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Boystown Heartbreakers
Chicago hairstylist Bastian Russo has only three things to his name: a pair of $1,200 shears, a Boystown studio apartment, and a list of men’s names written on his closet wall. His constant worry that he’s not good enough and his chronic inability to trust are what leaves him heartbroken time and again.
After he adds the latest name, he turns to his best friend, Andres Wood, for solace. But instead of treating Bastian to dinner, drinks, and the usual effortless banter, Andres makes an interesting suggestion that Bastian should get over the breakup by dating … Andres.
Sure, Andres is successful and attractive, but he also knows everything there is to know about Bastian—including what an insecure pain in the ass he is. Meanwhile, everyone in Bastian’s life, from his mother to his co-workers, thinks he’s an idiot for not having dated Andres already. So, what could go wrong?
Everything.
Now Bastian has to sort out his inadequacy and trust issues to prove he’s worthy of transitioning from Andres’ best friend to his lover. Otherwise, it’s a matter of time before one or both of them end up on Bastian’s list of Boystown Heartbreakers.
After he adds the latest name, he turns to his best friend, Andres Wood, for solace. But instead of treating Bastian to dinner, drinks, and the usual effortless banter, Andres makes an interesting suggestion that Bastian should get over the breakup by dating … Andres.
Sure, Andres is successful and attractive, but he also knows everything there is to know about Bastian—including what an insecure pain in the ass he is. Meanwhile, everyone in Bastian’s life, from his mother to his co-workers, thinks he’s an idiot for not having dated Andres already. So, what could go wrong?
Everything.
Now Bastian has to sort out his inadequacy and trust issues to prove he’s worthy of transitioning from Andres’ best friend to his lover. Otherwise, it’s a matter of time before one or both of them end up on Bastian’s list of Boystown Heartbreakers.
336 pages, Paperback
Published January 7, 2025
9 people are currently reading
323 people want to read
About the author
K.C. Carmichael
3 books44 followersK. C. Carmichael is an American author who writes romantic comedies. She is an ex hairstylist who spent her time behind the chair not only styling her clients' hair but also listening to their stories and sharing her own observations about the beauty and hilarity of life and love. She lives in Chicago where she holds two controversial opinions about her beloved city; that winter is the superior season, and the actual Chicago style pizza is pan pizza cut into squares for easy sharing. When not writing, she can be found enjoying some ice time at her local rink.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 127 reviews
April 23, 2024
4 Stars
Boystown Heartbreakers is a sweetly romantic, low steam, heart-warming M/M debut—one that managed to reignite my adoration for the friends-to-lovers trope, while also getting me fairly excited for a new author within the genre, in a way I haven’t felt in quite some time.
The story follows hairstylist Bastian, who, at thirty, truly comes into his own, professionally, and personally, after his latest heartbreak leads to his restaurant entrepreneur BFF Andres proposing that Bastian stop searching for Mr Right (in all the wrong places) and try dating Andres instead.
For Bastian, this is quite the radical proposition. Not because Andres is undatable in any way—far from it—but more because Bastian is riddled with personal insecurities and a skewered sense of self-worth, which play a big part in his poor dating history, as well as in his reluctance to grab on full-grasp to the wonderful man he’s always tried to keep firmly placed in the friendship box.
Out of self-preservation and fear of losing the most important person in his life, Bastian hesitates big-time over Andres’ dating proposition. But once the suggestion for more is out there, it’s already too late to turn back, as Bastian quickly comes to realise just what he’s been missing not letting himself acknowledge EVERYTHING he truly feels for his best friend.
For the most part, the progression of this story was lovely and smooth, as Andres does some grade-A wooing and Bastian begins to tentatively open his mind and give his heart and body to Andres in ways he never imagined he could share with another. It’s effortless and easy, the way they slowly shift from friends to lovers, making it clear just what they’ve been missing all these years they haven’t let themselves want more.
There is a lot of insecurity on Bastian’s end, which I was worried would drive me wild, but it actually ended up working for me, especially in the way it was emotionally executed throughout the story. Bastian has flaws and relationship hangups and can’t possibly see why someone as great as Andres would want someone like him for keeps, and I totally got it. Of course, this leads to a bit of miscommunication because of it, with Bastian often jumping to conclusions, expecting the worst, and, perhaps, not sharing his concerns and feelings with Andres as openly as he should have across the story.
But I must say, for someone who loathes most of the miscommunication I come across in romance these days—as well as being utterly sick and tired of the oftentimes lazy third-act-breakup schtick so many authors fall victim to—I actually loved how this particular story played out, even with both of those things transpiring in their own ways here.
For me, these story elements were necessary to put Bastian through the trials and self-reflection he needed to experience in order to truly grow as a person and as the partner he already knew Andres deserved. I got it. I felt everything he felt and I loved him for it. And, hell, Andres was so totally worth all the growth anyone would need to go through to make themselves worthy, the guy was a god among men and I adored him just as much as he adored Bastian.
Their love story truly was sweet and tender and so deliciously intimate, in a way that I wish all books with these themes were. Plus, adding to the wonderful romance element was a full cast of exceptionally relatable and likeable supporting characters, who all helped make Bastian and Andres’ story feel fuller and lighter, and more vibrant because of it.
I really enjoyed this story, with Bastian and Andres relationship effortlessly reflecting practically everything I personally look out for (and have been missing) in a lot of friends-to-lovers tagged romances I’ve tried over the past few years. I’m so glad I came across this book when I did and I look forward to seeing what Carmichael does next, because if this is only her first cab out the rank, as it were, then she’s sure to deliver big and possibly even better things going forward in her writing journey, and I, for one, am here for it!
***A special thanks to the publishers and author (via Netgalley) for providing an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Boystown Heartbreakers is a sweetly romantic, low steam, heart-warming M/M debut—one that managed to reignite my adoration for the friends-to-lovers trope, while also getting me fairly excited for a new author within the genre, in a way I haven’t felt in quite some time.
The story follows hairstylist Bastian, who, at thirty, truly comes into his own, professionally, and personally, after his latest heartbreak leads to his restaurant entrepreneur BFF Andres proposing that Bastian stop searching for Mr Right (in all the wrong places) and try dating Andres instead.
For Bastian, this is quite the radical proposition. Not because Andres is undatable in any way—far from it—but more because Bastian is riddled with personal insecurities and a skewered sense of self-worth, which play a big part in his poor dating history, as well as in his reluctance to grab on full-grasp to the wonderful man he’s always tried to keep firmly placed in the friendship box.
Out of self-preservation and fear of losing the most important person in his life, Bastian hesitates big-time over Andres’ dating proposition. But once the suggestion for more is out there, it’s already too late to turn back, as Bastian quickly comes to realise just what he’s been missing not letting himself acknowledge EVERYTHING he truly feels for his best friend.
For the most part, the progression of this story was lovely and smooth, as Andres does some grade-A wooing and Bastian begins to tentatively open his mind and give his heart and body to Andres in ways he never imagined he could share with another. It’s effortless and easy, the way they slowly shift from friends to lovers, making it clear just what they’ve been missing all these years they haven’t let themselves want more.
There is a lot of insecurity on Bastian’s end, which I was worried would drive me wild, but it actually ended up working for me, especially in the way it was emotionally executed throughout the story. Bastian has flaws and relationship hangups and can’t possibly see why someone as great as Andres would want someone like him for keeps, and I totally got it. Of course, this leads to a bit of miscommunication because of it, with Bastian often jumping to conclusions, expecting the worst, and, perhaps, not sharing his concerns and feelings with Andres as openly as he should have across the story.
But I must say, for someone who loathes most of the miscommunication I come across in romance these days—as well as being utterly sick and tired of the oftentimes lazy third-act-breakup schtick so many authors fall victim to—I actually loved how this particular story played out, even with both of those things transpiring in their own ways here.
For me, these story elements were necessary to put Bastian through the trials and self-reflection he needed to experience in order to truly grow as a person and as the partner he already knew Andres deserved. I got it. I felt everything he felt and I loved him for it. And, hell, Andres was so totally worth all the growth anyone would need to go through to make themselves worthy, the guy was a god among men and I adored him just as much as he adored Bastian.
Their love story truly was sweet and tender and so deliciously intimate, in a way that I wish all books with these themes were. Plus, adding to the wonderful romance element was a full cast of exceptionally relatable and likeable supporting characters, who all helped make Bastian and Andres’ story feel fuller and lighter, and more vibrant because of it.
I really enjoyed this story, with Bastian and Andres relationship effortlessly reflecting practically everything I personally look out for (and have been missing) in a lot of friends-to-lovers tagged romances I’ve tried over the past few years. I’m so glad I came across this book when I did and I look forward to seeing what Carmichael does next, because if this is only her first cab out the rank, as it were, then she’s sure to deliver big and possibly even better things going forward in her writing journey, and I, for one, am here for it!
***A special thanks to the publishers and author (via Netgalley) for providing an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
December 11, 2023
✰ 2.75 stars ✰
“...kissing Bastian like he’s the only thing that matters in this world. Like he’s waited to taste Bastian for a lifetime, despite the fact that they’ve been here before.
It’s different this time. After everything, there’s a new intensity to the connection between them. A new level of devotion that makes Bastian’s heart sing once his clothes are removed and Andres is nestled above him,
“I love you,” Bastian whispers again into Andres’s ear as they sink into a steady rhythm.
“I love you too,” Andres says back. “I always have.”
It's pretty much a given that if it's friends to lovers then I'm all about giving it a chance, like the premise that Boystown Heartbreakers promised to deliver. Yes, it makes me emotional, okay? 🥺 It may not have been the most original of stories, but there was a relative calmness to Bastian and Andres' gradual ease of childhood friends to lovers that I didn't quite mind.
“There’s too much at stake. Too many years. Too many memories. Too much happiness to be soured by being arrogant enough to think he can find and hold onto romantic love with Andres.”
After many a heartbreak gone sour, that hair stylist, Bastian diligently records on a list on his closet wall, his best friend since they were five years old, Andres offers him the proposal that rather than endure another unworthy and unsavory relationship - why not just date him instead - his childhood friend and confidante for the last twenty-five years. 'I’ve been best friends with Andres since we were kids. I know better than anybody here how amazing he is. 😊 It's a match made in heaven, it's the answer to all his woes, without the added baggage of getting to know someone first - unsure if it'll work out, because Andres reassures him constantly that even if it does - their friendship will stand the test of time. 🫶🏻🫶🏻
But, does it? Or more importantly, will Bastian let it? For risking their friendship for the sake of love - can it be love - is something he can't afford to lose. '... he’ll be damned if he’s going to take the risk and end up adding Andres’s name to that list when Bastian inevitably ends up fucking up any chance of success between them.' And no matter how happy he is with Andres - how comfortable and safe and secure he feels in his arms - his overwrought worries of taking that extra leap to love is something that nestles deeply within him. It was difficult to be in Bastian's conflicting head about how to proceed with Andres' suggestion, but believably so. 😔
It's a classic entrée, tipped off nicely here with that fluctuating dynamic that persists in Bastian's mind of whether or not he's willing to go the extra mile. Was it frustrating? At times, yes - but Andres was so very sweet - very much the picture perfect boyfriend and best friend one could possibly have. He loved Bastian - without saying it - he wanted him to realize it on his own - and even when Bastian did - it was his own fear of past examples that prevented him from acting upon it.
“He and Andres know each other inside and out, for good and bad, hopes and dreams, and their history; though it brings Bastian an intense amount of comfort, it scares him immensely.”
Even though the concept is nothing new or original, it was a heart-warming read, if not exhausting, because yes, who would want to jeopardize years of friendship for the sake of just seeing which way it will go? Bastian's inner struggle that Andres' past record shows that he's just going to be a fling for him - that it's nothing serious and they can call it quits whenever, would make anyone annoyed. 'Kiss him, dammit! that deep yearning keeps yelling. Get over your bullshit and kiss him!' Yes, it's hard to fight it! 😭 But, it's the subtle way in which they become a part of each other's existence - the light-hearted happiness that Andres gave him - simply a step up from their existing friendship - the casual acceptance of gravitating into more touching, more kissing, more welcoming closeness without fear - was very endearing.
As much as Andres is known for playing the field - being so perfect - it just never dawned on Bastian that he could desire him - be crazy about him - his average normal best friend. But, as they spend more time together, all the little dates, the motorcycle rides that just felt so intimate, I was actually curious to see what could possibly go wrong? 😅 Also, the spice is relatively tame, but I could still feel the emotions that they were feeling at their most intimate - just something so tender and warm and open-hearted about it. That trust with that one person who knows you inside and out - that you can have this with them - to work to prove that it's something tangible - that it can last. 🩷🩷
“Bastian opens his eyes wide and nibbles at Andres’s thumb that is pulling gently at his lower lip. “So I should stop writing that erotic novel I’m crafting about us?”
“Why write it when we can live it?” Andres asks and cuts Bastian off with a kiss.”
While the 3rd act breakup was built upon misunderstandings and jealousy - yes, it did happen in the most contrived of ways - I appreciated how it actually served as a positive take to their friendship. It acted as a reminder for Bastian that he couldn't simply take Andres' love for him for granted - a role reversal where he had to earn his love again to Andres - for them both to realize that the love they have for each other is real and worth taking a chance on. 🥹 I liked that Andres let himself be vulnerable - that he let himself be recognized as someone who also had something on the line in their chance - that his love for Bastian wasn't just a one-off thing for him - and Bastian realizing that made their coming back together even more rewarding and worthwhile. 👍🏻
It was a very much slice of life kind of read - the romance is there, but so, too, is the development of the characters' lives and their lifestyles. Set in Chicago, I liked all the little nods of appreciation to the culture and vibes of it, as well as how Boystown, itself, played such a pivotal part of Bastian's life; my aunt lives in Chicago, so I can definitely affirm that the winters are famously cold there! 🥶 The supporting cast were also welcome participants in Bastian's plight and I appreciated the gradual way in which the author allowed their stories to smoothly unfold. And with Bastian being a hairstylist, there was also ample attention to the work-style of their occupation - complete with angsty customers, alarming demands for hairdressing, and cancellation woes and troubling time constraints, which also was a prime focus of the narrative. 👍🏻
“He must have had the same realization that Bastian is having now that is making his heart burst from the inside: they were never meant to just be friends. Just being friends was never going to be enough. And the love that is possible between them is worth risking everything for.”
It didn't quite take away my enjoyment of the story, as it was a major part of Bastian's life and was a nice outlook to it that I respected their work ethic, and also because of how he would re-work his schedule to spend time with Andres, too. But, yes, it did tend to make the read a lot longer than necessary and then the ending became a little too - ah, not cheesy, but a little too sweet for my taste. 🙁 I could have done without the extra mile, and none would have been the wiser. And the writing was warm and welcoming, while also humorous, at times, too! After another particular bad date of Bastian's, I really chuckled at this dialogue, here --
“Where are you going? I thought we were having a good time?”
“If this is your idea of a good time, you are sorely in need of a life coach.”
Daniel looks stung and surprised that Bastian is as sharp with his tongue as he is with his cutting shears. “Aren’t you going to at least pay for your portion of the tab?”
“No,” Bastian says, grabbing his phone from the table. “Consider this your monthly asshole tax.”
It was funny, okay? I had a good laugh with it, and well, it was worth sharing! 😄
So, taking into account my personal preferences, it was a debut that was enjoyable, to some extent. The writing style worked at times, and sometimes it didn't - like, why do authors insist on using 'Sure' for their characters' thoughts - but, I tried not to let it bother me too much. For it was a light palette-cleanser that brought a smile to my face at seeing two friends realize that they were each other's end game and soulmates right from the start. 🥰🥰
*Thank you NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review. Quotes shared may be subject to change or removal in the final version.
“...kissing Bastian like he’s the only thing that matters in this world. Like he’s waited to taste Bastian for a lifetime, despite the fact that they’ve been here before.
It’s different this time. After everything, there’s a new intensity to the connection between them. A new level of devotion that makes Bastian’s heart sing once his clothes are removed and Andres is nestled above him,
“I love you,” Bastian whispers again into Andres’s ear as they sink into a steady rhythm.
“I love you too,” Andres says back. “I always have.”
It's pretty much a given that if it's friends to lovers then I'm all about giving it a chance, like the premise that Boystown Heartbreakers promised to deliver. Yes, it makes me emotional, okay? 🥺 It may not have been the most original of stories, but there was a relative calmness to Bastian and Andres' gradual ease of childhood friends to lovers that I didn't quite mind.
“There’s too much at stake. Too many years. Too many memories. Too much happiness to be soured by being arrogant enough to think he can find and hold onto romantic love with Andres.”
After many a heartbreak gone sour, that hair stylist, Bastian diligently records on a list on his closet wall, his best friend since they were five years old, Andres offers him the proposal that rather than endure another unworthy and unsavory relationship - why not just date him instead - his childhood friend and confidante for the last twenty-five years. 'I’ve been best friends with Andres since we were kids. I know better than anybody here how amazing he is. 😊 It's a match made in heaven, it's the answer to all his woes, without the added baggage of getting to know someone first - unsure if it'll work out, because Andres reassures him constantly that even if it does - their friendship will stand the test of time. 🫶🏻🫶🏻
But, does it? Or more importantly, will Bastian let it? For risking their friendship for the sake of love - can it be love - is something he can't afford to lose. '... he’ll be damned if he’s going to take the risk and end up adding Andres’s name to that list when Bastian inevitably ends up fucking up any chance of success between them.' And no matter how happy he is with Andres - how comfortable and safe and secure he feels in his arms - his overwrought worries of taking that extra leap to love is something that nestles deeply within him. It was difficult to be in Bastian's conflicting head about how to proceed with Andres' suggestion, but believably so. 😔
It's a classic entrée, tipped off nicely here with that fluctuating dynamic that persists in Bastian's mind of whether or not he's willing to go the extra mile. Was it frustrating? At times, yes - but Andres was so very sweet - very much the picture perfect boyfriend and best friend one could possibly have. He loved Bastian - without saying it - he wanted him to realize it on his own - and even when Bastian did - it was his own fear of past examples that prevented him from acting upon it.
“He and Andres know each other inside and out, for good and bad, hopes and dreams, and their history; though it brings Bastian an intense amount of comfort, it scares him immensely.”
Even though the concept is nothing new or original, it was a heart-warming read, if not exhausting, because yes, who would want to jeopardize years of friendship for the sake of just seeing which way it will go? Bastian's inner struggle that Andres' past record shows that he's just going to be a fling for him - that it's nothing serious and they can call it quits whenever, would make anyone annoyed. 'Kiss him, dammit! that deep yearning keeps yelling. Get over your bullshit and kiss him!' Yes, it's hard to fight it! 😭 But, it's the subtle way in which they become a part of each other's existence - the light-hearted happiness that Andres gave him - simply a step up from their existing friendship - the casual acceptance of gravitating into more touching, more kissing, more welcoming closeness without fear - was very endearing.
As much as Andres is known for playing the field - being so perfect - it just never dawned on Bastian that he could desire him - be crazy about him - his average normal best friend. But, as they spend more time together, all the little dates, the motorcycle rides that just felt so intimate, I was actually curious to see what could possibly go wrong? 😅 Also, the spice is relatively tame, but I could still feel the emotions that they were feeling at their most intimate - just something so tender and warm and open-hearted about it. That trust with that one person who knows you inside and out - that you can have this with them - to work to prove that it's something tangible - that it can last. 🩷🩷
“Bastian opens his eyes wide and nibbles at Andres’s thumb that is pulling gently at his lower lip. “So I should stop writing that erotic novel I’m crafting about us?”
“Why write it when we can live it?” Andres asks and cuts Bastian off with a kiss.”
While the 3rd act breakup was built upon misunderstandings and jealousy - yes, it did happen in the most contrived of ways - I appreciated how it actually served as a positive take to their friendship. It acted as a reminder for Bastian that he couldn't simply take Andres' love for him for granted - a role reversal where he had to earn his love again to Andres - for them both to realize that the love they have for each other is real and worth taking a chance on. 🥹 I liked that Andres let himself be vulnerable - that he let himself be recognized as someone who also had something on the line in their chance - that his love for Bastian wasn't just a one-off thing for him - and Bastian realizing that made their coming back together even more rewarding and worthwhile. 👍🏻
It was a very much slice of life kind of read - the romance is there, but so, too, is the development of the characters' lives and their lifestyles. Set in Chicago, I liked all the little nods of appreciation to the culture and vibes of it, as well as how Boystown, itself, played such a pivotal part of Bastian's life; my aunt lives in Chicago, so I can definitely affirm that the winters are famously cold there! 🥶 The supporting cast were also welcome participants in Bastian's plight and I appreciated the gradual way in which the author allowed their stories to smoothly unfold. And with Bastian being a hairstylist, there was also ample attention to the work-style of their occupation - complete with angsty customers, alarming demands for hairdressing, and cancellation woes and troubling time constraints, which also was a prime focus of the narrative. 👍🏻
“He must have had the same realization that Bastian is having now that is making his heart burst from the inside: they were never meant to just be friends. Just being friends was never going to be enough. And the love that is possible between them is worth risking everything for.”
It didn't quite take away my enjoyment of the story, as it was a major part of Bastian's life and was a nice outlook to it that I respected their work ethic, and also because of how he would re-work his schedule to spend time with Andres, too. But, yes, it did tend to make the read a lot longer than necessary and then the ending became a little too - ah, not cheesy, but a little too sweet for my taste. 🙁 I could have done without the extra mile, and none would have been the wiser. And the writing was warm and welcoming, while also humorous, at times, too! After another particular bad date of Bastian's, I really chuckled at this dialogue, here --
“Where are you going? I thought we were having a good time?”
“If this is your idea of a good time, you are sorely in need of a life coach.”
Daniel looks stung and surprised that Bastian is as sharp with his tongue as he is with his cutting shears. “Aren’t you going to at least pay for your portion of the tab?”
“No,” Bastian says, grabbing his phone from the table. “Consider this your monthly asshole tax.”
It was funny, okay? I had a good laugh with it, and well, it was worth sharing! 😄
So, taking into account my personal preferences, it was a debut that was enjoyable, to some extent. The writing style worked at times, and sometimes it didn't - like, why do authors insist on using 'Sure' for their characters' thoughts - but, I tried not to let it bother me too much. For it was a light palette-cleanser that brought a smile to my face at seeing two friends realize that they were each other's end game and soulmates right from the start. 🥰🥰
*Thank you NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review. Quotes shared may be subject to change or removal in the final version.
January 4, 2024
This is a different review than usual. I’m not going to talk about this book. It’s okay. As an in-between. Or to dream away for a couple of hours. Just an easy, uplifting read that we sometimes need. That’s it. Instead, I’m going to talk about third-act break-ups. I’m known as the hater of this weird invention. Especially if there’s miscommunication. Or jealousy.
Romcoms have evolved over the years. While in the 90s and 00s, those stories were mainly about white, heterosexual couples, in which the stiletto heel was hot, nowadays romance is finally getting acknowledged and rebranded to feelgood romance (I myself love the word romtrom), with diversity in couples, and touching more difficult topics. There’s still a HEA, there’s still lots of banter and fun, but there’s also depth. Just read Here You Go Again by Alison Cochrun, which is about death and is out April 2.
In my opinion, the third-act break-up also needs to evolve. We (readers) don’t need them for the sake of lengthening the story. Or to get more drama. Miscommunication is the worst of all. I want more healthy relationships. And yeah, those can be difficult, too. It might be healthy to step away from someone you love for a while. But not because of something futile. So, I challenge you, authors, to write stories without the usual, full of drama third-act break-up. I’m sorry, K.C. Carmichael, for using your debut for this rant. It’s sweet enough (Andres was so cute), and I love the friends-to-lovers trope. I just didn’t like Bastian’s jealousy. I know internal monologues can do bad things to us, but I just wanted to scream at him! Talk for God’s sake. Talk!! Sadly, he didn’t.
Thank you, Rising Action Publishing Co. and NetGalley, for the ARC.
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Romcoms have evolved over the years. While in the 90s and 00s, those stories were mainly about white, heterosexual couples, in which the stiletto heel was hot, nowadays romance is finally getting acknowledged and rebranded to feelgood romance (I myself love the word romtrom), with diversity in couples, and touching more difficult topics. There’s still a HEA, there’s still lots of banter and fun, but there’s also depth. Just read Here You Go Again by Alison Cochrun, which is about death and is out April 2.
In my opinion, the third-act break-up also needs to evolve. We (readers) don’t need them for the sake of lengthening the story. Or to get more drama. Miscommunication is the worst of all. I want more healthy relationships. And yeah, those can be difficult, too. It might be healthy to step away from someone you love for a while. But not because of something futile. So, I challenge you, authors, to write stories without the usual, full of drama third-act break-up. I’m sorry, K.C. Carmichael, for using your debut for this rant. It’s sweet enough (Andres was so cute), and I love the friends-to-lovers trope. I just didn’t like Bastian’s jealousy. I know internal monologues can do bad things to us, but I just wanted to scream at him! Talk for God’s sake. Talk!! Sadly, he didn’t.
Thank you, Rising Action Publishing Co. and NetGalley, for the ARC.
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July 7, 2024
Bastian & Andres were so much fun!
I do wish Bastian had woken up a little sooner, because I was not the only one who could see they were meant to be, but I digress.
Favouite line?
"Let's do a pizza night. I'll bring the toppings and you concentrate on the dough."
"Are you saying you want to top my bottom?"
The audio was amazing and the side characters were vibrant, totally excited to see what else K.C. Carmichael does in her sophomore book.
Much love to NetGalley & Dreamscape Media for my ALC.
I do wish Bastian had woken up a little sooner, because I was not the only one who could see they were meant to be, but I digress.
Favouite line?
"Let's do a pizza night. I'll bring the toppings and you concentrate on the dough."
"Are you saying you want to top my bottom?"
The audio was amazing and the side characters were vibrant, totally excited to see what else K.C. Carmichael does in her sophomore book.
Much love to NetGalley & Dreamscape Media for my ALC.
October 19, 2023
I never leave reviews because I’ve never read a book a love this much. It’s truly a revelation getting to read a story about adults falling in love and having it feel so real, and fun, and sweet. This isn’t another overhyped romcom that falls flat with characters that I can barely tolerate. I’m so excited I got an ARC and I know I’m going to be buying copies for everyone I know, including my stylist.
The story follows Bastian who’s a hair stylist and Andres who’s a restauranteur, and as a service industry worker I can confirm these roles feel convey all the headaches and fun that comes with those roles. I fell in love with the other stylist’s that work with Bastian and his parents that made me laugh and long for a holiday with this family.
The relationship between the Bastian and Andres is not some unrealistic fairytale or over dramatized nonsense, but a refreshingly honest portrayal of what it’s like to be vulnerable in new ways with someone you’ve known you’re whole life. My heart was aching for both of them to find their happiness together. Watching Bastian fight against the ideas he’d been telling himself for years? And seeing Andres absolutely adore and care for Bastian in the way we all dream someone will care for us? It was inspiring. There’s no prince coming in to save the day with all his power; instead you have two people learning to love one another in new ways, learning a new dance with each other.
And while my review is rolling around in the feels, the pages are freckled with jokes, snark, sarcasm, and sultry moments making it impossible for me to put down. This book is for anyone who loves love.
Also I’ve never been more homesick for the city of Chicago and all the delights it has to offer. If you’ve never felt like it’s a romantic location, you’ll be happily surprised by this beautiful book.
Good for people who love:
Good music
Motorcycle rides
Get togethers
Childhood friends to lovers
Work struggles
Dating scene struggles
Modern love
The story follows Bastian who’s a hair stylist and Andres who’s a restauranteur, and as a service industry worker I can confirm these roles feel convey all the headaches and fun that comes with those roles. I fell in love with the other stylist’s that work with Bastian and his parents that made me laugh and long for a holiday with this family.
The relationship between the Bastian and Andres is not some unrealistic fairytale or over dramatized nonsense, but a refreshingly honest portrayal of what it’s like to be vulnerable in new ways with someone you’ve known you’re whole life. My heart was aching for both of them to find their happiness together. Watching Bastian fight against the ideas he’d been telling himself for years? And seeing Andres absolutely adore and care for Bastian in the way we all dream someone will care for us? It was inspiring. There’s no prince coming in to save the day with all his power; instead you have two people learning to love one another in new ways, learning a new dance with each other.
And while my review is rolling around in the feels, the pages are freckled with jokes, snark, sarcasm, and sultry moments making it impossible for me to put down. This book is for anyone who loves love.
Also I’ve never been more homesick for the city of Chicago and all the delights it has to offer. If you’ve never felt like it’s a romantic location, you’ll be happily surprised by this beautiful book.
Good for people who love:
Good music
Motorcycle rides
Get togethers
Childhood friends to lovers
Work struggles
Dating scene struggles
Modern love
February 29, 2024
This was a rom com that hit all the right notes for me.
Bastian is a hairdresser who has the rare luxury of living in an apartment in Boystown, Chicago that has a walk in closet where previous occupants of the apartment have kept a running list of the Boystown Heartbreakers (ie men to be avoided).
Bastian has been best friends with Andres since they were 5 and after Bastian’s latest breakup (who is added to The List in the closet), Andres convinces Bastian to give a relationship between them a try. It is blindingly obvious to everyone around them that they both care deeply about each other, but can they make it work? Or will Bastian find a way to self-sabotage? (it’s a fluffy, fairly low angst rom com, so yes to both, obviously but the journey to get there was fun)
I was a bit slow getting into this one, but once I got going it was enjoyable. I found Bastian’s self-doubt easy to identify with, but also could see how it could get a bit wearing for other readers. His bounce back process, for me, was believable. The single viewpoint made it very easy to hear Bastian’s perspective, but I wouldn’t have minded seeing a slightly more complex Andres. It wasn’t anything groundbreaking, but it was exactly what I was in the mood for and, classic tropes are a classic for a reason.
Thanks Netgalley for the ARC.
Bastian is a hairdresser who has the rare luxury of living in an apartment in Boystown, Chicago that has a walk in closet where previous occupants of the apartment have kept a running list of the Boystown Heartbreakers (ie men to be avoided).
Bastian has been best friends with Andres since they were 5 and after Bastian’s latest breakup (who is added to The List in the closet), Andres convinces Bastian to give a relationship between them a try. It is blindingly obvious to everyone around them that they both care deeply about each other, but can they make it work? Or will Bastian find a way to self-sabotage? (it’s a fluffy, fairly low angst rom com, so yes to both, obviously but the journey to get there was fun)
I was a bit slow getting into this one, but once I got going it was enjoyable. I found Bastian’s self-doubt easy to identify with, but also could see how it could get a bit wearing for other readers. His bounce back process, for me, was believable. The single viewpoint made it very easy to hear Bastian’s perspective, but I wouldn’t have minded seeing a slightly more complex Andres. It wasn’t anything groundbreaking, but it was exactly what I was in the mood for and, classic tropes are a classic for a reason.
Thanks Netgalley for the ARC.
April 25, 2024
A Joyfully Jay review.
3 stars
Childhood friends to lovers is a favorite trope of mine and Bastian and Andres had that going for them, as they have been friends almost their entire lives. Yet, I was underwhelmed by the flow and execution of their relationship. The book is told entirely from Bastian’s point of view and I really needed to know what Andres thought for most of the book. After Bastian’s latest breakup, Andres casually suggests that Bastian now date Andres. I hadn’t gotten a well developed feeling of their relationship at that point and Andres doesn’t tell Bastian how he truly feels, most likely for fear of scaring him off. The two of them secretly start dating, which moves to fade to black intimacy, and their chemistry beyond friendship was never evident for me. They did love each other, but being in love with each felt toned down for me.
The men do get a heartfelt happy ending, but this debut book was missing that zing for me between the characters.
Read Michelle's review in its entirety here.
3 stars
Childhood friends to lovers is a favorite trope of mine and Bastian and Andres had that going for them, as they have been friends almost their entire lives. Yet, I was underwhelmed by the flow and execution of their relationship. The book is told entirely from Bastian’s point of view and I really needed to know what Andres thought for most of the book. After Bastian’s latest breakup, Andres casually suggests that Bastian now date Andres. I hadn’t gotten a well developed feeling of their relationship at that point and Andres doesn’t tell Bastian how he truly feels, most likely for fear of scaring him off. The two of them secretly start dating, which moves to fade to black intimacy, and their chemistry beyond friendship was never evident for me. They did love each other, but being in love with each felt toned down for me.
The men do get a heartfelt happy ending, but this debut book was missing that zing for me between the characters.
Read Michelle's review in its entirety here.
April 18, 2025
DNF @ 52%
I really wanted to like this book, I wish I could love my first read of the year. But that didn't happen. I always love to pick LGBT+ stories as a queer man I feel represented and seen but as a reviewer I have to be objective. Although the story's premise is interesting and the love interest is a man's dream, the MC is so hard to read. If this were a dual POV of both men, maybe I could go a bit further.
I think it was a clash of personalities between me and the MC, his attitudes, and how blind he was, and then went from 8 to 80 super fast, and at some point I was just tired because I couldn't care about it.
Sadly this was not a read for me but i hope I get to pick another great read in the future.
I really wanted to like this book, I wish I could love my first read of the year. But that didn't happen. I always love to pick LGBT+ stories as a queer man I feel represented and seen but as a reviewer I have to be objective. Although the story's premise is interesting and the love interest is a man's dream, the MC is so hard to read. If this were a dual POV of both men, maybe I could go a bit further.
I think it was a clash of personalities between me and the MC, his attitudes, and how blind he was, and then went from 8 to 80 super fast, and at some point I was just tired because I couldn't care about it.
Sadly this was not a read for me but i hope I get to pick another great read in the future.
June 21, 2025
I’m giving this 3.5 stars!
For just grabbing this book off the shelf cause I LOVED the cover, this ended up being a cute little surprise and I really enjoyed it. I love me a good little best friends to lovers moment and Bastian and Andres were adorable. Bastian annoyed me most of the time but I think that’s cause I felt I was reading about me LOL other than him being a hairstylist, I related to him with most things. Then Andres is just that lovable, caring, will do anything for you best friend that you want in your corner. I would fall for him too but it wouldn’t take me so long 😉 i definitely would recommend this book! It’s cute!
For just grabbing this book off the shelf cause I LOVED the cover, this ended up being a cute little surprise and I really enjoyed it. I love me a good little best friends to lovers moment and Bastian and Andres were adorable. Bastian annoyed me most of the time but I think that’s cause I felt I was reading about me LOL other than him being a hairstylist, I related to him with most things. Then Andres is just that lovable, caring, will do anything for you best friend that you want in your corner. I would fall for him too but it wouldn’t take me so long 😉 i definitely would recommend this book! It’s cute!
June 24, 2024
A beautiful, feel-good M/M friends to lovers romance debut that was great on audio and perfect for fans of authors like Timothy Janovski and Nicolas DiDomizio. When hairdresser playboy Bastian gets dumped yet again, his long time BFF chef friend, Andres proposes the two of them give a romantic relationship between them a real chance. Reluctant to risk losing his friend Bastian hesitates only to have Andres slowly woo him into agreeing. Sweet and low on steam, this was an entertaining summer read with a great cast of secondary characters. Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an early digital and audio copy in exchange for my honest review. I can't wait to read more by this new author!
did-not-finish
June 28, 2024Did not finish at 35%.
I received this audiobook for free as an advanced reader copy.
I tried to read this for almost a week, but I just don't want to keep going.
The narrator does a good job, but there were several issues that really made this book hard to read.
1. Third person present tense. There's something about hearing someone else describe what a character is doing that just doesn't work for me. Are they following them around all the time? In what context does it make sense for a third party to be telling this story when it's happening as they tell it? It's a really hard POV/tense combo. I'm not a big fan of first person present tense, but third person is definitely NOT my favorite.
2. Bastion's low self-esteem and constant lying. Look, I get it. We've all been a little down from time to time, but I find it so wearing to hear someone constantly say they're worthless, especially for something they can't control, like their family's finances. If I hear him say one more time that he's not as good because he went to a public school... Also, why he gotta lie all the time!? Ugh.
3. Them getting physically intimate before coming to an agreement. I had to stop at this point. Bastion has already said he is not sure about this. Internally, he's scared of ruining their friendship. It just feels premature and I didn't feel good about them getting sexy at this point.
Enh. This isn't the book for me.
I received this audiobook for free as an advanced reader copy.
I tried to read this for almost a week, but I just don't want to keep going.
The narrator does a good job, but there were several issues that really made this book hard to read.
1. Third person present tense. There's something about hearing someone else describe what a character is doing that just doesn't work for me. Are they following them around all the time? In what context does it make sense for a third party to be telling this story when it's happening as they tell it? It's a really hard POV/tense combo. I'm not a big fan of first person present tense, but third person is definitely NOT my favorite.
2. Bastion's low self-esteem and constant lying. Look, I get it. We've all been a little down from time to time, but I find it so wearing to hear someone constantly say they're worthless, especially for something they can't control, like their family's finances. If I hear him say one more time that he's not as good because he went to a public school... Also, why he gotta lie all the time!? Ugh.
3. Them getting physically intimate before coming to an agreement. I had to stop at this point. Bastion has already said he is not sure about this. Internally, he's scared of ruining their friendship. It just feels premature and I didn't feel good about them getting sexy at this point.
Enh. This isn't the book for me.
December 19, 2023
I'm usually not much into the friends to lovers trope, but I'll make an exception for this one.
I requested this book via NetGalley because I was looking for a new queer romance to read and I liked the cover, but had never heard of the author before. I'm so glad I clicked on it, because I enjoyed every second of it.
"Boystown Heartbreakers" is a story about Bastian Russo, who has been quite unlucky in his love life, which has lead to him closing off his heart so he can't get hurt and add another name of his list of heartbreaks. Cue his best friend and eligible bachelor of Chicago, Andres, who wants nothing more than Bastian to be treated right, preferably by Andres himself. But what are the complications of dating your best friend? What if it inevitably goes wrong?
I swooned so many times whilst reading this. It is adorable, it's wholesome, it's really sad and at times a tad frustrating, but it's also so filled with love. I usually lose interest when two characters get together and live their happy little lives, but I could not get enough of Bastian and Andres and honest to god just wanted them to work out as if they were MY best friends.
The writing isn't astounding and it's not necessarily an entirely new concept, but it's a quick, wholesome, very cute read that doesn't feel superficial and is worked out well. Andres and Bastian are my friends now, it's as simple as that. Go read it, it's literally so good.
I requested this book via NetGalley because I was looking for a new queer romance to read and I liked the cover, but had never heard of the author before. I'm so glad I clicked on it, because I enjoyed every second of it.
"Boystown Heartbreakers" is a story about Bastian Russo, who has been quite unlucky in his love life, which has lead to him closing off his heart so he can't get hurt and add another name of his list of heartbreaks. Cue his best friend and eligible bachelor of Chicago, Andres, who wants nothing more than Bastian to be treated right, preferably by Andres himself. But what are the complications of dating your best friend? What if it inevitably goes wrong?
I swooned so many times whilst reading this. It is adorable, it's wholesome, it's really sad and at times a tad frustrating, but it's also so filled with love. I usually lose interest when two characters get together and live their happy little lives, but I could not get enough of Bastian and Andres and honest to god just wanted them to work out as if they were MY best friends.
The writing isn't astounding and it's not necessarily an entirely new concept, but it's a quick, wholesome, very cute read that doesn't feel superficial and is worked out well. Andres and Bastian are my friends now, it's as simple as that. Go read it, it's literally so good.
November 26, 2023
A good story of two best friends that lead to a cute romance. It was a nice story. I just wouldn't call it spectacular or memorable. Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for my ARC in exchange for my review.
July 18, 2024
I have received this ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Boystown Heartbreakers was so freaking cute. Filled with some cliches here and there, but I still enjoyed the heck out of it. In this, you will meet Bastian and Andres. These two have been besties since they were 5 years old.
Bastian has had horrible luck in the love department. Sure, he might be self-sabotaging these things but maybe if they weren't being so suspicious he wouldn't need to do anything. The last guy definitely surprised him with the breakup because it was right before he was going to meet his parents!
Then there's Andres. Sure, Bastians coworkers stir up that these two have feelings for one another all the time. He just always says there's nothing there and that they are just friends. Well, they were until they weren't. Dipping toes over the line of friendship was completely fun for these two. It just goes to show that Andres truly did like him - flaws and all.
In the end, we get some drama but lots of romance. I'm very happy with how things ended even if I didn't like the entire journey (aka the drama). I will definitely be on the lookout for another one of K.C.'s books!
Boystown Heartbreakers was so freaking cute. Filled with some cliches here and there, but I still enjoyed the heck out of it. In this, you will meet Bastian and Andres. These two have been besties since they were 5 years old.
Bastian has had horrible luck in the love department. Sure, he might be self-sabotaging these things but maybe if they weren't being so suspicious he wouldn't need to do anything. The last guy definitely surprised him with the breakup because it was right before he was going to meet his parents!
Then there's Andres. Sure, Bastians coworkers stir up that these two have feelings for one another all the time. He just always says there's nothing there and that they are just friends. Well, they were until they weren't. Dipping toes over the line of friendship was completely fun for these two. It just goes to show that Andres truly did like him - flaws and all.
In the end, we get some drama but lots of romance. I'm very happy with how things ended even if I didn't like the entire journey (aka the drama). I will definitely be on the lookout for another one of K.C.'s books!
January 15, 2024
Thank you to Netgalley for providing a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. This is a story about Bastian, a 30 year old hairdresser who has dated tons but can't seem to keep any of the men he's dated. The book starts with him being dumped (again). His lifelong best friend Andres, is successful, handsome, smart and everything that Bastian feels like he, himself, is not. So he is shocked with Andres proposes that they take their friendship to a new level. I was pretty annoyed at first because for over half the book Andres is literally doing everything for Bastian. Every compliment starts with Andres. Every talk about emotions starts with Andres. And all the sweet things Andres does for Bastian is next level. He goes well of his way to do nice things for Bastian. And Bastian is this there, and doubting why Andres is doing all this. He is sure this relationship will blow up and ruin his friendship with Andres. Anyway no spoilers but I wasn't too pleased with Bastian for a long while. I will say that the book turned itself into a page turner for the last third of the novel. It was nice seeing Bastian change his way of thinking. The book was written well and I will read more from this author in the future.
February 20, 2024
Friends to lovers is my jammy jam!
Boystown Heartbreakers is a lovely story about two people who love one another but have never looked at eachother in that way. . . Until they do. \
Watching Bastian and Ryan figure their lives out was a wonderful experience!
Boystown Heartbreakers is a lovely story about two people who love one another but have never looked at eachother in that way. . . Until they do. \
Watching Bastian and Ryan figure their lives out was a wonderful experience!
December 9, 2023
As far as romance novels go- this was wasn't the worst I've read. But it wasn't the best either.
Starting with what I did enjoy, I found Andre very likeable. The scenes with him really popped to me. I think his character felt the most fleshed out. Every other character, however, didn't quite feel up to par. The side characters fell flat. Expect for maybe Laura. But she could use some development. And then there's Bastien.
I have a love hate relationship with his character. He's just- hard to read at times. There are inconsistencies in some of the things he says in his inner monologue, I didn't feel connected to him in any way- there wasn't a ton of depth to him outside of his relationships to the people around him. Bastien wasn't for me.
Something else I really disliked was the third-act breakup. This is more of a personal preference thing, but I hate a third act break up. By the end of Boystown Heartbreakers, I was ready for the book to just end.
And the rest of what I didn't like was a collection of nitpicky things that I won't go further into. There was so much potential for this book to be really good, but it didn't meet that potential.
However, I will say that the friends to lovers arc was cute as my concluding thought.
Thank you to Netgallery for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Starting with what I did enjoy, I found Andre very likeable. The scenes with him really popped to me. I think his character felt the most fleshed out. Every other character, however, didn't quite feel up to par. The side characters fell flat. Expect for maybe Laura. But she could use some development. And then there's Bastien.
I have a love hate relationship with his character. He's just- hard to read at times. There are inconsistencies in some of the things he says in his inner monologue, I didn't feel connected to him in any way- there wasn't a ton of depth to him outside of his relationships to the people around him. Bastien wasn't for me.
Something else I really disliked was the third-act breakup. This is more of a personal preference thing, but I hate a third act break up. By the end of Boystown Heartbreakers, I was ready for the book to just end.
And the rest of what I didn't like was a collection of nitpicky things that I won't go further into. There was so much potential for this book to be really good, but it didn't meet that potential.
However, I will say that the friends to lovers arc was cute as my concluding thought.
Thank you to Netgallery for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
April 28, 2024
Reading books that take place in Chicago is always nice, but especially when they’re penned by someone who knows the city as well as K.C. Carmichael. She conveys its sights and sounds in a way that comes across as a love letter to the Windy City, with all its enigmatic quirks and wonders, and many times I felt as if I was right there along with Bastian and Andres.
Bastian’s a successful stylist dreaming of the day he breaks free of his current salon and sets out on his own. He’s fiery and energetic, with a light that shines brightly. Andres is his lifelong best friend, a smarty, savvy restauranteur who’s always there for him. When Bastian’s recent relationship leaves him wondering if he’ll ever end his string of heartbreaks, he knows he can lean on Andres. Except this time, Andres has new advice for mending his broken heart: Bastian should date Andres.
I love the premise of this story; it’s the perfect set up for a surprisingly complicated friends to lovers romance. Bastian’s ready to find his person and settle down, he just never pictured his best friend offering himself as the solution. In many ways it makes perfect sense, because their trust and affection is so obvious, but their history - a rock solid friendship decades in the making - means there’s a lot at risk if it doesn’t work out.
Seeing these guys come together is the absolute best, from Bastian wrestling with whether to take a chance to navigating the changes between friends and lovers. One thing’s for sure - the transition is anything but easy, and there were a few times I wasn’t sure they’d make it. It’s all worthwhile in the end, and if friends to lovers romance is your thing, I definitely recommend giving this one a try.
CW: This story discusses death of a sibling; please take care if this is sensitive for you. It takes place in the past, but its profound impact on one MC's journey means it is mentioned repeatedly.
*I voluntarily read a complimentary copy of this book*
Bastian’s a successful stylist dreaming of the day he breaks free of his current salon and sets out on his own. He’s fiery and energetic, with a light that shines brightly. Andres is his lifelong best friend, a smarty, savvy restauranteur who’s always there for him. When Bastian’s recent relationship leaves him wondering if he’ll ever end his string of heartbreaks, he knows he can lean on Andres. Except this time, Andres has new advice for mending his broken heart: Bastian should date Andres.
I love the premise of this story; it’s the perfect set up for a surprisingly complicated friends to lovers romance. Bastian’s ready to find his person and settle down, he just never pictured his best friend offering himself as the solution. In many ways it makes perfect sense, because their trust and affection is so obvious, but their history - a rock solid friendship decades in the making - means there’s a lot at risk if it doesn’t work out.
Seeing these guys come together is the absolute best, from Bastian wrestling with whether to take a chance to navigating the changes between friends and lovers. One thing’s for sure - the transition is anything but easy, and there were a few times I wasn’t sure they’d make it. It’s all worthwhile in the end, and if friends to lovers romance is your thing, I definitely recommend giving this one a try.
CW: This story discusses death of a sibling; please take care if this is sensitive for you. It takes place in the past, but its profound impact on one MC's journey means it is mentioned repeatedly.
*I voluntarily read a complimentary copy of this book*
June 25, 2024
Content warnings: alcohol consumption (a fair amount of it, tbh), vomit, implied cheating, thinly veiled biphobia, misogynistic remarks/comments in internalised narrative.
Rep: Bastian (MC) is cis, white, and gay. Andres (LI) is cis, bisexual, and white (I think?). Side queer characters.
I was able to read this via an advanced audiobook from NetGalley - so thanks for that!
I was invested in the first half of this book. But then the same drama kept happening and it lost me. For a short book, Bastian really knew how to centre himself in everything.
There was nothing in this for me to really root for Bastian and Andres to be together. Maybe it's the childhood friends to lovers trope that sits really uncomfortably in me, but idk. I just kept getting told that they're perfect for each other - and Andres was always doing wonderful things for Bastian, but Bastian was definitely not reciprocal at all. It was all one sided.
I wanted to love this a lot more than I did, and I hate that I didn't, but yeah, it was a bit meh in the end. I was just hanging for it to be over.
Rep: Bastian (MC) is cis, white, and gay. Andres (LI) is cis, bisexual, and white (I think?). Side queer characters.
I was able to read this via an advanced audiobook from NetGalley - so thanks for that!
I was invested in the first half of this book. But then the same drama kept happening and it lost me. For a short book, Bastian really knew how to centre himself in everything.
There was nothing in this for me to really root for Bastian and Andres to be together. Maybe it's the childhood friends to lovers trope that sits really uncomfortably in me, but idk. I just kept getting told that they're perfect for each other - and Andres was always doing wonderful things for Bastian, but Bastian was definitely not reciprocal at all. It was all one sided.
I wanted to love this a lot more than I did, and I hate that I didn't, but yeah, it was a bit meh in the end. I was just hanging for it to be over.
June 20, 2024
3.5 stars. This was a decent debut, and I would be open to checking out more from this author in the future. Here are some random thoughts:
** I always love a book set in Chicago, and this one does a great job of highlighting different neighborhoods and locations in the area
** The book is written from Bastian's POV, and I think that led to somewhat weaker character development for the rest of the characters. I was never invested in who Andres was as a person....which made it more difficult to get invested in the relationship. I think a dual POV might have made this a more solid read.
** The pacing was a bit off, and there were times that I felt the story dragged a bit
** I did enjoy the childhood friends to lovers aspect, but this miscommunication/lack of communication was frustrating at times.
** I always love a book set in Chicago, and this one does a great job of highlighting different neighborhoods and locations in the area
** The book is written from Bastian's POV, and I think that led to somewhat weaker character development for the rest of the characters. I was never invested in who Andres was as a person....which made it more difficult to get invested in the relationship. I think a dual POV might have made this a more solid read.
** The pacing was a bit off, and there were times that I felt the story dragged a bit
** I did enjoy the childhood friends to lovers aspect, but this miscommunication/lack of communication was frustrating at times.
July 4, 2024
ARC AUDIO REVIEW: This book was hilarious! Bastian was relatable and had the best jokes, while Andres was so so so sweet and had the best line! I found the topics in this book not in your face, they were normal and relatable relationships from friendship drama. I loved the friends-to-lovers trope and how it was utilized to make their relationship grow deeper. And by the way, Bastian has been Andres’s boyfriend for like 15 years. Bastian just was never told that was the case. The narrator of the audiobook did a fantastic job capturing the voices of the characters, I found myself laughing and thoroughly entertained throughout the book.
Big shoutout to NetGalley and Dreamscape Media for the awesome opportunity to dive into this book! Thanks for letting me join the adventure early!
Big shoutout to NetGalley and Dreamscape Media for the awesome opportunity to dive into this book! Thanks for letting me join the adventure early!
Read
July 12, 2024A calm, light-hearted romance about two childhood friends who decide to take a chance on a relationship together. This is exactly the kind of book to pick up if you're looking for a comforting read where nothing bad happens. There was little spice and only a small modicum of drama, but the story was a fluffy love story and very easy to read.
September 28, 2024
Sped through this bad boy. Pretty silly all the way around but I was slightly charmed. I'll take it as a win.
February 28, 2024
I want to say that if this book had had a double point of view, not a very large one, with some pages inside Andres' head... it would have been a perfect five stars for me
.
But it is the story of Bastian, trying to find the dating scene in an adorable apartment and with friends who are part of a very close-knit family.
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When he moves to that small apartment in Boystown, he falls in love with the possibility, with all the things that can start happening in his life and finding someone to share it with, even though things may not turn out so well.
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But after all, he is not alone and can always count on his childhood best friend Andres.
Or so he believes until after his last failed relationship he remembers him the pact they made when he came out of the closet, that if he didn't find anyone then he was going to marry him.
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When Bastian is the only one who laughs, Andres tells him that it depends on him, but with the idea already in his head it is impossible not to notice the relationship that both have could be the beginning of something more.
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This is a sweet, spicy and fun slow burn friends to lovers that I really enjoyed reading, and I can’t wait to read more history from this writer
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Thanks to C. K. Carmichael for give me a copy of this book in exchange for my honest and voluntary opinion
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But it is the story of Bastian, trying to find the dating scene in an adorable apartment and with friends who are part of a very close-knit family.
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When he moves to that small apartment in Boystown, he falls in love with the possibility, with all the things that can start happening in his life and finding someone to share it with, even though things may not turn out so well.
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But after all, he is not alone and can always count on his childhood best friend Andres.
Or so he believes until after his last failed relationship he remembers him the pact they made when he came out of the closet, that if he didn't find anyone then he was going to marry him.
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When Bastian is the only one who laughs, Andres tells him that it depends on him, but with the idea already in his head it is impossible not to notice the relationship that both have could be the beginning of something more.
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This is a sweet, spicy and fun slow burn friends to lovers that I really enjoyed reading, and I can’t wait to read more history from this writer
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Thanks to C. K. Carmichael for give me a copy of this book in exchange for my honest and voluntary opinion
March 17, 2024
The blurb tells you most of the plot, and this being a romance also tells you that there is going to be at least a HFN.
Between first meeting Bastian and Andres and their eventual happy ending, there is a whole lot of heartache and stupidity and self-sabotage, primarily from Bastian. Starting with the list of failed relationships on the wall of his closet, adding in his inability to see his own worth for reasons unclear, and culminating in his utter failure to put any trust in what Andres tells him, despite the man having been his best friend since they were children, Bastian exasperated me. His self-sabotage nearly cost him the man he loves, and I was incensed that he just assumed something without asking a single question.
Thankfully, the author wove an engaging tale that kept me interested in how the story would unfold, even if Bastian's behavior and inner thoughts annoyed me. The writing flows easily, and the characters feel realistic enough, including the supporting cast. There were occasions when I would have liked a little bit more backstory, but it was easy enough to discern who was who. This story is written in the third person, present tense, which took a bit to get used to, and Bastian is certainly an unreliable narrator, especially considering that he doesn't quite believe what Andres tells him.
Sure, Andres is no saint in this either, even if he has the patience of one. I guess he was too scared to really tell Bastian how he felt, but I expected him to know his best friend well enough to know that sometimes forthright truth is needed.
The differences between Bastian's mother and Andres' parents was also quite interesting to see, and served as a reminder that with wealth doesn't always come happiness.
Overall, this was a pleasant read, and I enjoyed the time spent in their world.
** I received a free copy of this book via Netgalley. A positive review was not promised in return. **
Between first meeting Bastian and Andres and their eventual happy ending, there is a whole lot of heartache and stupidity and self-sabotage, primarily from Bastian. Starting with the list of failed relationships on the wall of his closet, adding in his inability to see his own worth for reasons unclear, and culminating in his utter failure to put any trust in what Andres tells him, despite the man having been his best friend since they were children, Bastian exasperated me. His self-sabotage nearly cost him the man he loves, and I was incensed that he just assumed something without asking a single question.
Thankfully, the author wove an engaging tale that kept me interested in how the story would unfold, even if Bastian's behavior and inner thoughts annoyed me. The writing flows easily, and the characters feel realistic enough, including the supporting cast. There were occasions when I would have liked a little bit more backstory, but it was easy enough to discern who was who. This story is written in the third person, present tense, which took a bit to get used to, and Bastian is certainly an unreliable narrator, especially considering that he doesn't quite believe what Andres tells him.
Sure, Andres is no saint in this either, even if he has the patience of one. I guess he was too scared to really tell Bastian how he felt, but I expected him to know his best friend well enough to know that sometimes forthright truth is needed.
The differences between Bastian's mother and Andres' parents was also quite interesting to see, and served as a reminder that with wealth doesn't always come happiness.
Overall, this was a pleasant read, and I enjoyed the time spent in their world.
** I received a free copy of this book via Netgalley. A positive review was not promised in return. **
March 19, 2024
"He has to admit that while Boystown is where he came into his own, Andres is where he feels the most at home and at ease with himself."
This book was an absolute delight from start to finish! I literally devoured it in one sitting. Normally, I'm more of an enemies-to-lovers kinda gal, but watching Bastian and Andres fumble their way from best friends to lovers had me giggling and kicking my feet, then throwing my hands up in frustration, then giggling happily all over again. K.C. Carmichael's writing is vibrant and joyful, even when the plot goes through the inevitable third act crisis; there is a buoyancy there that still allows you to feel hopeful and propels you forward to continue the journey with Bastian and Andres to their inevitable HEA. All of the characters are so well drawn out (with a few minor exceptions), and add just the right amount of layers to round out the story without taking away from Bastian and Andres.
And my goodness, how much did I love these two crazy lovebirds. Bastian is a smart, flirty, and very in-demand hair stylist at one of the most high-end salons in Chicago. His rapid-fire comebacks and witty flirtations had me cracking up, and they certainly kept his friends and clients always entertained. But they also served to mask his insecurities at never quite being enough to keep up with his best friend Andres, a wildly successful, wealthy, and popular restauranteur. Bastian has always felt like he could never compete with Andres and his private school friends, or his wealthy associates, or beautiful dates. And those insecurities are what compels him to disregard Andres as a potential love interest in the first place. Why ruin his perfect friendship, because Andres will eventually realize that Bastian isn't good enough." And it's these constant intrusive thoughts that lead to Bastian always self-sabotaging his life.
What I really appreciate is that K.C. Carmichael has written a character in Bastien whom we can all relate to, because we all have similar intrusive thoughts about ourselves, letting our insecurities take over and get the better of us. Especially in the age of social media, where we are constantly bombarded with opportunities to compare ourselves to other people's supposed perfection and successes, we can self-sabotage and feel inadequate in comparison to those we see in front of us, rather than looking inwardly to see the value in ourselves. And that's what she has Bastian do. He doesn't rely on Andres to be his knight in shining armor and have their relationship "save him" from himself, but instead, uses their friendship and love for another to remind himself of his own self worth. It's a lesson that we all need to re-learn every once in a while.
What a delightful, warm blanket of a love story. I hope everyone has the chance to learn the lessons from Boystown.
This book was an absolute delight from start to finish! I literally devoured it in one sitting. Normally, I'm more of an enemies-to-lovers kinda gal, but watching Bastian and Andres fumble their way from best friends to lovers had me giggling and kicking my feet, then throwing my hands up in frustration, then giggling happily all over again. K.C. Carmichael's writing is vibrant and joyful, even when the plot goes through the inevitable third act crisis; there is a buoyancy there that still allows you to feel hopeful and propels you forward to continue the journey with Bastian and Andres to their inevitable HEA. All of the characters are so well drawn out (with a few minor exceptions), and add just the right amount of layers to round out the story without taking away from Bastian and Andres.
And my goodness, how much did I love these two crazy lovebirds. Bastian is a smart, flirty, and very in-demand hair stylist at one of the most high-end salons in Chicago. His rapid-fire comebacks and witty flirtations had me cracking up, and they certainly kept his friends and clients always entertained. But they also served to mask his insecurities at never quite being enough to keep up with his best friend Andres, a wildly successful, wealthy, and popular restauranteur. Bastian has always felt like he could never compete with Andres and his private school friends, or his wealthy associates, or beautiful dates. And those insecurities are what compels him to disregard Andres as a potential love interest in the first place. Why ruin his perfect friendship, because Andres will eventually realize that Bastian isn't good enough." And it's these constant intrusive thoughts that lead to Bastian always self-sabotaging his life.
What I really appreciate is that K.C. Carmichael has written a character in Bastien whom we can all relate to, because we all have similar intrusive thoughts about ourselves, letting our insecurities take over and get the better of us. Especially in the age of social media, where we are constantly bombarded with opportunities to compare ourselves to other people's supposed perfection and successes, we can self-sabotage and feel inadequate in comparison to those we see in front of us, rather than looking inwardly to see the value in ourselves. And that's what she has Bastian do. He doesn't rely on Andres to be his knight in shining armor and have their relationship "save him" from himself, but instead, uses their friendship and love for another to remind himself of his own self worth. It's a lesson that we all need to re-learn every once in a while.
What a delightful, warm blanket of a love story. I hope everyone has the chance to learn the lessons from Boystown.
March 19, 2024
"He has to admit that while Boystown is where he came into his own, Andres is where he feels the most at home and at ease with himself."
This book was an absolute delight from start to finish! I literally devoured it in one sitting. Normally, I'm more of an enemies-to-lovers kinda gal, but watching Bastian and Andres fumble their way from best friends to lovers had me giggling and kicking my feet, then throwing my hands up in frustration, then giggling happily all over again. K.C. Carmichael's writing is vibrant and joyful, even when the plot goes through the inevitable third act crisis; there is a buoyancy there that still allows you to feel hopeful and propels you forward to continue the journey with Bastian and Andres to their inevitable HEA. All of the characters are so well drawn out (with a few minor exceptions), and add just the right amount of layers to round out the story without taking away from Bastian and Andres.
And my goodness, how much did I love these two crazy lovebirds. Bastian is a smart, flirty, and very in-demand hair stylist at one of the most high-end salons in Chicago. His rapid-fire comebacks and witty flirtations had me cracking up, and they certainly kept his friends and clients always entertained. But they also served to mask his insecurities at never quite being enough to keep up with his best friend Andres, a wildly successful, wealthy, and popular restauranteur. Bastian has always felt like he could never compete with Andres and his private school friends, or his wealthy associates, or beautiful dates. And those insecurities are what compels him to disregard Andres as a potential love interest in the first place. Why ruin his perfect friendship, because Andres will eventually realize that Bastian isn't good enough." And it's these constant intrusive thoughts that lead to Bastian always self-sabotaging his life.
What I really appreciate is that K.C. Carmichael has written a character in Bastien whom we can all relate to, because we all have similar intrusive thoughts about ourselves, letting our insecurities take over and get the better of us. Especially in the age of social media, where we are constantly bombarded with opportunities to compare ourselves to other people's supposed perfection and successes, we can self-sabotage and feel inadequate in comparison to those we see in front of us, rather than looking inwardly to see the value in ourselves. And that's what she has Bastian do. He doesn't rely on Andres to be his knight in shining armor and have their relationship "save him" from himself, but instead, uses their friendship and love for another to remind himself of his own self worth. It's a lesson that we all need to re-learn every once in a while.
What a delightful, warm blanket of a love story. I hope everyone has the chance to learn the lessons from Boystown.
This book was an absolute delight from start to finish! I literally devoured it in one sitting. Normally, I'm more of an enemies-to-lovers kinda gal, but watching Bastian and Andres fumble their way from best friends to lovers had me giggling and kicking my feet, then throwing my hands up in frustration, then giggling happily all over again. K.C. Carmichael's writing is vibrant and joyful, even when the plot goes through the inevitable third act crisis; there is a buoyancy there that still allows you to feel hopeful and propels you forward to continue the journey with Bastian and Andres to their inevitable HEA. All of the characters are so well drawn out (with a few minor exceptions), and add just the right amount of layers to round out the story without taking away from Bastian and Andres.
And my goodness, how much did I love these two crazy lovebirds. Bastian is a smart, flirty, and very in-demand hair stylist at one of the most high-end salons in Chicago. His rapid-fire comebacks and witty flirtations had me cracking up, and they certainly kept his friends and clients always entertained. But they also served to mask his insecurities at never quite being enough to keep up with his best friend Andres, a wildly successful, wealthy, and popular restauranteur. Bastian has always felt like he could never compete with Andres and his private school friends, or his wealthy associates, or beautiful dates. And those insecurities are what compels him to disregard Andres as a potential love interest in the first place. Why ruin his perfect friendship, because Andres will eventually realize that Bastian isn't good enough." And it's these constant intrusive thoughts that lead to Bastian always self-sabotaging his life.
What I really appreciate is that K.C. Carmichael has written a character in Bastien whom we can all relate to, because we all have similar intrusive thoughts about ourselves, letting our insecurities take over and get the better of us. Especially in the age of social media, where we are constantly bombarded with opportunities to compare ourselves to other people's supposed perfection and successes, we can self-sabotage and feel inadequate in comparison to those we see in front of us, rather than looking inwardly to see the value in ourselves. And that's what she has Bastian do. He doesn't rely on Andres to be his knight in shining armor and have their relationship "save him" from himself, but instead, uses their friendship and love for another to remind himself of his own self worth. It's a lesson that we all need to re-learn every once in a while.
What a delightful, warm blanket of a love story. I hope everyone has the chance to learn the lessons from Boystown.
January 17, 2024
Boystown Heartbreaker
KC Carmichael
📚💕⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💕📚
Perfect forever!
In my first read from this author we get Bastian and Andres love story. Best friends that could be so much more if Bastian would just trust Andres to be the person he’s always known he could be to him. The authors writing is flawless and the words are so captivating, the plot had so many twists and turns and none that I was expecting, and many shockingly intimate I have become a huge fan of this author. The author writes with so much intensity and emotion pulled from each book it’s felt page after page. Some are quick witted story lines are so perfect and lets you believe you have a front row seat. So being able to read this love story didn’t disappoint. The authors ability to have two separate individuals struggling in their everyday life and try to navigate someone else’s thoughts, needs and desires was intense and gives all the fills.
Authors Blurb: Chicago hairstylist Bastian Russo has only three things to his name: a pair of $1,200 shears, a Boystown studio apartment, and a list of men’s names written on his closet wall. His constant worry that he’s not good enough and his chronic inability to trust are what leaves him heartbroken time and again.
After he adds the latest name, he turns to his best friend, Andres Wood, for solace. But instead of treating Bastian to dinner, drinks, and the usual effortless banter, Andres makes an interesting suggestion: that Bastian should get over the breakup by dating … Andres.
Sure, Andres is successful and attractive, but he also knows everything there is to know about Bastian including what an insecure pain in the ass he is. Meanwhile, everyone in Bastian’s life, from his mother to his co-workers, thinks he’s an idiot for not having dated Andres already. So, what could go wrong
Everything.
Now Bastian has to sort out his inadequacy and trust issues to prove he’s worthy of transitioning from Andres’ best friend to his lover. Otherwise, it’s a matter of time before one or both of them end up on Bastian’s list of Boystown Heartbreakers.
This book has everything I love in a book. Then you add that it's beautifully written and believable. It is easily a five star read. Written in single POV this story flows so incredibly well that the next thing you know your 80% into the book and loving every second of it. The believable way the characters interact is perfect. Run, Hop, Jump or use your (1 click) finger to do whatever you have to do and get this amazing book. It'll break your heart, you'll want to scream with frustration and it'll let you discover that love just might conquer all. The chemistry is steamy and sweet and oh so romantic.
Thanks Netgally for letting me read and review.📚💕
KC Carmichael
📚💕⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💕📚
Perfect forever!
In my first read from this author we get Bastian and Andres love story. Best friends that could be so much more if Bastian would just trust Andres to be the person he’s always known he could be to him. The authors writing is flawless and the words are so captivating, the plot had so many twists and turns and none that I was expecting, and many shockingly intimate I have become a huge fan of this author. The author writes with so much intensity and emotion pulled from each book it’s felt page after page. Some are quick witted story lines are so perfect and lets you believe you have a front row seat. So being able to read this love story didn’t disappoint. The authors ability to have two separate individuals struggling in their everyday life and try to navigate someone else’s thoughts, needs and desires was intense and gives all the fills.
Authors Blurb: Chicago hairstylist Bastian Russo has only three things to his name: a pair of $1,200 shears, a Boystown studio apartment, and a list of men’s names written on his closet wall. His constant worry that he’s not good enough and his chronic inability to trust are what leaves him heartbroken time and again.
After he adds the latest name, he turns to his best friend, Andres Wood, for solace. But instead of treating Bastian to dinner, drinks, and the usual effortless banter, Andres makes an interesting suggestion: that Bastian should get over the breakup by dating … Andres.
Sure, Andres is successful and attractive, but he also knows everything there is to know about Bastian including what an insecure pain in the ass he is. Meanwhile, everyone in Bastian’s life, from his mother to his co-workers, thinks he’s an idiot for not having dated Andres already. So, what could go wrong
Everything.
Now Bastian has to sort out his inadequacy and trust issues to prove he’s worthy of transitioning from Andres’ best friend to his lover. Otherwise, it’s a matter of time before one or both of them end up on Bastian’s list of Boystown Heartbreakers.
This book has everything I love in a book. Then you add that it's beautifully written and believable. It is easily a five star read. Written in single POV this story flows so incredibly well that the next thing you know your 80% into the book and loving every second of it. The believable way the characters interact is perfect. Run, Hop, Jump or use your (1 click) finger to do whatever you have to do and get this amazing book. It'll break your heart, you'll want to scream with frustration and it'll let you discover that love just might conquer all. The chemistry is steamy and sweet and oh so romantic.
Thanks Netgally for letting me read and review.📚💕
January 10, 2024
Received an ARC of this upcoming romance, Boystown Heartbreakers from Rising Action Publishing Co. through NetGalley and was happy that I did! When it comes to romance, I’m down for just about any trope — why reinvent the wheel, if you can simply make the ride more enjoyable? Initially I was drawn to this book because of the cover (I love this cover style, which seems to have dominated the past several years) but also the blurb seemed promising. Bastian is a thirty-year-old gay hairstylist who has been through heartbreak after heartbreak, keeping a running tally of the “wrong men” written on his wall. He is reminded of a promise made to him by his best friend, Andres (a motorcycle riding restaurateur), that if Bastian was still single and unhappy in his thirties then they would give being a couple a go!
I think within the narrative the premise was delivered a little too matter-of-factly which seemed to quickly evolve into rather strong flirtation from Andres. There is a quick bit of exposition that details their friendship (and it is a rich, sweet history — perfect for this particular trope!) but as a reader I felt a slower introduction to their friendship and dynamic would have made more sense and strengthened my investment in their relationship and the stakes involved. Andres definitely has charisma though and combined with his “cantaloupe in his pants” ass I don’t know if I would have had as many reservations as poor, sweet Bastian! It definitely felt like the author had a good sense of who these characters were, and I wish that had come through more clearly in the beginning.
After my initial reservations, however, I found myself swept away with the story. There were moments when I wanted to shake Bastian and encourage him to accept better treatment in his personal and professional life and in those moments it was clear that I had connected with the story. Swooning for Andres was much easier. Although, as previously mentioned, I didn’t appreciate his clinical approach to initiating the relationship (and thus our story) he was a pleasant leading man (I wish we had more glimpses into his past!) All things considered, I found this to be a charming, debut romance that makes for a quick, fun read! Kudos for also delivering important messages about work/life balance and highlighting issues unique to cosmetologists/hair stylists.
I think within the narrative the premise was delivered a little too matter-of-factly which seemed to quickly evolve into rather strong flirtation from Andres. There is a quick bit of exposition that details their friendship (and it is a rich, sweet history — perfect for this particular trope!) but as a reader I felt a slower introduction to their friendship and dynamic would have made more sense and strengthened my investment in their relationship and the stakes involved. Andres definitely has charisma though and combined with his “cantaloupe in his pants” ass I don’t know if I would have had as many reservations as poor, sweet Bastian! It definitely felt like the author had a good sense of who these characters were, and I wish that had come through more clearly in the beginning.
After my initial reservations, however, I found myself swept away with the story. There were moments when I wanted to shake Bastian and encourage him to accept better treatment in his personal and professional life and in those moments it was clear that I had connected with the story. Swooning for Andres was much easier. Although, as previously mentioned, I didn’t appreciate his clinical approach to initiating the relationship (and thus our story) he was a pleasant leading man (I wish we had more glimpses into his past!) All things considered, I found this to be a charming, debut romance that makes for a quick, fun read! Kudos for also delivering important messages about work/life balance and highlighting issues unique to cosmetologists/hair stylists.
July 28, 2024
Real Rating: 3.5* of five
The Publisher Says: Chicago hairstylist Bastian Russo has only three things to his name: a pair of $1,200 shears, a Boystown studio apartment, and a list of men's names written on his closet wall. His constant worry that he's not good enough and his chronic inability to trust are what leaves him heartbroken time and again.
After he adds the latest name, he turns to his best friend, Andres Wood, for solace. But instead of treating Bastian to dinner, drinks, and the usual effortless banter, Andres makes an interesting suggestion: that Bastian should get over the breakup by dating ... Andres.
Sure, Andres is successful and attractive, but he also knows everything there is to know about Bastian—including what an insecure pain in the ass he is. Meanwhile, everyone in Bastian's life, from his mother to his co-workers, thinks he's an idiot for not having dated Andres already. So, what could go wrong?
Everything.
Now Bastian has to sort out his inadequacy and trust issues to prove he's worthy of transitioning from Andres' best friend to his lover. Otherwise, it's a matter of time before one or both of them end up on Bastian's list of Boystown Heartbreakers.
I RECEIVED A DRC FROM THE PUBLISHER VIA NETGALLEY. THANK YOU.
My Review: Fun, frothy summer read about a waffling, anxious gay guy grabbing his balls and manning up to exit the Friend Zone. It was a relatable source of anxiety. My issue about this iteration of that story is how extremely annoying I found Bastian. This could be a mood-driven thing, since the writing's okay, so I'm just not warbling about it instead of slagging it off.
Angst-friendly romance readers likely won't have this issue. Anyone who read and loved Boyfriend Material should at the very least sample it. It's more prolonged angst but it's got the same kind of HFN payoff.
Rising Action Publishing asks you for $16.99...borrow it, says I.
The Publisher Says: Chicago hairstylist Bastian Russo has only three things to his name: a pair of $1,200 shears, a Boystown studio apartment, and a list of men's names written on his closet wall. His constant worry that he's not good enough and his chronic inability to trust are what leaves him heartbroken time and again.
After he adds the latest name, he turns to his best friend, Andres Wood, for solace. But instead of treating Bastian to dinner, drinks, and the usual effortless banter, Andres makes an interesting suggestion: that Bastian should get over the breakup by dating ... Andres.
Sure, Andres is successful and attractive, but he also knows everything there is to know about Bastian—including what an insecure pain in the ass he is. Meanwhile, everyone in Bastian's life, from his mother to his co-workers, thinks he's an idiot for not having dated Andres already. So, what could go wrong?
Everything.
Now Bastian has to sort out his inadequacy and trust issues to prove he's worthy of transitioning from Andres' best friend to his lover. Otherwise, it's a matter of time before one or both of them end up on Bastian's list of Boystown Heartbreakers.
I RECEIVED A DRC FROM THE PUBLISHER VIA NETGALLEY. THANK YOU.
My Review: Fun, frothy summer read about a waffling, anxious gay guy grabbing his balls and manning up to exit the Friend Zone. It was a relatable source of anxiety. My issue about this iteration of that story is how extremely annoying I found Bastian. This could be a mood-driven thing, since the writing's okay, so I'm just not warbling about it instead of slagging it off.
Angst-friendly romance readers likely won't have this issue. Anyone who read and loved Boyfriend Material should at the very least sample it. It's more prolonged angst but it's got the same kind of HFN payoff.
Rising Action Publishing asks you for $16.99...borrow it, says I.
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