What do you think?
Rate this book
Breakfast at Bennett's #4
The Outcast
Ethan Bennett is too old for Mickey.
Ethan Bennett plays guitar, barbecues as often as possible, and owns a diner. He’s a widower whose life still revolves around his sons, but he wouldn’t have it any other way. When Mickey, a younger man his son Taylor had been helping shows up at the diner, cold to the bone, thin as a rail, Ethan knows he can’t send him away. He expects to help Mickey out for a while, what he doesn’t expect is the way the quiet younger man occupies his every waking moment.
Mickey Underwood has had it rough. All he’s got to show for his twenty-five years on the planet is a high school diploma, no relationship with his parents, and a long list of regrets. If it weren’t for Ethan, Mickey would still be homeless, or probably dead. He knows that as sure as he knows he’s never made a good decision in his life. He should take off and forget about Ethan Bennett, his guitar, and his raspy voice. But he can’t make himself leave and he can’t make himself stop feeling things for Ethan.
Forced to face his feelings for Mickey, Ethan must also deal with the fact that he never came out as bisexual. He’d been happy in his marriage to Sarah, and after her death, he was too busy raising their kids. Even when his boys were all grown up, Ethan still didn’t have a lot of interest in dating. So why does he want to dust off his heart for Mickey? He doesn’t doubt his sons will support his sexuality, but will they be happy that he’s found love with someone their age?
Breakfast at Bennett’s is a four book series consisting of The Virgin, The Jock, The Princess, and The Outcast. It is best enjoyed if read in order.
Ethan Bennett plays guitar, barbecues as often as possible, and owns a diner. He’s a widower whose life still revolves around his sons, but he wouldn’t have it any other way. When Mickey, a younger man his son Taylor had been helping shows up at the diner, cold to the bone, thin as a rail, Ethan knows he can’t send him away. He expects to help Mickey out for a while, what he doesn’t expect is the way the quiet younger man occupies his every waking moment.
Mickey Underwood has had it rough. All he’s got to show for his twenty-five years on the planet is a high school diploma, no relationship with his parents, and a long list of regrets. If it weren’t for Ethan, Mickey would still be homeless, or probably dead. He knows that as sure as he knows he’s never made a good decision in his life. He should take off and forget about Ethan Bennett, his guitar, and his raspy voice. But he can’t make himself leave and he can’t make himself stop feeling things for Ethan.
Forced to face his feelings for Mickey, Ethan must also deal with the fact that he never came out as bisexual. He’d been happy in his marriage to Sarah, and after her death, he was too busy raising their kids. Even when his boys were all grown up, Ethan still didn’t have a lot of interest in dating. So why does he want to dust off his heart for Mickey? He doesn’t doubt his sons will support his sexuality, but will they be happy that he’s found love with someone their age?
Breakfast at Bennett’s is a four book series consisting of The Virgin, The Jock, The Princess, and The Outcast. It is best enjoyed if read in order.
250 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 19, 2024
About the author
E.M. Denning
107 books575 followersEM Denning has more than twenty romance novels under her belt and has become an author you can rely on to bring you emotionally endearing, soft and fuzzy, stories. She is well known among her friends for her love of naps and sarcasm. She spends her free time reading as many romance novels as she can get her hands on.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
January 12, 2025
GAH, I love this bunch a whole lot. Mickey and Ethan were so sweet together. The hurt/comfort vibes in this were eeeexcellent. Love this series!
October 1, 2024
This one the book I was the most anxious about because I am not a fan of the Age Gap trope, but THAT WAS AMAZING! The way Mickey and Ethan just took their time to get to know each other, the comfort, the way Ethan’s sons just wanted their dad to be happy. This book was just one big ball of warmth and love, a perfect end to the series!
February 14, 2025
A beautiful, sweet and sexy, warm hug kind of story
I absolutely love this series and all of these amazing men. I’m happy we got the dad’s story. Ethan Bennet deserved his own happiness and Mickey and Ethan steam up the page together. The way they take care of each other is truly beautiful I’m sad it’s over, apart from a Christmas story I need to read immediately, but this book brought it all to a very satisfying, heartfelt conclusion. I needed this sweet and sexy, warm hug kind of a story. Thank you.
I absolutely love this series and all of these amazing men. I’m happy we got the dad’s story. Ethan Bennet deserved his own happiness and Mickey and Ethan steam up the page together. The way they take care of each other is truly beautiful I’m sad it’s over, apart from a Christmas story I need to read immediately, but this book brought it all to a very satisfying, heartfelt conclusion. I needed this sweet and sexy, warm hug kind of a story. Thank you.
September 8, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
🌶️🌶️
(ARC)
This book was a sweet read and a fitting ending to the Bennett's stories. I went into this book wanting a relatively low angst and wholesome love story and that's exactly what I got. Mickey and Ethan are perfect for each other and give each other what the other wants and needs. Mickey getting the family and support system he deserves brought a tear to my eye ngl. I'm gonna miss this group and their antics but this was a great way to send them off. Now on another hand, I def would not be opposed to story 👀👀
🌶️🌶️
(ARC)
This book was a sweet read and a fitting ending to the Bennett's stories. I went into this book wanting a relatively low angst and wholesome love story and that's exactly what I got. Mickey and Ethan are perfect for each other and give each other what the other wants and needs. Mickey getting the family and support system he deserves brought a tear to my eye ngl. I'm gonna miss this group and their antics but this was a great way to send them off. Now on another hand, I def would not be opposed to story 👀👀
September 17, 2024
The Outcast by E.M. Denning concludes the Breakfast at Bennett’s series and is a perfect addition. Breakfast at Bennett’s is now one of my favorite contemporary romance series. I haven’t read anything that resonates with me so much in a very long time. The author truly has a gift to challenge societal expectations and handle difficult subjects in such a manner that it doesn’t detract from the story itself.
The Outcast, I’m in awe of the author’s ability to weave in heavy topics and yet still keep it as a romance book. It handles homelessness, domestic violence, family rejection, and grief. Yet, it doesn’t feel like the reader is being preached at, but instead led to an understanding that is heartfelt and honest.
It also comes with a beautiful helping of love, acceptance, and of course some plant bombing that will always make me laugh.
Ethan Bennet has grown children and is a widow. E.M. Denning does not overlook the character’s love of his late wife. At this point in life, he’s clearly coming into his own again, battling loneliness when he finds Mikey on the brink of death from homelessness.
Mikey has significant issues of his own from family rejection to domestic abuse. It’s a beautiful unfolding to see the support he’s given to grow and stand on his own two feet. It tugs at the heart and the author doesn’t minimize it. That is truly one of the most magical gifts of E.M. Denning.
Despite the significant age gap as Mikey was the age of one of Ethan’s sons, there’s a perfect spark there. It means Ethan has to face his own sexuality. I love that he was comfortable with it. Usually there’s a push/pull in these stories, but he already recognizes who he is and what a joy that must be in life. Not everyone has that.
Boundaries is an important topic in this book, making sure to battle the internal dialogue from the past and prove something to yourself. As someone familiar with domestic violence, the author got it. There are so many times that books simply put two characters together and that’s enough. E.M. Denning understands autonomy is just as important when coming together.
The chemistry between these two is off the charts. It had some of my favorite smexy scenes. While there were plenty of swoon worthy moments, there are also a great deal of melt the kindle ones as well.
The worldbuilding was on point as always. It felt like I could walk right into the pages and sit down at the diner. I wish that were an option, because the world created is rich and loving. I read for escape, sometimes for the wish of having someplace better to go, and E.M. Denning gives it to the reader perfectly.
There are some books that can touch the soul and make a difference. This entire series has been that. I know it will be a frequent reread. It already has been.
5+ stars for a touching, hot, and perfect read.
The Outcast, I’m in awe of the author’s ability to weave in heavy topics and yet still keep it as a romance book. It handles homelessness, domestic violence, family rejection, and grief. Yet, it doesn’t feel like the reader is being preached at, but instead led to an understanding that is heartfelt and honest.
It also comes with a beautiful helping of love, acceptance, and of course some plant bombing that will always make me laugh.
Ethan Bennet has grown children and is a widow. E.M. Denning does not overlook the character’s love of his late wife. At this point in life, he’s clearly coming into his own again, battling loneliness when he finds Mikey on the brink of death from homelessness.
Mikey has significant issues of his own from family rejection to domestic abuse. It’s a beautiful unfolding to see the support he’s given to grow and stand on his own two feet. It tugs at the heart and the author doesn’t minimize it. That is truly one of the most magical gifts of E.M. Denning.
Despite the significant age gap as Mikey was the age of one of Ethan’s sons, there’s a perfect spark there. It means Ethan has to face his own sexuality. I love that he was comfortable with it. Usually there’s a push/pull in these stories, but he already recognizes who he is and what a joy that must be in life. Not everyone has that.
Boundaries is an important topic in this book, making sure to battle the internal dialogue from the past and prove something to yourself. As someone familiar with domestic violence, the author got it. There are so many times that books simply put two characters together and that’s enough. E.M. Denning understands autonomy is just as important when coming together.
The chemistry between these two is off the charts. It had some of my favorite smexy scenes. While there were plenty of swoon worthy moments, there are also a great deal of melt the kindle ones as well.
The worldbuilding was on point as always. It felt like I could walk right into the pages and sit down at the diner. I wish that were an option, because the world created is rich and loving. I read for escape, sometimes for the wish of having someplace better to go, and E.M. Denning gives it to the reader perfectly.
There are some books that can touch the soul and make a difference. This entire series has been that. I know it will be a frequent reread. It already has been.
5+ stars for a touching, hot, and perfect read.
September 19, 2024
I've loved each and every book that has been apart of this series. Getting to know each of the men that make up the Bennett family was such a joy to be apart of. Seeing each of these men grow, flourish, and fall in love has been such an amazing experience.
This series has had my heart since the first book, these characters are written so beautifully and you just can't help but to connect to them. I was cheering for each of these men, especially Ethan. Now, prior to reading this book my favorite one was Taylor's story. However, after reading Ethan and Mickey's story... I have a new favorite.
Mickey has not had it easy the past few years. Growing up his parents were always cold to him and never cared much about him. When he met a man who he thought loved him he went right to his arms.. that man ended up being a monster in disguise, and when he tried to go home his parents turned him away. Leaving him to live on the streets, knocking on deaths door. Until the Bennett family steps in and his life goes from being frozen and bleak, to being warm and bright.
I've adored Ethan's character throughout every book, he's such a great character. He's a fantastic dad, he's kind, caring, and thoughtful. All those characteristics just shone from the pages in this story. He's been single for a long time, never meeting anyone who he wanted to be in a relationship with, until Mickey.
I loved, loved, loved this!!! The writing was exceptional, the story flowed effortlessly, the characters were incredible as they have always been, the dialogue was engaging and captivating, and the background detail was described in great detail! I liked that these two men took their time and didn't rush anything. If they had rushed into a relationship it wouldn't have felt right, considering the situation Mickey had gotten away from. I appreciated the fact that they took their time to get to know each other, learn each other's quirks, their tells... It made the moment when they did admit their feelings that much more special. I'm sad to see this series go, but this was such an incredible way to end a magnificent series!!
This series has had my heart since the first book, these characters are written so beautifully and you just can't help but to connect to them. I was cheering for each of these men, especially Ethan. Now, prior to reading this book my favorite one was Taylor's story. However, after reading Ethan and Mickey's story... I have a new favorite.
Mickey has not had it easy the past few years. Growing up his parents were always cold to him and never cared much about him. When he met a man who he thought loved him he went right to his arms.. that man ended up being a monster in disguise, and when he tried to go home his parents turned him away. Leaving him to live on the streets, knocking on deaths door. Until the Bennett family steps in and his life goes from being frozen and bleak, to being warm and bright.
I've adored Ethan's character throughout every book, he's such a great character. He's a fantastic dad, he's kind, caring, and thoughtful. All those characteristics just shone from the pages in this story. He's been single for a long time, never meeting anyone who he wanted to be in a relationship with, until Mickey.
I loved, loved, loved this!!! The writing was exceptional, the story flowed effortlessly, the characters were incredible as they have always been, the dialogue was engaging and captivating, and the background detail was described in great detail! I liked that these two men took their time and didn't rush anything. If they had rushed into a relationship it wouldn't have felt right, considering the situation Mickey had gotten away from. I appreciated the fact that they took their time to get to know each other, learn each other's quirks, their tells... It made the moment when they did admit their feelings that much more special. I'm sad to see this series go, but this was such an incredible way to end a magnificent series!!
September 25, 2024
I am so happy that I finally got a 5 star out of this series. This one was my favorite of the four books. Can't wait for the Christmas at Bennett's.
Ethan is the dad to Jonah, Colby, and Taylor. He owns the diner and is a widower. He's almost 50 and he is feeling lonely now that his sons are adults and have coupled off. He finds his home empty with it being just him now. He will always love his wife and she knew he was bisexual. Now, he wants a guy to be with. He cares a lot not just for his boys, but is a caring person in general.
Mickey we first met in The Princess. Taylor was helping him, but Mickey was weary of that help because of his ex who was horrible. This time Mickey has no choice but to take it because he knows if he doesn't then he won't make it through the night with how sick he is. The snow coming down outside he went to the diner looking for warmth and something to eat. Taylor usually leaves some food out for him so he doesn't have to go dumpster diving.
Ethan took him home and helped him get well. I loved this so much with the hurt/sick/comfort part. Loved how Ethan convinced Mickey to stay and that the two of them come together. Mickey was emotionally abused by the ex and his parents weren't that great either. He has had a rough life, but Ethan helps him stand on his feet. He also meets Shane who gives him a job and an apartment for rent until he's ready to live with Ethan full time after getting well.
I was also loving the epilogue were Taylor moved in with his men. The sex was hot as usual. I was so happy with this book and to finally have a 5 star. The books are all great, but this one had so much love. Taylor and those plants, I loved that the most in all these books. I hope someday maybe we get Shane's story because that would be awesome.
Ethan is the dad to Jonah, Colby, and Taylor. He owns the diner and is a widower. He's almost 50 and he is feeling lonely now that his sons are adults and have coupled off. He finds his home empty with it being just him now. He will always love his wife and she knew he was bisexual. Now, he wants a guy to be with. He cares a lot not just for his boys, but is a caring person in general.
Mickey we first met in The Princess. Taylor was helping him, but Mickey was weary of that help because of his ex who was horrible. This time Mickey has no choice but to take it because he knows if he doesn't then he won't make it through the night with how sick he is. The snow coming down outside he went to the diner looking for warmth and something to eat. Taylor usually leaves some food out for him so he doesn't have to go dumpster diving.
Ethan took him home and helped him get well. I loved this so much with the hurt/sick/comfort part. Loved how Ethan convinced Mickey to stay and that the two of them come together. Mickey was emotionally abused by the ex and his parents weren't that great either. He has had a rough life, but Ethan helps him stand on his feet. He also meets Shane who gives him a job and an apartment for rent until he's ready to live with Ethan full time after getting well.
I was also loving the epilogue were Taylor moved in with his men. The sex was hot as usual. I was so happy with this book and to finally have a 5 star. The books are all great, but this one had so much love. Taylor and those plants, I loved that the most in all these books. I hope someday maybe we get Shane's story because that would be awesome.
March 8, 2025
One of my favorites of the series!
Well, this is the last book in the series, and I'm so sad to see the Bennett's and their men go! This was daddy Ethan's book. The widowed husband that had to raise 3 boys and run a diner on his own. The man who always supports his children 10000% no matter what. The dad who adopts his son's boyfriends as his own family. The caretaker who cares for a homeless man in need of more than just a warm place to sleep. He's such a great man, and I'm so happy he got his own story! Him and Mickey are the sweetest, hottest, and most beautiful couple, I swear! Yes I get some people look side ways at the age difference but sometimes when you meet someone who fits inside your heart and soul the way Ethan did for Mickey and brings you back to life like Mickey did for Ethan then it doesnt matter that theyre older. No one knows your relationship the way you do. What Mickey went through, not just with his emotionally abusive ex but with his cold hearted family, was enough life jam packed into only 25 years and then. Ethan came along and showed him that there is real honest love out there that doesn't ask for anything back and doesn't make you feel constantly afraid and undeserving of love. These two came together, and it was right for them. These two were definitely one of my most favorite couples and such a great way to end the series. The spice was sensual and so hot, and the connection between Mickey and Ethan warmed my heart. I'm going to miss the Bennett's, but it's not forever
Well, this is the last book in the series, and I'm so sad to see the Bennett's and their men go! This was daddy Ethan's book. The widowed husband that had to raise 3 boys and run a diner on his own. The man who always supports his children 10000% no matter what. The dad who adopts his son's boyfriends as his own family. The caretaker who cares for a homeless man in need of more than just a warm place to sleep. He's such a great man, and I'm so happy he got his own story! Him and Mickey are the sweetest, hottest, and most beautiful couple, I swear! Yes I get some people look side ways at the age difference but sometimes when you meet someone who fits inside your heart and soul the way Ethan did for Mickey and brings you back to life like Mickey did for Ethan then it doesnt matter that theyre older. No one knows your relationship the way you do. What Mickey went through, not just with his emotionally abusive ex but with his cold hearted family, was enough life jam packed into only 25 years and then. Ethan came along and showed him that there is real honest love out there that doesn't ask for anything back and doesn't make you feel constantly afraid and undeserving of love. These two came together, and it was right for them. These two were definitely one of my most favorite couples and such a great way to end the series. The spice was sensual and so hot, and the connection between Mickey and Ethan warmed my heart. I'm going to miss the Bennett's, but it's not forever
October 17, 2025
I’m so glad that Ethan got his HEA, he’s been an intriguing character since the beginning and he was more than deserving of his own story that led to happiness. I feel like this one dealt with some of the heaviest themes, it’s a true hurt/comfort romance, but it still managed to be incredibly sweet love story. I don’t usually particularly care for large age gaps but this one really works, and I think it works particularly well because Ethan’s temperament is so mild and he’s so even-keeled that it compliments Mickey’s more messy, anxious self but also because in the bedroom, Mickey is the more experienced, more bossy party and that role reversal gives them much needed balance in their dynamic. Mickey needed someone to love him unconditionally and Ethan needed someone to love, Ethan needed someone to guide and take care of him while he lets himself be loved in the first time in far too long, and Mickey is more than happy to take the lead and take care of Ethan for once. 🥹
I really like that the author included the challenges they faced with the age gap too though. Ethan’s insecurities about being too old, that Mickey would realize he wants someone younger… but also the physical challenges like Ethan’s adorable “it’s been a while” incident, or the whole “I can’t go again like you can, I wish I were younger” aspect. I feel like those are topics that usually get skirted around.
I really like that the author included the challenges they faced with the age gap too though. Ethan’s insecurities about being too old, that Mickey would realize he wants someone younger… but also the physical challenges like Ethan’s adorable “it’s been a while” incident, or the whole “I can’t go again like you can, I wish I were younger” aspect. I feel like those are topics that usually get skirted around.
December 3, 2025
A Joyfully Jay review.
4 stars
This is the fourth book in the Breakfast at Bennett’s series and best enjoyed when read in order. If you don’t feel like reading all the books, The Princess (Book 3), is probably the most relevant. This audiobook was really tender and sweet, with a lovely age-gap, coming out, and redemption arc. Ethan is a bisexual man, something his wife had known. He’s sought male lovers now and again, but never brought any partner around his kids, always looking for something without strings. So, even though all his sons are in the LGBT spectrum, Ethan’s never bothered to discuss his sexuality, because he never found a real partner.
It’s a good story, with a robust romance, and a nice way to wrap up this series. Expect a slower burn story, and a super supportive group of secondary characters.
Read Veronica’s review in its entirety here.
4 stars
This is the fourth book in the Breakfast at Bennett’s series and best enjoyed when read in order. If you don’t feel like reading all the books, The Princess (Book 3), is probably the most relevant. This audiobook was really tender and sweet, with a lovely age-gap, coming out, and redemption arc. Ethan is a bisexual man, something his wife had known. He’s sought male lovers now and again, but never brought any partner around his kids, always looking for something without strings. So, even though all his sons are in the LGBT spectrum, Ethan’s never bothered to discuss his sexuality, because he never found a real partner.
It’s a good story, with a robust romance, and a nice way to wrap up this series. Expect a slower burn story, and a super supportive group of secondary characters.
Read Veronica’s review in its entirety here.
September 19, 2024
Blog | Instagram | Twitter | Facebook
Everyone’s favourite dad - Ethan. The man is quiet and steady and has so much love for his sons. No forced expectations that they work with him at the dinner, no freakouts over them wearing makeup, or dating men (or two men). He’s Sunday breakfasts and campfires in the backyard.
It’s no wonder he and Mickey were drawn to each other. Two men in need of someone to love and love them. Someone just their own.
Mickey’s story is heartbreaking, but you never doubted how safe he was now that he found his way to Ethan. And I loved how Ethan supported him even when that meant giving Mickey the space to do things on his own.
There’s a quiet deep peace to this story, full of love and tenderness, and beautiful hope.
Everyone’s favourite dad - Ethan. The man is quiet and steady and has so much love for his sons. No forced expectations that they work with him at the dinner, no freakouts over them wearing makeup, or dating men (or two men). He’s Sunday breakfasts and campfires in the backyard.
It’s no wonder he and Mickey were drawn to each other. Two men in need of someone to love and love them. Someone just their own.
Mickey’s story is heartbreaking, but you never doubted how safe he was now that he found his way to Ethan. And I loved how Ethan supported him even when that meant giving Mickey the space to do things on his own.
There’s a quiet deep peace to this story, full of love and tenderness, and beautiful hope.
September 24, 2024
The Outcast is a great ending to the Breakfast at Bennett's series. Now that Ethan's three sons have found their own HEA's, it's his turn. Mickey, who we met in Taylor's book, is back. At first, Ethan just wants to help the troubled younger man, who has been treated terribly by everyone who should have cared for him. It doesn't take long though before they both find themselves in the middle of an intense attraction. Ethan has to be patient and let Mickey prove to himself that he is capable and independent, when all he wants is love him and protect him from further harm. Mickey's feelings are strong, too, but he has to ensure that he will never be totally dependent on anyone ever again.
These men are so sweet and sexy together. I enjoye their conversations, their chemistry, and the way they support each other completely. I also love seeing the couples and the throuple from the previous stories. I recommend this entire series, including this satisfying ending.
These men are so sweet and sexy together. I enjoye their conversations, their chemistry, and the way they support each other completely. I also love seeing the couples and the throuple from the previous stories. I recommend this entire series, including this satisfying ending.
October 6, 2024
Loved!
I have loved Ethan throughout the series and was so excited that he was getting a second chance at love. Mickey was finally able to leave a horrible relationship but couldn't return to his parents house. Living on the streets he met one of the Bennetts who offered him some help and food. But Mickey doesn't want charity. One winter storm later and a terrible cough lead Mickey to the diner just in the nick of time. Ethan takes him home and nurses him back to health. I loved how they bonded over the guitar. Ethan was supportive of Mickey's choices and his desire to learn how to live on his own. The brothers and their boyfriends were incredible with their dad and Mickey's relationship. I like how the side story with Mickey's parents was resolved. This was a wonderful story and an incredible ending to the series.
I have loved Ethan throughout the series and was so excited that he was getting a second chance at love. Mickey was finally able to leave a horrible relationship but couldn't return to his parents house. Living on the streets he met one of the Bennetts who offered him some help and food. But Mickey doesn't want charity. One winter storm later and a terrible cough lead Mickey to the diner just in the nick of time. Ethan takes him home and nurses him back to health. I loved how they bonded over the guitar. Ethan was supportive of Mickey's choices and his desire to learn how to live on his own. The brothers and their boyfriends were incredible with their dad and Mickey's relationship. I like how the side story with Mickey's parents was resolved. This was a wonderful story and an incredible ending to the series.
September 7, 2024
Absolutely loved Ethan and Mickey! These two were just the sweetest things! I loved how Ethan listened and didn’t try to pry things out of Mickey. He just patiently waited until he wanted to talk about things even though he just wanted to fix everything for him and protect and take care of him. My heart broke for everything Mickey had gone through! I’m so happy found people like Taylor and Ethan and then the rest of the family! I absolutely loved how close and accepting this family is! This whole series is just fantastic and I very highly recommend! This is my honest opinion of this complimentary copy of this book
September 20, 2024
Super sweet age gap romance
The Outcast was so, so sweet. I loved seeing Ethan find happiness for himself outside of his sons and the diner. And for Mickey to come into his own like this was wonderful.
The potential for a power imbalance, with not just the age gap, but Mickey being on the streets at the start of the book, was beautifully managed and I appreciated that.
In this, you'll find:
✨️MM Contemporary Romance
✨️Bisexual widower diner owner
✨️Younger gay man
✨️20+ year age gap
✨️Homelessness
✨️Single parent
✨️First times
✨️Emotionally abusive parents
✨️Mention of a women's shelter
✨️A HEA (without marriage or babies)
The Outcast was so, so sweet. I loved seeing Ethan find happiness for himself outside of his sons and the diner. And for Mickey to come into his own like this was wonderful.
The potential for a power imbalance, with not just the age gap, but Mickey being on the streets at the start of the book, was beautifully managed and I appreciated that.
In this, you'll find:
✨️MM Contemporary Romance
✨️Bisexual widower diner owner
✨️Younger gay man
✨️20+ year age gap
✨️Homelessness
✨️Single parent
✨️First times
✨️Emotionally abusive parents
✨️Mention of a women's shelter
✨️A HEA (without marriage or babies)
September 12, 2024
The Outcast is the fourth book in the Breakfast at Bennett's series and, while they can be read as a standalone , I recommend the whole series as they are just so good. I debated if this one was my favorite of the four but I don't think I can pick a favorite as they are all excellent, but this one is at the top. This is an age gap, low angst read about the father of the clan Ethan and an old e-quaintance of Taylor's from High School, Mickey. Mickey is having a hard time of it and Ethan becomes his rock to lean on, and they are just adorable together. I don't want to see this series end.
September 20, 2024
I have enjoyed every book in this series, but was so anxiously awaiting this one. I received notice yesterday of its publishing, immediately downloaded it, and began reading. Stayed up a little late last night finishing it. Ethan and Mickys' story grabs your heartstrings. They have both suffered and survived life. Perhaps that is why, despite their age gap, they relate so well to each other. This is one of those rare books that I will end up rereading at some point. Do yourself a favor - don't miss it!
September 21, 2024
Sweet Ethan!
Ethan Bennett has watched his sons find their partners and happiness. When Mickey stumbles into the diner, Ethan knows he has to help him. Yes, he's younger than Ethan but that doesn't matter. Ethan becomes a safe space for Mickey. He's able to flourish and become the man he used to be. And if Mickey falls in love along the way, that makes it so much better. This is a beautiful story of Mickey overcoming his past trauma with a man who supports him and holds him up when needed. When they come together, it's hot and steamy. I'm so happy Ethan found his HEA!!!
Ethan Bennett has watched his sons find their partners and happiness. When Mickey stumbles into the diner, Ethan knows he has to help him. Yes, he's younger than Ethan but that doesn't matter. Ethan becomes a safe space for Mickey. He's able to flourish and become the man he used to be. And if Mickey falls in love along the way, that makes it so much better. This is a beautiful story of Mickey overcoming his past trauma with a man who supports him and holds him up when needed. When they come together, it's hot and steamy. I'm so happy Ethan found his HEA!!!
September 11, 2024
Ethan. Oh my, Ethan. Such a beautiful human being. This caring, big-hearted, nice, kind, amazing man who give all of himself to his family.
And then we have Mickey, this struggling young man who deserves all the good in the world.
With this story, EM gave us a low angst journey, showed us how it is possible to rise from the ashes and prove fate wrong.
Hopefully, Shane get his story too 🤩
And then we have Mickey, this struggling young man who deserves all the good in the world.
With this story, EM gave us a low angst journey, showed us how it is possible to rise from the ashes and prove fate wrong.
Hopefully, Shane get his story too 🤩
September 15, 2024
Ethan is the patriarch of the family and the everyone’s pillar.
When he comes across a cold Mickey it’s natural for him to offer his help.
But Mickey stirs something in Ethan that he can’t seem to ignore and together they will face new beginnings in life.
This was a low angst, age gap read full of emotion, love and family.
A fantastic conclusion to this series.
Best read in order to fully appreciate the story.
When he comes across a cold Mickey it’s natural for him to offer his help.
But Mickey stirs something in Ethan that he can’t seem to ignore and together they will face new beginnings in life.
This was a low angst, age gap read full of emotion, love and family.
A fantastic conclusion to this series.
Best read in order to fully appreciate the story.
September 22, 2024
perfect
Omg! The feels while reading Ethan and Mickeys story. Getting Mickeys story was heartbreaking. Ethan’s own story was a bit sad and lonely, but together they are sweet. It’s not perfect but life is like that. I’m so glad the boys had no issues with them becoming a couple. This entire series is so good!
Omg! The feels while reading Ethan and Mickeys story. Getting Mickeys story was heartbreaking. Ethan’s own story was a bit sad and lonely, but together they are sweet. It’s not perfect but life is like that. I’m so glad the boys had no issues with them becoming a couple. This entire series is so good!
November 30, 2024
Enjoyable
Sweet and angsty and lovely! I thoroughly enjoyed Ethan and Mickey’s story. Mickey is a hot mess due to his past and Ethan has finally realized how lonely he’s been now that his youngest son has moved out. Regardless of the age gap and differing experiences, they fill in each other’s missing pieces.
Sweet and angsty and lovely! I thoroughly enjoyed Ethan and Mickey’s story. Mickey is a hot mess due to his past and Ethan has finally realized how lonely he’s been now that his youngest son has moved out. Regardless of the age gap and differing experiences, they fill in each other’s missing pieces.
September 20, 2024
Best dad ever
I’m so glad Ethan got a book! He’s such an amazing father and I love that he got a second chance at love, because he deserves only good things. His love, support, and care for Mikey fit his character so well.
I’m so glad Ethan got a book! He’s such an amazing father and I love that he got a second chance at love, because he deserves only good things. His love, support, and care for Mikey fit his character so well.
October 2, 2024
amazing series
Well this book officially made this series a favorite of mine. I loved every single character. But that fact that Ethan got his story made the series that much better.
Well this book officially made this series a favorite of mine. I loved every single character. But that fact that Ethan got his story made the series that much better.
October 6, 2024
Well written regarding a surprising insight into anger.
Stopped reading to digest information that no one (professionals) had enlightened on in this way!
Don't miss this read if you get angry and keep blaming yourself.
Thanks to the Author <3
Stopped reading to digest information that no one (professionals) had enlightened on in this way!
Don't miss this read if you get angry and keep blaming yourself.
Thanks to the Author <3
June 6, 2025
4.5 ⭐️
Ethan and Mickey are very sweet together! I really enjoyed the slow burn to this one. It makes sense with Mickey’s struggles. Ethan being is safe space to land is so well done. And the fact that he provides that same thing to Ethan is lovely.
Ethan and Mickey are very sweet together! I really enjoyed the slow burn to this one. It makes sense with Mickey’s struggles. Ethan being is safe space to land is so well done. And the fact that he provides that same thing to Ethan is lovely.
April 6, 2026
Ethan is an incredible Dad. Ive loved him in every book in the series. I was thrilled that he got his own story.
I loved that he took care of Mickey but didnt coddle him. They were super sweet together
I loved that he took care of Mickey but didnt coddle him. They were super sweet together
September 21, 2024
3.5 stars
September 30, 2024
So happy for Mickey.
I'd like to know more about his father, but nevermind🙃
Nice series, good for the soul.
I'd like to know more about his father, but nevermind🙃
Nice series, good for the soul.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews