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More Than Vanilla
Alex, known as Lexi to their friends, has been struggling with their gender identity for years. They’ve been a shell of themself until they met Sky, a tightly wound Realtor looking to loosen up.
When Sky meets a domme named Alex, her sexual fantasies slowly start to become her reality.
This sweet and steamy story follows them from the first sparks of insta-lust through to self-acceptance and exploration. But as Alex takes the step to accept their identity, and Sky realizes that she longs to be more than vanilla, just how will their relationship grow through these changes? Will Alex be comfortable enough to let Sky help them explore their gender? Or will Alex’s insecurities cause them to crash and burn?
When Sky meets a domme named Alex, her sexual fantasies slowly start to become her reality.
This sweet and steamy story follows them from the first sparks of insta-lust through to self-acceptance and exploration. But as Alex takes the step to accept their identity, and Sky realizes that she longs to be more than vanilla, just how will their relationship grow through these changes? Will Alex be comfortable enough to let Sky help them explore their gender? Or will Alex’s insecurities cause them to crash and burn?
282 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 3, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
June 24, 2026
thank you mal mckenzi for the chance to read this early!
i absolutely adored this book for multiple reasons.
sky and alex were both so sweet and interesting and i loved them together, and they were so understanding and supportive of each other. their relationship felt like a warm hug. the spice was so good and wasn’t too heavy on the bdsm aspect, and i loved that they went on dates and such outside of it and had a real relationship.
alex’s journey with their gender identity was so beautiful and heartwarming to watch them be able to be their authentic self and be accepted by everyone around them! i was crying along with them multiple times, and the way sky was so supportive and would thank them for telling her was just 🥹🥹
i loved the aspect of the bdsm workshops, getting to experience one of them with the characters was so interesting and i could tell the research that had to go into that was done so well, and i really liked alex’s dynamic with morgan. she was a very funny character to break the tension and i liked her a lot 😅
a random little thing that stuck out to me was when sky and alex played cards, and it was just such a cute domestic scene of alex teaching sky and then “raising the stakes” i just had such a good time with that scene😂
i also really liked art, alex’s therapist, the way they would talk things through in their sessions was so professional but soft, and the way art would talk alex through their emotions was so profound. another thing where the research was very well done.
overall, i absolutely adored this book and HIGHLY recommend it! 🖤
i absolutely adored this book for multiple reasons.
sky and alex were both so sweet and interesting and i loved them together, and they were so understanding and supportive of each other. their relationship felt like a warm hug. the spice was so good and wasn’t too heavy on the bdsm aspect, and i loved that they went on dates and such outside of it and had a real relationship.
alex’s journey with their gender identity was so beautiful and heartwarming to watch them be able to be their authentic self and be accepted by everyone around them! i was crying along with them multiple times, and the way sky was so supportive and would thank them for telling her was just 🥹🥹
i loved the aspect of the bdsm workshops, getting to experience one of them with the characters was so interesting and i could tell the research that had to go into that was done so well, and i really liked alex’s dynamic with morgan. she was a very funny character to break the tension and i liked her a lot 😅
a random little thing that stuck out to me was when sky and alex played cards, and it was just such a cute domestic scene of alex teaching sky and then “raising the stakes” i just had such a good time with that scene😂
i also really liked art, alex’s therapist, the way they would talk things through in their sessions was so professional but soft, and the way art would talk alex through their emotions was so profound. another thing where the research was very well done.
overall, i absolutely adored this book and HIGHLY recommend it! 🖤
July 2, 2026
I was delighted to be included in the ARC team for this book! Here is my honest review.
This book was so much fun to read. I loved the developments in Alex and Sky’s relationship. It was a very fast paced book, and a quick read.
Alex’s struggles with gender dysphoria were really beautifully explored, and I loved their character development so much. I’m really glad they came to terms with their identity, even if it took them a while. I also loved how easily Sky accepted Alex, it was a really beautiful scene between them.
If you’re after a steamy and wholesome lesbian romance, this is the book for you!
This book was so much fun to read. I loved the developments in Alex and Sky’s relationship. It was a very fast paced book, and a quick read.
Alex’s struggles with gender dysphoria were really beautifully explored, and I loved their character development so much. I’m really glad they came to terms with their identity, even if it took them a while. I also loved how easily Sky accepted Alex, it was a really beautiful scene between them.
If you’re after a steamy and wholesome lesbian romance, this is the book for you!
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC REVIEW
Duel 3rd Person POV. 4🌟 4🌶️. 268 pages
11 Spicy Scenes
This book was so unbelievably fluffy and adorable, two words I never thought I’d use to describe a BDSM romance and yet here we are.
This is a very low angst book, with absolutely none of the minimal angst coming from the couple. In fact it all centres around Alex and their journey to self discovery and comfortability.
Alex’s journey with their identity is wonderful to read, from their own discovery of what makes them dysphoric vs what makes them feel affirmed, to the self acceptance and finally coming out to those close to them. I feel like this book will provide a soft place to land for anyone going through their own identity/gender journey and may be reaffirming for some. And the fact that Sky was nothing but supportive and accepting from the jump was amazing.
Another thing I loved was the exploration of BDSM and primary focus on the 3 C’s. The fact that Alex would continually ask for consent throughout each scene was a true joy to read. Because no it doesn’t kill the mood, it shows your partner you care about what they want. The only thing missing was a conversation about SSC and limits. But overall it was a pleasant surprise in that department.
The only thing that didn’t quite hit for me, was the lack of drama or conflict I need that extra ooomf. But I did wholeheartedly appreciate the lack of 3rd act break up and feel like this book would not only be good for people experiencing the same journey, but those that like a cozy read where the can feel safe.
More than Vanilla will be released July 3rd, if you want something cozy give this book a go and add it to your TBR.
Things to LOVE:
📚BDSM Romance
❤️F / NB
😍Insta Lust
⛓️Domme / Sub
🥰Self Discovery
🤏Low Angst
Duel 3rd Person POV. 4🌟 4🌶️. 268 pages
11 Spicy Scenes
This book was so unbelievably fluffy and adorable, two words I never thought I’d use to describe a BDSM romance and yet here we are.
This is a very low angst book, with absolutely none of the minimal angst coming from the couple. In fact it all centres around Alex and their journey to self discovery and comfortability.
Alex’s journey with their identity is wonderful to read, from their own discovery of what makes them dysphoric vs what makes them feel affirmed, to the self acceptance and finally coming out to those close to them. I feel like this book will provide a soft place to land for anyone going through their own identity/gender journey and may be reaffirming for some. And the fact that Sky was nothing but supportive and accepting from the jump was amazing.
Another thing I loved was the exploration of BDSM and primary focus on the 3 C’s. The fact that Alex would continually ask for consent throughout each scene was a true joy to read. Because no it doesn’t kill the mood, it shows your partner you care about what they want. The only thing missing was a conversation about SSC and limits. But overall it was a pleasant surprise in that department.
The only thing that didn’t quite hit for me, was the lack of drama or conflict I need that extra ooomf. But I did wholeheartedly appreciate the lack of 3rd act break up and feel like this book would not only be good for people experiencing the same journey, but those that like a cozy read where the can feel safe.
More than Vanilla will be released July 3rd, if you want something cozy give this book a go and add it to your TBR.
Things to LOVE:
📚BDSM Romance
❤️F / NB
😍Insta Lust
⛓️Domme / Sub
🥰Self Discovery
🤏Low Angst
July 9, 2026
I'm happy that I picked this book for my first experience as an ARC reader! Something from the description grabbed my attention when I first saw the call for readers. Maybe it was the author's enthusiasm for their story, that made me come back and sign up. Or maybe it was the clear promise of a cozy romance with a lot of spice. Then again, maybe it was both. *wink*
And More Than Vanilla was a pleasure to read!
The characters felt so relatable to me that I found myself laughing with them, caring about them and looking forward to curling up and reading their story.
Through this experience I learned that "cozy" doesn't meant the characters have it easy all the time. Thankfully this book excels at "after care" and there was always a warm, cozy scene to keep the mood hopeful and upbeat after the characters' emotional struggles and growth.
Also I think the spicy scenes were excellent, with smooth writing and dialogue so they never felt boring or too long. And they were balanced with the other scenes to create a pleasant rhythm for the reader.
Again, More Than Vanilla was a pleasure to read, and I hope you give it a chance and enjoy it, too!
And More Than Vanilla was a pleasure to read!
The characters felt so relatable to me that I found myself laughing with them, caring about them and looking forward to curling up and reading their story.
Through this experience I learned that "cozy" doesn't meant the characters have it easy all the time. Thankfully this book excels at "after care" and there was always a warm, cozy scene to keep the mood hopeful and upbeat after the characters' emotional struggles and growth.
Also I think the spicy scenes were excellent, with smooth writing and dialogue so they never felt boring or too long. And they were balanced with the other scenes to create a pleasant rhythm for the reader.
Again, More Than Vanilla was a pleasure to read, and I hope you give it a chance and enjoy it, too!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received an ARC of this book and chose to share my honest thoughts voluntarily.
This was a cosy, sweet and spicy read with a really gentle heart.
What I appreciated most was Alex’s journey with their gender identity. Alex is deeply insecure and still trying to understand themselves, and it was lovely to see them slowly explore what feels right. Sky was such a soft and supportive presence throughout that journey. She felt safe, patient and genuinely caring, which made their connection very sweet.
The spice was also one of the stronger parts of the book for me. The open door scenes had good variety and brought a lot of heat to Sky and Alex’s relationship.
Even though I did struggle with the writing style at times, especially with some repetition and a romance that moved a little quickly for me, I still appreciated the softness of the story overall.
This is a cute, spicy and cosy read about identity, acceptance and being loved by someone who gives you the space to figure yourself out.
⭐ 3
🌶️ 4
This was a cosy, sweet and spicy read with a really gentle heart.
What I appreciated most was Alex’s journey with their gender identity. Alex is deeply insecure and still trying to understand themselves, and it was lovely to see them slowly explore what feels right. Sky was such a soft and supportive presence throughout that journey. She felt safe, patient and genuinely caring, which made their connection very sweet.
The spice was also one of the stronger parts of the book for me. The open door scenes had good variety and brought a lot of heat to Sky and Alex’s relationship.
Even though I did struggle with the writing style at times, especially with some repetition and a romance that moved a little quickly for me, I still appreciated the softness of the story overall.
This is a cute, spicy and cosy read about identity, acceptance and being loved by someone who gives you the space to figure yourself out.
⭐ 3
🌶️ 4
August 1, 2026
I loved this book so much! To me this is the definition of spicy, cozy, sapphic feel-good romance. Sky is a realtor and Alex is a graphic designer and BDSM domme on the side. From the meet-cute at a sex toy store, I knew I’d be kicking my feet and loving every page. The chemistry is instantaneous and the spice is soon to follow! But this book is so much more than insta-lust (although there is a whopping helping of that!)
The way that Sky and Alex truly connect with each other is so heartwarming and had me smiling, giggling to myself, and tearing up. They truly want the best for each other in life and watching Sky support Alex on their non-binary journey was such an inspiring thing to see written into a book. We NEED more of this is sapphic books please, and books in general!
Both characters have satisfying character arcs alongside all the very satisfying arching off the bed that indeed happens. Would highly recommend for anybody wanting a low-angst, healthy, spicy, cozy contemporary read with nb rep written by a queer author.
The way that Sky and Alex truly connect with each other is so heartwarming and had me smiling, giggling to myself, and tearing up. They truly want the best for each other in life and watching Sky support Alex on their non-binary journey was such an inspiring thing to see written into a book. We NEED more of this is sapphic books please, and books in general!
Both characters have satisfying character arcs alongside all the very satisfying arching off the bed that indeed happens. Would highly recommend for anybody wanting a low-angst, healthy, spicy, cozy contemporary read with nb rep written by a queer author.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Sky and Alex are two cozy golden retrievers that are an excellent example of new relationship attraction and giddiness. They completely fall for one another and it’s adorable to watch. If you are looking for tension and drama within this new found love, it won’t be in this story. They were made for each other and are setting a strong early foundation.
I think having the cozy relationship background provides a good foundation for Alex to come to terms with their nonbinary identity, which is the real story being told. This feels a safe story for people who are also exploring their gender identity to feel seen. I think it can also be helpful for those with loved ones coming out yo better understand their loved one’s fears and hesitation in doing so.
If you are a cozy reader you’ll love this. I, personally, could have used more angst, but I think this is a soft place to land for those going through a similar journey of self discovery as Alex.
I think having the cozy relationship background provides a good foundation for Alex to come to terms with their nonbinary identity, which is the real story being told. This feels a safe story for people who are also exploring their gender identity to feel seen. I think it can also be helpful for those with loved ones coming out yo better understand their loved one’s fears and hesitation in doing so.
If you are a cozy reader you’ll love this. I, personally, could have used more angst, but I think this is a soft place to land for those going through a similar journey of self discovery as Alex.
September 16, 2026
Recommend giving Mal Mckenzi’s More Than Vanilla a read!!Alex and Sky have a beautiful relationship which blossoms to much more than a 'domme&sub' looking to fulfil each-others desires. Loved how their love story unfolded, how perfect they are together and their support for one another.
Alex known as Lexi by everyone is desperate to be open about their gender identity, navigating this with their therapist. I was so happy when Alex finally opens up to Sky. She reacts perfectly with compassion and loving them for who they are (LOVE THIS)
Thoroughly enjoyed reading this book, liked the way it swapped between both characters perspectives.
A good in-depth storyline and beautifully written.
The book demonstrates a safe example of the introduction into BDSM and highlighting the importance of consent and communication. Lots of spice, therapy and mental health mentions and dashes of humour throughout.
Alex known as Lexi by everyone is desperate to be open about their gender identity, navigating this with their therapist. I was so happy when Alex finally opens up to Sky. She reacts perfectly with compassion and loving them for who they are (LOVE THIS)
Thoroughly enjoyed reading this book, liked the way it swapped between both characters perspectives.
A good in-depth storyline and beautifully written.
The book demonstrates a safe example of the introduction into BDSM and highlighting the importance of consent and communication. Lots of spice, therapy and mental health mentions and dashes of humour throughout.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I enjoyed everything about this storyline especially one of the MCs Sky who was the most thoughtful, caring and loving partner ever created and exactly for Alex from their all around very spicy chemistry the very minute their hands touched for the first time. Alex is such a sweetheart and exactly who Sky needed. I loved the diversity and easy mention of therapy. I loved the bond between Alex and Morgan. This story was told so well that I felt it was to short and I wanted more at the end. Now I need a story about Morgan.
Thanks again to the Author for this amazing ARC read! All opinions are my own.
10S ACROSS THE BOARD!
🏳️🌈📚😎✌🏽✨️
Thanks again to the Author for this amazing ARC read! All opinions are my own.
10S ACROSS THE BOARD!
🏳️🌈📚😎✌🏽✨️
July 11, 2026
This book was so sweet and yet very spicy! Sky and Alex have an instant lustful connection, but it turns into a beautiful love story between the two. Alex’s experience of gender dysphoria really hit home for me as I am also nonbinary. Everything leading up to their coming out and coming out was very well written and very cathartic for me to read. I loved how supportive they were of each other. They never pushed each other too far and just met each other where they were currently at. Not only was the spice 10/10, but there are so many sweet moments in between! Thank you for the opportunity to read this as an ARC!
July 27, 2026
I finished this book in one day because I couldn’t put it down.
This was an absolutely fantastic read! The character development is exceptional, and each main character has a thoughtful story that keeps you engaged. From the very first chapter, I was completely drawn in and found it nearly impossible to put the book down. The scenes in the club are some of my favorites. The pacing is quick and enjoyable, making it a delightful experience from start to finish. I'm eager to see more from Mal McKenzi, and in addition to wanting more about Sky and Alex, the secondary characters have the potential for their own captivating love stories in future books. Highly recommended!
This was an absolutely fantastic read! The character development is exceptional, and each main character has a thoughtful story that keeps you engaged. From the very first chapter, I was completely drawn in and found it nearly impossible to put the book down. The scenes in the club are some of my favorites. The pacing is quick and enjoyable, making it a delightful experience from start to finish. I'm eager to see more from Mal McKenzi, and in addition to wanting more about Sky and Alex, the secondary characters have the potential for their own captivating love stories in future books. Highly recommended!
September 16, 2026
More Than Vanilla by Mal McKenzie is exactly the book you need when you're craving a good relationship, a cozy, fluffy read but with real depth underneath. It goes surprisingly deep into therapy, what it feels like to be different, and mental health in general, while also weaving in BDSM, all handled with consent and mental health placed front and center. And on top of that: two lesbians being genuinely, adorably cute together.
It's the kind of book that reminds you not everyone is a villain, and that you don't need a complicated relationship to fall in love and get your happily ever after. Thank you, Mal I needed this book more than I realized.
It's the kind of book that reminds you not everyone is a villain, and that you don't need a complicated relationship to fall in love and get your happily ever after. Thank you, Mal I needed this book more than I realized.
July 8, 2026
What a lovely read! Thank you to the author for an advance review copy for free. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This is a book to read if you are looking for something positive in both meeting your match and finding your truth. It felt very cozy while also having some delicious spice.
I loved the sizzling connection between Sky and Alex. I loved how open and supportive Sky was. It was just so normal yet it meant everything to Alex.
Highly recommend!
This is a book to read if you are looking for something positive in both meeting your match and finding your truth. It felt very cozy while also having some delicious spice.
I loved the sizzling connection between Sky and Alex. I loved how open and supportive Sky was. It was just so normal yet it meant everything to Alex.
Highly recommend!
Review of advance copy received from Author
BDSM--yes. Cozy--also yes. A beautiful and light read about characters who support each on the journey to their authentic self. Sometimes you just need someone to hold up the mirror so you can see that you deserve happiness.
New author to me and I can't wait to see what comes next.
Thank you for the eARC Mal McKenzie
New author to me and I can't wait to see what comes next.
Thank you for the eARC Mal McKenzie
Review of advance copy received from Author
I enjoyed the overarching story of seeing a MC become comfortable with their non-binary self, and the mild spice. I didn’t really gel with the third person storytelling, and did feel like it could have gone in to more detail (a lot of short non-descriptive sentences used). On the whole I’m glad I read it, but probably wouldn’t be fussed about reading it again one day
Review of advance copy received from Author
I adored this book. It was cozy and spicy all at the same time. I loved watching Alex and Sky fall for one another as the story progressed and grow more comfortable together. Sky was such a safe space for Alex as she explored her gender identity and it was just a beautiful story to read. ❤️
Review of advance copy received from Author
Really enjoyed the genuine safety that Alex found in Sky. Sky was such a safe space and loving person which is exactly what Alex needed at this point in their gender journey. This was a lovely cozy spicy read that is easy to devour.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I like some more plot with my spice. Sorry.
I also found Alex’s character to be highly insufferable. While Sky is an angel and deserved a lot more love than she got
But I laughed out loud at the domme names, that was good
I also found Alex’s character to be highly insufferable. While Sky is an angel and deserved a lot more love than she got
But I laughed out loud at the domme names, that was good
July 11, 2026
I recieved an ARC of this book and so glad I did. It does a great job of mixing the sweetness of Sky and Alex's relationship with some nice open door spicy scenes. I love how supportive Sky is with Alex as they explore their gender identity. I enjoyed the writing and the character development.
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