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Walking Disaster #1
Benji
Benji Hayes is at the end of his rope. His best friend is an ocean away, he's lost his apartment, his job, and he's living out of his car. Then—he loses that too. When he calls for help, his knight in shining armor turns out to be the last person he expected to see. Leo Spalding, his best friend's elusive dad. The man he's only met once, and not under the best circumstances.
Leo offers to take him in, and Benji finds himself in more debt than he can ever repay. The tow bill, the dead car, the safe, warm bed to sleep in every night. Not to mention the food Leo cooks when he's hungry, and even when he's not. Benji is in heaven. He never wants to leave, but then he goes and ruins everything—just like always.
Benji is a walking disaster who has no business crushing on a successful older man, especially one who has gone out of his way to help. Benji can't stop himself from falling for his best friend's dad. The crush itself is bad enough, but acting on those burgeoning feelings would only lead to an even bigger disaster, right?
Right?
So why does he do it, anyway?
And what are they going to do now?
Leo offers to take him in, and Benji finds himself in more debt than he can ever repay. The tow bill, the dead car, the safe, warm bed to sleep in every night. Not to mention the food Leo cooks when he's hungry, and even when he's not. Benji is in heaven. He never wants to leave, but then he goes and ruins everything—just like always.
Benji is a walking disaster who has no business crushing on a successful older man, especially one who has gone out of his way to help. Benji can't stop himself from falling for his best friend's dad. The crush itself is bad enough, but acting on those burgeoning feelings would only lead to an even bigger disaster, right?
Right?
So why does he do it, anyway?
And what are they going to do now?
223 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 18, 2023
82 people are currently reading
178 people want to read
About the author
E.M. Denning
96 books539 followersEM Denning has more than twenty romance novels under her belt and has become an author you can rely on to bring you emotionally endearing, soft and fuzzy, stories. She is well known among her friends for her love of naps and sarcasm. She spends her free time reading as many romance novels as she can get her hands on.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 62 reviews
October 23, 2023
This is a ton of fluffiness garnished with super cute things. A bit OTT cheesy towards the end, but oh so light and breezy. A quick read, but also not too superficial at all, it already had some depth to it even if it could have maybe used more depth at one point or another.
Being with Leo was like being kissed by a sun, but without burning to a crisp. Leo was all warmth and security and adoration. ❤️🤭🙄🤭❤️
Oh Benji, I shed so many little tears over him, the book totally melted me.
No one has wanted me around long enough to want to know me. When they figure out that I don’t just drop my pants and bend over any old bar stool, they move on. I’ve never been someone anyone wants to know before. 🥺😢😭
It takes forever until sexual activities take place. But oh mummy, very nice and getting better and hotter.
Benji keened and Leo reached between them and wrapped his hand around Benji’s cock. It didn’t take much for Benji to chant Leo’s name like it was a prayer and an answer all in one as he came all over his stomach. 🔥🤩🔥
I really enjoyed the book, it gave me some nice sweet hours, if you are in dire need for fluff then it is a perfect book.
Being with Leo was like being kissed by a sun, but without burning to a crisp. Leo was all warmth and security and adoration. ❤️🤭🙄🤭❤️
Oh Benji, I shed so many little tears over him, the book totally melted me.
No one has wanted me around long enough to want to know me. When they figure out that I don’t just drop my pants and bend over any old bar stool, they move on. I’ve never been someone anyone wants to know before. 🥺😢😭
It takes forever until sexual activities take place. But oh mummy, very nice and getting better and hotter.
Benji keened and Leo reached between them and wrapped his hand around Benji’s cock. It didn’t take much for Benji to chant Leo’s name like it was a prayer and an answer all in one as he came all over his stomach. 🔥🤩🔥
I really enjoyed the book, it gave me some nice sweet hours, if you are in dire need for fluff then it is a perfect book.
November 17, 2023
What to expect: awkward dialogue; multiple editing issues; no plot; one-dimensional MCs; unearned HEA.
Fluffy but ultimately unsatisfying.
This was my first, and most likely last, book by this author. I wasn't impressed.
Fluffy but ultimately unsatisfying.
This was my first, and most likely last, book by this author. I wasn't impressed.
October 28, 2023
Book safety, content warnings, and tropes & tags down below.
Benji wanted Leo to look at him like he was worth something. Like he was wanted, needed even. But Benji didn’t know how to make people look at him with anything but pity, misery, or disbelief.
This book was very charming and quite sweet. Benji was a walking disaster and totally OTT, but also very endearing. I do enjoy characters like that a lot. The book was also surprisingly low angst considering the main trope is ‘best friend’s dad’. To say that Benji has an awesome best friend is the understatement of the year.
He felt like he had the words, I kissed your dad, and I liked it, printed on his forehead.
I don’t really have a lot of thoughts as it was all pretty straight forward. Benji made me tear up a couple of times because he had totally lost faith in himself and didn’t believe anyone could or ever would love him, which of course got me right in the feels. I didn’t really connect much with the other MC, Leo, which was unfortunate, but I didn’t have any issues with him either. It was all very uncomplicated, even though they both experienced some bouts of insecurity in themselves and the relationship. It was cute, fairly hot, and an easy and quick read.
Benji was his goddammit, and he kissed him like forever was a foregone conclusion.
3.75 stars
⬇️ Blanket spoiler warning ⬇️
⚠️ Tropes & tags ⚠️
Age gap
Best friend’s dad
Forced proximity
Roommates
Friends to lovers
Virgin MC
Single dad
Clumsy and accident prone MC
⚠️⚠️ Content warning ⚠️⚠️
Mentions of homophobic parent
Mentions of being disowned
Explicit sexual content
Homelessness
Financial insecurity
⚠️⚠️⚠️ Book safety ⚠️⚠️⚠️
Cheating: No
OM/OW drama: No
Third-act breakup: No
POV: 3rd person, dual POV
Genre: Contemporary romance, M/M
Strict roles or versatile: Versatile
MCs age: 25 and *not specified.
*as far as I could tell.
“Apparently, the fastest way to make me emotional is to be nice to me.”
“Consent is a two-way street, love. It’s okay for anyone to ask, at any time.”
It still stung, though, to know that he was the one carrying torches for someone who wouldn’t light a match for him.
This quote makes the book sound way angstier than it is, so it’s not a great representation out of context. I just thought it was a lovely (and sad) quote.
Benji wanted Leo to look at him like he was worth something. Like he was wanted, needed even. But Benji didn’t know how to make people look at him with anything but pity, misery, or disbelief.
This book was very charming and quite sweet. Benji was a walking disaster and totally OTT, but also very endearing. I do enjoy characters like that a lot. The book was also surprisingly low angst considering the main trope is ‘best friend’s dad’. To say that Benji has an awesome best friend is the understatement of the year.
He felt like he had the words, I kissed your dad, and I liked it, printed on his forehead.
I don’t really have a lot of thoughts as it was all pretty straight forward. Benji made me tear up a couple of times because he had totally lost faith in himself and didn’t believe anyone could or ever would love him, which of course got me right in the feels. I didn’t really connect much with the other MC, Leo, which was unfortunate, but I didn’t have any issues with him either. It was all very uncomplicated, even though they both experienced some bouts of insecurity in themselves and the relationship. It was cute, fairly hot, and an easy and quick read.
Benji was his goddammit, and he kissed him like forever was a foregone conclusion.
3.75 stars
⬇️ Blanket spoiler warning ⬇️
⚠️ Tropes & tags ⚠️
Age gap
Best friend’s dad
Forced proximity
Roommates
Friends to lovers
Virgin MC
Single dad
Clumsy and accident prone MC
⚠️⚠️ Content warning ⚠️⚠️
Mentions of homophobic parent
Mentions of being disowned
Explicit sexual content
Homelessness
Financial insecurity
⚠️⚠️⚠️ Book safety ⚠️⚠️⚠️
Cheating: No
OM/OW drama: No
Third-act breakup: No
POV: 3rd person, dual POV
Genre: Contemporary romance, M/M
Strict roles or versatile: Versatile
MCs age: 25 and *not specified.
*as far as I could tell.
“Apparently, the fastest way to make me emotional is to be nice to me.”
“Consent is a two-way street, love. It’s okay for anyone to ask, at any time.”
It still stung, though, to know that he was the one carrying torches for someone who wouldn’t light a match for him.
This quote makes the book sound way angstier than it is, so it’s not a great representation out of context. I just thought it was a lovely (and sad) quote.
Read
December 8, 2023DNF 38% I wanted to like this book as the premise was nice, but the writing isn’t very good and the character of Benji is the saddest of sad sacks. He’s a mess! The character of hot older man Leo was written way too bland. The narrative seemed to be the same scene over and over: Benji messes up and Leo fixes him up. And what was with the excessive Oliver love for Benji? Weird.
* In looking at the title, I shouldn’t be so hard on the book as the plot line is in the title, so what was I expecting? 🤷♀️
* In looking at the title, I shouldn’t be so hard on the book as the plot line is in the title, so what was I expecting? 🤷♀️
October 19, 2023
Ok, this was cute and I loved the first 40% but then it stalled a bit and the ILY was a bit too quick. But it wasn't a long book, so I guess it needed to be like this. I wanted a bit more hurt/comfort though. Overall it was good.
October 22, 2023
Cutesie in the best possible way
October 6, 2023
Cuteeeeee! I wanted to hug Benji throughout all the book. In true EM style, this story wraps around your heart and never lets it go. I was hooked from the start and couldn't put it down. Now let's wait for Oliver... will he be the dominant in his relationship, or will he discover a more soft and tender side if himself, maybe with a certain mayor? I'm looking forward to finding out.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this story.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this story.
dnf
October 26, 2023Nice idea for a story but Benjii acts about 12 years old. Too much for for me.
January 10, 2025
Well, then. Wasn’t this a wonderful surprise of a book? This is my first book by E.M. Dennings, which I picked up because it was recommended to me, and I can already tell it won’t be my last! I’d expected a light-hearted, low-angst romance with a lovely age gap, and while I did get that, it was also a lot more emotional than I thought it’d be.
Benji is such a sweet guy, honestly. I felt so much for him, it’s ridiculous. But really, how could you not? Here’s this totally sweet guy, who tries so hard, but has all the bad luck in the world. He’s been rejected and neglected and he’s so starved for any sort of positive attention, it broke my heart. He’s so tired, down to his bones. He misses his best friend, Oliver - who’d (somewhat reluctantly) moved to London for a great job opportunity. He has no support system around him and has lost all faith in himself. So when he gets fired from yet another job when he’s already been living in his car, his best friend intervenes from a distance and arranges for him to stay at his father’s place. Leo is a wonderful, caring man and he was perfect for Benji. I loved their romance and how it grew so naturally and beautifully.
I loved that the romance didn’t have any outside complications. This book didn’t need that type of angst. It was a quiet sort of book where Benji’s inner demons were the antagonist, so to speak. Everything about this story felt so realistic, and I could definitely relate to Benji a whole lot, and it was just beautiful and it made me cry a little a few times and I wanted to give Benji all the cuddles. I also loved that Benji’s struggles weren’t solved by love alone. Because love isn’t a cure-all and with how deep his insecurities ran, it takes time for them to fade. Time and a lot of love and reassurances and care. Which Leo is more than happy to provide.
I’m glad I don’t have to wait for Oliver’s book and can dive right into it, because I’m not quite ready to let go of these characters just yet.
Benji is such a sweet guy, honestly. I felt so much for him, it’s ridiculous. But really, how could you not? Here’s this totally sweet guy, who tries so hard, but has all the bad luck in the world. He’s been rejected and neglected and he’s so starved for any sort of positive attention, it broke my heart. He’s so tired, down to his bones. He misses his best friend, Oliver - who’d (somewhat reluctantly) moved to London for a great job opportunity. He has no support system around him and has lost all faith in himself. So when he gets fired from yet another job when he’s already been living in his car, his best friend intervenes from a distance and arranges for him to stay at his father’s place. Leo is a wonderful, caring man and he was perfect for Benji. I loved their romance and how it grew so naturally and beautifully.
Perhaps it was cheating to do it that way. To say he loved him then kiss him senseless, but Leo didn't care because Benji was his goddammit, and he kissed him like forever was a foregone conclusion.
I loved that the romance didn’t have any outside complications. This book didn’t need that type of angst. It was a quiet sort of book where Benji’s inner demons were the antagonist, so to speak. Everything about this story felt so realistic, and I could definitely relate to Benji a whole lot, and it was just beautiful and it made me cry a little a few times and I wanted to give Benji all the cuddles. I also loved that Benji’s struggles weren’t solved by love alone. Because love isn’t a cure-all and with how deep his insecurities ran, it takes time for them to fade. Time and a lot of love and reassurances and care. Which Leo is more than happy to provide.
He tried not to spend too much time in front of the mirror. There was something far too vulnerable about looking back at himself.
I’m glad I don’t have to wait for Oliver’s book and can dive right into it, because I’m not quite ready to let go of these characters just yet.
January 7, 2024
This was funny and sweet.
Benji is a total disaster, he lost his home, his job and his car. He asks for help but his best friend doesn't live in the same country, so he sends his father to the rescue.
Leo is Ollie's father, he's so sweet and a caretaker, he's also Benj 's last client, who slammed the door in his face.
They become roommates to friends to lovers.
I loved Oliver, thought he'd bring a little drama but he was really cool with everything.
Benji is a total disaster, he lost his home, his job and his car. He asks for help but his best friend doesn't live in the same country, so he sends his father to the rescue.
Leo is Ollie's father, he's so sweet and a caretaker, he's also Benj 's last client, who slammed the door in his face.
They become roommates to friends to lovers.
I loved Oliver, thought he'd bring a little drama but he was really cool with everything.
October 30, 2023
Leo and Benji
Look. It was cute. Some parts were sexy and some parts were sweet. But it moved so slow. And Benji was painfully insecure. Ultimately, I liked them together. I just wish it didn’t take a hundred years for them to get there.
Look. It was cute. Some parts were sexy and some parts were sweet. But it moved so slow. And Benji was painfully insecure. Ultimately, I liked them together. I just wish it didn’t take a hundred years for them to get there.
October 25, 2023
So sweet!
In this age-gap, best friend's dad romance, E.M. Denning managed to balance sweetness and sass, steam and intimacy. It's low angst, but not at all fluff, in my opinion.
I loved the gentleness of both characters, and of their path to love. I'll definitely be looking for the next in the series.
In this age-gap, best friend's dad romance, E.M. Denning managed to balance sweetness and sass, steam and intimacy. It's low angst, but not at all fluff, in my opinion.
I loved the gentleness of both characters, and of their path to love. I'll definitely be looking for the next in the series.
January 1, 2024
Rating: 4
Steam: 3
Steam: 3
December 22, 2023
unexpectedly enjoyable. I liked the people.
October 18, 2023
4,5 stars
Benji is the first book in the Walking Disaster series by E.M. Denning. This is the story of Benji and Leo. When Leo's son calls him that his best friend needs help, Leo immediately comes to Benji's rescue. I loved their story. It was sweet, sexy, full of feels and very well written.
Benji is the first book in the Walking Disaster series by E.M. Denning. This is the story of Benji and Leo. When Leo's son calls him that his best friend needs help, Leo immediately comes to Benji's rescue. I loved their story. It was sweet, sexy, full of feels and very well written.
October 18, 2023
This is the 1st book in a brand new series by EM and ohh I just fell in love with Benji. Benji and Leo is an age gap, sons best friend read
The series title is perfect and well yep Benji is def a walking disaster but his growing relationship with Leo is just beautifully written. We see the worries of both MC's and their HEA is great.
Honestly Benji's story made me cry, want to give him the best squeezy hugs.
Some awesome side characters are also introduced and I hope we get their stories as well.
The series title is perfect and well yep Benji is def a walking disaster but his growing relationship with Leo is just beautifully written. We see the worries of both MC's and their HEA is great.
Honestly Benji's story made me cry, want to give him the best squeezy hugs.
Some awesome side characters are also introduced and I hope we get their stories as well.
October 25, 2023
4.25 Stars!
This story is super cute. I felt for Benji, he's definitely had a rough go of it. His first encounter with Leo was so bad. I really sympathized with him when Leo shows up later in the day to help him out. However, I'm happy that Benji accepted Leo's offer of a place to stay. Benji tries so hard to get himself sorted and back on his feet with little luck. I think if I had all the things that happened to Benji, I probably would have had a hard time moving forward like he does. I loved his determination. I was super happy that he had Oliver in his corner and that Leo softens and see the work that Benji puts into trying to make his way. I loved that Leo's friend provides some more help without being asked and that it worked out so well for them. I loved seeing Benji and Leo try not to get involved with each other for a while, but was happy that Oliver gave them the encouragement to go for it. Benji and Leo are awesome together and I loved how Leo accepted Benji as he was.
This story is super cute. I felt for Benji, he's definitely had a rough go of it. His first encounter with Leo was so bad. I really sympathized with him when Leo shows up later in the day to help him out. However, I'm happy that Benji accepted Leo's offer of a place to stay. Benji tries so hard to get himself sorted and back on his feet with little luck. I think if I had all the things that happened to Benji, I probably would have had a hard time moving forward like he does. I loved his determination. I was super happy that he had Oliver in his corner and that Leo softens and see the work that Benji puts into trying to make his way. I loved that Leo's friend provides some more help without being asked and that it worked out so well for them. I loved seeing Benji and Leo try not to get involved with each other for a while, but was happy that Oliver gave them the encouragement to go for it. Benji and Leo are awesome together and I loved how Leo accepted Benji as he was.
August 9, 2024
That was a snoozefest. I really wasn’t vibing with anything or anyone in this story. The premise made it seem like it could be a rom com, but it wasn’t funny at all. Instead we get Benji, who I might have found endearing but in reality was kind of pathetic. He ends up living with his best friend’s dad, Leo, after a string of bad luck leaves him homeless. And even though they have literally zero chemistry, they end up in a relationship and falling in love in basically no time at all. I found it very rushed, and hard to digest. I get the impression that that’s this authors thing - sweet, cheesy fluff. And maybe I’d have liked it more in a different mood, but I was pretty bored. It’s a short book that felt endless, which never bodes well.
October 23, 2023
A Joyfully Jay review.
4 stars
Benji is the first book in E.M. Denning’s Walking Disaster series and it’s a sweet age gap story with a little hurt/comfort vibe to it. When we meet Benji, he is down on his luck… and then he falls even further. He has been abandoned by his family, struggled in school, lost his home, and is about to lose his job and his car. Right from the beginning, Denning really sets things up well to let the reader in on Benji’s emotions and stress as things just seem to be spiraling out of control. Benji’s best friend, Oliver, has always been there for him, but now with him out of the country, he is out of reach. Fortunately, Oliver asks his father to step in and Leo comes to the rescue. He is sweet, caring, protective, and determined to take care of Benji. He gives Benji a soft place to land while he sorts out his life, and soon Leo doesn’t want to let him go.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
4 stars
Benji is the first book in E.M. Denning’s Walking Disaster series and it’s a sweet age gap story with a little hurt/comfort vibe to it. When we meet Benji, he is down on his luck… and then he falls even further. He has been abandoned by his family, struggled in school, lost his home, and is about to lose his job and his car. Right from the beginning, Denning really sets things up well to let the reader in on Benji’s emotions and stress as things just seem to be spiraling out of control. Benji’s best friend, Oliver, has always been there for him, but now with him out of the country, he is out of reach. Fortunately, Oliver asks his father to step in and Leo comes to the rescue. He is sweet, caring, protective, and determined to take care of Benji. He gives Benji a soft place to land while he sorts out his life, and soon Leo doesn’t want to let him go.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
October 24, 2023
This wasn’t bad and it wasn’t great. It was a little meh, I guess. The characters were mostly likable, fairly unrealistic, but it’s fiction. The story was predictable. So, like I said, enjoyable but nothing momentous.
June 11, 2024
old post reposted
Not sure what to read, but I've been meaning to read some more of E.M. Denning's things. Here's "Benji." It's the first novel in her Walking Disaster series.
["Benji Hayes is at the end of his rope. His best friend is an ocean away, he's lost his apartment, his job, and he's living out of his car. Then—he loses that too. When he calls for help, his knight in shining armor turns out to be the last person he expected to see. Leo Spalding, his best friend's elusive dad. The man he's only met once, and not under the best circumstances.
Leo offers to take him in, and Benji finds himself in more debt than he can ever repay. The tow bill, the dead car, the safe, warm bed to sleep in every night. Not to mention the food Leo cooks when he's hungry, and even when he's not. Benji is in heaven. He never wants to leave, but then he goes and ruins everything—just like always.
Benji is a walking disaster who has no business crushing on a successful older man, especially one who has gone out of his way to help. Benji can't stop himself from falling for his best friend's dad. The crush itself is bad enough, but acting on those burgeoning feelings would only lead to an even bigger disaster, right?
Right?
So why does he do it, anyway?
And what are they going to do now?"]
Benji is the purest definition of walking disaster. And 90% if the time it’s not even his fault, which he would argue with (but that’s why he as Oliver—and now Leo). Leo is the walking definition of pure confidence and stability and support (which is why life throws him a Benji-shaped wrench into his life).
These two are a hot mess. A hot fucking mess. But they’re so freaking cute and perfect for each other and so disgustingly happy together.
I can’t wait for the next book!
#benji #oliver #walkingdisaster #walkingdisasterseries #emdenning #books #queerbooks #queererotica #bodicerippers #bookstagram #bookphotography #ilovebooks
Not sure what to read, but I've been meaning to read some more of E.M. Denning's things. Here's "Benji." It's the first novel in her Walking Disaster series.
["Benji Hayes is at the end of his rope. His best friend is an ocean away, he's lost his apartment, his job, and he's living out of his car. Then—he loses that too. When he calls for help, his knight in shining armor turns out to be the last person he expected to see. Leo Spalding, his best friend's elusive dad. The man he's only met once, and not under the best circumstances.
Leo offers to take him in, and Benji finds himself in more debt than he can ever repay. The tow bill, the dead car, the safe, warm bed to sleep in every night. Not to mention the food Leo cooks when he's hungry, and even when he's not. Benji is in heaven. He never wants to leave, but then he goes and ruins everything—just like always.
Benji is a walking disaster who has no business crushing on a successful older man, especially one who has gone out of his way to help. Benji can't stop himself from falling for his best friend's dad. The crush itself is bad enough, but acting on those burgeoning feelings would only lead to an even bigger disaster, right?
Right?
So why does he do it, anyway?
And what are they going to do now?"]
Benji is the purest definition of walking disaster. And 90% if the time it’s not even his fault, which he would argue with (but that’s why he as Oliver—and now Leo). Leo is the walking definition of pure confidence and stability and support (which is why life throws him a Benji-shaped wrench into his life).
These two are a hot mess. A hot fucking mess. But they’re so freaking cute and perfect for each other and so disgustingly happy together.
I can’t wait for the next book!
#benji #oliver #walkingdisaster #walkingdisasterseries #emdenning #books #queerbooks #queererotica #bodicerippers #bookstagram #bookphotography #ilovebooks
October 20, 2023
New to me author that I 'discovered' in the reader group of another author I love.
I am a sucker for a delicious meet-cute and this delivered in spades, I couldn't have asked for anything better, it was *chef's kiss*.
I appreciated that the author didn't make Benji a cringey klutz and instead wove a story of someone who is more often than not a victim of circumstance; if it weren't for bad luck poor Benji would have no luck. Like Leo I just wanted to wrap him in a warm hug and make everything go his way. Despite everything he is determined, honourable, and kind, which draws Leo to him as a moth to a flame as much as Leo's age, kindness, and dependability attract Benji. The attraction resolutely builds between them until they can't help but feel how perfect they are for one another. The relationship building was beautiful and I loved the care they showed each other.
The secondary characters of Oliver (Benji's bestie/Leo's son) and Jordan (Leo's bestie) were wonderful additions to the story, helping the budding relationship along in their respective ways. I can't wait for them to get their own HEAs.
My only quibble for a book this length is that ILYs came a little early and that the character background development and depth wasn't as fully fleshed out as I would have liked, specifically when it came to Benji and his family situation, but I didn't often feel its absence. The heartfelt hurt/comfort story caught my attention from the meet-cute onward and I thoroughly enjoyed the story and the schmoopy feelings it gave me right from the beginning to the end.
I look forward to reading more by this author.
I am a sucker for a delicious meet-cute and this delivered in spades, I couldn't have asked for anything better, it was *chef's kiss*.
I appreciated that the author didn't make Benji a cringey klutz and instead wove a story of someone who is more often than not a victim of circumstance; if it weren't for bad luck poor Benji would have no luck. Like Leo I just wanted to wrap him in a warm hug and make everything go his way. Despite everything he is determined, honourable, and kind, which draws Leo to him as a moth to a flame as much as Leo's age, kindness, and dependability attract Benji. The attraction resolutely builds between them until they can't help but feel how perfect they are for one another. The relationship building was beautiful and I loved the care they showed each other.
The secondary characters of Oliver (Benji's bestie/Leo's son) and Jordan (Leo's bestie) were wonderful additions to the story, helping the budding relationship along in their respective ways. I can't wait for them to get their own HEAs.
My only quibble for a book this length is that ILYs came a little early and that the character background development and depth wasn't as fully fleshed out as I would have liked, specifically when it came to Benji and his family situation, but I didn't often feel its absence. The heartfelt hurt/comfort story caught my attention from the meet-cute onward and I thoroughly enjoyed the story and the schmoopy feelings it gave me right from the beginning to the end.
I look forward to reading more by this author.
October 17, 2023
I wasn't expecting to grow attached to Benji. His character is a walking disaster but in the best way! He's clumsy, and awkward, but is so sweet. He speaks his mind, but is also quiet, he stands up for what he believes but also let's people help him every now and again. Watching his character grow throughout this book was really amazing, he learned that people do really care for him, and they aren't just going to abandon him.
Oliver's character was fantastic! Even though technically he's a side character, he was a really prevalent character in this story. As he is Benji's best friend and Leo is his dad, he kept popping up in the story. His character was so great, he was so supportive and cared about Benji so deeply. It was really sweet to read about how strong their friendship is.
Leo's character definitely took up the grumpy man, aspect in this book. Over the course of the story we get to learn more about him, and realize there is more to him than him being a grump.
I liked the pacing of this story a lot, it was a slow burn, these characters didn't just hop into bed together. They let things kindle for a while, but as soon as Oliver gave his blessing, that kindling turned into a full blown fire.
Another character I enjoyed was Jordan. He took a chance with Benji, and made him feel accepted and valued. Along with letting Benji know that it's okay to not go to college, that having a degree isn't everything. Which I think is an important message.
Overall this book was really great, I'm really hoping that Oliver will get his own story soon!
Oliver's character was fantastic! Even though technically he's a side character, he was a really prevalent character in this story. As he is Benji's best friend and Leo is his dad, he kept popping up in the story. His character was so great, he was so supportive and cared about Benji so deeply. It was really sweet to read about how strong their friendship is.
Leo's character definitely took up the grumpy man, aspect in this book. Over the course of the story we get to learn more about him, and realize there is more to him than him being a grump.
I liked the pacing of this story a lot, it was a slow burn, these characters didn't just hop into bed together. They let things kindle for a while, but as soon as Oliver gave his blessing, that kindling turned into a full blown fire.
Another character I enjoyed was Jordan. He took a chance with Benji, and made him feel accepted and valued. Along with letting Benji know that it's okay to not go to college, that having a degree isn't everything. Which I think is an important message.
Overall this book was really great, I'm really hoping that Oliver will get his own story soon!
October 18, 2023
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Oh my gosh, how perfectly wonderful were Benji and Leo. From their first meeting to their Happy Ever After, they will make you laugh, swoon and feel a little naughty.
Benji is absolutely endearing. A bit of walking disaster with a beautiful heart you can see why his BFF Oliver is so protective of him. He just needs people who will support him and have his back, and there are very few of those. Oliver knows he can count on his dad to help out in his absence.
Leo is caring and kind (to those he knows!) and he immediately (well immediately after their second encounter) wants to help the sweet man who’s found himself in his guest room. I love that Benji doesn’t let Leo steamroll him with help. Doesn’t let him take over his life. He wants to stand on his own two feet.
Thankfully Leo is willing to listen, and Benji learns that relying on people who care about you is okay.
I love a son’s best friend story - and this one told in EM’s usual sweet and sexy way was the perfect balm to my heart.
Like everyone else, I’m now frothing at the mouth to get Oliver’s book.
Oh my gosh, how perfectly wonderful were Benji and Leo. From their first meeting to their Happy Ever After, they will make you laugh, swoon and feel a little naughty.
Benji is absolutely endearing. A bit of walking disaster with a beautiful heart you can see why his BFF Oliver is so protective of him. He just needs people who will support him and have his back, and there are very few of those. Oliver knows he can count on his dad to help out in his absence.
Leo is caring and kind (to those he knows!) and he immediately (well immediately after their second encounter) wants to help the sweet man who’s found himself in his guest room. I love that Benji doesn’t let Leo steamroll him with help. Doesn’t let him take over his life. He wants to stand on his own two feet.
Thankfully Leo is willing to listen, and Benji learns that relying on people who care about you is okay.
I love a son’s best friend story - and this one told in EM’s usual sweet and sexy way was the perfect balm to my heart.
Like everyone else, I’m now frothing at the mouth to get Oliver’s book.
October 8, 2023
I received an advanced reader copy and this is my honest review of the book.
❤️ A great start to the series with this book.
Benji wasnt having a great time after out of work from being a door saleman and no accommodation he resorted to living in his car. I could help feel for him in the situation that he’s in. But his day gets worse and he’s stuck up the creek without a paddle or car.
Leo gets a call from his son for some help for Benji.
I loved their second meeting and appolises are said for them meeting on the first meet.
Benji, 25 yrs has an attraction to older men and Oliver’s dad was a hot hit in that department.
A great age gap romance and at times I had to laugh with them as Benji’s personality came through.
A gorgeous book for them both the navigate especially with Benji’s mishaps incidents.
A forbidden with theme with Benji falling for his friends dad in this.
I really loved this even though it was a familiar storyline that I may have read in the past. Hot sexy scenes that may or may not include switching and a virgin.
I loved the ending of Benji’s story as he gets his HEA and everything working out for him.
A great first book for the series and I’ll look forward to more in this series.
❤️ A great start to the series with this book.
Benji wasnt having a great time after out of work from being a door saleman and no accommodation he resorted to living in his car. I could help feel for him in the situation that he’s in. But his day gets worse and he’s stuck up the creek without a paddle or car.
Leo gets a call from his son for some help for Benji.
I loved their second meeting and appolises are said for them meeting on the first meet.
Benji, 25 yrs has an attraction to older men and Oliver’s dad was a hot hit in that department.
A great age gap romance and at times I had to laugh with them as Benji’s personality came through.
A gorgeous book for them both the navigate especially with Benji’s mishaps incidents.
A forbidden with theme with Benji falling for his friends dad in this.
I really loved this even though it was a familiar storyline that I may have read in the past. Hot sexy scenes that may or may not include switching and a virgin.
I loved the ending of Benji’s story as he gets his HEA and everything working out for him.
A great first book for the series and I’ll look forward to more in this series.
October 20, 2023
This is an enjoyable and comforting book about the healing power of love. Benji is highly down on his luck - he is homeless, living in his car, he's injured, and he's just lost his job. At the end of his rope, he calls his only friend, living in England, to help him. Since his friend is so far away, he enlists his dad's help to get Benji back on his feet.
Leo is an older bi single guy who is a rather lonely empty nester. When he gets the call from his son, he is happy to help. Having never met Benji before, he jumps in the offer Benji his spare room, food, and a place to regroup. When Leo and Benji start spending time together, however, mutual attraction grows. Benji has always been attracted to older men and Leo is just his type. Leo is also interested in Benji, but Benji is his son's best friend - more like a brother - and he doesn't know if he should get involved. Benji is also afraid to risk his relationships and potentially lost his best friend and the dad. Also Benji is overwhelmed as things continue to go wrong in his life.
What will happen when they decide to risk all for a shot at happiness? This book has good friends, passionate encounters, and a beautiful forever love.
Leo is an older bi single guy who is a rather lonely empty nester. When he gets the call from his son, he is happy to help. Having never met Benji before, he jumps in the offer Benji his spare room, food, and a place to regroup. When Leo and Benji start spending time together, however, mutual attraction grows. Benji has always been attracted to older men and Leo is just his type. Leo is also interested in Benji, but Benji is his son's best friend - more like a brother - and he doesn't know if he should get involved. Benji is also afraid to risk his relationships and potentially lost his best friend and the dad. Also Benji is overwhelmed as things continue to go wrong in his life.
What will happen when they decide to risk all for a shot at happiness? This book has good friends, passionate encounters, and a beautiful forever love.
November 7, 2023
Nice comfort read
Benji's a standalone MM Contemporary Romance with a HEA. Age Gap. Best-Friend's-Dad. Sweet and Cute. Hurt-Comfort.
2POV, 3rd person, past tense. This kindle edition 223 pages, 18th October 2023.
This is a shorter read and it's an easy read. Nothong conplicated, no twists and turns or drama. There's some very mild angst due to the setting but it doesn't feel like angsty. It's such fluffy and warm Sweet and Cute that it's just for those occasions when you want one especially if you like Age-Gap stories. It's also Best Friend's Dad-story but not the usual type where it's a big bad juicy secret. Here the bestie approves really all too wholeheartedly. The whole stort and characters are so sugar sweet and nice that if you want it like that go for this. I'm actually deducting a star just because I think it went a bit overboard even. It'a bit unreal. There was not a single bad guy.
Nice, cozy comfort read to be read wrapped up tight warm with a warm cuppa
Benji's a standalone MM Contemporary Romance with a HEA. Age Gap. Best-Friend's-Dad. Sweet and Cute. Hurt-Comfort.
2POV, 3rd person, past tense. This kindle edition 223 pages, 18th October 2023.
This is a shorter read and it's an easy read. Nothong conplicated, no twists and turns or drama. There's some very mild angst due to the setting but it doesn't feel like angsty. It's such fluffy and warm Sweet and Cute that it's just for those occasions when you want one especially if you like Age-Gap stories. It's also Best Friend's Dad-story but not the usual type where it's a big bad juicy secret. Here the bestie approves really all too wholeheartedly. The whole stort and characters are so sugar sweet and nice that if you want it like that go for this. I'm actually deducting a star just because I think it went a bit overboard even. It'a bit unreal. There was not a single bad guy.
Nice, cozy comfort read to be read wrapped up tight warm with a warm cuppa
December 7, 2023
Benji is the first book of the Walking Disaster series and he is the epitome of such an accident-prone human being. This is the perfect low angst, hurt/comfort, sexy age gap romance when you want something to warm your heart.
The world is really out to get young Benji and for the first time in his life, he has zero people in his corner. His family is nonexistent and his best friend, Oliver is currently an ocean away. Broke, homeless, and hurt, Benji finally caves and asks for help. The rescue comes in the form of Oliver's hot dad, Leo, who first takes Benji in … then takes care of him. But they should not, under any circumstances, fall for each other. What about their age difference? What about Benji trying to fix his life? What about Oliver? Denning navigated all these issues with great care, she rounded out their story with so many heartwarming moments, great steamy scenes (hot dang, I forgot just how hot Denning’s writing can get!), and a happy ending that makes everything all right in Benji’s world. I loved adorable Benji, he needs a permanent bubble wrap, Leo is as hot as he is nice, and Oliver and Jason (Leo’s friend) make fantastic side characters.
Age Gap
Best Friend’s Dad
Forced Proximity
Virgin MC
Steamy
The world is really out to get young Benji and for the first time in his life, he has zero people in his corner. His family is nonexistent and his best friend, Oliver is currently an ocean away. Broke, homeless, and hurt, Benji finally caves and asks for help. The rescue comes in the form of Oliver's hot dad, Leo, who first takes Benji in … then takes care of him. But they should not, under any circumstances, fall for each other. What about their age difference? What about Benji trying to fix his life? What about Oliver? Denning navigated all these issues with great care, she rounded out their story with so many heartwarming moments, great steamy scenes (hot dang, I forgot just how hot Denning’s writing can get!), and a happy ending that makes everything all right in Benji’s world. I loved adorable Benji, he needs a permanent bubble wrap, Leo is as hot as he is nice, and Oliver and Jason (Leo’s friend) make fantastic side characters.
Age Gap
Best Friend’s Dad
Forced Proximity
Virgin MC
Steamy
October 19, 2023
There's a thin line between a character being such a disaster that it makes the reader uncomfortable versus making the reader sympathize with them. Denning hits each note of Benji's unfortunate circumstances perfectly. It helps that she also creates a perfect book boyfriend in the form of Leo, while also not making him too perfect to be real. Their relationship develops naturally, and I appreciated that Denning doesn't take the easy way out by making the person Benji and Leo have in common become the point of conflict between them for a dark moment. This book is like a warm hug, if you had to be careful that the hug didn't accidentally set you on fire. (Though the steamy bits definitely cut it close in that regard!)
Denning teases just enough of each of the next heroes in this duology for me to already look forward to how they'll also get their happily ever after.
Disclaimer: I received a digital review copy of this book from the author.
Denning teases just enough of each of the next heroes in this duology for me to already look forward to how they'll also get their happily ever after.
Disclaimer: I received a digital review copy of this book from the author.
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