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Inevitably You #1
Someone Like You
How could he ever love someone as broken as me?
What do you do when your car needs almost two thousand dollars in repairs, you can’t afford it, and the only mechanic available to fix it in this tiny college town is the same person who accidentally triggered the worst PTSD episode of your life? Oh, and he’s offering to cut the cost in half if you help him with a class he’s struggling with.
You say no, right?
This is the exact situation I find myself in, and I don’t know what the answer is. What I do know is that Brody is an enigma. A big, beautiful, tattooed, gray-eyed puzzle whose pieces I want to fling across the room because I can’t seem to figure him out. His interest in me is intense and his relentless pursuit of me is almost impressive. Except I don’t want his attention. I don’t want anyone’s attention. I just want to keep my head down and my grades up and graduate on time.
But I can’t seem to say no to him, and as I find myself spending more and more time with this gentle giant, I quickly realize there’s so much more to him than I first thought. I have a crazy need to keep peeling back his layers and get to the very heart of him.
Problem is, I can’t have him peeling back mine. Because the only thing he’ll find are my demons, and there’s no way he’ll want me once he does…once he realizes that I’m nothing but skin and bones and a whole lot of baggage.
Someone Like You is a sometimes funny, sometimes steamy, moderately angsty MM college romance with dual POV about two lonely boys who find each other at the right time in the right place. It contains some cringe-worthy puns, a whole heaping helping of hurt/comfort, tons of consent, praise, and a HEA.
* This book contains content that may be triggering for some readers. A full list of triggers is located in the beginning of the book and on the author's website.
What do you do when your car needs almost two thousand dollars in repairs, you can’t afford it, and the only mechanic available to fix it in this tiny college town is the same person who accidentally triggered the worst PTSD episode of your life? Oh, and he’s offering to cut the cost in half if you help him with a class he’s struggling with.
You say no, right?
This is the exact situation I find myself in, and I don’t know what the answer is. What I do know is that Brody is an enigma. A big, beautiful, tattooed, gray-eyed puzzle whose pieces I want to fling across the room because I can’t seem to figure him out. His interest in me is intense and his relentless pursuit of me is almost impressive. Except I don’t want his attention. I don’t want anyone’s attention. I just want to keep my head down and my grades up and graduate on time.
But I can’t seem to say no to him, and as I find myself spending more and more time with this gentle giant, I quickly realize there’s so much more to him than I first thought. I have a crazy need to keep peeling back his layers and get to the very heart of him.
Problem is, I can’t have him peeling back mine. Because the only thing he’ll find are my demons, and there’s no way he’ll want me once he does…once he realizes that I’m nothing but skin and bones and a whole lot of baggage.
Someone Like You is a sometimes funny, sometimes steamy, moderately angsty MM college romance with dual POV about two lonely boys who find each other at the right time in the right place. It contains some cringe-worthy puns, a whole heaping helping of hurt/comfort, tons of consent, praise, and a HEA.
* This book contains content that may be triggering for some readers. A full list of triggers is located in the beginning of the book and on the author's website.
284 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 20, 2024
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 166 reviews
October 22, 2024
What a wonderful debut.
I had a bit of trouble getting into it for the first two or three chapters, I have to admit I thought Isaac was a strange character. But that was only a brief feeling that didn't last long and then I was completely absorbed in the story.
After the encounter between Isaac and Brody starts off on the wrong foot, it's sweet to watch them slowly grow closer.
I enjoyed the balance of the story. Of course there is a bit of drama and pain, but there are also slightly funny moments and sexy moments too. Just the right amount of everything.
It's not an incredibly exciting story, I think, you have to get involved with it, it doesn't roll over you and suck you in. But once you've let yourself fall into it, you stay in it.
I don't know if I'm saying it right, the story isn't loud, it's quiet, but it has weight.
Brody is such a sweetheart, the perfect boyfriend and someone each of us needs to have in our lives. And I'll give a bonus star for the therapist, I'm not usually a huge fan, but Isaac's conversations with her were fantastic, and without the therapy really taking up much space.
I had thought about sharing one of the sexy sexy scenes with you, but somehow it doesn't really fit. Even though the intimate scenes between them are super awesome and hot, it's not a smutty book and that would just be misleading. This is what the book is all about:
“Every time I look at you, I can’t decide whether I want to hold you gently or fuck you into the mattress so hard you can’t move for a week. Every time you open those perfect, rosy lips, I’m holding my breath just so I can hear what you’ll say, because it’s never what I expect and it always makes me like you even more. Every time you look at me, my heart pounds and my palms sweat and I’m caught in those beautiful eyes. But I like being caught. You make me happy, Isaac, and you mean so much more to me than I ever expected you to. And I like that. I love that.” 🫠🥰🫠🥰🫠🥰
I had a bit of trouble getting into it for the first two or three chapters, I have to admit I thought Isaac was a strange character. But that was only a brief feeling that didn't last long and then I was completely absorbed in the story.
After the encounter between Isaac and Brody starts off on the wrong foot, it's sweet to watch them slowly grow closer.
I enjoyed the balance of the story. Of course there is a bit of drama and pain, but there are also slightly funny moments and sexy moments too. Just the right amount of everything.
It's not an incredibly exciting story, I think, you have to get involved with it, it doesn't roll over you and suck you in. But once you've let yourself fall into it, you stay in it.
I don't know if I'm saying it right, the story isn't loud, it's quiet, but it has weight.
Brody is such a sweetheart, the perfect boyfriend and someone each of us needs to have in our lives. And I'll give a bonus star for the therapist, I'm not usually a huge fan, but Isaac's conversations with her were fantastic, and without the therapy really taking up much space.
I had thought about sharing one of the sexy sexy scenes with you, but somehow it doesn't really fit. Even though the intimate scenes between them are super awesome and hot, it's not a smutty book and that would just be misleading. This is what the book is all about:
“Every time I look at you, I can’t decide whether I want to hold you gently or fuck you into the mattress so hard you can’t move for a week. Every time you open those perfect, rosy lips, I’m holding my breath just so I can hear what you’ll say, because it’s never what I expect and it always makes me like you even more. Every time you look at me, my heart pounds and my palms sweat and I’m caught in those beautiful eyes. But I like being caught. You make me happy, Isaac, and you mean so much more to me than I ever expected you to. And I like that. I love that.” 🫠🥰🫠🥰🫠🥰
October 19, 2024
First of all, this cover is ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
But not only the cover got to me 👇
SafeSafeSafe | TrustTrustTrust 🛟
Little fun-sized pixie.”🧚🏻♀️
Tattoos and piercings 🥵
Will you read to me 📖
Incense 🕯️
Boundaries ⛑️
The cactus 🌵
Comando 🍆
Shower with consent 🥹
Hard working together 🥵
So fucking beautiful 🫠
Can’t touch me but I can watch you 🔥
Irrational jealousy and possessiveness🤌
Book boyfriend
Baby.Tell me what you need
Delicious praise
Meadling good friends
Touch him and die horribly
Whatever you want, Isaac 🥹🥵
You make me feel safe, Brody🥹
The shower🛁
First times 💋
BabyBabyBaby
Snowed in ❄️💥
Isaac the knight in shiny armor
Alien 🫠
Co-dependency
Finding him felt like kismet
gentle but fierce
Strong heart ♥️
Kismet
I love you
Ditto
4 ⭐⭐⭐⭐I LOVED IT! This is a college romance, with college guys doing college things. Both of them have traumas to deal with, and that's what they do. They work it together while falling in love, breaking each other's boundaries in the best way.The trauma was addressed with respect and given its proper importance in the plot, but we get more focus on the healing and finding ways to recover a life!
The writing is simple and engaging, I can see some naivety since this is a debut novel, maybe it lacks more depth or character development, but the important bites were there that I'm ignoring.
Brody, well, even without trauma we all need a Brody in our life. Natural caretaker, his patience, delicacy, never pushing, always making sure whatever was ok with Isaac, but at the same time HOT AF. So perfect🤌For exemple, there's like 3 maybe 4 pages of them showering, no sex just pure attention, intimacy, caring, devotion and worship. And I was once again in a puddle of swoon just reading about two guys washing each other, and loving every single thing. *sigh dealply*. And lets not forget Brody’s rage toward what happened to Isaac and to whom did that to him?
Isaac baby… you found him and he is here to love you, to take care of you and worship you! Loved it when he let go of his fears and turned into a horny bossy dirty talker. They were perfect together, made for each other in every way.
I usually don't like it when MCs of approximately the same age, treat the smallest one with my boy, or little boy, but what do you know? Absolutely adore it in here, maybe because in other books it felt like the Mc was being treated like a child, here I know Brody was treating Isaac like the most precious thing in the world, nothing but tenderness🫠 and Isaac turns out to be a incredible caretaker himself 🥹
“Whatever you want, Isaac.” This could be said as the sweetest thing or the hottest thing… loved it!
My angsty side says the SA could be more explored and exposed, to create a bit more drama… At some points some things,while treated with respect, felt easily fixed. But again that maybe my traumatized brain needing more angst 😅. The “fuck me” part was a bit rushed from someone who had been abused. I know Isaac felt safe and trusted Brody, and was really eager to that level of intimacy, but maybe wait a little more… I’m all in for delay gratification in this cases🥹 I didn’t understand some changes of chapter, specially when we stayed on the same scene and the same pov. Why begin a new chapter at all? That bj bothered me… because it felt off character for Brody to push Isaac that much. It was his first time, maybe Isaac liked it but… it felt like a gamble that I don’t think Brody would take.
PS: what a sweet and crazy ott epilogue 😅, and wow this turn out to be a big ass review!
“God, I even love you when you’re being ridiculous.”
“Ditto,” he said, fully grinning now.
But not only the cover got to me 👇
SafeSafeSafe | TrustTrustTrust 🛟
Little fun-sized pixie.”🧚🏻♀️
Tattoos and piercings 🥵
Will you read to me 📖
Incense 🕯️
Boundaries ⛑️
The cactus 🌵
Comando 🍆
Shower with consent 🥹
Hard working together 🥵
So fucking beautiful 🫠
Can’t touch me but I can watch you 🔥
Irrational jealousy and possessiveness🤌
Book boyfriend
Baby.Tell me what you need
Delicious praise
Meadling good friends
Touch him and die horribly
Whatever you want, Isaac 🥹🥵
You make me feel safe, Brody🥹
The shower🛁
First times 💋
BabyBabyBaby
Snowed in ❄️💥
Isaac the knight in shiny armor
Alien 🫠
Co-dependency
Finding him felt like kismet
gentle but fierce
Strong heart ♥️
Kismet
I love you
Ditto
4 ⭐⭐⭐⭐I LOVED IT! This is a college romance, with college guys doing college things. Both of them have traumas to deal with, and that's what they do. They work it together while falling in love, breaking each other's boundaries in the best way.The trauma was addressed with respect and given its proper importance in the plot, but we get more focus on the healing and finding ways to recover a life!
The writing is simple and engaging, I can see some naivety since this is a debut novel, maybe it lacks more depth or character development, but the important bites were there that I'm ignoring.
Brody, well, even without trauma we all need a Brody in our life. Natural caretaker, his patience, delicacy, never pushing, always making sure whatever was ok with Isaac, but at the same time HOT AF. So perfect🤌For exemple, there's like 3 maybe 4 pages of them showering, no sex just pure attention, intimacy, caring, devotion and worship. And I was once again in a puddle of swoon just reading about two guys washing each other, and loving every single thing. *sigh dealply*. And lets not forget Brody’s rage toward what happened to Isaac and to whom did that to him?
Isaac baby… you found him and he is here to love you, to take care of you and worship you! Loved it when he let go of his fears and turned into a horny bossy dirty talker. They were perfect together, made for each other in every way.
I usually don't like it when MCs of approximately the same age, treat the smallest one with my boy, or little boy, but what do you know? Absolutely adore it in here, maybe because in other books it felt like the Mc was being treated like a child, here I know Brody was treating Isaac like the most precious thing in the world, nothing but tenderness🫠 and Isaac turns out to be a incredible caretaker himself 🥹
“Whatever you want, Isaac.” This could be said as the sweetest thing or the hottest thing… loved it!
My angsty side says the SA could be more explored and exposed, to create a bit more drama… At some points some things,while treated with respect, felt easily fixed. But again that maybe my traumatized brain needing more angst 😅. The “fuck me” part was a bit rushed from someone who had been abused. I know Isaac felt safe and trusted Brody, and was really eager to that level of intimacy, but maybe wait a little more… I’m all in for delay gratification in this cases🥹 I didn’t understand some changes of chapter, specially when we stayed on the same scene and the same pov. Why begin a new chapter at all? That bj bothered me… because it felt off character for Brody to push Isaac that much. It was his first time, maybe Isaac liked it but… it felt like a gamble that I don’t think Brody would take.
PS: what a sweet and crazy ott epilogue 😅, and wow this turn out to be a big ass review!
“God, I even love you when you’re being ridiculous.”
“Ditto,” he said, fully grinning now.
October 14, 2024
Sugary sweet and adorable. Swoooning. I swear this book healed something inside me.
Brody is so perfect in the way he treasures Isaac and helps him through his trauma. It was truly beautiful. The first person to make Isaac feel safe and treasured and worthy of love. He's his massive sexy teddy bear.
There was so much focus on making Isaac feel comfortable with any form of touch. Brody respected every boundary and continually checked for clear consent. And praise for daysss.
....
"You're such a beautiful boy, Isaac. So sweet and funny and good. You make me feel good, did you know that?"
"Nobody but you has ever made me want to lose myself inside of them. I just want you to trust me. I want to show you that you can trust me, because I never want to see you cry again. Not because of me, or anyone else."
"He called me baby. Twice. Be still, my horny heart."
"My beautiful fucking boy was a shadow of himself right now, and I wanted to find whatever or whoever had made him this way and rip their spine from their throat. But first I would lie here with him and give him whatever comfort I could offer."
"Whatever happened, you are still the most beautiful boy I've ever met, inside and out. You don't have to go through this alone. I'm right here for you. I won't let anyone hurt you, Isaac."
"You're so damn beautiful, Isaac. I knew your cock would be as pretty as the rest of you."
"I wasn't sure what about me he liked, because when I looked in the mirror, all I saw was a small, skinny guy. Nothing special at all. But he kept calling me beautiful, and I kept believing him."
"Shh, it's okay. You're okay. I've got you, baby. I'm right here. You were so brave for sharing that with me, did you know that? You have so much courage. So much. I'm so sorry you had to go through that. ... You never deserved that. And it's not your fault. You are so fucking strong for surviving something like that."
....
⚠️ possible spoilers below in tropes and trigger warnings
Tropes:
Strangers to enemies to lovers
Consent kings
Pierced and tattooed teddy bear of a man
Size difference
Broken boys
Hurt/ comfort
Touch him and die
Protector
Mental health rep
Praise praise praise
💦 in pants
Touch starved MCs
First times including first kiss
TWs:
Past rape of MC
Abusive ex
MC has heart condition
MC has surgery after collapsing from heart condition
Hospital stay
Violence towards MCs
PTSD
Panic attacks
Low self worth
Dead parents
Brody is so perfect in the way he treasures Isaac and helps him through his trauma. It was truly beautiful. The first person to make Isaac feel safe and treasured and worthy of love. He's his massive sexy teddy bear.
There was so much focus on making Isaac feel comfortable with any form of touch. Brody respected every boundary and continually checked for clear consent. And praise for daysss.
....
"You're such a beautiful boy, Isaac. So sweet and funny and good. You make me feel good, did you know that?"
"Nobody but you has ever made me want to lose myself inside of them. I just want you to trust me. I want to show you that you can trust me, because I never want to see you cry again. Not because of me, or anyone else."
"He called me baby. Twice. Be still, my horny heart."
"My beautiful fucking boy was a shadow of himself right now, and I wanted to find whatever or whoever had made him this way and rip their spine from their throat. But first I would lie here with him and give him whatever comfort I could offer."
"Whatever happened, you are still the most beautiful boy I've ever met, inside and out. You don't have to go through this alone. I'm right here for you. I won't let anyone hurt you, Isaac."
"You're so damn beautiful, Isaac. I knew your cock would be as pretty as the rest of you."
"I wasn't sure what about me he liked, because when I looked in the mirror, all I saw was a small, skinny guy. Nothing special at all. But he kept calling me beautiful, and I kept believing him."
"Shh, it's okay. You're okay. I've got you, baby. I'm right here. You were so brave for sharing that with me, did you know that? You have so much courage. So much. I'm so sorry you had to go through that. ... You never deserved that. And it's not your fault. You are so fucking strong for surviving something like that."
....
⚠️ possible spoilers below in tropes and trigger warnings
Tropes:
Strangers to enemies to lovers
Consent kings
Pierced and tattooed teddy bear of a man
Size difference
Broken boys
Hurt/ comfort
Touch him and die
Protector
Mental health rep
Praise praise praise
💦 in pants
Touch starved MCs
First times including first kiss
TWs:
Past rape of MC
Abusive ex
MC has heart condition
MC has surgery after collapsing from heart condition
Hospital stay
Violence towards MCs
PTSD
Panic attacks
Low self worth
Dead parents
October 6, 2024
Brody, Brody, Brody... Looks like I've got myself a new book boyfriend! 🥰
I loved this book from beginning to end, their story was beautiful and so touching...
I can't wait to read this author's next work! 🩵
I loved this book from beginning to end, their story was beautiful and so touching...
I can't wait to read this author's next work! 🩵
November 16, 2024
Wow, wow wow wow, what an incredible debut novel and one of the best hurt/comfort romances I’ve ever read. Fuck, I gobbled that shit up from page one.
There was so much to love here:
🩵 college setting
🩵 Broken boys who heal together
🩵 car mechanic x children’s book writer
🩵 Possessiveness/protectiveness/co-dependency
🩵 Touch him and literally die
🩵 Size difference
🩵 Touch starved
🩵 Seriously hot steam and so much consent talk *swoon*
🩵 Endless exploration of eachothers bodies
🩵 Praise and ‘baby’
🩵 Unlimited patience and caretaking
🩵 Feeling safe and finding trust
🩵 Healing and going to therapy
🩵 Amazing side characters (WHO HOPEFULLY GET THEIR OWN BOOKS PLEASE!!)
There were a few inconsistencies here and there regarding the characters and how they acted but it was easy to overlook, I thought.
Even though this had some heavy themes (please check the tw beforehand!), I’d say it was fairly low angst and got ridiculously sweet during the end - which I loved, because damn, those two deserved an ott HEA!
I can’t wait to see what Nyla Dane writes next. Maybe Jordan’s story? That would make me so happy! 4,5⭐️
There was so much to love here:
🩵 college setting
🩵 Broken boys who heal together
🩵 car mechanic x children’s book writer
🩵 Possessiveness/protectiveness/co-dependency
🩵 Touch him and literally die
🩵 Size difference
🩵 Touch starved
🩵 Seriously hot steam and so much consent talk *swoon*
🩵 Endless exploration of eachothers bodies
🩵 Praise and ‘baby’
🩵 Unlimited patience and caretaking
🩵 Feeling safe and finding trust
🩵 Healing and going to therapy
🩵 Amazing side characters (WHO HOPEFULLY GET THEIR OWN BOOKS PLEASE!!)
There were a few inconsistencies here and there regarding the characters and how they acted but it was easy to overlook, I thought.
Even though this had some heavy themes (please check the tw beforehand!), I’d say it was fairly low angst and got ridiculously sweet during the end - which I loved, because damn, those two deserved an ott HEA!
I can’t wait to see what Nyla Dane writes next. Maybe Jordan’s story? That would make me so happy! 4,5⭐️
August 24, 2024
Hajxkrbchaiwkfbxuakenfhcxiejeh.
This was so good.
I was shocked to see this was a debut. Genuinely.
Isaac is the human embodiment of a cactus and Brody is the embodiment of a cinnamon roll. Together? It’s kismet (thanks Bri) 😭
We have trauma, a massive MC, a pretty pixie, a sister that is definitely on some kind of watch list, and a whole lot of love.
Please check your triggers. 🖤
I didn’t expect this to be so heartwarming and absolutely filthy at the same time. The things that come out of Brody’s mouth should be printed out and framed 🤤
Anywho,
Read it.
I received a complimentary copy of this book but this is my honest and voluntary review! 🖤
This was so good.
I was shocked to see this was a debut. Genuinely.
Isaac is the human embodiment of a cactus and Brody is the embodiment of a cinnamon roll. Together? It’s kismet (thanks Bri) 😭
We have trauma, a massive MC, a pretty pixie, a sister that is definitely on some kind of watch list, and a whole lot of love.
Please check your triggers. 🖤
I didn’t expect this to be so heartwarming and absolutely filthy at the same time. The things that come out of Brody’s mouth should be printed out and framed 🤤
Anywho,
Read it.
I received a complimentary copy of this book but this is my honest and voluntary review! 🖤
September 21, 2024
this would’ve done numbers on wattpad. very over the top. very silly. very dramatic. but you know what? i was vibing with it. most of the time. the ending was very extra wattpad. not my favorite but it fit the theme. honestly not bad for a debut.
November 27, 2024
5 Stars!⭐️
3.5🌶️
OH MY GOSH!!!! Y’all NEED To Read This Book If You Haven’t Already Because This Was Out Of This World. Brody And Isaac Are Literally One Of The Most CUTEST And Most REAL Couples Ive Read About In A While And I Absolutely Loved Them There Definitely One Of My Fav Couples Because Their Codependency Is Just EVERYTHING TO MY HEART. I LITERALLY Adore Them To My Hearts Content And How Brody Was SO Patient With Issac When He Wasn’t Ready For More Or When Isaac Felt Like He Was Ready But Brody Thought He Wasn’t Ready Yet Because He Doesn’t Want To Hurt Him, UGH! I’m Literally OBSESSED! Also The Side Characters Jordan And Jamie, They BETTER Get A Book Or I Swear Because I Loved Them Both With My Whole Heart. Also Gavin, I Know We’re Supposed To Hate Him, But Why Am I Kinda Rooting For Him😱😂 Because I Know What He Did Was Wrong And Horrible ( Not Spoiling Anything Just Go Read It To Find Out ) But I Feel Like He’s SO Misunderstood And I Just REALLY Want To Know More About Him So Lyla, I Will Be Patiently Waiting For Gavin And Beck’s Book And I Will Be Signing Up For The Arc If You’re Doing Them😂 Anyways, Go Read This Book It’s Honestly SO Good And Has SO MUCH Depth And I Cannot Wait For The Next Books In This Series. Lyla, You’re Officially An Auto - Buy Author For Me Girl, You’re Writing Is Fantastic Give Me 14 Of Them😂🫶💕
3.5🌶️
OH MY GOSH!!!! Y’all NEED To Read This Book If You Haven’t Already Because This Was Out Of This World. Brody And Isaac Are Literally One Of The Most CUTEST And Most REAL Couples Ive Read About In A While And I Absolutely Loved Them There Definitely One Of My Fav Couples Because Their Codependency Is Just EVERYTHING TO MY HEART. I LITERALLY Adore Them To My Hearts Content And How Brody Was SO Patient With Issac When He Wasn’t Ready For More Or When Isaac Felt Like He Was Ready But Brody Thought He Wasn’t Ready Yet Because He Doesn’t Want To Hurt Him, UGH! I’m Literally OBSESSED! Also The Side Characters Jordan And Jamie, They BETTER Get A Book Or I Swear Because I Loved Them Both With My Whole Heart. Also Gavin, I Know We’re Supposed To Hate Him, But Why Am I Kinda Rooting For Him😱😂 Because I Know What He Did Was Wrong And Horrible ( Not Spoiling Anything Just Go Read It To Find Out ) But I Feel Like He’s SO Misunderstood And I Just REALLY Want To Know More About Him So Lyla, I Will Be Patiently Waiting For Gavin And Beck’s Book And I Will Be Signing Up For The Arc If You’re Doing Them😂 Anyways, Go Read This Book It’s Honestly SO Good And Has SO MUCH Depth And I Cannot Wait For The Next Books In This Series. Lyla, You’re Officially An Auto - Buy Author For Me Girl, You’re Writing Is Fantastic Give Me 14 Of Them😂🫶💕
Read
October 6, 2024I picked this up on a whim and sadly couldn't get very far (certainly not enough to feel comfortable tacking on a rating). The escalations and dialogue felt over the top and oddly paced from the get-go, but I can see how it could appeal. I highly advise checking out the sample first if the blurb speaks to you!
November 3, 2024
DNF at 57%.
Sorry but this isn’t working. it was very Insta Brody’s side and I truly didn’t get why. Isaac was acting like such an A **** I couldn’t stand him, let alone understand what was there to like besides the fact Brody found him beautiful.It felt there was no process here, one day Isaac was acting like a spiteful cornered cat and next everybody is making out and calling each other “Sweetheart” ( I hate that nickname)
No point to continue if I don’t like any of the characters.
Sorry but this isn’t working. it was very Insta Brody’s side and I truly didn’t get why. Isaac was acting like such an A **** I couldn’t stand him, let alone understand what was there to like besides the fact Brody found him beautiful.It felt there was no process here, one day Isaac was acting like a spiteful cornered cat and next everybody is making out and calling each other “Sweetheart” ( I hate that nickname)
No point to continue if I don’t like any of the characters.
August 29, 2024
I loved this one! I can’t believe this was a debut novel, it was so good. Hurt/comfort is one of my go to tropes and it was done so well in this book. I love Brody and Isaac, but I loved the side characters as well, hopefully we’ll see them in future books.
August 30, 2024
I loved Brody and Isaac. We get to see how Isaac had his panic attacks because of his Assault and then he meets Brody who had accidentally touched him and he suffered a panic attack and Brody calmed him down and he later in the book tells Brody that he never felt safe until he met him . after he opens up to Brody about his assult Body always make sure Issac feels good because he didn't feel comfortable about people touching him. and i also loved Brody's sister.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 16, 2024
Uch...
Staram się czytać nowych dla mnie autorów/autorki, bo wiem, że raz na jakiś czas znajdę coś dobrego, a raz na ruski rok po prostu perełkę. Ale ten tytuł się niestety nie wpisuje w nic powyższego...
To debiut, zatem daję dwie gwiazdki (podwyższam na zachętę 😉) i nie będę się wyżywać, bo lista moich zarzutów do tej książki jest dłuższa niż paragon z Biedronki 😜
Ale niech ktoś mi powie, czemu ostatnio pełno autorów - nowych i starych - myśli, że fajnie jest napisać książkę, w której tak naprawdę historia jest tylko dodatkiem do seksu? Tutaj niby jest zarys, mamy historię wokół której całość jest utkana i ona jakoś tam cały czas się przewija. Ale ileż można czytać, że od każdej prostej czynności, którą jeden z nich wykonuje, kutas drugiego staje się przynajmniej półtwardy, pożądanie wiruje w jego żyłach i zagnieżdża się w brzuchu, a mózg zaćmiewa mgła. Nie są w stanie prowadzić całej rozmowy, bo gubią się w głowie z tej żądzy. Bez względu na okoliczności, fizyczność, seksualność i pożądanie cały czas się przewija.
Może jestem dziwna, ale ja naprawdę lubię czytać historie, a seks może być dodatkiem, choć wcale nie musi...
W dodatku tyle razy, ile Brody powiedział do Isaaka "sweetheart", ile razy mu powtarzał, że jest piękny zewnętrznie i wewnętrznie, że jest dzielny, odważny, idealny, że świetnie sobie radzi, że jest z niego dumny, że nie pozwoli już nikomu go skrzywdzić, że zawsze będzie z nim bezpieczny, etc. Naprawdę można było się od tego pochorować 🤦♀️
I miałam się nie wyżywać, to tutaj zakończę 😜
Staram się czytać nowych dla mnie autorów/autorki, bo wiem, że raz na jakiś czas znajdę coś dobrego, a raz na ruski rok po prostu perełkę. Ale ten tytuł się niestety nie wpisuje w nic powyższego...
To debiut, zatem daję dwie gwiazdki (podwyższam na zachętę 😉) i nie będę się wyżywać, bo lista moich zarzutów do tej książki jest dłuższa niż paragon z Biedronki 😜
Ale niech ktoś mi powie, czemu ostatnio pełno autorów - nowych i starych - myśli, że fajnie jest napisać książkę, w której tak naprawdę historia jest tylko dodatkiem do seksu? Tutaj niby jest zarys, mamy historię wokół której całość jest utkana i ona jakoś tam cały czas się przewija. Ale ileż można czytać, że od każdej prostej czynności, którą jeden z nich wykonuje, kutas drugiego staje się przynajmniej półtwardy, pożądanie wiruje w jego żyłach i zagnieżdża się w brzuchu, a mózg zaćmiewa mgła. Nie są w stanie prowadzić całej rozmowy, bo gubią się w głowie z tej żądzy. Bez względu na okoliczności, fizyczność, seksualność i pożądanie cały czas się przewija.
Może jestem dziwna, ale ja naprawdę lubię czytać historie, a seks może być dodatkiem, choć wcale nie musi...
W dodatku tyle razy, ile Brody powiedział do Isaaka "sweetheart", ile razy mu powtarzał, że jest piękny zewnętrznie i wewnętrznie, że jest dzielny, odważny, idealny, że świetnie sobie radzi, że jest z niego dumny, że nie pozwoli już nikomu go skrzywdzić, że zawsze będzie z nim bezpieczny, etc. Naprawdę można było się od tego pochorować 🤦♀️
I miałam się nie wyżywać, to tutaj zakończę 😜
December 17, 2024
Isaac & Brody
This book was everything. I absolutely LOVED it. The definition of hurt/comfort. It was painful and vulnerable, sweet and funny, dirty and hot. The emotions Lyla packed into this book, you'll feel each one. I was on the edge of my seat, relating to their feelings, panicking at what comes next and then giggling at these boys and kicking my feet in happiness. Just absolutely amazing. 🩵
This book was everything. I absolutely LOVED it. The definition of hurt/comfort. It was painful and vulnerable, sweet and funny, dirty and hot. The emotions Lyla packed into this book, you'll feel each one. I was on the edge of my seat, relating to their feelings, panicking at what comes next and then giggling at these boys and kicking my feet in happiness. Just absolutely amazing. 🩵
August 17, 2024
What an amazing debut novel. There is so much packed into this story. First, we have Isaac with his crippling PTSD, but he is also fiercely protective too. Brody refers to him as a prickly cactus, which is a perfect name. Then there is Brody, who is a contradiction. People call him weird and quiet and a loner, but Issac never sees him like this. He has his own share of family trauma too. These two start off on the wrong foot and it takes a little while before Issac allows Brody to help him. Issac, is triggered throughout the story, his therapy sessions are key to helping him work through his issues. Brody turns out to be a softee, despite his bad boy looks. He adores Issac and just needs Issac to believe it. Despite the heaviness that this book carries, there is also a lot of humour and fun and high heat chemistry. Lots of amazing supporting characters, I would love some of them to get a story. I loved Brody's relationship with his sister, she was so dry and funny and called it between them before they had any idea. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Shelved as 'dnf'
October 8, 2024DNF. Not feeling the OTT at the moment.
October 10, 2024
Wow, I can’t believe this is the author’s debut novel. I really enjoyed Brody and Isaac’s story. I just loved Brody so much and now I have added him to my list of favorite book boyfriends. I also enjoyed the side characters as well, and I hope we get to see more of them in the future. I definitely recommend this hurt/comfort book!
December 12, 2024
Be still my heart…..sigh. Lovely.
September 16, 2024
ARC REVIEW
I was so excited to get this ARC! Hurt/comfort is one of my fav tropes and this delivered! I was a little hesitant in the beginning of the choices Isaac was making but it was quickly explained and I quickly fell for both Isaac and Brody!
This book follows Isaac and Brody and after a few encounters where Isaac is not having any of Brody (like wants nothing to do with him) Brody asks Isaac for some help with some schoolwork in exchange to help fix his car and Isaac gives in and helps and it heats up from there!
Read if you like:
Hurt/comfort
Mental health rep
Size difference
College setting
Virgin MMC
“Who hurt you?”
No third act breakup
Praise k!nk
MMC with tattoos
Forced proximity
I was so excited to get this ARC! Hurt/comfort is one of my fav tropes and this delivered! I was a little hesitant in the beginning of the choices Isaac was making but it was quickly explained and I quickly fell for both Isaac and Brody!
This book follows Isaac and Brody and after a few encounters where Isaac is not having any of Brody (like wants nothing to do with him) Brody asks Isaac for some help with some schoolwork in exchange to help fix his car and Isaac gives in and helps and it heats up from there!
Read if you like:
Hurt/comfort
Mental health rep
Size difference
College setting
Virgin MMC
“Who hurt you?”
No third act breakup
Praise k!nk
MMC with tattoos
Forced proximity
November 22, 2024
4.5stars!! Blown away that this was a debut book for this author!! Prickly Isaac only softens for Brody! Despite Brody being a muscled, tattooed, dark haired man… he is the literal sweetest human being & biggest cinnamon roll to ever walk the planet. His utmost care and devotion over Isaac was ugh, so pure & precious. The terms of endearment are frequent from Brody’s mouth. 🥹🥰 The way he respected Isaac’s touching & intimacy boundaries from his past trauma was perfection.
This is the sweetest read. A fantastic couple who work SO well. ZERO toxicity (can I get an amen?). And fantastic communication. Lots of caretaking and snuggles involved too! I cannot wait to see what this author does next! ♥️
This is the sweetest read. A fantastic couple who work SO well. ZERO toxicity (can I get an amen?). And fantastic communication. Lots of caretaking and snuggles involved too! I cannot wait to see what this author does next! ♥️
December 4, 2024
✨
5+++ stars!!!
✨
Oh wow, a new author to love! 💖
This debut novel was amazing and I couldn't get enough of it. I cannot wait for more from this author, this was an amazing start to her writing career.
I fell in love with this right of the bat. Isaac and Brody had amazing chemistry right off the bat and I was hooked right away, from their very first scene. Kinda like how they were hooked on each other the minute they saw each other. 🥰
Gosh, the plot itself wasn't even more more than just their romance and having to deal with their own trauma on their own and then together, but I was addicted to these two as characters and together from the get go. I zoomed through reading this because I could not put it down.
Isaac went through one of the worst possible things one could go through, being raped at 14 or 15 by a boy about 2 years older than him - by the way Isaac describes events leading up to it and we understand that he was full on raped, but we never get it played out and it isn't gone into detail. Like we get the gist well enough, so I think it's not to triggering. But still be careful if this is a very triggering thing for you. Isaac still has the trauma all these later and all - and since then he hasn't really touched anyone or had sex. He told himself he'd be alone and never be with anyone.
He tried a bit his freshman year with a sweet guy, but beyond some cuddling he couldn't bring himself to do more and so ended it.
But then comes Brody and everything changes for Isaac. It doesn't seem so at first, as Brody does perhaps go too far, ignoring boundaries set by Isaac, causing Isaac to have a PTSD episode. It's nothing too bad, only Isaac tells him not to touch him but when Isaac is walking by him he (gently) grabs his wrist to stop him walking away.
But at the same time he does this, he's also the only one Isaac feels safe with, and that actually freaks Isaac out too at first. Because Brody is not only, of course, very attractive, but there's just a...vibe, I guess you could say, about him. Something that makes Isaac feel safe.
And after the incident, Brody apologizes and owns up messing up and never touches Isaac again without his permission. And not that it's an excuse, but Brody is going through something big when they first meet and he's not quite his usual self.
But Isaac is prickly - like a cactus 😉 - at first, but Brody is actually very patient and kind and sweet, and Isaac can't resist him for long.
And Brody actually treats him so wonderfully, and once they get to sex in their relationship, he's so patient and kind and checks in with Isaac continually, making sure he's consenting the whole time. It's so wonderful and it makes Isaac fall for him all the more.
Isaac just needs to get past his fear and feeling like he can't be with anyone for long because of his trauma for them to be together forever. Brody is pretty much all in from the moment he meets Isaac. Which one could say is pretty insta-love-y but for this it worked SO well and their chemistry was SO good that I didn't mind it one bit. Especially because they still had to work at a relationship and take it somewhat slow, with Isaac's trauma.
And they were almost co-dependent which I kind of totally love. Like Brody being the only one to get Isaac out of his funk when an episode takes Isaac out mentally for a bit, and Isaac literally clinging to Brody...just I LOVE that shit, I eat it the fuck up. Like yes give me all the Isaac being a spider monkey all wrapped around Brody and Brody not getting enough of Isaac being a spider monkey all wrapped around him.
And they're just SO sweet to each other and SO damn in love and I felt it SO much. Also the build up to penetrative sex made so much sense in this one and the pay off was amazing. Their chemistry is just so off the charts good that I was loving every minute of their sex scenes, whatever got I was gaga over.
Brody is the only one, aside from his platonic BFF Jordan - and even then it can be so-so - that Isaac lets touch him, who he wants to touch him. All they see is each other and I LOVE that shit.
Also protectiveness and possessiveness abounds from both of them and I go gaga for that too. Brody wanting to kill Isaac's rapist is a MOOD. All Brody wants to do for the rest of his life and love and protect Isaac and I SWOON.
Just, ALL the love for this debut novel. I couldn't get enough of it and can't sing its praises enough. And Brody and Isaac are a new favorite couple of mine. I definitely see coming back to this in the future and just reading these two being so sweet and in love and wonderful together.
HIGHLY recommend this. You'll definitely find a new author to love with this!
Can't WAIT For the next book in the series. Wonder if it will be Jordan and Sam...or Jordan and Jamie...I'm very intrigued to see who our next couple will be. And I'll be seated for it, for sure!
Onto the next! 😘
Oh wow, a new author to love! 💖
This debut novel was amazing and I couldn't get enough of it. I cannot wait for more from this author, this was an amazing start to her writing career.
I fell in love with this right of the bat. Isaac and Brody had amazing chemistry right off the bat and I was hooked right away, from their very first scene. Kinda like how they were hooked on each other the minute they saw each other. 🥰
Gosh, the plot itself wasn't even more more than just their romance and having to deal with their own trauma on their own and then together, but I was addicted to these two as characters and together from the get go. I zoomed through reading this because I could not put it down.
Isaac went through one of the worst possible things one could go through, being raped at 14 or 15 by a boy about 2 years older than him - by the way Isaac describes events leading up to it and we understand that he was full on raped, but we never get it played out and it isn't gone into detail. Like we get the gist well enough, so I think it's not to triggering. But still be careful if this is a very triggering thing for you. Isaac still has the trauma all these later and all - and since then he hasn't really touched anyone or had sex. He told himself he'd be alone and never be with anyone.
He tried a bit his freshman year with a sweet guy, but beyond some cuddling he couldn't bring himself to do more and so ended it.
But then comes Brody and everything changes for Isaac. It doesn't seem so at first, as Brody does perhaps go too far, ignoring boundaries set by Isaac, causing Isaac to have a PTSD episode. It's nothing too bad, only Isaac tells him not to touch him but when Isaac is walking by him he (gently) grabs his wrist to stop him walking away.
But at the same time he does this, he's also the only one Isaac feels safe with, and that actually freaks Isaac out too at first. Because Brody is not only, of course, very attractive, but there's just a...vibe, I guess you could say, about him. Something that makes Isaac feel safe.
And after the incident, Brody apologizes and owns up messing up and never touches Isaac again without his permission. And not that it's an excuse, but Brody is going through something big when they first meet and he's not quite his usual self.
But Isaac is prickly - like a cactus 😉 - at first, but Brody is actually very patient and kind and sweet, and Isaac can't resist him for long.
And Brody actually treats him so wonderfully, and once they get to sex in their relationship, he's so patient and kind and checks in with Isaac continually, making sure he's consenting the whole time. It's so wonderful and it makes Isaac fall for him all the more.
Isaac just needs to get past his fear and feeling like he can't be with anyone for long because of his trauma for them to be together forever. Brody is pretty much all in from the moment he meets Isaac. Which one could say is pretty insta-love-y but for this it worked SO well and their chemistry was SO good that I didn't mind it one bit. Especially because they still had to work at a relationship and take it somewhat slow, with Isaac's trauma.
And they were almost co-dependent which I kind of totally love. Like Brody being the only one to get Isaac out of his funk when an episode takes Isaac out mentally for a bit, and Isaac literally clinging to Brody...just I LOVE that shit, I eat it the fuck up. Like yes give me all the Isaac being a spider monkey all wrapped around Brody and Brody not getting enough of Isaac being a spider monkey all wrapped around him.
And they're just SO sweet to each other and SO damn in love and I felt it SO much. Also the build up to penetrative sex made so much sense in this one and the pay off was amazing. Their chemistry is just so off the charts good that I was loving every minute of their sex scenes, whatever got I was gaga over.
Brody is the only one, aside from his platonic BFF Jordan - and even then it can be so-so - that Isaac lets touch him, who he wants to touch him. All they see is each other and I LOVE that shit.
Also protectiveness and possessiveness abounds from both of them and I go gaga for that too. Brody wanting to kill Isaac's rapist is a MOOD. All Brody wants to do for the rest of his life and love and protect Isaac and I SWOON.
Just, ALL the love for this debut novel. I couldn't get enough of it and can't sing its praises enough. And Brody and Isaac are a new favorite couple of mine. I definitely see coming back to this in the future and just reading these two being so sweet and in love and wonderful together.
HIGHLY recommend this. You'll definitely find a new author to love with this!
Can't WAIT For the next book in the series. Wonder if it will be Jordan and Sam...or Jordan and Jamie...I'm very intrigued to see who our next couple will be. And I'll be seated for it, for sure!
Onto the next! 😘
August 29, 2024
4.25 stars
This was such a lovely story about healing. From trauma and a rough childhood. Both Isaac and Brody go on this journey together, which helps each of them heal in different ways. Lyla Dane did a great job of portraying some of the realities of PTSD. So often, people believe that trauma fades over time, but it has a tendency to linger and digs its claws in deep. Isaac still struggles after 8 years, and I related to him so much with that. Brody was so patient with him, and Isaac went out of his comfort zone to stand up for Brody like he deserved. They were both something for the other that neither of them had ever had. They worked really well together and ended up being disgustingly adorable. This story isn't overly angsty, but there is a little drama outside the relationship. It took me a bit to really get into it, but once I hit around the 25% point, I didn't want to put it down. Shout out to a couple of my favorite side characters: Jordan was hilarious and so supportive of Isaac, and Bri was so great with her dry and sarcastic sense of humor and deep loyalty to Brody. All in all, this is a solid read and a great debut for this author.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This was such a lovely story about healing. From trauma and a rough childhood. Both Isaac and Brody go on this journey together, which helps each of them heal in different ways. Lyla Dane did a great job of portraying some of the realities of PTSD. So often, people believe that trauma fades over time, but it has a tendency to linger and digs its claws in deep. Isaac still struggles after 8 years, and I related to him so much with that. Brody was so patient with him, and Isaac went out of his comfort zone to stand up for Brody like he deserved. They were both something for the other that neither of them had ever had. They worked really well together and ended up being disgustingly adorable. This story isn't overly angsty, but there is a little drama outside the relationship. It took me a bit to really get into it, but once I hit around the 25% point, I didn't want to put it down. Shout out to a couple of my favorite side characters: Jordan was hilarious and so supportive of Isaac, and Bri was so great with her dry and sarcastic sense of humor and deep loyalty to Brody. All in all, this is a solid read and a great debut for this author.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
December 23, 2024
2.25⭐️
When I went to put the rest of the tacos in the fridge out in the living room, he panicked. “Don’t leave me,” he whispered harshly.
“I’ll be right back, Isaac, I promise. Okay? I’m just putting these in the fridge. I’ll be back in thirty seconds. Can you count them for me?” I gripped the nape of his neck and pulled him toward me so I could kiss his forehead, and he nodded against my lips. “Good. I’m so fucking proud of you, sweetheart. You’re doing such a good job. Count for me,” I said, getting up and walking backwards out of the room so he could see my face. My eyes. There was fear in his eyes, but he started counting, and I was back before he got to fifteen.
I liked the beginning, when they got together I lost interest
A word slicing across the side of his thumb. I brought his hand closer to read it and realized it was two words. Take notice I looked up again, and Brody already knew what I was going to ask. “My mom used to tell me that. When she felt like I was too in my own head or having a hard time appreciating things, or when things were hard in general. She’d say, ‘Take notice of all the beauty that surrounds you at any given time. Take notice, because it’s always there, waiting for you to acknowledge it.’”
When I went to put the rest of the tacos in the fridge out in the living room, he panicked. “Don’t leave me,” he whispered harshly.
“I’ll be right back, Isaac, I promise. Okay? I’m just putting these in the fridge. I’ll be back in thirty seconds. Can you count them for me?” I gripped the nape of his neck and pulled him toward me so I could kiss his forehead, and he nodded against my lips. “Good. I’m so fucking proud of you, sweetheart. You’re doing such a good job. Count for me,” I said, getting up and walking backwards out of the room so he could see my face. My eyes. There was fear in his eyes, but he started counting, and I was back before he got to fifteen.
I liked the beginning, when they got together I lost interest
A word slicing across the side of his thumb. I brought his hand closer to read it and realized it was two words. Take notice I looked up again, and Brody already knew what I was going to ask. “My mom used to tell me that. When she felt like I was too in my own head or having a hard time appreciating things, or when things were hard in general. She’d say, ‘Take notice of all the beauty that surrounds you at any given time. Take notice, because it’s always there, waiting for you to acknowledge it.’”
October 10, 2024
This book was a great read!!!! For it to be the debut of this author I had no idea. After I finished it I went to her name to see if there were any of her books she had out. Brody and Isaac were two very strong MCs and I’m so glad that these two opposite men worked out and attracted each other. While it can be classified as a grumpy sunshine this book also dealt with some heavy themes and some tough subject matter. I won’t give it away but please read trigger warnings beforehand if you need to. Brody, the protector and man with a heart of gold was so perfect for Isaac and he really cherished him and made him feel so special all the time. And Isaac, though prickly, from Brody’s opinion hehe he did have a soft core that was so loving and strong I was rooting for these two as soon as they got together and beforehand. There was a pretty crazy twist that happened to a little over halfway and it definitely threw me. In the end though, I adored these two, this book was great and I can’t wait for the second one!!!!!!!!
September 22, 2024
DNF at 58%.
I’m usually a big fan of comfort/trauma books, but something about this one just felt very juvenile. A lot of it was very repetitive and fast but my biggest issue was when Issac would have a panic attack, Brody would just repeat how beautiful and pretty he was. It felt very odd since there had been very little discussion about Issac feeling insecure with his looks. It was just out of place for me in the context of the story, “you’re safe, I’ve got you, you’re beautiful, you’re so pretty, you’re okay.” Just kind of thrown in but not needed for these situations.
Also I’m not sure why Issac is so rude to Brody’s sister, I mean I can’t stand people popping their gum but I’m not a jerk to them because of it.
Someone else reviewed and said it was like a Wattpad story and I think that’s a pretty accurate representation. I might try to finish it in the future but currently I’ve lost interest.
I’m usually a big fan of comfort/trauma books, but something about this one just felt very juvenile. A lot of it was very repetitive and fast but my biggest issue was when Issac would have a panic attack, Brody would just repeat how beautiful and pretty he was. It felt very odd since there had been very little discussion about Issac feeling insecure with his looks. It was just out of place for me in the context of the story, “you’re safe, I’ve got you, you’re beautiful, you’re so pretty, you’re okay.” Just kind of thrown in but not needed for these situations.
Also I’m not sure why Issac is so rude to Brody’s sister, I mean I can’t stand people popping their gum but I’m not a jerk to them because of it.
Someone else reviewed and said it was like a Wattpad story and I think that’s a pretty accurate representation. I might try to finish it in the future but currently I’ve lost interest.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 30, 2024
I've had this book on my tbr for a while and I'm happy I finally got the chance to read this. This book was stupid cute!?! I really liked Brody & Issac.
I love how much Brody was a great caretaker to Issac. I definitely need more books with caretaker roles.
I love how much Brody was a great caretaker to Issac. I definitely need more books with caretaker roles.
September 25, 2024
Holy Mother of Pearl! This book was everything for me. I truly loved every aspect of this book. I am so glad I came across this book.
I love me some broken Mcs, who truly find themselves in the end. This did not disappoint at all! These two are so amazing together. I love how patient Brody was with Issac because he knew that he would be worth it if he did. It was so hard to see Isaac think that he was this beautiful, broken boy, but he was so strong and wise for his age. This story was just so beautiful to read!
I love me some broken Mcs, who truly find themselves in the end. This did not disappoint at all! These two are so amazing together. I love how patient Brody was with Issac because he knew that he would be worth it if he did. It was so hard to see Isaac think that he was this beautiful, broken boy, but he was so strong and wise for his age. This story was just so beautiful to read!
September 21, 2024
*Arc Review*
5/⭐️
3/🌶️
You know a book that just sticks with you? One you can’t stop thinking about? This one, this is the one I’ve been thinking about.
Isaac and Brody stole my heart from the first vending machine “meet cute” 😉
These men helped each other equally in many different ways and instances. The push and pull. 🥵🥵🥵
Brody, a sweetheart under that bad boy tattooed look.
Isaac, a feisty broken thing under that innocent looking face.
It was so sweet in the moments- had my kicking my feet and so spicy in other moments had me fanning myself. The book had the whole package and forever imbedding in my soul.
• MM
•Hurt/Comfort
•Size Difference
•PTSD
• Dyslexia
•Praise Kink
• Touch him and 💀
5/⭐️
3/🌶️
You know a book that just sticks with you? One you can’t stop thinking about? This one, this is the one I’ve been thinking about.
Isaac and Brody stole my heart from the first vending machine “meet cute” 😉
These men helped each other equally in many different ways and instances. The push and pull. 🥵🥵🥵
Brody, a sweetheart under that bad boy tattooed look.
Isaac, a feisty broken thing under that innocent looking face.
It was so sweet in the moments- had my kicking my feet and so spicy in other moments had me fanning myself. The book had the whole package and forever imbedding in my soul.
• MM
•Hurt/Comfort
•Size Difference
•PTSD
• Dyslexia
•Praise Kink
• Touch him and 💀
September 21, 2024
It’s Kismet
This book is so well written. The characters are compelling and so loveable. This book in one you will be immersed in from the start and never want to end.
This book is so well written. The characters are compelling and so loveable. This book in one you will be immersed in from the start and never want to end.
November 13, 2024
Shut up. SHuT Up. SHUT UP.
This was the most insufferable thing that I've read in a long time. Here is the thing, I went into this hesitant based on the trigger warnings listed (main character has PTSD from being sexually assaulted while he is in high school by an older classmate). The way that the author chose to portray the nuances of being SA 'ed by a peer was so poorly done. First off, we are told the the main character Issac has PTSD from what happened to him, that is understandable. The way that his trauma manifests is that he doesn't want anyone to touch him without his permission, totally valid. Where this starts to get me is when the first (and second, though less so) time we meet the love interest (Brody) the first thing he does is physically comes onto the main character by invading his space and LICKING HIS EAR...what?! It is one thing to make a very heavy pass to someone that you find physically attractive, it is another thing entirely to invade their space and touch them when they tell you to back off, and then because that wasn't enough, he licked his ear which is so bizarre.
All of this is followed up with the fact that Isaac didn't seem to mind that this strange man was being overtly sexually predatory, because he makes him feel safe somehow?
We do get a scene near the beginning where we see how his PTSD makes him act out, but it was so poorly done. The love interest grabs him AGAIN without permission knowing that the main character doesn't like to be touched, and said main character goes absolutely ballistic. He is screaming, crying, and physically attacking the love interest in the middle of an auto-mechanics waiting room. This meltdown is immediately followed by Brody scooping up the main character (which is really easy because he is so smol and precious) and bringing him into a backroom where he proceeds to try and calm Isaac down by, you guessed it, touching him. He rubs his back, combs his fingers though his hair-hands are everywhere and this...calms him down?!
We leave this situation with Isaac feeling soothed and protected by Brody-and it's just kind of like..what?
There was zero development of trust, there is no reason that Isaac should feel this safe with a man that he just met-there is no realistic way to spin how he was able to breakthrough so much trauma and trust this dude he just met. The way that sex was approached in this book made me so uncomfortable because he swung from being abstinent only for safety to hypersexual in like..a week.
Also, there was a very strange and uncomfortable feeling of Isaac being infantilized because of his trauma and PTSD- constantly being called 'beautiful boy' and constantly being told that he is so pretty and small and ew (even him being constantly called baby was too much for me).
Listen, I've read some poorly written mental health representation, but this is by far the worst. This didn't need to be slow-burn, but I would have expected to get to AT Least 30% without any overt sexual feelings/content. This was terrible and isn't really worth anyones time
This was the most insufferable thing that I've read in a long time. Here is the thing, I went into this hesitant based on the trigger warnings listed (main character has PTSD from being sexually assaulted while he is in high school by an older classmate). The way that the author chose to portray the nuances of being SA 'ed by a peer was so poorly done. First off, we are told the the main character Issac has PTSD from what happened to him, that is understandable. The way that his trauma manifests is that he doesn't want anyone to touch him without his permission, totally valid. Where this starts to get me is when the first (and second, though less so) time we meet the love interest (Brody) the first thing he does is physically comes onto the main character by invading his space and LICKING HIS EAR...what?! It is one thing to make a very heavy pass to someone that you find physically attractive, it is another thing entirely to invade their space and touch them when they tell you to back off, and then because that wasn't enough, he licked his ear which is so bizarre.
All of this is followed up with the fact that Isaac didn't seem to mind that this strange man was being overtly sexually predatory, because he makes him feel safe somehow?
We do get a scene near the beginning where we see how his PTSD makes him act out, but it was so poorly done. The love interest grabs him AGAIN without permission knowing that the main character doesn't like to be touched, and said main character goes absolutely ballistic. He is screaming, crying, and physically attacking the love interest in the middle of an auto-mechanics waiting room. This meltdown is immediately followed by Brody scooping up the main character (which is really easy because he is so smol and precious) and bringing him into a backroom where he proceeds to try and calm Isaac down by, you guessed it, touching him. He rubs his back, combs his fingers though his hair-hands are everywhere and this...calms him down?!
We leave this situation with Isaac feeling soothed and protected by Brody-and it's just kind of like..what?
There was zero development of trust, there is no reason that Isaac should feel this safe with a man that he just met-there is no realistic way to spin how he was able to breakthrough so much trauma and trust this dude he just met. The way that sex was approached in this book made me so uncomfortable because he swung from being abstinent only for safety to hypersexual in like..a week.
Also, there was a very strange and uncomfortable feeling of Isaac being infantilized because of his trauma and PTSD- constantly being called 'beautiful boy' and constantly being told that he is so pretty and small and ew (even him being constantly called baby was too much for me).
Listen, I've read some poorly written mental health representation, but this is by far the worst. This didn't need to be slow-burn, but I would have expected to get to AT Least 30% without any overt sexual feelings/content. This was terrible and isn't really worth anyones time
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