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booksafety's Reviews (586)
Book safety, content warnings, and tropes down below.
Sawyer instinctively knew Royce Locke was the most wounded thing—man or beast—he’d encountered in his life.
I seem to be having the unfortunate experience of reading several books lately with main characters I really don’t care for. Royce Locke is described as a moody asshole and a pain to work with, and while he is a little grumpy, I found Sawyer to be pretty insufferable. For a former lawyer and a police detective he is awfully judgemental and continuously assumed the worst about people, including accusing Royce of being homophobic. It got old really fast. It didn’t help that, while physically attracted to Royce, he tried his best to be emotionally (and physically) attracted to another man, including going on a date with said man the same day he had sex with Royce. 1. I can’t understand asking someone on a date while actively lusting after your coworker, 2. going on a date with a sweet man who genuinly wants to date you when the bodily fluids from someone else has barely been washed off you isn’t the most endearing behavior.
I felt *slightly* better about Sawyer by the end, but Royce is the one I care about, and after finding out book 2 is from his POV I *might* read that as well. Hard maybe.
The narration wasn’t good so I had a hard time following/caring about the actual case solving and mystery. Not my favorite book obviously, but my issues with the narrator and icky (to me) characters are the main reasons.
⬇️ Blanket spoiler warning ⬇️
⚠️ Tropes & tags ⚠️
Romantic suspense
Police procedural
Enemies to lovers
Detective partners
Past trauma
Widower
Slow burn
Bi awakening
⚠️ Content warning ⚠️
Graphically detailed murder crime scene
Racist rhetoric (not from MCs)
Misogynistic rhetoric (not from MCs)
Homophobic rhetoric (not from MCs)
Homophobic slur
Suicide of MC’s past work partner and best friend (off page, past)
Feelings of guilt and grief
Brief mention of the death of MC’s husband (cancer, past, some details)
Homophobic rhetoric
Mentions of murder victim being victim of past domestic abuse
Mentions of past underage drinking
Kissing and fondling while only one MC is intoxicated
Binge drinking to deal with emotional challenges (few details)
Injured MC (gunshot wound)
Gun violence
⚠️Book safety ⚠️
Cheating: No
Other person drama: Yes. MC1 flirts with other men, checks out and fantasizes about someone else, and goes on a date with someone else after the first hookup with MC2. The date was planned before they hooked up. The date ends with a cheek kiss. Several references to MC2 hooking up with women. Unclear if this happens while the MCs know each other or not. MC2 gets a couple lap dances (off page) as a part of working on a case. By the end of the book (after MC1’s date with other man) they agree to be together.
Breakup: No
POV: 3rd person, single
Genre: Romantic suspense
Pairing: M/M
Strict roles or versatile: Strict roles in book 1
Main characters’ age: 33 and 34
Series: Series
Kindle Unlimited: Yes
Pages: 317
“You make strings look damn good, Sawyer. Teach me to be the kind of guy who deserves you. Are you patient enough to stand beside me when my fight-or-flight instincts kick in? It’s all I know, and miracles won’t happen overnight. I never again want to see disappointment in your eyes and know that I put it there. I’ve been an insensitive dick to you many times since we met, but I’m not toying with you. I want this.”
You can find most of my reviews on Instagram as well: https://www.instagram.com/booksafety?igsh=MWZ3azhkdDc2Y2ludg%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
Sawyer instinctively knew Royce Locke was the most wounded thing—man or beast—he’d encountered in his life.
I seem to be having the unfortunate experience of reading several books lately with main characters I really don’t care for. Royce Locke is described as a moody asshole and a pain to work with, and while he is a little grumpy, I found Sawyer to be pretty insufferable. For a former lawyer and a police detective he is awfully judgemental and continuously assumed the worst about people, including accusing Royce of being homophobic. It got old really fast. It didn’t help that, while physically attracted to Royce, he tried his best to be emotionally (and physically) attracted to another man, including going on a date with said man the same day he had sex with Royce. 1. I can’t understand asking someone on a date while actively lusting after your coworker, 2. going on a date with a sweet man who genuinly wants to date you when the bodily fluids from someone else has barely been washed off you isn’t the most endearing behavior.
I felt *slightly* better about Sawyer by the end, but Royce is the one I care about, and after finding out book 2 is from his POV I *might* read that as well. Hard maybe.
The narration wasn’t good so I had a hard time following/caring about the actual case solving and mystery. Not my favorite book obviously, but my issues with the narrator and icky (to me) characters are the main reasons.
⬇️ Blanket spoiler warning ⬇️
⚠️ Tropes & tags ⚠️
Romantic suspense
Police procedural
Enemies to lovers
Detective partners
Past trauma
Widower
Slow burn
Bi awakening
⚠️ Content warning ⚠️
Graphically detailed murder crime scene
Racist rhetoric (not from MCs)
Misogynistic rhetoric (not from MCs)
Homophobic rhetoric (not from MCs)
Homophobic slur
Suicide of MC’s past work partner and best friend (off page, past)
Feelings of guilt and grief
Brief mention of the death of MC’s husband (cancer, past, some details)
Homophobic rhetoric
Mentions of murder victim being victim of past domestic abuse
Mentions of past underage drinking
Kissing and fondling while only one MC is intoxicated
Binge drinking to deal with emotional challenges (few details)
Injured MC (gunshot wound)
Gun violence
⚠️Book safety ⚠️
Cheating: No
Other person drama: Yes. MC1 flirts with other men, checks out and fantasizes about someone else, and goes on a date with someone else after the first hookup with MC2. The date was planned before they hooked up. The date ends with a cheek kiss. Several references to MC2 hooking up with women. Unclear if this happens while the MCs know each other or not. MC2 gets a couple lap dances (off page) as a part of working on a case. By the end of the book (after MC1’s date with other man) they agree to be together.
Breakup: No
POV: 3rd person, single
Genre: Romantic suspense
Pairing: M/M
Strict roles or versatile: Strict roles in book 1
Main characters’ age: 33 and 34
Series: Series
Kindle Unlimited: Yes
Pages: 317
“You make strings look damn good, Sawyer. Teach me to be the kind of guy who deserves you. Are you patient enough to stand beside me when my fight-or-flight instincts kick in? It’s all I know, and miracles won’t happen overnight. I never again want to see disappointment in your eyes and know that I put it there. I’ve been an insensitive dick to you many times since we met, but I’m not toying with you. I want this.”
You can find most of my reviews on Instagram as well: https://www.instagram.com/booksafety?igsh=MWZ3azhkdDc2Y2ludg%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
Book safety, content warnings, and tropes & tags down below.
“Hold your head up, Edison,” Bishop said in a hushed rumble that Edison supposed was his version of a whisper. […] “With your head up, I can see you better,” Bishop rumbled, watching Edison as he backed away.
I’ve had this book on my TBR for aaaages, and I finally got to it. I’m glad I did, as I ended up loving it so much. I especially like Edison. He was simply a very lovely and endearing character. He’s also a plus size character, which I honestly often avoid reading, because of a lot of the themes popping up in those books can be triggering and difficult to read. This one had those themes as well. Edison is bullied by his coworkers (one awful one in particular), and he has horrible comments made about his body/looks and his eating habits, which was incredibly hard to read at times. What made it bearable, was how Bishop (the other MC) freaking adored Edison and his body. I never ever doubted his sincerity, and I think the author did a great job in making sure that it came through how attracted they were to each other. It was never ‘in spite of’ or ‘because of’. It just was.
It’s a longer book, and the slow burn with a building friendship and relationship was so right for these boys, who both had major insecurities about different things to work through. They were so good to each other though, and showed patience and kindness when they needed it. Bishop has had a very complicated and rough life up until this point (which I wouldn’t have minded being expanded on), and he’s working incredibly hard to turn things around.
“If my hands weren’t so dirty, I’d touch your handsome face. […]”
As mentioned, there is a lot of focus on food, bodies, and the teasing/bullying that Edison experiences. If you’re comfortable with that though, the love story in this is so sweet, and they both deserved to find someone good to spend their lives with.
⬇️ Blanket spoiler warning ⬇️
⚠️ Tropes & tags ⚠️
Plus size MC
Ex con
Former gang member
Illiterate MC
Size difference
Strangers to friends to lovers
Class difference
⚠️⚠️ Content warning ⚠️⚠️
Fatphobia
Fatshaming
Bullying
Grief
Insecurities
Food-focused talk
Violent altercation
Explicit sexual content
Mentions of life in prison
Manipulative side character
Mentions of the death of a parent (off page, past)
⚠️⚠️⚠️ Book safety ⚠️⚠️⚠️
Cheating: No
OM/OW drama: MC goes on ‘date’ before meeting the other MC (nothing happens between them). An ex tries to create drama later, as well as a coworker creating trouble throughout the book. The MCs only have eyes for each other.
Third-act breakup: No
POV: 3rd person, dual POV
Genre: Contemporary romance, M/M
Strict roles or versatile: Strict roles
“You look really handsome today, Edison.” Those few simple words eased over Edison’s mind like a comforting caress, then slid down his spine. He wanted to record Bishop saying that statement in that sexy voice and replay it for his psyche all day—anytime someone tried to make him feel less than. Because an amazingly, fine specimen of a man like Bishop thought he was handsome.
“Hold your head up, Edison,” Bishop said in a hushed rumble that Edison supposed was his version of a whisper. […] “With your head up, I can see you better,” Bishop rumbled, watching Edison as he backed away.
I’ve had this book on my TBR for aaaages, and I finally got to it. I’m glad I did, as I ended up loving it so much. I especially like Edison. He was simply a very lovely and endearing character. He’s also a plus size character, which I honestly often avoid reading, because of a lot of the themes popping up in those books can be triggering and difficult to read. This one had those themes as well. Edison is bullied by his coworkers (one awful one in particular), and he has horrible comments made about his body/looks and his eating habits, which was incredibly hard to read at times. What made it bearable, was how Bishop (the other MC) freaking adored Edison and his body. I never ever doubted his sincerity, and I think the author did a great job in making sure that it came through how attracted they were to each other. It was never ‘in spite of’ or ‘because of’. It just was.
It’s a longer book, and the slow burn with a building friendship and relationship was so right for these boys, who both had major insecurities about different things to work through. They were so good to each other though, and showed patience and kindness when they needed it. Bishop has had a very complicated and rough life up until this point (which I wouldn’t have minded being expanded on), and he’s working incredibly hard to turn things around.
“If my hands weren’t so dirty, I’d touch your handsome face. […]”
As mentioned, there is a lot of focus on food, bodies, and the teasing/bullying that Edison experiences. If you’re comfortable with that though, the love story in this is so sweet, and they both deserved to find someone good to spend their lives with.
⬇️ Blanket spoiler warning ⬇️
⚠️ Tropes & tags ⚠️
Plus size MC
Ex con
Former gang member
Illiterate MC
Size difference
Strangers to friends to lovers
Class difference
⚠️⚠️ Content warning ⚠️⚠️
Fatphobia
Fatshaming
Bullying
Grief
Insecurities
Food-focused talk
Violent altercation
Explicit sexual content
Mentions of life in prison
Manipulative side character
Mentions of the death of a parent (off page, past)
⚠️⚠️⚠️ Book safety ⚠️⚠️⚠️
Cheating: No
OM/OW drama: MC goes on ‘date’ before meeting the other MC (nothing happens between them). An ex tries to create drama later, as well as a coworker creating trouble throughout the book. The MCs only have eyes for each other.
Third-act breakup: No
POV: 3rd person, dual POV
Genre: Contemporary romance, M/M
Strict roles or versatile: Strict roles
“You look really handsome today, Edison.” Those few simple words eased over Edison’s mind like a comforting caress, then slid down his spine. He wanted to record Bishop saying that statement in that sexy voice and replay it for his psyche all day—anytime someone tried to make him feel less than. Because an amazingly, fine specimen of a man like Bishop thought he was handsome.
Book safety, content warnings, and tropes & tags down below.
Ah, fuck.
I stayed away from any reviews of this book, because I kinda already knew. There was no way for it to live up to my expectations, but I’m genuinely bummed out about it. The first couple of chapters made me really excited, because it played on that anguish both MCs felt after basically 20 years of push and pull. Unfortunately, everything kind of fell away as soon as they slept together. I expected some epic groveling from Thomas for everything he had put Aiden through over the years, but we got absolutely nothing. Apparently Aiden had already forgiven him. Well, I fucking haven’t forgiven him. What Thomas did is emotionally cruel - I don’t want you, I’m letting you go, but not actually, I’ll drunk dial you whenever I’m sad and lonely and make you feel bad, I’ll pull you back in when it’s convenient, and you’ll never feel free - and he didn’t have to answer for *any* of it.
If there was ever a time to put the external drama away and focus on the relationship, this was it. It didn’t need the case-solving and murdering at all. Thomas’ secrets and revelations, along with some good relationship development with Aiden would’ve been more than enough, and could’ve given them the time and opportunity to develop said relationship.
In a vacuum, this isn’t a bad book. It reads exactly like the rest of the series. Alas, I have waited for this for 7 books. It’s the book that made me want to start the series in the first place. I’ve waited to see what happened between Aiden and Thomas for ages, not to mention how they would fix everything. Unfortunately, we didn’t really get to see how it all got fucked in the first place, and we didn’t get a believable solution to all of their issues. 20 years of problems is not solved by a good dicking, and you can’t goddamn tell me otherwise. I don’t like when emotional trauma is reduced to something cheap like that.
Repeat after me: cock is not therapy.
I can’t in good conscience rate this any higher than 3, but I don’t want to rate it any lower either. I guess I’m feeling a certain amount of loyalty to the series and characters. If I had started with this book and didn’t have the connection with the characters I have, and if I didn’t have so many expectations, I’m sure I would’ve rated it higher, but still no top scores. Ugh, this is so sad, honestly.
One of the most annoying bits is how the ‘potential scandal’ everyone kept commenting on in relation to Aiden and Thomas banging was glossed over when it finally happened. In literally every book there’s been a situation where someone says something about the media shit storm that would ensue if it came out that Thomas was dating his former adopted son, and it was barely mentioned in the epilogue. No. I wanted that shit ON page. Give me all of the drama. Being hounded by paparazzi? Tabloids going fucking crazy? Being bothered by journalists at the door? Seriously. I wanted all of that, and got exactly nothing.
I think I was more upset about this entire thing than I thought I was when I started the review, lol.
I’m just gonna rewrite this a little bit in my head, and pretend it’s all canon. I love Onley James and I feel bad about writing this review, but dang. It just fell short.
Blanket spoiler warning ⬇️
⚠️ Tropes & tags ⚠️
Second chance
Age gap
Former adopted son
Silver fox
Past trauma
Push and pull
Secrets
⚠️⚠️ Content warning ⚠️⚠️
Grooming (not between MCs)
Abusive ex
Mentions of parental neglect
Unsafe sex
Mentions of sexual assault (not detailed)
Graphic violence
Murder
⚠️⚠️⚠️ Book safety ⚠️⚠️⚠️
Cheating: No
OM drama: No
Third-act breakup: No
POV: 3rd person, dual POV
Strict roles or versatile: Versatile
Ah, fuck.
I stayed away from any reviews of this book, because I kinda already knew. There was no way for it to live up to my expectations, but I’m genuinely bummed out about it. The first couple of chapters made me really excited, because it played on that anguish both MCs felt after basically 20 years of push and pull. Unfortunately, everything kind of fell away as soon as they slept together. I expected some epic groveling from Thomas for everything he had put Aiden through over the years, but we got absolutely nothing. Apparently Aiden had already forgiven him. Well, I fucking haven’t forgiven him. What Thomas did is emotionally cruel - I don’t want you, I’m letting you go, but not actually, I’ll drunk dial you whenever I’m sad and lonely and make you feel bad, I’ll pull you back in when it’s convenient, and you’ll never feel free - and he didn’t have to answer for *any* of it.
If there was ever a time to put the external drama away and focus on the relationship, this was it. It didn’t need the case-solving and murdering at all. Thomas’ secrets and revelations, along with some good relationship development with Aiden would’ve been more than enough, and could’ve given them the time and opportunity to develop said relationship.
In a vacuum, this isn’t a bad book. It reads exactly like the rest of the series. Alas, I have waited for this for 7 books. It’s the book that made me want to start the series in the first place. I’ve waited to see what happened between Aiden and Thomas for ages, not to mention how they would fix everything. Unfortunately, we didn’t really get to see how it all got fucked in the first place, and we didn’t get a believable solution to all of their issues. 20 years of problems is not solved by a good dicking, and you can’t goddamn tell me otherwise. I don’t like when emotional trauma is reduced to something cheap like that.
Repeat after me: cock is not therapy.
I can’t in good conscience rate this any higher than 3, but I don’t want to rate it any lower either. I guess I’m feeling a certain amount of loyalty to the series and characters. If I had started with this book and didn’t have the connection with the characters I have, and if I didn’t have so many expectations, I’m sure I would’ve rated it higher, but still no top scores. Ugh, this is so sad, honestly.
One of the most annoying bits is how the ‘potential scandal’ everyone kept commenting on in relation to Aiden and Thomas banging was glossed over when it finally happened. In literally every book there’s been a situation where someone says something about the media shit storm that would ensue if it came out that Thomas was dating his former adopted son, and it was barely mentioned in the epilogue. No. I wanted that shit ON page. Give me all of the drama. Being hounded by paparazzi? Tabloids going fucking crazy? Being bothered by journalists at the door? Seriously. I wanted all of that, and got exactly nothing.
I think I was more upset about this entire thing than I thought I was when I started the review, lol.
I’m just gonna rewrite this a little bit in my head, and pretend it’s all canon. I love Onley James and I feel bad about writing this review, but dang. It just fell short.
Blanket spoiler warning ⬇️
⚠️ Tropes & tags ⚠️
Second chance
Age gap
Former adopted son
Silver fox
Past trauma
Push and pull
Secrets
⚠️⚠️ Content warning ⚠️⚠️
Grooming (not between MCs)
Abusive ex
Mentions of parental neglect
Unsafe sex
Mentions of sexual assault (not detailed)
Graphic violence
Murder
⚠️⚠️⚠️ Book safety ⚠️⚠️⚠️
Cheating: No
OM drama: No
Third-act breakup: No
POV: 3rd person, dual POV
Strict roles or versatile: Versatile
Book safety, content warnings, and tropes & tags down below.
“My love of murder doesn’t have anything to do with my capacity for cuddles. They’re not mutually exclusive.”
Damn, I really really love Felix and Avi. I kinda already knew I would adore Felix from all of his previous appearances, but when I didn’t connect as much with Zane and Asa, I got a little worried. I shouldn’t have worried tho, because Avi and Felix had super chemistry, and I totally bought their connection and romance. Asa and Avi are mirror twins, and it was super clear in this book.
Felix was described as an alley-cat with a rhinestone collar, and I don’t think I could find a better way to explain him as a character. He is super prickly, mega emotional (which I love), pretty freaking crazy, as well as super beautiful, arrogant and funny. He’s all of that, but he still makes a lot of sense. You never feel like he’s acting out of character. Quite the opposite, really. Every time he does something unhinged, you end up thinking ‘yup, that tracks’.
I remember feeling a little unsure about how close Avi, Felix, Asa and Zane were gonna end up being after reading some spoilers, as well as hearing about what happens between them on Onley’s patreon, but I just decided to go with it. I ended up loving their dynamic. I’m still not a massive fan of Asa, but that’s totally fine. Not every character is going to work for me. However, Felix and Zane? I *love* them. So much. I could read an entire book about their friendship. Felix will cut a bitch to protect Zane, and I’m here for it. He’s like the mama bear of the group. I also love how they’re cuddly together. They’re described as being one stop above siblings and one step below lovers, and that fits pretty well.
I was also a big fan of finally getting to know Aiden a little better. I can’t wait for his and Thomas’ book.
Blanket spoiler warning ⬇️
⚠️ Tropes & tags ⚠️
Virgin MC
Boss/intern
Found family
Psychopath MC
Twin MC
Designer
Femme MC
Possessive and obsessive
Murderous golden retriever
Masochist
⚠️⚠️ Content warning ⚠️⚠️
Explicit sexual content
Unsafe sex
Self harm
Torture
Graphic violence
Blood play (cutting, licking)
Face slapping (sexual and consensual)
Mentions of rape (side character, off page)
Brief mention of the death of a sibling
⚠️⚠️⚠️ Book safety ⚠️⚠️⚠️
Cheating: No
OM drama: No
Third-act breakup: No
POV: 3rd person, dual POV
Strict roles or versatile: Strict roles
“My love of murder doesn’t have anything to do with my capacity for cuddles. They’re not mutually exclusive.”
Damn, I really really love Felix and Avi. I kinda already knew I would adore Felix from all of his previous appearances, but when I didn’t connect as much with Zane and Asa, I got a little worried. I shouldn’t have worried tho, because Avi and Felix had super chemistry, and I totally bought their connection and romance. Asa and Avi are mirror twins, and it was super clear in this book.
Felix was described as an alley-cat with a rhinestone collar, and I don’t think I could find a better way to explain him as a character. He is super prickly, mega emotional (which I love), pretty freaking crazy, as well as super beautiful, arrogant and funny. He’s all of that, but he still makes a lot of sense. You never feel like he’s acting out of character. Quite the opposite, really. Every time he does something unhinged, you end up thinking ‘yup, that tracks’.
I remember feeling a little unsure about how close Avi, Felix, Asa and Zane were gonna end up being after reading some spoilers, as well as hearing about what happens between them on Onley’s patreon, but I just decided to go with it. I ended up loving their dynamic. I’m still not a massive fan of Asa, but that’s totally fine. Not every character is going to work for me. However, Felix and Zane? I *love* them. So much. I could read an entire book about their friendship. Felix will cut a bitch to protect Zane, and I’m here for it. He’s like the mama bear of the group. I also love how they’re cuddly together. They’re described as being one stop above siblings and one step below lovers, and that fits pretty well.
I was also a big fan of finally getting to know Aiden a little better. I can’t wait for his and Thomas’ book.
Blanket spoiler warning ⬇️
⚠️ Tropes & tags ⚠️
Virgin MC
Boss/intern
Found family
Psychopath MC
Twin MC
Designer
Femme MC
Possessive and obsessive
Murderous golden retriever
Masochist
⚠️⚠️ Content warning ⚠️⚠️
Explicit sexual content
Unsafe sex
Self harm
Torture
Graphic violence
Blood play (cutting, licking)
Face slapping (sexual and consensual)
Mentions of rape (side character, off page)
Brief mention of the death of a sibling
⚠️⚠️⚠️ Book safety ⚠️⚠️⚠️
Cheating: No
OM drama: No
Third-act breakup: No
POV: 3rd person, dual POV
Strict roles or versatile: Strict roles
Book safety, content warnings, and tropes & tags down below.
“What’s all this?” Caden’s arms were overflowing with stuffed animals. “Brave Heart needs to meet his family!” Caden informed him. “That way he knows he’s not all alone anymore.” Lincoln had been a cop for over twenty years. He was good at putting pieces together, and Caden’s worry of the lion being lonely spoke volumes.
I’m pretty sure Athena Steller wrote the first age play book I ever read, and now she’s started a new series that I can imagine being one of my future favorite age play series. This one was different from a lot of the ones I’ve read in that the dynamic was basically 24/7, and Caden was sort of floating/flipping between big and Little regularly. They didn’t have set times for him to be Little, no set ‘play times’. It seemed like he was Little more often than not. I didn’t have a problem with that, and actually enjoyed seeing a character fully embrace that. Caden isn’t anywhere near the youngest MC I’ve seen being a Little. He’s 24, but he seems very young mentally at times, even when ‘big’. Thankfully, he was able to kind of drag himself out of that headspace and be ‘big’ whenever it was needed and important. The book also had a slightly suspenseful plot, with the Daddy MC trying to solve a case as a detective. We all know by now that any book with a little added action or suspense is a win for me (unless it’s shit, lol). I’m also really excited for the other two books planned in this series. I’m intrigued by all of the characters that are gonna be in them, even the MMM book, which I normally stay clear of.
This won’t get all the stars from me. I obviously can’t speak to the author’s thoughts and intentions for the characters, but I would love to see Caden in therapy. It was mentioned briefly I believe, but not followed up on. I think working through some of his past trauma would make the kink exploration feel less like a crutch, and more healthy. Not that everyone needs to use kink ‘perfectly’ (whatever that would be), but it seemed like a lot of the reason why Caden was drawn to being a Little was because of how he didn’t have those things as an actual child. I wanted that to be taken more seriously, I guess. It didn’t feel creepy thankfully (to me), but I could imagine that being problematic in the future. We’ll get to see Lincoln and Caden more in the future books though, so I’m looking forward to seeing how they evolve.
“He’s absolutely perfect for me.” “Hell, I could tell that the first time we were in the coffee shop and you about tripped over air when you saw him.”
If you enjoy age play, a more fluid 24/7 dynamic, intimate scenes while in ‘little space’, and a touch of suspense, then this would be a great choice.
Side-eyeing Lincoln, he tried to figure out how to get what he wanted. Finally, he gave up and tugged on Lincoln’s shirt. “What do you need, baby?”
Blanket spoiler warning ⬇️
⚠️ Tropes & tags ⚠️
Barista
Detective
Age gap (24/42)
Daddy kink
Age play
Suspense
Traumatic past
24/7 dynamic
Virgin MC
Suckling
Found family
⚠️⚠️ Content warning ⚠️⚠️
Explicit sexual content
Details of being homeless
Mentions of parent with a drug addiction
Mentions of sex work (parent)
Sex while in ‘Little space’
Violence
Mentions of a narcotics investigation
Age play
ABDL (no wetting)
Anxiety
Panic attacks
⚠️⚠️⚠️ Book safety ⚠️⚠️⚠️
Cheating: No
OM drama: No
Third-act breakup: No
POV: 3rd person, dual POV
Strict roles or versatile: Strict roles
“What’s all this?” Caden’s arms were overflowing with stuffed animals. “Brave Heart needs to meet his family!” Caden informed him. “That way he knows he’s not all alone anymore.” Lincoln had been a cop for over twenty years. He was good at putting pieces together, and Caden’s worry of the lion being lonely spoke volumes.
I’m pretty sure Athena Steller wrote the first age play book I ever read, and now she’s started a new series that I can imagine being one of my future favorite age play series. This one was different from a lot of the ones I’ve read in that the dynamic was basically 24/7, and Caden was sort of floating/flipping between big and Little regularly. They didn’t have set times for him to be Little, no set ‘play times’. It seemed like he was Little more often than not. I didn’t have a problem with that, and actually enjoyed seeing a character fully embrace that. Caden isn’t anywhere near the youngest MC I’ve seen being a Little. He’s 24, but he seems very young mentally at times, even when ‘big’. Thankfully, he was able to kind of drag himself out of that headspace and be ‘big’ whenever it was needed and important. The book also had a slightly suspenseful plot, with the Daddy MC trying to solve a case as a detective. We all know by now that any book with a little added action or suspense is a win for me (unless it’s shit, lol). I’m also really excited for the other two books planned in this series. I’m intrigued by all of the characters that are gonna be in them, even the MMM book, which I normally stay clear of.
This won’t get all the stars from me. I obviously can’t speak to the author’s thoughts and intentions for the characters, but I would love to see Caden in therapy. It was mentioned briefly I believe, but not followed up on. I think working through some of his past trauma would make the kink exploration feel less like a crutch, and more healthy. Not that everyone needs to use kink ‘perfectly’ (whatever that would be), but it seemed like a lot of the reason why Caden was drawn to being a Little was because of how he didn’t have those things as an actual child. I wanted that to be taken more seriously, I guess. It didn’t feel creepy thankfully (to me), but I could imagine that being problematic in the future. We’ll get to see Lincoln and Caden more in the future books though, so I’m looking forward to seeing how they evolve.
“He’s absolutely perfect for me.” “Hell, I could tell that the first time we were in the coffee shop and you about tripped over air when you saw him.”
If you enjoy age play, a more fluid 24/7 dynamic, intimate scenes while in ‘little space’, and a touch of suspense, then this would be a great choice.
Side-eyeing Lincoln, he tried to figure out how to get what he wanted. Finally, he gave up and tugged on Lincoln’s shirt. “What do you need, baby?”
Blanket spoiler warning ⬇️
⚠️ Tropes & tags ⚠️
Barista
Detective
Age gap (24/42)
Daddy kink
Age play
Suspense
Traumatic past
24/7 dynamic
Virgin MC
Suckling
Found family
⚠️⚠️ Content warning ⚠️⚠️
Explicit sexual content
Details of being homeless
Mentions of parent with a drug addiction
Mentions of sex work (parent)
Sex while in ‘Little space’
Violence
Mentions of a narcotics investigation
Age play
ABDL (no wetting)
Anxiety
Panic attacks
⚠️⚠️⚠️ Book safety ⚠️⚠️⚠️
Cheating: No
OM drama: No
Third-act breakup: No
POV: 3rd person, dual POV
Strict roles or versatile: Strict roles
Book safety, content warnings, and tropes & tags down below.
He was a mess of tears and snot and saliva, but he'd never looked hotter. He looked defiled. Debauched. He looked like a goddamn crime scene, and Asa had never felt more warmed by a sight in his life.
I thought the investigative reporter angle was really cool, and quite different. I also enjoyed Zane’s character a lot, and I’m looking forward to seeing him becoming best buds with Felix. Unfortunately I didn’t get as attached to Asa. I realize every single one of these books has that insta-lust insta-love element, but I didn’t feel the connection as clearly in this one. It was still perfectly entertaining, hot and funny, but I didn’t get as much of a giddy, giggly, bubbly butterflies feeling this time around.
"You really don’t get it, do you, Lois? You're never getting out of this. You and me? It's a done deal. We're kind of like the mob. Once you're in, you're in. I really hope you can learn to love me because this fucked up thing we have going…it's forever now. Hope you don't get sick of me."
I did appreciate how different Asa was from his adopted brothers, though. He’s very much unapologetically psychopathic. It would’ve been neat to see more of the brilliant mind I’m sure he has, but there’s also a limit to what you can fit in a book with this scope. Zane and Asa really did end up becoming a power couple, and I’m sure we’ll have a sort of power-quad on our hands by the end of Felix and Avi’s book.
“Read the room, Jerry. We’re not here to tell you about our lord and savior, John Wick,” Avi said, thumping him on the forehead. “We’re gonna kill you.”
The mystery/whodunnit part of this was really well done, and I enjoyed trying to find out what had happened alongside the characters. And of course I loved seeing all of the other characters again. By now I’m really freaking curious about what is going on with Archer. Looking forward to the last three books!
Blanket spoiler warning ⬇️
⚠️ Tropes & tags ⚠️
Psychopath MC
Found family
Mystery solving
Investigative reporter
Twin MC
Obsessive
Lovers-to-frenemies-to-lovers
Dealmaking
Edging
Breeding
⚠️⚠️ Content warning ⚠️⚠️
Explicit sexual content
Graphic violence
Watching the video recording of a family member’s suicide (detailed)
Torture and murder
Mild primal play
CNC (mildly, to me)
Use of words like slut/whore during sex
⚠️⚠️⚠️ Book safety ⚠️⚠️⚠️
Cheating: No
OM drama: No
Third-act breakup: No
POV: 3rd person, dual POV
Strict roles or versatile: Strict roles
He looked at Zane and there was this gut punch of need, this primitive, animalistic knowledge that Zane belonged to him, was made for him, was meant to be loved and fucked and protected by him. He wanted to hurt him so he could heal him. He wanted to know that he was the only one Zane trusted to bend him without breaking him.
"I do love you, Lois. In whatever ways I can. I do. Believe that."
"I know people who'd give anything to have what we have. I've killed for you. I would die for you. I will put your work wants and needs above mine forever because I want you to be happy. Is that love? Because when you're not around, I feel like there's…a splinter under my ribcage, and it only goes away when I see your face. That's enough for me. Is it enough for you?"
He was a mess of tears and snot and saliva, but he'd never looked hotter. He looked defiled. Debauched. He looked like a goddamn crime scene, and Asa had never felt more warmed by a sight in his life.
I thought the investigative reporter angle was really cool, and quite different. I also enjoyed Zane’s character a lot, and I’m looking forward to seeing him becoming best buds with Felix. Unfortunately I didn’t get as attached to Asa. I realize every single one of these books has that insta-lust insta-love element, but I didn’t feel the connection as clearly in this one. It was still perfectly entertaining, hot and funny, but I didn’t get as much of a giddy, giggly, bubbly butterflies feeling this time around.
"You really don’t get it, do you, Lois? You're never getting out of this. You and me? It's a done deal. We're kind of like the mob. Once you're in, you're in. I really hope you can learn to love me because this fucked up thing we have going…it's forever now. Hope you don't get sick of me."
I did appreciate how different Asa was from his adopted brothers, though. He’s very much unapologetically psychopathic. It would’ve been neat to see more of the brilliant mind I’m sure he has, but there’s also a limit to what you can fit in a book with this scope. Zane and Asa really did end up becoming a power couple, and I’m sure we’ll have a sort of power-quad on our hands by the end of Felix and Avi’s book.
“Read the room, Jerry. We’re not here to tell you about our lord and savior, John Wick,” Avi said, thumping him on the forehead. “We’re gonna kill you.”
The mystery/whodunnit part of this was really well done, and I enjoyed trying to find out what had happened alongside the characters. And of course I loved seeing all of the other characters again. By now I’m really freaking curious about what is going on with Archer. Looking forward to the last three books!
Blanket spoiler warning ⬇️
⚠️ Tropes & tags ⚠️
Psychopath MC
Found family
Mystery solving
Investigative reporter
Twin MC
Obsessive
Lovers-to-frenemies-to-lovers
Dealmaking
Edging
Breeding
⚠️⚠️ Content warning ⚠️⚠️
Explicit sexual content
Graphic violence
Watching the video recording of a family member’s suicide (detailed)
Torture and murder
Mild primal play
CNC (mildly, to me)
Use of words like slut/whore during sex
⚠️⚠️⚠️ Book safety ⚠️⚠️⚠️
Cheating: No
OM drama: No
Third-act breakup: No
POV: 3rd person, dual POV
Strict roles or versatile: Strict roles
He looked at Zane and there was this gut punch of need, this primitive, animalistic knowledge that Zane belonged to him, was made for him, was meant to be loved and fucked and protected by him. He wanted to hurt him so he could heal him. He wanted to know that he was the only one Zane trusted to bend him without breaking him.
"I do love you, Lois. In whatever ways I can. I do. Believe that."
"I know people who'd give anything to have what we have. I've killed for you. I would die for you. I will put your work wants and needs above mine forever because I want you to be happy. Is that love? Because when you're not around, I feel like there's…a splinter under my ribcage, and it only goes away when I see your face. That's enough for me. Is it enough for you?"
Book safety, content warnings, and tropes & tags down below.
God, this guy makes me feel like a fool for just existing. It’s a fantastic talent he has.
I actually don’t know who I loved more, Whit or Caleb. I loved them both so much! I know what I’ll reread if I need a cuddle fix. All the body-blankets, neck-nuzzling, back-stroking and hair-tugging. It was so lovely to read what felt like a book full of cuddles, haha. With a side of heartbreak, but you know we all love getting our hearts broken by fictional men. I may complain a little, but I secretly love it whenever a book makes me cry, haha.
Why couldn’t guys cuddle or hold hands? Who came up with that shit rule? Maybe we’d all be happier if we were able to show some affection every once in a while.
I love how Caleb went from ‘I’m not gay’ to the most c*ck hungry dude ever. Maybe it’s not a big mystery when he had a Whit in his life. I do love a dominant softie. That first scene when he showed his dominant streak to Caleb had me fanning myself. Oh boy.
Whit seems happy too. He hasn’t pulled his Kindle out once, and I’m feeling flattered.
I was hoping to get some more info about what was going on with Whit and his family, but it kinda worked keeping it all a mystery as well. I’m just too curious. I wanna know *everything* lol. There’s honestly not a lot going on in this book, but that worked for me this time. It was just sweet.
I don’t understand this guy. How he can be so controlling in the bedroom and yet blushes like a schoolgirl when he sees just a bit of my stomach? It’s confusing and yet so endearing.
I’m just gonna jump right into Sem. How could I not after this? Half of my highlights in Whit is about Maggie or Sem, lmao.
This book also has one of my favorite covers ever. So pretty.
Blanket spoiler warning ⬇️
⚠️ Tropes & tags ⚠️
College age
Roommates
Sexual awakening
Secrets
So many cuddles
Found family
First time bottom
Past trauma
Size difference (bulk more than height)
⚠️⚠️ Content warning ⚠️⚠️
Explicit sexual content
Grief
Self harm (off page, past)
Scars
Mentions of suicide attempts
Brief mentions of abuse
Mentions of the death of a parent
⚠️⚠️⚠️ Book safety ⚠️⚠️⚠️
Cheating: No
OM drama: A few situations of unfounded jealousy.
Third-act breakup: Yes
POV: 1st person, dual POV
Strict roles or versatile: Versatile
God, this guy makes me feel like a fool for just existing. It’s a fantastic talent he has.
I actually don’t know who I loved more, Whit or Caleb. I loved them both so much! I know what I’ll reread if I need a cuddle fix. All the body-blankets, neck-nuzzling, back-stroking and hair-tugging. It was so lovely to read what felt like a book full of cuddles, haha. With a side of heartbreak, but you know we all love getting our hearts broken by fictional men. I may complain a little, but I secretly love it whenever a book makes me cry, haha.
Why couldn’t guys cuddle or hold hands? Who came up with that shit rule? Maybe we’d all be happier if we were able to show some affection every once in a while.
I love how Caleb went from ‘I’m not gay’ to the most c*ck hungry dude ever. Maybe it’s not a big mystery when he had a Whit in his life. I do love a dominant softie. That first scene when he showed his dominant streak to Caleb had me fanning myself. Oh boy.
Whit seems happy too. He hasn’t pulled his Kindle out once, and I’m feeling flattered.
I was hoping to get some more info about what was going on with Whit and his family, but it kinda worked keeping it all a mystery as well. I’m just too curious. I wanna know *everything* lol. There’s honestly not a lot going on in this book, but that worked for me this time. It was just sweet.
I don’t understand this guy. How he can be so controlling in the bedroom and yet blushes like a schoolgirl when he sees just a bit of my stomach? It’s confusing and yet so endearing.
I’m just gonna jump right into Sem. How could I not after this? Half of my highlights in Whit is about Maggie or Sem, lmao.
This book also has one of my favorite covers ever. So pretty.
Blanket spoiler warning ⬇️
⚠️ Tropes & tags ⚠️
College age
Roommates
Sexual awakening
Secrets
So many cuddles
Found family
First time bottom
Past trauma
Size difference (bulk more than height)
⚠️⚠️ Content warning ⚠️⚠️
Explicit sexual content
Grief
Self harm (off page, past)
Scars
Mentions of suicide attempts
Brief mentions of abuse
Mentions of the death of a parent
⚠️⚠️⚠️ Book safety ⚠️⚠️⚠️
Cheating: No
OM drama: A few situations of unfounded jealousy.
Third-act breakup: Yes
POV: 1st person, dual POV
Strict roles or versatile: Versatile
Book safety, content warnings, and tropes & tags down below.
Oh, I didn’t expect it, but I think Jericho and Atticus might rival Adam and Noah for my favorite couple so far. I absolutely adored how Jericho is the slightly more unhinged one out of the pair, even though he’s the ‘normal’ one. His dominance and care was top notch, and I adored how Atticus really just needed affection. He needed someone to hug him and tell him he’s loved. Shut the front door, I’m melting.
He’d been in a dating slump since his brothers had decided to start mating for life like psychotic penguins.
It’s both super funny and super cute how Atticus is a ‘born killer’, it’s literally his job, and he both hates it and is really bad at it lol. I just really love Atticus, it seems.
“[…] I don’t like killing, but I’d kill for you, too.” Jericho’s stomach fluttered. “I know, Freckles. I know.”
I remember laughing at how the other guys teased Atticus in the first two books, and now I feel fucking awful about it. He’s got a way more sensitive soul than I saw coming, and now I just wanna protect him, lol. Thankfully Jericho spotted the problem immediately and did the protecting.
For the longest time I had only read Unhinged and Paladin, and I really liked seeing how Jericho’s Boys came to be, and just meeting his character properly. Paladin is absolutely one of my favorite Onley James books, and now I can appreciate it even more.
“I’m not letting you go, Freckles. I’m just not. You can call it a business arrangement, an affair, a kidnapping, some kind of midlife crisis. But whatever you call it, you’re mine. And I protect what’s mine.”
Next up is Headcase, even thought I have to admit I wish Felix’s book came first, because I freaking love him so much already, lol. I shall wait impatiently.
Blanket spoiler warning ⬇️
⚠️ Tropes & tags ⚠️
Doctor (MD/PHD)
Killer who doesn’t like killing
Psychopath MC
Sexual awakening
Gang leader
Found family
Mechanic
Two murder boys
Dirty talk
Mild D/s dynamic
⚠️⚠️ Content warning ⚠️⚠️
Explicit sexual content
Murder
Torture
Graphic violence
Mentions of human trafficking
Grief
Mentions of organ harvesting
Brief mentions of childhood neglect/abuse
Somnophilia
⚠️⚠️⚠️ Book safety ⚠️⚠️⚠️
Cheating: No
OM drama: No
Third-act breakup: No
POV: 3rd person, dual POV
Strict roles or versatile: Strict roles
Oh, I didn’t expect it, but I think Jericho and Atticus might rival Adam and Noah for my favorite couple so far. I absolutely adored how Jericho is the slightly more unhinged one out of the pair, even though he’s the ‘normal’ one. His dominance and care was top notch, and I adored how Atticus really just needed affection. He needed someone to hug him and tell him he’s loved. Shut the front door, I’m melting.
He’d been in a dating slump since his brothers had decided to start mating for life like psychotic penguins.
It’s both super funny and super cute how Atticus is a ‘born killer’, it’s literally his job, and he both hates it and is really bad at it lol. I just really love Atticus, it seems.
“[…] I don’t like killing, but I’d kill for you, too.” Jericho’s stomach fluttered. “I know, Freckles. I know.”
I remember laughing at how the other guys teased Atticus in the first two books, and now I feel fucking awful about it. He’s got a way more sensitive soul than I saw coming, and now I just wanna protect him, lol. Thankfully Jericho spotted the problem immediately and did the protecting.
For the longest time I had only read Unhinged and Paladin, and I really liked seeing how Jericho’s Boys came to be, and just meeting his character properly. Paladin is absolutely one of my favorite Onley James books, and now I can appreciate it even more.
“I’m not letting you go, Freckles. I’m just not. You can call it a business arrangement, an affair, a kidnapping, some kind of midlife crisis. But whatever you call it, you’re mine. And I protect what’s mine.”
Next up is Headcase, even thought I have to admit I wish Felix’s book came first, because I freaking love him so much already, lol. I shall wait impatiently.
Blanket spoiler warning ⬇️
⚠️ Tropes & tags ⚠️
Doctor (MD/PHD)
Killer who doesn’t like killing
Psychopath MC
Sexual awakening
Gang leader
Found family
Mechanic
Two murder boys
Dirty talk
Mild D/s dynamic
⚠️⚠️ Content warning ⚠️⚠️
Explicit sexual content
Murder
Torture
Graphic violence
Mentions of human trafficking
Grief
Mentions of organ harvesting
Brief mentions of childhood neglect/abuse
Somnophilia
⚠️⚠️⚠️ Book safety ⚠️⚠️⚠️
Cheating: No
OM drama: No
Third-act breakup: No
POV: 3rd person, dual POV
Strict roles or versatile: Strict roles
Book safety, content warnings, and tropes & tags down below.
Ohh, I liked this even more than the first book in the series! There’s just something about men in their 40’s and 50’s finding love again that tickles my pickle. I freaking adore it. Two single dads as well? Take all of my money.
I loved my kids more than anything, but they could also cause me more pain than anything or anyone else.
The fact that Auden was so accepting and understanding about sexuality, and the fact that it transferred to his own sexual awakening was so endearing. Sure, he was a little shocked and surprised after 48 years as a straight man, but he was such a sweetheart about it. I gotta say I also love spicy scenes where the ‘bi awakened’ person experiences new things, and it was done really well in this one. Hot hot hot. The fact that Keaton is an english teacher, wears bow ties, doesn’t swear, loves poetry *and* loves getting pounded into the mattress (his words, not mine), definitely didn’t hurt.
Fifty years old, and I had a crush on a straight guy. Holy moly, when would I ever learn?
Most of the angst in this one comes from family matters/problems, both with Keaton’s (horrible) ex wife, and with one of his sons. I also appreciated how sensitively Nora wrote about Auden’s issues with fertility. I haven’t seen that in a book before. It’s often about a woman’s infertility, and I think normalizing and talking about the other side of things is important.
I would’ve loved to see more of Auden’s slow realization when he started getting feelings for Keaton. The change from good friends to having a crush (and being completely fine with it) felt the tiniest bit abrupt, but not so much that it was a problem. I guess I just wanted a bit more of the ‘butterflies stage’, if that makes any sense. The book was entirely charming and sweet, and I would definitely recommend it (especially if you read and loved You & Me by Tal Bauer).
Side note: I am so freaking curious about what was in the gift Ennio gave Auden for his birthday. Miss Nora, please tell us
Ohh, I liked this even more than the first book in the series! There’s just something about men in their 40’s and 50’s finding love again that tickles my pickle. I freaking adore it. Two single dads as well? Take all of my money.
I loved my kids more than anything, but they could also cause me more pain than anything or anyone else.
The fact that Auden was so accepting and understanding about sexuality, and the fact that it transferred to his own sexual awakening was so endearing. Sure, he was a little shocked and surprised after 48 years as a straight man, but he was such a sweetheart about it. I gotta say I also love spicy scenes where the ‘bi awakened’ person experiences new things, and it was done really well in this one. Hot hot hot. The fact that Keaton is an english teacher, wears bow ties, doesn’t swear, loves poetry *and* loves getting pounded into the mattress (his words, not mine), definitely didn’t hurt.
Fifty years old, and I had a crush on a straight guy. Holy moly, when would I ever learn?
Most of the angst in this one comes from family matters/problems, both with Keaton’s (horrible) ex wife, and with one of his sons. I also appreciated how sensitively Nora wrote about Auden’s issues with fertility. I haven’t seen that in a book before. It’s often about a woman’s infertility, and I think normalizing and talking about the other side of things is important.
I would’ve loved to see more of Auden’s slow realization when he started getting feelings for Keaton. The change from good friends to having a crush (and being completely fine with it) felt the tiniest bit abrupt, but not so much that it was a problem. I guess I just wanted a bit more of the ‘butterflies stage’, if that makes any sense. The book was entirely charming and sweet, and I would definitely recommend it (especially if you read and loved You & Me by Tal Bauer).
Side note: I am so freaking curious about what was in the gift Ennio gave Auden for his birthday. Miss Nora, please tell us
Book safety, content warnings, and tropes & tags down below.
What’s your name?” The man rolls his bottom lip into his mouth as he takes a step forward, extending his small hand to me. “Ferdie.” “What kind of fucking name is Ferdie?” He laughs as if I haven’t just insulted him.
I didn’t realize this book was a thicc one until I had the ARC downloaded and I was ready to start reading, but I had absolutely no reason to worry. Once I started this book, I could barely put it down and I finished it super fast. I kept telling myself ‘only one more chapter’, but that chapter always ended in a way that I just *had* to keep going. To me, this book was the perfect blend of romance and external fuckery.
I like the fact that this tiny man has such a foul mouth.
Augustine is such a hoot. It’s been a while since I read a book with a truly grumpy character, but this guy takes the cake, and I loved it, lol. I also laughed every time he commented on Ferdinand’s name, as well as every time Ferdie made fun of Augustine’s age. These MCs were perfect for each other. Fate or not, they were definitely meant to be, and I would’ve gladly read a book double the length of this one about them. I took a short break at 95% because I didn’t want it to end.
I smile brightly at him as I tuck a stray curl behind my ear. “So, judging by your faulty hip and declining mental state, I’d say you’re pretty fucking old. Am I right?”
I was well over halfway done with the book and thought ‘Huh, I’ve laughed, swooned, been on the edge of my seat, but I haven’t cried. That’s a first in a while.’ WRONG. Boom. Tears. This book really did have it all, but without it feeling forced or jammed in there ‘just because’.
We stay for almost an hour longer, just lying side by side, passing the time by naming clouds. I steal his laughs and his sighs, his smiles, and his frowns, I take it all.
Sometimes, trying a new-to-me author really pays off, and this was one of those times. If any of these tropes speaks to you, you have to keep an eye out for it on release day. So worth it!
Blanket spoiler warning ⬇️
⚠️ Tropes & tags ⚠️
Age gap
Bisexual awakening
Grumpy/sunshine
Strangers to lovers
Sort of insta-love
Virgin MC
Possessive and protective
Forbidden love
Feuding families
Peaky Blinders inspired
‘Who did this to you?’
⚠️⚠️ Content warning ⚠️⚠️
Explicit sexual content
Death of a side character
Homophobic slurs
Graphic violence
Gun violence
Injuries
⚠️⚠️⚠️ Book safety ⚠️⚠️⚠️
Cheating: No
OM drama: No
Third-act breakup: No
POV: 1st person, dual POV
Strict roles or versatile: Strict roles
“There’s one fucking downside to your height, and that’s the fact that you’re going to make me throw my back out […]”
I received a free copy of this book via Indie Author Creative and am voluntarily leaving a review.
What’s your name?” The man rolls his bottom lip into his mouth as he takes a step forward, extending his small hand to me. “Ferdie.” “What kind of fucking name is Ferdie?” He laughs as if I haven’t just insulted him.
I didn’t realize this book was a thicc one until I had the ARC downloaded and I was ready to start reading, but I had absolutely no reason to worry. Once I started this book, I could barely put it down and I finished it super fast. I kept telling myself ‘only one more chapter’, but that chapter always ended in a way that I just *had* to keep going. To me, this book was the perfect blend of romance and external fuckery.
I like the fact that this tiny man has such a foul mouth.
Augustine is such a hoot. It’s been a while since I read a book with a truly grumpy character, but this guy takes the cake, and I loved it, lol. I also laughed every time he commented on Ferdinand’s name, as well as every time Ferdie made fun of Augustine’s age. These MCs were perfect for each other. Fate or not, they were definitely meant to be, and I would’ve gladly read a book double the length of this one about them. I took a short break at 95% because I didn’t want it to end.
I smile brightly at him as I tuck a stray curl behind my ear. “So, judging by your faulty hip and declining mental state, I’d say you’re pretty fucking old. Am I right?”
I was well over halfway done with the book and thought ‘Huh, I’ve laughed, swooned, been on the edge of my seat, but I haven’t cried. That’s a first in a while.’ WRONG. Boom. Tears. This book really did have it all, but without it feeling forced or jammed in there ‘just because’.
We stay for almost an hour longer, just lying side by side, passing the time by naming clouds. I steal his laughs and his sighs, his smiles, and his frowns, I take it all.
Sometimes, trying a new-to-me author really pays off, and this was one of those times. If any of these tropes speaks to you, you have to keep an eye out for it on release day. So worth it!
Blanket spoiler warning ⬇️
⚠️ Tropes & tags ⚠️
Age gap
Bisexual awakening
Grumpy/sunshine
Strangers to lovers
Sort of insta-love
Virgin MC
Possessive and protective
Forbidden love
Feuding families
Peaky Blinders inspired
‘Who did this to you?’
⚠️⚠️ Content warning ⚠️⚠️
Explicit sexual content
Death of a side character
Homophobic slurs
Graphic violence
Gun violence
Injuries
⚠️⚠️⚠️ Book safety ⚠️⚠️⚠️
Cheating: No
OM drama: No
Third-act breakup: No
POV: 1st person, dual POV
Strict roles or versatile: Strict roles
“There’s one fucking downside to your height, and that’s the fact that you’re going to make me throw my back out […]”
I received a free copy of this book via Indie Author Creative and am voluntarily leaving a review.