What do you think?
Rate this book
Nerdy Dirty Valentine
A nerdy virgin professor wants a little dirty talk… but am I the right person to give it to him?
James assumed I was his bully in high school. In my drunken haze, I thought he was mine. We were both wrong. Starting over as tentative friends, I offer to help James with his dating techniques up until Valentine’s Day. I figure it can’t hurt. I’m sober and a proud firefighter, too busy to worry about romance. And James claims he only needs my help until he finds a real relationship. I don’t want to make a mistake or hurt him.
As February approaches, I find my long-buried crush on James resurfacing again. Only this time, I’m determined to do something about it. Will I have to let James go by Valentine’s Day or follow the feelings in my heart?
Note: Nerdy Dirty Valentine is sweet and naughty. It contains "practice dating" and friends-to-lovers tropes. For any mild triggers, please see a warning in the opening pages.
James assumed I was his bully in high school. In my drunken haze, I thought he was mine. We were both wrong. Starting over as tentative friends, I offer to help James with his dating techniques up until Valentine’s Day. I figure it can’t hurt. I’m sober and a proud firefighter, too busy to worry about romance. And James claims he only needs my help until he finds a real relationship. I don’t want to make a mistake or hurt him.
As February approaches, I find my long-buried crush on James resurfacing again. Only this time, I’m determined to do something about it. Will I have to let James go by Valentine’s Day or follow the feelings in my heart?
Note: Nerdy Dirty Valentine is sweet and naughty. It contains "practice dating" and friends-to-lovers tropes. For any mild triggers, please see a warning in the opening pages.
175 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 13, 2024
65 people are currently reading
160 people want to read
About the author
Skylar M. Cates
30 books299 followersSkylar M. Cates loves a good romance. She is happy to drink coffee, curl up with a good book, and not move all day. Her novels feature strong and passionate men. Skylar loves to craft stories where realistic characters are challenged with emotional situations. Although lately the laundry room is the farthest place she has visited, Skylar loves to chat with folks from all around the globe.
Please feel free to follow Skylar on other social media.
links:
https://twitter.com/SkylarMCates
https://www.facebook.com/skylar.cates
Newsletter:
http://eepurl.com/cxODzT
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 88 reviews
January 23, 2024
⭐️ 4 stars ⭐️
This was so cute. I love a good dating lessons trope.
Nerdy Dirty Valentine filled me with all those sweet, good feelings.
I loved the imperfections in the characters. They made them feel more real, and their HEA more heartwarming.
The spice was very yummy. The quote says it all.
It’s told only in Phin’s POV, which works for the story, but I would’ve liked to hear from James, too.
Other than that, I really enjoyed this adorable New Year’s - Valentine’s Day romance.
I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review.
CW and tropes(spoilers):
- Firefighter vs professor
- Friends to lovers
- Parent estrangement
- Grief and death of a parent (off page)
- Mentions of alcoholism
- Mentions of bullying
- Dating/sex lessons trope
- Virgin MC
- Virgin tops first
- Dirty talk 🔥
- Rimming
- 69
- Vers MCs
«A quiet certainty washed over me that happiness wasn’t out of reach. It was right in front of me.»
This was so cute. I love a good dating lessons trope.
Nerdy Dirty Valentine filled me with all those sweet, good feelings.
I loved the imperfections in the characters. They made them feel more real, and their HEA more heartwarming.
“If I’m bad, I won’t be allowed to come. Not until I’ve spread my thighs for you and you’ve stuck your cock deep inside me.” “Get naked for me. Do it now.”
The spice was very yummy. The quote says it all.
It’s told only in Phin’s POV, which works for the story, but I would’ve liked to hear from James, too.
Other than that, I really enjoyed this adorable New Year’s - Valentine’s Day romance.
“God, you’re so patient with me.” His voice was low with emotion. “That’s easy when somebody is worth it.”
I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review.
CW and tropes(spoilers):
- Firefighter vs professor
- Friends to lovers
- Parent estrangement
- Grief and death of a parent (off page)
- Mentions of alcoholism
- Mentions of bullying
- Dating/sex lessons trope
- Virgin MC
- Virgin tops first
- Dirty talk 🔥
- Rimming
- 69
- Vers MCs
January 24, 2024
Ok I took a chance with this new to me author and this was very underwhelming.
First the writing seemed a bit off and the dialogues a bit stiff at times.
Then the story is all over the place:
the 2 MC meet again after knowing each other briefly at school and once they are friends Phyn offers James to be his practice date to help him relax with guys... Great…except what happens is then Phyn asks James to redecorate his apartment!? Why? James is a nerdy professor but because he (and his dog) dress well Phyn says “hey you should take care of this for me!” What?! 🤔 I was so confused. And then it kind of becomes the reason why they meet each time. They don’t go on dates. James come over to redecorate and somehow Phyn ends up teaching him how to dance (because “Many gay men like to dance.”🙄)
Then they both struggle with their insecurities and a lot of the book is about Phyn’s alcoholism and his grief over his dad, how his mom was awful,…I get that it was in the TW but I didn’t think a book that short would have so much trauma. Especially for a valentine day read 😅
Apart from their internal problems there’s no big conflict between them. Their misunderstanding over their past (“You humiliated me/you bullied me”) is dealt with the first time they speak. When they go to a club the miscommunication is over in 2 pages…There’s no suspense when it comes to them and I admit that I was more invested in the firestation’s captain and Caleb’s relationship. Those 2 were cute AF and I wanted to know more about their story!
Overall I thought there was a big imbalance between the time they did spend together back at school (and their feelings for each other back then) and Phin’s sudden passion for James. We quickly get a “It had always been James. He was my key, too.”and I felt like it didn’t work. I would have understood for a ex best friends story but they were not close so it seems dramatic for them to be so intense so quickly.
With the title promising dirty talk I assumed it would be a very hot read but we don’t have the same vision of dirty talk as this was really mild (and sometimes really cringey to be honest) What bugged me is that it came out of nowhere so it didn’t feel natural at all. And Phyn immediately went with the assumption that James would top him which I thought was weird since it puts a lot of pressure on the shy/insecure guy. They had quite a few sex scenes but none that was memorable to me.
The tattoo removal scene felt stupid to me. First if you want it removed you don’t go to a tattoo parlor and have the process started right away. You have to go to a clinic to do that as it’s a different process than getting a tattoo. And storywise I think it was useless. I could have understood if he had wanted to cover it or maybe upgrade it with a nicer design but this whole storyline made me roll my eyes. This was just a stupid tattoo, nothing linked to trauma so it felt over the top to go get it removed like this.
Also this was the worst valentine day scene I’ve ever read. Food poisoning?🤮
Oh I get that the whole point was to be different and not have a typical valentine scene in a restaurant…but seriously vomiting your guts on valentine day and then deciding it’s the perfect timing to declare your love? Nope. And if Phyn spent so much vomiting during the evening I don’t think he would be up for sex in the morning either 🙄
Some sentences/words didn’t make any sense but since it was an ARC I’m going to assume it was some random typos that will get corrected before publication
I may sound harsh so I’ll leave you with some of the scenes that I found cringey so you can see if it’s for you:
“What do you want next?” “Your lips. Love them on me, babe. Kiss me, suck my skin.”
”“What’s next? Talk.” I swallowed hard and rolled over. In answer, I raised my ass in the air. “More of your hot little tongue. Right there. Spank my ass, own it. Eat it good, babe. With no mercy.””
“I’m going to grab that dick and rub it along mine.” I wrapped my fingers around it as I spoke.”
”“Gonna suck you now. Take that dick so hard into my mouth you might pass out. But don’t worry, babe, I’ll revive you. And my mouth is all yours to fuck me with.”
First the writing seemed a bit off and the dialogues a bit stiff at times.
Then the story is all over the place:
the 2 MC meet again after knowing each other briefly at school and once they are friends Phyn offers James to be his practice date to help him relax with guys... Great…except what happens is then Phyn asks James to redecorate his apartment!? Why? James is a nerdy professor but because he (and his dog) dress well Phyn says “hey you should take care of this for me!” What?! 🤔 I was so confused. And then it kind of becomes the reason why they meet each time. They don’t go on dates. James come over to redecorate and somehow Phyn ends up teaching him how to dance (because “Many gay men like to dance.”🙄)
Then they both struggle with their insecurities and a lot of the book is about Phyn’s alcoholism and his grief over his dad, how his mom was awful,…I get that it was in the TW but I didn’t think a book that short would have so much trauma. Especially for a valentine day read 😅
Apart from their internal problems there’s no big conflict between them. Their misunderstanding over their past (“You humiliated me/you bullied me”) is dealt with the first time they speak. When they go to a club the miscommunication is over in 2 pages…There’s no suspense when it comes to them and I admit that I was more invested in the firestation’s captain and Caleb’s relationship. Those 2 were cute AF and I wanted to know more about their story!
Overall I thought there was a big imbalance between the time they did spend together back at school (and their feelings for each other back then) and Phin’s sudden passion for James. We quickly get a “It had always been James. He was my key, too.”and I felt like it didn’t work. I would have understood for a ex best friends story but they were not close so it seems dramatic for them to be so intense so quickly.
With the title promising dirty talk I assumed it would be a very hot read but we don’t have the same vision of dirty talk as this was really mild (and sometimes really cringey to be honest) What bugged me is that it came out of nowhere so it didn’t feel natural at all. And Phyn immediately went with the assumption that James would top him which I thought was weird since it puts a lot of pressure on the shy/insecure guy. They had quite a few sex scenes but none that was memorable to me.
The tattoo removal scene felt stupid to me. First if you want it removed you don’t go to a tattoo parlor and have the process started right away. You have to go to a clinic to do that as it’s a different process than getting a tattoo. And storywise I think it was useless. I could have understood if he had wanted to cover it or maybe upgrade it with a nicer design but this whole storyline made me roll my eyes. This was just a stupid tattoo, nothing linked to trauma so it felt over the top to go get it removed like this.
Also this was the worst valentine day scene I’ve ever read. Food poisoning?🤮
Oh I get that the whole point was to be different and not have a typical valentine scene in a restaurant…but seriously vomiting your guts on valentine day and then deciding it’s the perfect timing to declare your love? Nope. And if Phyn spent so much vomiting during the evening I don’t think he would be up for sex in the morning either 🙄
Some sentences/words didn’t make any sense but since it was an ARC I’m going to assume it was some random typos that will get corrected before publication
I may sound harsh so I’ll leave you with some of the scenes that I found cringey so you can see if it’s for you:
“What do you want next?” “Your lips. Love them on me, babe. Kiss me, suck my skin.”
”“What’s next? Talk.” I swallowed hard and rolled over. In answer, I raised my ass in the air. “More of your hot little tongue. Right there. Spank my ass, own it. Eat it good, babe. With no mercy.””
“I’m going to grab that dick and rub it along mine.” I wrapped my fingers around it as I spoke.”
”“Gonna suck you now. Take that dick so hard into my mouth you might pass out. But don’t worry, babe, I’ll revive you. And my mouth is all yours to fuck me with.”
February 11, 2024
Cute story. Though I felt like James and Phin cleared up their "misunderstandings" too easily. I know Phin was going through stuff at the time when they went to school together, but James should have made him work a smidge harder for his forgiveness.
I love fake dating books. But this fell a little flat, though it was cute. Partially, I think it's from the fact that it's single POV and I enjoy dual POV romance better. I felt like I didn't really get to know James since everything was from Phineas' perspective.
It's king of weird that they were sleeping together while "rehearsing" for James to learn how to date so he could find "the real thing." Again, I think a lot of it is the fact that we don't know any of the story from James' perspective. Having that would have enriched the story a lot, in my opinion. About everything that was happening.
Of course they realize eventually that it is real between them. Again, cute story but it could have been a five star read if it had been fleshed out more with dual POV.
I love fake dating books. But this fell a little flat, though it was cute. Partially, I think it's from the fact that it's single POV and I enjoy dual POV romance better. I felt like I didn't really get to know James since everything was from Phineas' perspective.
It's king of weird that they were sleeping together while "rehearsing" for James to learn how to date so he could find "the real thing." Again, I think a lot of it is the fact that we don't know any of the story from James' perspective. Having that would have enriched the story a lot, in my opinion. About everything that was happening.
Of course they realize eventually that it is real between them. Again, cute story but it could have been a five star read if it had been fleshed out more with dual POV.
Read
February 13, 2024Former classmates, each with difficult high school memories meet up again as adults and the tale is told through a single POV - Phin's as he comes to grips with his part in James' difficult high school life and what he was going through at the same time.
As sweet as this book is. it brings up some difficult history, though once they get past that, their relationship takes a decidedly steamy turn.
While I had places where I really wanted James' POV, the overall story flowed well and I enjoyed watching them grow into their relationship.
As sweet as this book is. it brings up some difficult history, though once they get past that, their relationship takes a decidedly steamy turn.
While I had places where I really wanted James' POV, the overall story flowed well and I enjoyed watching them grow into their relationship.
January 22, 2024
Once the misunderstanding is cleared this story becomes a sweet, fun love story that makes you smile. The m/c’s both come with “past hurt warnings” but together they learn and grow into a couple that’s stronger for it. Stronger together is what these two are and it’s a wonderful thing. I voluntarily reviewed an arc of this book.
January 28, 2024
I wasn't expecting this to be so cute! 🥰
“We had been broken in the past, but we were here, now, still standing”
It's a low angst story. Phin and James have different issues from the past.
Phineas became an alcoholic after his dad died and James thinks he'll never be enough for anyone.
“Being with you makes me brave.”
Please tell me there will be a story about Caleb and Captain Smack 🛐
“We had been broken in the past, but we were here, now, still standing”
It's a low angst story. Phin and James have different issues from the past.
Phineas became an alcoholic after his dad died and James thinks he'll never be enough for anyone.
“Being with you makes me brave.”
Please tell me there will be a story about Caleb and Captain Smack 🛐
February 14, 2024
Sweet Story
I'm rounding this up from 3.5. This is a really sweet second chance story. James and Phin wound up being do good together. I do wish that we got to hear James's POV though.
I received an ARC and this is my unbiased opinion
I'm rounding this up from 3.5. This is a really sweet second chance story. James and Phin wound up being do good together. I do wish that we got to hear James's POV though.
I received an ARC and this is my unbiased opinion
February 14, 2024
3.5 Stars ⭐️
Very sweet and very sexy Valentine read. it's told in one person POV which isn't my favorite perspective in a story but to be honest, I hardly noticed. Both MC'S were a little broken but together they became whole. It was super sweet watching them overcome their issues by trusting each other in a way they'd never done before. Spice was definitely front and center in this read 🔥🔥🔥. I loved every bit of it. All in all this was a nice feel good book, I'd recommend!.
* I received an ARC from GRR, this is my open and honest review *
Very sweet and very sexy Valentine read. it's told in one person POV which isn't my favorite perspective in a story but to be honest, I hardly noticed. Both MC'S were a little broken but together they became whole. It was super sweet watching them overcome their issues by trusting each other in a way they'd never done before. Spice was definitely front and center in this read 🔥🔥🔥. I loved every bit of it. All in all this was a nice feel good book, I'd recommend!.
* I received an ARC from GRR, this is my open and honest review *
February 16, 2024
I absolutely adored this book. Phin is a recovering alcoholic and runs into his high school crush, James. They both have to work through previous prejudice/memories of high school mishaps and internal self doubt. Skylar did such a good job with the character and relationship development in such a short story. This was listed as a "fake dating" storyling, but I agree with James that it never read that way. I was hooked from the first page and couldn't put it down!
February 11, 2024
**First Time Reader**
So many feels with this bittersweet Valentine's romance. This is written in Phin's POV. I'm use to MCs switching off but this was refreshing. Phin and James having met when they were younger...became enemies due to misunderstandings and then meet up years later by chance...I just had to read their story. Their journey towards forgiveness, friendship then love was wonderful. Now I can't help but mention their dirty sexy talk put a little spice to the romance which kept it entertaining. This had a very lovely ending...very satisfied with their HEA. I really enjoyed my first with this author and will read more.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
So many feels with this bittersweet Valentine's romance. This is written in Phin's POV. I'm use to MCs switching off but this was refreshing. Phin and James having met when they were younger...became enemies due to misunderstandings and then meet up years later by chance...I just had to read their story. Their journey towards forgiveness, friendship then love was wonderful. Now I can't help but mention their dirty sexy talk put a little spice to the romance which kept it entertaining. This had a very lovely ending...very satisfied with their HEA. I really enjoyed my first with this author and will read more.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
February 28, 2024
Check out our full post for NERDY DIRTY VALENTINE on Wicked Reads.
Reviews by the Wicked Reads Review Team
Veronica – ☆☆☆
NERDY DIRTY VALENTINE is a fun, quick read, and it is definitely dirty. The first scene sees Phin sitting in a diner watching James on a disastrous date. It was very entertaining, and I knew from the beginning this was a story I was going to enjoy.
When Phin offered to help James improve his dating skills, I was excited but also a little apprehensive. I find sometimes fake dating leads to lots of angst but that wasn’t the case here. Phin and James were spending time together having fun. Both Phin and James grow emotionally during their journey, each of them offering the other support. It was lovely to see. Most of the story is on the lighter side, but there was one scene that was particularly serious, and I was surprised to find myself tearing up.
The intimate scenes in this story are dirty but they lacked polish and at times felt a little unrealistic, but I still enjoyed them. If you are looking for an easy, fast-paced, m/m romance starring two good, supportive men, then I think you will enjoy NERDY DIRTY VALENTINE.
Reviewers received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.
January 15, 2025
story of James and Phin
This is an enemies to friends to more romance, featuring James Harridan and Phineas Carey, and is a standalone novella.
James is a professor at the local college and Phin is a fire fighter. They cross paths in a diner after James’s date leaves in a disaster. When James and Phin quickly realise that they used to go to high school together and both believe the other bullied them. They eventually talk through what happened at school and agree to put the past behind them. Phin offers ro be friends but James declines.
James has a change of heart and reaches out the Phin in the hopes of becoming friends. They end up talking about James’s date disaster and Phin offers to help practice dating with James so he becomes more comfortable with it. Woo hoo!!!!
This book is low angst and sweet. These two were so cute and dirty together, each getting to know each other and falling for their high school crush/bully. It’s a great story and perfect for Valentine’s Day.
I was hoping for a book that was about Caleb and Smack but I can’t find one. Fingers crossed it appears one day.
Things to expect in this book are:
Standalone Novella
MM romance
Single POV & low angst
Professor x Fire fighter
School enemies
Childhood crush
Size difference
Hurt / Comfort
Living with grief
Sobriety
Dog owner
Practice dating
Virgin MC
All the firsts
Dirty talk & spicy times
Sweet HEA
This is an enemies to friends to more romance, featuring James Harridan and Phineas Carey, and is a standalone novella.
James is a professor at the local college and Phin is a fire fighter. They cross paths in a diner after James’s date leaves in a disaster. When James and Phin quickly realise that they used to go to high school together and both believe the other bullied them. They eventually talk through what happened at school and agree to put the past behind them. Phin offers ro be friends but James declines.
James has a change of heart and reaches out the Phin in the hopes of becoming friends. They end up talking about James’s date disaster and Phin offers to help practice dating with James so he becomes more comfortable with it. Woo hoo!!!!
This book is low angst and sweet. These two were so cute and dirty together, each getting to know each other and falling for their high school crush/bully. It’s a great story and perfect for Valentine’s Day.
I was hoping for a book that was about Caleb and Smack but I can’t find one. Fingers crossed it appears one day.
Things to expect in this book are:
Standalone Novella
MM romance
Single POV & low angst
Professor x Fire fighter
School enemies
Childhood crush
Size difference
Hurt / Comfort
Living with grief
Sobriety
Dog owner
Practice dating
Virgin MC
All the firsts
Dirty talk & spicy times
Sweet HEA
February 14, 2024
This story starts in an interesting place with Phin having breakfast at a diner and seeing a date gone wrong and feeling for the nerdy guy who was being ill treated by his table companion. Phin is so moved he decides to check on the guy when his date leaves only for it to come to light that he and this left man have history. James felt that Phin was unkind to him when they knew one another in school and it turned out that Phin thought the same of James. Each had his perspective and saw the other as looking down on him for some reason and it turns out neither was right. Phin offers a fresh start and friendship in the now and James defers at first and then seeks out Phin to accept. Thus starts a transformation not only for their relationship but in each of them. Phin offers James dating advice to help him not have more cringy situations like the one that he witnessed and it leads to them coming to realize that they still care for one another - that's why the unkind behavior in the past hurt - and that they are good together. They are so sweet together and able to lean on one another and trust one another as they get closer and it leads to each of them winding up in a much better place than he had been in before they met again.
I received an ARC from GRR and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received an ARC from GRR and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 11, 2024
A cute “nerdy” Valentine’s Day story, this features Phin, a recovering alcoholic and firefighter who has returned to his home town, and James, a nerdy, tall, thin college professor with a cute basset hound named Ginsberg. Each man recalls the other as being a bully to them in high school and both need to clear the air about what really happened in the past.
Once they do, they decide they will try to be friends and date—but only until James figures out how to meet the man of his dreams. James is worried because he’s still backward when it comes to meeting men and he’s even still a virgin. Phin offers to help him gain confidence by “practice” dating as he has had his share of experiences with men, many of them during blackouts as his drinking spiraled out of control in high school and his addiction finally led him to get help.
Sober for a few years now, he’s happy to assist James. So the pact is set for them to date and hang out, and Phin will coach James until Valentine’s Day—a nice play on the fake boyfriend trope. But what happens when two men enjoy each other’s company so much? Feelings get involved, and Phin realizes he’s reluctant to pass James off to his “forever partner” when he wants to be that man himself.
The story is a sweet romance, with not a lot of depth or angst, but light-hearted and fun, especially for the most romantic day of the year.
Once they do, they decide they will try to be friends and date—but only until James figures out how to meet the man of his dreams. James is worried because he’s still backward when it comes to meeting men and he’s even still a virgin. Phin offers to help him gain confidence by “practice” dating as he has had his share of experiences with men, many of them during blackouts as his drinking spiraled out of control in high school and his addiction finally led him to get help.
Sober for a few years now, he’s happy to assist James. So the pact is set for them to date and hang out, and Phin will coach James until Valentine’s Day—a nice play on the fake boyfriend trope. But what happens when two men enjoy each other’s company so much? Feelings get involved, and Phin realizes he’s reluctant to pass James off to his “forever partner” when he wants to be that man himself.
The story is a sweet romance, with not a lot of depth or angst, but light-hearted and fun, especially for the most romantic day of the year.
January 18, 2025
“I’d rather die than hurt him.”
In this book we meet our resident ex bad boy turned alcoholic, Phin and our do gooder James. They knew each other way back in high school, but because of some assumptions they were each other’s bullies back then. This story is told from Phin’s point of view. I do wish it was multiple POVs, I think it would have added depth. This is an insta love kinda thing starting off with the proposition from Phin to help James get better at dating before Valentine’s Day.
James is your typical do goodie, rule following, nerd. He is self conscious in his body and personality due to past trauma. But with the start of the new year his resolution was try to dating again. Little did he know the person who would be giving him dating tips would be his high school bully.
Phin is our protective firefighter. He is dealing with not only sobriety, but also processing grief of a loss of a parent. He always had a thing for James even back in high school. So of course when he ran back into him he had to take a shot.
This story follows these practice dates for James while Phin realizes real quick that he wants more. This is an insta love so these characters fall fast and hard. There is plenty of spice along the way. Overall, not a bad quick read.
3/5 ⭐️
💌 MM Romance
💌 Virgin MC
💌 Insta Love
In this book we meet our resident ex bad boy turned alcoholic, Phin and our do gooder James. They knew each other way back in high school, but because of some assumptions they were each other’s bullies back then. This story is told from Phin’s point of view. I do wish it was multiple POVs, I think it would have added depth. This is an insta love kinda thing starting off with the proposition from Phin to help James get better at dating before Valentine’s Day.
James is your typical do goodie, rule following, nerd. He is self conscious in his body and personality due to past trauma. But with the start of the new year his resolution was try to dating again. Little did he know the person who would be giving him dating tips would be his high school bully.
Phin is our protective firefighter. He is dealing with not only sobriety, but also processing grief of a loss of a parent. He always had a thing for James even back in high school. So of course when he ran back into him he had to take a shot.
This story follows these practice dates for James while Phin realizes real quick that he wants more. This is an insta love so these characters fall fast and hard. There is plenty of spice along the way. Overall, not a bad quick read.
3/5 ⭐️
💌 MM Romance
💌 Virgin MC
💌 Insta Love
February 6, 2024
I received an ARC from GRR and this is my honest review
It took me 3 attempts at the first 4 (or so) chapters before I could really get in to this book. To me, it's a little all over the place and I struggled at, what seemed like, a massive leap frog from 'getting to know the MCs' to whatever they were after the first 5 chapters. A lot happened in that time but we don't seem to be told about it. I don't even think I'm making sense but I don't know how else to explain it!
The 2 MCs meet by chance in a cafe after not seeing each other since school and they go from blazing row to BFFs where one will 'pretend but not pretend' date the other within a few pages - it just seemed a little weird to me.
However, once I got in to it I got on board with the pace and style of writing and it was an ok read. The spice was there, if a little cringy at times, and the dirty talk wasn't the best... BUT,
it is a low angst book so if that's your groove then give it a go. Any arguments/miscommunications are resolved as soon as they're started so there's no brooding for days/pages, it happens then it's gone.
Not for me but that's on a personal level. The other reviews show it's definitely worth a read if it floats your boat 😊
It took me 3 attempts at the first 4 (or so) chapters before I could really get in to this book. To me, it's a little all over the place and I struggled at, what seemed like, a massive leap frog from 'getting to know the MCs' to whatever they were after the first 5 chapters. A lot happened in that time but we don't seem to be told about it. I don't even think I'm making sense but I don't know how else to explain it!
The 2 MCs meet by chance in a cafe after not seeing each other since school and they go from blazing row to BFFs where one will 'pretend but not pretend' date the other within a few pages - it just seemed a little weird to me.
However, once I got in to it I got on board with the pace and style of writing and it was an ok read. The spice was there, if a little cringy at times, and the dirty talk wasn't the best... BUT,
it is a low angst book so if that's your groove then give it a go. Any arguments/miscommunications are resolved as soon as they're started so there's no brooding for days/pages, it happens then it's gone.
Not for me but that's on a personal level. The other reviews show it's definitely worth a read if it floats your boat 😊
February 14, 2024
I received a free copy of this book.
NERDY DIRTY VALENTINE is a fun, quick read and it is definitely dirty. The first scene sees Phin sitting in a diner watching James on a disastrous date. It was very entertaining and I knew from the beginning this was a story I was going to enjoy.
When Phin offered to help James improve his dating skills I was excited but also a little apprehensive. I find sometimes fake dating leads to lots of angst but that wasn’t the case here. Phin and James were spending time together having fun. Both Phin and James grow emotionally during their journey, each of them offering the other support. It was lovely to seek. Most of the story is on the lighter side, but there was one scene that was particularly serious and I was surprised to find myself tearing up.
The intimate scenes in this story are dirty but they lacked polish and at times felt a little unrealistic but I still enjoyed them. If you are looking for an easy, fast paced m/m romance starring two good, supportive men, then I think you will enjoy NERDY DIRTY VALENTINE.
NERDY DIRTY VALENTINE is a fun, quick read and it is definitely dirty. The first scene sees Phin sitting in a diner watching James on a disastrous date. It was very entertaining and I knew from the beginning this was a story I was going to enjoy.
When Phin offered to help James improve his dating skills I was excited but also a little apprehensive. I find sometimes fake dating leads to lots of angst but that wasn’t the case here. Phin and James were spending time together having fun. Both Phin and James grow emotionally during their journey, each of them offering the other support. It was lovely to seek. Most of the story is on the lighter side, but there was one scene that was particularly serious and I was surprised to find myself tearing up.
The intimate scenes in this story are dirty but they lacked polish and at times felt a little unrealistic but I still enjoyed them. If you are looking for an easy, fast paced m/m romance starring two good, supportive men, then I think you will enjoy NERDY DIRTY VALENTINE.
February 6, 2024
NERDY DIRTY VALENTINE is a quick enemies to friends to lovers, ex bully to lovers holiday based read.
Phin is a recovering alcoholic. He went through trauma after his father died unfortunately, he spent most of his high school years drunk. Now he's a fire fighter that attends his AA meetings. When he goes to breakfast one morning after his shift he witnesses the worst first date happen in real time. When he goes over to try to make the nerdy cute guy feel better he's shocked to realize he knows him from a time he wants to forget. And when James tells Phin that Phin was his bully. Phin wants to do anything he can to make it up to him. So when he offers practicing dating until Valentine's Day to make James more comfortable it's the perfect solution until he finds himself falling for the man.
This is cute, sweet read. Phin and James were able to work through their past issues to find they were what the other needed. They were so much stronger together. The story is told in just Phin's POV which really works for the story even though single POV isn't something I am used to.
I was given a free copy of this read.
Phin is a recovering alcoholic. He went through trauma after his father died unfortunately, he spent most of his high school years drunk. Now he's a fire fighter that attends his AA meetings. When he goes to breakfast one morning after his shift he witnesses the worst first date happen in real time. When he goes over to try to make the nerdy cute guy feel better he's shocked to realize he knows him from a time he wants to forget. And when James tells Phin that Phin was his bully. Phin wants to do anything he can to make it up to him. So when he offers practicing dating until Valentine's Day to make James more comfortable it's the perfect solution until he finds himself falling for the man.
This is cute, sweet read. Phin and James were able to work through their past issues to find they were what the other needed. They were so much stronger together. The story is told in just Phin's POV which really works for the story even though single POV isn't something I am used to.
I was given a free copy of this read.
February 8, 2024
I get that most romance books are heavy on the tropes. But this one twisted it a bit. They consider each other enemies because each thought the other bullied them in school. But really they were just both awkward (in different ways) and were crushing on each other. They didn't know each other long as teens because one character moved around a lot. But somehow they ended up in the same diner one New Year's Day.
Phin is the first to want to make amends and be friends. James is having none of it. But...
Add in another trope of "you can practice with me". They are both openly gay so that's a plus. Just so happens that awkward student James is not awkward adult James and doesn't have experience. And let me tell you, it's fun to read.
There were some surprises, a couple of "so that happened", and a lot of hot swoony sex. Phin and James couldn't be more different, but what they do have in common is respect for each other. Respect for what each of them has gone through or is still going through. And that respect is what made them falling in love so much more believable.
This was a good read, I liked that it was a bit different and there's a dog.
Phin is the first to want to make amends and be friends. James is having none of it. But...
Add in another trope of "you can practice with me". They are both openly gay so that's a plus. Just so happens that awkward student James is not awkward adult James and doesn't have experience. And let me tell you, it's fun to read.
There were some surprises, a couple of "so that happened", and a lot of hot swoony sex. Phin and James couldn't be more different, but what they do have in common is respect for each other. Respect for what each of them has gone through or is still going through. And that respect is what made them falling in love so much more believable.
This was a good read, I liked that it was a bit different and there's a dog.
February 12, 2024
Ginsberg, the Bassett Hound, His Attitude, and His Stink Eye
This is very cute but a bit angsty. Phineas, a recovering alcoholic and firefighter, is at his usual diner having his usual meal. He observes what seems to be a first date going poorly. It comes to a head when Miserable Guy starts to berate Bored Guy.
It turns out that Miserable Guy is his bully from high school, James, a brainy nerd. Ironically, James is scarred from being bullied by other students and Phin. Apologies are made and they go their separate ways.
A few days later, James shows up at Phin's firehouse to apologize for his lack of respect and manners. A tentative friendship begins. Phin offers to be James's dating tutor since James confessed he is bad at dating. In return, James offers to decorate Phin's home.
This is all told from Phin's POV. They open themselves to each other and their friendship deepens.
The plot is formulaic but is told in a way that makes this story engaging and enjoyable. The flow is good which makes for an easy read. I recommend this.
This is very cute but a bit angsty. Phineas, a recovering alcoholic and firefighter, is at his usual diner having his usual meal. He observes what seems to be a first date going poorly. It comes to a head when Miserable Guy starts to berate Bored Guy.
It turns out that Miserable Guy is his bully from high school, James, a brainy nerd. Ironically, James is scarred from being bullied by other students and Phin. Apologies are made and they go their separate ways.
A few days later, James shows up at Phin's firehouse to apologize for his lack of respect and manners. A tentative friendship begins. Phin offers to be James's dating tutor since James confessed he is bad at dating. In return, James offers to decorate Phin's home.
This is all told from Phin's POV. They open themselves to each other and their friendship deepens.
The plot is formulaic but is told in a way that makes this story engaging and enjoyable. The flow is good which makes for an easy read. I recommend this.
February 14, 2024
This is the story of James Harridan and Phineas Carey. The two were in class together in the nineth grade and each thought the other bullied them. They meet again years later in a diner when James is getting dumped by his date. James is a college professor and Phin is a firefighter. When Phin offers to start again and just be friends, James declines the offer. But then we see him showing up at the firehouse with his dog Ginsberg. Seeing that James needs a little confidence boost Phin offers practice dating with him. He can help teach James how to make his dates better. Phin is very up front about not being interested in a relationship and the two agree to try it out. Phin is all set to help boost James confidence and dating skills. He wasn't expecting James to bring fun and happiness into his life. This is their story. The book is written well and easy to read. While it the book deals with heavy topics, it manages to still be light. I found it to be an enjoyable read.
I received an advanced review copy from the author and am voluntarily leaving this review.
I received an advanced review copy from the author and am voluntarily leaving this review.
February 16, 2024
Super sweet love story
James and Phineas knew each other in high school. Only it turns out, they didn't know each other at all. James is the quintessential nerd (as mentioned in the title). He's an English professor who loves words, books, and poetry. He lives a quiet and boring life. Phineas is an alcoholic firefighter. He's been sober for years, but each day is a struggle.
When they reconnect after many years, they find out the preconceived notions they both carried were wrong. And that's where the story begins. This is a really lovely story! It's my first read from this author, but based on this I'll definitely read another. There are trigger warnings, but I didn't realize how much of the book would be dedicated to his struggle with alcoholism recovery. If that's a trigger for you, you may want to avoid this book. It was difficult to read it at times for me, and that is not something that I've ever struggled with.
Overall, the angst level in this book is very low considering the topic. And there's a lovely HEA at the end.
James and Phineas knew each other in high school. Only it turns out, they didn't know each other at all. James is the quintessential nerd (as mentioned in the title). He's an English professor who loves words, books, and poetry. He lives a quiet and boring life. Phineas is an alcoholic firefighter. He's been sober for years, but each day is a struggle.
When they reconnect after many years, they find out the preconceived notions they both carried were wrong. And that's where the story begins. This is a really lovely story! It's my first read from this author, but based on this I'll definitely read another. There are trigger warnings, but I didn't realize how much of the book would be dedicated to his struggle with alcoholism recovery. If that's a trigger for you, you may want to avoid this book. It was difficult to read it at times for me, and that is not something that I've ever struggled with.
Overall, the angst level in this book is very low considering the topic. And there's a lovely HEA at the end.
February 10, 2025
This was honestly a fine time (◡ ‿ ◡ ) Fair warning, I didn't personally think the writing was very good. The dialogue feels awkward and most of the time, it doesn't sound like anything anyone would actually say. The writing outside of that was also kind of stilted and awkward. From the blurb, I expected the "bullying" aspect to have been something honestly bad, but it was kind of... goofy ( ,,,’･~･’,,) I mean, don't get me wrong, it was mean and James was definitely owed an apology, but it did just sound goofy in such a dramatic setting, so there's that. Mostly, I think the only thing that legitimately bothered me was that the mom was forgiven <(ꐦㅍ _ㅍ)> I don't think she deserved it. I think she needed to grovel properly. Like, wow, what a TERRIBLE excuse for a parent.
That's really short though, thankfully, and the rest of the story is pretty cute. I liked how much Phin loved James, I liked how attached he was to him, and I think their Valentine's Day was perfect. Cute story, might reread it next Valentine's Day.
That's really short though, thankfully, and the rest of the story is pretty cute. I liked how much Phin loved James, I liked how attached he was to him, and I think their Valentine's Day was perfect. Cute story, might reread it next Valentine's Day.
June 18, 2025
4.5⭐️
James Harridan and Phineas Carey meet in a diner on New Yers Day. James is having the worst date in history, and Phin is observing them, but Phin comes to James’ rescue when things turn sour. He is grateful of his help, until James recognises Phin.
James knew Phin in high school and felt he was being bullied by him, but truth be told, Phin cannot remember anything as he had a drinking problem back then. Regardless of him remembering or not, he profoundly apologises and hopes they can be friends. Phin, now sober is a firefighter.
They start to be tentative friends. Phin teaches James how to date and inadvertently become fake boyfriends. However, things don’t stay fake for long, and they become physical.
This is my first Skylar M Cates novel, and I can say with certainty this won’t be my last. The story flowed so well and I loved the characters and how they were around each other. James stood up for Phin against his family, which was lovely and well written.
I am looking forward to reading more about the fire crew at the station and hoping that Caleb gets his story too.
James Harridan and Phineas Carey meet in a diner on New Yers Day. James is having the worst date in history, and Phin is observing them, but Phin comes to James’ rescue when things turn sour. He is grateful of his help, until James recognises Phin.
James knew Phin in high school and felt he was being bullied by him, but truth be told, Phin cannot remember anything as he had a drinking problem back then. Regardless of him remembering or not, he profoundly apologises and hopes they can be friends. Phin, now sober is a firefighter.
They start to be tentative friends. Phin teaches James how to date and inadvertently become fake boyfriends. However, things don’t stay fake for long, and they become physical.
This is my first Skylar M Cates novel, and I can say with certainty this won’t be my last. The story flowed so well and I loved the characters and how they were around each other. James stood up for Phin against his family, which was lovely and well written.
I am looking forward to reading more about the fire crew at the station and hoping that Caleb gets his story too.
February 13, 2024
4 Stars!
I was drawn to Phin right away. He's had a difficult life. His dad died when he was a teen, and he started drinking to cope with his grief. Now, several years later, he's a firefighter, in an AA program and while he still has a lot to work on, he's trying to make the best out of his life. It took me longer to warm up to James, maybe because the book is told from Phin's POV? *shrugs* I don't know there was just something about him that put me off him at first.
The dialogue was a bit... stiff at times, and it took me a bit to warm up to James, and because of that, to warm up to James and Phin as a couple, but overall, the book was low angst, and once I got over my reservations about James, I found him and Phin to be sweet and hot. Overall, a lovely read that I have no trouble recommending.
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
I was drawn to Phin right away. He's had a difficult life. His dad died when he was a teen, and he started drinking to cope with his grief. Now, several years later, he's a firefighter, in an AA program and while he still has a lot to work on, he's trying to make the best out of his life. It took me longer to warm up to James, maybe because the book is told from Phin's POV? *shrugs* I don't know there was just something about him that put me off him at first.
The dialogue was a bit... stiff at times, and it took me a bit to warm up to James, and because of that, to warm up to James and Phin as a couple, but overall, the book was low angst, and once I got over my reservations about James, I found him and Phin to be sweet and hot. Overall, a lovely read that I have no trouble recommending.
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
February 13, 2024
Sweet, low, angst Valentine’s Day story. Relatively high heat on this one.
I have not read anything else by this author, I have mixed feelings about this one, so I may, or may not continue with the series. The author did a good job, setting up a couple different future book storylines, though.
This one is a pseudo, bully romance, although I would not classify it as such. I do not read bully romances they are not for me. When I first started reading, I was concerned that that’s what this was going to be, but it was a misunderstanding by both characters which were forgiven early in the storyline. There seem to be a missed opportunity with some plot, namely Phin’s relationship with his mom and James frustration with the Dean at his college.
Both characters were enjoyable, although I think James grew a little too quickly in my opinion. Overall, if you like sweet, spicy storylines, you’ll probably enjoy this one.
I have not read anything else by this author, I have mixed feelings about this one, so I may, or may not continue with the series. The author did a good job, setting up a couple different future book storylines, though.
This one is a pseudo, bully romance, although I would not classify it as such. I do not read bully romances they are not for me. When I first started reading, I was concerned that that’s what this was going to be, but it was a misunderstanding by both characters which were forgiven early in the storyline. There seem to be a missed opportunity with some plot, namely Phin’s relationship with his mom and James frustration with the Dean at his college.
Both characters were enjoyable, although I think James grew a little too quickly in my opinion. Overall, if you like sweet, spicy storylines, you’ll probably enjoy this one.
February 11, 2025
★ ★ ★ ✬
Length: 175p
Source: Kindle - owned
Release Date: February 2024
•••••••
Okay, so this one wasn’t too bad. Phin is a recovering alcoholic and a local firefighter. He runs into an old crush who broke his heart (a bit of miscommunication on both parts as teens), James, and after they quickly uncover the truth, they become friends and then they develop a sweet, sexy little romance.
And that’s about it. There’s a little bit of hurt/comfort. James had a much better character arc but we only got Phin’s POV so that was a wasted chance.
The writing was—okay. It felt very cookie cutter and dry. It had all the write elements but lacked emotions and as a mood reader, that really affects my opinion.
Overall, it wasn’t bad but had it been any longer I may have found myself DNG-ing it. 🤷🏻♀️
𝙬𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙩𝙤 𝙚𝙭𝙥𝙚𝙘𝙩:
🚒 queer contemporary romance
💞 hurt/comfort
🚒 firefighter x professor
💞 alcoholic in recovery
•
•
•
Length: 175p
Source: Kindle - owned
Release Date: February 2024
•••••••
Okay, so this one wasn’t too bad. Phin is a recovering alcoholic and a local firefighter. He runs into an old crush who broke his heart (a bit of miscommunication on both parts as teens), James, and after they quickly uncover the truth, they become friends and then they develop a sweet, sexy little romance.
And that’s about it. There’s a little bit of hurt/comfort. James had a much better character arc but we only got Phin’s POV so that was a wasted chance.
The writing was—okay. It felt very cookie cutter and dry. It had all the write elements but lacked emotions and as a mood reader, that really affects my opinion.
Overall, it wasn’t bad but had it been any longer I may have found myself DNG-ing it. 🤷🏻♀️
𝙬𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙩𝙤 𝙚𝙭𝙥𝙚𝙘𝙩:
🚒 queer contemporary romance
💞 hurt/comfort
🚒 firefighter x professor
💞 alcoholic in recovery
•
•
•
February 13, 2024
I found this story to be an enjoyable Valentine's tale. I enjoyed the characters of James and Phin, even if I didn't quite buy the level of lack of self-confidence that he was depicted as having. Other than that the characters were believable, particularly Phin given his background.
There wasn't much of a plot, though, other than the two men gradually falling in love. The only real plot point was when Phin confronted his mother after years of not being in contact. A bit more story would have improved the book immensely, in my opinion.
Still, an enjoyable book with likable characters, including some intriguing side characters, and a nice, breezy writing style. Did I love the book? No. But I did enjoy the writing enough that I'll probably try some of the other books by the author.
There wasn't much of a plot, though, other than the two men gradually falling in love. The only real plot point was when Phin confronted his mother after years of not being in contact. A bit more story would have improved the book immensely, in my opinion.
Still, an enjoyable book with likable characters, including some intriguing side characters, and a nice, breezy writing style. Did I love the book? No. But I did enjoy the writing enough that I'll probably try some of the other books by the author.
February 13, 2024
Overall I enjoyed this sweet story but did feel that the author missed alot of opportunities to make it a 5* read especially the "Dirty-talk" as I found this extremely lacking and not very imaginative or believable! Also the plot though "friends to lovers" trope is more of a "enemies to friends to lovers" as Phin and James both thought each other was a bully at school and when they meet again as adults they have to sort out their past and their insecurities before they can move forward. However once they overcome their issues it does evolve nicely into a sweet love story with some fun moments along the way.
I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review
I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review
Displaying 1 - 30 of 88 reviews