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Men of Holsum College #7
Genius and the Jock
First and goal. Three years ago, football star Griff Parker shared a locker room sexual encounter with brainy scholarship kid Raj Mehir. That stolen blow job turned Griff’s worldview upside down, unlocking desires he wasn’t ready to face.
Now a senior, Griff’s working in Holsum College’s biology lab, where he’s in direct contact with his freshman crush. Raj wants nothing to do with him or the memory of that afternoon. Too bad. Griff's falling hard for Raj, battling his way past every one of his sexy scientist's defenses.
Raj Mehir knows he’s gay. But he's locked that knowledge tightly inside and has no desire to change that. But he does have desire for Griff. In a big way. Now he's experimenting with Griff and inching closer to the closet door.
Double overtime. Two deeply closeted guys. Two hearts on the line. One term to change everything.
Now a senior, Griff’s working in Holsum College’s biology lab, where he’s in direct contact with his freshman crush. Raj wants nothing to do with him or the memory of that afternoon. Too bad. Griff's falling hard for Raj, battling his way past every one of his sexy scientist's defenses.
Raj Mehir knows he’s gay. But he's locked that knowledge tightly inside and has no desire to change that. But he does have desire for Griff. In a big way. Now he's experimenting with Griff and inching closer to the closet door.
Double overtime. Two deeply closeted guys. Two hearts on the line. One term to change everything.
131 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 15, 2012
7 people are currently reading
205 people want to read
About the author
Daisy Harris
43 books346 followersRetired party girl and science fiction enthusiast, Daisy Harris spends most of her time writing sexy romance and plotting the fall of Western civilization. Her books can be found on Amazon, Nook, and wherever else fine erotic romance is sold.
Ms. Harris lives in Seattle, where she tortures her husband by making it rain. She enjoys watching bridges cause traffic, watching football games cause traffic, and blithely wearing wool socks with sandals.
She has never taken a single picture in which her bra strap is not showing.
Want to find out about new releases, general news, and my latest inappropriate boy band crush? Sign up for my newsletter here: http://eepurl.com/b96xX
Ms. Harris lives in Seattle, where she tortures her husband by making it rain. She enjoys watching bridges cause traffic, watching football games cause traffic, and blithely wearing wool socks with sandals.
She has never taken a single picture in which her bra strap is not showing.
Want to find out about new releases, general news, and my latest inappropriate boy band crush? Sign up for my newsletter here: http://eepurl.com/b96xX
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
April 24, 2015
This is a fun, low angst read about two collage boys exploring their new found sexuality for the first time. Their first few times together sexually (as seniors) were sweet and very emotional and pulled at my romantic heart stings. Then the sex got hot and heavy and fucking awesome! Love that!
Recommended if you like misunderstood virgins, inexperienced boys exploring each other, coming out stories and built up passion finally unleashed.
Recommended if you like misunderstood virgins, inexperienced boys exploring each other, coming out stories and built up passion finally unleashed.
September 26, 2012
This review was posted at Under the Covers
This book mixes two characters that we've previously seen in the series. And what a match mad ein "I didn't think that could happen" heaven.
Raj is Calvin's best friend and lab partner in BOSSY AND THE BRAT. Sexy, indian descent, smart beyond any limitations. Kind of in the closet. What we didn't know back then was that he had a crush on football player Griffin. They had a quick BJ moment years ago but haven't talked to each other since.
Raj has always been gay but never wanted to talk about it. His friends don't know, his family doesn't know. He's known for a while and the one object of his lust was Griffin until he started working with Calvin. But now Calvin has a boyfriend.
Griffin just happens to get hired to work security at their lab building which gives him the perfect opportunity to pursue Raj. And truly, I felt like Griffin was having one of those old time courtships. It was so cute, him offering rides, running when he needed help. Adorable.
Then there's the sexual aspect. They are both virgins. The only m/m experience they've had was actually with each other so they fumble along until they get it right, but boy do they get it right. I guess there's something to be said for enthusiasm.
Their romance was just charming. This book had everything I've come to love in Daisy Harris's writing. She's got her groove back!
*ARC provided by author
This book mixes two characters that we've previously seen in the series. And what a match mad ein "I didn't think that could happen" heaven.
Raj is Calvin's best friend and lab partner in BOSSY AND THE BRAT. Sexy, indian descent, smart beyond any limitations. Kind of in the closet. What we didn't know back then was that he had a crush on football player Griffin. They had a quick BJ moment years ago but haven't talked to each other since.
Raj has always been gay but never wanted to talk about it. His friends don't know, his family doesn't know. He's known for a while and the one object of his lust was Griffin until he started working with Calvin. But now Calvin has a boyfriend.
Griffin just happens to get hired to work security at their lab building which gives him the perfect opportunity to pursue Raj. And truly, I felt like Griffin was having one of those old time courtships. It was so cute, him offering rides, running when he needed help. Adorable.
Then there's the sexual aspect. They are both virgins. The only m/m experience they've had was actually with each other so they fumble along until they get it right, but boy do they get it right. I guess there's something to be said for enthusiasm.
Their romance was just charming. This book had everything I've come to love in Daisy Harris's writing. She's got her groove back!
*ARC provided by author
November 27, 2017
3.5 Stars
A good New Adult romance between a football player and a science geek.
You might think that the more difficult hero would be Grif, the athlete, but it is Raj, the bookish one.
Harris allows us to see that Grif's behaviors are really just social awkwardness. Raj is very closed off even with his friends. He clings to the closet even at times when it makes no real sense.
I like Grif a lot for his emotionial bravery. Raj remains pretty cold and we don't really seem him deal with the cultural aspect of his issues. It would have been a stronger book if he had grown more but it is a sweet romance in places and a nice read. I love seeing all the other couples again in the series.
A good New Adult romance between a football player and a science geek.
You might think that the more difficult hero would be Grif, the athlete, but it is Raj, the bookish one.
Harris allows us to see that Grif's behaviors are really just social awkwardness. Raj is very closed off even with his friends. He clings to the closet even at times when it makes no real sense.
I like Grif a lot for his emotionial bravery. Raj remains pretty cold and we don't really seem him deal with the cultural aspect of his issues. It would have been a stronger book if he had grown more but it is a sweet romance in places and a nice read. I love seeing all the other couples again in the series.
September 26, 2012
Really 4.5 Stars
Reviewed on http://scorchingbookreviews.blogspot....
Three years before, shy shower boy Raj somehow managed to wangle a blow job from the jock he couldn’t help but notice in the shower. That encounter left Griff dealing with feelings that were at odds to his Jock persona but you just can’t fight who you are.
Now it’s their final year at college and they are thrown together again when Griff takes the building security job at the Bio-lab where Raj is working. Raj has never forgiven Griff for the way he treated him after their encounter but Griff is oblivious to any wrong doings on his part. Trying his hardest to get past Raj’s defences becomes his new mission, and when his offers of a ride home start to pay off, they start to pick up where they left off that night in the locker room.
Neither of them feels that they are able to come out to anyone. Raj fears what his traditional parents will say, what his already out gay friends will say and even what his landlords will say. It’s easy to let Griff close, but no one else can ever know. Griff is a star football player and that means that he has to stay firmly in the closet with the door locked. He knows what his team –mates will say and it won’t be pretty. Both of them see no choice but to be each others dirty little secret.
As the boys realise that they are each other’s only confidant, feelings start to grow between them. When hearts start to get involved, keeping their relationship becomes more of a challenge. Will they part ways to keep everyone but themselves happy?
This series is a personal favourite for me and this one took the whole theme to a new level. The series began being very sweet, but recent books have been getting more and more hot. This one is HOT! We begin the book with a hot blow job scene and the last chapter contains some of the hottest scenes of the book; I really did have no issues in reading it from start to finish!
I loved the plot of this one. Both of these guys lived in worlds were homophobia is a very real problem and, in each other, they found someone they could be totally honest with. I suppose it was sweet, but it was hidden very very well under the layers of pure hotness :D Raj was a man who didn’t know he fit. He knew he was gay, but thought that that mean’t he automatically needed to start acting effeminate and flamboyant. He didn’t know how others would act around him once they knew; he seemed to think that once he came out he would be a different person. He really was adorable and I thought he was a really strong character.
Griff was a sweetie. He had already decided that he was coming out once he had left the football team but he was more than willing to do whatever Raj wanted to do as far as telling people. He was so laid back about it all that he was horizontal. He was willing to be top, bottom, sub, Dom, dating, fucking..... It was quite entertaining! It did, however, make him less of a character in my eyes. It all felt that it was about Raj, that he wasn’t a character in his own right. He just didn’t stand out as much as Raj did!
This is a hot tale with a very realistic angst. I loved the chemistry and the sex was HOT! There is a scene after a wedding *fans*.....
Reviewed on http://scorchingbookreviews.blogspot....
Three years before, shy shower boy Raj somehow managed to wangle a blow job from the jock he couldn’t help but notice in the shower. That encounter left Griff dealing with feelings that were at odds to his Jock persona but you just can’t fight who you are.
Now it’s their final year at college and they are thrown together again when Griff takes the building security job at the Bio-lab where Raj is working. Raj has never forgiven Griff for the way he treated him after their encounter but Griff is oblivious to any wrong doings on his part. Trying his hardest to get past Raj’s defences becomes his new mission, and when his offers of a ride home start to pay off, they start to pick up where they left off that night in the locker room.
Neither of them feels that they are able to come out to anyone. Raj fears what his traditional parents will say, what his already out gay friends will say and even what his landlords will say. It’s easy to let Griff close, but no one else can ever know. Griff is a star football player and that means that he has to stay firmly in the closet with the door locked. He knows what his team –mates will say and it won’t be pretty. Both of them see no choice but to be each others dirty little secret.
As the boys realise that they are each other’s only confidant, feelings start to grow between them. When hearts start to get involved, keeping their relationship becomes more of a challenge. Will they part ways to keep everyone but themselves happy?
This series is a personal favourite for me and this one took the whole theme to a new level. The series began being very sweet, but recent books have been getting more and more hot. This one is HOT! We begin the book with a hot blow job scene and the last chapter contains some of the hottest scenes of the book; I really did have no issues in reading it from start to finish!
I loved the plot of this one. Both of these guys lived in worlds were homophobia is a very real problem and, in each other, they found someone they could be totally honest with. I suppose it was sweet, but it was hidden very very well under the layers of pure hotness :D Raj was a man who didn’t know he fit. He knew he was gay, but thought that that mean’t he automatically needed to start acting effeminate and flamboyant. He didn’t know how others would act around him once they knew; he seemed to think that once he came out he would be a different person. He really was adorable and I thought he was a really strong character.
Griff was a sweetie. He had already decided that he was coming out once he had left the football team but he was more than willing to do whatever Raj wanted to do as far as telling people. He was so laid back about it all that he was horizontal. He was willing to be top, bottom, sub, Dom, dating, fucking..... It was quite entertaining! It did, however, make him less of a character in my eyes. It all felt that it was about Raj, that he wasn’t a character in his own right. He just didn’t stand out as much as Raj did!
This is a hot tale with a very realistic angst. I loved the chemistry and the sex was HOT! There is a scene after a wedding *fans*.....
September 18, 2012
One brief encounter three years ago with genius Raj Mehir turned football player Griffin Parker’s world upside down. Daisy Harris’ 7th installment of the Men of Holsum College: Genius and the Jock, re-introduces Cal’s close friend Raj Mehir. Raj is deeply in the closet, secretly in love with Cal, and hates Griff Parker; or so he thinks. Raj and Griff meet up again as seniors in Holsum College as Raj works late nights as a research assistant and Griff is now the night-duty guard. Griff never forgot the shy, quiet freshman that he came across three years ago in a locker room sexual encounter and has been pining for him since. Problem….Griff is also deeply in the closet.
I appreciated the love-hate relationship that Ms. Harris developed between Griff and Raj. One moment there was hostility and the next they could not keep their hands off each other. The sexual tension was radiating off the pages and kept me coming back for me. I could not scan my Kindle Fire fast enough. Ms. Harris continuously draws me to the Men of Holsum College with her whit and characterization; always building on previous characters and introducing new ones. I also appreciate that each book brings a new feel for any readers’ pallet. One section of reading leaves me frantic while the next moment I have to put the Kindle down so not to burn my fingers with the heat from the men. Ms. Harris’ style of writing draws me in and keeps me on the edge of my seat. Both Griff and Raj have flaws and insecurities, but together they are stronger; showing a united front. I enjoy the rapport she gives them even when they are at a loss for words; she constantly has Griff and Raj connect not just physically but more importantly, emotionally. . This is why I come back for more. I am always satisfied with her works and the development of the Men of Holsum College. A must read for anyone interested in a HEA.
reviewed by Zafira
I appreciated the love-hate relationship that Ms. Harris developed between Griff and Raj. One moment there was hostility and the next they could not keep their hands off each other. The sexual tension was radiating off the pages and kept me coming back for me. I could not scan my Kindle Fire fast enough. Ms. Harris continuously draws me to the Men of Holsum College with her whit and characterization; always building on previous characters and introducing new ones. I also appreciate that each book brings a new feel for any readers’ pallet. One section of reading leaves me frantic while the next moment I have to put the Kindle down so not to burn my fingers with the heat from the men. Ms. Harris’ style of writing draws me in and keeps me on the edge of my seat. Both Griff and Raj have flaws and insecurities, but together they are stronger; showing a united front. I enjoy the rapport she gives them even when they are at a loss for words; she constantly has Griff and Raj connect not just physically but more importantly, emotionally. . This is why I come back for more. I am always satisfied with her works and the development of the Men of Holsum College. A must read for anyone interested in a HEA.
reviewed by Zafira
October 10, 2012
This was another favorite for me in the Holsum College series. It features two closeted male leads who come to accept who they are through their growing affection for one another.
Griffin and Raj first came together three years ago, though no one could call in an auspicious beginning. Griff was a burly linebacker who couldn't ignore the eyes of the towel-boy who always seemed to be watching him. Unsure how to deal with the attraction, Griff cornered Raj with his big body and gave him a blow job neither one of them would ever forget. Raj was so rattled by the experience, he quit his job and never came back.
Now Griffen is night watchman for the building that houses Raj's lab. He's grown a lot since the locker-room incident and wants another chance with Raj. The thing is, Raj is wary of him and afraid to acknowledge his homosexuality. Griffen sets out to show him he has become a better man. He slowly works his way into a friendship and, eventually, something more.
Griffin is a really likeable guy. He's such a gentle giant. It's really cool how Daisy Harris flips the obvious roles for the two main characters, both in disposition and in the bedroom as well.
And speaking of the bedroom... That is one element of this series that never disappoints. The sex is always hot without ever feeling over-the-top. Really good stuff.
Sometimes I wonder if there are any straight guys left at Holsum College. But then again, with sex like this... who cares?
Yum.
*ARC provided by author for review
Griffin and Raj first came together three years ago, though no one could call in an auspicious beginning. Griff was a burly linebacker who couldn't ignore the eyes of the towel-boy who always seemed to be watching him. Unsure how to deal with the attraction, Griff cornered Raj with his big body and gave him a blow job neither one of them would ever forget. Raj was so rattled by the experience, he quit his job and never came back.
Now Griffen is night watchman for the building that houses Raj's lab. He's grown a lot since the locker-room incident and wants another chance with Raj. The thing is, Raj is wary of him and afraid to acknowledge his homosexuality. Griffen sets out to show him he has become a better man. He slowly works his way into a friendship and, eventually, something more.
Griffin is a really likeable guy. He's such a gentle giant. It's really cool how Daisy Harris flips the obvious roles for the two main characters, both in disposition and in the bedroom as well.
And speaking of the bedroom... That is one element of this series that never disappoints. The sex is always hot without ever feeling over-the-top. Really good stuff.
Sometimes I wonder if there are any straight guys left at Holsum College. But then again, with sex like this... who cares?
Yum.
*ARC provided by author for review
May 2, 2016
*3.5*
This one was one of my favorites in this series, up until the last 30% or so. I loved the beginning, and Griffin being such an uncomplicated jock. It was kind of different from other nerd/jock stories that I've read, with the roles turned a bit.
However, the longer it went on, the shorter and smaller Raj tended to get, while Griffin grew...
Now, I have no idea how they look anymore:-)
Also there was a lot of build up around the coming out to family
Still, I really liked the two MCs, and the massage was smoking hot! Massages definitely are the best...
This one was one of my favorites in this series, up until the last 30% or so. I loved the beginning, and Griffin being such an uncomplicated jock. It was kind of different from other nerd/jock stories that I've read, with the roles turned a bit.
However, the longer it went on, the shorter and smaller Raj tended to get, while Griffin grew...
Now, I have no idea how they look anymore:-)
Also there was a lot of build up around the coming out to family
Still, I really liked the two MCs, and the massage was smoking hot! Massages definitely are the best...
December 31, 2012
3.75 stars. I really like this series. Though this one was not my favorite, it was an entertaining read. In this ca both guys knew they were gay but were still in the closet. The plot felt a little formulaic and rushed. For example, after the build-up of Griff's parents being very anti-gay, the scene where he tells them is skipped and rather glossed over as an afterthought (they didn't like it but didn't get too weird). Also, both characters were rather reclusive so there wasn't a lot of action outside the romance. Still worth it as a quick read.
September 15, 2012
Reviewed for Hearts On Fire Reviews
When Raj was a freshman, he worked in the locker room at Holsum. Difficult for him, because he was suppressing the feelings he had when seeing the hard bodies of the athletes. “He couldn’t imagine anything he wanted more than sweat and chest hair and cock and balls.” Poor Raj. He’s a bit nerdy, a science guy, and he’s not built like an athlete. One football player, in particular, catches his eye even when he doesn’t want it to. Griff Parker is big, built and treats Raj like such a jerk. When he corners Raj in the deserted locker room, spewing hatred, yet pushing on Raj and ultimately dropping to his knees for him. What is the matter with him? It is the inner thoughts of Griff that save him from being completely unlikeable here.
Fast forward three years, they haven’t seen each other since that night, as Raj quit his job and didn’t reappear. Griff is the one with a job outside his field now, about to start a work-study night shift at Holsum’s Center for Biological Research. Coincidentally, where Raj is doing his research. While the two of them have an awkward meeting the first time, they are making small steps towards becoming friends. Except, of course, when Griff’s football buddies are present. Or Raj’s friend, Cal. In the closet? These guys are in, locked, bolted and hiding under the hangers.
In Griff’s case, it is a little understandable. He needs the football scholarship to complete his degree in political scene, and he’s almost done. Many of the players are homophobic and jerks besides. He just wants to finish. His family is also made up of bigots (to a point, at least). Raj, however, is a little more confusing. His best friend is Cal, who is gay with a flamboyant boyfriend (Tyler, who I still love from their book, white pants and neon pink tank and all). He doesn’t even admit to Cal he might, maybe, possibly like men.
It’s frustrating and hurtful for both of them, as they begin to be together, yet still ignore each other anywhere else. Griff claims to be “grown up” and a different person than he was, yet he reacts in the same way as he did, afraid Raj will say hello and knowing he will have to act like a jerk to him. On the other hand, Raj has no right to feel bad, since he does the same, and in a worse way, since his friend is gay and wouldn’t care less.
Watching these two try to work their way around the elephant in the room was interesting, a little sad and then hopeful. They do give up things and have to adjust. Is it worth it?
The Griffin who wants to make an appearance really is different from the Griff who is trying to get through with his scholarship intact and just be done. This is more a look at how difficult being with someone can be and how much you have to take responsibility for yourself before you seriously hurt someone in the process. I really liked it, and ended up pulling for both of these flawed characters. Another interesting entry into the Holsum College saga.
When Raj was a freshman, he worked in the locker room at Holsum. Difficult for him, because he was suppressing the feelings he had when seeing the hard bodies of the athletes. “He couldn’t imagine anything he wanted more than sweat and chest hair and cock and balls.” Poor Raj. He’s a bit nerdy, a science guy, and he’s not built like an athlete. One football player, in particular, catches his eye even when he doesn’t want it to. Griff Parker is big, built and treats Raj like such a jerk. When he corners Raj in the deserted locker room, spewing hatred, yet pushing on Raj and ultimately dropping to his knees for him. What is the matter with him? It is the inner thoughts of Griff that save him from being completely unlikeable here.
Fast forward three years, they haven’t seen each other since that night, as Raj quit his job and didn’t reappear. Griff is the one with a job outside his field now, about to start a work-study night shift at Holsum’s Center for Biological Research. Coincidentally, where Raj is doing his research. While the two of them have an awkward meeting the first time, they are making small steps towards becoming friends. Except, of course, when Griff’s football buddies are present. Or Raj’s friend, Cal. In the closet? These guys are in, locked, bolted and hiding under the hangers.
In Griff’s case, it is a little understandable. He needs the football scholarship to complete his degree in political scene, and he’s almost done. Many of the players are homophobic and jerks besides. He just wants to finish. His family is also made up of bigots (to a point, at least). Raj, however, is a little more confusing. His best friend is Cal, who is gay with a flamboyant boyfriend (Tyler, who I still love from their book, white pants and neon pink tank and all). He doesn’t even admit to Cal he might, maybe, possibly like men.
It’s frustrating and hurtful for both of them, as they begin to be together, yet still ignore each other anywhere else. Griff claims to be “grown up” and a different person than he was, yet he reacts in the same way as he did, afraid Raj will say hello and knowing he will have to act like a jerk to him. On the other hand, Raj has no right to feel bad, since he does the same, and in a worse way, since his friend is gay and wouldn’t care less.
Watching these two try to work their way around the elephant in the room was interesting, a little sad and then hopeful. They do give up things and have to adjust. Is it worth it?
The Griffin who wants to make an appearance really is different from the Griff who is trying to get through with his scholarship intact and just be done. This is more a look at how difficult being with someone can be and how much you have to take responsibility for yourself before you seriously hurt someone in the process. I really liked it, and ended up pulling for both of these flawed characters. Another interesting entry into the Holsum College saga.
September 19, 2012
This series is one my guilty pleasures. I have liked all of the stories and the guys for the most part. This one is about Raj, Cal's friend from Book #5 and Griff - a member of the football team.
Raj and Griff had a one-off encounter when they were freshman and have not spoken since. Griff is now working in the lab where Raj is doing his research, so they are in the same building every night. Griff has never forgotten that first locker room encounter and he has secretly longed for Raj ever since. Neither one of them are out to anyone - well I guess except each other ;)
Griff is dogged in his pursuit of Raj and Raj is just as determined to keep Griff at arms length, but Griff ends up convincing Raj to take a ride home and they finally talk about that first encounter and Raj begins to see that Griff is not exactly who he thought he was all these years. Raj is still nervous about spending time with Griff, but he begins to relax when they are alone together in Raj's apartment.
As they keep seeing each other, Cal and Tyler are quite suspicious but Raj is not ready to tell anyone yet and Griff needs to make it through the last football game. So they agree to keep things on the DL. Raj has to attend his sister's wedding a couple weeks before the December break and he blurts out to his mother that he doesn't like girls. That does not go over well with his traditional mother who tells him to suck it up and go ask a girl to dance. In the meantime, Griff is also getting a bit hassled by the football team and he is very worried about his own parents' reaction. In the end, Raj and Griff have to decide if they really want to be together and let everyone see that.
I liked the vulnerability of these characters - particularly Griff since as the football player with the nickname Tank, everybody kind of assumes that he's just some tough guy jerk. But he is actually quite sensitive and especially he is sensitive to Raj. Raj is a bit prickly and nervous about what being gay means and that somehow Griff will think less of him. They are both virgins and their sexual exploration was handled very sensitively. I also liked Cal and Tyler in their support role in this one. They are a cute couple and it was fun to see them again - along with cameo appearances by Matt and Brooks.
Raj and Griff had a one-off encounter when they were freshman and have not spoken since. Griff is now working in the lab where Raj is doing his research, so they are in the same building every night. Griff has never forgotten that first locker room encounter and he has secretly longed for Raj ever since. Neither one of them are out to anyone - well I guess except each other ;)
Griff is dogged in his pursuit of Raj and Raj is just as determined to keep Griff at arms length, but Griff ends up convincing Raj to take a ride home and they finally talk about that first encounter and Raj begins to see that Griff is not exactly who he thought he was all these years. Raj is still nervous about spending time with Griff, but he begins to relax when they are alone together in Raj's apartment.
As they keep seeing each other, Cal and Tyler are quite suspicious but Raj is not ready to tell anyone yet and Griff needs to make it through the last football game. So they agree to keep things on the DL. Raj has to attend his sister's wedding a couple weeks before the December break and he blurts out to his mother that he doesn't like girls. That does not go over well with his traditional mother who tells him to suck it up and go ask a girl to dance. In the meantime, Griff is also getting a bit hassled by the football team and he is very worried about his own parents' reaction. In the end, Raj and Griff have to decide if they really want to be together and let everyone see that.
I liked the vulnerability of these characters - particularly Griff since as the football player with the nickname Tank, everybody kind of assumes that he's just some tough guy jerk. But he is actually quite sensitive and especially he is sensitive to Raj. Raj is a bit prickly and nervous about what being gay means and that somehow Griff will think less of him. They are both virgins and their sexual exploration was handled very sensitively. I also liked Cal and Tyler in their support role in this one. They are a cute couple and it was fun to see them again - along with cameo appearances by Matt and Brooks.
October 15, 2012
This review was originally written for The Romance Reviews and can also be found there.
GENIUS AND THE JOCK is number seven in the Men of Holsum College series and it brings us back into the world of students, love, shame and fear. It's a story about Griff and Rai, two opposites who surprisingly enough work very well together.
When they were freshmen, Griff had a huge crush on Rai, but being young, inexperienced and just plain old stupid at times, his approach was that of the kindergarten variety – I'll show him I love him by being a bully. Yeah, that didn't work out quite right, but they still managed to have an experience together that brought home to them both that they were gay.
Three years later and Griff's crush is still strong while Rai is in denial. ‘What might have been' is knocking on his door and this time he is able to see past Griff's posture and appearance and allow himself to trust and let go.
Yes, it was a beautiful story about two guys who are deeply closeted, insecure and rather inexperienced. I found their first experiences to be adorable and Rai's dominant approach so sexy. They clicked together and it was my pleasure to meet them.
The ending is a bit on the rushed side and their relationship never quite lost that childish note. The issue of their parents was huge at the beginning, almost the base of the whole conflict in the story, but the final resolution didn't match that beginning intensity and I am always a little bit disappointed when that happens. I also wanted to know what happens next with them because unlike the rest of the stories in the series, this one felt a bit unfinished.
It is nice when I'm able to just reach for a book that I know will relax me and let me rest my mind for a couple of hours. Daisy Harris does it every time and I'm looking forward to the next romance to come out of her fold. It is much appreciated.
GENIUS AND THE JOCK is number seven in the Men of Holsum College series and it brings us back into the world of students, love, shame and fear. It's a story about Griff and Rai, two opposites who surprisingly enough work very well together.
When they were freshmen, Griff had a huge crush on Rai, but being young, inexperienced and just plain old stupid at times, his approach was that of the kindergarten variety – I'll show him I love him by being a bully. Yeah, that didn't work out quite right, but they still managed to have an experience together that brought home to them both that they were gay.
Three years later and Griff's crush is still strong while Rai is in denial. ‘What might have been' is knocking on his door and this time he is able to see past Griff's posture and appearance and allow himself to trust and let go.
Yes, it was a beautiful story about two guys who are deeply closeted, insecure and rather inexperienced. I found their first experiences to be adorable and Rai's dominant approach so sexy. They clicked together and it was my pleasure to meet them.
The ending is a bit on the rushed side and their relationship never quite lost that childish note. The issue of their parents was huge at the beginning, almost the base of the whole conflict in the story, but the final resolution didn't match that beginning intensity and I am always a little bit disappointed when that happens. I also wanted to know what happens next with them because unlike the rest of the stories in the series, this one felt a bit unfinished.
It is nice when I'm able to just reach for a book that I know will relax me and let me rest my mind for a couple of hours. Daisy Harris does it every time and I'm looking forward to the next romance to come out of her fold. It is much appreciated.
October 22, 2012
This was not my favorite in the series. The writing seemed disjointed at times, I couldn't connect to the time and place because it seemed it jumped around. Plus I just wasn't invested in Raj and Griff's relationship. So, I think I am stopping with the series here.
September 13, 2012
3.25 out of 5
May 12, 2020
Wasn't great for me. The beginning was fine but later on the plot just went everywhere; its like I was jumping scenes or dialogue. I didn't get why important events were glossed over or squeezed into only a few lines. I didn't like their inner or outer dialogue or how they'd change their minds randomly with no struggle , and between them, I didn't get how they went from sex friends to ridiculously in love over night.
I guess the whole point was an angst free, fast paced and really light read but honestly there was a lot of somethings missing for me in this.
I guess the whole point was an angst free, fast paced and really light read but honestly there was a lot of somethings missing for me in this.
July 19, 2020
Estoy convencida que si éstos libros tuvieran una portada diferente más gente los leería...
Necesitaba leer algo sencillo que me sacará un poco de mi bloqueo lector y estos libros son PERFECTOS para ello. En éste libro en especifico tenemos la historia de Griff y Raj, dos chicos completamente diferentes entre sí, Griff es el típico jugador de fútbol y Raj es el nerd de la escuela. Después de un encuentro en las duchas del gimnasio en su primer año no ha vuelto a hablar más, hasta su último año cuando Griff entra a trabajar como guardia de seguridad en el edificio de ciencias y bueno, todo comienza allí...
Sí, el libro tiene TODOS los clichés del mundo, la forma de hablar de los personajes no es creíble para chicos de su edad y hay mucho sexo, pero los personajes tienen trasfondo, aspiraciones y es un libro para pasar el rato. Cumplen con su función y me sacó de mi bloqueo, no puedo pedirle más al libro.
Necesitaba leer algo sencillo que me sacará un poco de mi bloqueo lector y estos libros son PERFECTOS para ello. En éste libro en especifico tenemos la historia de Griff y Raj, dos chicos completamente diferentes entre sí, Griff es el típico jugador de fútbol y Raj es el nerd de la escuela. Después de un encuentro en las duchas del gimnasio en su primer año no ha vuelto a hablar más, hasta su último año cuando Griff entra a trabajar como guardia de seguridad en el edificio de ciencias y bueno, todo comienza allí...
Sí, el libro tiene TODOS los clichés del mundo, la forma de hablar de los personajes no es creíble para chicos de su edad y hay mucho sexo, pero los personajes tienen trasfondo, aspiraciones y es un libro para pasar el rato. Cumplen con su función y me sacó de mi bloqueo, no puedo pedirle más al libro.
July 13, 2018
Slow pacing. Awkward characterization. Narrative was unbelievable and not fun to follow. DNF
October 4, 2012
Full review can be seen at Seductive Musings.
Daisy Harris writes some of the best college-age M/M romances out there. Her books are full of angst filled encounters, sexual tension and the resulting struggle for self-acceptance. She manages to capture the nervousness and uncertainty of coming out to friends and family so well that I actually feel their indecision. That’s what keeps me coming back for more. I’ve loved almost every book in The Men of Holsum College series, but the book previous to this one was disappointing. I was nervous when I picked up this book, I know how good her books can be and I didn’t want to be let down again. I’m very happy to say that Genius and the Jock was back up to the quality I expect from her.
Griff and Raj are on opposite ends of the social spectrum. Griff is the jock. He’s rough around the edges and abrasive. As he matures, he realizes he no longer wants to be that guy, even though his family and friends expect and encourage such behavior. Raj is the genius. He also has family and friends with high expectations for him. He is supposed to be driven and successful. Above all else, he feels obligated to live up to the expectations of his very traditional Indian family.
Raj and Griff have a history together, an awkward locker room encounter their freshman year. They have very different memories of that encounter. For Griff it was exciting and for Raj it was terrifying. When their paths cross a few years later, it leads to new questions. Can Griff convince Raj to give him a chance to prove he’s not the same guy he was back then? Is the spark between them worth the condemnation of their family and friends?
The books in this series are my guilty pleasure :) I loved the cultural differences between Griff and Raj and the problems they encountered because of them. Of course, the sexual chemistry between them was great too. I admit this book is a lighthearted, fluff romance but it’s also one hell of a page turner and I was more than happy to lose myself in it.
Daisy Harris writes some of the best college-age M/M romances out there. Her books are full of angst filled encounters, sexual tension and the resulting struggle for self-acceptance. She manages to capture the nervousness and uncertainty of coming out to friends and family so well that I actually feel their indecision. That’s what keeps me coming back for more. I’ve loved almost every book in The Men of Holsum College series, but the book previous to this one was disappointing. I was nervous when I picked up this book, I know how good her books can be and I didn’t want to be let down again. I’m very happy to say that Genius and the Jock was back up to the quality I expect from her.
Griff and Raj are on opposite ends of the social spectrum. Griff is the jock. He’s rough around the edges and abrasive. As he matures, he realizes he no longer wants to be that guy, even though his family and friends expect and encourage such behavior. Raj is the genius. He also has family and friends with high expectations for him. He is supposed to be driven and successful. Above all else, he feels obligated to live up to the expectations of his very traditional Indian family.
Raj and Griff have a history together, an awkward locker room encounter their freshman year. They have very different memories of that encounter. For Griff it was exciting and for Raj it was terrifying. When their paths cross a few years later, it leads to new questions. Can Griff convince Raj to give him a chance to prove he’s not the same guy he was back then? Is the spark between them worth the condemnation of their family and friends?
The books in this series are my guilty pleasure :) I loved the cultural differences between Griff and Raj and the problems they encountered because of them. Of course, the sexual chemistry between them was great too. I admit this book is a lighthearted, fluff romance but it’s also one hell of a page turner and I was more than happy to lose myself in it.
December 12, 2012
The Men of Holsum College books are one of my all-time favorite series. I love how Ms. Harris is able to capture the essence and sometimes confusion of college life. Genius and the Jock has just the right mix of angst and romance that kept this reader captivated with the heroes and the story they had to tell throughout the book.
Three years ago, Griff and Raj had an illicit moment in the showers. Because Griff is a jock and deeply in the closet, they never got together again, and have pretty much avoided each other ever since. Raj is highly intelligent and although he liked Griff, has more important things to worry about than a frightened closet case. He chooses to live his life as he pleases and takes no apologies for being the geek that he really is. Griff on the other hand, is surrounded by homophobic jocks and fellow students, so he constantly lives in the fear of others finding out that he’s got desires for other men…especially Raj. When Griff and Raj are in the same biology lab, both men are forced to deal with some unwanted desires and issues. I enjoyed watching these two men really have to work through a lot of baggage, fears and past hurts to rest, so they could find a way to be together.
Genius and the Jock is filled with the confusion and strength it takes to be yourself, snappy dialog and romance. It’s a great addition to the series and I can’t wait to see what Ms. Harris has in store for us next!
Genius and the Jock is the seventh book in the Men of Holsum College series. Although it could be read as a stand-alone book, I highly recommend reading the stories in series order. This way you can fully appreciate the setting and the wonderful characters who reside there.
The Men of Holsum College books in series order are:
College Boys
Diva and the Frat Boy
Townie and the Twink
Player and the Prude
Bossy and the Brat
Pride and Prejudice
Genius and the Jock
Reviewed By: Gabbi
Three years ago, Griff and Raj had an illicit moment in the showers. Because Griff is a jock and deeply in the closet, they never got together again, and have pretty much avoided each other ever since. Raj is highly intelligent and although he liked Griff, has more important things to worry about than a frightened closet case. He chooses to live his life as he pleases and takes no apologies for being the geek that he really is. Griff on the other hand, is surrounded by homophobic jocks and fellow students, so he constantly lives in the fear of others finding out that he’s got desires for other men…especially Raj. When Griff and Raj are in the same biology lab, both men are forced to deal with some unwanted desires and issues. I enjoyed watching these two men really have to work through a lot of baggage, fears and past hurts to rest, so they could find a way to be together.
Genius and the Jock is filled with the confusion and strength it takes to be yourself, snappy dialog and romance. It’s a great addition to the series and I can’t wait to see what Ms. Harris has in store for us next!
Genius and the Jock is the seventh book in the Men of Holsum College series. Although it could be read as a stand-alone book, I highly recommend reading the stories in series order. This way you can fully appreciate the setting and the wonderful characters who reside there.
The Men of Holsum College books in series order are:
College Boys
Diva and the Frat Boy
Townie and the Twink
Player and the Prude
Bossy and the Brat
Pride and Prejudice
Genius and the Jock
Reviewed By: Gabbi
March 23, 2015
During freshman year, football jock Griff Parker did something completely unexpected--he had a sexual encounter with another guy. Although it was a momentary thing, he's never been able to shake that experience in the locker room with Raj Mehir, even though he never really saw him again. Now that he's working in the lab building and seeing Raj on a daily basis, it's even more present in his mind (and elsewhere). But Raj wants absolutely nothing to do with him, still angry about what happened and not entirely willing to go down that road. Will proximity wear down his resolve?
I love the way in which Daisy Harris has seamlessly assembled this series. They can all be read as stand-alone books, but there is a wonderful added layer if you read them in order and start to recognize the various characters that make cameos--it definitely gives the sense of this all taking place at the same school. This one was frustrating, but mostly because of the characters, not the writing. But it was very interesting to see their development over the course of the book and to see where they ended up at the conclusion.
I love the way in which Daisy Harris has seamlessly assembled this series. They can all be read as stand-alone books, but there is a wonderful added layer if you read them in order and start to recognize the various characters that make cameos--it definitely gives the sense of this all taking place at the same school. This one was frustrating, but mostly because of the characters, not the writing. But it was very interesting to see their development over the course of the book and to see where they ended up at the conclusion.
November 11, 2013
these two are so funny together. I mean big Griff and little Raj who would have thought. Griff though has wanted Raj since freshman year. although he did do a bonehead thing when they were freshman that caused Raj to resent him he still wanted him.
They are both closeted Raj more so than Griff. Although I give credit to Raj he had tried a few times to talk to his mom and she wouldn't have it. Raj is rather controlling to Griff's laid back demeanor. Raj is more dominating to Griff's carefree ways. Raj is afraid of being squashed like a bug by griff whereas Griff just wants Raj.
these two when they are together melt the pages.Some exchanges where they argue are nervewracking because you really think well who else would put up with these two other than each other. As they navigate their way through the relationship and their life you see that they help each other become stronger better people.
They are both closeted Raj more so than Griff. Although I give credit to Raj he had tried a few times to talk to his mom and she wouldn't have it. Raj is rather controlling to Griff's laid back demeanor. Raj is more dominating to Griff's carefree ways. Raj is afraid of being squashed like a bug by griff whereas Griff just wants Raj.
these two when they are together melt the pages.Some exchanges where they argue are nervewracking because you really think well who else would put up with these two other than each other. As they navigate their way through the relationship and their life you see that they help each other become stronger better people.
November 18, 2012
Normally I don't mind overpaying for Daisy Harris. She usually delivers a great story packed with an emotional punch, so I'm okay with $5 for 100 pgs. NOT THIS TIME. What a disappointment!
This read like a first draft. At one point they're in a lab, then they're in a car?! And they constantly contradict backstory. Or even say "it's too early to say 'I love you.'" two pages later: I LOVE YOU. WTF? It would have cleared up a whole lot of mess if this had been read again.
Not only that, but I felt the story (both the plot and the emotional undertone) was severely lacking. There wasn't any meat to this book. No angst. I didn't like either character. I knew less about them when I finished (because of the back and forth nonsense that canceled out what they said in the first place) than I did when I started the book. NOT GOOD.
This read like a first draft. At one point they're in a lab, then they're in a car?! And they constantly contradict backstory. Or even say "it's too early to say 'I love you.'" two pages later: I LOVE YOU. WTF? It would have cleared up a whole lot of mess if this had been read again.
Not only that, but I felt the story (both the plot and the emotional undertone) was severely lacking. There wasn't any meat to this book. No angst. I didn't like either character. I knew less about them when I finished (because of the back and forth nonsense that canceled out what they said in the first place) than I did when I started the book. NOT GOOD.
December 10, 2012
I have decided that this series is like a bag of starbursts with the same wrapper. You don't know what you're going to get. You might get red or pink (awesome!). You might get yellow or orange (not awesome!). But it's still a starburst. I mean, no one likes the orange starbursts but you eat them anyway and it's fine. You don't stop eating starbursts because some of them are orange. You don't start chewing the orange starburst and say "Oh, god!" and spit it out and rub it in the dirt and drink whiskey until the flavor is gone. It's still delightful candy, for heavens sake!
So yeah. This was an orange starburst. Frankly there was not a single thing about this book that worked for me, but it didn't actively offend me, so 2 stars instead of a DNF.
So yeah. This was an orange starburst. Frankly there was not a single thing about this book that worked for me, but it didn't actively offend me, so 2 stars instead of a DNF.
January 24, 2015
Ha! I knew it! Never, ever is the original couple my very favorite one in a series, but so far that has been the case with Men of Holsum College and I was very surprised to be breaking my own pattern.
Then I read Genius and the Jock. I loved Raj and Griffin, I loved their chemistry and this book is the best in the series so far.
Maybe it was the isolation to a world of their own that attracted me to the romance between Griffin and Raj, as it was underlined in the book, but this story had a very lovely atmosphere to it. Also, it was the hottest of all the books.
Now I only have the last book to read and I'm very sad to come to the end of the series, though I think my wallet is crying tears of joy.
Then I read Genius and the Jock. I loved Raj and Griffin, I loved their chemistry and this book is the best in the series so far.
Maybe it was the isolation to a world of their own that attracted me to the romance between Griffin and Raj, as it was underlined in the book, but this story had a very lovely atmosphere to it. Also, it was the hottest of all the books.
Now I only have the last book to read and I'm very sad to come to the end of the series, though I think my wallet is crying tears of joy.
January 21, 2014
This is a sweet little romance with the aloof, Raj and the deeply closeted Griffin ... I enjoyed reading about their budding relationship but I must admit that I found Raj a difficult character to like/connect to ... this book returns to the formula of some of the earlier books in the series which I enjoyed ... these books aren't going to win any literary awards but they are nice fluffy stories to enjoy in between the angst-ridden heavy books I sometimes get bogged down in.
didnt-finish
October 23, 2012Omg raja is sooo boring. And it's almost all his pov. I've spent like the last 20% wondering if I should just mark this dnf (currently 46% and it's not getting better) too bad I really like Griff but he's only there for the lame sex scenes
47% and dnf I just don't care about either character. Don't like them together. And raja is a total bore with a god-complex. Yeah no thanks douche
47% and dnf I just don't care about either character. Don't like them together. And raja is a total bore with a god-complex. Yeah no thanks douche
October 4, 2012
Genius and the Jock is a charming romance with an aura of innocence that is incredibly appealing. To read my review in its entirety, please click HERE.
March 8, 2013
I was so lucky to win this wonderful book. I really enjoyed it. Raj was a bit of a dick, but you can forgive him, since he looks like a kinky little thing:D I think I might go ahead and purchase the rest of this series.
August 2, 2013
I like this series quick and good
September 21, 2012
3.5 stars
September 21, 2012
Daisy Harris did it again!! I loved this one!! As usual sweet and lovely!!
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