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Mars Fitness #2
Stacked
Preston and I have been best friends and roommates since the first day of boarding school. If it weren’t for me, he’d never step away from his precious dissertation, not to eat, not to shower, not for anything.
I might have been in love with him for ages, but Preston has never expressed any interest in anyone other than his research. That's fine, there are plenty of guys at Mars Fitness who can help me get my rocks off.
Then one day, the sexiest man alive walks through the front door and sweeps me off my feet. He's everything I've ever wanted, except there's just one problem. He wants my heart, but how can I give it to him when I've already given it to Preston?
Stacked is a best friends to lovers, gay-awakening, nerd/jock MM romance between co-dependent roommates. It is the second book in the Mars Fitness series and can be read as a standalone. Happily ever after guaranteed.
I might have been in love with him for ages, but Preston has never expressed any interest in anyone other than his research. That's fine, there are plenty of guys at Mars Fitness who can help me get my rocks off.
Then one day, the sexiest man alive walks through the front door and sweeps me off my feet. He's everything I've ever wanted, except there's just one problem. He wants my heart, but how can I give it to him when I've already given it to Preston?
Stacked is a best friends to lovers, gay-awakening, nerd/jock MM romance between co-dependent roommates. It is the second book in the Mars Fitness series and can be read as a standalone. Happily ever after guaranteed.
332 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 17, 2024
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 212 reviews
March 10, 2024
- best friends to lovers
- nerd x jock
- roommates
- queer awakening
- demi/neurodivergent mmc
Prefacing this by saying that overall I did enjoy Sawyer and Preston's book, buuuutttt there's this thing.... It's not quite OMD or a love triangle, but it's there. Normally I wouldn't mind the OMD/love triangle thing, but for some reason it really bothers me here lol
Like Sawyer is supposed to be super in love with Preston, his bff since high school, and still pines for him, but starts seeing/banging Fitz, who works under Preston and reminds him of Preston... Their relationship is mostly off page, but takes up like almost the entire first half the book 😒😒😒
& the whole thing clearly rankles Preston,. There's lots of hurt and jealousy on his end which gives him his eye opening moment when it comes to how he feels about Sawyer, who is completely oblivious to the entire thing which is odd given how in-tune he's supposed to be to Preston's other feelings. Again 😒😒😒
I just hated the whole Fitz situation, and felt that got dragged out a bit too with Sawyer delaying breaking it off with him. Preston clearly had no hesitations when it came to their relationship, it didn't matter to him that he'd never been with a man before, he just wanted Sawyer. It was Sawyer who continued to have hang ups about the whole thing, which was frustrating. Why are you looking a gift horse in the mouth?! The man you want finally wants you back, fucking go for it lol
Outside of that, I have no complaints lol
- nerd x jock
- roommates
- queer awakening
- demi/neurodivergent mmc
Prefacing this by saying that overall I did enjoy Sawyer and Preston's book, buuuutttt there's this thing.... It's not quite OMD or a love triangle, but it's there. Normally I wouldn't mind the OMD/love triangle thing, but for some reason it really bothers me here lol
Like Sawyer is supposed to be super in love with Preston, his bff since high school, and still pines for him, but starts seeing/banging Fitz, who works under Preston and reminds him of Preston... Their relationship is mostly off page, but takes up like almost the entire first half the book 😒😒😒
& the whole thing clearly rankles Preston,. There's lots of hurt and jealousy on his end which gives him his eye opening moment when it comes to how he feels about Sawyer, who is completely oblivious to the entire thing which is odd given how in-tune he's supposed to be to Preston's other feelings. Again 😒😒😒
I just hated the whole Fitz situation, and felt that got dragged out a bit too with Sawyer delaying breaking it off with him. Preston clearly had no hesitations when it came to their relationship, it didn't matter to him that he'd never been with a man before, he just wanted Sawyer. It was Sawyer who continued to have hang ups about the whole thing, which was frustrating. Why are you looking a gift horse in the mouth?! The man you want finally wants you back, fucking go for it lol
Outside of that, I have no complaints lol
February 28, 2024
⭐️ 3.5 stars ⭐️
Cute & low angst friends to lovers.
Stacked was one of those mindless romances. No thoughts, just vibes.
I enjoyed the initial pining, the nerd vs jock trope, the oblivious “straight” friend, the codependent relationship.
Now the negatives.
The dialogues were a little cringy at times, and the plot definitely over-used. I kept getting Déjà vu, ‘cause I’m pretty sure I’ve read an identical book to this one.
I also didn’t really like the whole other guy thing. There were other ways to get Preston to have a lightbulb moment, other than making him jealous.
The spice was okay, but a little repetitive after the first couple of times.
The ending dragged on, was really cheesy, and I lost interest at the fifth I love you.
Despite my negatives, it was still an entertaining, low energy read.
I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review.
Tropes and NSFW info (spoilers):
- Nerd vs Jock
- Friends to lovers
- Queer awakening
- Demi MC (speculated but not confirmed)
- Neurodivergent MC (also unconfirmed)
- Codependency
- Frotting & rimming
- Strict top/bottom
- Facial
Cute & low angst friends to lovers.
Stacked was one of those mindless romances. No thoughts, just vibes.
I enjoyed the initial pining, the nerd vs jock trope, the oblivious “straight” friend, the codependent relationship.
Now the negatives.
The dialogues were a little cringy at times, and the plot definitely over-used. I kept getting Déjà vu, ‘cause I’m pretty sure I’ve read an identical book to this one.
I also didn’t really like the whole other guy thing. There were other ways to get Preston to have a lightbulb moment, other than making him jealous.
The spice was okay, but a little repetitive after the first couple of times.
The ending dragged on, was really cheesy, and I lost interest at the fifth I love you.
Despite my negatives, it was still an entertaining, low energy read.
I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review.
Tropes and NSFW info (spoilers):
- Nerd vs Jock
- Friends to lovers
- Queer awakening
- Demi MC (speculated but not confirmed)
- Neurodivergent MC (also unconfirmed)
- Codependency
- Frotting & rimming
- Strict top/bottom
- Facial
Read
March 11, 2024This starts off with Sawyer realising nothing is ever going to happen with his straight best friend Preston so he tries to move on… with a guy who is not only suspiciously physically similar to Preston but also in the same department at their university.
This relationship takes up a good chunk of the book and I didn’t enjoy it bc a) Fitz was a nice guy who didn’t deserve to be someone’s second choice and b) their relationship was going really well so it sucked that Preston could just swoop in and Fitz was immediately forgotten (but not dumped until after Sawyer and Preston started being involved).
So yeah Preston gets jealous and even though in 12 years of friendship he’s never thought of Sawyer that way he decides to kiss him and then pretty much immediately they start banging.
The pacing was just off for me, especially since Preston was presented as asexual/demisexual and hadn’t so much as looked at anyone for 8 years but immediately became the horniest bottom to ever bottom.
Big family drama and a resolution that tied everything up in a bow.
I think I’m going to stick to her Camboys series from now on..
I received an ARC and this is my honest opinion.
This relationship takes up a good chunk of the book and I didn’t enjoy it bc a) Fitz was a nice guy who didn’t deserve to be someone’s second choice and b) their relationship was going really well so it sucked that Preston could just swoop in and Fitz was immediately forgotten (but not dumped until after Sawyer and Preston started being involved).
So yeah Preston gets jealous and even though in 12 years of friendship he’s never thought of Sawyer that way he decides to kiss him and then pretty much immediately they start banging.
The pacing was just off for me, especially since Preston was presented as asexual/demisexual and hadn’t so much as looked at anyone for 8 years but immediately became the horniest bottom to ever bottom.
Big family drama and a resolution that tied everything up in a bow.
I think I’m going to stick to her Camboys series from now on..
I received an ARC and this is my honest opinion.
March 15, 2024
I love Linden Bell's book but this one was so special and it has become one of my favourites by her.
I fell in love with both the MCs from the prologue. Sawyer showing up in Preston's room at school was life altering and they became best friends from them on. Not only that, they developed such a special relationship that ran deep in their hearts and was both touching and heartwarming.
I suffered for Sawyer, being in love with your best friend for so long was very difficult for him. But I absolutely loved it when Preston panicked and ran to the gym to look for his friend. It was beautiful to see Preston finally realise what his true feelings were.
Sawyer and Preston were co-dependant, yes, but it didn't feel unhealthy, quite the opposite. They were exactly what the other needed and they'd known each other for so long that it was natural for them to rely on each other. I always love a friends-to-lovers story and this one was perfect.
In my opinion there wasn't cheating in this book. It's true Sawyer went out with another guy a few times, but they never established a serious relationship and he broke it up as soon as he realised his feelings for Preston would never fade.
Overall, this book moved me to tears and made me sigh so many times. It was beautiful and epically romantic. Having one of the MC being neurodivergent added great moments and emotions to the story. This book was everything to me, everything that I always look for in a romance novel.
I fell in love with both the MCs from the prologue. Sawyer showing up in Preston's room at school was life altering and they became best friends from them on. Not only that, they developed such a special relationship that ran deep in their hearts and was both touching and heartwarming.
I suffered for Sawyer, being in love with your best friend for so long was very difficult for him. But I absolutely loved it when Preston panicked and ran to the gym to look for his friend. It was beautiful to see Preston finally realise what his true feelings were.
Sawyer and Preston were co-dependant, yes, but it didn't feel unhealthy, quite the opposite. They were exactly what the other needed and they'd known each other for so long that it was natural for them to rely on each other. I always love a friends-to-lovers story and this one was perfect.
In my opinion there wasn't cheating in this book. It's true Sawyer went out with another guy a few times, but they never established a serious relationship and he broke it up as soon as he realised his feelings for Preston would never fade.
Overall, this book moved me to tears and made me sigh so many times. It was beautiful and epically romantic. Having one of the MC being neurodivergent added great moments and emotions to the story. This book was everything to me, everything that I always look for in a romance novel.
Read
March 25, 2024Dnf@46%
February 10, 2025
Sawyer and Preston met 13 years ago at a Harry Potter style boarding situation, without the magic. Not a great first impression and not sure how they became besties.
Sawyer is the front desk manager for Mars Fitness, a safe and inclusive Mecca for Gay men - complete with bowls of lube and condoms.
He’s in love with Preston and lives with him.
Preston is undiagnosed neurospicy. He’s a genius who’s completing his PhD in neuroscience.
Fitz is a new gym member / hookup of Sawyers … and is the new grad student in Prestons department and Preston’s new mentee.
Fitz is asking all the right questions- like if there is anything between the roommates but Sawyers heart says Preston and his dick is saying he’s got no chance with Preston and I have needs.
Preston views Fitz as the enemy in his life. Fitz is in Preston’s eyes -“He’s an interloper. He’s annoyingly happy and frustratingly smart.”
Fitz is wary about the besties closeness but Sawyer reassures him that they are just friends.
“Logan narrows his eyes and crosses his arms. “Sure, it’ll be fine. Your co-dependent roommate and best friend will adjust to your attention being diverted by someone else.”
Preston is definitely co-dependent. He is mired in routine and struggles with change. He sleeps in Sawyers bed regularly.
Sawyer and Fitz go on a date which leaves Sawyer conflicted again. He loves Preston but he is straight . He wants a loving relationship but if it can’t be Preston can he move past the guilt and be with someone else ?
“Hmm.” Fitz flicks his eyes toward me. “The straight best friend, huh?” I’m not so oblivious that I miss the insinuation in his voice.
Madison, Preston’s highschool girlfriend and friend to both main characters , can see they are meant to be . Even though Preston’s rich snooty parents would prefer her to be their daughter-in-law. Preston’s also being pressured to join his family’s pharmaceutical company.
Sawyer is still conflicted with being in love with Preston and giving up on the fantasy to have something real with Fitz.
“I want to stay here forever. Hit pause on time so I can keep holding him and never let go. I want it so badly, it feels like I might die. I want him. I need him. I love him. But I can’t have him—not the way I want to.”
Sawyer dates Fitz but then Preston is eaten with bitterness and jealousy. He has an epiphany as Fitz is telling him how much he likes Sawyer.
“I don’t want him to have “something special” with Fitz. I don’t want him to have a relationship with Fitz at all. Happiness. Partnership. Love. I can give him those things. He should be getting it all from me. Sawyer’s mine. He’s mine, and I’m not letting anyone take him away.”
Preston runs around trying to find Sawyer and when he does he kisses him!
“How did I ever think I could be with anyone else? How did I ever believe there was anything left of me to give to another person? There isn’t. I’ve already given everything I am to Preston.”
Ok hold up a minute. Justice for Fitz! Green flag character that tried to ensure these two didn’t have a thing for each other multiple times and now this. Sawyer used him and wasted his time.
So yeah, Sawyer is avoiding Fitz and having all the sex with Preston. Like dude, break up with your boyfriend first.
“Fitz squeezes his eyes shut, his lips flatten into a straight line and his jaw starts ticking. “You and Preston.” He huffs, a short, annoyed, angry sound. “Are you fucking kidding me?” I’m pretty sure that is a rhetorical question so I don’t try to answer.”
While breaking up with Fitz, Sawyer realises Fitz looks like Preston. Omg 🤦🏻♀️
Preston with his analytical and just super intelligent brain doesn’t know if he’s in love with Sawyer because he doesn’t understand the specs for love. Poor Fitz resignedly breaks it down to him.
“When he’s facing me again, he holds up one finger. “You’ve been in love with Sawyer for god knows how long. He holds up a second finger. “Sawyer and I start dating.” Third finger. “You get super fucking jealous.” Fourth finger. “You take out your jealousy on me by treating me like shit at school.” Fifth finger. “I tell you I want to get serious with Sawyer and you freak the fuck out and go throw yourself at him. Have I missed anything?”
Anyway, Sawyer and Preston are happy together and by the end are engaged.
“Fitz isn’t so bad,” I say. Sawyer chokes out a, “What? Why are you thinking about Fitz?”I gaze up at him. “Because he brought us together.” Sawyer smiles down at me. “No, he didn’t. We were always meant to be together.”
Awww I really hope Fitz gets his own book - he deserves it!! The author stated at the beginning that there was dating other people before getting together - BUT it was one person , Fitz, and it was like half the book. It distracted from the main romance.
Sawyer is the front desk manager for Mars Fitness, a safe and inclusive Mecca for Gay men - complete with bowls of lube and condoms.
He’s in love with Preston and lives with him.
Preston is undiagnosed neurospicy. He’s a genius who’s completing his PhD in neuroscience.
Fitz is a new gym member / hookup of Sawyers … and is the new grad student in Prestons department and Preston’s new mentee.
Fitz is asking all the right questions- like if there is anything between the roommates but Sawyers heart says Preston and his dick is saying he’s got no chance with Preston and I have needs.
Preston views Fitz as the enemy in his life. Fitz is in Preston’s eyes -“He’s an interloper. He’s annoyingly happy and frustratingly smart.”
Fitz is wary about the besties closeness but Sawyer reassures him that they are just friends.
“Logan narrows his eyes and crosses his arms. “Sure, it’ll be fine. Your co-dependent roommate and best friend will adjust to your attention being diverted by someone else.”
Preston is definitely co-dependent. He is mired in routine and struggles with change. He sleeps in Sawyers bed regularly.
Sawyer and Fitz go on a date which leaves Sawyer conflicted again. He loves Preston but he is straight . He wants a loving relationship but if it can’t be Preston can he move past the guilt and be with someone else ?
“Hmm.” Fitz flicks his eyes toward me. “The straight best friend, huh?” I’m not so oblivious that I miss the insinuation in his voice.
Madison, Preston’s highschool girlfriend and friend to both main characters , can see they are meant to be . Even though Preston’s rich snooty parents would prefer her to be their daughter-in-law. Preston’s also being pressured to join his family’s pharmaceutical company.
Sawyer is still conflicted with being in love with Preston and giving up on the fantasy to have something real with Fitz.
“I want to stay here forever. Hit pause on time so I can keep holding him and never let go. I want it so badly, it feels like I might die. I want him. I need him. I love him. But I can’t have him—not the way I want to.”
Sawyer dates Fitz but then Preston is eaten with bitterness and jealousy. He has an epiphany as Fitz is telling him how much he likes Sawyer.
“I don’t want him to have “something special” with Fitz. I don’t want him to have a relationship with Fitz at all. Happiness. Partnership. Love. I can give him those things. He should be getting it all from me. Sawyer’s mine. He’s mine, and I’m not letting anyone take him away.”
Preston runs around trying to find Sawyer and when he does he kisses him!
“How did I ever think I could be with anyone else? How did I ever believe there was anything left of me to give to another person? There isn’t. I’ve already given everything I am to Preston.”
Ok hold up a minute. Justice for Fitz! Green flag character that tried to ensure these two didn’t have a thing for each other multiple times and now this. Sawyer used him and wasted his time.
So yeah, Sawyer is avoiding Fitz and having all the sex with Preston. Like dude, break up with your boyfriend first.
“Fitz squeezes his eyes shut, his lips flatten into a straight line and his jaw starts ticking. “You and Preston.” He huffs, a short, annoyed, angry sound. “Are you fucking kidding me?” I’m pretty sure that is a rhetorical question so I don’t try to answer.”
While breaking up with Fitz, Sawyer realises Fitz looks like Preston. Omg 🤦🏻♀️
Preston with his analytical and just super intelligent brain doesn’t know if he’s in love with Sawyer because he doesn’t understand the specs for love. Poor Fitz resignedly breaks it down to him.
“When he’s facing me again, he holds up one finger. “You’ve been in love with Sawyer for god knows how long. He holds up a second finger. “Sawyer and I start dating.” Third finger. “You get super fucking jealous.” Fourth finger. “You take out your jealousy on me by treating me like shit at school.” Fifth finger. “I tell you I want to get serious with Sawyer and you freak the fuck out and go throw yourself at him. Have I missed anything?”
Anyway, Sawyer and Preston are happy together and by the end are engaged.
“Fitz isn’t so bad,” I say. Sawyer chokes out a, “What? Why are you thinking about Fitz?”I gaze up at him. “Because he brought us together.” Sawyer smiles down at me. “No, he didn’t. We were always meant to be together.”
Awww I really hope Fitz gets his own book - he deserves it!! The author stated at the beginning that there was dating other people before getting together - BUT it was one person , Fitz, and it was like half the book. It distracted from the main romance.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 7, 2024
4 stars
Please, be aware that at the beginning of the story, Sawyer has a romantic and physical relationship with another man. Don't be mean towards the author by leaving unfair reviews if love triangle it's not your cup of tea.
Really nice story of best friends to lovers.
Sawyer and Preston met in an exclusive high school in Boston, that Sawyer could be able to attend because of his scholarship. They've been roommates since then at the beginning of the story they live together in New York. During all those years Sawyer went from considering Preston just a roommate, then a friend and ultimately he fell in love with him. Too bad Preston seems not being interested in Sawyer (or in anyone else).
They have a very close bond: Preston is neurodivergent and completely absorbed in his work as a neuroscientist; Sawyer has always took care of him, remembering him to eat, cuddling to him when he needs to relax after a stressful day and also platonically sleeping with him.
Things start to change between them when a new guy joins Sawyer's gym (Mars Fitness): Fitz is beautiful and charming and Swayer is very attracted to him. They seem to hit it off instantly. Unfortunately, Fitz is also the new grad student assigned to Preston.
The dynamic between the three of them is very difficult: Sawyer is torn between his unrequited love for Preston and his strong attraction to Fitz; Preston is scared about losing his best friend and he's confused about all the emotions he stars feeling.
I think Preston's sexual awakening is handled very well: Preston is probably on the asexual/aromantic spectrum and he has a hard time trying to understand the new side of his relationship with Sawyer. He doesn't manage change very well, but he's also very brave and he's determined to be a better person, worth of Sawyer's love.
What prevented me from giving a higher rate:
the love triangle didn't bother me, but I think it would have been better if Sawyer were more straightforward towards Fritz about his relationship with Preston. Also I don't think that he should have brought Fitz home, since he and Preston had to work together.
About Fritz: he was unprofessional with Preston, asking questions about his relationship with Sawyer and accusing him to want to derail his career. Those questions should have been addressed only to Sawyer, he was the man he was dating, not his mentor.
Lastly, Preston's dad not apologising to Sawyer was very very rude (I'm not going to say more to not leave spoilers).
Overall it was a lovely story and I appreciated the simplicity of it: Sawyer and Preston's closeness was heartwarming and I loved how Sawyer doted on him and how Preston worked on himself to be a better person for both of them.
The guys at Mars Fitness were supportive and amazing (I'm just a little baffled I couldn't get a glimpse of Christian, one of my favourite book boyfriends) and I'm wondering if next book will be about Logan.
I received an ARC of this book from the author and this is my honest review.
Please, be aware that at the beginning of the story, Sawyer has a romantic and physical relationship with another man. Don't be mean towards the author by leaving unfair reviews if love triangle it's not your cup of tea.
Really nice story of best friends to lovers.
Sawyer and Preston met in an exclusive high school in Boston, that Sawyer could be able to attend because of his scholarship. They've been roommates since then at the beginning of the story they live together in New York. During all those years Sawyer went from considering Preston just a roommate, then a friend and ultimately he fell in love with him. Too bad Preston seems not being interested in Sawyer (or in anyone else).
They have a very close bond: Preston is neurodivergent and completely absorbed in his work as a neuroscientist; Sawyer has always took care of him, remembering him to eat, cuddling to him when he needs to relax after a stressful day and also platonically sleeping with him.
Things start to change between them when a new guy joins Sawyer's gym (Mars Fitness): Fitz is beautiful and charming and Swayer is very attracted to him. They seem to hit it off instantly. Unfortunately, Fitz is also the new grad student assigned to Preston.
The dynamic between the three of them is very difficult: Sawyer is torn between his unrequited love for Preston and his strong attraction to Fitz; Preston is scared about losing his best friend and he's confused about all the emotions he stars feeling.
I think Preston's sexual awakening is handled very well: Preston is probably on the asexual/aromantic spectrum and he has a hard time trying to understand the new side of his relationship with Sawyer. He doesn't manage change very well, but he's also very brave and he's determined to be a better person, worth of Sawyer's love.
What prevented me from giving a higher rate:
the love triangle didn't bother me, but I think it would have been better if Sawyer were more straightforward towards Fritz about his relationship with Preston. Also I don't think that he should have brought Fitz home, since he and Preston had to work together.
About Fritz: he was unprofessional with Preston, asking questions about his relationship with Sawyer and accusing him to want to derail his career. Those questions should have been addressed only to Sawyer, he was the man he was dating, not his mentor.
Lastly, Preston's dad not apologising to Sawyer was very very rude (I'm not going to say more to not leave spoilers).
Overall it was a lovely story and I appreciated the simplicity of it: Sawyer and Preston's closeness was heartwarming and I loved how Sawyer doted on him and how Preston worked on himself to be a better person for both of them.
The guys at Mars Fitness were supportive and amazing (I'm just a little baffled I couldn't get a glimpse of Christian, one of my favourite book boyfriends) and I'm wondering if next book will be about Logan.
I received an ARC of this book from the author and this is my honest review.
December 6, 2024
This is my second book by Linden Bell and I loved it just as much as the first one. I can’t believe I’ve gone this long without checking out more works by this author. I intend to remedy that right now.
I absolutely love Sawyer and Preston. They are just so wonderful together. Preston is certainly somewhere on the spectrum. He clearly is brilliant. Sawyer has to be one of the most caring and steadfast friends ever. He is so caring and thoughtful when he takes care of Preston. Once they finally realize they love each other the book only gets better.
I absolutely love Sawyer and Preston. They are just so wonderful together. Preston is certainly somewhere on the spectrum. He clearly is brilliant. Sawyer has to be one of the most caring and steadfast friends ever. He is so caring and thoughtful when he takes care of Preston. Once they finally realize they love each other the book only gets better.
September 26, 2024
ughh idk it got so much worse, i forced myself to complete it
March 28, 2024
So much love! So much slavish devotion, but Sawyer never became a doormat for Preston. He was appreciated by Preston, in a myopic sort of way. I liked when Preston’s synapses aligned, especially after talking with former rival Fitz, and he realizes what he has long felt for Sawyer is love. There is so much beautiful writing of Sawyer’s love, desire, and devotion for Preston that it was almost over the top, but I ate it up!!
I liked their semi platonic relationship in the early chapters. Preston was such a lovable brainiac. Sawyer was a wonderful character. I liked the dual POV. That Sawyer was having sex with other people was low key, it was just some mentions. I did wonder about it, but Preston was not ready for or in a relationship with Sawyer for the previous years since they met at boarding school. He was definitely aromatic or something, until some wonderfully written scenes of his being overcome with passion for Sawyer, primed by jealousy of another.
The alluded to sex scenes with Sawyer and Fitz I thought were hot. The instant that Preston let Sawyer know he was unhappy about Fitz wanting Sawyer, the relationship with Fitz was over and Sawyer never wanted or needed anyone else after that. He was decent about how he broke it off with Fitz, too.
So, why four stars instead of five for a book that made my heart happy? I thought some of the situations were a bit simplistic, the story line with the parents slotting into place so easily. Did Preston’s dad really nail him in the face with a football on purpose? I feel this should have been addressed. I like low angst, this might have been a little too low angst.
This is a new to me writer. I am going to read the first book in the series.
I liked their semi platonic relationship in the early chapters. Preston was such a lovable brainiac. Sawyer was a wonderful character. I liked the dual POV. That Sawyer was having sex with other people was low key, it was just some mentions. I did wonder about it, but Preston was not ready for or in a relationship with Sawyer for the previous years since they met at boarding school. He was definitely aromatic or something, until some wonderfully written scenes of his being overcome with passion for Sawyer, primed by jealousy of another.
The alluded to sex scenes with Sawyer and Fitz I thought were hot. The instant that Preston let Sawyer know he was unhappy about Fitz wanting Sawyer, the relationship with Fitz was over and Sawyer never wanted or needed anyone else after that. He was decent about how he broke it off with Fitz, too.
So, why four stars instead of five for a book that made my heart happy? I thought some of the situations were a bit simplistic, the story line with the parents slotting into place so easily. Did Preston’s dad really nail him in the face with a football on purpose? I feel this should have been addressed. I like low angst, this might have been a little too low angst.
This is a new to me writer. I am going to read the first book in the series.
January 23, 2025
✨ ARC REVIEW✨
The codependecy in this one was absolute, but also so cute. Sawyer and Preston have been best friends for ages, but Swayer is in love with Preston while Preston is oblivious. Enter Fitz. For those of you who dislike OM drama, you get a bit of it but I won't spoil it because it wasn't that dramatic. Just confusing emotions for everyone. Well, Fitz is the catalyst for Preston's awakening. And what an awakening.
I loved how supportive and kind Sawyer is and how Preston decides to become a better person for him. They were super sweet.
The codependecy in this one was absolute, but also so cute. Sawyer and Preston have been best friends for ages, but Swayer is in love with Preston while Preston is oblivious. Enter Fitz. For those of you who dislike OM drama, you get a bit of it but I won't spoil it because it wasn't that dramatic. Just confusing emotions for everyone. Well, Fitz is the catalyst for Preston's awakening. And what an awakening.
I loved how supportive and kind Sawyer is and how Preston decides to become a better person for him. They were super sweet.
Read
October 23, 2025DNF 33%. Preston is insufferable and Sawyer deserves better.
January 21, 2025
3.5 stars
Stacked is book two in the Mars Fitness series. This best friends to lovers MM romance story is about Sawyer and Preston.
We met Sawyer in the first book of this series as the energetic guy managing the front desk at Mars Fitness. We got a glimpse at a phone conversation he had with Preston, and we could see how much Sawyer cared about him. In this book, we learn that Sawyer and Preston became best friends and roommates in high school, and they have lived together ever since. Sawyer has been in love with Preston, and my heart went out to him for all the years he pined after his best friend. Since Preston has never given any indication of being interested in Sawyer, Sawyer starts thinking it may be time to move on.
I appreciated how the author included the content warning for dating other people before getting together. Although I was expecting it, I have to say I was a little bothered by how it all went down. I wasn’t expecting Sawyer to start hooking up and dating this new guy Fitz for such a lengthy period of time; almost the first half of the book. Then on top of it, I was not expecting Fitz to physically resemble Preston, or the fact that Fitz would be the new grad student that Preston was assigned to mentor. Fitz was a very nice guy and things were going well with him and Sawyer, so I wasn’t a fan of this situation and how it played out.
Sawyer and Preston were codependent, and I especially loved how Sawyer was always taking care of Preston. I was rooting for Preston to figure out his feelings for Sawyer. He realized how much Sawyer did for him, and I appreciated how he wanted to try to do more for Sawyer. It was great to see Preston challenging himself and wanting to grow. And when Sawyer and Preston finally get it together, I enjoyed both their sweet and steamy moments. Sawyer and Preston were meant to be, and I am happy they got their HEA.
I received an advanced copy of this book, and this is my honest review.
Stacked is book two in the Mars Fitness series. This best friends to lovers MM romance story is about Sawyer and Preston.
We met Sawyer in the first book of this series as the energetic guy managing the front desk at Mars Fitness. We got a glimpse at a phone conversation he had with Preston, and we could see how much Sawyer cared about him. In this book, we learn that Sawyer and Preston became best friends and roommates in high school, and they have lived together ever since. Sawyer has been in love with Preston, and my heart went out to him for all the years he pined after his best friend. Since Preston has never given any indication of being interested in Sawyer, Sawyer starts thinking it may be time to move on.
I appreciated how the author included the content warning for dating other people before getting together. Although I was expecting it, I have to say I was a little bothered by how it all went down. I wasn’t expecting Sawyer to start hooking up and dating this new guy Fitz for such a lengthy period of time; almost the first half of the book. Then on top of it, I was not expecting Fitz to physically resemble Preston, or the fact that Fitz would be the new grad student that Preston was assigned to mentor. Fitz was a very nice guy and things were going well with him and Sawyer, so I wasn’t a fan of this situation and how it played out.
Sawyer and Preston were codependent, and I especially loved how Sawyer was always taking care of Preston. I was rooting for Preston to figure out his feelings for Sawyer. He realized how much Sawyer did for him, and I appreciated how he wanted to try to do more for Sawyer. It was great to see Preston challenging himself and wanting to grow. And when Sawyer and Preston finally get it together, I enjoyed both their sweet and steamy moments. Sawyer and Preston were meant to be, and I am happy they got their HEA.
I received an advanced copy of this book, and this is my honest review.
December 13, 2024
Once again, I'm reminded that ✨️BEST FRIENDS TO LOVERS✨️ is far superior to the fan favorite enemies to lovers.
I said what I said.
Preston and Sawyer are codependent best friends. They've been low-key obliviously in love with each other since high school. When a new guy, Fitz, comes in the picture, Preston realizes his jealousy and his feelings.
I LOVED this story. Sawyer is the jock and the caretaker. Preston is the oblivious brainiac. These two circle each other the entire book. Of course they do. They're soulmates.
STACKED is packed with a lot of worrying and pining. There's also jealousy and obliviousness. Questioning sexuality is another big theme and found-family, too. And of course, the cameos from the previous books. But Sawyer and Preston get it together eventually. I REALLY enjoyed their story and bought the book immediately after reading. It'll definitely be a reread for me.
Linden Bell continues to write books I love. Stories filled with big feelings, big emotions, great characters, LOTS of spice, and great storytelling.
And, you can get a bonus scene if you sign up for the email newsletter, too! That bonus epilouge 😍😍😍
I said what I said.
Preston and Sawyer are codependent best friends. They've been low-key obliviously in love with each other since high school. When a new guy, Fitz, comes in the picture, Preston realizes his jealousy and his feelings.
I LOVED this story. Sawyer is the jock and the caretaker. Preston is the oblivious brainiac. These two circle each other the entire book. Of course they do. They're soulmates.
STACKED is packed with a lot of worrying and pining. There's also jealousy and obliviousness. Questioning sexuality is another big theme and found-family, too. And of course, the cameos from the previous books. But Sawyer and Preston get it together eventually. I REALLY enjoyed their story and bought the book immediately after reading. It'll definitely be a reread for me.
Linden Bell continues to write books I love. Stories filled with big feelings, big emotions, great characters, LOTS of spice, and great storytelling.
And, you can get a bonus scene if you sign up for the email newsletter, too! That bonus epilouge 😍😍😍
March 2, 2024
So, this book is basically catnip to me. Co-dependent best friends, jealousy, and an inexperienced MC going through an awakening? Yes. Yes. Yes times infinity. Sawyer is our sweet sunshine boo who works the desk at Mars Fitness. He meets cute new member, Fitz, and starts a dalliance that has the potential to be something deeper. The only problem is Preston, Sawyer’s best friend and roommate who he is secretly in love with.
Preston is a brilliant researcher closing in on the end of his doctorate program. He struggles with socializing, having received an ASD diagnosis as a child that his uptight, wealthy parents chose to disregard. His world consists of his work, his ex-girlfriend and friend, Madison, and Sawyer. He and Sawyer are deeply entangled, but Sawyer knows Pres is straight and resigns himself to the fact their relationship will never be more. But as newcomer Fitz invades every area of Preston’s life he holds dear, he begins to feel possessive of Sawyer in new ways.
I adore this dynamic! Sawyer reminds Preston when to eat, he cuddles him, he lets him sleep in his bed, all while secretly eating his heart out over him. And let me tell you, the spice is FIRE! Preston has little experience or prior interest in sex. Watching him discover himself in his unique way, with the adoring Sawyer along for the ride, was perfection. Linden never lets us down with character growth, and this is no exception. Preston and Sawyer both learn and acknowledge things about themselves and their relationship that only make them stronger individually and as a unit. I love everything about this book, and I highly recommend it to all!
*I received an advanced reader copy from Gay Romance Reviews and I am voluntarily leaving my review*
Preston is a brilliant researcher closing in on the end of his doctorate program. He struggles with socializing, having received an ASD diagnosis as a child that his uptight, wealthy parents chose to disregard. His world consists of his work, his ex-girlfriend and friend, Madison, and Sawyer. He and Sawyer are deeply entangled, but Sawyer knows Pres is straight and resigns himself to the fact their relationship will never be more. But as newcomer Fitz invades every area of Preston’s life he holds dear, he begins to feel possessive of Sawyer in new ways.
I adore this dynamic! Sawyer reminds Preston when to eat, he cuddles him, he lets him sleep in his bed, all while secretly eating his heart out over him. And let me tell you, the spice is FIRE! Preston has little experience or prior interest in sex. Watching him discover himself in his unique way, with the adoring Sawyer along for the ride, was perfection. Linden never lets us down with character growth, and this is no exception. Preston and Sawyer both learn and acknowledge things about themselves and their relationship that only make them stronger individually and as a unit. I love everything about this book, and I highly recommend it to all!
*I received an advanced reader copy from Gay Romance Reviews and I am voluntarily leaving my review*
March 17, 2024
Cute af, tego potrzebowałam
March 19, 2024
I had a really hard time with how another character was treated. I feel like Fitz character was just there to be a punching bag. Poor guy admits he’s catching feelings and Preston decides yes that’s the moment to go get Sawyer. I also feel like Sawyer and Preston are not great people, Sawyer for completely forgetting Fitz, and Preston for being a jerk to someone who tried to be friendly with him. I really enjoyed the first book, but this one was not it for me. I know Fitz and Sawyer were not together-together, but they were enough that Sawyer doing everything with Preston and then not telling Frits until later was horrible. Fritz deserved way better from sawyer and Preston who was supposed to be a mentor.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 18, 2024
This book just wasn’t for me. The last thing I want to read in a romance book is one MC having another relationship besides with MC2.
September 16, 2024
This also ate. Forgot to add it
March 19, 2024
Stacked is the second book in Linden Bell’s Mars Fitness series. It’s a MM best friends to lovers romance and can be read as a standalone. Here’s what you can expect from Sawyer and Preston:
- First person dual point of view
- Guaranteed happily ever after
- Bi-awakening
- Nerd/jock
- Possessive, protective, and codependent roommates
- Tender caretaking
- Sexual awakening
About: Sawyer and Preston have been best friends since high school. They’re now roommates while Preston completes his PhD research and Sawyer goes to school and works at Mars Fitness. Sawyer’s been in love with Preston as long as he can remember, but Preston’s always been oblivious and decidedly straight. Unsure of how much longer his heart can take this, Sawyer decides to take a chance, move on, and start dating. Preston realizes that he hasn’t appreciated Sawyer enough over the years, but when it feels like someone’s trying to steal his best friend? The possessive and protective instincts kick in and Preston will do whatever it takes to keep his best friend.
We met Sawyer, Mars Fitness’s front desk manager, in Ripped. I was really excited for his story and happily ever after, and although parts of this story just didn’t quite work for me, he got there and it was so sweet!
Overall I enjoyed this story, even though it got off to a rockier start for me. Once Sawyer and Preston realized they wanted to be together, they were just so unbelievably sweet and steamy together. I’m excited to read the next book in the series, and well, everything else Linden is willing to throw our way!
I received an ARC of this book from Gay Romance Reviews and am voluntarily leaving a review.
- First person dual point of view
- Guaranteed happily ever after
- Bi-awakening
- Nerd/jock
- Possessive, protective, and codependent roommates
- Tender caretaking
- Sexual awakening
About: Sawyer and Preston have been best friends since high school. They’re now roommates while Preston completes his PhD research and Sawyer goes to school and works at Mars Fitness. Sawyer’s been in love with Preston as long as he can remember, but Preston’s always been oblivious and decidedly straight. Unsure of how much longer his heart can take this, Sawyer decides to take a chance, move on, and start dating. Preston realizes that he hasn’t appreciated Sawyer enough over the years, but when it feels like someone’s trying to steal his best friend? The possessive and protective instincts kick in and Preston will do whatever it takes to keep his best friend.
His hand is on my chest, over my heart. Can he feel how fast it’s beating? Does he know how long it’s beat for him?
We met Sawyer, Mars Fitness’s front desk manager, in Ripped. I was really excited for his story and happily ever after, and although parts of this story just didn’t quite work for me, he got there and it was so sweet!
Overall I enjoyed this story, even though it got off to a rockier start for me. Once Sawyer and Preston realized they wanted to be together, they were just so unbelievably sweet and steamy together. I’m excited to read the next book in the series, and well, everything else Linden is willing to throw our way!
His lips are red and bruised. His cheeks are flushed and rosy. His hair is in disarray on the pillow. He’s the most beautiful thing I’ve ever laid eyes on.
I received an ARC of this book from Gay Romance Reviews and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 18, 2024
I just want to say right off the bat that I adored Sawyer and Preston together. Okay, with that out of the way (because I couldn’t wait to say that), this is the first book I’ve read by this author, and I did enjoy the story, writing style, and characters. Plus having the nerd/jock setup coupled with best friends to lovers…that’s a combo that I couldn’t pass up.
I found Preston especially intriguing, with the way his brain works and where he places his focus at any given time. He gets so wrapped up in his research, totally absorbed and fascinated by what he is doing. Sawyer takes wonderful care of him, and while yes Sawyer admits early on that he’s in love with Preston (to us readers), he’s also keenly aware that Preston is likely not into guys—though Sawyer continues to hold on to the tiniest glimmer of hope.
Yes, Sawyer has dated and hooked up with plenty of guys over the years, knowing he likely will never have anything more than friendship with Preston. And yes, as the book starts off he starts seeing someone, which I wasn’t a fan of but it does act as a catalyst for the story. Once Preston has his “a-ha” moment about what Sawyer means to him, everything from there becomes all about their relationship’s change from supremely close best friends (really codependent) to even closer lovers.
At that point the word to describe Preston I would choose is “enthusiastic”. As in, get ready for a lot of physical scenes that are incredibly hot. As yummy as those are, we also get to see a shift with Preston, and through the entire story his character is the one that experiences the most growth. He realizes his true feelings for Sawyer, starts to adjust his behaviors around others to come out of his tunnel-vision-research mode, and even has a moment with his parents that has been building for quite some time.
Overall Stacked was a very strong 4-star read for me. Preston is one of my favorite characters I’ve read so far this year, and he and Sawyer together are perfect. While this book is part of the Mars Fitness series, it can definitely be read as a standalone and I’d recommend it to any M/M romance fan. This book is meant for readers 18+ for adult language and sexual content.
I found Preston especially intriguing, with the way his brain works and where he places his focus at any given time. He gets so wrapped up in his research, totally absorbed and fascinated by what he is doing. Sawyer takes wonderful care of him, and while yes Sawyer admits early on that he’s in love with Preston (to us readers), he’s also keenly aware that Preston is likely not into guys—though Sawyer continues to hold on to the tiniest glimmer of hope.
Yes, Sawyer has dated and hooked up with plenty of guys over the years, knowing he likely will never have anything more than friendship with Preston. And yes, as the book starts off he starts seeing someone, which I wasn’t a fan of but it does act as a catalyst for the story. Once Preston has his “a-ha” moment about what Sawyer means to him, everything from there becomes all about their relationship’s change from supremely close best friends (really codependent) to even closer lovers.
At that point the word to describe Preston I would choose is “enthusiastic”. As in, get ready for a lot of physical scenes that are incredibly hot. As yummy as those are, we also get to see a shift with Preston, and through the entire story his character is the one that experiences the most growth. He realizes his true feelings for Sawyer, starts to adjust his behaviors around others to come out of his tunnel-vision-research mode, and even has a moment with his parents that has been building for quite some time.
Overall Stacked was a very strong 4-star read for me. Preston is one of my favorite characters I’ve read so far this year, and he and Sawyer together are perfect. While this book is part of the Mars Fitness series, it can definitely be read as a standalone and I’d recommend it to any M/M romance fan. This book is meant for readers 18+ for adult language and sexual content.
April 7, 2024
"His fingers wrap around mine, firm and sure...His hands always make me feel safe. I love his hands."
Oh Preston. You precious, clueless man you. Anyone with a pair of working eyes could tell how much Preston and Sawyer belonged together. Hell, Sawyer's been aware of his feelings for Preston for almost a decade. He's just convinced it's a hopeless endeavor. Even the new guy Fitz that Sawyer begins dating can see the connection between the two besties, but it isn't until Preston sees how serious Fitz and Sawyer seem to be getting that he starts to get a clue.
Preston's brain is a marvelous thing. He's getting his doctorate in neuroscience and has already published his own studies. The thing Preston's brain has trouble with is emotions. He's not very good at social cues, which is likely the only reason he hasn't realized his best friend has been in love with him for years. I mean these two basically live like a married couple just without the sex. And once that part of their relationship changes, it's full speed ahead for these two.
It was sweet how Sawyer took care of Preston. He never complained, just did it because he cared about him and knew that's what Preston needed. Sawyer was basically Preston's entire world even before they became a couple. Them being intimate just brought them that much closer. They really were an adorable couple and I loved how good they were for one another. Were they a bit co-dependent? Yes. But it worked for them and I am so glad they finally got their HEA.
Oh Preston. You precious, clueless man you. Anyone with a pair of working eyes could tell how much Preston and Sawyer belonged together. Hell, Sawyer's been aware of his feelings for Preston for almost a decade. He's just convinced it's a hopeless endeavor. Even the new guy Fitz that Sawyer begins dating can see the connection between the two besties, but it isn't until Preston sees how serious Fitz and Sawyer seem to be getting that he starts to get a clue.
Preston's brain is a marvelous thing. He's getting his doctorate in neuroscience and has already published his own studies. The thing Preston's brain has trouble with is emotions. He's not very good at social cues, which is likely the only reason he hasn't realized his best friend has been in love with him for years. I mean these two basically live like a married couple just without the sex. And once that part of their relationship changes, it's full speed ahead for these two.
It was sweet how Sawyer took care of Preston. He never complained, just did it because he cared about him and knew that's what Preston needed. Sawyer was basically Preston's entire world even before they became a couple. Them being intimate just brought them that much closer. They really were an adorable couple and I loved how good they were for one another. Were they a bit co-dependent? Yes. But it worked for them and I am so glad they finally got their HEA.
March 18, 2024
I really enjoyed the first book in this series, it had some freshness to it and I read it in under a day. So, I happily requested this book when it was offered as an ARC.
This book didn't quite live up to the unexpected pleasure of the first book, but was a nice time overall.
I won't lie, the mention of a certain boy wizard in the prologue did have me worried. It made sense for the fact that it takes place 13 years ago, and a teenager would naturally think of the most popular magical boarding school as a reference point for this new experience. I was very relieved that it was never mentioned again, however. (But I really wish that authors could find another way to describe things that an infamous wizarding world has become the default comparison/shorthand for. This wasn't an egregious use, but that also means it could easily be excised from the text.)
We have a very codependent nerd/jock best friends who are roommates situation. We meet them when Sawyer (the caretaking jock) is starting to think he needs to give up the ghost and try for a real relationship. He meets Fitz, a new member at the gym he works at, and they hit it off. Coincidentally, Fitz is the new grad student in Preston's (the hapless neurodivergent nerd/genius) lab at the university. Cue Preston getting jealous but not recognizing it as jealousy and away we go.
This book felt much more like it was hitting the standard beats, but it did a nice job, for the most part. I'm sure some readers will be more upset about how long the Sawyer/Fitz relationship goes on (and the overlap with Preston and Sawyer have their relationship revelation.) It didn't bother me overmuch, especially as Sawyer breaks it off as soon as he can talk to Fitz in person.
I do wonder about the portrayal of Preston's neurodivergence. I feel like it could have been explored a little deeper, beyond "my parents had me tested and didn't like the results so we never talked about it again." His crisis about wondering if he loved Sawyer 'the right way' seemed like an opportunity to address things, one that wasn't taken.
I also found the sex to be very immediately full on between them without a lot of discussion about it. I would have liked Sawyer to maybe talk to Preston a bit more about what he was experiencing. (And the scene where Sawyer enumerates all the reasons he loves Preston and how MUCH he loves him, all while they are in the midst . . . it just seemed a bit too much?
I will likely give book three a try, because I do like the author's writing, but I hope for a little more of the freshness of book one.
This book didn't quite live up to the unexpected pleasure of the first book, but was a nice time overall.
I won't lie, the mention of a certain boy wizard in the prologue did have me worried. It made sense for the fact that it takes place 13 years ago, and a teenager would naturally think of the most popular magical boarding school as a reference point for this new experience. I was very relieved that it was never mentioned again, however. (But I really wish that authors could find another way to describe things that an infamous wizarding world has become the default comparison/shorthand for. This wasn't an egregious use, but that also means it could easily be excised from the text.)
We have a very codependent nerd/jock best friends who are roommates situation. We meet them when Sawyer (the caretaking jock) is starting to think he needs to give up the ghost and try for a real relationship. He meets Fitz, a new member at the gym he works at, and they hit it off. Coincidentally, Fitz is the new grad student in Preston's (the hapless neurodivergent nerd/genius) lab at the university. Cue Preston getting jealous but not recognizing it as jealousy and away we go.
This book felt much more like it was hitting the standard beats, but it did a nice job, for the most part. I'm sure some readers will be more upset about how long the Sawyer/Fitz relationship goes on (and the overlap with Preston and Sawyer have their relationship revelation.) It didn't bother me overmuch, especially as Sawyer breaks it off as soon as he can talk to Fitz in person.
I do wonder about the portrayal of Preston's neurodivergence. I feel like it could have been explored a little deeper, beyond "my parents had me tested and didn't like the results so we never talked about it again." His crisis about wondering if he loved Sawyer 'the right way' seemed like an opportunity to address things, one that wasn't taken.
I also found the sex to be very immediately full on between them without a lot of discussion about it. I would have liked Sawyer to maybe talk to Preston a bit more about what he was experiencing. (And the scene where Sawyer enumerates all the reasons he loves Preston and how MUCH he loves him, all while they are in the midst . . . it just seemed a bit too much?
I will likely give book three a try, because I do like the author's writing, but I hope for a little more of the freshness of book one.
March 15, 2024
Rating: 4
Steam: 4
PoV: dual, 1st person
Genre: contemporary romance, MM
Main tropes: friends to lovers, sexual discovery, grumpy / sunshine
Linden Bell is back with another sweet and steamy book! Stacked was a great best friends to lovers story, full with pining, co-dependency and romance.
I loved how clueless Sawyer and Preston were, they were so co-dependent and had a great connection, and I was totally there for it! Sawyer had been pining for Preston for years, but Preston had never showed any interest - until Sawyer started dating someone else. While Preston's jealousy led to some realisations and a pretty epic and romantic lightbulb moment, I couldn't help but feel like the dating between Sawyer and Fitz was too dragged out.
I have to admit that I overall struggled with the whole situation of Sawyer dating Fitz, and while I didn't consider it to be cheating, the relationship wasn't fair on Fitz, who was actually a nice and decent guy. It set up a situation for Preston to realise his feelings for Sawyer and take that step though, but I don't know, something about the whole situation just felt off to me. Don't get me wrong, I loved Preston and Sawyer together - I just didn't love the way they got there.
Apart from that situation, they were honestly the sweetest together. I mean, they were basically living as a couple for years before getting together romantically, and while they were very co-dependent, it never felt toxic or destructive. I loved Sawyer's sunshine personality and his energy, and the way he took care of Preston made my heart all melty and happy.
Stacked was a really cute and heartfelt romance full of emotions and steam. I adored how close Sawyer and Preston were, and I really enjoyed seeing their friendship turn into a relationship - it was just such a sweet and romantic read!
-
Thanks to Gay Romance Reviews for the opportunity to read and review this book. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.
Steam: 4
PoV: dual, 1st person
Genre: contemporary romance, MM
Main tropes: friends to lovers, sexual discovery, grumpy / sunshine
Linden Bell is back with another sweet and steamy book! Stacked was a great best friends to lovers story, full with pining, co-dependency and romance.
I loved how clueless Sawyer and Preston were, they were so co-dependent and had a great connection, and I was totally there for it! Sawyer had been pining for Preston for years, but Preston had never showed any interest - until Sawyer started dating someone else. While Preston's jealousy led to some realisations and a pretty epic and romantic lightbulb moment, I couldn't help but feel like the dating between Sawyer and Fitz was too dragged out.
I have to admit that I overall struggled with the whole situation of Sawyer dating Fitz, and while I didn't consider it to be cheating, the relationship wasn't fair on Fitz, who was actually a nice and decent guy. It set up a situation for Preston to realise his feelings for Sawyer and take that step though, but I don't know, something about the whole situation just felt off to me. Don't get me wrong, I loved Preston and Sawyer together - I just didn't love the way they got there.
Apart from that situation, they were honestly the sweetest together. I mean, they were basically living as a couple for years before getting together romantically, and while they were very co-dependent, it never felt toxic or destructive. I loved Sawyer's sunshine personality and his energy, and the way he took care of Preston made my heart all melty and happy.
Stacked was a really cute and heartfelt romance full of emotions and steam. I adored how close Sawyer and Preston were, and I really enjoyed seeing their friendship turn into a relationship - it was just such a sweet and romantic read!
-
Thanks to Gay Romance Reviews for the opportunity to read and review this book. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.
January 30, 2025
I had a blast
This is your typical friends-to-lovers with the one requited love and all BUT with codependency impulsive kisses and a whole lotta jealousy.
This story isn't simply about two guys who have been friends and love each other. No, this story explores a repressed MC who find comfort in being taken care of by his best friend and said friend going above and beyond for the MC.
Sawyer and Preston are literally two peas in a pod. They fit each other so well that it's a wonder why they only got together far later in the book. I loved seeing Preston jealous without him actually realizing it. I loved seeing Sawyer so clueless to Preston's jealousy as well.
The cuddles??? Yes the cuddles were to die for. I loved ever moment of it.
A needy Preston? Wouldn't have him any other way.
This is your typical friends-to-lovers with the one requited love and all BUT with codependency impulsive kisses and a whole lotta jealousy.
This story isn't simply about two guys who have been friends and love each other. No, this story explores a repressed MC who find comfort in being taken care of by his best friend and said friend going above and beyond for the MC.
Sawyer and Preston are literally two peas in a pod. They fit each other so well that it's a wonder why they only got together far later in the book. I loved seeing Preston jealous without him actually realizing it. I loved seeing Sawyer so clueless to Preston's jealousy as well.
The cuddles??? Yes the cuddles were to die for. I loved ever moment of it.
A needy Preston? Wouldn't have him any other way.
February 28, 2024
Wow, the amount of pining in this story! It’s a sugar sweet (and spicy hot) codependent friends-to-lovers book that will give you all the cozy feels.
Preston, even though he is a genius working on his neuroscience PhD, is a clumsy social disaster who can barely function without Sawyer. And sweet, loyal Sawyer dedicated most of his life to making sure Preston was ok. Sawyer gives so much of himself to Preston while keeping his true emotions to himself, having random hookups but never any serious relationship like he cannot bear to part with him. Until Fitz, who is the catalyst for Preston to realize he could lose Sawyer to another person. He wants his friend to be happy, really … he just wants him to be happy with him instead of Fitz. One kiss and Preston goes from zero to 60 in a heartbeat, you could feel the desperation in him for his friend. Linden was writing the pining so well, I loved those chapters even though both guys were obviously hurting. We spend a good amount of time in their heads while they are trying to overcome insecurities and doubts and I actually really liked that. I enjoyed getting to know how they truly felt, not just how much they loved their physical connection (which was of course extremely hot, we are talking about Linden after all!). There was plenty of drama before they got to their perfectly geeky HEA, including advice and ribbing from all beloved side characters. Overall, I really enjoyed this book and cannot wait to see the next couple.
Friends to Lovers
Bi Awake
Codependency
Slow Burn
Steamy
Please check the TW for sensitive content!
I received a copy of this book from the author via Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review.
Preston, even though he is a genius working on his neuroscience PhD, is a clumsy social disaster who can barely function without Sawyer. And sweet, loyal Sawyer dedicated most of his life to making sure Preston was ok. Sawyer gives so much of himself to Preston while keeping his true emotions to himself, having random hookups but never any serious relationship like he cannot bear to part with him. Until Fitz, who is the catalyst for Preston to realize he could lose Sawyer to another person. He wants his friend to be happy, really … he just wants him to be happy with him instead of Fitz. One kiss and Preston goes from zero to 60 in a heartbeat, you could feel the desperation in him for his friend. Linden was writing the pining so well, I loved those chapters even though both guys were obviously hurting. We spend a good amount of time in their heads while they are trying to overcome insecurities and doubts and I actually really liked that. I enjoyed getting to know how they truly felt, not just how much they loved their physical connection (which was of course extremely hot, we are talking about Linden after all!). There was plenty of drama before they got to their perfectly geeky HEA, including advice and ribbing from all beloved side characters. Overall, I really enjoyed this book and cannot wait to see the next couple.
Friends to Lovers
Bi Awake
Codependency
Slow Burn
Steamy
Please check the TW for sensitive content!
I received a copy of this book from the author via Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review.
April 15, 2024
Honorable mention of Madison.
It’s not very often that the female best friend in an mlm romance book is a likeable character but I loved Madison. She was funny and supportive and a good friend for both of them without crossing boundaries.
It’s not very often that the female best friend in an mlm romance book is a likeable character but I loved Madison. She was funny and supportive and a good friend for both of them without crossing boundaries.
February 8, 2025
3/5 stars! I wanted to like this book, but it didn't really work for me. If you are so in love with your roommate/best friend, why is it so easy for you to sleep your way through everyone else at the gym, including someone that is literally a placeholder for the desire of your affections!? Idk. It just rubbed me wrong. That said, the spice was well-written and once our MMCs got together, they were super cute.
February 23, 2025
A Very Nice Read
This book is amazing, the story of Sawyer and Preston is filled with love, laughter, great friends and is an absolute joy to read.
This book is amazing, the story of Sawyer and Preston is filled with love, laughter, great friends and is an absolute joy to read.
June 2, 2025
Low 3. Reminded me a little of Alessandra Hazard's 'Just a bit' series, but not as entertaining to me.
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