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He was only supposed to be gay for pay.
Angel
I’ve never had sex before. And I've definitely never looked at a guy that way before. But with his brightly-colored hair and beautiful outfits, Rhys is hard to ignore--especially after I learn what he does for a living.
Signing up with The Camboy Network is way outside my comfort zone, but with Rhys guiding me the whole way, it doesn’t feel all that scary. In fact, it feels like fate.
Rhys
I left home the minute I turned eighteen, so falling for a guy from the old neighborhood is the last thing I should do--especially since he's straight. But he's utterly adorable, so innocently kinky, and exactly my type.
We shouldn't fit together so well, but we do. No matter how hard I try to stay away, I can’t. Our lives couldn’t be more different on the outside, but maybe we're a lot more alike than we think.
Angel is a bi-awakening, opposites attract, size difference MM romance between a burly cinnamon roll construction worker and a flamboyant pole-dancing twink. Expect accidentally dirty text messages, completely unexpected kinks, and chivalrous courage that truly runs deep. Angel is the third book in The Camboy Network series, but can be read as a stand-alone.
Angel
I’ve never had sex before. And I've definitely never looked at a guy that way before. But with his brightly-colored hair and beautiful outfits, Rhys is hard to ignore--especially after I learn what he does for a living.
Signing up with The Camboy Network is way outside my comfort zone, but with Rhys guiding me the whole way, it doesn’t feel all that scary. In fact, it feels like fate.
Rhys
I left home the minute I turned eighteen, so falling for a guy from the old neighborhood is the last thing I should do--especially since he's straight. But he's utterly adorable, so innocently kinky, and exactly my type.
We shouldn't fit together so well, but we do. No matter how hard I try to stay away, I can’t. Our lives couldn’t be more different on the outside, but maybe we're a lot more alike than we think.
Angel is a bi-awakening, opposites attract, size difference MM romance between a burly cinnamon roll construction worker and a flamboyant pole-dancing twink. Expect accidentally dirty text messages, completely unexpected kinks, and chivalrous courage that truly runs deep. Angel is the third book in The Camboy Network series, but can be read as a stand-alone.
368 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 13, 2024
46 people are currently reading
363 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 184 reviews
August 9, 2024
⭐️ 4.5 stars ⭐️
⌞ Angel is so entranced by Rhys, he decides to do gay porn just to be closer to him… but teddy bear is straight? Right? ⌝
I can’t resist a gentle giant teddy bear. Even better when he falls to his knees for a confident femme in lace.
This was just filthy deliciousness, a sweet romance, hot porn filming, a yummy blushing bigboy realizing what was missing in his life was a dazzling, dress and heels wearing camboy/pole dancer.
The smut was a great mix of sweet and sexy. I loved Angel’s innocence, his unexpected kinky side, Rhys’ light dominance.
The kink was a surprise, especially ‘cause feet? Ew. But here it really worked. [ I don’t need another kink to add to the list, please brain don’t make this become a thing]
The story was very sweet and romantic, low on the angst, some lovely themes of acceptance and found family, and… just great porn, honestly.
I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review.
CW and tropes (spoilers):
- Bear vs femme
- Camboys
- Gay awakening
- Opposites attract
- Size difference
- Gentle top vs power bottom
- Virgin MC
- Lingerie
- Frotting & rimming
- Coming hands-free
- Shoe/foot fetish
- 69
- Felching
- Snowballing
- Public sex (bonus scene)
“You don’t… do you… do you have to be gay to, you know, do gay porn?” What. The. Actual. Fuck?
⌞ Angel is so entranced by Rhys, he decides to do gay porn just to be closer to him… but teddy bear is straight? Right? ⌝
I can’t resist a gentle giant teddy bear. Even better when he falls to his knees for a confident femme in lace.
This was just filthy deliciousness, a sweet romance, hot porn filming, a yummy blushing bigboy realizing what was missing in his life was a dazzling, dress and heels wearing camboy/pole dancer.
“What do you want, Rhys?” I ask again, hips snapping forward a little harder. He cries out, a choked, broken sound. “You, Angel. I want you.”
The smut was a great mix of sweet and sexy. I loved Angel’s innocence, his unexpected kinky side, Rhys’ light dominance.
The kink was a surprise, especially ‘cause feet? Ew. But here it really worked. [ I don’t need another kink to add to the list, please brain don’t make this become a thing]
The story was very sweet and romantic, low on the angst, some lovely themes of acceptance and found family, and… just great porn, honestly.
« If only he’d let me, I would give him everything. »
I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review.
CW and tropes (spoilers):
- Bear vs femme
- Camboys
- Gay awakening
- Opposites attract
- Size difference
- Gentle top vs power bottom
- Virgin MC
- Lingerie
- Frotting & rimming
- Coming hands-free
- Shoe/foot fetish
- 69
- Felching
- Snowballing
- Public sex (bonus scene)
August 13, 2024
Book safety, content warnings, and tropes down below.
He studies me, searching my eyes for something. What is he looking for? I’m suddenly anxious to help him find it. Whatever he wants, whatever he needs, I want to be the one to give it to him.
I’m not at all surprised, but Linden Bell does it again. I am so impressed by this author’s ability to write something that would top most people’s spice chart, yet pack it full of intimacy, romance and emotional moments. This book is low angst yet filled with tension, and it really nailed that balance of avoiding boredom. A romance book does not need to be filled with drama and breakups to feel genuine and exciting, and this is a really good example of that. There’s some really lovely character development that felt realistic, and it all blended into my favorite kinda book: intimate, emotional and sweet. The spice was out of this world as per usual, and you should keep a fan handy while reading this.
I’m drunk on Rhys. I’m dizzy with him.
I’ll always be the first to say that I’m very ‘meh’ about feet and shoes, but man it fit this story and characters so well. It was frankly stupidly hot, and felt like straight up worship.
“What’s wrong? What happened?” If he’s hurt… if someone hurt him… I won’t be held responsible for what I do in retaliation.
Highly recommend this book.
⬇️ Blanket spoiler warning ⬇️
⚠️ Tropes & content tags ⚠️
Hairy bear
Femme twink
Pole dancer
Camboy/sex worker
Construction worker
Size difference
Sexual awakening
First times/Virgin MC
Brother's friend
Makeup and lingerie
Hands-free orgasms
Cum play
Found family
⚠️ Content warning ⚠️
Explicit sexual content
Alcohol consumption (casual drinking during party)
Cum play
Role-play while filming porn
Shoe and foot fetish
Mentions of homophobia and non-acceptance from friends and family
⚠️Book safety ⚠️
Cheating: No
Other person drama: No drama. Angel watches old porn videos of Rhys with other men, but he enjoys it. Rhys gets a good-luck kiss from his best friend before going on stage (after his first hookup with Angel), but even though Rhys has filmed with this friend in the past, they are only friends and the kiss is platonic.
Breakup: No
POV: 1st person, dual
Genre: Contemporary romance
Pairing: M/M
Strict roles or versatile: Strict roles
Main characters’ age: Not specified
Series: Interconnected standalone
Kindle Unlimited: Yes
Pages: 368
Happy ending: Yes
He leads this dance, guiding me with his tongue and his hands, making me spin until I’m dizzy, flipping me upside down and inside out. I’m lost to the sensations he wrings from me, but I don’t actually feel lost. Rhys knows where we are and where we’re going, and I trust him to lead the way.
And yet, my cheek is still warm from the kiss Ricky—or maybe Rhys—planted on me. My hand floats up to the spot. It doesn’t feel any different under my fingertips. There’s no cut or burn or anything. But the ghost of that kiss lingers, a very real wisp that I can’t quite grasp.
You can find most of my reviews on Instagram as well: https://www.instagram.com/booksafety?...
He studies me, searching my eyes for something. What is he looking for? I’m suddenly anxious to help him find it. Whatever he wants, whatever he needs, I want to be the one to give it to him.
I’m not at all surprised, but Linden Bell does it again. I am so impressed by this author’s ability to write something that would top most people’s spice chart, yet pack it full of intimacy, romance and emotional moments. This book is low angst yet filled with tension, and it really nailed that balance of avoiding boredom. A romance book does not need to be filled with drama and breakups to feel genuine and exciting, and this is a really good example of that. There’s some really lovely character development that felt realistic, and it all blended into my favorite kinda book: intimate, emotional and sweet. The spice was out of this world as per usual, and you should keep a fan handy while reading this.
I’m drunk on Rhys. I’m dizzy with him.
I’ll always be the first to say that I’m very ‘meh’ about feet and shoes, but man it fit this story and characters so well. It was frankly stupidly hot, and felt like straight up worship.
“What’s wrong? What happened?” If he’s hurt… if someone hurt him… I won’t be held responsible for what I do in retaliation.
Highly recommend this book.
⬇️ Blanket spoiler warning ⬇️
⚠️ Tropes & content tags ⚠️
Hairy bear
Femme twink
Pole dancer
Camboy/sex worker
Construction worker
Size difference
Sexual awakening
First times/Virgin MC
Brother's friend
Makeup and lingerie
Hands-free orgasms
Cum play
Found family
⚠️ Content warning ⚠️
Explicit sexual content
Alcohol consumption (casual drinking during party)
Cum play
Role-play while filming porn
Shoe and foot fetish
Mentions of homophobia and non-acceptance from friends and family
⚠️Book safety ⚠️
Cheating: No
Other person drama: No drama. Angel watches old porn videos of Rhys with other men, but he enjoys it. Rhys gets a good-luck kiss from his best friend before going on stage (after his first hookup with Angel), but even though Rhys has filmed with this friend in the past, they are only friends and the kiss is platonic.
Breakup: No
POV: 1st person, dual
Genre: Contemporary romance
Pairing: M/M
Strict roles or versatile: Strict roles
Main characters’ age: Not specified
Series: Interconnected standalone
Kindle Unlimited: Yes
Pages: 368
Happy ending: Yes
He leads this dance, guiding me with his tongue and his hands, making me spin until I’m dizzy, flipping me upside down and inside out. I’m lost to the sensations he wrings from me, but I don’t actually feel lost. Rhys knows where we are and where we’re going, and I trust him to lead the way.
My d-ck was just inside his butt a moment ago. And now he’s sucking on it with his mouth. It’s dirty. It’s filthy. And I think I might come just from how wrong it feels.
And yet, my cheek is still warm from the kiss Ricky—or maybe Rhys—planted on me. My hand floats up to the spot. It doesn’t feel any different under my fingertips. There’s no cut or burn or anything. But the ghost of that kiss lingers, a very real wisp that I can’t quite grasp.
You can find most of my reviews on Instagram as well: https://www.instagram.com/booksafety?...
July 6, 2025
DNF @ 77%
After 3 attempts aka trying every book in this series, I can now conclude this author isn’t for me.
It's not a bad book per se? It was kind of flat but mostly there were just lots of little things in the writing that had me going "huh.... why?" in a genuinely confused way because it just seemed strange and slightly off-putting but not enough to dnf. Until I just gave up.
One of the mcs (Angel, mid to late 20s) is super innocent, doesn't know what the eggplant and peach emojis are, and can't say the word "porn" out loud though he's about to be in one. He also seems to prefer "tummy" over "stomach" though he's a grown man.
The one that irked me the most though was how he constantly used "butt" and never "ass" and to me, having the word "butt" in all the sex scenes from his POV took me right out of it because it just isn't hot.
Idk why I didn't dnf earlier. Maybe one day I'll learn.
Some examples of words and phrases that made me pause and go "oh... that's. Huh":
"Even as I get sensitive, Rhys's dick touching mine feels good. Like they're cuddling together, basking in the afterglow."
"He mouths at my balls, almost like he's chewing on them."
"He shouts every time my hips hit his butt cheeks."
After 3 attempts aka trying every book in this series, I can now conclude this author isn’t for me.
It's not a bad book per se? It was kind of flat but mostly there were just lots of little things in the writing that had me going "huh.... why?" in a genuinely confused way because it just seemed strange and slightly off-putting but not enough to dnf. Until I just gave up.
One of the mcs (Angel, mid to late 20s) is super innocent, doesn't know what the eggplant and peach emojis are, and can't say the word "porn" out loud though he's about to be in one. He also seems to prefer "tummy" over "stomach" though he's a grown man.
The one that irked me the most though was how he constantly used "butt" and never "ass" and to me, having the word "butt" in all the sex scenes from his POV took me right out of it because it just isn't hot.
Idk why I didn't dnf earlier. Maybe one day I'll learn.
Some examples of words and phrases that made me pause and go "oh... that's. Huh":
"Even as I get sensitive, Rhys's dick touching mine feels good. Like they're cuddling together, basking in the afterglow."
"He mouths at my balls, almost like he's chewing on them."
"He shouts every time my hips hit his butt cheeks."
August 11, 2024
4.5 ⭐️
Angel, bless him, was so sweet and innocent, which balanced out all the confidence and sass from Rhys. & to top it off, Angel was absolutely swoony!
𝐈’𝐦 𝐢𝐧 𝐮𝐧𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐲 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐚 𝐦𝐚𝐩. 𝐑𝐡𝐲𝐬 𝐡𝐚𝐬 𝐛𝐞𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐞 𝐦𝐲 𝐍𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐡 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐫. 𝐀𝐥𝐥 𝐈 𝐤𝐧𝐨𝐰 𝐢𝐬 𝐈 𝐰𝐚𝐧𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐟𝐨𝐥𝐥𝐨𝐰 𝐡𝐢𝐦 𝐭𝐨 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐬 𝐨𝐟 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐡.
I MEAN CMON!!! 😩🥹
Plus the chemistry between him and Rhys on and off screen was magnetic, and their scenes together were off the charts hot 🥵
By far my most favorite couple the series so far!
- camboy + construction worker
- size difference
- virgin mc
- opposites attract
- queer awakening
Angel, bless him, was so sweet and innocent, which balanced out all the confidence and sass from Rhys. & to top it off, Angel was absolutely swoony!
𝐈’𝐦 𝐢𝐧 𝐮𝐧𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐲 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐚 𝐦𝐚𝐩. 𝐑𝐡𝐲𝐬 𝐡𝐚𝐬 𝐛𝐞𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐞 𝐦𝐲 𝐍𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐡 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐫. 𝐀𝐥𝐥 𝐈 𝐤𝐧𝐨𝐰 𝐢𝐬 𝐈 𝐰𝐚𝐧𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐟𝐨𝐥𝐥𝐨𝐰 𝐡𝐢𝐦 𝐭𝐨 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐬 𝐨𝐟 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐡.
I MEAN CMON!!! 😩🥹
Plus the chemistry between him and Rhys on and off screen was magnetic, and their scenes together were off the charts hot 🥵
By far my most favorite couple the series so far!
- camboy + construction worker
- size difference
- virgin mc
- opposites attract
- queer awakening
January 15, 2025
Oh my jeeezus this was the sweetest fucking thing I’ve ever read. I definitely wasn’t expecting to just get all schmoopy over how freaking adorable Angel is, but that man had me head over heels in his first chapter. And Rhys seeing and loving everything about Angel from the start, oh my heart couldn’t take it. It was so full by the time I finished this book. These boys own my heart! Ahhh. Now I want Hayden’s book pleaseeee!
August 15, 2024
Tropes: size difference, camboy/virgin, opposites attract
Feels: 4.5/5
Steam*: 3.5/5
Kinks: toys, shoe/foot, lingerie, flamboyant and feminine style
Angst: low
HEA: yes
Pairing: MM
Triggers/potential icks/content warnings: homophobia, bad relationship with parents, porn work, no OM drama, no third act breakup
Rhys and Angel were precious!! 4.5 stars for sure.
They both grew up in the same conservative town. Rhys was flamboyantly different, dressed feminine, wore his hair long, did his nails, was gay. He got a lot of attention and disapproval thrown his way and his parents weren't accepting. He left town as soon as he was 18, but he does come back to visit his family from time to time, more so for the brother he has than for his parents.
Angel is a good man and son and uncle. He has a really good relationship with his family and is a bit of a mama's boy. He's a big burly man that works in construction and still lives at home helping out with his mom and his single mom sister. Angel is timid, a virgin, he's never felt strongly about anyone before. Angel remembers Rhys from from them growing up in each other's periphery, Angel is friends with his older brother Nico. Angel hasn't seen Rhys in years and instantly fascinated again when he sees Rhys again. He starts up a conversation with Rhys and accidentally learns that Rhys is a camboy. He can't get it out of his head and his curiousness shows through, and he plays it off like he's interested in going gay for pay, like he needs the money when really he's not that bad off. He just wants Rhys and he's innocently confused about his feelings but just seeking more of HIM. And Rhys wants him back, Angel is just his type and Angel is such a sweet human.
They start filming together and lines blur so fast because they are so into each other, they genuinely really like each other and want each other and neither has any guile to them, neither of them are playing games. They are both falling in love, but neither says anything about it for a while because they both don't quite feel good enough for each other and have their own insecurities. When they do finally confess their feelings they are all in. Rhys is worried that Angel won't want to be with him in public because Angel can pass easily for straight and Rhys just stands out everywhere. But Angel loves him so hard that's not an issue.
This was an adorable book. There were so many sweet and steamy moments. They were both very good men and they made a great couple. Angel was just precious and needs to be protected at all costs. He was so innocently naive, all these sexual comments just went right over his head. And he wasn't macho or toxic or judgmental, he just felt so blessed to have Rhys and he was just in a state of joyful wonder at what they had together. I laughed a lot and kicked my feet. A lot more than I would have expected from a camboy story. Angel was innocently kinky too. It was so sweet how Angel is into Rhys' shoes. He doesn't care about the money from a sponsorship deal, he just wants him to have all the sexy shoes for their sexy times and he will eagerly build whatever shoe shelves he needs.
One thing that I would have liked to see would be Angel and Rhys having a conversation about what their relationship means for Rhys' career as a camboy, whether he can still continue the kind of career he wants in an exclusive relationship or not. I cannot see them being open though, they are so focused on each other they couldn't see anything else around them so I couldn't see them just casually being with others.
Some notable moments:
"“Rhys, how do you feel about being Angelo’s first man?” My heart thuds against the inside of my ribs. So hard and loud that I’m sure the microphone can pick it up. I feel… hungry for him, possessive, greedy. I want to be Angel’s first. I want to be his only. I want to snatch him up and hoard him all to myself, so no one else can have him. I want him to be mine."
I love Rhys' reasons for loving Angel. They aren't just a superficial relationship. "“I love you,” Rhys says again. Slower this time so there’s no way for me to mistake it. “Because you are braver and more courageous than you give yourself credit for. Because you don’t try to be someone you’re not. You are unapologetically yourself, even if you’re just discovering who that person is. You’re thoughtful and caring and you give so much of yourself to people who don’t always deserve it. You’re good, Angel. And I want to be someone who deserves you.”"
Angel is the most innocent, sweet man. "“If I’m not straight, then what does that make me?” He gives me a one-shouldered shrug. “Bi? Pan? Maybe you are gay? Doesn’t matter. You don’t have to figure that out right away.” I nod, though I don’t really know what he means by “pan”. I have pans in the kitchen?"
"He joins me cautiously, then starts to dance. At least, I think that’s what he’s trying to do. A giggle escapes me as I watch Angel bob up and down, completely out of time with the music. He’s so awkward and eager and unbelievably adorable, I could die."
*FYI about steam: I rate steam based on a combination of quality & quantity. I note kink separate from steam because I don't want to underrate steamy reads that don't have much kink.
**Note about spoilers: I like to comment on the plot of a book in reviews, so I almost always mark my reviews as containing spoilers. But I try to avoid spoiling the big dramatic moments! As a reader, I personally like to know what I'm getting into before I read a book so I know more about the content and if it's to my taste/mood, so I try to give that information in my reviews for myself when I'm considering rereading and also for other readers.
Feels: 4.5/5
Steam*: 3.5/5
Kinks: toys, shoe/foot, lingerie, flamboyant and feminine style
Angst: low
HEA: yes
Pairing: MM
Triggers/potential icks/content warnings: homophobia, bad relationship with parents, porn work, no OM drama, no third act breakup
Rhys and Angel were precious!! 4.5 stars for sure.
They both grew up in the same conservative town. Rhys was flamboyantly different, dressed feminine, wore his hair long, did his nails, was gay. He got a lot of attention and disapproval thrown his way and his parents weren't accepting. He left town as soon as he was 18, but he does come back to visit his family from time to time, more so for the brother he has than for his parents.
Angel is a good man and son and uncle. He has a really good relationship with his family and is a bit of a mama's boy. He's a big burly man that works in construction and still lives at home helping out with his mom and his single mom sister. Angel is timid, a virgin, he's never felt strongly about anyone before. Angel remembers Rhys from from them growing up in each other's periphery, Angel is friends with his older brother Nico. Angel hasn't seen Rhys in years and instantly fascinated again when he sees Rhys again. He starts up a conversation with Rhys and accidentally learns that Rhys is a camboy. He can't get it out of his head and his curiousness shows through, and he plays it off like he's interested in going gay for pay, like he needs the money when really he's not that bad off. He just wants Rhys and he's innocently confused about his feelings but just seeking more of HIM. And Rhys wants him back, Angel is just his type and Angel is such a sweet human.
They start filming together and lines blur so fast because they are so into each other, they genuinely really like each other and want each other and neither has any guile to them, neither of them are playing games. They are both falling in love, but neither says anything about it for a while because they both don't quite feel good enough for each other and have their own insecurities. When they do finally confess their feelings they are all in. Rhys is worried that Angel won't want to be with him in public because Angel can pass easily for straight and Rhys just stands out everywhere. But Angel loves him so hard that's not an issue.
This was an adorable book. There were so many sweet and steamy moments. They were both very good men and they made a great couple. Angel was just precious and needs to be protected at all costs. He was so innocently naive, all these sexual comments just went right over his head. And he wasn't macho or toxic or judgmental, he just felt so blessed to have Rhys and he was just in a state of joyful wonder at what they had together. I laughed a lot and kicked my feet. A lot more than I would have expected from a camboy story. Angel was innocently kinky too. It was so sweet how Angel is into Rhys' shoes. He doesn't care about the money from a sponsorship deal, he just wants him to have all the sexy shoes for their sexy times and he will eagerly build whatever shoe shelves he needs.
One thing that I would have liked to see would be Angel and Rhys having a conversation about what their relationship means for Rhys' career as a camboy, whether he can still continue the kind of career he wants in an exclusive relationship or not. I cannot see them being open though, they are so focused on each other they couldn't see anything else around them so I couldn't see them just casually being with others.
Some notable moments:
"“Rhys, how do you feel about being Angelo’s first man?” My heart thuds against the inside of my ribs. So hard and loud that I’m sure the microphone can pick it up. I feel… hungry for him, possessive, greedy. I want to be Angel’s first. I want to be his only. I want to snatch him up and hoard him all to myself, so no one else can have him. I want him to be mine."
I love Rhys' reasons for loving Angel. They aren't just a superficial relationship. "“I love you,” Rhys says again. Slower this time so there’s no way for me to mistake it. “Because you are braver and more courageous than you give yourself credit for. Because you don’t try to be someone you’re not. You are unapologetically yourself, even if you’re just discovering who that person is. You’re thoughtful and caring and you give so much of yourself to people who don’t always deserve it. You’re good, Angel. And I want to be someone who deserves you.”"
Angel is the most innocent, sweet man. "“If I’m not straight, then what does that make me?” He gives me a one-shouldered shrug. “Bi? Pan? Maybe you are gay? Doesn’t matter. You don’t have to figure that out right away.” I nod, though I don’t really know what he means by “pan”. I have pans in the kitchen?"
"He joins me cautiously, then starts to dance. At least, I think that’s what he’s trying to do. A giggle escapes me as I watch Angel bob up and down, completely out of time with the music. He’s so awkward and eager and unbelievably adorable, I could die."
*FYI about steam: I rate steam based on a combination of quality & quantity. I note kink separate from steam because I don't want to underrate steamy reads that don't have much kink.
**Note about spoilers: I like to comment on the plot of a book in reviews, so I almost always mark my reviews as containing spoilers. But I try to avoid spoiling the big dramatic moments! As a reader, I personally like to know what I'm getting into before I read a book so I know more about the content and if it's to my taste/mood, so I try to give that information in my reviews for myself when I'm considering rereading and also for other readers.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 8, 2024
4.5 ⭐️ rounded up! What to say. This book was PURE sweetness. Angel and Rhys are exactly that… just so pure and genuine towards each other. Don’t get me wrong, there is plenty of excellent spice too! Linden brought the heat, too! Oh, my. 🥵
Linden wrote these characters FLAWLESSLY and I felt every ounce of their true connection, the curiosity building, and amazing chemistry. This book made me so giddy! I love how protective they were of one another even before getting together.
Flamboyant camboy/pole-dancer x burly, rough-and-tumble construction worker…. LOVEDDD it all! Opposites in every way - but they worked so incredibly well. Like I was swooning and their biggest fan. They both accepted each other undeniably for who they were… creating a safe space to be themselves and for Angel especially to come alive on camera while filming. You will fall in love! This was my first Linden book and it will certainly not be my last! 😊
Linden wrote these characters FLAWLESSLY and I felt every ounce of their true connection, the curiosity building, and amazing chemistry. This book made me so giddy! I love how protective they were of one another even before getting together.
Flamboyant camboy/pole-dancer x burly, rough-and-tumble construction worker…. LOVEDDD it all! Opposites in every way - but they worked so incredibly well. Like I was swooning and their biggest fan. They both accepted each other undeniably for who they were… creating a safe space to be themselves and for Angel especially to come alive on camera while filming. You will fall in love! This was my first Linden book and it will certainly not be my last! 😊
August 30, 2024
Angel by Linden Bell is spicy and yet so swoony! I will definitely be reading this again!
In this, the third Camboy Network book, we get to know Rhys Rawlings on a deeper level. Rhys leaves the old neighborhood for Brooklyn in order to live as his true self without all the constraints of family and their expectations for his life. Rhys - brave, bold, beautiful, and definitely gay - has never quite fit in with his long hair and his flamboyant style. Home is filled with people he loves, but visiting there fills him with dread. Sometimes, though, being brave and doing something out of your comfort zone can come with amazing rewards.
When Rhys goes home for his dad's milestone birthday party, all the people from the neighborhood are there, including his brother and his brother's friends. One of these friends is a giant teddy bear of a man, Angel. And what an Angel he is! After following Rhys to his old bedroom, Angel and Rhys get reacquainted and then Angel - presumably straight Angel - basically follows Rhys into the Camboy network. After all, “You don’t… do you… do you have to be gay to, you know, do gay porn?”
In the course of figuring out the answer to that question for himself, Angel discovers a number of other things about himself, most significantly...just how important Rhys is to him and how courageous an oooey gooey cinnamon roll can be. And Rhys? Rhys finds out that maybe the old neighborhood can surprise him in more ways than one and maybe going home can be wonderful.
The Camboy Network is fantastic and I love Linden Bell's low angst but spicy books. Is this my favorite of the series now? Probably so as I couldn't out it down until I finished! I absolutely loved this book and this couple. Next up is Hayden's story and I just cannot wait!
What to Expect:
* Construction Worker MC + Flamboyant Pole Dancer
* Camboys
* Virgin MC
* Gay for pay
* queer awakening
* Size difference
* Opposites attract
* accidentally dirty texts
* Teddy bear
* protecting each other
* Kink exploration
* Brooklyn vs The Old Neighborhood
Thanks to GRR for the ARC - this is my honest opinion.
In this, the third Camboy Network book, we get to know Rhys Rawlings on a deeper level. Rhys leaves the old neighborhood for Brooklyn in order to live as his true self without all the constraints of family and their expectations for his life. Rhys - brave, bold, beautiful, and definitely gay - has never quite fit in with his long hair and his flamboyant style. Home is filled with people he loves, but visiting there fills him with dread. Sometimes, though, being brave and doing something out of your comfort zone can come with amazing rewards.
When Rhys goes home for his dad's milestone birthday party, all the people from the neighborhood are there, including his brother and his brother's friends. One of these friends is a giant teddy bear of a man, Angel. And what an Angel he is! After following Rhys to his old bedroom, Angel and Rhys get reacquainted and then Angel - presumably straight Angel - basically follows Rhys into the Camboy network. After all, “You don’t… do you… do you have to be gay to, you know, do gay porn?”
In the course of figuring out the answer to that question for himself, Angel discovers a number of other things about himself, most significantly...just how important Rhys is to him and how courageous an oooey gooey cinnamon roll can be. And Rhys? Rhys finds out that maybe the old neighborhood can surprise him in more ways than one and maybe going home can be wonderful.
The Camboy Network is fantastic and I love Linden Bell's low angst but spicy books. Is this my favorite of the series now? Probably so as I couldn't out it down until I finished! I absolutely loved this book and this couple. Next up is Hayden's story and I just cannot wait!
What to Expect:
* Construction Worker MC + Flamboyant Pole Dancer
* Camboys
* Virgin MC
* Gay for pay
* queer awakening
* Size difference
* Opposites attract
* accidentally dirty texts
* Teddy bear
* protecting each other
* Kink exploration
* Brooklyn vs The Old Neighborhood
Thanks to GRR for the ARC - this is my honest opinion.
August 9, 2024
I need to check my sugar levels, because of this book. Oh my god... what a porny sweet sugar rush. This checks all the boxes of opposites attract:
Adorable / hot
Innocent/devilish
Vulnerable/strong
Teddy Bear/Femme
Construction Worker/Pole Dancing Camboy
Virgin/Experienced
Angel and Rhys couldn't be more different, but they've been so adorable together since they noticed each other. Innocently (or not), beyond the physical relationship, something more, something so strong, develops, and bamm, love. They rethink their lives and easily stay together. No matter how different their appearances and experiences may be, they both want and achieve the same thing: to love and be loved for who they are and to fight for each other.
The on-camera and off-camera scenes are so hot... The on-camera scenes are adorable porn, and the off-camera scenes are incredible lovemaking. I loved seeing Angel give free rein to his desires and unlock some delicious kinks 🥵👀👠💦.
It was too perfect... The way everything was so easily resolved, and it's me being picky but I think it's unrealistic for everyone to accept Rhys, and I know I'm being hypocritical because what I want most in the world is for each person to accept it the way it is... But unfortunately, we don't live in that world... Another thing that bothers me since book 2 is that they don't take care of the filming, it's Sebastian, and that takes away the fun of the homemade camboy, at least for me.
I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review.
Adorable / hot
Innocent/devilish
Vulnerable/strong
Teddy Bear/Femme
Construction Worker/Pole Dancing Camboy
Virgin/Experienced
Angel and Rhys couldn't be more different, but they've been so adorable together since they noticed each other. Innocently (or not), beyond the physical relationship, something more, something so strong, develops, and bamm, love. They rethink their lives and easily stay together. No matter how different their appearances and experiences may be, they both want and achieve the same thing: to love and be loved for who they are and to fight for each other.
The on-camera and off-camera scenes are so hot... The on-camera scenes are adorable porn, and the off-camera scenes are incredible lovemaking. I loved seeing Angel give free rein to his desires and unlock some delicious kinks 🥵👀👠💦.
It was too perfect... The way everything was so easily resolved, and it's me being picky but I think it's unrealistic for everyone to accept Rhys, and I know I'm being hypocritical because what I want most in the world is for each person to accept it the way it is... But unfortunately, we don't live in that world... Another thing that bothers me since book 2 is that they don't take care of the filming, it's Sebastian, and that takes away the fun of the homemade camboy, at least for me.
I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review.
August 23, 2024
There’s absolutely nothing special about the bed. The pillows and bedspread are covered in white linen. And that’s it. Except it’s where I’ll be having sex for the very first time. Well, like, full-on sex. With a guy. With anyone. And it’ll all be caught on camera.
I challenge anyone to read this and not fall in love with sweet, innocent, teddy bear Angel 😇 He’s so pure and precious but also brave. When Rhys catches his eye and then opens his mind to new possibilities he latches on to the idea of “gay for pay” as an excuse to explore a part of himself he’s never known before.
They are sizzling together! I love how into each other they are in every way. The sweet conversations, passionate sex, and support all mesh together to make them such a power couple. I also love that this is super low angst - not everything is easy but between them it mostly is and it was just lovely to read.
I’m super excited for the final book in this series! They’ve all been so fun and unique to each other. It’ll be exciting to see what Linden writes next!
I challenge anyone to read this and not fall in love with sweet, innocent, teddy bear Angel 😇 He’s so pure and precious but also brave. When Rhys catches his eye and then opens his mind to new possibilities he latches on to the idea of “gay for pay” as an excuse to explore a part of himself he’s never known before.
They are sizzling together! I love how into each other they are in every way. The sweet conversations, passionate sex, and support all mesh together to make them such a power couple. I also love that this is super low angst - not everything is easy but between them it mostly is and it was just lovely to read.
I’m super excited for the final book in this series! They’ve all been so fun and unique to each other. It’ll be exciting to see what Linden writes next!
August 17, 2024
This is the book to pick up next if you just need sweet, squishy, low angst love! The kind where the big burly construction worker is actually the softest on the planet, and the vibrant outgoing camboy brings him out of his shell so sweetly. Rhys and Angel are the third couple in the camboy network series, and they just may be my favourites.. maybe, I can’t choose! Rhys is just vibrantly confident, living his life on his own terms and loving every second of it with his found family camboys, but what he didn’t expect was a teddy bear from his old family neighbourhood to sweep him off his feet. Their story is full of the sweetest love, camming together, effortless falling and the cutest soft kink exploration. Hands down, Linden has a knack for relatable characters, the perfect amount of heat and enjoyable story lines.
August 14, 2024
Story : 4.5 stars
Spicy: Out of charts.
Angel is the third book in The Camboy Network series.
It is a low angst, tender romance with a lot of spice. I can't tell if it's a bi awakening or a gay awakening, because the character doesn't get to put a label on himself.
When I read an author new to me, I usually comment on the writing style, how he/she characterizes the characters, the plot, etc.
I really liked the writing style, it is descriptive, especially in the spicy scenes, the characters are solid. The drama could have come from two characters, but the truth is that it is resolved well, in a quiet way.
Angel is a construction worker, a teddy bear, who still lives with his mother, his sister and her son. He is a virgin, he has had girlfriends, but for the sake of having them, not because he felt much romantic or physical attraction. He is a green flag.
Rhys is a camboy and pole dancer, who leaves home at the age of 18 because he doesn't fit into the traditional neighborhood he lives in. When he goes to his father's birthday party, he meets Angel, who is a friend of his brother.
I really like the dynamic between the characters, they talk, they ask explicit permission for everything they do. I liked the kinky stuff.
I have to catch up with the series and I want to read the next one, because I have a suspicion that character had feelings for Rhys and I'd like to see how he gets his happy ending.
Spicy: Out of charts.
Angel is the third book in The Camboy Network series.
It is a low angst, tender romance with a lot of spice. I can't tell if it's a bi awakening or a gay awakening, because the character doesn't get to put a label on himself.
When I read an author new to me, I usually comment on the writing style, how he/she characterizes the characters, the plot, etc.
I really liked the writing style, it is descriptive, especially in the spicy scenes, the characters are solid. The drama could have come from two characters, but the truth is that it is resolved well, in a quiet way.
Angel is a construction worker, a teddy bear, who still lives with his mother, his sister and her son. He is a virgin, he has had girlfriends, but for the sake of having them, not because he felt much romantic or physical attraction. He is a green flag.
Rhys is a camboy and pole dancer, who leaves home at the age of 18 because he doesn't fit into the traditional neighborhood he lives in. When he goes to his father's birthday party, he meets Angel, who is a friend of his brother.
I really like the dynamic between the characters, they talk, they ask explicit permission for everything they do. I liked the kinky stuff.
I have to catch up with the series and I want to read the next one, because I have a suspicion that character had feelings for Rhys and I'd like to see how he gets his happy ending.
August 11, 2024
4.5 ⭐️
I absolutely loved this story. It’s full of feeling, fire and found family. This book is probably the lowest in angst from the series but is no less emotional. I loved Rhys’s character- completely and fearlessly himself at all times and Angel who is just a giant teddy bear of a man with the softest heart and must be protected at all costs.
The writing is beautiful and descriptive and just hooks you in from the first chapter. I love how Angel’s motivations are amorphous initially, it adds to this intrigue that feels like it’s building but it’s quite clear that he is definitely on a fearless path to self discovery. We dont always know what gets us to make certain choices but looking back we hopefully have a lightbulb moment and it turns out to be the best thing and this hope is embodied by Angel and Rhys is the perfect person to hold his hand through this vulnerability.
These two were absolutely scorching hot - there is a lot of sex (and not always vanilla 😉) in this book and it totally works for these two who just can’t seem to keep their hands off each other and discover a couple of kinks along the way too. Be prepared for the white hot chemistry because these two bring it. I loved the ending, nothing neat about it but they are both happy in their HEA and that was spectacular to see how they stand up for each other as do some of the side characters- the found family aspect in this book is on point.
Another thing I loved was seeing everyone from the first two books. This is an absolute scorcher of a series and definitely recommend checking it out.
I absolutely loved this story. It’s full of feeling, fire and found family. This book is probably the lowest in angst from the series but is no less emotional. I loved Rhys’s character- completely and fearlessly himself at all times and Angel who is just a giant teddy bear of a man with the softest heart and must be protected at all costs.
The writing is beautiful and descriptive and just hooks you in from the first chapter. I love how Angel’s motivations are amorphous initially, it adds to this intrigue that feels like it’s building but it’s quite clear that he is definitely on a fearless path to self discovery. We dont always know what gets us to make certain choices but looking back we hopefully have a lightbulb moment and it turns out to be the best thing and this hope is embodied by Angel and Rhys is the perfect person to hold his hand through this vulnerability.
These two were absolutely scorching hot - there is a lot of sex (and not always vanilla 😉) in this book and it totally works for these two who just can’t seem to keep their hands off each other and discover a couple of kinks along the way too. Be prepared for the white hot chemistry because these two bring it. I loved the ending, nothing neat about it but they are both happy in their HEA and that was spectacular to see how they stand up for each other as do some of the side characters- the found family aspect in this book is on point.
Another thing I loved was seeing everyone from the first two books. This is an absolute scorcher of a series and definitely recommend checking it out.
August 11, 2024
ANGEL is book 3 in the Camboy Network series. And boy, howdy was it spicy. You should know that going into it.
In Angel, we get Rhys' story. One of the original four characters that kicked off the series. Rhys is the self-proclaimed "sassy" one. He's a camboy (obviously) and a pole dancer. At his parents' house for a birthday dinner, he reconnects with Angel, the very straight & very bear like exfootball player turned construction worker. Angel may be a big burly man, but he's soft and sweet, and the nickname "teddy bear" fits for a reason.
The attraction is instant but confusing for Angel since he assumes he's straight. But he can't deny the need he has to be around Rhys. The conversation drifts to Rhys' profession, and the "gay for pay" conversation happens.
But let's be real. It was never about the money. Angel needed time to figure himself out, and Rhys spent all the time falling head over heels for Angel.
While I loved getting to know both mcs and seeing how being out and themselves could be problematic for them both in their *home neighborhood* - what kept me invested was Angel's soft sweetness. He was this beast of a man, soft spoken and sweet. I just, absolutely understand how Rhys couldn't help falling for him even when Rhys assumed he was straight. Who couldn't love Angel? Honestly.
The spice in this one was off the charts. The chemistry between the two mcs basically demanded it.
In Angel, we get Rhys' story. One of the original four characters that kicked off the series. Rhys is the self-proclaimed "sassy" one. He's a camboy (obviously) and a pole dancer. At his parents' house for a birthday dinner, he reconnects with Angel, the very straight & very bear like exfootball player turned construction worker. Angel may be a big burly man, but he's soft and sweet, and the nickname "teddy bear" fits for a reason.
The attraction is instant but confusing for Angel since he assumes he's straight. But he can't deny the need he has to be around Rhys. The conversation drifts to Rhys' profession, and the "gay for pay" conversation happens.
But let's be real. It was never about the money. Angel needed time to figure himself out, and Rhys spent all the time falling head over heels for Angel.
While I loved getting to know both mcs and seeing how being out and themselves could be problematic for them both in their *home neighborhood* - what kept me invested was Angel's soft sweetness. He was this beast of a man, soft spoken and sweet. I just, absolutely understand how Rhys couldn't help falling for him even when Rhys assumed he was straight. Who couldn't love Angel? Honestly.
The spice in this one was off the charts. The chemistry between the two mcs basically demanded it.
August 9, 2024
Love this series, and this book is definitely my favorite. I love Angel and Rhys so much, their chemistry was completely off the charts. This, opposites attract, camboy story was so sweet and spicy, and I loved every minute of it! I can’t wait for the next one!
September 25, 2024
4,25⭐️
Ugh my god 🥵 the way this author describes the spicy scenes is everything.
I wanted more from this story though, everything between the main character and their respective family, the resolution etc… still, that was damn hot!!
Ugh my god 🥵 the way this author describes the spicy scenes is everything.
I wanted more from this story though, everything between the main character and their respective family, the resolution etc… still, that was damn hot!!
January 4, 2025
2.75⭐️
This just wasn’t for me. Angel was adorable in the beginning, but the innocence started to annoy me more than charm me. Their chemistry was great, but I just didn’t vibe with this one. I also started skimming at about 85% on. The spice scenes just weren’t for me. 🤷🏻♀️
This just wasn’t for me. Angel was adorable in the beginning, but the innocence started to annoy me more than charm me. Their chemistry was great, but I just didn’t vibe with this one. I also started skimming at about 85% on. The spice scenes just weren’t for me. 🤷🏻♀️
August 2, 2025
I couldn’t stop smiling!! Loved these two so much.
August 15, 2024
*4.5 stars rounded up*
WHEW. I promise you aren’t ready for this one. If you thought Linden Bell brought the chemistry, instant attraction, and soul deep connection in the previous two books, you haven’t seen anything yet. Angel cranks up the heat and emotion when an innocent, lovable cinnamon roll decides getting in front of the camera is the best way to get to know the bright, shining camboy he can’t get off his mind.
From the moment Angel spots Rhys, he’s captivated. There’s something about him that draws Angel in, a base level need, desire, and attraction he’s helpless to fight. I for one am definitely glad he didn’t. 😏
Angel’s inexperience is endearing, and watching him discover what he likes is so freeing. He’s in the moment, reacting to each situation, and taking what he wants. The intimacy seems heavier and more genuine, wrapping you up in their shared emotions, and it just feels so pure. I’d imagine this is what it’s like when an MC stops overthinking his sexuality, attraction, and expectation and just FEELS.
Rhys’s story isn’t an uncommon one in MM romance. He’s an unapologetically femme, non-gender conforming guy from a homophobic neighborhood who escapes to live a life where he’s free to be himself. He’s done well, making a name for himself as a camboy and pole dancer. His character arc is a bit difficult at times, and I appreciate how Linden Bell navigates his sensitive storyline.
These two couldn’t be more different. Their story is opposites attract and size difference to the Nth degree, pairing an über masculine construction worker with a more feminine, flamboyant twink. I’m not sure Linden Bell could find more ways to contrast their characters and highlight their differences, but they’re alike in the ways that matter. They just want to love and be loved, and once they allow themselves to trust and let go, their love is everything.
*I voluntarily read a complimentary copy of this book*
WHEW. I promise you aren’t ready for this one. If you thought Linden Bell brought the chemistry, instant attraction, and soul deep connection in the previous two books, you haven’t seen anything yet. Angel cranks up the heat and emotion when an innocent, lovable cinnamon roll decides getting in front of the camera is the best way to get to know the bright, shining camboy he can’t get off his mind.
From the moment Angel spots Rhys, he’s captivated. There’s something about him that draws Angel in, a base level need, desire, and attraction he’s helpless to fight. I for one am definitely glad he didn’t. 😏
Angel’s inexperience is endearing, and watching him discover what he likes is so freeing. He’s in the moment, reacting to each situation, and taking what he wants. The intimacy seems heavier and more genuine, wrapping you up in their shared emotions, and it just feels so pure. I’d imagine this is what it’s like when an MC stops overthinking his sexuality, attraction, and expectation and just FEELS.
Rhys’s story isn’t an uncommon one in MM romance. He’s an unapologetically femme, non-gender conforming guy from a homophobic neighborhood who escapes to live a life where he’s free to be himself. He’s done well, making a name for himself as a camboy and pole dancer. His character arc is a bit difficult at times, and I appreciate how Linden Bell navigates his sensitive storyline.
These two couldn’t be more different. Their story is opposites attract and size difference to the Nth degree, pairing an über masculine construction worker with a more feminine, flamboyant twink. I’m not sure Linden Bell could find more ways to contrast their characters and highlight their differences, but they’re alike in the ways that matter. They just want to love and be loved, and once they allow themselves to trust and let go, their love is everything.
*I voluntarily read a complimentary copy of this book*
August 16, 2024
This was great! It was hard to put down. Rhys was immediately charming and charismatic. Angel was immediately adorable and sweet. I love that Angel is such a big, burly guy who is so innocent and nervous and embarrassed. And Rhys is wonderful. He loves himself as he is (which, he should, he's amazing) and even in his old neighborhood where that would be looked down on he stands proud and doesn't change. Angel agreeing to do camming just to be able to spend time with Rhys is actually adorable and hilarious. I love that Angel just goes with the flow as he figures out his sexuality and preferences. Sure he internally questions what's going on, but overall he just accepts it. And Rhys is a great help. I enjoyed this book a lot. Another great addition to this series! Now... I can't wait for Hayden's!
Notes: 2/5 spice levels, pole dancer, camboys, costars, size difference, sexual awakening, virgin mc, construction worker, found family, brother's friend
Notes: 2/5 spice levels, pole dancer, camboys, costars, size difference, sexual awakening, virgin mc, construction worker, found family, brother's friend
August 13, 2024
4.5☆
ᔑᑭᏆᑕᗴ: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
しᗩᑌᏀᕼᔑ: 🤣🤣🤣
Ꭲᗴᗩᖇᔑ:😭
ᗰᑕᔑ: Angel, Rhys
ᑭᝪᐯ: 1st dual
Ꭲᖇᝪᑭᗴᔑ: Size Difference, Sex Worker, Camboy, Cinammom Roll, Virgin MC.
Dioooos valió demasiado la pena la espera, cono no amar a Angel, es la cosa más bella, adorable, tímida, perfecta que Linden ha creado. Su personalidad y todo en el es especial. Tengo tanto que decir de este libro pero no se ni como empezar lo único que estoy seguro es que es de mis favs de Linden y de esta serie. Ha sido todo un viaje con estos chicos y aún queda esperar la última entrega. El mundo necesita más tipos como Angel.
ᔑᑭᏆᑕᗴ: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
しᗩᑌᏀᕼᔑ: 🤣🤣🤣
Ꭲᗴᗩᖇᔑ:😭
ᗰᑕᔑ: Angel, Rhys
ᑭᝪᐯ: 1st dual
Ꭲᖇᝪᑭᗴᔑ: Size Difference, Sex Worker, Camboy, Cinammom Roll, Virgin MC.
Dioooos valió demasiado la pena la espera, cono no amar a Angel, es la cosa más bella, adorable, tímida, perfecta que Linden ha creado. Su personalidad y todo en el es especial. Tengo tanto que decir de este libro pero no se ni como empezar lo único que estoy seguro es que es de mis favs de Linden y de esta serie. Ha sido todo un viaje con estos chicos y aún queda esperar la última entrega. El mundo necesita más tipos como Angel.
August 11, 2024
He’s always looking at me like I’m some rare and precious jewel. How am I supposed to keep my defenses up? How am I supposed to stay away?
❥ Dual POV
❥ MM Romance
❥ Found Family
❥ Opposites Attract
❥ Construction Worker x Sex Worker
❥ Cinnamon Roll
❥ Bossy Bottom
❥ Virgin MC
❥ Queer Awakening
This was such a sweet and spicy read. I absolutely loved it. I haven't read the previous books in the series, and I didn't feel like I was missing out (but I do plan on reading them soon).
Ricky aka Rhys moved away from the neighborhood he grew up in when he was 18, and made a new life for himself in Brooklyn. He never fitted in at home, he was different because he liked having his hair long and he liked wearing dresses. His relationship with his parents is strained, and he avoids coming home if he can, but this is not the case with his dad's birthday. If he hadn't come home though, then he would never have ended up in his childhood bedroom with Angel, and he wouldn't have told Angel about what he does for a living.
Angel has never had any problems fitting in, he might have done it too well, he's never been noticed and always been standing on the sideline. He lives his life like he's supposed to, taking care of his family, working as a construction worker and is friendly to everyone. But then along comes Rhys with a confidence Angel never possessed, and he's instantly intrigued. It's what makes him follow Rhys to Rhys' childhood bedroom, and it's what makes him consider "gay for pay", because Rhys is a camboy, and not only that, he's also a pole dancer.
Rhys introduces Angel to a whole new side of himself. It was pretty awesome to see Angel come out of his shell, have all these new experiences and find out who he truly is. He is the sweetest cinnamon roll ever, and the way he cares about Rhys was totally swoon-worthy. Not only does he discover his sexuality, he also discovers what falling in love feels like.
And Rhys, I absolutely adored him. He might have had a hard time growing up, but it hasn't stopped him from being his true self in Brooklyn, where he has found some amazing friends, his found family. Rhys is very protective of Angel as Angel ventures into the world of The Camboy Network, but Rhys is more than willing to guide Angel the whole way through. It doesn't take long for them to connect, even though Rhys is insecure about Angel's intentions, since Angel is supposedly 'straight'.
So yea, Angel and Rhys are extremely sweet together, but their sexual chemistry is off the charts. Angel has unlocked his sexual desires which includes some unexpected kinks. Let me just say... I absolutely hate feet, and some of the scenes in this book were very difficult for me to read lol. But that's totally a me-thing, and it didn't take away my overall love for the book.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
Read the full review on my blog here with edits and quotes.
August 7, 2024
3,5 ⭐️
It was so cute, but also reminded me a lot of Tink, another twink/capable bear book.
Don’t get me wrong I love this trope a lot, it just didn’t give me that particular zing I’m used to in this genre.
Angel was so sweet, and the role of a disapproving Catholic mother was spot on. I was so angry on his behalf for the entire thing. First of all about all the entitlement both women show, his mother particularly. He works like a dog to pay off two mortgages that his deadbeat father left with the family, mother doesn’t work sister as well, but both feel entitled to his money and time? What the hell? This wasn’t resolved in the end either. It’s obvious Angel likes the nephews, but doesn’t want to babysit him. He wants to have a life but all of them are just acting entitled to his time to babysit and be there whenever, with blatant disregard for his own plans and if he has any. I’m sorry, but I can’t get over that. He’s a construction worker, pays for the house. Sabrina the sister decided to have a child and just dumps the kid on them, moves in etc. Later on she finds a job, but he has to watch the kid while she works? What?!
Way better HEA would be both of them buying a place of their own and Angel selling his apartment. On that note his mother’s behavior is unacceptable. He’s supporting her and she is judging him and making him feel bad because he’s gay? Whatever.
I can’t get over that one, sorry.
Rhys was a typical flamboyant femme twink, no more no less. They were jumping from the start, very insta. Although to be fair I think maybe Angel had a crush on him longer. I love Nico though, he’s a good brother to Rhys, but other than that, no good in his family either. I can’t get over the cult vibe that this neighborhood has, basically not giving a single shit about either of them, but all very judgy and meddlesome. I understand why Rhys left. As I said a better HEA would be if they moved away from it. Angel really is an Angel.
Also quick side note, why are all the guys just snatching phones left and right reading peoples messages? What the hell? You would think that pornstars have some clue about boundaries…
It was so cute, but also reminded me a lot of Tink, another twink/capable bear book.
Don’t get me wrong I love this trope a lot, it just didn’t give me that particular zing I’m used to in this genre.
Angel was so sweet, and the role of a disapproving Catholic mother was spot on. I was so angry on his behalf for the entire thing. First of all about all the entitlement both women show, his mother particularly. He works like a dog to pay off two mortgages that his deadbeat father left with the family, mother doesn’t work sister as well, but both feel entitled to his money and time? What the hell? This wasn’t resolved in the end either. It’s obvious Angel likes the nephews, but doesn’t want to babysit him. He wants to have a life but all of them are just acting entitled to his time to babysit and be there whenever, with blatant disregard for his own plans and if he has any. I’m sorry, but I can’t get over that. He’s a construction worker, pays for the house. Sabrina the sister decided to have a child and just dumps the kid on them, moves in etc. Later on she finds a job, but he has to watch the kid while she works? What?!
Way better HEA would be both of them buying a place of their own and Angel selling his apartment. On that note his mother’s behavior is unacceptable. He’s supporting her and she is judging him and making him feel bad because he’s gay? Whatever.
I can’t get over that one, sorry.
Rhys was a typical flamboyant femme twink, no more no less. They were jumping from the start, very insta. Although to be fair I think maybe Angel had a crush on him longer. I love Nico though, he’s a good brother to Rhys, but other than that, no good in his family either. I can’t get over the cult vibe that this neighborhood has, basically not giving a single shit about either of them, but all very judgy and meddlesome. I understand why Rhys left. As I said a better HEA would be if they moved away from it. Angel really is an Angel.
Also quick side note, why are all the guys just snatching phones left and right reading peoples messages? What the hell? You would think that pornstars have some clue about boundaries…
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 10, 2024
4.5 stars
Such an adorable story! Angel is just the cutest guy, I loved him!
He and Rhys have nothing in common: Angel is shy, very tied to his family, living a simple life while Rhys is a fabulous pole dancer and Camboy, not to close to his own family who he left as soon as he could.
And yet they're so perfect for each other: I loved how Rhys was always a safe space for Angel to explore his sexuality without shaming or judging him; I also adored how Angel was devoted to Rhys and, despite being all confused, he never regretted what they did or ghosted him.
Angel is innocent and uncorrupted but not dumb and his pureness attracts Rhys making him feel and want things he never thought he could have.
What prevented me from giving a higher rate:
I'm not very fond of the lack of communication trope and I think they left things unsaid for too long.
I also didn't like Hayden very much, he was too judgemental towards Angel even if he didn't know him well.
Lastly, being close to his own family is good, but Angel should have set firmer boundaries with his mom.
The sex scenes were so very hot but also very very emotional, Rhys and Angel reached a very intense intimacy together since their first time.
I loved that Rhys reconnected with his family, especially with his big brother.
Next book will be about Hayden and, sadly, it will be the last of the series, so I hope the author will give all the previous MCs a little space before saying goodbye.
I received an ARC of this book from the author and this is my honest review.
Such an adorable story! Angel is just the cutest guy, I loved him!
He and Rhys have nothing in common: Angel is shy, very tied to his family, living a simple life while Rhys is a fabulous pole dancer and Camboy, not to close to his own family who he left as soon as he could.
And yet they're so perfect for each other: I loved how Rhys was always a safe space for Angel to explore his sexuality without shaming or judging him; I also adored how Angel was devoted to Rhys and, despite being all confused, he never regretted what they did or ghosted him.
Angel is innocent and uncorrupted but not dumb and his pureness attracts Rhys making him feel and want things he never thought he could have.
What prevented me from giving a higher rate:
I'm not very fond of the lack of communication trope and I think they left things unsaid for too long.
I also didn't like Hayden very much, he was too judgemental towards Angel even if he didn't know him well.
Lastly, being close to his own family is good, but Angel should have set firmer boundaries with his mom.
The sex scenes were so very hot but also very very emotional, Rhys and Angel reached a very intense intimacy together since their first time.
I loved that Rhys reconnected with his family, especially with his big brother.
Next book will be about Hayden and, sadly, it will be the last of the series, so I hope the author will give all the previous MCs a little space before saying goodbye.
I received an ARC of this book from the author and this is my honest review.
August 12, 2024
These two sweethearts had me in an absolute puddle, and I was here for every moment!
Rhys Rawling, Brooklyn pole dancer and camboy, grew up as Ricky Gallo in a god-fearing, hardworking conservative Staten Island neighborhood where he just never quite fit in. Escaping as a teenager, he became fast friends with a group of camboys that includes our Sebastian and Noel. Home for his dad’s birthday, Rhys runs into Angel Russo, a friend of his older brother. Angel has never questioned his life or his place in it, but finds himself strangely drawn to Rhys. And surprisingly intrigued by the idea of “gay for pay” films…
First of all, the aptly named Angel is the ooiest, gooiest cinnamon roll baby you’ll ever meet. He assumes he’s straight but never felt a spark with his few girlfriends, meaning he comes to filming with Rhys almost completely inexperienced. Seeing him collide with the out and proud Rhys is a delight.
Angel doesn’t know how to explain his attraction, but he never doubts it. His sweetness is never cloying because he’s completely authentic and adorably oblivious. Meanwhile, poor Rhys is trying desperately not to fall for the “straight boy,” and failing entirely.
I loved their chemistry, the spice is absolutely FIRE, and the found family elements between the camboys are on point. Linden’s books continue to delight, and I will be here waiting to eat up whatever she serves! Highly recommended for a low angst, high steam read!
*I received an advanced reader copy from the author and am voluntarily leaving my review*
Rhys Rawling, Brooklyn pole dancer and camboy, grew up as Ricky Gallo in a god-fearing, hardworking conservative Staten Island neighborhood where he just never quite fit in. Escaping as a teenager, he became fast friends with a group of camboys that includes our Sebastian and Noel. Home for his dad’s birthday, Rhys runs into Angel Russo, a friend of his older brother. Angel has never questioned his life or his place in it, but finds himself strangely drawn to Rhys. And surprisingly intrigued by the idea of “gay for pay” films…
First of all, the aptly named Angel is the ooiest, gooiest cinnamon roll baby you’ll ever meet. He assumes he’s straight but never felt a spark with his few girlfriends, meaning he comes to filming with Rhys almost completely inexperienced. Seeing him collide with the out and proud Rhys is a delight.
Angel doesn’t know how to explain his attraction, but he never doubts it. His sweetness is never cloying because he’s completely authentic and adorably oblivious. Meanwhile, poor Rhys is trying desperately not to fall for the “straight boy,” and failing entirely.
I loved their chemistry, the spice is absolutely FIRE, and the found family elements between the camboys are on point. Linden’s books continue to delight, and I will be here waiting to eat up whatever she serves! Highly recommended for a low angst, high steam read!
*I received an advanced reader copy from the author and am voluntarily leaving my review*
August 22, 2024
Angel was ADORKABLE!! He was so naïve and innocent, you couldn’t help but laugh sometimes but, at the same time, you also just wanted to hug him tight and protect him from anything that would ever hurt him.
Rhys on the other hand, was anything but innocent but, somehow, weirdly, they WORKED. I loved how Angel, as innocent as he was, was able to totally undo the more worldly Rhys. It was like Rhys was unable to maintain his detached attitude anymore once they got involved; he became easily distracted and unsure, vulnerable to a relationship he realized he wanted but was unsure if he’d ever have… And I kinda liked that for him; he became less closed off, with just his camming and his small group of friends and more open to a life outside his little immediate circle. It was nice to see him grow.
Rhys and Angel made such a great couple, I loved watching them feel their way through becoming friends and then, gradually MORE. For readers like me who love a little vulnerability in their MCs, this book is gonna make your day! 4.5 sweet and spicy stars!!
Rhys on the other hand, was anything but innocent but, somehow, weirdly, they WORKED. I loved how Angel, as innocent as he was, was able to totally undo the more worldly Rhys. It was like Rhys was unable to maintain his detached attitude anymore once they got involved; he became easily distracted and unsure, vulnerable to a relationship he realized he wanted but was unsure if he’d ever have… And I kinda liked that for him; he became less closed off, with just his camming and his small group of friends and more open to a life outside his little immediate circle. It was nice to see him grow.
Rhys and Angel made such a great couple, I loved watching them feel their way through becoming friends and then, gradually MORE. For readers like me who love a little vulnerability in their MCs, this book is gonna make your day! 4.5 sweet and spicy stars!!
September 29, 2024
2.5 stars. This felt kind of far-fetched to me. We get to meet Rhys a little better and see his backstory here - he is the flamboyant pole dancer in the Camboys group, but grew up in what seems like a pretty traditional Italian community in Staten Island. He goes home for a birthday and ends up spending time with burly construction worker Angel from the old neighborhood. Somehow through this interaction, Angel ends up doing a ‘gay for pay’ scene with Rhys, and the rest his history. In typical Linden Bell fashion, these guys have sex like twice and are already planning their wedding. It felt super rushed. It also felt pretty superficial, Angel’s entire world-view is upended and we get very little exploration of that. They were hot together, I’ll give them that, but then book in its entirety wasn’t really working for me.
August 3, 2024
ARC
If there ever was a better book than this one, please don’t point it out cause I want to live in blissful ignorance.
THIS STORY IS SO GOOD! Best book by Linden Bell by a long long loooong mile… I’m obsessed with them.
I’ve inhaled Rhys and Angel’s story and it went straight to my head, for sure. And now I think I’m addicted🤷🏼♀️
Rhys is like anyone of us, who doesn’t feel like he can be himself at home, so he moves out and makes this gorgeous life for himself by doing 🌽 with his friends, with the Camboy Network and also pole dancing his life away and just living his best queer dreams!
And his teddy bear?🧸 oh Angel… a true angel. I LOVED his growth! How he came into himself from the moment he saw Rhys… that was one hell of an awakening, that’s for damn sure🤤 and all these new kinky discoveries? 🦶🏻👠👢Oooooh boy, a man after my own heart🫠I can’t with the sexiness. I may love him just as much as our little bright star does🫠
I’m in love forever and always and you cannot change my mind. Also, absolutely my favorite book of the series.
If there ever was a better book than this one, please don’t point it out cause I want to live in blissful ignorance.
THIS STORY IS SO GOOD! Best book by Linden Bell by a long long loooong mile… I’m obsessed with them.
I’ve inhaled Rhys and Angel’s story and it went straight to my head, for sure. And now I think I’m addicted🤷🏼♀️
Rhys is like anyone of us, who doesn’t feel like he can be himself at home, so he moves out and makes this gorgeous life for himself by doing 🌽 with his friends, with the Camboy Network and also pole dancing his life away and just living his best queer dreams!
And his teddy bear?🧸 oh Angel… a true angel. I LOVED his growth! How he came into himself from the moment he saw Rhys… that was one hell of an awakening, that’s for damn sure🤤 and all these new kinky discoveries? 🦶🏻👠👢Oooooh boy, a man after my own heart🫠I can’t with the sexiness. I may love him just as much as our little bright star does🫠
I’m in love forever and always and you cannot change my mind. Also, absolutely my favorite book of the series.
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