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Forbidden #1
My Temptation
Bella
We don’t always get what we want in life. I’m resigned to not getting the man I’ve always dreamed of. The man I wish would call me his.
For me it’s always been him.
Reed.
My Dad’s best friend.
Yet when I start working for him things change. He doesn’t look at me like he used to. He looks at me with longing, with lust. He looks at me how I look at him.
Could I really get everything I’ve ever wanted? Or will he deny me like everyone else in my life.
Reed
I’ve got everything I want in life.
The job of dreams.
Money.
Women.
So why does Bella suddenly make my life look empty unless she’s in it?
It’s impossible, though.
Nothing can happen.
She’s my best friend's daughter.
We don’t always get what we want in life. I’m resigned to not getting the man I’ve always dreamed of. The man I wish would call me his.
For me it’s always been him.
Reed.
My Dad’s best friend.
Yet when I start working for him things change. He doesn’t look at me like he used to. He looks at me with longing, with lust. He looks at me how I look at him.
Could I really get everything I’ve ever wanted? Or will he deny me like everyone else in my life.
Reed
I’ve got everything I want in life.
The job of dreams.
Money.
Women.
So why does Bella suddenly make my life look empty unless she’s in it?
It’s impossible, though.
Nothing can happen.
She’s my best friend's daughter.
157 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 30, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 131 reviews
Did Not Finish
April 2, 2026So much tell, and such a weirdly naive writing style that felt childish in syntax, with really clunky grammar. I had to stop as I wasn't about to read spice with a character who's internal monologue read like a preteen 😬
March 26, 2026
You can definitely tell this is self-published. The grammar was terrible and a lot of the writing felt flat.
Review of advance copy received from Author
✨️ARC Read
Star Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice Rating: 🌶🌶🌶
HEA: 🌟🌟🌟/3
❗️Safety and Small Spoilers Below❗️
📌 Triggers: none
📌 No Cheating/Sharing
📌 No OWD/OMD
📌 Virgin FMC/Experienced MMC
📌 No Separation/Third-act Breakup
📌 This is a good palette cleanser novella, as there's practically no drama. It's all focused on the MCs relationship and smut.
Star Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice Rating: 🌶🌶🌶
HEA: 🌟🌟🌟/3
❗️Safety and Small Spoilers Below❗️
📌 Triggers: none
📌 No Cheating/Sharing
📌 No OWD/OMD
📌 Virgin FMC/Experienced MMC
📌 No Separation/Third-act Breakup
📌 This is a good palette cleanser novella, as there's practically no drama. It's all focused on the MCs relationship and smut.
February 7, 2026
This was a fun and very spicy novella.
I thought the story was pretty fun overall but nothing to extraordinary. I don't think it really brought anything new to this trope but it was just fun. I did get bored in a couple parts. It seemed like a pretty standard father's best friend trope with a young and inexperience heroine.
I thought the story was pretty fun overall but nothing to extraordinary. I don't think it really brought anything new to this trope but it was just fun. I did get bored in a couple parts. It seemed like a pretty standard father's best friend trope with a young and inexperience heroine.
February 4, 2026
First DNF this year!
Review of advance copy received from Author
This novella was such a spicy delight, I had such a fun time reading it and talking about it with Amy and Katie, it is a very fast paced book which is needed with its 157 page count and oh boy is our man down bad. I loved the age gap, I loved how they were all in on each other, too. I am very excited for the next books in this series!
Reed, our MMC, oh man the mouth on that man was unreal, he was so freaking hot and like obsessed with Bella the first moment he sees her and while he talks about having good restraint with her, he literally has none and it just made me so giddy. An ex playboy, the man knew what he was doing, and he did it oh so well. The first spicy scene had me in a chokehold.
Bella, our FMC, was slightly inexperienced, but she was no push over, she gave what she got and drove Reed up the wall with her bratty behavior. I didn't really like her parents, but I am glad her and Reed stood up to them. Her girl group was so awesome the banter they had was so fun!!
4.5 ⭐️
4 🔥
Reed, our MMC, oh man the mouth on that man was unreal, he was so freaking hot and like obsessed with Bella the first moment he sees her and while he talks about having good restraint with her, he literally has none and it just made me so giddy. An ex playboy, the man knew what he was doing, and he did it oh so well. The first spicy scene had me in a chokehold.
Bella, our FMC, was slightly inexperienced, but she was no push over, she gave what she got and drove Reed up the wall with her bratty behavior. I didn't really like her parents, but I am glad her and Reed stood up to them. Her girl group was so awesome the banter they had was so fun!!
4.5 ⭐️
4 🔥
April 17, 2026
Im no stranger to smutty novellas, quite the opposite truthfully. But fuck this one was tough to get through.
I HATE leaving negative reviews but I genuinely need to put my thoughts out, first off Reed gave me the ick so bad in so many ways. The dom/sub(brat) dynamic was so badly written, in a bdsm relationship there needs to be communication, they need to talk about what they are and aren’t okay with and BUILD the trust in order for the sub to feel comfortable submitting, a good dom doesn’t just say what’s going to make the sub feel good specially in a new dynamic where they are still getting to know each other’s needs and boundaries. AFTERCARE IS IMPORTANT yet it’s inexistent in the book.
Their relationship is solely based on sex, they barely do anything other than fuck, there is absolutely no emotional connection and development.
Im deeply disappointed because I genuinely thought I’d at least enjoy it a little bit.
I HATE leaving negative reviews but I genuinely need to put my thoughts out, first off Reed gave me the ick so bad in so many ways. The dom/sub(brat) dynamic was so badly written, in a bdsm relationship there needs to be communication, they need to talk about what they are and aren’t okay with and BUILD the trust in order for the sub to feel comfortable submitting, a good dom doesn’t just say what’s going to make the sub feel good specially in a new dynamic where they are still getting to know each other’s needs and boundaries. AFTERCARE IS IMPORTANT yet it’s inexistent in the book.
Their relationship is solely based on sex, they barely do anything other than fuck, there is absolutely no emotional connection and development.
Im deeply disappointed because I genuinely thought I’d at least enjoy it a little bit.
February 20, 2026
-Dad’s best friend
-Workplace Romance
-Age Gap (22 years)
-Obsessed MMC
-Virgin FMC
-Novella
Reed and Bella. Woo. This one was so hot and steamy! I’d definitely recommend this if in a slump and need a short and spicy book to keep momentum.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5 | 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
-Workplace Romance
-Age Gap (22 years)
-Obsessed MMC
-Virgin FMC
-Novella
Reed and Bella. Woo. This one was so hot and steamy! I’d definitely recommend this if in a slump and need a short and spicy book to keep momentum.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5 | 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
January 14, 2026
Thank you so much F.R Burns for allowing me to ARC read this one I had the best time with Bella & Reed’s story 🥰
Now we know how much I loveee an older MMC and Reed hit all of the marks; he was protective, dominant & down right scorching hot and don’t even get me started on his authoritative side because you’ll see me turn into a puddle in real time 😮💨 The way that this man didn’t let anyone get between him and Bella was the hottest thing EVER like yes sir please stand up for your girl & let her know that no matter what she will be taken care of and that she is your everything, we love reassuring men over here 🤭
Not only did I love the relationship between these two but I adored how much Bella grew as a person during the story, she went from a shy girl who is afraid to upset her parents or rock the boat to a badass lady who knew exactly what she wanted and wasn’t afraid to take it, like yes you absolutely queen you deserve the man of your dreams and you shouldn’t let others get in the way of that 👀 I absolutely loved Bella’s character and related to her in certain ways especially as her confidence grew and she allowed her true self to shine!
Overall, I had the best time reading this one and it had all of my favourites favourite things in one place; spice, an older man and a bratty badass queen - I am so happy that these two allowed themselves to be together and to experience the love that they deserve, I would ask Bella if she would be willing to share Reed but I fear he wouldn’t even look at anyone who isn’t Bella so i’ll just pretend that he’s mine 👀🥹
Now we know how much I loveee an older MMC and Reed hit all of the marks; he was protective, dominant & down right scorching hot and don’t even get me started on his authoritative side because you’ll see me turn into a puddle in real time 😮💨 The way that this man didn’t let anyone get between him and Bella was the hottest thing EVER like yes sir please stand up for your girl & let her know that no matter what she will be taken care of and that she is your everything, we love reassuring men over here 🤭
Not only did I love the relationship between these two but I adored how much Bella grew as a person during the story, she went from a shy girl who is afraid to upset her parents or rock the boat to a badass lady who knew exactly what she wanted and wasn’t afraid to take it, like yes you absolutely queen you deserve the man of your dreams and you shouldn’t let others get in the way of that 👀 I absolutely loved Bella’s character and related to her in certain ways especially as her confidence grew and she allowed her true self to shine!
Overall, I had the best time reading this one and it had all of my favourites favourite things in one place; spice, an older man and a bratty badass queen - I am so happy that these two allowed themselves to be together and to experience the love that they deserve, I would ask Bella if she would be willing to share Reed but I fear he wouldn’t even look at anyone who isn’t Bella so i’ll just pretend that he’s mine 👀🥹
January 18, 2026
ARC Review
Where do I even start with The Temptation by F.R. Burns? This novella completely swept me up and didn’t let go — the kind of spicy, swoon-worthy read that leaves you grinning long after the last page. Thank you so much, F.R. Burns, for the ARC opportunity — I’m genuinely grateful I got to read this early!
this story follows Bella, a fresh college grad stepping into a new chapter of her life — and suddenly finding herself working closely with her dad’s best friend, Reed. There’s just so much forbidden energy in their dynamic: the age gap, the unspoken tension in every shared glance, the sharp chemistry that simmers even before it boils over. The tension is electric. What I loved most was how it managed to be both steamy and heartfelt. Yes — it’s spicy. Yes — it’s bold. But it also gives you moments where you genuinely care about these characters. But also, the spice!! It. Be. Spicing!!! Reed and his sinful mouth will have you panting! It’s the kind of book that makes you laugh, blush, and go “aww” all in one sitting. I genuinely can’t wait to see what the rest of this forbidden series holds!
Huge thanks again to F.R. Burns for letting me read this ARC
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Where do I even start with The Temptation by F.R. Burns? This novella completely swept me up and didn’t let go — the kind of spicy, swoon-worthy read that leaves you grinning long after the last page. Thank you so much, F.R. Burns, for the ARC opportunity — I’m genuinely grateful I got to read this early!
this story follows Bella, a fresh college grad stepping into a new chapter of her life — and suddenly finding herself working closely with her dad’s best friend, Reed. There’s just so much forbidden energy in their dynamic: the age gap, the unspoken tension in every shared glance, the sharp chemistry that simmers even before it boils over. The tension is electric. What I loved most was how it managed to be both steamy and heartfelt. Yes — it’s spicy. Yes — it’s bold. But it also gives you moments where you genuinely care about these characters. But also, the spice!! It. Be. Spicing!!! Reed and his sinful mouth will have you panting! It’s the kind of book that makes you laugh, blush, and go “aww” all in one sitting. I genuinely can’t wait to see what the rest of this forbidden series holds!
Huge thanks again to F.R. Burns for letting me read this ARC
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Review of advance copy received from Author
Review of Advance Copy recieved from Author.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Thankyou so much for Fr Burns for allowing me to be an arc reader for Bella and Reed story
I Have had the best time reading this book I literally read it in one sitting, I was hooked I could not put it down even if I tried
My favourite tropes in one book
🌶️Spice that was off the charts
💜Older man
🖤Dominant and possessive man
The chemistry in this book was electric and sizzling at each turn of the page. The instant connection reed and bella have is explosive.
Fr Burns is one of my auto buy authors and this book was amazing hot hot hot and definitely will be added to my other books of this author.
This book was short but was packed completely with spice and is a unforgettable 5 star read.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Thankyou so much for Fr Burns for allowing me to be an arc reader for Bella and Reed story
I Have had the best time reading this book I literally read it in one sitting, I was hooked I could not put it down even if I tried
My favourite tropes in one book
🌶️Spice that was off the charts
💜Older man
🖤Dominant and possessive man
The chemistry in this book was electric and sizzling at each turn of the page. The instant connection reed and bella have is explosive.
Fr Burns is one of my auto buy authors and this book was amazing hot hot hot and definitely will be added to my other books of this author.
This book was short but was packed completely with spice and is a unforgettable 5 star read.
March 8, 2026
I dnf’d five books. I think I know what my problem was. I was looking for a story that would hook me from the beginning. I didn’t want a slow buildup. I didn’t want a long-drawn-out story either. I wanted to get to the story, not so much as the spice, but to the actual nitty-gritty of things. And thankfully, I found that with F.R. Burns’ Temptation.
It was really the teaser hook that did it for me. ‘When you leave your p@nties in the car for him, but the wrong man finds them…’ Yep, I needed to know more. And more I found! Temptation is a Dad’s Best Friend, Age Gap Romance. She gets a job and her Dad’s office, and bada-bing bada-boom. It’s a novella. It’s spicy. He falls first and hard. It’s exactly what I was looking for.
It was really the teaser hook that did it for me. ‘When you leave your p@nties in the car for him, but the wrong man finds them…’ Yep, I needed to know more. And more I found! Temptation is a Dad’s Best Friend, Age Gap Romance. She gets a job and her Dad’s office, and bada-bing bada-boom. It’s a novella. It’s spicy. He falls first and hard. It’s exactly what I was looking for.
March 23, 2026
Hot & Spicy But Oh So Sweet!
Looking for a hot & spicy quick book to read? Bella & Reed have just the story for you!
Bella has always had a crush on her dad's best friend and business partner for as long as she can remember. Reed hasn't seen Bella in years and is blown away at the bombshell that walks into his office for her first day at work. Working closely together and one well placed text message and he can no longer stay away...
This book was so good and I loved all of the tropes and microtropes inside! Here's a list of just a few you'll find inside!
Age Gap
Best Friend's Daughter
Workplace Romance
Br££ding k*nk
Nickname
Can't bear one minute away from her
If you love any of these then you'll definitely love the rest!
Happy Reading! 🫶
Looking for a hot & spicy quick book to read? Bella & Reed have just the story for you!
Bella has always had a crush on her dad's best friend and business partner for as long as she can remember. Reed hasn't seen Bella in years and is blown away at the bombshell that walks into his office for her first day at work. Working closely together and one well placed text message and he can no longer stay away...
This book was so good and I loved all of the tropes and microtropes inside! Here's a list of just a few you'll find inside!
Age Gap
Best Friend's Daughter
Workplace Romance
Br££ding k*nk
Nickname
Can't bear one minute away from her
If you love any of these then you'll definitely love the rest!
Happy Reading! 🫶
March 20, 2026
Reed is a man OBSESSED from the moment Bella walks into his office. She may be his best friend's daughter, but he hasn't seen her since she was a girl - and she's all woman now and tired of being treated like she's still a little girl. Reed tries, he does, to resist the walking temptation in order to protect his decades long friendship. But the heart wants what it wants - and luckily she's always wanted him too. Now he just wants to give her the world. What happens when her dad finds out though? Read this spicy forbidden treat and find out!
April 20, 2026
A quick, addictive novella (157 pages) that I finished in just a couple of hours. You’re immediately thrown into Bella’s first day working at her father’s company, where she’ll be working closely with his best friend, Reed – who’s 22 years older and has been her longtime crush.
The attraction is instant, the relationship is forbidden, and the chemistry is fun and undeniably spicy. For me, it was the perfect palate cleanser after a heavier, more emotional read.
Tropes:
• Workplace
• Dad’s best friend
• Age-gap
• She falls first
• He falls harder
• Virgin FMC
The attraction is instant, the relationship is forbidden, and the chemistry is fun and undeniably spicy. For me, it was the perfect palate cleanser after a heavier, more emotional read.
Tropes:
• Workplace
• Dad’s best friend
• Age-gap
• She falls first
• He falls harder
• Virgin FMC
July 23, 2026
Bella's father's super hot best friend gives us a fabulous age gap, workplace, forbidden romance with ALL the spice you could possibly want from a novella that also has a plot
Reed falls hard and fast for Bella on her first day at work, he missed the part where she grew up and now he is obsessed, dominant, protective and has a filthy mouth 🫠
Definitely pick this one up for a quick, fabulously swoon-worthy, spicy read
❤️ How I Rate Books
⭐ didn't like it
⭐⭐ it was ok
⭐⭐⭐ I liked it
⭐⭐⭐⭐Loved it!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Amazing! Will reread!
Reed falls hard and fast for Bella on her first day at work, he missed the part where she grew up and now he is obsessed, dominant, protective and has a filthy mouth 🫠
Definitely pick this one up for a quick, fabulously swoon-worthy, spicy read
❤️ How I Rate Books
⭐ didn't like it
⭐⭐ it was ok
⭐⭐⭐ I liked it
⭐⭐⭐⭐Loved it!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Amazing! Will reread!
September 30, 2026
My Temptation by F.R. Burns
Genre: Romance
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Book Type: Standalone
This was such a sweet and spicy read. I loved the chemistry between Bella and Reed. Our MMC here is pretty possessive of his girl and will do anything for her..and to her 😉 It’s a short read which is perfect if you need something to cleanse your pallet before diving into something else. Definitely recommend!
You can read now on Kindle Unlimited, purchase a ebook or physical copy on Amazon or grab signed copies at https://payhip.com/FRBURNSAuthor
Genre: Romance
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Book Type: Standalone
This was such a sweet and spicy read. I loved the chemistry between Bella and Reed. Our MMC here is pretty possessive of his girl and will do anything for her..and to her 😉 It’s a short read which is perfect if you need something to cleanse your pallet before diving into something else. Definitely recommend!
You can read now on Kindle Unlimited, purchase a ebook or physical copy on Amazon or grab signed copies at https://payhip.com/FRBURNSAuthor
February 22, 2026
Uh I’m in a reading slump so just forcing myself to read novellas to keep my kindle streaks going. This was meh but whatever.
-Dual PoV
-Large age gap h21, H43
-Novella
-Dads best friend and business partner
Virgin h 🙄, previous manwhore H 🤢
-No owd/omd - the day he sees the h again for the first time in years he gets a text from an old hookup asking to meet but he ignores it because he’s all about the h now.
-no third act breakup
-HEA
-epilogue 5 years later, happily married with 2 year old twin boys and a 2 month old daughter.
-Dual PoV
-Large age gap h21, H43
-Novella
-Dads best friend and business partner
Virgin h 🙄, previous manwhore H 🤢
-No owd/omd - the day he sees the h again for the first time in years he gets a text from an old hookup asking to meet but he ignores it because he’s all about the h now.
-no third act breakup
-HEA
-epilogue 5 years later, happily married with 2 year old twin boys and a 2 month old daughter.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 17, 2026
Well, it took approximately 0.2 seconds for my kitty to wake up 🤣
F.R.Burns should honestly be arrested because making this dominant, sexy AF older man this sinfully filthy is a CRIME. I was fully prepared to reach into the book, drag him out by the collar, and keep him for myself.
REED is unfairly insatiable…like this man clearly has zero refractory period, unlimited stamina, and frankly, science needs to study him 🔥 He is quite literally obsessed!
Good thing he’s a keeper though, because Bella is permanently, irreversibly, spiritually ruined by this man and his truly monstrous manhood.🥵
This spicy, forbidden 153 page novella will have you sweating like you just ran a marathon and biting your nails while you wait to see how daddy dearest reacts to his daughter getting tangled up with his best friend 👀
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Thank you F.R.Burns for the advanced copy to read
F.R.Burns should honestly be arrested because making this dominant, sexy AF older man this sinfully filthy is a CRIME. I was fully prepared to reach into the book, drag him out by the collar, and keep him for myself.
REED is unfairly insatiable…like this man clearly has zero refractory period, unlimited stamina, and frankly, science needs to study him 🔥 He is quite literally obsessed!
Good thing he’s a keeper though, because Bella is permanently, irreversibly, spiritually ruined by this man and his truly monstrous manhood.🥵
This spicy, forbidden 153 page novella will have you sweating like you just ran a marathon and biting your nails while you wait to see how daddy dearest reacts to his daughter getting tangled up with his best friend 👀
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Thank you F.R.Burns for the advanced copy to read
July 31, 2026
Amazing! Hot! Absolutely Everything!!!
Reed and Bella are amazing!!!
I read this series out of order, reading book 2 first and let me tell you it is ok, because they are both absolutely fantastic.
I love the girl group. I love this couple. Reed and Bella are sooooo perfect for each other! The age gap is hot. This is a perfect novella. Read this, it is awesome!
Reed and Bella are amazing!!!
I read this series out of order, reading book 2 first and let me tell you it is ok, because they are both absolutely fantastic.
I love the girl group. I love this couple. Reed and Bella are sooooo perfect for each other! The age gap is hot. This is a perfect novella. Read this, it is awesome!
January 29, 2026
ARC Review:
Maybe I just don’t have a thing for novellas, but I didn’t enjoy this read. Don’t get me wrong, the plot of the book drew me in enough to want to read more: but I was disappointed.
From the start, it felt too much. I get that it is a novella, but that doesn’t mean it has to be unnecessarily fast paced. While taking notes on this read, I cannot express how many times I empathized the need to slow down. Sorry, but saying you’re in love on page 15 feels a little much to me.
To be honest, I really didn’t like our MMC. Reed was selfish, demanding, & egotistical in an uncomfortable way. His lines felt too much be very scripted: aka, I’d heard them far too many times for it to stand out any. This whole relationship between our characters all felt very scripted, smut included. There was nothing I hadn’t seen before. It very much felt like Ana and Hans relationship from Frozen: rushed and with a delusional level of attachment.
On top of that, there was a book I read not too long ago with an almost identical premise and characters. I understand that it’s had to write an original story, but this felt comically similar to something I’d read before.
However, I will compliment Burns on her ability to put together a fabulous and engaging playlist. I always love books that have a playlist, and these songs fit her vibe perfectly.
Maybe I just don’t have a thing for novellas, but I didn’t enjoy this read. Don’t get me wrong, the plot of the book drew me in enough to want to read more: but I was disappointed.
From the start, it felt too much. I get that it is a novella, but that doesn’t mean it has to be unnecessarily fast paced. While taking notes on this read, I cannot express how many times I empathized the need to slow down. Sorry, but saying you’re in love on page 15 feels a little much to me.
To be honest, I really didn’t like our MMC. Reed was selfish, demanding, & egotistical in an uncomfortable way. His lines felt too much be very scripted: aka, I’d heard them far too many times for it to stand out any. This whole relationship between our characters all felt very scripted, smut included. There was nothing I hadn’t seen before. It very much felt like Ana and Hans relationship from Frozen: rushed and with a delusional level of attachment.
On top of that, there was a book I read not too long ago with an almost identical premise and characters. I understand that it’s had to write an original story, but this felt comically similar to something I’d read before.
However, I will compliment Burns on her ability to put together a fabulous and engaging playlist. I always love books that have a playlist, and these songs fit her vibe perfectly.
January 31, 2026
Quick and dirty age gap novella. 43-year-old Reed falls for Bella, his best friend’s daughter. HEA, 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
June 8, 2026
dirty age gap x dad’s best friend romance? say less
Review of advance copy received from Author
My Temptation by F.R. Burns
4.5/5 stars
Oh my, I have bought F.R. Burns first two books but I haven't read them yet due to arcs. I am forever grateful she gave me a spot on her arc team and now I finally read one of her amazing books and she completely blew me away.
This book is hot and sizzling. It has a 22 year old age gap between the characters and their chemistry is off the charts. If you love hot, smutty, age-gap, short and sizzling novella's then pick this one up. You won't be disappointed!
The book starts with Bella starting working at her father's and his best friend's company. She will shadow Reed, her father's best friend, and learn everything from him all in order to take over his job when he retires. But Bella is nervous, nervous because she has always liked Reed and has been drawn to him for years and years. He is the only one that ever made her heart jump and so far no one ever came close to him.
Reed on the other hand is expecting the young girl he saw years ago and is completely shocked when this hot, mature and strong woman enters his office. He is instantly drawn to her and cannot help by being physically drawn to her.
They instantly hit it off, but both try to keep it professional until....
If I didn't know better, I'd think she was attracted to me. But that would be insane, right? It would also be a recipe for disaster, because if I get even a hint of her being attracted to me as I am to her? My control will be non-existent.
And THAT ladies and gentlemen is what kicks off this hot, all consuming and brilliant novella. It's about two people who are on fire in each other's nearness. Who cannot control what they feel and how it bursts out of them.
I love how domineering and authoritative Reed is. It borders on being almost selfish. But it's all with Bella's complete consent and support. And because she never felt forced I could enjoy that side of him.
I also loved Bella and her group of friends. They were so fun and all over the place in a good way. I love how she tells Reed, no I need my girl time sometimes, suck it up and don't bother me when I am with them. I love how feisty, spirited and joyful she is. How she comes out of her shell and becomes one hell of a woman.
4.5 huge stars from me for My Temptation!
4.5/5 stars
Oh my, I have bought F.R. Burns first two books but I haven't read them yet due to arcs. I am forever grateful she gave me a spot on her arc team and now I finally read one of her amazing books and she completely blew me away.
This book is hot and sizzling. It has a 22 year old age gap between the characters and their chemistry is off the charts. If you love hot, smutty, age-gap, short and sizzling novella's then pick this one up. You won't be disappointed!
The book starts with Bella starting working at her father's and his best friend's company. She will shadow Reed, her father's best friend, and learn everything from him all in order to take over his job when he retires. But Bella is nervous, nervous because she has always liked Reed and has been drawn to him for years and years. He is the only one that ever made her heart jump and so far no one ever came close to him.
Reed on the other hand is expecting the young girl he saw years ago and is completely shocked when this hot, mature and strong woman enters his office. He is instantly drawn to her and cannot help by being physically drawn to her.
They instantly hit it off, but both try to keep it professional until....
If I didn't know better, I'd think she was attracted to me. But that would be insane, right? It would also be a recipe for disaster, because if I get even a hint of her being attracted to me as I am to her? My control will be non-existent.
And THAT ladies and gentlemen is what kicks off this hot, all consuming and brilliant novella. It's about two people who are on fire in each other's nearness. Who cannot control what they feel and how it bursts out of them.
I love how domineering and authoritative Reed is. It borders on being almost selfish. But it's all with Bella's complete consent and support. And because she never felt forced I could enjoy that side of him.
I also loved Bella and her group of friends. They were so fun and all over the place in a good way. I love how she tells Reed, no I need my girl time sometimes, suck it up and don't bother me when I am with them. I love how feisty, spirited and joyful she is. How she comes out of her shell and becomes one hell of a woman.
4.5 huge stars from me for My Temptation!
October 31, 2026
UPDATED REVIEW
This is my second time reading this novella, and it's still a spicy and delicious treat! I decided to read it again because the fourth book in the Forbidden series just came out. It's not long at all, so it can be read in only a couple of hours.
It's definitely rapid-paced, going from zero to 100 after two chapters. It's very insta-love, but the MCs also have a history, albeit one that is very sparse and not very involved with one another, so the age gap doesn't feel creepy or anything. For being young, the FMC Bella is not annoying, and the MMC Reed is delightfully all-in immediately, so his possessiveness is quite attractive.
The one thing that is a tad bit creepy? How much Bella's parents infantilize her. She's 21 y/o, graduated from college, and starting work at her father's company. However, he still expects her to come home after work instead of going out with her friends for dinner; he doesn't like that she drives herself to work; and her mother still sometimes picks out her outfits. THAT'S WEIRD. I'll never understand why parents want their developmentally appropriate young adult children to still be babies. Yeah, it's control or whatever, but it's just so unhealthy.
So, one of the major tropes is dad's best friend/best friend's daughter. One of my favorite tropes! However, it happens in this book, as well as some others that I've read, where when the father finds out about the relationship, the father's commentary is kind of gross. Here, Bella's father finds her and Reed making out in a hallway, obviously gets mad, and starts yelling. Understandable. But then he yells at Reed for WHY DO YOU KNOW ABOUT THAT, DAD?? And then that leads him to say to Reed:
EWW! Sir, you are talking about your daughter; have you forgotten that? That's just...yuck.
Ignoring that though, the spice is plentiful and the age gap is so yummy, so I highly recommend!
ORIGINAL REVIEW
Sweet and spicy little novella! Age-gap, forbidden, dad’s best friend story that offers a quick hit of deliciousness. 😍
This is my second time reading this novella, and it's still a spicy and delicious treat! I decided to read it again because the fourth book in the Forbidden series just came out. It's not long at all, so it can be read in only a couple of hours.
It's definitely rapid-paced, going from zero to 100 after two chapters. It's very insta-love, but the MCs also have a history, albeit one that is very sparse and not very involved with one another, so the age gap doesn't feel creepy or anything. For being young, the FMC Bella is not annoying, and the MMC Reed is delightfully all-in immediately, so his possessiveness is quite attractive.
The one thing that is a tad bit creepy? How much Bella's parents infantilize her. She's 21 y/o, graduated from college, and starting work at her father's company. However, he still expects her to come home after work instead of going out with her friends for dinner; he doesn't like that she drives herself to work; and her mother still sometimes picks out her outfits. THAT'S WEIRD. I'll never understand why parents want their developmentally appropriate young adult children to still be babies. Yeah, it's control or whatever, but it's just so unhealthy.
So, one of the major tropes is dad's best friend/best friend's daughter. One of my favorite tropes! However, it happens in this book, as well as some others that I've read, where when the father finds out about the relationship, the father's commentary is kind of gross. Here, Bella's father finds her and Reed making out in a hallway, obviously gets mad, and starts yelling. Understandable. But then he yells at Reed for WHY DO YOU KNOW ABOUT THAT, DAD?? And then that leads him to say to Reed:
"You saw
EWW! Sir, you are talking about your daughter; have you forgotten that? That's just...yuck.
Ignoring that though, the spice is plentiful and the age gap is so yummy, so I highly recommend!
ORIGINAL REVIEW
Sweet and spicy little novella! Age-gap, forbidden, dad’s best friend story that offers a quick hit of deliciousness. 😍
Review of advance copy received from Author
I devoured this novella in one sitting and spent the entire time kicking my feet like a teenager with a crush. Reed and Bella’s dynamic is the exact kind of forbidden tension that makes my brain short‑circuit in the best way.
Bella is all soft curiosity and quiet bravery, she’s sweet without being naïve, open without being reckless. And then there’s Reed… her father’s best friend, his business partner, twenty‑three years older, and absolutely incapable of keeping his hands off her once he starts. The man weaponizes his voice and ability to talk dirty. Every line out of him is a low, rough command or a filthy promise, and Bella melts for it. Honestly, so did I.
The tension between them is unreal. It’s that slow, charged kind of heat where every glance feels like a touch and every touch feels like a line crossed. Reed tries so hard to keep his distance because he knows he shouldn’t want her, knows exactly what it would cost, but the second Bella looks at him like he hung the moon, he’s done for. And when he finally gives in there are sparks everywhere.
I really loved how this novella balanced the taboo with genuine emotion. Reed isn’t just older, he’s protective, steady, and absolutely undone by this girl he was never supposed to want. And Bella isn’t just curious, she’s choosing him with her whole heart, even when it terrifies her. Their chemistry is explosive, but their connection is what makes it addictive.
This book is just for you if you love age gaps, father’s best friend tension, filthy‑mouthed, morally gray men, and sweet FMC’s who surprise you. This may be short novella but it sure packs a spicy, emotional punch.
A huge thanks to F.R. Burns for the early copy! Can’t wait for Ava’s book next.
Bella is all soft curiosity and quiet bravery, she’s sweet without being naïve, open without being reckless. And then there’s Reed… her father’s best friend, his business partner, twenty‑three years older, and absolutely incapable of keeping his hands off her once he starts. The man weaponizes his voice and ability to talk dirty. Every line out of him is a low, rough command or a filthy promise, and Bella melts for it. Honestly, so did I.
The tension between them is unreal. It’s that slow, charged kind of heat where every glance feels like a touch and every touch feels like a line crossed. Reed tries so hard to keep his distance because he knows he shouldn’t want her, knows exactly what it would cost, but the second Bella looks at him like he hung the moon, he’s done for. And when he finally gives in there are sparks everywhere.
I really loved how this novella balanced the taboo with genuine emotion. Reed isn’t just older, he’s protective, steady, and absolutely undone by this girl he was never supposed to want. And Bella isn’t just curious, she’s choosing him with her whole heart, even when it terrifies her. Their chemistry is explosive, but their connection is what makes it addictive.
This book is just for you if you love age gaps, father’s best friend tension, filthy‑mouthed, morally gray men, and sweet FMC’s who surprise you. This may be short novella but it sure packs a spicy, emotional punch.
A huge thanks to F.R. Burns for the early copy! Can’t wait for Ava’s book next.
Review of advance copy received from Author
The story is about Reed and Bella. Bella is de daughter of Reed's best friend and business partner. They meet again when she's fresh out of college and starts working for him. And that's when the temptation begins.
Bella has been crushing on Reed for years but never expected something to come from it. Yet when she walks in his office the first day, he was a goner for her. She knocked him right off his feet and he couldn't stop thinking about her. I loved how at first they were pining for each other, but too afraid to do anything about it.
When they finally get together its straight up smut and spice. I was squealing and kicking my feet the whole time. I read this novella in one sitting because I couldn’t put it down. Reed and Bella together is heart stopping and electrifying. She brings out his possessive and protective side. Don't even try to get her away from him. Who doesn’t love an obsessive MMC. She on the other hand becomes more confident and secure with herself. Bella knows what she wants.
Even though there is the big age gap and their romance is forbidden. I forgot it most of the time because they were also very sweet together and I was rooting for them the whole time.
I give this book 5 stars. F.R. Burns definitely delivers on the love, laughter and SMUT! I couldn’t get enough of it. I can't wait for what she has in store for the other characters in the upcoming novella's of the series.
Thank you F.R. Burns for the e.ARC!
Bella has been crushing on Reed for years but never expected something to come from it. Yet when she walks in his office the first day, he was a goner for her. She knocked him right off his feet and he couldn't stop thinking about her. I loved how at first they were pining for each other, but too afraid to do anything about it.
When they finally get together its straight up smut and spice. I was squealing and kicking my feet the whole time. I read this novella in one sitting because I couldn’t put it down. Reed and Bella together is heart stopping and electrifying. She brings out his possessive and protective side. Don't even try to get her away from him. Who doesn’t love an obsessive MMC. She on the other hand becomes more confident and secure with herself. Bella knows what she wants.
Even though there is the big age gap and their romance is forbidden. I forgot it most of the time because they were also very sweet together and I was rooting for them the whole time.
I give this book 5 stars. F.R. Burns definitely delivers on the love, laughter and SMUT! I couldn’t get enough of it. I can't wait for what she has in store for the other characters in the upcoming novella's of the series.
Thank you F.R. Burns for the e.ARC!
March 22, 2026
I needed something quite literally quick and dirty to give me a moment of respite between bouts of emotional devastation, and it just so happened that this author popped up on my IG feed with a hook good enough to send me straight to KU.
Essentially, the tropes list for this book tells you what's going to happen; there's no massive twists or anything groundbreaking here, but it absolutely fulfils the brief and still manages to be entertaining, easy to read and sexy as all hell.
The MMC is everything you're hoping for; his charisma pours off of the page and is effective at getting not just the FMC all hot and bothered! And while the FMC is definitely innocent (at least to start with), the author has managed to portray this without making her completely beige. She knows what she wants, and her rebellion against her parents' rules and restrictions feels controlled and justified, even if it's got the undertones of that teenage/new adult 'I know better than everyone' attitude that makes her naivete stand out that much more.
The spice be spicin' here, obviously. Yes, it's got that faintly ridiculous timeline to it like a lot of these books do; going from v!rgin everywhere to... definitely not that... in record time, and yes, maybe some of the dialogue is a bit cringe or OTT, but you know exactly what you're getting yourself into when you pick up a book like this. Overall, it absolutely works with the vibe and ultimately scratches the itch, which is all you can ask for really!
Essentially, the tropes list for this book tells you what's going to happen; there's no massive twists or anything groundbreaking here, but it absolutely fulfils the brief and still manages to be entertaining, easy to read and sexy as all hell.
The MMC is everything you're hoping for; his charisma pours off of the page and is effective at getting not just the FMC all hot and bothered! And while the FMC is definitely innocent (at least to start with), the author has managed to portray this without making her completely beige. She knows what she wants, and her rebellion against her parents' rules and restrictions feels controlled and justified, even if it's got the undertones of that teenage/new adult 'I know better than everyone' attitude that makes her naivete stand out that much more.
The spice be spicin' here, obviously. Yes, it's got that faintly ridiculous timeline to it like a lot of these books do; going from v!rgin everywhere to... definitely not that... in record time, and yes, maybe some of the dialogue is a bit cringe or OTT, but you know exactly what you're getting yourself into when you pick up a book like this. Overall, it absolutely works with the vibe and ultimately scratches the itch, which is all you can ask for really!
Review of advance copy received from Author
🩷 ARC REVIEW 🩷
My Temptation by @frburnsauthor
Release Date: 30th Jan 2026
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
- REVIEW -
If slow burn romances are your thing, this book probably isn’t for you. But if you’re like me and live for insta-lust, fast-paced novellas with a shit ton of spice, then Temptation is absolutely your kind of read.
From the very first interaction, Reed and Bella’s chemistry is immediate, intense, and impossible to ignore. There’s no easing into it here. This story jumps straight into heat, and it does not let up. Their relationship was hot, hot, hot… and dirty.
And Reed?
The mouth on that man should honestly come with a warning label. The dirty talk alone had me giggling. He’s confident, bold, and completely unapologetic about wanting Bella and it makes every scene between them even more explosive.
What takes this to the next level is the forbidden element: Reed is her father’s best friend. That layer of taboo adds so much delicious tension to the dynamic, and it kept me hooked the entire time. The risk, the secrecy, the temptation (😉). It all works so well in such a short, punchy format.
This is the perfect novella if you’re in the mood for something quick and filthy.
And honestly? After finishing this, I am so excited for Ava’s book next. If this is any indication of what’s coming, I cannot wait to dive into her story.
Short, spicy, and exactly what I wanted.
My Temptation by @frburnsauthor
Release Date: 30th Jan 2026
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
- REVIEW -
If slow burn romances are your thing, this book probably isn’t for you. But if you’re like me and live for insta-lust, fast-paced novellas with a shit ton of spice, then Temptation is absolutely your kind of read.
From the very first interaction, Reed and Bella’s chemistry is immediate, intense, and impossible to ignore. There’s no easing into it here. This story jumps straight into heat, and it does not let up. Their relationship was hot, hot, hot… and dirty.
And Reed?
The mouth on that man should honestly come with a warning label. The dirty talk alone had me giggling. He’s confident, bold, and completely unapologetic about wanting Bella and it makes every scene between them even more explosive.
What takes this to the next level is the forbidden element: Reed is her father’s best friend. That layer of taboo adds so much delicious tension to the dynamic, and it kept me hooked the entire time. The risk, the secrecy, the temptation (😉). It all works so well in such a short, punchy format.
This is the perfect novella if you’re in the mood for something quick and filthy.
And honestly? After finishing this, I am so excited for Ava’s book next. If this is any indication of what’s coming, I cannot wait to dive into her story.
Short, spicy, and exactly what I wanted.
Review of advance copy received from Author
F. R. has become one of my absolute favorite authors. Her books are captivating but I love the tropes she chooses for her stories. My Temptation was just that, another MUST read. I am so blessed and thankful she trusted me with her baby to beta read. I was immediately drawn to the story and characters. This will be one of three in The Forbidden Series. This HOT pink cover keep you remembering these amazing characters.
Reed-MMC and best friends with the FMC's father. He owns a production company and Bella (FMC) will be taking a job there under his wing. The moment Reed see's her, he is instantly drawn to her beauty and that she is no longer the teenage girl he once knew. She is all woman and he is extremely attracted to her.
Bella-FMC and works under Reed. They spend a lot of time together and during a business trip these two finally let their feelings show. Bella is in her 20s and VERY attracted to Reed. She has been for years.
Overall, if you enjoy age gap and a quick read, I HIGHLY recommend this book. The chemistry these characters bring to the table and the instant love they grow makes for an amazing story. They have been living rent free in my mind for months now and I can't get enough about sharing them. ADD TO YOUR TBR!!!!
Reed-MMC and best friends with the FMC's father. He owns a production company and Bella (FMC) will be taking a job there under his wing. The moment Reed see's her, he is instantly drawn to her beauty and that she is no longer the teenage girl he once knew. She is all woman and he is extremely attracted to her.
Bella-FMC and works under Reed. They spend a lot of time together and during a business trip these two finally let their feelings show. Bella is in her 20s and VERY attracted to Reed. She has been for years.
Overall, if you enjoy age gap and a quick read, I HIGHLY recommend this book. The chemistry these characters bring to the table and the instant love they grow makes for an amazing story. They have been living rent free in my mind for months now and I can't get enough about sharing them. ADD TO YOUR TBR!!!!
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