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The Dom Next Door #1
Knots About You
Two broken hearts, one whisky distillery, and a whole lot of rope...
When her life blows up, PR disaster Claire escapes to a tiny Scottish village to hide, fix up a leaky cottage, and try not think about the boss-come-ex-boyfriend who kept their relationship a secret.
Until a grumpy whisky maker with a penchant for making her squirm sets his sights on her. She’s barely holding together, and he gives her a safe and steamy place to fall apart.
Add in fiercely fought pub quizzes, a murderous seagull, reels that accidentally go viral, and a village that ships them by committee. It's all looking up until Claire's ex shows up with an offer to give her old life back.
Claire has to choose between the buzz that burned her once… or the quiet man who makes following rules feel like freedom.
Knots About You is a spicy and swoony British romcom set in the charm of a Scottish seaside village. It's the first book in a series of standalones in The Dom Next Door Series and features a grumpy-sunshine pairing.
When her life blows up, PR disaster Claire escapes to a tiny Scottish village to hide, fix up a leaky cottage, and try not think about the boss-come-ex-boyfriend who kept their relationship a secret.
Until a grumpy whisky maker with a penchant for making her squirm sets his sights on her. She’s barely holding together, and he gives her a safe and steamy place to fall apart.
Add in fiercely fought pub quizzes, a murderous seagull, reels that accidentally go viral, and a village that ships them by committee. It's all looking up until Claire's ex shows up with an offer to give her old life back.
Claire has to choose between the buzz that burned her once… or the quiet man who makes following rules feel like freedom.
Knots About You is a spicy and swoony British romcom set in the charm of a Scottish seaside village. It's the first book in a series of standalones in The Dom Next Door Series and features a grumpy-sunshine pairing.
314 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 15, 2025
64 people are currently reading
453 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 145 reviews
October 15, 2025
When Claire Braxton takes a break from her life in London, she escapes to Otterleigh Bay, a small seaside town in Scotland.
What begins as a quid pro quo, with Claire helping market the family distillery in exchange for Owen Harris’ help fixing Rose Cottage, the arrangement quickly turns into more. So much more.
Swoon…. A burly Scotsman in a kilt? Yes, please!! Otterleigh Bay could literally have been plucked directly from a filthy Hallmark movie. A picturesque village with neighbors who meddle too much, but have your back when it counts. A cat - Inspector Meowrse - who likes no one, but instantly takes to the FMC because, yes, the cat is HIS!
Owen is reticent, dominant, and so very tender with an unrivaled restraint. Perhaps a smidge too much caution for my preference. His reluctance to take things all the way is understandable given his history. Yet it seems at odds with his willingness to go to every other base. It’s not like I had blue balls, it was just torture by edging. So, in the scheme of things not a real factor. I really like all the characters and the story itself. Can’t wait to see if the rest of the series will be based in Otterleigh Bay or elsewhere and whether or not we met the next character in this book!!
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Burn: 🔥🔥🔥1/2
Darkness: 🤍
Heat: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Range of Emotions: 🥺🫠😊🥵😍
Ending: 💗 {HEA}
POV: 👫🏻 {Dual | Present}
🗄️ Genre: Contemporary Romance
🗂️ Subgenre(s): Comedy, New Adult
✨ Tropes: Age Gap (6), Found Family, Grumpy/Sunshine, Vacation Fling
💫 Microtropes: “Good Girl”
💋 Kinks: Bondage/Restraints, Brat, Domination, Power Exchange, Primal
🤰🏻 Pregnancy: n/a
📍 Setting: Small Town Scotland 🏴
⚠️ Warning: The angst in this slow-burn will edge you to the point of combustion!
🚩 Safety Squad: OW/OM Drama (Mild, One Sided)
📣 Type: Knots About You is part of the Doms Next Door series of interconnected standalones.
🛑 Be Advised: My Goodreads shelves are … explicit in both senses. As such, they could be considered spoiler-y.
What begins as a quid pro quo, with Claire helping market the family distillery in exchange for Owen Harris’ help fixing Rose Cottage, the arrangement quickly turns into more. So much more.
Swoon…. A burly Scotsman in a kilt? Yes, please!! Otterleigh Bay could literally have been plucked directly from a filthy Hallmark movie. A picturesque village with neighbors who meddle too much, but have your back when it counts. A cat - Inspector Meowrse - who likes no one, but instantly takes to the FMC because, yes, the cat is HIS!
Owen is reticent, dominant, and so very tender with an unrivaled restraint. Perhaps a smidge too much caution for my preference. His reluctance to take things all the way is understandable given his history. Yet it seems at odds with his willingness to go to every other base. It’s not like I had blue balls, it was just torture by edging. So, in the scheme of things not a real factor. I really like all the characters and the story itself. Can’t wait to see if the rest of the series will be based in Otterleigh Bay or elsewhere and whether or not we met the next character in this book!!
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Burn: 🔥🔥🔥1/2
Darkness: 🤍
Heat: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Range of Emotions: 🥺🫠😊🥵😍
Ending: 💗 {HEA}
POV: 👫🏻 {Dual | Present}
🗄️ Genre: Contemporary Romance
🗂️ Subgenre(s): Comedy, New Adult
✨ Tropes: Age Gap (6), Found Family, Grumpy/Sunshine, Vacation Fling
💫 Microtropes: “Good Girl”
💋 Kinks: Bondage/Restraints, Brat, Domination, Power Exchange, Primal
🤰🏻 Pregnancy: n/a
📍 Setting: Small Town Scotland 🏴
⚠️ Warning: The angst in this slow-burn will edge you to the point of combustion!
🚩 Safety Squad: OW/OM Drama (Mild, One Sided)
📣 Type: Knots About You is part of the Doms Next Door series of interconnected standalones.
🛑 Be Advised: My Goodreads shelves are … explicit in both senses. As such, they could be considered spoiler-y.
October 19, 2025
I was getting 'The Holiday' vibes when I was reading this book and I was obsessed.
Claire and Owen's chemistry was instant from the second she was found hiding from the storm in Owens distillery. Claire has chosen to escape city life after her boss, and now ex, threw her under the bus after a PR disaster. She is feeling a little lost, but she doesn't have to worry. Otterleigh Bay's kilt wearing grump Owen has taken it upon himself to make sure she is made to feel welcome in this small scottish town.
Both Claire and Owen haven't had much luck in the relationship department, but their luck is about to take a turn. I'm so glad this wasn't a super slow burn. There was just enough teasing and flirting at the start before they finally caved. The banter between them was so funny and they just seemed so perfect for each other. I wanted them to find all the happiness in the world! The best part about their relationship, in my opinion, is that they talk to each other. They don't spill their guts from their first encounter, which can feel forced and unrealistic, but they give each other enough at the beginning and gradually open up to each other more as their relationship develops which means there is no third-act breakup! 👏🏻 It's crazy how effective communication is, isn't it?
The exes appearing added some drama and the scrap at the end was absolutely hilarious and exactly what I would imagine happening 🤣 The whole town is just so warm and welcoming and I can't wait to go back to Otterleigh Bay with The Grump Next Door. Special shoutout to the best cat, Inspector Meowrse. He is the true star in this story. If you're looking for a fun, cosy and spicy read with autumn vibes, then you need to read this book!
Thank you so much to the author, Effie Raye for the e-arc. All opinions are my own.
Claire and Owen's chemistry was instant from the second she was found hiding from the storm in Owens distillery. Claire has chosen to escape city life after her boss, and now ex, threw her under the bus after a PR disaster. She is feeling a little lost, but she doesn't have to worry. Otterleigh Bay's kilt wearing grump Owen has taken it upon himself to make sure she is made to feel welcome in this small scottish town.
Both Claire and Owen haven't had much luck in the relationship department, but their luck is about to take a turn. I'm so glad this wasn't a super slow burn. There was just enough teasing and flirting at the start before they finally caved. The banter between them was so funny and they just seemed so perfect for each other. I wanted them to find all the happiness in the world! The best part about their relationship, in my opinion, is that they talk to each other. They don't spill their guts from their first encounter, which can feel forced and unrealistic, but they give each other enough at the beginning and gradually open up to each other more as their relationship develops which means there is no third-act breakup! 👏🏻 It's crazy how effective communication is, isn't it?
The exes appearing added some drama and the scrap at the end was absolutely hilarious and exactly what I would imagine happening 🤣 The whole town is just so warm and welcoming and I can't wait to go back to Otterleigh Bay with The Grump Next Door. Special shoutout to the best cat, Inspector Meowrse. He is the true star in this story. If you're looking for a fun, cosy and spicy read with autumn vibes, then you need to read this book!
Thank you so much to the author, Effie Raye for the e-arc. All opinions are my own.
October 14, 2025
What a wonderful way to launch as an author! Wow, what a marvelous, warm, romantic book! 🥰 The tension was palpable. 🔥 I loved both Owen and Claire so much! ❤️
The narrative was completely good; the book keeps you interested the entire time. 📖 It's a short and fun read. A cozy and relaxed romance! Perfect to read with a blanket and a mug of hot chocolate. ☕ A wonderful experience! ✨
I enjoyed reading this book immensely. 😊
Thank you so much for the advanced copy; I truly appreciate being considered! 🙏
The narrative was completely good; the book keeps you interested the entire time. 📖 It's a short and fun read. A cozy and relaxed romance! Perfect to read with a blanket and a mug of hot chocolate. ☕ A wonderful experience! ✨
I enjoyed reading this book immensely. 😊
Thank you so much for the advanced copy; I truly appreciate being considered! 🙏
December 21, 2025
adorable
December 22, 2025
Omg I don’t remember much about this one but it was decent
Cute small town vibes with a MMC with a nice accent so maybe the audiobook would stick out way better for romance readers 🧡
Also I thought this was an omegaverse and not a bdsm kink book so that kinda turned my thoughts around on this one cause of the title lol
Cute small town vibes with a MMC with a nice accent so maybe the audiobook would stick out way better for romance readers 🧡
Also I thought this was an omegaverse and not a bdsm kink book so that kinda turned my thoughts around on this one cause of the title lol
October 15, 2025
Rating: Loved it
I am officially taking applications for anyone willing to help me pack my belongings and relocate me from Los Angeles to Otterleigh Bay, Scotland. I will pay you in vibes and inappropriate commentary.
This new direction from Effie had me nervous-excited. She swore she wasn’t abandoning Dark Romance, just branching out with The Dom Next Door series: think kink and spice, but cozy, swoony, and free of dark/unhinged undertones. Basically…cozy kink. Like a weighted blanket...but with rope.
I figured, “Okay, palette cleanser between my regularly scheduled trauma,” and hit download. Best decision I’ve made all week.
This book is pure fall energy. I literally closed my Kindle and immediately went to buy Jack Blackberry and Jameson Orange, so if her goal was to turn me into a tipsy Scottish auntie with light bondage tendencies…mission f*cking accomplished.
Owen is a pleasure dom (yes, hello, I’ll take two to go) and Claire is a bratty chaos goblin in her 30s, which means ✨representation matters✨. Also, I adore her and would absolutely follow her into poor decision-making.
The town? Perfect. The side characters? Delightful. Claire’s best friend? Needs to get her passport stamped and find her own kilted menace immediately. And Inspector Meowrse, Owen’s barn cat, owns my entire heart and probably a piece of my soul now.
Tropes & Goodies:
🍂 Brat x Pleasure Dom
🍂 Found Family
🍂 Small Town Shenanigans
🍂 Vacation Fling → Permanent Problem
🍂 Shibari & Bondage (but make it artisan)
🍂 Chaos heroine / Grumpy Scottish man who sighs a lot
🍂 Meddling family with zero chill
Huge thank you to @effierayeauthor for the ARC. Bring on the rest of the series, because I am READY.
I am officially taking applications for anyone willing to help me pack my belongings and relocate me from Los Angeles to Otterleigh Bay, Scotland. I will pay you in vibes and inappropriate commentary.
This new direction from Effie had me nervous-excited. She swore she wasn’t abandoning Dark Romance, just branching out with The Dom Next Door series: think kink and spice, but cozy, swoony, and free of dark/unhinged undertones. Basically…cozy kink. Like a weighted blanket...but with rope.
I figured, “Okay, palette cleanser between my regularly scheduled trauma,” and hit download. Best decision I’ve made all week.
This book is pure fall energy. I literally closed my Kindle and immediately went to buy Jack Blackberry and Jameson Orange, so if her goal was to turn me into a tipsy Scottish auntie with light bondage tendencies…mission f*cking accomplished.
Owen is a pleasure dom (yes, hello, I’ll take two to go) and Claire is a bratty chaos goblin in her 30s, which means ✨representation matters✨. Also, I adore her and would absolutely follow her into poor decision-making.
The town? Perfect. The side characters? Delightful. Claire’s best friend? Needs to get her passport stamped and find her own kilted menace immediately. And Inspector Meowrse, Owen’s barn cat, owns my entire heart and probably a piece of my soul now.
Tropes & Goodies:
🍂 Brat x Pleasure Dom
🍂 Found Family
🍂 Small Town Shenanigans
🍂 Vacation Fling → Permanent Problem
🍂 Shibari & Bondage (but make it artisan)
🍂 Chaos heroine / Grumpy Scottish man who sighs a lot
🍂 Meddling family with zero chill
Huge thank you to @effierayeauthor for the ARC. Bring on the rest of the series, because I am READY.
December 20, 2025
I mean, honestly… who hasn’t fantasised about running away to the Scottish countryside when their life turns to absolute shit? Because if that’s wrong, I don’t want to be right.
Owen and Claire were ridiculously easy to fall in love with, and good lord above the rope scenes? Hot. As. Fuck.
But what really sealed the deal for me was the aftercare. Thoughtful, tender, emotionally grounding after absolute filth? Yes please, inject it directly into my veins.
And truly, who doesn’t love a dog named Scruff and a seagull named Trevor? Iconic behaviour. No notes.
There were so many brilliant side characters in Otterleigh Bay that the town itself felt alive, and I’m already frothing to see where this series goes next.
Fave Quotes
‘This isn’t about trapping you. It’s about quieting the world until there’s only the thing I’m doing and the thing you’re feeling. So you can receive without having to negotiate with yourself. So you can stop managing everything for ten minutes and let me carry the moment.’
‘Can’t believe I sucked so good, I get to meet your Mum. Wow.’
‘My favourite woman, and my favourite whisky. How can I resist a taste?’
Owen and Claire were ridiculously easy to fall in love with, and good lord above the rope scenes? Hot. As. Fuck.
But what really sealed the deal for me was the aftercare. Thoughtful, tender, emotionally grounding after absolute filth? Yes please, inject it directly into my veins.
And truly, who doesn’t love a dog named Scruff and a seagull named Trevor? Iconic behaviour. No notes.
There were so many brilliant side characters in Otterleigh Bay that the town itself felt alive, and I’m already frothing to see where this series goes next.
Fave Quotes
‘This isn’t about trapping you. It’s about quieting the world until there’s only the thing I’m doing and the thing you’re feeling. So you can receive without having to negotiate with yourself. So you can stop managing everything for ten minutes and let me carry the moment.’
‘Can’t believe I sucked so good, I get to meet your Mum. Wow.’
‘My favourite woman, and my favourite whisky. How can I resist a taste?’
December 28, 2025
I enjoyed this book so much! I grabbed it during the Stuff Your Kindle Sale and literally devoured it in one sitting. It was such a romantic, spicy, loving read that it made me smile! And it's also set in Scotland so I was all for it. Also...who knew knots...
"Good god, it was no wonder he rationed them. It was a smile that could sink ships and drop panties all in one."
Owen is just WONDERFUL! I ate this up and need more. That is all.
✨ Cozy Small Town Vibes
✨ Low Stakes
✨ Found Family
✨ Dom/Sub Vibes
✨ Dual POV
✨ He Falls First
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.25
Spice: 🔥🔥.5
Series: Interconnected Standalone in a Series
"Good god, it was no wonder he rationed them. It was a smile that could sink ships and drop panties all in one."
Owen is just WONDERFUL! I ate this up and need more. That is all.
✨ Cozy Small Town Vibes
✨ Low Stakes
✨ Found Family
✨ Dom/Sub Vibes
✨ Dual POV
✨ He Falls First
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.25
Spice: 🔥🔥.5
Series: Interconnected Standalone in a Series
October 19, 2025
What a great book. I absolutely loved Claire and Owen. I think I’d make a great escape after what happened to Claire too! And what a fun place to hide out in. Ooh la la Owen 😍
This book was both fun and swoon worthy. And I am so In live with both the characters. They came together in such a fun way. Romance and cuteness with a dash of spice. Just a super fun read.
This book was both fun and swoon worthy. And I am so In live with both the characters. They came together in such a fun way. Romance and cuteness with a dash of spice. Just a super fun read.
October 24, 2025
I wish you could do quarters or half stars because I would rate it at 3.5 to 3.75.
I received an ARC copy. I think it's a good, even paced & even keel type of story. It started off going directly into the conflict, but the middle sort of dragged on too long for me. But overall, it was a pleasant and enjoyable story.
I received an ARC copy. I think it's a good, even paced & even keel type of story. It started off going directly into the conflict, but the middle sort of dragged on too long for me. But overall, it was a pleasant and enjoyable story.
November 26, 2025
I was optimistic and excited for the ropes but I dnfed at 40% cause I was bored and couldn't connect with the characters.
October 29, 2025
ARC review ✨️
It was a little different from my usual reading, but I thoroughly enjoyed the book.
Easy and quick read.
The banter is really good between the FMC and MMC, loud giggles from me.
Clare run far away from London for a reset after a work and relationship failure. The little Scottish village welcomes her and she quickly finds her old self and fitting right in. While redecorating a cottages she gets to know the distillery owner in more that one way.
I liked the open dialogues and that eventually they opened up pretty quickly on a "it'll last however long" base.
The exes showing up and causing havoc had me on the edge a little but nothing to dark and eventually there was a little snort laugh while cat fighting.
As the series name suggests (The Dom next door) you can read plenty of good girl moment, proceed with caution.
It was a little different from my usual reading, but I thoroughly enjoyed the book.
Easy and quick read.
The banter is really good between the FMC and MMC, loud giggles from me.
Clare run far away from London for a reset after a work and relationship failure. The little Scottish village welcomes her and she quickly finds her old self and fitting right in. While redecorating a cottages she gets to know the distillery owner in more that one way.
I liked the open dialogues and that eventually they opened up pretty quickly on a "it'll last however long" base.
The exes showing up and causing havoc had me on the edge a little but nothing to dark and eventually there was a little snort laugh while cat fighting.
As the series name suggests (The Dom next door) you can read plenty of good girl moment, proceed with caution.
October 15, 2025
I love Effie Campbell's dark romances, so when I got the newsletter announcing she was writing cozy kink under Effie Raye, I gasped the biggest gusp. I knew she would portray and represent kink in a positive manner. And boy, did she deliver.
The humour was peppered through out in the most delightful way. Gossiping villagers, banter, Trevor, and some clutzy moments. I laughed so hard when my brain short circuited for a second over a character named Chief Meowrse. I was like what this isn't a shifter book, it's ropes, play on words. Knots. But if Effie wrote a Shifter book I would read it.
I really enjoyed this quick fall read, the story of Claire and Owen. I am looking forward to the next book in the Dom Next Door series.
Side note, I'm trying to convince my Scottish husband to embrace his heritage and dawn a kilt and show off those freckled legs. He has nice legs.
Pleasure Dom
Brat
Cosy Kink
Grump x Sunshine
Scottish & Kilted
City Girl x Rural Boy
Found Family
Thank you Effie Raye for this ARC.
I received an advanced reader copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The humour was peppered through out in the most delightful way. Gossiping villagers, banter, Trevor, and some clutzy moments. I laughed so hard when my brain short circuited for a second over a character named Chief Meowrse. I was like what this isn't a shifter book, it's ropes, play on words. Knots. But if Effie wrote a Shifter book I would read it.
I really enjoyed this quick fall read, the story of Claire and Owen. I am looking forward to the next book in the Dom Next Door series.
Side note, I'm trying to convince my Scottish husband to embrace his heritage and dawn a kilt and show off those freckled legs. He has nice legs.
Pleasure Dom
Brat
Cosy Kink
Grump x Sunshine
Scottish & Kilted
City Girl x Rural Boy
Found Family
Thank you Effie Raye for this ARC.
I received an advanced reader copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 15, 2025
Genre - Contemporary Romance
Rating - ⭐️/5
Spice - 🌶️/5
Dual POV
MF
Main Characters
> Claire Braxton (30) - Previously a PR Agent/English
> Owen Harris (36) - Distillery Owner/Whiskey Maker/Scottish
Side Characters
> Marty (39) - Claire’s Ex-Boyfriend & Ex-Boss
> Shelly - Claire’s Roommate in London
> Dominic - Shelly’s Boyfriend
> Inspector Meowrse/Chief - Owen’s Orange Cat/Male
> Isla - Owen’s Younger Sister/Jeff’s Wife
> Jeff - Owen’s Brother-In-Law/Isla’s Husband
> Jim Harris - Owen’s Father
> Jean Harris - Owen’s Mother
> Eilidh - Barista/Scottish
> Morag Campbell - Alisters Wife
> Alastair Campbell - Morag’s Husband
> Scruff - Morag & Alastair’s Dog
> Becky - Owen’s Ex-Girlfried
I really struggled to get into this book. I had high hopes due to the reviews but sadly this one just wasn’t for me.
I’ve enjoyed a few books from Effie’s other series like “Hot Creeps” & “McGowan Mafia Series” so I thought I would give this one a try. The whole idea of the story sounded good but the delivery of it is what failed to keep me interested.
The first half of the book dragged on whiles the last half became very rushed. I couldn’t connect to any of the characters because they would pop up on page one second and be gone the next.
The introduction to the new MMC for Book 2 just came out of no where. It’s the very end of the book, Claire, Owen, his family and some other people from town are spending Christmas together and all of a sudden in walks Henry. At his point I’m thinking “Who the fuck is Henry?” because he hasn’t made an appearance for the whole of the book. He’s just quickly shoved in at the end and we’re suppose to know who he is??? I didn’t know who he was until the advertisement for book 2 popped up.
This story ends with a HEA for this couple. Up next is “The Grump Next Door”, featuring new main characters Henry and Amanda. Sadly, I will not be continuing this series.
Triggers/Tropes
▫️Birth Control (FMC is on the pill)
▫️Blackmail (Not between the MC’s)(MMC Ex)
▫️City Girl FMC/Small Town Boy MMC
▫️Found Family
▫️Light OW/OM Drama (FMC Ex Marty)(MMC Ex Becky)(They both try to stir shit but it doesn’t work)
▫️Mentions of Cheating (MMC ex Becky cheated on him)
▫️No Cheating/Sharing
▫️No Condoms
▫️No Pregnancy
▫️No Virgins
▫️Primal Scene
▫️Scotland Setting
▫️Slowish Burn
▫️Use of Ropes
Rating - ⭐️/5
Spice - 🌶️/5
Dual POV
MF
Main Characters
> Claire Braxton (30) - Previously a PR Agent/English
> Owen Harris (36) - Distillery Owner/Whiskey Maker/Scottish
Side Characters
> Marty (39) - Claire’s Ex-Boyfriend & Ex-Boss
> Shelly - Claire’s Roommate in London
> Dominic - Shelly’s Boyfriend
> Inspector Meowrse/Chief - Owen’s Orange Cat/Male
> Isla - Owen’s Younger Sister/Jeff’s Wife
> Jeff - Owen’s Brother-In-Law/Isla’s Husband
> Jim Harris - Owen’s Father
> Jean Harris - Owen’s Mother
> Eilidh - Barista/Scottish
> Morag Campbell - Alisters Wife
> Alastair Campbell - Morag’s Husband
> Scruff - Morag & Alastair’s Dog
> Becky - Owen’s Ex-Girlfried
I really struggled to get into this book. I had high hopes due to the reviews but sadly this one just wasn’t for me.
I’ve enjoyed a few books from Effie’s other series like “Hot Creeps” & “McGowan Mafia Series” so I thought I would give this one a try. The whole idea of the story sounded good but the delivery of it is what failed to keep me interested.
The first half of the book dragged on whiles the last half became very rushed. I couldn’t connect to any of the characters because they would pop up on page one second and be gone the next.
The introduction to the new MMC for Book 2 just came out of no where. It’s the very end of the book, Claire, Owen, his family and some other people from town are spending Christmas together and all of a sudden in walks Henry. At his point I’m thinking “Who the fuck is Henry?” because he hasn’t made an appearance for the whole of the book. He’s just quickly shoved in at the end and we’re suppose to know who he is??? I didn’t know who he was until the advertisement for book 2 popped up.
This story ends with a HEA for this couple. Up next is “The Grump Next Door”, featuring new main characters Henry and Amanda. Sadly, I will not be continuing this series.
Triggers/Tropes
▫️Birth Control (FMC is on the pill)
▫️Blackmail (Not between the MC’s)(MMC Ex)
▫️City Girl FMC/Small Town Boy MMC
▫️Found Family
▫️Light OW/OM Drama (FMC Ex Marty)(MMC Ex Becky)(They both try to stir shit but it doesn’t work)
▫️Mentions of Cheating (MMC ex Becky cheated on him)
▫️No Cheating/Sharing
▫️No Condoms
▫️No Pregnancy
▫️No Virgins
▫️Primal Scene
▫️Scotland Setting
▫️Slowish Burn
▫️Use of Ropes
October 26, 2025
Knots About You by Effie Raye is a delightfully spicy and swoony British romcom with a grumpy-sunshine twist that’s impossible not to love.
After a spectacular PR meltdown, Claire flees London for the Scottish coast, hoping to hide out in a leaky seaside cottage and piece her life back together. The plan? Stay low, stay quiet, and definitely not think about her secret office romance that went up in flames. But plans tend to fall apart fast when a sexy, brooding whisky maker named Owen enters the picture, especially one who knows exactly how to make her blush.
Between fiercely competitive pub quizzes, a murderous seagull, and a village full of unapologetic matchmakers, Claire’s quiet escape quickly turns into the best kind of chaos. And as sparks fly, she starts to realize that maybe freedom doesn’t mean being alone, it might mean finding the one man who sees her for exactly who she is.
Owen is lovable, swoonworthy, and so Scottish it hurts—rugged, steady, and the kind of man who makes you want to pack your bags for the Highlands immediately. Honestly? I want an Owen. Claire, meanwhile, is a relatable FMC who’s funny, messy, and determined to rebuild herself, even when life throws curveballs (and whisky-soaked temptation) her way.
The romance is slow burn with a touch of kink, full of teasing, tenderness, and genuine connection. The spice? A perfect 🌶🌶🌶, enough to make you blush, but balanced with heart and humour. And yes, there’s a sweet, satisfying HEA that makes every page worth it.
Effie Raye nails the balance between heat and heart, making Knots About You the kind of cozy, cheeky, and deliciously steamy small-town romance that leaves you grinning long after the book is finished.
After a spectacular PR meltdown, Claire flees London for the Scottish coast, hoping to hide out in a leaky seaside cottage and piece her life back together. The plan? Stay low, stay quiet, and definitely not think about her secret office romance that went up in flames. But plans tend to fall apart fast when a sexy, brooding whisky maker named Owen enters the picture, especially one who knows exactly how to make her blush.
Between fiercely competitive pub quizzes, a murderous seagull, and a village full of unapologetic matchmakers, Claire’s quiet escape quickly turns into the best kind of chaos. And as sparks fly, she starts to realize that maybe freedom doesn’t mean being alone, it might mean finding the one man who sees her for exactly who she is.
Owen is lovable, swoonworthy, and so Scottish it hurts—rugged, steady, and the kind of man who makes you want to pack your bags for the Highlands immediately. Honestly? I want an Owen. Claire, meanwhile, is a relatable FMC who’s funny, messy, and determined to rebuild herself, even when life throws curveballs (and whisky-soaked temptation) her way.
The romance is slow burn with a touch of kink, full of teasing, tenderness, and genuine connection. The spice? A perfect 🌶🌶🌶, enough to make you blush, but balanced with heart and humour. And yes, there’s a sweet, satisfying HEA that makes every page worth it.
Effie Raye nails the balance between heat and heart, making Knots About You the kind of cozy, cheeky, and deliciously steamy small-town romance that leaves you grinning long after the book is finished.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 15, 2025
The PERFECT Fall comfort read!! I turned on my fake fireplace, kicked back on the couch and devoured this book in a few hours. Truth be told, if this had been longer, I would have LOVED it even more. I wanted more of the main characters... more of the villagers, more of Inspector Meowrse!!
This book follows the story of our FMC, Claire, a London "city girl" who has moved (no fled) to Otterleigh Bay, Scotland after a very public work situation (that also involved her secret boyfriend/boss). She is hoping to just lay low and let the scandal blow over before she comes back and resumes her life (minus the jerk boyfriend!)
On her way to the little cabin in Scotland that she is planning on helping redecorate, she runs into our MMC, yummy and kilted OWEN HARRIS! Owner of the local family-owned distillery. There is an instant attraction but, both Owen and Claire are battling to move past their last bad relationships. Soon the attraction is just too much but, Owen has a little secret... his interests in the bedroom involve rope play and control... a fact that his previous girlfriend made him feel ashamed about. Leaving him with some serious trust issues.
Once the two exes come to town, well, everything gets turned upside down.
I loved the fact that these issues as well as the spicy scenes were done in such a cozy and fun way. Making for the perfect little cozy read. And the other village residents?? PERFECTION!! Having lived in a small town, the fact that the townspeople were so involved in each other's lives felt so real!! I wanted to much more of the other townfolk and their lives. I can't wait for the next Dom Next Door book!!
This book follows the story of our FMC, Claire, a London "city girl" who has moved (no fled) to Otterleigh Bay, Scotland after a very public work situation (that also involved her secret boyfriend/boss). She is hoping to just lay low and let the scandal blow over before she comes back and resumes her life (minus the jerk boyfriend!)
On her way to the little cabin in Scotland that she is planning on helping redecorate, she runs into our MMC, yummy and kilted OWEN HARRIS! Owner of the local family-owned distillery. There is an instant attraction but, both Owen and Claire are battling to move past their last bad relationships. Soon the attraction is just too much but, Owen has a little secret... his interests in the bedroom involve rope play and control... a fact that his previous girlfriend made him feel ashamed about. Leaving him with some serious trust issues.
Once the two exes come to town, well, everything gets turned upside down.
I loved the fact that these issues as well as the spicy scenes were done in such a cozy and fun way. Making for the perfect little cozy read. And the other village residents?? PERFECTION!! Having lived in a small town, the fact that the townspeople were so involved in each other's lives felt so real!! I wanted to much more of the other townfolk and their lives. I can't wait for the next Dom Next Door book!!
October 22, 2025
Effie Raye’s Knots About You is a deliciously addictive, glorious slow-burn with a beating emotional heart and enough heat to melt a Highland frost. It’s about finding safety in surrender, love in the quiet spaces, and home where you least expect it.
Claire's life implodes spectacularly, sending her fleeing to a windswept Scottish seaside village that feels half myth, half gossip column. She intends to decorate the cottage she's staying in, lick her wounds, and stay off the radar. Enter Owen, a brooding whisky maker with big hands, bigger secrets, and an unnerving talent for unravelling her defences—both emotionally and with rope.
What begins as a wary friendship transcends into something tender, transformative, and wildly sexy. The chemistry between Claire and her grumpy distiller practically sizzles, but it’s the emotional intimacy—how he sees her, steadies her, grounds her—that really took my breath away. Their connection isn’t just about heat; it’s also about healing.
Raye’s writing sparkles with witty humour and heart. Between the pub quiz chaos, the village matchmaking committee, and one very unhinged seagull named Trevor, there’s laughter stitched into every page. Yet beneath the fun is a much deeper story of trust—learning when to hold on and when to let go. By the time Claire faced her past, I was not just rooting for her to choose Owen, I was shouting for her to choose herself!
Verdict: A sensual, funny, and deeply felt grumpy-sunshine romance that proves sometimes the safest place to fall apart is in someone else’s arms. I adored every tangled, tender minute. Bring on book two!
Claire's life implodes spectacularly, sending her fleeing to a windswept Scottish seaside village that feels half myth, half gossip column. She intends to decorate the cottage she's staying in, lick her wounds, and stay off the radar. Enter Owen, a brooding whisky maker with big hands, bigger secrets, and an unnerving talent for unravelling her defences—both emotionally and with rope.
What begins as a wary friendship transcends into something tender, transformative, and wildly sexy. The chemistry between Claire and her grumpy distiller practically sizzles, but it’s the emotional intimacy—how he sees her, steadies her, grounds her—that really took my breath away. Their connection isn’t just about heat; it’s also about healing.
Raye’s writing sparkles with witty humour and heart. Between the pub quiz chaos, the village matchmaking committee, and one very unhinged seagull named Trevor, there’s laughter stitched into every page. Yet beneath the fun is a much deeper story of trust—learning when to hold on and when to let go. By the time Claire faced her past, I was not just rooting for her to choose Owen, I was shouting for her to choose herself!
Verdict: A sensual, funny, and deeply felt grumpy-sunshine romance that proves sometimes the safest place to fall apart is in someone else’s arms. I adored every tangled, tender minute. Bring on book two!
October 15, 2025
Scottish Romance
This. This right here is so good! There's oodles of laugh out loud moments. Heartfelt moments with family and friends throughout the story. Sprinkles of vengeful and petty exs to test the affections.
Claire, now hear me out. Have you seen Outlander? You know how Jamie practically purrs her name? 🤤 THAT! That crossed my mind over and over reading this. I am but a boring non accent having American lol However, read this in your best imagined cheerful Londoner and grumpy Scots accents. It makes the story 10 times better. IYKYK🥵 I just couldn't help but share that 😅 Seriously, who wouldn't love a hot Scot purring their name and getting knotty?! 😉
Claire and Owen don't have the typical rom-com meet-cute. Our girl was waterlogged and cold. Owen, the ever helpful grump, seen to her needs and in the right direction. Was it love at first sight? Nah, not exactly, but lust was there. These two have a delicious push and pull. Claire, in her bratty ways and Owen's stoic and controlled demeanor, are quite the pair.
Thirst trap reels, kilts, bar trivia, karaoke, family dinners, coffee, and friends all in a Scottish fall setting.
As the first book of The Dom Next Door series has officially been released, I, for one, can not wait for more already! You nailed it, Effie Raye!
Notable mentions with little to no context:
Trevor, that dang bird 🤣
Meowrse has main character energy 🐈
Claire's clumsiness is one thing I find so cute, lol
Scruff, the sticks, the same sticks?! Hilarious 😂
Jean and Jim sound so real!
This. This right here is so good! There's oodles of laugh out loud moments. Heartfelt moments with family and friends throughout the story. Sprinkles of vengeful and petty exs to test the affections.
Claire, now hear me out. Have you seen Outlander? You know how Jamie practically purrs her name? 🤤 THAT! That crossed my mind over and over reading this. I am but a boring non accent having American lol However, read this in your best imagined cheerful Londoner and grumpy Scots accents. It makes the story 10 times better. IYKYK🥵 I just couldn't help but share that 😅 Seriously, who wouldn't love a hot Scot purring their name and getting knotty?! 😉
Claire and Owen don't have the typical rom-com meet-cute. Our girl was waterlogged and cold. Owen, the ever helpful grump, seen to her needs and in the right direction. Was it love at first sight? Nah, not exactly, but lust was there. These two have a delicious push and pull. Claire, in her bratty ways and Owen's stoic and controlled demeanor, are quite the pair.
Thirst trap reels, kilts, bar trivia, karaoke, family dinners, coffee, and friends all in a Scottish fall setting.
As the first book of The Dom Next Door series has officially been released, I, for one, can not wait for more already! You nailed it, Effie Raye!
Notable mentions with little to no context:
Trevor, that dang bird 🤣
Meowrse has main character energy 🐈
Claire's clumsiness is one thing I find so cute, lol
Scruff, the sticks, the same sticks?! Hilarious 😂
Jean and Jim sound so real!
October 17, 2025
** Thank you so much to the author for the ARC **
“Knots About You” follows Claire escaping from London after being fired by her boss and boyfriend. She goes to Scotland to renovate her roommate's uncle’s house in Otterleigh Bay, to get a rest from all the madness of her PR world in the big city. There she meets Owen, who takes care of the distillery where they sell whisky and make tours. Owen helps Claire settle in and, in the meantime, Claire helps Owen with PR.
Both Owen and Claire have gone through terrible breakups. Claire’s ex hid her for years, like she was a secret, and Owen’s ex even blackmailed him since she found his taste for bondage something to be embarrassed about. Owen will find out in Claire a brat that he will love to explore with his love of bondage and rope, and Claire will adore Owen, since he is not afraid to show her off in public. They both wish something so simple in life, Owen just wants to be loved and accepted, and Claire just wants someone to be her endgame. Someone who will be there for her. Since this is a small town in Scotland a lot of meddling and gossip takes place, but it’s cute to see Claire enjoying the small things in life and Owen can also let his guard down and be himself for the first time in years.
“Knots About You” is adorable, fun and it has the right amount of heat. The setting in Scotland is dreamy, and Claire and Owen the right pair of sunshine x grumpy. This is the perfect book to start your Autumn season with laughs, a warm blanket to be all cosied up and fall in love with the small town in the Highlands. There will be chaos, kilts, whisky, lots of naughty scenes and a very satisfying happy ending.
“Knots About You” follows Claire escaping from London after being fired by her boss and boyfriend. She goes to Scotland to renovate her roommate's uncle’s house in Otterleigh Bay, to get a rest from all the madness of her PR world in the big city. There she meets Owen, who takes care of the distillery where they sell whisky and make tours. Owen helps Claire settle in and, in the meantime, Claire helps Owen with PR.
Both Owen and Claire have gone through terrible breakups. Claire’s ex hid her for years, like she was a secret, and Owen’s ex even blackmailed him since she found his taste for bondage something to be embarrassed about. Owen will find out in Claire a brat that he will love to explore with his love of bondage and rope, and Claire will adore Owen, since he is not afraid to show her off in public. They both wish something so simple in life, Owen just wants to be loved and accepted, and Claire just wants someone to be her endgame. Someone who will be there for her. Since this is a small town in Scotland a lot of meddling and gossip takes place, but it’s cute to see Claire enjoying the small things in life and Owen can also let his guard down and be himself for the first time in years.
“Knots About You” is adorable, fun and it has the right amount of heat. The setting in Scotland is dreamy, and Claire and Owen the right pair of sunshine x grumpy. This is the perfect book to start your Autumn season with laughs, a warm blanket to be all cosied up and fall in love with the small town in the Highlands. There will be chaos, kilts, whisky, lots of naughty scenes and a very satisfying happy ending.
October 19, 2025
This book gets a good solid 4 stars from me. This book has spice so just be prepared for some bondage spice.
This story is about Claire who has boyfriend (soon to be ex) that throws her under the bus and is more worried about his reputation and how he looks than about their 4 year relationship. After she gets fired and breaks up with him, her roommate suggests that she remodel her uncles place in a small town. When she gets to the town, things go all kind of sideways where she meets Owen. As the story progresses, the heat between them increases. She meets a lovable cat (Meowrse), a dog (Scruggs) that brings sticks on the beach to her and a feisty seagull. she of course names the seagull Trevor. As things progress and she learns about Owen's kinks, she enjoys how it's going and she is falling and so is he but she knows her time is short lived in this town. Also she assists with helping Owen's business. As the story progresses, Claire and Owen get to meet the other's ex's and what they have in store for them in order to get back with their "loves". This story does end in a HEA.
The reason this didn't get a 5 stars for me is that I felt there were times that the spice was added when it could have waited or been brought a little sooner. I get having spice but I do enjoy a good plot and spice. Also there are some of the spice scenes that are drawn out so if you need instant spice, there are many scenes in this book that are not instant. Thank you to the author for providing with a copy to read.
This story is about Claire who has boyfriend (soon to be ex) that throws her under the bus and is more worried about his reputation and how he looks than about their 4 year relationship. After she gets fired and breaks up with him, her roommate suggests that she remodel her uncles place in a small town. When she gets to the town, things go all kind of sideways where she meets Owen. As the story progresses, the heat between them increases. She meets a lovable cat (Meowrse), a dog (Scruggs) that brings sticks on the beach to her and a feisty seagull. she of course names the seagull Trevor. As things progress and she learns about Owen's kinks, she enjoys how it's going and she is falling and so is he but she knows her time is short lived in this town. Also she assists with helping Owen's business. As the story progresses, Claire and Owen get to meet the other's ex's and what they have in store for them in order to get back with their "loves". This story does end in a HEA.
The reason this didn't get a 5 stars for me is that I felt there were times that the spice was added when it could have waited or been brought a little sooner. I get having spice but I do enjoy a good plot and spice. Also there are some of the spice scenes that are drawn out so if you need instant spice, there are many scenes in this book that are not instant. Thank you to the author for providing with a copy to read.
October 15, 2025
4.5 Stars
Knots About You, book one in the Dom Next Door Series, is written by Effie Raye. This is a spicy and swoon-worthy romcom set in a Scottish seaside village. The central trope is a grump-sunshine pairing. I was so excited to see what Effie had planned for this new direction she is going in. This is not her typical dark romance!
This book features Claire, a Brit whose life just blew up before her very eyes. When the company she works for gets some bad publicity, her boss and live-in secret boyfriend throw her under the bus to take the blame, Claire needs to escape and evaluate her life. Landing in a small seaside town in Scotland, she begins to fix up a little cottage in exchange for a place to stay. Here she meets Owen Harris, a grumpy distillery owner. Having come out of a disaster of a relationship, Owen is hesitant about pursuing Claire.
This book could have totally been a Hallmark (after dark) movie! From the setting to the town’s people, it is a fun read. I devoured this book in a day. I loved the cozy vibe with an underlying kink edge, thanks to Mr. Owen! Where exactly do I sign up for a pleasure dom??? I mean, do I have to move to Scotland? Done! Kilts - swoooooon! Hahaha. I literally can not wait for the next book in this series!!
Thanks to Effie Raye for gifting me an eARC of Knots About You. I am leaving this review voluntarily. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Knots About You, book one in the Dom Next Door Series, is written by Effie Raye. This is a spicy and swoon-worthy romcom set in a Scottish seaside village. The central trope is a grump-sunshine pairing. I was so excited to see what Effie had planned for this new direction she is going in. This is not her typical dark romance!
This book features Claire, a Brit whose life just blew up before her very eyes. When the company she works for gets some bad publicity, her boss and live-in secret boyfriend throw her under the bus to take the blame, Claire needs to escape and evaluate her life. Landing in a small seaside town in Scotland, she begins to fix up a little cottage in exchange for a place to stay. Here she meets Owen Harris, a grumpy distillery owner. Having come out of a disaster of a relationship, Owen is hesitant about pursuing Claire.
This book could have totally been a Hallmark (after dark) movie! From the setting to the town’s people, it is a fun read. I devoured this book in a day. I loved the cozy vibe with an underlying kink edge, thanks to Mr. Owen! Where exactly do I sign up for a pleasure dom??? I mean, do I have to move to Scotland? Done! Kilts - swoooooon! Hahaha. I literally can not wait for the next book in this series!!
Thanks to Effie Raye for gifting me an eARC of Knots About You. I am leaving this review voluntarily. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
October 28, 2025
Effie Raye brings us a tender yet temptingly bold story set in a quiet Scottish village, where healing, chemistry, and second chances tie together in the most unexpected ways. Knots About You blends the comfort of smalltown life with the tension of undeniable attraction, giving us a story that’s equally soft and spicy.🫶🏻💛
The two leads, Claire and Owen - are both shaped by their pasts. She’s seeking peace after heartbreak, and he’s the brooding neighbor who’s vowed not to care again. Their connection is slowburning but deep, built on quiet moments, banter, and emotional vulnerability. What I loved most was how their chemistry wasn’t just physical - it was about trust, rediscovery, and finding safety in someone else’s presence.🩷
Effie’s writing is immersive and warm; you can practically feel the coastal chill and smell the rain-soaked earth of the village. The D/s element isn’t just there for spice, it adds a layer of emotional intimacy, showing how communication and trust can be the foundation of true connection. While the pacing drags a little in the middle, the payoff is so satisfying, it’s worth every page.🦋
A beautifully sensual and heartfelt romance that ties you up in feelings, warmth, and longing.🩷
✨ Thank you to the author for the ARC! I thoroughly enjoyed diving into this tender, passionate story. 💌
The two leads, Claire and Owen - are both shaped by their pasts. She’s seeking peace after heartbreak, and he’s the brooding neighbor who’s vowed not to care again. Their connection is slowburning but deep, built on quiet moments, banter, and emotional vulnerability. What I loved most was how their chemistry wasn’t just physical - it was about trust, rediscovery, and finding safety in someone else’s presence.🩷
Effie’s writing is immersive and warm; you can practically feel the coastal chill and smell the rain-soaked earth of the village. The D/s element isn’t just there for spice, it adds a layer of emotional intimacy, showing how communication and trust can be the foundation of true connection. While the pacing drags a little in the middle, the payoff is so satisfying, it’s worth every page.🦋
A beautifully sensual and heartfelt romance that ties you up in feelings, warmth, and longing.🩷
✨ Thank you to the author for the ARC! I thoroughly enjoyed diving into this tender, passionate story. 💌
October 31, 2025
Cozy kink with the Scottish man...kilt included
Claire's life has imploded and everything went with it. Her job, her reputation, her "boyfriend", and her pride. So when her roommate tells her she has an uncle who needs a cottage painted and decorated in a cozy little town. She agrees to go and use the time to reset.
Well let me tell you this does not start out well for her. Trains, taxi troubles, broken luggage, dead phone, oh and its raining so everything is wet when she stumbles into a barn seeking shelter. What she finds is a gorgeous teddy bear of a man who listens to her break down and proceeds to get her straightened out.
Come on a journey of self discovery for both of these characters. Claire needs to rediscover who she is when she gets out of her ex's mold. Owen is drowning trying to live up to his father with the family distillery. They need to drum up more business but have no idea how.
Owen and Claire are so perfect together. From the decorating, to getting the distillery some good PR, and their chemistry. Owen is a rigger and Claire desperately needs to give up control.
The little notes at the top of each chapter are a fantastic addition to the story and vibe of the town. Don't fret we have plenty of drama, doubt, and a fear trying to win.
This was such a cozy but kinky read and I loved it.
Claire's life has imploded and everything went with it. Her job, her reputation, her "boyfriend", and her pride. So when her roommate tells her she has an uncle who needs a cottage painted and decorated in a cozy little town. She agrees to go and use the time to reset.
Well let me tell you this does not start out well for her. Trains, taxi troubles, broken luggage, dead phone, oh and its raining so everything is wet when she stumbles into a barn seeking shelter. What she finds is a gorgeous teddy bear of a man who listens to her break down and proceeds to get her straightened out.
Come on a journey of self discovery for both of these characters. Claire needs to rediscover who she is when she gets out of her ex's mold. Owen is drowning trying to live up to his father with the family distillery. They need to drum up more business but have no idea how.
Owen and Claire are so perfect together. From the decorating, to getting the distillery some good PR, and their chemistry. Owen is a rigger and Claire desperately needs to give up control.
The little notes at the top of each chapter are a fantastic addition to the story and vibe of the town. Don't fret we have plenty of drama, doubt, and a fear trying to win.
This was such a cozy but kinky read and I loved it.
November 16, 2025
3'5. Tras romper con su novio y quedarse sin trabajo, Claire se va a un pequeño pueblo a arreglar y pintar una cabaña para ganarse algo de dinero, pero no contaba con que su llegaba iba a estar repleta de diluvios y tenga que resguardarse en una destilería de whiskey de un irlandés rudo, fuerte y serio, nuestro Owen. Que quita esa coraza en cuanto la ve indefensa y chorreando de agua. Él la ayuda a integrarse en el pueblo y con la ayuda de la cabaña.. y lo que una cosa lleva a otra, ambos acaban encontrando sentimientos ocultos.
Cabe destacar que es un libro con MUCHO, MUCHO, MUCHO spicy, y no del tradicional, juegan mucho a roles de sumisa y dueño, cosa que me ha gustado mucho y ha estado muy bien explicado, con sus consentimientos incluidos.
Cuando todo va bien y parece que viven en un romance continuo, entre sabanas, sexo y familia, acaban apareciendo sus ex's, dispuestos a echar todo a perder, pero nada puede con el amor de Claire y Owen.
⭐️Me ha gustado mucho pero la trama daba para más y creo que no se ha desarrollado tanto como me gustaría, han metido demasiadas escenas spicy, que no tengo nada en contra se me empezó a hacer monótono; todo lo demás lo amé, las interacciones entre los protagonistas me daban la vida, y aunque el final es muy precipitado y creo que ha ido demasiado rápido, creo que se merecían ese final feliz.
Cabe destacar que es un libro con MUCHO, MUCHO, MUCHO spicy, y no del tradicional, juegan mucho a roles de sumisa y dueño, cosa que me ha gustado mucho y ha estado muy bien explicado, con sus consentimientos incluidos.
Cuando todo va bien y parece que viven en un romance continuo, entre sabanas, sexo y familia, acaban apareciendo sus ex's, dispuestos a echar todo a perder, pero nada puede con el amor de Claire y Owen.
⭐️Me ha gustado mucho pero la trama daba para más y creo que no se ha desarrollado tanto como me gustaría, han metido demasiadas escenas spicy, que no tengo nada en contra se me empezó a hacer monótono; todo lo demás lo amé, las interacciones entre los protagonistas me daban la vida, y aunque el final es muy precipitado y creo que ha ido demasiado rápido, creo que se merecían ese final feliz.
October 15, 2025
Here we follow Claire as she is thrown under the bus in her PR career and needs to take a break from her life in London. Her roommate suggests she goes to Edinburgh Scotland to fix up her uncles cottage and clear her head.
Insert Owen, a burley whiskey making Scotsman in a kilt! His heart has been broken in the past but when this woman finds her way in his distillery lost and soaked from the rain, what else is he to do then offer a hand.
How could I leave out Trevor and Detective Meowrse!!
Favorite quotes
‘I like control,’ he murmured. ‘I like telling you what I want and having you so eager to play. I want to learn what you like and touch you until you beg me to stop. I want to hear you using my name as a plea and a curse all in one.’
Owen was restrained control, hidden behind those hungry eyes, where I was open, eager, and vulnerable.
‘You underestimate me, Claire. I don’t want to taste you just to get you to fuck me. I want to feel you fall apart against my tongue. To hear you scream my name. To make you come more times than you can count. I’m obsessed with your pleasure.’
🖤⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🖤🌶️🌶️🌶️
Tropes
🥃 Small town
🏴 Found Family
🥃 Grumpy/ Sunshine
🏴 Pleasure Dom x Brat
🥃 Rope Play
🏴 Vacation Fling
🥃 Age Gap (30/36)
Insert Owen, a burley whiskey making Scotsman in a kilt! His heart has been broken in the past but when this woman finds her way in his distillery lost and soaked from the rain, what else is he to do then offer a hand.
How could I leave out Trevor and Detective Meowrse!!
Favorite quotes
‘I like control,’ he murmured. ‘I like telling you what I want and having you so eager to play. I want to learn what you like and touch you until you beg me to stop. I want to hear you using my name as a plea and a curse all in one.’
Owen was restrained control, hidden behind those hungry eyes, where I was open, eager, and vulnerable.
‘You underestimate me, Claire. I don’t want to taste you just to get you to fuck me. I want to feel you fall apart against my tongue. To hear you scream my name. To make you come more times than you can count. I’m obsessed with your pleasure.’
🖤⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🖤🌶️🌶️🌶️
Tropes
🥃 Small town
🏴 Found Family
🥃 Grumpy/ Sunshine
🏴 Pleasure Dom x Brat
🥃 Rope Play
🏴 Vacation Fling
🥃 Age Gap (30/36)
October 19, 2025
📖✨ ARC Review: Knots About You by Effie Raye ✨🥃🏴
Two broken hearts, one whisky distillery, and a whole lot of rope... and I was completely hooked!
When PR disaster Claire escapes to a tiny Scottish village to rebuild her life, the last thing she expects is a grumpy whisky maker who knows exactly how to unravel her. What follows is a perfect mix of heat, humor, and heart from pub quizzes and viral reels to a meddling village that ships them harder than anyone else. 💘
This book was one I could not put down! The chemistry was off the charts, the small-town charm was everything, and those spicy scenes? 🔥🔥🔥 Absolutely superb written with the perfect balance of tenderness and tension.
Effie Raye, you’ve created something special with Knots About You. 🥃 The Scottish setting, the grumpy-sunshine dynamic, and the emotional depth all tied together (pun intended 😉) into one unforgettable read. I can’t wait to see what’s next in The Dom Next Door Series!
#ARCReview #Effieraye #KnotsAboutYou #RomComReads #Bookstagram #SpicyReads #GrumpySunshine #ScottishRomance #BookReview #TheDomNextDoorSeries
Two broken hearts, one whisky distillery, and a whole lot of rope... and I was completely hooked!
When PR disaster Claire escapes to a tiny Scottish village to rebuild her life, the last thing she expects is a grumpy whisky maker who knows exactly how to unravel her. What follows is a perfect mix of heat, humor, and heart from pub quizzes and viral reels to a meddling village that ships them harder than anyone else. 💘
This book was one I could not put down! The chemistry was off the charts, the small-town charm was everything, and those spicy scenes? 🔥🔥🔥 Absolutely superb written with the perfect balance of tenderness and tension.
Effie Raye, you’ve created something special with Knots About You. 🥃 The Scottish setting, the grumpy-sunshine dynamic, and the emotional depth all tied together (pun intended 😉) into one unforgettable read. I can’t wait to see what’s next in The Dom Next Door Series!
#ARCReview #Effieraye #KnotsAboutYou #RomComReads #Bookstagram #SpicyReads #GrumpySunshine #ScottishRomance #BookReview #TheDomNextDoorSeries
October 20, 2025
This was the most delightful Rom-Com!! I loved every minute of it. This is a pretty low-angst story, and I flew through it in one sitting.
Owen's family owns a distillery in small-town Scotland. Claire is leaving London for some time away due to an exboyfriend/boss and other nonsense in her life. That's the only set up this book needs. Big city girl and small town boy with a ridiculous cast of characters. Could be a Hallmark movie, right? Nope. Not Effie. This little small-town Rom-Com is spicy.
Claire is the sunshine to Owen's grumpy. Even with all the garbage she's dealt with, she is still upbeat, mostly, and sweet. I particularly love her relationships with Scruff, Inspector Meowrse, and Trevor (iykyk). This was a laugh out loud book.So many ridiculous things keep happening to our sweet FMC. Even the exes in this story are so over the top, they become funny.
I want to move to this little town. I want Owen, too, so there's that. This was the sweetest spicy romance. I cannot wait for this whole series to unfold. I have a list of side characters I need to see with partners! A great first Rom-Com, Effie!!
Owen's family owns a distillery in small-town Scotland. Claire is leaving London for some time away due to an exboyfriend/boss and other nonsense in her life. That's the only set up this book needs. Big city girl and small town boy with a ridiculous cast of characters. Could be a Hallmark movie, right? Nope. Not Effie. This little small-town Rom-Com is spicy.
Claire is the sunshine to Owen's grumpy. Even with all the garbage she's dealt with, she is still upbeat, mostly, and sweet. I particularly love her relationships with Scruff, Inspector Meowrse, and Trevor (iykyk). This was a laugh out loud book.So many ridiculous things keep happening to our sweet FMC. Even the exes in this story are so over the top, they become funny.
I want to move to this little town. I want Owen, too, so there's that. This was the sweetest spicy romance. I cannot wait for this whole series to unfold. I have a list of side characters I need to see with partners! A great first Rom-Com, Effie!!
October 15, 2025
🧡🥃ARC Review🥃🧡
Thank you Effie Raye for this ARC of Knots about You!
This book was fun and flirty and in classic Effie fashion, dirty! But I loved every second of it!
Claire and Owen were meant to be and although at the time Claire felt like Marty broke her, he gave her the best gift possible of showing his true self! Which then led her to a bit of a sabbatical in Scotland, where Owen saved her from the rain and being lost (in more ways than one).
I loved this town and all the people in it! I loved the updates on the town bulletin board! Plus the little paper snippets that we get at the start of each chapter!
I love how everything went down with the two exes! How Claire didn’t let them alter her perception of Owen and the life she wants to build. (Although I guess she did let Becky get in her head for a smidge).
I can’t wait for what comes next, and I hope we get a peek in with Claire and Owen too!
Tropes:
🧡Grumpy/Sunshine
🥃Pleasure Dom
🧡Rope Play
🥃Primal Play
🧡Small Town
🥃Cozy Vibes
🧡Banter
🥃No third Act Break up
🧡Found Family
Thank you Effie Raye for this ARC of Knots about You!
This book was fun and flirty and in classic Effie fashion, dirty! But I loved every second of it!
Claire and Owen were meant to be and although at the time Claire felt like Marty broke her, he gave her the best gift possible of showing his true self! Which then led her to a bit of a sabbatical in Scotland, where Owen saved her from the rain and being lost (in more ways than one).
I loved this town and all the people in it! I loved the updates on the town bulletin board! Plus the little paper snippets that we get at the start of each chapter!
I love how everything went down with the two exes! How Claire didn’t let them alter her perception of Owen and the life she wants to build. (Although I guess she did let Becky get in her head for a smidge).
I can’t wait for what comes next, and I hope we get a peek in with Claire and Owen too!
Tropes:
🧡Grumpy/Sunshine
🥃Pleasure Dom
🧡Rope Play
🥃Primal Play
🧡Small Town
🥃Cozy Vibes
🧡Banter
🥃No third Act Break up
🧡Found Family
November 18, 2025
Bookclub
Spice 4 out of 5
- such a good book! I felt bad for Claire because of her ex, he really did one over in her and their relationship, she should have got out of that relationship fast. Her friend was also right, she needed a break from social media and a fresh start. The first time they meet Owen instantly sweeps her off her feet, picks her up give her dry clothes and even gives her breakfast with a hand drawn map of the town. You know he’s going to be amazing if he acts like that straight off. The whole town love gossip and already want them to be together, they welcome Claire with open arms, each person and animal has emotion and feeling and such personality it makes the book fun to read. Both Claire and Owen have horrible exes and Owen’s uses his kinks as blackmail but Claire love his spicy side and shows he doesn’t need to hide. He is all about showing her affection and being who she is and she’s there for him. The spice is spicing in this book, with lots of teasing, and rope play it’s great for everyone.
Spice 4 out of 5
- such a good book! I felt bad for Claire because of her ex, he really did one over in her and their relationship, she should have got out of that relationship fast. Her friend was also right, she needed a break from social media and a fresh start. The first time they meet Owen instantly sweeps her off her feet, picks her up give her dry clothes and even gives her breakfast with a hand drawn map of the town. You know he’s going to be amazing if he acts like that straight off. The whole town love gossip and already want them to be together, they welcome Claire with open arms, each person and animal has emotion and feeling and such personality it makes the book fun to read. Both Claire and Owen have horrible exes and Owen’s uses his kinks as blackmail but Claire love his spicy side and shows he doesn’t need to hide. He is all about showing her affection and being who she is and she’s there for him. The spice is spicing in this book, with lots of teasing, and rope play it’s great for everyone.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 15, 2025
Cozy Kink + Scottish Heat = My New Obsession
OMG Besties, "Knots About You" is giving cozy kink with a side of Scottish spice, and I am living for it. Claire’s life implodes in spectacular PR-girl fashion, so she escapes to a seaside village to lick her wounds—and maybe hone in her interior decorating skills. Enter Owen: the grumpy, brooding whisky distiller next door who’s all ropes, rules, and quiet dominance that melts your spine faster than a barrel of aged Scotch. The chemistry? Off the charts. The rope play? Artistic. The banter? Sharp and warm, like a pub fire on a stormy night. Between viral reels, village meddling, and one murderous seagull, this cozy kink romance somehow manages to be swoony, spicy, and heartfelt all at once. Trust me, Besties—you’ll want to be tied up in this one.
My Ratings: ⭐ 4.5/5 ▪︎ 🥵 3/5
🥀 For my rating scale breakdown, head over to my Goodreads &/or Amazon profile! 🖤
OMG Besties, "Knots About You" is giving cozy kink with a side of Scottish spice, and I am living for it. Claire’s life implodes in spectacular PR-girl fashion, so she escapes to a seaside village to lick her wounds—and maybe hone in her interior decorating skills. Enter Owen: the grumpy, brooding whisky distiller next door who’s all ropes, rules, and quiet dominance that melts your spine faster than a barrel of aged Scotch. The chemistry? Off the charts. The rope play? Artistic. The banter? Sharp and warm, like a pub fire on a stormy night. Between viral reels, village meddling, and one murderous seagull, this cozy kink romance somehow manages to be swoony, spicy, and heartfelt all at once. Trust me, Besties—you’ll want to be tied up in this one.
My Ratings: ⭐ 4.5/5 ▪︎ 🥵 3/5
🥀 For my rating scale breakdown, head over to my Goodreads &/or Amazon profile! 🖤
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