head is a sapphic novella described as "spicy academia", and it is TOTALLY outside of my usual reading habits, but I liked the way the author descirbed it so thought I'd give it a shot. Safe to say I LOVED IT! Alicia Vane's version of romance and spice evidently is my type!!
Natalie is a psychologist who's lacking passion for her life, when a friend invites her to join her at a sketchy hole-in-the-wall lab where scientists are making dreams come true (usually explicitly). After seeing her friend in a little too much detail, Natalie is intrigued and kind of horrified of the capabilities of this experiment, and the woman behind the scenes, Ellen. As Ellen and Natalie get involved in many fantasy sessions together, the lines start to blur between professional and personal. As someone who cringes out of my skin when reading spice, I just have to say I do not mean THIS SPICE. I'm not sure if it was the age of the characters (around 30) or that no man is involved (likely) but I really ate it up.
While their specific situation is obviously unique, a lot of readers will relate to the hot-and-cold dynamic, as Ellen fights her feelings in fear of jeopradising her life's work, and Natalie feels unsure exploring her sexuality. This book is told from Natalie's perspective and I really saw myself in her, as someone who always feels more invested in my relationships than my partners. I could feel the chemistry coming off the page and I appreciated that they shared a great emotional bond and similar interests, as opposed to purely physical attraction.
The experiment and academic elements are super interesting and I like how neuroscience is woven in without overwhelming the reader. Plus the author does a great job of building suspense around this project and the mostly-absent head of the company. We love to see intelligent, unapologetic women in STEM, so the queerness is just a cherry on top. I am SO EXCITED to get inside Ellen's head because I just know she's gonna be a bad bitch.
If you enjoy STEM romance, this is for you. If you don't enjoy romance, join the club, but this may be for you too!
September 2, 2025
Disclaimer: I received an e-ARC from netgalley.
Natalie doesn’t quite know what to expect when her friend invites her to a book binding store. She’s even less sure when the store turns out to be a front for a place that experiments with VR technology to bring a user’s fantasies to life, enabling them to take the lead role and others to watch. When she is offered the opportunity to experience a one-off session, she decides to go for it. After all, maybe her friend, Reah, is right and this is just the push she needs to get out of her shell.
My favorite part of this was certainly the relationship between engineer Ellen and Natalie as they go from quite intimate scenes to professional distance during research hours, leading to quite some whiplash for Natalie. Their scenes together were charged and tense and I was fascinated to see how this was going to turn out for them. I also liked how inscrutable Ellen was, it made her a fascinating character and made Natalie’s anxiety a lot more understandable.
The story itself is a bit short, mostly focusing on Natalie’s own development as she experiments with her desires as well as the relationship between the two women, which was interesting. There is also a little bit of time devoted to exploring the rest of their lives, but that plays a rather minor role.
One thing I would have found really interesting if Natalie’s own research had been connected a bit more with the scenarios and their possibilities for further research, but I still enjoyed the exploration of the technology and the very approachable way the author was able to present both Natalie’s experience with academic research as well as the programming that Ellen does, allowing it to feel interesting and well thoughts out, without becoming bogged down in details.
So, if you’re looking for a short (but quite in depth), spicy sapphic romance with women in STEM check this one out, I had fun reading it and I’m excited for the sequel!
Natalie doesn’t quite know what to expect when her friend invites her to a book binding store. She’s even less sure when the store turns out to be a front for a place that experiments with VR technology to bring a user’s fantasies to life, enabling them to take the lead role and others to watch. When she is offered the opportunity to experience a one-off session, she decides to go for it. After all, maybe her friend, Reah, is right and this is just the push she needs to get out of her shell.
My favorite part of this was certainly the relationship between engineer Ellen and Natalie as they go from quite intimate scenes to professional distance during research hours, leading to quite some whiplash for Natalie. Their scenes together were charged and tense and I was fascinated to see how this was going to turn out for them. I also liked how inscrutable Ellen was, it made her a fascinating character and made Natalie’s anxiety a lot more understandable.
The story itself is a bit short, mostly focusing on Natalie’s own development as she experiments with her desires as well as the relationship between the two women, which was interesting. There is also a little bit of time devoted to exploring the rest of their lives, but that plays a rather minor role.
One thing I would have found really interesting if Natalie’s own research had been connected a bit more with the scenarios and their possibilities for further research, but I still enjoyed the exploration of the technology and the very approachable way the author was able to present both Natalie’s experience with academic research as well as the programming that Ellen does, allowing it to feel interesting and well thoughts out, without becoming bogged down in details.
So, if you’re looking for a short (but quite in depth), spicy sapphic romance with women in STEM check this one out, I had fun reading it and I’m excited for the sequel!
August 27, 2025
thank you to netgalley and the publisher for sending me an earc in exchange for an honest review!
i don’t usually gravitate towards novellas but this one peaked my interest and i’m so glad i got the opportunity to read it!
it was such a fascinating concept and i thought it was done really well. i wasn’t expecting how wholesome the story was overall and i was pleasantly surprised!! it was such a great mix of great plot, spicy scenes and cute moments.
although it was relatively short i felt like it was still a slow burn between the main characters which i always enjoy. i also just overall loved the main characters and felt very invested in their romance. the side characters were also great and interesting characters and overall i had a great time and am keen to read the next book!
i don’t usually gravitate towards novellas but this one peaked my interest and i’m so glad i got the opportunity to read it!
it was such a fascinating concept and i thought it was done really well. i wasn’t expecting how wholesome the story was overall and i was pleasantly surprised!! it was such a great mix of great plot, spicy scenes and cute moments.
although it was relatively short i felt like it was still a slow burn between the main characters which i always enjoy. i also just overall loved the main characters and felt very invested in their romance. the side characters were also great and interesting characters and overall i had a great time and am keen to read the next book!
August 11, 2025
Thanks to the author for a digital ARC - this was a lot of (horny sapphic) fun. Novellas have to work hard to hit the mark for me and this one managed to cram in plenty of plot, character development, and world-building without feeling rushed. I particularly enjoyed the concept of the Vie Lab and could honestly have done with even more of the women in STEM bits! Also Ellen’s character of the stern control freak femme who wants someone else to take over for once (will not be thinking too much into how relatable that is).
August 21, 2025
In Your Head was a difficult read for me. While I found Natalie and Ellen enjoyable, I was lost during the technical speak about the lab.
Natalie was engaging because she was a woman who needed a break from her demanding job and refused to take one until her friend pushes her to join her at the Vie Lab.
Enter Ellen, a woman consumed by her work on a project that isn't fully hers. She pours herself into every aspect of the lab and each individual's experience.
From the beginning, there was tension between Ellen and Natalie. However, both women were on different pages. Natalie wanted to explore what was between them and Ellen was trying to keep it professional, despite her inner wants.
Eventually, the story comes to a head when the owner of the Vie Lab comes back and wants to change everything. Ellen feels blind sided and hurt, while Natalie is supportive of her feelings.
Overall, I give this book a 3.5⭐. I enjoyed the characters, the chemistry, and the tension. However, the technical details put me off.
Natalie was engaging because she was a woman who needed a break from her demanding job and refused to take one until her friend pushes her to join her at the Vie Lab.
Enter Ellen, a woman consumed by her work on a project that isn't fully hers. She pours herself into every aspect of the lab and each individual's experience.
From the beginning, there was tension between Ellen and Natalie. However, both women were on different pages. Natalie wanted to explore what was between them and Ellen was trying to keep it professional, despite her inner wants.
Eventually, the story comes to a head when the owner of the Vie Lab comes back and wants to change everything. Ellen feels blind sided and hurt, while Natalie is supportive of her feelings.
Overall, I give this book a 3.5⭐. I enjoyed the characters, the chemistry, and the tension. However, the technical details put me off.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 16, 2025
A spicy Sapphic mindf*ck that will have you switching university majors.
Our main character, Natalie, is invited to check out a top secret project - immersive reality software which allows the user to live out any fantasy. Natalie works with the project's lead programmer, Ellen, to create increasingly wild and spicy scenario's, while still feeling like Ellen is keeping something from her.
This debut novella is super creative, well written and left me needing to know what would happen next. Alicia is British and I love that she included British slang like, 'jammy git', which brings an authenticity to the characters dialogue.
Our two FMCs are both closed off for different reasons. It's a joy to watch them slowly reach out to each other as the story progresses.
What to expect
📺 Sapphic women in STEM
📺 Academia romance
📺 Hot AF consent
📺 Toys as teammates
📺 Orgasm denial
📺 Immersive VR, but make it spicy
📺 Bi-awakening
📺 A man calling a woman hysterical 👀😈
📺 Good for her (directly related to above)
This book is best read while coding your girlfriends wildest fantasies into VR.
Our main character, Natalie, is invited to check out a top secret project - immersive reality software which allows the user to live out any fantasy. Natalie works with the project's lead programmer, Ellen, to create increasingly wild and spicy scenario's, while still feeling like Ellen is keeping something from her.
This debut novella is super creative, well written and left me needing to know what would happen next. Alicia is British and I love that she included British slang like, 'jammy git', which brings an authenticity to the characters dialogue.
Our two FMCs are both closed off for different reasons. It's a joy to watch them slowly reach out to each other as the story progresses.
What to expect
📺 Sapphic women in STEM
📺 Academia romance
📺 Hot AF consent
📺 Toys as teammates
📺 Orgasm denial
📺 Immersive VR, but make it spicy
📺 Bi-awakening
📺 A man calling a woman hysterical 👀😈
📺 Good for her (directly related to above)
This book is best read while coding your girlfriends wildest fantasies into VR.
August 14, 2025
Interesting plot about neuroscience and VR combined with really hot scenes featuring a strap-on. 10/10.
September 8, 2025
This book took me by surprise, and we love to see it!
Author Alicia Vane messaged me a few weeks back asking if I’d consider giving In Your Head a read, but I could decline if the plot line didn’t seem like it was my thing. Now, Sapphic Book Haus is and always will be open to trying any plot line. So let me tell you, I am so happy that I gave In Your Head the shot it deserves. This novella may only be 214 pages, but it tells a whirlwind of a drama!
Natalie Harris is someone many can identify with, myself included - bogged down by the monotony of the life-work hamster wheel. But with some persuasion by her best friend, Rhea, into her life stumbles Ellen. She’s the engineer behind the Vie Lab where Rhea has taken Natalie to learn about the lab’s ability to take its clients into their deepest (dirtiest) fantasies for a few moments in time.
While this book has a romantic plot line, it more so explores one’s ability to, in the words of Natalie, “Don’t over think it… just see what happens.” And in the words of Rhea, “...perception is reality after all.” In Your Head challenges a lot of the ways we view the idea of a fantasy, what those say about how we view the world and provides a mutual understanding that we all have our own versions of a fantasy.
The lab is proof that we all have fantasies and desires, vaulted away in our minds for only ourselves to experience. We all have some version of our own world. Our own perception of reality. But what happens when you allow others to see into your world? What would they think? Can you allow someone behind the barrier and get a look inside?
Natalie is a typical academic overachiever who cannot turn her brain off sometimes, especially with Ellen in close proximity. While intrigued by the Vie Lab, she begins to wonder if maybe her intrigue is actually associated with Ellen… cue the nervous inner monologues, questioning every interaction and an anxious overanalysis of Ellen’s inability to give back. She stressed me out, but I felt for her all in the same!
I simply cannot wait for the sequel which will be written in Ellen’s POV (In Your Head is written in Natalie’s POV) because her character was so epic. I know she holds a lot more close to her chest that I hope we get to experience. Ellen is brilliant, but so terribly unable to separate herself from her work. And the mixed signals?! WOMAN, stop messing with us (and by “us” I mean Natalie)!
However, even though gradual, may it be noted that Ellen’s straightforward moments with Natalie & vice versa - spicyyy! I’ll take more of that in book 2, Alicia!
If you’re looking for a novella that’s giving academia, questionable research, queer awakening, a strap scene and mixed signals then In Your Head by Alicia Vane must make it onto your TBR!
Overall Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Spice Rating: 🔥🔥🔥
Author Alicia Vane messaged me a few weeks back asking if I’d consider giving In Your Head a read, but I could decline if the plot line didn’t seem like it was my thing. Now, Sapphic Book Haus is and always will be open to trying any plot line. So let me tell you, I am so happy that I gave In Your Head the shot it deserves. This novella may only be 214 pages, but it tells a whirlwind of a drama!
Natalie Harris is someone many can identify with, myself included - bogged down by the monotony of the life-work hamster wheel. But with some persuasion by her best friend, Rhea, into her life stumbles Ellen. She’s the engineer behind the Vie Lab where Rhea has taken Natalie to learn about the lab’s ability to take its clients into their deepest (dirtiest) fantasies for a few moments in time.
While this book has a romantic plot line, it more so explores one’s ability to, in the words of Natalie, “Don’t over think it… just see what happens.” And in the words of Rhea, “...perception is reality after all.” In Your Head challenges a lot of the ways we view the idea of a fantasy, what those say about how we view the world and provides a mutual understanding that we all have our own versions of a fantasy.
The lab is proof that we all have fantasies and desires, vaulted away in our minds for only ourselves to experience. We all have some version of our own world. Our own perception of reality. But what happens when you allow others to see into your world? What would they think? Can you allow someone behind the barrier and get a look inside?
Natalie is a typical academic overachiever who cannot turn her brain off sometimes, especially with Ellen in close proximity. While intrigued by the Vie Lab, she begins to wonder if maybe her intrigue is actually associated with Ellen… cue the nervous inner monologues, questioning every interaction and an anxious overanalysis of Ellen’s inability to give back. She stressed me out, but I felt for her all in the same!
I simply cannot wait for the sequel which will be written in Ellen’s POV (In Your Head is written in Natalie’s POV) because her character was so epic. I know she holds a lot more close to her chest that I hope we get to experience. Ellen is brilliant, but so terribly unable to separate herself from her work. And the mixed signals?! WOMAN, stop messing with us (and by “us” I mean Natalie)!
However, even though gradual, may it be noted that Ellen’s straightforward moments with Natalie & vice versa - spicyyy! I’ll take more of that in book 2, Alicia!
If you’re looking for a novella that’s giving academia, questionable research, queer awakening, a strap scene and mixed signals then In Your Head by Alicia Vane must make it onto your TBR!
Overall Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Spice Rating: 🔥🔥🔥
August 15, 2025
📚 ARC Review 📚 Thanks to the author for this advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
Read in one sitting, this novella is an erotic sapphic romance with a sexy sci-fi, 'Black Mirror' tone - and I want more.
The author immediately immerses us in Natalie’s perspective as she arrives at the Vie Lab to observe a new research project that allows clients to virtually experience a scenario or fantasy of their choice. Natalie, a psychologist who's been so consumed by work that she hasn’t made time to date, finds both her curiosity - and libido - piqued.
But it’s not just the lab that has Natalie intrigued 👀 The enigmatic and alluring engineer, Ellen, is just as captivating - and confusing. There’s a hot-and-cold dynamic to her that made me feel slightly distrustful, though I couldn't quite put my finger on why. For Natalie, however, even the smallest moments - a smile, a flash of dimples, a fleeting bit of attention - feel intoxicating. Ellen exudes mystery, blurring the lines between professionalism and personal interest, keeping both Natalie and the reader on uncertain but enticing ground.
The sexual tension builds as the two women spend more time together, developing a friendship - and something more. The character development and emotional progression felt rich for a novella and though it's short, the author weaves a slow burn where you're left waiting (and yearning) for that first kiss. There's a teasing, erotic build-up to the 🌶 scenes, including one particularly hot 🍆 moment.
As Natalie delves deeper into her own desires, she must figure out what's real and what’s fantasy - and ultimately, whether she should “End Game” the lab, Ellen, or perhaps both... and I couldn't stop reading to see what she chooses.
Read in one sitting, this novella is an erotic sapphic romance with a sexy sci-fi, 'Black Mirror' tone - and I want more.
The author immediately immerses us in Natalie’s perspective as she arrives at the Vie Lab to observe a new research project that allows clients to virtually experience a scenario or fantasy of their choice. Natalie, a psychologist who's been so consumed by work that she hasn’t made time to date, finds both her curiosity - and libido - piqued.
But it’s not just the lab that has Natalie intrigued 👀 The enigmatic and alluring engineer, Ellen, is just as captivating - and confusing. There’s a hot-and-cold dynamic to her that made me feel slightly distrustful, though I couldn't quite put my finger on why. For Natalie, however, even the smallest moments - a smile, a flash of dimples, a fleeting bit of attention - feel intoxicating. Ellen exudes mystery, blurring the lines between professionalism and personal interest, keeping both Natalie and the reader on uncertain but enticing ground.
The sexual tension builds as the two women spend more time together, developing a friendship - and something more. The character development and emotional progression felt rich for a novella and though it's short, the author weaves a slow burn where you're left waiting (and yearning) for that first kiss. There's a teasing, erotic build-up to the 🌶 scenes, including one particularly hot 🍆 moment.
As Natalie delves deeper into her own desires, she must figure out what's real and what’s fantasy - and ultimately, whether she should “End Game” the lab, Ellen, or perhaps both... and I couldn't stop reading to see what she chooses.
August 21, 2025
In your head by Alicia Vane is a sapphic novella about women in STEM in a slightly medical/laboratory setting.
Natalie is a 29 year old psychologist linked to the university and is best friends with Rhea. Rhea is the one to lure Natalie out of her shell. She does this by inviting her to one of her test sessions she follows in a medical trial. She wants to show Natalie what she’s been missing in life. The company exercising the trials is aiming to build a sensory virtual reality system that interacts instantly with the wants and preferences of the user. This is how Rhea is trying to get through to Natalie. By joining Rhea, Natalie encounters the mysterious Ellen, coordinator and assistant of the trial who does the major coding of the trial. Them meeting blossom some never felt before feelings in Natalie.
This novella was a necessary fresh break in my current reading. Sapphic and lighter romance never really come to the forefront for long, but I do need them from time to time to freshen up my palette 😛.
I liked the writing style and the pushing and pulling between Ellen and Natalie, but personally expected a bit more spice. I found it a bit rushed and cut short at times.
I thought the setting of the story is really interesting and I’m curious to see how Alicia plays out the originality in the coming up sequel where we'll get to know Ellen better.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher Victory Editing Publishing for providing me with a DRC of this book.
Natalie is a 29 year old psychologist linked to the university and is best friends with Rhea. Rhea is the one to lure Natalie out of her shell. She does this by inviting her to one of her test sessions she follows in a medical trial. She wants to show Natalie what she’s been missing in life. The company exercising the trials is aiming to build a sensory virtual reality system that interacts instantly with the wants and preferences of the user. This is how Rhea is trying to get through to Natalie. By joining Rhea, Natalie encounters the mysterious Ellen, coordinator and assistant of the trial who does the major coding of the trial. Them meeting blossom some never felt before feelings in Natalie.
This novella was a necessary fresh break in my current reading. Sapphic and lighter romance never really come to the forefront for long, but I do need them from time to time to freshen up my palette 😛.
I liked the writing style and the pushing and pulling between Ellen and Natalie, but personally expected a bit more spice. I found it a bit rushed and cut short at times.
I thought the setting of the story is really interesting and I’m curious to see how Alicia plays out the originality in the coming up sequel where we'll get to know Ellen better.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher Victory Editing Publishing for providing me with a DRC of this book.
August 31, 2025
Thank you so much NetGalley and Victory Editing Publishing for this eARC!!
This novella brings together tech, neuroscience, and psychology, creating the Vie Lab, where you can experience fantasies in immersive reality... but most of them are sexual ones, making it a very interesting topic! I never came across something like it, and I must say it did not disappoint!
The story revolves around our main characters, Natalie and Ellen, together they have insane chemistry, with a push-and-pull vibe. The more erotic scenes are amazing and well written, and the level of spice was on point. Something that I enjoyed between them was the fact that their relationship starts more on the physical side and then develops to the emotional one, which makes sense given their work relation and Vie Lab.
Now talking about the side characters, something that I enjoyed was their distinguished and marked personalities, leaving me with a different feeling towards each one.
I have to point out the way I gasped when I discovered there's going to be a second novella... I'm really curious what comes next after that ending and to discover more about their journey!
Overall, it was a chill, funny, hot, and erotic read, with an immersive reality inside sexual fantasies, so if you are into that, I totally recommend this read!
This novella brings together tech, neuroscience, and psychology, creating the Vie Lab, where you can experience fantasies in immersive reality... but most of them are sexual ones, making it a very interesting topic! I never came across something like it, and I must say it did not disappoint!
The story revolves around our main characters, Natalie and Ellen, together they have insane chemistry, with a push-and-pull vibe. The more erotic scenes are amazing and well written, and the level of spice was on point. Something that I enjoyed between them was the fact that their relationship starts more on the physical side and then develops to the emotional one, which makes sense given their work relation and Vie Lab.
Now talking about the side characters, something that I enjoyed was their distinguished and marked personalities, leaving me with a different feeling towards each one.
I have to point out the way I gasped when I discovered there's going to be a second novella... I'm really curious what comes next after that ending and to discover more about their journey!
Overall, it was a chill, funny, hot, and erotic read, with an immersive reality inside sexual fantasies, so if you are into that, I totally recommend this read!
August 27, 2025
3.5 / 5 stars
In your head is from the perspective of Natalie who is a psychologist who works at a university in England and conducts research projects. She gets invited by her best friend to participate in a lab study that focuses on virtual reality and allows the person to experience any kind of situation or scenario they want. Natalie becomes close with the woman Ellen who runs the lab and gets more involved with the lab itself. Neuroscience and Stem are big parts of the book but they are explained in easy to understand ways and don’t feel heavy or take away from the plot of the book. It has a very interesting and unique plot. There is quite a bit of spice but it doesn’t feel like a purely smut book. The characters do feel a bit 2d at times though. For a novella it feels longer but not in a bad way, just that there’s a lot of things that happen in a short period of time.
Also in the beginning of the book they make a good point about how the lab would be a good way for people to work on exposure therapy which is the exact project that Natalie is currently working on and I think that could have been touched on more. I’m hoping it will be touched upon in the next book.
Thank you to NetGalley and Victory Editing for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
In your head is from the perspective of Natalie who is a psychologist who works at a university in England and conducts research projects. She gets invited by her best friend to participate in a lab study that focuses on virtual reality and allows the person to experience any kind of situation or scenario they want. Natalie becomes close with the woman Ellen who runs the lab and gets more involved with the lab itself. Neuroscience and Stem are big parts of the book but they are explained in easy to understand ways and don’t feel heavy or take away from the plot of the book. It has a very interesting and unique plot. There is quite a bit of spice but it doesn’t feel like a purely smut book. The characters do feel a bit 2d at times though. For a novella it feels longer but not in a bad way, just that there’s a lot of things that happen in a short period of time.
Also in the beginning of the book they make a good point about how the lab would be a good way for people to work on exposure therapy which is the exact project that Natalie is currently working on and I think that could have been touched on more. I’m hoping it will be touched upon in the next book.
Thank you to NetGalley and Victory Editing for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
September 5, 2025
Thank you to Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op for this E-Arc. All opinions are my own
This was a short novella that I devoured. We have Natalie who work in a local university as a post doc in psychology. She gets invited by a work friend to a secretive lab study that explores virtual reality you can physically feel. In this lab works the enigmatic Ellen and an inventible attraction begins to simmer.
I had fun reading this book, the concept and setting were novel, with the book being easy to read. I enjoyed reading how Natalie and Ellen came out of their shells to each other even though there wasn't a large page count. I understand this is a short novella and the first in a possible series- which honestly is the only reason that I give it 4 stars. I found the ending rather quick and abrupt, but that isn't to say I wouldn't read the follow up. I think the story was interesting and would love to continue learning more about this world.
This was a short novella that I devoured. We have Natalie who work in a local university as a post doc in psychology. She gets invited by a work friend to a secretive lab study that explores virtual reality you can physically feel. In this lab works the enigmatic Ellen and an inventible attraction begins to simmer.
I had fun reading this book, the concept and setting were novel, with the book being easy to read. I enjoyed reading how Natalie and Ellen came out of their shells to each other even though there wasn't a large page count. I understand this is a short novella and the first in a possible series- which honestly is the only reason that I give it 4 stars. I found the ending rather quick and abrupt, but that isn't to say I wouldn't read the follow up. I think the story was interesting and would love to continue learning more about this world.
August 18, 2025
Thank you to the Alicia Vane, Victory Editing Publishing and Net Galley for this eARC in exchange for an honest review!
This novella was such a fun surprise — I read it in a few sittings and honestly didn’t want it to end!
The chemistry between Natalie and Ellen is magnetic. Every little glance, smile, and dimple from Ellen had me grinning right along with Natalie. The push-and-pull between them feels flirty and addictive, with the perfect amount of tension building until you’re practically shouting “kiss already!” at the page.
For such a short book, the emotional payoff was impressive. The slow burn really delivers, and when things do heat up — let’s just say 🔥🌶️🍆 — it’s worth the wait. A spicy sapphic novella that’s equal parts clever and swoony. I highly recommend giving this a read and I can’t wait for the sequel!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5/5
This novella was such a fun surprise — I read it in a few sittings and honestly didn’t want it to end!
The chemistry between Natalie and Ellen is magnetic. Every little glance, smile, and dimple from Ellen had me grinning right along with Natalie. The push-and-pull between them feels flirty and addictive, with the perfect amount of tension building until you’re practically shouting “kiss already!” at the page.
For such a short book, the emotional payoff was impressive. The slow burn really delivers, and when things do heat up — let’s just say 🔥🌶️🍆 — it’s worth the wait. A spicy sapphic novella that’s equal parts clever and swoony. I highly recommend giving this a read and I can’t wait for the sequel!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5/5
August 24, 2025
"A VR-ish lab that lets people experience their fantasies." I pranced immediately to Netgalley after reading that in a review. Thank you to Victory Editing and Alicia Vane for accepting my ARC request!
In Your Head is a novella that can be devoured in a day. We're in Natalie's head as she meets and navigates a budding but confusing interaction with Ellen, the intriguing engineer at Vie Lab, the same programmer who'd be creating Natalie's fantasy scenarios.
The slow burn was well stretched, tension was kept taut, and the payoff was gratifying. Though there were so many ethically grey areas, my heart was pounding not because of the spice.
Overall, if you like a satisfying slow burn romance that hits with the feels without missing out on the hot and spicy bits, you'll enjoy In Your Head.
In Your Head is a novella that can be devoured in a day. We're in Natalie's head as she meets and navigates a budding but confusing interaction with Ellen, the intriguing engineer at Vie Lab, the same programmer who'd be creating Natalie's fantasy scenarios.
The slow burn was well stretched, tension was kept taut, and the payoff was gratifying. Though there were so many ethically grey areas, my heart was pounding not because of the spice.
Overall, if you like a satisfying slow burn romance that hits with the feels without missing out on the hot and spicy bits, you'll enjoy In Your Head.
August 11, 2025
Had the pleasure of reading this ahead of publication - and it's an absolutely delicious read, exploring romantic mixed signals, sapphic hunger and high-tension virtual reality.
Vane is a pro at navigating these while producing a genuinely sensual reading experience for the reader (not unlike Vie Labs recreating experiences for its clientele), and I loved the mixture of song references, the rich descriptions of food and, of course, the simulations (no spoilers, but they're as vivid as they come).
Couldn't recommend this enough - my only complaint is I could have read MORE (sequel please?).
Vane is a pro at navigating these while producing a genuinely sensual reading experience for the reader (not unlike Vie Labs recreating experiences for its clientele), and I loved the mixture of song references, the rich descriptions of food and, of course, the simulations (no spoilers, but they're as vivid as they come).
Couldn't recommend this enough - my only complaint is I could have read MORE (sequel please?).
August 25, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest review!
This was a bit outside of my reading comfort zone but I was interested in the premise and glad I picked it up! I can't say I've read anything else like this, in a good way. The neuroscience and research components, character development, romance, and steamy parts were well-balanced and pulled off well which can be difficult for a novella. I would like to know more about the research and its intent/purpose, and I would definitely read the sequel.
This was a bit outside of my reading comfort zone but I was interested in the premise and glad I picked it up! I can't say I've read anything else like this, in a good way. The neuroscience and research components, character development, romance, and steamy parts were well-balanced and pulled off well which can be difficult for a novella. I would like to know more about the research and its intent/purpose, and I would definitely read the sequel.
August 27, 2025
In Your Head by Alicia Vane is proof that a book doesn't need to be long to have depth! I even joined NetGalley as recommended by a bookstagram friend, just to get my hands on it.
This novella is centred around Natalie, who joins Vie Industries' VR project, an immersive reality program led by engineer Ellen. A complex, intriguing dynamic forms between the two. It is professional and tense, with a subtle power imbalance that elevates the narrative beyond simple romance.
If you enjoy strong character development, women in STEM and a side of sapphic romance, this is the book for you!
This novella is centred around Natalie, who joins Vie Industries' VR project, an immersive reality program led by engineer Ellen. A complex, intriguing dynamic forms between the two. It is professional and tense, with a subtle power imbalance that elevates the narrative beyond simple romance.
If you enjoy strong character development, women in STEM and a side of sapphic romance, this is the book for you!
August 23, 2025
4.5⭐️
Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC! I really enjoyed reading this. The plot was incredibly intriguing, and so much happened for a shorter book, which kept me hooked throughout. The characters were written with depth and personality, and I found myself wanting to know even more about them.
I’d definitely recommend this as a quick, engaging sapphic read with plenty of spice. It’s fast-paced and well written, and a story I’m so glad I picked up.
Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC! I really enjoyed reading this. The plot was incredibly intriguing, and so much happened for a shorter book, which kept me hooked throughout. The characters were written with depth and personality, and I found myself wanting to know even more about them.
I’d definitely recommend this as a quick, engaging sapphic read with plenty of spice. It’s fast-paced and well written, and a story I’m so glad I picked up.
August 28, 2025
3.5/5
Such an addictive novella. I ended up reading this in one sitting because the concept was so interesting. An immersive reality software lab where you can live out any fantasy? Sign me up! For such a short story, the two main character's felt pretty well rounded and fleshed out. Excited to hear there is a sequel coming because I need more time in Ellen and Natalie's world.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher Victory Editing Publishing for the eArc.
Such an addictive novella. I ended up reading this in one sitting because the concept was so interesting. An immersive reality software lab where you can live out any fantasy? Sign me up! For such a short story, the two main character's felt pretty well rounded and fleshed out. Excited to hear there is a sequel coming because I need more time in Ellen and Natalie's world.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher Victory Editing Publishing for the eArc.
August 10, 2025
This is a beautiful interpretation of our relationship with technology and how imbalances affect those around us. Each of the characters is unique yet somehow serve as effective foils to many of the others. Alicia Vane explores romance, queer relationships and ideologies, and the politics of academia while maintaining a clear narrative that draws you into an intriguing miniverse.
September 8, 2025
I was given this ARC in exchange for my review.
This was such an enjoyable read. The tension between Natalie and Ellen, and watching their relationship develop, was captivating. I loved getting to know them as they felt so real. The premise of the book was fascinating and I felt like it was really well executed.
This was such an enjoyable read. The tension between Natalie and Ellen, and watching their relationship develop, was captivating. I loved getting to know them as they felt so real. The premise of the book was fascinating and I felt like it was really well executed.
September 6, 2025
I received this novella as an ARC. I really enjoyed the plot and was left wanting more. I would love to see what happens next and was very interested in the concept for this novella. The spicy scenes were so good! I can’t wait for the next one!
September 12, 2025
This was okay. It felt like a smutty filler episode and even then the smut was cut short a lot. I think the concept was good- very black mirror coded but if it was not a thriller
the actual story felt rushed and was anticlimactic
the actual story felt rushed and was anticlimactic
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