An informative crash course on the world and subtleties of kink - an exploration of dynamics, consent, shame and unbridled satisfaction. This read should be essential for, well, everyone, whether you're into kink or enjoy the vanilla life just fine! Engle does a beautiful job speaking to the misconceptions that popular media and mass produced porn have both perpetuated, while acknowledging the roles they've had, especially in recent years, in bringing Kink concepts into the light a little more.

The language used can take some time to get used to, if you're not already interested in the scene, but handily there's a useful glossary included for some of the more common terms. Fundamentals like consent, planning, empathy and aftercare are relevant to all humans, sexual or not. If you're a human and you interact with other humans, the concepts and information held within this book are for you.
An enjoyable read overall, filled with advice that everyone can find use for.

Thanks to Gigi Engle and Jessica Kingsley Publishers for the opportunity to read and review this book through NetGalley. All opinions are my own.

Equal parts sexy and smart, Kink Curious makes exploring the world of kinds feel empowering, not intimidating. Gigi nails the balance between education and intrigue.

I enjoyed how Engle presented the information in this book. It’s a mix of schoolbook and entertainment. I think the cover is fantastic, and it made me want to read the book. Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC.

#KinkCurious by @gigiengle is a wonderfully straightforward guide, encyclopedia, glossary, of life in a kinky world. Nothing is off limits, and nothing is taboo. Honest and upfront, Engle gives the novice a practical guide; and for the experienced practitioner, a series of gentle reminders for things they may have grown accustomed too.

Kink Curious isn't published until January 2026 but my thanks goes to @jkpbooks and @netgalley for the free e-arc in return for an honest review.

Lol. I don't think I'm kinky enough for this book, though I am indeed interested in some kinky things, I know them. But in my opinion, it seems like this book focuses too much on BDSM-type kinks, so other things I interested aren't really discussed. Or is that just my feeling? I don't know. But I feel that what I wanted to read about isn't fully covered here. I''s stull a good book if you're interested in all that stuff. Could give it a try!

Kink Curious is an empowering and sex-positive guide that makes exploring kink feel approachable, informed, and judgment-free. Gigi Engle writes with warmth, humor, and clarity, breaking down complex or intimidating topics into accessible, inclusive language. I especially appreciated how she emphasizes communication, consent, and emotional safety as the foundation for any play.

The book covers a wide range of kinks and relationship dynamics, offering thoughtful reflection questions and practical exercises throughout. While it doesn’t go in-depth into every niche, it succeeds as a welcoming and affirming entry point for people new to exploring their desires or looking to understand them better.

Engle’s compassion and expertise shine through, making Kink Curious both educational and validating — an excellent resource for anyone who wants to explore pleasure with curiosity and care.

Thank you to NetGalley and Jessica Kingsley Publishers for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.

I really enjoyed this interactive journal introduction to kink. It would be a great gift for someone who is coming to terms with their kink, or someone who is just beginning to explore. This should not be the only book you explore if your looking to learn but is a really great first step!

*ARC was provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review*

Thank you to the publisher for allowing me to read early. I learned alot from this book. Other than terms I have seen or heard in pop culture or online, I have never really had an understanding of kinks and how they are divided.

The language and flow of the book was easy to follow. It almost made it seem like I was talking with a friend.

My only issue with the book is the constant repetition of definitions, words, and text. The book could be much shorter and straight to the point if things were not re-explained as often as they were.

Kink Curious was such a well-written, refreshing, and genuinely informative read. Gigi approaches the topic with a warm, welcoming voice that immediately puts the reader at ease. The book is brilliantly kink-positive without ever feeling pushy or overwhelming—just honest, clear, and incredibly empowering.

I loved how accessible the information was. Whether you’re brand-new to exploring kink or simply looking to deepen your understanding, this book meets you exactly where you are. Gigi blends education, reassurance, and real-world insight in a way that feels both supportive and judgment-free.

As an ARC reader, I’m truly impressed. Kink Curious is thoughtful, respectful, and full of encouragement - and I highly recommend it to anyone wanting to learn, explore, or simply feel more confident in their own sexuality.

I received an ARC of from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.

This book is quintessentially a guide to BDSM and kinks from the ground up, it lays a foundation of what is kink, how shame is embedded in our brains, and then details all the basics of engaging in kink safely - or as the author says, as safely as possible.

This book definitely won't be for everyone, but it is written as a guide so the nervous reader who is unsure could easily dip in and out as required to grow comfortable or skip over sections they are uncomfortable with.

I really like how this book is laid out, with journal prompts at the end of each segment to reflect on what you've read and how it might fit into your life - and in many ways I wish this book had been circulated around my high school, it would've helped a lot of people.

I also really like how the author has purposefully broken down the chapters into sub sections to make the information easier to read and also to consider if you aren't sure whether that section is for you. The guide reads well and is easily understood, it really work as a book and the number of headings also really help mark where you are and whether that applies to you.

Personally, I could've done without the dear gigi agony aunt style letters but I understand that is a big part of the author's identity and hence why it was included. It's a nice addition but the rest of the book is strong whether this was included or not.

Overall this really works as a guide and I can only wish it was circulated widely because the way it talks about the impact of corn really resonates with what I've seen and if books like this has beaten corn into the classroom, we might not be where we are today. A good read for those just starting out and those with a little knowledge wanting to learn more as well as a refresher for the more experienced who need a little bit of extra knowledge that is well researched.