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JFH: Justin F**king Halstead
"Ethan Andrews never saw Justin Halstead coming. A broody jock with a propensity for studying. A hot-mess conundrum who, for some reason, continues to show up at Ethan’s dorm room door.
Something is happening between them, but one particular sport stands in the way. Ethan never imagined falling for an overbearing, overprotective athlete with a Hall of Fame future and a secret heart of gold.
Taking the giant leap out of the closet nearly killed Ethan, and no one seems to understand his desire to close that door and stay inside his safe place. Strangely, Ethan finds he’s not alone, and it’s with the last person he ever expected to be his biggest supporter…
Future NFL Quarterback—Justin F**king Halstead.
(A trope-bending love story)"
Something is happening between them, but one particular sport stands in the way. Ethan never imagined falling for an overbearing, overprotective athlete with a Hall of Fame future and a secret heart of gold.
Taking the giant leap out of the closet nearly killed Ethan, and no one seems to understand his desire to close that door and stay inside his safe place. Strangely, Ethan finds he’s not alone, and it’s with the last person he ever expected to be his biggest supporter…
Future NFL Quarterback—Justin F**king Halstead.
(A trope-bending love story)"
ebook
Published July 16, 2024
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
May 1, 2026
What a breath of fresh air! So different and unique and utterly wonderful!
Rarely have I come across two characters I immediately, without one second hesitation, fell as hard for as I did for Justin and Ethan.
Both of them were absolutely incredible and just my kind of guys.
Ethan, who went through unimaginable trauma a year prior when he was beaten half to death and sexually assaulted - and is dealing with that in such a strong but vulnerable way - snatched up my heart and wouldn’t let it go.
And Justin? From the first moment I met him - the big shot rising football star, who’s quietly and shyly crushing on Ethan from afar - I just knew he would become my new book boyfriend.
Everything between them flowed so organically; from strangers, to slight crushes, to friends, to more. This story focuses less on the ‘to more’ part (that happens rather quickly) and more on how to navigate a relationship after you arrived there with the obstacles both of them, and especially Ethan, face.
Every step felt earned and fought for and meant to be.
The hurt/comfort, the support and gentleness, the letting another person just be while still being there through it all - incredibly wonderful and moving.
I absolutely loved how the aftermath of Ethan‘s trauma was handled. Showing us the support of the university, his therapy and exercises, his parents as well as Justin’s unwavering concern and love. Showing us all that while also not glossing over the fact that despite all the support you could wish for after a traumatic experience like his, that it’s hard. And it stays hard. His strength and courage to keep going kept me in awe the whole book. What an incredible young man.
The writing style was very unique, not everything was spelled out and you had to fill in some blanks, which (very understandably) won’t work for all readers - but it wasn’t a trouble for me after I got used to it.
Be aware though: This is 100% slice of life! A long period of time told in almost vignette style episodes. Not a page turner per se when it comes to plot and story arc but addictive nonetheless (if you’ve read Impaired Judgement - which this reminded me SO MUCH of - you know exactly what I mean!!). I could see this working as a book you pick up here and there to swoon over when you feel like it or devour it in one go as I did lol
There’s one thing though I’m actually mad about: I really, really wanted to read Ethan’s essay and it’s kinda cruel of the author to not give us that after the story came back to it again and again.
But that really is a tiny niggle compared to the joy Ethan and Justin brought me!
The absolute biggest shoutout has to go to my dear friend Sandy, who wrote such an enthusiastic and lovely review about this book, that I just had to pick it up immediately. THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU for bringing Justin and Ethan to me and therefore giving me one of my fav reads this year. I’m very grateful 🥹
Rarely have I come across two characters I immediately, without one second hesitation, fell as hard for as I did for Justin and Ethan.
Both of them were absolutely incredible and just my kind of guys.
Ethan, who went through unimaginable trauma a year prior when he was beaten half to death and sexually assaulted - and is dealing with that in such a strong but vulnerable way - snatched up my heart and wouldn’t let it go.
And Justin? From the first moment I met him - the big shot rising football star, who’s quietly and shyly crushing on Ethan from afar - I just knew he would become my new book boyfriend.
Everything between them flowed so organically; from strangers, to slight crushes, to friends, to more. This story focuses less on the ‘to more’ part (that happens rather quickly) and more on how to navigate a relationship after you arrived there with the obstacles both of them, and especially Ethan, face.
Every step felt earned and fought for and meant to be.
The hurt/comfort, the support and gentleness, the letting another person just be while still being there through it all - incredibly wonderful and moving.
I absolutely loved how the aftermath of Ethan‘s trauma was handled. Showing us the support of the university, his therapy and exercises, his parents as well as Justin’s unwavering concern and love. Showing us all that while also not glossing over the fact that despite all the support you could wish for after a traumatic experience like his, that it’s hard. And it stays hard. His strength and courage to keep going kept me in awe the whole book. What an incredible young man.
The writing style was very unique, not everything was spelled out and you had to fill in some blanks, which (very understandably) won’t work for all readers - but it wasn’t a trouble for me after I got used to it.
Be aware though: This is 100% slice of life! A long period of time told in almost vignette style episodes. Not a page turner per se when it comes to plot and story arc but addictive nonetheless (if you’ve read Impaired Judgement - which this reminded me SO MUCH of - you know exactly what I mean!!). I could see this working as a book you pick up here and there to swoon over when you feel like it or devour it in one go as I did lol
There’s one thing though I’m actually mad about: I really, really wanted to read Ethan’s essay and it’s kinda cruel of the author to not give us that after the story came back to it again and again.
But that really is a tiny niggle compared to the joy Ethan and Justin brought me!
The absolute biggest shoutout has to go to my dear friend Sandy, who wrote such an enthusiastic and lovely review about this book, that I just had to pick it up immediately. THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU for bringing Justin and Ethan to me and therefore giving me one of my fav reads this year. I’m very grateful 🥹
May 21, 2026
Swooning overload🥹🥹🥹
I completely understand why so many people adore this book. Justin F**king Halstead is genuinely one of the sweetest and most patient MMCs I’ve read in a long time. His devotion to Ethan is undeniable, and I loved how careful he was with boundaries, intimacy, panic attacks, and making sure Ethan always felt in control. There’s something incredibly tender about the way Justin deflects from what happened without ever pretending it didn’t happen. And the fact he had a crush on Ethan before everything made their connection even softer for me.
Also… two sets of incredible parents? The world is healing 😭 Ethan’s parents especially were equal parts loving, supportive and interrogation mode, and I honestly adored every scene with them.
The intimacy was beautiful too. Justin really is some kind of unicorn of a man, and maybe my brain simply wasn’t prepared for someone this perfect 😅
At the same time, I struggled with the pacing and emotional progression. I know people react differently to trauma and I’m not judging Ethan’s choices, but sometimes his trust in Justin felt very fast to me considering everything he had been through. A lot of the bonding that would have helped me fully believe in their connection felt off page, so while I understood their relationship intellectually, emotionally I sometimes felt disconnected from it. For example, there was a bit too much football for me at times, and I would have gladly traded some of those scenes for more bonding moments during the beginning of their relationship.
This is very much a slice-of-life romance with low angst and very little external drama, which I knew going in, but I kept waiting for something to shake things up emotionally. The writing is very straightforward and easy to read, but because of that simplicity, I occasionally wanted more depth in certain moments, especially regarding Ethan’s trauma and healing journey.
And my biggest reservation ended up being the secrecy. I understood why they made the choices they did, and I appreciated that Justin never wanted Ethan to feel hidden or ashamed, but by the end I still felt a little sad about it all. After so much love, devotion and carefulness between them, I think a part of me just wanted Justin to openly love the love of his life.
Overall, I can absolutely see why this became such a beloved comfort read for so many people, even if parts of it didn’t fully click for me emotionally.
I completely understand why so many people adore this book. Justin F**king Halstead is genuinely one of the sweetest and most patient MMCs I’ve read in a long time. His devotion to Ethan is undeniable, and I loved how careful he was with boundaries, intimacy, panic attacks, and making sure Ethan always felt in control. There’s something incredibly tender about the way Justin deflects from what happened without ever pretending it didn’t happen. And the fact he had a crush on Ethan before everything made their connection even softer for me.
Also… two sets of incredible parents? The world is healing 😭 Ethan’s parents especially were equal parts loving, supportive and interrogation mode, and I honestly adored every scene with them.
The intimacy was beautiful too. Justin really is some kind of unicorn of a man, and maybe my brain simply wasn’t prepared for someone this perfect 😅
At the same time, I struggled with the pacing and emotional progression. I know people react differently to trauma and I’m not judging Ethan’s choices, but sometimes his trust in Justin felt very fast to me considering everything he had been through. A lot of the bonding that would have helped me fully believe in their connection felt off page, so while I understood their relationship intellectually, emotionally I sometimes felt disconnected from it. For example, there was a bit too much football for me at times, and I would have gladly traded some of those scenes for more bonding moments during the beginning of their relationship.
This is very much a slice-of-life romance with low angst and very little external drama, which I knew going in, but I kept waiting for something to shake things up emotionally. The writing is very straightforward and easy to read, but because of that simplicity, I occasionally wanted more depth in certain moments, especially regarding Ethan’s trauma and healing journey.
And my biggest reservation ended up being the secrecy. I understood why they made the choices they did, and I appreciated that Justin never wanted Ethan to feel hidden or ashamed, but by the end I still felt a little sad about it all. After so much love, devotion and carefulness between them, I think a part of me just wanted Justin to openly love the love of his life.
Overall, I can absolutely see why this became such a beloved comfort read for so many people, even if parts of it didn’t fully click for me emotionally.
“Stay with me.” Justin kissed Ethan again, easily following the physical direction of Ethan’s hands.
He’d known this wouldn’t be easy, but he also knew how safe he was with Justin. Here was a man who would try to move mountains for him if Ethan wanted it, a partner who replaced horror with love as they struggled together through this first time, this impossible hurdle, a beautiful and simultaneously tragic milestone in their life together. Ethan knew after this, with his fear now diminishing, it would get easier.
Later, Justin’s lazy hand stroked up and down Ethan’s back as he held him. Ethan fought the urge to apologize.
“Shh,” Justin soothed and laced his fingers through Ethan’s, holding his hand.
“I’m okay.”
“You are, and we are,” Justin assured him.”
Read
May 8, 2026I loved this book with all its flaws, It was pure emotion for me
JFH is an angel on earth.
How is it that I keep smiling and still want to cry? I'm charmed and I'm mad and angry on their behalf. But this is beautiful. Pure sweetness.
This has me in my feels, jeez, I love them both so much.🥲🥲🥲
And the parents, stars right there, all four of them.✨✨✨✨
*Interesting writing, it takes some getting used to. We are told a story by a brain that jumps around excitedly and I'm smiling through it all.
*Gorgeous cover✨
JFH is an angel on earth.
How is it that I keep smiling and still want to cry? I'm charmed and I'm mad and angry on their behalf. But this is beautiful. Pure sweetness.
This has me in my feels, jeez, I love them both so much.🥲🥲🥲
And the parents, stars right there, all four of them.✨✨✨✨
*Interesting writing, it takes some getting used to. We are told a story by a brain that jumps around excitedly and I'm smiling through it all.
*Gorgeous cover✨
July 18, 2024
Meet my new book boyfriend, Justin fucking Halstead!!
I love him so much and of course Ethan too. This was a romantic love story, very slow burn. So if you want smut galore, this is not the book for you.
If you’re like me who don’t like to read TW coz I feel they are spoilers and also I’m not easily triggered, then okay but if you’re not then you have to read the content warning before jumping in.
Ms Gigi put me on a roller coaster of emotions and it was quite the ride.
I love him so much and of course Ethan too. This was a romantic love story, very slow burn. So if you want smut galore, this is not the book for you.
If you’re like me who don’t like to read TW coz I feel they are spoilers and also I’m not easily triggered, then okay but if you’re not then you have to read the content warning before jumping in.
Ms Gigi put me on a roller coaster of emotions and it was quite the ride.
April 29, 2026
I'm a bit torn about this one. I struggled with the writing for quite a while in the beginning - I didn't fully get used to it until around the 30% mark. Once I got used to it, things flowed easier, but I still had trouble with it.
This was written in 3rd person dual POV, which is normally fine, but the dialogue here was pretty sparse. Without the internal monologue of first person POV and with limited dialogue, it was sometimes hard for me to connect with what the MCs were feeling. The pace also felt super fast to me with lots of things happening off page that we are told about but not shown. Again, with things moving so quickly it was hard for me to connect with the MCs - I felt like I was never able to sit in a scene or an emotion for very long.
I feel like I learned quite a few facts about each of the MC's lives, but I never got a really clear feeling for their personalities (again, probably because of the lack of dialogue and telling not showing of scenes). It's unfortunate because I think I really would've loved them if I'd gotten to know them better.
While I did feel a general disconnect emotionally, I still really appreciated the story being told. I absolutely fucking love stories where the MCs get together decently early on and get to spend a lot of time being a couple. And I love stories where the conflict is largely external, something that the MCs can work toward together or fight against together. Those are the stories that tend to feel the most romantic to me. This was definitely that - I just wish I could have SEEN more of those romantic moments.
I did really enjoy the overall plot and pretty much how everything was handled. I actually found the football parts interesting and I was rooting for these guys the whole way. I wish we'd gotten an epilogue though (maybe even just the article that was hinted at being written toward the end), because all I ever want is for my MCs to love each other in the light.
I'm not sure I'd read another book by this author - I think the style is just not a good fit for someone with a brain like mine. But Justin and Ethan were absolutely end game and I wish all MCs had this level of devotion and unshakeable feeling that there could never be another person out there for them.
Pet names: babe, baby
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Safety (may contain spoilers)
SA/rape: Ethan survived being violently raped by 3 men on his college campus. It has already happened by the time the book starts and there are NO details or flashbacks at all. The 3 perpetrators are already in prison. Ethan struggles with intimacy and has scars on his body.
Other person drama: None.
This was written in 3rd person dual POV, which is normally fine, but the dialogue here was pretty sparse. Without the internal monologue of first person POV and with limited dialogue, it was sometimes hard for me to connect with what the MCs were feeling. The pace also felt super fast to me with lots of things happening off page that we are told about but not shown. Again, with things moving so quickly it was hard for me to connect with the MCs - I felt like I was never able to sit in a scene or an emotion for very long.
I feel like I learned quite a few facts about each of the MC's lives, but I never got a really clear feeling for their personalities (again, probably because of the lack of dialogue and telling not showing of scenes). It's unfortunate because I think I really would've loved them if I'd gotten to know them better.
While I did feel a general disconnect emotionally, I still really appreciated the story being told. I absolutely fucking love stories where the MCs get together decently early on and get to spend a lot of time being a couple. And I love stories where the conflict is largely external, something that the MCs can work toward together or fight against together. Those are the stories that tend to feel the most romantic to me. This was definitely that - I just wish I could have SEEN more of those romantic moments.
I did really enjoy the overall plot and pretty much how everything was handled. I actually found the football parts interesting and I was rooting for these guys the whole way. I wish we'd gotten an epilogue though (maybe even just the article that was hinted at being written toward the end), because all I ever want is for my MCs to love each other in the light.
I'm not sure I'd read another book by this author - I think the style is just not a good fit for someone with a brain like mine. But Justin and Ethan were absolutely end game and I wish all MCs had this level of devotion and unshakeable feeling that there could never be another person out there for them.
Pet names: babe, baby
“You know you’re safe with me, don’t you?” “I do know that.” Justin whispered against Ethan’s neck, “I would burn down the world if anyone ever tried to hurt you again.” “I know that too.” “What else do you know?” “That you’re a badass who loves me.” Justin smiled against the back of Ethan’s neck. “Damn straight.”
“You are mine, Justin Fucking Halstead, and I will be the man you deserve,”
“So you met him in college?” “Yeah. I never saw him coming, man.” Justin laughed. “I was a goner, still am. He makes me happy. He loves me, and fuck, I love him so much it hurts.”
“I’m going to love you for the rest of my life,”
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Safety (may contain spoilers)
SA/rape: Ethan survived being violently raped by 3 men on his college campus. It has already happened by the time the book starts and there are NO details or flashbacks at all. The 3 perpetrators are already in prison. Ethan struggles with intimacy and has scars on his body.
Other person drama: None.
Read
April 30, 2026DNF. Chapter 17. Not sure the percentage because I read this on hoopla and I maximized the font.
Ughh I hate so badly that I couldn’t finish this. After reading some reviews from my GR friends I was so excited to read this thinking I would absolutely love it. But I didn’t it!! At all!!
I liked the characters, they weren’t the problem at all. I think for me it was the writing. First of all I really don’t like third person. Especially when both of the characters are male. It’s so confusing to me. Also I kept getting confused as to whose POV I was reading. It would say one persons POV but would feel like the other person’s POV. I hated the dialogue. I always felt like I was left out of the loop on an inside joke. One of the MCs would say something and then the other would answer and I’d be like wtt are they talking about? It’s like the author wrote it was if we were supposed to be inside the characters head. Which was another issue. The monologue was as deep as a puddle. We had no idea about what the MC was really feeling because the monologue barely mentioned it. Everything felt so meh!!
We are also completely left in the dark about what happened to Ethan when he was assaulted so when he’s going through stuff and mentioning things about it we have no idea what he’s even talking about!! Also we have no idea what he wrote in his essay so for Justin to be like “I want to kiss you like your essay” they know what that means but as reader I’m like wtf does that mean? And yeah we may learn about it later but I need context in the moment not so much later when there’s no impact!!
Also can authors stop having a character think about his past sexual experiences while he’s in the middle of having his current one. “Sex with Holly was undeniably great” as he’s literally having sex with Ethan. So annoying.
Anyway so bummed this didn’t work for me. I really tried but once my hubby was like are you reading a book you really like? And I was like no I actually don’t like it at all I knew I needed to stop!
Ughh I hate so badly that I couldn’t finish this. After reading some reviews from my GR friends I was so excited to read this thinking I would absolutely love it. But I didn’t it!! At all!!
I liked the characters, they weren’t the problem at all. I think for me it was the writing. First of all I really don’t like third person. Especially when both of the characters are male. It’s so confusing to me. Also I kept getting confused as to whose POV I was reading. It would say one persons POV but would feel like the other person’s POV. I hated the dialogue. I always felt like I was left out of the loop on an inside joke. One of the MCs would say something and then the other would answer and I’d be like wtt are they talking about? It’s like the author wrote it was if we were supposed to be inside the characters head. Which was another issue. The monologue was as deep as a puddle. We had no idea about what the MC was really feeling because the monologue barely mentioned it. Everything felt so meh!!
We are also completely left in the dark about what happened to Ethan when he was assaulted so when he’s going through stuff and mentioning things about it we have no idea what he’s even talking about!! Also we have no idea what he wrote in his essay so for Justin to be like “I want to kiss you like your essay” they know what that means but as reader I’m like wtf does that mean? And yeah we may learn about it later but I need context in the moment not so much later when there’s no impact!!
Also can authors stop having a character think about his past sexual experiences while he’s in the middle of having his current one. “Sex with Holly was undeniably great” as he’s literally having sex with Ethan. So annoying.
Anyway so bummed this didn’t work for me. I really tried but once my hubby was like are you reading a book you really like? And I was like no I actually don’t like it at all I knew I needed to stop!
April 25, 2026
Despite there being no epilogue I have to give this book five stars! I just loved Ethan and Justin!
The writing style was a bit different than what I’m used to, so that took a bit of adjusting, but once I did I freaking loved it. I will say I didn’t like that we didn’t get their wedding scene, but oh well 🤷♀️
The writing style was a bit different than what I’m used to, so that took a bit of adjusting, but once I did I freaking loved it. I will say I didn’t like that we didn’t get their wedding scene, but oh well 🤷♀️
September 8, 2024
At first glance and for the first chapter or so, I thought that it had Steamroller vibes, and I was expecting to just OK this read, but a couple of chapters more in, when more was revealed such as Ethan's horrifying sexual abuse, as well as letting the characters kind of decant for a bit, the comparison totally just got left behind. In fact, I prefer this more than Steamroller, in that the characters were more well developed, and made more sense separately and together.
I f**king love Justin, for the way he was and the way he loved. It felt grandiose and yet simple, sweeping yet embracing. He was a very well thought out and yet simplistic character, and his layers were revealed slowly yet timely. As for Ethan, we were made to feel for, but not overly sympathize with him. Yes his abuse was horrific, but his strength was revealed and it was heartening to see him eventually thrive as a survivor. Together, they were perfect, like Yin and Yang. Their personalities bounce off and balance out each other wonderfully. I particularly like that the hurt-comfort aspect was done ever so sublimely and not in an over the top kind of way.
The writing was good, the story and chapters just flows along like a gentle stream and carries you along until you never realize when the story is over. It has a very mundane, slice-of-life feel to the story, not overarching or ostentatious. It's like being given a glimpse into a friend's daily life. I liked that I was made to feel that there is potential there. Potential for more, potential that the story going forth is open for interpretation. It's unwritten, and that is the point, because it is like life itself.
I will be looking forward to more books by this author.
I f**king love Justin, for the way he was and the way he loved. It felt grandiose and yet simple, sweeping yet embracing. He was a very well thought out and yet simplistic character, and his layers were revealed slowly yet timely. As for Ethan, we were made to feel for, but not overly sympathize with him. Yes his abuse was horrific, but his strength was revealed and it was heartening to see him eventually thrive as a survivor. Together, they were perfect, like Yin and Yang. Their personalities bounce off and balance out each other wonderfully. I particularly like that the hurt-comfort aspect was done ever so sublimely and not in an over the top kind of way.
The writing was good, the story and chapters just flows along like a gentle stream and carries you along until you never realize when the story is over. It has a very mundane, slice-of-life feel to the story, not overarching or ostentatious. It's like being given a glimpse into a friend's daily life. I liked that I was made to feel that there is potential there. Potential for more, potential that the story going forth is open for interpretation. It's unwritten, and that is the point, because it is like life itself.
I will be looking forward to more books by this author.
July 19, 2024
This book is un-f**king-believably good. It’s a masterclass in romantic writing. I don’t even know where to start. Ever read a book that was SO good you don’t know how to review it without raving, dementedly about it? Me neither, until now. I have never smiled so much while reading a book of any genre. It was a wonderful experience and it’s gone straight onto my “reread” list. The author is new to me, but I have to say, she is incredibly talented. The usual shape, formula and annoying tricks of the standard romance novel are wholly absent because she, like me, recognises that not only are they not necessary, if you plan the narrative right, you don’t need them. So there are no stupid, overused misunderstandings and there’s no manufactured crisis at 80%. It’s just a story of two people beautifully written. There is nothing irritating in this writing whatsoever. I loved every minute of this book. It’s a very long time since I came across a new-to-me author with so much promise. If you love mm this is probably going to be your best read of the year.
August 26, 2024
Great story, great writing, great heroes! A warm love story with a heartbreaking backstory balanced by character growth and loving support structures from family and friends. Football plays an impressive part in the story with a lovely emphasis on relationship development rather than just frenetic sex. If you enjoy a slow burn and satisfying romance, this is for you.
April 27, 2026
This is really something different. But I am loving it.
November 16, 2024
Omg
I am so fucking obsessed with this author.
I am so fucking obsessed with this author.
December 14, 2024
Wow this book was BAD! No, not bad, BORING! There was no plot at all. The characters were bland and one dimensional. I get writing a story that’s less about the fabricated drama that seems to be the basis of most romance stories but ffs, something should happen! The one hurdle or obstacle that the characters faced was basically non-existent because every time something seemed to happen, it was easily fixed or looked over.
I also detest the “I was never gay, until I saw you and I’m only gay for you!” trope that seems to plague mlm romance novels. I have NEVER met a person who became gay for just this one special precious person. I’ve met bisexual people who didn’t really explore their bisexuality until later in life. I’ve met repressed gay people who lived a straight life until they couldn’t repress it anymore. But it seems like in a lot of these books, there’s always some not so masculine but masculine enough guy who can turn a straight man gay but just for him.
I’m an audiobook listener and I wanted to shove my AirPods through my ears if I had to listen to another chapter describing football practice or football games or buying furniture. Anyone can write any character but I feel like a lot of the female authors I’ve read who write mlm characters write gay men as sterile and maybe I don’t know… their ideal of what they would like a man to be?
This book was so unbelievable and the characters were not real people. But there was some cute banter at times, especially towards the beginning of the book, but by god was it not enough.
I also detest the “I was never gay, until I saw you and I’m only gay for you!” trope that seems to plague mlm romance novels. I have NEVER met a person who became gay for just this one special precious person. I’ve met bisexual people who didn’t really explore their bisexuality until later in life. I’ve met repressed gay people who lived a straight life until they couldn’t repress it anymore. But it seems like in a lot of these books, there’s always some not so masculine but masculine enough guy who can turn a straight man gay but just for him.
I’m an audiobook listener and I wanted to shove my AirPods through my ears if I had to listen to another chapter describing football practice or football games or buying furniture. Anyone can write any character but I feel like a lot of the female authors I’ve read who write mlm characters write gay men as sterile and maybe I don’t know… their ideal of what they would like a man to be?
This book was so unbelievable and the characters were not real people. But there was some cute banter at times, especially towards the beginning of the book, but by god was it not enough.
May 1, 2026
3.5-4. Parts I definitely enjoyed, some of it not so much. Interesting writing style.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 6, 2025
This is one of those unusual times where I don’t realize I like the book until it’s over. Then I stop and look back on it and change my rating. I really felt the first part was slow. I think a lot of the issue was that I wanted there to be more angst. I didn’t feel the emotions you would expect when a character has been sexually assaulted. It was more hinted at or briefly discussed but I couldn’t feel that emotion. The second half really delved deeper into Ethan’s personal growth. I do wish there had been more interaction with Ethan and Justin as they figured out how to overcome intimacy or personal issues. It was touched on so briefly and only gave vague information. There was so much potential to add drama within the story but it fizzled out. It just wasn’t dramatic enough. There were a lot of missed opportunities. I do think despite all that, the ending was good. They had a very easy love. I just really wanted an epilogue years later when Justin came out. But the love story overall was very sweet.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 25, 2024
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.25 stars
Ethan and Justin’s journey is an evolving love story that, at the start, catches both men off guard. Justin has a dream of playing in the NFL, but he also has back up plans. His plans never included Ethan, but the more time he spends with Ethan, the more Justin realizes that Ethan is everything to him.
Ethan and Justin are relationship goals. They put each other first and they will do anything and everything to protect their relationship.
Read Michelle's review in its entirety here.
4.25 stars
Ethan and Justin’s journey is an evolving love story that, at the start, catches both men off guard. Justin has a dream of playing in the NFL, but he also has back up plans. His plans never included Ethan, but the more time he spends with Ethan, the more Justin realizes that Ethan is everything to him.
Ethan and Justin are relationship goals. They put each other first and they will do anything and everything to protect their relationship.
Read Michelle's review in its entirety here.
April 30, 2025
He’d known this wouldn’t be easy, but he also knew how safe he was with Justin. Here was a man who would try to move mountains for him if Ethan wanted it, a partner who replaced horror with love as they struggled together through this first time, this impossible hurdle, a beautiful and simultaneously tragic milestone in their life together.
April 27, 2026
What. Did I just. Read.
WHAT DID I JUST READ.
Phenomenal. 💞🌟🎆🌊🩷❤️🧡💛💚🩵💙💜
💖💝💘💝💖💝💘💝💖💝💘💝💖💝💘💝💖
❤️🔥❤️🔥❤️🔥❤️🔥❤️🔥❤️🔥❤️🔥❤️🔥❤️🔥
For those who know me, you know how big it is when I say this book just came up to Impaired Judgement (by youcouldmakealife on Ao3) and Bryce and Jared level LOVED IT at the very top of my list of favorite books.
Justin and Ethan. 🥰🫶🥰🫶🥰🫶🥰🫶🥰🫶🥰
One of the best working-through-past-trauma books I have ever read. TW for SA, in the past not on page. The guilty have been caught/tried/are in prison, thank you author.
Justin started falling for Ethan before he even knew who he was, we learn, when they shared an English course and Justin and Ethan received each other’s essays, anonymously, to give each other student critiques.
If I had one wish, it would be for the author to have actually written Ethan’s essay for us to read, which she did not. But. We know it is about love and a perfect first kiss. (Justin’s was about football…)
Justin knows what happened to Ethan. EVERYONE on campus knows. But Justin already figured out who Ethan was in class, and his essay moved Justin so much he saved picture of it, and now his fixation is undeniable as he sees Ethan study with friends and appear to be happy/recovering, and Justin just admires him from afar.
Justin is a football prodigy, on the college team, destined for the NFL. He can’t be out. Ever. Till he retires. (Which, dammit, when is the world gonna catch up and get over this BS?!?! Grrr.) When he has the opportunity to formally meet Ethan and get to know him, he takes it. And the most beautiful friendship happens.
Friendship that both realize is more. And can’t be more. But is more no matter what.
And then we get the most wonderful story of two people realizing and deciding and choosing to take a risk because not being together would be the greatest tragedy ever told.
Much like Impaired Judgement, it becomes a day to day, slice of life, epic love affair/romance story about two soulmates, written in a unique voice and style that took me a beat to get into, because not everything is told/’splained/laid out for the reader, and the author trusts the reader to absorb and get it. And oh, I did. I really did.
Justin’s refusal to do media… The lengths he goes to to support and keep Ethan feeling safe… The reporter at the end who becomes a friend…geeeeezus. So good.
Ethan’s blossoming, owning himself and his personal safety…
The development of their physical relationship…one of the best I’ve seen of the truth of working through trauma and patience and just how beautiful love can be.
If I had two wishes, I’d have wished the author had Ethan move from the sense of “victim” to “survivor.” I don’t know why that language wasn’t reached, and if the author ever revisits the book, that would be my advice.
Ethan’s and Justin’s parents are both equally marvelous and so smart, their discussions of how to handle Justin’s career, Ethan’s dad being a lauded high-school football coach and Justin working out with that team, their continual showing up for their sons…ah. Wonderous. This is how all parents should be. They’re idealized yet still authentic, real people.
The self-defense group… Justin’s NFL teammates and how his position switched (SO FUN!) and the coach’s trust in him as he pares down to the final team and listens to Justin…seriously, I can’t make this up. So rewarding! (I have zero clue how authentic it is, not a sports expert, but, the author made me Believe...) This book kept delivering quiet powerful beat after beat and I could have stayed in this world forever, much like I love being with Bryce and Jared. Multiple re-reads ahead.
All I can say really is…read it.
HEA. SUCH an HEA. College romance. Football/eventual NFL star and ordinary/extraordinary survivor/English major/writer. NO OM action or drama or anything at all (one criminal act of assholes trying to set up/blackmail Justin, but our man is too smart for them TG). Completely, utterly, beautifully safe for me and focused on these two in the best way. Highly, highly, HIGHLY recommended.
I own this ebook.
WHAT DID I JUST READ.
Phenomenal. 💞🌟🎆🌊🩷❤️🧡💛💚🩵💙💜
💖💝💘💝💖💝💘💝💖💝💘💝💖💝💘💝💖
❤️🔥❤️🔥❤️🔥❤️🔥❤️🔥❤️🔥❤️🔥❤️🔥❤️🔥
For those who know me, you know how big it is when I say this book just came up to Impaired Judgement (by youcouldmakealife on Ao3) and Bryce and Jared level LOVED IT at the very top of my list of favorite books.
Justin and Ethan. 🥰🫶🥰🫶🥰🫶🥰🫶🥰🫶🥰
One of the best working-through-past-trauma books I have ever read. TW for SA, in the past not on page. The guilty have been caught/tried/are in prison, thank you author.
Justin started falling for Ethan before he even knew who he was, we learn, when they shared an English course and Justin and Ethan received each other’s essays, anonymously, to give each other student critiques.
If I had one wish, it would be for the author to have actually written Ethan’s essay for us to read, which she did not. But. We know it is about love and a perfect first kiss. (Justin’s was about football…)
Justin knows what happened to Ethan. EVERYONE on campus knows. But Justin already figured out who Ethan was in class, and his essay moved Justin so much he saved picture of it, and now his fixation is undeniable as he sees Ethan study with friends and appear to be happy/recovering, and Justin just admires him from afar.
Justin is a football prodigy, on the college team, destined for the NFL. He can’t be out. Ever. Till he retires. (Which, dammit, when is the world gonna catch up and get over this BS?!?! Grrr.) When he has the opportunity to formally meet Ethan and get to know him, he takes it. And the most beautiful friendship happens.
Friendship that both realize is more. And can’t be more. But is more no matter what.
And then we get the most wonderful story of two people realizing and deciding and choosing to take a risk because not being together would be the greatest tragedy ever told.
Much like Impaired Judgement, it becomes a day to day, slice of life, epic love affair/romance story about two soulmates, written in a unique voice and style that took me a beat to get into, because not everything is told/’splained/laid out for the reader, and the author trusts the reader to absorb and get it. And oh, I did. I really did.
Justin’s refusal to do media… The lengths he goes to to support and keep Ethan feeling safe… The reporter at the end who becomes a friend…geeeeezus. So good.
Ethan’s blossoming, owning himself and his personal safety…
The development of their physical relationship…one of the best I’ve seen of the truth of working through trauma and patience and just how beautiful love can be.
If I had two wishes, I’d have wished the author had Ethan move from the sense of “victim” to “survivor.” I don’t know why that language wasn’t reached, and if the author ever revisits the book, that would be my advice.
Ethan’s and Justin’s parents are both equally marvelous and so smart, their discussions of how to handle Justin’s career, Ethan’s dad being a lauded high-school football coach and Justin working out with that team, their continual showing up for their sons…ah. Wonderous. This is how all parents should be. They’re idealized yet still authentic, real people.
The self-defense group… Justin’s NFL teammates and how his position switched (SO FUN!) and the coach’s trust in him as he pares down to the final team and listens to Justin…seriously, I can’t make this up. So rewarding! (I have zero clue how authentic it is, not a sports expert, but, the author made me Believe...) This book kept delivering quiet powerful beat after beat and I could have stayed in this world forever, much like I love being with Bryce and Jared. Multiple re-reads ahead.
All I can say really is…read it.
HEA. SUCH an HEA. College romance. Football/eventual NFL star and ordinary/extraordinary survivor/English major/writer. NO OM action or drama or anything at all (one criminal act of assholes trying to set up/blackmail Justin, but our man is too smart for them TG). Completely, utterly, beautifully safe for me and focused on these two in the best way. Highly, highly, HIGHLY recommended.
I own this ebook.
January 26, 2025
This story contains a backstory of SA which is not depicted in the book, which is dealt with sensitivity and realism. The ongoing counselling, medication, family protectiveness and social shyness is really well done, but it doesn't overshadow the story to any detriment. In fact, the acceptance by both families and the way they support the two young men reminds me of Schitt's creek. Homophobia is also not depicted in the book, nor do either characters have to deal with any overt displays of that.
Justin is a golden retriever, through and through, and the fact that he falls first through the written word is gorgeous. His protectiveness just keeps ramping up. He and Ethan find each other, there's attraction, and they both want to make it work. I mean c'mon ... *SWOON*
Ethan blooms once he's in a healthy relationship, we're all capable of that when we feel seen and respected, and it's wonderful to explore that as it unfolds. Meanwhile the football team is totally clueless, and the coaches & parents are great mentors, helping them chart a course that sets them up for happiness AND keeping their star player. There were many points where this story could have followed the usual tropes and tipped into melodrama, but Gigi isn't that sort of writer, for which I'm thankful.
Also, points to Dan Levy, who has done an excellent narration job on this book. It made for a great listening experience.
Justin is a golden retriever, through and through, and the fact that he falls first through the written word is gorgeous. His protectiveness just keeps ramping up. He and Ethan find each other, there's attraction, and they both want to make it work. I mean c'mon ... *SWOON*
Ethan blooms once he's in a healthy relationship, we're all capable of that when we feel seen and respected, and it's wonderful to explore that as it unfolds. Meanwhile the football team is totally clueless, and the coaches & parents are great mentors, helping them chart a course that sets them up for happiness AND keeping their star player. There were many points where this story could have followed the usual tropes and tipped into melodrama, but Gigi isn't that sort of writer, for which I'm thankful.
Also, points to Dan Levy, who has done an excellent narration job on this book. It made for a great listening experience.
May 22, 2026
This was definitely not your average book.
The CW of SA(past) did not prepare me for a group of attackers. I wouldn’t have started this if I knew that. It was handled with care and respect but really rough to keep learning new aspects of the horrors.
At 20%, at 40%, at 60%, I thought “well the romance is resolved, where could it go from here?” But it did keep going. There was a lot of minutiae and slice of life, which I found nice the whole way through. There was also a lot of football, which I skimmed. I appreciated that to tell the story of Ethan’s healing, the story had to take place over years and years. A few times I got a bit bored at the slow pace but I was always glad I stuck it out. It was more of an experience than a single story arc. There were no crises, the crisis happened before the book began.
It was nice having the super supportive parents and how the combined families acted as a team.
I was surprised and confused by the seemingly arbitrary stopping point. I thought we’d fast forward to retirement to watch them have some fun together again. It stopped in the middle of years that were going to be mostly hard work and separation.
The CW of SA(past) did not prepare me for a group of attackers. I wouldn’t have started this if I knew that. It was handled with care and respect but really rough to keep learning new aspects of the horrors.
At 20%, at 40%, at 60%, I thought “well the romance is resolved, where could it go from here?” But it did keep going. There was a lot of minutiae and slice of life, which I found nice the whole way through. There was also a lot of football, which I skimmed. I appreciated that to tell the story of Ethan’s healing, the story had to take place over years and years. A few times I got a bit bored at the slow pace but I was always glad I stuck it out. It was more of an experience than a single story arc. There were no crises, the crisis happened before the book began.
It was nice having the super supportive parents and how the combined families acted as a team.
I was surprised and confused by the seemingly arbitrary stopping point. I thought we’d fast forward to retirement to watch them have some fun together again. It stopped in the middle of years that were going to be mostly hard work and separation.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 15, 2024
When I read the synopsis of this book, I was intrigued. Ok, to be honest, it was the title. Come on. Doesn't it just pull you in? And then I read the book...wow. I've actually read it twice because I loved it so much. The characters, the story, development...everything about this book had me turning page after page. The first read, I almost gave it 4.5 stars, but because it called to me and begged me to read it a second time right after I finished it the first time, I bumped it up to 5 stars. I loved everything, but I wish there was more. I wasn't done with their story. I need more. Pick up this one today and read it for yourself.
August 26, 2024
This book was totally wholesome and, unfortunately, this made it super-boring for me. I've been waiting for something to go wrong, some drama, but Justing fucking Halstead was just perfect and nothing could be wrong when it comes to him 🤷🏻♀️
January 6, 2026
Asking for blessing from the father just few months into a relationship when the dude's like in college? like wtf? ppl here still tryna figure out if they doing the rt degree or not. I hate the whole asking for permission in the first place but srsly.
The book ain't for me. Too woke for it. oops.
The book ain't for me. Too woke for it. oops.
April 13, 2026
🎧I cannot stop thinking about these guys. What a beautiful slow burn between two men that just want the other to be happy and won't settle for anything less.
No couple drama, no OM/OW drama, MC1 has a past traumatic experience which we learn about
No couple drama, no OM/OW drama, MC1 has a past traumatic experience which we learn about
May 3, 2026
Ok so I really like this. I'm going to give it a 4.5 rounded down.
It reminded me of the Jock in a way. It was so sweet. There were a few niggles. No epilogue, a couple inconsistencies ... No essay! But damn so good.
It reminded me of the Jock in a way. It was so sweet. There were a few niggles. No epilogue, a couple inconsistencies ... No essay! But damn so good.
July 8, 2026
Liked the characters and the story, but I had a really hard time with the writing, it felt like someone with really bad ADHD was trying to tell a story by jumping from one moment to another with no transition at all.
July 19, 2024
Really enjoyed this story.
July 20, 2024
Maybe 2.5 stars 🤔
April 5, 2025
I enjoyed this book. It was not filled with pages of sex, it was a real story with lots happening, mostly football, and and rehabilitating one of the MC's who had been sexually assaulted. Some people found it too long, but I found it to be a pleasant change from many of the stories lately. Loved the two MC's, dedicated to each other from the get go.
October 12, 2025
it was simple perfect
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