Gianna Taylor knows exactly who she is. Beautiful, Desired and in control. At Siren House, an elite brothel catering to the rich and powerful, men can buy her time, her attention, even curated pieces of intimacy for the right price.
But never her heart...
Until Remel Robinson enters her life. Warm, patient, intentional, and impossibly genuine. A widower chef with a quiet strength and a son who softens every edge Gianna has. With him, life feels different.
But money, sex, and jealousy awakens the dark side of this seductive world, placing Gianna at the center of growing obsession and a bitter vendetta.
When passion and danger collide After Midnight, Gianna discovers that walking away from desire can be far more dangerous than giving in to it.
Dominique has definitely made her way into the “faves” list! She hasn’t let me down yet and After Midnight gave me all I needed. A sex worker + chef/widow/single father falling in love and somehow it worked magically! This is one of those times, the job was just a means to get ahead and baby listen, Remy saw Gianna as a person first - not her job! Remy was an entire man and I adored the way he was down bad for Gianna!! Remy deserved all the love after losing his wife. 🥰Gianna was very headstrong and sensual but she held her own.. but listen, the drama! The case of fatal attraction and jealousy had me swiping pages so fast because I couldn’t wait to see things come together!!! Whew!😅 I really enjoyed this one because at the end of the day, love has no checklist and neither does your soulmate, if we’re keeping it 💯! I hope we get to see Ronnie and Boogie because I love the way they supported Remy and GG!💕
Le doy cinco estrellas porque fue un libro que me hizo repensar muchas cosas respecto a la protagonista y a la situación que estaba viviendo. Me di cuenta de que muchos de los comentarios que otras personas hacían en broma, los prejuicios que tenían e incluso algunas de las cosas que yo misma pensaba también estaban presentes en mí. Y es que, siendo sincera, no sabía mucho sobre esta realidad. Incluso después de terminar el libro, siento que todavía no comprendo del todo lo que pasa en la vida de estas personas ni las diferentes perspectivas desde las que una mujer puede decidir vivir de esa manera. Sin embargo, la historia me amplió un poco la información y mi forma de expresarme, de entender y de sentir respecto a ellas.
Fue un libro que me impactó mucho. Yo no empecé a leerlo sabiendo lo que iba a pasar. Ni siquiera leí la sinopsis; lo único que conocía era la advertencia que la autora dejó al principio. Eso fue todo lo que tuve antes de adentrarme en esta historia. De hecho, después de leer el primer capítulo, pensé que no quería continuar. Yo prefería las historias de romance en las que la protagonista está en una posición ventajosa y lo tiene todo sin tener que hacer demasiado. Pero seguí leyendo por pura intriga y, al final, esta mujer terminó sorprendiéndome. No era lo que esperaba, y me encantó.
También me gustaron mucho los personajes, aunque debo decir que, para mí, los dos intereses amorosos tienen una obsesión bastante peculiar con ella. Tanto uno como el otro tienen una manera muy intensa y un tanto extraña de entender el amor. Es raro, sí, pero dentro de la historia llegué a comprenderlo.
La relación con la esposa fallecida también me pareció bastante extraña. Por momentos me resultaba cómica y, al mismo tiempo, me hacía pensar. Había situaciones que me parecían entre cliché, críticas y un poquito cringe. No sabía muy bien cómo sentirme al respecto, pero lo cierto es que me gustó cómo se manejó el tema. Llegué a normalizar ciertas cosas que, fuera de este libro, probablemente me habrían parecido absurdas. En un momento estaba leyendo y pensaba: «Ah, sí, claro, esto también pasa». Y después me daba cuenta de lo peculiar que era todo. Me parece curioso cómo una historia puede conseguir que aceptes ciertas cosas casi sin cuestionarlas.
Y hablando de personajes, no sé qué me pasaba con el jefe, con Bishop, con el boss. Ese hombre hacía cosas bastante turbias, pero yo ya había romantizado comportamientos similares en otros libros y, como estaba leyendo su perspectiva y entendiendo cómo veía él las cosas, no siempre me parecían tan turbias. Yo pensaba: «Ay, solamente es un fastidioso», cuando, si me detenía a analizar lo que estaba haciendo, la situación era bastante más perturbadora. Y sí, me parece un poquito preocupante de mi parte.
Lo más curioso era que, cuando leía ciertas situaciones desde su punto de vista, podía llegar a verlas como algo intenso, pero después, cuando la protagonista las vivía o las narraba desde su perspectiva, mi reacción cambiaba por completo. Ahí era cuando pensaba: «No, espera, esto ya es otra cosa». Me pareció muy interesante darme cuenta de cómo la perspectiva desde la que se cuenta una historia puede influir tanto en la manera en que interpretamos las acciones de un personaje. Y creo que ese es uno de los motivos por los que este libro me hizo reflexionar tanto.
Me gustó cómo terminó la historia. Siento que tuvo una buena conclusión, aunque no puedo evitar sentirme mal por los niños que terminaron perjudicados por las decisiones de los adultos. No quiero decir demasiado para no dar spoilers, pero lo de los gemelos me dolió de verdad. A veces son los niños quienes terminan pagando las consecuencias de las decisiones de las personas mayores, y eso fue algo que me dejó bastante triste.
En general, disfruté muchísimo la historia. Fue algo que no esperaba y que terminó dándome mucho más de lo que imaginaba. Le doy cinco estrellas por lo que me hizo sentir, por las cosas que me llevó a cuestionar y por la manera en que cambió algunas de mis perspectivas.
Eso no significa que esté de acuerdo con todo lo que sucede en el libro, porque hay muchas cosas con las que no lo estoy. Pero tampoco creo que esas diferencias deban eclipsar todo lo que sí me gustó y todo lo que me aportó la historia.
Al final, me quedo con eso: un libro que me hizo cuestionarme, que me permitió ver otras perspectivas y que me demostró que, a veces, leer no solo consiste en disfrutar de una historia de amor, sino también en descubrir nuestros propios prejuicios y entender cómo podemos llegar a normalizar ciertas cosas dependiendo de quién nos las cuente.
Cinco estrellas, porque definitivamente fue una lectura que me dejó pensando.
I had the privilege of ARC reading this book and it was everything! The tension in this book was palpable from the beginning with the introduction of a character with major hater energy. With each page I turned, it felt like waiting for the ball to drop. And when it finally dropped… whew. It dropped. I did not see it coming.
The FMC in this book is a sex worker, which was a first for me in the hundreds of books I’ve read. What I appreciated was how the author challenged the stigma and assumptions surrounding people who do this type of work. She reminded readers that they are fully realized humans with thoughts, wishes, dreams, and desires. Gianna was self-aware, confident, and ambitious, and I loved that the story allowed her to be more than the label people may place on her.
Remy was also literally the perfect MMC. I appreciated how gentle, caring, and understanding he was about Gianna’s job and how intentional he was in pursuing her. Their level of healthy communication was refreshing. Above all, I loved that he showed Gianna she didn’t have to carry her burdens alone. They were the cutest couple, and I loved them both individually and together. Also Melo🥰I love cute little kids in books
There were a couple of characters in this book who crashed out in the worst way. Like…I was stunned. 🤣😲 But their actions added to the drama and gave the story an extra layer of suspense.
This book had everything. It was engaging, emotional, shocking, and had me ready to fight on the characters’ behalf. Dominique Black is truly gifted with her storytelling. This is a full story but I would not be mad at a book for Ronnie & Boogie!
Dominique Black honestly is a dope author. I was introduced to her through her South-Hurst Syndicate Series, and she writes her butt off! She really knows how to tell a story that piques your interest and touches on all aspects of life. While this wasn't a typical story, I love how she used this opportunity to explore themes of women's liberation when it comes to owning their sexuality. The way she changed the outlook on sex workers vs. prostitutes was everything. The story explored themes of jealousy and pettiness…side eyeing Monroe…And can we talk about Remy and Melo?! "That’s a good man, Savannah!" He didn’t care what anyone thought about his GG, that was his woman! I could literally feel his spirit through the pages; he has such a tender, sweet soul. Now Ronnie gave me major Players Club vibes lol, but that was my girl! I really hope her and Boogie experience true love. Crazy A$$ Boss…Idk, GG was the real Boss of him. This read definitely did not disappoint!
I think it may be safe to say Dominique Black just might be my favorite romance author. Coming from someone who always says romance is her LEAST favorite genre, Dominique is slowly making me realize I just wasn't reading the right romance books. The way she writes is just so relatable and I find myself IMMERSED into the story. Not only the romance, but the overall story just draws me in. I read this book in less than 24 hours. It would have been one sitting, but I started it too late at night.
Needless to say, if you are looking for a messy, thrilling, and overall GOOOOOD romance, this one is IT. I don't even remember flying through all these pages the way I did. TOOO GOOD.
This was my first read from Dominique Black and it exceeded my expectations. This book was everything! I wasn't even halfway through the book before I knew it was going to be a 5⭐️ read. I loved the storyline and the characters. It's a spicy romance with thriller elements and DRAMA that will have you on the edge of your seat. I've never read 500+ pages so fast! I'm looking forward to diving in her catalog.
Remel “Remy” Robinson is a chef, restaurant owner, single father, and a widower. He lost his wife and love of his life a few years ago after a battle with cancer. Since her death he’s been a shell of himself and has thrown himself into work and fatherhood in an attempt to move forward. On a forced night out he had a chance run-in with Gianna and is struck by her beauty. When he comes across her again, he believes their connection may truly be meant to be.
Gianna “GG” Taylor is a beautiful woman that knows what she wants. She and her best friend Ronnie know the value of their bodies and refuse to struggle for a bad. As a result, they decide to work at Siren House, an upscale brothel that allows them to conduct business in a safe environment. While there, Gianna quickly makes an enemy in Monroe who was previously the top earner. She even catches the attention of Boss, Monroe’s top client. While navigating the drama of Siren House, she crosses paths with Remy and wonders if it’s time to give up her no-dating rule.
Remy and GG are from two different worlds but it seems like they’re a match handpicked by his late wife Kendrix. Remy is SO sweet… TOO sweet sometimes. I think everyone in this story was completely obsessed: Boss, Monroe, Remy, GG, Eva, Ronnie and even Mrs. Betty (Remy’s mom). I enjoyed the subplot of the Boss-Monroe-Eva-GG love rectangle. There were quite a bit of typos, but nothing too bad. Great story of an obsessive love that survived all odds… literally.
Format: Kindle
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
WHEW! This book had me laughing, crying, and completely HOOKED! I finished it in ONE WEEK because I genuinely could not put it down. And that plot?! WILD is an understatement! 😭😂
This was my first book by Dominique Black, and let me tell you, she made an impression! I’ve never read an obsessive romance before, so I didn’t know exactly what I was getting myself into, but BABYYYY… THE TEA WAS HOT! ☕️🔥 The drama, the emotions, the twists—I was seated the entire time!
I went into this book not knowing what to expect and came out feeling ALL the feelings. One minute I was laughing, the next I was crying, and then I was sitting there like, “WAIT… WHAT JUST HAPPENED?!” 😂 The plot kept me invested, and I had to keep turning the pages to see how everything would unfold.
If this is what Dominique Black brings to the table, I might need to explore more of her books because whew! This was an EXPERIENCE.
Final thoughts: I came for the romance and stayed for the absolute CHAOS. 😂🔥
Have you ever want to whoop a coworkers ass? If the answer is yes, this is a book for you.
I received an ARC of After Midnight. One thing that really stood out to me was Gianni. She had a light about her that didn’t require attention. And because of that, her co-worker Monroe’s jealousy began the moment she laid eyes on her.
Considering what Gianni did for a living, I completely understood why dating wasn’t high on her priority list. But once Remy realized what was in front of him, he wasn’t playing any games. I loved watching him become intentional and pursue her with purpose instead of hesitation. And there are definitely a few characters in this book who are absolutely cuckoo for Cocoa Puffs. Because when things go left… damn. If you’re looking for a romance with emotional depth, compelling characters, and plenty of action, After Midnight is definitely one to add to your TBR.
Let me start by saying the author wrote the heck out of this book. So many human and real life connections. I absolutely loved Remy! He was sweet, caring, and sexy mmc. However he wasn't as hard core as I would have liked. Where I'm torn is about Gianna. Im not judging her but sis played a major part in all the chaos. Morally she was wrong. Yeah yeah she owes no loyalty to anyone and its none of her business what her clients do but at the end of the day Boss was somebody's husband. I loved the woman she was outside that job with friends and especially Remy and Melo. I loved all the secondary characters especially Ronnie. ( Write sis book). Monroe didn't get beat enough for me. I want my round. Overall the book was well written, relatable, spicy, dramatic, and real. Now like me go try to come up on 100000 like GG 🤣
This was a great read. So happy the FMC was written the way she was, Gianna is confident, blunt and knows exactly what she wants and what she is doing. She doesn’t have any shame on what she do, she’s not a damsel and distress lol she simply like money and know a man gone trick lol. Remy surprised me, i like Remy thought i did think he was soft or (a square) but Remy is a man that’s not afraid to love. Remy being open minded about what Gianna does, and his family accepting of her and as beautiful. Remy and Melo finally getting a happy ending after all the grief they been through. Bishop “Boss” is the definition of Joe from you he is crazy how you in love with only just having the coochie the man stalked her panty drawer.Ronnie is a vibe i loved her as a side character.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
This story was unique in the profession the fmc was in but the love was still easy, still felt. Dominique Black is quickly becoming one of my favorite authors. Remy was the sweetest in the best way. GG was really a good girl. It's easy to stereotype based on her 'job' choice, but that definitely didn't define her. Boogie was a real friend. He has Remy's back and front lol. Devon too. Ronnie was a beautiful mess. She and GG had the same 'job' but just like with GG, it didn't define her. Boss and Eva, a nessy mess.
I will say that GG must be a descendant of Aphrodite lol
This book had me hooked instantly! I enjoyed the premise of the story and loved how Gianna's line of work was described. There were many POVs but the author entered each one with care and it provided a great perspective to the different pieces of this story. Remy came off as a softee lover boy but was about his woman when the time came. Gianna was that girl who provided an experience but it was evident it was just her nature. Although I rated it four stars, some of the plot twists were a bit much. I understood the ex wife portions but it became a little overbearing.
This was such an amazing story, it was suspenseful and heartfelt when needed. I love Dominique's positive portrayal of sex workers. Gianna was never ashamed or belittled for what she did, and it really warmed my heart. Remy might be the sweetest MMC I have ever read about. His acceptance and love for Gigi was everything. The drama in this book really keeps you locked in although I did wish that Giana wasn't so willing to contunue engaging with Boss especially since he showed her and everyone else clear signs of becoming possessive.
The way this book took me thru every emotion 🤣😭🥰🥹 I honestly should have expected nothing less from a Dominique Black book.
Gianna is THAT girl!! Ronnie is the bestest friend anyone could ask for!! Melo? 🥰 just adorable!! And Remy? Imagine having 2 true loves in 1 lifetime and being deserving of them both!!
This book is what happens when Ms. “I Can Do It On My Own” meets Mr. “Sit Down And Let Me Take Care Of You”
I absolutely LOVED this book. I loved the drama. I loved tension. I loved the love. Truly a 5⭐️ read in my opinion!!
This book was sooo good, I stayed up all night reading. Wow. My first book by this author and definitely won’t be my last!
Gianna has a interesting occupation that doesn’t leave much room for dating. Remy is a widower, single dad and a chef who just getting back to himself and wants to get back out there. Remy and Gianna connection was so beautiful. I could feel it through the pages. Remy was so thoughtful, protective, a real man that loves hard! I loved open minded he was because a lot of men would have been turn off. But he felt that shit in his heart and got the girl he wanted.
This book was so so so beautiful! I loved Remy down! He had lost so much, but he refused to allow it to make him angry and bitter. The very first time that he ran into Gianna he knew there was something about her! Their friendship that turned into a relationship was absolutely phenomenal! All the emotions that came out during this book! My favorite of everyone was Melo that baby tugged and pulled on my heart strings so much! This is just a beautiful story with a side of thriller and drama!
This author has really been blowing me away . I would have never guessed I would love this book so much . It truly has you understanding why to never judge a book by its cover. This fmc was so sure of herself and made me love her so much. The Mmc sowed you don’t have to be a thug to stand ten toes behind your loved ones. Monroe and Boss crazy selves got exactly what they deserved. This author has become one if she I dropping it I’m reading !!
I absolutely LOVED this book!! This was such an unconventional love story and I loved every single minute of it. Gianna really reminded me about checking those biases and stigmas. I loved my girl and throughout the book, I found myself so protective of her, big handsome and little handsome. ❤️ Remy really was a Disney prince. That man was so patient and kind. First read by this author and I am hooked!
I love a no nonsense strong FMC and Gianna is just that. I love that Remel look beyond what she did and was very respectful with how he handled her. Boss really thinking he can have his cake and eat it too and it just doesn’t work like that. I know so many women like Monroe jealousy and envy is always the downfall they think they are bigger than the program. Poor Eva she was truly a woman scorned, but she was mad at the wrong people.
I’m not even sure how to write a review for this one because I have no notes and no crumbs left!
I really enjoyed the way sex workers were portrayed and accepted in this story. It felt refreshing to see that world represented without the usual judgment, while still giving the characters room to grow. And the character growth? Delivered.
There was drama, spice, chaos, hating ass women, and plenty of moments where I was kicking my feet! 😂 I loved EVERYTHING delivered in this story.
And let’s talk about the supporting characters because they were not just there for decoration! From Remy’s son, to Ronnie, Remy’s family, and even Boss—everybody had a purpose and was well written. The characters were developed, the story was messy in all the right ways, and I was fully invested.
I have no notes. No crumbs were left behind.
This one delivered, and I enjoyed every damn minute of it. I’m a fan now.
This story was nothing like I expected, in a great way! Once again Ms. Dominique Black's pen game was one point. Single father breaking the barriers of a strong willed woman who thought love would never find her. Together, they fight through obstacles seen and unseen. This story will have you from the beginning to the end going through every twist and turn you didn't see coming..
Whew! Gianna and Ronnie’s life at Siren House elevated their status which came at a price of jealousy and trouble. Monroe was bitter and jealous of Gianna, Boss became obsessed with Gianna and Gianna met and fell in love with Remy. Remy loved Gianna despite her life at Siren House and held her down when her worlds began to collide. Gianna found love, Remy found his future with Gianna.
Dominique Black didn’t have to write this book like this
This was good. I laughed, I cried. The mastery in which the author wrote about sex work was just chefs kiss. This story explored romantic love, love that lingers after death, parental love, healthy and unhealthy love. Read it
This was one of the most beautiful love stories I have ever read. I was completely invested from beginning to end. I couldn’t put it down and ended up finishing it in one sitting because I just had to know what happened next.
The writing, the characters, the emotions-everything was so well done. This book will stay with me for a long time. Author, you really did your thing with this one. Kudos👏🏾
Gianna was confident in her own skin, she didn’t need anybody so she thought even until she met Remy sweet Remy he loved unconditionally he was sweet and Charismatic , confident This book was intriguing, toxic, loving, funny action packed and I was here for it Dominique is a great story teller
I really enjoyed this story. Gianna and Remy had a complicated yet beautiful love story. There were a few twists in this book that I did not see coming. I am so glad that I gave this a chance. I am hoping that Ronnie gets a book next. Everyone needs a friend like Ronnie.
I enjoyed the authors writing style and how descriptive she is. It was so easy to see the picture in my head. However I wish the plot was better, somethings felt out of place and the climax because 80% in was crazy 😭 from 50-80% the storyline felt like fluff. Remy and Gianna were very cute and I enjoyed their relationship.
What’s an amazing love story. I laughed. I cried. I grieved with them. Dominique has done an amazing job with this set of characters. Definitely one of my top reads of the year.