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Unexpected #2
Sem: Rencontres Inattendues #2
Sometimes your dream guy isn’t who you think he is.
Sem has been stalking me for months. He shows up everywhere I am and lurks in the background, his eyes always on me. I don’t understand his fascination with me, but he won’t leave me alone.
He’s definitely not my type. He’s too big, too reckless, and too feral.
But then one night he breaks into my apartment and dares me to do something crazy and I can’t say no.
Then I do it again. And again.
Now it seems we’re both addicted to this secret little game.
But when I begin to see the man beneath the brutish exterior, will falling in love prove to be the most reckless bet yet?
Sem has been stalking me for months. He shows up everywhere I am and lurks in the background, his eyes always on me. I don’t understand his fascination with me, but he won’t leave me alone.
He’s definitely not my type. He’s too big, too reckless, and too feral.
But then one night he breaks into my apartment and dares me to do something crazy and I can’t say no.
Then I do it again. And again.
Now it seems we’re both addicted to this secret little game.
But when I begin to see the man beneath the brutish exterior, will falling in love prove to be the most reckless bet yet?
276 pages, Paperback
First published May 18, 2022
730 people are currently reading
3706 people want to read
About the author
Cora Rose
44 books2,690 followersCora Rose loves any kind of romance and consumes way too many books each year. She currently lives in the U.S. and spends her days daydreaming about the characters inside her head.
You can email her at CoraRoseRomance@gmail.com or visit her website at www.coraroseromance.com
You can email her at CoraRoseRomance@gmail.com or visit her website at www.coraroseromance.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,267 reviews
September 7, 2025
1 ⭐️ [ Believe it or not BUT that one star is me being NICE. Goodreads really needs to update itself with a zero-star option ASAP, because half my shelf is out here living a lie. I’d be the happiest person alive finally giving some books the rating they actually deserve.😊]
Future Me, Read This Before You Screw Up AGAIN :
YOU LISTEN TO ME AND YOU LISTEN GOOD. YOU WILL NEVER—AND I MEAN NEVER—PICK UP A BOOK YOU DNF’D AGAIN. DO YOU UNDERSTAND? DNF MEANS DONE. IT MEANS THE BOOK IS DEAD TO YOU. DO NOT TOUCH IT. DO NOT LOOK AT IT. DO NOT THINK ABOUT IT.
YOU DNF BECAUSE IT IS HORRIBLE. BECAUSE IT IS SUFFERING. BECAUSE IT IS A WASTE OF YOUR TIME. YOU DO NOT DNF FOR FUN. YOU DNF BECAUSE THE BOOK IS TRASH. PERIOD. AND WHEN A BOOK IS TRASH, YOU LEAVE IT IN THE TRASH. END OF STORY.
DO NOT GIVE IT SECOND CHANCES. DO NOT GIVE IT MERCY. DO NOT GIVE IT HOPE. IF YOU DO, YOU WILL HATE YOURSELF FOR IT. AND YOU DID. YOU WASTED YOUR TIME. YOU HATED EVERY SECOND. AND WHO IS TO BLAME? YOU.
MAGGIE RUINED THAT BOOK. HE WILL RUIN IT AGAIN. HE WILL RUIN YOUR MOOD. HE WILL RUIN YOUR LIFE. YOU DO NOT FORGIVE. YOU DO NOT FORGET. YOU DO NOT REPEAT THIS MISTAKE.
FROM NOW ON, THIS IS LAW: DNF = DEAD. DEAD FOREVER. NO REVIVAL. NO RESURRECTION. NO “MAYBE ONE DAY.” NO EXCUSES.
YOU HAVE A TBR THE SIZE OF A MOUNTAIN. YOU HAVE A LIFE THAT IS TOO SHORT. YOU HAVE BETTER THINGS TO DO THAN READ GARBAGE. SO TRUST YOURSELF. TRUST YOUR GUT. TRUST YOUR DNF.
BREAK THIS LAW AGAIN, AND I SWEAR I WILL SCREAM AT YOU LOUDER THAN THIS UNTIL YOUR EARS RINGGGGGG. DO. NOT. FAIL. ME. AGAIN.
DISMISSED.....
Future Me, Read This Before You Screw Up AGAIN :
YOU LISTEN TO ME AND YOU LISTEN GOOD. YOU WILL NEVER—AND I MEAN NEVER—PICK UP A BOOK YOU DNF’D AGAIN. DO YOU UNDERSTAND? DNF MEANS DONE. IT MEANS THE BOOK IS DEAD TO YOU. DO NOT TOUCH IT. DO NOT LOOK AT IT. DO NOT THINK ABOUT IT.
YOU DNF BECAUSE IT IS HORRIBLE. BECAUSE IT IS SUFFERING. BECAUSE IT IS A WASTE OF YOUR TIME. YOU DO NOT DNF FOR FUN. YOU DNF BECAUSE THE BOOK IS TRASH. PERIOD. AND WHEN A BOOK IS TRASH, YOU LEAVE IT IN THE TRASH. END OF STORY.
DO NOT GIVE IT SECOND CHANCES. DO NOT GIVE IT MERCY. DO NOT GIVE IT HOPE. IF YOU DO, YOU WILL HATE YOURSELF FOR IT. AND YOU DID. YOU WASTED YOUR TIME. YOU HATED EVERY SECOND. AND WHO IS TO BLAME? YOU.
MAGGIE RUINED THAT BOOK. HE WILL RUIN IT AGAIN. HE WILL RUIN YOUR MOOD. HE WILL RUIN YOUR LIFE. YOU DO NOT FORGIVE. YOU DO NOT FORGET. YOU DO NOT REPEAT THIS MISTAKE.
FROM NOW ON, THIS IS LAW: DNF = DEAD. DEAD FOREVER. NO REVIVAL. NO RESURRECTION. NO “MAYBE ONE DAY.” NO EXCUSES.
YOU HAVE A TBR THE SIZE OF A MOUNTAIN. YOU HAVE A LIFE THAT IS TOO SHORT. YOU HAVE BETTER THINGS TO DO THAN READ GARBAGE. SO TRUST YOURSELF. TRUST YOUR GUT. TRUST YOUR DNF.
BREAK THIS LAW AGAIN, AND I SWEAR I WILL SCREAM AT YOU LOUDER THAN THIS UNTIL YOUR EARS RINGGGGGG. DO. NOT. FAIL. ME. AGAIN.
DISMISSED.....
![Profile Image for Imme [trying to crawl out of hiatus] van Gorp.](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fi.gr-assets.com%2Fimages%2FS%2Fcompressed.photo.goodreads.com%2Fusers%2F1700013408i%2F101358081._UX200_CR0%2C0%2C200%2C200_.jpg&w=128&q=75)
June 24, 2024
|| 3.5 stars ||
➛First read: May 2022 | ★4.5 stars
➛Second read: November 2023 | ★3.5 stars
EDIT after my re-read:
It pains me to have to say this, but this really was a little shallow. There isn’t a lot of depth, and almost all of their interactions have a strong sexual undercurrent. The story was also very ridiculous at times, and the relationship could have definitely used more of a build-up.
I still understand why I enjoyed this so much the first time, but I can’t honestly say it was a great romance.
Original review:
The obsession? The protectiveness? The jealousy? The adoration? HELL YESS.
Sem is such a gentle giant and an absolute crazy person, while Magnus is also super fun and sweet. They go so well together. I not only adored their height difference, but their connection was also so good. Their banter was very amusing, and their personalities are absolutely amazing.
These two were literally adorable, but also had some surprising depth in their relationship. They were so supportive and literally perfect for each other!
The way Sem carried Magnus around in his arms everywhere, the way Magnus read his books out loud for Sem because he was struggling with his dyslexia, the way Sem let Magnus paint his nails, the way Sem was willing to kill anyone who even looked at Magnus wrong, the way that Sem sketches every inch of Magnus over and over again and calls him his muse, the way that Sem literally stalks Magnus, the way that Magnus helps Sem with his low self-esteem, the way that Sem keeps threatening Magnus’ family for being rude to him, the way Sem wants Magnus to always be proud of his effeminate self, the way that these two see each other completely for who they are and love everything they see.
Literal match made in heaven.
'Unexpected' series:
1. Whit - 3.0 stars
2. Sem - 3.5 stars
3. Emery - 4.5 stars
4. Luke - 1.5 stars
➛First read: May 2022 | ★4.5 stars
➛Second read: November 2023 | ★3.5 stars
EDIT after my re-read:
It pains me to have to say this, but this really was a little shallow. There isn’t a lot of depth, and almost all of their interactions have a strong sexual undercurrent. The story was also very ridiculous at times, and the relationship could have definitely used more of a build-up.
I still understand why I enjoyed this so much the first time, but I can’t honestly say it was a great romance.
Original review:
The obsession? The protectiveness? The jealousy? The adoration? HELL YESS.
Sem is such a gentle giant and an absolute crazy person, while Magnus is also super fun and sweet. They go so well together. I not only adored their height difference, but their connection was also so good. Their banter was very amusing, and their personalities are absolutely amazing.
These two were literally adorable, but also had some surprising depth in their relationship. They were so supportive and literally perfect for each other!
“My boyfriend is a maniac and I love it.”
The way Sem carried Magnus around in his arms everywhere, the way Magnus read his books out loud for Sem because he was struggling with his dyslexia, the way Sem let Magnus paint his nails, the way Sem was willing to kill anyone who even looked at Magnus wrong, the way that Sem sketches every inch of Magnus over and over again and calls him his muse, the way that Sem literally stalks Magnus, the way that Magnus helps Sem with his low self-esteem, the way that Sem keeps threatening Magnus’ family for being rude to him, the way Sem wants Magnus to always be proud of his effeminate self, the way that these two see each other completely for who they are and love everything they see.
Literal match made in heaven.
'Unexpected' series:
1. Whit - 3.0 stars
2. Sem - 3.5 stars
3. Emery - 4.5 stars
4. Luke - 1.5 stars
May 20, 2022
I practically inhaled this book. When it was released as a surprise, I screamed, cried, and puked up my lunch. In that order. So I'm going to use the word 'UGH' many times in my review because how else do I describe how this gem made me feel, ya feel me? Let's practice, UGH 😌😌😌
If you like Alessandra Hazard's Straight Guys series, YOU WILL LOVE THIS. I PROMISE YOU.
“I can still feel you inside of me. I can still taste you. Hear you. You’ve invaded all of my senses, Sem. I don’t want anyone else but you. You have to know that.”
OKOK butterfly-invading-belly inducing things:
_Sem constantly touching Magnus UGH
_Sem constantly being around Magnus UGHHH
_THE SEX SCENES UGHHHH CORA ROSE CAN WRITE SEX HOLY HOTNESS UGHHHH
_The van Beek brothers and their protectiveness 😭😭 gosh I freaking love Luke
_Whit and Caleb moments. I told Ivy they reminded me of Kourtney Kardashian and Travis Barker with their OTT PDA but we love to see it 😂
_SEM LITERALLY CARRYING MAG EVERYWHERE, LIKE PICKING HIM UP BECAUSE SIZE DIFFERENCE!!! UGHHHHHHH 🤌🏾🤌🏾🤌🏾🤌🏾🤌🏾🤌🏾
This book had me rolling on the floor cackling and gasping for air! If you take this for the ridiculous, OTT, borderline certifiable craziness that this book is, you will thoroughly enjoy it! Sem surprised me with his depth of character, his sensitivity, his insecurities. Magnus surprised me with his strength, his tenacity, his insanity. These two were the perfect pair. Honestly, and don't tell him I told ya, but I loved Sem wayyyyy more than Caleb. Ooops 😬 I loved how needy, possessive, and jealous both characters were of each other. This was 95% fluff and smut (lots of smut!) and it didn't bother me at all! Cora Rose can honestly have my bank account at this point!
He exhales shakily and rubs at his eyes, his lips wobbling. “Good because I love you too. And if you fucking leave me, again, Sem, I swear to god I will hunt you down. You will not escape me again. I will cling to you, and you will have to wear me. Forever. Do you understand?”
ALSO AUGUST AND EMERY!?!? I NEED IT SO BAD
Initial reaction:
AS IF I WOULD RATE THIS ANYTHING LESS THAN 4.5 STARS AGAIN 😭😭 SEM HAS MY ENTIRE HEART UGHHH
Buddy read with Ivy 🥰
If you like Alessandra Hazard's Straight Guys series, YOU WILL LOVE THIS. I PROMISE YOU.
“I can still feel you inside of me. I can still taste you. Hear you. You’ve invaded all of my senses, Sem. I don’t want anyone else but you. You have to know that.”
OKOK butterfly-invading-belly inducing things:
_Sem constantly touching Magnus UGH
_Sem constantly being around Magnus UGHHH
_THE SEX SCENES UGHHHH CORA ROSE CAN WRITE SEX HOLY HOTNESS UGHHHH
_The van Beek brothers and their protectiveness 😭😭 gosh I freaking love Luke
_Whit and Caleb moments. I told Ivy they reminded me of Kourtney Kardashian and Travis Barker with their OTT PDA but we love to see it 😂
_SEM LITERALLY CARRYING MAG EVERYWHERE, LIKE PICKING HIM UP BECAUSE SIZE DIFFERENCE!!! UGHHHHHHH 🤌🏾🤌🏾🤌🏾🤌🏾🤌🏾🤌🏾
This book had me rolling on the floor cackling and gasping for air! If you take this for the ridiculous, OTT, borderline certifiable craziness that this book is, you will thoroughly enjoy it! Sem surprised me with his depth of character, his sensitivity, his insecurities. Magnus surprised me with his strength, his tenacity, his insanity. These two were the perfect pair. Honestly, and don't tell him I told ya, but I loved Sem wayyyyy more than Caleb. Ooops 😬 I loved how needy, possessive, and jealous both characters were of each other. This was 95% fluff and smut (lots of smut!) and it didn't bother me at all! Cora Rose can honestly have my bank account at this point!
He exhales shakily and rubs at his eyes, his lips wobbling. “Good because I love you too. And if you fucking leave me, again, Sem, I swear to god I will hunt you down. You will not escape me again. I will cling to you, and you will have to wear me. Forever. Do you understand?”
ALSO AUGUST AND EMERY!?!? I NEED IT SO BAD
Initial reaction:
AS IF I WOULD RATE THIS ANYTHING LESS THAN 4.5 STARS AGAIN 😭😭 SEM HAS MY ENTIRE HEART UGHHH
Buddy read with Ivy 🥰
September 18, 2023
OMG I CAVED ! I CAAAAVED! 🫣🫣🫣 That’s how desperate I am!!! And bored!! So that’s it people, I read Sem!! A Cora Rose book !! And it was exactly how I knew it would be : ridiculous, absurd, silly and OTT- And fucking hell, I had fun!!!! I wish I could say I won’t read another one too soon but Colin’s book is winking at me vigorously. 😁
There’s no point in talking about the blurb since I’m pretty sure 80% of the ppl here read it and the other 20% won’t appreciate spoilers but let me tell you that these guys were something else..I don’t know if the stalker giant was too smart for this world or the pint-size porcupine was too stupid to live but the way they started to have sex was absolutely ludicrous 🤣🤣 Yet, I repeat I had fun so go me! Also I understand why ppl loved it because Sem carrying Maggie everywhere was everything!! 😍
There’s no point in talking about the blurb since I’m pretty sure 80% of the ppl here read it and the other 20% won’t appreciate spoilers but let me tell you that these guys were something else..I don’t know if the stalker giant was too smart for this world or the pint-size porcupine was too stupid to live but the way they started to have sex was absolutely ludicrous 🤣🤣 Yet, I repeat I had fun so go me! Also I understand why ppl loved it because Sem carrying Maggie everywhere was everything!! 😍
February 28, 2025
WOW!!!
Sem was everything and more!!! Such a deeply moving romance between Sem and Maggie, it surprised me at how deep their connection was.
I love the imagery of a goliath Viking holding his koala bear. It is too perfect to resist. Loved this possessive love story.
It had all of the cuddly clinginess that makes for a great romance. Sem is a great companion to Whit.
Cannot wait for Augusts story.
Sem was everything and more!!! Such a deeply moving romance between Sem and Maggie, it surprised me at how deep their connection was.
I love the imagery of a goliath Viking holding his koala bear. It is too perfect to resist. Loved this possessive love story.
It had all of the cuddly clinginess that makes for a great romance. Sem is a great companion to Whit.
Cannot wait for Augusts story.
September 5, 2025
re-read June 2024
I wanted to re-read Maggie's and Sem's story for freaking ages and today I finally did. God they are perfect.
Also, I thought I’d give the series about Maggie’s jerk brothers a go sometime soon.
4.5***** stars
Hahaha, it needed to be said beforehand, really. And omg, Sem and Mag were fucking adorable. I loved everything about this book. And at the same time it was such a crazy story. I was laughing and shaking my head in disbelief a lot. Always asking myself „What is this?“ and „Omg, who does that?“. In a way it was hilarious. I mean, the way they came together the first times? *lollll - best idea for a romance ever. I. HAD. SO. MUCH. FUN. with these two.
And ofc - like everyone else before me - I loved loved loved how Sem was carrying Maggie around all the time. Their enormous different in size made it all the sweeter.
I loved how tactile they were with each other; especially considering how they began with all the no-touching. And the end was freaking PURRRRRFECTION. Totally extreme and OTT but so so good *swoon. What a love story.
Yeah, what else can I even say that hasn’t been said already?! That only leaves me with: I loved it. And… I have no idea why it took me so long to pick it up.
*********
I must say I’m a little sad that I didn’t go for Whit first as they make an appearance a lot and I always thought I missed out a bit while reading this - but be that as it may I’m going straight for Emery now.
♡♡♡
***********
Unexpected Series
Book 1 - Whit - 4.25 stars
Book 2 - Sem - 4.5 stars ♡
Book 3 - Emery - 4.5 stars
Book 4 - Luke - 3.5 stars
Book 5 - Lex - dnf
Book 6 - Colin - 4.5 stars ♡
Book 7 - Diablo
Book 8 - Ben - 3.0 stars
I wanted to re-read Maggie's and Sem's story for freaking ages and today I finally did. God they are perfect.
Also, I thought I’d give the series about Maggie’s jerk brothers a go sometime soon.
4.5***** stars
note from the author:
"When reading this, I hope you can suspend reality just a little and roll with it."
Hahaha, it needed to be said beforehand, really. And omg, Sem and Mag were fucking adorable. I loved everything about this book. And at the same time it was such a crazy story. I was laughing and shaking my head in disbelief a lot. Always asking myself „What is this?“ and „Omg, who does that?“. In a way it was hilarious. I mean, the way they came together the first times? *lollll - best idea for a romance ever. I. HAD. SO. MUCH. FUN. with these two.
And ofc - like everyone else before me - I loved loved loved how Sem was carrying Maggie around all the time. Their enormous different in size made it all the sweeter.
“Sem,” I whisper and then snuggle into him. “Finally.”
“Tried. I couldn’t stay away,” he mutters.
“Good.”
I loved how tactile they were with each other; especially considering how they began with all the no-touching. And the end was freaking PURRRRRFECTION. Totally extreme and OTT but so so good *swoon. What a love story.
“Is this the vibrator talking?“
Yeah, what else can I even say that hasn’t been said already?! That only leaves me with: I loved it. And… I have no idea why it took me so long to pick it up.
*********
I must say I’m a little sad that I didn’t go for Whit first as they make an appearance a lot and I always thought I missed out a bit while reading this - but be that as it may I’m going straight for Emery now.
♡♡♡
***********
Unexpected Series
Book 1 - Whit - 4.25 stars
Book 2 - Sem - 4.5 stars ♡
Book 3 - Emery - 4.5 stars
Book 4 - Luke - 3.5 stars
Book 5 - Lex - dnf
Book 6 - Colin - 4.5 stars ♡
Book 7 - Diablo
Book 8 - Ben - 3.0 stars
August 14, 2022
Oh you adorable, over-protective, and clueless Viking of a man, Sem. I find you so endearing.
The bets making the sex really hot.
All the times Sem can’t keep his hands off Mags tiny clothes.
The way he just ‘creeped’ himself into Mags heart. 😉
How he just blurts out whatever is on his mind. So damn honest.
Magnus straight up living in denial land about his feelings for Sem made for some super funny inner monologue.
The love between the Van Beek brothers makes this series such a winner for me.
Can’t wait for August and Emery next!
Buddy read with Gloria.
Check TWs in beginning of book.
The bets making the sex really hot.
All the times Sem can’t keep his hands off Mags tiny clothes.
The way he just ‘creeped’ himself into Mags heart. 😉
How he just blurts out whatever is on his mind. So damn honest.
Magnus straight up living in denial land about his feelings for Sem made for some super funny inner monologue.
The love between the Van Beek brothers makes this series such a winner for me.
Can’t wait for August and Emery next!
Buddy read with Gloria.
Check TWs in beginning of book.
May 23, 2022
This was fun but I liked Whit more for sure. I was so much more attached to the characters in that one and way more emotionally invested in the outcome. What’s funny is at 42% I made an update saying that I loved this book and then right after the boredom really set in for me. 😅😅😅 Wayyyyy too many sex scenes. And I liked the jealousy and possessiveness in book one more as well. But again - it was fun!! Size difference, gentle giant Sem, Sem watching at Magnus at all times.👁👀👁👀 I had a good time even though I hoped to love this a little more. Kinda similar chain of events as book one but there were a few differences but the ATVs / fireworks show up again and Magnus and Whit bond over being scared for their guys and I loved that part. Will love any and all Whit & Caleb parts that appear in future books me thinks….🥰🤩👀 VERY excited for August & Emery’s story.💘
January 16, 2023
Audiobook - 4 Stars
Story - 3 stars
This is way OTT, clearly not to be taken too seriously. It was still entertaining.
Story - 3 stars
This is way OTT, clearly not to be taken too seriously. It was still entertaining.
May 22, 2022
Another delightful BR with my girl Cass!
Sometimes we don’t know what we want until it’s right under our nose. Or in Magnus’ case shoved down his throat.
Oh Sem, you’re such a sweetheart. Perfect in every way. The best part is that you think every single thing about Maggie is perfect.
Even though he’s a little judgey, at times rude and close minded.
But then every protective instinct came out of Sem to the point of threatening murder on Maggie’s behalf. That’s when Magnus finally pulled his head out and realized what he had.
And even though the author pointed out that this is a different story and it is. You still get all the feels, all the cuteness and all that delicious steam. Every time Sem carries him around I get all the warm fuzzies.
I’ve never wished fictional characters were real ever before. From Whit and Magnus to the entire van Beek clan. God I’d sell my soul to a part of that family.
Sometimes we don’t know what we want until it’s right under our nose. Or in Magnus’ case shoved down his throat.
Oh Sem, you’re such a sweetheart. Perfect in every way. The best part is that you think every single thing about Maggie is perfect.
Even though he’s a little judgey, at times rude and close minded.
But then every protective instinct came out of Sem to the point of threatening murder on Maggie’s behalf. That’s when Magnus finally pulled his head out and realized what he had.
And even though the author pointed out that this is a different story and it is. You still get all the feels, all the cuteness and all that delicious steam. Every time Sem carries him around I get all the warm fuzzies.
I’ve never wished fictional characters were real ever before. From Whit and Magnus to the entire van Beek clan. God I’d sell my soul to a part of that family.
September 17, 2025
Tropes: stalker, size difference, bi-awakening, possessive/protective, found family, opposites attract
Feels: 5/5
Steam*: 5/5
Kinks: some toys, bit of a size kink, bondage
Angst: low
HEA: yes
Pairing: MM
Triggers/potential icks/content themes: dyslexia, homophobia
Sept. 16 2025 - reread! I've been in a wee bit of a sliding slump. I have been getting ragey because of the mm authors supporting Trump drama and some recent anticipated books disappointing me. Didn't want to pick up something new and risk raging out, spoiling my ability to like anything. So rereading a sweet "love their love" story was my coping mechanism.
Nov. 5 2024 - reread. I'm not American but this US election is stressing me out and I need a comfort reread.
Jan. 8 2024 - reread this book again. Love it. Such a comfort read. It's over the top and ridiculous but it's so sweet and steamy. Sem falls so fast for Magnus and he is such a protective gentle giant with him. The way he just pulls him closer to him all the time, carts him around to be close. Sem's family is ridiculous and I love them.
Reviewing this after rereading it. I wasn't writing reviews back when I first read it.
Sem is a hulking Viking of a guy, with long blond hair and stalkerish tendencies. He works at a scrap yard, he has dyslexia, he's a secret artist as a hobby.
Magnus is a new kindergarten teacher. He's tiny and dresses flamboyantly. He's in the closet with his family because they're homophobic. But he's out to everybody else. Magnus used to hook up with Whit, who is engaged to Sem's cousin Caleb. They meet through wit and Sem is instantly intrigued by Magnus and start stalking him. In an annoying way not a terribly terribly creepy way. He breaks into his house and hangs out waiting for him. He shows up at places where Magnus is.
Sem has never been with a guy. But he wants Magnus. He dares Magnus to have sex with him. They subsequently find a lot of excuses to hook up. And then it transitions into something more serious. But Sem has a lot of insecurities and doesn't think he's enough for Magnus.
I love this book. I love Cora's writing style. The stream of consciousness way that she writes is so good. You really hear the thoughts and feelings and vulnerabilities of her characters, and it adds a lot of humor and you really feel the feelings they are feeling. I have so many favorite moments from this book. I love how supportive Sem's parents are of their relationship. How happy his mother is to hear that Magnus wants kids. How all of Sem's family including his mother help Magnus to get Sem back after a fight. This family is a wild ride.
I will say, this book had a lot of typos. It desperately needed a better copy editor read. There were lots of cases of a missing letter or word. The only reason I didn't take away a star is because I just loved the crazy ride. When I read on my Kindle app, I highlight in yellow all my favorite moments. I also highlight in blue any plot points that I think are interesting and in red any points that I disliked. At the end of this book I had highlighted in yellow like two dozen passages, which is a ton for me.
Some notable moments:
"“Bro, you look guilty. You sound guilty.” August steps in closer and lowers his voice. “Shit. Did you murder him?”"
Aw, Sem's poor little heart. "Sem sighs and then runs a hand over his face. “Nah. You know what, I’m good. I’ll let you get to sleep.”"
The zip ties 🤣 "He reaches over into a drawer, pulls out a double cuff zip tie, and slides it over my wrists, restraining me. The shock of it stuns me momentarily. “Why the hell do you have zip ties in your bedroom, Sem?”"
All the carrying and cuddling is adorable. "Maggie yawns and then flops backward onto the bed, his small frame barely taking up any space. Fuck, he looks good in my bed. I’ll sketch this tomorrow when he leaves for work. Grabbing the back of my shirt, I pull it over my head and kick off my shorts before crawling over next to him. I press myself right up against his back, and he sighs happily as if it’s all that he’s been waiting for. For me to cuddle with him."
*FYI, I rate steam based on a combination of quality & quantity. I note kink separate from steam because I don't want to underrate steamy reads that don't have much kink.
Feels: 5/5
Steam*: 5/5
Kinks: some toys, bit of a size kink, bondage
Angst: low
HEA: yes
Pairing: MM
Triggers/potential icks/content themes: dyslexia, homophobia
Sept. 16 2025 - reread! I've been in a wee bit of a sliding slump. I have been getting ragey because of the mm authors supporting Trump drama and some recent anticipated books disappointing me. Didn't want to pick up something new and risk raging out, spoiling my ability to like anything. So rereading a sweet "love their love" story was my coping mechanism.
Nov. 5 2024 - reread. I'm not American but this US election is stressing me out and I need a comfort reread.
Jan. 8 2024 - reread this book again. Love it. Such a comfort read. It's over the top and ridiculous but it's so sweet and steamy. Sem falls so fast for Magnus and he is such a protective gentle giant with him. The way he just pulls him closer to him all the time, carts him around to be close. Sem's family is ridiculous and I love them.
Reviewing this after rereading it. I wasn't writing reviews back when I first read it.
Sem is a hulking Viking of a guy, with long blond hair and stalkerish tendencies. He works at a scrap yard, he has dyslexia, he's a secret artist as a hobby.
Magnus is a new kindergarten teacher. He's tiny and dresses flamboyantly. He's in the closet with his family because they're homophobic. But he's out to everybody else. Magnus used to hook up with Whit, who is engaged to Sem's cousin Caleb. They meet through wit and Sem is instantly intrigued by Magnus and start stalking him. In an annoying way not a terribly terribly creepy way. He breaks into his house and hangs out waiting for him. He shows up at places where Magnus is.
Sem has never been with a guy. But he wants Magnus. He dares Magnus to have sex with him. They subsequently find a lot of excuses to hook up. And then it transitions into something more serious. But Sem has a lot of insecurities and doesn't think he's enough for Magnus.
I love this book. I love Cora's writing style. The stream of consciousness way that she writes is so good. You really hear the thoughts and feelings and vulnerabilities of her characters, and it adds a lot of humor and you really feel the feelings they are feeling. I have so many favorite moments from this book. I love how supportive Sem's parents are of their relationship. How happy his mother is to hear that Magnus wants kids. How all of Sem's family including his mother help Magnus to get Sem back after a fight. This family is a wild ride.
I will say, this book had a lot of typos. It desperately needed a better copy editor read. There were lots of cases of a missing letter or word. The only reason I didn't take away a star is because I just loved the crazy ride. When I read on my Kindle app, I highlight in yellow all my favorite moments. I also highlight in blue any plot points that I think are interesting and in red any points that I disliked. At the end of this book I had highlighted in yellow like two dozen passages, which is a ton for me.
Some notable moments:
"“Bro, you look guilty. You sound guilty.” August steps in closer and lowers his voice. “Shit. Did you murder him?”"
Aw, Sem's poor little heart. "Sem sighs and then runs a hand over his face. “Nah. You know what, I’m good. I’ll let you get to sleep.”"
The zip ties 🤣 "He reaches over into a drawer, pulls out a double cuff zip tie, and slides it over my wrists, restraining me. The shock of it stuns me momentarily. “Why the hell do you have zip ties in your bedroom, Sem?”"
All the carrying and cuddling is adorable. "Maggie yawns and then flops backward onto the bed, his small frame barely taking up any space. Fuck, he looks good in my bed. I’ll sketch this tomorrow when he leaves for work. Grabbing the back of my shirt, I pull it over my head and kick off my shorts before crawling over next to him. I press myself right up against his back, and he sighs happily as if it’s all that he’s been waiting for. For me to cuddle with him."
*FYI, I rate steam based on a combination of quality & quantity. I note kink separate from steam because I don't want to underrate steamy reads that don't have much kink.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 1, 2022
~3.5~
What begins as obsessive stalking turns into an all-consuming passion.
There is a true Viking god in our midst, and his name is Sem. Sem may not be book smart or have much to say, but he is a man of many talents. He draws. He makes things. He has a monster cock, which he dares Magnus (Maggie to Sem) to take all the way.
Maggie is very competitive, so he accepts the bet and wins. Then he takes another bet, and another ...
Until the last few chapters, this book was a 4 plus star read for me.
I liked Maggie much more than I liked Whit in the first book. Mag is snarky, sassy, and fun.
I liked Sem's voice too. His possessive, caring nature hides an insecure heart. Sem doesn't think he's good enough for Magnus, and Magnus is obliviously hurtful when he describes his "perfect man."
Let's not forget all the dirty, naughty things the MCs do together. There's the hardcore fucking, the restraints, the buttplug. 🔥 🥵
But, damn it, the author threw a bunch of unnecessary shit into the pot at the end.
The run-in with Maggie's brothers (who were the very caricatures of mustache-twirling villains) and Sem freaking out and running away, not once but twice (when he supposedly couldn't breathe without Maggie) ... Why? Just WHY?
And then the "kidnapping" ... UGH. It was all so fucking ridiculous.
I loved the two epilogues, but the manufactured drama dropped my rating.
What begins as obsessive stalking turns into an all-consuming passion.
There is a true Viking god in our midst, and his name is Sem. Sem may not be book smart or have much to say, but he is a man of many talents. He draws. He makes things. He has a monster cock, which he dares Magnus (Maggie to Sem) to take all the way.
Maggie is very competitive, so he accepts the bet and wins. Then he takes another bet, and another ...
Until the last few chapters, this book was a 4 plus star read for me.
I liked Maggie much more than I liked Whit in the first book. Mag is snarky, sassy, and fun.
I liked Sem's voice too. His possessive, caring nature hides an insecure heart. Sem doesn't think he's good enough for Magnus, and Magnus is obliviously hurtful when he describes his "perfect man."
Let's not forget all the dirty, naughty things the MCs do together. There's the hardcore fucking, the restraints, the buttplug. 🔥 🥵
But, damn it, the author threw a bunch of unnecessary shit into the pot at the end.
The run-in with Maggie's brothers (who were the very caricatures of mustache-twirling villains) and Sem freaking out and running away, not once but twice (when he supposedly couldn't breathe without Maggie) ... Why? Just WHY?
And then the "kidnapping" ... UGH. It was all so fucking ridiculous.
I loved the two epilogues, but the manufactured drama dropped my rating.
December 7, 2022
Be still my freaking heart. I loved this book. I loved it so, so much. I enjoyed this book way more than Whit. This is about to be the fastest review in history because I can’t wait to jump into Emery.
My sweet, sweet Sem. I loved him so much. I don’t even care that he is a little bit of a psychopath. I can overlook some stalking because he is such a darling little angel baby. He was so sweet and soft to Maggie. It just warms me up when a goliath of a character is mushy with the love interest. Squeeeeee!
I loved Maggie, too. He was such a little mouthy spitfire. Sem and Maggie were so perfect for each other, and I loved seeing them get closer. I loved watching the things they figured out about each other. Their relationship moved fast, but you can totally see that it works for them. God, I could wax poetically about them forever.
The sex. The SEX!!!!!!!! So good. Deliciously dirty. Very sexy sex. Very detailed sexy sex. Yum! This author knows what she is doing. Thank you ma’am.
There was some issues at the end of this story that made me want to cry. Ugh I saw it coming, and it hurt when it happened. I wanted to cry for my poor Sem and Maggie. But love prevails and all that. So sweet. Makes me want to scream, but in a good way.
Okay I’m stopping now because I’m getting antsy about reading the next book. But pleassseeeee read this book. Peace, love, and sweet psychopaths. xoxoxoxo
My sweet, sweet Sem. I loved him so much. I don’t even care that he is a little bit of a psychopath. I can overlook some stalking because he is such a darling little angel baby. He was so sweet and soft to Maggie. It just warms me up when a goliath of a character is mushy with the love interest. Squeeeeee!
I loved Maggie, too. He was such a little mouthy spitfire. Sem and Maggie were so perfect for each other, and I loved seeing them get closer. I loved watching the things they figured out about each other. Their relationship moved fast, but you can totally see that it works for them. God, I could wax poetically about them forever.
The sex. The SEX!!!!!!!! So good. Deliciously dirty. Very sexy sex. Very detailed sexy sex. Yum! This author knows what she is doing. Thank you ma’am.
There was some issues at the end of this story that made me want to cry. Ugh I saw it coming, and it hurt when it happened. I wanted to cry for my poor Sem and Maggie. But love prevails and all that. So sweet. Makes me want to scream, but in a good way.
Okay I’m stopping now because I’m getting antsy about reading the next book. But pleassseeeee read this book. Peace, love, and sweet psychopaths. xoxoxoxo
September 15, 2022
"Fine, you're just abnormally large in every way. Happy now? Where I'm small, you're gigantic."
He pulls me into him and fiddles with my bowtie.
"But that's okay, right? We work, don't we?"
okay this one i actually liked. not the best but definitely got my interest. probably my last cora rose book for this series. there's something off, for me, about her writing style and i just couldn't pinpoint exactly what those are. books are fun but lacks... the ugh moment? feels like a filler book that got dragged heavily. idk idk i might be reaching at this point. picked this one up bc honestly this is the only interesting out of all the books she popped out.
May 26, 2022
Initial reaction :
“Show me it hard,” Sem says, his eyes on my dick, his cheeks slightly pink.
“Whatever, perv. You just want to watch me jerk off. That it?”
We should…should probably compare it to mine. See how much bigger I am.”
I’m done. This book is ridiculous
Final : this was book was just okay. It barely scraped by the three stars for me. Ngl, it kind of bored
“Show me it hard,” Sem says, his eyes on my dick, his cheeks slightly pink.
“Whatever, perv. You just want to watch me jerk off. That it?”
We should…should probably compare it to mine. See how much bigger I am.”
I’m done. This book is ridiculous
Final : this was book was just okay. It barely scraped by the three stars for me. Ngl, it kind of bored
January 8, 2023
2.5⭐️
The first 50 pages were the hardest to get through. They had sex 3 times within the first 50 pages and I actually almost DNF’ed. We already got too many sex scenes from “Whit” so going into this and getting pretty much the same thing threw me off (and the whole “I bet you can’t take me” and “I bet I can take you” was ridiculous to me). However, once I got past that it got a little better for me. I was loving how possessive Sem was and how he’d always carry Magnus around like omgggg so freaking cute 😍. But the boredom set in quite quick after the halfway mark. I’m actually not sure what it was about this book but I could not connect with it or the characters. There was again way too many sex scenes and not enough substance from the characters. I don’t know if it’s just me but Sem literally breaking into Magnus’s house in the beginning creeped me tf out. Like before they really even knew each other?? And the stalking?? I did not find that cute at all. Even when reading Magnus and Sem’s set up in “Whit” didn’t catch my attention at all. So going into this with that and then what those 50 pages were like for me made it very hard to enjoy it unfortunately. I think the main reason I got through this book was because I loved the set up for August and Emery! Enemies to lovers, step brothers, tattooed main character, YES PLEASE! Sem playing with those kids was hella cute though! I think that was my favorite scene out of the whole book.
Anyway, this book didn’t work for me I still think they were cute, especially with their size difference. You get that possessiveness and the touch him and you die vibes. Almost quite literally lol.
The first 50 pages were the hardest to get through. They had sex 3 times within the first 50 pages and I actually almost DNF’ed. We already got too many sex scenes from “Whit” so going into this and getting pretty much the same thing threw me off (and the whole “I bet you can’t take me” and “I bet I can take you” was ridiculous to me). However, once I got past that it got a little better for me. I was loving how possessive Sem was and how he’d always carry Magnus around like omgggg so freaking cute 😍. But the boredom set in quite quick after the halfway mark. I’m actually not sure what it was about this book but I could not connect with it or the characters. There was again way too many sex scenes and not enough substance from the characters. I don’t know if it’s just me but Sem literally breaking into Magnus’s house in the beginning creeped me tf out. Like before they really even knew each other?? And the stalking?? I did not find that cute at all. Even when reading Magnus and Sem’s set up in “Whit” didn’t catch my attention at all. So going into this with that and then what those 50 pages were like for me made it very hard to enjoy it unfortunately. I think the main reason I got through this book was because I loved the set up for August and Emery! Enemies to lovers, step brothers, tattooed main character, YES PLEASE! Sem playing with those kids was hella cute though! I think that was my favorite scene out of the whole book.
Anyway, this book didn’t work for me I still think they were cute, especially with their size difference. You get that possessiveness and the touch him and you die vibes. Almost quite literally lol.
July 12, 2022
Cora Rose gets better with every book - I definitely loved the dynamics between Magnus and Sem
If not for the fact that I’ve read it after book 3, I’d probably have given it 5 stars, but as it was, Emery and August still have the most space in my heart.
Book 1 is about Whit and Caleb, and as you might remember, i had to get used to the totally OTT story before it sucked me in and I devoured it. Here it’s all about (tiny) Magnus and Sem, one of Caleb‘s brothers, who started stalking Magnus at the end of book 1.
And yes, the story is OTT again, but it’s so lighthearted, and the dynamics between tiny, chatty Mag and broody Sem are so cute, you’ll definitely fall in love with them.
It’s hot, funny, mostly drama free (although this author seems to have a thing for a tiny bit of break-up-drama at around 90%), and a great book to take your mind off real life, especially because it IS very obviously not very realistic (at least I can’t really imagine a family like Sem‘s actually existing in real life, but who knows…)
What I really loved: Mag isn’t a pushover despite (or because) of his size and his upbringing, and I’d even say that if I had to choose, I’d say he’s the more “dominant” part in their relationship, despite Sem’s initial stalking.
Would I recommend this book? Definitely, but you should read „Whit“ before this l one, because otherwise some things won’t make sense to you.
If not for the fact that I’ve read it after book 3, I’d probably have given it 5 stars, but as it was, Emery and August still have the most space in my heart.
Book 1 is about Whit and Caleb, and as you might remember, i had to get used to the totally OTT story before it sucked me in and I devoured it. Here it’s all about (tiny) Magnus and Sem, one of Caleb‘s brothers, who started stalking Magnus at the end of book 1.
And yes, the story is OTT again, but it’s so lighthearted, and the dynamics between tiny, chatty Mag and broody Sem are so cute, you’ll definitely fall in love with them.
It’s hot, funny, mostly drama free (although this author seems to have a thing for a tiny bit of break-up-drama at around 90%), and a great book to take your mind off real life, especially because it IS very obviously not very realistic (at least I can’t really imagine a family like Sem‘s actually existing in real life, but who knows…)
What I really loved: Mag isn’t a pushover despite (or because) of his size and his upbringing, and I’d even say that if I had to choose, I’d say he’s the more “dominant” part in their relationship, despite Sem’s initial stalking.
Would I recommend this book? Definitely, but you should read „Whit“ before this l one, because otherwise some things won’t make sense to you.
August 17, 2022
DNF-40%
No…No….No, I am not ready to accept that it's me. Because possessive-obsessive MCs are totally my thing. And, don't even get me started on my love for Dirty talk and feminization kinks. And, my mania with anything related to AH's books confirms everything I have to ever say about being okay with Every fucking thing, if written well.
So, no it's not me…. it's this stupid book. I should have guessed it when I skipped back to back 3 smut scenes within 50 pages. But, no, I thought of giving this author a fair try. Now guess what, I am never thinking of reading anything else by the author in near future and definitely gonna take my case to @Rebecca for the suggestion, "You may like it, Preeti". 😭😡 👿
No…No….No, I am not ready to accept that it's me. Because possessive-obsessive MCs are totally my thing. And, don't even get me started on my love for Dirty talk and feminization kinks. And, my mania with anything related to AH's books confirms everything I have to ever say about being okay with Every fucking thing, if written well.
So, no it's not me…. it's this stupid book. I should have guessed it when I skipped back to back 3 smut scenes within 50 pages. But, no, I thought of giving this author a fair try. Now guess what, I am never thinking of reading anything else by the author in near future and definitely gonna take my case to @Rebecca for the suggestion, "You may like it, Preeti". 😭😡 👿
September 12, 2024
reread: 27/8/22
i love this book so much. i love crazy ass characters. but when they are both crazy ass characters??? paradise.
sem is one of the best characters ever. he’s perfect and a slightly psycho giant but also so sweet and he BLUSHES a lot and he needs a lot of love.
maybe in a few years i will have the brain power to write a decent review without rambling about sem, but today it’s not the day.
original review:
i want to say that more than a 5 stars story, these are 5+ stars characters.
i am in love with sem. seriously. kind of psychopath amazing giant.
i love this book so much. i love crazy ass characters. but when they are both crazy ass characters??? paradise.
sem is one of the best characters ever. he’s perfect and a slightly psycho giant but also so sweet and he BLUSHES a lot and he needs a lot of love.
maybe in a few years i will have the brain power to write a decent review without rambling about sem, but today it’s not the day.
original review:
i want to say that more than a 5 stars story, these are 5+ stars characters.
i am in love with sem. seriously. kind of psychopath amazing giant.
May 20, 2022
BRUH.
The stalking
The dares
The betting
The obsession
GAHHHH THE LOVE BEYWEEN SEM AND MAGNUS
MY HEART, BE STILL ❤️🔥❤️🔥
If you liked whit you’ll love this! It’s like 1000x hotter, imho 😏
And sem is just so friggin wholesome and cute and Maggie is just ~such~ a muse.
Literally devoured this in less than 24 hours bc I have no chill when it comes to Cora Rose’s romances.
Just go read it.
The stalking
The dares
The betting
The obsession
GAHHHH THE LOVE BEYWEEN SEM AND MAGNUS
MY HEART, BE STILL ❤️🔥❤️🔥
If you liked whit you’ll love this! It’s like 1000x hotter, imho 😏
And sem is just so friggin wholesome and cute and Maggie is just ~such~ a muse.
Literally devoured this in less than 24 hours bc I have no chill when it comes to Cora Rose’s romances.
Just go read it.
May 30, 2022
I loved this so much!! Where the hell can I find a Sem? Can someone tell me, please? Because this man was EVERYTHING!! The stalking, the possessiveness, the need to protect, and, above all, the need to treat Magnus like he was the the most precious thing in the world... my heart couldn't take it. Yeah, the dares in the beginning were a little silly but I don't care. This author knows how to tell an amazing story. 5 stars (and give me the next story now!)
May 20, 2022
Omg sem's possessiveness is 🔥🔥
The couple develops in a very natural way and intrigues the reader. Well done!
The couple develops in a very natural way and intrigues the reader. Well done!
May 22, 2022
Cora Rose came out of the left field and hit a home run—First Whit and Now Sem. The author is a one-click author for me.
Sem was obsessed when he first laid his eyes on Magnus, Aka his Maggie. (Yes, I loved it when he called him Maggie. ) I love his stalkiest ways. He may be a body like a Viking, but he is loyal with a heart of gold.
Magnus is educated, flamboyant, and one hell of a guy. His family is far from supportive, and it killed me how they treated him. I loved how Sem acted towards his family. It was a good laugh.
As much as they are complete opposites, they fit so well together. Let’s not forget they are hot AF 🥵
“Your pretty little ass was made for my cock. It’s begging for it. Will you beg me for it too, Maggie?” A whimper escapes me as he rolls his hips up and hits that spot just right. “Yes! More, please. Fuck.” “That’s my good boy,” he grunts, and I moan uncontrollably at those words.
Sem was obsessed when he first laid his eyes on Magnus, Aka his Maggie. (Yes, I loved it when he called him Maggie. ) I love his stalkiest ways. He may be a body like a Viking, but he is loyal with a heart of gold.
Magnus is educated, flamboyant, and one hell of a guy. His family is far from supportive, and it killed me how they treated him. I loved how Sem acted towards his family. It was a good laugh.
As much as they are complete opposites, they fit so well together. Let’s not forget they are hot AF 🥵
“Your pretty little ass was made for my cock. It’s begging for it. Will you beg me for it too, Maggie?” A whimper escapes me as he rolls his hips up and hits that spot just right. “Yes! More, please. Fuck.” “That’s my good boy,” he grunts, and I moan uncontrollably at those words.
Sem left me wanting my more same. The ending was perfect. If you like a fantastic steamy MM romance, what are you waiting for? Run to Amazon. I don't think you will be disappointed.
February 6, 2024
Squealing!
Actual rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ / 5
Spice rating: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ / 5
Audio rating: Liam DiCosimo - 🎧🎧🎧🎧🎧 / 5 🥵
Theme Song: 🎶Theory of a Deadman - Angel🎶
I don't even know where to start. Was this perfect storytelling?
No.
Was the premise a little fuzzy in this book as a stand alone?
Yes. But.
If you have read Whit, you would have already met Sem and Maggie. And therefore, already would know of the dynamic they have. Now, were the first chapters a little OTT? Sure. But, listen, when you have the quiet brooding type like Sem just quietly laying all the love on you in stages, i don't know what kind of sociopath you must be to not fall completely, head over heels in love with him.
Sem meets Maggie and is obsessed with him. Maggie (Magnus) is... something else. As open and unashamed of his sexuality he is around his friends, as closeted and insecure he is with his family. Sem's (and Caleb's) family (you meet them in Whit first) is totally blind to the whole gay issue. Which makes for incredibly fun read, and takes a lot of the angst away. I think they are supposed to be rednecks, but they certainly don't carry any of the prejudices you expect them to have.
⚠️Some light spoilers below⚠️
Sem is a brute, and an angel. He is insecure, dyslexic, big and gorgeous. Mags is little, book smart and bratty. Together they are perfect "opposites attract". I can't remember the last time i put my hand on my heart while reading so often in one book. These boys had me howling, because:
🥹 Sem rips Maggie's clothes (he dresses 'manly' for his family because they don't accept his queerness) the F to shreds, and makes him paint his nails ❤️🔥
🥹 Maggie finds out about Sem's dyslexia and his dislike for reading, so he reads to him. Over the phone, before going to bed ❤️🔥❤️🔥
🥹 Sem carries Mags EVERYWHERE. Maggie loves it. ❤️🔥❤️🔥❤️🔥
Basically, there is just nothing not to love about these 2.
They are adorable, and Cora made me melt into a puddle over and over again.
PS: i listned to the audio version, and while Liam DiCosimo's voice always just does it for me, Alexander Cendese and I are not on best of terms. His delivery is humorous, but not sexy, at least not when he reads for Maggie (or Caleb, for that matter).
PPS: final note: this book should really be read as part of the series, so add the series to your TBR, and start with Whit.
Actual rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ / 5
Spice rating: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ / 5
Audio rating: Liam DiCosimo - 🎧🎧🎧🎧🎧 / 5 🥵
Theme Song: 🎶Theory of a Deadman - Angel🎶
I don't even know where to start. Was this perfect storytelling?
No.
Was the premise a little fuzzy in this book as a stand alone?
Yes. But.
If you have read Whit, you would have already met Sem and Maggie. And therefore, already would know of the dynamic they have. Now, were the first chapters a little OTT? Sure. But, listen, when you have the quiet brooding type like Sem just quietly laying all the love on you in stages, i don't know what kind of sociopath you must be to not fall completely, head over heels in love with him.
Sem meets Maggie and is obsessed with him. Maggie (Magnus) is... something else. As open and unashamed of his sexuality he is around his friends, as closeted and insecure he is with his family. Sem's (and Caleb's) family (you meet them in Whit first) is totally blind to the whole gay issue. Which makes for incredibly fun read, and takes a lot of the angst away. I think they are supposed to be rednecks, but they certainly don't carry any of the prejudices you expect them to have.
⚠️Some light spoilers below⚠️
Sem is a brute, and an angel. He is insecure, dyslexic, big and gorgeous. Mags is little, book smart and bratty. Together they are perfect "opposites attract". I can't remember the last time i put my hand on my heart while reading so often in one book. These boys had me howling, because:
🥹 Sem rips Maggie's clothes (he dresses 'manly' for his family because they don't accept his queerness) the F to shreds, and makes him paint his nails ❤️🔥
🥹 Maggie finds out about Sem's dyslexia and his dislike for reading, so he reads to him. Over the phone, before going to bed ❤️🔥❤️🔥
🥹 Sem carries Mags EVERYWHERE. Maggie loves it. ❤️🔥❤️🔥❤️🔥
Basically, there is just nothing not to love about these 2.
They are adorable, and Cora made me melt into a puddle over and over again.
PS: i listned to the audio version, and while Liam DiCosimo's voice always just does it for me, Alexander Cendese and I are not on best of terms. His delivery is humorous, but not sexy, at least not when he reads for Maggie (or Caleb, for that matter).
PPS: final note: this book should really be read as part of the series, so add the series to your TBR, and start with Whit.
December 15, 2022
Truth to be told, I wasn't a big fan of "Whit". I just didn't vibe with that book. But I am so so glad that decided to continue with the series because "Sem" was pretty incredible. Hell! Whom I even kidding? It was absolutely Amazing. I practically devoured this book, in a matter of mere hours.
"Sem" was as ridiculous as "Whit". But I loved that. Guess these impulsive boys have grew up on me. A huge smile was plastered on my face while I was reading this book. I just couldn't stop smiling. It was funny, hilarious and very entertaining. The romance was swoony and hot. The smut scenes were well written. But most of all, I loved the characters. Sem and Magnus were perfect together; definitely made for each other. The beginning and ending were well done too. The epilogue had my heart bounce with endless joy. Last time, I had complained how 'out of blue' some parts of "Whit" felt. This time, I have no complaints. Cora Rose totally nailed it!
I never thought I would enjoy a stalker romance. But apparently I did.
I never imagined to fall in love with with a possessive, cave-man hero. That happened too...
Can't wait to read August and Emery's story. When will it come out??
"Sem" was as ridiculous as "Whit". But I loved that. Guess these impulsive boys have grew up on me. A huge smile was plastered on my face while I was reading this book. I just couldn't stop smiling. It was funny, hilarious and very entertaining. The romance was swoony and hot. The smut scenes were well written. But most of all, I loved the characters. Sem and Magnus were perfect together; definitely made for each other. The beginning and ending were well done too. The epilogue had my heart bounce with endless joy. Last time, I had complained how 'out of blue' some parts of "Whit" felt. This time, I have no complaints. Cora Rose totally nailed it!
I never thought I would enjoy a stalker romance. But apparently I did.
I never imagined to fall in love with with a possessive, cave-man hero. That happened too...
Can't wait to read August and Emery's story. When will it come out??
“Fine, you’re just abnormally large in every way. Happy now? Where I’m small, you’re gigantic.”
He pulls me into him and fiddles with my bowtie. “But that’s okay, right? We work, don’t we?”
“Oh, Sem. You have no idea how well we work. We fit together like puzzle pieces.”
And then I pull him down for a long and dirty kiss.
January 24, 2024
Re-read January 23, 2024 💜💜💜
Listened to the audio book again on September 13, 2023. I still love Sem.💜
Listened to the audio book April 14, 2023
Loved it
Re-read February 18,2023
I think I might be a little in love with Sem. I really enjoyed this book a lot more than the first one. Mag and Sem are truly one of a kind and I loved them together. I'm definitely going to read the next book.
Listened to the audio book again on September 13, 2023. I still love Sem.💜
Listened to the audio book April 14, 2023
Loved it
Re-read February 18,2023
I think I might be a little in love with Sem. I really enjoyed this book a lot more than the first one. Mag and Sem are truly one of a kind and I loved them together. I'm definitely going to read the next book.
May 29, 2022
⭐︎
4.25 stars rounded down!
⭐︎
Another strong installment from this new author.
This time we get Sem, Caleb's cousin from the first book and Magnus, Whit and then Caleb's friend from the first book.
Sem had thought he was straight, until he saw Magnus. Ever since he met him, he hasn't been able to get him out of his mind, and he's become a little obsessed. Not being able to take his eyes off him, drawing him all the time, stalking him, and eventually breaking into his apartment...
And you'd think all that would be creepy, and if Magnus hadn't liked it, it would have been. But...this author managed to not make Sem seem like a creep for it, and actually he's just a big softie underneath it all.
Magnus takes a little more time to start to see that, for understandable reasons. Sem is just this big, hulking guy who keeps staring at him and kinda stalking him and all that, and he doesn't talk much.
But once Sem "dares" Magnus to be able to fit all of his dick - which is very big - inside of him, and Magnus can't help but take him up on that dare...things start to change. Because yes, size difference! Magnus is a petite guy, and Sem is a very big guy, so they have mismatched sizes.
But you bet your ass that Magnus is out to prove Sem wrong...and along the way, as they have sex more and more, the more Magnus falls for Sem and can't deny what he's been trying so hard to deny...that he's attracted to Sem and he wants him and is intrigued by him as well.
Overall I adored this. Sem was very sweet and protective of Magnus, and Magnus loved it, and once he started to see how amazing Sem was, he did all he could to make sure Sem knew that, and saw what Magnus sees.
I loved the size difference, like with how Sem would carry Magnus everywhere, because he was just so small and he could easily do it. I loved how Sem stood up for and protected Magnus.
My only gripes are kind of similar to the first one. It took a bit for me for the chemistry to come through with these two - it did soon enough and then I started to love these two together. But after first I wasn't quite all the way there - and the drama at the end felt a tad manufactured, and then it was pretty easily resolved as well, so that lent to it feeling manufactured.
The ending was also a tad rushed between these two as well, even more rushed than Caleb and Whit were.
But the ending epilogue was very sweet and I did love how sweet and great these two were together.
Still, I definitely recommend this and the first book in this series. While they could be improved and made stronger, they're still strong installments with couples I came to adore.
And now I can't wait for the next one in the series about August, Magnus' best friend, and Emery, his soon-to-be stepbrother. What we get of their dynamic in this is some definite enemies-to-lovers vibes, perhaps? I'm excited for it and can't wait!
Two thumbs up from me for this second installment👍
Another strong installment from this new author.
This time we get Sem, Caleb's cousin from the first book and Magnus, Whit and then Caleb's friend from the first book.
Sem had thought he was straight, until he saw Magnus. Ever since he met him, he hasn't been able to get him out of his mind, and he's become a little obsessed. Not being able to take his eyes off him, drawing him all the time, stalking him, and eventually breaking into his apartment...
And you'd think all that would be creepy, and if Magnus hadn't liked it, it would have been. But...this author managed to not make Sem seem like a creep for it, and actually he's just a big softie underneath it all.
Magnus takes a little more time to start to see that, for understandable reasons. Sem is just this big, hulking guy who keeps staring at him and kinda stalking him and all that, and he doesn't talk much.
But once Sem "dares" Magnus to be able to fit all of his dick - which is very big - inside of him, and Magnus can't help but take him up on that dare...things start to change. Because yes, size difference! Magnus is a petite guy, and Sem is a very big guy, so they have mismatched sizes.
But you bet your ass that Magnus is out to prove Sem wrong...and along the way, as they have sex more and more, the more Magnus falls for Sem and can't deny what he's been trying so hard to deny...that he's attracted to Sem and he wants him and is intrigued by him as well.
Overall I adored this. Sem was very sweet and protective of Magnus, and Magnus loved it, and once he started to see how amazing Sem was, he did all he could to make sure Sem knew that, and saw what Magnus sees.
I loved the size difference, like with how Sem would carry Magnus everywhere, because he was just so small and he could easily do it. I loved how Sem stood up for and protected Magnus.
My only gripes are kind of similar to the first one. It took a bit for me for the chemistry to come through with these two - it did soon enough and then I started to love these two together. But after first I wasn't quite all the way there - and the drama at the end felt a tad manufactured, and then it was pretty easily resolved as well, so that lent to it feeling manufactured.
The ending was also a tad rushed between these two as well, even more rushed than Caleb and Whit were.
But the ending epilogue was very sweet and I did love how sweet and great these two were together.
Still, I definitely recommend this and the first book in this series. While they could be improved and made stronger, they're still strong installments with couples I came to adore.
And now I can't wait for the next one in the series about August, Magnus' best friend, and Emery, his soon-to-be stepbrother. What we get of their dynamic in this is some definite enemies-to-lovers vibes, perhaps? I'm excited for it and can't wait!
Two thumbs up from me for this second installment👍
July 17, 2022
4.25 stars
tw: bullying, homophobia, violence
“I watch that fucker touch Maggie, and I want to rip his arm off. But of course, I don’t because that would be, well, physically impossible. But I still envision it as I chase the kids around.
Me walking up and tugging dream guy’s arms clean off.
Bashing his skull in with the bloody stump.
Throwing Maggie over my shoulder and carrying him home.
Fucking him against the wall.”
So you know how you open a bag of chips and once you start eating you can’t stop until they’re all gone? But then at the end you’re like umm where did they all go? Well that’s what it felt like reading Sem. It was addictive as hell and went really fast, but if you ask me for my thoughts a few days later I’d be hard-pressed to tell you anything meaningful about it.
So the plot is ridiculous. Like absolutely bonkers! I mean the victim of a stalker, Magnus, starts fucking his stalker, Sem, because of the stalker’s dare that he can’t handle his huge dick. Okay…and once it happens Magnus keeps on falling on Sem’s dick because Sem keeps upping the ante. Needless to say, the relationship starts off in a “suspend your disbelief” kind of way, but then somehow our victim catches feelings for this weird psycho over time. And Sem is downright weird folks. He’s hot, humongous, and scary looking; he’s also obsessive and possessive. Sem keeps breaking into Magnus’s house where he makes himself at home. But hey their relationship works so who am I to judge?
Their romance features several tropes I’m a sucker for: class differences, hurt/comfort, and gay-for-you. Sem is a working class guy who works at a scrapyard. He sees Magnus one night and immediately becomes obsessed with him. He’s never been attracted to a guy before and doesn’t understand why he’s so fascinated with Magnus, but all he knows is that he can’t stay away from him. But Sem doesn’t think he’s good enough for Magnus who is a teacher-in-training. It also doesn’t help that Magnus announces that his ideal guy is educated, witty, and cultured.
Magnus soon realizes, however, that what he really wants might be staring him right in the face when he sees: the way Sem is so great with kids; how Sem is so honest about his feelings for him; and the way he worships him and won’t let anyone put him down. Is there something wrong with me because I love Sem’s OTT protectiveness—you know how he threatens to kill Magnus’s family when they bully him? So even though Sem and Magnus are both hurting, they manage to find solace and affirmation in each other. And did I mention that they have really hot sex??
“I never felt the urge to have sex with a man before. When I saw Maggie for the first time, though, it was like something just clicked in my brain. I wanted him. I needed him.”
“Hey. Sem. Eyes on me.”
Those blue irises met mine, and I hold his gaze. “I need you to understand this. “You’re enough, Sem. You’re enough.” I say softly, and he blinks once before his mouth crashes down onto mine.”
tw: bullying, homophobia, violence
“I watch that fucker touch Maggie, and I want to rip his arm off. But of course, I don’t because that would be, well, physically impossible. But I still envision it as I chase the kids around.
Me walking up and tugging dream guy’s arms clean off.
Bashing his skull in with the bloody stump.
Throwing Maggie over my shoulder and carrying him home.
Fucking him against the wall.”
So you know how you open a bag of chips and once you start eating you can’t stop until they’re all gone? But then at the end you’re like umm where did they all go? Well that’s what it felt like reading Sem. It was addictive as hell and went really fast, but if you ask me for my thoughts a few days later I’d be hard-pressed to tell you anything meaningful about it.
So the plot is ridiculous. Like absolutely bonkers! I mean the victim of a stalker, Magnus, starts fucking his stalker, Sem, because of the stalker’s dare that he can’t handle his huge dick. Okay…and once it happens Magnus keeps on falling on Sem’s dick because Sem keeps upping the ante. Needless to say, the relationship starts off in a “suspend your disbelief” kind of way, but then somehow our victim catches feelings for this weird psycho over time. And Sem is downright weird folks. He’s hot, humongous, and scary looking; he’s also obsessive and possessive. Sem keeps breaking into Magnus’s house where he makes himself at home. But hey their relationship works so who am I to judge?
Their romance features several tropes I’m a sucker for: class differences, hurt/comfort, and gay-for-you. Sem is a working class guy who works at a scrapyard. He sees Magnus one night and immediately becomes obsessed with him. He’s never been attracted to a guy before and doesn’t understand why he’s so fascinated with Magnus, but all he knows is that he can’t stay away from him. But Sem doesn’t think he’s good enough for Magnus who is a teacher-in-training. It also doesn’t help that Magnus announces that his ideal guy is educated, witty, and cultured.
Magnus soon realizes, however, that what he really wants might be staring him right in the face when he sees: the way Sem is so great with kids; how Sem is so honest about his feelings for him; and the way he worships him and won’t let anyone put him down. Is there something wrong with me because I love Sem’s OTT protectiveness—you know how he threatens to kill Magnus’s family when they bully him? So even though Sem and Magnus are both hurting, they manage to find solace and affirmation in each other. And did I mention that they have really hot sex??
“I never felt the urge to have sex with a man before. When I saw Maggie for the first time, though, it was like something just clicked in my brain. I wanted him. I needed him.”
“Hey. Sem. Eyes on me.”
Those blue irises met mine, and I hold his gaze. “I need you to understand this. “You’re enough, Sem. You’re enough.” I say softly, and he blinks once before his mouth crashes down onto mine.”
September 3, 2023
Book safety, content warnings, and tropes & tags down below.
I want to wrap my hands around that thick neck and squeeze. I doubt I’d be able to span its circumference, but I’d sure as hell try. I’m nothing if not an overachiever.
Not that there was ever any doubt, but I loved Sem. It’s perfectly batshit crazy. Maggie is perfect and matches Sem’s crazy way better than most people think, and there’s way more sides to Sem’s character than you’d think. I laughed, swooned, fanned myself, and cried. I think that’s probably a good sign.
“He’s everywhere. Everywhere! I should have never accepted that ride home from him. That was a huge mistake. I’m never going to escape him now. I’m going to be ninety years old, and Sem will be lurking around the backyard of my senior care facility.”
I don’t really have tons to say. I have the same problem here as I did with Whit: I honest to god couldn’t tell you which main character I like the most. They’re both fantastic.
Sem’s a lot of things, but I know he won’t intentionally hurt me. He can apparently irritate me to death, though.
Very mild spoiler alert: I will say, I was really disappointed when the scene where Sem bottoms for the first time was sort of fade to black. Why cut that short? I wanted the whole scene, lol.
“I’m whatever he wants me to be. And if you talk shit about him, make him feel anything other than fucking perfect, I’ll murder you both. No one will ever find the bodies. I guarantee it.”
Blanket spoiler warning ⬇️
⚠️ Tropes & tags ⚠️
Mild friendly stalking
Size difference
Dyslexia rep
MC carried everywhere
Opposites attract
Unconventional relationship start
Bisexual awakening
Size queen
“I bet you can’t” (famous last words)
Crop tops
⚠️⚠️ Content warning ⚠️⚠️
Explicit sexual content
Bullying
Homophobia
Homophobic slurs
Violence
Smaller injuries
⚠️⚠️⚠️ Book safety ⚠️⚠️⚠️
Cheating: No
OM drama: Yes. One MC tries to convince himself he likes someone else. Nothing ever happens between them.
Third-act breakup: Yes
POV: 1st person, dual POV
Strict roles or versatile: Versatile
“I’d do pretty much anything you ask, Maggie.” I reach up and press a kiss to his cheek, and the tips of his ears turn pink. Fucking adorable. This big psychopath blushing because I kissed him.
“Life isn’t worth living unless you’ve ended up in jail at least once for doing something fun.” “That’s not good advice, Sem. […]”
I want to wrap my hands around that thick neck and squeeze. I doubt I’d be able to span its circumference, but I’d sure as hell try. I’m nothing if not an overachiever.
Not that there was ever any doubt, but I loved Sem. It’s perfectly batshit crazy. Maggie is perfect and matches Sem’s crazy way better than most people think, and there’s way more sides to Sem’s character than you’d think. I laughed, swooned, fanned myself, and cried. I think that’s probably a good sign.
“He’s everywhere. Everywhere! I should have never accepted that ride home from him. That was a huge mistake. I’m never going to escape him now. I’m going to be ninety years old, and Sem will be lurking around the backyard of my senior care facility.”
I don’t really have tons to say. I have the same problem here as I did with Whit: I honest to god couldn’t tell you which main character I like the most. They’re both fantastic.
Sem’s a lot of things, but I know he won’t intentionally hurt me. He can apparently irritate me to death, though.
Very mild spoiler alert: I will say, I was really disappointed when the scene where Sem bottoms for the first time was sort of fade to black. Why cut that short? I wanted the whole scene, lol.
“I’m whatever he wants me to be. And if you talk shit about him, make him feel anything other than fucking perfect, I’ll murder you both. No one will ever find the bodies. I guarantee it.”
Blanket spoiler warning ⬇️
⚠️ Tropes & tags ⚠️
Mild friendly stalking
Size difference
Dyslexia rep
MC carried everywhere
Opposites attract
Unconventional relationship start
Bisexual awakening
Size queen
“I bet you can’t” (famous last words)
Crop tops
⚠️⚠️ Content warning ⚠️⚠️
Explicit sexual content
Bullying
Homophobia
Homophobic slurs
Violence
Smaller injuries
⚠️⚠️⚠️ Book safety ⚠️⚠️⚠️
Cheating: No
OM drama: Yes. One MC tries to convince himself he likes someone else. Nothing ever happens between them.
Third-act breakup: Yes
POV: 1st person, dual POV
Strict roles or versatile: Versatile
“I’d do pretty much anything you ask, Maggie.” I reach up and press a kiss to his cheek, and the tips of his ears turn pink. Fucking adorable. This big psychopath blushing because I kissed him.
“Life isn’t worth living unless you’ve ended up in jail at least once for doing something fun.” “That’s not good advice, Sem. […]”
May 22, 2022
5 bright and shiny stars - Where did Cora Rose come from and what took her so long to get here? I loved the sheer audacity of Whit, but this book cranked it up to the next level and I was so there for it. I mean, zip ties, guns, explosives, overly-sharpened knives, rope and not-so-subtle threats to make people disappear with no mob bosses or cartel leaders in sight? Um, yes please and thank you. Add to that a ridiculous bet that had me simultaneously laughing and picking my jaw up off the floor and two MC's that I couldn't help but care immensely for and this book quickly became the highlight of my entire week.
I worried at first that Sem would come across as Caleb Part 2, but that worry was quickly squashed. There were similarities, but, unlike Caleb, Sem was quiet and always paying attention, taking in details with an artist's eye. I loved his curiosity and how he rarely let a question rest on his tongue before it slipped out of his mouth. He wasn't great at expressing his emotions, but he felt them very deeply. He was so protective over Magnus, but it never seemed suffocating. He put Magnus first and wanted him safe and happy, even if it was to the detriment of his own happiness.
I loved Magnus in the first book. He seemed so docile at first, but that boy had a fierceness in him born from being called small and weak and "too feminine" all of his life. There were so many times in this book where I thought Magnus was about to make a decision that would make me want to slap his face off and then he didn't and I adored him for it. He owned up to mistakes and corrected his missteps. He acknowledged Sem's insecurities without making him feel stupid for having them. And the way he not only accepted but craved Sem's specific brand of crazy was not only surprising but made me like him even more.
I could go on and on about what I loved about this book (why cuddle when you can climb?), but everyone should experience it for themselves. I'm so excited for August and Emery's story next. There are a lot of tropes to unpack between those two.
I worried at first that Sem would come across as Caleb Part 2, but that worry was quickly squashed. There were similarities, but, unlike Caleb, Sem was quiet and always paying attention, taking in details with an artist's eye. I loved his curiosity and how he rarely let a question rest on his tongue before it slipped out of his mouth. He wasn't great at expressing his emotions, but he felt them very deeply. He was so protective over Magnus, but it never seemed suffocating. He put Magnus first and wanted him safe and happy, even if it was to the detriment of his own happiness.
I loved Magnus in the first book. He seemed so docile at first, but that boy had a fierceness in him born from being called small and weak and "too feminine" all of his life. There were so many times in this book where I thought Magnus was about to make a decision that would make me want to slap his face off and then he didn't and I adored him for it. He owned up to mistakes and corrected his missteps. He acknowledged Sem's insecurities without making him feel stupid for having them. And the way he not only accepted but craved Sem's specific brand of crazy was not only surprising but made me like him even more.
I could go on and on about what I loved about this book (why cuddle when you can climb?), but everyone should experience it for themselves. I'm so excited for August and Emery's story next. There are a lot of tropes to unpack between those two.
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