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Goliaths of Wrestling #2
Clean Finish
Larkin
Look, here’s the thing.
I’m young, carefree, and my job as the assistant to Holt, manager and owner of the Goliaths of Wrestling, means I’m surrounded by half-naked beefcake wrestlers all day. Of course I’m going to be interested in… getting to know them all better. It would be, like, illegal for me to not lust after them all, right?
There’s just one hurdle I have to get over first before I can… get to know the wrestlers in the way I want. And that hurdle makes me really, really freaking nervous.
So I come up with an amazing idea. Holt’s bodyguard Seb, a werewolf, is the quiet, dependable, calm presence in the office. He’s safe. He’s not as intimidating as the wrestlers, and we’re kind of buddies, so I decide to ask him for help with my little… predicament.
Just for some practice. Before I move onto the big leagues. That’s all it is. Practice.
Seb
I’m the foolish old wolf who’s pined after Larkin since the moment he started working here. I’ve had to watch him flirt with all the wrestlers, listen to him talk about how much he wants them, act like I didn’t care, and it’s never gotten easier.
At least no one knows. And I can never tell him. He’s too young for me, too carefree and irresponsible, and he’s never shown even a hint of being interested in me that way. Mentally, I’ve accepted it. My heart, however, is a different matter.
And then he comes to me with a ridiculous proposition. Something I never thought I’d get to experience, something I should absolutely turn down, but I can’t. I’m not strong enough to deny myself. And I want to help Larkin in any way I can.
It’s just practice for him. I have to keep reminding myself of that, every time I get to touch him—every time he’s pressed against me, every time he falls asleep on my chest. He doesn’t want me. He just wants… lessons. Practice.
That’s all it is. Practice.
Look, here’s the thing.
I’m young, carefree, and my job as the assistant to Holt, manager and owner of the Goliaths of Wrestling, means I’m surrounded by half-naked beefcake wrestlers all day. Of course I’m going to be interested in… getting to know them all better. It would be, like, illegal for me to not lust after them all, right?
There’s just one hurdle I have to get over first before I can… get to know the wrestlers in the way I want. And that hurdle makes me really, really freaking nervous.
So I come up with an amazing idea. Holt’s bodyguard Seb, a werewolf, is the quiet, dependable, calm presence in the office. He’s safe. He’s not as intimidating as the wrestlers, and we’re kind of buddies, so I decide to ask him for help with my little… predicament.
Just for some practice. Before I move onto the big leagues. That’s all it is. Practice.
Seb
I’m the foolish old wolf who’s pined after Larkin since the moment he started working here. I’ve had to watch him flirt with all the wrestlers, listen to him talk about how much he wants them, act like I didn’t care, and it’s never gotten easier.
At least no one knows. And I can never tell him. He’s too young for me, too carefree and irresponsible, and he’s never shown even a hint of being interested in me that way. Mentally, I’ve accepted it. My heart, however, is a different matter.
And then he comes to me with a ridiculous proposition. Something I never thought I’d get to experience, something I should absolutely turn down, but I can’t. I’m not strong enough to deny myself. And I want to help Larkin in any way I can.
It’s just practice for him. I have to keep reminding myself of that, every time I get to touch him—every time he’s pressed against me, every time he falls asleep on my chest. He doesn’t want me. He just wants… lessons. Practice.
That’s all it is. Practice.
461 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 6, 2024
360 people are currently reading
1583 people want to read
About the author
Lily Mayne
26 books5,775 followersLily Mayne writes what she loves to read: achingly sweet yet gritty romances against unusual backdrops—dark, futuristic, dystopian and more. She currently lives in the UK with her husband and several fluffballs, who like to make a lot of noise while she’s writing.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 589 reviews
July 24, 2024
You ever read a book and decide that if you died right then it'd be okay because you read a book so damn good it could carry you through eternity on its vibes? That's this book.
I mean, I'd divorce my husband and marry this cover alone, but add in the actual contents and I'd make my husband marry it too.
Larkin is so cute. Seb is so...deeply pining. The sex is so hot (and honestly I don't even usually like sex lessons trope but this book did it RIGHT). Everything is so funny.
I read this with a dopey smile and my heart full of joy. I'm such a Lily Mayne simp at this point it isn't even funny.
I mean, I'd divorce my husband and marry this cover alone, but add in the actual contents and I'd make my husband marry it too.
Larkin is so cute. Seb is so...deeply pining. The sex is so hot (and honestly I don't even usually like sex lessons trope but this book did it RIGHT). Everything is so funny.
I read this with a dopey smile and my heart full of joy. I'm such a Lily Mayne simp at this point it isn't even funny.
August 8, 2024
Gah this was so adorable, so so good, so many sweet moments that made me tear up, funny, sweet, heartbreaking, fun, character progression was perfection, it started with lessons and it evolved in the most perfect love story.
I want to start this book all over again. This is without a doubt a top read, in my top 3 this year and possibly for life, I loved this so much I’m afraid no other book /couple will even come close to these beautiful characters.
I loved Larkin from book one but he completely stole my heart in this, he is a beautiful flower! And Seb omg he was the sweetest, all those little things he did for Larkin, the hot chocolate, the way he complimented him, the way he reacted to the nub, just perfection.
Larkin’s family was so amazing and cute, same with Sebs family!
The special crossword! Omg!!!
Lily did an excellent job with this one, time flew while reading and I was not ready for it to be over.
I want to start this book all over again. This is without a doubt a top read, in my top 3 this year and possibly for life, I loved this so much I’m afraid no other book /couple will even come close to these beautiful characters.
I loved Larkin from book one but he completely stole my heart in this, he is a beautiful flower! And Seb omg he was the sweetest, all those little things he did for Larkin, the hot chocolate, the way he complimented him, the way he reacted to the nub, just perfection.
Larkin’s family was so amazing and cute, same with Sebs family!
The special crossword! Omg!!!
Lily did an excellent job with this one, time flew while reading and I was not ready for it to be over.
August 14, 2024
⭐︎
4.5 stars rounded up!
⭐︎
A step up from the first installment, in my opinion. This was better paced, and while there was still a good amount of sex, I never felt like it got to be too much like I did at the very end of the first book.
Was this still perhaps a bit too long? Sure. I think they could have confessed feelings a tad earlier - take out *some* of the sex, as wonderful as it was, to get there earlier - and this could have ended maybe 25 to 50 pages earlier.
Buttt for the most part, I didn't feel the need to cut much of anything. Except maybe calling a part of the head of their dick a "bango string"?? Never heard that used to describe part of a dick. There was ONE use of the the term "P-spot" which was good, as it was way WAY less than the first book. It was a nice break from that. I just do not like "P-spot" (and I hope Ms. Mayne keeps it out of her regular, more serious books as well. If it starts popping up in her Monstrous books, I'll combust).
Larkin was a totally sweetie. And so was Seb. But they worked so well together and just loved each other so immensely.
Larkin takes a little longer to get there, as Seb was in love with Larkin from day one (for a year and a half), but once Larkin does get there, he's all in and totally smitten with Seb.
I also did very much enjoy how this took its time getting them to really fall in love. It wasn't just them having lots of sex with some convos here and there and then somehow that translates to love. Nah, we saw how and why these two fell in love.
I adore when one (or both) MC's are freakin' adorable and are just the sweetest to each other. And with the low-angst, this is just the perfect palate cleanser if you've been reading a ton of dark, angsty, toxic relationship books haha.
I love those as much as the next person, but I do also love books like this, with the MC's being very healthy with each other, very sweet and adorable, respecting each other with sex and outside sex, and nothing is too hard for either MC. They just have to figure out pesky feelings and once they do, they're all in and it's pretty much smooth sailing from there.
And good news for those who disliked the wrestling matches that took place in book one, we don't get any detailed scenes about the wrestling in this book. They attend a match or two, but don't pay much attention and just do a crossword together - which is very cute.
This is also a little more insular than book one. We see the other characters, sure, but not as much as book one, in my opinion. This focuses even more on our MC's than in book one, even. Although we do get a few fun moments with Holt and Taylor - especially an incident from Larkin's perspective of Holt getting...uh...serviced by Taylor while Corey, one of the wrestlers, is none the wiser 😂
Definitely pick this one up if you read the first, and love this author. Although I guess technically it can be read as a standalone as well. You'll probably be a little lost on all the other characters, and some of the world building from the first book, though. Although I did like that we got a bit of an explanation of where all the supernatural creatures come from. Or at least, where the Fae come from.
HIGHLY recommend this. And a lot of the complaints I saw of the first book...aren't really in this one at all.
So tune into this one, and I can't wait for the next installment. The new guy and Dullahan Dan, the headless wrestler...that should be interesting to see! 😁
Can't wait for more! 😍😘
My Ratings for the Goliaths of Wrestling Series:
✩ Impromptu Match: 4 stars (my review)
✩ Clean Finish: 4.5 stars
✩ Cheap Heat: TBR
A step up from the first installment, in my opinion. This was better paced, and while there was still a good amount of sex, I never felt like it got to be too much like I did at the very end of the first book.
Was this still perhaps a bit too long? Sure. I think they could have confessed feelings a tad earlier - take out *some* of the sex, as wonderful as it was, to get there earlier - and this could have ended maybe 25 to 50 pages earlier.
Buttt for the most part, I didn't feel the need to cut much of anything. Except maybe calling a part of the head of their dick a "bango string"?? Never heard that used to describe part of a dick. There was ONE use of the the term "P-spot" which was good, as it was way WAY less than the first book. It was a nice break from that. I just do not like "P-spot" (and I hope Ms. Mayne keeps it out of her regular, more serious books as well. If it starts popping up in her Monstrous books, I'll combust).
Larkin was a totally sweetie. And so was Seb. But they worked so well together and just loved each other so immensely.
Larkin takes a little longer to get there, as Seb was in love with Larkin from day one (for a year and a half), but once Larkin does get there, he's all in and totally smitten with Seb.
I also did very much enjoy how this took its time getting them to really fall in love. It wasn't just them having lots of sex with some convos here and there and then somehow that translates to love. Nah, we saw how and why these two fell in love.
I adore when one (or both) MC's are freakin' adorable and are just the sweetest to each other. And with the low-angst, this is just the perfect palate cleanser if you've been reading a ton of dark, angsty, toxic relationship books haha.
I love those as much as the next person, but I do also love books like this, with the MC's being very healthy with each other, very sweet and adorable, respecting each other with sex and outside sex, and nothing is too hard for either MC. They just have to figure out pesky feelings and once they do, they're all in and it's pretty much smooth sailing from there.
And good news for those who disliked the wrestling matches that took place in book one, we don't get any detailed scenes about the wrestling in this book. They attend a match or two, but don't pay much attention and just do a crossword together - which is very cute.
This is also a little more insular than book one. We see the other characters, sure, but not as much as book one, in my opinion. This focuses even more on our MC's than in book one, even. Although we do get a few fun moments with Holt and Taylor - especially an incident from Larkin's perspective of Holt getting...uh...serviced by Taylor while Corey, one of the wrestlers, is none the wiser 😂
Definitely pick this one up if you read the first, and love this author. Although I guess technically it can be read as a standalone as well. You'll probably be a little lost on all the other characters, and some of the world building from the first book, though. Although I did like that we got a bit of an explanation of where all the supernatural creatures come from. Or at least, where the Fae come from.
HIGHLY recommend this. And a lot of the complaints I saw of the first book...aren't really in this one at all.
So tune into this one, and I can't wait for the next installment. The new guy and Dullahan Dan, the headless wrestler...that should be interesting to see! 😁
Can't wait for more! 😍😘
My Ratings for the Goliaths of Wrestling Series:
✩ Impromptu Match: 4 stars (my review)
✩ Clean Finish: 4.5 stars
✩ Cheap Heat: TBR
August 6, 2024
4.5 ⭐️ The Monstrous Queen sent me an eArc and this is my honest opinion!
So round #2- what to expect:
Supernaturals RomCom🤌
Introvert Werewolf & extrovert Fae walk into the office🤌
Mutual Pining🤌
Angst free, just ride the happy train🤌
Age Gap🤌
Virgin MC🤌
Obvious size difference🤌
Sex Lessons that are actually falling in love🤌
Super hot sex with A+ grades🤌
Crazy fucking hot, you need AC and constant showers hot🤌
No kissing ( right…….)🤌
“Loads” of practice makes perfect🤌
All the important lessons handjobs, edging,frotting, rubbing, rimming,blowjobs, sixty nine,nuzzling armpits and yeah… super mega sweet intense good old fucking🥵🤌
Totally not falling for you🤌
Banjo string 👀🤌
Incredible banter🤌
Tails&Nubs🤌
Knotting🤌
Mapping ALL the erogenous with their tongue🤌
Body worship 🤌
There are real blue balls🤌
Wonderful torture🤌
Crosswords are can be flirty🤌
Hot Chocolate or Coffee🤌
Amazing Cameos🤌
Delicious Easter eggs 🤌
So much kissing it’s bruising 🤌
Cooking,baking and playing old “nostalgic “ video games till death do us part🤌
L.O.W.S.🥹🥹🥹🥹🥹🥹🥹🥹🥹🥹🥹 🤌
Always asking each other “Do I feel good?”🤌
Sweetheart 🤌
I was going to complain about the size of the book, but why? We get hot,sweet and funny, and written by Lily Mayne, so shut up Patrícia and lick every page of this book.
“But no more lessons, right? Just… me and you.”
“Yes.” Unable to resist, I lowered my mouth back to his. “Just me and you.”
Do not or do, it’s up to you, Google banjo string related to c*ck, at least don't do it at work or in a family reunion. Ups I did!
The minus:
Why wait weeks for the switch? In their dynamic and connection I don’t get it.
OTT family meetings.
So round #2- what to expect:
Supernaturals RomCom🤌
Introvert Werewolf & extrovert Fae walk into the office🤌
Mutual Pining🤌
Angst free, just ride the happy train🤌
Age Gap🤌
Virgin MC🤌
Obvious size difference🤌
Sex Lessons that are actually falling in love🤌
Super hot sex with A+ grades🤌
Crazy fucking hot, you need AC and constant showers hot🤌
No kissing ( right…….)🤌
“Loads” of practice makes perfect🤌
All the important lessons handjobs, edging,frotting, rubbing, rimming,blowjobs, sixty nine,nuzzling armpits and yeah… super mega sweet intense good old fucking🥵🤌
Totally not falling for you🤌
Banjo string 👀🤌
Incredible banter🤌
Tails&Nubs🤌
Knotting🤌
Mapping ALL the erogenous with their tongue🤌
Body worship 🤌
There are real blue balls🤌
Wonderful torture🤌
Crosswords are can be flirty🤌
Hot Chocolate or Coffee🤌
Amazing Cameos🤌
Delicious Easter eggs 🤌
So much kissing it’s bruising 🤌
Cooking,baking and playing old “nostalgic “ video games till death do us part🤌
L.O.W.S.🥹🥹🥹🥹🥹🥹🥹🥹🥹🥹🥹 🤌
Always asking each other “Do I feel good?”🤌
Sweetheart 🤌
I was going to complain about the size of the book, but why? We get hot,sweet and funny, and written by Lily Mayne, so shut up Patrícia and lick every page of this book.
“But no more lessons, right? Just… me and you.”
“Yes.” Unable to resist, I lowered my mouth back to his. “Just me and you.”
Do not or do, it’s up to you, Google banjo string related to c*ck, at least don't do it at work or in a family reunion. Ups I did!
The minus:
Why wait weeks for the switch? In their dynamic and connection I don’t get it.
OTT family meetings.
December 17, 2025
Me encanta un libro tenso y dramático y que se va cocinando lento.
A mí me encantó larkin en el primer libro y por eso me lancé enseguida a leer el segundo sabiendo que era el prota. No me ha decepcionado. Sobre todo porque hay mucho menos humor infantil y todo es más serio y dramático, mi debilidad.
Si conoces a Larkin sabes que es coqueto con todo mundo, pero una cosa es ser desear/ser deseado y otra muy distinta llevarlo a la práctica con quienes te la pasas teniendo conversaciones obscenas y acercamientos un tanto sensuales.
La realidad es que Larkin es virginal, inexperto e "inmaduro" y por eso termina haciéndole una propuesta a Seb para que sea su maestro y le enseñe todas las proezas que se pueden hacer con otro en la cama. Mucha práctica y varias lecciones que se volverán tortuosas para ambos.
Eso sí, Seb es tan pesimista, tan reservado, tan callado, tan pensativo y luego Lark con sus locuras, su diarrea verbal, su impulsividad. Seb que lo ve como su todo, que lo conoce como la palma de su mano y está atento a cada detalle y Larkin que empieza todo solo por sus lecciones de aprendizaje en torno al sexo. El uno aprovecha para aprender y el otro para acercarse todo lo que pueda a quien lo vuelve loco en secreto desde hace tiempo.
Pajas, conversaciones sinceras en torno al sexo, palabras de seguridad, frotamiento, besar, lamer, chupar y explorar el cuerpo entero. Hasta que las lecciones dejan de sentirse como unas simples clases y ya los límites no están claros entre lo sexual y lo sentimental.
Lo he amado pero sí es verdad que con cierto detalle en torno al sexo... me he sentido un poco incómodo. De igual manera eso tampoco fue impedimento para disfrutar, incluso más que el primero.
A mí me encantó larkin en el primer libro y por eso me lancé enseguida a leer el segundo sabiendo que era el prota. No me ha decepcionado. Sobre todo porque hay mucho menos humor infantil y todo es más serio y dramático, mi debilidad.
Si conoces a Larkin sabes que es coqueto con todo mundo, pero una cosa es ser desear/ser deseado y otra muy distinta llevarlo a la práctica con quienes te la pasas teniendo conversaciones obscenas y acercamientos un tanto sensuales.
La realidad es que Larkin es virginal, inexperto e "inmaduro" y por eso termina haciéndole una propuesta a Seb para que sea su maestro y le enseñe todas las proezas que se pueden hacer con otro en la cama. Mucha práctica y varias lecciones que se volverán tortuosas para ambos.
Eso sí, Seb es tan pesimista, tan reservado, tan callado, tan pensativo y luego Lark con sus locuras, su diarrea verbal, su impulsividad. Seb que lo ve como su todo, que lo conoce como la palma de su mano y está atento a cada detalle y Larkin que empieza todo solo por sus lecciones de aprendizaje en torno al sexo. El uno aprovecha para aprender y el otro para acercarse todo lo que pueda a quien lo vuelve loco en secreto desde hace tiempo.
Pajas, conversaciones sinceras en torno al sexo, palabras de seguridad, frotamiento, besar, lamer, chupar y explorar el cuerpo entero. Hasta que las lecciones dejan de sentirse como unas simples clases y ya los límites no están claros entre lo sexual y lo sentimental.
Lo he amado pero sí es verdad que con cierto detalle en torno al sexo... me he sentido un poco incómodo. De igual manera eso tampoco fue impedimento para disfrutar, incluso más que el primero.
August 8, 2024
mothcharlie but make it more spicy and less emotional (this was still emotional and cute)
May 13, 2025
Clean Finish by Lily Mayne
Goliaths of Wrestling Book 2
5 out of 5 stars 🌟
I am once again asking you to understand that I don't write coherent reviews. I will be screaming and flailing from this moment on.
Oh, golly. Lily does it again, folks. Is anyone shocked? No? Fair.
Larkin is a naive fae bro. He's really bad at his job being an assistant. But like, who cares, right? The work still gets done. Eventually. Not well or anything, but whatever. It's fine. Larkin is a horny dude, and he wants to bang all the wrestlers that work at Goliaths, minus a few. Thing is... he's a virgin and has zero idea how to actually bang all the wrestlers. Fear boners are a thing.
Enter Seb. Seb is a werewolf bodyguard, and he's been very quietly pining for Larkin since he was hired. He's known from the beginning that Larkin is his one and only. 🥹 Look, he's a very patient man who loves doing crossword puzzles.
Larkin wants sex practice so he can be good at the sexings before he dick-blasts his way through all the hot wrestlers. He asks Seb to be his f*ckletics instructor because, duh! Who else would he ask? Seb is safe and honestly super hot. Seb is absolutely on board and fully ready to have his heart decimated when Larkin is ready to walk away from their lessons... because he'll take what he can get. Even if it's just a taste. Even if it destroys him in the end.
This book has a whole different vibe than book 1. Impromptu Match was v ridiculous, horny, and hilarious. Not to say Clean Finish isn't those things, but there is an added layer of ache due to Seb's secret pining and how he carefully cares for Larkin. The books feel different, but they are still wonderfully connected by the other characters. You don't lose anyone, which to me is very special because I friggin love Holt and Taylor.
I absolutely recommend reading Impromptu Match before you touch Clean Finish so you understand all the character dynamics... or you'll be really dullahan dang confused, broseph.
Goliaths of Wrestling Book 2
5 out of 5 stars 🌟
I am once again asking you to understand that I don't write coherent reviews. I will be screaming and flailing from this moment on.
Oh, golly. Lily does it again, folks. Is anyone shocked? No? Fair.
Larkin is a naive fae bro. He's really bad at his job being an assistant. But like, who cares, right? The work still gets done. Eventually. Not well or anything, but whatever. It's fine. Larkin is a horny dude, and he wants to bang all the wrestlers that work at Goliaths, minus a few. Thing is... he's a virgin and has zero idea how to actually bang all the wrestlers. Fear boners are a thing.
Enter Seb. Seb is a werewolf bodyguard, and he's been very quietly pining for Larkin since he was hired. He's known from the beginning that Larkin is his one and only. 🥹 Look, he's a very patient man who loves doing crossword puzzles.
Larkin wants sex practice so he can be good at the sexings before he dick-blasts his way through all the hot wrestlers. He asks Seb to be his f*ckletics instructor because, duh! Who else would he ask? Seb is safe and honestly super hot. Seb is absolutely on board and fully ready to have his heart decimated when Larkin is ready to walk away from their lessons... because he'll take what he can get. Even if it's just a taste. Even if it destroys him in the end.
This book has a whole different vibe than book 1. Impromptu Match was v ridiculous, horny, and hilarious. Not to say Clean Finish isn't those things, but there is an added layer of ache due to Seb's secret pining and how he carefully cares for Larkin. The books feel different, but they are still wonderfully connected by the other characters. You don't lose anyone, which to me is very special because I friggin love Holt and Taylor.
I absolutely recommend reading Impromptu Match before you touch Clean Finish so you understand all the character dynamics... or you'll be really dullahan dang confused, broseph.
June 28, 2025
This book had no business being so lovely.
THE PREMISE: adhd-coded Larkin has been flirting with the wrestlers and wants to do something about it … the only problem is he’s a virgin, and nervous that he doesn’t know what he’s doing. Which is why he asks calm, adorable Seb the werewolf bodyguard to be his sex instructor. Unfortunately, or fortunately, Seb’s already in love with Larkin.
THE PREMISE:
- MM monster romcom
- First times
- *it’s always only been you*
- Age gap (20s x 30s)
- Workplace romance
- Unapologetically smutty
MOOD: it honestly had a similar feel to MateHub: Legend.
4⭐️ 4🌶️
THE PREMISE: adhd-coded Larkin has been flirting with the wrestlers and wants to do something about it … the only problem is he’s a virgin, and nervous that he doesn’t know what he’s doing. Which is why he asks calm, adorable Seb the werewolf bodyguard to be his sex instructor. Unfortunately, or fortunately, Seb’s already in love with Larkin.
THE PREMISE:
- MM monster romcom
- First times
- *it’s always only been you*
- Age gap (20s x 30s)
- Workplace romance
- Unapologetically smutty
MOOD: it honestly had a similar feel to MateHub: Legend.
4⭐️ 4🌶️
November 4, 2024
I don't know how Lily Maybe does it, but every single one of her books is my kind of book. Seb and Lark are so precious. Seb's pining hurt my heart but he is such a good person and kind and mature and dirrrrrty. And Larkin is such a sweetheart, with his funny thoughts and naïveté. They are amazing together, caring and gentle and lovely. I want to live in this world forever.
Also, Lark's parents can adopt me anytime.
Also, Lark's parents can adopt me anytime.
August 14, 2024
Tropes: age gap, workplace romance, grumpy/sunshine, secret relationship, werewolf/fae
Feels: 4.5/5
Steam*: 3.5/5
Kinks: n/a
Angst: medium
HEA: yes
Pairing: MM
Triggers/potential icks/content warnings: pining, unequal feelings in the beginning
4.5 Stars
Larkin is 23 and a Fae. He is a horny virgin who works as an assistant with a lot of attractive paranormal wrestlers, and he flirts up a storm with them. He wants to spread his wings and have lots of sex, but he's also nervous and afraid because of his inexperience. Seb is 35 and a werewolf, he is the bodyguard of Larkin's boss. They interact a lot. Seb is quiet and has a reputation of being a bit grumpy. Larkin decides that Seb is safe, and he asks him to be his sexual tutor and teach him the ropes. Unbeknownst to Larkin, Seb has actually had a crush on Larkin ever since they met and wants him badly. Seb agrees to this, fully expecting it's going to get his heart pulverized to have Larkin for a short time only for Larkin to turn around and use everything he teaches him to hook up with other people.
At first, I was totally cringing and expecting this to end horribly because Larkin was not in a position life experience wise to commit to a relationship, so I saw this ending horribly for Seb but also I was thinking that it wouldn't be fair to Larkin either for him to have to clip his wings and not experience things in his life, and just dive into a relationship with Seb. Luckily, as they spent more time together they fit each other very well and Larkin realized he didn't actually want what he thought he wanted and they were kind of perfect together.
I thought this was a really enjoyable story. Larkin and Seb were such sweethearts and they were adorable together. They were hot for each other but they also just really enjoyed spending time together. They spent a lot of time talking, they were content in each other's presence and they brought each other peace. They were comfortable in silence together and they snuggled and just enjoyed each other. I am so weak when platonic snuggling is added to the mix! I love that in a book. They were precious and they fit so well into each other's lives. They were well fleshed out characters. There was great tension between them.
In the first book, there was a ton of really unsexy gross out toilet humor. And that made book one really disappoint me from a romance perspective. The same events were referenced in this book, but they were told with a lot more restraint and it was toned down. So I appreciated that, it helped my enjoyment.
I had a minor gripe with the book. One random thing that I don't love about this book is how Seb chose what their lessons would be. There were multiple times where Larkin asked for something in particular, for something different (usually anal) and Seb just said no, he planned/wanted to do something else. I didn't like that because it was one-sided that it was Seb who controlled what they did. And also I didn't like that their hookups in the first 70% were never impulsive and organic, they never got swept away in desire and deviated from the planned activity. But I still found the couple so precious that I'm reading at 4.5 Stars.
Some notable moments:
I love their snuggling! "Despite realising that we’d been gone a pretty long time and there was a risk of someone catching us, I melted onto Seb’s big chest and sighed into his neck, my hot forehead resting on the bed and my wings opening and closing languidly behind me. I didn’t want to move. I was pretty sure my legs wouldn’t support me if I tried to stand up right now anyway. Besides, Seb’s arms had wrapped around my middle and he was hugging me tightly to him, so it was, like, my noble duty or something to stay right where I was. If he wanted me to move, he wouldn’t be doing that, right? “Mmm.” I sank deeper into him, rubbing my nose against his sweat-damp neck and subtly breathing in his scent. He always smelled so good. Warm and comforting. Like a favourite blanket."
"“We’re gonna be so tired at work tomorrow.” “Yeah,” I croaked. I’d already decided to skip the gym in the morning. No way in hell was I going to wake up early and kick Larkin out just so I could go lift weights, when instead, I could have this for a little bit longer."
Poor Holt. He really tried, Larkin is just dense "Holt closed his eyes and let out a slow breath, then gulped down his rum. “I tried.” “Tried what?” I asked uncertainly."
*FYI about steam: 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.
**Note about spoilers: I like to comment on the plot of a book in reviews, so I almost always mark my reviews as containing spoilers. But I try to avoid spoiling the big dramatic moments! As a reader, I personally like to know what I'm getting into before I read a book so I know more about the content and if it's to my taste/mood, so I try to give that information in my reviews for myself when I'm considering rereading and also for other readers.
Feels: 4.5/5
Steam*: 3.5/5
Kinks: n/a
Angst: medium
HEA: yes
Pairing: MM
Triggers/potential icks/content warnings: pining, unequal feelings in the beginning
4.5 Stars
Larkin is 23 and a Fae. He is a horny virgin who works as an assistant with a lot of attractive paranormal wrestlers, and he flirts up a storm with them. He wants to spread his wings and have lots of sex, but he's also nervous and afraid because of his inexperience. Seb is 35 and a werewolf, he is the bodyguard of Larkin's boss. They interact a lot. Seb is quiet and has a reputation of being a bit grumpy. Larkin decides that Seb is safe, and he asks him to be his sexual tutor and teach him the ropes. Unbeknownst to Larkin, Seb has actually had a crush on Larkin ever since they met and wants him badly. Seb agrees to this, fully expecting it's going to get his heart pulverized to have Larkin for a short time only for Larkin to turn around and use everything he teaches him to hook up with other people.
At first, I was totally cringing and expecting this to end horribly because Larkin was not in a position life experience wise to commit to a relationship, so I saw this ending horribly for Seb but also I was thinking that it wouldn't be fair to Larkin either for him to have to clip his wings and not experience things in his life, and just dive into a relationship with Seb. Luckily, as they spent more time together they fit each other very well and Larkin realized he didn't actually want what he thought he wanted and they were kind of perfect together.
I thought this was a really enjoyable story. Larkin and Seb were such sweethearts and they were adorable together. They were hot for each other but they also just really enjoyed spending time together. They spent a lot of time talking, they were content in each other's presence and they brought each other peace. They were comfortable in silence together and they snuggled and just enjoyed each other. I am so weak when platonic snuggling is added to the mix! I love that in a book. They were precious and they fit so well into each other's lives. They were well fleshed out characters. There was great tension between them.
In the first book, there was a ton of really unsexy gross out toilet humor. And that made book one really disappoint me from a romance perspective. The same events were referenced in this book, but they were told with a lot more restraint and it was toned down. So I appreciated that, it helped my enjoyment.
I had a minor gripe with the book. One random thing that I don't love about this book is how Seb chose what their lessons would be. There were multiple times where Larkin asked for something in particular, for something different (usually anal) and Seb just said no, he planned/wanted to do something else. I didn't like that because it was one-sided that it was Seb who controlled what they did. And also I didn't like that their hookups in the first 70% were never impulsive and organic, they never got swept away in desire and deviated from the planned activity. But I still found the couple so precious that I'm reading at 4.5 Stars.
Some notable moments:
I love their snuggling! "Despite realising that we’d been gone a pretty long time and there was a risk of someone catching us, I melted onto Seb’s big chest and sighed into his neck, my hot forehead resting on the bed and my wings opening and closing languidly behind me. I didn’t want to move. I was pretty sure my legs wouldn’t support me if I tried to stand up right now anyway. Besides, Seb’s arms had wrapped around my middle and he was hugging me tightly to him, so it was, like, my noble duty or something to stay right where I was. If he wanted me to move, he wouldn’t be doing that, right? “Mmm.” I sank deeper into him, rubbing my nose against his sweat-damp neck and subtly breathing in his scent. He always smelled so good. Warm and comforting. Like a favourite blanket."
"“We’re gonna be so tired at work tomorrow.” “Yeah,” I croaked. I’d already decided to skip the gym in the morning. No way in hell was I going to wake up early and kick Larkin out just so I could go lift weights, when instead, I could have this for a little bit longer."
Poor Holt. He really tried, Larkin is just dense "Holt closed his eyes and let out a slow breath, then gulped down his rum. “I tried.” “Tried what?” I asked uncertainly."
*FYI about steam: 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.
**Note about spoilers: I like to comment on the plot of a book in reviews, so I almost always mark my reviews as containing spoilers. But I try to avoid spoiling the big dramatic moments! As a reader, I personally like to know what I'm getting into before I read a book so I know more about the content and if it's to my taste/mood, so I try to give that information in my reviews for myself when I'm considering rereading and also for other readers.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 29, 2025
I have read this 500 pages book 3 times since september, do I need to say more?
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5 “I’ve wanted this for so long. You have no idea how much this means to me.” stars
I could write ten thousand words about my love of this book, but I just want to start my review by saying that this book is 460 pages and I read it twice in 5 days and that this is everything you need to know to know how obsessed with this book I am.
I just wanted him by my side in life - in all parts of it. The good and the bad.
Mini-blurb:
Larkin, a fae, is a virgin and he asks Seb, the hot werewolf bodyguard at his work, to teach him sex lessons so that he can spread his wings but the more and more time they spend together, the more they realize that they are perfect for each other.
It's no secret that my favorite books are the ones entirely focused on how two people fall in love. I love seeing their first moments together and seeing them spend more and more time together, I love seeing all of their thoughts during the process and seeing their feelings for each other evolve through each moment that they spend together. This book just does all of this so perfectly. This book is just such a perfect representation of the first jittery meetings and not really knowing how to act around each other and getting more and more comfortable with the other over time and opening up to them in ways you never have with anyone else and realizing that you could have something real and strong because of the way you feel when you're together. And I was gobbling up every second of it like I was in the desert and this book was the last sip of water left.
Seb had been pining for Larkin since they met, a year and a half ago and I loved every seconds of it. I love a good pining and desperate man and Seb was just PERFECT. Larkin was younger and a little naive when it came to love because he had never been with anyone before, but I just adored how he was so eager to spend time with Seb even if he couldn't figure out why at first, he still never shied away from his feelings and just lived them fully. These two we just the perfect fit for each other and their personas just matched so well.
”What made you change your mind?”
“About us you mean? […] It was just you, Seb. I just realized that all I wanted was you.”
This book had me staying up at all hours of the night, when I had to be up early the next morning, because I could not put it down. It was the same on the re-read, which is a feat in itself.
—————
5 “I’ve wanted this for so long. You have no idea how much this means to me.” stars
I could write ten thousand words about my love of this book, but I just want to start my review by saying that this book is 460 pages and I read it twice in 5 days and that this is everything you need to know to know how obsessed with this book I am.
I just wanted him by my side in life - in all parts of it. The good and the bad.
Mini-blurb:
Larkin, a fae, is a virgin and he asks Seb, the hot werewolf bodyguard at his work, to teach him sex lessons so that he can spread his wings but the more and more time they spend together, the more they realize that they are perfect for each other.
It's no secret that my favorite books are the ones entirely focused on how two people fall in love. I love seeing their first moments together and seeing them spend more and more time together, I love seeing all of their thoughts during the process and seeing their feelings for each other evolve through each moment that they spend together. This book just does all of this so perfectly. This book is just such a perfect representation of the first jittery meetings and not really knowing how to act around each other and getting more and more comfortable with the other over time and opening up to them in ways you never have with anyone else and realizing that you could have something real and strong because of the way you feel when you're together. And I was gobbling up every second of it like I was in the desert and this book was the last sip of water left.
Seb had been pining for Larkin since they met, a year and a half ago and I loved every seconds of it. I love a good pining and desperate man and Seb was just PERFECT. Larkin was younger and a little naive when it came to love because he had never been with anyone before, but I just adored how he was so eager to spend time with Seb even if he couldn't figure out why at first, he still never shied away from his feelings and just lived them fully. These two we just the perfect fit for each other and their personas just matched so well.
”What made you change your mind?”
“About us you mean? […] It was just you, Seb. I just realized that all I wanted was you.”
This book had me staying up at all hours of the night, when I had to be up early the next morning, because I could not put it down. It was the same on the re-read, which is a feat in itself.
December 4, 2024
Ok but how precious were these two??? Seb with his constant pining and Larkin with his sunshine dude-bro attitude. The fuckletics instructor thing. It was cozy and funny and spicy AF. Seb was the teddy bear that everyone needs - endlessly patient and compassionate. Like seriously. I need him. Sorry Larkin, he’s mine now.
Spice: 5/5
Triggers: body insecurity, mentions of children cutting off parents (not Larkin and Sebs parents though, cuz they’re awesome), mentions of ableism
Spice: 5/5
Triggers: body insecurity, mentions of children cutting off parents (not Larkin and Sebs parents though, cuz they’re awesome), mentions of ableism
December 17, 2024
4.5 🌟
This was so much better than the first book in my opinion and quite literally fixed every single problem I had with it. I’m so glad I decided to give this series another try because oh wow I forgot how good Lily Mayne can be and I won’t be making that mistake again
This was so much better than the first book in my opinion and quite literally fixed every single problem I had with it. I’m so glad I decided to give this series another try because oh wow I forgot how good Lily Mayne can be and I won’t be making that mistake again
August 17, 2025
I had a nearly impossible time not gushing about this one constantly, so I held my review til release day despite typically posting ARC reviews early. I knew that I wouldn’t be able to write this with at least a few minor spoilers, so consider this your warning if that’s something you’d like to avoid lol
I *loved* this book — I loved Seb & Larkin’s relationship, I especially loved that they’re a vers couple (which I NEVER see, esp in monster roms), I love the character growth (esp from Larkin!), I loved how supportive all the side characters were (mature Holt?!), I loved all the little moments between the pining and the “fuckletics” where they made bread or fell asleep on the couch watching a movie together, and I loved that even though some of the humor wasn’t my thing I was constantly smiling, laughing, or kicking my feet while reading.
Lily Mayne is SO good at the serious stuff, the emotional stuff that brings tears to your eyes, the heavy things that break your heart — we’ve seen it over and over in her other works — but this series is her time to flex her silly muscles, to lean into her humorous side, and to just have fun . And she does this well too, which is kind of wild how far her talent stretches. But I love that even picking up something that could be a gamble on whether I’ll like it or not, I know that because it’s Lily Mayne that its going to be good.
Just like we all know that anything spicy or romantic is going to be good from her and this book really delivers on both of those ends. I won’t elaborate here because I feel like that’s the juiciest bit of the story but I will say that some of my favorite Lily’s Spicy Scenes ™ are in this book, right up there with Charlie and Moth (iykyk).
Now for more obvious spoilers which I will hide under the break here
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TLDR, because I’m a wordy-h0, this was another incredible read and I cannot wait for the next one! The teaser really left me with SO many questions and I’m thrilled that she already announced that it won’t be a long wait.
I *loved* this book — I loved Seb & Larkin’s relationship, I especially loved that they’re a vers couple (which I NEVER see, esp in monster roms), I love the character growth (esp from Larkin!), I loved how supportive all the side characters were (mature Holt?!), I loved all the little moments between the pining and the “fuckletics” where they made bread or fell asleep on the couch watching a movie together, and I loved that even though some of the humor wasn’t my thing I was constantly smiling, laughing, or kicking my feet while reading.
Lily Mayne is SO good at the serious stuff, the emotional stuff that brings tears to your eyes, the heavy things that break your heart — we’ve seen it over and over in her other works — but this series is her time to flex her silly muscles, to lean into her humorous side, and to just have fun . And she does this well too, which is kind of wild how far her talent stretches. But I love that even picking up something that could be a gamble on whether I’ll like it or not, I know that because it’s Lily Mayne that its going to be good.
Just like we all know that anything spicy or romantic is going to be good from her and this book really delivers on both of those ends. I won’t elaborate here because I feel like that’s the juiciest bit of the story but I will say that some of my favorite Lily’s Spicy Scenes ™ are in this book, right up there with Charlie and Moth (iykyk).
Now for more obvious spoilers which I will hide under the break here
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.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
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TLDR, because I’m a wordy-h0, this was another incredible read and I cannot wait for the next one! The teaser really left me with SO many questions and I’m thrilled that she already announced that it won’t be a long wait.
September 15, 2024
Omg I loved these two so much. Sebbbb!! I just want to give him a hug ALL THAT PINING!! Omg 😭 Larkin is such a sweet oblivious bby boy 🥹 and the way he responds to Seb’s praise 🥵 The sex scenes Lily Mayne writes are sooooo intense and yummy and descriptive 🥵 I also love how she writes feelings, insecurities and worries and it always feels grounded in reality and makes sense to her characters, it’s clear she knows all of her characters really well.
Lark and Seb were so perfect for each other and sweet to each other (ummm special crossword anyone??!!!) They give such Charlie and Moth vibes with Seb being a patient, considerate check in/ consent king and Larkin being so sweet, innocent and unsure that it just made you want to protect him and hug him 🥹
I like that we still got plenty of time with them even after they officially got together, I already know they’re going to be my favorite couple of this series (though I love Taylor and Holt always!) Also both their families, especially Larkin’s, were so sweet, loving and supportive. I just had a great time reading this book and can’t wait to read the rest of the series 🥰
Lark and Seb were so perfect for each other and sweet to each other (ummm special crossword anyone??!!!) They give such Charlie and Moth vibes with Seb being a patient, considerate check in/ consent king and Larkin being so sweet, innocent and unsure that it just made you want to protect him and hug him 🥹
I like that we still got plenty of time with them even after they officially got together, I already know they’re going to be my favorite couple of this series (though I love Taylor and Holt always!) Also both their families, especially Larkin’s, were so sweet, loving and supportive. I just had a great time reading this book and can’t wait to read the rest of the series 🥰
August 14, 2024
I hesitated a lot with this rating but I'm still deciding to give it two stars despite Lily Mayne always knowing what to do with her characters' voices and the sex scenes always being stellar.
But. Even she can't stop me from being tired of how much sex there was. I know that this was the crux of this book, the sex lessons, but I feel like she didn't know when to stop, even though until this series, she always did.
By the end of the story, I just wanted it to stop. It was just too long and no chapters of them meeting each other's families could make up for the fact that there just wasn't that much to their love story.
I liked Larkin more than I thought I would after meeting him in book one. I was so ready to forgive and forget all the (bad) potty humour from the first book but little did I know that the first part of this book would make it its mission to remind me of every single instance they joked about poop and farts and poop in bags and farts in jars and OH MY GOD MAKE IT STOP.
I get that this series is a more light hearted and sex centered one compared to her previous works but I just don't know how many books like that I'll be able to handle.
I complained a lot about the first book but at least I could see what drew Holt and Taylor to one another and found them endearing (when they weren't talking about poop) but even though I found Seb adorable and I adored Larkin's family this just didn't do it for me love wise.
The next book of this series will be more "enemies" to lovers flavored and that's kind of my jam so I'll be sticking around but I don't know how much more I can take. Please let go of the potty humour.
But. Even she can't stop me from being tired of how much sex there was. I know that this was the crux of this book, the sex lessons, but I feel like she didn't know when to stop, even though until this series, she always did.
By the end of the story, I just wanted it to stop. It was just too long and no chapters of them meeting each other's families could make up for the fact that there just wasn't that much to their love story.
I liked Larkin more than I thought I would after meeting him in book one. I was so ready to forgive and forget all the (bad) potty humour from the first book but little did I know that the first part of this book would make it its mission to remind me of every single instance they joked about poop and farts and poop in bags and farts in jars and OH MY GOD MAKE IT STOP.
I get that this series is a more light hearted and sex centered one compared to her previous works but I just don't know how many books like that I'll be able to handle.
I complained a lot about the first book but at least I could see what drew Holt and Taylor to one another and found them endearing (when they weren't talking about poop) but even though I found Seb adorable and I adored Larkin's family this just didn't do it for me love wise.
The next book of this series will be more "enemies" to lovers flavored and that's kind of my jam so I'll be sticking around but I don't know how much more I can take. Please let go of the potty humour.
August 6, 2024
Okay, I absolutely loved Holt and Taylor. I’ve listened to the audio so many times, it’s ridiculous really. So when I saw Lily talk about Clean Finish, Larkin and Seb’s story, I was STOKED. We saw hints of their… relationship in the first book and I was SO curious how it started because Larkin is ALL over the wrestlers 🤣
I got an ARC for this one and HOLY did I zoom through this book. It’s so frigging cute and precious? I absolutely loved seeing Seb pine away secretly while keeping his feelings for Larkin in check...When Larkin brings up the most bonkers way that will drive Seb nuts with want, and a way to touch Larkin the way he’s wanted to since they met?
Help Larkin become a sex god, but also take his virginity too. Nbd.
In return, I enjoyed seeing Larkin change the way he saw sex and wanting to be intimate with anyone BUT Seb. How uncomfortable it made him to think about touching anyone else, and how he just DIDN'T understand what was going on was precious honestly. I loved how these lessons just became... MORE.
I fucking LOVED Seb. His constant check ins, reassuring Larkin that he as perfect as is (his lil nub 😭), always wanting to make sure Lark was comfortable with whatever they were doing, and how he just loved and adored him for just being… him.
But what broke my heart and the way these two catapulted into my favorites? The way these two lazily hung out, pizza and movies. Video games and crosswords. It wasn’t going out daily or weekly, it was just them enjoying the others company. I even complained to Lily that these two might have replaced another couple as my favorites. MAYBE.
BUT HE MADE HIM A CROSSWORD PUZZLE. LILY?!?!
I got an ARC for this one and HOLY did I zoom through this book. It’s so frigging cute and precious? I absolutely loved seeing Seb pine away secretly while keeping his feelings for Larkin in check...When Larkin brings up the most bonkers way that will drive Seb nuts with want, and a way to touch Larkin the way he’s wanted to since they met?
Help Larkin become a sex god, but also take his virginity too. Nbd.
In return, I enjoyed seeing Larkin change the way he saw sex and wanting to be intimate with anyone BUT Seb. How uncomfortable it made him to think about touching anyone else, and how he just DIDN'T understand what was going on was precious honestly. I loved how these lessons just became... MORE.
I fucking LOVED Seb. His constant check ins, reassuring Larkin that he as perfect as is (his lil nub 😭), always wanting to make sure Lark was comfortable with whatever they were doing, and how he just loved and adored him for just being… him.
But what broke my heart and the way these two catapulted into my favorites? The way these two lazily hung out, pizza and movies. Video games and crosswords. It wasn’t going out daily or weekly, it was just them enjoying the others company. I even complained to Lily that these two might have replaced another couple as my favorites. MAYBE.
BUT HE MADE HIM A CROSSWORD PUZZLE. LILY?!?!
Read
August 7, 2024DNF@ 25%
I think this is a case of it's me and not the book (series). I just can't get into this world. Maybe I'll try again one day.
I think this is a case of it's me and not the book (series). I just can't get into this world. Maybe I'll try again one day.
December 28, 2024
started off really cute but dragged on for wayyyyyyyyy too long.
August 13, 2025
Wow too good 😩 ATE THIS UP
August 11, 2024
Monster MM Romance
Werewolf / Fae
Age Gap
Sex Lessons
Super Sweet
Super Spicy
How is it possible to have a book this spicy be this sweet?? Oh that’s right, Lily Mayne wrote this and that’s her superpower. JFC this is probably the spiciest book I’ve read in quite some time, but it’s the kind of spice that 100% is immersed in a good story, so it works!
Larkin, the most adorable and flirty Fae to exist, has decided that in order to complete his quest to experience all the sex with the hot wrestlers he needs experience. He’s a virgin and he needs the skills to back up his flirty persona. So he finds someone that is chill, older, experienced and will have no attachments… because once Larkin gets good, he’s gonna go rock all the wrestlers world.
Seb is the boss man’s crossword lovin werewolf bodyguard. He’s chill, he’s older and he doesn’t gossip or hang with the wrestlers. The perfect person to go to for sex lessons. The problem is, Seb has been in love with Larkin since the first time he saw him. Seb is willing to risk his heart though. To help Larkin.
There is so much pining and emotion in this story. I knew I would love Larkin because I loved him in book one. I had no idea I’d love Seb as much as I did. He was a fabulous character. And of course all the cameos and side characters (Larkin’s family!!) were just amazing. Lily Mayne is one of my favorite author for good reason!
Werewolf / Fae
Age Gap
Sex Lessons
Super Sweet
Super Spicy
How is it possible to have a book this spicy be this sweet?? Oh that’s right, Lily Mayne wrote this and that’s her superpower. JFC this is probably the spiciest book I’ve read in quite some time, but it’s the kind of spice that 100% is immersed in a good story, so it works!
Larkin, the most adorable and flirty Fae to exist, has decided that in order to complete his quest to experience all the sex with the hot wrestlers he needs experience. He’s a virgin and he needs the skills to back up his flirty persona. So he finds someone that is chill, older, experienced and will have no attachments… because once Larkin gets good, he’s gonna go rock all the wrestlers world.
Seb is the boss man’s crossword lovin werewolf bodyguard. He’s chill, he’s older and he doesn’t gossip or hang with the wrestlers. The perfect person to go to for sex lessons. The problem is, Seb has been in love with Larkin since the first time he saw him. Seb is willing to risk his heart though. To help Larkin.
There is so much pining and emotion in this story. I knew I would love Larkin because I loved him in book one. I had no idea I’d love Seb as much as I did. He was a fabulous character. And of course all the cameos and side characters (Larkin’s family!!) were just amazing. Lily Mayne is one of my favorite author for good reason!
August 12, 2024
“Clean Finish” by Lily Mayne
5⭐️/5⭐️
5🌶/5🌶
“I wanted it again. All the time. Only with him.”
-Ugh, this story was so freaking sweet. The Goliaths of Wrestling series is probably the most lighthearted, smut-filled series I’ve ever read. It’s hilarious! Genuinely one of the funniest set of books I’ve ever read.
-The story overlaps slightly with the ending of “Impromptu Match”, so I would recommend reading that book first. Seb and Larkin work behind the scenes at Goliath Wrestling, but they’re not super close. Seb has secretly harbored a crush on Larkin, and Larkin is oblivious to his feelings, openly flirting with all the wrestlers whenever he has a chance. But he has a secret: he’s a virgin, and is nervous about initiating any physical intimacy with them. He needs practice, and decides to ask Seb to help him since he seems like a professional type of guy.
-While Seb is pining for Larkin hardcore, it’s not a terribly angsty story. The humor, and Larkin’s personality helps cushion any sad feelings Seb has about not being in a true relationship with Larkin. And Larkin, while he is young and naive about a lot of things, is very authentic with his feelings.
-The ‘practice dating’ or ‘practice sex lessons’ trope is always a lot of fun, because it’s especially transparent when the other person catches feelings. The lessons were HOT, varied, and plentiful.
-This is one of those books you reach for when you’re not feeling 100% and need a pick-me-up, because it’s guaranteed to make you laugh, sigh, and sweat. The next book comes out next month already! And after reading the blurb and sneak peek I can tell it has a good chance of being my favorite of the three.
5⭐️/5⭐️
5🌶/5🌶
“I wanted it again. All the time. Only with him.”
-Ugh, this story was so freaking sweet. The Goliaths of Wrestling series is probably the most lighthearted, smut-filled series I’ve ever read. It’s hilarious! Genuinely one of the funniest set of books I’ve ever read.
-The story overlaps slightly with the ending of “Impromptu Match”, so I would recommend reading that book first. Seb and Larkin work behind the scenes at Goliath Wrestling, but they’re not super close. Seb has secretly harbored a crush on Larkin, and Larkin is oblivious to his feelings, openly flirting with all the wrestlers whenever he has a chance. But he has a secret: he’s a virgin, and is nervous about initiating any physical intimacy with them. He needs practice, and decides to ask Seb to help him since he seems like a professional type of guy.
-While Seb is pining for Larkin hardcore, it’s not a terribly angsty story. The humor, and Larkin’s personality helps cushion any sad feelings Seb has about not being in a true relationship with Larkin. And Larkin, while he is young and naive about a lot of things, is very authentic with his feelings.
-The ‘practice dating’ or ‘practice sex lessons’ trope is always a lot of fun, because it’s especially transparent when the other person catches feelings. The lessons were HOT, varied, and plentiful.
-This is one of those books you reach for when you’re not feeling 100% and need a pick-me-up, because it’s guaranteed to make you laugh, sigh, and sweat. The next book comes out next month already! And after reading the blurb and sneak peek I can tell it has a good chance of being my favorite of the three.
September 12, 2024
4.5 stars
Larkin is such a beautifully oblivious idiot, but I love him. I thoroughly enjoyed his character in Impromptu Match, and I was super excited to get his story, AND WITH SEB. That werewolf is such a sweetheart. I really enjoyed getting dual POVs in this book. I always like getting both sides of the romance. We get to see Seb pining after Larkin, and Larkin being adorably clueless while he learns more about himself... in a lot of ways. This story was sweet and hilarious. The ridiculousness is a little over the top, but that's just part of the charm. Like book one in this series, this story isn't very plot heavy and focuses heavily on the characters. My rating ding for this one, like book one, is the length. It did drag just a bit without much story progression. That said, I still loved this one, and I'm looking forward to book three! Rafe and Dan should be an interesting pairing.
Larkin is such a beautifully oblivious idiot, but I love him. I thoroughly enjoyed his character in Impromptu Match, and I was super excited to get his story, AND WITH SEB. That werewolf is such a sweetheart. I really enjoyed getting dual POVs in this book. I always like getting both sides of the romance. We get to see Seb pining after Larkin, and Larkin being adorably clueless while he learns more about himself... in a lot of ways. This story was sweet and hilarious. The ridiculousness is a little over the top, but that's just part of the charm. Like book one in this series, this story isn't very plot heavy and focuses heavily on the characters. My rating ding for this one, like book one, is the length. It did drag just a bit without much story progression. That said, I still loved this one, and I'm looking forward to book three! Rafe and Dan should be an interesting pairing.
August 5, 2024
Listen, I love these two so dang much. I was expecting to, of course. I already loved them in the first book. What I was not expecting, however, is the depth in which my love would manifest for them. Listen, Seb? SEB?! Yea, he needs to be protected at all cost. All. COSTS. He is the sweet baby Angel no one saw coming. And Larkin? He is the perfect mix of total dork, and sincerely sweet. This is a match made in heaven. This book was perfect. Tons of pining, some achy-ness, and still so funny! Dare I say it’s better than book one? And that’s saying a lot because I adored book one! And, there is a good chunk of book where you get to experience the HEA, which is very personal to me 🥹😍 so basically, what I’m saying is, READ THIS BOOK IMMEDIATELY!
August 7, 2024
This was so good!! It made me smile to myself way more than I want to admit. I somehow ended up liking it more than the first one (even though I’ll always love sexy ass Holt and Dad Bod Taylor)! This was definitely more than just the pure smut and fart jokes that book one had (which again, I had no problem with). Larkin is so effing adorable and sweet and clueless (and don’t get me started on his family), and Seb is every inch the perfect man for Lark, and just as sweet and caring and loving as Lark deserves. My heart ached for Seb so much in the beginning, poor guy. But I’m happy with how it all turned out in the end. 🖤🖤 Definitely going to be added to my re-read rotation. So many warm, fuzzy feels.
December 27, 2025
Really glad I took the chance on the sequel. It turns out I just don’t really like Holt and Taylor, but this couple is feet-kickingly adorable
August 18, 2024
This was so good! After the first book in this series not being good for me I wasn’t sure if I’d have a problem with this one. I absolutely adored Larkin and Seb! It was sweet and hot and so romantic! This may be my favorite book (besides Moth & Charlie) by Mayne.
August 28, 2024
Here’s the deal: I do think the premise is actually pretty cool. Sexually experienced person teaching a newbie the ropes? Great! It reminded me of this fanfic I once read and loved... until I realized it was a million words long. (no kidding!)
So despite DNFing this one, there is some good stuff, there are a couple of decent sex scenes. The handjob and blowjob lessons were well explained. I even found one scene pretty hot. So there's that.
But here's where it all goes downhill. First off, the humor. I think this is Mayne's attempt at comedy, and honestly? This is not funny, I’m sorry. I'm not sure if she uses this style in her Monstrous series (which I wasn't a fan of either), but yeah, it's just not landing for me.
And don't even get me started on the pacing. I'm all for a nice 300-page book, you know? But this thing drags like nobody's business. After 100 pages, I'm still reading the same two thoughts over and over. MC1 is all "I like MC2 but don't want them sleeping around," and MC2 is just "Teach me sex!" Like... Come on!
I usually knock out books in one sitting, so there's no need to remind me of these thoughts every. Single. Chapter. It's like, I get it already!
To be fair, I might've enjoyed it more if they'd dug deeper into the characters' personalities or, I don't know, anything beyond those two thoughts on repeat. It just feels like a waste of pages.
In the end, while I see what Mayne was going for, I don't think I'll be picking this one up again. It's a shame because the idea had potential, but sometimes even a good premise can't save a book from itself. Maybe it would've worked better as a weekly release thing, with the repetitive thoughts as a recap and a new steamy scene each week. But as a full novel? Nah, I'm good.
DNF at 27%
So despite DNFing this one, there is some good stuff, there are a couple of decent sex scenes. The handjob and blowjob lessons were well explained. I even found one scene pretty hot. So there's that.
But here's where it all goes downhill. First off, the humor. I think this is Mayne's attempt at comedy, and honestly? This is not funny, I’m sorry. I'm not sure if she uses this style in her Monstrous series (which I wasn't a fan of either), but yeah, it's just not landing for me.
And don't even get me started on the pacing. I'm all for a nice 300-page book, you know? But this thing drags like nobody's business. After 100 pages, I'm still reading the same two thoughts over and over. MC1 is all "I like MC2 but don't want them sleeping around," and MC2 is just "Teach me sex!" Like... Come on!
I usually knock out books in one sitting, so there's no need to remind me of these thoughts every. Single. Chapter. It's like, I get it already!
To be fair, I might've enjoyed it more if they'd dug deeper into the characters' personalities or, I don't know, anything beyond those two thoughts on repeat. It just feels like a waste of pages.
In the end, while I see what Mayne was going for, I don't think I'll be picking this one up again. It's a shame because the idea had potential, but sometimes even a good premise can't save a book from itself. Maybe it would've worked better as a weekly release thing, with the repetitive thoughts as a recap and a new steamy scene each week. But as a full novel? Nah, I'm good.
DNF at 27%
August 5, 2024
I loved EVERYTHING about this one. The angst hit just right and made this addictive for me.
The angst is so *chefs kiss" 🤌
-Size Difference
-Monster Romance
-Virgin
-Secret Pining
-Age Gap
-Praise
-An arraignment
-Angst
The angst is so *chefs kiss" 🤌
-Size Difference
-Monster Romance
-Virgin
-Secret Pining
-Age Gap
-Praise
-An arraignment
-Angst
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