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The Foster Brothers #1
Délaissé: Jaren (Les Frères Foster)
Years of pining.
Years of keeping his distance.
Years of lusting after Jaren, the one man Reid couldn’t have.
Because Jaren is straight.
Worse, he’s engaged to Reid’s sister. In other words: he’s off limits. Impossible.
But a day before the wedding, she calls it off, leaving Jaren with nowhere to go.
So what’s a man to do? Well, offer Jaren a place to stay, of course.
A shoulder to cry on.
A bed to sleep in.
And maybe someone to share that bed with?
Jilted is the first book in The Foster Brother series, a contemporary MM romance series about four men who chose to be brothers. It has hurt/comfort, found family, bisexual awakening, first time gay, and a guy who finally realizes that what he wanted most was right in front of him the whole time.
Years of keeping his distance.
Years of lusting after Jaren, the one man Reid couldn’t have.
Because Jaren is straight.
Worse, he’s engaged to Reid’s sister. In other words: he’s off limits. Impossible.
But a day before the wedding, she calls it off, leaving Jaren with nowhere to go.
So what’s a man to do? Well, offer Jaren a place to stay, of course.
A shoulder to cry on.
A bed to sleep in.
And maybe someone to share that bed with?
Jilted is the first book in The Foster Brother series, a contemporary MM romance series about four men who chose to be brothers. It has hurt/comfort, found family, bisexual awakening, first time gay, and a guy who finally realizes that what he wanted most was right in front of him the whole time.
314 pages, Paperback
First published March 4, 2022
648 people are currently reading
1548 people want to read
About the author
Nora Phoenix
127 books2,181 followersWould you like the long or the short version of my bio?
The short? You got it.
I write steamy gay romance books and I love it. I also love reading books. Books are everything.
How was that?
A little more detail? Gotcha.
I started writing my first stories when I was a teen…on a freaking typewriter. I still have these, and they’re adorably romantic. And bad, haha. Fear of failing kept me from following my dream to become a romance author, so you can imagine how proud and ecstatic I am that I finally overcame my fears and self doubt and did it. I adore my genre because I love writing and reading about flawed, strong men who are just a tad broken..but find their happy ever after anyway.
My favorite books to read are pretty much all MM/gay romances as long as it has a happy end. Kink is a plus… Aside from that, I also read a lot of nonfiction and not just books on writing. Popular psychology is a favorite topic of mine and so are self help and sociology.
Hobbies? Ain’t nobody got time for that. Just kidding. I love traveling, spending time near the ocean, and hiking. But I love books more.
Come hang out with me in my Facebook Group Nora’s Nook where I share previews, sneak peeks, freebies, fun stuff, and much more: https://www.facebook.com/groups/noras...
Wanna get first dibs on freebies, updates, sales, and more? Sign up for my newsletter (no spamming your inbox full…promise!) here: http://www.noraphoenix.com/newsletter/
You can also stalk me on Twitter: https://twitter.com/NoraFromBHR
On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nora.phoenix/
On Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/nora-...
The short? You got it.
I write steamy gay romance books and I love it. I also love reading books. Books are everything.
How was that?
A little more detail? Gotcha.
I started writing my first stories when I was a teen…on a freaking typewriter. I still have these, and they’re adorably romantic. And bad, haha. Fear of failing kept me from following my dream to become a romance author, so you can imagine how proud and ecstatic I am that I finally overcame my fears and self doubt and did it. I adore my genre because I love writing and reading about flawed, strong men who are just a tad broken..but find their happy ever after anyway.
My favorite books to read are pretty much all MM/gay romances as long as it has a happy end. Kink is a plus… Aside from that, I also read a lot of nonfiction and not just books on writing. Popular psychology is a favorite topic of mine and so are self help and sociology.
Hobbies? Ain’t nobody got time for that. Just kidding. I love traveling, spending time near the ocean, and hiking. But I love books more.
Come hang out with me in my Facebook Group Nora’s Nook where I share previews, sneak peeks, freebies, fun stuff, and much more: https://www.facebook.com/groups/noras...
Wanna get first dibs on freebies, updates, sales, and more? Sign up for my newsletter (no spamming your inbox full…promise!) here: http://www.noraphoenix.com/newsletter/
You can also stalk me on Twitter: https://twitter.com/NoraFromBHR
On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nora.phoenix/
On Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/nora-...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 345 reviews
April 17, 2023
Huh! I feel like I read the same book back to back. 🤨
Another candy fluff with a cliché storyline, a bit boring.
Another candy fluff with a cliché storyline, a bit boring.
March 4, 2022
Uhmm, when did Nora Phoenix’s writing got so bad ? I mean, I confess, I’ve only read her White House men series but that was good. Fantastic , even. Good writing, strong and interesting men. What’s with this choppy, stiff , clinical writing? Where are the feelings? The descriptions? The relationship building in this book felt like a business transaction. All the characters are two dimensional. The only time I FELT something was when Jaren talked about his childhood . And what’s with this abundance of whiny weepy men in her books lately? In her latest book we have a grown almost 50 years old acting like a blushing 16 years old ,..all tears and trembling and sobbing and though I might excuse it because there was a daddy/ boy dynamics, here I don’t get it. Sorry, but this book was so amateurish it hurts.
November 26, 2022
3 Stars
Jaren had been the happiest he’d ever been in his life. He had an amazing job, he’d finally paid his student loans and he was about to get married to the best woman in the world. And all of that for a foster kid! The journey he had made from the wrong side of the tracks to where he was now had made him proud. All his life, he had worked hard to get what he wanted, a sense of belonging, of being like ever one else. And then it had all come crushing down, like some cruel joke…
Told in dual POV, 3rd person, it’s the first installment in "The Foster Brothers" series and it’s not cliffy. It’s low drama, slow burn. And the MCs were so nice, actually too nice. The story is low angsty and a bit boring. All in all, it was an OK read and hope you enjoy it more than me!
Jaren had been the happiest he’d ever been in his life. He had an amazing job, he’d finally paid his student loans and he was about to get married to the best woman in the world. And all of that for a foster kid! The journey he had made from the wrong side of the tracks to where he was now had made him proud. All his life, he had worked hard to get what he wanted, a sense of belonging, of being like ever one else. And then it had all come crushing down, like some cruel joke…
Told in dual POV, 3rd person, it’s the first installment in "The Foster Brothers" series and it’s not cliffy. It’s low drama, slow burn. And the MCs were so nice, actually too nice. The story is low angsty and a bit boring. All in all, it was an OK read and hope you enjoy it more than me!
November 5, 2024
I'm fairly certain this author just isn't for me.
I don't really know how to clearly describe my thoughts about this book!
The dialogue between all of the characters was so formal the entire time, to the point it was like a BBC period drama. It made no sense and didn't feel natural at all, especially for two American guys in their thirties!! I could hear some British blue bloods talking this way, but it didn't fit with the character descriptions of a tattoo artist and a foster child who grew up in a rough area! Even if you want to 'better yourself ' you don't start talking like a robot that swallowed a dictionary. There was no emotion in the story either!
I struggle with third person POV quite often and this book was just so weirdly written. The narrator reminded me of the wife from Disney's Lady and the Tramp - literally the best comparison I could think of! It didn't feel remotely modern in language at all.
There was also too much sweetness and everything was so easy and convenient. Considering the dude gets jilted then shacks up with his ex's brother on what would have been his wedding day, there is absolutely zero conflict in this story. I'm all for a sweet character but I need that balance with a grumpier character. I also need something to keep me interested in the plot.
I don't think I'll continue with the series because this writing style and language use is just not for me. Like Reid said - why read a book that bores you to tears?
I don't really know how to clearly describe my thoughts about this book!
The dialogue between all of the characters was so formal the entire time, to the point it was like a BBC period drama. It made no sense and didn't feel natural at all, especially for two American guys in their thirties!! I could hear some British blue bloods talking this way, but it didn't fit with the character descriptions of a tattoo artist and a foster child who grew up in a rough area! Even if you want to 'better yourself ' you don't start talking like a robot that swallowed a dictionary. There was no emotion in the story either!
I struggle with third person POV quite often and this book was just so weirdly written. The narrator reminded me of the wife from Disney's Lady and the Tramp - literally the best comparison I could think of! It didn't feel remotely modern in language at all.
There was also too much sweetness and everything was so easy and convenient. Considering the dude gets jilted then shacks up with his ex's brother on what would have been his wedding day, there is absolutely zero conflict in this story. I'm all for a sweet character but I need that balance with a grumpier character. I also need something to keep me interested in the plot.
I don't think I'll continue with the series because this writing style and language use is just not for me. Like Reid said - why read a book that bores you to tears?
February 12, 2023
4 Stars
This was my first time reading a solo Nora Phoenix penned novel and it was a raging success, as far as I’m concerned. It helped that it was jam-packed with some of my absolute favourite tropes, from found family vibes and hurt-comfort themes, to a naturally progressing bi-awakening for one of our MCs and a whole bunch of first-time-with-another-man experiences that left my heart aflutter.
At first, I was a bit nervous about the initial falling for your ex’s brother set-up, which began when “straight” MC Jaren was dumped the day before his wedding, courtesy of Reid, the bride’s brother, who got the short end of the stick in being the one to break the news to a blindsided and naturally upset Jaren.
In the aftermath of said break-up, Jaren, without a job and with no place to live—oh, boy, did these circumstances enrage me—gets taken in by generous and kind-hearted Reid, who has secretly been pining for Jaren since the first night his sister brought Jaren home to meet the family.
Now, I know these circumstances could come across as somewhat dicey, seemingly as if Reid was taking advantage of Jaren’s situation, but rest assured it never felt like the case here. Jaren was in shock and hurt, yes, but with a bit of distance and some deep, open conversations with Reid—always the listener and expert at finding one’s truth—Jaren soon realised that his feelings for his ex were not what they should have been, which jumpstarts a whole new level of self-reflection in Jaren, supported by Reid, as he learns more about himself and his true hopes and dreams for his future—a future that very quickly starts to feature Reid and himself, together.
Honestly, I’m never much of a fan of romances that see a character falling for the sibling of someone they’ve been in a serious relationship with, but here, I think it was all too easy to accept (and root for) the growing relationship between Jaren and Reid, mostly due to the fact that I spent the majority of the story disgusted by the behaviour and entitlement of the ex/sister, to the point that I no longer felt any expected sense of guilt or betrayal, because, seriously, fuck her and the horse she rode in on!
Jaren and Reid's romance and their sexual explorations were tender and hot in good measure, but what I adored most about this story was the impressive levels of communication shared between these two men. They talked to each other in such a thoughtful and respectful way, always checking in with each other, which I found profoundly mature, especially once Reid expressed his romantic feelings towards Jaren and Jaren in turn slowly began to develop deeper feelings of his own towards the man who had changed his life in so many ways for the better.
As other reviews have stated, this story didn’t have all that much in the way of angst or relationship drama. This was surprising to me at first, considering the ex/sister situation, but once all the communicating became a clear constant for these men, I knew any roadblocks that would arise would simply be those external to their evolving relationship and I was damn happy about it. If there is one thing I’ve come to prefer lately in my romance reading, its external conflict over internal conflict between book couples, so the way Phoenix wrote this story and the romance served me very well indeed.
Lastly, it’s important to reiterate those found family vibes that will undoubtedly be the linchpin of the entire series, which follows the four chosen brothers—who grew up in the foster system together and formed an unshakable bond—finding love, happiness and purpose in their hard-fought new lives. For me, Jaren and his three brothers were so likable here that the decision to read each character’s book in this series has quickly gone from a choice to a damn necessity.
This was my first time reading a solo Nora Phoenix penned novel and it was a raging success, as far as I’m concerned. It helped that it was jam-packed with some of my absolute favourite tropes, from found family vibes and hurt-comfort themes, to a naturally progressing bi-awakening for one of our MCs and a whole bunch of first-time-with-another-man experiences that left my heart aflutter.
At first, I was a bit nervous about the initial falling for your ex’s brother set-up, which began when “straight” MC Jaren was dumped the day before his wedding, courtesy of Reid, the bride’s brother, who got the short end of the stick in being the one to break the news to a blindsided and naturally upset Jaren.
In the aftermath of said break-up, Jaren, without a job and with no place to live—oh, boy, did these circumstances enrage me—gets taken in by generous and kind-hearted Reid, who has secretly been pining for Jaren since the first night his sister brought Jaren home to meet the family.
Now, I know these circumstances could come across as somewhat dicey, seemingly as if Reid was taking advantage of Jaren’s situation, but rest assured it never felt like the case here. Jaren was in shock and hurt, yes, but with a bit of distance and some deep, open conversations with Reid—always the listener and expert at finding one’s truth—Jaren soon realised that his feelings for his ex were not what they should have been, which jumpstarts a whole new level of self-reflection in Jaren, supported by Reid, as he learns more about himself and his true hopes and dreams for his future—a future that very quickly starts to feature Reid and himself, together.
Honestly, I’m never much of a fan of romances that see a character falling for the sibling of someone they’ve been in a serious relationship with, but here, I think it was all too easy to accept (and root for) the growing relationship between Jaren and Reid, mostly due to the fact that I spent the majority of the story disgusted by the behaviour and entitlement of the ex/sister, to the point that I no longer felt any expected sense of guilt or betrayal, because, seriously, fuck her and the horse she rode in on!
Jaren and Reid's romance and their sexual explorations were tender and hot in good measure, but what I adored most about this story was the impressive levels of communication shared between these two men. They talked to each other in such a thoughtful and respectful way, always checking in with each other, which I found profoundly mature, especially once Reid expressed his romantic feelings towards Jaren and Jaren in turn slowly began to develop deeper feelings of his own towards the man who had changed his life in so many ways for the better.
As other reviews have stated, this story didn’t have all that much in the way of angst or relationship drama. This was surprising to me at first, considering the ex/sister situation, but once all the communicating became a clear constant for these men, I knew any roadblocks that would arise would simply be those external to their evolving relationship and I was damn happy about it. If there is one thing I’ve come to prefer lately in my romance reading, its external conflict over internal conflict between book couples, so the way Phoenix wrote this story and the romance served me very well indeed.
Lastly, it’s important to reiterate those found family vibes that will undoubtedly be the linchpin of the entire series, which follows the four chosen brothers—who grew up in the foster system together and formed an unshakable bond—finding love, happiness and purpose in their hard-fought new lives. For me, Jaren and his three brothers were so likable here that the decision to read each character’s book in this series has quickly gone from a choice to a damn necessity.
April 10, 2022
Audio - 4 Stars
Story - 2.5 Stars
Story - 2.5 Stars
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March 11, 2022
MM Romance
Left At The Altar/Forced Proximity
DNF 1 Star ⭐️
DNF @ 57%
This is so god fucking awful I can’t take another second of it. The blurb made this seem scandalous but it’s so boring I want to die. It’s 57% in and there’s been nothing sexual at all. They haven’t even fucking kissed. They live together in a one bed loft FFS 🤦🏻♀️ I’m so sick of hearing about Jaren’s foster care life. That sounds harsh 😂😂 but it’s seriously the only thing anyone talks about. And the crying.😭 And now add in giggling and I’m out. Like why??
Since I’m actually rating this I’ll tell you what it’s about. Jaren is about to get married to Bridget but the day before the wedding her brother Reid shows up to deliver some bad news. Bridget has called off the wedding and since Jaren had just sold his condo to pay for the wedding and was planning to move in with his to be wife, he’s homeless but not as heartbroken as one would think. Jaren also works for Bridget’s dad (how they met) so he loses that too. Reid has always carried a torch for Jaren but has stayed away the past 4 years because it physically hurt him to watch Jaren & his sister together.
Still with me?
Reid is pissed at his family because he’s in love with Jaren and his family are a bunch of rich assholes. I fucking hate Bridget & fam. Anyway, Reid asks Jaren if he wants to move into his 1 bed loft while he looks for a new job. Jaren accepts even though these two haven’t really talked in 4 years. The first day at Reid’s loft, Jaren falls apart sobbing and Reid takes care of him. They form a friendship. Reid wants more but Jaren isn’t sure and wants to think about it some more. Jaren’s a planner so he doesn’t do anything without weighing the odds.
I’m falling asleep just writing this review. I’ve never read this author before and have no plans to again because I hate her writing style. How is this book trending so high on the Amazon charts? Their relationship or lack thereof makes absolutely no fucking sense. I cannot.
Left At The Altar/Forced Proximity
DNF 1 Star ⭐️
DNF @ 57%
This is so god fucking awful I can’t take another second of it. The blurb made this seem scandalous but it’s so boring I want to die. It’s 57% in and there’s been nothing sexual at all. They haven’t even fucking kissed. They live together in a one bed loft FFS 🤦🏻♀️ I’m so sick of hearing about Jaren’s foster care life. That sounds harsh 😂😂 but it’s seriously the only thing anyone talks about. And the crying.😭 And now add in giggling and I’m out. Like why??
Since I’m actually rating this I’ll tell you what it’s about. Jaren is about to get married to Bridget but the day before the wedding her brother Reid shows up to deliver some bad news. Bridget has called off the wedding and since Jaren had just sold his condo to pay for the wedding and was planning to move in with his to be wife, he’s homeless but not as heartbroken as one would think. Jaren also works for Bridget’s dad (how they met) so he loses that too. Reid has always carried a torch for Jaren but has stayed away the past 4 years because it physically hurt him to watch Jaren & his sister together.
Still with me?
Reid is pissed at his family because he’s in love with Jaren and his family are a bunch of rich assholes. I fucking hate Bridget & fam. Anyway, Reid asks Jaren if he wants to move into his 1 bed loft while he looks for a new job. Jaren accepts even though these two haven’t really talked in 4 years. The first day at Reid’s loft, Jaren falls apart sobbing and Reid takes care of him. They form a friendship. Reid wants more but Jaren isn’t sure and wants to think about it some more. Jaren’s a planner so he doesn’t do anything without weighing the odds.
I’m falling asleep just writing this review. I’ve never read this author before and have no plans to again because I hate her writing style. How is this book trending so high on the Amazon charts? Their relationship or lack thereof makes absolutely no fucking sense. I cannot.
March 6, 2022
They were just so...adult about everything where is the drama😭.
June 29, 2024
2.5 stars
My whole review got eaten by GR.
So here’s the short version. It’s sweet but uneventful.
It’s fine if you want low angst, slow getting to know you love story.
I might keep reading just to see what she does with Nordin.
My whole review got eaten by GR.
So here’s the short version. It’s sweet but uneventful.
It’s fine if you want low angst, slow getting to know you love story.
I might keep reading just to see what she does with Nordin.
March 21, 2022
I DNF this at 70% or so, I wanted to leave the story there because I had a feeling it was gonna get fucked up! 🥲🥲
So why the three stars? I loved the beginning and I was enjoying the characters and them doing their stuff.
BUT, when everything was said and done, it was boring, the guy who was straight took his gayness so fast it didn't feel like a bi-awakening.
The characters got really: yes dear, oh yes if you want, I want to make you happy, I want to😇😇🥱🥱😑... WHERE IS THE DRAMA?????? People are not so fucking correct all the time, it was so perfect it made me desperate.
So did their environment provide the drama like I hoped so? NO! The dude is with his sister's ex-boyfriend and everything goes smoothly, maybe it got worse later but I couldn't, I WAS BOREEEEED!!!
So yeah, not totally for me, but that beginning had promise. 😅❤
So why the three stars? I loved the beginning and I was enjoying the characters and them doing their stuff.
BUT, when everything was said and done, it was boring, the guy who was straight took his gayness so fast it didn't feel like a bi-awakening.
The characters got really: yes dear, oh yes if you want, I want to make you happy, I want to😇😇🥱🥱😑... WHERE IS THE DRAMA?????? People are not so fucking correct all the time, it was so perfect it made me desperate.
So did their environment provide the drama like I hoped so? NO! The dude is with his sister's ex-boyfriend and everything goes smoothly, maybe it got worse later but I couldn't, I WAS BOREEEEED!!!
So yeah, not totally for me, but that beginning had promise. 😅❤
April 16, 2022
One of the best "gay for you" book I've read in a long time
Their relationship comes natural and I also loved the interaction among the brothers.
Their relationship comes natural and I also loved the interaction among the brothers.
November 18, 2025
This man saw his sister call off her wedding to Jaren and thought: Yessssss! This is my chance to show him that I'm the best person in the world for him. No healing required. He can heal after he's mine. 💀
And honestly? I DON'T hate it. Got one chance and didn't play about it.
"It can't be easy choosing sides against your family."
"Actually, it's surprisingly easy."
💀
Man said 'I am your safe space' and then made it true.
I loved how the bi-awakening worked in this. Reid confessed his feelings to a seemingly VERY straight man and let the chips fall where they may.
I have to say that my petty ass thinks falling in love with your ex's brother is such a god tier way to win the breakup😂
It's giving 'Thank you so much for dumping me because if you hadn't I'd never have met the love of my life, who also happens to be your beloved brother.'
💀
Meeting the parents but this time as the son's boyfriend and not the daughter's boyfriend. Fun times for everyone.
It's always sad when the author chooses the path of least drama, though. That parental meeting could have been fireworks.
But, I enjoyed the rest so I'll not nitpick that one little thing.
HOW have I not read a book by Nora Phoenix before???
And honestly? I DON'T hate it. Got one chance and didn't play about it.
"It can't be easy choosing sides against your family."
"Actually, it's surprisingly easy."
💀
Man said 'I am your safe space' and then made it true.
I loved how the bi-awakening worked in this. Reid confessed his feelings to a seemingly VERY straight man and let the chips fall where they may.
I have to say that my petty ass thinks falling in love with your ex's brother is such a god tier way to win the breakup😂
It's giving 'Thank you so much for dumping me because if you hadn't I'd never have met the love of my life, who also happens to be your beloved brother.'
💀
Meeting the parents but this time as the son's boyfriend and not the daughter's boyfriend. Fun times for everyone.
It's always sad when the author chooses the path of least drama, though. That parental meeting could have been fireworks.
But, I enjoyed the rest so I'll not nitpick that one little thing.
HOW have I not read a book by Nora Phoenix before???
March 4, 2022
* 3.5 stars *
The Fosters are four brothers by choice. They met as children in the foster care system and they developed a bond that lasted through the decades that followed. They supported each other, they were a unit and they managed to survive through all the difficulties that life threw at them.
The first book in the series is about Jaren, an accountant, who is getting ready to marry his partner of four years. The night before the wedding though Reid, the bride's brother, informs him that there would be no ceremony as the bride has decided to break it off.
Through a number of events, Jaren ends up staying at Reid's, but what he doesn't know is that Reid has been secretly in love with him for years. I liked how open these guys were with each other. They communicated perfectly and they weren't shy about their feelings, thoughts and wants. So Reid opens up to Jaren quickly enough but that doesn't mean that the relationship happened in a blink.
The story takes place over a few months actually, and the pace of the relationship was pretty good. Yes, Jaren had been practically left at the altar at the beginning of the book, but as the weeks pass he sees his relationship under a new light and he faces some hard truths about his feelings for his ex.
I liked all four brothers and I look forward to reading more about them, both their pasts and their futures.
What I didn't like was some of the dialogues. It was as if everyone was trying super hard to be polite and make sure they didn't offend anyone. The only ones who showed some ugly colors were the ex-bride and her father, but I'm glad that neither of them was ever made out to be a villain.
Other that that, I enjoyed the plot and I liked the characters.
Next up is Hadley who falls in love with his grumpy boss.
~ I read an ARC of this book. ~
The Fosters are four brothers by choice. They met as children in the foster care system and they developed a bond that lasted through the decades that followed. They supported each other, they were a unit and they managed to survive through all the difficulties that life threw at them.
The first book in the series is about Jaren, an accountant, who is getting ready to marry his partner of four years. The night before the wedding though Reid, the bride's brother, informs him that there would be no ceremony as the bride has decided to break it off.
Through a number of events, Jaren ends up staying at Reid's, but what he doesn't know is that Reid has been secretly in love with him for years. I liked how open these guys were with each other. They communicated perfectly and they weren't shy about their feelings, thoughts and wants. So Reid opens up to Jaren quickly enough but that doesn't mean that the relationship happened in a blink.
The story takes place over a few months actually, and the pace of the relationship was pretty good. Yes, Jaren had been practically left at the altar at the beginning of the book, but as the weeks pass he sees his relationship under a new light and he faces some hard truths about his feelings for his ex.
I liked all four brothers and I look forward to reading more about them, both their pasts and their futures.
What I didn't like was some of the dialogues. It was as if everyone was trying super hard to be polite and make sure they didn't offend anyone. The only ones who showed some ugly colors were the ex-bride and her father, but I'm glad that neither of them was ever made out to be a villain.
Other that that, I enjoyed the plot and I liked the characters.
Next up is Hadley who falls in love with his grumpy boss.
~ I read an ARC of this book. ~
June 4, 2022
Couldn't hold my attention for long. Wanted to love it so much.
March 12, 2023
2.75/5 stars
I don’t know how to feel about this. The couple got together really early on with barely any build up. I just didn’t care for them that much. The only part that grasped my attention was the backstory for Jaren, but other than that nothing stood out. It was a boring bland story. I’m still holding on to hope for the next three books.
I don’t know how to feel about this. The couple got together really early on with barely any build up. I just didn’t care for them that much. The only part that grasped my attention was the backstory for Jaren, but other than that nothing stood out. It was a boring bland story. I’m still holding on to hope for the next three books.
March 7, 2022
What a sweet and lovely story. It was low angst and an enjoyable, easy read. I was actually surprised how smooth things went for the heroes, but after Jared's childhood being a horrible as it was, I'm glad the author kinda gave him a break from having a lot of drama from a crazy-assed ex-fiance and other family members. It's most likely not the most realistic approach, but I read for the romance...NOT the ott angst.
I can't wait until the next book!
I can't wait until the next book!
March 5, 2023
Sugary sweet and surprisingly low angst for a book about getting with your ex-fiancée’s brother.
I thought this would be a quick light read and it was, but I really didn’t expect to like it as much as I did. It was engaging from the start and one of those books where the fun premise is handled even better than expected. So often these tropes have so much hype that they end up being disappointing, but I really like where the author went with this and how open the MCs were with each other.
I’m a huge fan of this author’s writing style. It was simple and concise while somehow feeling elevated? I don’t know how to describe it beyond that and “simple” isn’t quite the right word, but it is in the sense that there’s a bluntness that I don’t see a lot of and can vastly appreciate. It also plays well with the nuances of one of the MCs coming across as neurodivergent.
I will say that it got a little too sappy around the 80% part and I almost lowered my rating. The author did end on the loveliest last few scenes though and I was reminded of everything I liked about this book. I will definitely be reading more by this author.
I thought this would be a quick light read and it was, but I really didn’t expect to like it as much as I did. It was engaging from the start and one of those books where the fun premise is handled even better than expected. So often these tropes have so much hype that they end up being disappointing, but I really like where the author went with this and how open the MCs were with each other.
I’m a huge fan of this author’s writing style. It was simple and concise while somehow feeling elevated? I don’t know how to describe it beyond that and “simple” isn’t quite the right word, but it is in the sense that there’s a bluntness that I don’t see a lot of and can vastly appreciate. It also plays well with the nuances of one of the MCs coming across as neurodivergent.
I will say that it got a little too sappy around the 80% part and I almost lowered my rating. The author did end on the loveliest last few scenes though and I was reminded of everything I liked about this book. I will definitely be reading more by this author.
April 18, 2022
3.5 stars.
I’m a big fan of Nora Phoenix. The Perfect Hands series will always be a favorite. Unfortunately, I just couldn’t have that same kind of love for Jilted: Jaren. Maybe it needed a little drama, a little more angst. Everything just came together too neatly, too easily. I had a hard time with that, especially considering how Reid and Jaren ended up getting together.
Even so, I enjoyed it well enough, as I always do with this author's books.
Full review can be found at -
I’m a big fan of Nora Phoenix. The Perfect Hands series will always be a favorite. Unfortunately, I just couldn’t have that same kind of love for Jilted: Jaren. Maybe it needed a little drama, a little more angst. Everything just came together too neatly, too easily. I had a hard time with that, especially considering how Reid and Jaren ended up getting together.
Even so, I enjoyed it well enough, as I always do with this author's books.
Full review can be found at -
March 19, 2022
I don't know why this book is so high on the Amazon best sell list. Never read this author before, and might be willing to give it another shot, but this book made no sense to me. It sounds like she had a good idea and just couldn't deliver based on the characters.
It makes no sense that Reid would be in love with Jaren. He met Jaren through his sister, and spent. What sounds like, minimum time with them. He avoided spending time with them (his sister and Jaren) for "self-preservation" but quickly points out that Jaren has never been open to be himself around his fiance, Reid's sister. So, how is he in love with a guy, he knows that he doesn't know....and within days (hours?) He is ready to spend forever with him. Lots of fluff and repetitive boringness. Maybe if there had been some flashbacks to interactions that make a crush believable, but there isn't. The author gives us nothing to explain why Reid would be interested in Jaren.
It makes no sense that Reid would be in love with Jaren. He met Jaren through his sister, and spent. What sounds like, minimum time with them. He avoided spending time with them (his sister and Jaren) for "self-preservation" but quickly points out that Jaren has never been open to be himself around his fiance, Reid's sister. So, how is he in love with a guy, he knows that he doesn't know....and within days (hours?) He is ready to spend forever with him. Lots of fluff and repetitive boringness. Maybe if there had been some flashbacks to interactions that make a crush believable, but there isn't. The author gives us nothing to explain why Reid would be interested in Jaren.
May 1, 2022
Characters might be interesting but it’s hard to tell as the writing is awful. - 2 stars.
I’ve read other books by Nora Phoenix and enjoyed them so I’m honestly shocked by how dreadful the writing was for this one. Perhaps she hired a ghostwriter or changed editors? It was clunky and self-righteous. I didn’t buy into anyones reactions over any of the situations they found themselves in. I was bored by almost the whole thing. One of the other brothers might be interesting but not for f the writing continues like this.
I’ve read other books by Nora Phoenix and enjoyed them so I’m honestly shocked by how dreadful the writing was for this one. Perhaps she hired a ghostwriter or changed editors? It was clunky and self-righteous. I didn’t buy into anyones reactions over any of the situations they found themselves in. I was bored by almost the whole thing. One of the other brothers might be interesting but not for f the writing continues like this.
April 11, 2022
3 and 1/2 stars. I liked this book ok, but it felt like something was missing. This is my third book by Nora Phoenix. I’m surprised that I haven’t read more books by her because I certainly liked all three.
December 2, 2022
This book was a five star until they get together.
March 13, 2022
Very sweet. 3.5
March 8, 2022
The good
+ Reid's respect for Jaren's boundaries
+ Jaren's openmindedness about a possible same-sex relationship
+ Jaren's brothers. I love their dynamics and what they did for each other and meant to each other
+ How open both men were about their feelings. None of the guessing or I-am-a-manly-man-I-have-no-feelings bullshit
+ Reid waiting for Jaren
+ Reid being completely open about his feelings for Jaren, and Jaren taking things at his own pace
+ Reid's respect for Jaren's found family
+ The mutual respect they had for each other in general
+ The mutual interest in adopting a foster kid
+
The neutral
o Jaren moved in with Reid out of necessity, and stayed because he wanted to. But Jaren started earning money again about halfway through the book, and they never talked about him contributing financially to their little household, even though that was one of the glaring issues he had in his relationship with Bridget
The bad
- Bridget was forgiven and everyone thanked her. What the fuck? I get that breaking off their relationship wasn't wrong, but the way she did it definitely was. She should have told him herself instead of sending Reid. She should have paid him back because he invested so much money in her. And she definitely should have written him a positive referral without being prompted. She just stepped out of his life and left him on his ass, and none of that shit was okay! Especially since Jaren would totally have gone through with the wedding, and even though he might have regretted that later, it was not his fault that the wedding didn't happen. Bridget didn't deserve to get off so easily, especially since she claimed to love Jaren, even if only as a friend, and then proceeded to treat him like shit
I love sweet romances, and the relationship between Jaren and Reid was perfect. I also love Jaren's brothers and I can't wait for the rest of the books in the series. Because of Bridget, I debated giving the book four stars, but as the relationship between Jaren and Reid was the main focus, I went for five anyway because I loved them so much. Would definitely recommend Jaren's book and I can't wait for the other brothers'.
+ Reid's respect for Jaren's boundaries
+ Jaren's openmindedness about a possible same-sex relationship
+ Jaren's brothers. I love their dynamics and what they did for each other and meant to each other
+ How open both men were about their feelings. None of the guessing or I-am-a-manly-man-I-have-no-feelings bullshit
+ Reid waiting for Jaren
+ Reid being completely open about his feelings for Jaren, and Jaren taking things at his own pace
+ Reid's respect for Jaren's found family
+ The mutual respect they had for each other in general
+ The mutual interest in adopting a foster kid
+
The neutral
o Jaren moved in with Reid out of necessity, and stayed because he wanted to. But Jaren started earning money again about halfway through the book, and they never talked about him contributing financially to their little household, even though that was one of the glaring issues he had in his relationship with Bridget
The bad
- Bridget was forgiven and everyone thanked her. What the fuck? I get that breaking off their relationship wasn't wrong, but the way she did it definitely was. She should have told him herself instead of sending Reid. She should have paid him back because he invested so much money in her. And she definitely should have written him a positive referral without being prompted. She just stepped out of his life and left him on his ass, and none of that shit was okay! Especially since Jaren would totally have gone through with the wedding, and even though he might have regretted that later, it was not his fault that the wedding didn't happen. Bridget didn't deserve to get off so easily, especially since she claimed to love Jaren, even if only as a friend, and then proceeded to treat him like shit
I love sweet romances, and the relationship between Jaren and Reid was perfect. I also love Jaren's brothers and I can't wait for the rest of the books in the series. Because of Bridget, I debated giving the book four stars, but as the relationship between Jaren and Reid was the main focus, I went for five anyway because I loved them so much. Would definitely recommend Jaren's book and I can't wait for the other brothers'.
April 9, 2022
I have no problem with the story, but the writing doesn't work for me at all. All of the characters, including the brothers and Bridget, speak in this stilted and very formal manner that doesn't ring true, and which prevented me from enjoying the story. I think this is also what made it difficult for me to have any empathy for Bridget, who I basically hate, and to warm up to the brothers, who I still have zero interest in. Except Nordin, who annoys me with all of his secrecy BS; I have below-zero level interest in him as he seems like kind of a self-involved dick.
May 29, 2022
Sorry, but no.. this was so boring to read. Too unfeeling, the characters so rational that it bordered on ridiculous.
March 14, 2022
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.5 stars
Jilted: Jaren is the first book in a new series by Nora Phoenix about four foster brothers who banded together at a young age and are closer than blood. Jaren seemed to be the straight one out of the bunch, though he admits that he doesn’t think anyone is truly 100% straight. He’s admired men before, but he’s never wanted to act on it, never felt any real sexual attraction. But Reid is different, and that’s built from their friendship first. Once Jaren is allowed the time to truly be himself, to figure out what he wants out of life, he learns to be more comfortable in his own skin. And as he’s doing that, he’s able to recognize his attraction to Reid and begin to explore it.
Though there are some heavier moments in this book, the story as a whole is relatively low angst.
Read Kris’ review in its entirety here.
4.5 stars
Jilted: Jaren is the first book in a new series by Nora Phoenix about four foster brothers who banded together at a young age and are closer than blood. Jaren seemed to be the straight one out of the bunch, though he admits that he doesn’t think anyone is truly 100% straight. He’s admired men before, but he’s never wanted to act on it, never felt any real sexual attraction. But Reid is different, and that’s built from their friendship first. Once Jaren is allowed the time to truly be himself, to figure out what he wants out of life, he learns to be more comfortable in his own skin. And as he’s doing that, he’s able to recognize his attraction to Reid and begin to explore it.
Though there are some heavier moments in this book, the story as a whole is relatively low angst.
Read Kris’ review in its entirety here.
July 29, 2022
interesting
https://ladiikeiii.wordpress.com/2022...
***spoilers little here and there***
I’m stuck on how you have Christmas in November like what in the caption crunch. they didn’t even have thanksgiving yet. It was only November 1st I was weak. Plus never mind I’ll let it go.
So anyways this book was interesting enough not much I can say about it though! I can say this though it was good that Jaren found actual love that he didn’t have with Bridget but found it with Reid.
Not much I can say about it to be honest
https://ladiikeiii.wordpress.com/2022...
***spoilers little here and there***
I’m stuck on how you have Christmas in November like what in the caption crunch. they didn’t even have thanksgiving yet. It was only November 1st I was weak. Plus never mind I’ll let it go.
So anyways this book was interesting enough not much I can say about it though! I can say this though it was good that Jaren found actual love that he didn’t have with Bridget but found it with Reid.
Not much I can say about it to be honest
March 24, 2022
“I mean, don’t hold back on the truth, not when it’s something I need to hear. It may be uncomfortable, but that’s the only way we grow as humans, isn’t it?”
.
My Rating : 5 freaking stars. 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
.
I don't know how this book did it, but it made my heart soar an gave me all kinds of happy feelings. This book had everything I was looking for to get out of a reading slump. I was a happy emotional mess when I finished the book.
.
✅Slow Burn, feel good Romance
✅Open conversations and healthy communication
✅ Simmering chemistry that adds to the anticipation
✅Found Family that'll do anything for you
✅ Amazing Friendship
✅A confession scene to diiee for
✅Did I mention the anticipation of the main characters getting together??
.
“I’m big on touching and hugging, but I’m sure you noticed.”“You are, and I love it.” Reid couldn’t keep silent, not after that vulnerable confession. He’d feel like he was betraying Jaren if he didn’t come clean after this. “I don’t do it with everyone.”“You don’t?” Jaren squeaked. “No. I like touching you, Jaren. Just you.” Jaren froze, and time seemed to stand still
.
REID AND JAREN for life.. They were amazing together and the way the author had written their relationship progression was so heartwarming to read about!! I really liked the snarky, funny & sneaky comments, the communication between the characters, the way Jaren realised a lot about himself and the situation he was in, amd the way Reid was just there for him. You will not find another pair so perfect for each other. Not to mention the slightly forbidden sister's ex-fiance trope thrown in there. If you haven't read this book yet, Pick it up!! You will not be disappointed.. I cannot wait for the next book!!
.
Book 99 : March 2022 / Kindle Unlimited
Tags : Slow Burn MM Romance, Sister's Ex, Feel Good Romance, Example for a heathy open honest communicating relationship.
.
My Rating : 5 freaking stars. 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
.
I don't know how this book did it, but it made my heart soar an gave me all kinds of happy feelings. This book had everything I was looking for to get out of a reading slump. I was a happy emotional mess when I finished the book.
.
✅Slow Burn, feel good Romance
✅Open conversations and healthy communication
✅ Simmering chemistry that adds to the anticipation
✅Found Family that'll do anything for you
✅ Amazing Friendship
✅A confession scene to diiee for
✅Did I mention the anticipation of the main characters getting together??
.
“I’m big on touching and hugging, but I’m sure you noticed.”“You are, and I love it.” Reid couldn’t keep silent, not after that vulnerable confession. He’d feel like he was betraying Jaren if he didn’t come clean after this. “I don’t do it with everyone.”“You don’t?” Jaren squeaked. “No. I like touching you, Jaren. Just you.” Jaren froze, and time seemed to stand still
.
REID AND JAREN for life.. They were amazing together and the way the author had written their relationship progression was so heartwarming to read about!! I really liked the snarky, funny & sneaky comments, the communication between the characters, the way Jaren realised a lot about himself and the situation he was in, amd the way Reid was just there for him. You will not find another pair so perfect for each other. Not to mention the slightly forbidden sister's ex-fiance trope thrown in there. If you haven't read this book yet, Pick it up!! You will not be disappointed.. I cannot wait for the next book!!
.
Book 99 : March 2022 / Kindle Unlimited
Tags : Slow Burn MM Romance, Sister's Ex, Feel Good Romance, Example for a heathy open honest communicating relationship.
March 13, 2022
2.5 stars
I’m a huge Nora Phoenix fan. This was my least favorite book from her. It didn’t even feel like it was her book.
Everybody was so polite and boring and some of the conversations felt so forced.
What I missed:
It’s a series about the four brothers. Where are they? They are hardly there. There should have been more backstory and the other three should have been more in the story. Getting to know the side characters for the upcoming books is half the fun. I know almost nothing about them! Only Nordin sounds a little bit interesting. I would have loved more heartbreaking stories from their past. I can’t even recall the other names….
You are left the day before your wedding and you’re not even mad? Even the conversation with the woman who left you was so mellow and understanding and boring.
And the fact Jaren is now with Reid. No probs! Everybody is fine with it! You do you. *yawn*
Even Jaren’s self discovery was boring….
And why was Reid so smitten? When did that happen? Why isn’t that on page? Kind of an important plotpoint. Now we just have to take that as a given. Show, don’t tell!
Too much was missing from this story and the parts that were there were boring most of the times. Except for the sex. That was hot as always. But it couldn’t save the story…
I’m a huge Nora Phoenix fan. This was my least favorite book from her. It didn’t even feel like it was her book.
Everybody was so polite and boring and some of the conversations felt so forced.
What I missed:
It’s a series about the four brothers. Where are they? They are hardly there. There should have been more backstory and the other three should have been more in the story. Getting to know the side characters for the upcoming books is half the fun. I know almost nothing about them! Only Nordin sounds a little bit interesting. I would have loved more heartbreaking stories from their past. I can’t even recall the other names….
You are left the day before your wedding and you’re not even mad? Even the conversation with the woman who left you was so mellow and understanding and boring.
And the fact Jaren is now with Reid. No probs! Everybody is fine with it! You do you. *yawn*
Even Jaren’s self discovery was boring….
And why was Reid so smitten? When did that happen? Why isn’t that on page? Kind of an important plotpoint. Now we just have to take that as a given. Show, don’t tell!
Too much was missing from this story and the parts that were there were boring most of the times. Except for the sex. That was hot as always. But it couldn’t save the story…
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