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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
1 person is currently reading
6 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 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 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.
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!!
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!
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!
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.
🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶
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.
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.
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
December 26, 2025
This is the first time I’ve read a Julia Fisher book and I fell in love with the characters. Liam was so mindful of what Ava needed. A great read! I’m going to have to find more of her books because she now has a new fan!
December 7, 2025
This was an ARC read for me! I loved this story! The spice was hot! The dynamic between Ava and Liam was intense! Such a great read!
December 21, 2025
Whew! This book kept me up past my bedtime two nights in a row and was totally worth it! Spicy romance with smart, relatable characters and just the right amount of tension. Absolutely loved it!
December 31, 2025
This was so good! I had a blast with the BDSM and the romance of this. I'd love to read more about this BDSM club. I appreciated the discussions the characters had in regards to their Club relationship first and then also trying to keep their professional relationship separate. All while also figuring out how to navigate their real and true feelings with one another
Thanks to Julia Fisher for the free eARC in exchange for an honest review!
Thanks to Julia Fisher for the free eARC in exchange for an honest review!
Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews