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Accidentally August
August
I’m not supposed to have a crush on Crispin Tate. He’s my brother’s best friend, and he’s also gorgeous and perfect in every way... except for his horrible taste in men. And the fact he’s ten years too old for me. Falling for Crispin at sixteen was a surefire way to break my own heart, but I convinced myself one day I’ll get over my unrequited crush. Only, I don’t. I grow up and fall even deeper in love with a man who knows I exist, but won’t ever want me like that.
Crispin
Sometimes I think the only thing I’ve ever done right was rebuff August’s advances, because other than that, my life has been a complete mess. I married the wrong person, which led to a divorce that was the opposite of amicable. Then, one day in the middle of it all, August Shaughnessy grew up and grew into himself, but he didn’t outgrow the way he used to look at me when he was a teenager. It’s hard to not like him because he’s smart and funny and kind—he’s everything I ever wanted.
Now that he’s a grown man, the years between us hardly seem to matter. I can only hope that everyone else in our lives feels the same way because one morning I woke up and realized I’d accidentally fallen in love with August.
I’m not supposed to have a crush on Crispin Tate. He’s my brother’s best friend, and he’s also gorgeous and perfect in every way... except for his horrible taste in men. And the fact he’s ten years too old for me. Falling for Crispin at sixteen was a surefire way to break my own heart, but I convinced myself one day I’ll get over my unrequited crush. Only, I don’t. I grow up and fall even deeper in love with a man who knows I exist, but won’t ever want me like that.
Crispin
Sometimes I think the only thing I’ve ever done right was rebuff August’s advances, because other than that, my life has been a complete mess. I married the wrong person, which led to a divorce that was the opposite of amicable. Then, one day in the middle of it all, August Shaughnessy grew up and grew into himself, but he didn’t outgrow the way he used to look at me when he was a teenager. It’s hard to not like him because he’s smart and funny and kind—he’s everything I ever wanted.
Now that he’s a grown man, the years between us hardly seem to matter. I can only hope that everyone else in our lives feels the same way because one morning I woke up and realized I’d accidentally fallen in love with August.
194 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 4, 2024
105 people are currently reading
209 people want to read
About the author
E.M. Denning
96 books555 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.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews
August 29, 2023
This book lacked some pretty important things - character development, emotional depth, a sense of place, backstory, consistency, a point. Even with the separation of past and present, I had no idea what it was about Crispin that made August all gaga over him. They were supposedly friends, but that was never shown in any real way. I didn't know what August did for a living. I didn't know what part of the world they lived in. I'm pretty sure August's eye color changed at one point, unless there are blue caramels I don't know about. All of the side characters had a specific role to play and they played them in the most contrived way possible. There was an "evil" ex-husband whose only crime was being a jealous diva, but must have also been untrustworthy in some undisclosed way since Crispin never felt comfortable having sex with him without a condom throughout their years of marriage (?????). There was a perfectly timed run in with a past hookup. There was a random cat adoption that was maybe supposed to be symbolic of...something? I don't know. Honestly, I should have given up the moment August gave Crispin the nickname "Crispy".
I'm only giving this book 2 stars instead of 1 because it didn't mortally offend me, but I will not be reading anything else from this author.
I'm only giving this book 2 stars instead of 1 because it didn't mortally offend me, but I will not be reading anything else from this author.
Read
August 11, 2023DNF at 60%. My ambivalence finally drove the last nail into this coffin. I simply don’t care. I wouldn’t say there’s anything wrong with Accidentally August but it feels so… generic… almost like a robot trying to tell a human’s story and missing the nuance, depth and uniqueness of the human experience. Like we have the skeleton of a story but none of the flesh or details that bring it to life.
This is my 3rd Denning read and with each I’ve come away feeling very meh. I think their style just isn’t for me.
🤷🏻♀️
This is my 3rd Denning read and with each I’ve come away feeling very meh. I think their style just isn’t for me.
🤷🏻♀️
August 23, 2025
I like E. M. Denning’s stories. They’re almost too sweet sometimes, but they make me smile. I have to admit I had a hard time believing August stayed in love with Crispin for so long. I wanted him to start dating someone as old or older to show Crispin that 10 years wasn’t too much of an age difference. Of course 16 and 26 is not acceptable. Anyway it worked out in the end.
August 14, 2023
4.5 stars. We meet August and Crispin where August is a sixteen years old, love-sick teenager, and Crispin his brother's best friend, who’s 10 years older. After a failed clumsy attempt to kiss Crispin, and Crispin friendly turned him down, August decided to retreat and never face Crispin again, or as less as possible.
The story swapped us several times some years. Where August managed to face Crispin sporadically. Crispin noticed, and also noticed August is an adult!
A point where August comes home for the summer, it’s hard and painful to watch Crispin with a boyfriend. August’s feelings never changed, where Crispin apparently thought the crush was over. It’s torture to be in Crispin’s presence. He’s heartbroken when Crispin tells him he’s engaged.
A swap of two years… Oh boy, Crispin’s husband doesn’t like August, and his jealousy shows, it’s getting ugly.
August graduated and has even a sweet boyfriend!
We come to a point where August never tried to approach Crispin again, rejection is too painful.
Then, we come to a point where Crispin is thirty-four and August twenty-four. It was devastating to see August still struggling with his feelings for Crispin, his heart broken many times over the years.
They are friends, better as friends than not at all.
Meanwhile, Crispin became to see August with other eyes.
Crispin finally understood the hurt in August’s eyes was by his doing, he was the reason.
Oh boy, that was an amazing story, ALL the feels!! They are magnificent together. They came from far, but it’s the best ever.
Absolutely awesomely written, amazing, and lovable story.
The story swapped us several times some years. Where August managed to face Crispin sporadically. Crispin noticed, and also noticed August is an adult!
A point where August comes home for the summer, it’s hard and painful to watch Crispin with a boyfriend. August’s feelings never changed, where Crispin apparently thought the crush was over. It’s torture to be in Crispin’s presence. He’s heartbroken when Crispin tells him he’s engaged.
A swap of two years… Oh boy, Crispin’s husband doesn’t like August, and his jealousy shows, it’s getting ugly.
August graduated and has even a sweet boyfriend!
We come to a point where August never tried to approach Crispin again, rejection is too painful.
Then, we come to a point where Crispin is thirty-four and August twenty-four. It was devastating to see August still struggling with his feelings for Crispin, his heart broken many times over the years.
They are friends, better as friends than not at all.
Meanwhile, Crispin became to see August with other eyes.
Crispin finally understood the hurt in August’s eyes was by his doing, he was the reason.
Oh boy, that was an amazing story, ALL the feels!! They are magnificent together. They came from far, but it’s the best ever.
Absolutely awesomely written, amazing, and lovable story.
August 10, 2023
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.25 stars
Accidentally August is a sweet and sexy, best friend’s brother, age-gap romance. The story sets up in two parts, beginning at Warren’s wedding and that ill-fated kiss when August is sixteen. The first portion of the book covers from that time to present day, as we see the men continue to build a friendship, August grow up, and Crispin marry and divorce. I enjoyed this part of the story as it gives a slow burn effect. We get to see the guys build a non-romantic. but emotional connection, particularly as Crispin is so close to the Shaughnessy family. It also helps to see that their relationship moves beyond August’s teen crush to real feelings.
I found this one lots of fun and very engaging. I enjoyed the structure of the story and fell for Crispin and August together. This is a great choice for contemporary fans, particularly those who enjoy age gap and best friend’s brother tropes.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
4.25 stars
Accidentally August is a sweet and sexy, best friend’s brother, age-gap romance. The story sets up in two parts, beginning at Warren’s wedding and that ill-fated kiss when August is sixteen. The first portion of the book covers from that time to present day, as we see the men continue to build a friendship, August grow up, and Crispin marry and divorce. I enjoyed this part of the story as it gives a slow burn effect. We get to see the guys build a non-romantic. but emotional connection, particularly as Crispin is so close to the Shaughnessy family. It also helps to see that their relationship moves beyond August’s teen crush to real feelings.
I found this one lots of fun and very engaging. I enjoyed the structure of the story and fell for Crispin and August together. This is a great choice for contemporary fans, particularly those who enjoy age gap and best friend’s brother tropes.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
September 17, 2023
"Love didn't begin to describe what I felt for this man. It was adoration and obsession. Total acceptance of who he had been and who he was and who we would become together." Oh my word, this was JOYOUS!!! August is Warren's little brother and has been in love with Warren's best friend, Crispin, since he was a teen. But there is a 10 year age difference between them. This beautifully written romance tells us the story of August and Crispin over the years as they move in and out of each other's life. Engaging, sexy, funny and with such emotional heft. Surrounded by a loving family and friends that just added to my enjoyment. Love EM Denning's romances - love her self description of her books "author of endearing filth and schmoopy sex..." Definitely!
August 14, 2023
It was ok but nothing really stood out.
August 8, 2023
This story has a good number of things I adore in books: pining, lovable MCs, some sweet moments, some possessiveness, and some fantastic steam. Also, let’s not forget the beautiful cover! This was my first E.M. Denning book and for 1000% will not be my last … I cannot wait to read more from her.
August’s story started out a lot angstier than I anticipated and I absolutely loved the pining. He had a crush on his brother’s best friend for a while … combine that with some alcohol, being an awkward 16 years old, and an attempted kiss, and poor August had a little embarrassment that he couldn’t forget for years. Crispin, who is 10 years older, let him down gently but still, August's heart is shattered. What follows is a sweet story of how he is trying to stay away from his crush but it’s easier said than done since August’s family embraced Cris like he is one of their own. Meanwhile, Cris feels like his life is falling apart after his failed marriage. It has been 6 years since August tried to get close to him and now, months after being single again, Cris cannot stop looking at him in a different light, with the yearning and possessiveness that his new feelings bring. August is most definitely not a kid anymore, as one magical, steamy night proves. These two guys had such a sweet dynamic, I loved their interactions and enjoyed so much as they discussed what their future would be. The tenderness they turned towards each other was lovely and I liked to read about how they each tried to deal with their insecurities whether it was due to the fear of rejection or feeling less than adequate. Their HEA is sweet, hot, well deserved, and comes as the perfect closing to this great story.
August’s story started out a lot angstier than I anticipated and I absolutely loved the pining. He had a crush on his brother’s best friend for a while … combine that with some alcohol, being an awkward 16 years old, and an attempted kiss, and poor August had a little embarrassment that he couldn’t forget for years. Crispin, who is 10 years older, let him down gently but still, August's heart is shattered. What follows is a sweet story of how he is trying to stay away from his crush but it’s easier said than done since August’s family embraced Cris like he is one of their own. Meanwhile, Cris feels like his life is falling apart after his failed marriage. It has been 6 years since August tried to get close to him and now, months after being single again, Cris cannot stop looking at him in a different light, with the yearning and possessiveness that his new feelings bring. August is most definitely not a kid anymore, as one magical, steamy night proves. These two guys had such a sweet dynamic, I loved their interactions and enjoyed so much as they discussed what their future would be. The tenderness they turned towards each other was lovely and I liked to read about how they each tried to deal with their insecurities whether it was due to the fear of rejection or feeling less than adequate. Their HEA is sweet, hot, well deserved, and comes as the perfect closing to this great story.
October 24, 2023
August in love is not a season, but all around wonderful.
Growing up for every kid is always to slow for impatient and jealous reasons. When it seems that everyone else is getting all the good stuff now, but you have to wait. Even when you do not know what it is that you are missing, you know what you want and you want it now!
When puberty disrupts life and liberty, emotions and desires take over brain and body functions. The teenage years are intended to prepare you for adult life, but some teens discover secrets and develop ways of learning and doing with friends or with adults who take advantage even if they pay for it.
This story was not about prostitution or child abuse, but about a slowly developing true love that was years in its relationship building and frustrations while setting the stage for fate to form a more perfect union from the chaos of family life and strife.
Even though it was obvious to many people, the two MCs were among the last to realize what they had achieved in spite of all the obstacles and diversions.
Growing up for every kid is always to slow for impatient and jealous reasons. When it seems that everyone else is getting all the good stuff now, but you have to wait. Even when you do not know what it is that you are missing, you know what you want and you want it now!
When puberty disrupts life and liberty, emotions and desires take over brain and body functions. The teenage years are intended to prepare you for adult life, but some teens discover secrets and develop ways of learning and doing with friends or with adults who take advantage even if they pay for it.
This story was not about prostitution or child abuse, but about a slowly developing true love that was years in its relationship building and frustrations while setting the stage for fate to form a more perfect union from the chaos of family life and strife.
Even though it was obvious to many people, the two MCs were among the last to realize what they had achieved in spite of all the obstacles and diversions.
August 12, 2023
This was a cute schmoopy read with little angst throughout but no huge drama!
Age gap brother best friend with snarky ex and lots of pining by August until he was old enough.
Both August and Crispin were protective of each other since August was young but I liked that both had 'lived' their love lives a little before they ended up together.
I was fully expecting Warren to react not how he did but this was perfect for this story.
And the family reactions :) so cute - the cat ..well LOL dogs are better but it did seem to a be a cute cat.
once they do get their act together it happens quite quickly but this makes sense and nothing feels forced or rushed.
Age gap brother best friend with snarky ex and lots of pining by August until he was old enough.
Both August and Crispin were protective of each other since August was young but I liked that both had 'lived' their love lives a little before they ended up together.
I was fully expecting Warren to react not how he did but this was perfect for this story.
And the family reactions :) so cute - the cat ..well LOL dogs are better but it did seem to a be a cute cat.
once they do get their act together it happens quite quickly but this makes sense and nothing feels forced or rushed.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 28, 2023
A fluffy mess.
As always, loved the fluff. I loved the pining and the buildup. I loved the books and the cat and the sneaking in through the window.
I hated Kevin. I hated that August had to hurt for so long and that Crispin had to be treated like crap for the same amount of time.
But, more than all of that love and hate, I feel disappointed.
I’m disappointed that I still have no idea what colour August’s eyes are, because the book couldn’t ever decide. I’m disappointed that I have no clue what August went to college for, or what he does for a living, and that I barely have a passing idea of Crispin’s career. I’m disappointed that no one took Kevin out at the knees.
The mechanics were so bad in this book that it was a true struggle to make sense of. The punctuation was the absolute worst, the grammar was scary, and it was so inconsistent that I wonder if it wasn’t pieces of different books mashed together and changed around to make it a completed one.
2.75/5. This disappoints me the most, though. I really wish it could get a makeover, because the story and the characters are wonderful, and it deserves a better life. It’s worth struggling to read, but it will be a struggle.
As always, loved the fluff. I loved the pining and the buildup. I loved the books and the cat and the sneaking in through the window.
I hated Kevin. I hated that August had to hurt for so long and that Crispin had to be treated like crap for the same amount of time.
But, more than all of that love and hate, I feel disappointed.
I’m disappointed that I still have no idea what colour August’s eyes are, because the book couldn’t ever decide. I’m disappointed that I have no clue what August went to college for, or what he does for a living, and that I barely have a passing idea of Crispin’s career. I’m disappointed that no one took Kevin out at the knees.
The mechanics were so bad in this book that it was a true struggle to make sense of. The punctuation was the absolute worst, the grammar was scary, and it was so inconsistent that I wonder if it wasn’t pieces of different books mashed together and changed around to make it a completed one.
2.75/5. This disappoints me the most, though. I really wish it could get a makeover, because the story and the characters are wonderful, and it deserves a better life. It’s worth struggling to read, but it will be a struggle.
August 8, 2023
A story with August and Crispin’s romance blooming as August gets older in a slow romance.
A great start as August, 16 and crushing with his brothers best friend, Crispin, 26.
This is a story told with both POVs at various stages of their lives to August’s being 24.
Journeying through collage, graduation, boyfriends, and even marriage, but separately.
Scenes play out with a friendship running between them to becoming more.
An enjoyable story to read in an age gap romance as their meant for each other finding an HEA. I’m not a fan of time jumps but this showed Auggie growing into the man he was.
#ARC
also reviewed on mmbookwormreviews.com
A great start as August, 16 and crushing with his brothers best friend, Crispin, 26.
This is a story told with both POVs at various stages of their lives to August’s being 24.
Journeying through collage, graduation, boyfriends, and even marriage, but separately.
Scenes play out with a friendship running between them to becoming more.
An enjoyable story to read in an age gap romance as their meant for each other finding an HEA. I’m not a fan of time jumps but this showed Auggie growing into the man he was.
#ARC
also reviewed on mmbookwormreviews.com
August 10, 2023
The fun thing about romance tropes is that the same general story can be told a million different ways, even by the same author. Denning doesn’t necessarily stretch the boundaries of the “brother’s best friend” trope with her latest book, beyond adding a bit of an age-gap element, but her excellent characterization work elevates this sweet romance from generic to truly compelling. This starts with providing a lovely slow-burn introduction to when August’s feelings for his much older brother’s best friend are first revealed. The timing then is wrong for all sorts of reasons, but Crispin’s close relationship with August’s family means that he remains a permanent fixture in August’s life regardless.
This is a shorter book, but even the time jumps of the first section never feel rushed. They provide important context for the full background tapestry of the important threads that bind August and Crispin together. August might be younger, but I loved how he was able to hold Crispin at different levels within his heart; their friendship remains important to him, despite the unrequited affection. In return, Crispin never undervalues that friendship even when it makes life more difficult for him. It would have been too easy for these men to avoid each other at all costs, if not for that genuine friendship that settles into a more equal connection as August reaches his mid-twenties. The moments between them are poignant even then, laden with emotion but not angst, as the characters kept stumbling into the same conversational (and emotional) pitfalls until I was braced for what would finally break the pattern and truly shift the relationship.
The hinge point itself was interesting but less important than the relationship arc and character development (apart and together) that occur afterward. I especially enjoyed seeing the shift in Crispin’s affection toward August, because whether it existed was never in question. Both of these characters are living a romance story, but they’re not actually in the same trope themselves. August may have been burdened by unrequited love, but Crispin positively blossoms on the friends-to-lovers journey in a way that only benefits both men as they travel toward their happily ever after.
I do promise that this book is low angst, but I also found myself a bit teary-eyed at times because it never skimps on the high emotion. Because it is low-angst, Denning acknowledges the common external plot points that can lead to the dark moment of this subgenre and then neatly upends expectations in a way that had me laughing out loud multiple times. Overall, this is one of the best books I’ve read by Denning. She has always been talented as a storyteller, but the writing and characters of this particular story feel like they’ve hit a new high that only opens the door to further exciting possibilities.
Disclaimer: I received a digital review copy of this book from the author.
This is a shorter book, but even the time jumps of the first section never feel rushed. They provide important context for the full background tapestry of the important threads that bind August and Crispin together. August might be younger, but I loved how he was able to hold Crispin at different levels within his heart; their friendship remains important to him, despite the unrequited affection. In return, Crispin never undervalues that friendship even when it makes life more difficult for him. It would have been too easy for these men to avoid each other at all costs, if not for that genuine friendship that settles into a more equal connection as August reaches his mid-twenties. The moments between them are poignant even then, laden with emotion but not angst, as the characters kept stumbling into the same conversational (and emotional) pitfalls until I was braced for what would finally break the pattern and truly shift the relationship.
The hinge point itself was interesting but less important than the relationship arc and character development (apart and together) that occur afterward. I especially enjoyed seeing the shift in Crispin’s affection toward August, because whether it existed was never in question. Both of these characters are living a romance story, but they’re not actually in the same trope themselves. August may have been burdened by unrequited love, but Crispin positively blossoms on the friends-to-lovers journey in a way that only benefits both men as they travel toward their happily ever after.
I do promise that this book is low angst, but I also found myself a bit teary-eyed at times because it never skimps on the high emotion. Because it is low-angst, Denning acknowledges the common external plot points that can lead to the dark moment of this subgenre and then neatly upends expectations in a way that had me laughing out loud multiple times. Overall, this is one of the best books I’ve read by Denning. She has always been talented as a storyteller, but the writing and characters of this particular story feel like they’ve hit a new high that only opens the door to further exciting possibilities.
Disclaimer: I received a digital review copy of this book from the author.
August 15, 2023
Summary: When August was sixteen, he made a pass at his longtime crush—his brother’s bff Crispin. Ten years older, Crispin rebuffed August as gently as he could. As the years went by, August’s feelings for Crispin never went away, but eventually he was able to get past his embarrassment and feelings of rejection enough for them to become friends in their own right. At some point, Crispin started to see that August wasn’t a kid anymore, but he was still too young and still his bff’s brother. Besides, he was in a relationship himself, so he didn’t think of August hat way. But something changes two years post divorce that has him seeing August in a new light.
“though we barely spoke, it felt like something between us had fundamentally shifted. That thought carried me all the way back home and invited itself into my head while I slept, filling me with images of Crispin and me and a million more sunrises.”
“Why did every little thing he did make my heart want to fly out of my chest? I was obsessed to the point of ridiculousness. I wanted to rub all over him like a cat and curl up in his lap and hiss at anyone who got too close.”
Review: This is a really sweet, low angst, steamy, age gap mm romance. I love how we get to see their relationship at different times over the years. I like all of the little clues that Crispin has feelings for August even when Crispin doesn’t recognize it yet. I love the friendship that develops between August and Crispin around shared interests. Their ease and comfort with each other makes a relationship between them believable. The whole thing with the cat was really cute and funny. I also like that once Crispin decided to make a move on August, he was all in. I love how honest and open they were with each other—and especially the way August didn’t try to hide or diminish his feelings, even knowing they were beyond where Crispin was. They just had a really sweet bond.
The thing I didn’t love about this book was the editing. It wasn’t typos (though there were some comma issues) it was mostly things like repeating unique words too close together, or using the wrong word. It seems like the author had a copy editor, but maybe not a line editor, and it was really distracting. I kept getting thrown out of the story.
“though we barely spoke, it felt like something between us had fundamentally shifted. That thought carried me all the way back home and invited itself into my head while I slept, filling me with images of Crispin and me and a million more sunrises.”
“Why did every little thing he did make my heart want to fly out of my chest? I was obsessed to the point of ridiculousness. I wanted to rub all over him like a cat and curl up in his lap and hiss at anyone who got too close.”
Review: This is a really sweet, low angst, steamy, age gap mm romance. I love how we get to see their relationship at different times over the years. I like all of the little clues that Crispin has feelings for August even when Crispin doesn’t recognize it yet. I love the friendship that develops between August and Crispin around shared interests. Their ease and comfort with each other makes a relationship between them believable. The whole thing with the cat was really cute and funny. I also like that once Crispin decided to make a move on August, he was all in. I love how honest and open they were with each other—and especially the way August didn’t try to hide or diminish his feelings, even knowing they were beyond where Crispin was. They just had a really sweet bond.
The thing I didn’t love about this book was the editing. It wasn’t typos (though there were some comma issues) it was mostly things like repeating unique words too close together, or using the wrong word. It seems like the author had a copy editor, but maybe not a line editor, and it was really distracting. I kept getting thrown out of the story.
June 9, 2024
old post reposted
I saw this on book on my bookstagram, on my Facebook as an add, and on a recent author email in her recommendation section. Obviously, I had to drop everything and read it. This is E.M. Denning's "Accidentally August."
["August
I’m not supposed to have a crush on Crispin Tate. He’s my brother’s best friend, and he’s also gorgeous and perfect in every way... except for his horrible taste in men. And the fact he’s ten years too old for me. Falling for Crispin at sixteen was a surefire way to break my own heart, but I convinced myself one day I’ll get over my unrequited crush. Only, I don’t. I grow up and fall even deeper in love with a man who knows I exist, but won’t ever want me *like that*.
Crispin
Sometimes I think the only thing I’ve ever done right was rebuff August’s advances, because other than that, my life has been a complete mess. I married the wrong person, which led to a divorce that was the opposite of amicable. Then, one day in the middle of it all, August Shaughnessy grew up and grew into himself, but he didn’t outgrow the way he used to look at me when he was a teenager. It’s hard to not like him because he’s smart and funny and kind—he’s everything I ever wanted.
Now that he’s a grown man, the years between us hardly seem to matter. I can only hope that everyone else in our lives feels the same way because one morning I woke up and realized I’d accidentally fallen in love with August."]
This book was SO. FUCKING. GOOD. I mean, the angst and the heartbreak and constantly being on the precipice of heartbreak for the first section of the book was hard and anxiety inducing and my chest still hurts. But it was so good, especially that first section.
And the rest? A mix of fluff and possessiveness and steam so hot that (insert metaphor here--my brain's tired, you do the work). Plus a cat!
Seriously, read this book. It's basically a novella, and it won't take you long at all. You won't regret it (neither will I after I add E.M. to my to-binge list).
#accidentallyaugust #emdenning #books #queerbooks #queererotica #bodicerippers #bookstagram #bookphotography #ilovebooks
I saw this on book on my bookstagram, on my Facebook as an add, and on a recent author email in her recommendation section. Obviously, I had to drop everything and read it. This is E.M. Denning's "Accidentally August."
["August
I’m not supposed to have a crush on Crispin Tate. He’s my brother’s best friend, and he’s also gorgeous and perfect in every way... except for his horrible taste in men. And the fact he’s ten years too old for me. Falling for Crispin at sixteen was a surefire way to break my own heart, but I convinced myself one day I’ll get over my unrequited crush. Only, I don’t. I grow up and fall even deeper in love with a man who knows I exist, but won’t ever want me *like that*.
Crispin
Sometimes I think the only thing I’ve ever done right was rebuff August’s advances, because other than that, my life has been a complete mess. I married the wrong person, which led to a divorce that was the opposite of amicable. Then, one day in the middle of it all, August Shaughnessy grew up and grew into himself, but he didn’t outgrow the way he used to look at me when he was a teenager. It’s hard to not like him because he’s smart and funny and kind—he’s everything I ever wanted.
Now that he’s a grown man, the years between us hardly seem to matter. I can only hope that everyone else in our lives feels the same way because one morning I woke up and realized I’d accidentally fallen in love with August."]
This book was SO. FUCKING. GOOD. I mean, the angst and the heartbreak and constantly being on the precipice of heartbreak for the first section of the book was hard and anxiety inducing and my chest still hurts. But it was so good, especially that first section.
And the rest? A mix of fluff and possessiveness and steam so hot that (insert metaphor here--my brain's tired, you do the work). Plus a cat!
Seriously, read this book. It's basically a novella, and it won't take you long at all. You won't regret it (neither will I after I add E.M. to my to-binge list).
#accidentallyaugust #emdenning #books #queerbooks #queererotica #bodicerippers #bookstagram #bookphotography #ilovebooks
August 1, 2023
4.25 Stars!
I devoured this book. This story was the perfect brother's best friend story. I felt for August as a teen with a crush on his older brother's friend Crispin. I was glad, even as upset August was, that Crispin did the right thing when August was a teen. I liked seeing them both get older and learn more about themselves and each other at a slow pace. I totally understood August avoiding his brother and Crispin for a while, and I'm glad that they had a chance to get to know each other better later in life when August was able to understand Crispin's actions better. I loved the gifts that Crispin gave August for special occasions.
I was also glad that August tried his best to move on as he grew older, even if he seemed to find himself back in Crispin's orbit from time to time. Crispin's taste in men was abysmal; I could understand why he chose not to date after his last relationship. While I was initially not sure what I thought of Warren, he was a good friend and a great brother. I loved his attempts to get Crispin back out in the dating world. I liked how Crispin finally finds himself looking at an adult August differently and how they end up finally moving beyond friendship. I loved how their relationship changed and moved forward. I loved Warren and his wife's reaction to August and Crispin being a couple. All in all, it was a great story and one I will be rereading again soon.
I devoured this book. This story was the perfect brother's best friend story. I felt for August as a teen with a crush on his older brother's friend Crispin. I was glad, even as upset August was, that Crispin did the right thing when August was a teen. I liked seeing them both get older and learn more about themselves and each other at a slow pace. I totally understood August avoiding his brother and Crispin for a while, and I'm glad that they had a chance to get to know each other better later in life when August was able to understand Crispin's actions better. I loved the gifts that Crispin gave August for special occasions.
I was also glad that August tried his best to move on as he grew older, even if he seemed to find himself back in Crispin's orbit from time to time. Crispin's taste in men was abysmal; I could understand why he chose not to date after his last relationship. While I was initially not sure what I thought of Warren, he was a good friend and a great brother. I loved his attempts to get Crispin back out in the dating world. I liked how Crispin finally finds himself looking at an adult August differently and how they end up finally moving beyond friendship. I loved how their relationship changed and moved forward. I loved Warren and his wife's reaction to August and Crispin being a couple. All in all, it was a great story and one I will be rereading again soon.
July 26, 2023
E.M. Denning weaves the most exquisite story between these two characters. It is a breath of fresh air in this trope, and highly addictive. I’ve already reread it more than once.
August and Crispin…there aren’t enough words to describe how much I love these two. The way the author walked us through their lives, and the pure emotions with each other, is awe-inspiring. They are three-dimensional and imperfectly perfect. I wanted to shake them, hug them, and most of all, never let go.
The story line has excellent pacing and kept me engaged. I kept waiting for the normal issues I typically see in this trope, but I should have known better. This author always surprises me.
August and Crispin’s story is beautiful. The ending is perfect, but it was so hard to say goodbye because I became so invested in them—and all the characters in this book.
As always, I’ll now wait for whatever E.M. gives us next. I know it’ll be just as magical. Now excuse me while I go read it for yet another time…
5 passionate stars for a captivating, irresistible story.
August and Crispin…there aren’t enough words to describe how much I love these two. The way the author walked us through their lives, and the pure emotions with each other, is awe-inspiring. They are three-dimensional and imperfectly perfect. I wanted to shake them, hug them, and most of all, never let go.
The story line has excellent pacing and kept me engaged. I kept waiting for the normal issues I typically see in this trope, but I should have known better. This author always surprises me.
August and Crispin’s story is beautiful. The ending is perfect, but it was so hard to say goodbye because I became so invested in them—and all the characters in this book.
As always, I’ll now wait for whatever E.M. gives us next. I know it’ll be just as magical. Now excuse me while I go read it for yet another time…
5 passionate stars for a captivating, irresistible story.
August 3, 2023
4 stars!
Overall this story was well written- August and Crispin had amazing chemistry for the entire book, and the pining August felt for Crispin was so palpable it made my heart sink for him. I really enjoyed that once they were together, the relationship angst was low and that there was no drama with August's brother when he found out they were together. Also, the spicy scenes had a great mix of lust/scorching hot dirty talk and tenderness/intimacy. While I enjoyed this story and how it was written, I gave this 4 stars because I struggled to feel like the love felt between the two was truly equal. So much of the book was spent on August pining for Crispin, then Crispin was worrying about never being able to love August as much as he loves him and being who he deserves, and August being okay with Crispin never loving him as much as he loves him, but I wish there was more to show that Crispin did in fact love August as much as he loved him.
Overall this story was well written- August and Crispin had amazing chemistry for the entire book, and the pining August felt for Crispin was so palpable it made my heart sink for him. I really enjoyed that once they were together, the relationship angst was low and that there was no drama with August's brother when he found out they were together. Also, the spicy scenes had a great mix of lust/scorching hot dirty talk and tenderness/intimacy. While I enjoyed this story and how it was written, I gave this 4 stars because I struggled to feel like the love felt between the two was truly equal. So much of the book was spent on August pining for Crispin, then Crispin was worrying about never being able to love August as much as he loves him and being who he deserves, and August being okay with Crispin never loving him as much as he loves him, but I wish there was more to show that Crispin did in fact love August as much as he loved him.
August 10, 2023
Absolutely LOVED this book!!
Denning is one of my all time favorites for swoony, schmoopy love writing and this another great hit!! I absolutely LOVED Crispin and Auggie!
This is a very low angst story of a young boy who falls head over heels for his older brother’s best friend. August makes a fool of himself at 16yo when he tries to kiss Crispin and it’s heartbreaking to see. Crispin, being the kind, gentle soul that he is, tries to let August down gently.
I freaking adored their first time together, when Crispin finally realizes his own truth years down the road, and all the ways it was just so unbelievably sweet and hot at the same time!!
My favorite quote is from Auggie…
“Telling him I liked him would be a lie. What I felt was so much more than like. Saying I liked him would be the same as looking at an ocean and saying, wow, what a nice puddle. The two things were incomparable.”
Denning is one of my all time favorites for swoony, schmoopy love writing and this another great hit!! I absolutely LOVED Crispin and Auggie!
This is a very low angst story of a young boy who falls head over heels for his older brother’s best friend. August makes a fool of himself at 16yo when he tries to kiss Crispin and it’s heartbreaking to see. Crispin, being the kind, gentle soul that he is, tries to let August down gently.
I freaking adored their first time together, when Crispin finally realizes his own truth years down the road, and all the ways it was just so unbelievably sweet and hot at the same time!!
My favorite quote is from Auggie…
“Telling him I liked him would be a lie. What I felt was so much more than like. Saying I liked him would be the same as looking at an ocean and saying, wow, what a nice puddle. The two things were incomparable.”
August 10, 2023
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Love Crispin and August in this brother’s best friend, age-gap story. It’s low-angst but full of pinning and it’s a slow burn as we watch these two grow up and go through life changes before they find their way to each other.
“Telling him I liked him would be a lie. What I felt was so much more than like. Saying I liked him would be the same as looking at an ocean and saying, wow, what a nice puddle. The two things were incomparable.”
It’s beautiful and sweet with a little bit of heartbreaking as various life events keep them apart. But once they get their act together, they are gorgeous and sexy.
EM always delivers beautiful sweet and swoony stories and Accidentally August is her usual amazing!
Love Crispin and August in this brother’s best friend, age-gap story. It’s low-angst but full of pinning and it’s a slow burn as we watch these two grow up and go through life changes before they find their way to each other.
“Telling him I liked him would be a lie. What I felt was so much more than like. Saying I liked him would be the same as looking at an ocean and saying, wow, what a nice puddle. The two things were incomparable.”
It’s beautiful and sweet with a little bit of heartbreaking as various life events keep them apart. But once they get their act together, they are gorgeous and sexy.
EM always delivers beautiful sweet and swoony stories and Accidentally August is her usual amazing!
August 7, 2023
This was a very enjoyable story that really keeps you turning the pages! My heart went out to August for all the years he pined for Crispin. He tried to get over him but his feelings were just too strong. Crispin was always such a sweetheart to August but he just felt he was too young. This story shows their relationship growing over the years until they are both older and August isn’t a teenager anymore. It was very enjoyable watching their relationship evolve. Absolutely loved the characters and the story keeps you engaged from the beginning. The only thing I didn’t like was how abruptly it ended. It definitely wasn’t a cliffhanger but I just felt like we didn’t quite get an ending but other than that the whole story was fantastic and I definitely would recommend this sweet story. This is my honest opinion of this complimentary copy of this book
July 31, 2023
🌟🌟🌟🌟
🌶️🌶️
🥰🥰
😏😂🥲🐈⬛
August has been in love with his brothers best friend for years, but he never believes anything will happen because, well, after all, Crispin is his brothers best friend, he’s very close to August family and , he’s 10 years older. Too many obstacles, right?
Crispin has a found family in his best friends , Warren’s family. Over the years he develops a close friendship with August, Warren’s little brother.
What happens when friendship turns into more? And Crispin starts to catch the same feelings August has clearly had for years?
This is the first book I’ve read of E.M.Denning’s, it was a cute story and I throughly enjoyed it .
This is my honest review in exchange for an ARC.
🌶️🌶️
🥰🥰
😏😂🥲🐈⬛
August has been in love with his brothers best friend for years, but he never believes anything will happen because, well, after all, Crispin is his brothers best friend, he’s very close to August family and , he’s 10 years older. Too many obstacles, right?
Crispin has a found family in his best friends , Warren’s family. Over the years he develops a close friendship with August, Warren’s little brother.
What happens when friendship turns into more? And Crispin starts to catch the same feelings August has clearly had for years?
This is the first book I’ve read of E.M.Denning’s, it was a cute story and I throughly enjoyed it .
This is my honest review in exchange for an ARC.
March 21, 2024
This was a cute story about August who’s been crushing on his older brother’s best friend for years. Crispin knows August has a crush, but he’s a kid and ten years is a big age difference. Until August grows up and suddenly, ten years doesn’t seem like much at all.
Reasons I Recommend:
1) Beautiful friendship develops first
2) Claude and the babysitting/set up and
3) The way it all plays out when Crispy (please don’t call me that) and Auggie finally admit their together.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
#briereads #brierecommends #2024goodreadsreadingchallenge #reviewedongoodreads #reviewedoninstagram #bookworm #lovetoread #idratherbereading #mmromance #accidentallyaugust #canadianauthor🇨🇦 #emdenning @em.denning
Reasons I Recommend:
1) Beautiful friendship develops first
2) Claude and the babysitting/set up and
3) The way it all plays out when Crispy (please don’t call me that) and Auggie finally admit their together.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
#briereads #brierecommends #2024goodreadsreadingchallenge #reviewedongoodreads #reviewedoninstagram #bookworm #lovetoread #idratherbereading #mmromance #accidentallyaugust #canadianauthor🇨🇦 #emdenning @em.denning
August 10, 2023
I don't have the best luck with this author, so full disclosure I went into this with low expectations but surprisingly I really enjoyed this!
I really liked both MCs, I loved that unlike a lot of books that use this trope August wasn't a virgin/had limited sexual experience and was still living his life even though he pinned sooo hard for Crispin. I loved that August 's brother didn't have an issue with them being together (big pet peeve of mine in most best friends brother trope) AND there was no miscommunication third act break up either!
Basically all the things that lose stars for me in most romances were lacking in this and it made a nice refreshing change.
I really liked both MCs, I loved that unlike a lot of books that use this trope August wasn't a virgin/had limited sexual experience and was still living his life even though he pinned sooo hard for Crispin. I loved that August 's brother didn't have an issue with them being together (big pet peeve of mine in most best friends brother trope) AND there was no miscommunication third act break up either!
Basically all the things that lose stars for me in most romances were lacking in this and it made a nice refreshing change.
October 17, 2023
On the surface, this made good use of the brother's best friend trope. However, delving deeper, this book had some issues that go beyond using "Crispy" as a nickname for Crispin. It lacked character development. It lacked a reason why August was so hung up on Crispin for so many years, though I guess that was part of the trope. The evil ex-husband was a cartoon character at best, and I couldn't see any reason why Crispin was with the guy from the get-go, and why he chose to marry someone like that.
The slow burn was expected, seeing how young August is when the book starts - no pedos, thanks. Many times though August read as the older of the two, and Crispin is at times TSTL.
Meh.
The slow burn was expected, seeing how young August is when the book starts - no pedos, thanks. Many times though August read as the older of the two, and Crispin is at times TSTL.
Meh.
December 6, 2024
I felt really bad for August that he was in love with Crispin for so long and had to watch him fall in love and marry someone else. In some way it felt like he was never enough. It honestly bothered me that Crispin only notice August once he got older and "hot".
I was very disappointed that August didn't make Crispin work harder for him. Crispin was suprisingly very flaky. I couldn't feel the same amount of love from Crispin as I did from August. August was the stronger partner who gave more to the relationship. I felt like he accepted the bare minimum from Crispin as if he was happy to just have him in his life. I think August deserved better.
I was very disappointed that August didn't make Crispin work harder for him. Crispin was suprisingly very flaky. I couldn't feel the same amount of love from Crispin as I did from August. August was the stronger partner who gave more to the relationship. I felt like he accepted the bare minimum from Crispin as if he was happy to just have him in his life. I think August deserved better.
July 25, 2023
I really enjoyed this story.
I liked that we have multiple pov from 16yo August to 24yo August. I particularly liked his growth. It was a pleasure seeing how he matured and became the adult he is for the second part of the book. Crispin and August are the real deal, so much so that their family bet on their intercourse 😁
This is slow burn, no angst, best friend's brother story, with found family, a life long friendship and amazing gifts. Totally recommended!
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this story.
I liked that we have multiple pov from 16yo August to 24yo August. I particularly liked his growth. It was a pleasure seeing how he matured and became the adult he is for the second part of the book. Crispin and August are the real deal, so much so that their family bet on their intercourse 😁
This is slow burn, no angst, best friend's brother story, with found family, a life long friendship and amazing gifts. Totally recommended!
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this story.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 26, 2023
This was a wonderful story. I adored August and Crispin, and I enjoyed following along on their road to friendship and love. Auggie wore his feelings on his sleeve, and Crispin was careful and respectful of that, even when he wasn't sure of his own feelings.
I appreciated how each man tried to protect the other. They were both completely lovable, and I couldn't put their book down. This one is joining the comfort reads list I save for times I need a little more sugar. While Auggie and Crispin were sometimes very sexy, they were always, always perfectly sweet.
I appreciated how each man tried to protect the other. They were both completely lovable, and I couldn't put their book down. This one is joining the comfort reads list I save for times I need a little more sugar. While Auggie and Crispin were sometimes very sexy, they were always, always perfectly sweet.
August 7, 2023
I loved Auggie and Crispy. I liked that we started with Auggie when he was 16 so we could see how his crush developed. And then to see what Crispy went through. It was easy to see why they fell in love with each other.
I loved all their moments together. I understood why Auggie was scared what would happen and I understood why Crispy was scared that he was going to screw up. But I liked that they talked. Surprisingly Auggie was a bit better at this than Crispy.
The book was super sweet and I loved it. I wish there had been an epilogue but it still ended on a high note.
I loved all their moments together. I understood why Auggie was scared what would happen and I understood why Crispy was scared that he was going to screw up. But I liked that they talked. Surprisingly Auggie was a bit better at this than Crispy.
The book was super sweet and I loved it. I wish there had been an epilogue but it still ended on a high note.
August 11, 2023
Really enjoyable read.
This was a really good brothers best friend age gap romance, the book started off when August was only sixteen, and Crispin is twenty six. In the beginning of the book there’s a lot of unrequited love and longing coming from August as he and Crispin start to become friends. I really enjoyed it, it was a quick read, a little angsty at the beginning, then really sweet once the two sorted everything out and finally got together. It was written really well, and I instantly liked both main characters. I would definitely recommend.
This was a really good brothers best friend age gap romance, the book started off when August was only sixteen, and Crispin is twenty six. In the beginning of the book there’s a lot of unrequited love and longing coming from August as he and Crispin start to become friends. I really enjoyed it, it was a quick read, a little angsty at the beginning, then really sweet once the two sorted everything out and finally got together. It was written really well, and I instantly liked both main characters. I would definitely recommend.
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