I wasn't sure what to expect going into this after the author's note that it wouldn't be for everyone, but I enjoyed it. Holden was amazing while Phoenix grew on me after a while. Lots of angst and drama and all the good stuff. 

Phoenix and Kason are BFFs/basically brothers, and Phoenix is super protective of Kason. So when Holden, a huge playboy, becomes interested in Kason, Phoenix isn't a fan. I didn't love how Phoenix handled this. I thought it was way too much and he needed to let Kason live his life. Kason and Phoenix are codependent, with Phoenix giving Kason whatever he asks for and Kason relying too much on Phoenix. But I thought trying to cockblock him at every opportunity while Kason was trying to explore his sexuality after just coming out of the closet wasn't necessary or supportive. However, their friendship has its own arc throughout the story, and I did like where it ended. 

Phoenix trying to interfere with Kason and Holden's budding romance puts him and Holden in this back and forth that slowly turns into something more. Aside from everything with Kason, I loved Phoenix and Holden together. Holden is a top book boyfriend in my opinion, funny and loving. He knew what he wanted and went for it despite knowing it was going to be a messier option. Phoenix grew on me. I didn't love that he wouldn't just communicate with Kason, not only to alleviate his own guilt but so he could just be with Holden with no secrets. When they were together though, they had such an amazing connection. Not only just great chemistry but similar interests and values which lead to really fun banter and swoony moments.

As far as the "love triangle" aspect, to me Holden and Kason weren't together. They were interested one another superficially, and I think Phoenix didn't make great choices, but it was lying about it after the fact that was the biggest issue. That being said, I'm really excited to get into Kason's story when it comes out. I think he deserves a chance to be more independent after leaning on Phoenix for so long. Can't wait to see what comes next for everyone in the series! 

Read if you like 
• sports romance 
• secret relationship 
• hate to love