What do you think?
Rate this book
Crimson Club #3
Best Served Cold
When the guys at work dare me and the new guy to play a game of gay chicken, I figure I’ll get my first kiss and bragging rights for winning. What I don’t expect is for that game to awaken something in me. Something I’ve never felt before.
Something that makes me want more. Makes me want him.
I never back down from a challenge, but that doesn’t explain why being with Noah feels so good. Why I can’t stop thinking about him. Why he’s the only person who’s ever stirred even the slightest interest in me.
Why getting him off gets me off.
Watching Noah lose control is everything. So is knowing he can’t stay away from me, either.
Zane and Noah’s story is an animosity to lovers, double bi-awakening romance. You can expect public fun, tons of heat, lots of banter, and reluctant feels as these two impulsive and competitive guys realize that in some games, everyone’s a winner. It is the third book in the exciting new Crimson Club series but can be read as a standalone.
Something that makes me want more. Makes me want him.
I never back down from a challenge, but that doesn’t explain why being with Noah feels so good. Why I can’t stop thinking about him. Why he’s the only person who’s ever stirred even the slightest interest in me.
Why getting him off gets me off.
Watching Noah lose control is everything. So is knowing he can’t stay away from me, either.
Zane and Noah’s story is an animosity to lovers, double bi-awakening romance. You can expect public fun, tons of heat, lots of banter, and reluctant feels as these two impulsive and competitive guys realize that in some games, everyone’s a winner. It is the third book in the exciting new Crimson Club series but can be read as a standalone.
328 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 29, 2023
667 people are currently reading
2019 people want to read
About the author
Willow Dixon
24 books1,272 followersWhat can I say about myself? It’s kind of like being the new kid in school and being asked to tell everyone a bit about yourself. Anyone else forget everything they’ve ever liked, thought of, and even their name in those moments?
A few facts about me; I’m a veteran, I’m Canadian, and I love books! I’ve been writing my own stories since I was eight and wrote my first novel at sixteen. I’m the first to admit those attempts weren’t my best work, but they started me on a journey of creating stories that has led me to fulfilling my dream of becoming an author. I’ve written and published in several genres under different names, but MM is by far my favorite, and I’m so happy to be able to share my stories with people today.
I currently live on Canada’s east coast with my kiddo and my cats. I have a shoe collecting addiction, and I enjoy taking long walks, discussions with friends, and reading anything and everything I can get my hands on.
A few facts about me; I’m a veteran, I’m Canadian, and I love books! I’ve been writing my own stories since I was eight and wrote my first novel at sixteen. I’m the first to admit those attempts weren’t my best work, but they started me on a journey of creating stories that has led me to fulfilling my dream of becoming an author. I’ve written and published in several genres under different names, but MM is by far my favorite, and I’m so happy to be able to share my stories with people today.
I currently live on Canada’s east coast with my kiddo and my cats. I have a shoe collecting addiction, and I enjoy taking long walks, discussions with friends, and reading anything and everything I can get my hands on.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 459 reviews
March 17, 2024
Actual rating ⭐⭐⭐⭐ / 5
Spice rating 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ / 5
This is such a comfort series for me!
Is the dialogue awkward and stunted most of the time?
YES!
Is the interaction between all the boys at the club super chaotic and makes me dizzy?
YEES!
EDIT: also, a huge testament to how much of a mood reader you need to be to kinda hate another book in this series, and make a 180 and love a second one you read.
But is everyone so unbelievably nice and lovely with each other?
Here to convince you to pick this book (or any of Willow's other books in this or Never Have I Ever series) up because:
💗 There is no 3rd act BS, it's straight to HEA
💗 One of the guys has a normal (non-stripper perfect) bod 🤩
💗 Some neuro-divergent rep
💗 No villains - some side characters are dicks, but you can brush them off
💗 Very low angst, just good feels
💗 Extremely fast read (do i skim cringy bits? yes, i'm not sorry)
💗 All the boys are so. ff'ing. CUTE!
💗 The spice is fire. The dirty talk in this one sent me.
Basically, the Crimson Club series is here to provide the perfect spicy escape into reading.
Highly recommend.
My other Crimson Club Series Reviews:
Stepbrother Dearest - ⭐⭐⭐/5
Fakers with Benefits - ⭐⭐/5
Best Served Cold - ⭐⭐⭐⭐/5
Left on Read - ⭐⭐⭐⭐/5
Spice rating 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ / 5
This is such a comfort series for me!
Is the dialogue awkward and stunted most of the time?
YES!
Is the interaction between all the boys at the club super chaotic and makes me dizzy?
YEES!
EDIT: also, a huge testament to how much of a mood reader you need to be to kinda hate another book in this series, and make a 180 and love a second one you read.
But is everyone so unbelievably nice and lovely with each other?
Here to convince you to pick this book (or any of Willow's other books in this or Never Have I Ever series) up because:
💗 There is no 3rd act BS, it's straight to HEA
💗 One of the guys has a normal (non-stripper perfect) bod 🤩
💗 Some neuro-divergent rep
💗 No villains - some side characters are dicks, but you can brush them off
💗 Very low angst, just good feels
💗 Extremely fast read (do i skim cringy bits? yes, i'm not sorry)
💗 All the boys are so. ff'ing. CUTE!
💗 The spice is fire. The dirty talk in this one sent me.
Basically, the Crimson Club series is here to provide the perfect spicy escape into reading.
Highly recommend.
My other Crimson Club Series Reviews:
Stepbrother Dearest - ⭐⭐⭐/5
Fakers with Benefits - ⭐⭐/5
Best Served Cold - ⭐⭐⭐⭐/5
Left on Read - ⭐⭐⭐⭐/5
December 6, 2023
***3.5 rating***
I don't have anything bad to say about this book. I enjoyed the smut, it was sexy and hot.Willow writes great smut. So no complaints there.
The plot however was confusing to follow. There were too many side characters that came out of nowhere and took attention away from the main couple. I also found it a bit odd how the other twin was always looking at the MCs hooking up. Lol. He was always there. Anyway, I still enjoyed this more than the second book, the first is still my favorite.
I'll probably read the rest of the series, hoping Quinn will have his own book🤞🏻 and I can't seem to stay away from the way Willow writes top-tier smut😂. She knows how to keep her readers coming back for more. Anyway not a bad read, hopeful for the rest of the series!
I received a copy of this arc for free and this is my honest opinion/review
I don't have anything bad to say about this book. I enjoyed the smut, it was sexy and hot.Willow writes great smut. So no complaints there.
The plot however was confusing to follow. There were too many side characters that came out of nowhere and took attention away from the main couple. I also found it a bit odd how the other twin was always looking at the MCs hooking up. Lol. He was always there. Anyway, I still enjoyed this more than the second book, the first is still my favorite.
I'll probably read the rest of the series, hoping Quinn will have his own book🤞🏻 and I can't seem to stay away from the way Willow writes top-tier smut😂. She knows how to keep her readers coming back for more. Anyway not a bad read, hopeful for the rest of the series!
I received a copy of this arc for free and this is my honest opinion/review
November 21, 2023
I would like to thank GRR for the opportunity to read and review this ARC.
***as always, mind your triggers, my loves, and be kind to yourselves!***
eeeeeee this was so cute! granted, from the outset, i had no idea why z was so twisted up about noah, but the desire to punch/tease the object of your affection is a universal truth, and it was fun and also hot as all fk to watch these two work their feelings out❤️🔥
but noah had my heart though fr!
all in all, for my first willow dixon, i thought this was really good...minus the initial dudebro speak ofc lol. and it's important to note that as the 3rd in a series there is a bit of a cameo cast of characters, but for me it was nothing influential enough to detract from the primary couple. in fact, i sorta loved when the crimson club boys teased each other and had memory jogging banter, because it felt like the readership was likewise being introduced to the circle of homies like in any other newbie social setting!
this was fun with a bunch of feels and a whole lotta steamy goodness! excited to dive into WD's backlist, and i'm absolutely looking forward to happily devouring everything that comes next😋
***as always, mind your triggers, my loves, and be kind to yourselves!***
eeeeeee this was so cute! granted, from the outset, i had no idea why z was so twisted up about noah, but the desire to punch/tease the object of your affection is a universal truth, and it was fun and also hot as all fk to watch these two work their feelings out❤️🔥
but noah had my heart though fr!
all in all, for my first willow dixon, i thought this was really good...minus the initial dudebro speak ofc lol. and it's important to note that as the 3rd in a series there is a bit of a cameo cast of characters, but for me it was nothing influential enough to detract from the primary couple. in fact, i sorta loved when the crimson club boys teased each other and had memory jogging banter, because it felt like the readership was likewise being introduced to the circle of homies like in any other newbie social setting!
this was fun with a bunch of feels and a whole lotta steamy goodness! excited to dive into WD's backlist, and i'm absolutely looking forward to happily devouring everything that comes next😋
January 24, 2024
4.0 Stars
This book was so fun to read. The banter was amazing and the chemistry was off the charts.
I loved both Noah and Zane but Noah had my heart. He has been through so much I just wanted to give him the biggest hug. I wanted to smack his mom and her disgusting friend. How can you pimp out your 16 year old child to a 26 year old and say you're a 'good christian'? I legit did not now that underage marriages is a thing in US but apparently over 300,000 children got LEGALLY married since 2018. Why the hell is that a thing??
Zane was always saying he didn't know how to comfort someone but I think he did great when it came to Noah's mental health issues
“Are they mental health disorders? Or is it because I have the devil in me?”
“Unless you have a plug called ‘the devil’ up your ass, then you can knock that shit off.”
You’re not crazy,” he said firmly. “So cut that shit out.”
“Aren’t I?”
“No. And I don’t give a shit what the Sky Daddy worshipers you grew up around say. You have an illness. That’s it. That’s the end of it.”
Even though I felt like that said I love you too fast Zane's love confession was everything.
You’re…everything, baby.” “Even if I’m a mess?” “You’re not a mess. But because I know your anxiety brain needs to hear this, yes. I love all of you, Noah. I know you think you’re a lot, and you seem to believe you’re a burden, but you’re not. You’re perfect. All of you is perfect.”
This book was so fun to read. The banter was amazing and the chemistry was off the charts.
I loved both Noah and Zane but Noah had my heart. He has been through so much I just wanted to give him the biggest hug. I wanted to smack his mom and her disgusting friend. How can you pimp out your 16 year old child to a 26 year old and say you're a 'good christian'? I legit did not now that underage marriages is a thing in US but apparently over 300,000 children got LEGALLY married since 2018. Why the hell is that a thing??
Zane was always saying he didn't know how to comfort someone but I think he did great when it came to Noah's mental health issues
“Are they mental health disorders? Or is it because I have the devil in me?”
“Unless you have a plug called ‘the devil’ up your ass, then you can knock that shit off.”
You’re not crazy,” he said firmly. “So cut that shit out.”
“Aren’t I?”
“No. And I don’t give a shit what the Sky Daddy worshipers you grew up around say. You have an illness. That’s it. That’s the end of it.”
Even though I felt like that said I love you too fast Zane's love confession was everything.
You’re…everything, baby.” “Even if I’m a mess?” “You’re not a mess. But because I know your anxiety brain needs to hear this, yes. I love all of you, Noah. I know you think you’re a lot, and you seem to believe you’re a burden, but you’re not. You’re perfect. All of you is perfect.”
November 20, 2023
⭐️ 4 stars ⭐️
Hate/dislike-to-love with double queer awakening.
Who doesn’t love a nice game of gay chicken?
The bets and banter got me hooked, their chemistry kept me reading.
Best Served Cold was entertaining, enticingly spicy and, personally, relatable.
I can’t speak for the ace/demi rep, but the way Willow Dixon depicted Noah’s struggle with depression and anxiety made me feel seen. It might’ve not been perfectly accurate, but still was enough to hit me right in the feels.
Side note: Rath is such a badass name, low key wished it wasn’t just his nickname.
I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review.
Tropes and NSFW info (spoilers):
- Coworkers
- MC with depression and undiagnosed ADHD
- Mentions of abusive parents and religious trauma
- Mentions of past bullying
- Demisexual MC and Aromantic MC
- MC with piercings (tongue, snake bites & dick)
- MC with tattoos
- Virgin MC
- Frotting & rimming
- Light exhibitionism
- Flip-fuck
- Vers MCs
Hate/dislike-to-love with double queer awakening.
Who doesn’t love a nice game of gay chicken?
The bets and banter got me hooked, their chemistry kept me reading.
Best Served Cold was entertaining, enticingly spicy and, personally, relatable.
I can’t speak for the ace/demi rep, but the way Willow Dixon depicted Noah’s struggle with depression and anxiety made me feel seen. It might’ve not been perfectly accurate, but still was enough to hit me right in the feels.
Side note: Rath is such a badass name, low key wished it wasn’t just his nickname.
I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review.
Tropes and NSFW info (spoilers):
- Coworkers
- MC with depression and undiagnosed ADHD
- Mentions of abusive parents and religious trauma
- Mentions of past bullying
- Demisexual MC and Aromantic MC
- MC with piercings (tongue, snake bites & dick)
- MC with tattoos
- Virgin MC
- Frotting & rimming
- Light exhibitionism
- Flip-fuck
- Vers MCs
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 21, 2024
I have very mixed feelings on this because on one hand, I loved the overall plot & the romance itself
But on the other hand, I hated the dialogue and the banter. Every time the group of friends were hanging out talking or joking with each other or talking in the group chat- I hated it. It felt so immature and cringey. It also felt kind of unnatural, it felt like someone gave the author a list of cool slang young kids use and she forced them into the book as much as possible, or maybe the author found a gen z translator and used it for all the dialogue. I also can't help but feel like it is going to make the book feel dated, language and slang evolves so quickly in five years someone will read this book and think it sounds old fashioned with all the old phrases lol. I mean, its also possible I'm just old and cant relate to the way the younger generation speaks anymore 😂😂
But on the other hand, I hated the dialogue and the banter. Every time the group of friends were hanging out talking or joking with each other or talking in the group chat- I hated it. It felt so immature and cringey. It also felt kind of unnatural, it felt like someone gave the author a list of cool slang young kids use and she forced them into the book as much as possible, or maybe the author found a gen z translator and used it for all the dialogue. I also can't help but feel like it is going to make the book feel dated, language and slang evolves so quickly in five years someone will read this book and think it sounds old fashioned with all the old phrases lol. I mean, its also possible I'm just old and cant relate to the way the younger generation speaks anymore 😂😂
November 27, 2023
i’m still slightly bitter that the twins don’t cross swords but that’s really a me problem, so we’re going to ignore that.
this is a nice book, no question there, but there really is too much going on and none of that got the right page time to be fully developed. we have an ace character, an aro one, depression, adhd, religious trauma, bisexual discovery, and more.
you see the problem?
i always try to remember that this is a romance, not a textbook, so everything doesn’t need to be perfect or perfectly reflect reality, but damn this is a little too much.
but i’m still really excited about river’s book.
i read an arc and this is my honest review.
this is a nice book, no question there, but there really is too much going on and none of that got the right page time to be fully developed. we have an ace character, an aro one, depression, adhd, religious trauma, bisexual discovery, and more.
you see the problem?
i always try to remember that this is a romance, not a textbook, so everything doesn’t need to be perfect or perfectly reflect reality, but damn this is a little too much.
but i’m still really excited about river’s book.
i read an arc and this is my honest review.
January 5, 2025
ISN'T IT CREEPY HOW RIVER KEEPS POPPING UP IN THE MIDDLE OF THEIR SEXUAL DALLIANCES? Like OMG, go away, that's your TWIN and this ISN'T that kind of book💀
Stop CONFUSING me when I'm so EASILY led astray.
Loved how these two started off with the macho bullshit only for them to end up being the squishiest marshmallow softies.
Really gave new meaning to 'having the attitude fucked out of you'.
And them pretending they were getting each other off to one-up the other.
'I'm going to blow you /frot you/fuck you so hard you explode like a fire hydrant and then you'll be sorry!'
Yeah. Right. Whatever you need to tell yourselves to sleep at night.
The best bit is that even with a dial bi-awakening, they didn't really leave room for miscommunication. Not on a grand scale, anyway, and never for long enough for it to be an issue. They were both dealing with something new and they didn't push or assume.
I can't believe I enjoyed healthy communication in a NOVEL.
I really am growing old. I need to find one with the utmost levels of toxicity. Recommendations welcome.
Stop CONFUSING me when I'm so EASILY led astray.
Loved how these two started off with the macho bullshit only for them to end up being the squishiest marshmallow softies.
Really gave new meaning to 'having the attitude fucked out of you'.
And them pretending they were getting each other off to one-up the other.
'I'm going to blow you /frot you/fuck you so hard you explode like a fire hydrant and then you'll be sorry!'
Yeah. Right. Whatever you need to tell yourselves to sleep at night.
The best bit is that even with a dial bi-awakening, they didn't really leave room for miscommunication. Not on a grand scale, anyway, and never for long enough for it to be an issue. They were both dealing with something new and they didn't push or assume.
I can't believe I enjoyed healthy communication in a NOVEL.
I really am growing old. I need to find one with the utmost levels of toxicity. Recommendations welcome.
October 31, 2024
A game of 'gay chicken' helps Zane and Noah discover that their hatred for each other and desire to get on each other's nerves was really just a cover for deeper feelings and attraction.
"We might have started this thing not understanding the pull between us, but now that I'd had a taste of him, I knew I'd never let him go."
As aggressive as they started out with each other, the care and tenderness and love they developed was beautiful.
"He was...he was everything."
"He was the only person who ever made me not only want to love someone, but to show me that I was loveable, too"
....
"I liked his big body and stupid piercings and annoying personality."
"He's not into guys." ... "Was this before or after he put your dick in his mouth?"
"Thats it. Scream for me.... You want someone to see us. You want them to know how much you love getting fucked."
"Just focus on relaxing. Sleep if you're tired. Talk if that'll help. Whatever you need. You're safe."
"My eyes burned as he pushed into me, moving slowly as he kissed me with so much tenderness it made my head spin. This wasn't just sex, this was making love."
"Because I know your anxiety brain needs to hear thus, yes. I love all of you... I know you think you're a lot, and you seem to believe you're a burden, but you're not. You're perfect. All of you is perfect."
"You'll never have time deal with it alone again."
....
⚠️ possible spoilers below in tropes and trigger warnings
Tropes:
Gay chicken
Double awakening
Bi awakening
Ace rep
Virgin MC
First times
First time going bare for both
First kiss for Zane
Mental health rep
Exhibitionism
Sex everywhere (pantry sex, forest sex, parking lot blow jobs)
Hurt/comfort
Caretaking
Flip fuck
TWs:
Conversion therapy
Religious trauma
Anxiety and depression
Body image issues
"We might have started this thing not understanding the pull between us, but now that I'd had a taste of him, I knew I'd never let him go."
As aggressive as they started out with each other, the care and tenderness and love they developed was beautiful.
"He was...he was everything."
"He was the only person who ever made me not only want to love someone, but to show me that I was loveable, too"
....
"I liked his big body and stupid piercings and annoying personality."
"He's not into guys." ... "Was this before or after he put your dick in his mouth?"
"Thats it. Scream for me.... You want someone to see us. You want them to know how much you love getting fucked."
"Just focus on relaxing. Sleep if you're tired. Talk if that'll help. Whatever you need. You're safe."
"My eyes burned as he pushed into me, moving slowly as he kissed me with so much tenderness it made my head spin. This wasn't just sex, this was making love."
"Because I know your anxiety brain needs to hear thus, yes. I love all of you... I know you think you're a lot, and you seem to believe you're a burden, but you're not. You're perfect. All of you is perfect."
"You'll never have time deal with it alone again."
....
⚠️ possible spoilers below in tropes and trigger warnings
Tropes:
Gay chicken
Double awakening
Bi awakening
Ace rep
Virgin MC
First times
First time going bare for both
First kiss for Zane
Mental health rep
Exhibitionism
Sex everywhere (pantry sex, forest sex, parking lot blow jobs)
Hurt/comfort
Caretaking
Flip fuck
TWs:
Conversion therapy
Religious trauma
Anxiety and depression
Body image issues
November 30, 2023
3.5 ⭐️
- Demi + Aro rep
- double queer awakening
- dislike to lovers
- virgin mc
- coworkers
- depression/anxiety rep
Zane takes an instant dislike to Noah, a new member of his construction crew, but isn't entirely sure why. All he knows is that he wants to punch Noah in the face every time he's around, and doesn't understand why his coworkers & friends like the guy.
Things finally come to a head between the two while out to drinks with the crew, when another coworker throws down a bet and a game of gay chicken ensues. Only it doesn't stop there and the aggression and attraction between Zane and Noah flames higher, with the pair continuing to goad each other into hot little hookups.
Best Served Cold hooked me in with the banter and animosity between Zane and Noah, but lost me as their relationship morphed from sexual to something more emotional. There just wasn't enough interaction or connection between them outside of the boning to really make me believe that these two could have a lasting relationship.
That being said I did like seeing the softer side of Zane when it came to taking care of Noah when his depression was at it's worst, and loved seeing the other Crimson Club members popping up. Really hope that Jett and Stone get books because their characters intrigue me so much!
- Demi + Aro rep
- double queer awakening
- dislike to lovers
- virgin mc
- coworkers
- depression/anxiety rep
Zane takes an instant dislike to Noah, a new member of his construction crew, but isn't entirely sure why. All he knows is that he wants to punch Noah in the face every time he's around, and doesn't understand why his coworkers & friends like the guy.
Things finally come to a head between the two while out to drinks with the crew, when another coworker throws down a bet and a game of gay chicken ensues. Only it doesn't stop there and the aggression and attraction between Zane and Noah flames higher, with the pair continuing to goad each other into hot little hookups.
Best Served Cold hooked me in with the banter and animosity between Zane and Noah, but lost me as their relationship morphed from sexual to something more emotional. There just wasn't enough interaction or connection between them outside of the boning to really make me believe that these two could have a lasting relationship.
That being said I did like seeing the softer side of Zane when it came to taking care of Noah when his depression was at it's worst, and loved seeing the other Crimson Club members popping up. Really hope that Jett and Stone get books because their characters intrigue me so much!
October 25, 2024
Ehm, excuse me, how was this so good?
I expected an easy fluffy palette cleanser and instead I got an epic steamy tale about a broken, depressed bi boy and a prickly, fierce demi grump who shouldn’t work together but absolutely, completely do? 🥵
This was full of all the wonderfully delicious tropes I just gobble the fuck up 👅
• hurt/comfort,
• complex and three dimensional MCs,
• emotional slow burn,
• broken bois who understand and see each other when no one else really does,
• mental health rep,
• ‘I hate you but I want you’,
• ‘mine’🔥,
• hate-fucking in the wild,
• so much exhibitionism,
• amazing secondary cast/found family,
• INCREDIBLE chemistry and tension that never wavers until the end,
• top notch steam,
• virgin MC,
• bi-awakening/conforming
It had it all.
I did wish for a little more deeptalk between the two, to make the love declaration at the end more believable. Also I’m not sure how accurate the demi/ace/aro rep was, so yeah. Still, I could not put this book down. Zane and Noah 4eva ❤️🔥
4,5⭐️
I expected an easy fluffy palette cleanser and instead I got an epic steamy tale about a broken, depressed bi boy and a prickly, fierce demi grump who shouldn’t work together but absolutely, completely do? 🥵
This was full of all the wonderfully delicious tropes I just gobble the fuck up 👅
• hurt/comfort,
• complex and three dimensional MCs,
• emotional slow burn,
• broken bois who understand and see each other when no one else really does,
• mental health rep,
• ‘I hate you but I want you’,
• ‘mine’🔥,
• hate-fucking in the wild,
• so much exhibitionism,
• amazing secondary cast/found family,
• INCREDIBLE chemistry and tension that never wavers until the end,
• top notch steam,
• virgin MC,
• bi-awakening/conforming
It had it all.
I did wish for a little more deeptalk between the two, to make the love declaration at the end more believable. Also I’m not sure how accurate the demi/ace/aro rep was, so yeah. Still, I could not put this book down. Zane and Noah 4eva ❤️🔥
4,5⭐️
December 6, 2023
⭐︎
4.5 Stars Rounded Up
⭐︎
This was possibly my favorite of the series so far.
I really loved Zane and Noah together and they were such interesting characters.
This one felt angstier and heavier than the others, as both Zane and Noah went through so much and have lasting effects today. Especially Noah. I'm glad we learn at the end that he went to therapy, because boy did he need it.
Zane, who is on the ace spectrum - demisexual, it seems - has never felt any attraction to anyone before. In fact, before Noah, he's never been with anyone before.
At 23, he thinks he never will. But what he's feeling for Noah since he showed up in town and has joined their construction crew is all new. Not knowing how to deal with the feelings he can't put a name to, he thinks he dislikes Noah.
They aren't actually enemies though, so I didn't bother to tag that. They just kinda bother each other at first and that's it.
Noah thinks he's straight, but years of religious extremism at home pushed him to push down the side of him that's attracted to guys.
But with Zane, that can't be ignored.
They had really great chemistry, and I enjoyed them together a lot. My only real gripe is that it took so long for them to have real conversations together. It got frustrating when they started to have sex instead of talk. Like yeah, they're hot together, but I'd rather have them talk, then have sex. Not have sex in lieu of talking.
But eventually they got to talking and that was wonderful. It just took too long for these two to get there.
Which, with Zane being demisexual, I think there should have been more talks between them before he really became so into Noah. But they barely talked before he was into Noah. Which makes me wonder if he is more gray-asexual than demisexual. Because he didn't exactly have an emotional connection with Noah before he felt that sexual attraction. At least, to me it felt that way.
But regardless, they got there eventually, and seeing them fall in love was great.
These two are definitely my favorite couple so far, no doubt about it. This is definitely worth the read, in my opinion.
I'm also excited for River to finally get his HEA next. Both twins deserve their HEA's.
Onto the next!
My Ratings for the Crimson Club Series:
🔆 Stepbrother Dearest: 4 stars (my review)
🔆 Fakers with Benefits: 4.5 stars (my review)
🔆 Best Served Cold: 4.5 stars
🔆 Left on Read: TBR
This was possibly my favorite of the series so far.
I really loved Zane and Noah together and they were such interesting characters.
This one felt angstier and heavier than the others, as both Zane and Noah went through so much and have lasting effects today. Especially Noah. I'm glad we learn at the end that he went to therapy, because boy did he need it.
Zane, who is on the ace spectrum - demisexual, it seems - has never felt any attraction to anyone before. In fact, before Noah, he's never been with anyone before.
At 23, he thinks he never will. But what he's feeling for Noah since he showed up in town and has joined their construction crew is all new. Not knowing how to deal with the feelings he can't put a name to, he thinks he dislikes Noah.
They aren't actually enemies though, so I didn't bother to tag that. They just kinda bother each other at first and that's it.
Noah thinks he's straight, but years of religious extremism at home pushed him to push down the side of him that's attracted to guys.
But with Zane, that can't be ignored.
They had really great chemistry, and I enjoyed them together a lot. My only real gripe is that it took so long for them to have real conversations together. It got frustrating when they started to have sex instead of talk. Like yeah, they're hot together, but I'd rather have them talk, then have sex. Not have sex in lieu of talking.
But eventually they got to talking and that was wonderful. It just took too long for these two to get there.
Which, with Zane being demisexual, I think there should have been more talks between them before he really became so into Noah. But they barely talked before he was into Noah. Which makes me wonder if he is more gray-asexual than demisexual. Because he didn't exactly have an emotional connection with Noah before he felt that sexual attraction. At least, to me it felt that way.
But regardless, they got there eventually, and seeing them fall in love was great.
These two are definitely my favorite couple so far, no doubt about it. This is definitely worth the read, in my opinion.
I'm also excited for River to finally get his HEA next. Both twins deserve their HEA's.
Onto the next!
My Ratings for the Crimson Club Series:
🔆 Stepbrother Dearest: 4 stars (my review)
🔆 Fakers with Benefits: 4.5 stars (my review)
🔆 Best Served Cold: 4.5 stars
🔆 Left on Read: TBR
January 5, 2024
I was beginning to wonder if they were going to use a bed.… 🤪
That being said, absolutely no complaints on my part, their vertical encounters, almost in plain sight, were really hot!
And it made their first time in bed so much sweeter.
I found it really refreshing that Noah had a "normal" body type and that Zane with his stripper physique finds him not only completely attractive but also just perfect the way he is.
I wanted to tell him he was gorgeous and all the things he seemed to think were flaws were what made him special. He was literally perfect in my eyes, and there wasn't a single thing I would change about him.
I also loved the way depression/anxiety was portrayed here.
I don't particularly like it when an author tries to make us believe that mental illness is magically cured when we fall in love, it's not at all what happens in real life and besides I find their love more beautiful and powerful when they manage to get through all the challenges it brings…
In the end their relationship comes out stronger because of it.
Willow gives us a great example with this book.
"You're not a mess. But because I know your anxiety brain needs to hear this, yes. I love all of you, Noah. I know you think you're a lot, and you seem to believe you're a burden, but you're not. You're perfect. All of you is perfect."
Although initially Zane and Noah weren't looking for love anytime soon, I'm so glad they found each other. They make a wonderful couple! 🥰
"I don't know what love is supposed to feel like, either, but I hope it feels like this. You're...everything, baby."
Now I'm really looking forward to River's story because he really deserves to find his person…
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Their chemistry: 🔥🔥🔥🔥/5
Swoon factor: 🫠🫠🫠/5
Zane: 💙💙💙💙💙/5
Noah: 💙💙💙💙💙/5
Highly recommend if you like:
✨MM romance
✨Animosity to lovers
✨Demi rep
✨Mental health rep
✨Found family
✨Strippers
✨Tattoos & piercings
That being said, absolutely no complaints on my part, their vertical encounters, almost in plain sight, were really hot!
And it made their first time in bed so much sweeter.
I found it really refreshing that Noah had a "normal" body type and that Zane with his stripper physique finds him not only completely attractive but also just perfect the way he is.
I wanted to tell him he was gorgeous and all the things he seemed to think were flaws were what made him special. He was literally perfect in my eyes, and there wasn't a single thing I would change about him.
I also loved the way depression/anxiety was portrayed here.
I don't particularly like it when an author tries to make us believe that mental illness is magically cured when we fall in love, it's not at all what happens in real life and besides I find their love more beautiful and powerful when they manage to get through all the challenges it brings…
In the end their relationship comes out stronger because of it.
Willow gives us a great example with this book.
"You're not a mess. But because I know your anxiety brain needs to hear this, yes. I love all of you, Noah. I know you think you're a lot, and you seem to believe you're a burden, but you're not. You're perfect. All of you is perfect."
Although initially Zane and Noah weren't looking for love anytime soon, I'm so glad they found each other. They make a wonderful couple! 🥰
"I don't know what love is supposed to feel like, either, but I hope it feels like this. You're...everything, baby."
Now I'm really looking forward to River's story because he really deserves to find his person…
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Their chemistry: 🔥🔥🔥🔥/5
Swoon factor: 🫠🫠🫠/5
Zane: 💙💙💙💙💙/5
Noah: 💙💙💙💙💙/5
Highly recommend if you like:
✨MM romance
✨Animosity to lovers
✨Demi rep
✨Mental health rep
✨Found family
✨Strippers
✨Tattoos & piercings
November 29, 2023
Ok, so I liked this a lot better than the last instalment, but not as much as the first one. Zane and Noah were sweet, and the spice was hot as always. I honestly love a game of gay chicken turned lovers. However, there were points in this where the Demi rep was a bit inconsistent. It started out strong with Zane having no sexual reaction to the initial kiss, but then all of a sudden, he was very into Noah with no real relationship development. Obviously, this is a spectrum and everyone's experience is different, it just would have made a little more sense to me if some parts were switched around to give their relationship more depth before it turned sexual. Especially because Noah and Zane initially hate each other and do not get along at all.
I will say, though, after the relationship turned physical, these two were really lovely. I also thought Noah's mental health struggles were handled really well and felt super realistic. Either way, I still had fun reading this, and I will pick up the next one the minute it drops.
Ratings
⭐️⭐️⭐️.75
🌶🌶🌶
*I received an arc in exchange for an honest review*
I will say, though, after the relationship turned physical, these two were really lovely. I also thought Noah's mental health struggles were handled really well and felt super realistic. Either way, I still had fun reading this, and I will pick up the next one the minute it drops.
Ratings
⭐️⭐️⭐️.75
🌶🌶🌶
*I received an arc in exchange for an honest review*
October 25, 2025
Is it possible to OD on an author? Or is it just that the characters in this book didn't do it for me? Or are all the boys who work at the Crimson Club too similar? Don't know - but I wanted to love this, but I just couldn't.
I felt it had so much potential. 2 straight guys playing gay chicken and finding themselves attracted to each other is a theme I haven't read in awhile - if ever. And then the idea of exploring what it would be like growing up in a strict religious community is fascinating to me. But neither of these ideas were really developed in a way that drew me into the characters.
The over the top "dude" talk was a bit of a turn off for me (which makes me a LOT apprehensive about reading the next in the series, which is about the 'straight' brother). And a lot of the story was spent on the texting which I found boring and didn't drive the plot at all. Which really surprised me as Dixon's dialogue is normally spot on. There were also too many side stories that didn't have any relevance to the plot and the overall writing style felt choppy.
Either this series is running out of steam or I've over obsessed on Dixon and her writing is becoming predictable.
2.5 🌟 rounded up.
I felt it had so much potential. 2 straight guys playing gay chicken and finding themselves attracted to each other is a theme I haven't read in awhile - if ever. And then the idea of exploring what it would be like growing up in a strict religious community is fascinating to me. But neither of these ideas were really developed in a way that drew me into the characters.
The over the top "dude" talk was a bit of a turn off for me (which makes me a LOT apprehensive about reading the next in the series, which is about the 'straight' brother). And a lot of the story was spent on the texting which I found boring and didn't drive the plot at all. Which really surprised me as Dixon's dialogue is normally spot on. There were also too many side stories that didn't have any relevance to the plot and the overall writing style felt choppy.
Either this series is running out of steam or I've over obsessed on Dixon and her writing is becoming predictable.
2.5 🌟 rounded up.
November 30, 2023
Zane and Noah ❤️
4.5 Stars ⭐️
I seriously could have read this story forever, I feel like we only scratched the surface of this really beautiful love story between 2 seemingly broken men who are so freaking perfect for each other! What started out as a dare turns into so much more, there is friendship, tons of support and a found family that I adore. If I had to pick a favorite mc it would be Noah, he broke my heart. Believe me when I say, Willow Dixon did justice to a heavy hitting subject in this story and brought it front and center. Noah's issues were written with grace, truth and not glazed over which made me love him even more. These two together were like blood and thunder at first which made for some very sexy times but once each man figured out exactly what was going on between them, they were so much more than insane chemistry. The epilogue was a perfect ending to this couple and how they grew together ❤️. I absolutely love this series, I can't get enough!! Bring on River's book!! I would absolutely recommend reading.
* I received an ARC from GRR, this is my open and honest review *
4.5 Stars ⭐️
I seriously could have read this story forever, I feel like we only scratched the surface of this really beautiful love story between 2 seemingly broken men who are so freaking perfect for each other! What started out as a dare turns into so much more, there is friendship, tons of support and a found family that I adore. If I had to pick a favorite mc it would be Noah, he broke my heart. Believe me when I say, Willow Dixon did justice to a heavy hitting subject in this story and brought it front and center. Noah's issues were written with grace, truth and not glazed over which made me love him even more. These two together were like blood and thunder at first which made for some very sexy times but once each man figured out exactly what was going on between them, they were so much more than insane chemistry. The epilogue was a perfect ending to this couple and how they grew together ❤️. I absolutely love this series, I can't get enough!! Bring on River's book!! I would absolutely recommend reading.
* I received an ARC from GRR, this is my open and honest review *
November 22, 2025
Best Served Cold is a quick, spicy BL read that continues the Crimson Club stories. This one follows Zane one of the twins and his coworker Noah, who absolutely cannot stand each other… until that tension starts turning into something way hotter.
Tropes:
enemies to lovers
first love
queer love.
What I liked most was the push-and-pull between them. There’s a lot of lust, messy little games, and that delicious I hate you but I want you energy. We also get secrets from both Zane and Noah that add depth to their connection, and the romance has a nice feel-good vibe even with all the spice.
Overall, I enjoyed it and thought it was cute, but I’m not super invested in the rest of the characters enough to keep going in the series. Still, I’m glad I read this one.
Verdict: A fun, sexy, enemies-to-lovers BL that was a solid, quick read. Thank you, Willow girl.this was cute.
Tropes:
enemies to lovers
first love
queer love.
What I liked most was the push-and-pull between them. There’s a lot of lust, messy little games, and that delicious I hate you but I want you energy. We also get secrets from both Zane and Noah that add depth to their connection, and the romance has a nice feel-good vibe even with all the spice.
Overall, I enjoyed it and thought it was cute, but I’m not super invested in the rest of the characters enough to keep going in the series. Still, I’m glad I read this one.
Verdict: A fun, sexy, enemies-to-lovers BL that was a solid, quick read. Thank you, Willow girl.this was cute.
August 22, 2024
3.9 - 4⭐
This has been quite the surprise. Nothing like the last two installments. The author added substance, depth and focused substantially more on the dynamic between the main characters.
Sure, there were some added side characters that irked me (Chanel) and had no business being there (again, Chanel), but other than that I'm pleasantly surprised. I am. I really liked this book.
🔵 Co-workers (construction)
🟢 Bi-awakening/demi
🟡 One MMC is a complete virgin
🟣 Both first time with a guy/labels (debate on what can they label themselves)
🟠 Same formula - MMC goes to Crimson to see the stripper dance but it worked in this case
🔵 The guy on the cover, Zane? Hottttt 🔥
🌶️ Good smut; kissing, blowjobs, penetrative, rimming, public sex; both vers
❗ Religious family, anxiety, depression
The twins weren't such interesting characters in previous books, but in this one they have delivered. Yes, both of them!
Zane is the quiet twin who's more held back, doesn't party, loves to play music, has a detached presence but underneath there's a lot of feelings he's not letting out. He always thought he was ace, but turns out he's demisexual, so he hasn't really met anyone who'd get him interested to pursue having sex or a relationship with them. Until Noah.
Noah is a new character to the series, he's part of the construction crew Zane and other strippers work for, so they're co-workers, but Zane gets annoyed with Noah a lot and when they make a bet that involves gay chicken, things start changing and evolving between them with high speed.
“Oh god,” he moaned and dropped his head back.
I pressed our temples together and squeezed his neck the slightest bit tighter. “Like that?”
“Yeah. Fuck.” He rocked his hips. “More.”
I was worried the author was going to keep it superficial and just throw in a couple of sex scenes and bad dialogues, but that wasn't the case. Noah and Zane explored their awakenings and firsts together, they slowly opened up to one another and experienced hot intimacy, hot sex and the story also touched a few sensitive subjects; not only it very accurately portrayed demisexuality but also presented Noah as a very complex character that has been through a lot with his religious family that hasn't protected him or given him the help he needed, so despite Noah being a funny, easygoing guy in the beginning of the book, it turns out that's not the case.
I really liked the fact that Zane didn't shy away from the complexity of Noah's personal issues despite him not being used to talking to people, much less having a romantic interest, so he was pushing through, although most of the time Noah and Zane were so lost they didn't really know what to say to each other. It was cute and lifelike, so it worked.
Noah was a big boi and had a bit of an inferiority complex about his bulk, but Zane was so accepting that it was a pleasure to read about them getting close and talking it out.
What I didn't like was a side character thrown in there -- it was completely pointless and took away important page time for the main characters, and on top of it all that happened right after they had sex and were figuring things out between them, so that was a bitchy move. That didn't have to happen.
I would've also liked a little bit more said in the epilogue.
After Zane and Noah officially became boyfriends the story ended, so I felt a big gap where their big happy ending should've been.
Like -- where did they live? How was life treating them as a couple? How did Zane's friends accept Noah? Noah's sister? What's the outcome with Noah's parents? That part definitely needed a big epilogue.
River was Zane's twin brother and 😄😄 yeah, I loved the guy. He was funny! A supportive twin that's always lurking around and making sure Zane does in fact get laid. It was funny! Hopefully his book is just as good.
This has been quite the surprise. Nothing like the last two installments. The author added substance, depth and focused substantially more on the dynamic between the main characters.
Sure, there were some added side characters that irked me (Chanel) and had no business being there (again, Chanel), but other than that I'm pleasantly surprised. I am. I really liked this book.
🔵 Co-workers (construction)
🟢 Bi-awakening/demi
🟡 One MMC is a complete virgin
🟣 Both first time with a guy/labels (debate on what can they label themselves)
🟠 Same formula - MMC goes to Crimson to see the stripper dance but it worked in this case
🔵 The guy on the cover, Zane? Hottttt 🔥
🌶️ Good smut; kissing, blowjobs, penetrative, rimming, public sex; both vers
❗ Religious family, anxiety, depression
The twins weren't such interesting characters in previous books, but in this one they have delivered. Yes, both of them!
Zane is the quiet twin who's more held back, doesn't party, loves to play music, has a detached presence but underneath there's a lot of feelings he's not letting out. He always thought he was ace, but turns out he's demisexual, so he hasn't really met anyone who'd get him interested to pursue having sex or a relationship with them. Until Noah.
Noah is a new character to the series, he's part of the construction crew Zane and other strippers work for, so they're co-workers, but Zane gets annoyed with Noah a lot and when they make a bet that involves gay chicken, things start changing and evolving between them with high speed.
“Oh god,” he moaned and dropped his head back.
I pressed our temples together and squeezed his neck the slightest bit tighter. “Like that?”
“Yeah. Fuck.” He rocked his hips. “More.”
I was worried the author was going to keep it superficial and just throw in a couple of sex scenes and bad dialogues, but that wasn't the case. Noah and Zane explored their awakenings and firsts together, they slowly opened up to one another and experienced hot intimacy, hot sex and the story also touched a few sensitive subjects; not only it very accurately portrayed demisexuality but also presented Noah as a very complex character that has been through a lot with his religious family that hasn't protected him or given him the help he needed, so despite Noah being a funny, easygoing guy in the beginning of the book, it turns out that's not the case.
I really liked the fact that Zane didn't shy away from the complexity of Noah's personal issues despite him not being used to talking to people, much less having a romantic interest, so he was pushing through, although most of the time Noah and Zane were so lost they didn't really know what to say to each other. It was cute and lifelike, so it worked.
Noah was a big boi and had a bit of an inferiority complex about his bulk, but Zane was so accepting that it was a pleasure to read about them getting close and talking it out.
What I didn't like was a side character thrown in there -- it was completely pointless and took away important page time for the main characters, and on top of it all that happened right after they had sex and were figuring things out between them, so that was a bitchy move. That didn't have to happen.
I would've also liked a little bit more said in the epilogue.
After Zane and Noah officially became boyfriends the story ended, so I felt a big gap where their big happy ending should've been.
Like -- where did they live? How was life treating them as a couple? How did Zane's friends accept Noah? Noah's sister? What's the outcome with Noah's parents? That part definitely needed a big epilogue.
River was Zane's twin brother and 😄😄 yeah, I loved the guy. He was funny! A supportive twin that's always lurking around and making sure Zane does in fact get laid. It was funny! Hopefully his book is just as good.
November 21, 2023
3.5 stars - I really wanted to enjoy Zane and Noah’s story like I did the first two books in this series, but something about it just didn’t connect with me from the very beginning.
Zane Masters is a major grump - he’s quiet, uninterested in making friends and generally likes it when it’s just him and his twin brother, River, hanging out together. He works construction during the week and strips on the weekend to make ends meet and to keep busy. I feel like I didn’t really get to know much about Zane other than the fact that he’s asexual and the new guy on his construction crew drives him crazy. We eventually see beneath his tough exterior, but it was maybe too little too late by then.
Noah Rathbone (Rath at work) is the new guy on the construction crew - he’s big and outspoken but isn’t quite sure how to fit in with the new group. When he’s not at work, he’s helping his younger sister take care of his niece and nephew whenever he can, not leaving much time for a social life. After leaving behind a horrible home life full of emotionally abusive religious parents who didn’t believe in mental health struggles, he’s trying his best to cope and figure out a way forward even when his depression starts to rear its ugly head again and makes him feel even more lonely than he has before until Zane and River start to see he’s struggling.
What starts out as a game of gay chicken between Zane and Noah when out with the work crew leaves them both feeling more confused than before - they simultaneously dislike each other and can’t get enough. It was interesting for a little while but I feel like this dragged out way too long and their lack of communication really started to bother me after a while. Then once they do start talking, things progress fast, faster than I expected after how much they fought their attraction. Their unexpected relationship was definitely more enemies than lovers (probably too much in my opinion) but the steam between them was off the charts. I just didn’t feel connected to the two of them or invested in where things went between them.
Giving this 3.5 stars instead of 3 because of the interactions between all of the Crimson Club guys - their little found work family has come a long way and I really like seeing how all their different personalities play out together. Looking forward to more of these stories for the moments between them!
Zane Masters is a major grump - he’s quiet, uninterested in making friends and generally likes it when it’s just him and his twin brother, River, hanging out together. He works construction during the week and strips on the weekend to make ends meet and to keep busy. I feel like I didn’t really get to know much about Zane other than the fact that he’s asexual and the new guy on his construction crew drives him crazy. We eventually see beneath his tough exterior, but it was maybe too little too late by then.
Noah Rathbone (Rath at work) is the new guy on the construction crew - he’s big and outspoken but isn’t quite sure how to fit in with the new group. When he’s not at work, he’s helping his younger sister take care of his niece and nephew whenever he can, not leaving much time for a social life. After leaving behind a horrible home life full of emotionally abusive religious parents who didn’t believe in mental health struggles, he’s trying his best to cope and figure out a way forward even when his depression starts to rear its ugly head again and makes him feel even more lonely than he has before until Zane and River start to see he’s struggling.
What starts out as a game of gay chicken between Zane and Noah when out with the work crew leaves them both feeling more confused than before - they simultaneously dislike each other and can’t get enough. It was interesting for a little while but I feel like this dragged out way too long and their lack of communication really started to bother me after a while. Then once they do start talking, things progress fast, faster than I expected after how much they fought their attraction. Their unexpected relationship was definitely more enemies than lovers (probably too much in my opinion) but the steam between them was off the charts. I just didn’t feel connected to the two of them or invested in where things went between them.
Giving this 3.5 stars instead of 3 because of the interactions between all of the Crimson Club guys - their little found work family has come a long way and I really like seeing how all their different personalities play out together. Looking forward to more of these stories for the moments between them!
November 29, 2023
"This thing with Noah was messed up and complicated. He wasn’t into guys, and we weren’t friends. I’d tried to offer an olive branch earlier when I stayed after work to talk to him and give him a distraction. Had I made things worse?"
Best Served Cold by Willow Dixon is the third book in her Crimson Club series of linked MM standalones, set around a group of guys who work in a strip club. This is Noah and Zane's story.
Storyline highlights:
❣️animosity to lovers
❣️double bi-awakening
❣️diversity rep
❣️mental health rep
❣️competitive MCs
❣️"gay chicken"
❣️piercings and tattoos
❣️virgin MC
❣️all the steam
❣️all the angst
❣️HEA
An easy, steamy read with a happy ever after.
Best Served Cold by Willow Dixon is the third book in her Crimson Club series of linked MM standalones, set around a group of guys who work in a strip club. This is Noah and Zane's story.
Storyline highlights:
❣️animosity to lovers
❣️double bi-awakening
❣️diversity rep
❣️mental health rep
❣️competitive MCs
❣️"gay chicken"
❣️piercings and tattoos
❣️virgin MC
❣️all the steam
❣️all the angst
❣️HEA
An easy, steamy read with a happy ever after.
November 29, 2023
i wanted to love this so bad, really i did. Zane and River are two of the more interesting side characters in the first two books, but this was disappointing. it took over 100 pages for anything concrete to happen between Zane and Noah and by then i was just checked out. it says something that it took me four days to get through this and i've read two other books since then. i normally love Willow, but something was definitely missing from this for me. as far as the heat goes, it's solid and the main reason i'm giving this a second star. i also still really enjoyed the interactions between side characters. i think i'm getting a little burned out on authors harping about the differences in sexuality too... aromantic, asexual, demisexual, and the like.. it feels a little too preachy especially because most people who read these books don't need thirty pages explaining the concept of these labels and identities.
once the book took off a little more, i did buy into Zane's feelings for Noah and vice versa. Noah was such a sweetheart and Zane truly earns his murder kitten title. it still doesn't feel like there was a lot of development overall and honestly i was confused by the plot. it felt scrambled and like it was rushed to be finished. all that to say, the last few chapters kind of pulled me back in enough to say that i enjoyed the characters even if i wouldn't read this book a second time. i'm still looking forward to River's installment and i'll just chalk this up to me being in a mood.
i received this as an ARC but my thoughts are my own x
once the book took off a little more, i did buy into Zane's feelings for Noah and vice versa. Noah was such a sweetheart and Zane truly earns his murder kitten title. it still doesn't feel like there was a lot of development overall and honestly i was confused by the plot. it felt scrambled and like it was rushed to be finished. all that to say, the last few chapters kind of pulled me back in enough to say that i enjoyed the characters even if i wouldn't read this book a second time. i'm still looking forward to River's installment and i'll just chalk this up to me being in a mood.
i received this as an ARC but my thoughts are my own x
December 5, 2023
I'm truly loving this series. The previous books were great and this one hasn't disappointed as I've enjoyed it very much.
I loved both the MCs, Zane and Noah stole my heart from the very beginning. Zane worked at the Crimson Club as a stripper with his twin River, but they also worked as part of a construction crew. Noah was one of the other members of the crew and for some reason Zane and Noah never got along. Of course, it was the sort of animosity that came from attraction. Once they got together for the first time, it was just amazing how well they connected in all aspects of life, even though they didn't realise it.
I especially liked Noah, he had spent his life struggling with mental issues. His parents were despicable people. I truly felt like rolling my car over them, and my heart hurt so much for Noah having to deal with them. No wonder he didn't understand his attraction to Zane, he was truly a mess. But I liked his reaction upon discovering he wasn't as straight as he thought because it felt real. Also, despite his own issues he was a caring brother and uncle. It was touching to read how he put his family first and left his own problems aside because they needed him.
Zane knew he was different and was aware of it. He didn't think he'd ever find someone attractive but Noah was his person. It was great to see he took his time to come to terms before jumping into a relationship, because he needed to understand himself first before he could be with anyone.
This is such a beautiful book that hit me hard as it was more emotional than I first thought, but I loved it nonetheless. The author did a great job regarding the mental health representation, it is always wonderful to come across a book when MCs suffer from different mental issues that don't stop them from, eventually, having a happy life.
This book is fantastic, I absolutely loved it and enjoyed it very much. This series keeps getting better with each book, I can't wait to read the next one.
I loved both the MCs, Zane and Noah stole my heart from the very beginning. Zane worked at the Crimson Club as a stripper with his twin River, but they also worked as part of a construction crew. Noah was one of the other members of the crew and for some reason Zane and Noah never got along. Of course, it was the sort of animosity that came from attraction. Once they got together for the first time, it was just amazing how well they connected in all aspects of life, even though they didn't realise it.
I especially liked Noah, he had spent his life struggling with mental issues. His parents were despicable people. I truly felt like rolling my car over them, and my heart hurt so much for Noah having to deal with them. No wonder he didn't understand his attraction to Zane, he was truly a mess. But I liked his reaction upon discovering he wasn't as straight as he thought because it felt real. Also, despite his own issues he was a caring brother and uncle. It was touching to read how he put his family first and left his own problems aside because they needed him.
Zane knew he was different and was aware of it. He didn't think he'd ever find someone attractive but Noah was his person. It was great to see he took his time to come to terms before jumping into a relationship, because he needed to understand himself first before he could be with anyone.
This is such a beautiful book that hit me hard as it was more emotional than I first thought, but I loved it nonetheless. The author did a great job regarding the mental health representation, it is always wonderful to come across a book when MCs suffer from different mental issues that don't stop them from, eventually, having a happy life.
This book is fantastic, I absolutely loved it and enjoyed it very much. This series keeps getting better with each book, I can't wait to read the next one.
August 13, 2024
Really loved this! I was in the mood for some dares and had seen this recommended a lot recently. Been putting it off for a while cos book one was good but not amazing, I DNFd book 2 but I looooved this! Noah and Zane were adorable and kinda silly and SO HOT 🔥 the build up and the way these two speak to each other, their dislike of each other, I loved it!
December 2, 2023
Tropes: workplace romance, found family, light miscommunication trope
Feels: 3.5/5
Steam*: 3.5/5
Kinks: exhibitionism, sex in risky public places, lots of tattoos and piercings
Angst: medium
HEA: yes
Pairing: MM
Triggers/potential icks/content warnings: bad parents/guardians, death of parents in past, homophobic religious evangelicals, bullying, conversion therapy in past, undiagnosed mental illness, ADHD, depression, ace spectrum rep
Noah is 27 years old. He works in construction with Zane, River, and Gray. He's only been in town for about a year. He moved with his sister to help her out because she is a teen Mom of two kids under two. He has a lot of issues, his parents were horrible and did a number on him, he came from a Evangelical religious background he was traumatized and bullied. He's got self-esteem issues too. Noah gets welcomed into the friend group, but him and Zane have tension and banter between them.
Zane is 23 and very close to his twin River. In addition to the construction job, they both work as strippers on weekends. Zane is a little unhinged. Playing with weapons and being an a****** to people is kind of his jam, he's intimidating. He's somewhere on the ace spectrum. He never so much as kissed another person before he starts something with Noah.
Their friend group challenges them to a game of gay chicken, and they kiss. It kick starts an awareness between them. It isn't an instant sexual thing on Zane's side like it is on Noah's, and I actually appreciate that. Zane has this growing interest and fascination with Noah that eventually becomes sexual. They start having sex, but they don't communicate. And it leads to a lot of insecurities on Noah's side. Zane doesn't really know how to "human", this is foreign to him. Noah doesn't realize that he's actually something special to Zane. So they have some things to work through if they want a relationship.
This was an interesting book. There was some great moments of humor in it, and I like that in a romance book. I liked Zane being prickly and not good at socializing, yet him being oddly drawn to Noah and finding himself watching him and reading his emotions, that's an interesting character to me. Though I kind of wish they had gone a little bit harder with his unhinged moments. The past books made me think that he would be more unhinged than he was in this book, what we saw was nice, but the author could have gone harder. The dynamic of the friends interacting was great. The chemistry between Zane and Noah was good. The chair lap dance scene was especially hot. I liked I liked the way that Zane and River talked, I liked how River was protective of Zane, even if it was him awkwardly trying to help Zane and Noah maintain some privacy while they were hooking up in ill-advised public places.
One thing that made me cringe is that these guys like never had sex in private. They were always having sex outdoors, in alleys, at parties, in a pantry at a party, even at Zane's home River was listening in. In a way it was funny in how ridiculous it was, but it was kind of cringe too. I also kind of wish there was a little bit more daily living moments before the conclusion of the book.
Some notable moments:
"“Did you actually say ‘no thank you,’ or were you, you?” “I said no thank you. But I might have also told her I’d never be desperate enough that she’d even be an option.” He snickered. “Thought so.”"
"“I think you’re trying to fuck with my head.” “Whyever would you think that?” I smiled serenely at him. “I’m not sure if that’s supposed to be an innocent face, but it’s serving crazy with a side of serial killer.”"
"Zane: how do you know when youre attracted to someone Gray: is this about Noah? He knew? How the fuck had he figured that out? Nick: you have a crush???? Zane: not sure Zane: how’d u know it was about him? Nick: Noah? Do I know him? Riv: he works on our crew Gray: because you eye fuck him whenever you’re in the same room as him Nick: Im so lost but so here for this He added a gif of a guy eating popcorn Nick: continue"
*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: 3.5/5
Steam*: 3.5/5
Kinks: exhibitionism, sex in risky public places, lots of tattoos and piercings
Angst: medium
HEA: yes
Pairing: MM
Triggers/potential icks/content warnings: bad parents/guardians, death of parents in past, homophobic religious evangelicals, bullying, conversion therapy in past, undiagnosed mental illness, ADHD, depression, ace spectrum rep
Noah is 27 years old. He works in construction with Zane, River, and Gray. He's only been in town for about a year. He moved with his sister to help her out because she is a teen Mom of two kids under two. He has a lot of issues, his parents were horrible and did a number on him, he came from a Evangelical religious background he was traumatized and bullied. He's got self-esteem issues too. Noah gets welcomed into the friend group, but him and Zane have tension and banter between them.
Zane is 23 and very close to his twin River. In addition to the construction job, they both work as strippers on weekends. Zane is a little unhinged. Playing with weapons and being an a****** to people is kind of his jam, he's intimidating. He's somewhere on the ace spectrum. He never so much as kissed another person before he starts something with Noah.
Their friend group challenges them to a game of gay chicken, and they kiss. It kick starts an awareness between them. It isn't an instant sexual thing on Zane's side like it is on Noah's, and I actually appreciate that. Zane has this growing interest and fascination with Noah that eventually becomes sexual. They start having sex, but they don't communicate. And it leads to a lot of insecurities on Noah's side. Zane doesn't really know how to "human", this is foreign to him. Noah doesn't realize that he's actually something special to Zane. So they have some things to work through if they want a relationship.
This was an interesting book. There was some great moments of humor in it, and I like that in a romance book. I liked Zane being prickly and not good at socializing, yet him being oddly drawn to Noah and finding himself watching him and reading his emotions, that's an interesting character to me. Though I kind of wish they had gone a little bit harder with his unhinged moments. The past books made me think that he would be more unhinged than he was in this book, what we saw was nice, but the author could have gone harder. The dynamic of the friends interacting was great. The chemistry between Zane and Noah was good. The chair lap dance scene was especially hot. I liked I liked the way that Zane and River talked, I liked how River was protective of Zane, even if it was him awkwardly trying to help Zane and Noah maintain some privacy while they were hooking up in ill-advised public places.
One thing that made me cringe is that these guys like never had sex in private. They were always having sex outdoors, in alleys, at parties, in a pantry at a party, even at Zane's home River was listening in. In a way it was funny in how ridiculous it was, but it was kind of cringe too. I also kind of wish there was a little bit more daily living moments before the conclusion of the book.
Some notable moments:
"“Did you actually say ‘no thank you,’ or were you, you?” “I said no thank you. But I might have also told her I’d never be desperate enough that she’d even be an option.” He snickered. “Thought so.”"
"“I think you’re trying to fuck with my head.” “Whyever would you think that?” I smiled serenely at him. “I’m not sure if that’s supposed to be an innocent face, but it’s serving crazy with a side of serial killer.”"
"Zane: how do you know when youre attracted to someone Gray: is this about Noah? He knew? How the fuck had he figured that out? Nick: you have a crush???? Zane: not sure Zane: how’d u know it was about him? Nick: Noah? Do I know him? Riv: he works on our crew Gray: because you eye fuck him whenever you’re in the same room as him Nick: Im so lost but so here for this He added a gif of a guy eating popcorn Nick: continue"
*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.
December 5, 2023
A sexy MM romance with 2 big dudes & their sexual awakening....with eachother! Oh goody 😜. It's a shame this is my 1st book in this series, I shall check the others out (if I ever get time lol), but I'm so excited for River's book! Loved Zane & Noah! I'd been seeing this around, glad I read it😍 (& only skipped the 1st couple scenes with Becca, oopsie).
Zane & Noah/Rath (badass nickname!) work together in a construction crew. Zane (23) is River's identical twin, the quiet one who struggles with people-ing & expressing; also a stripper 🥵. Noah (26) is the relatively new guy, playful & easy-going, all pierced 😏, artistic like River so they're buddies; Noah has anxiety & depression 🥺 which he hides (not for long!). Zane & Noah together? Fire! They bicker & banter so much omg 😆.
Then a gay chicken dare changes all... It awakens new emotions, it fuels their interactions with unexpected lust. From party kisses, Bi-awakening x2, challenges leading to first times & unexpected hookups! Everytime they're on page, I'm hooked. I love me a vers & switch couple 🥵🔥. The kinky exhibitionism, slight d/s is so hot.
But the emotional part? Oh boy. Zane thought he was ace, only Noah's ever turned him on, but is it situational? Oh 😳, is he Demi? Noah, my poor man 🥺, brainwashed by religion & trauma (& rumors, bro Me waiting for N to find out Z was a virgin before him, not a fuckboy 🤧) while mental healths struggles. Both bad at communicating. Before it's too annoying, we build to realisations so I ain't that mad!
While I enjoyed the push/pull, the best parts are always the emotional development. The realisations, Zane's worry for Noah, club rescue, angst & confusion, talks, insecurities, (sad 😭) pasts and finally sweetness that made me teary 🥺. I'd have loved more chapters of what we got towards the end!
While their parents left a lot to be desired, the friendships & siblings are so great! Like, I love this crew so much. River is Zane's ride or die. Noah's sis, Becca, is sweet. The epilogue's lovely 😍. Book's overall a win for me 🙌.
Story ratings: Enjoyed—> 5+/5
POV: 1st person, Dual POV
1) The Characters & relationship: 4.8/5
2) The feels: 🤭😮🧐🙄😏😣😘😆😊🥰🥺🥵🤫😉😭🥰
3) Sexy/Steamy scenes: 3.5/5
4) Levels: Mild Angst (push/pull), kinda Cute, mild Dark
5) Build up & Style: 4.6/5
FB Page | Instagram | Bookbub | FB group
Zane & Noah/Rath (badass nickname!) work together in a construction crew. Zane (23) is River's identical twin, the quiet one who struggles with people-ing & expressing; also a stripper 🥵. Noah (26) is the relatively new guy, playful & easy-going, all pierced 😏, artistic like River so they're buddies; Noah has anxiety & depression 🥺 which he hides (not for long!). Zane & Noah together? Fire! They bicker & banter so much omg 😆.
Then a gay chicken dare changes all... It awakens new emotions, it fuels their interactions with unexpected lust. From party kisses, Bi-awakening x2, challenges leading to first times & unexpected hookups! Everytime they're on page, I'm hooked. I love me a vers & switch couple 🥵🔥. The kinky exhibitionism, slight d/s is so hot.
But the emotional part? Oh boy. Zane thought he was ace, only Noah's ever turned him on, but is it situational? Oh 😳, is he Demi? Noah, my poor man 🥺, brainwashed by religion & trauma (& rumors, bro Me waiting for N to find out Z was a virgin before him, not a fuckboy 🤧) while mental healths struggles. Both bad at communicating. Before it's too annoying, we build to realisations so I ain't that mad!
While I enjoyed the push/pull, the best parts are always the emotional development. The realisations, Zane's worry for Noah, club rescue, angst & confusion, talks, insecurities, (sad 😭) pasts and finally sweetness that made me teary 🥺. I'd have loved more chapters of what we got towards the end!
While their parents left a lot to be desired, the friendships & siblings are so great! Like, I love this crew so much. River is Zane's ride or die. Noah's sis, Becca, is sweet. The epilogue's lovely 😍. Book's overall a win for me 🙌.
Story ratings: Enjoyed—> 5+/5
POV: 1st person, Dual POV
1) The Characters & relationship: 4.8/5
2) The feels: 🤭😮🧐🙄😏😣😘😆😊🥰🥺🥵🤫😉😭🥰
3) Sexy/Steamy scenes: 3.5/5
4) Levels: Mild Angst (push/pull), kinda Cute, mild Dark
5) Build up & Style: 4.6/5
FB Page | Instagram | Bookbub | FB group
December 1, 2023
4 stars ✨
I wish there was more character development because these two could have easily been in my fav couples of all time ☹️ but I still really enjoyed their story!
I wish there was more character development because these two could have easily been in my fav couples of all time ☹️ but I still really enjoyed their story!
September 28, 2025
Sweet, fun, surprisingly serious at times, and HOT🔥. A damn good time in all. The hurt/care near the end is 🤌. Aiden Snow co-narrates the audiobook, and that man could make T&Cs sound sexy — so I’d recommend consumption in that format 😉. My only significant critique is that the pre-epilogue declarations felt rushed, but I enjoyed the book enough that I didn’t mind too much. I really needed a cosy read today and this did the trick.
March 15, 2024
I was excited for the first twin and that story was unbelievable !!!! I loved it soooo much, Zane and Noah have such chemistry, and it’s a real slow burn where they take the time to discover who they are, it’s a beautiful story showing how much sexuality is a spectrum and that emotion, attraction, love is different for everyone one.
Zane doesn’t know why but he doesn’t like the new member of the crew, Rath aka Noah has something that always makes him mad, and he likes to banter him which doesn’t improve his mood. Zane is the introverted twin and doesn’t like people in general except for his friends from the club and his brother. Stuck in a game of “gay chicken” with Noah, he will discover that things are not what they seem and that Noah is not so bad.
Even if he doesn’t show it, Noah is battling with his past and other issues, after sharing a kiss with Zane - it’s they can’t stop provoking each other and go further, further, until they burn for each other 🔥
The tension was off the chart, and it was sooo hot, spicy, spicy !!! I love the Crimson Boys but whaoooo it’s one of my favs. I’m happy to finally see up close the relationship between Zane and River, and I cannot for River’s book, he’s just so loveable and I hope he will find his person. Also, I’m rooting for Stone !
I received an ARC Copy of this book from Foreword PR, this review is from my own thoughts 😍
Zane doesn’t know why but he doesn’t like the new member of the crew, Rath aka Noah has something that always makes him mad, and he likes to banter him which doesn’t improve his mood. Zane is the introverted twin and doesn’t like people in general except for his friends from the club and his brother. Stuck in a game of “gay chicken” with Noah, he will discover that things are not what they seem and that Noah is not so bad.
Even if he doesn’t show it, Noah is battling with his past and other issues, after sharing a kiss with Zane - it’s they can’t stop provoking each other and go further, further, until they burn for each other 🔥
The tension was off the chart, and it was sooo hot, spicy, spicy !!! I love the Crimson Boys but whaoooo it’s one of my favs. I’m happy to finally see up close the relationship between Zane and River, and I cannot for River’s book, he’s just so loveable and I hope he will find his person. Also, I’m rooting for Stone !
I received an ARC Copy of this book from Foreword PR, this review is from my own thoughts 😍
March 27, 2025
AWWE WAIT THEY ARE QUITE ADORABLE!! their dynamic just works so well, theyre both so angsty and ALSO FREAKY. idk they just ✨W O R K✨
NOAH IS SOOO HOT, HES EMO AND PIERCED AND A BAD BOY AND AN ARTIST AND NBLALAJLVA I JUST WANT HIM SO BAD GUYS HE HAS A PIERCING!! i get why zane fell in love with him. but beneath all that hot emo exterior, noah is just so much. like the layers??? the trauma??? the depth??? his relationship with his mom is actually horrifying and every time she was mentioned i wanted to fight. and the fact that he just lives with all that pain, just lets it sit inside him and eats him up while pretending he doesn’t care??? noah baby u deserve so much better. also the way he sees himself makes me want to cry. like i need him to look in a mirror and actually see what everyone else sees. someone tell him he’s beautiful pls. but on the softer side, noah moving back home to help his sister take care of her kids??? i melted. 😭😭seeing him interact with river was everything. i need more of his and river’s friendship bc i felt their bond so much.
ZANEEEEE. i love that hes the grumpy twin to river whos the sunshiney twin (btw im so excited to read rivers book) i love how he just NEVER wanted anyone but kissing one guy literally changed him. i need to talk about how gentle he is. he ADORES river and i love their relationship sooo much. hes also so soft with nicky which will always make my heart flutter he’s so naturally sweet and thoughtful and the way he takes care of noah when he’s drunk or when he’s in his head is just 😭🫶. like he doesn’t always know what to do but he wants to help so bad and it makes me so soft. also the fact that he bought latex-free condoms specifically for noah?? most considerate man alive. also. zane going to save noah????? my favorite trope. “did they hurt u?” SCREAMING. these are the moments i need more of. and then the whole “you were my first everything” thing???
OK SO NOW THEM TOGETHER!! they start off with so much tension, so much push and pull and suddenly they’re in this situationship of their own making, all hot and messy and full of unspoken feelings. and listen. the sex??? insane. unhinged. feral. willow has zero chill when it comes to them, and i respect it. but at the same time, i needed more. more moments outside of the physical, more late-night talks, more emotional unraveling. because while the heat was heating, i needed that slow-burn devastation too. i still don’t fully believe they’re in love. bfs? yes. but love? idk. it just feels like the beginning of their story and i wish we got more. i love them but i’m mad bc i just wanted more. 😭 it was SOO MUCH SEX. dont get me wrong the smut was hot but like 70% was sex??? we barely got any emotionally moments and these boys are filled with emotions it just feels like such a wasted potential 💔
ALSO I WISH WE GOT MORE ON NOAH BEING ARO AND ZANE BEING DEMI!! it just felt brushed over when it is a part of them... idk i just w a n t m o r e. and that tends to be how i feel for a majority of this book it had SOOO much potential but barely scraped the surface of everything. like noahs depression and adhd and his whole homophobic sucky mom and zanes past. I FEEL LIKE WE BARELY KNOW ANYTHING. bc these characters are so sweet and i want so so so so so so much more
can i talk abt nick again pls VNLJNAKNDK OK SO also NICK. i love how zane is so soft and sweet with nick and how nick is just out here being the most affectionate mf even while in a relationship. i love a physically affectionate friend group.
final thoughts: i love a vers couple. i love soft zane. i love noah even tho he makes me wanna cry. i need a sequel just for emotional moments bc i refuse to believe this is all we get.
also im still mad about kai and alex leaving wtf am i supposed to do now.
NOAH IS SOOO HOT, HES EMO AND PIERCED AND A BAD BOY AND AN ARTIST AND NBLALAJLVA I JUST WANT HIM SO BAD GUYS HE HAS A PIERCING!! i get why zane fell in love with him. but beneath all that hot emo exterior, noah is just so much. like the layers??? the trauma??? the depth??? his relationship with his mom is actually horrifying and every time she was mentioned i wanted to fight. and the fact that he just lives with all that pain, just lets it sit inside him and eats him up while pretending he doesn’t care??? noah baby u deserve so much better. also the way he sees himself makes me want to cry. like i need him to look in a mirror and actually see what everyone else sees. someone tell him he’s beautiful pls. but on the softer side, noah moving back home to help his sister take care of her kids??? i melted. 😭😭seeing him interact with river was everything. i need more of his and river’s friendship bc i felt their bond so much.
ZANEEEEE. i love that hes the grumpy twin to river whos the sunshiney twin (btw im so excited to read rivers book) i love how he just NEVER wanted anyone but kissing one guy literally changed him. i need to talk about how gentle he is. he ADORES river and i love their relationship sooo much. hes also so soft with nicky which will always make my heart flutter he’s so naturally sweet and thoughtful and the way he takes care of noah when he’s drunk or when he’s in his head is just 😭🫶. like he doesn’t always know what to do but he wants to help so bad and it makes me so soft. also the fact that he bought latex-free condoms specifically for noah?? most considerate man alive. also. zane going to save noah????? my favorite trope. “did they hurt u?” SCREAMING. these are the moments i need more of. and then the whole “you were my first everything” thing???
OK SO NOW THEM TOGETHER!! they start off with so much tension, so much push and pull and suddenly they’re in this situationship of their own making, all hot and messy and full of unspoken feelings. and listen. the sex??? insane. unhinged. feral. willow has zero chill when it comes to them, and i respect it. but at the same time, i needed more. more moments outside of the physical, more late-night talks, more emotional unraveling. because while the heat was heating, i needed that slow-burn devastation too. i still don’t fully believe they’re in love. bfs? yes. but love? idk. it just feels like the beginning of their story and i wish we got more. i love them but i’m mad bc i just wanted more. 😭 it was SOO MUCH SEX. dont get me wrong the smut was hot but like 70% was sex??? we barely got any emotionally moments and these boys are filled with emotions it just feels like such a wasted potential 💔
ALSO I WISH WE GOT MORE ON NOAH BEING ARO AND ZANE BEING DEMI!! it just felt brushed over when it is a part of them... idk i just w a n t m o r e. and that tends to be how i feel for a majority of this book it had SOOO much potential but barely scraped the surface of everything. like noahs depression and adhd and his whole homophobic sucky mom and zanes past. I FEEL LIKE WE BARELY KNOW ANYTHING. bc these characters are so sweet and i want so so so so so so much more
can i talk abt nick again pls VNLJNAKNDK OK SO also NICK. i love how zane is so soft and sweet with nick and how nick is just out here being the most affectionate mf even while in a relationship. i love a physically affectionate friend group.
final thoughts: i love a vers couple. i love soft zane. i love noah even tho he makes me wanna cry. i need a sequel just for emotional moments bc i refuse to believe this is all we get.
also im still mad about kai and alex leaving wtf am i supposed to do now.
December 4, 2023
This was a super sweet, lowish angst romance with no third act breakup (thank GOD)!
Noah and Zane are adorable together once they (FINALLY) have actual conversations. After beginning their hookup situationship as two “straight” men on a dare, they realize they’re both insanely attracted to one another and keep hooking up. With both of them carrying baggage and Noah’s unresolved childhood trauma, they are terrible at communicating their wants and needs when it’s not in the middle of sex, which makes for some frustrating reading for a bit. But they do (eventually) figure it out and talk to each other and cuddle and are very cute! I enjoyed the hot sex, the exhibitionism and the possessiveness - I wish we could’ve seen the Crimson boys’ reactions to the large hickeys Noah gave Zane! I also love the Zane and River’s adorable dynamic (River deserves the world and needs to stop getting stood up before I cry!)
I also really enjoyed the ace rep and how sexuality is a spectrum. Zane being confident in his aceness to being confused and scared by his attraction to Noah to questioning his label to realizing it doesn’t matter for him because he just loves Noah felt so authentic just as Noah’s aromantic exploration did, and I enjoyed the portrayal of all these different emotions.
I would’ve loved to see more of their story between opening up to each other and the I Love You’s - it seemed a bit abrupt for me, but sweet nonetheless. And yay for therapy!!
I’ve been enjoying this series so far and will definitely continue! I’m really looking forward to River’s book!
Noah and Zane are adorable together once they (FINALLY) have actual conversations. After beginning their hookup situationship as two “straight” men on a dare, they realize they’re both insanely attracted to one another and keep hooking up. With both of them carrying baggage and Noah’s unresolved childhood trauma, they are terrible at communicating their wants and needs when it’s not in the middle of sex, which makes for some frustrating reading for a bit. But they do (eventually) figure it out and talk to each other and cuddle and are very cute! I enjoyed the hot sex, the exhibitionism and the possessiveness - I wish we could’ve seen the Crimson boys’ reactions to the large hickeys Noah gave Zane! I also love the Zane and River’s adorable dynamic (River deserves the world and needs to stop getting stood up before I cry!)
I also really enjoyed the ace rep and how sexuality is a spectrum. Zane being confident in his aceness to being confused and scared by his attraction to Noah to questioning his label to realizing it doesn’t matter for him because he just loves Noah felt so authentic just as Noah’s aromantic exploration did, and I enjoyed the portrayal of all these different emotions.
I would’ve loved to see more of their story between opening up to each other and the I Love You’s - it seemed a bit abrupt for me, but sweet nonetheless. And yay for therapy!!
I’ve been enjoying this series so far and will definitely continue! I’m really looking forward to River’s book!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 459 reviews