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Book safety, content warnings, and tropes down below.
“Ex-navy.” “Damn. That’s hot. The only thing hotter would be if you were like a SEAL or something.” He averts his gaze. “Oh holy mother of sexy. You were, weren’t you?” “Guilty.”
The first book is still my favorite in the series, but Atlas is a close second. Lemon and Atlas are adorable together, and I really do appreciate whenever a main character actually wants more than sex. An MC wants commitment and a relationship? I will read the absolute shit out of of that. Atlas was a bit judgemental and had some of that holier-than-thou attitude, but it was used well to showcase character growth, and to highlight some of the stigma and judgement around sex work, and strippers in particular. He is actually the gentlest giant and a sweetheart, so don’t let that stop you from reading.
“No, if we were going to have sex, I wouldn’t just be your friend. I would fucking own you.”
The plot is based around the Mike Bravo team (Atlas in particular) doing an undercover op at the club where Lemon dances. The entire reason for the op was a bit boring to be honest. I enjoyed watching the MCs relationship evolve, and when things finally went down at the club it was entertaining, but the whole action part was a bit forgettable otherwise, which is a shame. Still a very entertaining read though, so if you’ve read and enjoyed Iris (I try to forget Rogue exists), you’ll probably enjoy this one.
I try to move, but he grips on tighter. “Can’t move. I’m dead on my feet.” I smile against the top of his head. “You want me to carry you?” He nods.
⬇️ Blanket spoiler warning ⬇️
⚠️ Tropes & tags ⚠️
Sex worker (pole dancing)
Undercover mission
Private ops
Size difference
Gentle giant
Ex navy SEAL
Twink
⚠️ Content warning ⚠️
Explicit sexual content
Gun violence
Domestic abuse (side character)
Brief mentions of drug use (not MCs)
Drug dealing
Stealing
Arson
Locked in a burning building
Hospitalization
⚠️Book safety ⚠️
Cheating: No
OM/OW drama: MC gives lap-dances to other men, but there’s no drama.
Breakup: No
POV: 1st person, dual POV
Genre: Contemporary romance, M/M
Strict roles or versatile: Strict roles
MCs age: 25, and not specified.
When this all goes to shit and I lose my promotion, my heart, and my pride, someone will ask me what happened, and I’ll only have one answer for them. Lemon happened.
“Ex-navy.” “Damn. That’s hot. The only thing hotter would be if you were like a SEAL or something.” He averts his gaze. “Oh holy mother of sexy. You were, weren’t you?” “Guilty.”
The first book is still my favorite in the series, but Atlas is a close second. Lemon and Atlas are adorable together, and I really do appreciate whenever a main character actually wants more than sex. An MC wants commitment and a relationship? I will read the absolute shit out of of that. Atlas was a bit judgemental and had some of that holier-than-thou attitude, but it was used well to showcase character growth, and to highlight some of the stigma and judgement around sex work, and strippers in particular. He is actually the gentlest giant and a sweetheart, so don’t let that stop you from reading.
“No, if we were going to have sex, I wouldn’t just be your friend. I would fucking own you.”
The plot is based around the Mike Bravo team (Atlas in particular) doing an undercover op at the club where Lemon dances. The entire reason for the op was a bit boring to be honest. I enjoyed watching the MCs relationship evolve, and when things finally went down at the club it was entertaining, but the whole action part was a bit forgettable otherwise, which is a shame. Still a very entertaining read though, so if you’ve read and enjoyed Iris (I try to forget Rogue exists), you’ll probably enjoy this one.
I try to move, but he grips on tighter. “Can’t move. I’m dead on my feet.” I smile against the top of his head. “You want me to carry you?” He nods.
⬇️ Blanket spoiler warning ⬇️
⚠️ Tropes & tags ⚠️
Sex worker (pole dancing)
Undercover mission
Private ops
Size difference
Gentle giant
Ex navy SEAL
Twink
⚠️ Content warning ⚠️
Explicit sexual content
Gun violence
Domestic abuse (side character)
Brief mentions of drug use (not MCs)
Drug dealing
Stealing
Arson
Locked in a burning building
Hospitalization
⚠️Book safety ⚠️
Cheating: No
OM/OW drama: MC gives lap-dances to other men, but there’s no drama.
Breakup: No
POV: 1st person, dual POV
Genre: Contemporary romance, M/M
Strict roles or versatile: Strict roles
MCs age: 25, and not specified.
When this all goes to shit and I lose my promotion, my heart, and my pride, someone will ask me what happened, and I’ll only have one answer for them. Lemon happened.
Book safety, content warnings and tropes & tags down below.
“Hating something doesn’t mean I don’t want it.”
I knew this was a debut novel going into it, but I wouldn’t have guessed it in a million years otherwise. It’s been a long time since I read a book with really beautiful writing like in this one. I would put myself in the ‘mild enemies to lovers’ fan club, where the MCs aren’t really enemies, and suddenly they’re in love. That is not what happens in this one lol. The change from enemies to lovers was so slow and gradual that I didn’t even notice it until it suddenly clicked that their teasing was based on affection instead of something uglier. I hope this book gains some traction. The author deserves it.
You don’t say no to a tantrum or breakdown. You encourage it to run its course. You befriend gravity, because everything else is futile in a free fall.
My good friend commented on the tension in this, which is really noteworthy. It’s not a slow burn in the spice department, but somehow the tension never lets up.
I always cry when I don’t get my way. Maybe things would be different if I learned to cry for others.
One of the MCs was really likeable, and the other was… not.
“Hating something doesn’t mean I don’t want it.”
I knew this was a debut novel going into it, but I wouldn’t have guessed it in a million years otherwise. It’s been a long time since I read a book with really beautiful writing like in this one. I would put myself in the ‘mild enemies to lovers’ fan club, where the MCs aren’t really enemies, and suddenly they’re in love. That is not what happens in this one lol. The change from enemies to lovers was so slow and gradual that I didn’t even notice it until it suddenly clicked that their teasing was based on affection instead of something uglier. I hope this book gains some traction. The author deserves it.
You don’t say no to a tantrum or breakdown. You encourage it to run its course. You befriend gravity, because everything else is futile in a free fall.
My good friend commented on the tension in this, which is really noteworthy. It’s not a slow burn in the spice department, but somehow the tension never lets up.
I always cry when I don’t get my way. Maybe things would be different if I learned to cry for others.
One of the MCs was really likeable, and the other was… not.
Book safety, content warnings, and tropes down below.
It was a hard place to sit in, holding on to the realization that you loved a man who might wish to forget you ever existed.
3+1 main takeaways from this book:
I’ve said it about a million times before and I’ll say it again: there’s lots of good writing out in the world, but whenever I read this author, I go ‘aah, so that’s what great writing looks like’. I put off reading this book for a long time because I knew it would be sad and hurt my heart, but I’m glad I finally did it. It wasn’t as painful as I feared.
It was enough, I thought, to fall in love, even though he wouldn’t fall, too. It was enough to go a little crazy inside myself, and to feel like the world had lit on fire, and for these few days, to pretend that anything was possible.
Noël was a complicated character. For long stretches of time he was quite difficult to like and I wanted to reach through the screen of my kindle and strangle him for hurting my precious bebe Wyatt. But he was never cruel. Sometimes good people do bad things, and by the end I was hurting for Noël too. However. Wyatt is one of my new favorite book boyfriends. That man is made of gold, and apart from being a little naive (and fictional), he was just such a sweet, loving, selfless and good person. The way he sacrificed himself and his dreams to make sure everyone else could follow theirs? Tears. So many tears. I’m not a hugger but I wanted to hug Wyatt.
This book also spans quite a bit of geographical area, both Manhattan, Texas and Cancún, and it felt like I was present in all places. The way this author is able to describe the smallest thing to make it feel like you’re right there along with the characters is unparalleled.
I held him beneath all those glittering constellations, and as the tide rolled in, I wished on every shooting star I saw that this little moment could grow into forever.
Ugh, and then there’s the dang chemistry. Wyatt and Noël were absolutely explosive on page. It didn’t matter if they were actually boning or not. The chemistry and romance was just as tangible when they were sitting side by side on the beach, snorkeling, wrestling beneath a waterfall or downing shots of vodka at the airport.
Wyatt tasted like sea salt and waves, chapped lips, and the coconut margarita he’d had earlier. Like promises and patience and the way he’d touched his fingers to his hat brim when he’d said “Howdy” in Dallas. Like sweetness and adoration and the first blush of falling in love.
⬇️ Blanket spoiler warning ⬇️
⚠️ Tropes & content tags ⚠️
Opposites attract
Second chance
Bisexual awakening
Texan cowboy
Size difference
First times
Hands-free orgasms
Found family
⚠️ Content warning ⚠️
Details of MC’s parents being murdered (past, gun and fire)
MC left at the altar (off page, not by other MC)
Alcohol consumption
Excessive drinking to deal with emotional problems
Mention of teen pregnancy (SCs, past)
MC cheated on by ex (no details)
Explicit sexual content
Mentions of emotionally neglectful parents (past)
Feelings of low self worth
Explicit sexual content
⚠️Book safety ⚠️
Cheating: No
Other person drama: No
Breakup: Yes, and physically apart for 6 weeks
POV: 1st person, dual
Genre: Contemporary romance
Pairing: M/M
Strict roles or versatile: Strict roles
Main characters’ age: 26 and 28
Series: Standalone
Kindle Unlimited: Yes
Pages: 406
Happy ending: Yes
“You remember.” The joy that lit up his face. It made him look like a delighted little boy, if little boys could be six-foot-three and built of solid muscle.
Wyatt, I learned, was ticklish. He’d giggle like a child if I managed to get near his armpits.
You can find most of my reviews on Instagram as well: https://www.instagram.com/booksafety?igsh=MWZ3azhkdDc2Y2ludg%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
It was a hard place to sit in, holding on to the realization that you loved a man who might wish to forget you ever existed.
3+1 main takeaways from this book:
1. Tal Bauer likes red wine
2. I’m not religious but I worship Talbert
3. Only Tal can come back from me starting to dislike a character
4. Wyatt is baby
I’ve said it about a million times before and I’ll say it again: there’s lots of good writing out in the world, but whenever I read this author, I go ‘aah, so that’s what great writing looks like’. I put off reading this book for a long time because I knew it would be sad and hurt my heart, but I’m glad I finally did it. It wasn’t as painful as I feared.
It was enough, I thought, to fall in love, even though he wouldn’t fall, too. It was enough to go a little crazy inside myself, and to feel like the world had lit on fire, and for these few days, to pretend that anything was possible.
Noël was a complicated character. For long stretches of time he was quite difficult to like and I wanted to reach through the screen of my kindle and strangle him for hurting my precious bebe Wyatt. But he was never cruel. Sometimes good people do bad things, and by the end I was hurting for Noël too. However. Wyatt is one of my new favorite book boyfriends. That man is made of gold, and apart from being a little naive (and fictional), he was just such a sweet, loving, selfless and good person. The way he sacrificed himself and his dreams to make sure everyone else could follow theirs? Tears. So many tears. I’m not a hugger but I wanted to hug Wyatt.
This book also spans quite a bit of geographical area, both Manhattan, Texas and Cancún, and it felt like I was present in all places. The way this author is able to describe the smallest thing to make it feel like you’re right there along with the characters is unparalleled.
I held him beneath all those glittering constellations, and as the tide rolled in, I wished on every shooting star I saw that this little moment could grow into forever.
Ugh, and then there’s the dang chemistry. Wyatt and Noël were absolutely explosive on page. It didn’t matter if they were actually boning or not. The chemistry and romance was just as tangible when they were sitting side by side on the beach, snorkeling, wrestling beneath a waterfall or downing shots of vodka at the airport.
Wyatt tasted like sea salt and waves, chapped lips, and the coconut margarita he’d had earlier. Like promises and patience and the way he’d touched his fingers to his hat brim when he’d said “Howdy” in Dallas. Like sweetness and adoration and the first blush of falling in love.
⬇️ Blanket spoiler warning ⬇️
⚠️ Tropes & content tags ⚠️
Opposites attract
Second chance
Bisexual awakening
Texan cowboy
Size difference
First times
Hands-free orgasms
Found family
⚠️ Content warning ⚠️
Details of MC’s parents being murdered (past, gun and fire)
MC left at the altar (off page, not by other MC)
Alcohol consumption
Excessive drinking to deal with emotional problems
Mention of teen pregnancy (SCs, past)
MC cheated on by ex (no details)
Explicit sexual content
Mentions of emotionally neglectful parents (past)
Feelings of low self worth
Explicit sexual content
⚠️Book safety ⚠️
Cheating: No
Other person drama: No
Breakup: Yes, and physically apart for 6 weeks
POV: 1st person, dual
Genre: Contemporary romance
Pairing: M/M
Strict roles or versatile: Strict roles
Main characters’ age: 26 and 28
Series: Standalone
Kindle Unlimited: Yes
Pages: 406
Happy ending: Yes
“You remember.” The joy that lit up his face. It made him look like a delighted little boy, if little boys could be six-foot-three and built of solid muscle.
Wyatt, I learned, was ticklish. He’d giggle like a child if I managed to get near his armpits.
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, tropes and tags down below.
Creepy murderer, horrific details, a psychic helping the police, and two sweet men falling for each other? Yes, please.
This romantic suspense was definitely heavier on the suspense than the romance, but I didn’t mind one bit. My first K.C. Wells book, and I really enjoyed the writing. I usually avoid series that follow the same couple, but I really wanted to read this one. Not sure I’ll read the next one, simply because of that. The romance aspect might pick up more in the next book too, if that’s more your speed. Who knows.
Recommend it if you don’t mind kinda awful murdery stuff. Personally, I love it.
Book safety
Cheating: No
OM drama: No
Third-act breakup: No
POV: 3rd person, dual. 1st person POV from the antagonist.
Strict top/bottom or vers: Strict on-page. Not discussed between MCs
TW/CW: rape, drugging, murder, hate crime, homophobia, attempted murder, explicit sexual content, death of a close friend, mentions of addiction and drug use (not the MCs), mentions of murdered sibling, funeral
Tropes & tags
Psychic/cop, homicide detective, closeted MC, serial killer, visions, fate
Creepy murderer, horrific details, a psychic helping the police, and two sweet men falling for each other? Yes, please.
This romantic suspense was definitely heavier on the suspense than the romance, but I didn’t mind one bit. My first K.C. Wells book, and I really enjoyed the writing. I usually avoid series that follow the same couple, but I really wanted to read this one. Not sure I’ll read the next one, simply because of that. The romance aspect might pick up more in the next book too, if that’s more your speed. Who knows.
Recommend it if you don’t mind kinda awful murdery stuff. Personally, I love it.
Book safety
Spoiler
Cheating: No
OM drama: No
Third-act breakup: No
POV: 3rd person, dual. 1st person POV from the antagonist.
Strict top/bottom or vers: Strict on-page. Not discussed between MCs
TW/CW: rape, drugging, murder, hate crime, homophobia, attempted murder, explicit sexual content, death of a close friend, mentions of addiction and drug use (not the MCs), mentions of murdered sibling, funeral
Tropes & tags
Spoiler
Psychic/cop, homicide detective, closeted MC, serial killer, visions, fate
Book safety, tropes and tags down below.
Ait peeps, where to start? I really liked it. There so much to dig here. A large and in charge studly sword-wielding icelander with crazy rope-skills who saves elves in his free time, and a sassy, arrogant dom-turned-needy-sub/bottom. That’s the good stuff right there.
I knew from the moment my friend rec’d this that I would probably love it. It’s romance, suspense, stalker, shibari and paranormal all set in the icelandic wilderness. It didn’t disappoint.
If you’re like me, then Jamie will probably annoy you a little, but I couldn’t help but like him at the same time, lol.
«‘Aren’t you jealous?’ Jamie asks. ‘Aren’t you afraid that I’m going to treat you just as badly? Maybe I’m not made for relationships.’ Finn ponders Jamie’s words, hiding a smile in his hair. It’s just like Jamie to behave arrogant and insecure at once.»
Jamie is a self-declared Dom, and has been the top in most sexual interactions, but Finn pretty much clocks on to his need for submission immediately. Jamie doesn’t really want to need it, but when he finally lets go, it’s quite spectacular. I wouldn’t label it as struggling, but he doesn’t give in too easily either. This dynamic is by far my favorite part of the book. Finn makes Jamie melt, basically. *chef’s kiss*
I will say, I felt like the climax of the stalker situation was a little underwhelming. I guess I wanted more suspense and danger, but it was still interesting, and I was kept guessing until pretty late.
Book safety
Cheating: No
OM drama: Not in the normal sense, but there is a stalker at play here, so a little drama created by another person. Jamie was also in a relationship with a woman at the start of the book, but they break up before anything happens between him and Finn. The ex girlfriend comes back at one point, but no drama happens.
Third-act breakup: No
POV: 3rd person, present tense, dual
Strict top/bottom or vers: Jamie is vers, but only bottoms on-page in this book
TW/CW
Violence, stalker, murder, blood, decapitated head of an animal, drugging, explicit sexual content
Tropes & tags
Hollywood star/stunt double/sword trainer, Iceland, paranormal, elves, undead, stalker, shibari, D/s dynamic, rope play, BDSM, mild exhibitionism (shibari demonstration in kink club), viking, bisexual, mythology
Ait peeps, where to start? I really liked it. There so much to dig here. A large and in charge studly sword-wielding icelander with crazy rope-skills who saves elves in his free time, and a sassy, arrogant dom-turned-needy-sub/bottom. That’s the good stuff right there.
I knew from the moment my friend rec’d this that I would probably love it. It’s romance, suspense, stalker, shibari and paranormal all set in the icelandic wilderness. It didn’t disappoint.
If you’re like me, then Jamie will probably annoy you a little, but I couldn’t help but like him at the same time, lol.
«‘Aren’t you jealous?’ Jamie asks. ‘Aren’t you afraid that I’m going to treat you just as badly? Maybe I’m not made for relationships.’ Finn ponders Jamie’s words, hiding a smile in his hair. It’s just like Jamie to behave arrogant and insecure at once.»
Jamie is a self-declared Dom, and has been the top in most sexual interactions, but Finn pretty much clocks on to his need for submission immediately. Jamie doesn’t really want to need it, but when he finally lets go, it’s quite spectacular. I wouldn’t label it as struggling, but he doesn’t give in too easily either. This dynamic is by far my favorite part of the book. Finn makes Jamie melt, basically. *chef’s kiss*
I will say, I felt like the climax of the stalker situation was a little underwhelming. I guess I wanted more suspense and danger, but it was still interesting, and I was kept guessing until pretty late.
Book safety
Spoiler
Cheating: No
OM drama: Not in the normal sense, but there is a stalker at play here, so a little drama created by another person. Jamie was also in a relationship with a woman at the start of the book, but they break up before anything happens between him and Finn. The ex girlfriend comes back at one point, but no drama happens.
Third-act breakup: No
POV: 3rd person, present tense, dual
Strict top/bottom or vers: Jamie is vers, but only bottoms on-page in this book
TW/CW
Spoiler
Violence, stalker, murder, blood, decapitated head of an animal, drugging, explicit sexual content
Tropes & tags
Spoiler
Hollywood star/stunt double/sword trainer, Iceland, paranormal, elves, undead, stalker, shibari, D/s dynamic, rope play, BDSM, mild exhibitionism (shibari demonstration in kink club), viking, bisexual, mythology
Book safety, content warnings, and tropes & tags down below.
«He grins and every piece of conversational small talk I’ve ever learned goes poof from my mind.»
Considering the serious slump I’ve been in when it comes to finishing books, I read this one super fast. I barely even slept, it was that good. Christian and Sebastian had fantastic chemistry, and the development of their relationship felt so sweet and natural. Yeah, a couple of insecurities when trying to sort their feelings and figuring out if their connection was real or just ‘cam work’, but it wasn’t drawn out unnecessarily. It was actually surprisingly low angst, considering the tropes.
«It’s been two days since the shoot and I’m still walking a little weird.»
I really commend the author for managing to show the building intimacy through their first couple of filming sessions. It’s porn, sure, but you could really feel how it was much more than that. It felt emotional and sweet from the start, basically. I really loved it.
«We’ve both been changed so fundamentally there’s no going back. We need each other, desperately, helplessly, hopelessly.»
Books with any form of sex work always make me nervous because of the possibility of ‘other people’, and even though they have both watched videos of each other with other men, they both understand that it’s a job, and there’s no jealousy, other than maybe wanting to swap places with the rando’s. Christian has been retired for 10 years and only films with Sebastian, and Seb doesn’t film with anyone other than Christian after the first time they get together. Nothing to worry about if you’re a worrier like me, in other words. It would’ve been nice to get an on-page conversation where they specifically say they’ll only be with each other, but I’m not too worried about it.
«It was a whirlwind existence that sucked me up and spat me out. I never knew fun could be so stressful.»
Definitely recommend this one. The MCs were perfect for each other. When you read as much as I do the smut kind of blends together after a while, but I thought it was very well done and quite memorable in this book. Kudos. I thought the issues with Sebastian’s anxiety was handled well, too.
«I want to shake Sebastian awake just to tell him. I love you. You’re amazing and I love you.»
Blanket spoiler warning ⬇️
⚠️ Tropes & tags ⚠️
Retired adult movie star, OnlyFans, cam boy, active adult movie star, age gap, size difference (both in height and
«He grins and every piece of conversational small talk I’ve ever learned goes poof from my mind.»
Considering the serious slump I’ve been in when it comes to finishing books, I read this one super fast. I barely even slept, it was that good. Christian and Sebastian had fantastic chemistry, and the development of their relationship felt so sweet and natural. Yeah, a couple of insecurities when trying to sort their feelings and figuring out if their connection was real or just ‘cam work’, but it wasn’t drawn out unnecessarily. It was actually surprisingly low angst, considering the tropes.
«It’s been two days since the shoot and I’m still walking a little weird.»
I really commend the author for managing to show the building intimacy through their first couple of filming sessions. It’s porn, sure, but you could really feel how it was much more than that. It felt emotional and sweet from the start, basically. I really loved it.
«We’ve both been changed so fundamentally there’s no going back. We need each other, desperately, helplessly, hopelessly.»
Books with any form of sex work always make me nervous because of the possibility of ‘other people’, and even though they have both watched videos of each other with other men, they both understand that it’s a job, and there’s no jealousy, other than maybe wanting to swap places with the rando’s. Christian has been retired for 10 years and only films with Sebastian, and Seb doesn’t film with anyone other than Christian after the first time they get together. Nothing to worry about if you’re a worrier like me, in other words. It would’ve been nice to get an on-page conversation where they specifically say they’ll only be with each other, but I’m not too worried about it.
«It was a whirlwind existence that sucked me up and spat me out. I never knew fun could be so stressful.»
Definitely recommend this one. The MCs were perfect for each other. When you read as much as I do the smut kind of blends together after a while, but I thought it was very well done and quite memorable in this book. Kudos. I thought the issues with Sebastian’s anxiety was handled well, too.
«I want to shake Sebastian awake just to tell him. I love you. You’re amazing and I love you.»
Blanket spoiler warning ⬇️
⚠️ Tropes & tags ⚠️
Retired adult movie star, OnlyFans, cam boy, active adult movie star, age gap, size difference (both in height and
Book safety, tropes and tags down below.
You know those books that you know are well written, the content is good, you enjoyed it well enough, but it's still somehow a little underwhelming? That was my experience with this book. There wasn't any one 'bad' thing in the book, I guess I just didn't connect too much with the story, and that's okay. Not every story is going to resonate with me. Maybe it will for you.
It might have been 4 stars if we got to see a bit more of the caring/intimate non-sexual moments between Poe and Jericho. I think they had one or two on-page hugs, and in one of those, you get the feeling that wasn't normal or enjoyable for the MCs. To be fair, I am a sucker for the caregiving Daddy types, touchy-feely characters and all the casual intimacy. That shit is like drugs for me, making me all tingly and warming my cold heart.
The book ended quite abruptly, and I do wish we had gotten an epilogue. This was book one in what looks like it was going to be a series, but no books have been added to it since, and it was released 6 years ago. We probably would have seen more of Jericho and Poe in any future books in the series, so I won't hold the ending against the author.
Book safety
Cheating: No
OM drama: Not in a romantic way, but Poe has a friend that creates a few problems
Third-act breakup: No
POV: 1st person, dual
Strict top/bottom: They don't switch during the book, but Poe (the bottom) is bisexual and has topped
TW/CW: Explicit sexual content, recreational drug use (marijuana), mentions of police arrests, vandalism, mentions of child abandonment
Tropes and tags
Age gap, dad's best friend, bisexual, tattoo studio, apprentice, graffiti, tagging, vandalism, toxic friendship, needy bottom with a submissive streak
Favorite quotes
"Pete, stood in the door and cleared his throat. 'Uh. Jer?' I hated being called Jer. Hated it. 'Yeah, Pee?' He didn’t get it."
"Never doubt that art can change your fucking life. Or that you should use a goddamn spell-check program before you let someone near you with a fucking tattoo machine."
"What could I say? I fucking loved being used. It turned me on like nothing else."
"'Art is sacrifice, Poe. Do you think van Gogh would’ve sunk to doing tattoos for cash?' I rolled my eyes. 'I think he, like a lot of artists, died broke as hell and probably would’ve been grateful for any job that paid him to create, to be honest.'"
You know those books that you know are well written, the content is good, you enjoyed it well enough, but it's still somehow a little underwhelming? That was my experience with this book. There wasn't any one 'bad' thing in the book, I guess I just didn't connect too much with the story, and that's okay. Not every story is going to resonate with me. Maybe it will for you.
It might have been 4 stars if we got to see a bit more of the caring/intimate non-sexual moments between Poe and Jericho. I think they had one or two on-page hugs, and in one of those, you get the feeling that wasn't normal or enjoyable for the MCs. To be fair, I am a sucker for the caregiving Daddy types, touchy-feely characters and all the casual intimacy. That shit is like drugs for me, making me all tingly and warming my cold heart.
The book ended quite abruptly, and I do wish we had gotten an epilogue. This was book one in what looks like it was going to be a series, but no books have been added to it since, and it was released 6 years ago. We probably would have seen more of Jericho and Poe in any future books in the series, so I won't hold the ending against the author.
Book safety
Spoiler
Cheating: No
OM drama: Not in a romantic way, but Poe has a friend that creates a few problems
Third-act breakup: No
POV: 1st person, dual
Strict top/bottom: They don't switch during the book, but Poe (the bottom) is bisexual and has topped
TW/CW: Explicit sexual content, recreational drug use (marijuana), mentions of police arrests, vandalism, mentions of child abandonment
Tropes and tags
Spoiler
Age gap, dad's best friend, bisexual, tattoo studio, apprentice, graffiti, tagging, vandalism, toxic friendship, needy bottom with a submissive streak
Favorite quotes
"Pete, stood in the door and cleared his throat. 'Uh. Jer?' I hated being called Jer. Hated it. 'Yeah, Pee?' He didn’t get it."
"Never doubt that art can change your fucking life. Or that you should use a goddamn spell-check program before you let someone near you with a fucking tattoo machine."
"What could I say? I fucking loved being used. It turned me on like nothing else."
"'Art is sacrifice, Poe. Do you think van Gogh would’ve sunk to doing tattoos for cash?' I rolled my eyes. 'I think he, like a lot of artists, died broke as hell and probably would’ve been grateful for any job that paid him to create, to be honest.'"
Book safety, content warnings, and tropes down below. Likely excessive use of quotes incoming.
[…] he’s all mine now,” I said, smug as could be. “He bakes. He’s kinky. He likes to cuddle. He spoils me. As my best friend Simon likes to say, ‘Turner, you hit the Daddy jackpot.’”
[…]
Spencer poked his head back into the playroom. “Turner baby, let’s kick it. I got eggs to crack. Cakes to bake.” Niko snickered. “Lucky.” “Jackpot,” I whispered as I walked by.
I absolutely spammed my (good) friend while reading this book. I was fully expecting to like it as I have adored the entire series so far, but it really surprised me with how good it made me feel. It is beyond adorable and I had the biggest smile on my face with every interaction between Spencer and Turner. There was also plenty of interactions between Littles (other characters from the series and some new ones), which is always pure chaos and adorableness.
The dynamic between Spencer and Turner was really refreshing as well. There’s CNC in this, and the book heavily deals with letting go of external judgement and kink shaming, and Spencer feeling like he is somehow ‘wrong’ for enjoying both consensual non-consent and age play. Turner is a huge help in making him realize that there’s nothing wrong with enjoying both.
Spencer, being Spencer, burst through the door and made a beeline straight for me. “Sugar Bear,” he said as he spread his arms wide and crossed the room. “Did ya miss me?” “Yes.” Still laughing, I pushed at his face as he tried to nuzzle my neck. “Daddy!” I squealed when he blew a raspberry against my skin. “Stop it.” He sighed as he pulled back. “If I have to.”
Turner is also just a badass. He really felt like Spencer’s equal. Of course they partake in a power exchange relationship, but that doesn’t mean inequality. Although not every book with a power exchange dynamic has made me feel as comfortable as these guys. Far from it.
Spencer has been called ‘uncle Spencer’ in previous books, for good reason. He’s an absolute goofball with a bright smile and is so good at just being silly and supportive. He bakes up a storm, has no problems with being vulnerable, takes care of his little and his friends, but will also lose his keys while holding them and be late for his appointments.
✨ balance ✨
“I want you. If you’re feeling down or insecure, ask me for some reassurance but don’t question that.”
Also, the CNC was really hot. Both of these MCs get a lot of joy from roleplaying, and they were really good (mostly) at communicating with every step of their relationship.
Oops that was a lot of words. Safe to say I had a blast reading it. Joining Serving Mr. Chamberlain as my favorites in the series.
How does it feel?” “Is there a word for being terrified and excited at the same time? Because I’m that.” Simon scrunched up his face as he thought about it. “Horny?”
⬇️ Blanket spoiler warning ⬇️
⚠️ Tropes & tags ⚠️
Age play
CNC roleplay
Found family
Power exchange
Impact play
Sex everywhere but a bed
⚠️ Content warning ⚠️
Consensual non-consent roleplay
Explicit sexual content
Age play
Mild ABDL (no wetting)
Power exchange
Impact play
Sexual acts while in Little space
Unsafe sex
*No CNC while in Little space
⚠️Book safety ⚠️
Cheating: No
Other person drama: No
Breakup: No
POV: 1st person, dual
Genre: Contemporary romance
Pairing: M/M
Strict roles or versatile: Strict roles
Main characters’ age: 27 and ‘thirty-odd years’
Series: Interconnected standalone
Kindle Unlimited: Yes
Pages: 286
My sexuality was like a Venn diagram composed of twenty different circles, and I stood in the tiny center where they all overlapped, looking for someone standing there with me. That shouldn’t have been that much of a problem, but there were two circles I craved above all others. The first was so bright it glittered, and the second, well, the second really had no business touching the first.
To me, littles were everything sweet and innocent and good about BDSM. They had their own unique charm, and I was far from immune. They were cuddles on the couch and Sunday morning cartoons. They were bath time at eight and bedtime at nine because storytime always ran late. They were big boy touches when they were good and spankings and time in the corner when they’d been naughty (because littles were never bad).
I’d once canceled a date with a guy because I’d stubbed my toe on the corner of my couch and had convinced myself that I’d broken it. That I’d kicked my couch on purpose and not that hard was beside the point.
Spencer let us play for a bit longer until calling our pool time to a halt. “Alright, let me see those hands,” he said, gesturing toward me and Simon. Giggling, we swam up to Spencer and held our hands up for his inspection. “Just as I thought,” he said, switching his gaze from Simon’s hands to mine. “Wrinkly as a prune. The both of you. Come on. It’s time to get out.” Simon and I were honor-bound to whine as we followed Spencer to the ladder.
Ollie was the first to notice my predicament. He had that look about him that said he’d taken a plug or two in punishment. He leaned over and nudged my shoulder. “What did you do?” I groaned. “He baited me into talking back. He had this smug grin on his face,” I explained, my cheeks burning. “And I just had to.”
You can find most of my reviews on Instagram as well: https://www.instagram.com/booksafety?igsh=MWZ3azhkdDc2Y2ludg%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
[…] he’s all mine now,” I said, smug as could be. “He bakes. He’s kinky. He likes to cuddle. He spoils me. As my best friend Simon likes to say, ‘Turner, you hit the Daddy jackpot.’”
[…]
Spencer poked his head back into the playroom. “Turner baby, let’s kick it. I got eggs to crack. Cakes to bake.” Niko snickered. “Lucky.” “Jackpot,” I whispered as I walked by.
I absolutely spammed my (good) friend while reading this book. I was fully expecting to like it as I have adored the entire series so far, but it really surprised me with how good it made me feel. It is beyond adorable and I had the biggest smile on my face with every interaction between Spencer and Turner. There was also plenty of interactions between Littles (other characters from the series and some new ones), which is always pure chaos and adorableness.
The dynamic between Spencer and Turner was really refreshing as well. There’s CNC in this, and the book heavily deals with letting go of external judgement and kink shaming, and Spencer feeling like he is somehow ‘wrong’ for enjoying both consensual non-consent and age play. Turner is a huge help in making him realize that there’s nothing wrong with enjoying both.
Spencer, being Spencer, burst through the door and made a beeline straight for me. “Sugar Bear,” he said as he spread his arms wide and crossed the room. “Did ya miss me?” “Yes.” Still laughing, I pushed at his face as he tried to nuzzle my neck. “Daddy!” I squealed when he blew a raspberry against my skin. “Stop it.” He sighed as he pulled back. “If I have to.”
Turner is also just a badass. He really felt like Spencer’s equal. Of course they partake in a power exchange relationship, but that doesn’t mean inequality. Although not every book with a power exchange dynamic has made me feel as comfortable as these guys. Far from it.
Spencer has been called ‘uncle Spencer’ in previous books, for good reason. He’s an absolute goofball with a bright smile and is so good at just being silly and supportive. He bakes up a storm, has no problems with being vulnerable, takes care of his little and his friends, but will also lose his keys while holding them and be late for his appointments.
✨ balance ✨
“I want you. If you’re feeling down or insecure, ask me for some reassurance but don’t question that.”
Also, the CNC was really hot. Both of these MCs get a lot of joy from roleplaying, and they were really good (mostly) at communicating with every step of their relationship.
Oops that was a lot of words. Safe to say I had a blast reading it. Joining Serving Mr. Chamberlain as my favorites in the series.
How does it feel?” “Is there a word for being terrified and excited at the same time? Because I’m that.” Simon scrunched up his face as he thought about it. “Horny?”
⬇️ Blanket spoiler warning ⬇️
⚠️ Tropes & tags ⚠️
Age play
CNC roleplay
Found family
Power exchange
Impact play
Sex everywhere but a bed
⚠️ Content warning ⚠️
Consensual non-consent roleplay
Explicit sexual content
Age play
Mild ABDL (no wetting)
Power exchange
Impact play
Sexual acts while in Little space
Unsafe sex
*No CNC while in Little space
⚠️Book safety ⚠️
Cheating: No
Other person drama: No
Breakup: No
POV: 1st person, dual
Genre: Contemporary romance
Pairing: M/M
Strict roles or versatile: Strict roles
Main characters’ age: 27 and ‘thirty-odd years’
Series: Interconnected standalone
Kindle Unlimited: Yes
Pages: 286
My sexuality was like a Venn diagram composed of twenty different circles, and I stood in the tiny center where they all overlapped, looking for someone standing there with me. That shouldn’t have been that much of a problem, but there were two circles I craved above all others. The first was so bright it glittered, and the second, well, the second really had no business touching the first.
To me, littles were everything sweet and innocent and good about BDSM. They had their own unique charm, and I was far from immune. They were cuddles on the couch and Sunday morning cartoons. They were bath time at eight and bedtime at nine because storytime always ran late. They were big boy touches when they were good and spankings and time in the corner when they’d been naughty (because littles were never bad).
I’d once canceled a date with a guy because I’d stubbed my toe on the corner of my couch and had convinced myself that I’d broken it. That I’d kicked my couch on purpose and not that hard was beside the point.
Spencer let us play for a bit longer until calling our pool time to a halt. “Alright, let me see those hands,” he said, gesturing toward me and Simon. Giggling, we swam up to Spencer and held our hands up for his inspection. “Just as I thought,” he said, switching his gaze from Simon’s hands to mine. “Wrinkly as a prune. The both of you. Come on. It’s time to get out.” Simon and I were honor-bound to whine as we followed Spencer to the ladder.
Ollie was the first to notice my predicament. He had that look about him that said he’d taken a plug or two in punishment. He leaned over and nudged my shoulder. “What did you do?” I groaned. “He baited me into talking back. He had this smug grin on his face,” I explained, my cheeks burning. “And I just had to.”
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 below.
I’m going to start this review on a negative note, which I rarely do, but this is one of my biggest pet peeves. Why is there no character descriptions?? Like, at all? No eye color, height, hair color.. just nothing. It frustrates me so bad.
On to more positive things. I’m certainly no expert, but I felt like the kink was done very well. It made sense for the characters, especially Nathan who is exceptionally scatterbrained. He needed to quiet his mind sometimes, and puppy play/subspace was perfect for him. Nathan didn’t really know what got his motor running, but he knew something was missing. His roommate Gabriel had kind of been acting like his Daddy/caretaker for months already by the time their relationship changes. Nathan needed someone to care for him, and Gabriel was perfect for it.
We didn’t really get to know Gabriel a whole lot other than that he was a teacher and kinky. We did get to see how patient and caring he was though, which made me like his character.
Nathan was definitely OTT sometimes, but it was endearing all the same. His lack of a filter was cute, and a character trait I enjoy a lot, but it felt like beating a dead horse after a while in this story.
Overall, it was perfectly enjoyable, but for a book focused on kink, surprisingly.. bland? Maybe I’ve just strayed so far off the vanilla-path that there needs to be something crazy for me to notice, lol. The puppy play parts of the book made me smile though, I only wished there was more of it.
Book safety! Spoilers ahead.
Cheating: No
OM drama: No (there’s a girl in Nathan’s friend group that tries to stirr up shit. She’s batshit)
Third act breakup: No
Strict top/bottom or vers: Strict roles
TW/CW: explicit sexual content, kink, puppy play (and all that entails), absent parents, (mild, if possible) accusations of domestic abuse (there is no abuse)
Favorite quotes:
«‘I’m not a kid.’ ‘The last time I sent you to bed when you were this tired I ended up finding you on the bathroom floor. You’d sat down for just a minute, God only knows why, and had forgotten to get up. We’re not doing that again. You scared the hell out of me. I thought you were dead or something.’»
«Walking around unfulfilled and knowing you were missing something would make you a miserable person to be around.»
«Nathan might be my little space cadet sometimes, but he put a lot of effort into trying to understand his emotions and reactions. He was a funny little nut. That was one of the reasons I liked him so much.»
I’m going to start this review on a negative note, which I rarely do, but this is one of my biggest pet peeves. Why is there no character descriptions?? Like, at all? No eye color, height, hair color.. just nothing. It frustrates me so bad.
On to more positive things. I’m certainly no expert, but I felt like the kink was done very well. It made sense for the characters, especially Nathan who is exceptionally scatterbrained. He needed to quiet his mind sometimes, and puppy play/subspace was perfect for him. Nathan didn’t really know what got his motor running, but he knew something was missing. His roommate Gabriel had kind of been acting like his Daddy/caretaker for months already by the time their relationship changes. Nathan needed someone to care for him, and Gabriel was perfect for it.
We didn’t really get to know Gabriel a whole lot other than that he was a teacher and kinky. We did get to see how patient and caring he was though, which made me like his character.
Nathan was definitely OTT sometimes, but it was endearing all the same. His lack of a filter was cute, and a character trait I enjoy a lot, but it felt like beating a dead horse after a while in this story.
Overall, it was perfectly enjoyable, but for a book focused on kink, surprisingly.. bland? Maybe I’ve just strayed so far off the vanilla-path that there needs to be something crazy for me to notice, lol. The puppy play parts of the book made me smile though, I only wished there was more of it.
Book safety! Spoilers ahead.
Spoiler
Cheating: No
OM drama: No (there’s a girl in Nathan’s friend group that tries to stirr up shit. She’s batshit)
Third act breakup: No
Strict top/bottom or vers: Strict roles
TW/CW: explicit sexual content, kink, puppy play (and all that entails), absent parents, (mild, if possible) accusations of domestic abuse (there is no abuse)
Favorite quotes:
«‘I’m not a kid.’ ‘The last time I sent you to bed when you were this tired I ended up finding you on the bathroom floor. You’d sat down for just a minute, God only knows why, and had forgotten to get up. We’re not doing that again. You scared the hell out of me. I thought you were dead or something.’»
«Walking around unfulfilled and knowing you were missing something would make you a miserable person to be around.»
«Nathan might be my little space cadet sometimes, but he put a lot of effort into trying to understand his emotions and reactions. He was a funny little nut. That was one of the reasons I liked him so much.»
Book safety down below.
This was a fast and easy read, and an enjoyable daddy romance. I liked the characters well enough, but I went in to it expecting a daddy/brat dynamic, and even though it was there at the start, it kind of fell away when the MCs got together.
Overall enjoyable, but it didn’t quite meet my expectations. That’s probably more my own fault than anyone else’s.
Book safety! Spoilers ahead.
Cheating: No
OM drama: No
Third act breakup: No
Strict top/bottom or vers: Strict roles
TW/CW: explicit sexual content, emotionally distant parent
This was a fast and easy read, and an enjoyable daddy romance. I liked the characters well enough, but I went in to it expecting a daddy/brat dynamic, and even though it was there at the start, it kind of fell away when the MCs got together.
Overall enjoyable, but it didn’t quite meet my expectations. That’s probably more my own fault than anyone else’s.
Book safety! Spoilers ahead.
Spoiler
Cheating: No
OM drama: No
Third act breakup: No
Strict top/bottom or vers: Strict roles
TW/CW: explicit sexual content, emotionally distant parent