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Mars Fitness #1
Ripped
Sometimes heartache is a blessing in disguise.
I thought my life was perfect, and then I walked in on my boyfriend sleeping with my best friend.
The only person I can turn to now is Donnie, the silver-fox spin instructor who lets me crash at his place. Donnie’s a lot older and he’s still grieving his late husband. My dreams of being a filmmaker have disintegrated along with my relationship.
The worst of life has brought us together. Do we dare create something beautiful out of it?
Ripped is an age gap, nerd/jock, hurt/comfort MM romance between roommates who cuddle while watching classic movies. Expect low angst steamy shower rooms, teary confessions, disapproving family, and brand new beginnings. It is the first book in the Mars Fitness series and can be read as a standalone.
CW: grief and loss of a spouse, description of fatal car accident, description of homophobic family, cheating secondary characters. Happily ever after guaranteed.
I thought my life was perfect, and then I walked in on my boyfriend sleeping with my best friend.
The only person I can turn to now is Donnie, the silver-fox spin instructor who lets me crash at his place. Donnie’s a lot older and he’s still grieving his late husband. My dreams of being a filmmaker have disintegrated along with my relationship.
The worst of life has brought us together. Do we dare create something beautiful out of it?
Ripped is an age gap, nerd/jock, hurt/comfort MM romance between roommates who cuddle while watching classic movies. Expect low angst steamy shower rooms, teary confessions, disapproving family, and brand new beginnings. It is the first book in the Mars Fitness series and can be read as a standalone.
CW: grief and loss of a spouse, description of fatal car accident, description of homophobic family, cheating secondary characters. Happily ever after guaranteed.
248 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 7, 2023
123 people are currently reading
378 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 196 reviews
February 9, 2025
Nothing spectacular, kind of simplistic, and a bit crude for my liking.
The grief of losing a spouse/partner was well portrayed ... until it wasn't. Loving someone else, being intimate with someone else doesn't "cure" you. Donnie and Connor's relationship was built in the clouds; what happens when they crash to the ground?
Neither Connor nor Donnie were standout characters, especially Connor. He just kind of hid from his cheating ex-boyfriend and ex-BFF, like he was the one who did something wrong.
The whole thing with Connor's family - why even go there? Nothing was resolved. It felt pointless.
Also, there was no real plot, except some nosy friends not minding their own business, all of whom are past or future MCs in Bell's stories - just flashing billboards, not much else.
So many staged encounters, all at the "Mars" gym, which is as much about fucking as it is about staying fit. Because of course all gay men are cheaters and sluts. Stereotypical and gross.
This is why I rarely bother reading any new or new-to-me authors in the MM romance genre anymore. I'm inevitably disappointed.
The grief of losing a spouse/partner was well portrayed ... until it wasn't. Loving someone else, being intimate with someone else doesn't "cure" you. Donnie and Connor's relationship was built in the clouds; what happens when they crash to the ground?
Neither Connor nor Donnie were standout characters, especially Connor. He just kind of hid from his cheating ex-boyfriend and ex-BFF, like he was the one who did something wrong.
The whole thing with Connor's family - why even go there? Nothing was resolved. It felt pointless.
Also, there was no real plot, except some nosy friends not minding their own business, all of whom are past or future MCs in Bell's stories - just flashing billboards, not much else.
So many staged encounters, all at the "Mars" gym, which is as much about fucking as it is about staying fit. Because of course all gay men are cheaters and sluts. Stereotypical and gross.
This is why I rarely bother reading any new or new-to-me authors in the MM romance genre anymore. I'm inevitably disappointed.
March 6, 2024
- age gap
- nerd x jock
- hurt x comfort
CW: spousal loss, grief, cheating (not MCs)
Connor comes home from the gym to find his boyfriend and best friend hooking up, and with nowhere else to go he heads back to Mars Fitness. There he falls apart in the arms of Donnie, the hot older spin instructor, who offers him a place to stay as long as he needs it.
Donnie is no stranger to heartache, he's still mourning the loss of his husband four years later, but something about Connor brings out feelings he hasn't felt in years. The chemistry between them is magnetic and impossible to deny, and the pair fall into a sweet (and super steamy) romance that repairs both of their broken hearts entirely.
Connor and Donnie are adorable and deserve all the love the happiness after everything the pair of them have been through. Their romance is super fast paced, something I wasn't expecting, but I still really enjoyed it.
Looking forward to Sawyer and his best friend's story in Stacked!
- nerd x jock
- hurt x comfort
CW: spousal loss, grief, cheating (not MCs)
Connor comes home from the gym to find his boyfriend and best friend hooking up, and with nowhere else to go he heads back to Mars Fitness. There he falls apart in the arms of Donnie, the hot older spin instructor, who offers him a place to stay as long as he needs it.
Donnie is no stranger to heartache, he's still mourning the loss of his husband four years later, but something about Connor brings out feelings he hasn't felt in years. The chemistry between them is magnetic and impossible to deny, and the pair fall into a sweet (and super steamy) romance that repairs both of their broken hearts entirely.
Connor and Donnie are adorable and deserve all the love the happiness after everything the pair of them have been through. Their romance is super fast paced, something I wasn't expecting, but I still really enjoyed it.
Looking forward to Sawyer and his best friend's story in Stacked!
February 11, 2025
The story and writing are simple and a bit amateurish, but it’s the author’s debut. I’ve read their more recent books, and I liked them.
This would’ve been *so* much better as a friends-to-lovers. The connection and intimacy after *24 hours*? Ridiculously insta. Inviting a total stranger to stay indefinitely just because he was panicking? 🤔 Lusting after him after *four years* of celibacy? “Mine” after a day? A bit much.
And the family drama? *God.* What a waste of pages.
Thankfully, it was hot, sweet, and cute—because the insta made my brain hurt. At least the sofa cuddles and old movie nights made up for it. 🥰
This would’ve been *so* much better as a friends-to-lovers. The connection and intimacy after *24 hours*? Ridiculously insta. Inviting a total stranger to stay indefinitely just because he was panicking? 🤔 Lusting after him after *four years* of celibacy? “Mine” after a day? A bit much.
And the family drama? *God.* What a waste of pages.
Thankfully, it was hot, sweet, and cute—because the insta made my brain hurt. At least the sofa cuddles and old movie nights made up for it. 🥰
April 10, 2023
4/7/2023 - Happy Release Day! (included in KU)
3/25/2023 - My first book by Linden Bell and it won't be my last. I absolutely *loved* this. It already had a lot going for it with some of my fav tropes: age gap, nerd/jock, and hurt/comfort plus a silver fox! Add in two characters I immediately fell for and I finished this in one day.
Conner is 26 and working hard at life, career, and his relationship with his boyfriend. Unfortunately, he comes home from the gym one day to find his boyfriend and best friend are cheating on him - together. With nowhere else to go he returns to the gym where he's immediately comforted by the older (40s) Donnie, The Spin Instructor.
While things initially move kind of fast for these two - it wasn't the instalove I feared. I like the way Bell gave them months to get to know each other and to work through the tangle of feelings involved. Donnie still working through his grief at being widowed a few years earlier and Conner struggles with how much of his attraction to Donnie may be a reaction to losing his boyfriend & friend.
There are many small hurdles for this couple including the implosion of Connor's life, each of their insecurity about what the other needs, and how their families will react. I liked the way it gave the story momentum without being overly angsty. Bell was great a mixing all the emotions: grief, humor, uncertainty, and hope. I would be near tears at points and then laughing out loud in the next chapter. I love when a book makes me feel so deeply.
I also really enjoyed all the secondary characters. They brought a depth to story beyond feeling like they were just there to potentially have their own book someday. Yet, I'm invested in all of them and looking forward to seeing them as the series continues.
I was 100% invested in Connor & Donnie's HEA. I loved the ending and the epilogue. All around a fantastic read.
Content Warnings (possible spoilers):
grief and loss of a spouse, description of fatal car accident, description of homophobic family, cheating secondary characters.
I received an advanced copy of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
3/25/2023 - My first book by Linden Bell and it won't be my last. I absolutely *loved* this. It already had a lot going for it with some of my fav tropes: age gap, nerd/jock, and hurt/comfort plus a silver fox! Add in two characters I immediately fell for and I finished this in one day.
Conner is 26 and working hard at life, career, and his relationship with his boyfriend. Unfortunately, he comes home from the gym one day to find his boyfriend and best friend are cheating on him - together. With nowhere else to go he returns to the gym where he's immediately comforted by the older (40s) Donnie, The Spin Instructor.
While things initially move kind of fast for these two - it wasn't the instalove I feared. I like the way Bell gave them months to get to know each other and to work through the tangle of feelings involved. Donnie still working through his grief at being widowed a few years earlier and Conner struggles with how much of his attraction to Donnie may be a reaction to losing his boyfriend & friend.
There are many small hurdles for this couple including the implosion of Connor's life, each of their insecurity about what the other needs, and how their families will react. I liked the way it gave the story momentum without being overly angsty. Bell was great a mixing all the emotions: grief, humor, uncertainty, and hope. I would be near tears at points and then laughing out loud in the next chapter. I love when a book makes me feel so deeply.
I also really enjoyed all the secondary characters. They brought a depth to story beyond feeling like they were just there to potentially have their own book someday. Yet, I'm invested in all of them and looking forward to seeing them as the series continues.
I was 100% invested in Connor & Donnie's HEA. I loved the ending and the epilogue. All around a fantastic read.
Content Warnings (possible spoilers):
grief and loss of a spouse, description of fatal car accident, description of homophobic family, cheating secondary characters.
I received an advanced copy of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
April 3, 2023
"Thank you, Connor"
If he's thanking me for the orgasm, well, I'm coming out of that one a winner too, baby.
This book was actually super cute and not what I was expecting! I figured based on the blurb and the whole cheating mess that things were going to be a heck of a lot angstier. They in fact were not. The majority of Ripped was sweet. It has definitely hurt/comfort vibes and a whole lot of cuddling which I loved. Who doesn't love a good snuggle when you're feeling blue?
I enjoyed how at the start it was Donnie who was there to pick Connor up when things went to shit. Then later, when it was Donnie's turn to need someone, it was Connor taking care of him in return. Their relationship was based on kindness. These two truly enjoyed each other's company. They brought goodness into each other lives and in Donnie's case a kick in the butt to start living.
I'm totally curious about Sawyer and his bestie Preston. That little tid bit about their co dependence hooked me right in. Thankfully, those two are up next in Stacked. Best friends to lovers anyone?
If he's thanking me for the orgasm, well, I'm coming out of that one a winner too, baby.
This book was actually super cute and not what I was expecting! I figured based on the blurb and the whole cheating mess that things were going to be a heck of a lot angstier. They in fact were not. The majority of Ripped was sweet. It has definitely hurt/comfort vibes and a whole lot of cuddling which I loved. Who doesn't love a good snuggle when you're feeling blue?
I enjoyed how at the start it was Donnie who was there to pick Connor up when things went to shit. Then later, when it was Donnie's turn to need someone, it was Connor taking care of him in return. Their relationship was based on kindness. These two truly enjoyed each other's company. They brought goodness into each other lives and in Donnie's case a kick in the butt to start living.
I'm totally curious about Sawyer and his bestie Preston. That little tid bit about their co dependence hooked me right in. Thankfully, those two are up next in Stacked. Best friends to lovers anyone?
April 4, 2025
3,75✨
Loved it the way I loved other Linden Bell’s books but it was too insta-lovey for me.
Also, armpit fetish?????
Loved it the way I loved other Linden Bell’s books but it was too insta-lovey for me.
Also, armpit fetish?????
April 12, 2023
Linden Bell is a new author for me and I just loved this book. She has a wonderful way with prose that just flows off the page. I just really responded to this sweet story.
This was certainly an emotional ride. I found myself crying both sad and happy tears. I loved Donnie and Conner. I know their relationship moved fast, but that happens in gay relationships sometimes. I moved in with my husband two weeks after I met him. I was only 19. We’ve been together 51 years. Sometimes you just know.
I can’t wait to read more books by this author.
This was certainly an emotional ride. I found myself crying both sad and happy tears. I loved Donnie and Conner. I know their relationship moved fast, but that happens in gay relationships sometimes. I moved in with my husband two weeks after I met him. I was only 19. We’ve been together 51 years. Sometimes you just know.
I can’t wait to read more books by this author.
January 28, 2025
Donnie -hottest silver fox spin instructor in the city. His husband died 4 years ago. He works at Mars Fitness which really caters to a Gay Mans every need.
“Mars has branded condoms and single-serve packets of lube. They sit in giant fish bowls in every corner of the locker room. “Every good workout ends with a blowjob” might as well be the gym’s tagline.”
Connor - I hope he has character growth. He’s coming across as a big overweight guy, doormat, his boyfriend and bestie fucking each other is soul destroying for him…
“I’m crying now, my tears rolling down my cheeks and dripping off my jaw into Connor’s hair. His hands are in my shirt again, gripping so hard, he might rip it. We’re both shaking and there’s nothing we can do except ride it out.”
THEN 24 hours later he is ready to sex Donnie up.
“It’s only been twenty-four hours since I walked in on Miles and Wyatt. When I think about them, the rage and pain crash through me so hard it feels like I’m having some sort of panic attack. But when I don’t think about them, when I’m with Donnie and we’re laughing and smiling, I don’t give a flying fuck what Miles and Wyatt did.”
Donnie on the other hand is sensitive and protective, a bit overboard when he tries to ban Connery cheating boyfriend from the gym .
Donnie and Connery relationship felt fast and trauma bonded with the instantly living together, fucking, meeting the parents.
What annoyed me , and there was a lot but this was probably the biggest, was the lack of no karma I guess you can say towards the ex boyfriend and ex best friend. They got to be in love, go on double dates with the friends Conner used to go with. Like absolutely nothing bad happened. Conner would be the villian in their love story.
Then the ex bestie and Conner who had career aspirations together had a job opportunity and Conner agonises over it then tells Wyatt to pull the application.
Like what even happened with that? Did Wyatt do it or take the interview for himself??
Donnie’s dead husband has the same chunky build as Conner, so I guess that’s his type.
There were so many little plot rabbit holes that just ended , without going anywhere. That seemed pointless to be throwing in, or just too much.
“What will Connor’s family think of me? I’m so much older than him. Widowed. We skipped over all the normal stages of dating and dove straight into living together.”
Even Donnie gets it. Conner family, another pointless plot. He has issues with his family. His mum came across as a bit of a bitch.
“So out of the blue, Miles and Wyatt just start cheating on you.” Her arms are crossed and she’s leaning against the counter. She looks like she doesn’t believe me. “Yeah, Mom. I walked in on them.” “You walked in on them?” Her eyebrows are in her hairline now. “Well, not like that.” I throw my hands into the air. “I came home and Wyatt was scrambling to put on his clothes and Miles was coming out of the shower naked.” “There could be other explanations for that.”
LIKE OMG WOMAN!! Take your sons side.
Conner gets a tiny bit insecure and plants a hot kiss on Donnie in front of his spin class with mixed reactions
“Girl, that bitch? Are you kidding me?” “Oh, Donnie. You can do so much better, honey.”
I wish Donnie had spoken up and shut down the cruel comments but instead they started the class and nothing else was said to the haters. Wtf.
Conners friends were Miles friends and he got them in the break up.
“And a community of just me isn’t enough, even if I do want to keep Connor all to myself.. “
It felt too much was thrown in and low on the romantic scenes. Suddenly 24 hours later it’s Miles who but then Conner can’t handle seeing them plus he’s living with Donnie, and getting called darling pretty fast. Donnie didn’t even know who he was at first, kinda recognised him.
This story is low angst, low romance and way too much filler -cheating , widowed character , parental issues from both plus dead husbands parents , plus friends, plus career opportunity dilemma plus probably other things. Its a hurt/ comfort trope , Insta-love trope but not for me.
“Mars has branded condoms and single-serve packets of lube. They sit in giant fish bowls in every corner of the locker room. “Every good workout ends with a blowjob” might as well be the gym’s tagline.”
Connor - I hope he has character growth. He’s coming across as a big overweight guy, doormat, his boyfriend and bestie fucking each other is soul destroying for him…
“I’m crying now, my tears rolling down my cheeks and dripping off my jaw into Connor’s hair. His hands are in my shirt again, gripping so hard, he might rip it. We’re both shaking and there’s nothing we can do except ride it out.”
THEN 24 hours later he is ready to sex Donnie up.
“It’s only been twenty-four hours since I walked in on Miles and Wyatt. When I think about them, the rage and pain crash through me so hard it feels like I’m having some sort of panic attack. But when I don’t think about them, when I’m with Donnie and we’re laughing and smiling, I don’t give a flying fuck what Miles and Wyatt did.”
Donnie on the other hand is sensitive and protective, a bit overboard when he tries to ban Connery cheating boyfriend from the gym .
Donnie and Connery relationship felt fast and trauma bonded with the instantly living together, fucking, meeting the parents.
What annoyed me , and there was a lot but this was probably the biggest, was the lack of no karma I guess you can say towards the ex boyfriend and ex best friend. They got to be in love, go on double dates with the friends Conner used to go with. Like absolutely nothing bad happened. Conner would be the villian in their love story.
Then the ex bestie and Conner who had career aspirations together had a job opportunity and Conner agonises over it then tells Wyatt to pull the application.
Like what even happened with that? Did Wyatt do it or take the interview for himself??
Donnie’s dead husband has the same chunky build as Conner, so I guess that’s his type.
There were so many little plot rabbit holes that just ended , without going anywhere. That seemed pointless to be throwing in, or just too much.
“What will Connor’s family think of me? I’m so much older than him. Widowed. We skipped over all the normal stages of dating and dove straight into living together.”
Even Donnie gets it. Conner family, another pointless plot. He has issues with his family. His mum came across as a bit of a bitch.
“So out of the blue, Miles and Wyatt just start cheating on you.” Her arms are crossed and she’s leaning against the counter. She looks like she doesn’t believe me. “Yeah, Mom. I walked in on them.” “You walked in on them?” Her eyebrows are in her hairline now. “Well, not like that.” I throw my hands into the air. “I came home and Wyatt was scrambling to put on his clothes and Miles was coming out of the shower naked.” “There could be other explanations for that.”
LIKE OMG WOMAN!! Take your sons side.
Conner gets a tiny bit insecure and plants a hot kiss on Donnie in front of his spin class with mixed reactions
“Girl, that bitch? Are you kidding me?” “Oh, Donnie. You can do so much better, honey.”
I wish Donnie had spoken up and shut down the cruel comments but instead they started the class and nothing else was said to the haters. Wtf.
Conners friends were Miles friends and he got them in the break up.
“And a community of just me isn’t enough, even if I do want to keep Connor all to myself.. “
It felt too much was thrown in and low on the romantic scenes. Suddenly 24 hours later it’s Miles who but then Conner can’t handle seeing them plus he’s living with Donnie, and getting called darling pretty fast. Donnie didn’t even know who he was at first, kinda recognised him.
This story is low angst, low romance and way too much filler -cheating , widowed character , parental issues from both plus dead husbands parents , plus friends, plus career opportunity dilemma plus probably other things. Its a hurt/ comfort trope , Insta-love trope but not for me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 10, 2023
Sweet, low angst read, a little light in the romance for me. The premise was good but it all happened so fast that I was skimming the last third.
There’s a lot to unpack here. I feel like the “getting to know you” stuff got pushed aside a little more than I’d like.
There’s a lot to unpack here. I feel like the “getting to know you” stuff got pushed aside a little more than I’d like.
April 16, 2023
3.5 stars. A sweet, mellow read.
Connor finds his boyfriend together with his best friend in a position that’s not up for questioning.
He leaves the house in shock and ends up where he was earlier that evening, at Mars Fitness.
Donnie, his spin instructor is just in time to catch him before he goes down.
Donnie takes him home, he got a beautiful house and lives all by himself. He’s been a widower for almost four years and he kept his life on hold since his husband died.
What follows is an endearing story where two lost men find love and solace with each other. The age gap was almost non existent.
It’s all quite mellow, slightly emotional, and light.
All the matter with Connor’s family, I could have done without.
Overall a sweet, nicely developed story, with endearing and adorable characters.
Connor finds his boyfriend together with his best friend in a position that’s not up for questioning.
He leaves the house in shock and ends up where he was earlier that evening, at Mars Fitness.
Donnie, his spin instructor is just in time to catch him before he goes down.
Donnie takes him home, he got a beautiful house and lives all by himself. He’s been a widower for almost four years and he kept his life on hold since his husband died.
What follows is an endearing story where two lost men find love and solace with each other. The age gap was almost non existent.
It’s all quite mellow, slightly emotional, and light.
All the matter with Connor’s family, I could have done without.
Overall a sweet, nicely developed story, with endearing and adorable characters.
September 16, 2024
⭐️: 8/10 🌶️: 3/5 😭: 2/5 🤣: 1/5
Tropes:
💜 Age Gap
💙 Second chance in love
💜 Close proximity
💙 Opposites (Nerd/Jock)
“He kisses me like I’m oxygen, like I’m water, and he needs this kiss to live to the next minute. He kisses me like I’m his everything.”
(ESP) Primer libro que leo de esta autora y ya quiero seguir leyendo su obra. La historia tiene el balance perfecto de dulzura y spice, rompiéndonos el corazón y a la vez sacándonos más de una sonrisa.
Connor y Donnie son justo lo que el otro necesita para superar el dolor que enfrentan y arman una pareja preciosa de leer.
Me hubiera gustado un poco más de desarrollo en su amistad previo al romanticismo pero sacando ese detalle me encantó.
(ENG) This is the first book I've read by this author and I'm already looking forward to reading more of her work. The story strikes the perfect balance between sweetness and spice, it breaks our hearts but also brings more than a few smiles.
Connor and Donnie are the perfect support system for each other, and they make a lovely couple to read about.
I would have liked to see a little more development in their friendship before the romance took off, but other than that, I really enjoyed it.
Tropes:
💜 Age Gap
💙 Second chance in love
💜 Close proximity
💙 Opposites (Nerd/Jock)
“He kisses me like I’m oxygen, like I’m water, and he needs this kiss to live to the next minute. He kisses me like I’m his everything.”
(ESP) Primer libro que leo de esta autora y ya quiero seguir leyendo su obra. La historia tiene el balance perfecto de dulzura y spice, rompiéndonos el corazón y a la vez sacándonos más de una sonrisa.
Connor y Donnie son justo lo que el otro necesita para superar el dolor que enfrentan y arman una pareja preciosa de leer.
Me hubiera gustado un poco más de desarrollo en su amistad previo al romanticismo pero sacando ese detalle me encantó.
(ENG) This is the first book I've read by this author and I'm already looking forward to reading more of her work. The story strikes the perfect balance between sweetness and spice, it breaks our hearts but also brings more than a few smiles.
Connor and Donnie are the perfect support system for each other, and they make a lovely couple to read about.
I would have liked to see a little more development in their friendship before the romance took off, but other than that, I really enjoyed it.
February 28, 2024
Honestly to be honest, this book was a mess. It had a handful of things I loved but also way too many things that annoyed me, and the pacing was all over the place.
It seemed like they were going to lean into the comfort in hurt/comfort since Donnie was still grieving the loss of his husband 4 years ago and Connor literally just caught his boyfriend and best friend hooking up but nope! Within days they were hooking up themselves and acting very boyfriend-ly.
The toxic family bit was bad for me because I didn’t get why Donnie was inserting himself after meeting the parents for one dinner but also the mom totally sucked and you don’t have to forgive your shitty family just because other people don’t have family or their family is worse?!
Also the maybe we should thank Miles and Wyatt bit made me want to pull my hair out.
And then there’s the solve everything with sex component of the story that bugged me. I mean Donnie had a raging fever and couldn’t shower on his own but yeah that seems like a great time to fuck around 🙄
I’ve liked the author’s other books (Sebastian and Bellamy) and I’m curious about book 2 in this series but yikes what a miss with this one.
It seemed like they were going to lean into the comfort in hurt/comfort since Donnie was still grieving the loss of his husband 4 years ago and Connor literally just caught his boyfriend and best friend hooking up but nope! Within days they were hooking up themselves and acting very boyfriend-ly.
The toxic family bit was bad for me because I didn’t get why Donnie was inserting himself after meeting the parents for one dinner but also the mom totally sucked and you don’t have to forgive your shitty family just because other people don’t have family or their family is worse?!
Also the maybe we should thank Miles and Wyatt bit made me want to pull my hair out.
And then there’s the solve everything with sex component of the story that bugged me. I mean Donnie had a raging fever and couldn’t shower on his own but yeah that seems like a great time to fuck around 🙄
I’ve liked the author’s other books (Sebastian and Bellamy) and I’m curious about book 2 in this series but yikes what a miss with this one.
February 27, 2024
Overall, it was cute. Donnie and Connor were a great couple, and were very sweet together. It was very insta-lovey, and I did feel like the relationship progressed a bit too fast.
There was also a few instances of added drama that I felt weren't really resolved. There was a resolution to Donnie's grief, however, I felt that Connor's relationships with his family, his ex-boyfriend, and his ex-best friend were left mostly unresolved.
There was also a few instances of added drama that I felt weren't really resolved. There was a resolution to Donnie's grief, however, I felt that Connor's relationships with his family, his ex-boyfriend, and his ex-best friend were left mostly unresolved.
March 30, 2023
I think this was a wonderful debut for new author Linden Bell. This story was a hurt/comfort, age gap romance between Connor and Donnie. They ended up having a really cute story even though they were both going through a rough time and had some things to work through. Their meeting ended up being a “right time, right place” kind of situation which worked out well as they both needed each other so much.
This is absolutely an instaromance story. However, because of the amount of time they spent together right from the start I can see how that would happen and I didn’t have any problem with how quick this story went. Honestly, the two were perfect for each other. I loved how cuddly they were with each other. I also enjoyed seeing a different body type portrayed instead of both men being in the best of shape.
I was quite impressed with the story for a debut novel and look forward to reading the next book in the series! As a side note this author had excellent text formatting in the book and really hoping all authors adopt this formatting!
This is absolutely an instaromance story. However, because of the amount of time they spent together right from the start I can see how that would happen and I didn’t have any problem with how quick this story went. Honestly, the two were perfect for each other. I loved how cuddly they were with each other. I also enjoyed seeing a different body type portrayed instead of both men being in the best of shape.
I was quite impressed with the story for a debut novel and look forward to reading the next book in the series! As a side note this author had excellent text formatting in the book and really hoping all authors adopt this formatting!
April 18, 2023
Book safety! Spoilers ahead.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 23, 2025
This has got so many tropes I love: age gap, hurt/comfort, grief, older btm/younger top, cute dates, touch-starved MC, cuddles. When Donnie takes Connor in, they're both grieving but they become a safe haven for each other. It's a lovely low angst relationship, with slice of life feels. And I do love that kind of romances.
April 7, 2023
A Joyfully Jay review.
4 stars
Ripped is the first book in the new Mars Fitness series. Linden Bell appears to be a debut author and I think this story was a great start. It is a really lovely hurt/comfort story about two men dealing with grief who find their way to one another. Bell finds the balance I like for books with this trope. The emotional side feels real and raw and intense, particularly for Donnie, who is still grieving his husband’s death. There are definitely some aching moments as he reflects back on his loss and the life that has been forever changed. And Connor’s pain is just visceral when he breaks down sobbing at the realization of what was happening with his boyfriend and best friend behind his back. But while there is a lot of deep emotion here, there is also a sweetness and sexiness to the tone that keeps things from falling too far into the grief side. This sounds strange to say, but it may be helped by the speed at which these guys end up together. They feel an attraction almost right away and act on it quickly. It takes time to move from sex to something more, and for both men to accept that is what they want, but I think the romance moving quickly helps give a little lightness to the intensity of emotions.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
4 stars
Ripped is the first book in the new Mars Fitness series. Linden Bell appears to be a debut author and I think this story was a great start. It is a really lovely hurt/comfort story about two men dealing with grief who find their way to one another. Bell finds the balance I like for books with this trope. The emotional side feels real and raw and intense, particularly for Donnie, who is still grieving his husband’s death. There are definitely some aching moments as he reflects back on his loss and the life that has been forever changed. And Connor’s pain is just visceral when he breaks down sobbing at the realization of what was happening with his boyfriend and best friend behind his back. But while there is a lot of deep emotion here, there is also a sweetness and sexiness to the tone that keeps things from falling too far into the grief side. This sounds strange to say, but it may be helped by the speed at which these guys end up together. They feel an attraction almost right away and act on it quickly. It takes time to move from sex to something more, and for both men to accept that is what they want, but I think the romance moving quickly helps give a little lightness to the intensity of emotions.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
February 10, 2024
I wanted more
2.75⭐️
I went into this thinking that it would be right up my alley because it ticked so many boxes I usually enjoy.
Age Gap ✅
Nerd/Jock ✅
Hurt/Comfort ✅
All the Cuddles ✅
Dead Hubbard/ Cheating Exs ✅
But I didn’t love this story at all. The first 20ish percent I found was overly dramatic. The response to the drama didn’t feel authentic or believable to me. I found myself questioning how old the MCs were.
I usually have no problem with insta-love but here under these circumstances it just does not work. There was way too much baggage to unpack before starting a relationship that just didn’t happen.
The family drama feels unnecessary and anticlimactic.
It was an okay read and I‘m glad to be done with it. Although, this was only 200ish pages it felt so much longer.
2.75⭐️
I went into this thinking that it would be right up my alley because it ticked so many boxes I usually enjoy.
Age Gap ✅
Nerd/Jock ✅
Hurt/Comfort ✅
All the Cuddles ✅
Dead Hubbard/ Cheating Exs ✅
But I didn’t love this story at all. The first 20ish percent I found was overly dramatic. The response to the drama didn’t feel authentic or believable to me. I found myself questioning how old the MCs were.
I usually have no problem with insta-love but here under these circumstances it just does not work. There was way too much baggage to unpack before starting a relationship that just didn’t happen.
The family drama feels unnecessary and anticlimactic.
It was an okay read and I‘m glad to be done with it. Although, this was only 200ish pages it felt so much longer.
April 27, 2023
“When I’m touching Donnie, all I want is to press up on him, get as close as possible to him, and crawl inside his skin. It’s so comfortable there. It’s so safe and warm. I want to tangle myself up with him and never let go.“
Ripped wasn’t at all what I was expecting. It was sweet and warm and really, really wonderful. It’s an age-gap, hurt/comfort insta-romance, from debut author Linden Bell, that follows the relationship between spin instructor Donnie and aspiring filmmaker Connor as they learn to live again.
Connor, heartbroken and hurt after having just found of his partner is cheating on him with his best friend, finds himself in the comforting, safe arms of his spin instructor Donnie. Donnie, a widower of four years, offers him a place to stay and sort through the mess of emotions that are swirling around his head. But Donnie is still grieving the loss of his first love and he’s not quite sure he’s ready to move on from the life he had.
The longer they live together and the more time they spend around each other, the more they struggle to stay away from each other. And let me tell you, when they finally give in to their feelings - to the longing stares and the almost touches - it’s steamy and passionate and so consuming you almost feel like you’re getting to experience those feelings for yourself, not just vicariously. The affection and love was so evident in every interaction between Donnie and Connor, and I’m so glad I got to read their story.
Considering how low angst it was, I felt every bit of emotion pouring off the page. There’s just something lovely about the way Linden Bell writes. I cycled (get it) through so many emotions - from grief to happiness to excitement and back again - so many times, it’s a wonder I don’t have whiplash.
Ripped was a book that put life into perspective for me a little bit. It made me take a second to examine how I treat the people in my life that I care about. It made me think about what life would be like without a family, or a support network, or people who want to see you to succeed and be happy. I don’t know, it’s not often a book makes me look at my own life, so I guess that’s why I’m mentioning it. It’s not just a sweet read, it’s a book that comes with an emotional kick up the arse too.
I’d love to have given it 5 stars, but I couldn’t quite wrap my head around the part where Connor and Donnie f****d while Donnie was running a fever of 102. That was quite a strange scene to read, but otherwise I throughly enjoyed the book and I’m looking forward to Stacked - the second story in the Mars Fitness world!
*ARC provided in exchange for a review*
Ripped wasn’t at all what I was expecting. It was sweet and warm and really, really wonderful. It’s an age-gap, hurt/comfort insta-romance, from debut author Linden Bell, that follows the relationship between spin instructor Donnie and aspiring filmmaker Connor as they learn to live again.
Connor, heartbroken and hurt after having just found of his partner is cheating on him with his best friend, finds himself in the comforting, safe arms of his spin instructor Donnie. Donnie, a widower of four years, offers him a place to stay and sort through the mess of emotions that are swirling around his head. But Donnie is still grieving the loss of his first love and he’s not quite sure he’s ready to move on from the life he had.
The longer they live together and the more time they spend around each other, the more they struggle to stay away from each other. And let me tell you, when they finally give in to their feelings - to the longing stares and the almost touches - it’s steamy and passionate and so consuming you almost feel like you’re getting to experience those feelings for yourself, not just vicariously. The affection and love was so evident in every interaction between Donnie and Connor, and I’m so glad I got to read their story.
Considering how low angst it was, I felt every bit of emotion pouring off the page. There’s just something lovely about the way Linden Bell writes. I cycled (get it) through so many emotions - from grief to happiness to excitement and back again - so many times, it’s a wonder I don’t have whiplash.
Ripped was a book that put life into perspective for me a little bit. It made me take a second to examine how I treat the people in my life that I care about. It made me think about what life would be like without a family, or a support network, or people who want to see you to succeed and be happy. I don’t know, it’s not often a book makes me look at my own life, so I guess that’s why I’m mentioning it. It’s not just a sweet read, it’s a book that comes with an emotional kick up the arse too.
I’d love to have given it 5 stars, but I couldn’t quite wrap my head around the part where Connor and Donnie f****d while Donnie was running a fever of 102. That was quite a strange scene to read, but otherwise I throughly enjoyed the book and I’m looking forward to Stacked - the second story in the Mars Fitness world!
*ARC provided in exchange for a review*
March 29, 2024
DNF 39% Like the #2 book of this series that I read first, a popular trope is expanded and explored. There it was friends to lovers, here it is hurt comfort, a fave for me.
I’m all for diving into a relationship, if there is sexual tension and chemistry. I wasn’t feeling that here because the relationship was too insta and there was little connection. I liked the early scene of a crying breakdown by Connor in practically a strangers arms to Donnie taking Connor home to care for him. This was a good premise and a good scene, but it turned into heavy sex within two days and didn’t have the depth of feelings shown in the breakdown scene.
I also didn’t care much for the character of Connor and couldn’t get a good image of him in my mind. Donnie was likable and attractive, but something was missing between the two men.
I’m up for reading more by this author, but this one just didn’t do it.
I’m all for diving into a relationship, if there is sexual tension and chemistry. I wasn’t feeling that here because the relationship was too insta and there was little connection. I liked the early scene of a crying breakdown by Connor in practically a strangers arms to Donnie taking Connor home to care for him. This was a good premise and a good scene, but it turned into heavy sex within two days and didn’t have the depth of feelings shown in the breakdown scene.
I also didn’t care much for the character of Connor and couldn’t get a good image of him in my mind. Donnie was likable and attractive, but something was missing between the two men.
I’m up for reading more by this author, but this one just didn’t do it.
April 8, 2023
The cover and title looked a lot more gym/jock etc than the blurb felt, and it was the right choice for me to go for the blurb. A lovely emotional double hurt/comfort with two very sweet MCs. There is a gym as recurring scene which ties the series together which actually sounds quite entertaining, fortunately missing any hint of toxic masculinity.
I received a complimentary copy of this book and am happy to leave a voluntary review.
I received a complimentary copy of this book and am happy to leave a voluntary review.
March 27, 2023
A real feel good book
This book was a real surprise, I don't read 'blurbs' so hadn't expected it to be so emotional. It is a book that centres around two MC's and connect so unexpectedly that it feels like the spotlight is just them and the rest of the story just fades in the background. It isn't quite insta-love but it was quick, but I found it credible and believable.There are some emotional aspects to overcome and it's tear jerking at times, especially when Donnie visits his Husband's grave. A dual POV so we get the full narrative which helps tell the full story. I really liked both characters and found the writing style flowed well. I liked the secondary characters and look forward to Sawyer's book. A lot more narrative than a Hallmark movie, but it had a similar happy vibe running throughout. Despite some drama, it was relatively low angst. It almost made me want to take up spin class, but the instructor would have to be like Donnie; beautiful inside and out. I received an advance review copy for free, and Ieaving this review voluntarily.
This book was a real surprise, I don't read 'blurbs' so hadn't expected it to be so emotional. It is a book that centres around two MC's and connect so unexpectedly that it feels like the spotlight is just them and the rest of the story just fades in the background. It isn't quite insta-love but it was quick, but I found it credible and believable.There are some emotional aspects to overcome and it's tear jerking at times, especially when Donnie visits his Husband's grave. A dual POV so we get the full narrative which helps tell the full story. I really liked both characters and found the writing style flowed well. I liked the secondary characters and look forward to Sawyer's book. A lot more narrative than a Hallmark movie, but it had a similar happy vibe running throughout. Despite some drama, it was relatively low angst. It almost made me want to take up spin class, but the instructor would have to be like Donnie; beautiful inside and out. I received an advance review copy for free, and Ieaving this review voluntarily.
did-not-finish
March 18, 2025DNF @ 12%
I really liked the last Linden Bell book I read but RIPPED is not working for me. Lots of drama, a widower MMC (didn't realize that and it's not something I enjoy), and I'm just bored.
I really liked the last Linden Bell book I read but RIPPED is not working for me. Lots of drama, a widower MMC (didn't realize that and it's not something I enjoy), and I'm just bored.
February 17, 2025
Donnie and Connor are an unlikely pairing. Donnie is a widower who is till heavily in mourning. Connor is a nerdy wannabe film creator. The only thing they have in common is spin class.
In a moment of compassion for a man who is obviously hurting badly, Donnie takes Connor home. He planned on letting him stay for a bit until he was able to start over again. Little did he know that decision would change everything.
Nice story, great characters!
In a moment of compassion for a man who is obviously hurting badly, Donnie takes Connor home. He planned on letting him stay for a bit until he was able to start over again. Little did he know that decision would change everything.
Nice story, great characters!
March 11, 2024
Note: There is a prequel story featuring the owners of Mars Fitness, Gavin and Beau, It's All You in the Candy Hearts: Volume 1 anthology. It is not necessary to read prior to this book or at all but it was a quick, spicy read featuring best friends to lovers, pining, and bi-awakening.
Now, on to our featured presentation:
Connor Hill (26), filmmaker
Donnie (forties), personal trainer at Mars Fitness
I really enjoyed this book, it was sweet, engaging, and easy to read but from the synopsis I was expecting there to be at least a little bit of a prior relationship between Connor and Donnie, even in a professional/client capacity, but Donnie basically had no idea who the heck Connor was until he showed up at the gym distraught after catching his boyfriend and best friend together. The relationship progressed sooo quickly given their respective baggage and while I'm really not the biggest fan of insta-love, especially in a book of this length when the author can take some time to tease the relationship out a little bit more, the intimacy did felt like its own kind of caretaking.
I also was highly invested in Connor and his burgeoning career as a filmmaker and would have preferred some more attention be paid to that plot point than the late semi-toxic family that was introduced quite late in the game, it would have fit the story much better and provided better resolution to the reader.
I'm waffling between three and four stars but am going to go with the four because while I loved both Connor and Donnie, felt their incendiary attraction and chemistry was a delight to read, and enjoyed the writing, what I thought was most incredible was the treatment of Donnie's grief over the loss of his husband, grief is complicated and each situation is unique but I thought it was beautifully done in this case.
Also, there was .
There is a bonus epilogue that you can read after signing up for the author's newsletter. . I'm well on record about my feelings regarding this trend. If you read it, have a tissue handy.
Now, on to Stacked!
Now, on to our featured presentation:
Connor Hill (26), filmmaker
Donnie (forties), personal trainer at Mars Fitness
I really enjoyed this book, it was sweet, engaging, and easy to read but from the synopsis I was expecting there to be at least a little bit of a prior relationship between Connor and Donnie, even in a professional/client capacity, but Donnie basically had no idea who the heck Connor was until he showed up at the gym distraught after catching his boyfriend and best friend together. The relationship progressed sooo quickly given their respective baggage and while I'm really not the biggest fan of insta-love, especially in a book of this length when the author can take some time to tease the relationship out a little bit more, the intimacy did felt like its own kind of caretaking.
I also was highly invested in Connor and his burgeoning career as a filmmaker and would have preferred some more attention be paid to that plot point than the late semi-toxic family that was introduced quite late in the game, it would have fit the story much better and provided better resolution to the reader.
I'm waffling between three and four stars but am going to go with the four because while I loved both Connor and Donnie, felt their incendiary attraction and chemistry was a delight to read, and enjoyed the writing, what I thought was most incredible was the treatment of Donnie's grief over the loss of his husband, grief is complicated and each situation is unique but I thought it was beautifully done in this case.
Also, there was .
There is a bonus epilogue that you can read after signing up for the author's newsletter. . I'm well on record about my feelings regarding this trend. If you read it, have a tissue handy.
Now, on to Stacked!
April 6, 2023
Awwwww 💕💕💕
HOWWWWW is this Linden Bell's debut novel? HOW?! It's so good! Ugh. UGH, I say! I am only upset there is no backlist for me to go plow through, haha.
I'm not even sure where to start with reviewing this book. It's just... so good. I love a good hurt/comfort, and while I'm not really into the age gap trope it really works for Connor and Donnie. (Donnie is a terrible name though - I said what I said.) While it is somewhat instalove-y, that's part of their struggle in them worrying whether what Connor's feeling is a rebound thing, and Donnie struggling to let go of how tightly he's holding to his grief from his husband's death.
Despite the heavy themes (cheating [on page, side characters], death of a spouse [past]), this is such a snuggly, sweet and cozy romance. I also ADORE that Connor is a chonky boy, and everyone is good with that. The super ripped silver fox Donnie thinks Connor is hot exactly as he is, and while Connor goes to spin class to get exercise and be healthy it's not about losing weight or being unhappy about his body. LOVE the body positivity and plus sized hero rep!
Ripped is the first book in the Mars Fitness series and can be read as a standalone. I CANNOT WAIT for the next book, which is about the friendly receptionist Sawyer and his roommate!
CW: grief and loss of a spouse, description of fatal car accident, description of homophobic family, cheating secondary characters
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are unbiased and my own.
Like this review?
Check out more of my reviews on my blog, Elley the Book Otter
HOWWWWW is this Linden Bell's debut novel? HOW?! It's so good! Ugh. UGH, I say! I am only upset there is no backlist for me to go plow through, haha.
I'm not even sure where to start with reviewing this book. It's just... so good. I love a good hurt/comfort, and while I'm not really into the age gap trope it really works for Connor and Donnie. (Donnie is a terrible name though - I said what I said.) While it is somewhat instalove-y, that's part of their struggle in them worrying whether what Connor's feeling is a rebound thing, and Donnie struggling to let go of how tightly he's holding to his grief from his husband's death.
Despite the heavy themes (cheating [on page, side characters], death of a spouse [past]), this is such a snuggly, sweet and cozy romance. I also ADORE that Connor is a chonky boy, and everyone is good with that. The super ripped silver fox Donnie thinks Connor is hot exactly as he is, and while Connor goes to spin class to get exercise and be healthy it's not about losing weight or being unhappy about his body. LOVE the body positivity and plus sized hero rep!
Ripped is the first book in the Mars Fitness series and can be read as a standalone. I CANNOT WAIT for the next book, which is about the friendly receptionist Sawyer and his roommate!
CW: grief and loss of a spouse, description of fatal car accident, description of homophobic family, cheating secondary characters
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are unbiased and my own.
Like this review?
Check out more of my reviews on my blog, Elley the Book Otter
April 7, 2023
If you’re looking for something light, steamy, sweet, zero angst, and with a healthy dose of instalove, this is a good book to pick up! I enjoyed the story of Donnie and Connor - a spin instructor and filmmaker who find happiness in one another.
There is quite an age gap here and I adored how it was no big deal. It might be mentioned once or twice but no one gets hung up on it. Super refreshing!
Donnie is still in a holding pattern after the death of his husband 4 years earlier while Connor had a more recent slap in the face when his best friend and boyfriend are sleeping with one another.
I enjoyed how Donnie felt so protective of Connor instinctively- it was lovely. And also how Connor returned the favor by taking care of Donnie when he was sick. So, sappy and sweet in the best way.
Connor’s family was a bit cuckoo and didn’t make a lot of sense to me - plus we didn’t really get a resolution there so I’m not really sure what value it added to the story. But otherwise, a nice quick and fluffy read if you just want to watch two men swoon and fall in love!
I received an ARC from Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest review.
There is quite an age gap here and I adored how it was no big deal. It might be mentioned once or twice but no one gets hung up on it. Super refreshing!
Donnie is still in a holding pattern after the death of his husband 4 years earlier while Connor had a more recent slap in the face when his best friend and boyfriend are sleeping with one another.
I enjoyed how Donnie felt so protective of Connor instinctively- it was lovely. And also how Connor returned the favor by taking care of Donnie when he was sick. So, sappy and sweet in the best way.
Connor’s family was a bit cuckoo and didn’t make a lot of sense to me - plus we didn’t really get a resolution there so I’m not really sure what value it added to the story. But otherwise, a nice quick and fluffy read if you just want to watch two men swoon and fall in love!
I received an ARC from Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest review.
December 12, 2024
Linden Bell always delivers serious treats. I loved the Camboy Network series, and the Mars Fitness books are set in the same universe.
Donnie is the spin instructor at the gym. Connor is in his cycling class. One night, after class, Connor goes home and finds his boyfriend cheating with his best friend Wyatt. So... double betrayal. In a fugue state of tears and shock he someone winds up back at the gym and literally in Donnie's arms as he finally breaks down.
Donnie and Connor form an immediate connection. Connor is still reeling from the cheaters, and Donnie lost his husband four years ago and still isn't really handling that well. Being in each other's lives pushes them both to work through and let go, healthily moving forward with each other.
I REALLY loved this story, and we even got a cameo from Sebastian and Christian from the camboy books!
The bonus scene, which is available when you join Linden's mailing list, is ABSOLUTELY worth it. Im excited to jump into book two later tonight!
Donnie is the spin instructor at the gym. Connor is in his cycling class. One night, after class, Connor goes home and finds his boyfriend cheating with his best friend Wyatt. So... double betrayal. In a fugue state of tears and shock he someone winds up back at the gym and literally in Donnie's arms as he finally breaks down.
Donnie and Connor form an immediate connection. Connor is still reeling from the cheaters, and Donnie lost his husband four years ago and still isn't really handling that well. Being in each other's lives pushes them both to work through and let go, healthily moving forward with each other.
I REALLY loved this story, and we even got a cameo from Sebastian and Christian from the camboy books!
The bonus scene, which is available when you join Linden's mailing list, is ABSOLUTELY worth it. Im excited to jump into book two later tonight!
January 24, 2025
This was such a beautiful story. One that speaks of healing, comfort and growth.
Connor's seemingly perfect life is altered when he walks in on his boyfriend and best friend together. In a clash of emotions he ends up at the gym he frequents and breaks down in the arms of the older Donnie who himself had lost his spouse and is still in grieving.
These two end up staying together and in the process help each other mend their broken hearts.
This story had me aww-ing all the time. The cuteness Connor had coupled with the gentleness in Donnie made this couple swoonworthy.
I usually shy away from stories where the older partner is the bottom, (just my preference) but this book had a way of making me forget those preferences. I was too engrossed in the book to even remember to not prefer that dynamic.
Anywho, this book contains: hurt/comfort, found family, age-gap, roommates, palpable tension, lots of cycling and healthy eating, cuteness and a whole lotta cuddles.
Connor's seemingly perfect life is altered when he walks in on his boyfriend and best friend together. In a clash of emotions he ends up at the gym he frequents and breaks down in the arms of the older Donnie who himself had lost his spouse and is still in grieving.
These two end up staying together and in the process help each other mend their broken hearts.
This story had me aww-ing all the time. The cuteness Connor had coupled with the gentleness in Donnie made this couple swoonworthy.
I usually shy away from stories where the older partner is the bottom, (just my preference) but this book had a way of making me forget those preferences. I was too engrossed in the book to even remember to not prefer that dynamic.
Anywho, this book contains: hurt/comfort, found family, age-gap, roommates, palpable tension, lots of cycling and healthy eating, cuteness and a whole lotta cuddles.
March 25, 2023
4 stars
I really really enjoyed this story: Donnie and Connor are amazing characters, I loved how they instantly bonded, not over lust but over a sense of belonging, of caring for each other.
I loved how they healed together, Donnie from a devastating loss, Connor from a double betrayal.
I was a little wary about the dead husband trope: it's a difficult one and I read several books with it that did not deliver. In this story the author did an amazing job: Roger is not the perfect husband looming over his spouse's new relationship, he's a comfort presence and I really liked that Connor was never jealous of him.
What prevented me from giving 5 stars:
Miles was a piece of shit, he didn't deserve more space in this book, but Wyatt was Connor's best friend and work partner, they had big dreams together and I didn't like how things ended between them.
Recommended
I received an Arc from the author and this is my honest opinion
I really really enjoyed this story: Donnie and Connor are amazing characters, I loved how they instantly bonded, not over lust but over a sense of belonging, of caring for each other.
I loved how they healed together, Donnie from a devastating loss, Connor from a double betrayal.
I was a little wary about the dead husband trope: it's a difficult one and I read several books with it that did not deliver. In this story the author did an amazing job: Roger is not the perfect husband looming over his spouse's new relationship, he's a comfort presence and I really liked that Connor was never jealous of him.
What prevented me from giving 5 stars:
Miles was a piece of shit, he didn't deserve more space in this book, but Wyatt was Connor's best friend and work partner, they had big dreams together and I didn't like how things ended between them.
Recommended
I received an Arc from the author and this is my honest opinion
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