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The Camboy Network #4
Santino
Everyone says that Hayden is a fun, easy-going guy. But when I move into the empty room in his apartment, he's the opposite of friendly. Grumpy and fussy, he's always nagging me about where I leave my stuff, how loud I play my music, how long I take in the shower, and the list goes on. I can't seem to do anything right.
So I won't even bother. He thinks I'm an annoying roommate? I'll show him how annoying I can be. And if our clashes ramp up the already potent sexual tension between us, well then, life with Hayden is about to get a lot more fun.
Santino is a forced proximity, opposites attract, enemies to lovers MM romance. It is the fourth and last book in The Camboy Network series, but can be read as a stand-alone.
So I won't even bother. He thinks I'm an annoying roommate? I'll show him how annoying I can be. And if our clashes ramp up the already potent sexual tension between us, well then, life with Hayden is about to get a lot more fun.
Santino is a forced proximity, opposites attract, enemies to lovers MM romance. It is the fourth and last book in The Camboy Network series, but can be read as a stand-alone.
302 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 26, 2025
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March 6, 2026
This really is a completely different vibe from the previous books of the series. They were low-angst and easy-going, while this one tackles really tough subjects. Hayden's struggle with depression was a hard thing to read. His inner thoughts and that damn voice 💔—Christ, it hurt to see him suffering alone, trying to spare everyone and acting “normal” while he was drowning.
Then comes Santino, a breath of fresh air 🌸, who truly sees Hayden’s struggles and helps. Just by acknowledging it, with small kisses, touches, and lots of snuggling in burrito blankets 🥹.
While I did love their relationship (and even accepted this ultra-fast love 💕), I think the author focused a lot on sex—on Hayden struggling in that department. I wish we had seen him halfway through the book with a therapist, actually improving, instead of having to wait two weeks for a damn therapist, which felt unrealistic. There are so many sweet moments happening off-page that I think would have worked better on-page. Because honestly, reading together, going to the park, and cuddling is way more important than just… sex 🔥.
Everyone else is so focused on the recording that they missed how much Hayden was struggling. Even after they knew, it felt like the documentary was more important—because clearly, Hayden wasn’t okay, even if he said he was. And I absolutely hated that Hayden felt the need and almost obligation to take those pills just to get hard, in the middle of all this it felt terrible…And everyone just got along with that 🙁
That said, as in the previous books, there are still very hot and intense moments 🔥—either filming scenes or just intimate ones. Linden sure knows how to make the temperature rise to volcano levels 🌋. I'm trying not to horny, but that scene they all filmed at the club? Motherfunking HOT, goddamn!!!!!!!🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥But there’s a lack of just them scenes… no cameras, just the two of them…
Aside from the first book Sebastian, every other one has a bunch of people filming, and honestly, I prefer it when they filmed themselves—it feels less mechanical and more intimate. One thing that’s been bugging me since book one is that it’s never said whether they continue collaborating with others outside the couple—and not knowing makes me uncomfortable 😅. I even asked the author, and she said it’s left to the reader’s imagination… which, honestly, makes it even more uncomfortable LOL. But I choose to believe they don’t! 🙈
Back to baby Hayden , because this book is all about him—all that baby needing help, someone who saw him in that dark place and helped him climb out 🥹🩵. I’m so glad he sees the light in the end and manages to shut that lying voice in his head, because he is so lovable, so worthy, and deserves all the happiness! ✨ The I love you was very magical and emotional and i adore it💕💕💕
This was such a fun series! This last book doesn’t quite fit the vibe of the rest, but in the end, I really loved getting to know all these camboys and their crazy, sexy shenanigans—on and off the scene! 🔥💖
While I liked this book, the unbalanced feel and the way the physical side got more attention than the mental side keep me from giving it a full 4 ⭐—but it’s pretty close 🥹. I’ll stick with 3.5, rounded up, because if we suspend disbelief, it was still rather sweet and hot, and Santino was really good for Hayden’s recovery—which, in the end, was what mattered.
Then comes Santino, a breath of fresh air 🌸, who truly sees Hayden’s struggles and helps. Just by acknowledging it, with small kisses, touches, and lots of snuggling in burrito blankets 🥹.
While I did love their relationship (and even accepted this ultra-fast love 💕), I think the author focused a lot on sex—on Hayden struggling in that department. I wish we had seen him halfway through the book with a therapist, actually improving, instead of having to wait two weeks for a damn therapist, which felt unrealistic. There are so many sweet moments happening off-page that I think would have worked better on-page. Because honestly, reading together, going to the park, and cuddling is way more important than just… sex 🔥.
Everyone else is so focused on the recording that they missed how much Hayden was struggling. Even after they knew, it felt like the documentary was more important—because clearly, Hayden wasn’t okay, even if he said he was. And I absolutely hated that Hayden felt the need and almost obligation to take those pills just to get hard, in the middle of all this it felt terrible…And everyone just got along with that 🙁
That said, as in the previous books, there are still very hot and intense moments 🔥—either filming scenes or just intimate ones. Linden sure knows how to make the temperature rise to volcano levels 🌋. I'm trying not to horny, but that scene they all filmed at the club? Motherfunking HOT, goddamn!!!!!!!🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥But there’s a lack of just them scenes… no cameras, just the two of them…
Aside from the first book Sebastian, every other one has a bunch of people filming, and honestly, I prefer it when they filmed themselves—it feels less mechanical and more intimate. One thing that’s been bugging me since book one is that it’s never said whether they continue collaborating with others outside the couple—and not knowing makes me uncomfortable 😅. I even asked the author, and she said it’s left to the reader’s imagination… which, honestly, makes it even more uncomfortable LOL. But I choose to believe they don’t! 🙈
Back to baby Hayden , because this book is all about him—all that baby needing help, someone who saw him in that dark place and helped him climb out 🥹🩵. I’m so glad he sees the light in the end and manages to shut that lying voice in his head, because he is so lovable, so worthy, and deserves all the happiness! ✨ The I love you was very magical and emotional and i adore it💕💕💕
This was such a fun series! This last book doesn’t quite fit the vibe of the rest, but in the end, I really loved getting to know all these camboys and their crazy, sexy shenanigans—on and off the scene! 🔥💖
While I liked this book, the unbalanced feel and the way the physical side got more attention than the mental side keep me from giving it a full 4 ⭐—but it’s pretty close 🥹. I’ll stick with 3.5, rounded up, because if we suspend disbelief, it was still rather sweet and hot, and Santino was really good for Hayden’s recovery—which, in the end, was what mattered.
March 6, 2026
⭐️ 4 stars ⭐️
♪𝚂𝚘𝚗𝚐 𝙼𝚊𝚝𝚌𝚑 — 𝙼𝚛. 𝙻𝚘𝚗𝚎𝚕𝚢 𝚋𝚢 𝚃𝚊𝚠𝚗𝚝𝚎𝚍♪
// Hey There Mr Lonely I Was Thinking
Oh if only I could
Be alone with you //
What happened to the ‘mostly porn with a side of romance’ series I was reading? Where did all this angst come from?
I honestly wasn’t expecting this level of emotion from this series, and I hated it. I loved it. I don’t know how I feel about it.
This book didn’t go in the same sexy direction as the rest of the series. It had its hot moments (they’re still camboys after all), but it’s mostly about Hayden’s struggle with his depression, and the emotional connection between him and Santino.
Now, I both hated it and loved it because I felt incredibly seen by the mental health rep, Hayden’s ‘evil voice’/intrusive thoughts felt scarily similar to my own, but also this was not what I signed up for when I dived into this series. I picked it up to not think about all that shitty stuff, I just wanted smut and vibes. Instead I got feels. Ew.
Despite these two giving me feelings I didn’t want at the moment, I still really enjoyed their love story. It was sweet, it was gentle, the spice was fun (most of the time). I’m glad they got their happy ending.
CW and NSFW info (spoilers):
- MC w/ depression & anxiety attacks
- Erectile dysfunction
- Intrusive thoughts/suicidal ideation (no intent)
- Camboys
- Top/bottom
- Grinding/coming w/ clothes on
- Frotting
- Rimming
- Public sex
- Coming hands-free
♪𝚂𝚘𝚗𝚐 𝙼𝚊𝚝𝚌𝚑 — 𝙼𝚛. 𝙻𝚘𝚗𝚎𝚕𝚢 𝚋𝚢 𝚃𝚊𝚠𝚗𝚝𝚎𝚍♪
// Hey There Mr Lonely I Was Thinking
Oh if only I could
Be alone with you //
I’ve never had someone pay that kind of attention to me before. Like they really want to know what I think. Like what I say matters to them.
What happened to the ‘mostly porn with a side of romance’ series I was reading? Where did all this angst come from?
I honestly wasn’t expecting this level of emotion from this series, and I hated it. I loved it. I don’t know how I feel about it.
He saw me hovering on the edge of freaking out. He reached out and threw me a lifeline. He reeled me in and made sure I didn’t float away.
This book didn’t go in the same sexy direction as the rest of the series. It had its hot moments (they’re still camboys after all), but it’s mostly about Hayden’s struggle with his depression, and the emotional connection between him and Santino.
Now, I both hated it and loved it because I felt incredibly seen by the mental health rep, Hayden’s ‘evil voice’/intrusive thoughts felt scarily similar to my own, but also this was not what I signed up for when I dived into this series. I picked it up to not think about all that shitty stuff, I just wanted smut and vibes. Instead I got feels. Ew.
You’re not getting rid of me that easily, babe. If you can’t fight anymore, then Imma fight for you.
Despite these two giving me feelings I didn’t want at the moment, I still really enjoyed their love story. It was sweet, it was gentle, the spice was fun (most of the time). I’m glad they got their happy ending.
I love you. I think in my head as loudly as I possibly can. Maybe he’ll hear it somehow. Maybe he’ll feel it. Maybe my love can help heal some of the brokenness he carries around inside.
CW and NSFW info (spoilers):
- MC w/ depression & anxiety attacks
- Erectile dysfunction
- Intrusive thoughts/suicidal ideation (no intent)
- Camboys
- Top/bottom
- Grinding/coming w/ clothes on
- Frotting
- Rimming
- Public sex
- Coming hands-free
September 7, 2025
➤ Quick Thoughts:
This book turned out to be far more challenging for me than I expected. 🥺 The weight of Hayden’s pain and distress was tangible, and Linden Bell captured the reality of depression with such care and honesty. It was deeply moving to watch their love take root in the middle of so much darkness, and somehow, that made it feel even more precious — as if every tender moment between them carried double the meaning.
RATING: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
SPICE LEVEL: 🌶️🌶️
SWOON FACTOR: 🫠🫠🫠🫠
SANTINO: 💜💜💜💜.5
HAYDEN: 💜💜💜💜.5
➤ Favorite Quotes:
✨ I want to be the one he’s kissing, the one he’s touching. I want to wrap myself around him and lose myself in him. He was joking about magical kisses, but I think there’s some truth to that. Because when I’m with him, the darkness doesn’t feel as dark and the heaviness doesn’t feel as heavy. And my body comes alive in a way I haven’t experienced in a long time.
✨ I’m not alone. Santino’s with me. He saw me when I didn’t want him to see. He came when I tried to push him away. I don’t deserve him, but I want him. I shouldn’t have him, but I don’t want to let him go.
✨ “Please. Please.” Hayden clings to me, fisting my shirt in his hands like he’s afraid I’ll disappear on him. “I’m here. I’m not leaving. You’re not alone. I’ve got you.” Tears spill down my cheeks, but I don’t bother wiping them away. I want to cry them. I want to feel them wet my face. I can’t imagine how many tears Hayden’s shed in all of this. It’s the least I can do to cry a few with him.
✨ He’s my lifeline, the one thing keeping me from floating away and drowning. The only source of air that keeps me from suffocating.
✨ I’ve never felt this way about anyone else before. Like I can only breathe if he breathes. Like my heart can only beat when his beats. Like my very existence hinges on Hayden’s well-being.
➤ What You’ll Find:
✧ INSTALOVE
✧ ROOMMATES
✧ DEPRESSION REP
✧ HURT / COMFORT
✧ FORCED PROXIMITY
✧ CUDDLE THERAPY
✧ LATE NIGHT CHATS
✧ BLANKET BURRITOS
✧ READING ALOUD TO EACH OTHER
✧ FOUND FAMILY
✧ NO THIRD ACT BREAK-UP
➤ Final Thought:
This was not an easy journey to witness, but it felt profoundly real. Santino and Hayden’s bond showed that love can bloom even in the harshest conditions! Bellamy will always remain my favorite in this series, yet I’m sad to see it come to an end — because each of the other books has carved out its own special place in my heart.
This book turned out to be far more challenging for me than I expected. 🥺 The weight of Hayden’s pain and distress was tangible, and Linden Bell captured the reality of depression with such care and honesty. It was deeply moving to watch their love take root in the middle of so much darkness, and somehow, that made it feel even more precious — as if every tender moment between them carried double the meaning.
RATING: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
SPICE LEVEL: 🌶️🌶️
SWOON FACTOR: 🫠🫠🫠🫠
SANTINO: 💜💜💜💜.5
HAYDEN: 💜💜💜💜.5
➤ Favorite Quotes:
✨ I want to be the one he’s kissing, the one he’s touching. I want to wrap myself around him and lose myself in him. He was joking about magical kisses, but I think there’s some truth to that. Because when I’m with him, the darkness doesn’t feel as dark and the heaviness doesn’t feel as heavy. And my body comes alive in a way I haven’t experienced in a long time.
✨ I’m not alone. Santino’s with me. He saw me when I didn’t want him to see. He came when I tried to push him away. I don’t deserve him, but I want him. I shouldn’t have him, but I don’t want to let him go.
✨ “Please. Please.” Hayden clings to me, fisting my shirt in his hands like he’s afraid I’ll disappear on him. “I’m here. I’m not leaving. You’re not alone. I’ve got you.” Tears spill down my cheeks, but I don’t bother wiping them away. I want to cry them. I want to feel them wet my face. I can’t imagine how many tears Hayden’s shed in all of this. It’s the least I can do to cry a few with him.
✨ He’s my lifeline, the one thing keeping me from floating away and drowning. The only source of air that keeps me from suffocating.
✨ I’ve never felt this way about anyone else before. Like I can only breathe if he breathes. Like my heart can only beat when his beats. Like my very existence hinges on Hayden’s well-being.
➤ What You’ll Find:
✧ INSTALOVE
✧ ROOMMATES
✧ DEPRESSION REP
✧ HURT / COMFORT
✧ FORCED PROXIMITY
✧ CUDDLE THERAPY
✧ LATE NIGHT CHATS
✧ BLANKET BURRITOS
✧ READING ALOUD TO EACH OTHER
✧ FOUND FAMILY
✧ NO THIRD ACT BREAK-UP
➤ Final Thought:
This was not an easy journey to witness, but it felt profoundly real. Santino and Hayden’s bond showed that love can bloom even in the harshest conditions! Bellamy will always remain my favorite in this series, yet I’m sad to see it come to an end — because each of the other books has carved out its own special place in my heart.
August 27, 2025
One of the best mental health reps I’ve ever read and yet completely overflowing with swoon and love and chemistry - Santino and Hayden’s story is absolutely spectacular.
Having been on both sides of the experience the struggle with depression is laid bare so sensitively, not confronting but compassionate, the absolute helplessness of what to do to solve it, and from the other end how to help and support. No easy solutions but also some luck and a lot of hard work. There could be triggering content so please read the content warnings the author had made available
But this is also a beautiful story about love - romantic love, love of found family unconditional in so may ways and love of self.
Santino takes the opportunity he has when he comes for Bellamy and Noel’s documentary to find something more for himself than the life he’s been living. Hayden is struggling but he finds succour and finally support in his new room mate. That blooms in to a fiery all consuming love filled with joy and laughter. How lovely is this journey they go on, forever altered.
Having been on both sides of the experience the struggle with depression is laid bare so sensitively, not confronting but compassionate, the absolute helplessness of what to do to solve it, and from the other end how to help and support. No easy solutions but also some luck and a lot of hard work. There could be triggering content so please read the content warnings the author had made available
But this is also a beautiful story about love - romantic love, love of found family unconditional in so may ways and love of self.
Santino takes the opportunity he has when he comes for Bellamy and Noel’s documentary to find something more for himself than the life he’s been living. Hayden is struggling but he finds succour and finally support in his new room mate. That blooms in to a fiery all consuming love filled with joy and laughter. How lovely is this journey they go on, forever altered.
September 7, 2025
Wow, just wow. This book was amazing and the mental health rep was perfect, accurate and realistic. This has become my favourite book of this series.
Hayden was a wonderful character and he was easy to relate to. He was the true representation of how depression sometimes hits a person and how, at first, there doesn't seem to be a reason for it. The way Hayden's feelings and emotions were described were incredibly veracious and I had no problem feeling that poignant sadness that seemed to be wrapped around himself.
Santino was like a fresh breeze that stomped into Hayden's life abruptly but, oh, so necessary. He had done a good job not revealing how much pain he was feeling, but it only took Santino one look and he just knew.
Their relationship started as friends and roommates, but soon enough it turned into something else. The fact that Santino could see through the walls that Hayden had built around himself made their relationship be something very special. Their connection and mutual understanding was beautiful, Santino suffering to see Hayden go through so much pain.
I would say theirs was an instalove thing because Santino already had a crush on Hayden and the latter found in Santino an anchor to grab onto when his world was disintegrating under his feet. At times I felt Hayden was becoming too dependent on his roommate, but Santino just was the lifejacket Hayden used to get his brain out of the darkness enough to realise what he was going through and that helped him take the step to acknowlegde his depression and get the help he needed.
This book was a rollercoaster of emotions from beginning to end. The first half was tough and difficult to read at times, anyone who had experienced depression would see themselves reflected in this and at times it was like I was at that point again. That is why I loved this book so much and I would like to stress that people check the CWs.
It was a lovely story and it made my heart feel full of love and tenderness for these two guys. What a beautiful relationship they built and how important their friends were. This book is a jewel and I hope many people get to read it and enjoy it as much as I did.
Hayden was a wonderful character and he was easy to relate to. He was the true representation of how depression sometimes hits a person and how, at first, there doesn't seem to be a reason for it. The way Hayden's feelings and emotions were described were incredibly veracious and I had no problem feeling that poignant sadness that seemed to be wrapped around himself.
Santino was like a fresh breeze that stomped into Hayden's life abruptly but, oh, so necessary. He had done a good job not revealing how much pain he was feeling, but it only took Santino one look and he just knew.
Their relationship started as friends and roommates, but soon enough it turned into something else. The fact that Santino could see through the walls that Hayden had built around himself made their relationship be something very special. Their connection and mutual understanding was beautiful, Santino suffering to see Hayden go through so much pain.
I would say theirs was an instalove thing because Santino already had a crush on Hayden and the latter found in Santino an anchor to grab onto when his world was disintegrating under his feet. At times I felt Hayden was becoming too dependent on his roommate, but Santino just was the lifejacket Hayden used to get his brain out of the darkness enough to realise what he was going through and that helped him take the step to acknowlegde his depression and get the help he needed.
This book was a rollercoaster of emotions from beginning to end. The first half was tough and difficult to read at times, anyone who had experienced depression would see themselves reflected in this and at times it was like I was at that point again. That is why I loved this book so much and I would like to stress that people check the CWs.
It was a lovely story and it made my heart feel full of love and tenderness for these two guys. What a beautiful relationship they built and how important their friends were. This book is a jewel and I hope many people get to read it and enjoy it as much as I did.
September 13, 2025
So this was really hard to read. And I mean that because the mental health aspects were very detailed and raw. There were so many parts that I absolutely loved. And a few that I really didn’t. But I couldn’t put it down and I felt all of the emotions.
I initially thought I wouldn’t even rate this because it was so hard to read. But I also think it was almost refreshing to read about depression in such detail, especially from a male perspective. And I probably related to it too much.
I also really loved having the boys all together filming the documentary. Enjoyed that a lot.
It really bothered me how long it took to get him some help- I know that’s realistic though, sadly.
Definitely read TW!
I initially thought I wouldn’t even rate this because it was so hard to read. But I also think it was almost refreshing to read about depression in such detail, especially from a male perspective. And I probably related to it too much.
I also really loved having the boys all together filming the documentary. Enjoyed that a lot.
It really bothered me how long it took to get him some help- I know that’s realistic though, sadly.
Definitely read TW!
September 29, 2025
I'm not really sure how to feel about his book. The blurb is extremely misleading, I definitely think it was written before the book because it has nothing to do with the actual story. I was expecting a forced-proximity, maybe slightly antagonistic and very spicy romance. What I actually got was a story about someone's descent into severe depression where his completely self-centered friends fail to realize how serious the situation is.
Hayden, who is portrayed as a kind golden-retriever type character, finds himself having a major depressive episode but can't understand what is happening. Enter Santino, an old friend of Bellamy who is helping the guys out with a documentary. Santino is immediately drawn to Hayden, but because he has an outsider's perspective, he notices the dark cloud over Hayden. The story unfolds with the camboys gallivanting around and being seemingly oblivious to Hayden's distress - and I have to say that this really pissed me off, they were really not being good friends. And then even when they do realize Hayden is not okay, they still don't seem to get how bad it is and still expect him to perform. Anyway, Hayden and Santino do have chemistry, but there's not a whole lot of sex, which is understandable.
I think if I knew what the real story was here, I might have enjoyed it more. I guess I was just in the mood for something frothy and spicy, and this ended up being heavy af. So fair warning if you decide to pick it up.
Hayden, who is portrayed as a kind golden-retriever type character, finds himself having a major depressive episode but can't understand what is happening. Enter Santino, an old friend of Bellamy who is helping the guys out with a documentary. Santino is immediately drawn to Hayden, but because he has an outsider's perspective, he notices the dark cloud over Hayden. The story unfolds with the camboys gallivanting around and being seemingly oblivious to Hayden's distress - and I have to say that this really pissed me off, they were really not being good friends. And then even when they do realize Hayden is not okay, they still don't seem to get how bad it is and still expect him to perform. Anyway, Hayden and Santino do have chemistry, but there's not a whole lot of sex, which is understandable.
I think if I knew what the real story was here, I might have enjoyed it more. I guess I was just in the mood for something frothy and spicy, and this ended up being heavy af. So fair warning if you decide to pick it up.
September 1, 2025
Oof. This book has me emotional as hell.
Y'all need to read the content warning for this one, please.
But OMG, the last book in the Camboy Network series was so good. Linden Bell was writing for her life.
This is a teensy bit spoilery, but not really. Especially after you've READ THE CONTENT WARNING:
The depression rep - spot on. The "voice"? SPOT ON. I can safely say that I can relate to Hayden's experience, and the way it was handled in the story felt very accurate. At least it did for me.
●○•○●○•○○•
All the characters were great, we see all of them from the first three books. The mcs for this story, Santino and Hayden, were the sweetest. Like SUNSHINE/SUNSHINE-IER.
The story is a bit of a slow burn, understandably, but holy hell, when it picks up, it's pretty hot.
The scene on the balcony was absolutely FIRE.
If you're looking for a romance with spice & camboys & really accurate mental health rep, this is gonna be for you!
Also, I can not recommend this entire series enough. SEBASTIAN, BELLAMY, and ANGEL are all available now. The holiday novella, The 12 Toys of Christmas, was so spicy I had to put it down LoL, and it's available now, too.
SANTINO comes out on Tuesday, the 26th. Again, READ THE CONTENT WARNINGS.
Your honor and esteemed readers, I LOVED THIS BOOK.
Y'all need to read the content warning for this one, please.
But OMG, the last book in the Camboy Network series was so good. Linden Bell was writing for her life.
This is a teensy bit spoilery, but not really. Especially after you've READ THE CONTENT WARNING:
The depression rep - spot on. The "voice"? SPOT ON. I can safely say that I can relate to Hayden's experience, and the way it was handled in the story felt very accurate. At least it did for me.
●○•○●○•○○•
All the characters were great, we see all of them from the first three books. The mcs for this story, Santino and Hayden, were the sweetest. Like SUNSHINE/SUNSHINE-IER.
The story is a bit of a slow burn, understandably, but holy hell, when it picks up, it's pretty hot.
The scene on the balcony was absolutely FIRE.
If you're looking for a romance with spice & camboys & really accurate mental health rep, this is gonna be for you!
Also, I can not recommend this entire series enough. SEBASTIAN, BELLAMY, and ANGEL are all available now. The holiday novella, The 12 Toys of Christmas, was so spicy I had to put it down LoL, and it's available now, too.
SANTINO comes out on Tuesday, the 26th. Again, READ THE CONTENT WARNINGS.
Your honor and esteemed readers, I LOVED THIS BOOK.
August 26, 2025
Rating: 4
Steam: 3
PoV: dual, 1st person
Genre: contemporary romance, MM
Tropes / tags: close proximity, mental health, hurt / comfort
I loved being back with the Camboy Network, and Linden Bell did an amazing job with the mental health rep in this one!
Please read the trigger / content warnings for this story, as it deals with mental health issues such as depression and panic attacks. Hayden's PoV was breaking my heart, and it was difficult to see him spiral and struggle, withdrawing from his friends and dealing with that hopelessness that often comes with depression.
Hayden found some glimmer of light with Santino though, and their close proximity also made it clear to Santino that something was going on with Hayden. It was sweet to see how supportive and gentle Santino was with Hayden, and I loved their slow burn romance. They fit so well together, and I got all emotional seeing Hayden slowly find his way back to the things he loved with Santino's support combined with therapy.
I can only speak from my own experience, but the mental health rep felt very realistic and was well written and portrayed throughout the story. The hurt / comfort was very sweet, and sometimes you just need someone to hold you through the night, no words necessary.
I've really enjoyed this series and it was bittersweet reading Santino, knowing it would be the last book. I completely adore this little group of friends and it was a treat to see them and their partners again. If you haven't checked out this series yet, I highly recommend doing it - there's so much to love with these stories!
-
I received an advanced copy of this book, and these are my honest thoughts and opinions.
Steam: 3
PoV: dual, 1st person
Genre: contemporary romance, MM
Tropes / tags: close proximity, mental health, hurt / comfort
I loved being back with the Camboy Network, and Linden Bell did an amazing job with the mental health rep in this one!
Please read the trigger / content warnings for this story, as it deals with mental health issues such as depression and panic attacks. Hayden's PoV was breaking my heart, and it was difficult to see him spiral and struggle, withdrawing from his friends and dealing with that hopelessness that often comes with depression.
Hayden found some glimmer of light with Santino though, and their close proximity also made it clear to Santino that something was going on with Hayden. It was sweet to see how supportive and gentle Santino was with Hayden, and I loved their slow burn romance. They fit so well together, and I got all emotional seeing Hayden slowly find his way back to the things he loved with Santino's support combined with therapy.
I can only speak from my own experience, but the mental health rep felt very realistic and was well written and portrayed throughout the story. The hurt / comfort was very sweet, and sometimes you just need someone to hold you through the night, no words necessary.
I've really enjoyed this series and it was bittersweet reading Santino, knowing it would be the last book. I completely adore this little group of friends and it was a treat to see them and their partners again. If you haven't checked out this series yet, I highly recommend doing it - there's so much to love with these stories!
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I received an advanced copy of this book, and these are my honest thoughts and opinions.
September 18, 2025
This book was very enjoyable. Hated and Santino story is sweet but also heavy at times. Hayden is suffering from depression due to some of the changes going on in his life. Santino was new in town and is Hayden‘s new roommate.
Their relationship develops at a nice pace. It’s not exactly a slow burn, but not exactly Insta love either.
The mental health rep in this book is so spot on that, despite this being a fairly low angst book, I had to put it down a few times.
As usual with the books in this series, you get lots of hot space because the boys are all cam boys.
Highly recommended.
Their relationship develops at a nice pace. It’s not exactly a slow burn, but not exactly Insta love either.
The mental health rep in this book is so spot on that, despite this being a fairly low angst book, I had to put it down a few times.
As usual with the books in this series, you get lots of hot space because the boys are all cam boys.
Highly recommended.
August 23, 2025
Oh my, Linden, you have written a masterpiece.
Hayden Summers is at a loss with his life. He has a great job which he adores and friends who he loves but he feels empty. Ever since Rhys moved out to live with Angel he is very melancholy and needs a distraction. A friend of Noel and Bellamy’s is coming to stay for their upcoming wedding and will be staying with Hayden.
Santino Baldoni has travelled from California to New York to be best man for Bellamy at his upcoming wedding and will be filmed for The Camboy Network. Staying with Hayden, he is a little starstruck and he naturally researched his new roommate before moving in with him.
The moment he lays eyes on Hayden he is smitten. He is the only one who sees Hayden struggling and wants to help.
Between the two of them they help each other and have a hurt/comfort relationship, which is beautiful for both of them, and so comforting to read.
This is Linden Bell’s fourth and final instalment in her fantastic Camboy Network series. Sebastian, Bellamy and Rhys all have found their HEA. Hayden also needs his.
The way this is written is so powerful and raw as well as an honest description of depression. Hayden does not believe he is worthy and has a nagging voice in his head telling him so. It is hard to read sometimes and you really feel for Hayden. He needs love but also to believe he will be ok. Santino is the person to help him. Santino sees Hayden straight away, and knows he wants to give him what he needs.
The love that emanates between the two is obvious and strong from the beginning. It radiates off the page.
I have read and loved everything Linden has written. Along with Pumped (which is also an amazing read), this is by far my favourite from Linden.
I cannot say enough wonderful things about this book.
August 26, 2025
That book was everything. I loved every second of it and maybe cried a little.
I loved the aspect of Hayden going to therapy and that he is not suddenly healed after 1-2 appointments. It’s so important to involve mental health and story’s and I think it was perfectly executed here. Tino is the cutest of them all but I have to say I’m sad that Noel is just an ass all the time especially after we got to know the real him in the third book.
Also a bit sad that the friends (except for Sebastian and Rhys) didn’t really play a big role but u can’t have everything.
I will re read this a dozen times
I loved the aspect of Hayden going to therapy and that he is not suddenly healed after 1-2 appointments. It’s so important to involve mental health and story’s and I think it was perfectly executed here. Tino is the cutest of them all but I have to say I’m sad that Noel is just an ass all the time especially after we got to know the real him in the third book.
Also a bit sad that the friends (except for Sebastian and Rhys) didn’t really play a big role but u can’t have everything.
I will re read this a dozen times
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 30, 2025
4.5 stars
Hayden's depression has been portrayed wonderfully by the author: every thought, every emotion, all his pain and suffering, his inability in asking for help, his relationship with his friends, the way how it all seemed lost and hopeless, all of it felt completely real. Linden Bell did a very outstanding job with Hayden's story.
I loved that Hayden's growing feelings for Santino didn't magically fixed everything for him, especially on the physical side: their strong intimacy was the result of their closeness and the deep fondness for each other that later became love.
The panic attacks and the spiraling were hard to read but seeing how Santino was able to support Hayden without making him feel broken was beautiful. They really had a strong connection and I adored that they fought for it and that, even if they were scared, they put their hearts on the line.
What prevented me from giving a higher rate:
Santino's personal story fell a little behind: his struggles to find his path, his relationship with his family and in particular with his mother often took a backseat.
Moreover, the end felt a bit rushed.
It was good to see all the guys again: Christian will be forever my favourite and I loved how he was the steady silent guy, always ready to help. Noah was a little bit annoying, he's always been the asshole type, but this time he was worse. Lastly, I liked very much how the author represented the friendship between Rhys and Hayden, with all their ups and downs.
I don't know if this is the end of this series, it's been a great read and I'm sad to say goodbye to these guys.
I received an ARC of this book from the author and this is my honest review.
Hayden's depression has been portrayed wonderfully by the author: every thought, every emotion, all his pain and suffering, his inability in asking for help, his relationship with his friends, the way how it all seemed lost and hopeless, all of it felt completely real. Linden Bell did a very outstanding job with Hayden's story.
I loved that Hayden's growing feelings for Santino didn't magically fixed everything for him, especially on the physical side: their strong intimacy was the result of their closeness and the deep fondness for each other that later became love.
The panic attacks and the spiraling were hard to read but seeing how Santino was able to support Hayden without making him feel broken was beautiful. They really had a strong connection and I adored that they fought for it and that, even if they were scared, they put their hearts on the line.
What prevented me from giving a higher rate:
Santino's personal story fell a little behind: his struggles to find his path, his relationship with his family and in particular with his mother often took a backseat.
Moreover, the end felt a bit rushed.
It was good to see all the guys again: Christian will be forever my favourite and I loved how he was the steady silent guy, always ready to help. Noah was a little bit annoying, he's always been the asshole type, but this time he was worse. Lastly, I liked very much how the author represented the friendship between Rhys and Hayden, with all their ups and downs.
I don't know if this is the end of this series, it's been a great read and I'm sad to say goodbye to these guys.
I received an ARC of this book from the author and this is my honest review.
August 27, 2025
Let me preface this by saying that my upcoming rant is based on my personal experience and also being a 4th year psychology student. Buckle up.
I have mixed feelings here. As someone who has struggled with my mental health for a big part of my life, Hayden's experience seems familiar. Obviously, it's different for everyone, but his symptoms were accurate.
What I don't like in this book is that it portrays love as some sort of miraculous fix. That if you're loved and someone notices you're struggling, you're gonna get better. Being loved and having a strong support system is very important and it helps, but you're still mentally ill whether or how much you're loved or not. Love doesn't fix mental health problems. So this didn't sit right with me.
Also, therapy takes time and a shitton of work. It's also not the miraculous cure like the book shows it. Usually it gets worse before it can get better.
Overall I liked this book, don't get me wrong. I love how Linden writes and this found family here. However, if a book focuses largely on mental health, it usually gets to me in some way, hence the very long rant.
I have mixed feelings here. As someone who has struggled with my mental health for a big part of my life, Hayden's experience seems familiar. Obviously, it's different for everyone, but his symptoms were accurate.
What I don't like in this book is that it portrays love as some sort of miraculous fix. That if you're loved and someone notices you're struggling, you're gonna get better. Being loved and having a strong support system is very important and it helps, but you're still mentally ill whether or how much you're loved or not. Love doesn't fix mental health problems. So this didn't sit right with me.
Also, therapy takes time and a shitton of work. It's also not the miraculous cure like the book shows it. Usually it gets worse before it can get better.
Overall I liked this book, don't get me wrong. I love how Linden writes and this found family here. However, if a book focuses largely on mental health, it usually gets to me in some way, hence the very long rant.
August 28, 2025
4.5 Stars 🌟
3.5 Spice 🌶️
Tropes and Tags:
- 1st person, Dual POV
- Low angst with heavy subjects
- Roommates
- Sunshine x sunshine
- Hurt x Comfort & caretaking
- Camboys
- Lots of cuddling
- Depression rep
Damn this felt like a strong comforting hug after you've spent the day sad. A little bittersweet, but so warm and lovely!
Santino and Hayden are a wonderful sunshiney couple, and even through the depression that Hayden faces, they just feed off each other's joy and happiness.
I really liked the depression rep in this, it was done in a way that felt so real and not like the crazy intensity you sometimes see. It was just that everyday sadness and hurt weighing him down and slowly eating away.
But, I somehow don't feel like it made the story heavy to read. This felt like a joyful recovery story, more than someone just suffering from an illness.
There were some amazing spicy scenes in this, and one that was an absolutely delicious addition that I am very grateful for (lowkey makes me want to reread the other camboys books)🥵🔥
I'm very sad this series is now finished, but I think this was a wonderful addition and way to end everything!🤍
3.5 Spice 🌶️
Tropes and Tags:
- 1st person, Dual POV
- Low angst with heavy subjects
- Roommates
- Sunshine x sunshine
- Hurt x Comfort & caretaking
- Camboys
- Lots of cuddling
- Depression rep
Damn this felt like a strong comforting hug after you've spent the day sad. A little bittersweet, but so warm and lovely!
Santino and Hayden are a wonderful sunshiney couple, and even through the depression that Hayden faces, they just feed off each other's joy and happiness.
I really liked the depression rep in this, it was done in a way that felt so real and not like the crazy intensity you sometimes see. It was just that everyday sadness and hurt weighing him down and slowly eating away.
But, I somehow don't feel like it made the story heavy to read. This felt like a joyful recovery story, more than someone just suffering from an illness.
There were some amazing spicy scenes in this, and one that was an absolutely delicious addition that I am very grateful for (lowkey makes me want to reread the other camboys books)🥵🔥
I'm very sad this series is now finished, but I think this was a wonderful addition and way to end everything!🤍
August 25, 2025
My heart broke for Hayden. I resonate more with him because I know how he feels and it breaks my heart for me. But he found Santino who isn’t trying to fix him but still trying to help him. I love how Santino does everything he can for Hayden and how connected they are. I’m glad these two found each other. Can’t believe it’s the end.
August 28, 2025
ARC REVIEW
Omg from the moment these characters appeared on page I was obsessed 😍 I had a feeling this was going to be my fav of the series and it did NOT disappoint! I loved the connection between Santino and Hayden and the character development between the two! They were so good for each other but I especially loved Santino’s support and care for Hayden ugh this was so so good! 🥰❤️🥰❤️
Omg from the moment these characters appeared on page I was obsessed 😍 I had a feeling this was going to be my fav of the series and it did NOT disappoint! I loved the connection between Santino and Hayden and the character development between the two! They were so good for each other but I especially loved Santino’s support and care for Hayden ugh this was so so good! 🥰❤️🥰❤️
Read
August 27, 2025If you struggled with depression or still struggling with it, that book might take you to a wrong place so be careful.
My review will be biased as that book almost took me to a wrong place, so I kind off skimmed it, so that’s why I won’t review it. Simpler !
My review will be biased as that book almost took me to a wrong place, so I kind off skimmed it, so that’s why I won’t review it. Simpler !
August 26, 2025
Did I highlight 95% of this book? I most definitely did! I feel like I inhaled this book, and while it deals with heavier topics and is heartbreaking at points I could not put it down. Hayden's self talk was heartbreaking, and I was happy that he had Santino there for support and to try and counterbalance the negativity. I loved their quiet love and quiet moments together. Santino was so attentive and I was glad he saw what the others missed and Hayden was trying to hide. I also loved their giggly moments, and I loved that Santino tried to bring some levity to Hayden's days. Santino's protectiveness also came out when it came to Hayden and I loved hiw he was his biggest advocate.
I really enjoyed the scenes with the other characters from their group, it was great to see Sebastian, Christian, Noel, Bellamy, Rhys and Angel be happy.
It was bittersweet to end this series, but I loved Santino and Hayden's journey and I know that together they can work at it and be the happiest couple.
I received a copy of this book from the Author, and this is my honest review.
I really enjoyed the scenes with the other characters from their group, it was great to see Sebastian, Christian, Noel, Bellamy, Rhys and Angel be happy.
It was bittersweet to end this series, but I loved Santino and Hayden's journey and I know that together they can work at it and be the happiest couple.
I received a copy of this book from the Author, and this is my honest review.
August 26, 2025
4.25 stars.
I get so giddy every time I read a new Linden Bell book, it feels like a little treasure that never fails to make my week brighter. SO. Thank you so much to the author for this ARC in exchange for my honest thoughts.
I loved this so much, it was so much fun. I loved seeing Rhys and Angel again, my heart absolutely broke for Hayden, and Santino... I will settle for no less than a Santino, I've decided. Some of my thoughts:
- There was only one scene that honestly bothered me a little, it's the reason this book isn't a 4.5 stars, and my biggest gripe with it was the complete lack of warning. I want to be clear, I don't think kinks should be part of trigger warnings, but I DO think they should be at the end of the blurb or the author's note or something. This book, however, makes no mention of the exhibitionism kink, and it totally caught me off guard. I won't spoil the scene, but I was in absolute denial all the way leading up to it because I didn't actually think the book would actually include it without any mention of the kink in the author's note or contents or blurb. Stuff like that usually makes or break a book for some people, and it didn't break the book for me, but it did make me very uncomfortable, if only for the fact that I had no idea it was coming.
Also, it was just a really, really weird scene. I can't even describe what happens or why because I don't understand it. What I loved about another book in this series, Angel, is that I felt like that book treated being a camboy in a very respectful and professional way. This was just bizarre, it started out of nowhere and for no reason, and it felt like what the story had treated with such professionalism before, it now treated as though... yeah, this is us, we're camboys and we... start orgies? I don't even know, the whole scene was utterly bizarre, I didn't even get the need for it. It goes nowhere and leads to nothing.
- The only other critique I had was Hayden's depression. I personally think the descriptions of his sufferings were spot on. They had me sobbing, chapter 27 in particular had me in a chokehold, I wanted to give him all the hugs in the world and I wanted him to be protected at all costs. That said... I don't really think his mental health was incorporated that well into the story for a lot of the start of the book. I think he was kind of reduced to his mental health, like he had no real personality outside of his depression, and if I hadn't known Hayden from previous books, I wouldn't have known he was usually a cheerier person. No other part of his character comes through almost at all. The mental health issues were great on their own, but in relation to the rest of the story, I just don't really think they flowed that well, especially not at the beginning.
- Santino is wonderful ( ˶˘ ³˘)♡ I love him so much ( ˘͈ ᵕ ˘͈♡)
- I hated Hayden when I read Angel ( ≧ᗜ≦) Now he's my everything ( • ̀ω•́ )✧
- I love Rhys's love for his best friend, I would've loved even more of it ( ˊᵕˋ )♡.°⑅
I'm so glad I own a copy of this now. I'd been looking forward to this book since it was announced, and it didn't disappoint. I'm sad the Camboy series is over, but I know I can always go back and reread when I want to see my sweet guys again ( ᴗ͈ˬᴗ͈)ഒ
I get so giddy every time I read a new Linden Bell book, it feels like a little treasure that never fails to make my week brighter. SO. Thank you so much to the author for this ARC in exchange for my honest thoughts.
I loved this so much, it was so much fun. I loved seeing Rhys and Angel again, my heart absolutely broke for Hayden, and Santino... I will settle for no less than a Santino, I've decided. Some of my thoughts:
- There was only one scene that honestly bothered me a little, it's the reason this book isn't a 4.5 stars, and my biggest gripe with it was the complete lack of warning. I want to be clear, I don't think kinks should be part of trigger warnings, but I DO think they should be at the end of the blurb or the author's note or something. This book, however, makes no mention of the exhibitionism kink, and it totally caught me off guard. I won't spoil the scene, but I was in absolute denial all the way leading up to it because I didn't actually think the book would actually include it without any mention of the kink in the author's note or contents or blurb. Stuff like that usually makes or break a book for some people, and it didn't break the book for me, but it did make me very uncomfortable, if only for the fact that I had no idea it was coming.
Also, it was just a really, really weird scene. I can't even describe what happens or why because I don't understand it. What I loved about another book in this series, Angel, is that I felt like that book treated being a camboy in a very respectful and professional way. This was just bizarre, it started out of nowhere and for no reason, and it felt like what the story had treated with such professionalism before, it now treated as though... yeah, this is us, we're camboys and we... start orgies? I don't even know, the whole scene was utterly bizarre, I didn't even get the need for it. It goes nowhere and leads to nothing.
- The only other critique I had was Hayden's depression. I personally think the descriptions of his sufferings were spot on. They had me sobbing, chapter 27 in particular had me in a chokehold, I wanted to give him all the hugs in the world and I wanted him to be protected at all costs. That said... I don't really think his mental health was incorporated that well into the story for a lot of the start of the book. I think he was kind of reduced to his mental health, like he had no real personality outside of his depression, and if I hadn't known Hayden from previous books, I wouldn't have known he was usually a cheerier person. No other part of his character comes through almost at all. The mental health issues were great on their own, but in relation to the rest of the story, I just don't really think they flowed that well, especially not at the beginning.
- Santino is wonderful ( ˶˘ ³˘)♡ I love him so much ( ˘͈ ᵕ ˘͈♡)
- I hated Hayden when I read Angel ( ≧ᗜ≦) Now he's my everything ( • ̀ω•́ )✧
- I love Rhys's love for his best friend, I would've loved even more of it ( ˊᵕˋ )♡.°⑅
I'm so glad I own a copy of this now. I'd been looking forward to this book since it was announced, and it didn't disappoint. I'm sad the Camboy series is over, but I know I can always go back and reread when I want to see my sweet guys again ( ᴗ͈ˬᴗ͈)ഒ
September 5, 2025
1st person, present tense, dual PoV
Hayden Summers (), camboy
Santino Antonio Baldoni (25), odd jobs, aspiring camboy
This is a pretty heavy read so make sure you read the content warnings before diving in.
I've been hooked on Linden Bell's books since reading Sebastian, the first book of the series. While each book stands alone fairly well the series follows a group of friends so there is considerable character crossover and it would be best read in order.
I could not put this book down. The emotional journey Hayden experienced was extremely compelling and if you're an empathetic person like myself make sure to have tissues handy and be mentally prepared for the ride. We are nearly three quarters of the way through the book before we see a glimmer of light at the end of the tunnel for Hayden. The portrayal of his depression tore at my heart and made me love Santino all the more for loving Hayden. His support was integral for Hayden's recovery, but his own personal journey felt a little overshadowed by Hayden's and I would have enjoyed it being a little more balanced. I was also a little disappointed in the responses from Hayden's friends, the other camboys, when they became aware of what was going on with him, I expected more rallying around him, but it didn't happen to the extent I was expecting/hoping.
Cuddle therapy as a trope sounds adorable but it was really Hayden desperately clinging to something to ground him, which sucked all the "awww" out of it. I'm a little conflicted about the spicy times; yeah, they were hot, but Hayden was really in the trenches with his mental state and the toll it was taking on him physically so I kind of wish they'd stayed cuddled on the couch if I'm honest.
I enjoyed both characters and the instant connection between them was palpable. I loved the closeness that developed and the way Santino could read Hayden so well. I do have to say that the love/romance was a little too insta for my preference and I wish at least some of the "falling" had occurred outside of Hayden's mental health crisis. Or even on page. It felt like it was glossed over in favour of focusing on how insidious and serious Hayden's mental condition was. This was a pretty big hurdle to the believability of the romance for me. It did feel at times that Santino was in love with the idea of Hayden or who he'd been before 'the voice' consumed him and not as he was. I get the author was trying to show that Santino saw who Hayden really was and recognized his struggle but he didn't have any of the required context for this to really work. Perhaps if he'd met Hayden before, or Bellamy had sung his praises, or even if he'd seen some BTS Camboy Network videos where Hayden was showcased, it a lot it would make more sense.
Still I loved the story, and the hurt/comfort was present in spades.
I was given an ARC and voluntarily wrote an honest review.
Hayden Summers (), camboy
Santino Antonio Baldoni (25), odd jobs, aspiring camboy
This is a pretty heavy read so make sure you read the content warnings before diving in.
I've been hooked on Linden Bell's books since reading Sebastian, the first book of the series. While each book stands alone fairly well the series follows a group of friends so there is considerable character crossover and it would be best read in order.
I could not put this book down. The emotional journey Hayden experienced was extremely compelling and if you're an empathetic person like myself make sure to have tissues handy and be mentally prepared for the ride. We are nearly three quarters of the way through the book before we see a glimmer of light at the end of the tunnel for Hayden. The portrayal of his depression tore at my heart and made me love Santino all the more for loving Hayden. His support was integral for Hayden's recovery, but his own personal journey felt a little overshadowed by Hayden's and I would have enjoyed it being a little more balanced. I was also a little disappointed in the responses from Hayden's friends, the other camboys, when they became aware of what was going on with him, I expected more rallying around him, but it didn't happen to the extent I was expecting/hoping.
Cuddle therapy as a trope sounds adorable but it was really Hayden desperately clinging to something to ground him, which sucked all the "awww" out of it. I'm a little conflicted about the spicy times; yeah, they were hot, but Hayden was really in the trenches with his mental state and the toll it was taking on him physically so I kind of wish they'd stayed cuddled on the couch if I'm honest.
I enjoyed both characters and the instant connection between them was palpable. I loved the closeness that developed and the way Santino could read Hayden so well. I do have to say that the love/romance was a little too insta for my preference and I wish at least some of the "falling" had occurred outside of Hayden's mental health crisis. Or even on page. It felt like it was glossed over in favour of focusing on how insidious and serious Hayden's mental condition was. This was a pretty big hurdle to the believability of the romance for me. It did feel at times that Santino was in love with the idea of Hayden or who he'd been before 'the voice' consumed him and not as he was. I get the author was trying to show that Santino saw who Hayden really was and recognized his struggle but he didn't have any of the required context for this to really work. Perhaps if he'd met Hayden before, or Bellamy had sung his praises, or even if he'd seen some BTS Camboy Network videos where Hayden was showcased, it a lot it would make more sense.
Still I loved the story, and the hurt/comfort was present in spades.
I was given an ARC and voluntarily wrote an honest review.
August 28, 2025
Final book in the Camboy Series and it wraps up everything so well! Santino, Bellamy’s old roommate and friend, comes to New York to live with Hayden and help film a documentary for Noel and Bellamy’s wedding. Santino finds Hayden to be a little lost. Hayden is drowning and none of his friends seem to notice, it’s only Santino who can help him cope with the darkness…
Reasons I Recommend:
1) Hayden’s mental health being a huge plot point in this book and how he has a happy life, great friends, great hobbies, no real past trauma and still suffer a crippling mental crisis
2) The way he inflated/deflated in moments and how Santino helped him and
3) Watching these two fall in love was just beautiful.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
PS — The club scene was 🔥
Quote 1: I can’t take this anymore. I can’t stand it. It’s
too much. It never stops. It never ends. So end it.
My hands tear at my hair as another crying sob escapes. Seriously. End it. If it hurts so much, there’s an easy way out. Unless you’re too much of a coward to do even that.
No, I don’t want to die…
It’s the perfect solution. You won’t be in pain anymore… You don’t want them to be miserable because of you, do you?… I’m being gutted. Everything hurts. I hate this. I hate myself. I hate the world. I hate everything.
Quote 2: I’m tugged to my feet and enveloped in a group hug with Rhys, Sebastian, and Noel pressing in on all sides.
Something inside me breaks and the tears come pouring down my cheeks. I can’t hold back the sobs any longer. I’ve been carrying this secret around for so long, trying to hide… I feel like I’ve barely breathed in months and being in the middle of this group hug is filling me up with something more important than oxygen.
Quote 3: “I love all of you. All the nerdy, silly, sad, and broken parts. I love everything.”
He sniffles as tears escape down his cheeks.
“But... why?”
#briereads #brierecommends #2025goodreadsreadingchallenge #reviewedongoodreads #reviewedoninstagram #bookworm #lovetoread #idratherbereading #fiction #mmromance #lindenbell #santino #thecamboynetworkseries @authorlindenbell
Reasons I Recommend:
1) Hayden’s mental health being a huge plot point in this book and how he has a happy life, great friends, great hobbies, no real past trauma and still suffer a crippling mental crisis
2) The way he inflated/deflated in moments and how Santino helped him and
3) Watching these two fall in love was just beautiful.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
PS — The club scene was 🔥
Quote 1: I can’t take this anymore. I can’t stand it. It’s
too much. It never stops. It never ends. So end it.
My hands tear at my hair as another crying sob escapes. Seriously. End it. If it hurts so much, there’s an easy way out. Unless you’re too much of a coward to do even that.
No, I don’t want to die…
It’s the perfect solution. You won’t be in pain anymore… You don’t want them to be miserable because of you, do you?… I’m being gutted. Everything hurts. I hate this. I hate myself. I hate the world. I hate everything.
Quote 2: I’m tugged to my feet and enveloped in a group hug with Rhys, Sebastian, and Noel pressing in on all sides.
Something inside me breaks and the tears come pouring down my cheeks. I can’t hold back the sobs any longer. I’ve been carrying this secret around for so long, trying to hide… I feel like I’ve barely breathed in months and being in the middle of this group hug is filling me up with something more important than oxygen.
Quote 3: “I love all of you. All the nerdy, silly, sad, and broken parts. I love everything.”
He sniffles as tears escape down his cheeks.
“But... why?”
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August 27, 2025
This group of men and their partners are goofy and fun, and I love seeing past characters pop back up. And while Hayden used to be the bubbly one in his friend group, lately he's been struggling...The only person who seems to realize is his new roommate Santino. Hayden and Santino's story is more on the serious side with heavy topic matter, so if talks of depression and dark thoughts might trigger you, please take care with reading this.
Yes, this story is heavy, but not in a bad way. Mental health representation in general is SO important, so I really love it when authors make representing mental health such a focal point in their stories. Hayden is struggling with something no one can see and something he himself didn't have a name for. Until Santino shows up on his doorstep with his bright and charismatic energy and kind personality and gently suggests a name for what Hayden has been experiencing. Depression.
The bond Santino and Hayden has formed is really special, Santino was always the lighthouse for Hayden, encouraging him to seek out the light and to try to leave the dark where it lies. I appreciate how Linden didn't sugarcoat what it's like having depression and how they explained everything in a thorough and well thought out way. Santino never judged Hayden, he just always offered the other man support and gentle guidance, which I find to be so beautiful.
When things got even worse for Hayden, Santino was as distraught and broken and Hayden was, which is understandable. I'm glad that there was a positive representation of seeking out professional help and how it's okay if you need to take medication to help with something. And that was showcased in two different ways within this book.
While this book is heavy and deals with sensitive topic matters, it still features all of the things we have come to love within this series. Comedy, lewd jokes, steamy scenes, found family, snarky dialogue, and of course, falling in love with your person. All in all, a really terrific and tear-jerking book.
Yes, this story is heavy, but not in a bad way. Mental health representation in general is SO important, so I really love it when authors make representing mental health such a focal point in their stories. Hayden is struggling with something no one can see and something he himself didn't have a name for. Until Santino shows up on his doorstep with his bright and charismatic energy and kind personality and gently suggests a name for what Hayden has been experiencing. Depression.
The bond Santino and Hayden has formed is really special, Santino was always the lighthouse for Hayden, encouraging him to seek out the light and to try to leave the dark where it lies. I appreciate how Linden didn't sugarcoat what it's like having depression and how they explained everything in a thorough and well thought out way. Santino never judged Hayden, he just always offered the other man support and gentle guidance, which I find to be so beautiful.
When things got even worse for Hayden, Santino was as distraught and broken and Hayden was, which is understandable. I'm glad that there was a positive representation of seeking out professional help and how it's okay if you need to take medication to help with something. And that was showcased in two different ways within this book.
While this book is heavy and deals with sensitive topic matters, it still features all of the things we have come to love within this series. Comedy, lewd jokes, steamy scenes, found family, snarky dialogue, and of course, falling in love with your person. All in all, a really terrific and tear-jerking book.
September 13, 2025
Santino
The Camboy Network Book 4
Linden Bell
Santino & Hayden
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶🌶
Hurt / Comfort
Forced proximity
Sunshine / Sunshiny-er
Sweet & Swoony
Mental health rep
Slow burn
Wow my heart, Sweet, sweet Santino, what an incredibly beautiful sad man.
I am so thankful for Santino and that he saw Hayden, saw he needed help and never gave up on him.
This was hard to read, but it was beautiful as well.
Santino has moved into town to be a part of the Camboy Networks Documentary, he ends up being a roommate of Hayden, since Hayden has an empty room since Rhys has moved out to be with his partner.
Hayden has never recovered from Ryhs moving out, but not just that, he has been “off” for a little while now, negative voices telling him bad things about himself, he is struggling under the weight of the sadness and negativity.
As time goes on. Santino knew something was wrong, and tried to intervene and help Hayden. Speaking to his friends and trying to help Hayden see a therapist.
“I slide my hand into his and when his fingers close around mine, it feels like a lifeline. A buoy. All I need to do is hang on and he’ll draw me into safety.”
They also start filming for the Documentary, but at how they form their own relationship and intimacy. They were so sweet.
My heart hurt for Hayden, and protects Santino at all costs for protecting Hayden at all costs!
This was a beautiful, sweet, sad story.
“Babe, I love you so much.” I cup his cheeks and lean in so he fills my entire field of view. “I love all of you. All the nerdy, silly, sad, and broken parts. I love everything.”
There was a light at the end of the tunnel, Hayden does get help and start to feel better in his own body.
“Santino saw me when no one else did. He offered me comfort and safety without being asked. He is the light in my darkness, the lifeline keeping me from drowning.”
They fall hard and in love with eachother. Sometimes the right person comes at the right time, just when you need them the most.
The Camboy Network Book 4
Linden Bell
Santino & Hayden
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶🌶
Hurt / Comfort
Forced proximity
Sunshine / Sunshiny-er
Sweet & Swoony
Mental health rep
Slow burn
Wow my heart, Sweet, sweet Santino, what an incredibly beautiful sad man.
I am so thankful for Santino and that he saw Hayden, saw he needed help and never gave up on him.
This was hard to read, but it was beautiful as well.
Santino has moved into town to be a part of the Camboy Networks Documentary, he ends up being a roommate of Hayden, since Hayden has an empty room since Rhys has moved out to be with his partner.
Hayden has never recovered from Ryhs moving out, but not just that, he has been “off” for a little while now, negative voices telling him bad things about himself, he is struggling under the weight of the sadness and negativity.
As time goes on. Santino knew something was wrong, and tried to intervene and help Hayden. Speaking to his friends and trying to help Hayden see a therapist.
“I slide my hand into his and when his fingers close around mine, it feels like a lifeline. A buoy. All I need to do is hang on and he’ll draw me into safety.”
They also start filming for the Documentary, but at how they form their own relationship and intimacy. They were so sweet.
My heart hurt for Hayden, and protects Santino at all costs for protecting Hayden at all costs!
This was a beautiful, sweet, sad story.
“Babe, I love you so much.” I cup his cheeks and lean in so he fills my entire field of view. “I love all of you. All the nerdy, silly, sad, and broken parts. I love everything.”
There was a light at the end of the tunnel, Hayden does get help and start to feel better in his own body.
“Santino saw me when no one else did. He offered me comfort and safety without being asked. He is the light in my darkness, the lifeline keeping me from drowning.”
They fall hard and in love with eachother. Sometimes the right person comes at the right time, just when you need them the most.
August 26, 2025
Oh Linden, what have you done to my heart?!
This book is hauntingly beautiful and takes both the characters and the readers on a very realistic journey through the depths of mental health and depression. Everyone experiences it differently, this one being quite intense. **Please read trigger/content warnings and look after your own mental health.
Hayden's story is somewhat familiar to me, though not to the extreme he goes through. Santino is the perfect balm for him and it makes me so happy that he gets a person who, even without trying, can bring him back from the darkness. Their relationship is slow burn, taking the time necessary for Hayden to be in the right place for it, whilst still being open with any physical touch needed to provide comfort and solace. Santino is so sweet, caring and patient with everything that's happening. He truly just wants to help Hayden and does the best that he can, even standing up to Hayden's friends at one point.
I was surprised that his friends, the rest of the CamBoys didn't step in sooner, but I guess when things are such a slow change, and with all the changes they have all experienced, there has been a lot going on. Each of them are in this book as they record a documentary for Noah and Bellamy's upcoming wedding, hence Santino being invited to be best man for Bellamy.
This is quite the emotional story that should be read with love and care, for yourself and for Hayden. I can't believe we've come to the end of the series, which has been fantastic and a highly recommended read throughout.
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review.
This book is hauntingly beautiful and takes both the characters and the readers on a very realistic journey through the depths of mental health and depression. Everyone experiences it differently, this one being quite intense. **Please read trigger/content warnings and look after your own mental health.
Hayden's story is somewhat familiar to me, though not to the extreme he goes through. Santino is the perfect balm for him and it makes me so happy that he gets a person who, even without trying, can bring him back from the darkness. Their relationship is slow burn, taking the time necessary for Hayden to be in the right place for it, whilst still being open with any physical touch needed to provide comfort and solace. Santino is so sweet, caring and patient with everything that's happening. He truly just wants to help Hayden and does the best that he can, even standing up to Hayden's friends at one point.
I was surprised that his friends, the rest of the CamBoys didn't step in sooner, but I guess when things are such a slow change, and with all the changes they have all experienced, there has been a lot going on. Each of them are in this book as they record a documentary for Noah and Bellamy's upcoming wedding, hence Santino being invited to be best man for Bellamy.
This is quite the emotional story that should be read with love and care, for yourself and for Hayden. I can't believe we've come to the end of the series, which has been fantastic and a highly recommended read throughout.
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review.
September 1, 2025
This is the last book in The Camboy Network series and it was a satisfactory end to the series.
This is Hayden’s book and the sunshine personality we have met previously have dimmed and this is his story about finding love at the same time as he is battling mental health problems.
Hayden tries to hide his problems from his friends and Santino but Santino sees through it. I think because Santino is new to the friend group, it is easier for him to see what is happening. He is also willing to speak up, because in the beginning he has nothing to lose. Also Santino’s background helps in navigating Hayden’s dark thoughts and feelings. I liked that Hayden's problems just weren't magically fixed because he started to have feelings for Santino. But rather it’s a work in progress that will take a lot of time. But I feel like Santino is the best companion to have when partaking in this kind of journey. He is understanding and kind but he is also firm and takes no crap.
It’s brave of Linden Bell to write a book like this, because it’s a fine balance you need to have when writing about mental health. There is no quick fix and I liked that Linden didn’t take the easy way out, but instead gave us all the ups and downs.
You can feel all the emotions in this book and I was close to tears all throughout the book. This was quite the perfect end to this series with all of these fantastic characters.
This is Hayden’s book and the sunshine personality we have met previously have dimmed and this is his story about finding love at the same time as he is battling mental health problems.
Hayden tries to hide his problems from his friends and Santino but Santino sees through it. I think because Santino is new to the friend group, it is easier for him to see what is happening. He is also willing to speak up, because in the beginning he has nothing to lose. Also Santino’s background helps in navigating Hayden’s dark thoughts and feelings. I liked that Hayden's problems just weren't magically fixed because he started to have feelings for Santino. But rather it’s a work in progress that will take a lot of time. But I feel like Santino is the best companion to have when partaking in this kind of journey. He is understanding and kind but he is also firm and takes no crap.
It’s brave of Linden Bell to write a book like this, because it’s a fine balance you need to have when writing about mental health. There is no quick fix and I liked that Linden didn’t take the easy way out, but instead gave us all the ups and downs.
You can feel all the emotions in this book and I was close to tears all throughout the book. This was quite the perfect end to this series with all of these fantastic characters.
September 1, 2025
Hayden, our sunshiney camboy, is the only one left unattached. Rhys has moved out to live with his man, and since being alone in the apartment, Hayden has felt...off.
Bellamy's friend Santino is coming to NYC to stay with Hayden while the Camboys work on a project, and as soon as he meets the gorgeous Greek God he's idolized online, Santino is immediately drawn to him. But he can also tell that those green eyes of Hayden's aren't as bright as they should be.
What to expect:
✔️ Sebastian running the show
❌ Noah being an asshole
🎥 Camboys and their significant others taking New York
🥵 Sexy times
What also to expect from this one...
🖤 MC with depression
🖤 Fatigue, intrusive thoughts, weight loss, ED
🩷 Caretaking
💚 Cooking together
💙 Sweet, gentle, caring showers and touches
💛 So many cuddles
🧡 Patience and understanding
♥️ Two MCs who find their home in each other
I'm on Linden's Street team (yes, I'm very lucky) but when she let us know that Santino was going to be a bit darker, I was worried. How would a book about sex be with such heavy themes?
I was a fool. This book is still sexy, but it was better BECAUSE of the dark stuff, not in spite of it. It's been a long time since I've felt a connection between two MCs as strong as this one, and I cried several times. Not only because my heart broke for Hayden, but because of how absolutely perfect Santino was. I don't want to say too much, but this one is a must read. (Check your TWs though.)
Bellamy's friend Santino is coming to NYC to stay with Hayden while the Camboys work on a project, and as soon as he meets the gorgeous Greek God he's idolized online, Santino is immediately drawn to him. But he can also tell that those green eyes of Hayden's aren't as bright as they should be.
What to expect:
✔️ Sebastian running the show
❌ Noah being an asshole
🎥 Camboys and their significant others taking New York
🥵 Sexy times
What also to expect from this one...
🖤 MC with depression
🖤 Fatigue, intrusive thoughts, weight loss, ED
🩷 Caretaking
💚 Cooking together
💙 Sweet, gentle, caring showers and touches
💛 So many cuddles
🧡 Patience and understanding
♥️ Two MCs who find their home in each other
I'm on Linden's Street team (yes, I'm very lucky) but when she let us know that Santino was going to be a bit darker, I was worried. How would a book about sex be with such heavy themes?
I was a fool. This book is still sexy, but it was better BECAUSE of the dark stuff, not in spite of it. It's been a long time since I've felt a connection between two MCs as strong as this one, and I cried several times. Not only because my heart broke for Hayden, but because of how absolutely perfect Santino was. I don't want to say too much, but this one is a must read. (Check your TWs though.)
August 24, 2025
Absolutely phenomenal!
This book is freaking amazing and I loved it! Santino comes to New York for the filming of a documentary about his old roommate Bellamy and his fiance Noel. There he gets the chance to meet Hayden who he has a bit of a crush on after seeing his videos. But Hayden isn’t who he used to be. He struggles with dark thoughts and fears of not being good enough. Santino is staying with him and he sees it pretty quickly. It is heartbreaking what Hayden is going through and I love how Santino is there for him every step of the way to help him get away from the negative thoughts. Hayden has been suffering for about a year but his friends haven’t noticed but when they do, they all band together to stand with Hayden, willing to help and support him. They are a wonderful group of friends and I love how much they care for Hayden. Santino will have a bit of trouble with his mother when she finds out not only is he in New York but he’s planning to stay. In the end, Hayden will finally find someone who can give him the help he needs to figure out what is going on and it will be the best thing in the world. I love how he gets to be more like his old self again and gets to find the happiness he deserves with Santino.
I read an ARC copy of this book and am volunteering my honest review.
This book is freaking amazing and I loved it! Santino comes to New York for the filming of a documentary about his old roommate Bellamy and his fiance Noel. There he gets the chance to meet Hayden who he has a bit of a crush on after seeing his videos. But Hayden isn’t who he used to be. He struggles with dark thoughts and fears of not being good enough. Santino is staying with him and he sees it pretty quickly. It is heartbreaking what Hayden is going through and I love how Santino is there for him every step of the way to help him get away from the negative thoughts. Hayden has been suffering for about a year but his friends haven’t noticed but when they do, they all band together to stand with Hayden, willing to help and support him. They are a wonderful group of friends and I love how much they care for Hayden. Santino will have a bit of trouble with his mother when she finds out not only is he in New York but he’s planning to stay. In the end, Hayden will finally find someone who can give him the help he needs to figure out what is going on and it will be the best thing in the world. I love how he gets to be more like his old self again and gets to find the happiness he deserves with Santino.
I read an ARC copy of this book and am volunteering my honest review.
August 24, 2025
ARC
Sparks are flyinggggg!!!!
I love to read Linden’s books, they’re fullllllllll of feelings, of hurt, comfort, love, passion, compassion, kindness and struggles. They are full of life and I absolutely adore them.
Hayden is part of a stunning group of friends but he is left a little behind when everyone goes on with their lives and find themselves their own happy endings and he doesn’t… he goes from being the happiest, most cheerful person to being the saddest. He struggles now with himself and his mind, depression is taking a toll on him.
Enters Santino, from the West Coast trying to find himself and giving a sense to his life, he comes to New York for a documentary that’s about to change his life… and when he sees Hayden all bets are off! Sparks babyyyyy!
Santino does everything he can to get Hayden out of his hole all while building himself a new life with the Camboy Network family… and these two together🥹🥹🥹🥹 oh boy, they’re so perfect for each other.
They compliment each other so stunningly and they’re able to grow and learn together how to navigate life and Hayden’s mental health and… I was drooling and in love from the beginning and I inhaled this book so fast it gave me a headache😅
Sparks are flyinggggg!!!!
I love to read Linden’s books, they’re fullllllllll of feelings, of hurt, comfort, love, passion, compassion, kindness and struggles. They are full of life and I absolutely adore them.
Hayden is part of a stunning group of friends but he is left a little behind when everyone goes on with their lives and find themselves their own happy endings and he doesn’t… he goes from being the happiest, most cheerful person to being the saddest. He struggles now with himself and his mind, depression is taking a toll on him.
Enters Santino, from the West Coast trying to find himself and giving a sense to his life, he comes to New York for a documentary that’s about to change his life… and when he sees Hayden all bets are off! Sparks babyyyyy!
Santino does everything he can to get Hayden out of his hole all while building himself a new life with the Camboy Network family… and these two together🥹🥹🥹🥹 oh boy, they’re so perfect for each other.
They compliment each other so stunningly and they’re able to grow and learn together how to navigate life and Hayden’s mental health and… I was drooling and in love from the beginning and I inhaled this book so fast it gave me a headache😅
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