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Burn After Reading: A "Steamy" Coffee Shop Romantic Comedy
When you accidentally steal a stranger's sexiest secrets, the only thing to do is... lie about it.
While cleaning bathrooms at work, I discover a little black journal filled with someone's very detailed sexual conquests. Being the upstanding citizen I am, I naturally sneak it home and devour every scandalous page.
At the dinner table. On the sofa. In bed. (And yes, in the bathtub—which is where things got... soggy. Don't ask.)
But then he walks into my workplace the next day. Tall, dark, and so hot he should come with a warning label. And he's looking for his journal.
As I hand over the water-damaged evidence and he interrogates me about whether I read his explicit stories, I do what any self-respecting woman would I lie through my teeth.
Me? Read about your sexual exploits? Absolutely not.
Memorize every steamy detail? Never.
Wonder if you're really that good? ...No comment.
Here's the I'm fresh off a brutal heartbreak, and a no-strings arrangement with Mr. Tall-Dark-and-Talented sounds like exactly what I need to ease back into dating.
Plus, I have to know—does he live up to the hype?
There's only one way to find out.
A steamy and fun romance about stolen secrets, second chances, and testing whether reality is hotter than fiction.
While cleaning bathrooms at work, I discover a little black journal filled with someone's very detailed sexual conquests. Being the upstanding citizen I am, I naturally sneak it home and devour every scandalous page.
At the dinner table. On the sofa. In bed. (And yes, in the bathtub—which is where things got... soggy. Don't ask.)
But then he walks into my workplace the next day. Tall, dark, and so hot he should come with a warning label. And he's looking for his journal.
As I hand over the water-damaged evidence and he interrogates me about whether I read his explicit stories, I do what any self-respecting woman would I lie through my teeth.
Me? Read about your sexual exploits? Absolutely not.
Memorize every steamy detail? Never.
Wonder if you're really that good? ...No comment.
Here's the I'm fresh off a brutal heartbreak, and a no-strings arrangement with Mr. Tall-Dark-and-Talented sounds like exactly what I need to ease back into dating.
Plus, I have to know—does he live up to the hype?
There's only one way to find out.
A steamy and fun romance about stolen secrets, second chances, and testing whether reality is hotter than fiction.
284 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 13, 2025
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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
May 7, 2026
I received a copy of this book from the author and wanted to offer my honest, voluntary impression of the book upon completing it.
Kayla lost her fiancé a year ago to cancer and hasn’t wanted to do anything since as far as dating again goes until one day a sexy man orders a drink at the coffee shop where she is a barista. She definitely notices him but feels she is too broken to attract his attention.
Later cleaning up after the shop closes she finds a little black book dealing with someone’s sexual conquests and takes it home with her. Much to her surprise who should walk in requesting if that book had been turned in but the guy she noticed the day before and thought about while reading that book!
Thus starts a romcom where two broken people find they have a lot in common even outside the bedroom. This book shows that when you hide who you are problems are sure to arise and they do for both Kayla and Luca as you’ll find out!
Both hide their pasts but when issues unfold their pasts are exposed and now they have to face if their
attraction can withstand their pasts or if they’ll be dealbreakers!
I enjoyed this sexy read but the insecurities both face are fears most of us can readily identify with for we’ve been there and to an extent have had those same exact feelings ourselves in past relationships!
Madison works in humor with heartfelt feelings as these two embark on that roller coaster ride called dating of being together, breaking up and getting back together again.
I recommend this book as one readers will instantly recognize though the premise probably doesn’t apply
but certainly the fears and uncertainties are the same!
There are two more books in this little series dealing with Kayla’s two co workers, Gabe and MacKenzie, whose stories comprise book two and three respectively.
I think you’ll enjoy the humor and true to life fears these two have as they work to overcome them in trying to make their attraction to each other permanent!
Kayla lost her fiancé a year ago to cancer and hasn’t wanted to do anything since as far as dating again goes until one day a sexy man orders a drink at the coffee shop where she is a barista. She definitely notices him but feels she is too broken to attract his attention.
Later cleaning up after the shop closes she finds a little black book dealing with someone’s sexual conquests and takes it home with her. Much to her surprise who should walk in requesting if that book had been turned in but the guy she noticed the day before and thought about while reading that book!
Thus starts a romcom where two broken people find they have a lot in common even outside the bedroom. This book shows that when you hide who you are problems are sure to arise and they do for both Kayla and Luca as you’ll find out!
Both hide their pasts but when issues unfold their pasts are exposed and now they have to face if their
attraction can withstand their pasts or if they’ll be dealbreakers!
I enjoyed this sexy read but the insecurities both face are fears most of us can readily identify with for we’ve been there and to an extent have had those same exact feelings ourselves in past relationships!
Madison works in humor with heartfelt feelings as these two embark on that roller coaster ride called dating of being together, breaking up and getting back together again.
I recommend this book as one readers will instantly recognize though the premise probably doesn’t apply
but certainly the fears and uncertainties are the same!
There are two more books in this little series dealing with Kayla’s two co workers, Gabe and MacKenzie, whose stories comprise book two and three respectively.
I think you’ll enjoy the humor and true to life fears these two have as they work to overcome them in trying to make their attraction to each other permanent!
May 31, 2026
Fun, Steamy, and Full of Surprises
Burn After Reading is a really fun, slightly chaotic romance that leans into its premise in an entertaining way. Kayla’s discovery of a very personal journal and her decision to pretend she absolutely did not read it sets up a situation that spirals in a way that is both awkward and engaging. Luca is the kind of character who immediately draws attention in every scene he’s in, and their interactions have a strong flirty tension that keeps things interesting without feeling forced.
There is a playful mix of humor, attraction, and emotional messiness that works well for this kind of setup. The story doesn’t take itself too seriously, which suits the tone, and it still manages to make the connection between the characters feel believable as it develops. It is an easy, engaging read that leaves a good impression and makes it tempting to continue the series.
Thank you to StoryOrigin and Madison for the review copy, this is my honest review.
Burn After Reading is a really fun, slightly chaotic romance that leans into its premise in an entertaining way. Kayla’s discovery of a very personal journal and her decision to pretend she absolutely did not read it sets up a situation that spirals in a way that is both awkward and engaging. Luca is the kind of character who immediately draws attention in every scene he’s in, and their interactions have a strong flirty tension that keeps things interesting without feeling forced.
There is a playful mix of humor, attraction, and emotional messiness that works well for this kind of setup. The story doesn’t take itself too seriously, which suits the tone, and it still manages to make the connection between the characters feel believable as it develops. It is an easy, engaging read that leaves a good impression and makes it tempting to continue the series.
Thank you to StoryOrigin and Madison for the review copy, this is my honest review.
June 11, 2026
Burn After Reading by Madison Joy is a delightful blend of romance, humor, emotional healing, and sizzling chemistry that delivered plenty of laughs, heartfelt moments, and just the right amount of spice. In this book, we follow the story of the FMC Kayla, a barista who unexpectedly discovers a misplaced journal filled with a stranger's intimate secrets. What begins as innocent curiosity quickly spirals into a hilarious and awkward situation when the journal's owner, the charming and irresistible MMC Luca, walks into her coffee shop looking for it. From the start, I really enjoyed the chemistry between Kayla and Luca as their witty banter, awkward encounters, and growing emotional connection made their relationship feel both believable and satisfying. Overall, Burn After Reading is a fun, sexy, and emotionally rewarding romance that successfully combines humor, heart, and heat.
I received an ARC copy from StoryOrigin. Thank you so much for giving me a chance to read and voluntarily review this novel!
I received an ARC copy from StoryOrigin. Thank you so much for giving me a chance to read and voluntarily review this novel!
May 24, 2026
I received an ARC copy of this book for an honest review,
After losing her fiancé nearly a year ago Kayla is stuck in a vicious cycle, until one day she stumbles across a black notebook full of steamy scenes.
I felt this was a very emotional read, dealing with loss and grief is exceptionally difficult and I can imagine incredibly difficult to write about, however this book was written incredibly well.
It really showed Kayla’s pain, her inner turmoil over wether she is ready (or wether she should) start to meet someone new and begin to move forward with her life.
But as well as showing the pain, it showed the little things that helped along the way, her friends support being the main one.
As the book progresses we see Kayla start to really come into her own, leaving behind a life that was no longer there for her, to move on to a life she can start to build around however she wishes it to be.
The story made me laugh, cry and feel just about every other emotion in between.
After losing her fiancé nearly a year ago Kayla is stuck in a vicious cycle, until one day she stumbles across a black notebook full of steamy scenes.
I felt this was a very emotional read, dealing with loss and grief is exceptionally difficult and I can imagine incredibly difficult to write about, however this book was written incredibly well.
It really showed Kayla’s pain, her inner turmoil over wether she is ready (or wether she should) start to meet someone new and begin to move forward with her life.
But as well as showing the pain, it showed the little things that helped along the way, her friends support being the main one.
As the book progresses we see Kayla start to really come into her own, leaving behind a life that was no longer there for her, to move on to a life she can start to build around however she wishes it to be.
The story made me laugh, cry and feel just about every other emotion in between.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 4, 2026
This was my first book by Madison Joy and I really enjoyed it.
Kayla is working at a cafe when she finds a risqué journal. When the man who wrote it, Luca, comes in the following day to retrieve it, their story begins. There was actually some pretty heavy stuff dealt with in the book, but the author never let it weigh things down too much. Instead, she created a warm and touching story about love and loss and having the courage to try again.
Kayla and Luca were both relatable, and the secondary characters were great, too. I’m actually hoping they will get their own books in the series. The story flowed well and was believable. There was spicy and lots of banter and fun moments, as well.
All in all, the author managed to write a delightful romantic comedy that dealt with serious issues but kept the tone light and enjoyable. I’m looking forward to the next book in the series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Kayla is working at a cafe when she finds a risqué journal. When the man who wrote it, Luca, comes in the following day to retrieve it, their story begins. There was actually some pretty heavy stuff dealt with in the book, but the author never let it weigh things down too much. Instead, she created a warm and touching story about love and loss and having the courage to try again.
Kayla and Luca were both relatable, and the secondary characters were great, too. I’m actually hoping they will get their own books in the series. The story flowed well and was believable. There was spicy and lots of banter and fun moments, as well.
All in all, the author managed to write a delightful romantic comedy that dealt with serious issues but kept the tone light and enjoyable. I’m looking forward to the next book in the series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 5, 2025
"Never judge a book by it's cover" is what I thought while reading and after I finished the book.
It was nice reading how Kayla grew while spending time with Luca and how Luca was so patient with her, never pushing until she wanted or was ready to talk.
In some chapters, I would really like to read from Luca's P.O.V just to see his perspective about his moments with Kayla.
Really liked Kayla's friends — Mackenzie and Gabe, when they appeared it was always fun to read. Really curious about Mackenzie👀
It was a very fun reading!
ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.
It was nice reading how Kayla grew while spending time with Luca and how Luca was so patient with her, never pushing until she wanted or was ready to talk.
In some chapters, I would really like to read from Luca's P.O.V just to see his perspective about his moments with Kayla.
Really liked Kayla's friends — Mackenzie and Gabe, when they appeared it was always fun to read. Really curious about Mackenzie👀
It was a very fun reading!
ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.
June 4, 2026
This story came packed error so much. Kayla is healing from loss and she’s not sure in which direction to go. She finds a journal in the bathroom and takes it home to read it. Talk about holy sexual conquests! And when the owner comes in to retrieve it, she hands it back but not in the save it was left lol. That part made me giggle. But it was amazing seeing the two of them develop a friendship and Luca was so patient and kind to her. Allowing her to talk to him if she ever wanted to reach out. But the way they grew closer was really sweet. And she had such an amazing friends as well. I really enjoyed this. It was spicy, sweet, fun, and some great banter.
May 15, 2026
hearts that have been broken don't really ever mend in the same way.
they can grow in new directions, if you take the risks, but it's never the same
in this book, the next barista bunch at Java Zen are looking for their inspiration, added romance, and whatever it takes to keep your head above water in between now and the next.
this one is a powerful bunch of dealing with heartbreak, smutty stuff, and the damage partial truths can do to trust, self and romance.
intense and kinda crazy
they can grow in new directions, if you take the risks, but it's never the same
in this book, the next barista bunch at Java Zen are looking for their inspiration, added romance, and whatever it takes to keep your head above water in between now and the next.
this one is a powerful bunch of dealing with heartbreak, smutty stuff, and the damage partial truths can do to trust, self and romance.
intense and kinda crazy
June 4, 2026
Book 1 of The Barista Series. And a wonderful start it is! Look forward to more from this world.
'A steamy and fun romance about stolen secrets, second chances, and testing whether reality is hotter than fiction.'
The characters were very appealing and likeable and absolutely perfect together. Plot was intriguing and well paced. World building was excellent and solidly drawn. Thoroughly enjoyed and highly recommend.
Grab a copy, kick back and enjoy!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
'A steamy and fun romance about stolen secrets, second chances, and testing whether reality is hotter than fiction.'
The characters were very appealing and likeable and absolutely perfect together. Plot was intriguing and well paced. World building was excellent and solidly drawn. Thoroughly enjoyed and highly recommend.
Grab a copy, kick back and enjoy!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 7, 2026
This was a charming, flirtatious, and sexy romance story. Kayla finds a journal a customer left behind at her job, and it changes everything. Luca returns for his journal, but it has been a little bit well read. She denies reading it and this sets up her and Luca interaction with each other. I found this book emotional and entertaining. It was definitely worth reading.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 8, 2026
A fun read!
I enjoyed this book and the characters. I will admit that sometimes it felt that things were being repeated, simply because the characters were having to work through things. At other times, I would have liked more details about things that were going on. It has been a while since I read this type of story that did not have multiple POV's, But I got used to it quickly.
I enjoyed this book and the characters. I will admit that sometimes it felt that things were being repeated, simply because the characters were having to work through things. At other times, I would have liked more details about things that were going on. It has been a while since I read this type of story that did not have multiple POV's, But I got used to it quickly.
June 14, 2026
I loved how some sad life choices turned out to be the foundation in life that was needed to grow and have the love and happiness they deserved. It started with the death of a fiancé and a journal found. Great writing and character development. Was the best of everything needed for a perfect romance. Enjoyed on both kindle and audible.
June 23, 2026
Rom com
This is a story about two people who lost in love before both for very different reasons. Now they are stumbling towards each other but continuing to undermine the relationship but not being totally honest with each other. This is a heartwarming, sometimes funny and sometimes very serious story that you will enjoy reading.
This is a story about two people who lost in love before both for very different reasons. Now they are stumbling towards each other but continuing to undermine the relationship but not being totally honest with each other. This is a heartwarming, sometimes funny and sometimes very serious story that you will enjoy reading.
November 22, 2025
Super cool. I really enjoyed this. It was fun and spicy and flowed just right. The characters were top notch and while there was some drama everything that worked out was the best. The characters were nice and I loved their interactions and relationship.
December 11, 2025
Burn After Reading book 1 of The Barista Series by Madison Joy is a hot, sexy, steamy and fun story! Does he live up to the hype...read to find out!!
I received an ARC from StoryOrigin and am leaving my review freely.
I received an ARC from StoryOrigin and am leaving my review freely.
March 27, 2026
Burn After Reading is a vibrant, addictive romance that balances humour, heat, and heart with impressive ease. If you love stories where the characters are a little chaotic, the banter is razor‑sharp, and the emotional payoff is worth the ride, this one deserves a spot on your TBR.
March 12, 2026
A fun, spicy read with sweet characters.
May 22, 2026
Fun story about how even broken hearts can start to heal and love can happen in the most unexpected time and place.
June 6, 2026
Just predictable and kind of silly.
June 9, 2026
My alarm clock rang
Woo-hoo I'm 83 years old and this book brought back memories and awakened things I didn't know were still there
Woo-hoo I'm 83 years old and this book brought back memories and awakened things I didn't know were still there
June 13, 2026
Good book
It was as a nice easy read.
No real drama, just 2 people not quite ready to let someone know all of the personal bits about themselves.
It was as a nice easy read.
No real drama, just 2 people not quite ready to let someone know all of the personal bits about themselves.
June 23, 2026
A very interesting, cheek blushing, 3am screaming, page turning book. Yes this book. It may not look like it but its definitely one you going to want to hand to your good girl friend. Enjoy!
Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews