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The Tenth Muse: Rebellion
Rebellion is not only resistance, it is reclamation.
This anthology gathers sapphic stories about breaking free from the expectations that confine us. Each piece explores what it means to reject silence, challenge inherited beliefs, and live fully and unapologetically. These are stories of defiance, tenderness, and transformation, where rebellion becomes an act of self-definition and love becomes liberation.
All proceeds support The National Queer and Trans Therapists of Color Network (NQTTCN), an organization building a world where healing is accessible, collective, and rooted in justice. NQTTCN envisions communities that can recover from trauma, violence, and systemic oppression through care, connection, and the power of collective healing.
Every story in this collection carries that same vision—of people living, loving, and healing beyond the limits imposed on them.
Love loudly. Live freely. Be your own revolution.
Featuring Stories From
CC Gonzalez
Chloe Slate
Darva Green
E.A. Noble
E.A.M Trofimenkoff
Evelyn Leigh
J.S. Jasper
Karmen Lee
Marley Valentine
Monique Goode
Sarah Zane
Sofia Rose
This anthology gathers sapphic stories about breaking free from the expectations that confine us. Each piece explores what it means to reject silence, challenge inherited beliefs, and live fully and unapologetically. These are stories of defiance, tenderness, and transformation, where rebellion becomes an act of self-definition and love becomes liberation.
All proceeds support The National Queer and Trans Therapists of Color Network (NQTTCN), an organization building a world where healing is accessible, collective, and rooted in justice. NQTTCN envisions communities that can recover from trauma, violence, and systemic oppression through care, connection, and the power of collective healing.
Every story in this collection carries that same vision—of people living, loving, and healing beyond the limits imposed on them.
Love loudly. Live freely. Be your own revolution.
Featuring Stories From
CC Gonzalez
Chloe Slate
Darva Green
E.A. Noble
E.A.M Trofimenkoff
Evelyn Leigh
J.S. Jasper
Karmen Lee
Marley Valentine
Monique Goode
Sarah Zane
Sofia Rose
788 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 3, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews
March 5, 2026
My short review of each story in the anthology:
Story 1 'Blooming Wild' by Sofia Rose
In this cosy, sapphic fantasy, we follow the dual perspectives of Tansy, a runaway witch who has long been told she is “too much” and is searching for freedom and refuge, and Solenne, a reclusive dryad who has spent centuries being “enough” for everyone but herself. Set within a sacred grove, the story unfolds in a romantic, whimsical haven filled with shimmering springs and even frogs reciting poetry.
The tone strikes a lovely balance between the mystical and the gently humorous, creating a world that feels both enchanted and warmly inviting. The author leans beautifully into cottagecore aesthetics and forced proximity, allowing the connection between Tansy and Solenne to develop naturally. Through their shared space, we come to see two characters who offer one another care, safety and quiet understanding. From that foundation, attraction grows — soft at first, then blooming into a warm, affirming love.
Their chemistry builds to a passionate 🌶 scene featuring a “good girl” dynamic and consensual vine restraint, adding heat while remaining rooted in trust and mutual desire.
At its heart, this is a story about gently pushing back against the constraints imposed by others and finding a love in which you are wholly accepted as yourself. It sets a beautifully tender and hopeful tone for the anthology.
Story 2 'Love At First Knight' by E. A. M. Trofimenkoff
This is an incredibly fun and sexy story following Ellory and Margot — former girlfriends and now fierce rivals in a high-stakes chess competition. With the weight of their break-up still lingering and some rather intriguing room arrangements forcing them into close proximity, the tension between them is immediate and charged ⚡️
Told from Ellory’s perspective, the narrative captures both the exhilaration of competitive chess alongside the prejudice that exists within the sport. The author balances the intellectual thrill of the game with the emotional complexity of facing an ex you may not be entirely over.
Ellory and Margot's chemistry is compelling from the outset — whether they’re battling across the chessboard in full public view or navigating their undeniable attraction in private.
Featuring bisexual representation, elements of BDSM, a delicious “good girl” dynamic 🫦 and the ever-satisfying rivals-to-lovers trope, this becomes a story that leaves you wondering whether love is simply another kind of game — and who, in the end, will make the winning move.
Story 3 'Soul Delicious' by Darva Green
A story where some of my favourite themes intertwine — women breaking free from expectation and reclaiming their power through witchcraft ❤️🔥
Set in a rural, religious village, the setting immediately conjured something akin to M. Night Shyamalan's film 'The Village' in my mind — insular townsfolk, rigid patriarchal roles, and whispered warnings of “wickedness” lurking beyond the treeline. We follow Elizabeth as she navigates the suffocating weight of religious repression, all while rumours swirl about a so-called ‘devil woman’ in the forest. Elizabeth is a narrative voice I warmed to instantly — kind and quietly defiant.
The author crafts an eerie, fairly creepy atmosphere, but I loved the turning point where Elizabeth feels herself drawn towards the supposed witch rather than shrinking away in fear. What follows is a life-altering, incendiary (and spicy 🌶) encounter that marks the beginning of her awakening. Even by the end, I found myself uncertain of the witch’s true intentions — which only made it more compelling. This witchy, sapphic awakening may be just a single chapter long, but I would happily read an entire novel built around it ❤️🧙♀️
Story 4 'Downtown' by J.S. Jasper
This sweet, romantic and hot sapphic novella follows Akilah, owner of the club Downtown, and Tanner, the interior designer brought in to transform it. Told in dual perspectives, the story centres on a workplace dynamic charged with tension and undeniable chemistry ⚡️
The author takes a slow, deliberate approach, peeling back the layers of both women as their connection deepens. Tanner is playful, thoughtful and effortlessly charming (with hot glasses too), but it was Akilah who truly captured my heart — gorgeous, with developed and layered characterisation - she runs a strip club, loves to read Emily Dickinson and I absolutely loved the inclusion of ASD, ace and trans representation too ❤️
The push and pull between them is engaging, with flirtation that gradually builds into intimacy rooted in trust. By chapter six, I was simply smiling at the page. Their evolving dynamic — the dates, quiet moments, shared reading, and sleepovers — makes this a tender, character-driven romance that lingers well beyond its length.
Story 5 'Free Roam' by Evelyn Leigh
This spicy sapphic short story centres on Rae and Vik, who meet at Lilith’s Lounge, a playful and welcoming kink club, and decide to share a night of exploration. Told in dual first-person perspectives, the narrative captures both the nerves and the thrill of new connection.
Rae is relatable as a woman coming out later in life, tentatively stepping into the club for the first time and eager to explore her sexuality. Enter Vik — confident, perceptive and deliciously forthright — who quickly puts Rae at ease. Their chemistry sparks almost immediately, with flirtation that is bold, assured and undeniably hot - and that leads to 🔥🌶 including ✂️✂️, "good girl" and 🍆!
The story balances explicit heat with emotional grounding, allowing Rae’s vulnerability and Vik’s steady confidence to shape the encounter. I particularly appreciated the bisexual representation for both main characters, and the author’s note was lovely to read too ❤️
Story 6 'Her Magic Touch' by Sarah Zane
This sapphic fantasy rivals-to-lovers romance follows two army officers — one gifted with magic, the other without — who must overcome their differences to survive a brewing magical war.
The world of Altea is established quickly and effectively, with the threat of invasion creating immediate stakes. We follow Cierra, an honourable and fiercely protective officer on the brink of retirement, who dreams only of opening a quiet bookshop-tavern and leaving battle behind. Instead, she’s pulled into one final mission: escorting and protecting royalty. Unfortunately for her, it means leading the quest alongside Astra — colleague, rival, and a constant source of unresolved tension.
Their journey delivers classic tropes: forced proximity, only one tent, clashing approaches to leadership, and plenty of charged moments amid sword fights and dangerous skirmishes. The intimacy builds naturally through shared peril and reluctant admiration, with a touch of magical roleplay (🔥🌶) woven into their dynamic.
What begins as frustration and rivalry gradually shifts into respect, understanding and, ultimately, love. It’s a satisfying blend of fantasy stakes and romantic tension, perfect for readers who enjoy sharp banter, battlefield bonds and opposites who discover they may not be so incompatible after all ❤️
Story 7 'Flower Under The Ash: A Queen and the Heiress Short Story' by C.C. González
This sweet and steamy sapphic short story follows Zera, a formidable warrior, and Calla, a quiet gardener, through dual perspectives and a fated-lovers premise complicated by a language barrier.
Calla is instantly endearing — gentle, nurturing, and longing for a soulmate — though her daydreams are anything but innocent as she tends her garden, hoping for a long-awaited connection 🔥 When Zera arrives in her village, ostensibly to learn how to cultivate crops in damaged soil, it quickly becomes clear there are deeper motives at play. For Calla, the stranger’s hands and searching gaze feel achingly familiar 🫦
The world-building is vivid without overwhelming the romance, and the dynamic between the leads is compelling. Zera’s bold, almost outrageous confidence contrasts beautifully with Calla’s softness, creating a satisfying opposites-attract tension ❤️🔥 Their flirtation is charged, the chemistry immediate, and the intimacy both passionate and tender (🔥🌶).
Reading about them swimming and laughing together while I myself was at the beach was my favourite part, before the author gives us an action-driven finale. A short but immersive fantasy romance, blending desire, destiny and a touch of danger.
Story 8 'The War We Chose' by Karmen Lee
This short sapphic mafia romance follows Valentina and Nicolette (Nico), two women with a secret, passionate past, now caught on opposite sides of rival mafia families ❤️🔥 The author skilfully uses memories, showing the spark that never quite went out, even amid danger and family feuds.
The story’s tension is palpable: navigating patriarchal mafia dynamics, the women are forced into close proximity for a business deal, and the sexual chemistry ignites fast 🔥 Daring banter and risky moments of passion crackle as they circle each other, delivering plenty of “don’t touch her” and “she’s mine” energy — Nico in particular steals the show 🫦
Though short, the story is layered with intrigue, heat, and worldplay as foreplay. Fans of dangerous romance and rivals-to-lovers will enjoy this, and it left me eager to dive into Karmen Lee’s latest sapphic mafia release: Mine, Yours & Ours 📚
Story 9 'Blessed Be The Fall' by E.A. Noble
This is a fierce horror–epic fantasy that rages against patriarchy, colonialism, and oppressive religious practices — not a light read, but utterly compelling.
The story follows Thessia and E’kili, two women brought together to reclaim their bodies and dismantle the forces that oppress them.
The world-building is imaginative and darkly thrilling: vengeful mermaids, werewolves, dragons, naughty nuns, and witches who cannot be burned all populate a vividly realised, dangerous island. Doesn't that already sound incredible?!
Battles are intense, unsettling, and infused with high stakes that keep you turning pages.
Characterisation is a highlight ✨️ Thessia, a secretive, brave nun, explores her sexuality and questions authority, while E’kili returns to reclaim her home with courage, leadership, and resilience. When they meet, their connection is instant and fiery ⚡️ blending desire, trust, and shared purpose (🔥🌶 too)!
At its heart, the story is about women supporting women, queer love, and righteous rage. It ends on a cliffhanger that leaves you desperate for the next instalment — a thrilling, emotional, and unforgettable read!
Story 10 'Once Upon Her Dream' by Monique Goode
This sweet and romantic fantasy novella is a gentle, emotional story about loss, renewal, and finding love that feels safe and joyful 💖
Told in dual perspectives, we follow Fermana, a dream-walker grieving a past love, and Isyss, a dream fae intrigued by the woman she watches over 💫 The narrative blends magic, tarot, and a whimsical journey, exploring grief while celebrating the courage to open one’s heart again.
The author’s writing is peaceful and lyrical at times, drawing you into a dream world where love quite literally floats in the air. The inclusion of ADHD representation adds depth, and watching these two women navigate opposing forces, distance, desire, and devotion is lovely. A heartwarming story about the lengths we’ll go for love ❤️
Story 11 'Severance Package' by Chloe Slate
This wickedly dark short story delivers a quick, sharp hit of tension and revenge. Told through Cassie’s perspective, we meet a tech-bro villain whose money and confidence masks a horrendous, appalling person, and the author builds an ominous, unsettling tone from the very first intimate encounter at the bar 🍸
Despite its brevity, the narrative is gripping: readers sense that something is planned, something is coming, and the climax — Cassie and her girlfriend exacting violent revenge — lands with quite an impact 💥 I enjoyed seeing the inclusion of trans protagonists and this is a tense, darkly thrilling read that will leave you wondering: what happens next?
Story 12 'I’m Yours: A Best Friends to Lovers Short Story' by Marley Valentine
This short story follows the dual perspectives of Lux, secretly in love with her best friend, and Liv — the best friend, whose wedding day opens the narrative 🫣 The author's quick shifts between past and present build tension, revealing the deep love, chemistry, and desire (🔥🌶) between these two women.
The story captures the fear of risking everything for love, showing that walking away from expectations and embracing what truly matters can be terrifying but ultimately worth it. I loved the inclusion of bisexual representation, and the last story of this anthology reminds readers to follow their hearts, challenge rules, and choose their own happiness ❤️
Story 1 'Blooming Wild' by Sofia Rose
In this cosy, sapphic fantasy, we follow the dual perspectives of Tansy, a runaway witch who has long been told she is “too much” and is searching for freedom and refuge, and Solenne, a reclusive dryad who has spent centuries being “enough” for everyone but herself. Set within a sacred grove, the story unfolds in a romantic, whimsical haven filled with shimmering springs and even frogs reciting poetry.
The tone strikes a lovely balance between the mystical and the gently humorous, creating a world that feels both enchanted and warmly inviting. The author leans beautifully into cottagecore aesthetics and forced proximity, allowing the connection between Tansy and Solenne to develop naturally. Through their shared space, we come to see two characters who offer one another care, safety and quiet understanding. From that foundation, attraction grows — soft at first, then blooming into a warm, affirming love.
Their chemistry builds to a passionate 🌶 scene featuring a “good girl” dynamic and consensual vine restraint, adding heat while remaining rooted in trust and mutual desire.
At its heart, this is a story about gently pushing back against the constraints imposed by others and finding a love in which you are wholly accepted as yourself. It sets a beautifully tender and hopeful tone for the anthology.
Story 2 'Love At First Knight' by E. A. M. Trofimenkoff
This is an incredibly fun and sexy story following Ellory and Margot — former girlfriends and now fierce rivals in a high-stakes chess competition. With the weight of their break-up still lingering and some rather intriguing room arrangements forcing them into close proximity, the tension between them is immediate and charged ⚡️
Told from Ellory’s perspective, the narrative captures both the exhilaration of competitive chess alongside the prejudice that exists within the sport. The author balances the intellectual thrill of the game with the emotional complexity of facing an ex you may not be entirely over.
Ellory and Margot's chemistry is compelling from the outset — whether they’re battling across the chessboard in full public view or navigating their undeniable attraction in private.
Featuring bisexual representation, elements of BDSM, a delicious “good girl” dynamic 🫦 and the ever-satisfying rivals-to-lovers trope, this becomes a story that leaves you wondering whether love is simply another kind of game — and who, in the end, will make the winning move.
Story 3 'Soul Delicious' by Darva Green
A story where some of my favourite themes intertwine — women breaking free from expectation and reclaiming their power through witchcraft ❤️🔥
Set in a rural, religious village, the setting immediately conjured something akin to M. Night Shyamalan's film 'The Village' in my mind — insular townsfolk, rigid patriarchal roles, and whispered warnings of “wickedness” lurking beyond the treeline. We follow Elizabeth as she navigates the suffocating weight of religious repression, all while rumours swirl about a so-called ‘devil woman’ in the forest. Elizabeth is a narrative voice I warmed to instantly — kind and quietly defiant.
The author crafts an eerie, fairly creepy atmosphere, but I loved the turning point where Elizabeth feels herself drawn towards the supposed witch rather than shrinking away in fear. What follows is a life-altering, incendiary (and spicy 🌶) encounter that marks the beginning of her awakening. Even by the end, I found myself uncertain of the witch’s true intentions — which only made it more compelling. This witchy, sapphic awakening may be just a single chapter long, but I would happily read an entire novel built around it ❤️🧙♀️
Story 4 'Downtown' by J.S. Jasper
This sweet, romantic and hot sapphic novella follows Akilah, owner of the club Downtown, and Tanner, the interior designer brought in to transform it. Told in dual perspectives, the story centres on a workplace dynamic charged with tension and undeniable chemistry ⚡️
The author takes a slow, deliberate approach, peeling back the layers of both women as their connection deepens. Tanner is playful, thoughtful and effortlessly charming (with hot glasses too), but it was Akilah who truly captured my heart — gorgeous, with developed and layered characterisation - she runs a strip club, loves to read Emily Dickinson and I absolutely loved the inclusion of ASD, ace and trans representation too ❤️
The push and pull between them is engaging, with flirtation that gradually builds into intimacy rooted in trust. By chapter six, I was simply smiling at the page. Their evolving dynamic — the dates, quiet moments, shared reading, and sleepovers — makes this a tender, character-driven romance that lingers well beyond its length.
Story 5 'Free Roam' by Evelyn Leigh
This spicy sapphic short story centres on Rae and Vik, who meet at Lilith’s Lounge, a playful and welcoming kink club, and decide to share a night of exploration. Told in dual first-person perspectives, the narrative captures both the nerves and the thrill of new connection.
Rae is relatable as a woman coming out later in life, tentatively stepping into the club for the first time and eager to explore her sexuality. Enter Vik — confident, perceptive and deliciously forthright — who quickly puts Rae at ease. Their chemistry sparks almost immediately, with flirtation that is bold, assured and undeniably hot - and that leads to 🔥🌶 including ✂️✂️, "good girl" and 🍆!
The story balances explicit heat with emotional grounding, allowing Rae’s vulnerability and Vik’s steady confidence to shape the encounter. I particularly appreciated the bisexual representation for both main characters, and the author’s note was lovely to read too ❤️
Story 6 'Her Magic Touch' by Sarah Zane
This sapphic fantasy rivals-to-lovers romance follows two army officers — one gifted with magic, the other without — who must overcome their differences to survive a brewing magical war.
The world of Altea is established quickly and effectively, with the threat of invasion creating immediate stakes. We follow Cierra, an honourable and fiercely protective officer on the brink of retirement, who dreams only of opening a quiet bookshop-tavern and leaving battle behind. Instead, she’s pulled into one final mission: escorting and protecting royalty. Unfortunately for her, it means leading the quest alongside Astra — colleague, rival, and a constant source of unresolved tension.
Their journey delivers classic tropes: forced proximity, only one tent, clashing approaches to leadership, and plenty of charged moments amid sword fights and dangerous skirmishes. The intimacy builds naturally through shared peril and reluctant admiration, with a touch of magical roleplay (🔥🌶) woven into their dynamic.
What begins as frustration and rivalry gradually shifts into respect, understanding and, ultimately, love. It’s a satisfying blend of fantasy stakes and romantic tension, perfect for readers who enjoy sharp banter, battlefield bonds and opposites who discover they may not be so incompatible after all ❤️
Story 7 'Flower Under The Ash: A Queen and the Heiress Short Story' by C.C. González
This sweet and steamy sapphic short story follows Zera, a formidable warrior, and Calla, a quiet gardener, through dual perspectives and a fated-lovers premise complicated by a language barrier.
Calla is instantly endearing — gentle, nurturing, and longing for a soulmate — though her daydreams are anything but innocent as she tends her garden, hoping for a long-awaited connection 🔥 When Zera arrives in her village, ostensibly to learn how to cultivate crops in damaged soil, it quickly becomes clear there are deeper motives at play. For Calla, the stranger’s hands and searching gaze feel achingly familiar 🫦
The world-building is vivid without overwhelming the romance, and the dynamic between the leads is compelling. Zera’s bold, almost outrageous confidence contrasts beautifully with Calla’s softness, creating a satisfying opposites-attract tension ❤️🔥 Their flirtation is charged, the chemistry immediate, and the intimacy both passionate and tender (🔥🌶).
Reading about them swimming and laughing together while I myself was at the beach was my favourite part, before the author gives us an action-driven finale. A short but immersive fantasy romance, blending desire, destiny and a touch of danger.
Story 8 'The War We Chose' by Karmen Lee
This short sapphic mafia romance follows Valentina and Nicolette (Nico), two women with a secret, passionate past, now caught on opposite sides of rival mafia families ❤️🔥 The author skilfully uses memories, showing the spark that never quite went out, even amid danger and family feuds.
The story’s tension is palpable: navigating patriarchal mafia dynamics, the women are forced into close proximity for a business deal, and the sexual chemistry ignites fast 🔥 Daring banter and risky moments of passion crackle as they circle each other, delivering plenty of “don’t touch her” and “she’s mine” energy — Nico in particular steals the show 🫦
Though short, the story is layered with intrigue, heat, and worldplay as foreplay. Fans of dangerous romance and rivals-to-lovers will enjoy this, and it left me eager to dive into Karmen Lee’s latest sapphic mafia release: Mine, Yours & Ours 📚
Story 9 'Blessed Be The Fall' by E.A. Noble
This is a fierce horror–epic fantasy that rages against patriarchy, colonialism, and oppressive religious practices — not a light read, but utterly compelling.
The story follows Thessia and E’kili, two women brought together to reclaim their bodies and dismantle the forces that oppress them.
The world-building is imaginative and darkly thrilling: vengeful mermaids, werewolves, dragons, naughty nuns, and witches who cannot be burned all populate a vividly realised, dangerous island. Doesn't that already sound incredible?!
Battles are intense, unsettling, and infused with high stakes that keep you turning pages.
Characterisation is a highlight ✨️ Thessia, a secretive, brave nun, explores her sexuality and questions authority, while E’kili returns to reclaim her home with courage, leadership, and resilience. When they meet, their connection is instant and fiery ⚡️ blending desire, trust, and shared purpose (🔥🌶 too)!
At its heart, the story is about women supporting women, queer love, and righteous rage. It ends on a cliffhanger that leaves you desperate for the next instalment — a thrilling, emotional, and unforgettable read!
Story 10 'Once Upon Her Dream' by Monique Goode
This sweet and romantic fantasy novella is a gentle, emotional story about loss, renewal, and finding love that feels safe and joyful 💖
Told in dual perspectives, we follow Fermana, a dream-walker grieving a past love, and Isyss, a dream fae intrigued by the woman she watches over 💫 The narrative blends magic, tarot, and a whimsical journey, exploring grief while celebrating the courage to open one’s heart again.
The author’s writing is peaceful and lyrical at times, drawing you into a dream world where love quite literally floats in the air. The inclusion of ADHD representation adds depth, and watching these two women navigate opposing forces, distance, desire, and devotion is lovely. A heartwarming story about the lengths we’ll go for love ❤️
Story 11 'Severance Package' by Chloe Slate
This wickedly dark short story delivers a quick, sharp hit of tension and revenge. Told through Cassie’s perspective, we meet a tech-bro villain whose money and confidence masks a horrendous, appalling person, and the author builds an ominous, unsettling tone from the very first intimate encounter at the bar 🍸
Despite its brevity, the narrative is gripping: readers sense that something is planned, something is coming, and the climax — Cassie and her girlfriend exacting violent revenge — lands with quite an impact 💥 I enjoyed seeing the inclusion of trans protagonists and this is a tense, darkly thrilling read that will leave you wondering: what happens next?
Story 12 'I’m Yours: A Best Friends to Lovers Short Story' by Marley Valentine
This short story follows the dual perspectives of Lux, secretly in love with her best friend, and Liv — the best friend, whose wedding day opens the narrative 🫣 The author's quick shifts between past and present build tension, revealing the deep love, chemistry, and desire (🔥🌶) between these two women.
The story captures the fear of risking everything for love, showing that walking away from expectations and embracing what truly matters can be terrifying but ultimately worth it. I loved the inclusion of bisexual representation, and the last story of this anthology reminds readers to follow their hearts, challenge rules, and choose their own happiness ❤️
Review of advance copy received from Author
I was lucky enough to read one of these amazing short stories ( what i know will be amazing stories because hello did you see the authors in this)
so for free roam by Evelyn leigh this was my thoughts : This short story set in a smex club is freaking steaming. Its also sweet and heartwarming seeing someone explore a part of themselves and heal from past experiences in a safe space with a kind consent forward passionate partner. But yes the spice is top tier... enjoy
so for free roam by Evelyn leigh this was my thoughts : This short story set in a smex club is freaking steaming. Its also sweet and heartwarming seeing someone explore a part of themselves and heal from past experiences in a safe space with a kind consent forward passionate partner. But yes the spice is top tier... enjoy
Review of advance copy received from Author
I was only 18% in and I already knew I was going to love this and want more! Thank you to the author for the ARC! This is a novella, Once Upon Her Dream, from the sapphic anthology The Tenth Muse: Rebellion..
The world building that the author was able to create with the amount of pages is astonishing. The world sounds beautiful and I wouldn’t mind hearing more about it and having a full novel with the world and the main characters. With that being said, it is still an amazing, full story, which I feel is a no small feat seeing as this is a novella.
While it’s fast paced, the fated mates aspect of the novella helps with it not feeling too insta-lovey. i think the author does a great job at depicting grief. It might sound odd, but I think seeing Fermena’s grief also makes it easier to believe the love between her and Isyss.
I did want a little bit more at the end in terms of seeing their life together, but other than that, I loved the love story between Fermena and Isyss. The dialogue between Saraia and Fermena was perfect as well.
The world building that the author was able to create with the amount of pages is astonishing. The world sounds beautiful and I wouldn’t mind hearing more about it and having a full novel with the world and the main characters. With that being said, it is still an amazing, full story, which I feel is a no small feat seeing as this is a novella.
While it’s fast paced, the fated mates aspect of the novella helps with it not feeling too insta-lovey. i think the author does a great job at depicting grief. It might sound odd, but I think seeing Fermena’s grief also makes it easier to believe the love between her and Isyss.
I did want a little bit more at the end in terms of seeing their life together, but other than that, I loved the love story between Fermena and Isyss. The dialogue between Saraia and Fermena was perfect as well.
February 4, 2026
had the honor to to ARC read one of the stories in this anthology.
Free Roam, by Evelyn Leigh
Evelyn pulled no stops writing this story. Just the author’s note alone had me teary-eyed. This short Bi4Bi sapphic novella will live rent-free in my head for a long time. It is a beautiful short read that had me melting over the delicious banter and the hot AF kinky scenes between Victoria and Raquel. These two gorgeous women were on FIREEE (and Chapter 6 was chef’s kiss). And the tension… You could feel it come through the pages (or was that just me? Lol).
I loved everything about this short story and cannot wait to read all the other stories in this anthology.
All proceeds go to the @NQTTCN the national queer and trans therapists of color network.
Free Roam, by Evelyn Leigh
Evelyn pulled no stops writing this story. Just the author’s note alone had me teary-eyed. This short Bi4Bi sapphic novella will live rent-free in my head for a long time. It is a beautiful short read that had me melting over the delicious banter and the hot AF kinky scenes between Victoria and Raquel. These two gorgeous women were on FIREEE (and Chapter 6 was chef’s kiss). And the tension… You could feel it come through the pages (or was that just me? Lol).
I loved everything about this short story and cannot wait to read all the other stories in this anthology.
All proceeds go to the @NQTTCN the national queer and trans therapists of color network.
February 3, 2026
I was given the chance to read Free Roam by Evelyn Leigh and it was everything and more. The concept, the banter, the entire moment was PERFECTION!
Rae was shy at first, unsure of what she wanted out of this experience but then she just let herself go and had the time of her life. I loved the representation of not being fully sure how to approach a woman, and also her body.
BUT THEN VIK!!!! Oh she was everything. Her confidence was smooth, and she made Rae comfortable each time. I loved it so much.
And the SPICE??? 10/10. It was hot, it was sexy and it was giving. I definitely will be reading the other stories when I get a chance.
Rae was shy at first, unsure of what she wanted out of this experience but then she just let herself go and had the time of her life. I loved the representation of not being fully sure how to approach a woman, and also her body.
BUT THEN VIK!!!! Oh she was everything. Her confidence was smooth, and she made Rae comfortable each time. I loved it so much.
And the SPICE??? 10/10. It was hot, it was sexy and it was giving. I definitely will be reading the other stories when I get a chance.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I was gifted an ARC of Free Roam by Evelyn Leigh.
“Does that feel good, pretty girl? Do you need more?”
I need more of Evelyn Leigh's sapphic writing!! This novella was short, sweet and veryyyy spicy 🔥🔥 I loved the chemistry between Rae and Vic. I also love a good kink club hehe
Thank you Evelyn Leigh for the opportunity to read this ARC. All opinions are honest, and I am leaving a review voluntarily.
“Does that feel good, pretty girl? Do you need more?”
I need more of Evelyn Leigh's sapphic writing!! This novella was short, sweet and veryyyy spicy 🔥🔥 I loved the chemistry between Rae and Vic. I also love a good kink club hehe
Thank you Evelyn Leigh for the opportunity to read this ARC. All opinions are honest, and I am leaving a review voluntarily.
February 12, 2026
This review is only for the short Free Roam by Evelyn Leigh:
An incredible sapphic short with two femme bisexual Black women.
“At Lilith’s Lounge, you can be whoever you want to be.”
Step into the world of a lounge/k!nk club that offers privacy, class, and allows you to dabble in all of your deepest and darkest desires.
Evelyn Leigh did not come to play with this one! Vik and Rae will have you melting, and feening for more once it is over! Highly recommend!
An incredible sapphic short with two femme bisexual Black women.
“At Lilith’s Lounge, you can be whoever you want to be.”
Step into the world of a lounge/k!nk club that offers privacy, class, and allows you to dabble in all of your deepest and darkest desires.
Evelyn Leigh did not come to play with this one! Vik and Rae will have you melting, and feening for more once it is over! Highly recommend!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you Evelyn Leigh for providing me with a copy of Free Roam! So hot, so precious, so good 😮💨✨
Review of advance copy received from Author
What a lovely and hot story! It was the perfect New Year Novella. I loved both FMC’s and enjoyed this quick read. Thank you Evelyn Leigh for the advanced copy!
February 7, 2026
Free Roam was a cute short , it’s just with Evelyn a short just isn’t enough lol I just love her writing
February 10, 2026
this was my first sapphic novel and it won’t be my last. I really enjoyed both characters. It did end short and I was ready for more! It was very spicy and cute read.
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