Jump to ratings and reviews
Rate this book
Rate this book
Welcome to Black Diamond Resort and Spa…

Growing up in a small town in Georgia, I never dreamed of starting a band that would blow up from a viral video or that I’d live in a mansion on the beach in Miami, Florida.

Since we were seven years old, my best friend Percy had dreamed big enough for both of us. He’d always known this would be our future.

But he’s been slowly killing me for years, and yet he’s the only reason I’m still alive. He needs me. He needs me for comfort. He needs me to hold him and love him. Percy wants to live in my skin, and even that wouldn’t be close enough.

But he doesn’t want me the way I want him.

Money. Fame. Medications. Therapy.

None of that could’ve prevented what transpired that night, and even though it put me in a mental health facility, I don’t regret it. Not one bit.

Because without him, there is no me.

Consumed is an M/M romance between two highly codependent childhood best friends. Please read the content warning at the beginning of the book as there are themes that might be triggering for some readers.

316 pages, ebook

Published August 1, 2023

226 people are currently reading
1680 people want to read

About the author

Bailey Nicole

12 books459 followers
Bailey is an author who loves writing LGBTQ+ romance books.

They’d much rather write about fictional worlds and characters than themself, but they love interacting with their readers!

You can stalk Bailey here:

Instagram: @authorbaileynicole
https://www.instagram.com/authorbaile...

Facebook: Bailey Nicole
https://www.facebook.com/bailey.nicol...

Pinterest: @baileynicolereads
https://pin.it/uIJkzbv

Ratings & Reviews

What do you think?
Rate this book

Friends & Following

Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!

Community Reviews

5 stars
522 (39%)
4 stars
459 (34%)
3 stars
260 (19%)
2 stars
72 (5%)
1 star
24 (1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 229 reviews
Profile Image for Imme [trying to crawl out of hiatus] van Gorp.
792 reviews1,962 followers
March 6, 2025
|| 2.5 stars ||

Well. What a major disappointment. This started out so great, but in the end, it lost me completely.

This book is about two childhood best friends, who love each other deeper and more intensely than anything else in the world, who are beyond obsessive and possessive when it comes to the other, who would go through great lengths to stay together forever, but who are also utterly incapable of communication, honesty, and a healthy relationship.

I really loved how this story began with these two having such a strong relationship and how co-dependent they were. They were so needy and desperate for the other’s affection, and I truly do love those things in a romance.
However, everything became insanely repetitive after a while, and I honestly ended up feeling very annoyed with everything. The fact that these two refused to have a damn conversation together that would have made both of their lives’ so much easier really got on my nerves. After a while, I truly didn’t even believe in their love anymore; how can you claim to love each other so much if you continually make it so incredibly difficult for the other? It just became very boring to see these two do nothing but whine about how much they wanted to touch each other, and not have much of a relationship beyond that.

So, all in all, no matter how much I would have normally loved this type of needy, pining, and co-dependent dynamic, I wasn’t impressed with the execution here. It way just way too dramatic without any real substance.


Bailey Nicole books:
‘Worthless Boys’ series - var. ratings
His Revelry - 2.5 stars
Consumed - 2.5 stars
Profile Image for Mila .
250 reviews363 followers
August 1, 2023
***4.5 rating***

"I was possessive of you from the moment we met. I'm not sure when it shifted to something more, but fuck did it shift. You became my world, my obsession, my purpose. And I don't care how unhealthy that sounds. It wasn't ever a choice on my part. It was more like things slid into place, where they were always meant to be."

Dear Besties: before you embark on reading this book, kindly take a moment to check the CWs and TWs for it. It contains elements that might be triggering to some readers. While I can't list them all here due to space constraints, you can find them in the "Author's Note" at the beginning of the book. I genuinely appreciate the author's consideration in having a sensitivity reader assess the story before publishing it.


This book marked my introduction to Bailey Nicole's writing, and I must say, it's my favorite installment in the series. The blend of angst, unhealthiness, toxicity, and codependency between the characters was simply mesmerizing—a true chef's kiss. The fact that it starts as a friends-to-lovers tale only adds to its allure. If you know me and my taste in books, this one ticked all the right boxes, and I relished every moment of it.

*Consumed* is the seventh installment in the series, and while I've read four others, it was Bailey Nicole's promise of an angsty romance that piqued my interest. Special thanks to my booksta friends for recommending this gem; it did not disappoint.

The story revolves around Winston and Percy, two childhood friends navigating adulthood together. They've been inseparable since the age of 7 and share a unique connection. Percy is the epitome of a sunshiny, loving protagonist, while Winston, whom Percy affectionately calls "Juney" (due to his middle name being June), is his complete opposite. Winston, the lead singer of the progressive metal band Telltale, exudes a "grumpy" and rough-around-the-edges persona. The story unfolds in three parts, each highlighting different stages of Percy and Winston's relationship, as it evolves from mere friendship to an all-consuming and addictive love.

Even in their "friendship" phase, before complications arose and Winston achieved fame, their attachment to each other bordered on the extraordinary. They were the kind of "best friends" who slept in the same bed and cuddled like lovers. From an outsider's perspective, they might as well have been a couple. However, it takes these two lovable idiots quite some time to realize their profound feelings for one another.

Miscommunication plagues their relationship, hindering their ability to express their emotions. Winston, considering himself gay since adolescence, wrongly assumes that Percy is straight, leading to further confusion. Winston's difficult upbringing and struggles with various mental health issues, coupled with his reliance on substances, make him a complex character who sabotages his chances at happiness. The suppression of their romantic feelings takes a toll on their friendship.

As a hot, broody rockstar, Winston naturally attracts groupies, and Percy eventually learns to move on despite his unwavering feelings. However, when Percy starts dating someone new, Winston's jealousy and possessiveness rear their ugly heads. While such behavior might be deemed toxic in real-life relationships, it somehow adds to the allure of this fictional world, drawing the reader deeper into the story. The angst and longing between Percy and Winston are palpable—they simply can't be without each other.

The narrative bravely tackles the topic of mental health with care, particularly when Winston seeks treatment and enters recovery. It's unfortunate that he didn't seek help until adulthood, but the positive impact of treatment is evident. Winston's character is dark and flawed, and readers may not always agree with his decisions or actions, but these flaws are essential for his development.

Percy, too, isn't without imperfections. Despite his sweetness, he struggles with possessiveness over Juney, unable to stand the idea of him with other men. When circumstances bring them together again, their relationship takes an intense turn, becoming passionate, sexual, and, at times, quite explicit. Bailey Nicole's writing of these passionate scenes is nothing short of remarkable.

As the story unfolds, Percy and Winston's love appears unhealthy, even toxic, yet it remains deeply compelling and worth rooting for. Their complex characters, with all their flaws, make them relatable and captivating. The intensity of their emotions draws readers in, and you can't help but become consumed with their love story.

If you're a fan of this kind of love, reminiscent of authors like Alessandra Hazard and C.P. Harris, then *Consumed* is bound to captivate you. Percy and Winston offer an enthralling blend of angst, chaos, and toxicity that will keep you hooked until the very end!

Expect:

-Childhood best friends to lovers
-Musician X Manager
-Obsessive codependent MC's
-Jealousy/possessiveness
-Opposites attract
- Cheating (not on each other)
- Major TWs (please read the author's note before reading)
- Filthy/hot sex scenes
-Some miscommunication


I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for martina (the life of a chaotic reader).
801 reviews435 followers
August 2, 2023
i can gladly announce that my days of trying not to be a bitch are finally over! i mean, three days is a LOT.

but let’s play a game, what was worse: the endless drama that consisted of the same 2 (two) topics or the fact that juney abused different drugs and alcohol for years but had no trouble quitting and not a single withdrawal symptom because “he wasn’t an addict, that was just a side effect of him not treating his mental health”? (whatever the fuck that means)

oh no wait, i know! it was definitely worse when his bestie brought weed to the rehab and started smoking it in front of him, then proceeded to get mad bc said newly clean not addict wanted to smoke it. i just know percy has dead worms for a brain.
Profile Image for Lilly [Hiatus due to School] .
939 reviews444 followers
August 23, 2023
“I missed you being possessive of me…..You can have all of me again if you still want it. You wouldn’t have to share.”

I am a sucker for possessive, obsessive, unhealthy and codependent relationships and add childhood best friends to lovers + Bailey Nicole's writing? Heck yeah.

We have Winston (Juney) and Percy, who have been childhood friends since they were seven. Winston comes from a very rough background with an absent and neglectful father. However, he finds some solace and acceptance with Percy and his warm family. Percy’s unconditional love and presence help keep Winston from slipping further into the darkness that occupies him. Music is another escape for him.

He’s in love with his best friend, who is his whole world, but he feels that his love can never be reciprocated since Percy is straight. Music and Percy is all he has to keep him from being consumed by the darkness in him. This story follows them from childhood to teens and into their early 20s as they navigate their growing feelings.

As Winston and Percy enter their adolescence, their friendship becomes something more than friends and are not quite lovers yet. They are physically attached to one another, and since Winston sees Percy as his, he lashes out at anyone who he views as a threat. Winston is also abusing drugs and alcohol to deal with the mental illness he’s carried with him. While he has Percy, it’s not the way he truly wants and he fears the day he will lose him.

They couldn’t be much closer, and somehow, it wasn’t enough. He didn’t think it’d ever be enough, but he would always take whatever he could get with Percy.
If my future girlfriend has a problem with you, then I’ll break it off without a second thought. They will come and go, but you and I will stay. Always.”


As young adults, Winston is a now famous rock star, with Percy being the band’s manager. Winston goes through men as he tours, and when he learns that Percy isn’t as straight as he thought and now that he’s engaged to a man….everything finally breaks.

I got so frustrated with these two. They both wanted the other so badly but could not just let the most important person in and be fully honest. So many assumptions, bottling up of feelings, and no communication. They were too scared of losing the other and instead caused so much pain and grief. Winston literally spiralled into drugs, physically assaulted a man, and nearly killed himself. Also, Winston’s extreme possessiveness of Percy leads them to another level of intensity and insanity.

“Let me make this clear, Emilio. You’ll marry Percy over my cold, dead body. Give up while you’re ahead. You understand?”

“You won’t look at him again. Touch him. Breathe the same fucking air as him. Your first mistake was thinking you had more sway than me. Your second was implying that I’d ever hurt him.”
“No one—and I do fucking mean no one—comes before me. Do you need me to repeat it?”


Once again, they want to be together; Winston wants Percy but is also scared and feels he doesn’t deserve him. Percy also wants Winston but, for some reason, does not want to cross that line despite all sorts of lines being crossed already! I wanted to pull my hair out and scream at them.

“I can’t accept the fact that I’ll lose you to him. To fucking anyone. Nothing has changed since back then, I still don’t want you to have anyone but me. I’m selfish, but you don’t deserve to be dragged down with me.”

“Just because I’m fucked up and possessive over you, doesn’t mean you should let it hold you back. I’m the one with the problem. I don’t even trust myself and neither should you.”


Their chemistry and connection when they come together is amazing. I could finally breathe when they got on the same page. While it takes a while for the spicy spicy scenes to happen the sex was filthy and steamy, as expected of Bailey!

I love reading about Bailey’s hurt and self-destructive boys. Their relationships are so toxic, but it’s just what they need. Winston and Percy aren’t any different. Together they are better. Their HEA is hard earned and well deserved.

Overall I really enjoyed Consumed! It’s my favourite book of the series so far!
Profile Image for Mug.
515 reviews125 followers
July 1, 2024
absolutely ridiculous😂😂 and frustrating at times, like there's dumb, and then there's these two😂 they are really teetering the line of dumb (affectionate) and dumb (i'm going to wring your necks u goddamn morons)....this book is definitely one of those things i should not have liked😂😂 everyone who hates this book is 100% right.....BUT, for me, the toxicity and intensity and just pure shaky, clingy, needy, desperate cockslut vibes kept me coming back for more. like winston is fucking BATSHIT INSANE at all times and why did i love it???😂😂😂 he's literally his own worst enemy, like why would you dare gage to do that😭 actions have consequences babe!😂 if both percy and winston were just honest about their worries and/or feelings for a SINGLE SECOND that night, the rest of the book wouldn't even be needed💀 like seriously, winston, can you just stop and think for one second! no one is putting their mouth around the tip of ur cock and swallowing ur cum bc they want to be really fucking close to you platonically🙄 they drove me so nuts fr, they're lucky they're so fucking crazy and diabolically obsessed with each other😂 winston esp like i was soooo gagged when he told percy not to worry, he would break up with percy's fiance for him💀💀💀 um why is that sexy and fun😂😂 this book did hurt my soul several times tho and the angst was angstinggg !!!! but then we get to the cheating and the scales are balanced again😂😂 i love when people (in books) do terrible things and fucking own it....like yes king, keep going, never back down, u can always be worse !!😌
Profile Image for L Ann.
750 reviews161 followers
August 31, 2023
I want to cry. This story had EVERYTHING that I love in a romance. Everything that's been missing from the stories I've been reading lately. That perfect blend of angst rooted in possessiveness and toxic codependency. That obsessiveness that veers into downright addiction. This should have easily been a 5 star read for me, but, if there is one thing that I absolutely loathe, it is a story in which the entire plot / conflict revolves around miscommunication or noncomunication, and that is exactly what we get woth this story.

I mean, this story would not even be a story if Juney and Percy had simply laid out their feelings in the beginning... or any of the numerous times in which the opportunity presented itself after Percy decided to put distance between them. After the whole thing that led to Juney being put in the mental hospital, I couldn't wrap my mind around how they still refused to be honest with themselves or each other. I mean, they wanted the same thing! How were they supposedly so intuned to one another but were not able to see how much they wanted to be with each other?

I can't end this review without discussing the amazing writing. The things they said to each other throughout the story were so hot and swoony and crazy and perfect. I hate that this isn't going to be a new favorite, but I will definitely be checking out some of this author's earlier works. 3 stars
Profile Image for Amina .
1,352 reviews58 followers
August 2, 2023
✰ 3 stars ✰

“I have always wanted to live in your skin,” he whispered quietly enough that only Juney would hear.

Juney turned his head so his lips were at Percy’s ear. “And I’ve always wanted everyone to know that you are mine.”


Bailey Nicole redefines what it means to be truly codependent in a relationship, to be absolutely possessive - to the point that you are entirely Consumed by your inherent feelings and longing for the other. Winston and Percy have been best friends since they were seven years old - they were, nay, they are, each other's 'oxygen. he’s blood. he’s water - without him, there is no me.' Regardless of how wrong it may feel, it is so very right for them.

But, can it be toxic or abusive or even harmful, when the feeling is reciprocated - that it's one and the same - a longing so fiercely mutual and all-encompassing that if you don't inhale the same air the other breathes, you are lost without them? 😟😟

“Percy.
Percy.
Percy.

Everything was fucking Percy.”


Winston certainly feels that way for Percy, since they met when they were seven years old - the heart wants what it cannot - and knowing that Percy is straight and never will return the feelings, no matter how many times he aids him in his cravings, it will never be enough. NEVER. Not until he climbs into his skin, learns ever dip in his bones, and imprints on him that his heart only belongs to him. Him alone. 😳

And what is saddening, or maddening, call it what you will, is that Winston is struggling with his own inner demons that drag him deeper into a darkness of knowing that his behavior and feelings towards his best friend may be borderline toxic, but he's the only right thing in his life - his comfort, and his joy, his bluebird - 'always been the only reason I’ve ever felt anything other than half-dead.' So, damn to whatever the world thinks - because the world definitely has opinions of their own - his career is second - his own health a distant third - as long as Percy will stay in his arms forever. And Percy can never find it in his heart to say no to Winston - his precious Juney. 💟

“Say that again. Didn’t hear you the first time.”

Percy smirked, looking pleased with himself. “No one will ever come before me, Juney.”


For three years, Percy kept his distance from Winston, as per his request; but, when he agrees to marry his boyfriend of six months, the engagement DOES NOT appeal to Winston's better senses or judgment, which compels him to go a to rehabilitation facility situated at Black Diamond Spa for treatment. What ensues is Percy's loyalty and absolute devotion to his beloved best friend, that no matter what state he's in - no matter how explosive or volatile he is - he knows in his heart, he'll never hurt him - 'he would always be Percy’s constant.'. 🙏🏻🙏🏻

Having loved him for as long as he could remember - just to afraid to voice it, he's determined to stay by his side, for without him, he's forever lost. And he'll willing submit to every one of Juney's demands, because he craves his touch - his closeness, his attention, his touch like an addiction - a fix that can never be quenched. For him, 'Juney loved deeply and loved forever, but he didn’t love often' so to have that love wholly devoted to him - he will take it in whatever capacity offered. 💔💔

“Do you know what I remember? I remember every single moment I’ve ever had with you. Every. Single. One.

I know your soul, and I know every square inch of you so well that if I were an artist, I could draw a portrait with my eyes closed.”


And while I don't condone or approve of either of their rather unhealthy approach to their mutual sentiments and desire, it was still successfully conveyed at how dependent they were on each other - that they were entirely consumed by their necessity of having the other in their lives. And, it seems unprotected sex is going to be the norm in this series, so it doesn't feel valid for me to mention it, yet again. 🤦🏻‍♀️

You also have to take into account that Winston is a hurting man - that he's unable to get over the grief of his own mother's suicide, that has driven him to this destructive path. So if the one person that can anchor him to safe harbor is Percy - he's going to do whatever, and I mean, literally whatever he can to keep him from leaving him - no matter the cost. For each other, they define the phrase, 'it's not living, if it's not with you'. 😢😢

“My brain always circles back to you. I was possessive of you from the moment we met. I’m not sure when it shifted to more, but fuck did it shift. You became my world, my obsession, my purpose.

And I don’t care how unhealthy that sounds. It wasn’t ever a choice on my part. It was more like things slid into place, where they were always meant to be.”


I appreciated that at least in this installment, there was actually more of a plot centering at Black Diamond; although, I do find it rather questionable that TellTale's management would think it wise to send over the one person, who is also inadvertently responsible for Winston having to be at the facility for therapy, to try and appease his pain. But considering every other raising eyebrows-inducing action that took place in their relationship - I doubt it matters in the long run. 🤷🏻‍♀️

Having only read the author's previous series, which was written entirely in the first person narrative, it was an interesting choice to change it up to a third-person POV this time around. Surprisingly, it was effective in conveying their thoughts and emotions in a more compelling manner. I still have some reservations about the writing; at times, it felt like I was reading fan-fiction rather than an actual story, but I remain cautiously wary that there may be some chance for improvement in the future. ✨✨
Profile Image for Kati *☆・゚.
1,305 reviews701 followers
July 2, 2024
3.5**** stars
audio: 4.5 stars


The title describes this book pretty accurate.

The codependency between Winston and Percy was intense to say the least. It made me feel so sad for them and in the end I found their love story tragic. Way more than I found it romantic.


“Need me,” he demanded, but it sounded more like he was begging. […] He pulled back an inch and choked on a sob. A fat tear rolled down his cheek. Percy’s fingers threaded through Winston’s hair. “I need you,” he said quickly. Winston’s face burned. “Love me. Want me,” he panted. “I love you. I want you. I always have, even when we were just friends.”



Still, it was good. And the narrators’ performance for the audio was great.


******************
Unlucky 13 Multi-Author Series

Book 7 - Consumed - 3.5 stars
Book 11 - Exiled - 4.75 stars
Profile Image for Evelyn Bella (there WILL be spoilers) .
883 reviews194 followers
June 28, 2024
Aight, so boom. 15% in, we have the straight MC jerking off his gay best friend because be doesn't want anyone else touching him. 👀

Jesus, Mary and Joseph.

Tagging this as apart for plot because your bestie that gives you handies and blowjobs and cuddles you all night and requests that you don't get a boyfriend because he needs to have you all to himself otherwise he won't be able to take it is......probably not straight.

Can't imagine a less straight guy than Percy and I don't know why Winston couldn't see it. Or Percy himself, for that matter.

But then......you get to the part where Winston's reflecting and realizing what hurt him the most was that Percy's bi-awakening was the time Gage kissed him, and not the million times he'd done all that with Winston, and yeah, okay. I kinda get it. That would fuck anyone up.

'What hurt the most about it was that that’s when Percy realized he was attracted to men. He hadn’t realized any of the times he was nuzzling Winston’s neck or humping his thigh to get off. Nope.
It was Gage.
Not him.'

This book promises toxic codependency and delivers exactly that.

'He wanted to chain Percy to his bed and swallow him whole, wanted Percy embedded in his skin. He wanted him to be happy, and it didn’t matter if Winston could give him that or not. Percy should be his regardless. That was how selfish he was.'

Mmmmm, yes. Be unhinged. No notes.

“You don’t have to do the right thing with me, darlin’.” as you thrust between the cheeks of another man's fiancé is heinous business. Proceed.

“I’ll break up with him for you, baby. Don’t worry.” 💀WELL, EXCUSE ME?!

There's audacity and there's whatever this is. And honestly, I loved every minute of it.

This is literal touch him and die vibes. Or I'll die and then you'll be sorry 💀

Both, maybe??? Deeply unserious. But also really really good.
Profile Image for alex :).
230 reviews30 followers
dnf
January 21, 2025
ya know, it gets to a point where characters need to make up their mind on whether they want to be together or not. like y’all have literally been intimate with each other and have voiced that you would put each other over your actual partners. plus, the “i can’t live without you” and the “you were made for me” talk was pissing me off. if that’s the case, how about we just come forward and admit our feelings 🙄. the push and pull between them was so unnecessary and now they’re basically playing in my face because there’s no way we’re 65% in and still no confession in sight. yeah, had to dnf..
Profile Image for Mal.
557 reviews46 followers
July 29, 2023
The author gives us a stunningly intense love story of two beautifully complex men who have a hard won journey to a HEA years in the making.
I found myself completely hooked to the way the author unfolds the story, it’s so beautifully written and paced, threaded with deep emotions as you traverse years of friendship, love, vulnerability and pain with Percy and Juney.

They are both so protective of each other, admittedly codependent, yet both worried about the intensifying shift in feelings as they grow up, leading to an unwillingness to fully reveal what they feel, fearing loss yet still completely unable to let go of the attachment.
This is further complicated with sexual awakenings, sky rocketing to fame and untreated mental health diagnoses that leads to leaning heavily on substance abuse.
The author sensitively lays out what feels like a very authentic experience of a spiral exploding into a crisis that then leads to an intervention for therapeutic treatment at the BDR, again further leading to revelations and realisations that are simultaneously heartbreaking and cathartic to read. The author shows us the journey to characters making stronger choices towards the end that ultimately leads to a very satisfy and touching conclusion.

Story: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Swoon: ♥️♥️♥️♥️
Steam: 🔥🔥🔥.5
Angst: ❤️‍🩹❤️‍🩹❤️‍🩹❤️‍🩹

CW: explicit descriptions of struggles with mental health specially bipolar disorder and borderline personality disorder, depression and panic attacks. Cheating (Not between the MC’s), Attempted suicide, Suicidal ideation, Parental suicide, Alcoholic parent, substance abuse, violence, Further details have been provided by the author for reference.
Profile Image for Julia (bookish.jka).
945 reviews296 followers
August 3, 2023
"You saved me before I knew that I needed saving, and you never gave up on me. I made it so hard for you, but you stayed through everything. No matter how deep I sink, you’re always there with your tether. Your light."

Consumed by Bailey Nicole is book 7 in the standalone, multi-author, MM Unlucky 13 series, which is set around an all inclusive, private resort built exclusively for the troubled elite. This is Winston (Juney) and Percy's story and it's a cracker!

Be prepared for angst. A LOT of angst. And relationship misunderstandings by the bucketload, to the point where you may want to knock Percy and Winston's heads together. And there are some really dark themes, so check out all the author's notes at the start if you have any concerns. But if you get through that, you have these tropes to look forward to:

❣️Bi-awakening
❣️First times
❣️Best friends to lovers
❣️Hurt comfort
❣️Forced proximity
❣️Rockstar romance
❣️All the angst
❣️All the steam
❣️HEA

4.5 angsty stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Profile Image for Book Binge: Reviews by Melissa DaSilva.
936 reviews93 followers
July 25, 2023
This book was absolutely incredible! This will definitely be one of my favourites in this multi-author series. I can’t believe the time and dedication all these authors have shown to put together an amazing series like this. Every single one can be read as a standalone but they all have some part of the book at Black Diamond resort and I love when we see characters that appear in more than one book!

I wasn’t sure what to expect as I haven’t read a full book by this author before. I was blown away. The range of emotions that I experienced while reading this book was incredible. At one point I didn’t know if I could continue cause I was just a ball of anxiety reading about these two! However, once they hit their rock bottom, they slowly started climbing back up and we were getting more and more glimpses of the sun. If you like happiness and hope mixed in with heart-breaking angst this is a book for you!

Winston and Percy do not have a healthy friendship. But their relationship? Perfect! These two were meant to be together, there’s no universe that exists where these two ever should have stayed as just friends. Once Winston started to work through his problems I couldn’t put the book down. I enjoyed his journey and healing so much. It was beautiful to see and I appreciated that we got to experience it fully. Their HEA was beautiful and exactly what they needed!

I loved this story so much and I honestly can’t wait to see what other stories come from this series! I’m also really excited to read more by this author. I 100% recommend this book and hope you enjoy it as much as I did.
Profile Image for Sammy.
562 reviews151 followers
July 24, 2023
What an absolutely fantastic, heartbreaking, all consuming love story!!!!

Consumed is about life long best friends Winston and Percy. Winston has been in love with Percy all his life but believes Percy doesn't see him that way. They have a toxic, obsessive type of friendship which blurs the lines between friends and lovers. Winston's struggles with mental illness threaten to destroy everything unless he gets help. Enter Black Diamond Resort and Spa.

God, this book is ANGSTY. I just wanted to shake these boys and make them admit how much they loved each other. Winston is a wounded soul and wants nothing more than to make Percy his forever and all Percy wants is to be loved by a happy and healthy Winston. and don't even get me started on SPICY SPICE! Reading a Bailey Nicole romance is always a fun time.

Bailey switched up their POV writing style for this book and I have to say, I think they were always meant to write in 3rd person POV. I can't explain why, but it just works. This is a beautifully written love story with some heavy themes and it was absolutely stunning and flawless. I miss these characters already.

Triggers warnings are listed at the beginning of the book.
Profile Image for Anna (read.all.night).
294 reviews49 followers
July 20, 2023
This book is a masterpiece.
The friendship and deep deep love that Winston and Percy have for each other is wrapped up in so much angst and pain. I sank into every moment and felt like I was there living both sides of it while I was reading. Bailey’s third person voice is seriously incredible and I can’t wait for more from them!
This book was the perfect balance of sadness and happiness, and I really enjoyed all the ups and downs. The mental health rep is also so authentic and well done. Definitely my new favorite of 2023.
Profile Image for Mir.
1,131 reviews66 followers
November 9, 2023
This was okay…I loved loved loved the beginning. The toxic codependency, the obsessive possessiveness, the absolute cluelessness…

But then the characters kind of both became shitty people and it was the same shit over and over and over and over and over and then they literally avoid having a conversation regarding their attraction to one another for THREE YEARS!!!!!!!!

And a suicide attempt is what brought them together finally? 🤮
Profile Image for Jen (Fae_Princess_in_Space).
792 reviews41 followers
March 3, 2024
I really enjoyed this one but be aware - there is SO MUCH MISCOMMUNICATION. Like 14 years worth of miscommunication and mutual pining and I spent maybe 65% of the book wanting to shake the two MCs by the shoulders and scream at them that ‘of course they’re in love, of course the other one loves you, it’s so obvious, he’s always loved you!’ I feel like the sheer amount of miscommunication was unbelievable at points, like no way are two adult men this oblivious to their feelings, which is why it was a 4 star read and not a 5 for me. Also there was cheating (not between MCs), but that’s not a bother for me, but I know some people aren’t a fan.

But honestly, other than the pure fury of idiots in love but not knowing they’re in love, I really enjoyed this - lots of my favourite tropes in here including:
✨ Childhood friends to lovers
✨ Obsession & possessiveness
✨ Co-dependency
✨ Cuddling and affection
✨ First times
✨ Touch him and you die

This is a rockstar romance between Winston (Juney) and Percy, who are co-dependant and very much in love… even though each of them thinks the other only thinks of them as a friend, leading to years of pining and misery. Winston has a whole plethora of mental health issues, and when he tries to kill himself and is sent to Black Diamond resort for rehabilitation, Percy follows him (even though he has a fiancé). There, they start to realise what is truly between them and how wrong their assumptions were about their ‘friendship’ being simply just that.

Definitely give this one a read, but prepare yourself for all the emotions!
Profile Image for JonathanSamuelReads.
259 reviews35 followers
May 10, 2025
Winston whispered, “There’s no reason to be jealous.” He grabbed Percy’s hand and turned it palm up. He rubbed his thumb in circles over it. “You’ve always had me right here—since the first time that you invited me to lay under that live oak tree with you—I haven’t left.”


This was so drama filled and chaotic and messy but I couldn’t look away, plus throw in a stoner mc and a childhood friends to lovers with cheating and I was SAT!!!

Winston and Percy were so toxically co dependent and I kinda loved it.

-Percy jerking and blowing Winston in high school so he wouldn’t be with anyone one else, even though he was straight (girl yeah right) I died hahahah
-Winston telling Percy he will be the one to tell his fiancée about them being together and their engagement being over. I SCREAMED

The Balls on Winston though Jesus Christ 🤣

I had a great time reading it 😂 I will definitely check out her other books because I loved this.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Rielle.
569 reviews68 followers
August 15, 2023
2.5 stars

Soooo 4 stars for the needy possessive sex scenes.

2 stars for the plot/rest of the book, which was the majority.

For a book that deals with on page suicide, mental health, and substance abuse, it sure liked to skirt the seriousness of those topics. It was handled poorly and was fairly boring on top of it all. As someone who can fully excuse their morals and suspend disbelief, I was pulled firmly out of this story over and over again because the author purported to portray reality and not some exaggerated or otherwise unreal situation. I can appreciate that they stated to speak from their own experiences with mental health, but this did not feel like a biography. It was just chaotic and not in a fun way.
Profile Image for Eli.
302 reviews23 followers
December 27, 2023
Consumed is exactly like the title says, obsessive, possessive, and all-consuming; and I absolutely ate it up. These boys wanted to crawl inside each other’s skin and live there. Was it a little toxic and codependent? Yes, but that’s what I was in the mood for leave me alone! I will say I was absolutely stressed the fuck out for the first half of this book like hands shaking heart rate elevated, but the payoff was worth it in the end. Miscommunication is a main pillar of this plot and it was a little (a lot) infuriating at times, so prepare yourself for that if you pick this one up lol. Ultimately though I had a good time and the obsession was just so delicious.

🚨Minor spoilers ahead🚨





Also the main conflict in the last 25% like really didn’t make much sense. Ariana Grande homewrecked a marriage in front of the whole world and no one batted an eyelash! Who cares about a rock star doing it!
Profile Image for read_romance.withgloria Gloria Worlikar.
354 reviews14 followers
July 27, 2023
Consumed was one of the most heartbreaking & raw stories so far in the Unlucky 13 series & it's going to be one of my favourite books so far in this series. Winston & Percy were so well-written characters & damn I loved them so much. I have read Bailey's book before but this is going to be my favourite book.

Winston & Percy have been best friends since they were kids & they are very much dependent on each other. Damn, their codependency was so well written, I liked how even if Percy didn't know his feelings for Winston he was so possessive of him & their closeness & their friendship were amazing. Though their friendship was not the easiest one they went through so much & my heart hurt for both of them. The emotions portrayed were so strong, raw & heartwrenching.

Percy & Winston had great chemistry and gosh the epilogue was so beautiful, I loved they got there happily ever after going through so many struggles. It was great to see that Winston had Percy & his bandmates who had his back even if acted harshly with them. Percy & Winston's love was heartbreakingly beautiful & their journey & growth was so perfect, it was exactly what I wanted for them.

I loved this story so much & I am honestly looking forward to other stories in this series. I 100% recommend this book and all the other books in this series.

I received a free copy of this book via Indie Author Creative and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Kaitlyn.
464 reviews181 followers
August 5, 2023
He’s oxygen. He’s blood. He’s water. Without him, there is no me.

🌟 Star Rating - 5/5
🔥 Spice Rating - 3/5

What To Expect:
🖤 MM Romance
❤️ Codependency
🖤 Best Friends to Lovers
❤️ Angst
🖤 Mental Health Rep
❤️ HEA

I know your soul, and I know every square inch of you so well that if I were an artist, I could draw a portrait with my eyes closed.

𝑨𝑹𝑪 𝒑𝒓𝒐𝒗𝒊𝒅𝒆𝒅 𝒊𝒏 𝒆𝒙𝒄𝒉𝒂𝒏𝒈𝒆 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒂𝒏 𝒉𝒐𝒏𝒆𝒔𝒕 𝒓𝒆𝒗𝒊𝒆𝒘

This book, the angstiest of angst and most painful of pain. Bailey Nicole absolutely killed it with this one, all their books are always heart wrenching but this one was on a whole other level. Written in a different way than the author has written before, it was just as amazing and shows the author had the ability to write in different POVs and still draw you in completely. The way Winston and Percy's story wove a soul gutting tale of pain and suffering in the most beautiful and stunning way. Full of misunderstandings and super dark themes, it's a book that will hurt even the most seasoned of readers. I absolutely loved every minute of it and would do anything to read it for the first time again.
411 reviews31 followers
July 22, 2023

This book is angsty as fuck. Oh my god, the codependency and unhealthiness of Percy and Winston’s relationship is so intense, so consuming and fucking hot as hell. The possessiveness from both sides grabbed me instantly.

Bailey really gets in your head with these two. I felt frustrated and horny like poor Winston, then I felt needy like Percy. Even together there was a sense of pining. I have never read a book where it is portrayed like this and I fucking loved it. The addiction these guys have for one another is another level.

A wonderfully heartwarming, sad, steamy and emotional read. Winston’s mental health issues are dealt with in such a sensitive and realistic way. My heart aches for him. It ached for Percy too as the person watching the destruction of his one love, really tears at your heart.

I just loved this book. I would happily read more about these boys.

Profile Image for Molly Otto.
1,489 reviews31 followers
October 8, 2023
Consumed is truly the best way to describe the latest work by Bailey Nicole. It's all-encompassing, and you will feel everything.
Percy & Juney have been each other's everything from a young age it just took them the right catalyst to realize what needed to be done to be together. Bailey does not shy away from Juneys bipolar and borderline personality disorder (BPD), they throw you into the thick of it to truly understand all the emotions of Juney.
These men do not have an easy journey but they do what needs to be done to have their true happiness, even though some people are hurt along the way.
Give this book a try if you want to be enlightened by something many fear to put into words. Thank you Bailey for having the strength to do this, I know I for one will be forever grateful.
Profile Image for Amanda.
543 reviews26 followers
August 11, 2023
Holy hell, this is angsty af! Since we know I eat that up, I obviously adored these boys. The toxic, codependent, intense longing Winston and Percy feel for one another was tangible and heavy. And the way Percy calls him Juney and Junes? Shut up. There is nothing healthy about the way these two handle their emotions, but I was obsessed with their obsession. I was so here for the way their physical relationship began, too. They were frustrating, obtuse, and stubborn, but they melted my heart! The handling of Winston’s mental health struggle was well done, with a realistic, albeit accelerated, portrayal of different avenues of treatment and how they can be utilized.

There were some small pacing issues, at times we seemed to dwell too long in one spot, only to leap ahead. I did also think we went a bit too far over the line into melodrama sometimes - it’s a fine, fine line! Yet I loved these two dramatic messes, and I definitely plan to pick up other works by Nicole.

I received a free copy of this book via Indie Author Creative and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Jamie.
1,174 reviews95 followers
August 6, 2023
I’m still on the fence with this book. Parts of it I loved - the first 50% really got me. I was sobbing! The second 50% was massively frustrating.

Juney (Winston) was so tragically detached and yet felt everything. He had no coping mechanism other than drugs and alcohol. I think sex was also one but it’s all off pages and merely eluded to at various times.

So much happened before he ended up at rehab but a ton of stuff was glossed over or quickly mentioned. We didn’t get a real sense of everything that had transpired from being teens to super famous rockstars. And I still don’t understand how or why Percy was the manager. That felt…weird.

I did try to immerse myself in the co-dependent/toxic relationship but I also had whip lash. The break from each other for 3 years while working and living together felt strange. They basically just didn’t touch I guess. I’m still not sure how that worked. Keep in mind they are only 21 for the majority of this book. Very young.

Bailey relies heavily on all of her MCs smoking weed. But not just occasionally. They are full on potheads. It’s one of their passions. Which stops reading as recreational and more like addiction. And when Percy had the audacity to show up AT REHAB WITH A BONG AND WEED - I wanted to scream. The fuck is that? Plus, Juney was a full on addict and just because he finally had a qualified diagnosis and the right meds, didn’t mean he magically didn’t need or want other substances to get by. He thrived on being numb. This was sloppy and just odd.

There were elements of this I loved. Juney’s struggles were heartbreaking but made for so much compelling emotional content. I was invested!! I also did love the connection between Juney and Percy. No, it wasn’t healthy but there was something beautiful in their need for the other.

I don’t feel like Percy loving weed added anything of value to this book. It was so unnecessary. I also absolutely hated when Juney would bring up Percy’s fiancé while they were having these brutally intimate moments. It was kind of gross and made me mad at Juney.

I would be remiss if I didn’t mention that this whole book is basically miscommunication or lack of real communication. Once they finally admitted to their feelings, you realize how so much could have been avoided. But I guess there wouldn’t be a book otherwise.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 229 reviews

Can't find what you're looking for?

Get help and learn more about the design.