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lauwbinx's review against another edition
challenging
emotional
funny
hopeful
inspiring
sad
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
Content Warnings
Graphic: Drug use, Panic attacks/disorders, Sexual content, Outing, and Alcohol
Moderate: Homophobia, Rape, Sexual assault, Grief, Religious bigotry, and Abandonment
Minor: Pedophilia
savage_book_review's review against another edition
challenging
emotional
hopeful
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
One stoner artist nerd, Avi, and one straight A, straight laced, straight jock, Kyren, are forced into living under the same roof when their parents decide to get married. When money troubles mean that college expenses start to mount up, Avi's friend suggests a way for him to make some quick money. And if they can rope Kyren in as well, they might just make bank. The trouble is, the stepbrothers can't stand each other... right?
This is a book where you go in expecting fairly little, but get a whole host of feels and a decent story around and amongst the OnlyFans content. There is actually a cohesive narrative throughout, proper character development and genuine exploration of trauma, mental health issues, sexuality and self-acceptance. The building of the relationship between the two lead characters outside of the bedroom is beautifully done; their separate growth feeds into their their connection and is really heartwarming.
Writing wise, the first few chapters are a little clunky, trying to introduce the characters and get them to the 'right place, right time', but the writing starts to hit its stride when the boys are settled in at college and the real story can begin. From then on, it's an easy read, with the shifts in perspective between Avi and Kyren flowing seamlessly. It is a bit formulaic and predictable, it's certainly readable and it helps with the engagement; you definitely become one of 'the fans' as you read! Equally however, there are some moments which aren't written particularly well; the character of Ash, for example. Introduced from nowhere, acts as obstacle to HEA, disappears without trace.
OK, the elephant in the room. The smut. It's two guys, so if that's not for you, I really wouldn't pick this up. I'd say this is probably quantity over quality - it's not badly written, but given the writer is female I'd say the style reflects the obvious lack of first-hand experience! It's hot but not spicy, detailed but fairly generic (except for the video camera, of course!), but that works for the plot - it feels reflective of two inexperienced guys finding their way into their sexuality. And the fact that these scenes do play a role in the wider plot, not just in terms of their money-making potential for the characters but also in allowing and documenting their emotional relationship to evolve, means that you can't help but be drawn in.
Another big element to the book is college football. Not a sport I even remotely understand, but those scenes I treated the same way as I do the football talk in 'The Blind Side' - nod, smile, and don't let it get in the way of the story. As long as I know who wins the game, we're good.
I was surprised at how much I liked this one! And apparently there will be more...
This is a book where you go in expecting fairly little, but get a whole host of feels and a decent story around and amongst the OnlyFans content. There is actually a cohesive narrative throughout, proper character development and genuine exploration of trauma, mental health issues, sexuality and self-acceptance. The building of the relationship between the two lead characters outside of the bedroom is beautifully done; their separate growth feeds into their their connection and is really heartwarming.
Writing wise, the first few chapters are a little clunky, trying to introduce the characters and get them to the 'right place, right time', but the writing starts to hit its stride when the boys are settled in at college and the real story can begin. From then on, it's an easy read, with the shifts in perspective between Avi and Kyren flowing seamlessly. It is a bit formulaic and predictable, it's certainly readable and it helps with the engagement; you definitely become one of 'the fans' as you read! Equally however, there are some moments which aren't written particularly well; the character of Ash, for example. Introduced from nowhere, acts as obstacle to HEA, disappears without trace.
OK, the elephant in the room. The smut. It's two guys, so if that's not for you, I really wouldn't pick this up. I'd say this is probably quantity over quality - it's not badly written, but given the writer is female I'd say the style reflects the obvious lack of first-hand experience! It's hot but not spicy, detailed but fairly generic (except for the video camera, of course!), but that works for the plot - it feels reflective of two inexperienced guys finding their way into their sexuality. And the fact that these scenes do play a role in the wider plot, not just in terms of their money-making potential for the characters but also in allowing and documenting their emotional relationship to evolve, means that you can't help but be drawn in.
Another big element to the book is college football. Not a sport I even remotely understand, but those scenes I treated the same way as I do the football talk in 'The Blind Side' - nod, smile, and don't let it get in the way of the story. As long as I know who wins the game, we're good.
I was surprised at how much I liked this one! And apparently there will be more...
Content Warnings
Graphic: Cursing and Sexual content
Moderate: Child abuse, Death, Drug use, Emotional abuse, Mental illness, Panic attacks/disorders, Pedophilia, Rape, Sexual assault, Death of parent, and Alcohol
Minor: Homophobia, Violence, Vomit, and Abandonment
figsofpeach's review against another edition
emotional
funny
lighthearted
sad
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.25
Content Warnings
Graphic: Drug use, Sexual assault, Sexual content, and Alcohol
Moderate: Homophobia
brimacca's review against another edition
emotional
4.0
Content Warnings
Graphic: Adult/minor relationship, Alcoholism, Bullying, Cursing, Drug use, Homophobia, Sexual content, Religious bigotry, Outing, and Alcohol
Moderate: Adult/minor relationship, Bullying, Death, Drug use, Homophobia, Infidelity, Mental illness, Panic attacks/disorders, Pedophilia, Rape, Sexual assault, Violence, Death of parent, and Sexual harassment
midnightsharkist's review against another edition
emotional
funny
hopeful
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
Content Warnings
Graphic: Sexual content
Moderate: Drug use, Sexual assault, and Alcohol
nero_nash's review against another edition
challenging
emotional
funny
informative
reflective
relaxing
sad
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
From start to finish I could not get enough of Avi and Ky! They consumed entirely and I could not put this book down.
Nyla really poured herself into this book and it shows. Everything is so passionate and so real.
Avi and Ky's love is that kind of love we all search for. The kind that is supporting, real, passionate, and unconditional.
This book really was incredible to me!
Nyla really poured herself into this book and it shows. Everything is so passionate and so real.
Avi and Ky's love is that kind of love we all search for. The kind that is supporting, real, passionate, and unconditional.
This book really was incredible to me!
Content Warnings
Graphic: Cursing and Sexual content
Moderate: Addiction, Drug use, and Alcohol
Minor: Bullying, Homophobia, Panic attacks/disorders, Rape, Death of parent, and Gaslighting
sienasummerrreads's review
adventurous
hopeful
sad
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? N/A
- Flaws of characters a main focus? N/A
3.0
First off I want to say the audiobook narration with Corvin and Javi playing Avi and Kyran is brilliant highly recommend.
This was a good read. I am aware this is popular but I was let down at the same time. I loved the opposites attract element angry broody football player and the nerdy artist. The taboo element was also delicious. But for the first half of this book, it was all talk and not much substance to the plot. I find it more character-driven than plot-driven. So the first 50% was about angry Kyran every single chapter being an asshole as he was struggling to come to terms with what was happening and feeling. I loved Avi’s playful side and how he would push buttons. The Spice started just over 100 pages in I believe and throughout the book, it was every other chapter. It started small but progressed and got more intense every time it happened. I felt there were a lot of repetitive behaviours in the spice scenes. These two characters were so disgustingly in love I want to throw up and if I hear or see the words Baby, Angel or Come In Me one more time I'll go crazy.
The last 50% fell flat for me and I'll tell you why. I feel a lot of the reveals and revelations were unrealistic or didn't do the characters justice. (potential spoilers ahead):
- Asher the random roommate that rocked up one day. Ended up stealing Kyran's girlfriend previously and just played a part that didn't do anything for me. Was just odd
- Kyran’s grand gesture of revealing Avi and are together in front of his team and coach didn't sit right with me as that's not Kyran’s character style at all.
- The sister revealing what happened to Kyran in his past to Avi infuriated me to no end. Just made me mad that Kyran didn't open up and talk about it with Avi first.
- Both parents being okay with them being together? I expected a shit show honestly.
- Kyran leaving Avi towards the end for weeks without no word. I was angry he just left. I was setting up thinking the worst but he confronted his parents and blurted out who he really is and just needed space but not much happened.
- There was a bit of religious discussions in sections.
I guess I expected the last 50% to grip me more and the reveals to be more shocking. Don't get me wrong I hate what happened to Kyran but I kind of guessed it early on so wasn't as shocked. I still think it's a good read just repetitive and more character-driven with little plot.
If you love:
🔹MM Romance
🔹Taboo
🔹Stepbrothers
🔹Opposites Attract
🔹Bi Awakening
🔹Intense Delicious Spice
Genre/Type: MM Romance 18+
APK: Physical / Audiobook - Audible
Pages: 544
Audiobook Length: 22hrs 39mins
Narrators: Corvin King & Javi Wilder - Dual
Rating: 🌟🌟🌟
Spice: 🌶️🌶🌶🌶
Series or Stand Alone: Stand Alone
Tropes or Themes: Taboo, MM, Enemies To Love, Opposites Attract, Step Brothers, Sports (NFL), Artist, College, Bi Awakening, High School, College, Made Me Laugh, Violence, Panic Attack, Cursing, Playlist, Mine, Sexual Content, Dirty Talk, Phone Scene, Shower Scene, Car Scene, MFM, Toys, Discussion Of CSA and Religion.
Check Triggers ⚠️ 💫
All Round Romance Reader
This was a good read. I am aware this is popular but I was let down at the same time. I loved the opposites attract element angry broody football player and the nerdy artist. The taboo element was also delicious. But for the first half of this book, it was all talk and not much substance to the plot. I find it more character-driven than plot-driven. So the first 50% was about angry Kyran every single chapter being an asshole as he was struggling to come to terms with what was happening and feeling. I loved Avi’s playful side and how he would push buttons. The Spice started just over 100 pages in I believe and throughout the book, it was every other chapter. It started small but progressed and got more intense every time it happened. I felt there were a lot of repetitive behaviours in the spice scenes. These two characters were so disgustingly in love I want to throw up and if I hear or see the words Baby, Angel or Come In Me one more time I'll go crazy.
The last 50% fell flat for me and I'll tell you why. I feel a lot of the reveals and revelations were unrealistic or didn't do the characters justice. (potential spoilers ahead):
- Asher the random roommate that rocked up one day. Ended up stealing Kyran's girlfriend previously and just played a part that didn't do anything for me. Was just odd
- Kyran’s grand gesture of revealing Avi and are together in front of his team and coach didn't sit right with me as that's not Kyran’s character style at all.
- The sister revealing what happened to Kyran in his past to Avi infuriated me to no end. Just made me mad that Kyran didn't open up and talk about it with Avi first.
- Both parents being okay with them being together? I expected a shit show honestly.
- Kyran leaving Avi towards the end for weeks without no word. I was angry he just left. I was setting up thinking the worst but he confronted his parents and blurted out who he really is and just needed space but not much happened.
- There was a bit of religious discussions in sections.
I guess I expected the last 50% to grip me more and the reveals to be more shocking. Don't get me wrong I hate what happened to Kyran but I kind of guessed it early on so wasn't as shocked. I still think it's a good read just repetitive and more character-driven with little plot.
If you love:
🔹MM Romance
🔹Taboo
🔹Stepbrothers
🔹Opposites Attract
🔹Bi Awakening
🔹Intense Delicious Spice
Genre/Type: MM Romance 18+
APK: Physical / Audiobook - Audible
Pages: 544
Audiobook Length: 22hrs 39mins
Narrators: Corvin King & Javi Wilder - Dual
Rating: 🌟🌟🌟
Spice: 🌶️🌶🌶🌶
Series or Stand Alone: Stand Alone
Tropes or Themes: Taboo, MM, Enemies To Love, Opposites Attract, Step Brothers, Sports (NFL), Artist, College, Bi Awakening, High School, College, Made Me Laugh, Violence, Panic Attack, Cursing, Playlist, Mine, Sexual Content, Dirty Talk, Phone Scene, Shower Scene, Car Scene, MFM, Toys, Discussion Of CSA and Religion.
Check Triggers ⚠️ 💫
All Round Romance Reader
Sienasummerrreads 💕📚
TikTok | Instagram | Goodreads | StoryGraph | Everand | Amazon | Audible Reviews 💫
Content Warnings
Graphic: Child abuse, Drug use, Panic attacks/disorders, Rape, Sexual assault, Sexual content, and Alcohol
sugar_b0nes's review against another edition
adventurous
funny
lighthearted
sad
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.25
Content Warnings
Moderate: Child abuse, Homophobia, Rape, and Alcohol
Minor: Drug use
mrsmonty503's review against another edition
challenging
sad
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
3.0
There was quite a few things that I liked about this story but overall it tanked.
I almost DNF 3 times. At times, I wasn’t really enjoying the narration of narrator for Avi. The sex scenes were VERY talkative and they really didn’t need to be.
While there was mention of religion throughout the book; I ultimately took half a star off because in chapter 30 it feels like the author started preaching through one of three characters. 🤮🤮
In another chapter later on.. same thing but with another character.
Meh…
I almost DNF 3 times. At times, I wasn’t really enjoying the narration of narrator for Avi. The sex scenes were VERY talkative and they really didn’t need to be.
While there was mention of religion throughout the book; I ultimately took half a star off because in chapter 30 it feels like the author started preaching through one of three characters. 🤮🤮
In another chapter later on.. same thing but with another character.
Meh…
Content Warnings
Moderate: Adult/minor relationship, Drug abuse, Incest, Sexual content, Gaslighting, Abandonment, and Alcohol
Minor: Emotional abuse, Homophobia, Panic attacks/disorders, Pedophilia, Rape, and Sexual assault
meowrie's review against another edition
challenging
emotional
funny
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
This book is seriously hot but it's seriously long.
I felt like there were scenes that could be trimmed to cut this down to size. 700+pages and 22+ hours on audible is kind of nuts for a single book. It took me days to listen to it because I had to keep taking breaks. It was just so long. I've read long books before, but those were like, sci-fi or PNR books with extensive world building. Anyway. Back to the review.
I liked that we met Ky and Avi before they became stepbrothers. I loved loved loved how they were actual enemies. Although there was no real reason why they were enemies. KY just didn't like Avi and made their relationship as teenagers unbearable. I loved the progression into college and the side characters were all great. The reason for the OF was reasonable and once that started, the book really picked up for me. The reluctant touches, refusal to kiss, the hateful behaviors...then the gradual turn into real passion.
There was plenty of angst. The OF, paying bills, Ky's past, family drama, football, and of course, their relationship. It was all handled very well for two 20 year old kids.
There was sex. Lots and lots of sex. It was hot. Loved it.
I will listen again, I'm sure. But I'll just be prepared to hunker down with it.
I felt like there were scenes that could be trimmed to cut this down to size. 700+pages and 22+ hours on audible is kind of nuts for a single book. It took me days to listen to it because I had to keep taking breaks. It was just so long. I've read long books before, but those were like, sci-fi or PNR books with extensive world building. Anyway. Back to the review.
I liked that we met Ky and Avi before they became stepbrothers. I loved loved loved how they were actual enemies. Although there was no real reason why they were enemies. KY just didn't like Avi and made their relationship as teenagers unbearable. I loved the progression into college and the side characters were all great. The reason for the OF was reasonable and once that started, the book really picked up for me. The reluctant touches, refusal to kiss, the hateful behaviors...then the gradual turn into real passion.
There was plenty of angst. The OF, paying bills, Ky's past, family drama, football, and of course, their relationship. It was all handled very well for two 20 year old kids.
There was sex. Lots and lots of sex. It was hot. Loved it.
I will listen again, I'm sure. But I'll just be prepared to hunker down with it.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Bullying, Drug use, Rape, Sexual assault, Religious bigotry, and Alcohol