Since January 2018 all book reviews have received a Spicy Latte Mug which indicates the heat level you can expect to find represented by the number of flames and is not indicative of an overall book  “star” rating. Prior to the implementation of my “Spicy Mug” rating I used a “Spicy Pepper” rating which meant that some books did not receive a rating due to the genre or perhaps the book did not have any heat. 

Once again it was time for a refresh and with our current spice heat rating every book review will now receive a “Spicy Mug” rating.

Please note that my heat ratings are subjective and within my platform you might find a review that is sweeter or hotter than another book reviewer. I hope you will find my heat rating to be informative and detailed so that you can select a book that best aligns with their comfort level.

Some book reviews contain Trigger or Content Warnings so for those brave and adventurous readers who view these warnings as potential plot spoiler I have implemented a new way to disclose them. In my review on Instagram, I will state in bold there are content or trigger warnings but will direct readers to swipe left to read a separate graphic for those who wish to know before they read. If you are reading my reviews on any other platform, I will need to list them in detail if the author or publisher’s website does not list them in full detail.

For those questioning the necessity of Content or Trigger warnings they are for readers to protect themselves in order to make a choice that best aligns with their comfort level. This might be written for detailed and graphic scenes that contain Kidnapping, Rape, Dubious Consent, Dark Content (abuse, suffering, kidnaping, and other similar themes), Abuse (physical, emotional, and/or sexual), Death or loss (miscarriage or other character), Violence and Gore.

It is not my place to ask questions, judge or further comment on those subjects. I believe reading should be an experience that allows for conversation, emotions of all kinds, and at times that might include tossing a book or two across the room. By updating my heat ratings and further defining what a reader can expect to find I hope that it will avoid any unexpected surprises or discomfort. 

If you are here on my page it is because you value my non-spoilery thoughts and understand my heat rating. I respect all readers have a choice and I will love you no matter what you decide to read. 

So the question remains…how Spicy do you like your books?

Happy Reading.

Just a Cuppa – A book with little or no romance, no kissing, or detailed reference to intimacy.  The happiness at the end of reading this book is determined by the reader. Each book will connect differently and/or satisfy your needs.

Sweet – The romance is behind closed doors while still retaining that sweet wholesomeness that might leave readers with a pink blush on their cheeks. In this type of book characters may express their feelings by declaring they are in love, flirt, embrace, hold hands, or even kiss.

Some scenes might mention a character was in a previous relationship, or they are interested in pursuing more in their current relationship in a physical nature. Those moments or romantic interludes are not graphic or explicit.

Sinfully Sweet – The characters have expressed their feelings as they begin to explore a physical connection which many include kissing and sexual touching. There is plenty of sexual tension on the page and the bedroom door is open.

The intimacy between characters is warm, sensual, and inviting but will will fade-to-black leaving the details off the page. The reader can confirm the characters have taken their exploration to the next level and are now connecting in a more intimate nature. In some books you will find a little extra drama that might be paired with a third act break-up which hopefully leads to a reunion sprinkled with a little romance of some kind before the story ends.

Spicy – The exploration is more explicit between characters that may include dirty talk, detailed intimate moments, or suggested desire of what they would like to do with their partner. This moment might also be expressed before, during, or after intimacy, spicy e-mails, letters, or texting.

Readers can expect multiple detailed scenes or moments that leave no doubt there is a medium level of heat.

Scorchin’ – There are multiple intimacy scenes, some may be “extra spicy” and/or graphic. Some scenes might include a dash of “tie-me-up-tie-me-down” play such as light bondage or sex toys as characters explore their curiosities and desires.

Inferno – Genres one might find this heat level include but not limited to Erotica, Historical Romance, Regency Romance, Romantic Suspense, Romantic Fantasy, Contemporary, Paranormal, Romantic Comedy, New Adult, Military Romance, Fantasy, Sports Romance, Romance, Women’s Fiction or Fiction to name a few.

There are graphic and detailed scenes that include any or all of the following: Erotica, BDSM, more than one partner in an intimate scene, or something mentioned in the authors Trigger Content Warning.

These books are intended for 18+ and content may be considered taboo for some readers.