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A review by jessbeyondthepages
Barred Desires by Ashley James
challenging
reflective
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
[Received an ARC]
Rating 5/5
Plot 5/5
Spice 4/5
Character Development 5/5
“Barred Desires” is the first book in the “Deepest Desires Series” by Ashley James. This book tells the story of Luca Gray Hart and Branson (Bran) Joseph Adler. Luca and Bran are stepbrothers and haven’t had a close relationship until they move into a house with friends for college. Bran is openly gay and doesn’t do relationships. Luca has a girlfriend, however, he feels a connection towards Bran. Through forced proximity, the dynamic between Luca and Bran changes along with their feelings for one another.
“Barred Desires” is a forbidden MM stepbrother romance filled with emotional, steamy, and beautiful moments. This is Ashley James’ debut novel and she wrote an amazing book! The spice between Bran and Luca was hot and I also appreciated the serious moments and how Bran and Luca were there for each other during difficult times. I appreciated how James wrote about serious themes (e.g. panic attacks, nightmares), and I loved seeing Luca overcome his struggles. This is an interconnected series and I cannot wait to read about the other members in the friend group!
Rating 5/5
Plot 5/5
Spice 4/5
Character Development 5/5
“Barred Desires” is the first book in the “Deepest Desires Series” by Ashley James. This book tells the story of Luca Gray Hart and Branson (Bran) Joseph Adler. Luca and Bran are stepbrothers and haven’t had a close relationship until they move into a house with friends for college. Bran is openly gay and doesn’t do relationships. Luca has a girlfriend, however, he feels a connection towards Bran. Through forced proximity, the dynamic between Luca and Bran changes along with their feelings for one another.
“Barred Desires” is a forbidden MM stepbrother romance filled with emotional, steamy, and beautiful moments. This is Ashley James’ debut novel and she wrote an amazing book! The spice between Bran and Luca was hot and I also appreciated the serious moments and how Bran and Luca were there for each other during difficult times. I appreciated how James wrote about serious themes (e.g. panic attacks, nightmares), and I loved seeing Luca overcome his struggles. This is an interconnected series and I cannot wait to read about the other members in the friend group!