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Men of Fairlake #7
My Chaos, His Calm
an alternate cover edition can be found here
My world is chaos, and he’s my only peace—but at what cost?
My scars are both visible and hidden. I’m lonely, but I do okay…I think. I’m still a bit of a disaster, but I have a job and a roof over my head, and the medication keeps my demons at bay. What I don’t need is a babysitter, but try telling my overprotective brother that.
When I first saw Luke, I couldn’t stop staring—his beauty and strength captivated me. As I get to know him, I realize he’s the calm to my chaos—the light to my darkness. Of course, he’s straight, so I can’t have him. But all it takes is what I thought was a hot dream, and it appears we’re both open to change. The lines are blurred, and he doesn’t have a problem with that…or me. I don’t deserve him, but he doesn’t see it that way. He’s perfect.
But he doesn’t know what I did. If he knew the ugly truth, I’d lose him. Luke and I can only ever be temporary, so I keep my secrets.
When the past threatens to catch up with me, I have a choice…keep the secret for the sake of me and my brother…or take a chance and tell Luke everything. But damn it, I can’t even get that right.
Is it too much to ask to love and be loved and have a chance at the future I desperately want…with Luke? The past is dead. So why won’t it stay buried?
My world is chaos, and he’s my only peace—but at what cost?
My scars are both visible and hidden. I’m lonely, but I do okay…I think. I’m still a bit of a disaster, but I have a job and a roof over my head, and the medication keeps my demons at bay. What I don’t need is a babysitter, but try telling my overprotective brother that.
When I first saw Luke, I couldn’t stop staring—his beauty and strength captivated me. As I get to know him, I realize he’s the calm to my chaos—the light to my darkness. Of course, he’s straight, so I can’t have him. But all it takes is what I thought was a hot dream, and it appears we’re both open to change. The lines are blurred, and he doesn’t have a problem with that…or me. I don’t deserve him, but he doesn’t see it that way. He’s perfect.
But he doesn’t know what I did. If he knew the ugly truth, I’d lose him. Luke and I can only ever be temporary, so I keep my secrets.
When the past threatens to catch up with me, I have a choice…keep the secret for the sake of me and my brother…or take a chance and tell Luke everything. But damn it, I can’t even get that right.
Is it too much to ask to love and be loved and have a chance at the future I desperately want…with Luke? The past is dead. So why won’t it stay buried?
344 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 23, 2023
248 people are currently reading
200 people want to read
About the author
Romeo Alexander
93 books627 followersRomeo Alexander lives in Michigan, USA, with his dog and two cats. As a certified night owl, coffee and a wicked sense of humor keep him going most days, as does playing with flavors in the kitchen.
As a proud gay man, Romeo doesn't just write characters—he breathes life into them, infusing them with real-world trials, tribulations, and triumphant love stories. He doesn't just believe in love; he champions it, weaving narratives that prove love's healing power time and again.
Ready for some heart-melting, tear-jerking, and smile-inducing stories that stay with you long after you've turned the last page? Dive into Romeo Alexander's world where love always finds a way. Sign up for his newsletter to be the first to know about his latest literary adventures and grab some freebies along the way! https://romeoalexander.com/newsletter
As a proud gay man, Romeo doesn't just write characters—he breathes life into them, infusing them with real-world trials, tribulations, and triumphant love stories. He doesn't just believe in love; he champions it, weaving narratives that prove love's healing power time and again.
Ready for some heart-melting, tear-jerking, and smile-inducing stories that stay with you long after you've turned the last page? Dive into Romeo Alexander's world where love always finds a way. Sign up for his newsletter to be the first to know about his latest literary adventures and grab some freebies along the way! https://romeoalexander.com/newsletter
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 78 reviews
December 30, 2023
Book safety, content warnings, and tropes down below.
I suppose once you saw a guy naked and stuck your dick in them, it was a bit melodramatic to freak out because you find them cute.
I’m sad to see the author has used AI to make character art (on the book’s Amazon page) as well as the book cover. Definitely taking off a star because of it.
I got an audio ARC for this book, and I had a good time listening to it. I immediately took a liking to Felix. He’s an interesting and endearing MC. I feel like this was very close to being super freaking great. It’s still good, but there’s quite a bit of stuff and several situations where I wanted *more*. More details about Felix’s past, his medical/mental health problems, more about the story ‘villain’ and how that entire situation was resolved, etc. It was a bit like having your back scratched, but the scratcher kept missing the itchy spot. Still feels good, but leaves you frustrated.
Most of all that might just be a me-thing as well, because I really adore deep dives into characters with mental health disorders. I was also a little disappointed by the lack of any conversation about safe sex. They don’t use a condom ever, and when Felix realizes (mid-coitus), he doesn’t tell Luke, and it’s never brought up in the book other than Felix’s internal monologue when he notices. That sort of thing kinda fits with Felix’s personality, but didn’t seem like something Luke would do without discussing it.
Maybe one day, I would stop veering toward men I could never have, craving male attention and fearing it.
I realize this ended up sounding very negative. It’s difficult to discuss those things without it sounding 100% bad, but I really did enjoy large parts of the book.
My parents are the reason I want to believe in an afterlife because then they get to be rotisseried in hell for the rest of forever.
⬇️ Blanket spoiler warning ⬇️
⚠️ Tropes & tags ⚠️
Mental health rep
Past trauma
Ex con
Bisexual awakening
Friends to lovers
Only one bed
Mild somnophilia
⚠️ Content warning ⚠️
Mixing medication and alcohol
Past sexual child abuse
Past child abuse
Drunk driving
Mentions of past drug use
Brief mentions of self harm (past)
Disassociation
Unsafe sex
Somnophilia
Accidental overdose
Medical emergency
Hospitalization
⚠️Book safety ⚠️
Cheating: No
OM/OW drama: Luke’s past date and hookup is mentioned, but no drama or details.
Breakup: Yes
POV: 1st person, dual POV
Genre: Contemporary romance, M/M
Strict roles or versatile: Strict roles
MC age: 28 and 34
Pages: 344
I figured out you were painfully heterosexual.” “Painfully?” “Horribly.” “Okay, I get it, you lamented my straightness.” “Mourned it, set up an altar, lit some candles, threw on a veil, and threw myself to the ground for six hours as I wept openly.”
Felix shared all those ‘private’ things because it gave the illusion of openness, of being vulnerable, all while keeping the genuinely fragile parts of himself locked deep inside, hidden not through stubbornness and walls, but through obfuscation and a bit of social trickery.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I suppose once you saw a guy naked and stuck your dick in them, it was a bit melodramatic to freak out because you find them cute.
I’m sad to see the author has used AI to make character art (on the book’s Amazon page) as well as the book cover. Definitely taking off a star because of it.
I got an audio ARC for this book, and I had a good time listening to it. I immediately took a liking to Felix. He’s an interesting and endearing MC. I feel like this was very close to being super freaking great. It’s still good, but there’s quite a bit of stuff and several situations where I wanted *more*. More details about Felix’s past, his medical/mental health problems, more about the story ‘villain’ and how that entire situation was resolved, etc. It was a bit like having your back scratched, but the scratcher kept missing the itchy spot. Still feels good, but leaves you frustrated.
Most of all that might just be a me-thing as well, because I really adore deep dives into characters with mental health disorders. I was also a little disappointed by the lack of any conversation about safe sex. They don’t use a condom ever, and when Felix realizes (mid-coitus), he doesn’t tell Luke, and it’s never brought up in the book other than Felix’s internal monologue when he notices. That sort of thing kinda fits with Felix’s personality, but didn’t seem like something Luke would do without discussing it.
Maybe one day, I would stop veering toward men I could never have, craving male attention and fearing it.
I realize this ended up sounding very negative. It’s difficult to discuss those things without it sounding 100% bad, but I really did enjoy large parts of the book.
My parents are the reason I want to believe in an afterlife because then they get to be rotisseried in hell for the rest of forever.
⬇️ Blanket spoiler warning ⬇️
⚠️ Tropes & tags ⚠️
Mental health rep
Past trauma
Ex con
Bisexual awakening
Friends to lovers
Only one bed
Mild somnophilia
⚠️ Content warning ⚠️
Mixing medication and alcohol
Past sexual child abuse
Past child abuse
Drunk driving
Mentions of past drug use
Brief mentions of self harm (past)
Disassociation
Unsafe sex
Somnophilia
Accidental overdose
Medical emergency
Hospitalization
⚠️Book safety ⚠️
Cheating: No
OM/OW drama: Luke’s past date and hookup is mentioned, but no drama or details.
Breakup: Yes
POV: 1st person, dual POV
Genre: Contemporary romance, M/M
Strict roles or versatile: Strict roles
MC age: 28 and 34
Pages: 344
I figured out you were painfully heterosexual.” “Painfully?” “Horribly.” “Okay, I get it, you lamented my straightness.” “Mourned it, set up an altar, lit some candles, threw on a veil, and threw myself to the ground for six hours as I wept openly.”
Felix shared all those ‘private’ things because it gave the illusion of openness, of being vulnerable, all while keeping the genuinely fragile parts of himself locked deep inside, hidden not through stubbornness and walls, but through obfuscation and a bit of social trickery.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 5, 2024
Troubled Brothers
Felix and his brother Grant grew up in terrible situation that went on for 7 years and only ended when Felix took action to save them. The consequences of his actions nearly destroyed him, he still suffers many years later with PTSD and is on medication.
Grant has suffered too but he deals with his trauma differently. He has a bakery in Fairlake and that keeps him busy, plus he owns a property in nearby Fovel, which he rents out to Felix. Because Felix sometimes forgets to take his medication, Grant, even though he is the younger, tends to nag and be overprotective of his older brother, so Felix tends to avoid spending much time with Grant.
When Sylas Goner a huge star of the silver screen and his PA, Luke arrive in Fairlake for a visit, Sylas becomes attracted to Grant and decides to stay in the town for a while.
At the urging of his best friend, bar owner Maddy, Felix decides to visit Grant as it’s been a good while since they’ve seen each other. Felix having had a few drinks mixed with his medications, more or less tumbles into the bakery and comes face to face with Luke. He can’t tear his eyes away from the tall, gorgeous guy. So much so he makes Luke nervous.
Felix is Bi, Grant is Gay as is Sylas. Luke is a straight guy. The real trouble starts when someone threatens to reveal Felix and Grant’s secretive past.
Felix and Luke are the storytellers here with each having POV Chapters. These I found very wordy because they were mostly internal conversations in their heads.
I must have missed TW regarding on page descriptions of Felix and Grant’s childhood history because when I came upon it, it was upsetting to me because it was so awful and sad although not a Trigger for me.
So I’d advise anyone who suffered trauma in their childhood family to check out the TW beforehand.
Luke was my favourite character, he was blessed with a wonderful Mum and sisters. Felix I liked also, I wanted him to get better and let Luke take care of him more.
Must mention the lovely Cover Model who I guess represents Felix, from his description in the story.
Felix and his brother Grant grew up in terrible situation that went on for 7 years and only ended when Felix took action to save them. The consequences of his actions nearly destroyed him, he still suffers many years later with PTSD and is on medication.
Grant has suffered too but he deals with his trauma differently. He has a bakery in Fairlake and that keeps him busy, plus he owns a property in nearby Fovel, which he rents out to Felix. Because Felix sometimes forgets to take his medication, Grant, even though he is the younger, tends to nag and be overprotective of his older brother, so Felix tends to avoid spending much time with Grant.
When Sylas Goner a huge star of the silver screen and his PA, Luke arrive in Fairlake for a visit, Sylas becomes attracted to Grant and decides to stay in the town for a while.
At the urging of his best friend, bar owner Maddy, Felix decides to visit Grant as it’s been a good while since they’ve seen each other. Felix having had a few drinks mixed with his medications, more or less tumbles into the bakery and comes face to face with Luke. He can’t tear his eyes away from the tall, gorgeous guy. So much so he makes Luke nervous.
Felix is Bi, Grant is Gay as is Sylas. Luke is a straight guy. The real trouble starts when someone threatens to reveal Felix and Grant’s secretive past.
Felix and Luke are the storytellers here with each having POV Chapters. These I found very wordy because they were mostly internal conversations in their heads.
I must have missed TW regarding on page descriptions of Felix and Grant’s childhood history because when I came upon it, it was upsetting to me because it was so awful and sad although not a Trigger for me.
So I’d advise anyone who suffered trauma in their childhood family to check out the TW beforehand.
Luke was my favourite character, he was blessed with a wonderful Mum and sisters. Felix I liked also, I wanted him to get better and let Luke take care of him more.
Must mention the lovely Cover Model who I guess represents Felix, from his description in the story.
November 26, 2023
Uch... skończyłam czytać ponad tydzień temu, a dopiero teraz biorę się za napisanie czegoś 👀
Tak naprawdę historia Felixa i Luka w pewien sposób jest nam znana z poprzedniej części, której bohaterem był brat Felixa i szef/przyjaciel Luka.
Wiadomo było, jak się poznali.
Wiadomo było, jak ich interakcje wyglądały z zewnątrz.
Wiadomo było, w jaki sposób to, że są razem, wyszło na jaw.
Wiadomo było, jaki koszmar przeżył Felix w dzieciństwie i co zrobił.
Wiadomo było, jak to, co przeżył i co zrobił, wpłynęło na niego i jakie demony go ścigały.
A jednak nie miało to najmniejszego znaczenia, bo ponownie Romeo Alexander napisał historię, która niezmiernie mi się podobała, przykuła moją uwagę i sprawiła, że ciepło mi się zrobiło koło serducha.
I szkoda tylko, że to ostatni tom z serii 😕
Tak naprawdę historia Felixa i Luka w pewien sposób jest nam znana z poprzedniej części, której bohaterem był brat Felixa i szef/przyjaciel Luka.
Wiadomo było, jak się poznali.
Wiadomo było, jak ich interakcje wyglądały z zewnątrz.
Wiadomo było, w jaki sposób to, że są razem, wyszło na jaw.
Wiadomo było, jaki koszmar przeżył Felix w dzieciństwie i co zrobił.
Wiadomo było, jak to, co przeżył i co zrobił, wpłynęło na niego i jakie demony go ścigały.
A jednak nie miało to najmniejszego znaczenia, bo ponownie Romeo Alexander napisał historię, która niezmiernie mi się podobała, przykuła moją uwagę i sprawiła, że ciepło mi się zrobiło koło serducha.
I szkoda tylko, że to ostatni tom z serii 😕
November 18, 2025
Review for (Men of Fairlake-7) My Chaos, His Calm by Romeo Alexander
Tropes
Mental Health
Past trauma
Friends to lovers
ex-con
Bisexual awakening
There are a few things that made me pause a few times, but come on, this is a fiction story, so it's ok to not be totally correct.
This story tore my heart apart, but oh, was it good. This is a story about Felix, who has had a hard past. I can relate to him due to some of his issues because I have had them or still live with them. I felt Romeo Alexander wrote this story well and with heart, which made me smile, cry, and gasp. For a book to make me feel all those things says it was a fantastic story. Then there is Luke, whom I grew to care about quite a bit. How he helps Felix made me believe that you can heal even after all the pain. I need to read that in books through the years to help myself feel like life can get better. I have grown to love stories by Romeo Alexander and look forward to the next.
Nicole Harvey
Tropes
Mental Health
Past trauma
Friends to lovers
ex-con
Bisexual awakening
There are a few things that made me pause a few times, but come on, this is a fiction story, so it's ok to not be totally correct.
This story tore my heart apart, but oh, was it good. This is a story about Felix, who has had a hard past. I can relate to him due to some of his issues because I have had them or still live with them. I felt Romeo Alexander wrote this story well and with heart, which made me smile, cry, and gasp. For a book to make me feel all those things says it was a fantastic story. Then there is Luke, whom I grew to care about quite a bit. How he helps Felix made me believe that you can heal even after all the pain. I need to read that in books through the years to help myself feel like life can get better. I have grown to love stories by Romeo Alexander and look forward to the next.
Nicole Harvey
January 26, 2024
Real family
Felix has endured so much and as much as everyone else deserved a happy ending, Felix deserved it the most. Not only did he endure the horrific treatment of his parents, he had to watch his baby brother get molested too. He had no choice to what he had to do to protect them both. Killing someone is not something you can just get over especially as a child and he had endure the punishment from the state after what he already been through.Locked into a mental institution and put on meds because they though he was crazy and a monster instead of being protective of his brother and future full of nightmares.
Luke knows and his heart bled for those to little boys in the house of horrors. He finds not only how smart and capable Felix is but also finds it easy to fall in love with him. Luke has a wonderful and loving mother as well as 4 older sisters, their spouses and guns of nieces and nephews that make up a big happy family. This the biggest and best gift to give Felix, A family! He loves his brother but the more the merrier!
Felix has endured so much and as much as everyone else deserved a happy ending, Felix deserved it the most. Not only did he endure the horrific treatment of his parents, he had to watch his baby brother get molested too. He had no choice to what he had to do to protect them both. Killing someone is not something you can just get over especially as a child and he had endure the punishment from the state after what he already been through.Locked into a mental institution and put on meds because they though he was crazy and a monster instead of being protective of his brother and future full of nightmares.
Luke knows and his heart bled for those to little boys in the house of horrors. He finds not only how smart and capable Felix is but also finds it easy to fall in love with him. Luke has a wonderful and loving mother as well as 4 older sisters, their spouses and guns of nieces and nephews that make up a big happy family. This the biggest and best gift to give Felix, A family! He loves his brother but the more the merrier!
November 14, 2025
Felix is one of my favorite MCs. He’s such a hot mess, and I absolutely love that about him. He’s both simple and complex in the best ways. My heart ached for this chaotic, sweet man. Forced to protect his younger brother from the very people who were supposed to love them, he’s carried the weight of that choice, along with the mental health struggles that followed ever since.
Then there’s Luke: a big teddy bear of a man who thought he was straight… until one accidental groping made him question everything, including his growing feelings for Felix. Luke is so good for Felix, and the two of them together are an absolute riot. I laughed while reading the book, but hearing Michael Dean perform it took the humor from funny to downright hilarious. I laughed until I cried.
I have listened to hour of Michael Dean’s work and I can honestly say that this is one of my favorites by him.
Then there’s Luke: a big teddy bear of a man who thought he was straight… until one accidental groping made him question everything, including his growing feelings for Felix. Luke is so good for Felix, and the two of them together are an absolute riot. I laughed while reading the book, but hearing Michael Dean perform it took the humor from funny to downright hilarious. I laughed until I cried.
I have listened to hour of Michael Dean’s work and I can honestly say that this is one of my favorites by him.
October 30, 2023
This book will make you swoon, cry, and laugh simultaneously. The mastery of storytelling combined with compelling and eloquent writing will keep you engaged from the start till the end.
Recommend for: anyone searching for a captivating and engaging read, feel-good or drama and angst seekers.
Plot: It is a friends-to-lovers story about overcoming severe childhood trauma, told in an engaging, relatable, and compelling way.
Storytelling & writing: captivating mixture of drama caused by abuse and mental health issues with warm and cozy love and friendship.
Characters: are well-defined, opposite, relatable, and lovable. While Felix is an unpredictable "storm in a bottle," Luke is his opposite: rational, warm, and grounded.
HEA, no cliffhangers.
Narrative: The narrative is in first person; the author gives insight into the emotional and rational world of the characters through skillful descriptive writing, making complex issues logical, reasonable, and relatable to the reader.
Storyline: The story is about Felix, traumatized by childhood abuse and fostering mental issues, trying hard to find a way to restore his life and complicated relationship with his equally traumatized brother, Grant. Through Grant's boyfriend, he meets Luc, his complete opposite. The attraction between them is instant and undeniable. Luke, who considered himself straight, is facing challenges of his sexuality after falling for Felix, battling demons from his past and trust and self-worth issues. The path to HEA for Luc and Felix is full of obstacles, misunderstandings, and deep feelings, culminating in some hot scenes. It is phenomenal how the author managed to tell the grim story of battling with childhood trauma and consequent mental issues in such a relatable, emotional, and warm way. Throughout the story, we follow their relationship, developing from friendship to deep love.
Pro:
The terrific child abuse is the backbone of the storyline, and everything happening in Felix's life, including the relationships, is affected and marked by his traumatic experiences. However, the author manages to tell the story about the pain of trauma and the healing power of love in a balanced way.
Complex challenges and issues are skillfully interlaced with seriously entertaining dialogues, taking off the edge of raw emotions.
The storytelling keeps the reader's attention by describing the background, causes, and consequences of the characters' choices in detail.
Although the storyline is straightforward, the author manages to keep the reader in suspense from the start till the end with compelling, eloquent, and engaging writing.
Contra: None
Disclaimer: This review is an independent and genuine reflection of my thoughts on the book, which I received as an Advance Reader Copy (ARC).
Recommend for: anyone searching for a captivating and engaging read, feel-good or drama and angst seekers.
Plot: It is a friends-to-lovers story about overcoming severe childhood trauma, told in an engaging, relatable, and compelling way.
Storytelling & writing: captivating mixture of drama caused by abuse and mental health issues with warm and cozy love and friendship.
Characters: are well-defined, opposite, relatable, and lovable. While Felix is an unpredictable "storm in a bottle," Luke is his opposite: rational, warm, and grounded.
HEA, no cliffhangers.
Narrative: The narrative is in first person; the author gives insight into the emotional and rational world of the characters through skillful descriptive writing, making complex issues logical, reasonable, and relatable to the reader.
Storyline: The story is about Felix, traumatized by childhood abuse and fostering mental issues, trying hard to find a way to restore his life and complicated relationship with his equally traumatized brother, Grant. Through Grant's boyfriend, he meets Luc, his complete opposite. The attraction between them is instant and undeniable. Luke, who considered himself straight, is facing challenges of his sexuality after falling for Felix, battling demons from his past and trust and self-worth issues. The path to HEA for Luc and Felix is full of obstacles, misunderstandings, and deep feelings, culminating in some hot scenes. It is phenomenal how the author managed to tell the grim story of battling with childhood trauma and consequent mental issues in such a relatable, emotional, and warm way. Throughout the story, we follow their relationship, developing from friendship to deep love.
Pro:
The terrific child abuse is the backbone of the storyline, and everything happening in Felix's life, including the relationships, is affected and marked by his traumatic experiences. However, the author manages to tell the story about the pain of trauma and the healing power of love in a balanced way.
Complex challenges and issues are skillfully interlaced with seriously entertaining dialogues, taking off the edge of raw emotions.
The storytelling keeps the reader's attention by describing the background, causes, and consequences of the characters' choices in detail.
Although the storyline is straightforward, the author manages to keep the reader in suspense from the start till the end with compelling, eloquent, and engaging writing.
Contra: None
Disclaimer: This review is an independent and genuine reflection of my thoughts on the book, which I received as an Advance Reader Copy (ARC).
June 11, 2024
old post reposted
Not sure what I want to read right now (reading slump mixed with mild seasonal depression). However, Romeo Alexander's "Men of Fairlake" has been on my TBR list for a while now, so I figured I'd start there. The seventh and final novel is "My Chaos, His Calm."
["My world is chaos, and he’s my only peace—but at what cost?
My scars are both visible and hidden. I’m lonely, but I do okay…I think. I’m still a bit of a disaster, but I have a job and a roof over my head, and the medication keeps my demons at bay. What I don’t need is a babysitter, but try telling my overprotective brother that.
When I first saw Luke, I couldn’t stop staring—his beauty and strength captivated me. As I get to know him, I realize he’s the calm to my chaos—the light to my darkness. Of course, he’s straight, so I can’t have him. But all it takes is what I thought was a hot dream, and it appears we’re both open to change. The lines are blurred, and he doesn’t have a problem with that…or me. I don’t deserve him, but he doesn’t see it that way. He’s perfect.
But he doesn’t know what I did. If he knew the ugly truth, I’d lose him. Luke and I can only ever be temporary, so I keep my secrets.
When the past threatens to catch up with me, I have a choice…keep the secret for the sake of me and my brother…or take a chance and tell Luke everything. But damn it, I can’t even get that right.
Is it too much to ask to love and be loved and have a chance at the future I desperately want…with Luke? The past is dead. So why won’t it stay buried?"]
I’ll be honest, I wasn’t too sure about this one at first. After reading Grant and Sylas’s book, this one really appeared to have the love cures all, including mental health mentality, but it wasn’t like that at all. Felix wanted to brighten his days, Felix wanted to work hard to get back on track, Felix put in the work for his new goals; Felix did most of the harder work even before Luke came into the picture. Yes, Luke was his calm, his steadiness, but Felix wasn’t cured with love (not that mental health can be cure).
These two were fucking adorable. I loved them. I loved their wit and banter and trust and obsession with each other.
A great ending to the series.
Trigger Warnings: past child abuse, childhood rape, major mental health issues, ptsd, murder, drugs/alcohol and overdosing, and more.
#mybestfriendssecret #fallingembers #seekingsanctuary #cuffsandcommitment #oncebrokentwiceloved #cakeandcomfort #mychaoshiscalm #menoffairlake #menoffairlakeseries #romeoalexander #books #queerbooks #queererotica #bodicerippers #bookstagram #bookphotography #ilovebooks
Not sure what I want to read right now (reading slump mixed with mild seasonal depression). However, Romeo Alexander's "Men of Fairlake" has been on my TBR list for a while now, so I figured I'd start there. The seventh and final novel is "My Chaos, His Calm."
["My world is chaos, and he’s my only peace—but at what cost?
My scars are both visible and hidden. I’m lonely, but I do okay…I think. I’m still a bit of a disaster, but I have a job and a roof over my head, and the medication keeps my demons at bay. What I don’t need is a babysitter, but try telling my overprotective brother that.
When I first saw Luke, I couldn’t stop staring—his beauty and strength captivated me. As I get to know him, I realize he’s the calm to my chaos—the light to my darkness. Of course, he’s straight, so I can’t have him. But all it takes is what I thought was a hot dream, and it appears we’re both open to change. The lines are blurred, and he doesn’t have a problem with that…or me. I don’t deserve him, but he doesn’t see it that way. He’s perfect.
But he doesn’t know what I did. If he knew the ugly truth, I’d lose him. Luke and I can only ever be temporary, so I keep my secrets.
When the past threatens to catch up with me, I have a choice…keep the secret for the sake of me and my brother…or take a chance and tell Luke everything. But damn it, I can’t even get that right.
Is it too much to ask to love and be loved and have a chance at the future I desperately want…with Luke? The past is dead. So why won’t it stay buried?"]
I’ll be honest, I wasn’t too sure about this one at first. After reading Grant and Sylas’s book, this one really appeared to have the love cures all, including mental health mentality, but it wasn’t like that at all. Felix wanted to brighten his days, Felix wanted to work hard to get back on track, Felix put in the work for his new goals; Felix did most of the harder work even before Luke came into the picture. Yes, Luke was his calm, his steadiness, but Felix wasn’t cured with love (not that mental health can be cure).
These two were fucking adorable. I loved them. I loved their wit and banter and trust and obsession with each other.
A great ending to the series.
Trigger Warnings: past child abuse, childhood rape, major mental health issues, ptsd, murder, drugs/alcohol and overdosing, and more.
#mybestfriendssecret #fallingembers #seekingsanctuary #cuffsandcommitment #oncebrokentwiceloved #cakeandcomfort #mychaoshiscalm #menoffairlake #menoffairlakeseries #romeoalexander #books #queerbooks #queererotica #bodicerippers #bookstagram #bookphotography #ilovebooks
October 26, 2023
This is the last book in the Men of Fairlake series, following Grant’s brother Felix, and Sylas’s assistant Luke from the previous book, Cake and Comfort. It has been awhile, but I remembered a lot from Cake and Comfort, and it was good to see some of the events from that book with fresh eyes from Felix and Luke.
Felix is Grant’s older brother, gay, and still fighting demons from the hell he and Grant went through as children, but managing to have control through his meds to be a functioning adult on his own. Felix meets Luke at Christmas and is instantly struck by how hot he is, but realizes Luke is a lost cause since he is straight. The two hit it off and are becoming very good friends, not bothered by the gay/straight thing, until one night when Felix has a bit much to drink and stays with Luke and a very hot dream becomes a reality. The relationship moves on from there, developing into more as time passes. Luke and Felix are very happy in their relationship until Felix’s past becomes known to a meddler, and everything falls apart, threatening the happiness of four people, unless a solution is found to let the past be left behind and a promising future be ahead.
The characters are well written and easy to identify with quickly. The relationship between Luke and Felix develops in a natural and realistic way as they get to know each other over time, becoming more as circumstances and experiences change. Felix has a lot of insecurities to overcome, and Luke is a good support for him. Felix’s past has always been a concern to him in any relationship, and Luke is respectful of that. The two are a good match, complementing and completing each other. Love wins in the end, leading to a satisfactory and emotional (for this reader) ending.
This series has been great with characters from previous books reappearing periodically to give a thread of continuity. The setting is well developed and comes across as a typical small town anywhere in the USA where neighbors know and look out for each other. Characters are all believable, and events seem to develop naturally and don’t feel contrived. Romeo is one of my favorite MM authors, and his books are always high on my list.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Felix is Grant’s older brother, gay, and still fighting demons from the hell he and Grant went through as children, but managing to have control through his meds to be a functioning adult on his own. Felix meets Luke at Christmas and is instantly struck by how hot he is, but realizes Luke is a lost cause since he is straight. The two hit it off and are becoming very good friends, not bothered by the gay/straight thing, until one night when Felix has a bit much to drink and stays with Luke and a very hot dream becomes a reality. The relationship moves on from there, developing into more as time passes. Luke and Felix are very happy in their relationship until Felix’s past becomes known to a meddler, and everything falls apart, threatening the happiness of four people, unless a solution is found to let the past be left behind and a promising future be ahead.
The characters are well written and easy to identify with quickly. The relationship between Luke and Felix develops in a natural and realistic way as they get to know each other over time, becoming more as circumstances and experiences change. Felix has a lot of insecurities to overcome, and Luke is a good support for him. Felix’s past has always been a concern to him in any relationship, and Luke is respectful of that. The two are a good match, complementing and completing each other. Love wins in the end, leading to a satisfactory and emotional (for this reader) ending.
This series has been great with characters from previous books reappearing periodically to give a thread of continuity. The setting is well developed and comes across as a typical small town anywhere in the USA where neighbors know and look out for each other. Characters are all believable, and events seem to develop naturally and don’t feel contrived. Romeo is one of my favorite MM authors, and his books are always high on my list.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 13, 2024
Possible Triggers: Depression/ Sexual Assault,
Felix and his older brother, Grant, had lived a life that was a living, breathing, reoccurring, nightmare. Felix put an end to it though when he was barely a teenager. Most of us couldn't even imagine a life like that.
In today time, we find Felix heading for the local bar. He knows he should not mix alcohol with his meds, but he's restless. No matter how many people he has around him, he still feels alone. He is finally starting to understand that it’s not the quantity of people that matters, but the quality. He remembers the best times were when he and Grant were living in a small town with a few nosey neighbors who took the time to wave to him, and sometimes ask for help in their gardens, or just acknowledge that they were neighbors. He really likes being in Fairlake, Colorado, but he's still lonely.
Then Felix meets Luke and right off sees how attractive he is... but he is very much aware that Luke is off-limits since he is straight. That doesn’t become an issue, though, because the two of them enjoy each other’s company and their friendship is easy. Luke has a calming influence on Felix and makes him feel more comfortable than he's ever felt before. When they use the hot tub, Luke drinks too much and gets a conversation started, that will start their friendship rocketing into something much more. He thinks things just might work out… at least until Felix’s past catches up to him. Someone’s cruelty could hurt more than just Felix. Can they ever get past this, or will the relationships suffer a quick end?
I have really liked the first two books in this series and this one isn't by any means, a 'bad" story...it's just unnecessarily long with way, way too much lengthy conversations. The story itself is deep, allowing the reader to experience many different emotions, some heartbreaking, some absolutely terrifying. I 100% guarantee you will feel what the characters have gone through. Seeing that happiness and love are being offered makes all the difference for Felix....but he can't help wondering when, and if, it will all be taken away. Felix and Grant have to believe and be ready to share the truth of their past with those who love and care for them in order to have any type of happy future. In spite of the title, there is very little "calm" in this story.
Felix and his older brother, Grant, had lived a life that was a living, breathing, reoccurring, nightmare. Felix put an end to it though when he was barely a teenager. Most of us couldn't even imagine a life like that.
In today time, we find Felix heading for the local bar. He knows he should not mix alcohol with his meds, but he's restless. No matter how many people he has around him, he still feels alone. He is finally starting to understand that it’s not the quantity of people that matters, but the quality. He remembers the best times were when he and Grant were living in a small town with a few nosey neighbors who took the time to wave to him, and sometimes ask for help in their gardens, or just acknowledge that they were neighbors. He really likes being in Fairlake, Colorado, but he's still lonely.
Then Felix meets Luke and right off sees how attractive he is... but he is very much aware that Luke is off-limits since he is straight. That doesn’t become an issue, though, because the two of them enjoy each other’s company and their friendship is easy. Luke has a calming influence on Felix and makes him feel more comfortable than he's ever felt before. When they use the hot tub, Luke drinks too much and gets a conversation started, that will start their friendship rocketing into something much more. He thinks things just might work out… at least until Felix’s past catches up to him. Someone’s cruelty could hurt more than just Felix. Can they ever get past this, or will the relationships suffer a quick end?
I have really liked the first two books in this series and this one isn't by any means, a 'bad" story...it's just unnecessarily long with way, way too much lengthy conversations. The story itself is deep, allowing the reader to experience many different emotions, some heartbreaking, some absolutely terrifying. I 100% guarantee you will feel what the characters have gone through. Seeing that happiness and love are being offered makes all the difference for Felix....but he can't help wondering when, and if, it will all be taken away. Felix and Grant have to believe and be ready to share the truth of their past with those who love and care for them in order to have any type of happy future. In spite of the title, there is very little "calm" in this story.
November 16, 2025
Audiobook review ~
Chaos and calm are opposites. At least that is what we are told, along with the sage opinion that opposites don't attract. In the case of Felix and Luke, they are opposites, one is the calm the other the chaos and there is attraction, albeit one sided to begin with. Felix eyes Luke hungrily the first time he sets his eyes on the man after crashing his brother's gathering at the bakery at Christmas. He also quickly discovers Luke is straight but the two go on to become the best of friends, very quickly because they enjoy one another's company. Because Luke, physically bigger, a clam to any storm, is the perfect companion, offers the best form of solace to Felix.
Felix and his brother Grant, owner of the bakery, have endured more than anyone should ever have to in their lives. As children, until their late teens was perhaps the worst but for Felix even after that point life has been a struggle. Now, with the support of his brother he has a place to live. He also has a job, has his meds sorted but still has days of chaos among the calm. When he meets Luke something changes.
Luke is in Fairlake with his best friend and employer, the actor, Cyrus. It means, as the PA to the other man, he doesn't have too much to do. They are there because his friend is trying to escape his controlling and hateful mother, and he has now fallen for Grant. When Luke first meets Felix he's charmed by the other man and feels a pull that he has no words for. Friendship, caring, understanding, they come easily.
As friendship develops into something more, as things are really looking positive, Felix and Grant's past catches them up, threats are made, decisions are made (and regretted) but wait patiently for all is resolved with a better outcome than anyone could have asked for or even expected.
This story is as harrowing as it is beautiful. It is harsh and yet sensuous, passionate, feisty and calming. It is utterly beautiful. I found myself brushing away occasional tears, hurting for these men and celebrating what they found with one another. Romeo Alexander writes with such conviction, understanding and sensitivity it is impossible not to be drawn in and fall in love. Then there is Michael Dean's narration. It's spot on and truly carries the beauty, wonder and poignancy of this story. I urge you to listen.
Chaos and calm are opposites. At least that is what we are told, along with the sage opinion that opposites don't attract. In the case of Felix and Luke, they are opposites, one is the calm the other the chaos and there is attraction, albeit one sided to begin with. Felix eyes Luke hungrily the first time he sets his eyes on the man after crashing his brother's gathering at the bakery at Christmas. He also quickly discovers Luke is straight but the two go on to become the best of friends, very quickly because they enjoy one another's company. Because Luke, physically bigger, a clam to any storm, is the perfect companion, offers the best form of solace to Felix.
Felix and his brother Grant, owner of the bakery, have endured more than anyone should ever have to in their lives. As children, until their late teens was perhaps the worst but for Felix even after that point life has been a struggle. Now, with the support of his brother he has a place to live. He also has a job, has his meds sorted but still has days of chaos among the calm. When he meets Luke something changes.
Luke is in Fairlake with his best friend and employer, the actor, Cyrus. It means, as the PA to the other man, he doesn't have too much to do. They are there because his friend is trying to escape his controlling and hateful mother, and he has now fallen for Grant. When Luke first meets Felix he's charmed by the other man and feels a pull that he has no words for. Friendship, caring, understanding, they come easily.
As friendship develops into something more, as things are really looking positive, Felix and Grant's past catches them up, threats are made, decisions are made (and regretted) but wait patiently for all is resolved with a better outcome than anyone could have asked for or even expected.
This story is as harrowing as it is beautiful. It is harsh and yet sensuous, passionate, feisty and calming. It is utterly beautiful. I found myself brushing away occasional tears, hurting for these men and celebrating what they found with one another. Romeo Alexander writes with such conviction, understanding and sensitivity it is impossible not to be drawn in and fall in love. Then there is Michael Dean's narration. It's spot on and truly carries the beauty, wonder and poignancy of this story. I urge you to listen.
November 14, 2025
Felix used to be a bit of a mess. Working hard to get his life together he realizes he is a work in progress and he is okay with that. Stumbling onto a friendship with straight guy Luke ,who accepts him just as he is, Felix finds himself falling into a deep friendship fast.
Luke is bored. Brought to a small town by his boss (who no longer needs him as much) his life is becoming stale. But by attending a party everything changes when a new friendship blossoms. With this close friendship also brings new thoughts and ideas. Luke can’t stay away from Felix.
Soon the two cross a line and don’t look back. Book 7 in the ‘Men of Fairlake’ series hit the spice level of 5 outta 5 peppers for this MM, HEA, POV book. You do not have to read the books before this one for this couple’s story to be understood. But I would recommend you do as they are all fantastic and past characters do appear again.
Audiobook is narrated by Michael Deen. Michael has a very pleasant voice to listen to overall. I should say first I do not often listen to Audiobooks, maybe like 2-3 a year, when I read al little over 100 books.
What I did like is Michael is not monotone at all. There is a good, varied range of pace, pitch, and tone. I liked it when things seemed to be getting more exciting Michael’s reading would speed in pace.
What I had a hard time with, and this might be normal for audiobooks (and I’ll do my best to explain it), is there seemed to be about 3 MAIN tones used for Main Characters. One deeper one when the main character was talking, a 2nd slightly deeper for inner monologue, another lighter voice for the second main character talking. This tone seemed to fluctuate and at times It was hard to follow who was speaking (which might be by I only picked up the main three).
I think it would have helped to stay constant with one charter always having a “lighter” tone throughout while another had a “deeper’ tone throughout (no mater who’s POV is was).
Overall, I enjoyed this audiobook very much and do recommend you check it out!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Luke is bored. Brought to a small town by his boss (who no longer needs him as much) his life is becoming stale. But by attending a party everything changes when a new friendship blossoms. With this close friendship also brings new thoughts and ideas. Luke can’t stay away from Felix.
Soon the two cross a line and don’t look back. Book 7 in the ‘Men of Fairlake’ series hit the spice level of 5 outta 5 peppers for this MM, HEA, POV book. You do not have to read the books before this one for this couple’s story to be understood. But I would recommend you do as they are all fantastic and past characters do appear again.
Audiobook is narrated by Michael Deen. Michael has a very pleasant voice to listen to overall. I should say first I do not often listen to Audiobooks, maybe like 2-3 a year, when I read al little over 100 books.
What I did like is Michael is not monotone at all. There is a good, varied range of pace, pitch, and tone. I liked it when things seemed to be getting more exciting Michael’s reading would speed in pace.
What I had a hard time with, and this might be normal for audiobooks (and I’ll do my best to explain it), is there seemed to be about 3 MAIN tones used for Main Characters. One deeper one when the main character was talking, a 2nd slightly deeper for inner monologue, another lighter voice for the second main character talking. This tone seemed to fluctuate and at times It was hard to follow who was speaking (which might be by I only picked up the main three).
I think it would have helped to stay constant with one charter always having a “lighter” tone throughout while another had a “deeper’ tone throughout (no mater who’s POV is was).
Overall, I enjoyed this audiobook very much and do recommend you check it out!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 16, 2025
***** Audiobook Review *****
~~~ 4.25 Stars ~~~
This was a good story. I’m not usually one for criminal type stories, but the way this is set up and the reasoning behind the criminal action, did not turn me off the story.
This is the first book in the series I’ve read/listened to, but considering Grant’s book was the one before this one, I’m assuming the timelines overlap some. I am kind of interested to go back and listen to his story as well since I would love to see his point of view on how he and Felix grew up.
I really liked Felix and Luke together, and while I wish Luke hadn’t taken so many days to confront Felix after the first time, but I am happy that he never actually gave up on him. And I love their size difference, lol.
I loved how accepting of Felix Luke and his family are of him, (at least his mom, since his sisters are never really on page) despite his past.
I think the only thing I felt was missing by the end of the book, was that I wish there had been something about Felix maybe being able to get a better job. His boss was horrible to him just because of his past. I understand that what he had done was terrible, but he was 15 and he was trying to protect himself and his little brother. Closer to the end of the book, we find out that their parents were going to do even worse to them then they were already doing to them and being only 15, he felt like what he did was the only way to free themselves from the horror they were living. Personally, I think death was too good for his parents, and it’s not fair how the truth of what actually happened was distorted and intentionally made Felix out to look like the bad guy and that their parents weren’t as terrible as they actually were.
Overall, It’s a good read/listen. While the other characters in the previous books make an appearance, this can definitely be read/listened as a standalone. Grant and Sylas’s story is the only one that previous characters made me really want to read/listened, lol.
~~~ I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review. ~~~
~~~ 4.25 Stars ~~~
This was a good story. I’m not usually one for criminal type stories, but the way this is set up and the reasoning behind the criminal action, did not turn me off the story.
This is the first book in the series I’ve read/listened to, but considering Grant’s book was the one before this one, I’m assuming the timelines overlap some. I am kind of interested to go back and listen to his story as well since I would love to see his point of view on how he and Felix grew up.
I really liked Felix and Luke together, and while I wish Luke hadn’t taken so many days to confront Felix after the first time, but I am happy that he never actually gave up on him. And I love their size difference, lol.
I loved how accepting of Felix Luke and his family are of him, (at least his mom, since his sisters are never really on page) despite his past.
I think the only thing I felt was missing by the end of the book, was that I wish there had been something about Felix maybe being able to get a better job. His boss was horrible to him just because of his past. I understand that what he had done was terrible, but he was 15 and he was trying to protect himself and his little brother. Closer to the end of the book, we find out that their parents were going to do even worse to them then they were already doing to them and being only 15, he felt like what he did was the only way to free themselves from the horror they were living. Personally, I think death was too good for his parents, and it’s not fair how the truth of what actually happened was distorted and intentionally made Felix out to look like the bad guy and that their parents weren’t as terrible as they actually were.
Overall, It’s a good read/listen. While the other characters in the previous books make an appearance, this can definitely be read/listened as a standalone. Grant and Sylas’s story is the only one that previous characters made me really want to read/listened, lol.
~~~ I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review. ~~~
October 29, 2023
Bowing out on a high note
I'm sad this is the end of the series as I've enjoyed all the books so much, but this is another great story and Felix certainly deserved to find his HEA.
If this is the first one of the series for you, before you dive in, you really ought to at least read the previous book, Cake & Comfort. This is Felix's brother's story and not only are the timelines concurrent, the brothers' history is more fully explained in Grant's book so you would get more out of this story and also understand Felix and Grant's strained relationship better. This does give enough background to read as a stand alone but, frankly, the whole series is so good and there are cameos throughout the series from the other books that add just that little bit of added pleasure when you see characters that you already know and love.
Felix broke my heart in Cake & Comfort and again here, his struggle with his past so all-consuming but doing his best to not just survive but to live. Seeing everything from his POV here, I loved him more and just wanted to wrap him up in a massive hug.
Luke also appeared in Cake & Comfort and seemed to be a good person but seeing him become friends with Felix, so understanding and supportive, and watching his affection turn into true love without reservations or doubts about loving a man was rewarding and heartwarming.
They made a wonderful couple, definitely opposites but totally suited, and though I'm sad the series has now finished, I'm sure that I'll love whatever Romeo writes next. And whatever it is, Romeo, can we pretty please have another cameo from my favourite of all your characters, a certain Cresson Point therapist?
I'm sad this is the end of the series as I've enjoyed all the books so much, but this is another great story and Felix certainly deserved to find his HEA.
If this is the first one of the series for you, before you dive in, you really ought to at least read the previous book, Cake & Comfort. This is Felix's brother's story and not only are the timelines concurrent, the brothers' history is more fully explained in Grant's book so you would get more out of this story and also understand Felix and Grant's strained relationship better. This does give enough background to read as a stand alone but, frankly, the whole series is so good and there are cameos throughout the series from the other books that add just that little bit of added pleasure when you see characters that you already know and love.
Felix broke my heart in Cake & Comfort and again here, his struggle with his past so all-consuming but doing his best to not just survive but to live. Seeing everything from his POV here, I loved him more and just wanted to wrap him up in a massive hug.
Luke also appeared in Cake & Comfort and seemed to be a good person but seeing him become friends with Felix, so understanding and supportive, and watching his affection turn into true love without reservations or doubts about loving a man was rewarding and heartwarming.
They made a wonderful couple, definitely opposites but totally suited, and though I'm sad the series has now finished, I'm sure that I'll love whatever Romeo writes next. And whatever it is, Romeo, can we pretty please have another cameo from my favourite of all your characters, a certain Cresson Point therapist?
October 30, 2023
A outstanding read
I cannot rate this book highly enough I could not put it down. I think I went through every single emotion reading this book. And I absolutely fell for Felix and Luke. And it was great to see Grant and Silas again. The story basically is Luke, who always consider themselves as a straight man, but when he is with Felix everything is just easy, they get on so well and after staying together one night after they had been out, Felix stayed over in Lukes hotel room and found himself in a very compromising position in the morning. Which left Felix very embarrassed and trying to hide underneath the bed. it’s about Luke and Felix coming together and understanding their feelings. It’s about Luke making a stronger connection with his brother Grant. And then something happens that ruins or nearly ruins everything. Can you see Felix and Grant have something in their past that they have tried to put behind them and move on with their lives, but it seems not everyone feels the same way.
Wow, honestly I just couldn’t put this book down. I found it to be a brilliant read. The connection that Luke and Felix have is just one that is effortless, the makings of being soulmate, everything is right in the world feeling when they are together And when they get together, the passion is just off the charts, proper explosive makes your skin tingle. I know for a fact that I will be re-reading this book. Just absolutely amazing.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I cannot rate this book highly enough I could not put it down. I think I went through every single emotion reading this book. And I absolutely fell for Felix and Luke. And it was great to see Grant and Silas again. The story basically is Luke, who always consider themselves as a straight man, but when he is with Felix everything is just easy, they get on so well and after staying together one night after they had been out, Felix stayed over in Lukes hotel room and found himself in a very compromising position in the morning. Which left Felix very embarrassed and trying to hide underneath the bed. it’s about Luke and Felix coming together and understanding their feelings. It’s about Luke making a stronger connection with his brother Grant. And then something happens that ruins or nearly ruins everything. Can you see Felix and Grant have something in their past that they have tried to put behind them and move on with their lives, but it seems not everyone feels the same way.
Wow, honestly I just couldn’t put this book down. I found it to be a brilliant read. The connection that Luke and Felix have is just one that is effortless, the makings of being soulmate, everything is right in the world feeling when they are together And when they get together, the passion is just off the charts, proper explosive makes your skin tingle. I know for a fact that I will be re-reading this book. Just absolutely amazing.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 31, 2023
This is another wonderfully done installment in this series from Romeo Alexander. Though it's a series and the stories are intertwined, you could conceivably read this separately and still love it just as much, BUT I really, really recommend that you read Cake & Comfort first because that was such a beautiful book and has overlapping characters and backstory which will make your enjoyment and immersion in this story of Felix and Luke's relationship that much more rich and engaging. One thing that this author does, and have I admired greatly in Cake & Comfort, and in this story as well, is to write realistic, relatable, and believable struggles and conversations and reasons and healing for mental health issues and trauma responses. The author isn't simply using these things to further the plot or create manufactured drama or force characters into situations to get from point a-to-b in the story; the issues are handled well and with grace and it's refreshing to see that an author is willing to show a realistic portrayal of these issues in a story which complicates the relationships and that just because it's fiction doesn't mean it should always be rainbows and kittens. I loved the way these characters grew into their friendship and how Luke was so compassionate and supportive and understanding and openminded; and how the friendship grew into a realistic relationship with a believable HEA because they were both on the same page and willing to do the work, together.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 18, 2025
🎧 Audiobook Review 🎧
Overall: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
erformance: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️️
Story: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️️
I loved the Men of Fairlake series and find it almost a pity that My Chaos, His Calm is the last volume in the series.
Romeo Alexander has a wonderful writing style; he writes with great sensitivity, and once you start reading or listening to the story, you can't escape its pull.
This time, the story is about Felix and Luke. Felix and his brother Grant, who owns the bakery, had a difficult childhood, and Felix still struggles with the shadows of the past. But thanks to his brother, he has a stable life. Nevertheless, Felix sometimes tends toward chaos. When he meets Luke at a Christmas party, the two quickly become friends. Luke is understanding and you just have to love him. He is calm and steady as a rock. The connection between the two is immediate, and what starts as friendship quickly becomes more. But what if there is only one person who is not playing fair? Then it gets very emotional, and I wanted to give Felix a hug and tell him that everything will be okay again.
This is a wonderful story, as full of love as it is deeply moving. It is filled with emotion and passion, as well as hatred and destructive rage. But in the end, love triumphs.
As always, Michael Dean delivers an absolutely convincing performance. He captures the emotions perfectly, reads vividly, and brings the characters to life. It was an absolute pleasure to listen to!
Overall: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
erformance: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️️
Story: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️️
I loved the Men of Fairlake series and find it almost a pity that My Chaos, His Calm is the last volume in the series.
Romeo Alexander has a wonderful writing style; he writes with great sensitivity, and once you start reading or listening to the story, you can't escape its pull.
This time, the story is about Felix and Luke. Felix and his brother Grant, who owns the bakery, had a difficult childhood, and Felix still struggles with the shadows of the past. But thanks to his brother, he has a stable life. Nevertheless, Felix sometimes tends toward chaos. When he meets Luke at a Christmas party, the two quickly become friends. Luke is understanding and you just have to love him. He is calm and steady as a rock. The connection between the two is immediate, and what starts as friendship quickly becomes more. But what if there is only one person who is not playing fair? Then it gets very emotional, and I wanted to give Felix a hug and tell him that everything will be okay again.
This is a wonderful story, as full of love as it is deeply moving. It is filled with emotion and passion, as well as hatred and destructive rage. But in the end, love triumphs.
As always, Michael Dean delivers an absolutely convincing performance. He captures the emotions perfectly, reads vividly, and brings the characters to life. It was an absolute pleasure to listen to!
February 3, 2024
This book is the other story that happens along with Cake & Comfort. Two brothers that had horrible trauma in their childhood who are trying to find some peace of mind and happiness.
This is the story of Felix, Grant's older brother (he's the baker in Cakes & Comfort). The events in this book happen simultaneously with Cake & Comfort, so it is like watching The Lion King animated, then watching The Lion King 1/2 or reading Hamlet and then Rosencrantz and Guildenstern (the other side or inside of the stories).
Although this is a story that you know (if you read the other book) it is still a very well done tale of two guys trying to find who they are in the present, not who they were and what they had done, but at this moment in time.
It is also about finding that person that just gets you, helps you without judgement or ulterior motives. Finding them even if they are not the gender that you expected.
Recommended along with Cake & Comfort.
This is the story of Felix, Grant's older brother (he's the baker in Cakes & Comfort). The events in this book happen simultaneously with Cake & Comfort, so it is like watching The Lion King animated, then watching The Lion King 1/2 or reading Hamlet and then Rosencrantz and Guildenstern (the other side or inside of the stories).
Although this is a story that you know (if you read the other book) it is still a very well done tale of two guys trying to find who they are in the present, not who they were and what they had done, but at this moment in time.
It is also about finding that person that just gets you, helps you without judgement or ulterior motives. Finding them even if they are not the gender that you expected.
Recommended along with Cake & Comfort.
October 7, 2024
A love story with heart and soul
Felix is a man with a dark secret. As a 15 year old, he killed his parents because they had sexually abused his brother Grant and himself for most of their childhood. Now in his 30's he is still suffering from flashbacks and needs medication to function. Into his life comes Luke, who is the secretary to Grant's boyfriend, Sylvan. Luke is straight but he and Felix are attracted to each other. Luke is on a journey of discovery and Felix is learning to trust again. Will Luke be able to accept Felix's history and vulnerability? Will Felix be able to trust Luke with his whole self? And when others seek to break them apart how will the two of them cope? There is much heart in this story and a great deal of passion. There is also a cool head and a quiet heart in Luke that wants to protect Felix.
I enjoyed this novel greatly. There is drama, difficulty and the commitment of love.
Felix is a man with a dark secret. As a 15 year old, he killed his parents because they had sexually abused his brother Grant and himself for most of their childhood. Now in his 30's he is still suffering from flashbacks and needs medication to function. Into his life comes Luke, who is the secretary to Grant's boyfriend, Sylvan. Luke is straight but he and Felix are attracted to each other. Luke is on a journey of discovery and Felix is learning to trust again. Will Luke be able to accept Felix's history and vulnerability? Will Felix be able to trust Luke with his whole self? And when others seek to break them apart how will the two of them cope? There is much heart in this story and a great deal of passion. There is also a cool head and a quiet heart in Luke that wants to protect Felix.
I enjoyed this novel greatly. There is drama, difficulty and the commitment of love.
October 28, 2023
Felix and his brother Grant, survivors of childhood abuse, face personal challenges. Felix depends on medication to function, and Grant provides support. Grant is romantically involved with Luke's boss and best friend. Despite this, they become close friends and eventually cross the boundary from friendship to a romantic relationship one night when Felix has too much to drink. Their relationship deepens over time, and they are pretty happy together.
However, their happiness is threatened when someone uncovers Felix's troubled past, leading to complications and potential harm to the four people involved. To preserve their happiness and move forward, they must find a way to leave the past behind and secure a promising future. The book is sweet, romantic, funny, and witty and it's the last book in this series.
However, their happiness is threatened when someone uncovers Felix's troubled past, leading to complications and potential harm to the four people involved. To preserve their happiness and move forward, they must find a way to leave the past behind and secure a promising future. The book is sweet, romantic, funny, and witty and it's the last book in this series.
October 25, 2023
Felix and his brother Grant had been abused by their parents when young but Felix finally had enough and took care of the problem. He has to take meds to be able to function properly and Grant helps. Grant is involved with Luke’s boss and best friend and was having feelings for Felix but then Felix told Luke that he didn’t want anything to do with him, Luke and Sylas couldn’t figure out what happened. But Felix accidentally ODed with the liquor he made it to Luke’s hotel to tell him that he had lied and why but he passed out. Grant and Felix told them what happened and they had lied about their feelings. Things worked out. Good book!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 31, 2023
This book had friends to lovers done right! I read instalove a lot (which I love, don’t get me wrong), so it was quite refreshing to read through the passage of time with them genuinely spending time together as friends. Luke was the perfect counterbalance for Felix, and the way he logically talked through things with him was fantastic. LOVE some good communication! I was so proud of Felix with his bravery and perseverance against the most ridiculous life circumstances and trauma. This was just a really good, comforting read. There was a smidge of angst, the heat was great, and the HEA was super sweet.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 26, 2023
Felix and Luke….swoon!
I really enjoyed Felix and Luke’s story. Their transition from casual hangout friends to more was perfect. It’s what everyone should have in a new relationship. The getting to know you stage where there is less pressure, even with the one-sided attraction. Once the “AM incident” happened, the rest seemed free-flowing and inevitable. The only parts that I found difficulty with was some of the repeated scenes involving multiple characters. I know the whole series had some overlap, but for some reason, the last hour listening felt like a repeat of Sylas & Grants story even though it was a different POV. The epilogue was great ending. That said, I would give it 4.5 stars.
I really enjoyed Felix and Luke’s story. Their transition from casual hangout friends to more was perfect. It’s what everyone should have in a new relationship. The getting to know you stage where there is less pressure, even with the one-sided attraction. Once the “AM incident” happened, the rest seemed free-flowing and inevitable. The only parts that I found difficulty with was some of the repeated scenes involving multiple characters. I know the whole series had some overlap, but for some reason, the last hour listening felt like a repeat of Sylas & Grants story even though it was a different POV. The epilogue was great ending. That said, I would give it 4.5 stars.
December 1, 2023
I loved this story!
Felix and Luke, though seemingly having very little in common (Luke is straight-ish?), they actually are perfect for each other.
Felix has had a tough past, and tries to keep his secrets, but in the end, can Luke give him the release from the ghosts that continue to haunt him?
Loved the characters, and how they interact with the characters from other stories in the series. Great world building. Lots of angst, so a very hard-won HEA. SO many feels... Just a wonderful read, and highly recommend!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Felix and Luke, though seemingly having very little in common (Luke is straight-ish?), they actually are perfect for each other.
Felix has had a tough past, and tries to keep his secrets, but in the end, can Luke give him the release from the ghosts that continue to haunt him?
Loved the characters, and how they interact with the characters from other stories in the series. Great world building. Lots of angst, so a very hard-won HEA. SO many feels... Just a wonderful read, and highly recommend!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 10, 2025
My chaos, His calm was…. Wow! I loved this couple, obviously not as much as Adam and Bennett, but almost as close. This goes to show things aren’t always what they seem.
Love comes in all shapes and forms. When you start out as friends and then build from that it’s makes the relationship stronger.
Felix and Grant’s childhood was the worst, but the way no one judged them for it goes to show that people are loving. I love how Luke without so much as a care instinctively cared for Felix knowing he would take care of him protect him.
This is a 4.5 like I said I love the men of Fairlake, but they are not Adam and Bennett.
Love comes in all shapes and forms. When you start out as friends and then build from that it’s makes the relationship stronger.
Felix and Grant’s childhood was the worst, but the way no one judged them for it goes to show that people are loving. I love how Luke without so much as a care instinctively cared for Felix knowing he would take care of him protect him.
This is a 4.5 like I said I love the men of Fairlake, but they are not Adam and Bennett.
October 25, 2023
Felix and Luke were introduced in the previous book in the series which featured Felix's younger brother Grant and Luke's best friend/boss Sylas. This is another bi-awakening in the series which fitting as it started with one and now it will end with another but with some differences. This author really knows how to portray characters authentically and make them really relatable. This was really sweet and charming.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 29, 2023
Whew! From trade by to triumph is a real journey your heart takes as the pages turn!
Luke is working for his best friend as a PA and in a small town while his best friend determines if his boyfriend is worth the leap. Felix is learning to give himself grace when he runs into Luke. Their journey and Felix brother Grant and Sylias work on their relationships as siblings grow n bond. MM romance
Triggers for some sexual assault, mental health. Not graphic but could trigger. Story a great read & worth it.
Luke is working for his best friend as a PA and in a small town while his best friend determines if his boyfriend is worth the leap. Felix is learning to give himself grace when he runs into Luke. Their journey and Felix brother Grant and Sylias work on their relationships as siblings grow n bond. MM romance
Triggers for some sexual assault, mental health. Not graphic but could trigger. Story a great read & worth it.
November 26, 2023
Felix & Luke
The title of this book sums it up completely. Felix has battled his whole life and working hard to stay in control of his mental illness and the trauma of his past. Luke doesn’t know what he’s feeling but just that he likes Felix and wants to spend more time with him, however that may look. Grant and Felix work on making amends to the brotherly relationship and as we know from Grant and Sylas’ book, Sylas’ mother is the cause of hurt. This book takes place alongside Grants book and I enjoyed seeing Luke and Felix grow close.
The title of this book sums it up completely. Felix has battled his whole life and working hard to stay in control of his mental illness and the trauma of his past. Luke doesn’t know what he’s feeling but just that he likes Felix and wants to spend more time with him, however that may look. Grant and Felix work on making amends to the brotherly relationship and as we know from Grant and Sylas’ book, Sylas’ mother is the cause of hurt. This book takes place alongside Grants book and I enjoyed seeing Luke and Felix grow close.
October 3, 2024
Felix and Luke❤️
My Chaos, His Calm is one of my top 3 favorites of the Men of Fairlake Series!
We're introduced to Felix and Luke in Cake & Comfort, as Felix is Grant's big brother and Luke is Sylas's Assistant and Best Friend.
The immediate friendship and respect, as well as Felix's sense of fun, is awesome.
There are parts that are hard to read (especially if you read Cake & Comfort), but wow! Perfect love story between two amazing people with many of the people from all 6 books stopping by!
My Chaos, His Calm is one of my top 3 favorites of the Men of Fairlake Series!
We're introduced to Felix and Luke in Cake & Comfort, as Felix is Grant's big brother and Luke is Sylas's Assistant and Best Friend.
The immediate friendship and respect, as well as Felix's sense of fun, is awesome.
There are parts that are hard to read (especially if you read Cake & Comfort), but wow! Perfect love story between two amazing people with many of the people from all 6 books stopping by!
October 27, 2023
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review. I liked how Felix is handling his condition. A friendship builds between Felix and Luke that turns to exploration and then love. A shallow woman tries to ruin four men's lives but a mistake opens the truth about the threats and they are dealt with. This allows the love between the two couples to thrive. I liked how supportive Luke is.
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