Book Title: Confessions of a Virgin on a Dating App (Goodreads)
Author: Sydney Wilder
Format Read: E-book
Rating: 5/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Confessions of a Virgin on a Dating App is a heartfelt, spicy, and refreshingly honest look at navigating intimacy with medical and emotional baggage—all while indulging in some nerdy gamer fun.
Avery Murphy’s religious upbringing and experiences at bible college left her scarred after a painful and humiliating incident where her college boyfriend pressured her to have sex. They were caught naked, a clear violation of bible college rules. She was then kicked out, becoming a disappointment and outcast to her family, despite never having technically done the deed. Five years later, Avery is living in Orlando, working from home for a publisher, and frequents a game shop with some friends where they play her favorite game, Creatures & Cryptids. Though Avery's moved on from her past, she continues to struggle with dating, unaware that her physical discomfort with sex is linked to an undiagnosed medical condition. After a few failed dating app experiences, she realizes that the obnoxious but caring Devin, the goth owner of her local game store, might be the one person who truly accepts her for who she is. Together, they navigate Avery’s medical condition, her fear of intimacy, and her desire to finally experience love and sex on her own terms.
I loved this book for so many reasons. First, Avery’s journey with endometriosis was handled with so much care and empathy. The frustration, shame, and confusion she feels are palpable, and the book does a great job educating readers about her condition in an accessible way. Avery’s vulnerability made her a truly relatable character, and I found myself rooting for her every step of the way.
Despite the fact that Avery is still a virgin, the book is definitely not lacking in spice. There’s plenty of steamy buildup, and Avery learns a lot about herself and non-penetrative sex along the way (hello, steamy shower scene!). The chemistry between her and Devin is right on—he’s obnoxious and goth, but also surprisingly tender, and their relationship unfolds in a very natural, satisfying way.
What really elevated this book for me was the gamer aspect. Creatures & Cryptids was a fun and well-developed element of the story, with clear nods to real-life games. I’d just finished another book that didn’t quite nail the nerdy elements, but this one absolutely did. The gaming friends were lovable, and Devin was basically my dream love interest—obnoxious but thoughtful.
This book has it all: heart, heat, gaming, and a truly moving exploration of medical and emotional struggles. My only gripe? As a ferret-owner, I would’ve loved to see more page-time for the ferrets! But seriously, if you’re looking for a spicy romance with real emotional depth and some nerdy goodness, Confessions of a Virgin on a Dating App should be next on your TBR.
