Let’s talk about Mia first—because wow, she’s a revelation. As a camgirl who owns her sexuality without shame, she’s the kind of character I didn’t know I needed. Her confidence isn’t just sexy; it’s empowering. The scene where she performs at the club? I had to fan myself. Mia isn’t just bold; she’s layered—vulnerable yet sassy, unsure in new territory but unapologetically herself. When she says, ‘I’m really more of a comfortable-where-I-am kind of girl,’ I felt that in my soul.

Then there’s Garrett. Sweet, tortured Garrett. His struggle with mental health is portrayed with such raw honesty—it’s rare to see male characters grapple with this so openly. His line, ‘Because I don’t want to die. I just don’t want to live like this anymore,’ hit me like a truck. Watching him slowly connect with Mia, building her up even when he’s denying his own feelings? *Chef’s kiss*. He’s flawed, real, and utterly irresistible.

The epilogue? Perfection. A two-year time jump that doesn’t magically erase Garrett’s struggles but shows them working through it together—therapy, bad days, and all. This isn’t a fairytale where love fixes everything; it’s messy, real partnership. And the spice? Let’s just say I had to put the book down mid-chapter to *process* (and maybe re-read certain scenes… repeatedly).

Yes, the step-sibling dynamic is taboo (non-blood-related, thankfully), but the chemistry is nuclear-level intense. The slow burn had me squirming—especially when Garrett drops lines like, ‘As long as I'm down here, you won't stop me.’ SIR.

Minor gripes: The constant reminders about their step-status got old fast, and Garrett's mental health backstory felt slightly rushed. But honestly? I devoured this in one sitting and immediately reread it. Sara Cate has ruined me for other romances—this book is *that* addictive.

If you love dark(ish), smutty romances with emotional depth and characters who feel achingly real? Run, don't walk.