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Hot Under the Collar #1
Sweat Connection
One disaster bi single dad. One sexy plumber on a house call. One hot-as-hell romance….
Rhys
If I was a hot mess before becoming a single dad, my life’s pretty much an on-fire garbage can now.
Okay, maybe that’s a tad melodramatic—my bestie/baby momma/ex-girlfriend is still awesome, currently in the throuple of her dreams. And my kiddo Sammy’s amazing, albeit exhausting. I’m the one who’s too intense and rambling, too obsessed with random trivia, too liable to set dinner on fire. Essentially, too much for any relationship.
However, when a hottie plumber drops by to fix our toilet—thanks, Sammy—and gives me his number? My luck might just be turning around.
Cole
After my dad moved to a retirement community, he left me with the big, old house I grew up in and a whole lot of loneliness.
I thought by now I’d be settled down, but no one’s looking for the guy who likes long hikes with his dog, stargazing, and fixing shit around the house. They want fun, entertaining, flashy—not me.
Except when I give Rhys my private line for an emergency house call, I show up for the job to discover it’s a date. It seems like I might’ve met the one man on earth who’s just as interested as I am—if only we can find the guts to admit it.
Rhys
If I was a hot mess before becoming a single dad, my life’s pretty much an on-fire garbage can now.
Okay, maybe that’s a tad melodramatic—my bestie/baby momma/ex-girlfriend is still awesome, currently in the throuple of her dreams. And my kiddo Sammy’s amazing, albeit exhausting. I’m the one who’s too intense and rambling, too obsessed with random trivia, too liable to set dinner on fire. Essentially, too much for any relationship.
However, when a hottie plumber drops by to fix our toilet—thanks, Sammy—and gives me his number? My luck might just be turning around.
Cole
After my dad moved to a retirement community, he left me with the big, old house I grew up in and a whole lot of loneliness.
I thought by now I’d be settled down, but no one’s looking for the guy who likes long hikes with his dog, stargazing, and fixing shit around the house. They want fun, entertaining, flashy—not me.
Except when I give Rhys my private line for an emergency house call, I show up for the job to discover it’s a date. It seems like I might’ve met the one man on earth who’s just as interested as I am—if only we can find the guts to admit it.
189 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 8, 2023
184 people are currently reading
560 people want to read
About the author
Katherine McIntyre
85 books720 followersGeeky Queer Romance.
Katherine McIntyre is a feisty chick with a big attitude despite her short stature. She writes stories featuring snarky women, ragtag crews, and men with bad attitudes—high chance for a passionate speech thrown into the mix. As a genderqueer geek who’s always stepped to her own beat, she’s made it her mission to write stories that represent the broad spectrum of people out there. Easily distracted by cats and sugar.
Katherine McIntyre is a feisty chick with a big attitude despite her short stature. She writes stories featuring snarky women, ragtag crews, and men with bad attitudes—high chance for a passionate speech thrown into the mix. As a genderqueer geek who’s always stepped to her own beat, she’s made it her mission to write stories that represent the broad spectrum of people out there. Easily distracted by cats and sugar.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 220 reviews
December 4, 2023
This is one of those books that just keeps you smiling the whole way through. Simply crafted with interesting main characters as well as supporting ones, amusing and on top of that with perfectly fitting hot sex scenes that will shake you up.
My only complaint would be the first date scene, that was maybe a little too ridiculous, I don't know. But it's forgotten very quickly, because Cole is one big sweetheart and the following sex scene ... yummy...
Rhys and Cole have the perfect harmony with each other. Rhys this bright energetic bundle of nerves and Cole this big calm bear.
He gripped my ass even tighter, hard enough to leave bruises, and I melted against him. Somehow, this man achieved the impossible, and my mind actually…quieted. I just sank into the bliss of his hold on me, the firm caress of his mouth, how he made me feel like everything was taken care of for the first time in far too long. 😍😍😍
You could go on and argue that the book lacks depth, that more personal background would be interesting, blah, blah, blah.... I'm not in the mood for that. The book made me happy for a few hours, that's all I wanted.
My only complaint would be the first date scene, that was maybe a little too ridiculous, I don't know. But it's forgotten very quickly, because Cole is one big sweetheart and the following sex scene ... yummy...
Rhys and Cole have the perfect harmony with each other. Rhys this bright energetic bundle of nerves and Cole this big calm bear.
He gripped my ass even tighter, hard enough to leave bruises, and I melted against him. Somehow, this man achieved the impossible, and my mind actually…quieted. I just sank into the bliss of his hold on me, the firm caress of his mouth, how he made me feel like everything was taken care of for the first time in far too long. 😍😍😍
You could go on and argue that the book lacks depth, that more personal background would be interesting, blah, blah, blah.... I'm not in the mood for that. The book made me happy for a few hours, that's all I wanted.
August 14, 2023
Awwww this was such a cutie!!! I wanted to give it 3 stars because insta, sweet,no angst reads are not that exciting for me but then I thought “What the heck” , I was smiling all through it, so 4 stars it is.
Lovely read if you’re looking for a sweet (but not sappy) , insta (but not annoyingly so) and hawttt🔥(but not porny) book. The characters were sooo 😍 : the clumsy and cute single father and the gentle giant. And of course the adorable kid. I really enjoyed it .
Lovely read if you’re looking for a sweet (but not sappy) , insta (but not annoyingly so) and hawttt🔥(but not porny) book. The characters were sooo 😍 : the clumsy and cute single father and the gentle giant. And of course the adorable kid. I really enjoyed it .
dropped
March 17, 2024Can you believe it? This is already my 15th DNF this year and the first quarter is not even over yet.
Dropped @30%
It’s not the book, it’s me. It’s the single dad of a toddler thing that is just stressing me out. So far it was fluffy, no angst and pretty hot.
Probably giving the next one in the series a shot someday.
*************
Hot Under the Collar Series
Book 1 - Sweat Connection - dropped
Book 2 - Hot Conduit - tbr
Book 3 - Joint Penetration - release 07/24
Dropped @30%
It’s not the book, it’s me. It’s the single dad of a toddler thing that is just stressing me out. So far it was fluffy, no angst and pretty hot.
Probably giving the next one in the series a shot someday.
*************
Hot Under the Collar Series
Book 1 - Sweat Connection - dropped
Book 2 - Hot Conduit - tbr
Book 3 - Joint Penetration - release 07/24
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May 29, 2024
Sweat Connection is book one in the brand new series, Hot Under the Collar, by Katherine McIntyre. This is my very first book by Katherine.
Rhys Collins is thirty three years old, a single dad and a hot mess. He’s always been told he was “too much.” After the split with his best friend, and two year old son’s mom, he’s had trouble moving forward. If he couldn’t make it work with his best friend, how could he ever make it work with anyone else?
Cole McDade is also in his thirties and is adjusting to changes of his own. He is a plumber by trade, and is also a quiet man. His idea of an enjoyable night is just staying home, relaxing after working hard all day. Cole and his dad had shared their home but an accident forced his dad to make changes and he moved out. Ever since, Cole has struggled.
When Rhys’s son decides the toilet is a great place to throw toys, he finds himself in need of a plumber which makes for a fun meet cute. But their second meeting is even cuter, when a message misunderstanding leaves them both a little uncomfortable. But Cole’s patient, accepting way quickly sets things to right and sets them on a path beyond both of their expectations.
This was such a cute, low angst story. Rhys’s son was adorable and quite a handful! One man felt he was too much and one felt he wasn’t enough. Together maybe these two can be just enough! I love it when there is one moment in a book, usually just one line, that makes your heart squeeze, that makes your eyes feel hot or your throat clog up. There was such a moment in this book but that’s all I’m going to say about that. There is a hint at the end of what the next book will be about but I’ll leave that for you to find out.
For more about this book and so many others, come and visit me at Carol's Crazy Bookish World.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/Carol...
Rhys Collins is thirty three years old, a single dad and a hot mess. He’s always been told he was “too much.” After the split with his best friend, and two year old son’s mom, he’s had trouble moving forward. If he couldn’t make it work with his best friend, how could he ever make it work with anyone else?
Cole McDade is also in his thirties and is adjusting to changes of his own. He is a plumber by trade, and is also a quiet man. His idea of an enjoyable night is just staying home, relaxing after working hard all day. Cole and his dad had shared their home but an accident forced his dad to make changes and he moved out. Ever since, Cole has struggled.
When Rhys’s son decides the toilet is a great place to throw toys, he finds himself in need of a plumber which makes for a fun meet cute. But their second meeting is even cuter, when a message misunderstanding leaves them both a little uncomfortable. But Cole’s patient, accepting way quickly sets things to right and sets them on a path beyond both of their expectations.
This was such a cute, low angst story. Rhys’s son was adorable and quite a handful! One man felt he was too much and one felt he wasn’t enough. Together maybe these two can be just enough! I love it when there is one moment in a book, usually just one line, that makes your heart squeeze, that makes your eyes feel hot or your throat clog up. There was such a moment in this book but that’s all I’m going to say about that. There is a hint at the end of what the next book will be about but I’ll leave that for you to find out.
For more about this book and so many others, come and visit me at Carol's Crazy Bookish World.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/Carol...
June 29, 2025
Sweet and low angst. Two guys with some insecurities start dating and fall in love. There's a cute toddler, a nerdy found family (LOVE), and just endearing and wholesome moments all around.
August 9, 2023
Book safety, content warnings, and tropes & tags down below.
He lit up the evening sky like we’d switched to day,
✮ ✮ ✮ ✮ .5
I think I smiled all the way through when reading this. Both MCs have a couple of insecurities they deal with, but this is super low angst. Rhys is quite neurotic, but the sweetest person and most adoring dad. He loves his best friend (baby mama), but wants someone to love all of him without them thinking he’s ‘too much’. I even managed to tear up a little but because of those kinds of thoughts.
I tried to force a grin that came out more like a grimace as I clutched down on my nuts. Kid had fucking good aim.
Cole… Cole, Cole, Cole. I want one of those. Homebody, thick and hairy, sweet, and a little rough in bed? *coughs* yes please. I loved how he wasn’t quite sure how he felt about kids at first, and he was slightly intimidated by the thought of dating a dad, but toddler Sammy won him over pretty quickly. Rhys and Cole complemented each other well, I thought. They gave space when needed, and pushed when the other MC needed the help. It was a treat to watch them date, starting with a bit of a disaster miscommunication that thankfully ended well, and eventually fall in love. If you want something sweet and low angst, I would definitely recommend.
If my own best friend couldn’t hack it, then who would?
Blanket spoiler warning ⬇️
⚠️ Tropes & tags ⚠️
Strangers to lovers, size difference, single dad, funny miscommunication, mild primal kink, restraints, love bites, marking, board games, trivia nights, star wars love
⚠️⚠️ Content warning ⚠️⚠️
Explicit sexual content
Mentions of parent death
Mentions of car accident and injury (side character)
⚠️⚠️⚠️ Book safety ⚠️⚠️⚠️
Cheating: No
OM drama: No
Third-act breakup: No
POV: 1st person, dual POV
Strict roles or versatile: Versatile
He lit up the evening sky like we’d switched to day,
✮ ✮ ✮ ✮ .5
I think I smiled all the way through when reading this. Both MCs have a couple of insecurities they deal with, but this is super low angst. Rhys is quite neurotic, but the sweetest person and most adoring dad. He loves his best friend (baby mama), but wants someone to love all of him without them thinking he’s ‘too much’. I even managed to tear up a little but because of those kinds of thoughts.
I tried to force a grin that came out more like a grimace as I clutched down on my nuts. Kid had fucking good aim.
Cole… Cole, Cole, Cole. I want one of those. Homebody, thick and hairy, sweet, and a little rough in bed? *coughs* yes please. I loved how he wasn’t quite sure how he felt about kids at first, and he was slightly intimidated by the thought of dating a dad, but toddler Sammy won him over pretty quickly. Rhys and Cole complemented each other well, I thought. They gave space when needed, and pushed when the other MC needed the help. It was a treat to watch them date, starting with a bit of a disaster miscommunication that thankfully ended well, and eventually fall in love. If you want something sweet and low angst, I would definitely recommend.
If my own best friend couldn’t hack it, then who would?
Blanket spoiler warning ⬇️
⚠️ Tropes & tags ⚠️
Strangers to lovers, size difference, single dad, funny miscommunication, mild primal kink, restraints, love bites, marking, board games, trivia nights, star wars love
⚠️⚠️ Content warning ⚠️⚠️
Explicit sexual content
Mentions of parent death
Mentions of car accident and injury (side character)
⚠️⚠️⚠️ Book safety ⚠️⚠️⚠️
Cheating: No
OM drama: No
Third-act breakup: No
POV: 1st person, dual POV
Strict roles or versatile: Versatile
August 15, 2023
3,5 stars.
I knew going into this it would be light, sweet and fluffy, and I got exactly that.
There was a solid lgbtq+ representation, and no negativity thrown around at all (wouldn't that be nice in real life, too).
My only complaint is how Rhys was portrayed.
He was full of anxieties and nearly everyone felt he was "too much" (even his family, but not his closest friends and obviously Cole, neither). These two facts were repeated many times throughout the book, but there was no evidence shown of both things, at all.
He was afraid that nobody would want to be with him long term because of his dad-status and because he was very outgoing and couldn't relax easily. But that was all. And obviously Cole holding him tight during sex was calming Rhys down, and he felt healed by Cole's presence (insert sarcastic eyeroll).
There was no evidence shown of his anxieties, we were just told that's what made a big part of his personality.
I felt the topic anxiety was treated in a too shallow and superficial way, as if it had seemed convenient to include a MC with anxiety but too complicated to go through with it.
I knew going into this it would be light, sweet and fluffy, and I got exactly that.
There was a solid lgbtq+ representation, and no negativity thrown around at all (wouldn't that be nice in real life, too).
My only complaint is how Rhys was portrayed.
He was full of anxieties and nearly everyone felt he was "too much" (even his family, but not his closest friends and obviously Cole, neither). These two facts were repeated many times throughout the book, but there was no evidence shown of both things, at all.
He was afraid that nobody would want to be with him long term because of his dad-status and because he was very outgoing and couldn't relax easily. But that was all. And obviously Cole holding him tight during sex was calming Rhys down, and he felt healed by Cole's presence (insert sarcastic eyeroll).
There was no evidence shown of his anxieties, we were just told that's what made a big part of his personality.
I felt the topic anxiety was treated in a too shallow and superficial way, as if it had seemed convenient to include a MC with anxiety but too complicated to go through with it.
January 1, 2025
Wow, that kid was exhausting to read about. Are toddlers really like that?! 😅
But thankfully I liked the chosen family trope and both MCs quite a bit, so I persevered!
I thought their meet cute was adorably awkward and the steam was hot even though Cole went from uncertain, shy, awkward by day to sex crazy, dominant, dirty talking king by night and that threw me sometimes, ngl 😅
I also thought a lot of the struggles the MCs faced individually were told (and told many times) but not shown. Where was Cole being boring and dull? Where was Rhys too much, too neurotic and too anxious? And also who the hell were these people dating beforehand that a kiss before sex and the most basic common decency blew both of them away constantly? Poor babies 🥹
Other than that, this was the fluffy, feel good book I was craving after TJ Klune ripped my heart out - again.
So yeah, this was solid, but nothing too special. 3⭐️
But thankfully I liked the chosen family trope and both MCs quite a bit, so I persevered!
I thought their meet cute was adorably awkward and the steam was hot even though Cole went from uncertain, shy, awkward by day to sex crazy, dominant, dirty talking king by night and that threw me sometimes, ngl 😅
I also thought a lot of the struggles the MCs faced individually were told (and told many times) but not shown. Where was Cole being boring and dull? Where was Rhys too much, too neurotic and too anxious? And also who the hell were these people dating beforehand that a kiss before sex and the most basic common decency blew both of them away constantly? Poor babies 🥹
Other than that, this was the fluffy, feel good book I was craving after TJ Klune ripped my heart out - again.
So yeah, this was solid, but nothing too special. 3⭐️
September 3, 2024
This book is super sweet and I’d rather die than read something that’s giving me cavities right now.
Single dad what’s his face is supposedly “too much” for most people to handle. But nothing in the book really paints him that way.
The other guy, the plumber, is supposedly a boring guy (who seems like a totally normal guy to me with normal person aka not boring interests) who thinks no one wants him long term but lookie what we have here! A perfect match. 🤮
God I just can’t with these people.
Single dad what’s his face is supposedly “too much” for most people to handle. But nothing in the book really paints him that way.
The other guy, the plumber, is supposedly a boring guy (who seems like a totally normal guy to me with normal person aka not boring interests) who thinks no one wants him long term but lookie what we have here! A perfect match. 🤮
God I just can’t with these people.
June 15, 2024
Single dad Rhys is in need of a plumber after his son shoves some toys in the toilet. Hot plumber Cole comes to the rescue and gives Rhys his number and instructions to call him anytime.
Thinking that Cole was hitting on him, Rhys hits him up asking him to come over, only there’s a tiny misunderstanding—Cole thinks he’s there for a job, and Rhys thought they were going on a date 🤣
The two do end up dating after their little hiccup, and we’re honestly super cute. The chemistry and spice between them was fantastic, and I loved their little family unit.
Thinking that Cole was hitting on him, Rhys hits him up asking him to come over, only there’s a tiny misunderstanding—Cole thinks he’s there for a job, and Rhys thought they were going on a date 🤣
The two do end up dating after their little hiccup, and we’re honestly super cute. The chemistry and spice between them was fantastic, and I loved their little family unit.
August 15, 2023
Easy breezy low angst read. 😊
Favorite character: Cole 🥰
I do wish that they communicated some of their internal thoughts to each other and that the ‘talk’ of what they were to each other happened sooner but otherwise I enjoyed it! Even the first date that gave me second hand embarrassment 🙈
My ratings always reflect my enjoyment of the story. ❀
Favorite character: Cole 🥰
I do wish that they communicated some of their internal thoughts to each other and that the ‘talk’ of what they were to each other happened sooner but otherwise I enjoyed it! Even the first date that gave me second hand embarrassment 🙈
My ratings always reflect my enjoyment of the story. ❀
June 20, 2025
This was both adorable and hot.
It was the strangest thing. It wasn't on my read list, but I swear there were parts that I had read before, like, exactly. But then there was a lot I hadn't.
I thought maybe I'd read it as a novella, and it had been rewritten and extended, but I could find anything stating that.
It doesn't matter anyway, because I loved it.
It was the strangest thing. It wasn't on my read list, but I swear there were parts that I had read before, like, exactly. But then there was a lot I hadn't.
I thought maybe I'd read it as a novella, and it had been rewritten and extended, but I could find anything stating that.
It doesn't matter anyway, because I loved it.
December 27, 2023
3/5 stars
July 18, 2024
This was the sweetest story. It took me a few chapters to get into it, but once Cole and Rhys started dating I just couldn’t stop smiling. That’s when I wasn’t wiping my eyes with happy tears. Cole couldn’t have been more perfect. He’s the kind of man I love as a main character. He’s big and strong and picturing him and Rhys in bed after a night of sex was heaven. I was also enamored by the supporting characters. Sammy is adorable and Cole’s dad was great. If you’re looking for a low angst love story I highly recommend this book.
April 12, 2024
Katherine McIntyre's Sweat Connection is just as sweet as it could be. Don't get me wrong, there's plenty of heat, but the relationship between the main characters is just so charming I didn't stop smiling the whole way through.
There are some wonderful supporting characters, including Rhys' adorable 2 year old, Sammy.
I enjoyed the audio version of Sweat Connection, nicely performed by Dylan Rockwell.
an audiobook copy of Sweat Connection was provided for the purpose of my honest review, all opinions are my own
There are some wonderful supporting characters, including Rhys' adorable 2 year old, Sammy.
I enjoyed the audio version of Sweat Connection, nicely performed by Dylan Rockwell.
an audiobook copy of Sweat Connection was provided for the purpose of my honest review, all opinions are my own
April 18, 2024
Audiobook review
I still really liked the story. I think it is very sweet and funny as hell at times
What I really like is how they work around their insecurities.
The narration by Dylan Rockwell was OK and for me much better than for the second book
The accents were not over the top and the different voices were well done.
So, a 3,5 stars for the audiobook, upgraded to 4
I still really liked the story. I think it is very sweet and funny as hell at times
What I really like is how they work around their insecurities.
The narration by Dylan Rockwell was OK and for me much better than for the second book
The accents were not over the top and the different voices were well done.
So, a 3,5 stars for the audiobook, upgraded to 4
August 29, 2023
4 stars, maybe a bit more. Picked this up on a whim and grinned the whole way through. Single dad books are some of my favorite. Very very low angst which was wonderful. The minor angst plot was a little silly, but overall this was exactly what I needed/wanted it to be!
August 23, 2023
2nd read through on audio: This book was just as amazing the second time around on audio! The narrator did a fantastic job and had me excited to listen the whole way through. There was so many things I forgot about that I loved with their story. I absolutely recommend reading or listening to this story if you’re in the mood for a low angst high heat romance!
I was lucky enough to read an ARC of this awesome book. This is another single dad romance that Kat McIntyre has done so well!
Rhys and Cole were definitely a case of opposites attract, in both physical features and hobbies but it works so well with them. Neither one of them think the other will be attracted to them but once they start dating they realize how well they fit together. And the kink these two explore 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥!! It was fun to go along for the ride with these two as they discover how free they can be with the other in all ways!
This was a fairly low-angst book. There were a couple scenes of indecision but other than that it was pretty smooth sailing which was perfect for me in my current state of mind. Also loved all the fun low-key board game and trivia nights. I needed a hot, fun read and that’s exactly what I got!
One of my favourite things about single dad romances is seeing the connection grow between the children and the boyfriend. Cole definitely didn’t disappoint as he really tried to make an effort with Sammy and Sammy seemed to love him right from the start! Sammy was the cutest little toddler!
This is the first book in the series, however, there is a small novella called Coupled (FFM romance) that features the mother of Sammy that I definitely recommend reading first! I can’t wait to continue this series!
I was lucky enough to read an ARC of this awesome book. This is another single dad romance that Kat McIntyre has done so well!
Rhys and Cole were definitely a case of opposites attract, in both physical features and hobbies but it works so well with them. Neither one of them think the other will be attracted to them but once they start dating they realize how well they fit together. And the kink these two explore 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥!! It was fun to go along for the ride with these two as they discover how free they can be with the other in all ways!
This was a fairly low-angst book. There were a couple scenes of indecision but other than that it was pretty smooth sailing which was perfect for me in my current state of mind. Also loved all the fun low-key board game and trivia nights. I needed a hot, fun read and that’s exactly what I got!
One of my favourite things about single dad romances is seeing the connection grow between the children and the boyfriend. Cole definitely didn’t disappoint as he really tried to make an effort with Sammy and Sammy seemed to love him right from the start! Sammy was the cutest little toddler!
This is the first book in the series, however, there is a small novella called Coupled (FFM romance) that features the mother of Sammy that I definitely recommend reading first! I can’t wait to continue this series!
July 24, 2023
[I received a digital arc for an honest review]
Sweet Connection is the first standalone in the Hot Under the Collar series by Katherine McIntyre. A steamy , sweet mm romance between a single dad and his plumber.
I adored this one! Rhys is a ball of energy single dad to a rambunctious darling 2-year-old. Hot Damn Cole was my perfect MC , a bear of a man, gentle giant, introvert, who can cook! They compliment each other really well. Rhys brings Cole out of his shell just the right amount, and Cole is there for the low-key and comfort Rhys needs after running around after a 2-year-old all day.
The heat in his eyes when he looked at me, the attention he gave with every kiss, nip , and lick had me feeling desirable for the first time in far too long.
The romance between Rhys and Cole is high steam yet them making it official takes longer. They are both afraid of taking the next step in their relationship due to insecurities. Rhys is afraid of being too much for long term, and Cole is afraid of being not enough.
Sweet Connection by Katherine McIntyre has mature MCs, Bi rep, high steam, a sprinkle of kink, Star Wars, trivia night, a lovable pup, low angst, low drama, all the cuddles, and a happy ending.
Sweet Connection is the first standalone in the Hot Under the Collar series by Katherine McIntyre. A steamy , sweet mm romance between a single dad and his plumber.
I adored this one! Rhys is a ball of energy single dad to a rambunctious darling 2-year-old. Hot Damn Cole was my perfect MC , a bear of a man, gentle giant, introvert, who can cook! They compliment each other really well. Rhys brings Cole out of his shell just the right amount, and Cole is there for the low-key and comfort Rhys needs after running around after a 2-year-old all day.
The heat in his eyes when he looked at me, the attention he gave with every kiss, nip , and lick had me feeling desirable for the first time in far too long.
The romance between Rhys and Cole is high steam yet them making it official takes longer. They are both afraid of taking the next step in their relationship due to insecurities. Rhys is afraid of being too much for long term, and Cole is afraid of being not enough.
Sweet Connection by Katherine McIntyre has mature MCs, Bi rep, high steam, a sprinkle of kink, Star Wars, trivia night, a lovable pup, low angst, low drama, all the cuddles, and a happy ending.
August 3, 2023
Rhys is, like, PEAK disaster bi, haha. Same, my dude - same. This is a very low angst romance, where the main conflict is each of the main characters just needing to get past their hang-ups and get out of their own way. Rhys is convinced he's "too much" (which, as a fellow ADHD disaster bi, I 110% feel you, Rhys), and Cole worries he's basically not enough - too boring, not exciting. Which is SILLY, because Cole likes plenty of perfectly cool stuff, but whatevs.
The chemistry between Cole and Rhys is lovely (and super hot, with some very light primal kink thrown in for funsies) and this romance is overall just really sweet and fluffy and GOOD. Highly recommend if you need to just get out of your head and find some new folks to love on.
This is the first book in the Hot Under the Collar series, and can be read as a standalone. I can't wait for book two, Hot Conduit, which is about Lex and Theo and involves a "dating app mishap" - yesssss!
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are unbiased and my own.
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The chemistry between Cole and Rhys is lovely (and super hot, with some very light primal kink thrown in for funsies) and this romance is overall just really sweet and fluffy and GOOD. Highly recommend if you need to just get out of your head and find some new folks to love on.
This is the first book in the Hot Under the Collar series, and can be read as a standalone. I can't wait for book two, Hot Conduit, which is about Lex and Theo and involves a "dating app mishap" - yesssss!
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are unbiased and my own.
Like this review?
Check out more of my reviews on my blog, Elley the Book Otter
August 2, 2023
I loved this sweet insta Lust to love story. I loved both Rhys and Cole who are layered characters grappling with feelings of inadequacy and dealing with a few life changes that have been dealt to them recently.
Meeting on the job, sparks fly and after a misunderstanding they navigate in the cutest way they start dating. I love how there is no drama, just a smidge of angst, swoony moments, real talk making this a sweet and super hot story.
Expect:
* low angst
* opposites attract
* kink explorations
*light primal play
*dirty talk
*size difference
I especially loved Sammy and Kelsey and I’m excited to read Lex and Theo’s story next.
If you’re in the mood for something sweet and spicy that’s very well written give this a try.
Meeting on the job, sparks fly and after a misunderstanding they navigate in the cutest way they start dating. I love how there is no drama, just a smidge of angst, swoony moments, real talk making this a sweet and super hot story.
Expect:
* low angst
* opposites attract
* kink explorations
*light primal play
*dirty talk
*size difference
I especially loved Sammy and Kelsey and I’m excited to read Lex and Theo’s story next.
If you’re in the mood for something sweet and spicy that’s very well written give this a try.
June 2, 2023
*I received a ARC but this is my honest review*
I LOVED THIS BOOK, a 4.5 rounded to a 5. I just like how it was low angst but it was fast pace, I did not feel like we were wasting time or pages, and even though not a lot was happening it was not boring. Katherine McIntyre knows how to write found families, I loved the friendships shown in this book and just seeing the positive supportive vibes are my favorite. This was such a great read and I cannot wait for the second book.
I LOVED THIS BOOK, a 4.5 rounded to a 5. I just like how it was low angst but it was fast pace, I did not feel like we were wasting time or pages, and even though not a lot was happening it was not boring. Katherine McIntyre knows how to write found families, I loved the friendships shown in this book and just seeing the positive supportive vibes are my favorite. This was such a great read and I cannot wait for the second book.
November 22, 2023
4.5 stars
I grinned all through this novel. The "meet-cute", the misunderstanding, and this powerful connection they got from the beginning. And not just a physical one! They supported each other, and shared so much of themselves. Cole's relationship with his dad was well developed, giving us the feels when they finally talked about their past and shared a meaningful moment. Beside Sammy being a full sweetheart, I really liked Kelsey, as she was very supportive of Cole and Rhys's relationship. I'm very curious what will be Lex and Theo's story 🤔
Overall, this is a pretty low-angst story - just like I love them - with a found family theme and some board games. Go for it!
I received an ARC from GRR review. This is my honest opinion.
I grinned all through this novel. The "meet-cute", the misunderstanding, and this powerful connection they got from the beginning. And not just a physical one! They supported each other, and shared so much of themselves. Cole's relationship with his dad was well developed, giving us the feels when they finally talked about their past and shared a meaningful moment. Beside Sammy being a full sweetheart, I really liked Kelsey, as she was very supportive of Cole and Rhys's relationship. I'm very curious what will be Lex and Theo's story 🤔
Overall, this is a pretty low-angst story - just like I love them - with a found family theme and some board games. Go for it!
I received an ARC from GRR review. This is my honest opinion.
September 1, 2023
Except that was life.
Throwing yourself into the world and collecting scars along the way. Learning to fight through them regardless, to shape yourself into a complete person full of triumphs and failures, full of fears and strengths that ebbed and flowed like the tides.
3.5 stars. Very cute! I never really LOVE any of the short romances that I read, but I still had a good time with this, and it was nice to sink into a sweet, low angst romance for a little bit. Rhys is a single father who recently broke up with his best friend/co-parent (though they're still best friends). Cole is an introverted plumber, trying to adjust to living alone after his father had a bad accident. Their meet-cute is the absolute cutest, and they have a mostly smooth journey to dating and getting together, with lots of chemistry and fun moments. They both have personality quirks that other people/other partners have disliked, and they're trying to work through those things, figuring out how to be themselves and be with the person they're falling for. The kid stuff was really cute; Sammy was an actually realistically written toddler, and Rhys as a new, but really earnest father learning the ropes rang very true. I do wish we'd gotten to see Sammy interacting with Cole a little more, and Cole's dog. And it might have been a little TOO low angst for me. But it was still a really entertaining read, very sexy, and really feel good. I did like the friend group, so I might move on in the series.
August 3, 2023
I planned on a few chapters before bed, and now it's well past midnight, and I've finished. I should have known better. To be honest, something about how Kat tells a story has me hook, line, and sinker. Rhys and Cole were no exception. Rhys, talk about hot mess single dad goodness! More, please. And Cole, the sweetest bear on the planet. Throw in a cute kid, a pampered pup, and another all-star cast of awesome friends, and I'm down the rabbit hole desperately waiting for the next book. I haven't read much first person, but I loved every word. I was immediately immersed in this new world, and it gave me a much-needed escape from reality. Now the hard part… waiting for the next one!
February 20, 2024
This is a bit of a generous rating...I enjoyed Rhys and Cole individually and understood why they liked each other, but when they were together, the actual relationship building was lacking. There was definitely a lot of telling instead of showing.
Also, a few things with the writing bugged me, but the worst was referring to an adrenaline rush as "epinephrine" because that has a wildly different connotation.
Also, a few things with the writing bugged me, but the worst was referring to an adrenaline rush as "epinephrine" because that has a wildly different connotation.
December 13, 2025
Very cute start to this series! Rhys is a bit of a mess, but a sweet guy who is co-parenting with his best (female) friend. His house is a mess, his life is a mess, but he has good friends and fun trivia nights with them. One day he has plumbing issues and who shows up? Not the kind of plumbers i get at my house, that's for house, haha, but sweet, hottie bear Cole....and the sparks fly! Very enjoyable to read how these two come together and start to build trust with one another, slowly letting the other in. As usual, this author includes fun geek stuff (like the trivia nights and fandom stuff), so for me, that's a super fun part of the reading.
What to Expect:
*Single dad + handyman/plumber
*twink + bear
*walking disaster + competent
*co-parenting with female BFF
*good boy doggie
*found family/friend group
*trivia nights
*Star Wars/fandom
*spicy times
*light primal play
What to Expect:
*Single dad + handyman/plumber
*twink + bear
*walking disaster + competent
*co-parenting with female BFF
*good boy doggie
*found family/friend group
*trivia nights
*Star Wars/fandom
*spicy times
*light primal play
February 13, 2024
So sweet and cute (and hot 🥵)
Zero angst-albeit the insecurities of Cole and Rhys, supportive family and friends, an adorable 2yo, a misunderstanding turning to a great start, just what I needed to read!
Zero angst-albeit the insecurities of Cole and Rhys, supportive family and friends, an adorable 2yo, a misunderstanding turning to a great start, just what I needed to read!
July 11, 2024
4☆
ᔑᑭᏆᑕᗴ: 🔥🔥🔥
しᗩᑌᏀᕼᔑ: 🤣🤣🤣
Ꭲᗴᗩᖇᔑ:🥲
ᗰᑕᔑ: Rhys, Cole
ᑭᝪᐯ: 1st, Dual
Ꭲᖇᝪᑭᗴᔑ: Single Dad, Bear, Disaster Single Dad.
Esto estuvo más divertido de lo que esperaba Cole es un amor Rhys es un ñoño adorable y ni hablar del Sammy niño perfecto
ᔑᑭᏆᑕᗴ: 🔥🔥🔥
しᗩᑌᏀᕼᔑ: 🤣🤣🤣
Ꭲᗴᗩᖇᔑ:🥲
ᗰᑕᔑ: Rhys, Cole
ᑭᝪᐯ: 1st, Dual
Ꭲᖇᝪᑭᗴᔑ: Single Dad, Bear, Disaster Single Dad.
Esto estuvo más divertido de lo que esperaba Cole es un amor Rhys es un ñoño adorable y ni hablar del Sammy niño perfecto
April 3, 2025
3.75 ⭐️
This was just what I needed after reading a dark romance involving murder.
This was just what I needed after reading a dark romance involving murder.
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