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Dirty Little Secret
James
I’m forty years old, a tenured professor with investments, property, and a 401k.
But what I crave is to submit. To hand over control to Colton. We met on an app. His needs matched mine. It was only supposed to be once, then twice. No commitment, so I don’t feel bad cutting contact.
Then my world implodes when I get custody of siblings I didn’t know I have.
Everything would have been fine, I would have survived on my own, if not for Sir, my hookup, walking through the doors of my classroom.
He’s over a decade younger than me, and now I’m his professor, yet Sir is giving me schedules I need and caretaking from a distance. I know I should stay away, but I can’t. No matter what he gives me, I want more.
Colton
I’m twenty-eight years old, starting my first semester as a transfer student at a local university, finally following my dreams.
And then I see him, the sub I haven’t stopped thinking about, the one who comes undone for me in ways I’ve never experienced before. He makes all my Dominant instincts flare to life. I’ve always loved caretaking, but James makes me need it on a bone-deep level.
It’s not long before he’s on his knees for me again, surrendering in ways we both crave. He’s forbidden, my professor, my good boy, and I’m his Sir…his dirty little secret. But it’s not enough. I want it all from him, if only he’ll let me have it.
Dirty Little Secret is a student/professor romance, with an older sub and a younger Dom. Please use the look inside feature for a more in-depth content description and warning.
I’m forty years old, a tenured professor with investments, property, and a 401k.
But what I crave is to submit. To hand over control to Colton. We met on an app. His needs matched mine. It was only supposed to be once, then twice. No commitment, so I don’t feel bad cutting contact.
Then my world implodes when I get custody of siblings I didn’t know I have.
Everything would have been fine, I would have survived on my own, if not for Sir, my hookup, walking through the doors of my classroom.
He’s over a decade younger than me, and now I’m his professor, yet Sir is giving me schedules I need and caretaking from a distance. I know I should stay away, but I can’t. No matter what he gives me, I want more.
Colton
I’m twenty-eight years old, starting my first semester as a transfer student at a local university, finally following my dreams.
And then I see him, the sub I haven’t stopped thinking about, the one who comes undone for me in ways I’ve never experienced before. He makes all my Dominant instincts flare to life. I’ve always loved caretaking, but James makes me need it on a bone-deep level.
It’s not long before he’s on his knees for me again, surrendering in ways we both crave. He’s forbidden, my professor, my good boy, and I’m his Sir…his dirty little secret. But it’s not enough. I want it all from him, if only he’ll let me have it.
Dirty Little Secret is a student/professor romance, with an older sub and a younger Dom. Please use the look inside feature for a more in-depth content description and warning.
298 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 2, 2026
About the author
Riley Hart
120 books7,386 followersRiley Hart is the girl who wears her heart on her sleeve. She's a hopeless romantic. A lover of sexy stories, passionate men, and writing about all the trouble they can get into together. If she's not writing, you'll probably find her reading.
Riley lives in California with her awesome family, who she is thankful for everyday.
Riley lives in California with her awesome family, who she is thankful for everyday.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 278 reviews
April 7, 2026
3⭐️
This didn't land for me and I feel a bit bad because I don't know that I can articulate very well exactly why this didn't work for me. It just didn't.
I really liked Colton and I found James to be a very interesting character. Loved all of the side characters too. Something was just missing here for me. Or maybe nothing is missing, but this felt like someone tried to combine 2 different books as if you were shuffling 2 decks of cards together, but one deck is ever so slightly bigger than the other deck. So even when they're shuffled together, you can always tell which card belongs to which deck.
Instead of the kink working together with the more emotional, heavy plotline in this book.. It felt like they didn't mesh together. Which, makes no sense to me, because this storyline should've blended perfectly with the kink elements here, but I just feel like it didn't. Like I said, the decks of cards are only slightly off, but enough that I couldn't stop noticing.
It also was pretty low-angst all things considered and I don't know.. I think I needed this specific story to be much more high-angst. We've got a student/professor dynamic, an age gap dynamic, a dom/sub dynamic, a surprise single-guardian dynamic, traumatic childhood dynamic... Do you see what I mean? All of those are high stake tropes, but never once did I really feel any of the tension I should've felt. Which is ok if that's what the author was going for and it's likely that she was in this case. I just felt that we had such a stacked list of tropes here and I was ready for an angsty good time.
In the end, I just didn't love this story. To also be fair and transparent, some of this kink didn't land for me either, so unfortunately this book just had multiple things not slotting into place FOR ME. I didn't dislike the book, but I also won't be going out of my way to recommend it to anyone else unfortunately.
Blah.
This didn't land for me and I feel a bit bad because I don't know that I can articulate very well exactly why this didn't work for me. It just didn't.
I really liked Colton and I found James to be a very interesting character. Loved all of the side characters too. Something was just missing here for me. Or maybe nothing is missing, but this felt like someone tried to combine 2 different books as if you were shuffling 2 decks of cards together, but one deck is ever so slightly bigger than the other deck. So even when they're shuffled together, you can always tell which card belongs to which deck.
Instead of the kink working together with the more emotional, heavy plotline in this book.. It felt like they didn't mesh together. Which, makes no sense to me, because this storyline should've blended perfectly with the kink elements here, but I just feel like it didn't. Like I said, the decks of cards are only slightly off, but enough that I couldn't stop noticing.
It also was pretty low-angst all things considered and I don't know.. I think I needed this specific story to be much more high-angst. We've got a student/professor dynamic, an age gap dynamic, a dom/sub dynamic, a surprise single-guardian dynamic, traumatic childhood dynamic... Do you see what I mean? All of those are high stake tropes, but never once did I really feel any of the tension I should've felt. Which is ok if that's what the author was going for and it's likely that she was in this case. I just felt that we had such a stacked list of tropes here and I was ready for an angsty good time.
In the end, I just didn't love this story. To also be fair and transparent, some of this kink didn't land for me either, so unfortunately this book just had multiple things not slotting into place FOR ME. I didn't dislike the book, but I also won't be going out of my way to recommend it to anyone else unfortunately.
Blah.
April 4, 2026
Rating: 4
Steam: 4
PoV: dual, 1st person
Genre: contemporary romance, BDSM, MM
Tropes / tags: age gap, hurt / comfort, professor / student
I was so excited when Riley Hart announced that she'd be writing BDSM again, and it ended up being such a great story!
James and Colton's story was steamy and kinky, but also full of emotions and tender moments. I have to admit that while I expected a bit of angst considering the forbidden romance with professor / student, I wasn't prepared for how emotional the plot with the siblings would be. There were quite a few scenes that had me in tears, and I honestly wasn't expecting that.
These two didn't exactly have the easiest relationship development; starting as only meeting up for scenes, then losing contact until Colton stepped into James' classroom as one of his students, which of course made their history a bit complicated. Even though they tried, they couldn't stay away from each other. Colton felt strongly about taking care of James, as James wasn't doing well with everything going on at home. James relied on order and routines, and he was struggling to adapt after getting custody of siblings he didn't even know he had.
I loved the dynamic between them, and how it grew deeper with every scene they shared. It was clear from the start how much James needed to submit and let go, and the more chaotic his life became, the more he needed his Sir. Their kinks lined up nicely, they had a lot of chemistry and it was great to see them explore together. It was also sweet to see Colton doing everything he could to support and take care of James once he found out what was going on.
Dirty Little Secret was a surprisingly emotional read, with a beautiful relationship and siblings slowly becoming a family. It was a captivating story, and I could barely put it down once I got into it. I really enjoyed it - the D/s dynamic and kinks were all fantastic, I adored the side characters and how they became a little found family, and I loved seeing Colton and James getting their well earned HEA!
-
I received a complimentary copy of this book, and these are my honest thoughts and opinions.
Steam: 4
PoV: dual, 1st person
Genre: contemporary romance, BDSM, MM
Tropes / tags: age gap, hurt / comfort, professor / student
I was so excited when Riley Hart announced that she'd be writing BDSM again, and it ended up being such a great story!
James and Colton's story was steamy and kinky, but also full of emotions and tender moments. I have to admit that while I expected a bit of angst considering the forbidden romance with professor / student, I wasn't prepared for how emotional the plot with the siblings would be. There were quite a few scenes that had me in tears, and I honestly wasn't expecting that.
These two didn't exactly have the easiest relationship development; starting as only meeting up for scenes, then losing contact until Colton stepped into James' classroom as one of his students, which of course made their history a bit complicated. Even though they tried, they couldn't stay away from each other. Colton felt strongly about taking care of James, as James wasn't doing well with everything going on at home. James relied on order and routines, and he was struggling to adapt after getting custody of siblings he didn't even know he had.
I loved the dynamic between them, and how it grew deeper with every scene they shared. It was clear from the start how much James needed to submit and let go, and the more chaotic his life became, the more he needed his Sir. Their kinks lined up nicely, they had a lot of chemistry and it was great to see them explore together. It was also sweet to see Colton doing everything he could to support and take care of James once he found out what was going on.
Dirty Little Secret was a surprisingly emotional read, with a beautiful relationship and siblings slowly becoming a family. It was a captivating story, and I could barely put it down once I got into it. I really enjoyed it - the D/s dynamic and kinks were all fantastic, I adored the side characters and how they became a little found family, and I loved seeing Colton and James getting their well earned HEA!
-
I received a complimentary copy of this book, and these are my honest thoughts and opinions.
Did Not Finish
April 11, 2026DNF 35%
This wasn't for me. I wasn't convinced for some reason.
no rating
This wasn't for me. I wasn't convinced for some reason.
no rating
April 5, 2026
4 🌟
Colton and James 🖤
Whewww these guys were spicy. But this was different than any other bdsm book I’ve read before because it also heavily showed their d / s dynamic outside of the bedroom as well. So. Much. Caretaking. 🥰
Colton was exactly who James needed. He was the calm, guiding force James needed when his life was in chaos. I loved seeing the younger Colton really push the boundaries, and help let James see his own worth.
I loved Colton’s friendship with Nash and Sadie too. I loved how he was able to bring his friends and family into their lives and show them what a family could be.
I did feel the ending was a bit rushed. There were quite a few moving pieces that didn’t get wrapped up until the epilogue. I would have liked to see a bit more of the resolution of this, and have the epilogue be more of what their lives looked like together moving forward.
As someone who doesn’t read a ton of bdsm content, I really enjoyed this! I feel like it has a lot of aspects and kinks while still heavily focusing on their relationship outside of the bedroom and their genuine feelings. It also keeps their friends and family in the forefront and creating that family unit. I feel like the kink / spice list could scare people away, but for how much and the variety, I feel like it was handled really well.
.
.
.
.
‼️⚠️ Potential spoilers ⚠️‼️
Dynamic: MM — strict
Sharing? No
Cheating? No
Breakup? No
Sex scene with OM or OW No
‼️⚠️ Content ⚠️‼️
— professor x student
— age gap
— younger dom x older sub
— forbidden
— secret relationship
— opposites attract
— raising (surprise) siblings
— “sir”
— “good boy”
— bdsm
— caretaking
— cockwarming
— orgasm control
— praise
— bondage
— discipline
— spanking / impact play
— cock cage
— watersports
— humiliation
— spit
— rimming
I received an ARC of this book, and this is my honest and voluntary review.
Colton and James 🖤
Whewww these guys were spicy. But this was different than any other bdsm book I’ve read before because it also heavily showed their d / s dynamic outside of the bedroom as well. So. Much. Caretaking. 🥰
Colton was exactly who James needed. He was the calm, guiding force James needed when his life was in chaos. I loved seeing the younger Colton really push the boundaries, and help let James see his own worth.
I loved Colton’s friendship with Nash and Sadie too. I loved how he was able to bring his friends and family into their lives and show them what a family could be.
I did feel the ending was a bit rushed. There were quite a few moving pieces that didn’t get wrapped up until the epilogue. I would have liked to see a bit more of the resolution of this, and have the epilogue be more of what their lives looked like together moving forward.
As someone who doesn’t read a ton of bdsm content, I really enjoyed this! I feel like it has a lot of aspects and kinks while still heavily focusing on their relationship outside of the bedroom and their genuine feelings. It also keeps their friends and family in the forefront and creating that family unit. I feel like the kink / spice list could scare people away, but for how much and the variety, I feel like it was handled really well.
.
.
.
.
‼️⚠️ Potential spoilers ⚠️‼️
Dynamic: MM — strict
Sharing? No
Cheating? No
Breakup? No
Sex scene with OM or OW No
‼️⚠️ Content ⚠️‼️
— professor x student
— age gap
— younger dom x older sub
— forbidden
— secret relationship
— opposites attract
— raising (surprise) siblings
— “sir”
— “good boy”
— bdsm
— caretaking
— cockwarming
— orgasm control
— praise
— bondage
— discipline
— spanking / impact play
— cock cage
— watersports
— humiliation
— spit
— rimming
I received an ARC of this book, and this is my honest and voluntary review.
![Profile Image for ❀ Alex ❀ [Hiatus] .](https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/users/1724819109i/127505214._UX200_CR0,35,200,200_.jpg)
April 28, 2026
Rating: 4.25/5
Spice: 5/5
This was really nice.
James, who left his home and his neglectful mom as soon as he was capable, suddenly has to take custody of siblings he didn’t know existed, which leads to some really good family drama and eventually forming a relationship with them….with the help of Colton, who is also his student.
I loved the dynamic between the two MCs and how it grew deeper with every scene they shared.
Overall it was a very well executed story. Also the spice was top-notch.
Spice: 5/5
This was really nice.
James, who left his home and his neglectful mom as soon as he was capable, suddenly has to take custody of siblings he didn’t know existed, which leads to some really good family drama and eventually forming a relationship with them….with the help of Colton, who is also his student.
I loved the dynamic between the two MCs and how it grew deeper with every scene they shared.
Overall it was a very well executed story. Also the spice was top-notch.
June 13, 2026
I loved this.
The spice was great of course, with a lot of different kinks explored (list coming tomorrow) - although actually this would have been five stars if the spice scenes had been more detailed as I often felt they were a little rushed and not quite as intense as they could have been. But we still got absolutely spoiled with what we did get.
For me though, it was the dynamic outside of the bedroom that really stood out in this book as well as the vanilla storyline of James and his siblings.
First up, the dynamic. James is such a closed off person at the start of this book and struggles so much with his mental health and the impact has childhood had on him. He is so lonely but so afraid of letting anyone in (not that he even really knows how to).
Colton might be a strict Dom in the bedroom who enjoys a bit of degradation and light sadism, but outside the bedroom? He wants to take care of his submissive something fierce. I loved how he was always making lunches for James and leaving him little notes with it telling him how proud he was of James; how he called every night and really listened to James in a way nobody else ever had, and did a hundred other little things to build James up and show that he was not only cared for but worth caring for.
James in turn is so eager to please his Sir and as much as he is an overthinker he becomes so devoted to Colton and treasures his care so much. It takes him time to really let Colton in, but watching that journey of gaining trust and James softening and becoming so gone for his Sir was just so beautiful. The whole thing was just stunningly written and very moving but still felt incredibly believable. I was 100% sold on their romance the whole way through and I loved them together so so much.
The other major storyline - James and his siblings - was also really well done and I cried like a baby in several places. I went in not realising this book featured kids and at first I was a little frustrated when they were introduced, but their story never overpowered the Colton/James storyline and watching James try so hard to help them through such a difficult time (their neglectful/abusive mother has just died and the state managed to locate James, who didn't even know he had siblings, to take them in) and overcome Nash's distrust and Sadie's quiet anxiety was really touching. There were some amazing moments showing the beauty of healthy family - both found family and blood family - and the kids had such real and believable characters for their ages (11 and 15). I couldn't help cheering for James as he tried desperately to hold his new little family together and commiserating with him when Nash once again gave him the cold shoulder. Watching Sadie grow in confidence was the sweetest thing, and watching Nash open up and find friends at his new school and start accepting James as his brother and his father-figure was really emotional.
Overall a fantastic read and I'll definitely be picking up a hard copy for my shelves!
The spice was great of course, with a lot of different kinks explored (list coming tomorrow) - although actually this would have been five stars if the spice scenes had been more detailed as I often felt they were a little rushed and not quite as intense as they could have been. But we still got absolutely spoiled with what we did get.
For me though, it was the dynamic outside of the bedroom that really stood out in this book as well as the vanilla storyline of James and his siblings.
First up, the dynamic. James is such a closed off person at the start of this book and struggles so much with his mental health and the impact has childhood had on him. He is so lonely but so afraid of letting anyone in (not that he even really knows how to).
Colton might be a strict Dom in the bedroom who enjoys a bit of degradation and light sadism, but outside the bedroom? He wants to take care of his submissive something fierce. I loved how he was always making lunches for James and leaving him little notes with it telling him how proud he was of James; how he called every night and really listened to James in a way nobody else ever had, and did a hundred other little things to build James up and show that he was not only cared for but worth caring for.
James in turn is so eager to please his Sir and as much as he is an overthinker he becomes so devoted to Colton and treasures his care so much. It takes him time to really let Colton in, but watching that journey of gaining trust and James softening and becoming so gone for his Sir was just so beautiful. The whole thing was just stunningly written and very moving but still felt incredibly believable. I was 100% sold on their romance the whole way through and I loved them together so so much.
The other major storyline - James and his siblings - was also really well done and I cried like a baby in several places. I went in not realising this book featured kids and at first I was a little frustrated when they were introduced, but their story never overpowered the Colton/James storyline and watching James try so hard to help them through such a difficult time (their neglectful/abusive mother has just died and the state managed to locate James, who didn't even know he had siblings, to take them in) and overcome Nash's distrust and Sadie's quiet anxiety was really touching. There were some amazing moments showing the beauty of healthy family - both found family and blood family - and the kids had such real and believable characters for their ages (11 and 15). I couldn't help cheering for James as he tried desperately to hold his new little family together and commiserating with him when Nash once again gave him the cold shoulder. Watching Sadie grow in confidence was the sweetest thing, and watching Nash open up and find friends at his new school and start accepting James as his brother and his father-figure was really emotional.
Overall a fantastic read and I'll definitely be picking up a hard copy for my shelves!
April 6, 2026
4.5 stars
***ARC Review***
This is my honest and voluntary review.
DLS is a book that makes you think it’s about one thing, but there’s so many layers to it. There’s an emphasis on trust, communication, vulnerability, and the importance of a support system.
James and Colton meet a couple of times before they part ways. When they reconnect, it’s in entirely different roles than they were expecting: professor and student. Both men scramble to figure out what that means for their unexpected connection. James is gong through a lot. Getting custody of siblings he didn’t know he had. Past trauma from a neglectful mother. Colton is a caretaker at heart, so he’s the balm to James’s chaotic new reality. Both men have to navigate their brewing feelings for one another with the upheaval that is James life, all while trying not to tank a career he loves.
Hart writes excellent characters in this story and it’s clear how much everyone means to each other. Colton’s family and support system are phenomenal and I’m happy that it grew. Also, Colton is such a green flag! While Nash is a great big brother, Hannah and Tasha are necessary for James’s little sister, Sadie. As a biracial person myself, I really appreciated the care Hart took to make sure that Sadie developed the connections she needed to her Black roots and culture. Everyone (other than Sandra) is amazing in this book.
James and Colton have an undeniable connection and chemistry that is off the charts. Colton is attentive and a steady presence in James’s life. James opens up and leans to be vulnerable the more time he spends with Colton. Being with Colton allows James to come into the person he was always meant to be; and it allows Colton to take care of someone in ways he never knew he craved. Their journey from liaisons to partners is really moving. It’s a hard earned HEA, but so worth it.
***ARC Review***
This is my honest and voluntary review.
DLS is a book that makes you think it’s about one thing, but there’s so many layers to it. There’s an emphasis on trust, communication, vulnerability, and the importance of a support system.
James and Colton meet a couple of times before they part ways. When they reconnect, it’s in entirely different roles than they were expecting: professor and student. Both men scramble to figure out what that means for their unexpected connection. James is gong through a lot. Getting custody of siblings he didn’t know he had. Past trauma from a neglectful mother. Colton is a caretaker at heart, so he’s the balm to James’s chaotic new reality. Both men have to navigate their brewing feelings for one another with the upheaval that is James life, all while trying not to tank a career he loves.
Hart writes excellent characters in this story and it’s clear how much everyone means to each other. Colton’s family and support system are phenomenal and I’m happy that it grew. Also, Colton is such a green flag! While Nash is a great big brother, Hannah and Tasha are necessary for James’s little sister, Sadie. As a biracial person myself, I really appreciated the care Hart took to make sure that Sadie developed the connections she needed to her Black roots and culture. Everyone (other than Sandra) is amazing in this book.
James and Colton have an undeniable connection and chemistry that is off the charts. Colton is attentive and a steady presence in James’s life. James opens up and leans to be vulnerable the more time he spends with Colton. Being with Colton allows James to come into the person he was always meant to be; and it allows Colton to take care of someone in ways he never knew he craved. Their journey from liaisons to partners is really moving. It’s a hard earned HEA, but so worth it.
June 23, 2026
4⭐️
James is 40, a tenured professor, and sometimes just needs a dom to bring him to a place where he can forget his worries. His current Sir is Colton, a 28 year old, and although he is not James’ usual style for a dom, they mesh perfectly. Flash forward to the next semester … and Colton shows up as a student in James’ class! 😧 on top of that, James recently gained custody of two younger siblings. This story follows James and Colton as they navigate their tricky situation.
You’re going to get:
-younger dom/older sub
-BDSM (lifestyle and in bed)
-two half siblings that take work to connect with
-found family
-professor / student (but this is kind of lowkey)
This book had a lot going on, but it made it feel real. The situation James is in was really difficult, and this book really had me feeling for him, but especially his younger siblings.
For me, I had a hard time with the switching back and forth between the plot with the kids, and the BDSM aspects of the plot. Though both were well done and made sense, my brain just had a hard time consuming content that was so wildly different that it kind of pulled me out of it. Like at one point I’m pretty sure James was wearing a cock cage while the kids were also there?? Kids and BDSM is just not a good mix methinks.
HOWEVER! I feel like it was mostly well done, the adults were very good at consent and keeping their private life private from the kids. I think this is just a personal preference thing.
Overall, my favourite part was not even the romantic relationship in the book, though Colton was a great guy. But the growth that James did as a person, and the way he really showed up for his siblings the way their terrible mom never did.
If you’re ok with the content, I think you’ll like this book. Despite it dealing with heavy stuff, it’s not very angsty.
James is 40, a tenured professor, and sometimes just needs a dom to bring him to a place where he can forget his worries. His current Sir is Colton, a 28 year old, and although he is not James’ usual style for a dom, they mesh perfectly. Flash forward to the next semester … and Colton shows up as a student in James’ class! 😧 on top of that, James recently gained custody of two younger siblings. This story follows James and Colton as they navigate their tricky situation.
You’re going to get:
-younger dom/older sub
-BDSM (lifestyle and in bed)
-two half siblings that take work to connect with
-found family
-professor / student (but this is kind of lowkey)
This book had a lot going on, but it made it feel real. The situation James is in was really difficult, and this book really had me feeling for him, but especially his younger siblings.
For me, I had a hard time with the switching back and forth between the plot with the kids, and the BDSM aspects of the plot. Though both were well done and made sense, my brain just had a hard time consuming content that was so wildly different that it kind of pulled me out of it. Like at one point I’m pretty sure James was wearing a cock cage while the kids were also there?? Kids and BDSM is just not a good mix methinks.
HOWEVER! I feel like it was mostly well done, the adults were very good at consent and keeping their private life private from the kids. I think this is just a personal preference thing.
Overall, my favourite part was not even the romantic relationship in the book, though Colton was a great guy. But the growth that James did as a person, and the way he really showed up for his siblings the way their terrible mom never did.
If you’re ok with the content, I think you’ll like this book. Despite it dealing with heavy stuff, it’s not very angsty.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you to The Author Agency for the ARC. This is my honest, voluntary review.
The kind of love that hides in the shadows
‘Dirty Little Secret’ unfolds with a quiet intensity that slowly tightens its grip, pulling the reader into a relationship defined as much by what is hidden as by what is felt. Riley Hart leans into emotional tension and secrecy, crafting a story where vulnerability is both a risk and a necessity.
The dynamic between the characters carries a constant undercurrent of longing and restraint. There is a push and pull that shapes the pacing, where moments of closeness are often shadowed by hesitation or fear. This creates a layered reading experience, though at times it also slows the emotional payoff, making certain developments feel just out of reach.
What stands out most is the psychological aspect of the connection. The need to stay hidden adds weight to every interaction, turning even the smallest gesture into something significant. ‘Dirty Little Secret’ thrives in these quiet moments, where emotions simmer beneath the surface rather than explode outward.
At the same time, the story occasionally leans into familiar patterns within the genre, which can make parts of the narrative feel predictable. The emotional stakes remain present, but not every twist carries the same impact.
Still, there is something undeniably compelling about the way ‘Dirty Little Secret’ explores identity, desire, and the fear of being truly seen. It is a story that lingers not because of dramatic highs, but because of the quiet ache it leaves behind.
BDSM | Secret Relationship | Student/Professor | Age Gap | Younger Dom/Older sub | Opposites Attract | Custody of surprise siblings | Emotional Tension | Hidden Love | Internal Conflict | Slow Burn | Vulnerability
The kind of love that hides in the shadows
‘Dirty Little Secret’ unfolds with a quiet intensity that slowly tightens its grip, pulling the reader into a relationship defined as much by what is hidden as by what is felt. Riley Hart leans into emotional tension and secrecy, crafting a story where vulnerability is both a risk and a necessity.
The dynamic between the characters carries a constant undercurrent of longing and restraint. There is a push and pull that shapes the pacing, where moments of closeness are often shadowed by hesitation or fear. This creates a layered reading experience, though at times it also slows the emotional payoff, making certain developments feel just out of reach.
What stands out most is the psychological aspect of the connection. The need to stay hidden adds weight to every interaction, turning even the smallest gesture into something significant. ‘Dirty Little Secret’ thrives in these quiet moments, where emotions simmer beneath the surface rather than explode outward.
At the same time, the story occasionally leans into familiar patterns within the genre, which can make parts of the narrative feel predictable. The emotional stakes remain present, but not every twist carries the same impact.
Still, there is something undeniably compelling about the way ‘Dirty Little Secret’ explores identity, desire, and the fear of being truly seen. It is a story that lingers not because of dramatic highs, but because of the quiet ache it leaves behind.
BDSM | Secret Relationship | Student/Professor | Age Gap | Younger Dom/Older sub | Opposites Attract | Custody of surprise siblings | Emotional Tension | Hidden Love | Internal Conflict | Slow Burn | Vulnerability
March 28, 2026
3.5⭐️but rounding up to four because I do love Riley hart and I mostly enjoyed this story. I truly ended up caring about both Colton and James & I am a sucker for a student / professor romance. Also, bdsm is one of my fav kinks to have featured. However, the constant reminder of “my sir”, “your sir” and labeling the “scene” took me out of the story on occasion which was a bummer.
The story surrounding James and getting custody of his siblings was really sweet and I loved watching him build his relationship with his brother and sister. Colton’s gentle push with Nash and bridging the gap between him and James was really heartwarming too.
Overall, a thoroughly enjoyable read.
FYI this was book 6️⃣9️⃣ of 2026. Fitting I’d say!
Received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
The story surrounding James and getting custody of his siblings was really sweet and I loved watching him build his relationship with his brother and sister. Colton’s gentle push with Nash and bridging the gap between him and James was really heartwarming too.
Overall, a thoroughly enjoyable read.
FYI this was book 6️⃣9️⃣ of 2026. Fitting I’d say!
Received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
May 12, 2026
2.5⭐️ - It had likable characters. It’s had a good plot. Unfortunately, it all felt so impersonal.
The dialogue had no flow. The conversations were very unbalanced, stilted and awkward. All their interactions read like “scenes,” rather than an organic and emotional connection. The sex also became very repetitive and ultimately dull.
Were they compatible - yes. Did they have chemistry - no.
The D/s dynamic isn’t my thing. Or at least the way it’s presented in this story. I can only handle so much “sir” and “good boy”.
The dialogue had no flow. The conversations were very unbalanced, stilted and awkward. All their interactions read like “scenes,” rather than an organic and emotional connection. The sex also became very repetitive and ultimately dull.
Were they compatible - yes. Did they have chemistry - no.
The D/s dynamic isn’t my thing. Or at least the way it’s presented in this story. I can only handle so much “sir” and “good boy”.
March 21, 2026
This book is really 🔥and really sweet at the same time ❤️ Love their story and that both MC are ‘older’ (28 and 40) Parts of the story made me tear up, I’m so happy they got they HEA❤️ Very well written❤️
April 3, 2026
Riley Hart never misses. No matter the tropes, she never fails to make me love the characters and their story, James and Colton were no different.
February 17, 2026
Beautiful and exactly what I needed
April 2, 2026
ARC read
4⭐️ 4🌶️
Read this if you love: Spicy MM romance with kink and heart!
Key Themes/Tropes: BDSM, secret relationship, student/professor (college), age gap (28/40), opposites attract, custody of surprise siblings.
Thoughts
Why it’s good The chemistry in this story is addictive and feels organic. I loved that their connection started as a transactional arrangement on a kink app. Then it shifted into something much deeper after an accidental reconnection. Watching their dynamic bleed into the real world, specifically how it ensured James was actually taking care of himself, was a highlight. The quiet intimacy in the writing, paired with themes of hurt/comfort and healing, made it so sweet.
Character thoughts The dual perspectives were a standout, it allowed you to get to know both characters and lean into their growing vulnerability. I kept rooting for them when they both finally feel seen. Colt’s care for James is particularly adorable! He doesn’t just show up in the bedroom, but carries that protective, nurturing energy into James’s everyday life, creating a safe space for them both to grow.
Plot/Pacing The pacing is addictive, kicking off with high-heat intensity before settling into a deliberate rhythm that allows for emotional stakes. There is a perfect amount of angst as they grapple with the complexities of their dynamic and the stress of a secret relationship. The constant will they get caught tension keeps the momentum high, making me unable to put the book down.
✨ Final Verdict: Must-Read!
Highly recommend for fans of emotional romances and heat and kink. This definitely pulled at my heartstrings!!
4⭐️ 4🌶️
Read this if you love: Spicy MM romance with kink and heart!
Key Themes/Tropes: BDSM, secret relationship, student/professor (college), age gap (28/40), opposites attract, custody of surprise siblings.
Thoughts
Why it’s good The chemistry in this story is addictive and feels organic. I loved that their connection started as a transactional arrangement on a kink app. Then it shifted into something much deeper after an accidental reconnection. Watching their dynamic bleed into the real world, specifically how it ensured James was actually taking care of himself, was a highlight. The quiet intimacy in the writing, paired with themes of hurt/comfort and healing, made it so sweet.
Character thoughts The dual perspectives were a standout, it allowed you to get to know both characters and lean into their growing vulnerability. I kept rooting for them when they both finally feel seen. Colt’s care for James is particularly adorable! He doesn’t just show up in the bedroom, but carries that protective, nurturing energy into James’s everyday life, creating a safe space for them both to grow.
Plot/Pacing The pacing is addictive, kicking off with high-heat intensity before settling into a deliberate rhythm that allows for emotional stakes. There is a perfect amount of angst as they grapple with the complexities of their dynamic and the stress of a secret relationship. The constant will they get caught tension keeps the momentum high, making me unable to put the book down.
✨ Final Verdict: Must-Read!
Highly recommend for fans of emotional romances and heat and kink. This definitely pulled at my heartstrings!!
April 2, 2026
James + Colton
-mm forbidden romance
-student/professor
-secret relationship
-opposites attract
-younger dom/older sub
-age gap
yallll i am SOOOOOO OBSESSEDDD with james & colton omggg riley fxckn DID HER THANNNGGGG wit this one! the kink was SOOOOO hot…some honorable mentions for marking & spitting 🤤 but really the found family aspect was SOOOOO precious & i was sooo happy james & his family got that! & there was no one more perfect for them but colton & his family to give that to him!! 🥹 but also like…why i lowkey feel like we need nash’s story later?👀👀 & sades & han + tash’s too maybe…possibly..kinda? haha🥺🙏
-mm forbidden romance
-student/professor
-secret relationship
-opposites attract
-younger dom/older sub
-age gap
yallll i am SOOOOOO OBSESSEDDD with james & colton omggg riley fxckn DID HER THANNNGGGG wit this one! the kink was SOOOOO hot…some honorable mentions for marking & spitting 🤤 but really the found family aspect was SOOOOO precious & i was sooo happy james & his family got that! & there was no one more perfect for them but colton & his family to give that to him!! 🥹 but also like…why i lowkey feel like we need nash’s story later?👀👀 & sades & han + tash’s too maybe…possibly..kinda? haha🥺🙏
April 19, 2026
James and Colton.
This book did NOT disappoint. If you know me you know I love a younger dom and an older sub. You also know I love dirty talk and forbidden love. Dirty Little Secret checked all the boxes for me.
I think what I liked the most about this book was their dom/sub dynamic outside of the bedroom. We get to see these two try to resist each other and ultimately realize that’s not how things are meant to be. I love the way that Colton stepped in and took care of James when he needed it. I love how Colton got along with Sadie and Nash. I’m always here for amazing side characters.
Overall this book was a great read! This would make an amazing audio reread.
This book did NOT disappoint. If you know me you know I love a younger dom and an older sub. You also know I love dirty talk and forbidden love. Dirty Little Secret checked all the boxes for me.
I think what I liked the most about this book was their dom/sub dynamic outside of the bedroom. We get to see these two try to resist each other and ultimately realize that’s not how things are meant to be. I love the way that Colton stepped in and took care of James when he needed it. I love how Colton got along with Sadie and Nash. I’m always here for amazing side characters.
Overall this book was a great read! This would make an amazing audio reread.
April 10, 2026
It feels like AI wrote this
April 11, 2026
i could not finish this book, unfortunately
i felt like nothing was working for me, neither the setting nor the characters really pushed me to continue it, and the kinks just felt a bit rushed and not really like they matched the book as an overall product
i felt like nothing was working for me, neither the setting nor the characters really pushed me to continue it, and the kinks just felt a bit rushed and not really like they matched the book as an overall product
April 2, 2026
Dirty Little Secret - Riley Hart
5/5✨🌟
* SPOILERS *
I absolutely adored this book more than I thought I was going to. I’m a huge sucker for a caretaking trope and this had all the feels that I needed. This book is my favorite by Riley that I’ve read. It’s so sweet but man, the spice is so hot I had to fan myself.
Colton was the best dom to James. I always love it when the dominant is younger one. It is always those dynamics that I know I’m going to be a goner. Colton was exactly the man he needed. Those caretaking moments were so cute. The whole making him food and those notes were so everything for me.
When James found out he had siblings that he didn’t know about, I just knew these three were going to be an interesting ride. Nash, Sadie and James just didn’t have the best mother. I will say that I loved Sadie so much.
My favorite part was when they got out of the vehicle and she grabbed Nash’s hand and then grabbed James’s own hand. I definitely teared up at that moment.
Also, loved the fort blankets scene because c’mon how cute was that. I laughed when the entire time Nash knew they were seeing each other because of how they looked at each other.
That breakdown scene had me in tears, though. Everything was going so well and then poor James gets a phone call that made him spiral. This book certainly had me in all of my feelings.
When Riley writes, I will immediately grab her books because if they continue to be this emotional and just make me want more, I’m here for it.
I received a copy of this book and this is my honest review.
5/5✨🌟
* SPOILERS *
I absolutely adored this book more than I thought I was going to. I’m a huge sucker for a caretaking trope and this had all the feels that I needed. This book is my favorite by Riley that I’ve read. It’s so sweet but man, the spice is so hot I had to fan myself.
Colton was the best dom to James. I always love it when the dominant is younger one. It is always those dynamics that I know I’m going to be a goner. Colton was exactly the man he needed. Those caretaking moments were so cute. The whole making him food and those notes were so everything for me.
When James found out he had siblings that he didn’t know about, I just knew these three were going to be an interesting ride. Nash, Sadie and James just didn’t have the best mother. I will say that I loved Sadie so much.
My favorite part was when they got out of the vehicle and she grabbed Nash’s hand and then grabbed James’s own hand. I definitely teared up at that moment.
Also, loved the fort blankets scene because c’mon how cute was that. I laughed when the entire time Nash knew they were seeing each other because of how they looked at each other.
That breakdown scene had me in tears, though. Everything was going so well and then poor James gets a phone call that made him spiral. This book certainly had me in all of my feelings.
When Riley writes, I will immediately grab her books because if they continue to be this emotional and just make me want more, I’m here for it.
I received a copy of this book and this is my honest review.
May 4, 2026
my face is hot
Ooooo Miss Hart!!!!!!! Gurl!!!! After I pick my self off the floor….. this was HAWT but that’s not all that this book was. In her classic way Hart has a way of really writing a great story to go along with the hawt. And while we are here THANK YOU FOR DIVERSITY!!!! This is one author who I never have to worry about white washing her worlds. And I can’t begin to tell you how much I appreciate that. And it’s not just the main characters, she makes sure there are diverse side characters too. Because we do exist in all the worlds. I love the care she has for diversity. She did a really good job here especially since it was about a sensitive topic like Black hair. Thank you for bringing awareness to this Miss Hart!
This was a great found family story about finding love, and excepting love. Beautiful. And it was freaking Hawt!
In the know:
No cheating
No sharing
Diversity yes!
Watch your triggers surrounding the spice.
Established fun but no relationship before spice
Dual pov
Ooooo Miss Hart!!!!!!! Gurl!!!! After I pick my self off the floor….. this was HAWT but that’s not all that this book was. In her classic way Hart has a way of really writing a great story to go along with the hawt. And while we are here THANK YOU FOR DIVERSITY!!!! This is one author who I never have to worry about white washing her worlds. And I can’t begin to tell you how much I appreciate that. And it’s not just the main characters, she makes sure there are diverse side characters too. Because we do exist in all the worlds. I love the care she has for diversity. She did a really good job here especially since it was about a sensitive topic like Black hair. Thank you for bringing awareness to this Miss Hart!
This was a great found family story about finding love, and excepting love. Beautiful. And it was freaking Hawt!
In the know:
No cheating
No sharing
Diversity yes!
Watch your triggers surrounding the spice.
Established fun but no relationship before spice
Dual pov
April 17, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️Six Star Read!
I took my time with this book. I realized when I finished it, the reason why… is that I didn’t want it to be over. The title and cover of this book are what attracted me to it, but the story on the pages touched me in a way I was not expecting. I’ve been a fan of Riley Hart for a while now, and this is my new favorite book of hers. This book felt like a compilation of so many different things that I love. I could go on and on about the main character James. I relate to him so much. I understand what it means to feel unworthy of getting a happy ending. How he’s not worthy of it based on what people have told him throughout his life. Despite the fact that he’s now an accomplished adult who comes alive when he teaches. (Yeah sounds like me lol) Colton is a fantastic main character as well who shows a tremendous amount of growth. He’s a phenomenal dominant, who takes care of James beautifully. At times I was on the verge of tears watching him be there for James. It’s such an amazing story about chosen family and I don’t want to give anything away so all I can do now is recommend it. The BDSM spice was also top tier as it always is with Riley Hart’s books.
I took my time with this book. I realized when I finished it, the reason why… is that I didn’t want it to be over. The title and cover of this book are what attracted me to it, but the story on the pages touched me in a way I was not expecting. I’ve been a fan of Riley Hart for a while now, and this is my new favorite book of hers. This book felt like a compilation of so many different things that I love. I could go on and on about the main character James. I relate to him so much. I understand what it means to feel unworthy of getting a happy ending. How he’s not worthy of it based on what people have told him throughout his life. Despite the fact that he’s now an accomplished adult who comes alive when he teaches. (Yeah sounds like me lol) Colton is a fantastic main character as well who shows a tremendous amount of growth. He’s a phenomenal dominant, who takes care of James beautifully. At times I was on the verge of tears watching him be there for James. It’s such an amazing story about chosen family and I don’t want to give anything away so all I can do now is recommend it. The BDSM spice was also top tier as it always is with Riley Hart’s books.
April 12, 2026
Riley Hart has given many masterpieces but I am a bit doubtful about this one.
The start was strong and engaging but I think the book ended suddenly.
It could have had a few more chapters.
Anyways... Colton was a delight and a perfect dom.
James was good, that's it though. I have no comments for him.
Nash was everything I thought he would be but I would have liked it if he had more happy scene with Sadie and James together as a family which didn't include Colton.
But yeah...it was a good read.
The start was strong and engaging but I think the book ended suddenly.
It could have had a few more chapters.
Anyways... Colton was a delight and a perfect dom.
James was good, that's it though. I have no comments for him.
Nash was everything I thought he would be but I would have liked it if he had more happy scene with Sadie and James together as a family which didn't include Colton.
But yeah...it was a good read.
May 23, 2026
Holy SMOKES this one was HOT! So hot. It surprised me in almost every single way after going in completely blind, and I regret nothing. My very first Riley Hart book and it will NOT be my last ! Colton & James brought the sweet, the forbidden, and the FIREY HOT spice. This book deserves all the hype.
🩷 Younger Dom / Older Sub
🍎 Professor / Student
🩷 Forbidden Relationship
🍎 Surprise Custody Of Siblings
🩷 FILTHY Spice
🍎 Golden Shower
🩷 BDSM
🍎 So Much “Good Boy”
🩷 Spanking, Spitting & So Many Kinks
🍎 A Desk Scene
🩷 A Car Scene
🍎 HE FEEDS HIM HIS 💦 FROM THE RUBBER 🤯
🩷 Younger Dom / Older Sub
🍎 Professor / Student
🩷 Forbidden Relationship
🍎 Surprise Custody Of Siblings
🩷 FILTHY Spice
🍎 Golden Shower
🩷 BDSM
🍎 So Much “Good Boy”
🩷 Spanking, Spitting & So Many Kinks
🍎 A Desk Scene
🩷 A Car Scene
🍎 HE FEEDS HIM HIS 💦 FROM THE RUBBER 🤯
April 17, 2026
4.75⭐️
Hit all the marks for me. Beautiful MCs, hot as fucking hell, and strong emotional emphasis on family and community support. I had a great time. Was exactly the type of read I needed. Not too heavy, not too dramatic, just bang on all the right notes. Kink explored in a way that made it very accessible and by the book - no red flags here
Hit all the marks for me. Beautiful MCs, hot as fucking hell, and strong emotional emphasis on family and community support. I had a great time. Was exactly the type of read I needed. Not too heavy, not too dramatic, just bang on all the right notes. Kink explored in a way that made it very accessible and by the book - no red flags here
May 13, 2026
For a book so full of kinks (love it!!!) this was a surprisingly sweet, heartfelt and lovely story. I don’t really like stories with kids, but this one was done well. The found family aspect was amazing. Colton is the sweetest Dom ever, and James was so eager to be loved. All the warm and fuzzies over here!!
March 24, 2026
Really fun standalone book by Riley Hart. I really enjoyed the different dynamic of the younger Dom. Colton and James were really interesting characters and it was nice to see them change throughout the story. Can’t wait to read more of Riley’s work.
April 2, 2026
I enjoyed this! I thought I was going into a predominantly BDSM read and this was so much more. Yes, we got scenes and yes, we got to see a different type of Sub/Dom dynamic between Coltan and James throughout the book but we also go to see James become the family man he never expected to be and Colton expand his family in a way he hadn’t initially planned. This was sweet and a little heartbreaking but overall heartwarming. Colton and James were great for each other and a great support system for Nash and Sadie. I always have a great time with Riley Hart’s books!
🩷ARC REVIEW🖤
🩷ARC REVIEW🖤
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