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Knotty Valentine
With a name like Valentine Love and a birthday that falls on the most romantic night of the year, you would think that I’m all about true love, long-stemmed roses, and delicious chocolate covered strawberries.
You’d be wrong.
By day, I spend my time advocating for scorned clients as they watch their happily ever after fall apart in front of them.
By night, I hide from the messy world, avoiding love at all costs.
When my best friend all but drags me to the hottest queer bar in New York City to celebrate my birthday on my least favorite night of the year, I expect to have a few drinks and maybe a few laughs before returning home alone.
But when I lock eyes with the beautiful burlesque dancer on stage, I quickly find the world as I know it tilting on its axis while all my rules of staying away from love come crumbling down.
Knotty Valentine is a fast-paced, spicy, shibari themed sapphic novella that will have you laughing out loud, swooning from the heat, and wanting to be all sorts of tied up.
You’d be wrong.
By day, I spend my time advocating for scorned clients as they watch their happily ever after fall apart in front of them.
By night, I hide from the messy world, avoiding love at all costs.
When my best friend all but drags me to the hottest queer bar in New York City to celebrate my birthday on my least favorite night of the year, I expect to have a few drinks and maybe a few laughs before returning home alone.
But when I lock eyes with the beautiful burlesque dancer on stage, I quickly find the world as I know it tilting on its axis while all my rules of staying away from love come crumbling down.
Knotty Valentine is a fast-paced, spicy, shibari themed sapphic novella that will have you laughing out loud, swooning from the heat, and wanting to be all sorts of tied up.
74 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 14, 2023
41 people are currently reading
240 people want to read
About the author
Amity Malcom
14 books204 followersAmity Malcom writes books about people, sex, and people having sex. Her books are full of humor and heat that she only wishes she possessed in real life the way her characters do on page.
When she isn’t procrastinating on her next manuscript by devouring romance books at an unhealthy pace, you can find her exploring Washington DC alongside her wife, planning extravagant vacations she’ll never be able to afford, and trying with haste to pet every animal on the planet.
Only four awards away from winning an EGOT, Amity is proud to be a champion of underrepresented relationships and loves to celebrate queer joy in all its various forms.
When she isn’t procrastinating on her next manuscript by devouring romance books at an unhealthy pace, you can find her exploring Washington DC alongside her wife, planning extravagant vacations she’ll never be able to afford, and trying with haste to pet every animal on the planet.
Only four awards away from winning an EGOT, Amity is proud to be a champion of underrepresented relationships and loves to celebrate queer joy in all its various forms.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
February 18, 2023
A sexy FF Valentine’s Day rom com. Looooved.
February 17, 2025
Happy valentines Day!!!!!
April 27, 2025
Valentine Love and Candi Heart = meant to be💘 I loved this novella, it had sugar and spice (LOTS of spice ❤️🔥) and left me wanting more!!
February 3, 2025
I don't have a kaomoji that properly looks like it's laughing, but believe me, I AM laughing when I say: DO NOT BELIEVE THE REVIEWS (˶˃⤙˂˶)
They will claim this story is just smut, but I would've WELCOMED just smut! Instead, the 11-chaptered novella comes off as nothing but a pamphlet for shibari. The smut is about two chapters, if that, and everything else was just very dry or clichéd dialogue, jokes that never landed, and the names were just... sooo goofy that I couldn't take anybody seriously (·•᷄ࡇ•᷅ ) I could've respected the characters if they'd CHOSEN their names, but they hadn't, and instead of going with nicknames or something since they obviously hated their given names so much, they just complained about their names like acknowledging it would make it any less silly. It didn't work, by the way.
Yes, I know this was a novella, but I've read plenty of novellas before that focused on the comedy or the romance or the smut, something to keep me engaged, and this was just so much nothing, 70 pages with maybe 15 pages at most of actual smut, and that would've been fine if the rest of it was at least... I don't know, funny or swoony or something, but the closest I got to comedy was when one character told the other that she couldn't see her from where she'd been performing on stage, but somehow knew she would be a knockout. And it was supposed to be romantic. But it just made me laugh. Like, had she telepathically known the woman would be pretty? Also, how were they locking eyes and smiling at each other if one of them couldn't even properly see the other??
Look, I know to expect insta-love and not much depth from novellas, but I'm sorry, I've read too many of them that DID have the charm of a whole novel, and this one falls so flat in comparison. Even on its own, I was sooo bored, waiting for them to finish their PowerPoint presentations and get on with the actual story. Meh. Oh well, it was a quick read, and I least I satiated my curiosity on it. Two stars for Candi's consideration and aftercare, she seemed genuinely nice.
They will claim this story is just smut, but I would've WELCOMED just smut! Instead, the 11-chaptered novella comes off as nothing but a pamphlet for shibari. The smut is about two chapters, if that, and everything else was just very dry or clichéd dialogue, jokes that never landed, and the names were just... sooo goofy that I couldn't take anybody seriously (·•᷄ࡇ•᷅ ) I could've respected the characters if they'd CHOSEN their names, but they hadn't, and instead of going with nicknames or something since they obviously hated their given names so much, they just complained about their names like acknowledging it would make it any less silly. It didn't work, by the way.
Yes, I know this was a novella, but I've read plenty of novellas before that focused on the comedy or the romance or the smut, something to keep me engaged, and this was just so much nothing, 70 pages with maybe 15 pages at most of actual smut, and that would've been fine if the rest of it was at least... I don't know, funny or swoony or something, but the closest I got to comedy was when one character told the other that she couldn't see her from where she'd been performing on stage, but somehow knew she would be a knockout. And it was supposed to be romantic. But it just made me laugh. Like, had she telepathically known the woman would be pretty? Also, how were they locking eyes and smiling at each other if one of them couldn't even properly see the other??
Look, I know to expect insta-love and not much depth from novellas, but I'm sorry, I've read too many of them that DID have the charm of a whole novel, and this one falls so flat in comparison. Even on its own, I was sooo bored, waiting for them to finish their PowerPoint presentations and get on with the actual story. Meh. Oh well, it was a quick read, and I least I satiated my curiosity on it. Two stars for Candi's consideration and aftercare, she seemed genuinely nice.
February 18, 2023
Sweet and spicy FF novella. Some shibari, some good spice, some nice feels. A few typos and editing errors make me take a star away, but besides that this was a very enjoyable short read, absolutely perfect for Valentines.
July 21, 2023
This novella is spicy, funny and sexy AF, i loved the exploration of Shibari in this novella, it makes you want to try it for yourself 😏 the book had me literally laughing out loud, I can't fault it.
The narration was brilliant and brought the book to life! It honestly sounds like Rachael was enjoying presenting it the whole way though.
I could t stop listening and with it only being an hour and 55 minutes long it's a nice short and spicy Audiobook that I totally recommend!
Story rating. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice rating. 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Narrating Rating. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
The narration was brilliant and brought the book to life! It honestly sounds like Rachael was enjoying presenting it the whole way though.
I could t stop listening and with it only being an hour and 55 minutes long it's a nice short and spicy Audiobook that I totally recommend!
Story rating. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice rating. 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Narrating Rating. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
March 24, 2024
Valentine has sworn off dating when her bestie sets her up with Candi, who is a rigger.
Super cute short. I wish Amity would write more ff!!!
Slow burn with rope play.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
POV: Solo 1st
Super cute short. I wish Amity would write more ff!!!
Slow burn with rope play.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
POV: Solo 1st
January 25, 2025
If you are looking for a quick read that has just enough spice to have you moaning while secretly wishing the two female characters get together cause the connection is just that intoxicating, then you have to read this book.
We meet Valentine Love, yes that is her for real legal name, who despite having the cutesy name AND being born on Valentine’s Day is not one for all the lovey dovey of it all. Maybe because in her day job as a divorce attorney she sees the worst in people and their relationships.
Thank god Valentine’s best friend convinces her to go out for her birthday this year. She meets Candi Heart. Yes, I know that’s her legal name too! Not only do they both have the very unique names in common, but they both share the same birthday too. They instantly hit off. Lust is triggered instantly.
I think the tipping point is when there is a certain Shibari demonstration done at the club. That follows one night of intense sexual activity. This gets hot!
4/5 ⭐️
🪢 FF Romance
🪢 Rope Play
🪢 Instant Lust to Like
We meet Valentine Love, yes that is her for real legal name, who despite having the cutesy name AND being born on Valentine’s Day is not one for all the lovey dovey of it all. Maybe because in her day job as a divorce attorney she sees the worst in people and their relationships.
Thank god Valentine’s best friend convinces her to go out for her birthday this year. She meets Candi Heart. Yes, I know that’s her legal name too! Not only do they both have the very unique names in common, but they both share the same birthday too. They instantly hit off. Lust is triggered instantly.
I think the tipping point is when there is a certain Shibari demonstration done at the club. That follows one night of intense sexual activity. This gets hot!
4/5 ⭐️
🪢 FF Romance
🪢 Rope Play
🪢 Instant Lust to Like
January 4, 2025
Okay, let's not mince words. This book is mostly smut, with a hint of insta-love. However, it also puts a lot of emphasis on consent, aftercare, and even self-love, so I have to give it 3 stars. I didn't come for the plot anyway! The sex scenes were spicy without too many overused phrases or words, and while I don't know a lot about rope play, it was entertaining to read about. Accuracy to be determined by those who do understand that kink.
There were some weird phrases, like the author was trying a little too hard to be poetic or use clever imagery. "Our remaining clothes fly off faster than a used tissue floating around a category five hurricane." Okay, first of all, I don't need that in my books. Second, that is weird. Third, a used tissue? Wouldn't an unused one make more sense...? And in a hurricane of any strength, nothing is 'floating around'. Have you ever seen a harsh storm??
There were some weird phrases, like the author was trying a little too hard to be poetic or use clever imagery. "Our remaining clothes fly off faster than a used tissue floating around a category five hurricane." Okay, first of all, I don't need that in my books. Second, that is weird. Third, a used tissue? Wouldn't an unused one make more sense...? And in a hurricane of any strength, nothing is 'floating around'. Have you ever seen a harsh storm??
February 13, 2024
A divorce attorney who doesn’t believe in love? A burlesque performance meet-cute? Shibari demonstrations? Sign me up 💘
📖 Single POV, first person, present tense
✨ Synopsis:
New York City divorce attorney Valentine Love, whose birthday falls on Valentine’s Day, is not a fan of love, roses, or Cupid. But her perspective changes when her best friend drags her out to one of the hottest clubs. Featuring burlesque performers and shibari demonstrations, a gorgeous dancer catches Valentine’s eye.
✨ Review:
This one is short and sweet but packs a punch. Some moments had me laughing out loud while others had me fanning myself. The chemistry between the two female leads is off the charts. The burlesque scene is fantastic.
I’m a sucker for the whole “I’m never going to fall in love, I don’t believe in love” trope that immediately gets tossed out the window when the protagonist meets their person. You can’t help but cheer for characters named Valentine Love and Candi Heart—it’s a match that’s meant to be.
My favorite thing about this pairing is the light D/s vibes. The way Candi takes charge and goes after what she wants is on point. I love their banter and their open communication (and the bits with the kitty are adorable and hilarious). The shibari scenes are 🔥🔥🔥
Overall Rating: 🥭🥭🥭🥭.5
Spice Rating: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
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📖 Single POV, first person, present tense
✨ Synopsis:
New York City divorce attorney Valentine Love, whose birthday falls on Valentine’s Day, is not a fan of love, roses, or Cupid. But her perspective changes when her best friend drags her out to one of the hottest clubs. Featuring burlesque performers and shibari demonstrations, a gorgeous dancer catches Valentine’s eye.
✨ Review:
This one is short and sweet but packs a punch. Some moments had me laughing out loud while others had me fanning myself. The chemistry between the two female leads is off the charts. The burlesque scene is fantastic.
I’m a sucker for the whole “I’m never going to fall in love, I don’t believe in love” trope that immediately gets tossed out the window when the protagonist meets their person. You can’t help but cheer for characters named Valentine Love and Candi Heart—it’s a match that’s meant to be.
My favorite thing about this pairing is the light D/s vibes. The way Candi takes charge and goes after what she wants is on point. I love their banter and their open communication (and the bits with the kitty are adorable and hilarious). The shibari scenes are 🔥🔥🔥
Overall Rating: 🥭🥭🥭🥭.5
Spice Rating: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
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January 21, 2025
Sapphic books always hit harder for me . I love them . God I love seeing women fall in love with other women & be truly appreciated and love. This was a novella but god I loved it . I definitely need to read more books by amity Malcolm fr . I absolutely loved these two. I loved that fact they were called amity and Candi and both wERE BORN ON FEBRUARY 14th. Yes this is a valentines book but I mean we are closer to Valentine’s Day than Christmas so like I thought why not . Plus I needed a sapphic novella to read on my way home from work . I really enjoyed this . It also had one of my fave things to see in romance books ( shibari ) I love shibari in books .
October 1, 2023
Knotty Valentine is short and sweet with delicious insta lust and fabulous spice. I was captivated listening to reluctant Valentine give up control to the beautiful and compelling Candy. Every one of their interactions had me tied to their story. I want more of these two. I plan to look for more books by this author, Amity Malcom. The characters are brought to life wonderfully by the audio book narrator Rachael Windsor. I definitely recommend this book!
February 13, 2024
Sweet, sexy story
Great, well written story about a cynical woman finding her love of a lifetime on Valentine’s Day, which happens to be her birthday. She never like celebrating before, but her best friend convinces her to go to a bar that’s having an Anti-Valentine’s Day party. There she realizes her friend set her up to meet someone she’d hit it off with. Rope play with a definite HEA. I definitely recommend!
Great, well written story about a cynical woman finding her love of a lifetime on Valentine’s Day, which happens to be her birthday. She never like celebrating before, but her best friend convinces her to go to a bar that’s having an Anti-Valentine’s Day party. There she realizes her friend set her up to meet someone she’d hit it off with. Rope play with a definite HEA. I definitely recommend!
June 2, 2024
Knotty Valentine
Hilarious + heartwarming + spicy 💕 The perfect quick read if you love any of the below tropes 👇🏻👇🏻
Read if you love:
▪️Insta lust
▪️Sapphic
▪️Valentine's Day
▪️Spicy
▪️Fast Paced
Genre/type: Romance Novella
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐⭐
Spice: 🌶️🌶️.5
Series or standalone: Novella
Tropes or themes: Insta Lust, Holiday, Sapphic, Fast Paced, Valentine's Day, Cozy, Spicy, Shibari
Hilarious + heartwarming + spicy 💕 The perfect quick read if you love any of the below tropes 👇🏻👇🏻
Read if you love:
▪️Insta lust
▪️Sapphic
▪️Valentine's Day
▪️Spicy
▪️Fast Paced
Genre/type: Romance Novella
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐⭐
Spice: 🌶️🌶️.5
Series or standalone: Novella
Tropes or themes: Insta Lust, Holiday, Sapphic, Fast Paced, Valentine's Day, Cozy, Spicy, Shibari
June 28, 2024
Wow. I'm a total melted puddle after reading this.
It's surprisingly adorable, warm, and inviting. The chemistry is lush and sparkly. And also quirky, in an endearing way.
The top etiquette is good. The rope etiquette is good.
It ticked so many of my boxes I'm speechless, really. I got so much more from this than I anticipated, and my main complaint is being sad when it ended and there was no more to read.
It's surprisingly adorable, warm, and inviting. The chemistry is lush and sparkly. And also quirky, in an endearing way.
The top etiquette is good. The rope etiquette is good.
It ticked so many of my boxes I'm speechless, really. I got so much more from this than I anticipated, and my main complaint is being sad when it ended and there was no more to read.
February 19, 2025
4.5/5. This was a fun, short read! I love Valentine and Candi. It was short, obviously, but a lot happened, which I liked. The shibari aspect was fun, too. I thought the characters were well developed for a novella and overall I had a lot of fun with it.
Notes: 2/5 spice levels, novella, valentine's day, shibari
Notes: 2/5 spice levels, novella, valentine's day, shibari
January 25, 2023
One of the best WW stories I’ve ever read. The sex is hot, the women are beautiful, the story is super cute and I could totally see myself as Valentine (and now I know I might be into Shibari 😳)
A great quick read that’s worth a few hours of your time.
A great quick read that’s worth a few hours of your time.
April 2, 2023
Are you looking for a couple that can laugh together? Look no further.
I love how you can tell that Valentine and Candi are clearly into each other and picking up what the other person was giving off. It's charming.
I love how you can tell that Valentine and Candi are clearly into each other and picking up what the other person was giving off. It's charming.
September 30, 2023
4 stars. This was so entertaining. Great characters, hot sex scenes, and it was humorous. Just a really light and fun read. I liked the writing and I will definitely be checking out more by this author.
January 2, 2024
fascinating!
Amity Malcom has taken me on a journey to a place I never knew existed. This short story is well written with interesting subject material and lovely characters. The sexual content is well presented. I throughly enjoyed it.
Amity Malcom has taken me on a journey to a place I never knew existed. This short story is well written with interesting subject material and lovely characters. The sexual content is well presented. I throughly enjoyed it.
March 27, 2024
I rate this 2.5 stars it was a very quick read I enjoyed the characters and I liked them together do wish there was a bit more though felt it didn’t have enough details but it’s alright still enjoyed it glad I picked it up I knew it’d be a fast read and it definitely was
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 14, 2023
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 / 🌶️🌶️🌶️
This Valentine themed short read is sweet and ✨spicy✨. This was my first FF and I loved it! Valentine and Candi are the perfect match!
This Valentine themed short read is sweet and ✨spicy✨. This was my first FF and I loved it! Valentine and Candi are the perfect match!
Read
March 6, 2023Pretty much just smut 😂😅
April 13, 2023
A fun, cute and spicy story! I like how the slight kink is balanced by giggles and humor. A short, sweet story that leaves you feeling good.
August 17, 2023
A quick, fun read! The audiobook was really good too.
September 7, 2023
Adorable
This is an adorable story between Valentine and Candi and it also has one of the best explanations of kink and shibari. Very well done!
This is an adorable story between Valentine and Candi and it also has one of the best explanations of kink and shibari. Very well done!
September 9, 2023
3⭐️
this was hot and delivered what it needed to.
⚠️: bondage
this was hot and delivered what it needed to.
⚠️: bondage
September 13, 2023
Short and sweet story with plenty of spice
January 16, 2024
Nice spicy novella
February 16, 2024
Sweet!
This is a very sweet and steamy holiday story. It makes me want to break out the ropes and learn some new knots!
This is a very sweet and steamy holiday story. It makes me want to break out the ropes and learn some new knots!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews