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Exquisite Surrender

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Alexandra escapes her horrifying past fraught with abuse, vowing to never let another man control her. But when she meets Sebastian, a devastatingly sexy and intimidating Dom, he offers her a chance to face her demons and explore her deepest, darkest desires.

Sebastian maintains a tight discipline and control in every aspect of his life after surviving the devastating loss of his parents and the separation from his younger sister. But when he meets Alexandra, she throws his orderly world into chaos and ignites a wild desire to possess her mind, body and soul.

In a relationship that requires absolute honesty and trust, what happens when neither can give up the secrets they fear will tear them apart?

This is a standalone contemporary BDSM romance and it contains dark themes which some readers might find uncomfortable and triggering. No cliffhangers. Guaranteed HEA.

266 pages, Kindle Edition

Published June 30, 2022

21 people are currently reading
168 people want to read

About the author

Lillie Alexander

6 books203 followers
Dark Romance Author writing about fated mates, forbidden love, angst and healing journeys.

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5 stars
59 (53%)
4 stars
27 (24%)
3 stars
15 (13%)
2 stars
4 (3%)
1 star
5 (4%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews
554 reviews673 followers
July 18, 2022
Note: I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Trigger Warnings: rape, assault, knife attacks, miscarriage, child abuse, domestic violence, mention of homophobia, alcohol abuse, youth death, death by illness, depression, BDSM, stalkers, mention of infidelity.

Damn you know a book is feeling dangerous and real, when it's got a hella lot trigger warnings.

But honestly the characters are to be sympathised for, rather than get shocked at.

The FMC has had a tough life recently, what with an abusive ex and some more complications and then moving to avoid him. The MMC (male main character) has been searching for his long lost sister and connecting back to his roots, and his DOM side with a perfect partner. Which our FMC helps with.

Sure there is denial from her at first, because well ya know..first impressions can be wrong but solidify at some instances. But eventually things change, sparks fly things heat up and everyone runs out of their room.

Point is I enjoyed this novel for sure, especially how it covered triggering themes (mentioned above) while still being able to show a healthy, communicable romance well..within the dark romance genre. Also the writing was fab, the characters took their time to develop, side friends were lovely, and well the little plot twists were entertaining as well.

My first lillie Alexander novel..but I am definitely hoping it's not my last.

Until the next read,

-TMR
Profile Image for Helen Aitchison.
Author 19 books61 followers
February 28, 2023
Erotica isn’t a genre I read but Lillie Alexander is an author I love, so anything she writes, I want to read.

Allie experiences trauma from being in an abusive relationship. A crescendo of life and death is her catalyst to leave. Now she must rebuild her life in a frightening world and process the traumatic events that have scarred her.

She begins studying, wanting to recover and find a new career. She’s surrounded by caring friends and opportunity to heal, move on and thrive.

When she catches the eye of the most eligible and wealthy batchelor in Seattle, Sebastian, things could change dramatically for Allie and her deepest, darkest fantasies begin to surface.

Allie and Sebastian’s relationship begins to develop with experimentation and fantasy. Seb becomes Allie’s dominator and she indulges in her secret world of lust and desire. With a trip to Tokyo and a high class lifestyle, Allie is in a whole new world of satisfaction. But emotion quickly snowballs. Could they each be what the other has been looking for and how far will they go for pleasure?

This is more than a book with a sexy story and secrets. From multiple point of views, we get the back story of the characters and their own life struggles including childhood trauma, death of parents, foster care, abuse and loneliness. The relationship first based on deep, dark desires become something that helps deal with the here and now as relationships are tested and ongoing secrets, dilemmas and fears are exposed. Real life, the need to be needed and loved is weaved into an erotic, sensual story that feels as much about sexual desires and pleasure as it does about finding acceptance and place.

A highly recommended read!
28 reviews
June 24, 2022
It’s not often a romance book can pull me in like this one. There’s so much richness and depth to the characters stories. There is enough background to make you connect, but not too much that you get bogged down in details. Allie is a beautiful but broken girl. Sebastian is strong, confident, but has his own broken past. When these two collide, they not only find sparks and sizzle but they find they complete each other. There are triggers so please be sure to consider the author’s warning.

This honest review is provided after reading the ARC.
Profile Image for Tashina Fulbright.
244 reviews2 followers
June 30, 2022
I enjoyed every minute of it. The first part was a little hard to stomach so definitely mind the triggers but this was an amazing journey. Not usually one for contemporary books but I loved it and especially the BDSM. Cannot wait to read more from this author.
Profile Image for Elisabeth.
Author 9 books26 followers
June 25, 2022
I personally think this title is perfect for this book. Exquisite Surrender. She- our main character - Allie has been dealt a hand of cards that were predetermined by the universe but were the most heartwrenching.

When she gets a chance to be a part of herself and test the waters of BDSM with the rich and handsome Sebastion all else fails. Everything is remembered solely on that moment with which she had the most horrible pain given to her.

Her life is a constant turbulent storm with many different problems. Finally to have a HEA. That's what we all yearn for and sweet Allie, deserves the past to rest and just have the good now.

Sebastian has his own drama, do be assured that both these people need to surrender to each other, and their love.

I loved this book, the BDSM was written but not the main plot line which was nice. Sometimes you want it heavy and other times it is an added part to a relationship. I felt the book went by way to fast, and I do wonder if we will ever see more about Heidi, Kate, or even Simon.

Thank you for giving me an ARC copy, you did an amazing job.
Profile Image for Victoria.
Author 11 books88 followers
July 7, 2022
What an incredible, heart-wrenching story with off the chart steam!
Sebastian is a sexy, supportive dom while Alexandra is a bratty sub who doesn't quite know that's what she is. When she finally embraces her true self, everything settles into place.
There are some traumas to be mindful of in this book but Lillie handles them so well! Emotions fly off the page and whether good or bad, it felt like I was the one experiencing them.
The BDSM elements were just.. WOW. Realistic, safe, and insanely spicy. Sebastian can call me pet any time.
A few of the twists were not expected at all, so artfully woven in that I was looking elsewhere all the while it was right under my nose. Brilliant!
I really hope she plans to release more books within this world, perhaps a certain best friend or two could share their stories because I'm not quite ready to let go!
Profile Image for Kiana McGowan.
236 reviews2 followers
June 26, 2022
I received and arc for this book for an honest review. This is definitely a book that you need to check the triggers…I am one that triggers really aren’t a thing for me, but with has a lot of similarities to things I’ve witnessed and experienced in there very beginning of the book that I had a bit of trouble. It does get better and there is a HEA. I loved the growth of the FMC in this and the relationship that Alexandra and Sebastian have and develop in this.

One thing I do have to say about this author is they have either done lots of research or has participated in the lifestyle as this is one of the best representations of it I have come across.
Profile Image for Michaella Dieter.
Author 13 books236 followers
Read
June 30, 2022
Very good read

Star Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice Level: 🌶🌶/5
Darkness Level: 💀.5/5

⚠️ Domestic violence, stalking, miscarriage, mental health

Lillie Alexander is back, this time with a contemporary BDSM novel. The beginning is tragic and heartbreaking, while the ending will leave you smiling.

Alexandra and Sebastian are complex characters that fight against the budding feelings developing between them, both having sustained damage from their pasts. Their love is hard won, with outside forces threatening their happiness (along with their own demons).

Definitely recommended!
Profile Image for Colbie C.
303 reviews13 followers
June 30, 2022
Healthy BDSM!!

I know I read to find my escapes, but it is so refreshing to find a healthy BDSM relationship. The trust doesn’t develop overnight, there’s testing of limits and working through past trauma in safe ways, and a relationship that develops over time!! I have a particular love of these sort of relationships that involve a collar and I think it was particularly well done here. I suspect there will be more books in this world, but for now, this story is a completely satisfying standalone.
Profile Image for BrekkeReads.
17 reviews3 followers
July 1, 2022
Lillie Alexander has a unique writing style that draws you in from the get go. Her character development happens over time, she doesn't just dump all the information on you all at once, it's like you are getting to know them naturally. The way she introduced some elements into this book shows an understanding of the BDSM lifestyle and it was very refreshing to see it portrayed this way.
I will say, please check the trigger warnings before you read Exquisite Surrender as it starts off pretty heavy.
This will definitely be a book I will reach for again and again!
1,588 reviews21 followers
June 24, 2022
When Alexandra leaves her abusive ex she wasn't expecting to find smithereens relationship. Sebastian sees her in passing a couple of times and he knows he wants to pursue her. They start out getting to know each other by dating and eventually they move to a dom/sub relationship. I really liked this story. There's a lot more going on with her ex and Sebastian's past as well. I recommend this one, but check your triggers.
Profile Image for Just_A_Few_More_Pages_ .
64 reviews5 followers
June 28, 2022
One women with a tragic past, fighting to find herself again by not letting her past win.

What can I say!

First off, I absolutely loved the story line. The characters! When reading this book you really feel the friendship through the fmc and her best friends.

Secondly the emotions! You really feel the fmc's emotions and I love that I felt like I was in the book watching it all unfold.

There are some steamy bits too 🌶🌶

Overall I loved the book, I would read it again and I'll be following Lillie Alexander for more books.
27 reviews
July 20, 2022
Exquisite Surrender- Hot and Spicy

This is the first book I've read from this author. Her world building & character development is fantastic. Loved this angst filled story of Alexandra and Sebastián's journey to love. ❤️🖤👄
Profile Image for Kayla.
65 reviews4 followers
June 24, 2022
This book was highly addicting to me. I loved how Sebastian was a safe place for Alexandra and how we saw Alexandra become so strong and confident because of Sebastian. I loved them as a couple and I couldn’t put this book down. It was super spicy and had me fanning myself a couple of times. This was a great read for sure!
Profile Image for Kelly Streeter.
200 reviews7 followers
June 20, 2022
Wow you just full in love with Alexandra and Sebastian from the start after everything Alexandra you are just rooting for her this book Grips you from the start and keeps you on tender hooks the hole book and this book and read it all in one day
Profile Image for Andrea Drake.
426 reviews32 followers
July 22, 2022
This book was so good. I will deff. be reading her books again because of this wonderful intro to Lillie Alexander. I love the characters and the story line, and mostly I loved the steam. I read a lot of steamy books and bdsm books and this is one of the best. The struggles the main characters go through and how they deal with it. The way they communicate with each other. I loved it all.
Profile Image for Caiche 50.
19 reviews
July 21, 2022
Hot! Hot! & Hot!

Thank you for writing this book. It was an emotional journey watch Allie become a victim to survivor. And oh so hot Sebastián helping Allie conquer her fears on men and love thru BDSM. A definitely a reread book.
Profile Image for That Brazilian.
129 reviews9 followers
July 8, 2022
Exquisite Surrender by Lillie Alexander

For more reviews, follow That Brazilian Reader on Instagram.

description

It's the first book I read by the author and I found it pretty enjoyable. Specially because I relate with the subject in a deeper level.

I liked both characters, but I felt like I needed a little bit more depth for Sebastian. He was quite plain, and even with so many plotlines pointing straight to him, I still feel like I don't know him enough. Meanwhile, we had just enough of Alexandra's struggles, which was nice to see, because it was beautiful to watch her bloom. However, sometimes I felt like she acted a little out of character.

Also, the pacing was a strange to me. The flow was a tiny bit confusing because sometimes it went too fast and other times too slow. The climax of the book was too far from the ending, which left me feeling like the book dragged in the end, even though the last paragraph felt like it should've continued.

Well, other than that, the book is good. The journey is interesting and the hot is super hot. Exquisite Surrender is available on Amazon and it's free with KU.
Profile Image for Monette Hurst.
3 reviews
June 28, 2022
*I received this book as an arc for my honest review!*
Let me tell you if I could have found a way to crawl into the world of Sebastian (swoon-worthy Dom) and Allie (wonderful sub) then I would! Lillie has this way of building a story that just sucks you in and you never want to get out! The story line for these characters were absolutely amazing! The way Allie slowly grows her confidence with the help of Sebastian, Heidi and Katie had me laughing,crying and sympathizing with Allie. Sebastian is one of my favorite book Doms he is so patient and understanding to all of Allies issues and even pushes her in a way that doesn’t trigger her mental response to what her ex Nathan did to her! I can not wait to see if Lillie will make a book for Heidi because she definitely deserves one and I would love to read Katie’s story also!!
Profile Image for Nikki.
650 reviews17 followers
July 4, 2022
This is the first book that I’ve read by this author. Alexander’s writing style was easy to get lost in. Character development and plot was great. There are dark themes in this book so please check your trigger warnings.

Allie has a dark past, one that she struggles with tremendously. The author does an amazing job at detailing what she’s been through, emotions she’s dealing with as well as the struggles she faces. Sebastian is your strong, smart, rich and confident swoon worthy H that knows what he wants. But he also has a dark past. When these two meet, it’s not instalove, they have to work for what they want. Sebastian is so caring and protective. I love that they take things slowly. But he is in full control.

The BDSM is written so well. This is full of depth, angst, trust, honesty, trauma, healing, spice, heartache, self discovery, chemistry, emotions and so much more. Can’t wait to read more from this author.

I received this book and am voluntarily leaving my honest opinion.
Profile Image for Krys.
56 reviews
August 8, 2022
Where to begin! Foremost, you will fall in love with this story!
Lillie Alexander, not only did an excellent job captivating you, but the details of these characters and events are truly amazing.

You have this past trauma mixed into a intricate yet communicative relationship that ties together beautifully. And the depth of detail going into the characters is my favorite part (I cannot emphasize this enough). Trauma is complex, and Allie has had more than her fair share of it and, like every human, it’s shaped the way she was leading her life. So her story pulls on your heart and you cannot help but cheer her on. Then cue in the hot, sexy and intense Dom Sebastian. It’s not exactly instant love, but this relationship of theirs develops and he’s this supportive yet still protective man that allows Allie to explore herself. Overall, I love that Sebastian although there is some tension, he truly ignites a path for her to allow herself to grow.

This story is one to definitely add to your list right away. It’s emotional with an amazing dose of spice. And I cannot wait to read more from Lillie Alexander!
Profile Image for Juju.
403 reviews96 followers
June 24, 2022
This is the 1st book that I have read from author, Lillie Alexander.

This book is so much more than a BDSM romance, this is the beautiful story of Alexandra, our heroine. She's a warrior! I enjoyed following her journey through heartbreak to happiness. There will be moments you will want to cry, scream and laugh along with her. Sebastian our hero/Dom, was amazing and so complimented the heroine, he too has his own vulnerabilities and strengths. Care, thought and consideration is given in respect to BDSM and past trauma. There are some very hot and steamy sex scenes. I was very impressed with Alexandra and Sebastians story and would definitely recommend this book to others.

(Id like to thank the author for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review.)
Profile Image for Marisa.
139 reviews
January 6, 2026
4.5 stars because this was a really good book! Healthy BDSM, very well-rounded MMC & FMC, amazing world building, and MC plot backgrounds. Overall I really liked it. Though, I’m honestly not sure what didn’t make a 5 but if I figure it out I’ll lyk

Update!

It didn’t have enough closure for me. I wish I got an epilogue with them growing a family. It kinda doesn’t make sense for there not to be anything followed up considering her miscarriage and infertility has a large part in shaping her trauma, personality, emotions, motives, etc. Towards the end, Allie finally spilled about her inability to have children and in the same conversation Sebastian said was open to other methods of building a family but that’s it. Idk just not enough ‘wrapped up in a pretty bow’ ending.
Profile Image for Amanda J.
534 reviews6 followers
June 30, 2022
This was absolute perfection! Yes, for those that do have TW check them, but for those of us that don't then continue on the exquisite journey that's written.
Alexander has done an amazing job writing this book. I don't know how she managed to bring good out of a bad situation but the way she has done it was written masterfully and with such captivation that it enthralls you right from the start. I loved Allie (FMC), she was strong and did not cower easily. And, then there's Sebastian (MMC), he was all alpha but had this gentle side. Together they are magic and they just belong woth each other. This was an amazing read and I didn't want it to end.
Profile Image for Samantha Hickey.
1,970 reviews48 followers
July 1, 2022
I absolutely loved this book!!

Exquisite Surrender is a standalone, contemporary BDSM romance and is kinda dark. Make sure to check the trigger warning.

Lillie Alexander is a must read author!!!

Allie is our FMC and she has been through so much. What she has dealt with will break your heart but watching her grow and become stronger will make your heart happy again.

Sebastian is freaking dreamy!! He has his own past that he has trouble dealing with. He is rich, handsome, and wants Allie as soon as he lays eyes on her.

These 2 together are just perfect!!! Seb helps Allie heal, grow more confident, and embrace being a submissive while Allie helps heal Sebs wounds from his past and brings out more emotions in him.

This is an all around beautiful story!
313 reviews3 followers
June 22, 2022
This was a fantastic, naughty, steamy read. GREAT exploration on the emotions for the FMC/woman AND MMC/man can want/need certain things from a BDSM lifestyle. This book was a great journey through bad partners into finding your perfect/safe match when least expecting it. Makes you want to go find a CLUB and sign up !! prefect level of drama, story, realistic/opportune heat. Now I want to read about the other characters AND get a part 2 with Sebastian and Allie on the main stage ! Loved the attention to detail, could have stayed in bed all day and kept reading !
Profile Image for Jess.
15 reviews1 follower
June 26, 2022
Where to begin. This author is amazing! This was an intense story from beginning to end. The first part of the story was very emotional for the main character Alexandra and to see her face so many obstacles was heartbreaking for me as a reader but I also felt drawn to continue the story to see where she would be lead. Throughout the book she faces many things, but the writer did an amazing job detailing every emotion you can imagine. From Alexandra and Sebastian's story began it was captivating to see where it leads for both of them and their emotional growth as a couple despite their own dilemmas in their lives. Overall, the book was very riveting and hard to put down and it's definitely one that will be read again. I loved the ending but hated to see it end at the same time!
Profile Image for Erin FitzGerald.
Author 33 books151 followers
November 22, 2022
Heartfelt tale of loss and healing.

Alexandra saw a rough childhood, which probably led to compromised decision-making abilities when it came to men.

Sebastian also went though a difficult childhood, fueling his need for control in all aspects of his life.

Allie and Seb are the perfect match, two broken souls who have to learn how to heal together, though there are instances that test the strength of their bond.

This story is painful, suspenseful, heartbreaking and hopeful, and it was a thoroughly enjoyable read!
Profile Image for Tianna Croft.
54 reviews
July 3, 2022
Such a good book that explores BDSM in a healthy way, exploring limits, working past trauma and developing a relationship!
Alexander is suffering from an abusive pay, and Sebastian is an alpha male who was confronted with his dominant ways! Together, they’re an amazing couple with an amazing sim/sun dynamic that is developed throughout the book!
Warning: contains plenty of steam and triggers!
Profile Image for Brigitte Moos.
4 reviews
July 6, 2022
Healthy BDSM


...That's what someone else reviewed as and I agree.

The plot though... expexted... girl struggling with identity after an abusive relationship with her ex and an abusive childhood. The author describes both MC's turmoil through their interraction with others, but when it comes to both Allie and Sebastian it's offered to each other like a doctor's diagnosis. There's no growth of couple between the two and the plot is simple and overussed, there's no searching, finding, mystery, nothing to grip me from one chapter to another.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews

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