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Controlling Stakes: An Erotic BDSM Boss/Secretary Romance
Ava Anderson is damn good at what she does, and Liam Wildes has been captivated by her since she walked through his door three years ago—over-qualified and practically demanding a job as his secretary. Now, his PE firm can't function without her, and he's convinced that crossing professional lines isn't worth the risk.
Until an unexpected encounter at a BDSM club changes everything...
Until an unexpected encounter at a BDSM club changes everything...
226 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 20, 2025
49 people are currently reading
67 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
December 1, 2025
Listen, if you're a romance reader over 30 and haven't checked out Julia Fisher, you're missing out - quick, spicy without going overboard, no real 3rd act breakup, mature adult MCs. I had expectations, and this book delivered.
Liam is a big finance something or other, and Ava is his "assistant"/best friend/woman he's been pining for. Ava had a mental breakdown years ago from being overworked by her mysoginistic nightmare former boss, and now copes with it through heavy denial of her real role at work and acceptance of her submissive role at kink clubs. When they get matched based on their kinks at their shared club, it's suddenly a lot harder to resist the temptation to cross that line with each other.
The most surprising thing about this for me was the spice. I knew going in that it was BDSM and spicy, but I was surprised to find that the most steamy/impactful scenes for me were the Dom/sub power exchange scenes before they even kissed. The tension in these scenes had me squirming in the best way, and it was a nice change of pace from the usual more blatant spice (but that's here too don't worry). The MCs had great chemistry, and the build up to them finally breaking that final barrier was delightful torture.
I did get a little frustrated with the FMC, just because she's super smart but also somehow oblivious to the fact that her job is way more than an assistant. Granted, her denial and self-worth issues are kind of the point, so that's more a me issue.
I received this as an eARC for free and am voluntarily leaving my honest review.
Liam is a big finance something or other, and Ava is his "assistant"/best friend/woman he's been pining for. Ava had a mental breakdown years ago from being overworked by her mysoginistic nightmare former boss, and now copes with it through heavy denial of her real role at work and acceptance of her submissive role at kink clubs. When they get matched based on their kinks at their shared club, it's suddenly a lot harder to resist the temptation to cross that line with each other.
The most surprising thing about this for me was the spice. I knew going in that it was BDSM and spicy, but I was surprised to find that the most steamy/impactful scenes for me were the Dom/sub power exchange scenes before they even kissed. The tension in these scenes had me squirming in the best way, and it was a nice change of pace from the usual more blatant spice (but that's here too don't worry). The MCs had great chemistry, and the build up to them finally breaking that final barrier was delightful torture.
I did get a little frustrated with the FMC, just because she's super smart but also somehow oblivious to the fact that her job is way more than an assistant. Granted, her denial and self-worth issues are kind of the point, so that's more a me issue.
I received this as an eARC for free and am voluntarily leaving my honest review.
December 20, 2025
I'm such a fan of hers and have enjoyed everything she's written so far. As soon as this dropped on my kindle I read it in one sitting! This book deviates a bit from her usual writing but I was here for it!
It's about Liam and Ava (Boss/Secretary) who have a very friendly, respectful and professional dynamic.
Ava constantly takes on too much responsibility and Liam does his best to take the unnecessary load off her, give her due appreciation and puts aside his attraction to her.
When they are unknowingly matched at a BDSM club they can't help but agree to just one night.
We probably all know how the story goes from there but I personally couldn't help gobbling it up!
I liked the fact that the BDSM aspect was not heavy and also quite respectful which makes this book a perfect choice to pick if you're considering "dipping your toes" or "satisfying your curiosity" concerning the topic.
As with all Julia Fisher books be prepared to turn pages and smile as you read!
Can't wait for whatever she writes next!!
It's about Liam and Ava (Boss/Secretary) who have a very friendly, respectful and professional dynamic.
Ava constantly takes on too much responsibility and Liam does his best to take the unnecessary load off her, give her due appreciation and puts aside his attraction to her.
When they are unknowingly matched at a BDSM club they can't help but agree to just one night.
We probably all know how the story goes from there but I personally couldn't help gobbling it up!
I liked the fact that the BDSM aspect was not heavy and also quite respectful which makes this book a perfect choice to pick if you're considering "dipping your toes" or "satisfying your curiosity" concerning the topic.
As with all Julia Fisher books be prepared to turn pages and smile as you read!
Can't wait for whatever she writes next!!
January 15, 2026
If you love a hot, spicy, workplace, BDSM romance you have to read Controlling Stakes.
Plot: Liam is a powerful Wall Street PE CEO at Wildes Capital, and a confident dom who’s used to control in every aspect of his life. Ava is his assistant, quietly competent and taking on far more than she ever expected, both professionally and personally. Their workplace dynamic is already charged, but everything shifts when they unexpectedly match at Dragon, a BDSM club. What starts as tension-laced professionalism quickly evolves into something far more intimate, blurring the lines between power, trust, and desire.
Thoughts: This was a short but very satisfying read that wastes no time getting into the romance. I loved the dynamic between Liam and Ava, especially how the power exchange felt intentional and deeply tied to their emotional connection, not just the spice. The chemistry was strong from the start, and once the club element entered the story, it really hit its stride.
I appreciated how tightly focused the book was on their relationship, no unnecessary distractions, just solid tension, romance, and heat. As someone who hasn’t read many BDSM romances so centered on the couple themselves, this felt refreshing and well executed. Did I want a dramatic “he has to fight for her” moment at the end? Absolutely. But even without it, this was a fun, steamy, fast-paced romance that delivered exactly what it promised.
Plot: Liam is a powerful Wall Street PE CEO at Wildes Capital, and a confident dom who’s used to control in every aspect of his life. Ava is his assistant, quietly competent and taking on far more than she ever expected, both professionally and personally. Their workplace dynamic is already charged, but everything shifts when they unexpectedly match at Dragon, a BDSM club. What starts as tension-laced professionalism quickly evolves into something far more intimate, blurring the lines between power, trust, and desire.
Thoughts: This was a short but very satisfying read that wastes no time getting into the romance. I loved the dynamic between Liam and Ava, especially how the power exchange felt intentional and deeply tied to their emotional connection, not just the spice. The chemistry was strong from the start, and once the club element entered the story, it really hit its stride.
I appreciated how tightly focused the book was on their relationship, no unnecessary distractions, just solid tension, romance, and heat. As someone who hasn’t read many BDSM romances so centered on the couple themselves, this felt refreshing and well executed. Did I want a dramatic “he has to fight for her” moment at the end? Absolutely. But even without it, this was a fun, steamy, fast-paced romance that delivered exactly what it promised.
February 20, 2026
Ava took a huge mental and confidence hit as a result of her terrible boss at her prior job. She now thinks of herself only as Liam's secretary, and in denial of her true role at work. Liam values her abilities and recognizes her as the unofficial COO of his company since she keeps refusing the COO position, thinking that she isn't qualified or capable of the position. In the three years they have worked together, Liam and Ava have become best friends, complementing each other's abilities, finishing each other's sentences, working hand-in-hand anticipating each other's needs. Liam has been drawn to Ava since they met, and does not want to jeopardize what they have - neither personally or professionally. All that changes when Liam and Ava, each needed to release tension, are unknowingly matched up at a BDSM club - and as partners, negotiate a personal contract as Dom/sub. The story unfolds from there. This is a really well-written great read! I was drawn to Liam and Ava. There is great character development; lots of emotion; Ava evolving to recognize her worth; mystery involving business conflicts; TONS of sexual tension; spicy scenes; mutual respect; revenge. The stakes are high - in both the personal and business sense. A really good read! Enjoy it! I was given a copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving my honest review. All thoughts and opinions expressed are strictly my own.
January 21, 2026
If you like your female main character at the top of her chosen field, stunning ,but unaware of her looks, and is strong while struggling insecurities and flaws then Julia Fisher is the writer for you! I am a big fan of her books, but I will say that I was hesitant to read Controlling Stakes when I read the blurb. However, I dove into the story with an open mind and was immediately drawn into the world of private equities, power, wealth. The unexpected treat was the authentic, protective friendship between company's CEO, Liam and his secretary, Ava.
I have read a few novels where BDSM plays a part in the characters' relationships, but I was not prepared for the depth of understanding Julia gives her reader about the how and why in Liam and Ava's personal lives. I couldn't put the book down!
Controlling Stakes is at heart a beautiful love story full of chemistry, spice and gentleness. I am a big fan of Julia Fisher and the stories she writes are full of heart and emotion.
I received an advanced reader copy and am leaving a voluntary review based solely on my personal reading experience.
I have read a few novels where BDSM plays a part in the characters' relationships, but I was not prepared for the depth of understanding Julia gives her reader about the how and why in Liam and Ava's personal lives. I couldn't put the book down!
Controlling Stakes is at heart a beautiful love story full of chemistry, spice and gentleness. I am a big fan of Julia Fisher and the stories she writes are full of heart and emotion.
I received an advanced reader copy and am leaving a voluntary review based solely on my personal reading experience.
December 2, 2025
Controlling Stakes
By Julia Fisher
Releases December 20th
Controlling Stakes follows Ava Anderson, a top-tier professional who has recently joined Wildes Capital after experiencing a panic attack at her former job. Though she’s undeniably the best in her field, Ava turns down every promotion that comes her way and chooses instead to remain as Liam Wildes’ assistant. Liam, ever protective, keeps a close eye on her—both in and out of the office.
When the pressures of a major new investment deal push them to seek stress relief at Dragon, the club’s owner pairs them together. With that pairing come strict rules meant to keep their professional and personal worlds separate. But as the two spend more time together, boundaries blur, emotions surface, and their connection deepens in ways neither expected.
Controlling Stakes is a fun, spicy, and thoroughly enjoyable read. I adore Julia Fisher’s writing, and this book is no exception. I’m giving it 4 out of 5 stars.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
By Julia Fisher
Releases December 20th
Controlling Stakes follows Ava Anderson, a top-tier professional who has recently joined Wildes Capital after experiencing a panic attack at her former job. Though she’s undeniably the best in her field, Ava turns down every promotion that comes her way and chooses instead to remain as Liam Wildes’ assistant. Liam, ever protective, keeps a close eye on her—both in and out of the office.
When the pressures of a major new investment deal push them to seek stress relief at Dragon, the club’s owner pairs them together. With that pairing come strict rules meant to keep their professional and personal worlds separate. But as the two spend more time together, boundaries blur, emotions surface, and their connection deepens in ways neither expected.
Controlling Stakes is a fun, spicy, and thoroughly enjoyable read. I adore Julia Fisher’s writing, and this book is no exception. I’m giving it 4 out of 5 stars.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 4, 2026
Controlling Stakes is the first book I have read by Julia Fisher. If every book she pens is this engaging I am a new fan. I am very drawn to all kinds of dark, morally gray and power imbalances (actual and perceived). The characters were well developed and had good depth. Ava’s story and the methods undertaken by Liam and the other partners are engaging and well woven through the journey of the MC’s dynamics throughout the entire novel. I am trying desperately to avoid spoilers here. I like the setting and the interesting way the professional angst is as engrossing as the personal nail-biting cheerleading/OMG moments, and they are all so smoothly presented. The characters were relatable and the story line itself believable. Ava’s disposition and struggles were emotional to traverse with her… ultimately the journey while twisted was exciting, erotic and engaging. I highly recommend this read to anybody who understands fiction is realistic and imaginative. Enjoy the adventure… I definitely did. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Controlling Stakes was soooooooo good! I've read all of Julia Fisher's books and knew I would love this one even though it's not like her other romances. Ava and Liam are full of tension from the start and I loved how much of that came from what wasn’t being said as much as what was.
I loved that the BDSM is definitely there, but it doesn't take over the rest of the book. There’s a real focus on trust, communication, and emotional safety which made everything even hotter. The buildup before they fully cross that line was honestly just as good as the O. I also liked that this wasn’t a dark or angsty take on BDSM. It felt mature, respectful, and very character-driven. The pacing kept things moving without feeling rushed and it was easy to get wrapped up in their relationship.
If you like workplace romances with strong chemistry, thoughtful kink, and adult characters who actually communicate, this one is absolutely worth reading! If Julia Fisher writes it, I'm reading it!
I loved that the BDSM is definitely there, but it doesn't take over the rest of the book. There’s a real focus on trust, communication, and emotional safety which made everything even hotter. The buildup before they fully cross that line was honestly just as good as the O. I also liked that this wasn’t a dark or angsty take on BDSM. It felt mature, respectful, and very character-driven. The pacing kept things moving without feeling rushed and it was easy to get wrapped up in their relationship.
If you like workplace romances with strong chemistry, thoughtful kink, and adult characters who actually communicate, this one is absolutely worth reading! If Julia Fisher writes it, I'm reading it!
December 30, 2025
Controlling Steaks: An Erotic BDSM Boss/Secretary Romance by Julia Fisher was such a standout, five-star read for me. It’s a quick book, but it packs in emotion, empowerment, and heat in a way that left me wanting more the moment I finished.
Ava Anderson is damn good at what she does—confident, capable, and absolutely essential to the firm she helps run. I loved that the story centers on a FMC who is already strong, even after being broken by her past. Watching her rebuild herself with the right kind of support made this story incredibly satisfying.
Liam Wildes was the perfect counterpart. His restraint, respect for boundaries, and unwavering support of Ava made the emotional payoff hit even harder—especially once an unexpected encounter at a BDSM club shifts everything between them. Their dynamic is rooted in trust, consent, and mutual respect, which made the spice even better. 🔥
This book doesn’t just deliver heat—it delivers heart. If you love boss/secretary romances, empowered FMCs, supportive MMCs, and spicy stories where healing and desire go hand in hand, this is an easy must-read. 🌶️📖
Ava Anderson is damn good at what she does—confident, capable, and absolutely essential to the firm she helps run. I loved that the story centers on a FMC who is already strong, even after being broken by her past. Watching her rebuild herself with the right kind of support made this story incredibly satisfying.
Liam Wildes was the perfect counterpart. His restraint, respect for boundaries, and unwavering support of Ava made the emotional payoff hit even harder—especially once an unexpected encounter at a BDSM club shifts everything between them. Their dynamic is rooted in trust, consent, and mutual respect, which made the spice even better. 🔥
This book doesn’t just deliver heat—it delivers heart. If you love boss/secretary romances, empowered FMCs, supportive MMCs, and spicy stories where healing and desire go hand in hand, this is an easy must-read. 🌶️📖
December 21, 2025
First, thank you to Julia for the ARC!
This is a fantastically well-done boss/secretary BDSM novel that, beneath the surface, is tender, mature, and grounded.
This is definitely a departure from her other books, but only Julia Fisher can take something that had every right to just be pure spice with a one dimensional dom and somehow craft a caring cinnamon roll? Liam might have been controlling but you just knew Ava was in charge that whole time. This book did such a good job of showing how much care and effort goes behind the concept of “if he wanted to, he would. “ Their connection and relationship development just made sense, even if the circumstances were “forbidden.”
If you’re looking for a fast paced book that has some hot BDSM scenes that is somehow still a slow burn (I know it sounds like an oxymoron but it’s true) this book is for you!
This is a fantastically well-done boss/secretary BDSM novel that, beneath the surface, is tender, mature, and grounded.
This is definitely a departure from her other books, but only Julia Fisher can take something that had every right to just be pure spice with a one dimensional dom and somehow craft a caring cinnamon roll? Liam might have been controlling but you just knew Ava was in charge that whole time. This book did such a good job of showing how much care and effort goes behind the concept of “if he wanted to, he would. “ Their connection and relationship development just made sense, even if the circumstances were “forbidden.”
If you’re looking for a fast paced book that has some hot BDSM scenes that is somehow still a slow burn (I know it sounds like an oxymoron but it’s true) this book is for you!
January 1, 2026
3.75 stars - Controlling Stakes is a sexy, easy read, with strong chemistry and an appealing power dynamic. I especially appreciated that While Ava is highly competent, she spends much of the book underestimating her own value, which at times was frustrating to read. What balances that dynamic is Liam. He is acutely aware of Ava’s importance, both professionally and personally, and never treats her as expendable or replaceable.
While the plot around the firm and its unraveling deal adds stakes, it occasionally competes with the emotional arc rather than deepening it. Still, the forbidden attraction, charged moments, and capable heroine made this an enjoyable read overall, especially for readers who like alpha males who love hard.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
While the plot around the firm and its unraveling deal adds stakes, it occasionally competes with the emotional arc rather than deepening it. Still, the forbidden attraction, charged moments, and capable heroine made this an enjoyable read overall, especially for readers who like alpha males who love hard.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy
I received an advance review copy for free from BookSirens, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Julia Fisher can do no wrong in my eyes. This was a fast-paced, surprisingly emotional read with all the best tropes- a workplace romance, BDSM, boss/secretary, and written so incredibly well. The control, respect and feminist threads were so carefully and genuinely written, which I absolutely loved.
Ava was the perfect FMC- an absolute badass at work and in life with an attitude to match, yet the perfect sub for Liam. I loved that we got a backstory for both her and Liam rather than instant spice and romance, and we see both characters develop so thoroughly throughout the book. I hope there were some easter eggs in here for a series- I want more in this world!
Julia Fisher can do no wrong in my eyes. This was a fast-paced, surprisingly emotional read with all the best tropes- a workplace romance, BDSM, boss/secretary, and written so incredibly well. The control, respect and feminist threads were so carefully and genuinely written, which I absolutely loved.
Ava was the perfect FMC- an absolute badass at work and in life with an attitude to match, yet the perfect sub for Liam. I loved that we got a backstory for both her and Liam rather than instant spice and romance, and we see both characters develop so thoroughly throughout the book. I hope there were some easter eggs in here for a series- I want more in this world!
January 8, 2026
I honestly loved this from the moment finding out that our FMC is a strong confident woman at work and a little bit of a mess outside of it. Think how many of us feel in the real world. Then to have a strong man bend around her to create a safe space for her to grow into the strong confident woman she is. The dynamic that they form outside of work was beautiful and perfect for them. They started with and kept clear boundaries even after they amended them along the way. The spice was perfectly written where it wasn't the main focus. I honestly will be putting more of this authors works on my ever growing TBR.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 3, 2026
Controlling Stakes by Julia Fisher was just fantastic!. The book had great main characters in Liam and his secretary, Ava. Ava was burned in her previous job and fears failing in the big time. Liam and his partner brother agree she is really their COO, but won't accept the title. After three years, Liam and Ava get involved romantically. A truly great romance with intense intimate scenes.
But wait, There is also the matter of the business they are in and the current company they plan to acquire. Issues there.
In addition, the side characters are really interesting.
Such a well written book. Get it and enjoy it.
But wait, There is also the matter of the business they are in and the current company they plan to acquire. Issues there.
In addition, the side characters are really interesting.
Such a well written book. Get it and enjoy it.
January 14, 2026
ITS A BALANCING ACT OF CHAOS AND EMOTION
Liam and Ava. Shes worked for him for three years. Hes wanted her since day one. Shes over qualified and his company cant function without her. Shes also hiding something. They both are. Shes headed back in that direction from her past if she doesnt get it under control. What they discover in each other is balancing their emotions. She just needs to think of her self worth as much as he does. Throw in all the office drama and the business chaos and you have an entertainingly intriguing read with wonderful charecters high on tension.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Liam and Ava. Shes worked for him for three years. Hes wanted her since day one. Shes over qualified and his company cant function without her. Shes also hiding something. They both are. Shes headed back in that direction from her past if she doesnt get it under control. What they discover in each other is balancing their emotions. She just needs to think of her self worth as much as he does. Throw in all the office drama and the business chaos and you have an entertainingly intriguing read with wonderful charecters high on tension.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 16, 2026
If you’re a fan of Alli Hazelwood and women in Stem give Julia Fisher a try.
I feel like all of us can be Ava. We put ourselves in a box and get too scared to take risks or try something new. We take criticisms too harshly and have maybe let that stunt our growth. You just need someone to chill you out… maybe in more ways than one….. This book blends everything you want or at least what I want in a romance/ smuttier novel. Plot. Check. Character development. Check. Lust. Check. Hawt sexy time. Check. My husband being glad I read this book. Check.
Julia Fisher does it again! An auto read author for me.
TLDR: It was hoe but also emotionally available and all the characters grew
I feel like all of us can be Ava. We put ourselves in a box and get too scared to take risks or try something new. We take criticisms too harshly and have maybe let that stunt our growth. You just need someone to chill you out… maybe in more ways than one….. This book blends everything you want or at least what I want in a romance/ smuttier novel. Plot. Check. Character development. Check. Lust. Check. Hawt sexy time. Check. My husband being glad I read this book. Check.
Julia Fisher does it again! An auto read author for me.
TLDR: It was hoe but also emotionally available and all the characters grew
December 10, 2025
It's spicyyy and swoon as hell! I loved Ava. she is portrayed strong willed and confident about herself. And heheh what can we say about Liam mofo!!!
It is a short smutty read but it has a good plot playing side by side too.
I would've liked to read about their past or any kind backstory in the starting to maybe get the idea about their characters beforehand more clearly!
But all in all very spicy, spot on BDSM and especially lovely how Liam is heheh
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
It is a short smutty read but it has a good plot playing side by side too.
I would've liked to read about their past or any kind backstory in the starting to maybe get the idea about their characters beforehand more clearly!
But all in all very spicy, spot on BDSM and especially lovely how Liam is heheh
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy
This book was everything I was hoping for and more. I was completely addicted. I would tell myself just one chapter before bed and the next thing I know an hour went by. The chemistry between Ava and Liam was freaking amazing and that is what kept me turning the pages. The BDSM was both steaming and satisfying, giving me the right amount of spice.
If you’re a fan of spice-heavy office romance, this is an absolute must-read. I loved it and honestly can’t wait to pick up more books from Julia Fisher!
*I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
If you’re a fan of spice-heavy office romance, this is an absolute must-read. I loved it and honestly can’t wait to pick up more books from Julia Fisher!
*I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
December 30, 2025
Would have love a little more back ground of the characters at the beginning of the book
Love the start of the book. Has a good starting point.
I have read many BDSM books and i love how this chapter was different. It didnt go right into sex. It showed how they just started to get to know each other. A refreshing change.
Good story but sometimes i feel like its being rushed.
I like the progression of the story.
The ending was good.
I loved how Liam took care of Ava even she she didn't even know it.
🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶
Love the start of the book. Has a good starting point.
I have read many BDSM books and i love how this chapter was different. It didnt go right into sex. It showed how they just started to get to know each other. A refreshing change.
Good story but sometimes i feel like its being rushed.
I like the progression of the story.
The ending was good.
I loved how Liam took care of Ava even she she didn't even know it.
🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶
January 4, 2026
I absolutely loved this book! I couldn’t stop reading it and didn’t want to end. I adore the story and the main characters. They are perfect for one another and bring out each other’s qualities so well. The sex scenes are hot and the way the D/s relationship is depicted is delicate and real.
The business scenes are interesting and add an extra touch to the story. Controlling Stakes is a must read and I hope the author writes more similar stories in future.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The business scenes are interesting and add an extra touch to the story. Controlling Stakes is a must read and I hope the author writes more similar stories in future.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
December 5, 2025
I could not get enough of Ava and Liam in this book.
I absolutely loved how Liam creates such a safe space for Ava to grow not just as his employee, but in her confidence as an individual. Their banter throughout the book has me snickering the entire time, especially when Ben would egg them on.
✨No cheating ✨Standalone ✨No cliffhanger
*Disclaimer: I received this advanced review copy for free, and I’m leaving this review completely voluntarily.
I absolutely loved how Liam creates such a safe space for Ava to grow not just as his employee, but in her confidence as an individual. Their banter throughout the book has me snickering the entire time, especially when Ben would egg them on.
✨No cheating ✨Standalone ✨No cliffhanger
*Disclaimer: I received this advanced review copy for free, and I’m leaving this review completely voluntarily.
December 9, 2025
Amazing!! Very well written, between the back story and the ending it was intriguing. It grabbed you and held on for dear life! It was amazingly realistic and believable. The power dynamics were beautifully written and the love and adoration they both shared with one another swoon worthy. BDSM never seemed so romantic before! Highly recommend!!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
December 10, 2025
Thank you to the publisher for this arc! Finally proper bdsm representation! I always find it hard to find well written BDSM that isn’t a dark romance. This checked that box for me. As typical with erotica this books lacks a bit of plot and depth which is fine. I’m mostly here for spice. It just made it difficult to connect with the characters which is my one complaint. Definitely recommend though.
December 23, 2025
This was a really good book, love me a controlling man. The story is well written and easy to follow. I’m not normally into BDSM but this was worth the read. The power play between the MMC and the FMC is chef’s kiss. I did wish the FMC was more self aware but she's not a powerless mouse most would write into this type of story. She’s very smart and knows her job. Can’t wait to read more from this author.
January 5, 2026
Great story - I loved how Ava learns about herself and becomes in her own mind what everyone else has known for years. This book has so much hot that you almost forget there is a story going on but the story in itself is great. Wonderful story plus lots of hot equals a fabulous book. This is my first book of Julia's, and it certainly will not be my last. The story flows smoothly; the world building and characters are awesome - no "errors" in the book - just an all-around 5-star book!
January 26, 2026
Ava and Liam dont realise they share a secret. One which is discovered when they are both in dragon club, a BDSM club, looking for a release.
This book follows their journey in navigating the office and club rules. Rules which they set themselves. The book has just enough spice to keep the readers entertained.
I read this book in one night, I couldn't put it down.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
This book follows their journey in navigating the office and club rules. Rules which they set themselves. The book has just enough spice to keep the readers entertained.
I read this book in one night, I couldn't put it down.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
December 20, 2025
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ (explicit, erotic, and beautifully done)
Controlling Stakes is the kind of erotic romance that hooks you fast and refuses to let you sleep. The chemistry? Immediate. The spice? Nuclear. But what really makes this one stand out is the depth behind every scene, the characters feel layered, grounded, and surprisingly tender beneath all the edge.
Ava and Liam’s dynamic hits that perfect boss/secretary tension without ever leaning into ick territory. Once their mutual attraction finally snaps, the story becomes a whirlwind of trust, vulnerability, and seriously addictive power exchange. And yes, the BDSM elements are hot, but they’re also handled with intention, built on consent, communication, and clearly established boundaries. It’s refreshing to see a Dom/sub relationship shown as a partnership, not just a kink checklist.
The beginning is a bit choppy stylistically at the very beginning, but the writing smooths out quickly and the story takes off. Once it does? Good luck putting it down. I kept telling myself “one more chapter” and suddenly it was 2 a.m.
Fans of Elodie Hart, Sara Cate, and Ana Huang are going to devour this. It’s erotic, emotional, fast-paced, and full of that push-pull tension that makes a romance unputdownable.
❤️ If you like…
• BDSM with real communication and trust
• Power exchange that’s both sexy and intentional
• Boss/secretary tension done without the cringe
• Deep character work woven into erotic romance
…you will absolutely devour this.
Thank you to the author and publisher for the ARC opportunity!
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ (explicit, erotic, and beautifully done)
Controlling Stakes is the kind of erotic romance that hooks you fast and refuses to let you sleep. The chemistry? Immediate. The spice? Nuclear. But what really makes this one stand out is the depth behind every scene, the characters feel layered, grounded, and surprisingly tender beneath all the edge.
Ava and Liam’s dynamic hits that perfect boss/secretary tension without ever leaning into ick territory. Once their mutual attraction finally snaps, the story becomes a whirlwind of trust, vulnerability, and seriously addictive power exchange. And yes, the BDSM elements are hot, but they’re also handled with intention, built on consent, communication, and clearly established boundaries. It’s refreshing to see a Dom/sub relationship shown as a partnership, not just a kink checklist.
The beginning is a bit choppy stylistically at the very beginning, but the writing smooths out quickly and the story takes off. Once it does? Good luck putting it down. I kept telling myself “one more chapter” and suddenly it was 2 a.m.
Fans of Elodie Hart, Sara Cate, and Ana Huang are going to devour this. It’s erotic, emotional, fast-paced, and full of that push-pull tension that makes a romance unputdownable.
❤️ If you like…
• BDSM with real communication and trust
• Power exchange that’s both sexy and intentional
• Boss/secretary tension done without the cringe
• Deep character work woven into erotic romance
…you will absolutely devour this.
Thank you to the author and publisher for the ARC opportunity!
December 25, 2025
When I requested this ARC, I was prepared for office romance with BDSM themes.
The main characters are well developed and the plot twists did not go in the direction I was expecting them to, in the best ways.
If I open a smutty book expecting entertainment and the author manages to make me cry, then I’m going to recommend it.
The main characters are well developed and the plot twists did not go in the direction I was expecting them to, in the best ways.
If I open a smutty book expecting entertainment and the author manages to make me cry, then I’m going to recommend it.
January 23, 2026
I love it!!
The connection between Liam and Ava is beautiful to read. It was there from the beginning and simply grew stronger.
The way that he could tell how she was doing and what she needed, sometimes before she even knew. Then finding out that she was submissive was like the icing on the cake.
The connection between Liam and Ava is beautiful to read. It was there from the beginning and simply grew stronger.
The way that he could tell how she was doing and what she needed, sometimes before she even knew. Then finding out that she was submissive was like the icing on the cake.
December 8, 2025
I’m always on the hunt for a book with BDSM that is NOT dark romance, and this delivered that perfectly! I also really loved the corporate espionage plot line too.
Read if you like:
- BDSM club
- boss/secretary (although really she’s a COO)
- it’s always been her
Read if you like:
- BDSM club
- boss/secretary (although really she’s a COO)
- it’s always been her
Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews