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What We Don't Say #1.5
Trick of the Flesh
I try to stay out of his way. Miguel Veracruz is chaos with a grin, a predator I’ve learned to steer clear of. But tonight—Halloween night—he’s different. He’s stalking me, shadowing my every move, whispering words that make my blood thrum and my body yearn for him. I tell myself I hate him. I tell myself I can resist. But when he corners me in the dark, there’s no denying the heat curling through my veins, no stopping the panic that tastes like arousal.
I see the way he shivers when I step too close. Caleb is mine to hunt, mine to break, mine to ruin. He hates it—oh, he hates it—but that only makes it sweeter. Every protest, every tremor, every gasp of fear is a confession I drag out, piece by filthy piece. Tonight, even though I hide behind this mask—I am the one thing he can’t escape. His stepbrother. And when he finally begs, I’ll remind him why you can’t trick what the flesh wants.
Trick of the Flesh is a Taboo Halloween novella that ends in a HFN…
I see the way he shivers when I step too close. Caleb is mine to hunt, mine to break, mine to ruin. He hates it—oh, he hates it—but that only makes it sweeter. Every protest, every tremor, every gasp of fear is a confession I drag out, piece by filthy piece. Tonight, even though I hide behind this mask—I am the one thing he can’t escape. His stepbrother. And when he finally begs, I’ll remind him why you can’t trick what the flesh wants.
Trick of the Flesh is a Taboo Halloween novella that ends in a HFN…
162 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 27, 2025
32 people are currently reading
226 people want to read
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March 10, 2026
MM Erotica
Halloween Kink
3 Stars ⭐️
So here’s the thing. I wanted to read the first book in this series, Disarm, and the blurb for that one said I should read this one first for “context”. So I read the blurb for this one and it sounds like smut 😂 What kind of context is this going to give me that a 700+ book (Disarm) won’t? But it’s a novella, 162 pages, so I read it. Why not? Maybe there’s something I need to know in here…
Except this is smut and it’s set during Halloween and Caleb is home from college to celebrate because his parents throw a big bash every year. His older stepbrother Miguel is also there and there’s mad tension between them but Caleb doesn’t want to give in to the temptation because “it would be wrong” and “his dad would hate him”. However his dad seemed like a good guy and neither brother’s POV seemed to infer that he wasn’t a happy go lucky accepting dad. So Miguel stalks Caleb through the woods, makes him beg for it etc etc and finally Caleb submits. This is the start of their relationship apparently, the first time Caleb lets himself have what he wants but he has some fears and his POV feels a bit tortured. I’m not really sure what “context” I needed tbh and I have thoughts.
This says it’s dark romance ok but unless you consider some light stalking primal play dark (I don’t) then this just normal erotica. And if the first book in the series, Disarm, is their story then where does this one fall in the timeline? This says it’s book 1.5 on both GR and Amazon but how is that possible? That would mean the real book ended without them together 😂😂 So now I wish I hadn’t read this prior because I’m either going to have to read it again during the actual book or this will pick up from the events in this book and then have flashbacks. Also, I wasn’t all that enamored with their relationship like the primal play was fun but this was quite forgettable. I felt like I was missing why these two were so obsessed with each other??
So now I’m not psyched to read Disarm 😂😂😂 so good thing I have a ton of arcs due this month and then maybe I’ll circle back. Maybe? 🙄😂
“And when you finally beg, little brother…”
[…]
“…I’ll give you everything we’ve both been dying for.”
Halloween Kink
3 Stars ⭐️
So here’s the thing. I wanted to read the first book in this series, Disarm, and the blurb for that one said I should read this one first for “context”. So I read the blurb for this one and it sounds like smut 😂 What kind of context is this going to give me that a 700+ book (Disarm) won’t? But it’s a novella, 162 pages, so I read it. Why not? Maybe there’s something I need to know in here…
Except this is smut and it’s set during Halloween and Caleb is home from college to celebrate because his parents throw a big bash every year. His older stepbrother Miguel is also there and there’s mad tension between them but Caleb doesn’t want to give in to the temptation because “it would be wrong” and “his dad would hate him”. However his dad seemed like a good guy and neither brother’s POV seemed to infer that he wasn’t a happy go lucky accepting dad. So Miguel stalks Caleb through the woods, makes him beg for it etc etc and finally Caleb submits. This is the start of their relationship apparently, the first time Caleb lets himself have what he wants but he has some fears and his POV feels a bit tortured. I’m not really sure what “context” I needed tbh and I have thoughts.
This says it’s dark romance ok but unless you consider some light stalking primal play dark (I don’t) then this just normal erotica. And if the first book in the series, Disarm, is their story then where does this one fall in the timeline? This says it’s book 1.5 on both GR and Amazon but how is that possible? That would mean the real book ended without them together 😂😂 So now I wish I hadn’t read this prior because I’m either going to have to read it again during the actual book or this will pick up from the events in this book and then have flashbacks. Also, I wasn’t all that enamored with their relationship like the primal play was fun but this was quite forgettable. I felt like I was missing why these two were so obsessed with each other??
So now I’m not psyched to read Disarm 😂😂😂 so good thing I have a ton of arcs due this month and then maybe I’ll circle back. Maybe? 🙄😂
“And when you finally beg, little brother…”
[…]
“…I’ll give you everything we’ve both been dying for.”
Read
October 30, 2025DNF @ 10%
Badly written. Somehow managed to make stepbrothers way too fast insta lust in a weird way. Skipped to some smut but that also wasn't for me. I think the author usually writes MF...
Badly written. Somehow managed to make stepbrothers way too fast insta lust in a weird way. Skipped to some smut but that also wasn't for me. I think the author usually writes MF...
October 30, 2025
Enter into the lives of Caleb and Miguel, step brothers who dare to love on another but stalling at letting it out!
Caleb, comes home from uni for Halloween, his step brother Miggy, takes it upon himself to taunt Caleb, seeking his fear, his anguish and his surrender. Out in the dark woods, he chases Miguel, his light up mask highlighting the trees as he hunts his prey! Will their sibling rivalry fall to the wayside? Will they find what each is looking for?
ᵢ cₒᵤₗd dₑᵥₒᵤᵣ ₕᵢₘ ᵣᵢgₕₜ ₕₑᵣₑ. ᵢ cₒᵤₗd dᵣₐg ₕᵢₘ dₒwₙ ᵢₙₜₒ ₜₕₑ dᵢᵣₜ ₐₙd ₘₐₖₑ ₛᵤᵣₑ ₕₑ ₙₑᵥₑᵣ fₒᵣgₑₜₛ ₜₕₑ fₑₑₗᵢₙg ₒf ₘₑ ᵢₙₛᵢdₑ ₕᵢₘ.
It’s a quick Halloween read. Written to draw you into their story, follow them into the woods and hope they overcome their tensions 😜 It’s a taboo, step brother obsession that leads to each other 🌶️🌶️
Caleb, comes home from uni for Halloween, his step brother Miggy, takes it upon himself to taunt Caleb, seeking his fear, his anguish and his surrender. Out in the dark woods, he chases Miguel, his light up mask highlighting the trees as he hunts his prey! Will their sibling rivalry fall to the wayside? Will they find what each is looking for?
ᵢ cₒᵤₗd dₑᵥₒᵤᵣ ₕᵢₘ ᵣᵢgₕₜ ₕₑᵣₑ. ᵢ cₒᵤₗd dᵣₐg ₕᵢₘ dₒwₙ ᵢₙₜₒ ₜₕₑ dᵢᵣₜ ₐₙd ₘₐₖₑ ₛᵤᵣₑ ₕₑ ₙₑᵥₑᵣ fₒᵣgₑₜₛ ₜₕₑ fₑₑₗᵢₙg ₒf ₘₑ ᵢₙₛᵢdₑ ₕᵢₘ.
It’s a quick Halloween read. Written to draw you into their story, follow them into the woods and hope they overcome their tensions 😜 It’s a taboo, step brother obsession that leads to each other 🌶️🌶️
November 2, 2025
Caleb + Miguel 🖤
Stepbrothers | Primal play | Tenderness | Broken man | Swoon
This started out with tension, taunting, possessiveness and primal chases. But when it came down to them both finally giving it, it became sweet, healing, emotionally raw and beautiful. The rough with the tenderness will always be elite and you can't convince me otherwise.
Only problem is the ending was pretty abrupt. We got a super quick epilogue with a HFN. Felt unfinished. At least two questions unanswered which I detailed out under the spoiler tag below.
....
"Mine," I whisper against his skin, leaving a trail of wet kisses. "God, you even taste like mine, Caleb."
"Beautiful. You're beautiful, Caleb. Say it; say that you're beautiful."
"That's it. Let it out. You did so fucking good for me, baby."
"I feel... whole. With you."
"That's because you are whole. You always were. I just had to remind you."
"I don't say shit I don't mean. You are everything. I don't care if your heads too loud to hear it ‐‐ you'll hear it from me until it sticks."
"You talk, I listen. You break, and I hold you and put you back together. That's it. That's us."
....
⚠️potential spoilers below in detailed tropes, content and warning lists
Tropes/content:
Stepbrothers
Broken man
Masked man
Primal play
Denial
Resisting
Calebs first kiss was with Miguel before he left for college (before the book ever started)
The tension between them has built for years
Miguel makes Caleb beg
Light degredation (slut, whore)
Humiliation
Good boy, "my good boy" 🫠
Bound wrists
"Pretty boy"
Spits in his mouth and makes him swallow
First times
Mine
Possessiveness
Obsession
🍆 pierced
Ensures he knows he wants him for more than his body
"Don't hide yourself from me"
Brought to tears during sex
Miguel makas Caleb tell himself he's beautiful while thrusting
"You're mine. You're safe"
"Baby"
"Little brother"
Panic attack
Corn maze blowie
Role reversal? scene (submissive/dom swap during bj,
Caleb calls Miguel a slut instead while he's on his knees)
Strict roles
HFN
Short epilogue two months later
Bonus scene at the end of the book
Phone sex in bonus scene
Warnings:
Marijuana use
No protection or discussion beforehand
Caleb has some kind of trauma but we never find out details on that
Unanswered questions:
Was Caleb actually a virgin or not? It was suspected but never confirmed
What was Caleb's trauma that made him feel so unlovable?
Stepbrothers | Primal play | Tenderness | Broken man | Swoon
This started out with tension, taunting, possessiveness and primal chases. But when it came down to them both finally giving it, it became sweet, healing, emotionally raw and beautiful. The rough with the tenderness will always be elite and you can't convince me otherwise.
Only problem is the ending was pretty abrupt. We got a super quick epilogue with a HFN. Felt unfinished. At least two questions unanswered which I detailed out under the spoiler tag below.
....
"Mine," I whisper against his skin, leaving a trail of wet kisses. "God, you even taste like mine, Caleb."
"Beautiful. You're beautiful, Caleb. Say it; say that you're beautiful."
"That's it. Let it out. You did so fucking good for me, baby."
"I feel... whole. With you."
"That's because you are whole. You always were. I just had to remind you."
"I don't say shit I don't mean. You are everything. I don't care if your heads too loud to hear it ‐‐ you'll hear it from me until it sticks."
"You talk, I listen. You break, and I hold you and put you back together. That's it. That's us."
....
⚠️potential spoilers below in detailed tropes, content and warning lists
Tropes/content:
Stepbrothers
Broken man
Masked man
Primal play
Denial
Resisting
Calebs first kiss was with Miguel before he left for college (before the book ever started)
The tension between them has built for years
Miguel makes Caleb beg
Light degredation (slut, whore)
Humiliation
Good boy, "my good boy" 🫠
Bound wrists
"Pretty boy"
Spits in his mouth and makes him swallow
First times
Mine
Possessiveness
Obsession
🍆 pierced
Ensures he knows he wants him for more than his body
"Don't hide yourself from me"
Brought to tears during sex
Miguel makas Caleb tell himself he's beautiful while thrusting
"You're mine. You're safe"
"Baby"
"Little brother"
Panic attack
Corn maze blowie
Role reversal? scene (submissive/dom swap during bj,
Caleb calls Miguel a slut instead while he's on his knees)
Strict roles
HFN
Short epilogue two months later
Bonus scene at the end of the book
Phone sex in bonus scene
Warnings:
Marijuana use
No protection or discussion beforehand
Caleb has some kind of trauma but we never find out details on that
Unanswered questions:
Was Caleb actually a virgin or not? It was suspected but never confirmed
What was Caleb's trauma that made him feel so unlovable?
October 24, 2025
5⭐️/5🔥
I was on 🔥🔥 the whole time!
Trick of the Flesh is a dark, taboo romance and Izzy knows how to set me ablaze with every book! 🥵 Caleb and Miguel are step-brothers who have grown up together. When Caleb comes home for fall break from college, he can't help but notice Miguel watching his every move. The spice starts spicing and the filth is the filthiest. WoW! Miguel gave scary vibes at first, but then the way he would care for Caleb? *swoooon* This is a quick and spicy read that gave me a taste of Halloween vibes with a giant scoop of "Yes, baby!" HIGHLY RECOMMEND for your 🔥 taboo pleasure!
I was on 🔥🔥 the whole time!
Trick of the Flesh is a dark, taboo romance and Izzy knows how to set me ablaze with every book! 🥵 Caleb and Miguel are step-brothers who have grown up together. When Caleb comes home for fall break from college, he can't help but notice Miguel watching his every move. The spice starts spicing and the filth is the filthiest. WoW! Miguel gave scary vibes at first, but then the way he would care for Caleb? *swoooon* This is a quick and spicy read that gave me a taste of Halloween vibes with a giant scoop of "Yes, baby!" HIGHLY RECOMMEND for your 🔥 taboo pleasure!
February 24, 2026
MM romance | Stepbrothers romance | Novella | Halloween season | Primal kink | Praise | Degradation
Estuvo bueno, pero no sé si me terminó de convencer. Sinceramente, creo que lo que más disfruté fue la escena extra por FaceTime 🤭.
Caleb y Miguel me gustaron, pero me dejaron con más dudas que respuestas. ¿Realmente le pasó algo específico a Caleb o simplemente es así porque "la vida pasa"? Siento que, en esta novela corta, llegamos a conocer mucho más a Miguel que a Caleb.
Por otro lado, el primal kink no es mi cup of tea, así que no logré conectar en esa parte (que es gran parte de la historia, jaja).
〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️
It was good, but I’m not sure I’m totally sold on it. Honestly, I think the part I enjoyed the most was the extra FaceTime scene! 🤭
I liked Caleb and Miguel, but they left me with more questions than answers. lol. Did something specific happen to Caleb, or is he just like that because "life happens"? I felt like we got to know Miguel much better than Caleb in this novella.
Also, primal kink is not my cup of tea, so I didn't really connect with that (major) part of the story.
Estuvo bueno, pero no sé si me terminó de convencer. Sinceramente, creo que lo que más disfruté fue la escena extra por FaceTime 🤭.
Caleb y Miguel me gustaron, pero me dejaron con más dudas que respuestas. ¿Realmente le pasó algo específico a Caleb o simplemente es así porque "la vida pasa"? Siento que, en esta novela corta, llegamos a conocer mucho más a Miguel que a Caleb.
Por otro lado, el primal kink no es mi cup of tea, así que no logré conectar en esa parte (que es gran parte de la historia, jaja).
〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️
It was good, but I’m not sure I’m totally sold on it. Honestly, I think the part I enjoyed the most was the extra FaceTime scene! 🤭
I liked Caleb and Miguel, but they left me with more questions than answers. lol. Did something specific happen to Caleb, or is he just like that because "life happens"? I felt like we got to know Miguel much better than Caleb in this novella.
Also, primal kink is not my cup of tea, so I didn't really connect with that (major) part of the story.
March 2, 2026
This story was intriguing. At first it captures your attention because of the intensity of the chase and the fear of the prey. After a repetitive game of chase - scare - catch, these step brothers finally get together. There is mystery here and the subsequent book to this prequel is going to be interesting. At over 700 pages it has to be.
I enjoyed this prequel and I'm excited to dive right into the main book.
I enjoyed this prequel and I'm excited to dive right into the main book.
September 26, 2025
Izzy Ravas with another great book!!
This was my first stepbrothers book and I definitely enjoyed it…Izzy definitely knows how to write a great story
I related so much to how Caleb felt throughout the book (anxiety can take a long walk off a short pier) but I’m not lucky enough to have a Miguel there to help me
This was my first stepbrothers book and I definitely enjoyed it…Izzy definitely knows how to write a great story
I related so much to how Caleb felt throughout the book (anxiety can take a long walk off a short pier) but I’m not lucky enough to have a Miguel there to help me
September 29, 2025
is anything bigger than infinity?
this is what this deserves. anything bigger than infinity. it takes a lot for me to cry at books these days but this one had me feeling EVERYTHING. i am a wreck, literally. i think my heart is whole,like fully whole. i fear izzy put MM to shame with this one,this is literally the most beautiful MM story i have ever read. not depraved. not shocking or horrific. just love. real. raw. love.
"i'm safe with miggy"
this is just one of the many many things i highlighted. yes all spice was highlighted but you know what was my favourite thing that i highlighted?
*miguel speaking spanish* *caleb listening*
"but i do hear him. and yeah, the idea of love is terrifying — except not so much when it's him loving me"
caleb has made my heart whole in more ways i can explain, miguel,the big scary monster. has sewn it up for and has really reinforced to me,there is no love as strong as two boys who have spent years longing for each other. this isn't just any MM pairing,this is different. so different. i'm shook,i'm literally sat in tears writing this.
i highlighted so much and planned to say so much and honestly i'm just left speechless. in every way. they are perfect. so fucking perfect.
i guess let my ratings speak for me if they can but. well ♾️x1000⭐️
characters? ♾️⭐️ caleb reminds me a lot of myself in so many ways, he is so shy,so broken.. he hates himself and he hates himself for wanting miguel, yes a taboo story but when i tell you, these two can be together in every lifetime in every capacity in my head and heart,they were literally made by destiny alone for each other. taboo will never not be a favourite of mine to read but these two are different, real,raw,guttural emotions! miguel is such a beautiful character, a hard exterior.. but yet a softness to him,only for caleb. but yet the character development between both of them is on another plane of existence, i don't honestly think i've read such a beautifully developed queer pairing,especially with MM in a long while, it is perfect. but more so caleb has me feeling everything,he grows into his own,he becomes a stronger,confident young man and fucking hell it had me in tears,like i'm so proud of him what can i say?? & miguel, his rock through everything,the constant in the story,the one that is there to pick up the pieces,the big scary monster that is drunk on lust but somehow finds it in him to gain love. real love. and towards the end,miguel was engrained in my heart just as much as caleb. they are literally perfect characters,perfect for each other,written in the stars i tell you. destiny chose them, in every lifetime.
plot? ♾️⭐️ the plot and the whole storyline is beautiful, it is developed beautifully and honestly,probably one of the best i've read MM pairing wise and izzy truly knocked this out of the park in every single category. literally. the story flowed perfect,the pace was fast but not too fast,although an insta lust moment honestly not rushed AT ALL. it is the most beautiful dark romance plot with such a strong contemporary feel too it,let me tell you if this wasn't taboo this could be a fairytale.. hell let me rephrase. this is a fairytale to me. in every single way. they are so beautiful. i am obsessed beyond words😭 a contemporary (ish) dark romance but built entirely on a love story? you literally couldn't not of spoken to me in anyway better than this literally. i would read this storyline in an over 1000 page story,i was hooked in the best way.
spice?? 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ she is spicy,but not in the conventional sense. it's not depravity and pain. it is love,understanding and accepting. and might i just say right now.. this is proof that MM does not have to be dark and depravity in the spice category,it can be written beautifully. the aftercare. the choices. the understanding. although a submission to its core. miguel navigates the spice in such a way it actual brings tears to my eyes and i'm so grateful to have a character that works with the other and understands him. although spicy and dominance and control is the core it is more than that too,as somebody who engages in exactly that irl izzy wrote this beautifully,with compassion,with understanding and with REAL representation. and for that. that is an instant a million points for me. the spice is incredible and will have you SWEATING but it also has you truly in awe of how a character can actually be written with such love and tenderness,especially if you're like me and used to it being BRUTALITY above all. i'm shook tbh, in every way🥹
overall? ♾️x1000 ⭐️ i can't not love this story in any variably,this quote literally is my roman empire i haven't stopped thinking about them all day while reading! izzy style of writing is beautiful and what i love to read,i also love queer pairings so i knew izzy would do incredible on this. its perfect. in every single way🥹 i can't even keep word vomiting without crying lol but this. is perfect. in every single way. i am obsessed beyond belief. OBSSESED🥹
this is what this deserves. anything bigger than infinity. it takes a lot for me to cry at books these days but this one had me feeling EVERYTHING. i am a wreck, literally. i think my heart is whole,like fully whole. i fear izzy put MM to shame with this one,this is literally the most beautiful MM story i have ever read. not depraved. not shocking or horrific. just love. real. raw. love.
"i'm safe with miggy"
this is just one of the many many things i highlighted. yes all spice was highlighted but you know what was my favourite thing that i highlighted?
*miguel speaking spanish* *caleb listening*
"but i do hear him. and yeah, the idea of love is terrifying — except not so much when it's him loving me"
caleb has made my heart whole in more ways i can explain, miguel,the big scary monster. has sewn it up for and has really reinforced to me,there is no love as strong as two boys who have spent years longing for each other. this isn't just any MM pairing,this is different. so different. i'm shook,i'm literally sat in tears writing this.
i highlighted so much and planned to say so much and honestly i'm just left speechless. in every way. they are perfect. so fucking perfect.
i guess let my ratings speak for me if they can but. well ♾️x1000⭐️
characters? ♾️⭐️ caleb reminds me a lot of myself in so many ways, he is so shy,so broken.. he hates himself and he hates himself for wanting miguel, yes a taboo story but when i tell you, these two can be together in every lifetime in every capacity in my head and heart,they were literally made by destiny alone for each other. taboo will never not be a favourite of mine to read but these two are different, real,raw,guttural emotions! miguel is such a beautiful character, a hard exterior.. but yet a softness to him,only for caleb. but yet the character development between both of them is on another plane of existence, i don't honestly think i've read such a beautifully developed queer pairing,especially with MM in a long while, it is perfect. but more so caleb has me feeling everything,he grows into his own,he becomes a stronger,confident young man and fucking hell it had me in tears,like i'm so proud of him what can i say?? & miguel, his rock through everything,the constant in the story,the one that is there to pick up the pieces,the big scary monster that is drunk on lust but somehow finds it in him to gain love. real love. and towards the end,miguel was engrained in my heart just as much as caleb. they are literally perfect characters,perfect for each other,written in the stars i tell you. destiny chose them, in every lifetime.
plot? ♾️⭐️ the plot and the whole storyline is beautiful, it is developed beautifully and honestly,probably one of the best i've read MM pairing wise and izzy truly knocked this out of the park in every single category. literally. the story flowed perfect,the pace was fast but not too fast,although an insta lust moment honestly not rushed AT ALL. it is the most beautiful dark romance plot with such a strong contemporary feel too it,let me tell you if this wasn't taboo this could be a fairytale.. hell let me rephrase. this is a fairytale to me. in every single way. they are so beautiful. i am obsessed beyond words😭 a contemporary (ish) dark romance but built entirely on a love story? you literally couldn't not of spoken to me in anyway better than this literally. i would read this storyline in an over 1000 page story,i was hooked in the best way.
spice?? 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ she is spicy,but not in the conventional sense. it's not depravity and pain. it is love,understanding and accepting. and might i just say right now.. this is proof that MM does not have to be dark and depravity in the spice category,it can be written beautifully. the aftercare. the choices. the understanding. although a submission to its core. miguel navigates the spice in such a way it actual brings tears to my eyes and i'm so grateful to have a character that works with the other and understands him. although spicy and dominance and control is the core it is more than that too,as somebody who engages in exactly that irl izzy wrote this beautifully,with compassion,with understanding and with REAL representation. and for that. that is an instant a million points for me. the spice is incredible and will have you SWEATING but it also has you truly in awe of how a character can actually be written with such love and tenderness,especially if you're like me and used to it being BRUTALITY above all. i'm shook tbh, in every way🥹
overall? ♾️x1000 ⭐️ i can't not love this story in any variably,this quote literally is my roman empire i haven't stopped thinking about them all day while reading! izzy style of writing is beautiful and what i love to read,i also love queer pairings so i knew izzy would do incredible on this. its perfect. in every single way🥹 i can't even keep word vomiting without crying lol but this. is perfect. in every single way. i am obsessed beyond belief. OBSSESED🥹
September 28, 2025
Caleb + Miguel
-mm halloween novella
-forbidden romance
-stepbrothers
-primal & mask play
-praise & degradation
i love how miguel knew exactly what he wanted & went after it & wasn’t going to let caleb try to lie about how he doesn’t want it at all. i got a little annoyed tho with about many times miguel said “next time you’re mine”….like okay then FOLLOW THRU MY BOY hahaha but they were so precious!!
-mm halloween novella
-forbidden romance
-stepbrothers
-primal & mask play
-praise & degradation
i love how miguel knew exactly what he wanted & went after it & wasn’t going to let caleb try to lie about how he doesn’t want it at all. i got a little annoyed tho with about many times miguel said “next time you’re mine”….like okay then FOLLOW THRU MY BOY hahaha but they were so precious!!
October 11, 2025
Love this taboo Halloween novella.
It gave me all the feels.
Miguel ~ he knows what he wants and goes for what he wants.
I can relate to Caleb ~ the anxiety, the overthinking, feeling you’re just not good enough.
“He’s fire and smoke, and I’m just… nothing.”
It gave me all the feels.
Miguel ~ he knows what he wants and goes for what he wants.
I can relate to Caleb ~ the anxiety, the overthinking, feeling you’re just not good enough.
“He’s fire and smoke, and I’m just… nothing.”
January 26, 2026
Miguel and Caleb <3
cute and spicy short novella
#teamMiguel #calebNeedsMoreHugs
Would like to talk with Miguel because primal play is one thing but making Caleb run twice in one night?? straight to jail.
cute and spicy short novella
#teamMiguel #calebNeedsMoreHugs
Would like to talk with Miguel because primal play is one thing but making Caleb run twice in one night?? straight to jail.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 30, 2025
I really do just love Izzy’s writing. She never disappoints!
Caleb and Miggy have my whole heart 🥰🖤 this story was sweet, and spicy, and perfect for spooky season
Caleb and Miggy have my whole heart 🥰🖤 this story was sweet, and spicy, and perfect for spooky season
October 2, 2025
Caleb & Miguel
Stepbrothers!!! how i absolutely feel hard for them , Miguel is such outgoing and knows exactly what he wants and doesn't care anyone thinks, which is why so many are drawn to him .
my sweet Caleb, how i related to him with his overthinking & how he felt like he wasn't anything special and the spiral thoughts of nit being enough for that one person you can't stop thinking about .
I understand Caleb on that level .
I love Celeste (Miguel mom) I wasn't expecting like her so much, but she is such a great mom .
there is something so good when it comes to stepbrothers that forbidden element.
whether you are in a slump or need that taboo halloween read its perfect, and it isn't a long read, so it will definitely help you escape a bit and fall in love with them both .
Miguel is written perfectly, in my opinion .
This is just one of my fav parts from Caleb.
I’m wanted. Cared about. For the first time in my life, it feels like someone cares if I wake up in the morning.
that hits on so many levels and emotionally . someone actually cares if I wake up in the morning.
Stepbrothers!!! how i absolutely feel hard for them , Miguel is such outgoing and knows exactly what he wants and doesn't care anyone thinks, which is why so many are drawn to him .
my sweet Caleb, how i related to him with his overthinking & how he felt like he wasn't anything special and the spiral thoughts of nit being enough for that one person you can't stop thinking about .
I understand Caleb on that level .
I love Celeste (Miguel mom) I wasn't expecting like her so much, but she is such a great mom .
there is something so good when it comes to stepbrothers that forbidden element.
whether you are in a slump or need that taboo halloween read its perfect, and it isn't a long read, so it will definitely help you escape a bit and fall in love with them both .
Miguel is written perfectly, in my opinion .
This is just one of my fav parts from Caleb.
I’m wanted. Cared about. For the first time in my life, it feels like someone cares if I wake up in the morning.
that hits on so many levels and emotionally . someone actually cares if I wake up in the morning.
November 17, 2025
This was... Not what I thought it would be based off the summary. I expected something a lot darker, or even a bit darker. It starts off promising in that aspect but... It quickly declines. I did like this overall, though.
It also ended up being a lot sweeter than expected which... Well, isn't what I was looking for.
I liked how it was portrayed with Miguel chasing Caleb through the woods, his mask alight. Added a bit more emotional turmoil for Caleb at times as well.
Think this had potential but was a let-down. The randomly inserted thoughts, mid-paragraph, at the end, the beginning, sometimes a single, short sentence between paragraphs... Meh. Miguel constantly calling Caleb "little brother"... It just seemed odd since, near the beginning, he was more along the lines of "but only stepbrothers" so it seemed out of place. But then they both lean into it so... Worked out, lol. How the mother/stepmother was so accepting when they're caught...
Don't get me wrong, I was very appreciative that we didn't delve into any of that type of drama. I liked how she was accepting and just thought that Caleb deserved and needed love. Maybe if this was longer that could have been looked into further but... Worked well here. What was kind of annoying was the sudden random conversation in Spanish that they have, and then the few words that were translated for us were more well-known. It would have made more sense if this had happened throughout the story but this didn't happen until over half-way through.
Like I said above, this ended up being rather sweet. Would have liked to have a bit of warning in the summary that the two have been into each other for quite a while and that the behavior stated wasn't actually out of left field. Really changed the dynamic. But I did like how Miguel was there for Caleb during many of their scenes (even the ones where they were chasing/running) and Miguel was there to help calm Caleb from panic attacks as well. I wish we'd gotten more background on what's going on with Caleb and why he was the way he was...
"No--it's not that. I just...I've never felt--" My voice breaks. "Like I was enough. And you--you're making me feel like I am."
His expression softens, a crack in his usual sharp grin. He presses his forehead to mine, whispering, "That's because you are enough. You're everything to me. Always have been, Caleb. For years I've kept it to myself and now we're here. Never think you aren't enough for me."
Maybe I'd check out another by this author but I think I would have to go in with the expectation that it may be sweet instead of dark. This is my first go so who knows especially since I primarily read m/m.
When I close my eyes, I can still feel Miguel's hands steadying me, his voice whispering praise, and the way his arms wrapped around me after, like he couldn't let go. I know then, as sure as I know my own name--whatever this is, I'll come back.
Maybe that's the scariest part.
Or maybe it's the sweetest.
It also ended up being a lot sweeter than expected which... Well, isn't what I was looking for.
I liked how it was portrayed with Miguel chasing Caleb through the woods, his mask alight. Added a bit more emotional turmoil for Caleb at times as well.
Think this had potential but was a let-down. The randomly inserted thoughts, mid-paragraph, at the end, the beginning, sometimes a single, short sentence between paragraphs... Meh. Miguel constantly calling Caleb "little brother"... It just seemed odd since, near the beginning, he was more along the lines of "but only stepbrothers" so it seemed out of place. But then they both lean into it so... Worked out, lol. How the mother/stepmother was so accepting when they're caught...
Don't get me wrong, I was very appreciative that we didn't delve into any of that type of drama. I liked how she was accepting and just thought that Caleb deserved and needed love. Maybe if this was longer that could have been looked into further but... Worked well here. What was kind of annoying was the sudden random conversation in Spanish that they have, and then the few words that were translated for us were more well-known. It would have made more sense if this had happened throughout the story but this didn't happen until over half-way through.
Like I said above, this ended up being rather sweet. Would have liked to have a bit of warning in the summary that the two have been into each other for quite a while and that the behavior stated wasn't actually out of left field. Really changed the dynamic. But I did like how Miguel was there for Caleb during many of their scenes (even the ones where they were chasing/running) and Miguel was there to help calm Caleb from panic attacks as well. I wish we'd gotten more background on what's going on with Caleb and why he was the way he was...
"No--it's not that. I just...I've never felt--" My voice breaks. "Like I was enough. And you--you're making me feel like I am."
His expression softens, a crack in his usual sharp grin. He presses his forehead to mine, whispering, "That's because you are enough. You're everything to me. Always have been, Caleb. For years I've kept it to myself and now we're here. Never think you aren't enough for me."
Maybe I'd check out another by this author but I think I would have to go in with the expectation that it may be sweet instead of dark. This is my first go so who knows especially since I primarily read m/m.
When I close my eyes, I can still feel Miguel's hands steadying me, his voice whispering praise, and the way his arms wrapped around me after, like he couldn't let go. I know then, as sure as I know my own name--whatever this is, I'll come back.
Maybe that's the scariest part.
Or maybe it's the sweetest.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 27, 2025
Trick of the Flesh is officially my favorite MM romance!!! I ate this quick, steamy read up so fast, because it was delicious! And we get Halloween as the setting?! Yes, please! Izzy really outdid herself with this one. It's also become my new favorite book, by her.
Caleb and Miguel's dynamic is very dear to my heart, because it very much aligns with the dynamic between My wife and I. The way Miguel sees and wants to protect His pretty boy reminds Me of how I feel about her. Miggy reminds Me of Myself in other ways, too. His aloofness, His possessive and obsessive nature, His need to chase, etc... I adore Caleb, but I felt an instant connection to Miguel. My wife struggles with imposter syndrome, just like Caleb. And just like Miguel, I spend all My time trying to make her see what I see. There aren't enough words to express how much I love this book, and our boys. I could read about them ALL day.
And now, let me tell you, while Miggy and Pretty Boy had some tender and sweet moments, they also had some very HEATED moments. Omg the chasing and the spice in this book!! It was SO delicious and yummy and well balanced with the plot. It definitely had Me feeling a certain type of way!! Their intimate moments left me absolutely feral and in need of a cold shower, 🤭🤫🫠 To say it was hot would be the understatement of the year! The way Izzy was able to write and convey their lust and need for one another is just uncanny. If I had gone in blind, not knowing who the author is, I seriously would have thought it was written by a bisexual or gay man. I'm telling you My fellow book besties, you need to snag this book up. Especially if you enjoy...
♂️ MM
👺 Masked Men
🪢 Rope Play
💦 Spitting
😱 Fear Play
🚫 Taboo (Stepbrothers)
🥺 Degredation
🥹 Praise
... and more, in the books you read! I really want you to read and love this short taboo story, but first I do need you to read the trigger warning and content lists provided. While not as pitch black as some of the stuff I read, TOTF still has some dark themes throughout and I don't want your mental well-being at risk because of a book. It's not worth it.
As I mentioned before, this delectable read was absolutely on fire, and the spice was definitely spicing!! Not only was it well balanced with the plot, it was so deliciously written that I had to fan Myself quite a few times. And for that I'm giving TOTF a burning hot 5 outta 5 🌶️'s! 🥵🥵
I love this book and I need more Miguel and Caleb!! Don't forget to stop back by, if you do read it, and leave a comment down ⬇️ below ⬇️ telling me what you think!!
Caleb and Miguel's dynamic is very dear to my heart, because it very much aligns with the dynamic between My wife and I. The way Miguel sees and wants to protect His pretty boy reminds Me of how I feel about her. Miggy reminds Me of Myself in other ways, too. His aloofness, His possessive and obsessive nature, His need to chase, etc... I adore Caleb, but I felt an instant connection to Miguel. My wife struggles with imposter syndrome, just like Caleb. And just like Miguel, I spend all My time trying to make her see what I see. There aren't enough words to express how much I love this book, and our boys. I could read about them ALL day.
And now, let me tell you, while Miggy and Pretty Boy had some tender and sweet moments, they also had some very HEATED moments. Omg the chasing and the spice in this book!! It was SO delicious and yummy and well balanced with the plot. It definitely had Me feeling a certain type of way!! Their intimate moments left me absolutely feral and in need of a cold shower, 🤭🤫🫠 To say it was hot would be the understatement of the year! The way Izzy was able to write and convey their lust and need for one another is just uncanny. If I had gone in blind, not knowing who the author is, I seriously would have thought it was written by a bisexual or gay man. I'm telling you My fellow book besties, you need to snag this book up. Especially if you enjoy...
♂️ MM
👺 Masked Men
🪢 Rope Play
💦 Spitting
😱 Fear Play
🚫 Taboo (Stepbrothers)
🥺 Degredation
🥹 Praise
... and more, in the books you read! I really want you to read and love this short taboo story, but first I do need you to read the trigger warning and content lists provided. While not as pitch black as some of the stuff I read, TOTF still has some dark themes throughout and I don't want your mental well-being at risk because of a book. It's not worth it.
As I mentioned before, this delectable read was absolutely on fire, and the spice was definitely spicing!! Not only was it well balanced with the plot, it was so deliciously written that I had to fan Myself quite a few times. And for that I'm giving TOTF a burning hot 5 outta 5 🌶️'s! 🥵🥵
I love this book and I need more Miguel and Caleb!! Don't forget to stop back by, if you do read it, and leave a comment down ⬇️ below ⬇️ telling me what you think!!
December 10, 2025
“𝐈 𝐝𝐨𝐧’𝐭 𝐚𝐩𝐨𝐥𝐨𝐠𝐢𝐳𝐞 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐡𝐮𝐧𝐠𝐞𝐫, 𝐨𝐛𝐬𝐞𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧, 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐤𝐧𝐨𝐰𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐰𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐈 𝐰𝐚𝐧𝐭 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐭𝐚𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐢𝐭“
5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Miggy knows what he wants and isn’t afraid to claim it .. and what he claims is 𝒉𝒊𝒔 𝑯𝒆𝒓𝒎𝒐𝒔𝒐, 𝐶𝑎𝑙𝑒𝑏．
This Dark Rom MM Novella has so much spice, the smut is smuttin and the plot is plotting!!!
"𝑹𝒖𝒏, 𝑳𝒊𝒕𝒕𝒍𝒆 𝑩𝒓𝒐𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒓,"
I whisper, voice low, curling through the night.
“𝑪𝒐𝒎𝒆 𝒐𝒏. 𝑴𝒂𝒌𝒆 𝒎𝒆 𝒆𝒂𝒓𝒏 𝒊𝒕.
This novella has soooooo many plays & praises
🎭F3ar Play
🥵Mask Play
🔥D3grädaton & praise
🎭Rope Play
🥵PrImal play
🔥Breath play
🎭Sp!tting
“The sin tastes sweeter when it's forbidden."
But beyond Miggy’s cat and mouse play, lies so much depth with Caleb. Caleb who’s never ever felt seen, wanted, loved, who’s never been cared for … that’s all about to change when he comes home and reunites with his stepbrother.
“I'm going to take care of you."
The words hit me like a jolt. Take care.
Nobody's ever said that to me and meant it.
Miggy knows exactly how much to push Caleb,
just enough … until he breaks.
"You're a trembling mess, little brother.
Panting and out of breath.
You want me, and you know it. I can feel it.
Every weak little shiver when I'm near you.
That's mine. Give in to it, Caleb."
And once Caleb comes undone, there’s no going back …
“His want.
It's intoxicating and I want to be drunk on it
forever.“
You're getting everything you crave for in an MM romance.
Angst, tension, plays and kinks, bd$m, and a very real love story that's just begun.
You'll see yourself in Caleb and cry along his insecurities, and Miggy will show us exactly what it's like to be wanted and cared for.
5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Miggy knows what he wants and isn’t afraid to claim it .. and what he claims is 𝒉𝒊𝒔 𝑯𝒆𝒓𝒎𝒐𝒔𝒐, 𝐶𝑎𝑙𝑒𝑏．
This Dark Rom MM Novella has so much spice, the smut is smuttin and the plot is plotting!!!
"𝑹𝒖𝒏, 𝑳𝒊𝒕𝒕𝒍𝒆 𝑩𝒓𝒐𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒓,"
I whisper, voice low, curling through the night.
“𝑪𝒐𝒎𝒆 𝒐𝒏. 𝑴𝒂𝒌𝒆 𝒎𝒆 𝒆𝒂𝒓𝒏 𝒊𝒕.
This novella has soooooo many plays & praises
🎭F3ar Play
🥵Mask Play
🔥D3grädaton & praise
🎭Rope Play
🥵PrImal play
🔥Breath play
🎭Sp!tting
“The sin tastes sweeter when it's forbidden."
But beyond Miggy’s cat and mouse play, lies so much depth with Caleb. Caleb who’s never ever felt seen, wanted, loved, who’s never been cared for … that’s all about to change when he comes home and reunites with his stepbrother.
“I'm going to take care of you."
The words hit me like a jolt. Take care.
Nobody's ever said that to me and meant it.
Miggy knows exactly how much to push Caleb,
just enough … until he breaks.
"You're a trembling mess, little brother.
Panting and out of breath.
You want me, and you know it. I can feel it.
Every weak little shiver when I'm near you.
That's mine. Give in to it, Caleb."
And once Caleb comes undone, there’s no going back …
“His want.
It's intoxicating and I want to be drunk on it
forever.“
You're getting everything you crave for in an MM romance.
Angst, tension, plays and kinks, bd$m, and a very real love story that's just begun.
You'll see yourself in Caleb and cry along his insecurities, and Miggy will show us exactly what it's like to be wanted and cared for.
September 13, 2025
alpha/beta review
Let me preface this by saying, if Izzy writes it, I’m reading it, no questions asked.
This book is a taboo Halloween dark romance; with a hint of smut. You’ve got tension, you’ve got slow burn, you’ve got mental health representation done so well that it pulls at your heart strings as you’re reading. There is primal play, there is Miggy in a mask! This quick novella type read is MM AND THEY ARE STEPBROTHERS! Caleb and Miggy (Miguel) are perfection. Miggy is your badass knows he’s got it possessive and secretly obsessive big brother while Caleb is the meeker anxious keep it all inside college athlete, cant fail, thinks he’s not good enough “baby brother”. What I loved most about this book is that every single time Caleb got into his head or thought he wasn’t good enough for Miguel or thought he wasn’t worth it, Miggy was right there ready to pull him back. They truly complimented each other in the best ways. I loved even more that the door was left wide open for Izzy to give us more of these two(all things crossed)! I also LOVE that Izzy is always so detailed with her PREP! Spit isn’t enough, and the prepping that’s written in this book is so good! The spicy scenes were done so well and had me hawtttt!
The plots there, it’s not just smut which is awesome considering the length of the read, the flow of the novella pairs well with the pace!
Check your triggers as some things could be triggering.
I highly recommend adding this to your TBR! You can also preorder this book!
Let me preface this by saying, if Izzy writes it, I’m reading it, no questions asked.
This book is a taboo Halloween dark romance; with a hint of smut. You’ve got tension, you’ve got slow burn, you’ve got mental health representation done so well that it pulls at your heart strings as you’re reading. There is primal play, there is Miggy in a mask! This quick novella type read is MM AND THEY ARE STEPBROTHERS! Caleb and Miggy (Miguel) are perfection. Miggy is your badass knows he’s got it possessive and secretly obsessive big brother while Caleb is the meeker anxious keep it all inside college athlete, cant fail, thinks he’s not good enough “baby brother”. What I loved most about this book is that every single time Caleb got into his head or thought he wasn’t good enough for Miguel or thought he wasn’t worth it, Miggy was right there ready to pull him back. They truly complimented each other in the best ways. I loved even more that the door was left wide open for Izzy to give us more of these two(all things crossed)! I also LOVE that Izzy is always so detailed with her PREP! Spit isn’t enough, and the prepping that’s written in this book is so good! The spicy scenes were done so well and had me hawtttt!
The plots there, it’s not just smut which is awesome considering the length of the read, the flow of the novella pairs well with the pace!
Check your triggers as some things could be triggering.
I highly recommend adding this to your TBR! You can also preorder this book!
October 5, 2025
So, this was the cutest read. Yes, it 1000% does have spooky Halloween vibes, which were so good but it was also such a beautiful little story. I didn't want it to end. I wanted more...
So we have Caleb and Miguel. Caleb is beautiful and broken and doesn't deem himself worthy of happiness or anything really. He is so kind and caring, but I think something happened, and it's shaped how he thinks of himself. Miguel is determined, a true alpha, and has these mysterious, dangerous vibes about him, but he's actually amazing and so good for Caleb. He knows what he wants and goes after it.
The plot was amazing. Caleb heads home for Halloween weekend to spend time with his dad, his step mum, Celeste, and his step bro, Miguel. The thing is, he is so in love with Miguel that he distances himself from him to avoid detection. Little does he realise, Miguel is going to do everything in his power to have Caleb, even if it means dressing up in a mask and doing naughty things. I love that Miguel saw Caleb for who he really is and showed him time and time again that he is worthy of love and happiness.
I really want more of Miguel and Caleb, please, Izzy 🙏🙏🙏
Incredible Read!!!
Thank you so much, Izzy, and your lovely team for the opportunity to read this story. I am extremely blessed to be a part of your ARC team 🙏
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ / 🌶🌶🌶
💙 dual pov
💙 taboo / forbidden
💙 stepbrother
💙 masked men
💙 halloween vibes
💙 so angsty
💙 spicy
💙 innocent mmc
💙 so much more...
So we have Caleb and Miguel. Caleb is beautiful and broken and doesn't deem himself worthy of happiness or anything really. He is so kind and caring, but I think something happened, and it's shaped how he thinks of himself. Miguel is determined, a true alpha, and has these mysterious, dangerous vibes about him, but he's actually amazing and so good for Caleb. He knows what he wants and goes after it.
The plot was amazing. Caleb heads home for Halloween weekend to spend time with his dad, his step mum, Celeste, and his step bro, Miguel. The thing is, he is so in love with Miguel that he distances himself from him to avoid detection. Little does he realise, Miguel is going to do everything in his power to have Caleb, even if it means dressing up in a mask and doing naughty things. I love that Miguel saw Caleb for who he really is and showed him time and time again that he is worthy of love and happiness.
I really want more of Miguel and Caleb, please, Izzy 🙏🙏🙏
Incredible Read!!!
Thank you so much, Izzy, and your lovely team for the opportunity to read this story. I am extremely blessed to be a part of your ARC team 🙏
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ / 🌶🌶🌶
💙 dual pov
💙 taboo / forbidden
💙 stepbrother
💙 masked men
💙 halloween vibes
💙 so angsty
💙 spicy
💙 innocent mmc
💙 so much more...
October 27, 2025
MUST READ OF THE YEAR!!
The description and detail to what Caleb’s going through. Each moment that leads to in a Halloween meets slow burn (metaphor) way!! Little Brat holds my heart in ways i understand a little what he goes through and to have a Miggy like he does… Breathtaking. Like I can’t get enough of these two and I’m not sure I want to because it feels like finding love but having to let it go but not wanting to. That’s this book, this story, this world!! I need Miguel and Caleb and want more of. Izzy like always you find a way to add a similar connection between characters and a world to find that connection in. I am in love with this world your created and the beauty within; these are not the right words I feel I am in a book hangover and wanting more of it!! My brain automatically does this thing where I take my sweet time to read, to be devoured by the words written because I know I want to stay in this world forever. That’s what I did with this book!! What I said when I DM Izzy; like all the others, you’ve done such a breathtaking everything. I literally feel the hope, the holding of the breath; basically your detail to the emotion being written I too feel, you bring it to life. I am definitely crying 😭 thank you for you, your worlds. And to add, I felt the immense anxiety as if it was me going through what Caleb was. To me that makes one hell of a book, one you need to read!! I’ll be recommending this to so so many because this is a must, you have to, and you will read!!
The description and detail to what Caleb’s going through. Each moment that leads to in a Halloween meets slow burn (metaphor) way!! Little Brat holds my heart in ways i understand a little what he goes through and to have a Miggy like he does… Breathtaking. Like I can’t get enough of these two and I’m not sure I want to because it feels like finding love but having to let it go but not wanting to. That’s this book, this story, this world!! I need Miguel and Caleb and want more of. Izzy like always you find a way to add a similar connection between characters and a world to find that connection in. I am in love with this world your created and the beauty within; these are not the right words I feel I am in a book hangover and wanting more of it!! My brain automatically does this thing where I take my sweet time to read, to be devoured by the words written because I know I want to stay in this world forever. That’s what I did with this book!! What I said when I DM Izzy; like all the others, you’ve done such a breathtaking everything. I literally feel the hope, the holding of the breath; basically your detail to the emotion being written I too feel, you bring it to life. I am definitely crying 😭 thank you for you, your worlds. And to add, I felt the immense anxiety as if it was me going through what Caleb was. To me that makes one hell of a book, one you need to read!! I’ll be recommending this to so so many because this is a must, you have to, and you will read!!
March 2, 2026
Dark, Taboo, and Deliciously Addictive 🖤🎃
Trick of Flesh is a forbidden Halloween dark romance, and let me just say… this taboo story had me absolutely eating it up. Izzy Ravas packed so much emotion, tension, and intensity into this read that I was hooked from start to finish.
Caleb and Miguel’s journey is truly beautiful because this story feels like the beginning of something deep, complicated, and consuming. Watching Caleb slowly unravel and open himself up to Miguel was breathtaking. His walls, his fears, his internal battles all felt so real, and every step he took toward vulnerability felt earned.
Miguel completely stole my heart. The way he speaks, the way he handles Caleb with patience and care, the way he stays gentle even when emotions run high—it was stunning. He doesn’t push too hard or too fast. He understands that Caleb is fighting his own mind, and he meets him with calm, reassurance, and quiet strength. That tenderness mixed with their undeniable chemistry? Perfection.
The tension is thick, the emotions hit hard, and yes, the spice is definitely there, but what stood out most was the emotional connection growing between them. It’s passionate, messy, and beautifully raw.
This may be a short read, but it is packed with intensity, feeling, and depth. It never once felt rushed. Instead, it felt like the perfect opening chapter to a story that’s only just beginning.
I’m ready for the next book, because I need more of Caleb and Miguel in my life.
Five stars without hesitation. 🖤
Trick of Flesh is a forbidden Halloween dark romance, and let me just say… this taboo story had me absolutely eating it up. Izzy Ravas packed so much emotion, tension, and intensity into this read that I was hooked from start to finish.
Caleb and Miguel’s journey is truly beautiful because this story feels like the beginning of something deep, complicated, and consuming. Watching Caleb slowly unravel and open himself up to Miguel was breathtaking. His walls, his fears, his internal battles all felt so real, and every step he took toward vulnerability felt earned.
Miguel completely stole my heart. The way he speaks, the way he handles Caleb with patience and care, the way he stays gentle even when emotions run high—it was stunning. He doesn’t push too hard or too fast. He understands that Caleb is fighting his own mind, and he meets him with calm, reassurance, and quiet strength. That tenderness mixed with their undeniable chemistry? Perfection.
The tension is thick, the emotions hit hard, and yes, the spice is definitely there, but what stood out most was the emotional connection growing between them. It’s passionate, messy, and beautifully raw.
This may be a short read, but it is packed with intensity, feeling, and depth. It never once felt rushed. Instead, it felt like the perfect opening chapter to a story that’s only just beginning.
I’m ready for the next book, because I need more of Caleb and Miguel in my life.
Five stars without hesitation. 🖤
February 27, 2026
I read this because I started reading Disarm and realized that this comes before it. I thought we would get to read more about how Caleb and Miguel's relationship started, but there was no depth here, just smut.
Even though this didn't offer me much, I could have given 3 stars, because I guess it's just meant to be a quick, spicy novella and nothing more. But unfortunately even that kind of failed, which is why this ended up with 2 stars.
By 'failed', I mean that the book presents itself as taboo and dark, and begins with Miguel appearing somewhat intimidating and Caleb running away and "fearing" him, but in the end, all this build-up and hunt was for nothing and the execution was left half-finished; the smut was semi-boring, and suddenly their interactions turned to just sweet and loving.
I also laughed at the idea of their parents throwing a Halloween rager and Miguel and Caleb just running around the place 🏃🏻♂️🏃🏽➡️Miguel approached Caleb like three times in the woods—always waiting for a moment somewhere in the bushes 😂
However, I will continue reading Disarm now and hope that it gives actual depth to the characters, their relationship, and much more in general. Fingers crossed.
PS. I don’t mind if the author wants to add sentences and entire conversations in a different language, but it would be nice to have the translation next to it or at the bottom of the page. My language skills weren’t enough and had to open up translator for this.
Even though this didn't offer me much, I could have given 3 stars, because I guess it's just meant to be a quick, spicy novella and nothing more. But unfortunately even that kind of failed, which is why this ended up with 2 stars.
By 'failed', I mean that the book presents itself as taboo and dark, and begins with Miguel appearing somewhat intimidating and Caleb running away and "fearing" him, but in the end, all this build-up and hunt was for nothing and the execution was left half-finished; the smut was semi-boring, and suddenly their interactions turned to just sweet and loving.
I also laughed at the idea of their parents throwing a Halloween rager and Miguel and Caleb just running around the place 🏃🏻♂️🏃🏽➡️Miguel approached Caleb like three times in the woods—always waiting for a moment somewhere in the bushes 😂
However, I will continue reading Disarm now and hope that it gives actual depth to the characters, their relationship, and much more in general. Fingers crossed.
PS. I don’t mind if the author wants to add sentences and entire conversations in a different language, but it would be nice to have the translation next to it or at the bottom of the page. My language skills weren’t enough and had to open up translator for this.
November 4, 2025
4 1/2 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
4🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Caleb and Miggy 😩 My heart with these two. Miggy is the definition of “the guy who talks you through it”, and I LOVE that for Caleb because that boy needs all the love and care. I managed to get a soft spot for Caleb in only 140 pages. I related so much to the thoughts he had about himself and the way your mind can twist your perceptions of who you really are….
And because of that, thank god for Miggy. The way he speaks to Caleb, the praise, the confirmation, the dirty talk when needed but it always comes back to placing Caleb as high as he possibly can, because that’s the least that Caleb deserves and Miggy knows it.
This book starts at a family Halloween party. Caleb is home before heading back to college and he’s dreading it….because his stepbrother, Miguel (Miggy), is there. He doesn’t hate him, far from it, he has a deep attraction to him and Miggy returns that attraction and tells Caleb that tonight he’s going to act on it, so he better run…
A chase through the woods, Caleb’s fear of giving in to who he truly is and Miggy ultimately breaking Caleb out of the binding
cocoon he was trapped in by hiding himself away, opens up to a deeper ending than just a primal chase. It’s sweet, loving, confidence building and that the right one will always see you as everything, because to them you are.
A quick read and a definite recommend.
4🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Caleb and Miggy 😩 My heart with these two. Miggy is the definition of “the guy who talks you through it”, and I LOVE that for Caleb because that boy needs all the love and care. I managed to get a soft spot for Caleb in only 140 pages. I related so much to the thoughts he had about himself and the way your mind can twist your perceptions of who you really are….
And because of that, thank god for Miggy. The way he speaks to Caleb, the praise, the confirmation, the dirty talk when needed but it always comes back to placing Caleb as high as he possibly can, because that’s the least that Caleb deserves and Miggy knows it.
This book starts at a family Halloween party. Caleb is home before heading back to college and he’s dreading it….because his stepbrother, Miguel (Miggy), is there. He doesn’t hate him, far from it, he has a deep attraction to him and Miggy returns that attraction and tells Caleb that tonight he’s going to act on it, so he better run…
A chase through the woods, Caleb’s fear of giving in to who he truly is and Miggy ultimately breaking Caleb out of the binding
cocoon he was trapped in by hiding himself away, opens up to a deeper ending than just a primal chase. It’s sweet, loving, confidence building and that the right one will always see you as everything, because to them you are.
A quick read and a definite recommend.
September 18, 2025
🥵🥵🥵🥵
But also heart wrenching.
My soul feels the insecurities that Caleb has. He is beautiful but he doesnt see it. He is enough and Miggy is there to show him over and over again.
I love a good stepbrother tab00 romance. I do not think I will ever get enough. But of course I don’t think Izzy will stop so she can continue to feed this add!ct!0n. I’m very ok with that, in fact I’m thrilled.
I went into this book thinking “ooo pure $mut Halloween novella”
Yeaaaaa I absolutely got that, but was also hit with heartwarming love between 2 people that deserve it. They both deserve happiness. I loved that it was not a conventional HEA. They are happy as they are, more could come yes. But labels were not necessary and that was beautiful. They pick each other daily, forever.
I also lose my mind every time something from my hometown is mentioned. Caleb is a slug!!! A UCSC baby!! Those little details are everything to me.
Did I Alpha read this book, you absolutely know I begged Izzy.
If Izzy writes it, I’m reading it. They have a magical power to create these beautiful stories that leave me constantly thinking about them.
But also heart wrenching.
My soul feels the insecurities that Caleb has. He is beautiful but he doesnt see it. He is enough and Miggy is there to show him over and over again.
I love a good stepbrother tab00 romance. I do not think I will ever get enough. But of course I don’t think Izzy will stop so she can continue to feed this add!ct!0n. I’m very ok with that, in fact I’m thrilled.
I went into this book thinking “ooo pure $mut Halloween novella”
Yeaaaaa I absolutely got that, but was also hit with heartwarming love between 2 people that deserve it. They both deserve happiness. I loved that it was not a conventional HEA. They are happy as they are, more could come yes. But labels were not necessary and that was beautiful. They pick each other daily, forever.
I also lose my mind every time something from my hometown is mentioned. Caleb is a slug!!! A UCSC baby!! Those little details are everything to me.
Did I Alpha read this book, you absolutely know I begged Izzy.
If Izzy writes it, I’m reading it. They have a magical power to create these beautiful stories that leave me constantly thinking about them.
October 26, 2025
✨🔮🌞🌕🍄🌕🌞🔮✨
ARC REVIEW
Trick of the flesh - Izzy Ravas
5/5⭐️
📚📚📚
This one was such a great fast read that gave me all the best dark Halloween vibes! I did absolutely binge this in one sitting because Izzy’s writing is something I can just never get enough of! Miguel and Caleb just straight obsessed with. Miguel gave me all the broody and dark vibes with Caleb until he showed that caring side! Gosh I ate it up. The spicy was truly very spicy!! Overall I highly recommend this one.
📚📚📚
If you like to read:
- MM
- Stepbrothers
- Halloween night
- OTTP MMC
- Praise
- Degradation
- Fear play
- Mask play
- rope play
- Spitting
… You should definitely check this out
📚📚📚
Thank you so much for sending me a copy for an honest review in my own words. #giftedcopy
QOTD✨what’s is straight you love your MMC to have? Or what’s a song that reminds you of Halloween?
#books #booklover #smut #booknerd #bookfriend #bookish #booklovers #bookishcommunity #bookloversunite #instabook #bookporn #bookphotography #reviews #igbooks #ilovereading #smutty #bookaddiction #bookhoader #hotnsexy #fortheloveofbooks #bookrecs #yummy #givemeallthebooks #readingthepainaway #booktok
ARC REVIEW
Trick of the flesh - Izzy Ravas
5/5⭐️
📚📚📚
This one was such a great fast read that gave me all the best dark Halloween vibes! I did absolutely binge this in one sitting because Izzy’s writing is something I can just never get enough of! Miguel and Caleb just straight obsessed with. Miguel gave me all the broody and dark vibes with Caleb until he showed that caring side! Gosh I ate it up. The spicy was truly very spicy!! Overall I highly recommend this one.
📚📚📚
If you like to read:
- MM
- Stepbrothers
- Halloween night
- OTTP MMC
- Praise
- Degradation
- Fear play
- Mask play
- rope play
- Spitting
… You should definitely check this out
📚📚📚
Thank you so much for sending me a copy for an honest review in my own words. #giftedcopy
QOTD✨what’s is straight you love your MMC to have? Or what’s a song that reminds you of Halloween?
#books #booklover #smut #booknerd #bookfriend #bookish #booklovers #bookishcommunity #bookloversunite #instabook #bookporn #bookphotography #reviews #igbooks #ilovereading #smutty #bookaddiction #bookhoader #hotnsexy #fortheloveofbooks #bookrecs #yummy #givemeallthebooks #readingthepainaway #booktok
January 27, 2026
Loved this stepbrother novella so much! My gosh, Miguel and Caleb *cute eyes*
The book definitely fits the Halloween theme with this primal play scenario in the beginning, and I so enjoyed it. The anticipation of the chase and of what’s to come *shiver* This is years of build-up, and the tension and desire between them hangs in the air. The degradation, the praise... all of it made for some steamy scenes and I devoured them.
While Caleb’s convinced that Miguel is messing with him, the latter actually has very real, very big feelings for him. He’s waiting for Caleb to submit to him so he claim what’s his. Miguel knows exactly what the other man needs, and adapts as appropriate – sweet, tender and reassuring, or filthy and possessive. He’s actually a massive green flag for me and only has the Caleb’s best interests at heart.
This is only the start for these two and on finishing, I immediately went straight onto the next novella, Sin of the Season.
-------
A couple of my favourite quotes
“Every inch of you is mine to break, Caleb. But I’ll always put you back together, little brother.”
“Let it out. The sin tasters sweeter when it’s forbidden.”
The book definitely fits the Halloween theme with this primal play scenario in the beginning, and I so enjoyed it. The anticipation of the chase and of what’s to come *shiver* This is years of build-up, and the tension and desire between them hangs in the air. The degradation, the praise... all of it made for some steamy scenes and I devoured them.
While Caleb’s convinced that Miguel is messing with him, the latter actually has very real, very big feelings for him. He’s waiting for Caleb to submit to him so he claim what’s his. Miguel knows exactly what the other man needs, and adapts as appropriate – sweet, tender and reassuring, or filthy and possessive. He’s actually a massive green flag for me and only has the Caleb’s best interests at heart.
This is only the start for these two and on finishing, I immediately went straight onto the next novella, Sin of the Season.
-------
A couple of my favourite quotes
“Every inch of you is mine to break, Caleb. But I’ll always put you back together, little brother.”
“Let it out. The sin tasters sweeter when it’s forbidden.”
September 15, 2025
First and foremost thank you to Izzy for the opportunity to beta read this little Halloween novella. This was a fucking BLAST.
I’m feening for a second book already because of that ending and bonus scene. Yea…I’m hooked on Miguel and Caleb. And I NEED more. (Especially with the little turn of events towards the end. I’m dying to know how that will turn out..IYKYK)
The angst, the slow burn, the tension. It’s all PERFECTION and truly has such a good build up for the spice. And when the spice hits, it’s SPICY. I’m such a sucker for a novella that can have equal amounts of plot and smut and this delivered.
Trick of the flesh is taboo, forbidden and will have you feeling all the feels. One minute you’re weeping from your eyes then you’re weeping between your legs.. 😏😂
I love the mental health representation in this as well and how the miggy is so attentive and understanding of Caleb and his anxiety. I’m telling you, they will totally put you in your feels.
I can’t wait for this to release and then I can’t wait for hopefully a follow up 🥺🖤 I fear I’m in love.
5/5 ⭐️ 4/5 🌶️
I’m feening for a second book already because of that ending and bonus scene. Yea…I’m hooked on Miguel and Caleb. And I NEED more. (Especially with the little turn of events towards the end. I’m dying to know how that will turn out..IYKYK)
The angst, the slow burn, the tension. It’s all PERFECTION and truly has such a good build up for the spice. And when the spice hits, it’s SPICY. I’m such a sucker for a novella that can have equal amounts of plot and smut and this delivered.
Trick of the flesh is taboo, forbidden and will have you feeling all the feels. One minute you’re weeping from your eyes then you’re weeping between your legs.. 😏😂
I love the mental health representation in this as well and how the miggy is so attentive and understanding of Caleb and his anxiety. I’m telling you, they will totally put you in your feels.
I can’t wait for this to release and then I can’t wait for hopefully a follow up 🥺🖤 I fear I’m in love.
5/5 ⭐️ 4/5 🌶️
October 26, 2025
TRICK OF THE FLESH is a taboo romance that doesn’t promise a fairy-tale ending—no sunset hand-holding or happily ever afters here. But what Caleb and Miguel do have? It’s complicated. It’s messy. It’s more. It’s Forever.
Caleb’s home for fall break, and suddenly his stepbrother Miguel can’t seem to take his eyes off him. 👀 And honestly? Miguel knows exactly what he wants—and he’s not letting Caleb pretend otherwise.
Also, shoutout to Celeste—queen, mom, unexpected MVP. 👑
This novella is pure tension: the angst, the slow burn, the build-up that aches. And when the spice hits… oh, it hits. 🌶️ Equal parts plot and smut? Perfection.
Things to know
Taboo, Bi-awakening, masked mc, mexican mc, hurt/comfort, stepbrothers, praise and degradation, halloween night, “beg for me”, corn maze fun, Explicit sexual content, dubious consent, fear play, mask play, rope play, primal play, breath play, spitting, gagging, profanity, panic attacks, anxiety, self-deprecating talk, mild depression, obsessive and possessive MMC, oral sex, anal sex, and unprotected sex.
Caleb’s home for fall break, and suddenly his stepbrother Miguel can’t seem to take his eyes off him. 👀 And honestly? Miguel knows exactly what he wants—and he’s not letting Caleb pretend otherwise.
Also, shoutout to Celeste—queen, mom, unexpected MVP. 👑
This novella is pure tension: the angst, the slow burn, the build-up that aches. And when the spice hits… oh, it hits. 🌶️ Equal parts plot and smut? Perfection.
Things to know
Taboo, Bi-awakening, masked mc, mexican mc, hurt/comfort, stepbrothers, praise and degradation, halloween night, “beg for me”, corn maze fun, Explicit sexual content, dubious consent, fear play, mask play, rope play, primal play, breath play, spitting, gagging, profanity, panic attacks, anxiety, self-deprecating talk, mild depression, obsessive and possessive MMC, oral sex, anal sex, and unprotected sex.
September 29, 2025
This was one deliciously filthy little forbidden Halloween novella.
Miguel isn’t just hunting Caleb...he’s been in love with him for years, and that obsession bleeds through every filthy word, every chase, every touch.
Yes, the fear play, mask play, degradation, and breathless predator/prey vibe had me shaking, but what elevated this book was the tenderness buried in it.
The way Miguel calls him "mine" isn’t just possession...it’s devotion.
It’s years of wanting, waiting, watching Caleb deny himself.
And Caleb’s trembling isn’t just panic, it’s the ache of finally facing the one person he can’t escape, the one person who’s always been there, wanting him just as much.
This book gave me the filthiest, dirtiest adrenaline rush...and then gutted me with how much love sits under all that darkness.
Izzy wrote Miguel and Caleb as both predator & prey, tormentor & savior, lust & love.
Miguel’s heart has always belonged to Caleb, and I couldn’t get enough of them.
Miguel isn’t just hunting Caleb...he’s been in love with him for years, and that obsession bleeds through every filthy word, every chase, every touch.
Yes, the fear play, mask play, degradation, and breathless predator/prey vibe had me shaking, but what elevated this book was the tenderness buried in it.
The way Miguel calls him "mine" isn’t just possession...it’s devotion.
It’s years of wanting, waiting, watching Caleb deny himself.
And Caleb’s trembling isn’t just panic, it’s the ache of finally facing the one person he can’t escape, the one person who’s always been there, wanting him just as much.
This book gave me the filthiest, dirtiest adrenaline rush...and then gutted me with how much love sits under all that darkness.
Izzy wrote Miguel and Caleb as both predator & prey, tormentor & savior, lust & love.
Miguel’s heart has always belonged to Caleb, and I couldn’t get enough of them.
December 8, 2025
Trick of the Flesh is a short and very spicy novella involving Caleb and Miguel, two stepbrothers. There’s no blood relation, so I personally wouldn’t consider it taboo, but consider yourself warned.
I enjoyed reading Trick of the Flesh. As a novella, it’s not meant to have fully fleshed out character development, however I thought there was enough character development to be able to get a little glimpse into the lives of Caleb and Miguel. I felt this was more of an introduction to the characters than a full story, but there was still a storyline, albeit a very spicy one.
The spice is very spicy in Trick of the Flesh and it’s also a dark romance, so keep in mind trigger warnings when picking up this read.
Overall I liked the story presented in Trick of the Flesh and cannot wait to read more of Caleb and Miguel.
I enjoyed reading Trick of the Flesh. As a novella, it’s not meant to have fully fleshed out character development, however I thought there was enough character development to be able to get a little glimpse into the lives of Caleb and Miguel. I felt this was more of an introduction to the characters than a full story, but there was still a storyline, albeit a very spicy one.
The spice is very spicy in Trick of the Flesh and it’s also a dark romance, so keep in mind trigger warnings when picking up this read.
Overall I liked the story presented in Trick of the Flesh and cannot wait to read more of Caleb and Miguel.
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