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Unframed Art MM #1
The Truth of Loving You
He’s the worst mistake I’m dying to make.
Shane -
I’m on the cusp of achieving my dream promotion to the C-Suite of a major financial corporation, when Cole, the CEO’s grieving, broody son, stumbles into my life. Cole has made me question everything from my sexuality to my goals. He’s unlocked new desires I desperately crave. Large hands and a commanding voice calm the storm in my head. I’m addicted even though he could absolutely ruin my career. Failure at my job isn’t an option; clinging to success has kept me sane. Love defies logic.
Cole -
There is no second chance at love. Not since I buried my heart with my husband. Shane shouldn’t matter because I’ve sworn off men. Unfortunately, I’m obsessed with big brown eyes, a square jaw, and a pink flush. Shane is too young, too innocent, and too smart to get involved with me. But when he begs, I cave, agreeing to teach him and give him what he needs. Now we’re in too deep- either I’ll destroy his heart or he’ll destroy what’s left of mine.
The Truth of Loving You is an LBGTQ romance: MM, bisexual awakening, age-gap, second chance at love, off-limits, mental health representation, and light spanking.
Shane -
I’m on the cusp of achieving my dream promotion to the C-Suite of a major financial corporation, when Cole, the CEO’s grieving, broody son, stumbles into my life. Cole has made me question everything from my sexuality to my goals. He’s unlocked new desires I desperately crave. Large hands and a commanding voice calm the storm in my head. I’m addicted even though he could absolutely ruin my career. Failure at my job isn’t an option; clinging to success has kept me sane. Love defies logic.
Cole -
There is no second chance at love. Not since I buried my heart with my husband. Shane shouldn’t matter because I’ve sworn off men. Unfortunately, I’m obsessed with big brown eyes, a square jaw, and a pink flush. Shane is too young, too innocent, and too smart to get involved with me. But when he begs, I cave, agreeing to teach him and give him what he needs. Now we’re in too deep- either I’ll destroy his heart or he’ll destroy what’s left of mine.
The Truth of Loving You is an LBGTQ romance: MM, bisexual awakening, age-gap, second chance at love, off-limits, mental health representation, and light spanking.
317 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 26, 2023
250 people are currently reading
2275 people want to read
About the author
Heather Leighson
7 books109 followersHeather has always been an obsessive reader and is prone to staying up all night to binge books. Follow me on BooKBub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/heath...
She’s a skeptic, a hopeless romantic, a jaded book addict, and in love with love.
Heather's books contain spicy scenes with a bit of kink, lots of heart, and angst to make the happily ever after even sweeter. Heather falls madly in love with her leading men and hopes you will too. She creates stories to take readers on a journey of broken men finding and accepting love. She believes everyone deserves their happy ending especially people who have been hurt or denied love in the past. Love is the best human experience.
Heather read her first romance that she snuck off her mother’s bookshelf as a pre-teen. Her favorite books break her heart and then put it back together. She wants to do the same, so her goal is to write books that unbreak your heart.
She’s a skeptic, a hopeless romantic, a jaded book addict, and in love with love.
Heather's books contain spicy scenes with a bit of kink, lots of heart, and angst to make the happily ever after even sweeter. Heather falls madly in love with her leading men and hopes you will too. She creates stories to take readers on a journey of broken men finding and accepting love. She believes everyone deserves their happy ending especially people who have been hurt or denied love in the past. Love is the best human experience.
Heather read her first romance that she snuck off her mother’s bookshelf as a pre-teen. Her favorite books break her heart and then put it back together. She wants to do the same, so her goal is to write books that unbreak your heart.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 90 reviews
February 20, 2025
This was the most chaotic book I’ve ever tried to read and not in a good way. I got to 20% and could not go any further.
The money spent on the cover should have been spent on editors. This was a mess.
Zero plot. Zero character development or even basic understanding of the characters. They were complete contradictions. One MC lost his husband 5 years earlier and had sworn of men but not having unattached/unemotional sex with women. But hops into bed with the other MC - but not before they mention maybe being a Dom and a sub - for no other reason than the younger MC follows directions. And the younger MC has never been attracted to another man and then starts looking up kinks…hmmmm ok.
There was absolutely no fluidity. Conversations and scenes felt so abrupt that it was like whiplash. I constantly felt like I was being dropped into things with zero context and then they’d end as quickly. The book even started that way.
I never complain about formatting cause who cares but this was atrocious. It definitely added to the choppy narrative and took away any attempt at smooth transitions.
This was unreadable and truly felt like someone who has never even met a gay man. Just someone who watched bad porn and tried to write a book. It was actually offensive. What was the goal here?
The money spent on the cover should have been spent on editors. This was a mess.
Zero plot. Zero character development or even basic understanding of the characters. They were complete contradictions. One MC lost his husband 5 years earlier and had sworn of men but not having unattached/unemotional sex with women. But hops into bed with the other MC - but not before they mention maybe being a Dom and a sub - for no other reason than the younger MC follows directions. And the younger MC has never been attracted to another man and then starts looking up kinks…hmmmm ok.
There was absolutely no fluidity. Conversations and scenes felt so abrupt that it was like whiplash. I constantly felt like I was being dropped into things with zero context and then they’d end as quickly. The book even started that way.
I never complain about formatting cause who cares but this was atrocious. It definitely added to the choppy narrative and took away any attempt at smooth transitions.
This was unreadable and truly felt like someone who has never even met a gay man. Just someone who watched bad porn and tried to write a book. It was actually offensive. What was the goal here?
January 10, 2024
For the myriad of emotions and heavy topics this book navigates it isn’t heavy on the angst. The author uses a fairly light hand while still being authentic in the telling of Cole and Shane’s journey to an HEA.
”Life would be so much easier if feelings were logical. More than one therapist had told me that I don’t feel my feelings; I logic my way through them”.
It was heartbreaking seeing the baggage these two were dealing with. The sheer loss they grappled with but watching them fight for their love was special even though them calling it quits a few times broke the flow for me, I could understand the impetus to do so considering the burden both bore. I also truly appreciated the mental health rep - it’s very well done. These two have a less than stellar start and have a journey full of ups and downs but manage to make it.
”I’ll show you my age,” I growled, ready to strip him naked. “You’ll be lucky to keep up, Pretty Boy.” “Should I get on my knees for you, Daddy?”
“You ruined me for anyone else. You’re such a good boy. You’re my perfect pretty boy”.
Also their chemistry and their daddy/boy dynamic was super hot. Starting with all those rules around a benefits only arrangement these two quickly blew past all their boundaries to forge an emotional connection
“You’re mine, Shane Reynolds, and I’m not letting you run or hide anymore—you’re stuck with me.”
“I finally understand what happiness feels like,”
“Now and forever, I’ll always choose you. I love you.”
Expect:
* Age gap
* Sexual awakening
* Tattooed MC
* Daddy dynamic
* Hurt comfort
* Opposites attract
* Found family
This book does have some triggering content so please check the detailed content warnings the author has provided if needed
”Life would be so much easier if feelings were logical. More than one therapist had told me that I don’t feel my feelings; I logic my way through them”.
It was heartbreaking seeing the baggage these two were dealing with. The sheer loss they grappled with but watching them fight for their love was special even though them calling it quits a few times broke the flow for me, I could understand the impetus to do so considering the burden both bore. I also truly appreciated the mental health rep - it’s very well done. These two have a less than stellar start and have a journey full of ups and downs but manage to make it.
”I’ll show you my age,” I growled, ready to strip him naked. “You’ll be lucky to keep up, Pretty Boy.” “Should I get on my knees for you, Daddy?”
“You ruined me for anyone else. You’re such a good boy. You’re my perfect pretty boy”.
Also their chemistry and their daddy/boy dynamic was super hot. Starting with all those rules around a benefits only arrangement these two quickly blew past all their boundaries to forge an emotional connection
“You’re mine, Shane Reynolds, and I’m not letting you run or hide anymore—you’re stuck with me.”
“I finally understand what happiness feels like,”
“Now and forever, I’ll always choose you. I love you.”
Expect:
* Age gap
* Sexual awakening
* Tattooed MC
* Daddy dynamic
* Hurt comfort
* Opposites attract
* Found family
This book does have some triggering content so please check the detailed content warnings the author has provided if needed
December 26, 2023
Oh man was this good! I got my two favorite types of males in The Truth of Loving You. Cole, the big, tattoo artist who displayed so much dominance I envied Shane. He's broken by a tragedy, but the pull of Shane was too strong to resist. Even in those moments of Cole's anger was hot! He was also possessive and growly, which is totally my jam.
Then we get Shane. It's the nerdy analytical side in him that's my other type of favorite male. But he's so much more than that. He's younger. A bit naive, but also strong in his own way. He's also dealing with his own tragedy that he hides well.
Put these two together and I was completely invested in their story. These two damaged souls connected and took us on a journey of healing, fighting for love, and truly living again. What a great love story!
Then we get Shane. It's the nerdy analytical side in him that's my other type of favorite male. But he's so much more than that. He's younger. A bit naive, but also strong in his own way. He's also dealing with his own tragedy that he hides well.
Put these two together and I was completely invested in their story. These two damaged souls connected and took us on a journey of healing, fighting for love, and truly living again. What a great love story!
December 22, 2023
I wanna thank netgalley for this ARC in exhange of an honest review. And I also wanna thank the author for this copy of the book:
I loved this book. I don't know exactly what I was expecting but it wasn't this emotional roller coaster. Cole lost his love and his will do try again someday. And then came along Shane that changed everything. He made him see new possibilities and that maybe love was worth it after all. Shane had been through something traumatic too and it was affecting his whole life not getting it resolved. I loved Shane put his foot down in various occasions with Cole and made him see that what they had was worth it. And then the roles were reversed and Cole was the one doing all the right things and showing Shane that letting love in your life just does you good. They had each others back and neither of them gave up on the other, no matter the circunstances or the time or whatever, they each fought for the other. I loved that when they had a conflict they each gave the other time to thing and then talked about it, that's what a healthy relationship is supposed to be.
I loved this book. I don't know exactly what I was expecting but it wasn't this emotional roller coaster. Cole lost his love and his will do try again someday. And then came along Shane that changed everything. He made him see new possibilities and that maybe love was worth it after all. Shane had been through something traumatic too and it was affecting his whole life not getting it resolved. I loved Shane put his foot down in various occasions with Cole and made him see that what they had was worth it. And then the roles were reversed and Cole was the one doing all the right things and showing Shane that letting love in your life just does you good. They had each others back and neither of them gave up on the other, no matter the circunstances or the time or whatever, they each fought for the other. I loved that when they had a conflict they each gave the other time to thing and then talked about it, that's what a healthy relationship is supposed to be.
August 19, 2025
Me gustaron los temas que trataron; el trauma, dolor y duelo y que a pesar de ellos puedes volver a sanar y volver a enamorarte de nuevo. Me costó un poco terminarlo porque la dinámica sexual que tenían no era realmente lo mío pero fue una buena lectura fuera de lo habitual a lo que estoy acostumbrada. En ciertas partes me sentí identificada con Shane
"Nunca había imaginado que alguien me amara lo suficiente como para querer construir una vida real conmigo... Mi terapeuta pensó que había estado probando injustamente los límites de Cole. Alejándolo deliberadamente para ver si podía volver a dejarme. Me advirtió que ningún ser humano puede soportar un rechazo repetido sin reaccionar. Ella me preguntó cuándo quedaría satisfecha mi necesidad de castigarlo y si valía la pena correr el riesgo de lastimarnos a ambos. Me dijo que merecía amor y que tenía que aprender a aceptarlo"
"Nunca había imaginado que alguien me amara lo suficiente como para querer construir una vida real conmigo... Mi terapeuta pensó que había estado probando injustamente los límites de Cole. Alejándolo deliberadamente para ver si podía volver a dejarme. Me advirtió que ningún ser humano puede soportar un rechazo repetido sin reaccionar. Ella me preguntó cuándo quedaría satisfecha mi necesidad de castigarlo y si valía la pena correr el riesgo de lastimarnos a ambos. Me dijo que merecía amor y que tenía que aprender a aceptarlo"
July 24, 2024
★ 3.5
January 4, 2024
I thought I had already read my last five-star book of the year but it turns out I was wrong.
.
From the first page, from the first chapter I was captured by Shane and Cole
.
I read it in less than twenty-four hours because I am such an obsessive mood reader that I needed to know everything, learn every detail of these characters and when I was on the verge of not believing what I was reading I fell more in love.
.
I have to pause my reading before finishing the book so I could ran to see Heather Leighson books and my heart fell a little when I saw that it was the first in the series, I need to read more of her and this world she create, I need a backlist to fan read everything!
.
I have my own obsessions and anxiety issues when I like a book so much, and I deeply enjoy going through them like a good bookworm
.
Trying to be more logical, I can say that this romance between two men who seek how to survive day by day with the weight of past, grief and guilt on their shoulders and find in each other the door to begin to heal.
.
They are beautiful characters and every exchange between them seemed like a piece of open heart. Of course the steamy scenes were pure fire but they were so full of feelings that they are impossible to forget or separate of the characters. It was perfect written and there aren't that many writers who achieve that perfect balance and make me love the pain of a good angst open heart romance experience , and coming quickly to my mind I can think of one of my favorites… Chloe Liese
.
I'm going to take the words from the author's notes and I'm going to sit very still, well maybe I won't stop talking about this book and recommending it non-stop to everyone, but I’ll be waiting for the next book, for all the ones that follow.
.
.
.
Thanks to Heather Leihgson for give me a copy of this beautiful book in exchange for my honest and voluntary opinion
.
From the first page, from the first chapter I was captured by Shane and Cole
.
I read it in less than twenty-four hours because I am such an obsessive mood reader that I needed to know everything, learn every detail of these characters and when I was on the verge of not believing what I was reading I fell more in love.
.
I have to pause my reading before finishing the book so I could ran to see Heather Leighson books and my heart fell a little when I saw that it was the first in the series, I need to read more of her and this world she create, I need a backlist to fan read everything!
.
I have my own obsessions and anxiety issues when I like a book so much, and I deeply enjoy going through them like a good bookworm
.
Trying to be more logical, I can say that this romance between two men who seek how to survive day by day with the weight of past, grief and guilt on their shoulders and find in each other the door to begin to heal.
.
They are beautiful characters and every exchange between them seemed like a piece of open heart. Of course the steamy scenes were pure fire but they were so full of feelings that they are impossible to forget or separate of the characters. It was perfect written and there aren't that many writers who achieve that perfect balance and make me love the pain of a good angst open heart romance experience , and coming quickly to my mind I can think of one of my favorites… Chloe Liese
.
I'm going to take the words from the author's notes and I'm going to sit very still, well maybe I won't stop talking about this book and recommending it non-stop to everyone, but I’ll be waiting for the next book, for all the ones that follow.
.
.
.
Thanks to Heather Leihgson for give me a copy of this beautiful book in exchange for my honest and voluntary opinion
February 9, 2024
I tried to give this book a chance. I really did- but I found more interest in watching my washing machine run than reading this.
The characters are a contradiction in and of themselves. They go against what the author claims are some of their fundamentals and so it makes it hard to really know who they are and what they stand for.
On top of that the plot was not plotting. We have straight boy meets drunk man.
Straight boy no longer thinks he’s straight.
Drunk man (who is so hung up on his widowed husband swears off men all together) is suddenly jumping full send into physical and emotional relations (despite multiple internal dialogue referencing they would normally never do something like this) with said straight man.
By chapter 7 those 2 characters who don’t really know each other, and haven’t really shown who they are (instead the author does it for you by straight up shoving it in your face rather than letting the reader infer the character) are now going into BDSM territory with no real research behind it. Which mind you, contradicts the whole personality of one of the characters.
Hell- the author goes to great lengths to explain how he overthinks/over analyzes everything. His character going so far as to research every possible scenario because statistics soothe the chaos in their head.
But you expect me to believe that that kind of character can’t introduce a safe word. That the straight man and grieving widow who swore off men is now jumping into D&S sex not even a week after meeting this supposed straight guy.
It was at this point- I stopped reading. There’s more holes in this story than Swiss cheese and honestly at least the cheese tastes good unlike the bad taste this book left in my mouth.
The characters are a contradiction in and of themselves. They go against what the author claims are some of their fundamentals and so it makes it hard to really know who they are and what they stand for.
On top of that the plot was not plotting. We have straight boy meets drunk man.
Straight boy no longer thinks he’s straight.
Drunk man (who is so hung up on his widowed husband swears off men all together) is suddenly jumping full send into physical and emotional relations (despite multiple internal dialogue referencing they would normally never do something like this) with said straight man.
By chapter 7 those 2 characters who don’t really know each other, and haven’t really shown who they are (instead the author does it for you by straight up shoving it in your face rather than letting the reader infer the character) are now going into BDSM territory with no real research behind it. Which mind you, contradicts the whole personality of one of the characters.
Hell- the author goes to great lengths to explain how he overthinks/over analyzes everything. His character going so far as to research every possible scenario because statistics soothe the chaos in their head.
But you expect me to believe that that kind of character can’t introduce a safe word. That the straight man and grieving widow who swore off men is now jumping into D&S sex not even a week after meeting this supposed straight guy.
It was at this point- I stopped reading. There’s more holes in this story than Swiss cheese and honestly at least the cheese tastes good unlike the bad taste this book left in my mouth.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 5, 2024
Let me start with a quote:
“That’s crazy.” My heart wanted so badly to believe him.
“That’s love.”
“Same thing,” I said, and my stomach dropped through the bed and onto the floor with his responding grin.
There’s such great dialogue in this book. The spice is so good too! Lots of emotional highs and lows, and I was there for every moment. The story is fantastic and the MCs are deep, hurting, and the HEA is hard won and worth it.
I’m so on board for Book2!
“That’s crazy.” My heart wanted so badly to believe him.
“That’s love.”
“Same thing,” I said, and my stomach dropped through the bed and onto the floor with his responding grin.
There’s such great dialogue in this book. The spice is so good too! Lots of emotional highs and lows, and I was there for every moment. The story is fantastic and the MCs are deep, hurting, and the HEA is hard won and worth it.
I’m so on board for Book2!
January 2, 2024
Beautiful Story
I loved this book! It was a beautiful story about two broken men healing from the wounds of their past. It had me in a chokehold from the first chapter and I could not put it down. I loved watching Cole and Shane grow and learn to love again. They were perfectly imperfect and definitely meant to be. I can't wait to read more books from this author.
I loved this book! It was a beautiful story about two broken men healing from the wounds of their past. It had me in a chokehold from the first chapter and I could not put it down. I loved watching Cole and Shane grow and learn to love again. They were perfectly imperfect and definitely meant to be. I can't wait to read more books from this author.
January 30, 2024
loved it
A new to me author and I couldn’t out this book down. The storyline was heart breaking and also so beautiful. Healing from grief realizing that the heart can love more was awesome. The heat is whoa! It was the perfect amount of spice definitely can’t wait for the rest of the series. I’m looking forward to seeing more of this crew
A new to me author and I couldn’t out this book down. The storyline was heart breaking and also so beautiful. Healing from grief realizing that the heart can love more was awesome. The heat is whoa! It was the perfect amount of spice definitely can’t wait for the rest of the series. I’m looking forward to seeing more of this crew
January 31, 2024
1.5 ⭐️
i just… can’t.
i just… can’t.
Read
April 6, 2024Mixed thoughts for the book.
I noted this debut book has formatting issues with line spacing making more pages than it needs too.
An okayish start as Shane enters his office only to find someone already there and ordering Him out.
Shane and Cole come head to head over an office room when its an anniversary of Paxton’s death.
Cole, 38 yrs, was the son of the owner who was grieving his husband to find someone who's taken over his position in the financial company.
A fast attraction for Shane being unable to take his eyes off Cole.
Shane had his anxieties and was straight as an arrow.
Cole was drunk was didnt want to mix with his father’s words. Cole was the owner of a tattoo parlor.
Why did Shane sign from your pretty boy when he was Straight. The start was too fast for Shane to feel attraction to another man.
I think this would've been better if it was edited for a smoother story. The story had a good promise going by the blurb for this debut author. The contractions within the story didn't make sense, one minute he didnt, then the next he had kinda thing.
This was a DNF for me.
I noted this debut book has formatting issues with line spacing making more pages than it needs too.
An okayish start as Shane enters his office only to find someone already there and ordering Him out.
Shane and Cole come head to head over an office room when its an anniversary of Paxton’s death.
Cole, 38 yrs, was the son of the owner who was grieving his husband to find someone who's taken over his position in the financial company.
A fast attraction for Shane being unable to take his eyes off Cole.
Shane had his anxieties and was straight as an arrow.
Cole was drunk was didnt want to mix with his father’s words. Cole was the owner of a tattoo parlor.
Why did Shane sign from your pretty boy when he was Straight. The start was too fast for Shane to feel attraction to another man.
I think this would've been better if it was edited for a smoother story. The story had a good promise going by the blurb for this debut author. The contractions within the story didn't make sense, one minute he didnt, then the next he had kinda thing.
This was a DNF for me.
July 11, 2025
I am going to be completely honest when I say I was not expecting to be emotional throughout this story. I went into it blind, thinking it was going to be a fun, steamy read.
It was so much more than that.
Shane with his nerdy, analytical brain and his chaotic anxiety stole my heart from the very beginning. Cole's jaded, grieving heart took a little time to win me over, but he eventually took ownership of my soul.
Both men had tragic pasts, and neither of them knew how to adequately cope with them. Both of them had a hard time dealing with their demons but they somehow managed to become what the other needed setting their own pain aside to help each other through their worst times.
I loved getting to see their love grow, I had my doubts about their HEA, however, I was more than pleasantly surprised. I was (am) smiling like an idiot as if it were my own HEA instead of theirs.
The steamy parts were definitely steamy. Their push and pull was perfect for their journey. The bonus content cemented the fact that both Shane and Cole will reside in my heart side by side forever. ❤️🐉
It was so much more than that.
Shane with his nerdy, analytical brain and his chaotic anxiety stole my heart from the very beginning. Cole's jaded, grieving heart took a little time to win me over, but he eventually took ownership of my soul.
Both men had tragic pasts, and neither of them knew how to adequately cope with them. Both of them had a hard time dealing with their demons but they somehow managed to become what the other needed setting their own pain aside to help each other through their worst times.
I loved getting to see their love grow, I had my doubts about their HEA, however, I was more than pleasantly surprised. I was (am) smiling like an idiot as if it were my own HEA instead of theirs.
The steamy parts were definitely steamy. Their push and pull was perfect for their journey. The bonus content cemented the fact that both Shane and Cole will reside in my heart side by side forever. ❤️🐉
February 3, 2025
3.5 stars
I enjoyed this one more than I thought I would! It's a debut MM romance about a nerdy guy and his boss's son. They've both experience grief and trauma and have to learn to heal from that in order to have a successful relationship. They were both very broken people, but I really enjoyed seeing how they complemented and helped one another heal and survive. Some of the emotions/physical stuff felt a little rushed/extreme, but it was ultimately an enjoyable read.
Read for: Kayla's Buzzwordathon January Prompt - Truth/Lies
I enjoyed this one more than I thought I would! It's a debut MM romance about a nerdy guy and his boss's son. They've both experience grief and trauma and have to learn to heal from that in order to have a successful relationship. They were both very broken people, but I really enjoyed seeing how they complemented and helped one another heal and survive. Some of the emotions/physical stuff felt a little rushed/extreme, but it was ultimately an enjoyable read.
Read for: Kayla's Buzzwordathon January Prompt - Truth/Lies
November 2, 2024
So Good
This is my first book from Heather and I loved Cole & Shane so much .
I also wanted more Alec and i heard he’s in the next book so I’ll be reading that as soon as I’ve caught up with my backlog.
This is my first book from Heather and I loved Cole & Shane so much .
I also wanted more Alec and i heard he’s in the next book so I’ll be reading that as soon as I’ve caught up with my backlog.
January 14, 2024
Steamy, sexy, addictive!! Daddy Cole might just be my new favorite!!
So impressed by this debut novel!
So impressed by this debut novel!
December 15, 2023
Honestly, I was a bit surprised how likeable the two main characters were. There were triggers of death in the past.
It was a good romance between two great guys. Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for my ARC in exchange for my review.
It was a good romance between two great guys. Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for my ARC in exchange for my review.
January 4, 2024
what a beautiful story of two lost souls
What an incredible story. It had all the feels, heartbreak, passion, angst, happiness and so much more. This was so moving so much heartbreak for both characters that is revealed over the length of the book. Shane and Cole are so amazing together and it’s not always easy for them. They really fight and talk it through to find their happiness. Loved it.
What an incredible story. It had all the feels, heartbreak, passion, angst, happiness and so much more. This was so moving so much heartbreak for both characters that is revealed over the length of the book. Shane and Cole are so amazing together and it’s not always easy for them. They really fight and talk it through to find their happiness. Loved it.
December 27, 2023
AMAZING. AMAZING. AMAZING.
I LOVED Cole and Shane so much. I didn't want their story to be over, I was INVESTED. I loved how real they were. Usually it's a smut only MM book but this has the perfect amount of plot and smut.
Both Cole and Shane have interesting stories and it brings them together in the most unique way. The ending was INCREDIBLE, I was shocked! SO SO GOOD. GET THIS BOOK!
I LOVED Cole and Shane so much. I didn't want their story to be over, I was INVESTED. I loved how real they were. Usually it's a smut only MM book but this has the perfect amount of plot and smut.
Both Cole and Shane have interesting stories and it brings them together in the most unique way. The ending was INCREDIBLE, I was shocked! SO SO GOOD. GET THIS BOOK!
December 26, 2023
Arc Review
5🌟 3🌶️
what to expect:
- mm romance
- age gap
- grief
- bi awakening
- opposites attract
- light dom/sub dynamic
- anxiety rep
- insta lust
The Truth of Loving You follows Shane and Cole, two men who have experienced tragedies in their lives and are dealing with their grief. Cole is dealing with the loss of his husband five years ago and has sworn off men and love until he meets Shane.
This was such a heartbreakingly beautiful book. My heart broke for the loss that they both have experienced. I loved Shane and Cole has individuals and really enjoyed the development of their relationship. Watching Cole overcome his guilt for losing his husband and allowing himself to love Shane was so beautiful and emotional🥹
If you’re looking for an mm romance that is emotional, angsty, spicy, and heartfelt, this is the book for you!
5🌟 3🌶️
what to expect:
- mm romance
- age gap
- grief
- bi awakening
- opposites attract
- light dom/sub dynamic
- anxiety rep
- insta lust
The Truth of Loving You follows Shane and Cole, two men who have experienced tragedies in their lives and are dealing with their grief. Cole is dealing with the loss of his husband five years ago and has sworn off men and love until he meets Shane.
This was such a heartbreakingly beautiful book. My heart broke for the loss that they both have experienced. I loved Shane and Cole has individuals and really enjoyed the development of their relationship. Watching Cole overcome his guilt for losing his husband and allowing himself to love Shane was so beautiful and emotional🥹
If you’re looking for an mm romance that is emotional, angsty, spicy, and heartfelt, this is the book for you!
December 27, 2023
This book grabbed me right from the start. It had me alternatively very happy and then hurting the next minute. Found it hard to put the book down in the middle of reading.
Shane and Cole have both been hurt badly in the past and believe they won't ever find happiness again. Or even deserve it. They both struggle with their pasts and feel that the other one is too good for them and can't ever love them.
I liked the alternative POVs. That allowed us to get the story from them both.
Shane and Cole have both been hurt badly in the past and believe they won't ever find happiness again. Or even deserve it. They both struggle with their pasts and feel that the other one is too good for them and can't ever love them.
I liked the alternative POVs. That allowed us to get the story from them both.
March 10, 2024
Amazing!!
This is my first book by Heather Leighson and it certainly won’t be the last. Her writing drew me in from the start. Once I started reading this book I just couldn’t put it down. Cole and Shane are both suffering an immense loss and when they meet there is an immediate sense of relief. Like in some way they need each other. Pick up this book and take the emotional journey. You wont be disappointed.
This is my first book by Heather Leighson and it certainly won’t be the last. Her writing drew me in from the start. Once I started reading this book I just couldn’t put it down. Cole and Shane are both suffering an immense loss and when they meet there is an immediate sense of relief. Like in some way they need each other. Pick up this book and take the emotional journey. You wont be disappointed.
Read
December 27, 2023I’m going to blame it on being Ace, because maybe that’s the issue, but I doubt it. How are we a person who says they never been attracted to men, almost kissing a guy within a min of meeting? Also it’s 2023, why are our Bi characters knocking women? If you don’t like smexy times with women then don’t have smexy times with women. It’s not their fault you don’t like it. Dnf 23%
December 24, 2023
I made it 39% of the way through before I got bored and tapped out. This book is 90% spice and 10% plot. I feel like the two characters jump into bed without you really learning their back stories. I also kept getting the two leads mixed up. 🤷🏼♀️
December 13, 2023
Sometimes you need sweetness to embrace you, combined with a story that involves adults.
(and behave like it)
THIS 👏 WAS 👏 IT 👏
I honestly can’t believe this is the first book of Heather. The Truth of Loving You is so well written, the characters are so on point and so real. The story flows beautifully! I pretty much read it in one read.
I love how both Shane & Cole had their stories and their struggles.
But where Cole’s piece of the puzzle was shared immediately and had so much impact on their journey together, Shane’s wasn’t shared until towards the last 10% of the book.
I like it when there are things throughout the book that keep you guessing.
This story is such a wholesome read because even though you know both men are grieving, you just KNOW they are perfect for each other and will help each other heal.
Another thing I loved was, even though Shane is significantly younger… Unlike Cole, Shane has done the inner work. He has done the processing and therapy.
Also, he’s a reformed people pleaser, but he DOES set healthy boundaries for himself. (YES 👏 YES 👏 YES 👏)
He doesn’t let Cole suck him into a toxic situationship where he will be used.
No, he might be a submissive but he’s no doormat and draws firm lines so Cole is forced to take a good look in the mirror himself.
Cole & Shane’s story starts with both dipping their toes in the water with BDSM.
Cole has a dominant nature but never explored it.
Shane has submissive tendencies but isn’t familiar with it and has never been with a man nor has been attracted to one until he meets Cole.
I love how real Shane is. High on anxiety, has an overactive mind, is fully into numbers, and has lists and spreadsheets for everything.
Everything he did was so on point for his character, even his little thought snippets like “I had zero knowledge of how friends with benefits behaved in public, and Google did not enlighten me.”
They were so good together because Cole never diminished Shane’s anxiety & his dominant nature calmed him. Shane helped Cole relax & embrace the possibility of still loving his deceased partner while opening his heart to others. That you don’t have to choose.
I think the author represented grief really well in this book and even though it’s a heavy topic, it didn’t feel that way because everything in this book just felt… right, and their relationship made just so much sense.
I received this beautiful story in exchange for my honest opinion and give the book 4.5 ⭐️ 3🌶️ .
I HIGHLY recommended this book and CAN’T WAIT for Alec’s book!!!
Tropes
✨ MM Romance
✨ Age Gap
✨ Grief
✨ BDSM
✨ Opposites Attract
✨ Bi-Awakening
(and behave like it)
THIS 👏 WAS 👏 IT 👏
I honestly can’t believe this is the first book of Heather. The Truth of Loving You is so well written, the characters are so on point and so real. The story flows beautifully! I pretty much read it in one read.
I love how both Shane & Cole had their stories and their struggles.
But where Cole’s piece of the puzzle was shared immediately and had so much impact on their journey together, Shane’s wasn’t shared until towards the last 10% of the book.
I like it when there are things throughout the book that keep you guessing.
This story is such a wholesome read because even though you know both men are grieving, you just KNOW they are perfect for each other and will help each other heal.
Another thing I loved was, even though Shane is significantly younger… Unlike Cole, Shane has done the inner work. He has done the processing and therapy.
Also, he’s a reformed people pleaser, but he DOES set healthy boundaries for himself. (YES 👏 YES 👏 YES 👏)
He doesn’t let Cole suck him into a toxic situationship where he will be used.
No, he might be a submissive but he’s no doormat and draws firm lines so Cole is forced to take a good look in the mirror himself.
Cole & Shane’s story starts with both dipping their toes in the water with BDSM.
Cole has a dominant nature but never explored it.
Shane has submissive tendencies but isn’t familiar with it and has never been with a man nor has been attracted to one until he meets Cole.
I love how real Shane is. High on anxiety, has an overactive mind, is fully into numbers, and has lists and spreadsheets for everything.
Everything he did was so on point for his character, even his little thought snippets like “I had zero knowledge of how friends with benefits behaved in public, and Google did not enlighten me.”
They were so good together because Cole never diminished Shane’s anxiety & his dominant nature calmed him. Shane helped Cole relax & embrace the possibility of still loving his deceased partner while opening his heart to others. That you don’t have to choose.
I think the author represented grief really well in this book and even though it’s a heavy topic, it didn’t feel that way because everything in this book just felt… right, and their relationship made just so much sense.
I received this beautiful story in exchange for my honest opinion and give the book 4.5 ⭐️ 3🌶️ .
I HIGHLY recommended this book and CAN’T WAIT for Alec’s book!!!
Tropes
✨ MM Romance
✨ Age Gap
✨ Grief
✨ BDSM
✨ Opposites Attract
✨ Bi-Awakening
December 19, 2023
The truth of loving you
By: Heather Leighson
📚💕⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💕📚
Heart wrenching and beautiful!
In my first book from this author I can with all honesty can say it was perfection. I do not use those words often so trust me from the reviewer it high praise. Two truly kind very broken men come together in the most awkward of ways to become something neither was looking for. 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. 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: Cole:
There is no second chance at love. Not since I buried my heart with my husband. Shane shouldn’t matter because I’ve sworn off men. Unfortunately, I’m obsessed with big brown eyes, a square jaw, and a pink flush. Shane is too young, too innocent, and too smart to get involved with me. But when he begs, I cave, agreeing to teach him and give him what he needs. Now we’re in too deep- either I’ll destroy his heart or he’ll destroy what’s left of mine.
Shane:
I’m on the cusp of achieving my dream promotion to the C-Suite of a major financial corporation, when Cole, the CEO’s grieving, broody son, stumbles into my life. Cole has made me question everything from my sexuality to my goals. He’s unlocked new desires I desperately crave. Large hands and a commanding voice calm the storm in my head. I’m addicted even though he could absolutely ruin my career. Failure at my job isn’t an option; clinging to success has kept me sane. Love defies logic.
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 dual POV my personal favorite 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.📚💕
By: Heather Leighson
📚💕⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💕📚
Heart wrenching and beautiful!
In my first book from this author I can with all honesty can say it was perfection. I do not use those words often so trust me from the reviewer it high praise. Two truly kind very broken men come together in the most awkward of ways to become something neither was looking for. 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. 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: Cole:
There is no second chance at love. Not since I buried my heart with my husband. Shane shouldn’t matter because I’ve sworn off men. Unfortunately, I’m obsessed with big brown eyes, a square jaw, and a pink flush. Shane is too young, too innocent, and too smart to get involved with me. But when he begs, I cave, agreeing to teach him and give him what he needs. Now we’re in too deep- either I’ll destroy his heart or he’ll destroy what’s left of mine.
Shane:
I’m on the cusp of achieving my dream promotion to the C-Suite of a major financial corporation, when Cole, the CEO’s grieving, broody son, stumbles into my life. Cole has made me question everything from my sexuality to my goals. He’s unlocked new desires I desperately crave. Large hands and a commanding voice calm the storm in my head. I’m addicted even though he could absolutely ruin my career. Failure at my job isn’t an option; clinging to success has kept me sane. Love defies logic.
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 dual POV my personal favorite 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.📚💕
July 4, 2024
this book was so heartbreaking but incredibly well done. The epilogue was perfect. I wish I could read this book again for the first time it will forever be a top favorite. Both of my boys deserved so much better!! I love Cole and Shane so much!!!
My baby Cole I just wanted to give Cole the biggest hug and tell him it’s ok to still grieve but to live your life because life is so short and he should be happy. There were many times where I wanted to strangle Cole for being an idiot but I understood that he was just so scared of getting hurt and falling in love again and moving on when he promised himself he wouldn’t ,so he would run away ( literally ). Cole was so oblivious and I just wanted to shake some sense into his skull. I loved how Cole finally started fighting hard for Shane in the end because he finally realized he was meant to be with Shane forever. He would do anything for him and it showed it took some time but it was well worth the wait. I’m so glad Cole found his happiness again in Shane.
My baby Shane he was so good at deflecting that I didn’t even realize how bad his pain and trauma went until the end of the book. I just wanted to hug him and tell him things get better and that he is deserving of love and happiness but I think Cole helped him realize that.I understood Shane on a way deeper level. I understood his no need for bs and how he was so scared of getting his heart broken. Shane was trying so hard to protect his heart but still he ended up breaking it overthinking too much but it’s ok because he gets his well deserved happy ending and we realize why he is the way he is. Shane was so good at focusing on Cole and pretending that he was fine but when he was saying he has a therapist and that he was working on himself but never listening to the therapist and never taking the advice from his therapist I knew something was wrong. I cried when I found out about what happened in his past. He deserved so much better. I’m so happy Shane learned how to be loved and what happiness means from Cole he truly didn’t believe he deserved to be loved and that’s what broke my heart.
Tropes:
hurt/comfort
age gap
mental heath issues
parent neglect ( off page )
parent abandonment ( off page )
friends w benefits
bi awakening
panic attacks
death of sibling ( off page )
death of spouse ( off page )
My baby Cole I just wanted to give Cole the biggest hug and tell him it’s ok to still grieve but to live your life because life is so short and he should be happy. There were many times where I wanted to strangle Cole for being an idiot but I understood that he was just so scared of getting hurt and falling in love again and moving on when he promised himself he wouldn’t ,so he would run away ( literally ). Cole was so oblivious and I just wanted to shake some sense into his skull. I loved how Cole finally started fighting hard for Shane in the end because he finally realized he was meant to be with Shane forever. He would do anything for him and it showed it took some time but it was well worth the wait. I’m so glad Cole found his happiness again in Shane.
My baby Shane he was so good at deflecting that I didn’t even realize how bad his pain and trauma went until the end of the book. I just wanted to hug him and tell him things get better and that he is deserving of love and happiness but I think Cole helped him realize that.I understood Shane on a way deeper level. I understood his no need for bs and how he was so scared of getting his heart broken. Shane was trying so hard to protect his heart but still he ended up breaking it overthinking too much but it’s ok because he gets his well deserved happy ending and we realize why he is the way he is. Shane was so good at focusing on Cole and pretending that he was fine but when he was saying he has a therapist and that he was working on himself but never listening to the therapist and never taking the advice from his therapist I knew something was wrong. I cried when I found out about what happened in his past. He deserved so much better. I’m so happy Shane learned how to be loved and what happiness means from Cole he truly didn’t believe he deserved to be loved and that’s what broke my heart.
Tropes:
hurt/comfort
age gap
mental heath issues
parent neglect ( off page )
parent abandonment ( off page )
friends w benefits
bi awakening
panic attacks
death of sibling ( off page )
death of spouse ( off page )
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 12, 2023
✨ARC Review✨
📖: The Truth of Loving You
🖋️: Heather Leighson
🗓️: 12/26/23
⭐️: 5 of 5
🌶️: 5 of 5
💬: “The thought of you finding a man to trust with your firsts makes me crazy.”
⚠️: Please check the warnings as this book may not be suitable for all readers. As always, protect your mental health.💛
Tropes, Topics & Themes:
✨MM romance
✨BSDM & Dom/Sub
✨Grief/ loss
✨Anxiety
✨Age gap
✨Bi-awakening
Years ago, Cole lost not only his husband but his best friend and part of his soul. He has not been the same since. On the anniversary, he finds himself drunk in Paxton’s old office.
What he isn’t expecting is to find out that the office is now used by Shane, Paxton’s replacement.
“What’s your name, pretty boy?”
Shane knows what loss and grief look like. So the caretaker in him
decides to help Cole get back to the safety of his home.
From that night, both Shane and Cole can’t stop thinking about each other. Shane has never been affected by a man before but something about Cole makes him irresistible.
“Are my clothes being held for random?”
While Cole is not looking to move on from his late husband. He easily finds himself wanting to spend more time with Shane.
“Are you going to tell me why you’re stalking the yummy baby-bi?”
Alec is my favorite side character and I can’t wait to read his story in the next book! He had me laughing so much. He was also helpful in understanding Shane’s anxiety.
“You’ve been bad. You’ve been flirting in front of me. Then, you practically announced I’m the best you’ve ever had.”
Will Cole realize that he can have a second chance at love? Will Shane move on from his trauma and past?
Grab this book to find out!
If you’re a fan of BSDM and Dom and Sub relationships. You will enjoy this book.
Thank you, Heather Leighson and Netgalley for this EARC! As always, my review is my opinion and thoughts. This review will be shared on my Instagram @Alexandriavwilliams_ shortly.
📖: The Truth of Loving You
🖋️: Heather Leighson
🗓️: 12/26/23
⭐️: 5 of 5
🌶️: 5 of 5
💬: “The thought of you finding a man to trust with your firsts makes me crazy.”
⚠️: Please check the warnings as this book may not be suitable for all readers. As always, protect your mental health.💛
Tropes, Topics & Themes:
✨MM romance
✨BSDM & Dom/Sub
✨Grief/ loss
✨Anxiety
✨Age gap
✨Bi-awakening
Years ago, Cole lost not only his husband but his best friend and part of his soul. He has not been the same since. On the anniversary, he finds himself drunk in Paxton’s old office.
What he isn’t expecting is to find out that the office is now used by Shane, Paxton’s replacement.
“What’s your name, pretty boy?”
Shane knows what loss and grief look like. So the caretaker in him
decides to help Cole get back to the safety of his home.
From that night, both Shane and Cole can’t stop thinking about each other. Shane has never been affected by a man before but something about Cole makes him irresistible.
“Are my clothes being held for random?”
While Cole is not looking to move on from his late husband. He easily finds himself wanting to spend more time with Shane.
“Are you going to tell me why you’re stalking the yummy baby-bi?”
Alec is my favorite side character and I can’t wait to read his story in the next book! He had me laughing so much. He was also helpful in understanding Shane’s anxiety.
“You’ve been bad. You’ve been flirting in front of me. Then, you practically announced I’m the best you’ve ever had.”
Will Cole realize that he can have a second chance at love? Will Shane move on from his trauma and past?
Grab this book to find out!
If you’re a fan of BSDM and Dom and Sub relationships. You will enjoy this book.
Thank you, Heather Leighson and Netgalley for this EARC! As always, my review is my opinion and thoughts. This review will be shared on my Instagram @Alexandriavwilliams_ shortly.
December 12, 2023
“Judging in retrospect is easy.”
“The Truth of Loving You” by Heather Leighson is a M/M romance intertwined with some subtle BDSM/Sub/Dom tropes. Cole, grappling with the lingering pain of losing his husband, has sworn off love. However, when he encounters Shane, an irresistibly attractive young man with a penchant for submission, the undeniable pull between them challenges Cole's resolve. Shane, driven by ambitions in a finance company, finds himself drawn to Cole despite his unwavering dedication to success. Two men struggling with personal loss find each other.
I really liked the book. It was sweet and heartbreaking. The BDSM/Sub/Dom tropes were pretty light and not too graphic and avoids excessive graphic content and steers clear of the aggressive edge often associated with themes bordering on abuse. My only dislike was that the conflict with the company at the end was so short and I wish it had a bigger presence in the book, but it didn’t make that much difference in their relationship so it’s okay. Despite the frequent mention of an age gap, it seamlessly fades into the background as the characters' similar behavior overshadows it, which was not a big deal for me, the chemistry between Cole and Shane feels natural, making the age difference easy to overlook. I gave it a 4 out of 5 stars.
-BDSM
-Sub/Dom
-Age Gap
-Trauma
-Anxiety/Panic Attacks
-Tattoo Artist VS Business Man
“The Truth of Loving You” by Heather Leighson is a M/M romance intertwined with some subtle BDSM/Sub/Dom tropes. Cole, grappling with the lingering pain of losing his husband, has sworn off love. However, when he encounters Shane, an irresistibly attractive young man with a penchant for submission, the undeniable pull between them challenges Cole's resolve. Shane, driven by ambitions in a finance company, finds himself drawn to Cole despite his unwavering dedication to success. Two men struggling with personal loss find each other.
I really liked the book. It was sweet and heartbreaking. The BDSM/Sub/Dom tropes were pretty light and not too graphic and avoids excessive graphic content and steers clear of the aggressive edge often associated with themes bordering on abuse. My only dislike was that the conflict with the company at the end was so short and I wish it had a bigger presence in the book, but it didn’t make that much difference in their relationship so it’s okay. Despite the frequent mention of an age gap, it seamlessly fades into the background as the characters' similar behavior overshadows it, which was not a big deal for me, the chemistry between Cole and Shane feels natural, making the age difference easy to overlook. I gave it a 4 out of 5 stars.
-BDSM
-Sub/Dom
-Age Gap
-Trauma
-Anxiety/Panic Attacks
-Tattoo Artist VS Business Man
Displaying 1 - 30 of 90 reviews