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Ctrl+Alt Submit
When dreams comes true, they don't always look like you expect
Aaryn
I was living every nerd’s wildest dream — hot tech startup, hot girlfriend — until I walked in on her bent over my business partner's desk.
Back home nursing my bruised ego, my old best friend Errol gives me a shoulder to cry on and a place to stay. But the unfamiliar gleam in his warm brown eyes makes me think he’s got more than just rekindling our friendship in mind.
I was never into guys — not until a surprising, scorching encounter gives me a taste of the sultry submissiveness beneath Errol’s stoicism. When he challenges me to a high-stakes game, the intimate truths we discover about each other make me realize the bond we share goes deeper than just lust or friendship.
Can I be both the friend Errol needs and the partner he deserves?
Errol
When the best friend I haven’t seen since we were teenagers walks into my dive bar, I’m thrilled. But before long, I’m struggling to hide my feelings as I face a painful reality: The geeky goofball with the sunny smile I fell for years ago is now way, way out of my league.
Even after the lines between us start to blur, I know it's impossible. For starters, Ran is straight. And he’s so sweet and protective of me, he’d be horrified if he knew how badly I crave punishment and degradation.
But when one wild night reveals a dark ruthlessness under his poised professionalism, I risk our friendship in the hope that Ran could see me as something more.
Will my gamble pay off, or will it end up costing me everything?
About Ctrl+Alt Submit
Ctrl+Alt Submit is a high-heat, friends-to-lovers standalone MM romance about a loudmouth and a loner who learn a lot about each other — and themselves — when they reunite after ten years. You can expect a bi-awakening, a deep dive into kink, some hurt/comfort and a lot of lace.
This book is appropriate for ages 18+. It contains material some readers might find objectionable, including consensual power exchange dynamics. More detail is available in the book's content information section, which can be viewed in the Look Inside sample.
Aaryn
I was living every nerd’s wildest dream — hot tech startup, hot girlfriend — until I walked in on her bent over my business partner's desk.
Back home nursing my bruised ego, my old best friend Errol gives me a shoulder to cry on and a place to stay. But the unfamiliar gleam in his warm brown eyes makes me think he’s got more than just rekindling our friendship in mind.
I was never into guys — not until a surprising, scorching encounter gives me a taste of the sultry submissiveness beneath Errol’s stoicism. When he challenges me to a high-stakes game, the intimate truths we discover about each other make me realize the bond we share goes deeper than just lust or friendship.
Can I be both the friend Errol needs and the partner he deserves?
Errol
When the best friend I haven’t seen since we were teenagers walks into my dive bar, I’m thrilled. But before long, I’m struggling to hide my feelings as I face a painful reality: The geeky goofball with the sunny smile I fell for years ago is now way, way out of my league.
Even after the lines between us start to blur, I know it's impossible. For starters, Ran is straight. And he’s so sweet and protective of me, he’d be horrified if he knew how badly I crave punishment and degradation.
But when one wild night reveals a dark ruthlessness under his poised professionalism, I risk our friendship in the hope that Ran could see me as something more.
Will my gamble pay off, or will it end up costing me everything?
About Ctrl+Alt Submit
Ctrl+Alt Submit is a high-heat, friends-to-lovers standalone MM romance about a loudmouth and a loner who learn a lot about each other — and themselves — when they reunite after ten years. You can expect a bi-awakening, a deep dive into kink, some hurt/comfort and a lot of lace.
This book is appropriate for ages 18+. It contains material some readers might find objectionable, including consensual power exchange dynamics. More detail is available in the book's content information section, which can be viewed in the Look Inside sample.
317 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 1, 2025
34 people are currently reading
94 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
July 22, 2025
This book fits 17 prompts on my kink reading challenge AND it has a bunch more kinks not listed in my challenge lol
It was a fast and easy read, and I liked the characters and how sweet they were with each other while getting really filthy in the bedroom.
Ctrl + Alt Submit was /a lot/ though! It had a bunch of things I generally like and find hot and while it worked in some scenes, everything was dialed way up and just went harder than I would've preferred. Plus, there were some kinks not for me.
I also didn't care for how 'fat' was used mainly negatively, especially since the character wasn't even fat though he used to be as a kid.
But hey, surprise fisting is apparently something I'm (sadly?) getting used to so... Not sure that's good or bad lol
It was a fast and easy read, and I liked the characters and how sweet they were with each other while getting really filthy in the bedroom.
Ctrl + Alt Submit was /a lot/ though! It had a bunch of things I generally like and find hot and while it worked in some scenes, everything was dialed way up and just went harder than I would've preferred. Plus, there were some kinks not for me.
I also didn't care for how 'fat' was used mainly negatively, especially since the character wasn't even fat though he used to be as a kid.
But hey, surprise fisting is apparently something I'm (sadly?) getting used to so... Not sure that's good or bad lol
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 16, 2025
Holy hell, and all that is holy 🥵 this one, i think, may literally have it all. And im not complaining. Its fast-paced has a nice background story, and the dirty talk in this one is off the charts panty dripping hot. Do not read this one in public.You have been warned
never-finished
July 6, 2025DNF @ 61pgs
Honestly this is a bit of a rant and just personal pet peeves I feel, so put a double spoiler mainly as reminder for myself 😂
Honestly this is a bit of a rant and just personal pet peeves I feel, so put a double spoiler mainly as reminder for myself 😂
June 17, 2025
That’s how you write a friends to lovers bi-awakening kink-awakening romance. 😮💨
Aaryn and Errol are bullied dork teenage best friends growing up, before losing contact after going to college and reconnecting at 29. Errol, who barely spoke growing up, has turned into a semi-confident bartender. Ran is now a millionaire app developer who’s impulsively moved back home after catching his girlfriend cheating on him. Tan gratefully accepts a chance to move into Errol’s spare bedroom and then things start to bloom.
I thought Ran’s bi-awakening was perfect. He realises that Errol is someone he’s desperately attracted to and just goes with it. The spice? Off the charts. There’s a menu of kink that you could pick from and they try it. But above all of that, is Ran’s desire to spoil Errol with the love and care (and degraded submission) he deserves. Everything Errol likes and wants to try turns him on, and he falls into the role of dominant so effortlessly.
This was great. I wish there was a few more scenes about their romance rather than smut, but at the same time, the smut is so deeply rooted in communication and care that its romance scenes all on their own. An excellent book especially after how freaking incredible Jack & Bunny’s duet was.
Thank you Em Jae Black for the ARC. This review is honest and voluntary.
Aaryn and Errol are bullied dork teenage best friends growing up, before losing contact after going to college and reconnecting at 29. Errol, who barely spoke growing up, has turned into a semi-confident bartender. Ran is now a millionaire app developer who’s impulsively moved back home after catching his girlfriend cheating on him. Tan gratefully accepts a chance to move into Errol’s spare bedroom and then things start to bloom.
I thought Ran’s bi-awakening was perfect. He realises that Errol is someone he’s desperately attracted to and just goes with it. The spice? Off the charts. There’s a menu of kink that you could pick from and they try it. But above all of that, is Ran’s desire to spoil Errol with the love and care (and degraded submission) he deserves. Everything Errol likes and wants to try turns him on, and he falls into the role of dominant so effortlessly.
This was great. I wish there was a few more scenes about their romance rather than smut, but at the same time, the smut is so deeply rooted in communication and care that its romance scenes all on their own. An excellent book especially after how freaking incredible Jack & Bunny’s duet was.
Thank you Em Jae Black for the ARC. This review is honest and voluntary.
September 2, 2025
Holy hell 🥵🔥 this book is filthy! It has it all- plenty of spicey spice, good character development and a good back story. It moves quickly and if that isn’t your style then you may not like this, but I love it! The sooner the better in my eyes 😉
Aaryn and Errol were best friends in high school- two nerds who got picked on by bullies and learnt to protect themselves. When Aaryn grows up and moves away, in turn becoming a successful app developer, Errol follows his life closely. When I’ve takes Aaryn on a different path, he returns home and sees Errol again. The tension between these two is there from the start and their relationship blossoms quickly- picking up where they left off in high school.
This book gives us a delicious bi-awakening for Aaryn and a quick but thorough introduction into the Kink world. To say these two are filthy is an understatement. But they are perfect for each other and I liked how the story progressed! Another great read from Em Jae!
Aaryn and Errol were best friends in high school- two nerds who got picked on by bullies and learnt to protect themselves. When Aaryn grows up and moves away, in turn becoming a successful app developer, Errol follows his life closely. When I’ve takes Aaryn on a different path, he returns home and sees Errol again. The tension between these two is there from the start and their relationship blossoms quickly- picking up where they left off in high school.
This book gives us a delicious bi-awakening for Aaryn and a quick but thorough introduction into the Kink world. To say these two are filthy is an understatement. But they are perfect for each other and I liked how the story progressed! Another great read from Em Jae!
June 14, 2025
Aaryn and Errol are just the best. Loved these two together, Aaryn unlocking his dominance side and learning how to be the best he can for his Errol.
These two were best friends through school, but Aaryn left their small town to go to college and they lost touch after a while. But after he finds his girlfriend cheating on him with a business partner, he sells his big company and heads back to town - running into Errol his first day back, the two reconnecting immediately.
When Errol offers him a room at his house, the chemistry starts, but Errol is sure it’s just his wishful thinking - since he has been in love with Aaryn for 10+ years. He decides to throw caution to the wind and kisses him. This begins the fabulous, and hot as heck, journey of these two!
This story is hot as heck, plenty of vulnerable moments and a lovely story - and tons of k|nky goodness!
“𝒴ℴ𝓊’𝓇ℯ 𝓂𝒾𝓃ℯ,” 𝒽ℯ 𝓈𝒶𝓎𝓈 𝓈𝒶𝓊𝒸𝒾𝓁𝓎．
“𝒲𝒽𝒶𝓉?” ℐ 𝒻𝓇ℴ𝓌𝓃, 𝓌𝒽𝒾𝒸𝒽 𝓂𝒶𝓀ℯ𝓈 𝒽𝒾𝓂 𝓈𝓉𝒶𝓇𝓉 𝓁𝒶𝓊𝑔𝒽𝒾𝓃𝑔．
“ℐ 𝓁𝒾𝒸𝓀ℯ𝒹 𝓎ℴ𝓊. 𝒮ℴ 𝓎ℴ𝓊’𝓇ℯ 𝓂𝒾𝓃ℯ.”
These two were best friends through school, but Aaryn left their small town to go to college and they lost touch after a while. But after he finds his girlfriend cheating on him with a business partner, he sells his big company and heads back to town - running into Errol his first day back, the two reconnecting immediately.
When Errol offers him a room at his house, the chemistry starts, but Errol is sure it’s just his wishful thinking - since he has been in love with Aaryn for 10+ years. He decides to throw caution to the wind and kisses him. This begins the fabulous, and hot as heck, journey of these two!
This story is hot as heck, plenty of vulnerable moments and a lovely story - and tons of k|nky goodness!
“𝒴ℴ𝓊’𝓇ℯ 𝓂𝒾𝓃ℯ,” 𝒽ℯ 𝓈𝒶𝓎𝓈 𝓈𝒶𝓊𝒸𝒾𝓁𝓎．
“𝒲𝒽𝒶𝓉?” ℐ 𝒻𝓇ℴ𝓌𝓃, 𝓌𝒽𝒾𝒸𝒽 𝓂𝒶𝓀ℯ𝓈 𝒽𝒾𝓂 𝓈𝓉𝒶𝓇𝓉 𝓁𝒶𝓊𝑔𝒽𝒾𝓃𝑔．
“ℐ 𝓁𝒾𝒸𝓀ℯ𝒹 𝓎ℴ𝓊. 𝒮ℴ 𝓎ℴ𝓊’𝓇ℯ 𝓂𝒾𝓃ℯ.”
June 20, 2025
wow this book is spiccccyyyyyy 🔥 it's got everything, friends to lovers, bi-awakening, kink awakening and all the spice.
Errol it just an absolute sweetheart.
if you want little plot and lots of heat then this is the book to read
Thank you Em Jae Black for the ARC
this is a completely honest review
Errol it just an absolute sweetheart.
if you want little plot and lots of heat then this is the book to read
Thank you Em Jae Black for the ARC
this is a completely honest review
June 17, 2025
ARC BOOK REVIEW
CTRL + ALT SUBMIT by Em Jae Black
Stars: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️♾️
Spice:🌶🌶🌶🌶
Dark: 🖤🖤
Recommend: 🤌🏽🤌🏽🤌🏽🤌🏽🤌🏽♾️
Play with my heartstrings
This book was everything and more. My emotions were whirling around and I could feel every emotion the characters did. I laughed, cried, and laughed some more. I even got mad a few times, but don't worry I didn't throw my phone. 😉
Aaryn was a perfect and sweet man, but what I loved most was that he was the perfect dominant and didn't even know. He was everything and more. He was just what Errol needed. I love how he was supported and loved when he finally came out. The spice between him and Errol was off the charts and the kinks were wow..... 🥵🥵🥵
Errol... that sweet sweet man. He was the strongest and girliest man and you know what.. he was just perfect. I loved every single thing about him except his insecurities. He really needed to work on those emotions. Even though I understand where they are rooted from, it was definitely something he needed to work on. I am glad that Aaryn was there to help him through it.
They were the perfect couple and I can't get enough of them. This is definitely a reread for me. Just perfect. I recommend reading this book if you love a great ßЧm romance with kinks and lots of triggers.
Definitely a top read this year. 🖤🖤🖤
CTRL + ALT SUBMIT by Em Jae Black
Stars: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️♾️
Spice:🌶🌶🌶🌶
Dark: 🖤🖤
Recommend: 🤌🏽🤌🏽🤌🏽🤌🏽🤌🏽♾️
Play with my heartstrings
This book was everything and more. My emotions were whirling around and I could feel every emotion the characters did. I laughed, cried, and laughed some more. I even got mad a few times, but don't worry I didn't throw my phone. 😉
Aaryn was a perfect and sweet man, but what I loved most was that he was the perfect dominant and didn't even know. He was everything and more. He was just what Errol needed. I love how he was supported and loved when he finally came out. The spice between him and Errol was off the charts and the kinks were wow..... 🥵🥵🥵
Errol... that sweet sweet man. He was the strongest and girliest man and you know what.. he was just perfect. I loved every single thing about him except his insecurities. He really needed to work on those emotions. Even though I understand where they are rooted from, it was definitely something he needed to work on. I am glad that Aaryn was there to help him through it.
They were the perfect couple and I can't get enough of them. This is definitely a reread for me. Just perfect. I recommend reading this book if you love a great ßЧm romance with kinks and lots of triggers.
Definitely a top read this year. 🖤🖤🖤
July 1, 2025
I loved the characters and the plot and the bedroom scenes.
Errol: A quiet guy who got a bad, unsupported and downright neglected start in life, while his parents used all their resources to deal with the health issues of a severely disabled sibling and totally dismissed his needs. He also has a bit of a weight issue, i.e. he has a bit of a belly of which he is very self-conscious about and thinks badly of himself and that he doesn't deserve good things. (There are no food related scenes that might trigger someone with an eating disorder.)
Aaryn: He was a nerdy kid and is still a bit of a nerd. Although he was very protective of Errol during their school years and was the only one Errol even spoke to, after he went to college he lost contact with Errol.
After Aaryn's girlfriend cheats on him he sells his business and drives back to his hometown even though is parents no longer live there and, meeting Errol moves into his house as a "roommate" for the time being.
Errol, who has been secretly in love with Aaryn since their youth is ecstatic and over time and the two of them sharing about their lives he tells Aaryn about his liking of the kink world.
Aaryn moves from being plain curious to experimenting with kink with Errol. Things heat up fairly quickly after that.
Toss in a few business issues, a sick parent, and Errol's workplace having financial issues and a whole lot of kinky scenes that get hotter the farther we get into the book, and we have a book you will need over gloves to read because it is too hot.
Definitively not for those who prefer closed door books. In this book you get everything. Feminization, lingerie, humiliation, degradation, spitting, toys, pet play, watersports, the lot.
All the scenes have feeling and thoughts so not just erotica, but the full experience. Dual point of view - which I always prefer.
I loved how thoughtful Aaryn is in his approach to the kink with Errol and how much effort he puts into the scenes. Also, that when he gets things wrong that he can apologize and work to make things better. How he finds out how much he loves to dominate Errol and how much he loves it that Errol gets off on being submissive. They have a wonderful journey of discovery together.
Definite HEA in the end makes it even better. These two guys are so lovable and hot at the same time. I really enjoyed this book.
Errol: A quiet guy who got a bad, unsupported and downright neglected start in life, while his parents used all their resources to deal with the health issues of a severely disabled sibling and totally dismissed his needs. He also has a bit of a weight issue, i.e. he has a bit of a belly of which he is very self-conscious about and thinks badly of himself and that he doesn't deserve good things. (There are no food related scenes that might trigger someone with an eating disorder.)
Aaryn: He was a nerdy kid and is still a bit of a nerd. Although he was very protective of Errol during their school years and was the only one Errol even spoke to, after he went to college he lost contact with Errol.
After Aaryn's girlfriend cheats on him he sells his business and drives back to his hometown even though is parents no longer live there and, meeting Errol moves into his house as a "roommate" for the time being.
Errol, who has been secretly in love with Aaryn since their youth is ecstatic and over time and the two of them sharing about their lives he tells Aaryn about his liking of the kink world.
Aaryn moves from being plain curious to experimenting with kink with Errol. Things heat up fairly quickly after that.
Toss in a few business issues, a sick parent, and Errol's workplace having financial issues and a whole lot of kinky scenes that get hotter the farther we get into the book, and we have a book you will need over gloves to read because it is too hot.
Definitively not for those who prefer closed door books. In this book you get everything. Feminization, lingerie, humiliation, degradation, spitting, toys, pet play, watersports, the lot.
All the scenes have feeling and thoughts so not just erotica, but the full experience. Dual point of view - which I always prefer.
I loved how thoughtful Aaryn is in his approach to the kink with Errol and how much effort he puts into the scenes. Also, that when he gets things wrong that he can apologize and work to make things better. How he finds out how much he loves to dominate Errol and how much he loves it that Errol gets off on being submissive. They have a wonderful journey of discovery together.
Definite HEA in the end makes it even better. These two guys are so lovable and hot at the same time. I really enjoyed this book.
July 2, 2025
If you have read Em Jae’s previous series Dark Trails, you will get the same desperate, filthy k!nky s*x but in a lighter packaging. What I mean with this is the book is set in a “healthier” environment, with two best friends that lost contact after high school and meet again about 10 years later.
Errol has always loved his best friend Aaryn but when they meet again he is keeping a secret from Aaryn. And the secret is his submissive side and what he likes when it comes to s*x. But to be honest the secret doesn't stay hidden for long. I wouldn't have minded a bit more build up before the first big scene (IYKYK). It felt like we went from 0 to 100 in 0,5 seconds flat and that we lost a bit of the build up/banter/edging you get with exploring this scenario they are in. But I have to say we get plenty of edging later on.
When Aaryn has a hard time letting go, Errol gently nudges Aaryn to try out a D/s scene with him. When they realise Aaryn is a natural in his Dom role, this starts a k!nky journey between two friends, that has its ups and downs but because they know each other so well they manage to get through it quite unscathed. There is an overall storyline that makes us get to know the two main characters and what their motivations are.
Ctrl+Alt Submit is heavy in its exploration of k!nk and power dynamics, so if this is not something you have read before you should tread with caution. Because not everything is for everyone and that is okay. If you want to read a more detailed TW you should access the authors social media platforms.
Errol has always loved his best friend Aaryn but when they meet again he is keeping a secret from Aaryn. And the secret is his submissive side and what he likes when it comes to s*x. But to be honest the secret doesn't stay hidden for long. I wouldn't have minded a bit more build up before the first big scene (IYKYK). It felt like we went from 0 to 100 in 0,5 seconds flat and that we lost a bit of the build up/banter/edging you get with exploring this scenario they are in. But I have to say we get plenty of edging later on.
When Aaryn has a hard time letting go, Errol gently nudges Aaryn to try out a D/s scene with him. When they realise Aaryn is a natural in his Dom role, this starts a k!nky journey between two friends, that has its ups and downs but because they know each other so well they manage to get through it quite unscathed. There is an overall storyline that makes us get to know the two main characters and what their motivations are.
Ctrl+Alt Submit is heavy in its exploration of k!nk and power dynamics, so if this is not something you have read before you should tread with caution. Because not everything is for everyone and that is okay. If you want to read a more detailed TW you should access the authors social media platforms.
July 3, 2025
🔥💋 CTRL + ALT Submit by Em Jae Black 💋🔥
One of the hottest books I’ve read in a LONG TIME! Em Jae Black writes Shmink so Fing well. If you are my fellow dirty birds bb and love a one handed read… trust me and buy this book IMMEDIATELY 🥵🥵🥵!
Also, there is enough, super sweet, pining, and heart comfort plot to make you love the characters, but not too much that this book
Isn’t still an ABSOLUTE SHMINK FEST!!
🔥 MM Shminky Romance
💋 Best Friends, Nerds United, Pining!
♥️ D•m / bi Awakening
🔥 Roommates
💋 Hurt Comfort
♥️ Plus Size Mc
🔥 SUPER HIGH HEAT, HIGH SHMINK!!
🔥 tags:
Strict Top/ Bottom
Ds
Smaller less experienced D•m, bigger experienced s-b
Neediest s-bbiest bottom
ALL THE F3minization!!
Lingerie!!
Piercings 👅🍑🍒
Ni🍒le play
Role play- CNC
Impact play- slap, sp🍑nk
ALL THE DIRTY TALK
Praise & degradation
Degradation & humiliation
Objectification
Edg ng
O control
BEG
Body worship
C Cage!
Crawl
C-m Play!!
Marking
Cry tears
Spitting
F!st ng
WTR SPRTS
Hands free O , cage
Phone/ video 6
🍑 worship, stretch play
Minor pet, humiliation
Light b•nd•ge
Official Description: Ctrl+Alt Submit is a high-heat, friends-to-lovers standalone MM romance about a loudmouth and a loner who learn a lot about each other — and themselves — when they reunite after ten years. You can expect a bi-awakening, a deep dive into shmink, some hurt/comfort and a lot of lace.
Link: https://a.co/d/3opc61E
💋 @read.me.romance
One of the hottest books I’ve read in a LONG TIME! Em Jae Black writes Shmink so Fing well. If you are my fellow dirty birds bb and love a one handed read… trust me and buy this book IMMEDIATELY 🥵🥵🥵!
Also, there is enough, super sweet, pining, and heart comfort plot to make you love the characters, but not too much that this book
Isn’t still an ABSOLUTE SHMINK FEST!!
🔥 MM Shminky Romance
💋 Best Friends, Nerds United, Pining!
♥️ D•m / bi Awakening
🔥 Roommates
💋 Hurt Comfort
♥️ Plus Size Mc
🔥 SUPER HIGH HEAT, HIGH SHMINK!!
🔥 tags:
Strict Top/ Bottom
Ds
Smaller less experienced D•m, bigger experienced s-b
Neediest s-bbiest bottom
ALL THE F3minization!!
Lingerie!!
Piercings 👅🍑🍒
Ni🍒le play
Role play- CNC
Impact play- slap, sp🍑nk
ALL THE DIRTY TALK
Praise & degradation
Degradation & humiliation
Objectification
Edg ng
O control
BEG
Body worship
C Cage!
Crawl
C-m Play!!
Marking
Cry tears
Spitting
F!st ng
WTR SPRTS
Hands free O , cage
Phone/ video 6
🍑 worship, stretch play
Minor pet, humiliation
Light b•nd•ge
Official Description: Ctrl+Alt Submit is a high-heat, friends-to-lovers standalone MM romance about a loudmouth and a loner who learn a lot about each other — and themselves — when they reunite after ten years. You can expect a bi-awakening, a deep dive into shmink, some hurt/comfort and a lot of lace.
Link: https://a.co/d/3opc61E
💋 @read.me.romance
August 3, 2025
Ctrl Alt Submit by Em Jae Black is bi-awakening kink discovery at its absolute finest. If you like your friends-to-lovers stories with emotional vulnerability, spicy experimentation, and a side of heart-melting devotion, this one's going to wreck you (in the best way).
Aaryn and Errol were once the quiet, bullied besties in high school. Years later, they reconnect in their late twenties—Ran’s now a wealthy app developer recovering from a breakup, and Errol’s a soft-spoken bartender who’s harbored feelings for years. When Ran moves into Errol’s spare room, the tension hits hard and fast... and it delivers.
Ran’s bi-awakening is handled so well curious, confident, and completely captivated by everything Errol wants. Watching him slip effortlessly into the role of a dominant partner who lives to spoil his submissive? Whew. There’s dirty talk. There’s praise and degradation. There’s a kink checklist and they go through it. And yet, it never loses the softness or the care, it’s rooted in trust, communication, and so much mutual want.
Yes, it’s hot (like, do not read in public hot), but it’s also sweet and affirming and so damn satisfying. If you loved the Jack & Bunny duet, this one's right up your alley.
- Friends to lovers
- Bi & kink awakening
- Roommates
- Praise, degradation, ownership
- Soft dom x touch-starved sub
- Vulnerable smut that is the romance
Errol and Aaryn just work and their story is going to stay with me.
Aaryn and Errol were once the quiet, bullied besties in high school. Years later, they reconnect in their late twenties—Ran’s now a wealthy app developer recovering from a breakup, and Errol’s a soft-spoken bartender who’s harbored feelings for years. When Ran moves into Errol’s spare room, the tension hits hard and fast... and it delivers.
Ran’s bi-awakening is handled so well curious, confident, and completely captivated by everything Errol wants. Watching him slip effortlessly into the role of a dominant partner who lives to spoil his submissive? Whew. There’s dirty talk. There’s praise and degradation. There’s a kink checklist and they go through it. And yet, it never loses the softness or the care, it’s rooted in trust, communication, and so much mutual want.
Yes, it’s hot (like, do not read in public hot), but it’s also sweet and affirming and so damn satisfying. If you loved the Jack & Bunny duet, this one's right up your alley.
- Friends to lovers
- Bi & kink awakening
- Roommates
- Praise, degradation, ownership
- Soft dom x touch-starved sub
- Vulnerable smut that is the romance
Errol and Aaryn just work and their story is going to stay with me.
July 1, 2025
Aaryn returns to his home town after his girlfriend cheats on him, seeing his best friend from school Errol after 10 years apart, he tries to rekindle their friendship. Errol has always wanted more from Aaryn but after Aaryn left, Errol stayed and just existed.
This was a friends to lovers on steroids, when Errol offered Aaryn a place to stay, I knew something was on the cards but it went from 0-60 in a blink of an eye. Whilst Errol kept himself to himself, I loved that he wasn't scared to share his secret with Aaryn and as for Aaryn, what a great friend and the way he went with the flow. Mistakes were made but a rarity there was communication and I loved how Aaryn did all he could for Errol, learning everything he needed to know to give Errol everything he wanted . Those two together had some of the hottest kinkiest scenes I have read in a while.
Aaryn and Errol were good together, not just in the bedroom but in day to day life. Errol learning that he was worth it, he deserved the world and both having someone who meant the world to them.
This is the first book I have read from this author and but it will not be the last, I am off now to check their other books
This was a friends to lovers on steroids, when Errol offered Aaryn a place to stay, I knew something was on the cards but it went from 0-60 in a blink of an eye. Whilst Errol kept himself to himself, I loved that he wasn't scared to share his secret with Aaryn and as for Aaryn, what a great friend and the way he went with the flow. Mistakes were made but a rarity there was communication and I loved how Aaryn did all he could for Errol, learning everything he needed to know to give Errol everything he wanted . Those two together had some of the hottest kinkiest scenes I have read in a while.
Aaryn and Errol were good together, not just in the bedroom but in day to day life. Errol learning that he was worth it, he deserved the world and both having someone who meant the world to them.
This is the first book I have read from this author and but it will not be the last, I am off now to check their other books
July 10, 2025
Once again, Em Jae takes the characters in their books and makes you fall in love with kink and degradation. I love this writing and the normalizing of sex in any realm.
Aaryn and Errol were childhood friends, Aaryn often standing up for Errol and helping him when he was being bullied and left in bad situations by his parents.
Errol always had feelings for Aaryn, but knew they wouldn't be reciprocated. He never said anything and Aaryn went away, moving on with his life.
Coming back to your hometown is not always easy, and when you run into your old friend, things can be brought to light quickly.
Aaryn suddenly realizes that maybe his feelings for Errol were hidden. Errol has no problem helping Aaryn bring them out. The two men help one another be loved and appreciated the way they both deserve.
I really liked this story and the appreciation they show each other. I also loved how Errol looked to Aaryn to be the man he needed and Aaryn looked to Errol to be the man he needed, both thinking the other was that need.
It's beautifully done.
Story: 4/5 ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
Characters: 4/5 🫂 🫂 🫂 🫂
Spice: 4/5 🍆🍆🍆🍆
Kink: 5/5 🫦🫦🫦🫦🫦
Aaryn and Errol were childhood friends, Aaryn often standing up for Errol and helping him when he was being bullied and left in bad situations by his parents.
Errol always had feelings for Aaryn, but knew they wouldn't be reciprocated. He never said anything and Aaryn went away, moving on with his life.
Coming back to your hometown is not always easy, and when you run into your old friend, things can be brought to light quickly.
Aaryn suddenly realizes that maybe his feelings for Errol were hidden. Errol has no problem helping Aaryn bring them out. The two men help one another be loved and appreciated the way they both deserve.
I really liked this story and the appreciation they show each other. I also loved how Errol looked to Aaryn to be the man he needed and Aaryn looked to Errol to be the man he needed, both thinking the other was that need.
It's beautifully done.
Story: 4/5 ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
Characters: 4/5 🫂 🫂 🫂 🫂
Spice: 4/5 🍆🍆🍆🍆
Kink: 5/5 🫦🫦🫦🫦🫦
July 1, 2025
4⭐️ 4🌶️
Best Friends to Lovers
Lingerie
Bi-awakening
Piercings
Dom/ Sub
Pet Play
Bigger Sub/ Smaller Dom
You want spice, this book has it. You want kink, this book has it. You want plot, well this book does have it, but not as much compared to the spice!
Aaryn and Errol used to be friends in school until Aaryn went off to college and got a big-time job. Now Aaryn is back home after selling his company, he runs into Errol at the bar, and they connect again. Aaryn is also trying to get over a breakup and what better way than to get out your anger at your ex than role playing with your best friend. Bi-awakening, kink awakening and a very dirty mouthed new Dom.
This was such a fun read. I enjoyed the learning about new kinks scenes and how Aaryn always wanted to make Errol feel loved, cherished and safe. My only issue was when Errol would call Aaryn “Stud” in the bedroom. It would take me out of the moment. Just my opinion, but I didn’t like that nickname used in the bedroom/ kinky scenes.
Best Friends to Lovers
Lingerie
Bi-awakening
Piercings
Dom/ Sub
Pet Play
Bigger Sub/ Smaller Dom
You want spice, this book has it. You want kink, this book has it. You want plot, well this book does have it, but not as much compared to the spice!
Aaryn and Errol used to be friends in school until Aaryn went off to college and got a big-time job. Now Aaryn is back home after selling his company, he runs into Errol at the bar, and they connect again. Aaryn is also trying to get over a breakup and what better way than to get out your anger at your ex than role playing with your best friend. Bi-awakening, kink awakening and a very dirty mouthed new Dom.
This was such a fun read. I enjoyed the learning about new kinks scenes and how Aaryn always wanted to make Errol feel loved, cherished and safe. My only issue was when Errol would call Aaryn “Stud” in the bedroom. It would take me out of the moment. Just my opinion, but I didn’t like that nickname used in the bedroom/ kinky scenes.
July 20, 2025
This really was as hot as I expected an Em Jae Black book to be, but the writing and dialogue was just....oof.
Idky but the "stud" nickname read like a lesbian dyke x femme dynamic or something. And just something about the writing/character descriptions did not jive for me so I couldn't help but cringe a lot at the dialogue. The dirty talk and degradation were chef's kiss, albeit somewhat repetitive, but other parts of the writing read cringey or didn't agree with my imagination of the characters, which is probably a me issue.
I liked how Aaryn was getting Errol to feel more comfortable with his body. Reading Errol be so insecure about his body was heart breaking and there was even a 3rd act sorta blow-out moment about this as well before they finally get back together, but I loved how Aaryn tried his best to make Errol see how beautiful he looked to him.
If you're reading this for pure erotica, it is absolutely FILTHY in the best possible way. Like everything your depraved dirty heart would want to read on your most spicy days; so I definitely would recommend for that.
Idky but the "stud" nickname read like a lesbian dyke x femme dynamic or something. And just something about the writing/character descriptions did not jive for me so I couldn't help but cringe a lot at the dialogue. The dirty talk and degradation were chef's kiss, albeit somewhat repetitive, but other parts of the writing read cringey or didn't agree with my imagination of the characters, which is probably a me issue.
I liked how Aaryn was getting Errol to feel more comfortable with his body. Reading Errol be so insecure about his body was heart breaking and there was even a 3rd act sorta blow-out moment about this as well before they finally get back together, but I loved how Aaryn tried his best to make Errol see how beautiful he looked to him.
If you're reading this for pure erotica, it is absolutely FILTHY in the best possible way. Like everything your depraved dirty heart would want to read on your most spicy days; so I definitely would recommend for that.
June 23, 2025
These two were really sweet (when they weren’t acting absolutely filthy) I loved the dynamic between Aaryn and Errol, the friendship that’s rekindled and they way Erroll’s feelings of unrequited pining are explored.
I also enjoyed that both character’s have their own insecurities that they have to overcome in order to make their relationship truly flourish.
The kinks in this book are also out of this world (as can be expected based on the author’s previous work).
It’s got some degredation and humilation peppered with praise kink and some other’s thrown in the mix. Truly a 🌶️🌶️🌶️ read.
I also like that the kink-awakening was given more space than the bi-awakening
The book is fairly low on angst and plot which can be either a positive or a negative depending on what kind of mood you’re in.
My only minor complaint would be that the pacing slightly drags in the 60% mark. But otherwise this was a thoroughly enjoyabale spice read for me :)
I also enjoyed that both character’s have their own insecurities that they have to overcome in order to make their relationship truly flourish.
The kinks in this book are also out of this world (as can be expected based on the author’s previous work).
It’s got some degredation and humilation peppered with praise kink and some other’s thrown in the mix. Truly a 🌶️🌶️🌶️ read.
I also like that the kink-awakening was given more space than the bi-awakening
The book is fairly low on angst and plot which can be either a positive or a negative depending on what kind of mood you’re in.
My only minor complaint would be that the pacing slightly drags in the 60% mark. But otherwise this was a thoroughly enjoyabale spice read for me :)
July 8, 2025
Spicy, Kinky, And Sweet
Wow, this was such an amazing book. Sweet, kinky, spicy, and some hurt/comfort added into the mix. Errol and Aaryn were best friends growing up and very close. They both were bullied in school, so they always clung to each other. Aaryn left town to make something of himself and left behind Errol. Many years later, Aaryn comes back after finding his gf cheating on him. He reconnects with Errol, and boy do the sparks fly. Love this has a bi awakening as well. This book was spicy, filthy, and kinky 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥. Reading this book had me 💦💦😏. I loved how this was very spicy but it didn't take away from the plot or emotional parts of the story. Loved how these boys reconnected and still had that spark. Seeing them both grow together was everything. I highly recommend!
Wow, this was such an amazing book. Sweet, kinky, spicy, and some hurt/comfort added into the mix. Errol and Aaryn were best friends growing up and very close. They both were bullied in school, so they always clung to each other. Aaryn left town to make something of himself and left behind Errol. Many years later, Aaryn comes back after finding his gf cheating on him. He reconnects with Errol, and boy do the sparks fly. Love this has a bi awakening as well. This book was spicy, filthy, and kinky 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥. Reading this book had me 💦💦😏. I loved how this was very spicy but it didn't take away from the plot or emotional parts of the story. Loved how these boys reconnected and still had that spark. Seeing them both grow together was everything. I highly recommend!
June 18, 2025
Em Jae Black does it again!
This is a Friends-to-Lovers story, but with a twist. Aaryn and Errol, childhood besties who drifted apart, reconnect when Aaryn returns home after a rough breakup. What starts as a reunion quickly turns into something neither of them expected. The realization that their connection runs deeper and darker in the best, most deliciously Dom/sub kind of way.
What I loved? This isn’t just about heat (though hello, the heat is 🔥 off the charts). It’s about two people rediscovering each other, finding safety, trust, and yes submission and control in the place they least expected, with each other. We get to see a dynamic that’s emotional and not just erotic.
If you’re in the mood for Friends-to-lovers with a kinky upgrade…this is it!!!
This is a Friends-to-Lovers story, but with a twist. Aaryn and Errol, childhood besties who drifted apart, reconnect when Aaryn returns home after a rough breakup. What starts as a reunion quickly turns into something neither of them expected. The realization that their connection runs deeper and darker in the best, most deliciously Dom/sub kind of way.
What I loved? This isn’t just about heat (though hello, the heat is 🔥 off the charts). It’s about two people rediscovering each other, finding safety, trust, and yes submission and control in the place they least expected, with each other. We get to see a dynamic that’s emotional and not just erotic.
If you’re in the mood for Friends-to-lovers with a kinky upgrade…this is it!!!
June 29, 2025
Aaryn and Errol were friends in high school and reconnect after 10 years. Aaryn moves into Errol's spare room. Errol kisses him. Things progress from hot and steamy to sizzling kink. The two are rather sweet with each other. When they aren't trying to melt my kindle.
I was expecting a bit of kink and a lot more plot. The reverse proved to be true. It was well written and nicely paced. This was my first Em Jae Black, and most likely my last. A little bit blue for my taste.
Quickly read even though the book was almost 320 pages. I mostly enjoyed the read, although I admit I may have fast forwarded through some the kink. All the while, clutching my pearls and thinking "Ohhh MY!"
I received an advanced copy of this book and this is my review.
I was expecting a bit of kink and a lot more plot. The reverse proved to be true. It was well written and nicely paced. This was my first Em Jae Black, and most likely my last. A little bit blue for my taste.
Quickly read even though the book was almost 320 pages. I mostly enjoyed the read, although I admit I may have fast forwarded through some the kink. All the while, clutching my pearls and thinking "Ohhh MY!"
I received an advanced copy of this book and this is my review.
July 1, 2025
Read it as an ARC and honestly? Worth every second. The smut scenes? Chef’s kiss. Not just hot but they’re well-built, deliberate, and actually say something about the characters. There’s tension, trust, a little vulnerability... and then it hits hard. In the best way. What surprised me most was how emotionally tuned-in it all felt. It’s not just s3x for the sake of it. It’s discovery, power shifts, care, all wrapped in lace and longing. The bi awakening arc? Done with so much thought and nuance so it didn’t feel preachy or rushed, just honest.
So yeah. Five stars. I devoured it and immediately started thinking about a reread. If you’re into smart smut with real emotional depth? This one delivers.
So yeah. Five stars. I devoured it and immediately started thinking about a reread. If you’re into smart smut with real emotional depth? This one delivers.
June 18, 2025
HIGH spice, low plot, which just happens to be one of my favorite types of books!
This is very much a 'feel-good best friends to lovers after several years apart' romance.
Their relationship is very sweet, albeit sudden.
Tech wiz gets rich and screwed over MMC meets back up with his down to earth best friend who never left their hometown and never stopped thinking of him.
Full of delightful surprises and scorching hot 🌶 scenes.
I just wish some of the character growth was more seen and not told.
I was a little let down in some of the d/s dialogue, but considering one of the MMCs was brand new to the scene, I can see why the scenes were that way
This is very much a 'feel-good best friends to lovers after several years apart' romance.
Their relationship is very sweet, albeit sudden.
Tech wiz gets rich and screwed over MMC meets back up with his down to earth best friend who never left their hometown and never stopped thinking of him.
Full of delightful surprises and scorching hot 🌶 scenes.
I just wish some of the character growth was more seen and not told.
I was a little let down in some of the d/s dialogue, but considering one of the MMCs was brand new to the scene, I can see why the scenes were that way
August 6, 2025
Caution, this book is hot ❤️🔥❤️🔥
Oh this was a lot of fun 👀 I really like this author and this book has been on my tbr since it's release.
Aaryn and Errol have been good friends in school, but than they lost contact. When life happens, both of them meet again.
I really loved how this story turned out and since there were a lot of heated fun scenes, I had a great time reading it 🥰
There is more heat than story in this one, which I loved since I was in the mood for some action 🤭
If you are looking for a book with very high heat, a little less story and a feel-good time with two cute MCs who are very feral for each other, this book is for you ✨️
Oh this was a lot of fun 👀 I really like this author and this book has been on my tbr since it's release.
Aaryn and Errol have been good friends in school, but than they lost contact. When life happens, both of them meet again.
I really loved how this story turned out and since there were a lot of heated fun scenes, I had a great time reading it 🥰
There is more heat than story in this one, which I loved since I was in the mood for some action 🤭
If you are looking for a book with very high heat, a little less story and a feel-good time with two cute MCs who are very feral for each other, this book is for you ✨️
June 15, 2025
3.5 Stars
1st person POV Dual
Plot 2.75/5
Spice 4/5
Friends to lovers
Feminization
Watersports
I gotta start by saying the dirty talk in the book is DAMN! Ran has got a filthy mouth! 😂 the spice was plenty in this book as well heavy on degradation!
My only semi complaint would be that the plot didn't seem to flow naturally, the development of the relationship seemed more forced. there were parts that seemed insanely awkward and I just could see how it really would have played out that way.
1st person POV Dual
Plot 2.75/5
Spice 4/5
Friends to lovers
Feminization
Watersports
I gotta start by saying the dirty talk in the book is DAMN! Ran has got a filthy mouth! 😂 the spice was plenty in this book as well heavy on degradation!
My only semi complaint would be that the plot didn't seem to flow naturally, the development of the relationship seemed more forced. there were parts that seemed insanely awkward and I just could see how it really would have played out that way.
July 5, 2025
This was a fun read. I absolutely loved how there weren't a million other characters getting involved in their relationship and they worked everything out themselves. I loved how things didn't go perfectly in all of their scenes.
I would have loved more focus on the mental health themes and work-related plots to balance out all that sex.
I would have loved more focus on the mental health themes and work-related plots to balance out all that sex.
June 18, 2025
This was lots of fun! I love a friends to lovers, and throw in some kink, and this hit all my buttons. Errol and Ran were both easy characters to enjoy, the relationship was low angst and very spicy, and it was a light read to just enjoy (if that’s your kinda thing!).
July 1, 2025
Oh my! Aaryn & Errol 🔥❤️
Aaryn and Errol were besties in high school, but life pulled them in different directions. After a bad breakup, Aaryn returns to his hometown and is surprised to see Errol behind the bar on his first night back. They reconnect immediately and Errol offers him a room at his house and things take off from there. One kiss changes everything. These two were really super sweet with each other. I loved how Aaryn was always trying to get Errol to see what he sees in him. They really had a beautiful connection. And the spice? The kinks? Shewww 🔥 Heavy on the spice, low on the plot, and no complaints here!
I received a copy from the author and am voluntarily sharing my honest opinion.
Aaryn and Errol were besties in high school, but life pulled them in different directions. After a bad breakup, Aaryn returns to his hometown and is surprised to see Errol behind the bar on his first night back. They reconnect immediately and Errol offers him a room at his house and things take off from there. One kiss changes everything. These two were really super sweet with each other. I loved how Aaryn was always trying to get Errol to see what he sees in him. They really had a beautiful connection. And the spice? The kinks? Shewww 🔥 Heavy on the spice, low on the plot, and no complaints here!
I received a copy from the author and am voluntarily sharing my honest opinion.
July 2, 2025
Ctrl, Alt Submit is the first book I have read by this author, and I really enjoyed it. This is a friends to lovers, sexual awakening read about Aaryn and Errol. This was a really fun, sweet book and I can't wait to read more from this author.
July 12, 2025
This was a quick, high spice read for me. I was intrigued about the blurb and all the k!nks that were in here- and it did deliver there, for sure! There was enough of a plot that it didn't feel like just written 🌽.
One thing that did strike me as a little off was that they were SO close during high school and then just-- dropped off for a decade. That part felt a little glossed over. I mean, I lost touch with people, no doubt, but to just come right back and pick up as if not much had happened in ten years.
I know, I know. It's fiction and we need to keep the plot rolling. I just *sigh* I enjoy character development.
Anywho, still giving this book a solid 4 ⭐️, because it was still an enjoyable read. Both mc's got the HEA they deserved. ☺️
One thing that did strike me as a little off was that they were SO close during high school and then just-- dropped off for a decade. That part felt a little glossed over. I mean, I lost touch with people, no doubt, but to just come right back and pick up as if not much had happened in ten years.
I know, I know. It's fiction and we need to keep the plot rolling. I just *sigh* I enjoy character development.
Anywho, still giving this book a solid 4 ⭐️, because it was still an enjoyable read. Both mc's got the HEA they deserved. ☺️
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