It’s business as usual for Kenzie in her boudoir studio. Every day, fascinating people of all genders stroll through and Kenzie has the privilege of making them shine. She’s photographed the gamut: sultry brides-to-be seeking a naughty gift for their spouse, the confidant trans person showing the world their true self, and triads locked in passion, each moment of their tender lovemaking on display.
Kenzie’s been a part of it all, but never has a client captivated her so completely, until she steps through the door.
Ripley never recuperated from the relationship that irrevocably changed her. Desperate to forget the past, she moves to the progressive town of Bijou Basin, pursuing a fresh start. While acquainting herself with her new life, she notices an advertisement for an erotic nude photographer. On a whim, she books a session, hoping the experience will help her reclaim her identity.
Sparks fly for both women, but Ripley discovers there’s more to Kenzie than meets the eye. Can Ripley accept Kenzie as she is and does she want to date someone so complicated? Can Kenzie prove she’s worth it?
Authors Note: This slow burn erotic romance features adult themes and language. Themes include: graphic sex, BDSM, Polyamory & LGBTQ+ Characters.
Koriana Brackson grew up surrounded by orange groves in Central Florida, calling Walt Disney World her personal playground. As former cast member and an amateur photographer, she couldn't resist combining two of her interests, and her experiences weave through her stories.
Now she makes her home in a quiet small town in Western North Carolina with her Husband. An avid reader all of her life, Koriana was thrilled, and a bit shocked, to publish her debut novel in April 2020 and is looking forward to continuing the series in the coming months.
Natural Exposure reads nothing like a "first" novel - it's amazing! It flows nicely, is easy to read and grabs you from the start. And, the story is fresh and fun. Great start to a new series from a debut author!
The main characters have strong vibrant personalities and their interactions seem natural, even when there is tension and other emotions involved. The snippets into the lives of the supporting characters just make you want to learn more about them. You'll feel like the entire gang are old friends that you've known forever, not new friends that you are just getting to know.
The setting for the story, the studio, is brought to life in the pages.....it really would be a photographer's dream (actually, it might be anyone's dream!) All of the places from the lake to Disney are so realistic, you'll think, I know exactly where that is!
The story is mainly focused on Kenzi and Ripley but there is a lot more there than meets the eye; we can't forget Jarrett (he is a major part of the story also)! I can't wait to read more about the triad and where their relationship goes.....and hopefully, Koriana Brackson will let her magic with words spread to stories for more of the characters / friends we met!
First, let me say, I don't read a lot of poly romance. Maybe I'm missing out on some good stories or maybe this one is the exception. I dunno. First, I loved how relaxing the pace of this book was once I settled into it. When I turned the last page I expected to see more! I'll be reading the second book soon.
It started just a little slow for me, but not enough to subtract a star or anything. The story overall had an easy pace and I loved Kenzie. She was confident in who she was, what she believed about life, and what she wanted. I always appropriate a blunt MC and Kenzie definitely was. I loved how open and honest she was with Ripley and how thoroughly she explained poly stuff.
Ripley was adorable. Yeah, she was sexy too and had some baggage, but I just found her absolutely adorable. I really enjoyed her having a well fleshed out backstory too. Her life (at least love life) hasn't been easy on her, but I enjoyed watching her starting to come into her own and discover herself and admit what she really enjoyed.
I know it's poly, so in the spirit of that, I shouldn't have favorites, but I'm human. I liked Jarrett well enough, but my favorite scenes were always Kenzie and Ripley. Not only the sexy time ones either. I loved the chemistry between the women.
Also, I loved Felicity. She was bratty and show-offy, but I liked her anyway or maybe because of that. I'd love to see more of her in future books (her own book maybe?? I can dream right? lol)
Finding a self described erotica novel that offers more below the surface than just gratuitous sex is always a treat. Finding a BDSM/Poly erotica novel that is healthy, funny and exactly what we needed right now in a world where 50 Shades is the mainstream literature, that is something else entirely. What started as a beta project, Natural Exposure, the breakout novel by Koriana Brackson was a pure delight to read.
There was so much depth to the characters, they ebbed and flowed around one another in believable ways, with real tangible emotions. I've found in my years of reading that what really makes a story, and is naturally the hardest part to get right, is strong characters. This book has that in spades. Even the side characters, who were only mentioned a handful of times had such colorful personalities, and such interesting lives, that they left as much of an imprint as the others who dominated the pages.
Honestly though it was more than the delicious sex scenes, the fun as hell characters or the really well developed locations mentioned time and again; it was simply the writing. It was easy to read, impossible to put down. There was no stuttering from scene to scene, it was simply a well written novel and I'm stoked to know that more are on the way.
This book was really really amazing, the flow of the story was easy to read and gets your attention and imagination from page 1. For being a debut it is extremely well-written and speaks volumes. The main characters are vibrant and their chemistry is natural although there is tension and emotions involved. The supporting characters make you want to know more an definitely make you wonder about the rest of the series. The setting is brought to life pay after page and the descriptions are vivid and seem so realistic. I can't wait for book 2!!!
I got to read a debut book by a new author! I thought the book to be well written, it explains things without the explanations being textbook boring, I wish that the photography studio was an actual place to go. Some of the content wasn't really my cup of tea, I'm not a super big fan of poly relationships, reverse harems, or relationships where there are more than 1 partners, some of the sexual content was a little not me too, however the world-building was pretty nice, and the characters were great to get to know.
I enjoyed this book, it was a good solid start to a new series. I enjoyed getting to know Ripley and Kenzie, and a little bit of Jarrett, I will definitely read the next book, I look forward to getting to know more of Jarrett and also seeing where their relationship takes them.
When a book teaches you and entertains you then it’s a win win situation. Two gentle women and a very Dominant man trying to become a triad when one of the ladies has no clue what that is. Past pain, yearning for love and acceptance while growing as a person keeps this story flowing.
I was asked by the author to review Natural Exposure and I am glad she brought this debut novel to my attention! It was incredibly well written and had so much more to it than just lots of sex. It is also a deep exploration into BDSM relationships and what it is like to be polyamorous.
Kenzie is a photographer in the small town of Bijou Basin, and in her studio she takes pictures for all occasions – from prom photos and engagements announcements, to erotic pictures of couples (or more) locked together in passion. It has always been a dream of hers to own a photography studio of her own and she has made her dream come true in quite a spectacular fashion with a large studio containing many rooms with all kinds of different themes and props for her work.
One of the things that really struck me about this book is how powerfully descriptive the author’s writing style is. Photography is an incredibly visual activity and somehow the author manages to capture everything about each photo shoot in the most amazing way, from the setting, to the lighting and the poses. And, more importantly, the author is able to deliver this vast amount of detail in a way that doesn’t feel like an info-dump and instead pulls the reader into the moment as if we are there with them.
Kenzie is married to Jarrett and they have a home close to the studio. They also happen to have a 24/7 D/s relationship where Jarrett is Kenzie’s Master. I loved reading about their dynamic as a couple, with all the rules that Kenzie has to follow on a daily basis. They are obviously a couple who are very much in love, completely secure with one another, and it was refreshing to read how a complete power exchange can look within a healthy relationship. But they are also polyamorous and, at the start of the novel, it is just the two of them in the relationship.
That changes though the day that Ripley walks through the doors of Kenzie’s studio. There is an instant spark between the two women but neither of them feel able to act on it – Kenzie because she needs to be professional with her client, Ripley because of an abusive relationship in her past. But the chemistry between them is enough to start a fire every time that they meet. It was really beautiful to watch their relationship grow, obviously with Jarrett’s knowledge and permission. Kenzie is so kind and thoughtful and I loved watching how she managed to help Ripley come out of her shell and grow in confidence.
But this book seemed to give a real insight into polyamory, both from the point of view of Kenzie and Jarrett who have been poly for years, and from Ripley’s point of view who is completely new to the concept. So, this being said, there are definitely some teething problems for them, especially when Jarrett starts to become more involved. But, with honest and open communication, the three of them manage to work together to smooth out any issues. This definitely isn’t the kind of book that represents poly relationships as a chance to have sex with lots of people. It takes a look at the more emotional side of being involved with more than one person and the author doesn’t try to pretend that things are always easy.
One thing I will say is that Natural Exposure is very heavily dominated by the relationships between Kenzie, Ripley and Jarrett, with very little storyline outside of that. This isn’t necessarily a bad thing though as it is a book rich in emotions and sensuality and I personally didn’t find the story to be lacking in any way because of this. But, overall, I loved this story and I am looking forward to reading about how the relationship between the three of them manages to grow in the next book in the series!
This is a first for me by this author and I initially found it a bit confusing as to whether the photographer was male or female. I pictured both and got a different vibe each time. I got into the story and enjoyed it - especially the relationship that built up between photographer and client. A nice read.
I had the pleasure of reading this as a draft. The final version is even better. So many good things. Ethical non-monogamy portrayed accurately and the emotional build for all the relationships is well portrayed.
My final book completed of the year --- my own book. So glad to get back with Kenzie and Ripley and refresh myself with them so I'm going back to Book 3 with their personalities ready.
I may have been officially under my GR goal last year but if I counted times I've read this book - in writing it, editing it, and since publishing it, it probably would have been the full 200 book goal on its own. :)
If you haven't read this, why? Message me and I'm glad to send you a copy. Seeing that it's my book (under a pen name) it's mine to give how ever many I'd like. :)
I really hoped this would work for me (FFM and boudoir photography!) but the pacing is off and the writing style is way too over-explanatory. I don’t need an in-depth description of everything Kenzie does and says or what her studio looks like. Ripley is more timid than I’d guess for someone who left an abusive relationship a decade ago. I’m not sure how she’s going to adjust to dating a polyamorous married woman, which might explain why there are two sequels after this. I believe this is a debut, which could explain some of the issues with execution. It’s not bad but it’s not holding my attention.
Characters: Kenzie is a 44 year old boudoir photographer, gamer, and Switch; she does not like labels and alternates between using bisexual and pansexual. Jarrett is a 44 year old tattoo artist and Dom. Kenzie and Jarrett have been together almost 20 years; they’re polyamorous and are in a 24/7 D/s relationship. Ripley is a 39 year old pansexual white accountant and submissive. This is set in Bijou Basin, FL.
Content notes: past intimate partner violence (Ripley left her ex 10 years ago), past kink-shaming, past death of MMC’s grandmother who raised him, forgetting to eat, on page sex, D/s (24/7 relationship for FMC and her husband), impact play, orgasm control, anal play, erotic photos, sex toys, skinny dipping, “lady parts” as euphemism, gender essentialism, ableist language
*Love it or Leighve it* (aka cleaning out my Kindle)
Purchased: 2020 Why did I buy it? It’s FFM and one of the FMCs is a boudoir photographer.
Bijou Basin is a paradise for LGBTQ+ folks and those who love them, and this is where Kenzie has decided to make her home. She has a successful boudoir studio, but never has she been so enthralled by a client until Ripley walks through the door. Ripley is new to town and looking for a fresh start after the end of a bad relationship. Kenzie and Ripley immediately connect, but Kenzie's poly lifestyle isn't for everyone. Will Ripley be able to accept Kenzie as she is or will their differences keep them apart?
This is the first book in the fabulous contemporary poly romance series, Bijou Basin. I love this author's style so much. It's smooth and detailed and focuses on characterization. It's told from Kenzie's point of view who is a photographer and married to a sweet Dom named Jarrett. Their relationship is a healthy and open one. I love how communication is the key, and while there are still emotional struggles, they talk through it. No miscommunication romance tropes here! Ripley is timid and Kenzie works to help her come out of her shell and heal from past hurts all the while helping her explore BDSM. The two women develop feelings quickly, but it gets tangled when they attempt to make a triad. All the secondary characters are wonderful and add so much color to the story. Plus, I feel the gigantic studio with all its rooms is a character too. I want to book my own photography session! Highly recommended.
Our heroine is a boudoir photographer and prides herself on remaining professional at all times. But her latest customer challenges all her restraint from the moment she say her. Even her husband feels the pull. New paths are going to be explored on all sides.
This is book one of the series, so a perfect place to start.
I am going to call this a slow-burn erotic romance, just because I feel the need to put things in a box. But the honest answer is this one does not neatly fit in any of the boxes I usually frequent. It combines so many different elements in delightful ways that I had a hard time putting it down for sleep or work. We have steamy scenes, elements of BDSM, and lots of pop culture all rolled into one. The plot is very well done and revolves around the growing relationship between our three main characters. It is lovingly detailed and seems so real that you want to get out a map and go for a visit. Overall, the story drew me in from the start and never let go, even now that I am done. I eagerly anticipate more from this author.
Highly recommended.
I received an ARC from the author for review purposes.
Disclaimer: I got this book for free on Kindle. I participated in stuff your kindle day where I got a bunch of romance books for free, roughly 2,000 books. I normally do not read romance books but I wanted to try the genre. I typically read fantasy, science fiction, biographies, and classics so this is way out of my comfort zone. My plan is to draw a book at random without reading the summary, title, and avoiding looking at the cover. As long as the book is not too graphic for me or leads into something uncomfortable, I will be attempting to finish as many of these books as I can in 2024. I understand that many of these books will likely not be top tier but I am hoping that I can learn something about the romance genre as a whole and figure out if any types of books in this genre are for me.
My Review: Absolutely not. I thought the photographer angle would be a fun romance. It turned into far too many kinks that I didn't want to read. Romance went out the window replaced my sex scenes. Not for me.
This is a new author for me and so I was keen to read this book. It is a very gentle way into a polyamorous relationship. The three main characters are beautifully described but I would like to learn more about them, Jarrett especially. I presume this will continue in book two. The story is a new one for me, loved the idea of Kenzie's studio especially the library. The sex scenes are very steamy - if you are more subdued 50 shades this is more graphic and a damn more interesting! I like the idea it teaches us about different sex scenes and relationships without preaching. Beautifully written and I will seek out the next book in this series. It is a stand alone book as it is the start of their triad but I understand the author has other books with some of the characters we are introduced to in this book. I was given a copy to review from voracious readers only.
” Natural Exposure By Koriana Brackson” Is A HOT Sexy Tale Of A Married Boudoir Photographer ... Named Kenzie Holliday Owner Of A Unique Erotic Photography Studio In Bijou Basin Florida ...Her Is Husband Jarrett ... Tattoo Artist Owner Of Jinx ( And High Jinx In Clarmont). Married Several Years ...Quite Contently ...Till SHE Waltzed Into Kenzie’s Studio. Whereas Kenzie Wasn’t Looking For Another Playmate Or Anything Remotely Like That...This New Client Was A Jaw-Dropper...One Ripley Owens...A Stunning Russet-Haired Green -Eyed Generously Endowed Siren ...And The More The Camera Clicks ...The More Kenzie Drools ...Until.... ..Read and see. Much enjoyed and Highly Recommended. I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Copy of this book.
This was sexy, sinful, engaging, and addicting. I really related to Ripley on so many levels, and it was nice to see such a great representation of bi/pan characters, BDSM, and polyamory. The characters felt like real people that you could easily meet at your local coffee shop, with complex histories, emotions, and personalities. I felt more like I was peeking in on their lives instead of watching some sweeping movie unfold, and it was amazing! Throughout the whole story, there was this perfect balance of incredible descriptions, with little touches that kept it down to earth and realistic. Brackson has a unique voice and I greatly look forward to reading more by her in the future!
I didn't catch that the poly relationship involved a guy, so that took be a step to overcome. That said, his involvement was minimal and the story was really nicely developed. Sexy, erotic, but with a plot that it's sweet at the same time. It's worth reading if you get the chance. You won't regret it.
This may be the most sensual and erotic story I have read. It starts out as a entrancing FF and then explores the aspects of poly relationships (which are not consummated until the next book). There is also a MF relationship with some D/s included. The photographer's studio setting allows lots of exploration of themes and interests, including light BDSM. The characters are smart and experienced, and yet enjoy the wonderment of a new relationship.
This is a very sweet story about 2 females and 1 male. There is some HOT and the HOT is really hot - but the sweet shines through. Ripley is treated with kid gloves by Kenzie and Kenzie's husband. If you like sweet romances with a little HOT and some humor you will LOVE this book.
Very entertaining. I knew next to nothing about Triads and a little about BDSM. I would really like to spend a bunch of time with Kenzie as her knowledge of Disney is awesome. Can't wait to read book 2.
I enjoyed this book. I don’t know a lot about polyamory as I don’t practice it. But it’s interesting to read about the different dynamics in the relationship. I’m now off to read part 2 to see how there getting on. I would definitely recommend
Enjoyed the community this author built ,the photography and f/f interaction is beautiful and erotic but the rest of the set up and story is not my cup of tea. Not sure if I will read the rest of the series.
I absolutely loved the book - I had to finish it in 1 day! It´s definitely one of my favorites in the poly genre. Ripley & Kenzies (& Jaretts) story grapped me from the start. It´s so fresh and honest. Great communication between all the characters. And I love that the story focusses more on Ripley and Kenzies story (at least in the first book). The studio is described so beautifully and real - I could see everything in front of me! I can´t wait to read how their story continues!