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The Big Oh
When your orgasm tutor is your worst mistake…and your best shot at happily ever after…
All Camille Sutherland wants to do is survive her coursework, keep the lights on at the adult toy shop she works at and calls home, and figure out why orgasms have always eluded her. Romance is nowhere on her agenda. Until a sexy sales rep walks in and offers to help her, um, test the merchandise. Now she’s rethinking everything.
Desmond Blake is one deal away from finally proving to his father that business can be just as noble as medicine. All he has to do is convince a shop owner to sell. Easy. Or it would’ve been…until he became obsessed with the woman who stands to lose her job and her home if he succeeds.
With secrets unraveling, lies surfacing, and a heart she never planned to risk on the line, can Cami put her trust in Des—and love—when it matters most?
Guess there’s only one way to find out...starting with The Big Oh.
All Camille Sutherland wants to do is survive her coursework, keep the lights on at the adult toy shop she works at and calls home, and figure out why orgasms have always eluded her. Romance is nowhere on her agenda. Until a sexy sales rep walks in and offers to help her, um, test the merchandise. Now she’s rethinking everything.
Desmond Blake is one deal away from finally proving to his father that business can be just as noble as medicine. All he has to do is convince a shop owner to sell. Easy. Or it would’ve been…until he became obsessed with the woman who stands to lose her job and her home if he succeeds.
With secrets unraveling, lies surfacing, and a heart she never planned to risk on the line, can Cami put her trust in Des—and love—when it matters most?
Guess there’s only one way to find out...starting with The Big Oh.
- GenresContemporary
290 pages, Paperback
First published May 19, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
April 14, 2026
ARC REVIEW
This book is full of spice. Cami meets Des while working retail at Sex on the Beach, an adult toy store, because where else would you find sparks flying everywhere? Although Des lies to Cami about his real reason for being at the store, Cami is also being lied to by Lenny, because why not add more drama to the mix? Will the spice be enough to keep Cami happy, or will everything blow up in a spectacular fashion?
Thanks to Book Sirens for sending me an advanced copy to read and review.
This book is full of spice. Cami meets Des while working retail at Sex on the Beach, an adult toy store, because where else would you find sparks flying everywhere? Although Des lies to Cami about his real reason for being at the store, Cami is also being lied to by Lenny, because why not add more drama to the mix? Will the spice be enough to keep Cami happy, or will everything blow up in a spectacular fashion?
Thanks to Book Sirens for sending me an advanced copy to read and review.
May 21, 2026
The Big Oh was a fantastic and funny read. I loved the story and thought that the concept was strong. It was an absolute joy reading this. It was a wonderful debut from Alona! The cover is colourful and the characters are illustrated rather than real people which was great. The writing is good and the story flows nicely. The book is written in third person from dual POV - Camille's (Cami) and Desmond's (Des). This was perfect for the romance genre. The book had some hilarious moments which I enjoyed. Some scenes were spicy but the plot wasn't diminished in any way because of it. I loved the setting of Santa Monica, California. I loved the contemporary setting. The characters were fantastic. I loved Cami and Des. Their chemistry was strong and I loved their interactions. I also really likes Lenny and her baby Holmes the Great Dane! Love his name! I love how all the characters fit together and how their story evolved. I definitely recommend this book!
May 19, 2026
Review of ARC received by author.
A very wild, unconventional arrangement and a lot of miscommunication makes this story a fun and easy-to-binge read. Alona's writing is sweet and spicy, a perfect mixture of storytelling, humor, cutesy moments, and intimacy between two people who are struggling with their own secrets and insecurities. You find yourself rooting for them, laughing at their banter, and truly immersing yourself in their little world in Santa Monica. I also appreciate the conversation that can be had about anorgasmia, which is very real and can affect 10-15% of women.
A very wild, unconventional arrangement and a lot of miscommunication makes this story a fun and easy-to-binge read. Alona's writing is sweet and spicy, a perfect mixture of storytelling, humor, cutesy moments, and intimacy between two people who are struggling with their own secrets and insecurities. You find yourself rooting for them, laughing at their banter, and truly immersing yourself in their little world in Santa Monica. I also appreciate the conversation that can be had about anorgasmia, which is very real and can affect 10-15% of women.
April 13, 2026
Review of ARC received from the author.
This book has everything you need: very likeable characters, a gripping story and plenty of spice.
Cami and Des are the main characters and they’re incredibly real with backstories that unfold throughout the book giving you a deeper understanding of them.
I wasn’t expecting to like this as much as I did so it’s always a good surprise when that happens. I’ve never heard of the author before but will definitely be watching it for other books by her.
This book has everything you need: very likeable characters, a gripping story and plenty of spice.
Cami and Des are the main characters and they’re incredibly real with backstories that unfold throughout the book giving you a deeper understanding of them.
I wasn’t expecting to like this as much as I did so it’s always a good surprise when that happens. I’ve never heard of the author before but will definitely be watching it for other books by her.
May 22, 2026
Fun, easy read that somehow balanced awkwardly adorable moments, real emotional vulnerability, and genuinely hot chemistry without feeling over-the-top.
Cami was instantly relatable to me. She’s stressed, overworked, trying to stay afloat financially while juggling school and living above the adult toy shop where she works. Her insecurity around intimacy and orgasms could’ve easily been played purely for comedy, but I appreciated that the book treated it with honesty and care. Watching her slowly gain confidence in herself — emotionally and sexually — was one of the strongest parts of the story.
And then there’s Des. The “hot sales rep with secrets” trope always works on me, and Des definitely delivered. I liked that underneath the charm and confidence, he was also trying to prove himself and wrestling with family expectations. The chemistry between him and Cami was immediate, playful, and very steamy, but what made me stay invested was how naturally their emotional connection developed alongside all the spice.
The story itself is pretty predictable in a comforting rom-com way, but I didn’t mind that at all. Sometimes you just want a book that feels cosy, funny, and satisfying, and this absolutely hit the spot. The pacing was quick without feeling rushed, and I was surprised by how much character development was packed into such a short book.
My only small issue was that the big conflict/reveal felt a little repetitive because the two lies Cami uncovers play out very similarly, so the drama didn’t hit quite as hard as it could have. I also would’ve loved a tiny bit more emotional resolution at the end outside of the spicy epilogue.
Still, overall, this was a super enjoyable read. If you like romances with quirky premises, lots of banter, emotional growth, and open-door spice, The Big Oh is definitely worth picking up. It’s sweet, sexy, funny, and surprisingly heartfelt all at once.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Cami was instantly relatable to me. She’s stressed, overworked, trying to stay afloat financially while juggling school and living above the adult toy shop where she works. Her insecurity around intimacy and orgasms could’ve easily been played purely for comedy, but I appreciated that the book treated it with honesty and care. Watching her slowly gain confidence in herself — emotionally and sexually — was one of the strongest parts of the story.
And then there’s Des. The “hot sales rep with secrets” trope always works on me, and Des definitely delivered. I liked that underneath the charm and confidence, he was also trying to prove himself and wrestling with family expectations. The chemistry between him and Cami was immediate, playful, and very steamy, but what made me stay invested was how naturally their emotional connection developed alongside all the spice.
The story itself is pretty predictable in a comforting rom-com way, but I didn’t mind that at all. Sometimes you just want a book that feels cosy, funny, and satisfying, and this absolutely hit the spot. The pacing was quick without feeling rushed, and I was surprised by how much character development was packed into such a short book.
My only small issue was that the big conflict/reveal felt a little repetitive because the two lies Cami uncovers play out very similarly, so the drama didn’t hit quite as hard as it could have. I also would’ve loved a tiny bit more emotional resolution at the end outside of the spicy epilogue.
Still, overall, this was a super enjoyable read. If you like romances with quirky premises, lots of banter, emotional growth, and open-door spice, The Big Oh is definitely worth picking up. It’s sweet, sexy, funny, and surprisingly heartfelt all at once.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 22, 2026
The Big Oh by Alona Stark is the story of Cami and Des.
Cami works at an adult toy store and Des works for a developer who is trying to buy out all of the omplex’s shops so that they can tear down the building and rebuild another complex in its place.
When CamI and Des first meet, Cami has been experiencing a lack of… happy endings in her sex life and Des, who she mistakenly thinks is an adult toy designer, offers to help her “test drive” some of the products she sells.
But soon feelings emerge and turn real, and the untruths between them threaten to tear them apart.
Great fun. Perfect summer read. Lots of romance and spice.
Book overview
When your orgasm tutor is your worst mistake…and your best shot at happily ever after…
All Camille Sutherland wants to do is survive her coursework, keep the lights on at the adult toy shop she works at and calls home, and figure out why orgasms have always eluded her. Romance is nowhere on her agenda. Until a sexy sales rep walks in and offers to help her, um, test the merchandise. Now she’s rethinking everything.
Desmond Blake is one deal away from finallyproving to his father that business can be just as noble as medicine. All he has to do is convince a shop owner to sell. Easy. Or it would’ve been…until he became obsessed with the woman who stands to lose her job and her home if he succeeds.
With secrets unraveling, lies surfacing, and a heart she never planned to risk on the line, can Cami put her trust in Des—and love—when it matters most?
Guess there’s only one way to find out…starting with The Big Oh.
Cami works at an adult toy store and Des works for a developer who is trying to buy out all of the omplex’s shops so that they can tear down the building and rebuild another complex in its place.
When CamI and Des first meet, Cami has been experiencing a lack of… happy endings in her sex life and Des, who she mistakenly thinks is an adult toy designer, offers to help her “test drive” some of the products she sells.
But soon feelings emerge and turn real, and the untruths between them threaten to tear them apart.
Great fun. Perfect summer read. Lots of romance and spice.
Book overview
When your orgasm tutor is your worst mistake…and your best shot at happily ever after…
All Camille Sutherland wants to do is survive her coursework, keep the lights on at the adult toy shop she works at and calls home, and figure out why orgasms have always eluded her. Romance is nowhere on her agenda. Until a sexy sales rep walks in and offers to help her, um, test the merchandise. Now she’s rethinking everything.
Desmond Blake is one deal away from finallyproving to his father that business can be just as noble as medicine. All he has to do is convince a shop owner to sell. Easy. Or it would’ve been…until he became obsessed with the woman who stands to lose her job and her home if he succeeds.
With secrets unraveling, lies surfacing, and a heart she never planned to risk on the line, can Cami put her trust in Des—and love—when it matters most?
Guess there’s only one way to find out…starting with The Big Oh.
May 22, 2026
I had never read anything by this author before but the premise of a retail worker working in an adult shop who can't orgasm, and a man who becomes obsessed with her against the odds of his own project seemed destined for a good story!
I really liked both the main characters immediately. Cami has had a rough old time, and is trying to find her way in the world and answer some questions about her life. She feels really relatable. Des comes from a different world to Cami, but still faces his own struggles - many at the hands of his super successful family! He really wants to do well though and you cant help but root for him! Their friendship has clear sparks flying and I enjoyed seeing their tentative steps in support of one another outside the bedroom the most.
Its clear from the off that this book is going to be sex-driven, and while I like a book with plenty of spice. I did feel that the spice took over the story at times though.
I also felt like Des's u-turn about medicine wasn't well explained, he had gone on about his family working such busy hours and not having time for others so I was surprised at conversations later on, and dont feel like this was fully explored.
There are some side characters who play vital parts in the story progressing. Lenny being the most obvious one, and her dog Holmes of course! I liked Lenny's attitude and sarcastic quips. She was a feisty septuagenarian who doesnt care what people think of her, what a great mindset!
This is a quick read, and romance fans will enjoy it for sure!
I really liked both the main characters immediately. Cami has had a rough old time, and is trying to find her way in the world and answer some questions about her life. She feels really relatable. Des comes from a different world to Cami, but still faces his own struggles - many at the hands of his super successful family! He really wants to do well though and you cant help but root for him! Their friendship has clear sparks flying and I enjoyed seeing their tentative steps in support of one another outside the bedroom the most.
Its clear from the off that this book is going to be sex-driven, and while I like a book with plenty of spice. I did feel that the spice took over the story at times though.
I also felt like Des's u-turn about medicine wasn't well explained, he had gone on about his family working such busy hours and not having time for others so I was surprised at conversations later on, and dont feel like this was fully explored.
There are some side characters who play vital parts in the story progressing. Lenny being the most obvious one, and her dog Holmes of course! I liked Lenny's attitude and sarcastic quips. She was a feisty septuagenarian who doesnt care what people think of her, what a great mindset!
This is a quick read, and romance fans will enjoy it for sure!
Review of advance copy
The premise of this book seemed fun and a little silly, and it definitely delivered! I love when books can be light-hearted and easy reading while still dealing with serious/sad topics. Cami and Des were great characters with very real troubles and flaws, but those just made them more believable and relatable.
In addition to the main characters, I really enjoyed the overall storyline. It was predictable, but I found the predictability nice because I was looking for a quick, light read, and didn't want to be on the edge of my seat second guessing what was going to happen. For such a short book, the story had lots of complexity and was the perfect amount of descriptive without getting overly long winded.
I was surprised by the amount of spice, but I really shouldn't have been based on the entire premise of the story... so that one was on me 😅
The only things I didn't love about the book were pretty minor:
-The way Cami found out about the two lies was super similar which made it feel unimaginative. I felt like it could have been played up that she found out about both in such a similar way, but without that it seemed a bit lazy.
-I wanted a little bit more wrap up at the end. Personal opinion, but an epilogue that is mostly just spice seems kind of pointless.
Overall, I really enjoyed this story and I'm definitely going to check out other books by Alona Stark when I'm looking for something short and fun! I received a free ARC in exchange for my honest review.
In addition to the main characters, I really enjoyed the overall storyline. It was predictable, but I found the predictability nice because I was looking for a quick, light read, and didn't want to be on the edge of my seat second guessing what was going to happen. For such a short book, the story had lots of complexity and was the perfect amount of descriptive without getting overly long winded.
I was surprised by the amount of spice, but I really shouldn't have been based on the entire premise of the story... so that one was on me 😅
The only things I didn't love about the book were pretty minor:
-The way Cami found out about the two lies was super similar which made it feel unimaginative. I felt like it could have been played up that she found out about both in such a similar way, but without that it seemed a bit lazy.
-I wanted a little bit more wrap up at the end. Personal opinion, but an epilogue that is mostly just spice seems kind of pointless.
Overall, I really enjoyed this story and I'm definitely going to check out other books by Alona Stark when I'm looking for something short and fun! I received a free ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
The Big Oh by Alona Stark is a delightfully fun, light-hearted romance that delivers exactly what it promises: a sweet, steamy love-story with heart and humour.
This quirky rom-com centres on Cami and Des — she’s juggling life, school, and keeping the lights on at an adult toy shop, and he’s a sexy sales rep trying to close a deal. Their accidental connection (turning into, um, hands-on “testing”) leads to plenty of awkward, spicy moments and genuine emotional growth.
What worked beautifully for me was how the book balanced fun with real feelings. Cami and Des are flawed, relatable characters whose journeys toward trust and self-confidence kept me invested. The story hits a few predictable beats, but that predictability felt like a cosy security blanket rather than a weakness — perfect for a breezy, short read. I also appreciated how the narrative packed complexity and charm into its compact length without ever feeling rushed.
If I had one tiny quibble, it’s that the reveal of the two “lies” Cami discovers played out a bit similarly, which made that twist feel slightly unimaginative. And while the spicy epilogue was fun, I would have loved just a touch more in terms of emotional closure beyond the heat.
Overall, The Big Oh was exactly the kind of playful, heartfelt read I wanted when I picked it up — fun characters, light drama, and genuine romance. A great choice if you’re after something short, sweet, and satisfyingly steamy.
This quirky rom-com centres on Cami and Des — she’s juggling life, school, and keeping the lights on at an adult toy shop, and he’s a sexy sales rep trying to close a deal. Their accidental connection (turning into, um, hands-on “testing”) leads to plenty of awkward, spicy moments and genuine emotional growth.
What worked beautifully for me was how the book balanced fun with real feelings. Cami and Des are flawed, relatable characters whose journeys toward trust and self-confidence kept me invested. The story hits a few predictable beats, but that predictability felt like a cosy security blanket rather than a weakness — perfect for a breezy, short read. I also appreciated how the narrative packed complexity and charm into its compact length without ever feeling rushed.
If I had one tiny quibble, it’s that the reveal of the two “lies” Cami discovers played out a bit similarly, which made that twist feel slightly unimaginative. And while the spicy epilogue was fun, I would have loved just a touch more in terms of emotional closure beyond the heat.
Overall, The Big Oh was exactly the kind of playful, heartfelt read I wanted when I picked it up — fun characters, light drama, and genuine romance. A great choice if you’re after something short, sweet, and satisfyingly steamy.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Oh. My. Big. Oh.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐.5
I will be the first to admit that the "orgasm tutor" premise is what grabbed my attention, but I was not prepared for how much heart and actual substance were tucked inside this story.
Camille is someone you just want to root for. She is juggling her degree and trying to keep the lights on at the adult toy shop she calls home. There is such an honest, vulnerable layer to her character as she navigates feeling "broken" because she has never been able to reach that final peak. Then walks in Desmond, a "sales rep" who is essentially her worst nightmare in an extremely expensive suit, although she does not know it yet.
The chemistry between these two is high voltage from page one. Their "hands-on testing" sessions are obviously scorching (the spice is a solid 5/5), but it is the way Des actually listens to her and prioritizes her comfort that made me fall for him. Watching him struggle with his obsession for Cami while knowing his corporate deal could cost her everything, made for such a high-stakes, addictive read!
This book is quirky and bold, and it handles sexual empowerment with a lot of grace and humor. If you are looking for a quick, steamy read that actually makes you care about the people between the sheets, this is the one.
A big thank you to Alona Stark for my ARC copy. And I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐.5
I will be the first to admit that the "orgasm tutor" premise is what grabbed my attention, but I was not prepared for how much heart and actual substance were tucked inside this story.
Camille is someone you just want to root for. She is juggling her degree and trying to keep the lights on at the adult toy shop she calls home. There is such an honest, vulnerable layer to her character as she navigates feeling "broken" because she has never been able to reach that final peak. Then walks in Desmond, a "sales rep" who is essentially her worst nightmare in an extremely expensive suit, although she does not know it yet.
The chemistry between these two is high voltage from page one. Their "hands-on testing" sessions are obviously scorching (the spice is a solid 5/5), but it is the way Des actually listens to her and prioritizes her comfort that made me fall for him. Watching him struggle with his obsession for Cami while knowing his corporate deal could cost her everything, made for such a high-stakes, addictive read!
This book is quirky and bold, and it handles sexual empowerment with a lot of grace and humor. If you are looking for a quick, steamy read that actually makes you care about the people between the sheets, this is the one.
A big thank you to Alona Stark for my ARC copy. And I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy
Fun, flirty, spicy and ridiculously easy to binge…
The Big Oh by Alona Stark was such a fun read from start to finish.
This is one of those books that absolutely knows what it wants to be - light, funny, full of chemistry and impossible not to fly through in a couple of sittings. At just under 300 pages, it’s a quick read, but it still manages to pack in plenty of banter, tension, awkwardness, heat and genuinely sweet moments between Cami and Des.
I really liked the dynamic between them, especially the forced proximity and the way their relationship developed alongside all the chaos surrounding the shop. The humour landed well for me too - there’s a playful energy running through the whole book that makes it incredibly easy to sink into.
And honestly? The premise alone is brilliant. An orgasm tutor romance set around an adult toy shop was always going to be entertaining, but this balanced the spice with warmth and charm really well. This probably won’t be one for readers looking for huge emotional depth or heavy angst, but if you want something fast-paced, playful, steamy and genuinely enjoyable, The Big Oh absolutely delivers.
Honestly, this feels like the perfect sunshine read - the kind of book you throw into your bag for a holiday, read beside the pool, on a flight, or curl up with for a few hours when you just want something fun and easy to escape into. A really fun 4-star read that had me smiling the whole way through.
The Big Oh by Alona Stark was such a fun read from start to finish.
This is one of those books that absolutely knows what it wants to be - light, funny, full of chemistry and impossible not to fly through in a couple of sittings. At just under 300 pages, it’s a quick read, but it still manages to pack in plenty of banter, tension, awkwardness, heat and genuinely sweet moments between Cami and Des.
I really liked the dynamic between them, especially the forced proximity and the way their relationship developed alongside all the chaos surrounding the shop. The humour landed well for me too - there’s a playful energy running through the whole book that makes it incredibly easy to sink into.
And honestly? The premise alone is brilliant. An orgasm tutor romance set around an adult toy shop was always going to be entertaining, but this balanced the spice with warmth and charm really well. This probably won’t be one for readers looking for huge emotional depth or heavy angst, but if you want something fast-paced, playful, steamy and genuinely enjoyable, The Big Oh absolutely delivers.
Honestly, this feels like the perfect sunshine read - the kind of book you throw into your bag for a holiday, read beside the pool, on a flight, or curl up with for a few hours when you just want something fun and easy to escape into. A really fun 4-star read that had me smiling the whole way through.
Review of advance copy
I received an ARC of The Big Oh from BookSirens, and it was a delightful surprise. If you are looking for a story that brings the heat with some emotional depth, this is a great pick.
The Highlights:
- High Spice, High Heart: While there is plenty of steam, the story isn't light on the "feels". It manages to be genuinely touching while keeping the chemistry high.
- Likeable Characters: I quickly grew fond of Cami and Des. Des, in particular, stood out for how respectful he was with Cami and how cautiously he guarded his own heart—it made his growth feel earned.
- The Balance: Alona Stark did a fantastic job balancing tone. The book is funny and light-hearted, yet it doesn't shy away from heavier, more serious topics. It stayed entertaining throughout without feeling lopsided.
My Thoughts:
My only real frustration (the good kind!) was the classic "just talk to each other" tension. I found myself rooting for them to finally open up and be honourable and free with their feelings.
Final Verdict:
A solid 3.5-star read that offers a perfect blend of humour, respect, and serious themes. Definitely worth a read for fans of contemporary romance!
The Highlights:
- High Spice, High Heart: While there is plenty of steam, the story isn't light on the "feels". It manages to be genuinely touching while keeping the chemistry high.
- Likeable Characters: I quickly grew fond of Cami and Des. Des, in particular, stood out for how respectful he was with Cami and how cautiously he guarded his own heart—it made his growth feel earned.
- The Balance: Alona Stark did a fantastic job balancing tone. The book is funny and light-hearted, yet it doesn't shy away from heavier, more serious topics. It stayed entertaining throughout without feeling lopsided.
My Thoughts:
My only real frustration (the good kind!) was the classic "just talk to each other" tension. I found myself rooting for them to finally open up and be honourable and free with their feelings.
Final Verdict:
A solid 3.5-star read that offers a perfect blend of humour, respect, and serious themes. Definitely worth a read for fans of contemporary romance!
June 13, 2026
A lively, modern rom-com with quirky characters, laugh-out-loud moments, and a romance that’s both sweet and steamy.
The story follows Cami, juggling school and life while working at an adult toy shop, and Des, a charming sales rep who crosses her path in the most unexpected way. Their connection is full of banter, awkward moments, and plenty of spice, but what I loved most was how their relationship also carried real emotion and growth.
Cami was funny, determined, and flawed in ways that made her feel real. Des was equally engaging, with his mix of confidence and vulnerability. Together, their chemistry was strong and entertaining, and I enjoyed watching them move from playful encounters to something deeper.
The supporting characters, brought humour and warmth. The book balanced lighthearted fun with more serious themes, like self-confidence and intimacy struggles, which gave the story depth without losing its tone.
The humour, spice, and romance blended perfectly.
The story follows Cami, juggling school and life while working at an adult toy shop, and Des, a charming sales rep who crosses her path in the most unexpected way. Their connection is full of banter, awkward moments, and plenty of spice, but what I loved most was how their relationship also carried real emotion and growth.
Cami was funny, determined, and flawed in ways that made her feel real. Des was equally engaging, with his mix of confidence and vulnerability. Together, their chemistry was strong and entertaining, and I enjoyed watching them move from playful encounters to something deeper.
The supporting characters, brought humour and warmth. The book balanced lighthearted fun with more serious themes, like self-confidence and intimacy struggles, which gave the story depth without losing its tone.
The humour, spice, and romance blended perfectly.
Review of advance copy
✨ ARC REVIEW ✨
Thank you BookSirens for this ARC.
It started as a typical rom com…struggling girl, alone in the world after the passing of the one relative she had, handsome, a quirky new friend, and wealthy stranger showing up to do a job that gathers more money than respect. Enter the emotions, weird arrangements, and graphic sexual escapades. I have no issue with spice, but this crossed into a straight up ridiculous realm, chapter after chapter. This might have been an enjoyable novel if there was any story development among the sex along the way. The most interesting part of the story was the last 25%. But, even that’s not enough to make me wish I’d saved my time and shelved this.
If you’re simply looking for erotica, this book is for you. If you want an actual novel, don’t bother.
Thank you BookSirens for this ARC.
It started as a typical rom com…struggling girl, alone in the world after the passing of the one relative she had, handsome, a quirky new friend, and wealthy stranger showing up to do a job that gathers more money than respect. Enter the emotions, weird arrangements, and graphic sexual escapades. I have no issue with spice, but this crossed into a straight up ridiculous realm, chapter after chapter. This might have been an enjoyable novel if there was any story development among the sex along the way. The most interesting part of the story was the last 25%. But, even that’s not enough to make me wish I’d saved my time and shelved this.
If you’re simply looking for erotica, this book is for you. If you want an actual novel, don’t bother.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy
The Big Oh, by Alona Stark lives up to its title. Cami lost her mother at a young age, and was raised by her grandmother. When her grandmother gets ill, Cami put her education and dreams on hold and takes care of her until she dies. after cami's despicable uncle robs and leaves her destitute, she decides to search for her absent father. His last known address was in LA, so she moves there. Desmond, after finding out that he was nothing but a pawn in his lovers plots, drops out of medical school and begin a new career. When the two meet, the attraction is real and strong, so they strike a sexual deal that heat up the pages and unleashes all manner of drama.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 19, 2026
Thanks to Alona Stark for the review copy and this is my honest review.
I thought the premise for the struggling to achieve orgasm heroine was realistic in that she's never taken the time, not have the mental space, never with anyone who cared, plus the financial scarcity to spend that money on toys all added up to how one can reach their mid twenties orgasm-less. But in comes the hero who was more than willing to buy her toys and take on the mental load to give her that bliss.
It's a solid debut, the banter was funny, characters flushed out with their struggles and the toys experimenting scenes were absolutely delightful and the highlight of the book as it should be because the heroine works at an adult toy store.
I thought the premise for the struggling to achieve orgasm heroine was realistic in that she's never taken the time, not have the mental space, never with anyone who cared, plus the financial scarcity to spend that money on toys all added up to how one can reach their mid twenties orgasm-less. But in comes the hero who was more than willing to buy her toys and take on the mental load to give her that bliss.
It's a solid debut, the banter was funny, characters flushed out with their struggles and the toys experimenting scenes were absolutely delightful and the highlight of the book as it should be because the heroine works at an adult toy store.
May 21, 2026
Thank you to the Bookfunnel team and Alona Stark for sending me this advanced reader copy! This review is voluntary, and all opinions are my own.
This was such a fun and smutty read! 22 year old me would have devoured this. The FMC was so lovable and it’s always fun to read books set in my old home state of California. The pace was perfect. It didn’t feel like it dragged at all and the smut was fantastic. My only critiques are, as a 37 year old but like I said, early 20s me would have loved it. Anyone else picturing Dr Jackson Avery?
This was such a fun and smutty read! 22 year old me would have devoured this. The FMC was so lovable and it’s always fun to read books set in my old home state of California. The pace was perfect. It didn’t feel like it dragged at all and the smut was fantastic. My only critiques are, as a 37 year old but like I said, early 20s me would have loved it. Anyone else picturing Dr Jackson Avery?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 18, 2026
The big oh took me a little but to get going but once I got past the testing toys out stage and into hearing about the character’s back stories I couldn’t put this down.
I also much preferred Des when he was not being the sales rep which is how he came across for me sometimes when he was testing toys out with Cami.
I loved the side characters in this book and what they added to the story, as well as the growing relationship between Cami and Des.
I will definitely be looking out for more books from this author.
Recommended for anyone that loves spice with a lighthearted romance.
I received a copy as an ARC and my review is left voluntarily.
I also much preferred Des when he was not being the sales rep which is how he came across for me sometimes when he was testing toys out with Cami.
I loved the side characters in this book and what they added to the story, as well as the growing relationship between Cami and Des.
I will definitely be looking out for more books from this author.
Recommended for anyone that loves spice with a lighthearted romance.
I received a copy as an ARC and my review is left voluntarily.
May 26, 2026
Although my first read by this author, I was instantly drawn to this book by the cute front cover image, bright pop of colour and the intriguing title.
I loved our main characters and absolutely knew where this was going right from the start, but I was completely hooked straight away and couldn't wait to see how things would play out.
The setting of the adult toy shop was so fitting and made for a fun and exciting backdrop to the initial meet - but I hated that Des was lying to Cami and what he was planning would cause her issues.
I was ever hopeful though, especially the more they connected, that things would turn out for the best.
The development of their relationship was so evitable and the chemistry was up there.
This definitely got spicy and I was totally there for it all.
The writing flowed well throughout and couldn't help racing through the pages.
I love a dual pov format which really helps us to see both sides of the events and allows us to connect more with each of the characters.
This was a really good debut and would make a great quick beach read.
I loved our main characters and absolutely knew where this was going right from the start, but I was completely hooked straight away and couldn't wait to see how things would play out.
The setting of the adult toy shop was so fitting and made for a fun and exciting backdrop to the initial meet - but I hated that Des was lying to Cami and what he was planning would cause her issues.
I was ever hopeful though, especially the more they connected, that things would turn out for the best.
The development of their relationship was so evitable and the chemistry was up there.
This definitely got spicy and I was totally there for it all.
The writing flowed well throughout and couldn't help racing through the pages.
I love a dual pov format which really helps us to see both sides of the events and allows us to connect more with each of the characters.
This was a really good debut and would make a great quick beach read.
July 9, 2026
This was a fun, entertaining read that kept me turning the pages. The romance was sweet, the chemistry between the characters was strong, and I enjoyed the humor throughout the story.
The biggest downside for me was that it was pretty predictable. I could see most of the major plot points coming early on, so there weren’t many surprises. Even so, the journey was enjoyable, and the characters were likable enough that I still wanted to see how everything played out.
Overall, if you’re looking for a light, feel-good romance with plenty of heart and don’t mind a story that follows a familiar formula, this is definitely worth reading
The biggest downside for me was that it was pretty predictable. I could see most of the major plot points coming early on, so there weren’t many surprises. Even so, the journey was enjoyable, and the characters were likable enough that I still wanted to see how everything played out.
Overall, if you’re looking for a light, feel-good romance with plenty of heart and don’t mind a story that follows a familiar formula, this is definitely worth reading
May 24, 2026
loved it !! love Cami and Des... this is their story... a fun well paced rom/com drama... she's just trying to keep the lights on at work, go to school and survive... and she lives at the adult toy store and lives there as well... when, Des the sales rep comes in... well.. he has a plan and a deal to close but, he meets her, Cami and he makes a deal with her, too !!! tutor her on the products with him !!! oh !!!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 4, 2026
The pace of this book was great for 60% of it. Des and Cami was having a ball of a time and I was hooked. Once Des started to feel the guilt of not telling Cami what he did for work the story started dragging which might have been intentional but once that was over the remaining part of the book went back to the initial pacing.
I am happy everyone got to be happy especially Cami she deserved it. Although the end was pretty predictable it was a good book would recommend.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I am happy everyone got to be happy especially Cami she deserved it. Although the end was pretty predictable it was a good book would recommend.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 4, 2026
3.75/5 overall
4/5 spice
This had a fun premise and some super steamy scenes. The MCs were relatable and likeable, but the chemistry was a little lacking through the first third(ish). There was some great banter, but no major flirting or sparks, which made it seem out of the blue when he suddenly offered to help her out with sex toys. Suspending a little disbelief about that, it was otherwise a solid debut and had a great cast of supporting characters and satisfying story with a plot that held true throughout.
4/5 spice
This had a fun premise and some super steamy scenes. The MCs were relatable and likeable, but the chemistry was a little lacking through the first third(ish). There was some great banter, but no major flirting or sparks, which made it seem out of the blue when he suddenly offered to help her out with sex toys. Suspending a little disbelief about that, it was otherwise a solid debut and had a great cast of supporting characters and satisfying story with a plot that held true throughout.
April 8, 2026
I did not expect to like this book as much as I did but oh my I adored this book!
Cami and Des are such cutie pies and deserve the absolute world. Seeing them grow together made my heart burst.
Even though I am not a big fan of the "lying about what I do for work" part I do love seeing people grown from it and that is 100% what Des did!
10/10 would recommend for people to read this book <3
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Cami and Des are such cutie pies and deserve the absolute world. Seeing them grow together made my heart burst.
Even though I am not a big fan of the "lying about what I do for work" part I do love seeing people grown from it and that is 100% what Des did!
10/10 would recommend for people to read this book <3
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy
Oh. My.
What a delightfully cheeky read… this was all flirty banter, hot s3x, and more toys than you could shake a d!ldo at!
The character development in this was fantastic and I enjoyed the supporting characters nearly as much as I loved Cami and Des… Cami and Des are the cutest, I loved every stage of their dynamic, I was grinning (or blushing lol) literally ALL the way through. Sweet, funny, and very very hot.
I will absolutely be re-visiting this again!
What a delightfully cheeky read… this was all flirty banter, hot s3x, and more toys than you could shake a d!ldo at!
The character development in this was fantastic and I enjoyed the supporting characters nearly as much as I loved Cami and Des… Cami and Des are the cutest, I loved every stage of their dynamic, I was grinning (or blushing lol) literally ALL the way through. Sweet, funny, and very very hot.
I will absolutely be re-visiting this again!
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
The Big Oh is a delightfully spicy, high stakes contemporary romance that manages to balance deep emotional vulnerability with a high tension
"business vs. pleasure" conflict. Alona Stark delivers a story that is as much about self discovery and sexual empowerment as it is about the complicated ethics of corporate ambition. So so good, I rated this book 5 stars! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Booktok review- https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZP8gwXwmG/
"business vs. pleasure" conflict. Alona Stark delivers a story that is as much about self discovery and sexual empowerment as it is about the complicated ethics of corporate ambition. So so good, I rated this book 5 stars! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Booktok review- https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZP8gwXwmG/
Review of advance copy received from Author
Even though Cami works in a sex toy store, she has never been able to come. She can’t even try a toy because she can’t afford anything where she works. She thinks she’s broken. Then Des, the sexiest man with the coolest eyes she has ever seen, comes in the store and offers his assistance. What happens next will have you laughing one minute and flushed the next. This is a fun read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 19, 2026
The Big Oh by Alona Stark
🌟🌟🌟💫
If you are after a quickie by the pool this is for you!
Cami and Des meet in the Sex Shop Cami works in. Des isnt a customer, he is there to convince the owner to sell so a developer can build
Cami likes Des, Des likes Cami
I enjoyed the story between them. Can love (& a bit of sex) conquer all??
If you like erotica, add this to your reading list!
Not a deep story, and lots of sex!
🌟🌟🌟💫
If you are after a quickie by the pool this is for you!
Cami and Des meet in the Sex Shop Cami works in. Des isnt a customer, he is there to convince the owner to sell so a developer can build
Cami likes Des, Des likes Cami
I enjoyed the story between them. Can love (& a bit of sex) conquer all??
If you like erotica, add this to your reading list!
Not a deep story, and lots of sex!
May 20, 2026
This author is new to me, and RomCom’s are not my usual reads, but the premise of this story grabbed me. I’m glad I took the chance with it. Without giving away any spoilers, I just say I found the characters engaging and likable, their situations interesting, and the spicy parts were plentiful and enjoyable. I would recommend this book and would read other books by Alona Stark.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 22, 2026
'With secrets unraveling, lies surfacing, and a heart she never planned to risk on the line, can Cami put her trust in Des—and love—when it matters most?
Guess there’s only one way to find out…starting with The Big Oh.'
The characters were well written. Plot was well developed. World building was solidly drawn. All in all a very good read. Recommend.
Grab a copy!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Guess there’s only one way to find out…starting with The Big Oh.'
The characters were well written. Plot was well developed. World building was solidly drawn. All in all a very good read. Recommend.
Grab a copy!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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