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Big Bend Bears #2
Hail Mary
Benny
Big Bend is my home. I love it here. I love everything about it.
It’s my senior year, and I’m determined to have the best one yet. Of course, that’s when life gets confusing.
I think I may have a little bit of a crush on my nemesis.
Something I never saw coming.
I just hope I can find a way to make him give me a chance because being together would make not only this year great, but this life of ours—absolutely epic.
Rowan
Benjamin McBride is the bane of my existence. He simply won’t quit—he never does.
He’s too happy. Too confident. Too unafraid.
I can’t let him get to me.
He thinks we could be epic together, that us in a relationship would be some saving grace—a Hail Mary—a way to make this year and our lives the best they can be.
But I’m not destined for happiness.
I have to make him understand . . .
It’s never going to happen.
Big Bend is my home. I love it here. I love everything about it.
It’s my senior year, and I’m determined to have the best one yet. Of course, that’s when life gets confusing.
I think I may have a little bit of a crush on my nemesis.
Something I never saw coming.
I just hope I can find a way to make him give me a chance because being together would make not only this year great, but this life of ours—absolutely epic.
Rowan
Benjamin McBride is the bane of my existence. He simply won’t quit—he never does.
He’s too happy. Too confident. Too unafraid.
I can’t let him get to me.
He thinks we could be epic together, that us in a relationship would be some saving grace—a Hail Mary—a way to make this year and our lives the best they can be.
But I’m not destined for happiness.
I have to make him understand . . .
It’s never going to happen.
228 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 9, 2024
146 people are currently reading
316 people want to read
About the author
Nicole Dykes
95 books2,531 followersNicole Dykes is a wife and a professional assistant/mom to two gorgeous girls. Currently residing in Kansas, she’s a lover of coffee, Kansas City Chiefs, and all things romance.
She's found her passion in writing M/M romance because love is love is love. Some popular works include Hostile, The Spark of Hope Series, and The Kensley Panthers Series!
Email at nicoledykes_author@yahoo.com
Or visit my website at Www.authornicoledykes.com
She's found her passion in writing M/M romance because love is love is love. Some popular works include Hostile, The Spark of Hope Series, and The Kensley Panthers Series!
Email at nicoledykes_author@yahoo.com
Or visit my website at Www.authornicoledykes.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 198 reviews
December 11, 2024
⭐️ 4 stars ⭐️
The tension in this one was so damn good. Pining, angst, passion. I kinda liked that first part of Rowan fighting his feelings and Benny flirting with him more than when they actually were together.
Hail Mary does follow the same formula of plenty of other small town/high school romances and I could easily list 10 off the top of my head, but I still enjoyed the sweetness and simplicity of it.
It was dramatic but sweet, first love flutters and horny boys, grumpy and sunshine.
The ending was very anti-climactic, but I still had a fun time back in Big Bend.
I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review.
CW and tropes (spoilers):
- Small town
- Teammates
- Football players
- High school setting
- Queer awakening vs closeted
- Grumpy/sunshine
- Dislike to love
- Parental death
- Homophobia
- Virgin MC
- Frotting
- Switch scene
- Coming hands-free
Pre-read update — I really don’t remember much from book one, but apparently I was in love with Benny, so I’m feeling hopeful 🤞🏼
He can’t look at me like that. Doesn’t he know?
The tension in this one was so damn good. Pining, angst, passion. I kinda liked that first part of Rowan fighting his feelings and Benny flirting with him more than when they actually were together.
Hail Mary does follow the same formula of plenty of other small town/high school romances and I could easily list 10 off the top of my head, but I still enjoyed the sweetness and simplicity of it.
“There’s only going to be one person on this double date tonight whose lips I want on mine. And it won’t be Kate or Bianca’s.”
It was dramatic but sweet, first love flutters and horny boys, grumpy and sunshine.
The ending was very anti-climactic, but I still had a fun time back in Big Bend.
My heart aches with the need to taste him just once.
I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review.
CW and tropes (spoilers):
- Small town
- Teammates
- Football players
- High school setting
- Queer awakening vs closeted
- Grumpy/sunshine
- Dislike to love
- Parental death
- Homophobia
- Virgin MC
- Frotting
- Switch scene
- Coming hands-free
Pre-read update — I really don’t remember much from book one, but apparently I was in love with Benny, so I’m feeling hopeful 🤞🏼
December 5, 2024
I honestly just wanted to hug Rowan so many times throughout this whole book. I can't even imagine having to live in constant fear that you're going to lose your only remaining blood relative just because of who you love, it's so fucking stupid!!!
Benny was an absolute ball of fearless sunshine, so much so that when he was sad he felt all wrong to read! Sadness does not suit this guy at all. It was also refreshing to see a character who knew exactly what they wanted and didn't question his newfound attraction to the same sex at all. I do wish we'd seen a bit more of Benny and Dallas's friendship though!
The struggles these two go through to get to the point where they can be happy were such a lot for two eighteen year old kids. I could not wrap my head around the fact that American small town / small mind culture thinks that just because you're alone in a car with another guy it means that you must be gay..... Their tiny little heads would explode if they ever came to the UK because as soon as teenage boys here get a car they're off for drives with their mates asap! It's like a whole culture / coming of age thing in the UK and if you were to assume that they were gay just because they're in a car with no women.... I can't even!! I genuinely feel so, so bad for people stuck in living situations like this, it's so ridiculous to me.
I did love how accepting Benny's parents were though - that is what it means to be a parent, loving your child unconditionally no matter who they are as a person. I loved that they got to build their own home, and I loved that Rowan became part of a new family and developed friendships because he really bloody deserved it!
*****
I received an ARC of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review
Benny was an absolute ball of fearless sunshine, so much so that when he was sad he felt all wrong to read! Sadness does not suit this guy at all. It was also refreshing to see a character who knew exactly what they wanted and didn't question his newfound attraction to the same sex at all. I do wish we'd seen a bit more of Benny and Dallas's friendship though!
The struggles these two go through to get to the point where they can be happy were such a lot for two eighteen year old kids. I could not wrap my head around the fact that American small town / small mind culture thinks that just because you're alone in a car with another guy it means that you must be gay..... Their tiny little heads would explode if they ever came to the UK because as soon as teenage boys here get a car they're off for drives with their mates asap! It's like a whole culture / coming of age thing in the UK and if you were to assume that they were gay just because they're in a car with no women.... I can't even!! I genuinely feel so, so bad for people stuck in living situations like this, it's so ridiculous to me.
I did love how accepting Benny's parents were though - that is what it means to be a parent, loving your child unconditionally no matter who they are as a person. I loved that they got to build their own home, and I loved that Rowan became part of a new family and developed friendships because he really bloody deserved it!
*****
I received an ARC of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review
February 5, 2025
This book didn’t change my life, but it did keep me entertained while i avoided doing work ☕️
October 8, 2025
5 ⭐️
spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
format: audiobook
narration: 🎤🎤🎤🎤🎤/5
i didn’t expect benny and rowan to beat out the first book, but they definitely did. i loved these two together so much.
grumpy/sunshine + teammates + dislike to love in the best way. ugh, i honestly don’t know what to say about these two. this was kind of cheesy and sickly sweet and i adored it.
like the first book, there’s a big emphasis on homophobia and having to hide the relationship. my heart really broke for rowan at several different points. and seeing adorable sunshine-y benny sad was heartbreaking. but in the end they were inevitable.
loved this so, so much. cannot wait to get to the next book. hopefully on audio because these narrators are killing it with this series.
spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
format: audiobook
narration: 🎤🎤🎤🎤🎤/5
i didn’t expect benny and rowan to beat out the first book, but they definitely did. i loved these two together so much.
grumpy/sunshine + teammates + dislike to love in the best way. ugh, i honestly don’t know what to say about these two. this was kind of cheesy and sickly sweet and i adored it.
like the first book, there’s a big emphasis on homophobia and having to hide the relationship. my heart really broke for rowan at several different points. and seeing adorable sunshine-y benny sad was heartbreaking. but in the end they were inevitable.
loved this so, so much. cannot wait to get to the next book. hopefully on audio because these narrators are killing it with this series.
April 8, 2025
Just another silky but enjoyable book about silly boys in love
December 13, 2024
Like with all the books connected to #Kensley Panthers, this one doesn't go beyond 3⭐ for me. Maybe 3.5⭐, if I'm being generous.
This story was just confusing to me, but it's another simple, sweet small town story of two guys falling in love and getting together, worrying about what the people will say, if the guys in the locker room will accept them and then some family drama that doesn't bring anything new to the table.
🟢 High school, both 18
🔵 Both play football
🟣 Bisexual /gay (closet)
🟢 None of the tension from the first installment between the main characters, they quickly start getting along
🟡 Don't like the cover
🌶️ A lot of smut, almost feels like a filler; descriptive; oral, frotting, rimming, penetrative, kissing, first times; most of the book t/b, epilogue vers
Rowan was a dick football player from the previous installment that bullied Dallas, so in this one him and Benny, Dallas' bestie, almost kiss (off-page) and the tension between them was rising until they finally got together, despite Rowan being very worried about his father finding out.
Rowan is gay, always has been and his father's opinion is pretty important to him, so the whole book is about Rowan not taking a chance with Benny, even breaking up with him, just because of his homophobic dad -- that's ingrained in Rowan's mind, he's very afraid and worried about coming out -- so imagine my surprise when at the end of the book Rowan has absolutely no confrontation with his father, he just lets him know he's gay and gets out of their house. The end.
Kind of weird, right? Two sentences and it's done, Rowan doesn't care anymore and that's it. As much as Rowan's dad was believed to be a very important side character - he actually wasn't. That continuous conflict was pointless. Rowan's lifelong turmoil and fear was what, in vain? For nothing? That badly needed a confrontation on a larger scale and some conclusion to their relationship.
Rowan broke up with Benny because he couldn't take the pressure anymore - which I get - but then he came back the next day almost and asked if they could be friends. First he breaks Benny's heart, then he comes back and says -- you know what, we can't be together, but let's just do chores on your farm and I'll have dinner with your family every day, okay?
That just seems like such a weird thing to decide. I honestly can't imagine this scenario. You'd have to be a true masochist to accept this. And yet, Benny just goes for it.
Rowan and Benny did have a sweet, sexy thing going on when they were together, they were cute and I kind of wanted them to experience also being out together, but that never happened, they finished high school and at 18 they decided to build a house with the help of Benny's parents. At 18. Their first relationship, just finished high school, I mean... what's the rush?
"We moved into our house officially today. Just in time for Thanksgiving tomorrow, which we’ll actually be hosting in our brand-new shiny kitchen—though Mom is still cooking the actual dinner. Thank. God. We’re not ready for that responsibility."
They're not ready to cook their meals at 18?
Okay.
I definitely wanted the story to have more meaning, instead it was just hopping here and there and having sex. What actually happened besides that? Nothing.
So much talk about the town being bad, people not accepting of gays, the whole drama around it but it ends with them having sex at the barn and then at their house - like, what else? Why tell this whole story around it when nothing substantial basically happens in the end?
I'm guessing all the main characters will come from that locker room in the future books. I'll read the books, sure. I know what to expect by now.
This story was just confusing to me, but it's another simple, sweet small town story of two guys falling in love and getting together, worrying about what the people will say, if the guys in the locker room will accept them and then some family drama that doesn't bring anything new to the table.
🟢 High school, both 18
🔵 Both play football
🟣 Bisexual /gay (closet)
🟢 None of the tension from the first installment between the main characters, they quickly start getting along
🟡 Don't like the cover
🌶️ A lot of smut, almost feels like a filler; descriptive; oral, frotting, rimming, penetrative, kissing, first times; most of the book t/b, epilogue vers
Rowan was a dick football player from the previous installment that bullied Dallas, so in this one him and Benny, Dallas' bestie, almost kiss (off-page) and the tension between them was rising until they finally got together, despite Rowan being very worried about his father finding out.
Rowan is gay, always has been and his father's opinion is pretty important to him, so the whole book is about Rowan not taking a chance with Benny, even breaking up with him, just because of his homophobic dad -- that's ingrained in Rowan's mind, he's very afraid and worried about coming out -- so imagine my surprise when at the end of the book Rowan has absolutely no confrontation with his father, he just lets him know he's gay and gets out of their house. The end.
Kind of weird, right? Two sentences and it's done, Rowan doesn't care anymore and that's it. As much as Rowan's dad was believed to be a very important side character - he actually wasn't. That continuous conflict was pointless. Rowan's lifelong turmoil and fear was what, in vain? For nothing? That badly needed a confrontation on a larger scale and some conclusion to their relationship.
Rowan broke up with Benny because he couldn't take the pressure anymore - which I get - but then he came back the next day almost and asked if they could be friends. First he breaks Benny's heart, then he comes back and says -- you know what, we can't be together, but let's just do chores on your farm and I'll have dinner with your family every day, okay?
That just seems like such a weird thing to decide. I honestly can't imagine this scenario. You'd have to be a true masochist to accept this. And yet, Benny just goes for it.
Rowan and Benny did have a sweet, sexy thing going on when they were together, they were cute and I kind of wanted them to experience also being out together, but that never happened, they finished high school and at 18 they decided to build a house with the help of Benny's parents. At 18. Their first relationship, just finished high school, I mean... what's the rush?
"We moved into our house officially today. Just in time for Thanksgiving tomorrow, which we’ll actually be hosting in our brand-new shiny kitchen—though Mom is still cooking the actual dinner. Thank. God. We’re not ready for that responsibility."
They're not ready to cook their meals at 18?
Okay.
I definitely wanted the story to have more meaning, instead it was just hopping here and there and having sex. What actually happened besides that? Nothing.
So much talk about the town being bad, people not accepting of gays, the whole drama around it but it ends with them having sex at the barn and then at their house - like, what else? Why tell this whole story around it when nothing substantial basically happens in the end?
I'm guessing all the main characters will come from that locker room in the future books. I'll read the books, sure. I know what to expect by now.
December 8, 2024
Loved it! I can always count on Nicole Dykes to deliver a great story. Grumpy/sunshine, small town, secret relationship and football, what’s not to love. The tension and chemistry between Benny and Rowan was crazy hot, and when they finally give in to it 🥵🔥 SO GOOD.
December 7, 2024
nicole always manages to break my heart and then put it back together.
i genuinely hurt for these boys!!
benny, sweet sunshine that he is and so so so strong. really, he shouldn’t hurt a single moment in his life.
and rowan??? how he kept calling himself a coward???? the way i wanted to lovingly scream at him and hug him so tight.
i had a wonderful time reading this. so excited for what’s next, especially that jock x nerd duo👀👀
i read an arc and this is my honest opinion
i genuinely hurt for these boys!!
benny, sweet sunshine that he is and so so so strong. really, he shouldn’t hurt a single moment in his life.
and rowan??? how he kept calling himself a coward???? the way i wanted to lovingly scream at him and hug him so tight.
i had a wonderful time reading this. so excited for what’s next, especially that jock x nerd duo👀👀
i read an arc and this is my honest opinion
July 18, 2025
I could not put this book down, it's like going through a dark tunnel and you're racing towards the light, trying to get a glimps of it shining so you can break free.
I really felt for these two darlings, representing so many, all over the world. Having to hide and lie and most of all live in fear and guilt. Benny is the shining light that tries to lead Rowan out of the shell his father has shoved him in. All the internalized and externalized homophobia hits you in the gut. Small Town and High school angst multiplies the clostrophobic essence of the story.
This book had all the feels, loved it.
Thoughts as reading:
"But....."
"I'm your Benny." 😭😭😭
😤The third act break up is painful but was always going to happen, that's the way these things get resolved some times.
'just friends' 🙄 As if....🤨
SPOILER ALERT:
.
.
.
A beautiful HEA but I really wanted the big show down 😉
I really felt for these two darlings, representing so many, all over the world. Having to hide and lie and most of all live in fear and guilt. Benny is the shining light that tries to lead Rowan out of the shell his father has shoved him in. All the internalized and externalized homophobia hits you in the gut. Small Town and High school angst multiplies the clostrophobic essence of the story.
This book had all the feels, loved it.
Thoughts as reading:
"But....."
"I'm your Benny." 😭😭😭
😤The third act break up is painful but was always going to happen, that's the way these things get resolved some times.
'just friends' 🙄 As if....🤨
SPOILER ALERT:
.
.
.
A beautiful HEA but I really wanted the big show down 😉
December 4, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Benny. My sweet, sweet Benny boy. We saw Benny as Dallas’ best friend in Red Zone, and we knew from before that something 👀 had gone down to cause a breakup between him and his girlfriend Mya. Well, here’s the answers we all needed!
Rowan and Benny are Football teammates, classmates, they live close to one another, and have grown up in the same small town their entire lives. After an almost-kiss one night, Benny can’t help but wonder what would happen if they were to give in to their feelings, and try something serious.
Benny LOVES love. He loves to be in a relationship, and he’s got a lot of love to give. Rowan has never had a real relationship, and that’s mostly due to a toxic relationship with his father who isn’t supportive of a gay son.
These two were giving perfect dislike to lovers to “friends” to lovers and it was so much fun to read ! This book had really great lead up to the spice and the first kiss, and once these two got hot and heavy? It stayed heavy! 🥵 (we’re talking a barn scene, a truck scene, we had it all)
The third act breakup was PAINFUL. Hurt. So bad. But once Rowan realized his mistake? It was truly beautiful to watch these two come back together.
There were a couple Easter eggs placed in here I think for the next book, and I can’t wait to continue on with this series. Overall, this book was fun, funny, spicy, and just a really good time. I appreciated Ro’s virginity not being a huge plot line, and Bennys bi-awakening was beautiful to watch 😊
You don’t have to read these books in order if you don’t want too, this story was completely separate, but it might spoil a bit about book 1 for you if you don’t read it first.
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Benny. My sweet, sweet Benny boy. We saw Benny as Dallas’ best friend in Red Zone, and we knew from before that something 👀 had gone down to cause a breakup between him and his girlfriend Mya. Well, here’s the answers we all needed!
Rowan and Benny are Football teammates, classmates, they live close to one another, and have grown up in the same small town their entire lives. After an almost-kiss one night, Benny can’t help but wonder what would happen if they were to give in to their feelings, and try something serious.
Benny LOVES love. He loves to be in a relationship, and he’s got a lot of love to give. Rowan has never had a real relationship, and that’s mostly due to a toxic relationship with his father who isn’t supportive of a gay son.
These two were giving perfect dislike to lovers to “friends” to lovers and it was so much fun to read ! This book had really great lead up to the spice and the first kiss, and once these two got hot and heavy? It stayed heavy! 🥵 (we’re talking a barn scene, a truck scene, we had it all)
The third act breakup was PAINFUL. Hurt. So bad. But once Rowan realized his mistake? It was truly beautiful to watch these two come back together.
There were a couple Easter eggs placed in here I think for the next book, and I can’t wait to continue on with this series. Overall, this book was fun, funny, spicy, and just a really good time. I appreciated Ro’s virginity not being a huge plot line, and Bennys bi-awakening was beautiful to watch 😊
You don’t have to read these books in order if you don’t want too, this story was completely separate, but it might spoil a bit about book 1 for you if you don’t read it first.
December 12, 2024
book two of big bend bears series
grumpy/sunshine
enemies to lovers
first times
bi awakening
death to a parent (in the past off page)
homophobe parent to one mc
absolutely caring and supportive parents other mc
sweet story absolutely loved it
also loved seeing previous characters from this series
grumpy/sunshine
enemies to lovers
first times
bi awakening
death to a parent (in the past off page)
homophobe parent to one mc
absolutely caring and supportive parents other mc
sweet story absolutely loved it
also loved seeing previous characters from this series
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 7, 2024
4.5 stars
I was eagerly anticipating Benny's story since his introduction as Dallas's best friend in the previous book, and the tantalizing glimpses of his budding relationship with Rowan.
Benny is my all-time favorite character in this series. His sunny disposition and unwavering pursuit of what he desires, especially Rowan, are truly captivating. Rowan, initially his nemesis, undergoes a transformation after a near-miss kiss, leaving Benny unable to forget him. However, Rowan's troubled past and deep-seated trauma hinder his ability to reciprocate Benny's feelings. Despite the obstacles, Benny's persistence pays off, and their passionate romance ignites.
I adored the effortless flow of their relationship. The electric chemistry between Rowan and Benny, coupled with the scorching-hot sex scenes, was simply addictive. While their rapid fall for each other is undeniable, Rowan's fear threatens to derail their connection. Benny's unwavering dedication to their love story, though heartbreaking at times, ultimately leads to a deeply satisfying happily-ever-after. The author's masterful portrayal of their emotions had me misty-eyed, yearning to offer comfort.
I was particularly fond of Benny's open-minded and accepting parents. Their heartwarming embrace of Rowan provided solace amidst the characters' struggles. The heartwarming scenes with Dallas and his son were a delightful addition, further enriching the reading experience.
Overall, this book is a must-read. I highly recommend it and eagerly await more stories in this captivating series.
* I received an ARC copy from GRR and this is my honest review *
I was eagerly anticipating Benny's story since his introduction as Dallas's best friend in the previous book, and the tantalizing glimpses of his budding relationship with Rowan.
Benny is my all-time favorite character in this series. His sunny disposition and unwavering pursuit of what he desires, especially Rowan, are truly captivating. Rowan, initially his nemesis, undergoes a transformation after a near-miss kiss, leaving Benny unable to forget him. However, Rowan's troubled past and deep-seated trauma hinder his ability to reciprocate Benny's feelings. Despite the obstacles, Benny's persistence pays off, and their passionate romance ignites.
I adored the effortless flow of their relationship. The electric chemistry between Rowan and Benny, coupled with the scorching-hot sex scenes, was simply addictive. While their rapid fall for each other is undeniable, Rowan's fear threatens to derail their connection. Benny's unwavering dedication to their love story, though heartbreaking at times, ultimately leads to a deeply satisfying happily-ever-after. The author's masterful portrayal of their emotions had me misty-eyed, yearning to offer comfort.
I was particularly fond of Benny's open-minded and accepting parents. Their heartwarming embrace of Rowan provided solace amidst the characters' struggles. The heartwarming scenes with Dallas and his son were a delightful addition, further enriching the reading experience.
Overall, this book is a must-read. I highly recommend it and eagerly await more stories in this captivating series.
* I received an ARC copy from GRR and this is my honest review *
December 22, 2024
***ARC Review***
This is my honest and voluntary review for the ARC I received.
Benny and Rowan are featured in the second book in Nicole Dykes’s Big Bend Bears series. Benny is Dallas’s best friend from the first book in the series. This story will make you feel every emotion, so get ready!
Benny and Rowan are opposites. Benny has a sunshine-y personality and Rowan is a brooding grump. Rowan has his reasons and they are valid, but it definitely takes him a while to come around. Benny considers himself straight…until his attraction to/obsession with Rowan grows. Rowan is keeping things very close to his chest. He is hiding a part of who he is from both himself and everyone he knows.
After resisting the pull between them for quite a while, Benny and Rowan begin a secret entanglement. I love Benny’s overall optimism and I sympathize with Rowan’s hesitation due to his circumstances. I wanted to give them both a hug at separate points in the novel.
As Benny and Rowan spend more time together, they fall for one another. However, internal conflict (Rowan’s fear) and outside influence (homophobic people like Rowan’s dad and trash talkers like Curtis) prevent them from truly being together like they want. Rowan has to work through his demons. Benny (as well as his mom and dad) help Rowan through their acceptance and love. (I also adored the Dallas and Christian cameos).
There are times when things get a little tense and uncertain between the MCs, but they manage to work everything out between them in the end. Their HEA is hard-earned and well deserved. This book is a captivating read, so grab a copy and enjoy!
This is my honest and voluntary review for the ARC I received.
Benny and Rowan are featured in the second book in Nicole Dykes’s Big Bend Bears series. Benny is Dallas’s best friend from the first book in the series. This story will make you feel every emotion, so get ready!
Benny and Rowan are opposites. Benny has a sunshine-y personality and Rowan is a brooding grump. Rowan has his reasons and they are valid, but it definitely takes him a while to come around. Benny considers himself straight…until his attraction to/obsession with Rowan grows. Rowan is keeping things very close to his chest. He is hiding a part of who he is from both himself and everyone he knows.
After resisting the pull between them for quite a while, Benny and Rowan begin a secret entanglement. I love Benny’s overall optimism and I sympathize with Rowan’s hesitation due to his circumstances. I wanted to give them both a hug at separate points in the novel.
As Benny and Rowan spend more time together, they fall for one another. However, internal conflict (Rowan’s fear) and outside influence (homophobic people like Rowan’s dad and trash talkers like Curtis) prevent them from truly being together like they want. Rowan has to work through his demons. Benny (as well as his mom and dad) help Rowan through their acceptance and love. (I also adored the Dallas and Christian cameos).
There are times when things get a little tense and uncertain between the MCs, but they manage to work everything out between them in the end. Their HEA is hard-earned and well deserved. This book is a captivating read, so grab a copy and enjoy!
April 23, 2025
Like suffocation by the world's softest beige-est pillow.
I need to stop trying books by this author. As soon as I finish the other audiobook I have.
*loved Benny's parents though. There will never be such a thing as too loving.
This was......okay,honestly. But why settle for okay when exceptional books await me?
I need to stop trying books by this author. As soon as I finish the other audiobook I have.
*loved Benny's parents though. There will never be such a thing as too loving.
This was......okay,honestly. But why settle for okay when exceptional books await me?
December 19, 2024
Book 2 of the Big Bend Bear series
High school seniors and footballers Benny and his nemesis Rowan are back with their own book.
Benny is sunshine , he has spunk.Rowan , on the other hand is a grumpy angry bear. ( not literally, this isn’t a shapeshifter book )
They both are thinking of last years encounter between them where nothing happened… but it almost did.
The chemistry is chemistrying. Benny is questioning his sexuality.
“The guy hates me with a passion, and I want to kiss the hell out of him and apparently do a hell of a lot more than that.”
Rowans dad is a homophobic prick. How can two guys riding in a truck together be gay? Like wtf It’s an absolute bizarre overreaction.
Rowan is really concerned about what his dad thinks and how he is perceived. I’m pretty sure he’s gay but pushing those feelings deep down.
Rowan and Benny, the want and the longing is so palpable but Rowan is too scared of his father’s opinion of him. He is his only parent left after his mum passed away. Big Bend is a small town with small minded views.
Benny and Rowan find themselves on a double date . Benny can barely contain his jealousy and cockblocks every attempt made by Rowans date.
“Not just that at the end. Everything. Double date. Laughing and touching me all through the movie. You practically pissed on my leg to claim me.” I shrug at that, unable to deny it.”
Rowan and Benny have still not even kissed yet because of Rowans fears of how the community , friends and his father would react. Benny would be all in if Rowan gave the go ahead.
They finally kiss and it’s everything Rowan feared it would be.
“I know this is dangerous. But just like I knew it would happen, one kiss and I already feel hooked. I want to do it again and again, which isn’t really fair to Benny. There’s no real future for us.”
Lots more making out and a blow job but Rowan tells Benny it has to be a secret from everyone . That whatever this is , whatever they are doing can’t last.
“I wasn’t trying to make you jealous.” “You sure about that?” I say, my nostrils flaring and rage bubbling up. Mine. My Benny.”
Rowans has a lot going on in that head of his.
“That familiar ache starts to settle deep in my bones. Knowing I can’t have this forever and also knowing it’s the thing I want the most out of life.”
Rowan is terrified of anyone knowing about the two of them. The town. His dad. It’s a paralysing fear that is a resounding plot point throughout the whole book. Rowan is young, his Dad is the only family he has left and he wants to hold on to that, no matter the repression , coldness and emotional cruelty.
The juxtaposition of Rowan and his dad beside Benny and his loving warm accepting parents is heartbreaking.
Benny’s dad finds them in a compromising position that doesn’t leave any questions about what they had been doing. Rowan freaks out, Benny tries to reassure him but Rowan becomes cruel in his words to end their relationship.
Benny is heartbroken. Rowan is heartbroken. They love each other damn it!
“I was thinking about the sunny, bright boy I broke. I took away his shine, and I hate myself for it.”
I’m not sure why this is a difficult choice for Rowan . He has his Benny, sunshine and a sweetheart. Then there’s his father, a broken angry bitter man not even pretending to be a dad.
Rowan and Benny try to be friends without the benefits after missing each other being apart. But that doesn’t work . They become secret boyfriends. They graduate high school. They start planning and living their life together.
“Where were you?” His cold eyes hold mine, and I snap. I’ve had enough of this. I tried for so long to get him to love me, and he couldn’t do that. Something so simple.”
Rowan snaps and finally tells his so called father he has a boyfriend. It’s pretty anticlimactic but his father as expected kicks him out. I’m glad there wasn’t a physical alteration like in other books.
The whole book was Rowan being terrified by everyone’s reaction to him being gay but in the end it didn’t seem to matter. They had each other, Benny’s family and friends and who knows how the community ended up treating them because the book ending doesn’t tell us. Were they treated like pariahs ? Did Rowans fears come true? Or did he just not care now that he’s all in with Benny, that the whole entire book we were reminded of his fears suddenly that’s not important ?
I’m glad they got a happy ending , but damn I wish I had parents who built me and my boyfriend a house when I was 17 /18 🤣
High school seniors and footballers Benny and his nemesis Rowan are back with their own book.
Benny is sunshine , he has spunk.Rowan , on the other hand is a grumpy angry bear. ( not literally, this isn’t a shapeshifter book )
They both are thinking of last years encounter between them where nothing happened… but it almost did.
The chemistry is chemistrying. Benny is questioning his sexuality.
“The guy hates me with a passion, and I want to kiss the hell out of him and apparently do a hell of a lot more than that.”
Rowans dad is a homophobic prick. How can two guys riding in a truck together be gay? Like wtf It’s an absolute bizarre overreaction.
Rowan is really concerned about what his dad thinks and how he is perceived. I’m pretty sure he’s gay but pushing those feelings deep down.
Rowan and Benny, the want and the longing is so palpable but Rowan is too scared of his father’s opinion of him. He is his only parent left after his mum passed away. Big Bend is a small town with small minded views.
Benny and Rowan find themselves on a double date . Benny can barely contain his jealousy and cockblocks every attempt made by Rowans date.
“Not just that at the end. Everything. Double date. Laughing and touching me all through the movie. You practically pissed on my leg to claim me.” I shrug at that, unable to deny it.”
Rowan and Benny have still not even kissed yet because of Rowans fears of how the community , friends and his father would react. Benny would be all in if Rowan gave the go ahead.
They finally kiss and it’s everything Rowan feared it would be.
“I know this is dangerous. But just like I knew it would happen, one kiss and I already feel hooked. I want to do it again and again, which isn’t really fair to Benny. There’s no real future for us.”
Lots more making out and a blow job but Rowan tells Benny it has to be a secret from everyone . That whatever this is , whatever they are doing can’t last.
“I wasn’t trying to make you jealous.” “You sure about that?” I say, my nostrils flaring and rage bubbling up. Mine. My Benny.”
Rowans has a lot going on in that head of his.
“That familiar ache starts to settle deep in my bones. Knowing I can’t have this forever and also knowing it’s the thing I want the most out of life.”
Rowan is terrified of anyone knowing about the two of them. The town. His dad. It’s a paralysing fear that is a resounding plot point throughout the whole book. Rowan is young, his Dad is the only family he has left and he wants to hold on to that, no matter the repression , coldness and emotional cruelty.
The juxtaposition of Rowan and his dad beside Benny and his loving warm accepting parents is heartbreaking.
Benny’s dad finds them in a compromising position that doesn’t leave any questions about what they had been doing. Rowan freaks out, Benny tries to reassure him but Rowan becomes cruel in his words to end their relationship.
Benny is heartbroken. Rowan is heartbroken. They love each other damn it!
“I was thinking about the sunny, bright boy I broke. I took away his shine, and I hate myself for it.”
I’m not sure why this is a difficult choice for Rowan . He has his Benny, sunshine and a sweetheart. Then there’s his father, a broken angry bitter man not even pretending to be a dad.
Rowan and Benny try to be friends without the benefits after missing each other being apart. But that doesn’t work . They become secret boyfriends. They graduate high school. They start planning and living their life together.
“Where were you?” His cold eyes hold mine, and I snap. I’ve had enough of this. I tried for so long to get him to love me, and he couldn’t do that. Something so simple.”
Rowan snaps and finally tells his so called father he has a boyfriend. It’s pretty anticlimactic but his father as expected kicks him out. I’m glad there wasn’t a physical alteration like in other books.
The whole book was Rowan being terrified by everyone’s reaction to him being gay but in the end it didn’t seem to matter. They had each other, Benny’s family and friends and who knows how the community ended up treating them because the book ending doesn’t tell us. Were they treated like pariahs ? Did Rowans fears come true? Or did he just not care now that he’s all in with Benny, that the whole entire book we were reminded of his fears suddenly that’s not important ?
I’m glad they got a happy ending , but damn I wish I had parents who built me and my boyfriend a house when I was 17 /18 🤣
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 24, 2025
Tropes: hurt/comfort, small town, grumpy/sunshine, animosity to love
Feels: 4/5
Steam*: 2.5/5
Kinks: n/a
Angst: low/medium
HEA: yes
Pairing: MM
Triggers/potential icks/content warnings: homophobia, homophobic father, dead mother, third act break up
Cheating between MCs: No
Any cheating: No
Other person drama: almost a year ago, Benny and Rowan almost kissed Benny was dating a girl at the time, and he didn't want to be a cheater, so nothing happened but he did break up with his girlfriend. Rowan has never been with anyone. Benny hasn't been with anyone since his girlfriend. Rowan kisses a girl before he gives in to his attraction to Benny. There is a double date and some mild jealousy about other love interests, but neither of them have eyes for anyone else, they are both obsessed with each other.
4.5 stars
Benny and Rowan are high school seniors who play football together. Benny is a happy-go-lucky guy, who's often had a girlfriend. Rowan is gay and in the closet, he's gone out on a few dates to try to keep his homophobic father off the scent, but he's never been with anyone. Rowan is attracted to Benny, and Benny is just figuring out that he may be bisexual, because he is definitely feeling that spark with Rowan. Once Benny realizes what he's feeling, he wants to pursue a relationship with Rowan. But Rowan resists it because he's very deep in the closet, and with his homophobic father and the homophobic small town that they live in, he doesn't think he could have a relationship.
But they're unable to stay away from each other and they give in. They start having a secret relationship. But when they get found out by one person, Rowan runs away scared and has to work out whether he's willing to risk giving up his relationship with his dad to have benny.
I really liked this story. The grumpy/sunshine trope is a favorite of mine. I liked how deeply the characters felt for each other, from the very beginning there was a spark between them, and I loved to see Benny get under Rowan's skin and break down his defenses and love him and heal him. I loved how supportive Benny's family was. I loved how open Benny was to love in whatever form it came to him in. There were a lot of sweet, deep, and meaningful moments between them. Like for example there was this one moment where they weren't together, and someone was flirting with Benny while Rowan watched, and Benny's internal monologue was that he didn't want to hurt Rowan, even though he was hurting and lashing out and making Rowan jealous occurred to him. I loved how Rowan called Benny my Benny and Benny kept seeking reassurance from Rowan and asking if he was still your Benny. This book really hit me in the feelings!
Some notable moments:
The hiss! "I swallow hard, fighting that sick feeling in my gut as I grunt a reply and loop Benny’s arm around my neck. “I’m taking his drunk ass home.” “Probably for the best,” Vaughn says with a smile, shaking his head at Benny, who’s struggling to stay upright, leaning all his weight on me. “Wait up. I’ll go with you,” Bianca says, running up to us as I stumble out of the barn. “No,” Benny says way too quickly, shaking his head, and I swear the guy is close to hissing at her."
The hurt here! "“You don’t want this. You don’t want this to end. I know you don’t. You want me as badly as I want you.” His gaze softens slightly, and his hand cups my cheek gently. “I can’t do this, Benny. It’s too hard, and it was always going to end.” “But . . .” I try and choke on a sob. I don’t know what to say to get him to stay. “I’m your Benny.” I sniff, tears falling down my cheeks, and I don’t care. The pain deep inside me is a festering wound that I’m afraid will never heal."
"“I don’t want to watch you with a girl you don’t feel anything for, when I want you so badly, I can barely breathe.”"
*FYI about steam: I rate steam based on a combination of quality & quantity. I note kink separate from steam because I don't want to underrate steamy reads that don't have much kink.
**Note about spoilers: I like to comment on the plot of a book in reviews, so I almost always mark my reviews as containing spoilers. But I try to avoid spoiling the big dramatic moments! As a reader, I personally like to know what I'm getting into before I read a book so I know more about the content and if it's to my taste/mood, so I try to give that information in my reviews for myself when I'm considering rereading and also for other readers.
Feels: 4/5
Steam*: 2.5/5
Kinks: n/a
Angst: low/medium
HEA: yes
Pairing: MM
Triggers/potential icks/content warnings: homophobia, homophobic father, dead mother, third act break up
Cheating between MCs: No
Any cheating: No
Other person drama: almost a year ago, Benny and Rowan almost kissed Benny was dating a girl at the time, and he didn't want to be a cheater, so nothing happened but he did break up with his girlfriend. Rowan has never been with anyone. Benny hasn't been with anyone since his girlfriend. Rowan kisses a girl before he gives in to his attraction to Benny. There is a double date and some mild jealousy about other love interests, but neither of them have eyes for anyone else, they are both obsessed with each other.
4.5 stars
Benny and Rowan are high school seniors who play football together. Benny is a happy-go-lucky guy, who's often had a girlfriend. Rowan is gay and in the closet, he's gone out on a few dates to try to keep his homophobic father off the scent, but he's never been with anyone. Rowan is attracted to Benny, and Benny is just figuring out that he may be bisexual, because he is definitely feeling that spark with Rowan. Once Benny realizes what he's feeling, he wants to pursue a relationship with Rowan. But Rowan resists it because he's very deep in the closet, and with his homophobic father and the homophobic small town that they live in, he doesn't think he could have a relationship.
But they're unable to stay away from each other and they give in. They start having a secret relationship. But when they get found out by one person, Rowan runs away scared and has to work out whether he's willing to risk giving up his relationship with his dad to have benny.
I really liked this story. The grumpy/sunshine trope is a favorite of mine. I liked how deeply the characters felt for each other, from the very beginning there was a spark between them, and I loved to see Benny get under Rowan's skin and break down his defenses and love him and heal him. I loved how supportive Benny's family was. I loved how open Benny was to love in whatever form it came to him in. There were a lot of sweet, deep, and meaningful moments between them. Like for example there was this one moment where they weren't together, and someone was flirting with Benny while Rowan watched, and Benny's internal monologue was that he didn't want to hurt Rowan, even though he was hurting and lashing out and making Rowan jealous occurred to him. I loved how Rowan called Benny my Benny and Benny kept seeking reassurance from Rowan and asking if he was still your Benny. This book really hit me in the feelings!
Some notable moments:
The hiss! "I swallow hard, fighting that sick feeling in my gut as I grunt a reply and loop Benny’s arm around my neck. “I’m taking his drunk ass home.” “Probably for the best,” Vaughn says with a smile, shaking his head at Benny, who’s struggling to stay upright, leaning all his weight on me. “Wait up. I’ll go with you,” Bianca says, running up to us as I stumble out of the barn. “No,” Benny says way too quickly, shaking his head, and I swear the guy is close to hissing at her."
The hurt here! "“You don’t want this. You don’t want this to end. I know you don’t. You want me as badly as I want you.” His gaze softens slightly, and his hand cups my cheek gently. “I can’t do this, Benny. It’s too hard, and it was always going to end.” “But . . .” I try and choke on a sob. I don’t know what to say to get him to stay. “I’m your Benny.” I sniff, tears falling down my cheeks, and I don’t care. The pain deep inside me is a festering wound that I’m afraid will never heal."
"“I don’t want to watch you with a girl you don’t feel anything for, when I want you so badly, I can barely breathe.”"
*FYI about steam: I rate steam based on a combination of quality & quantity. I note kink separate from steam because I don't want to underrate steamy reads that don't have much kink.
**Note about spoilers: I like to comment on the plot of a book in reviews, so I almost always mark my reviews as containing spoilers. But I try to avoid spoiling the big dramatic moments! As a reader, I personally like to know what I'm getting into before I read a book so I know more about the content and if it's to my taste/mood, so I try to give that information in my reviews for myself when I'm considering rereading and also for other readers.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 8, 2024
4.5 stars
Hail Mary is book two in the Big Bend Bears series. This MM small town romance story is about Benny and Rowan.
We first met Benny in book one, Red Zone. I absolutely loved him and couldn’t wait to read his story. He is full of sunshine and such a sweet and happy guy. He has always dated girls and loves love. Benny’s parents are amazing and just so accepting. If only more people from their small town could be that way too.
Unfortunately for Rowan, his father was one of those people that was not accepting of gay people. Rowan’s mother had passed away when he was young, so his father was all he had left. Benny was a grumpy guy, but he was also scared and had to hide who he really was from everyone.
Benny and Rowan lived close by each other. They were classmates and played on the football team together. One almost kiss between the two of them had Benny questioning what it would be like to be with Rowan for real. They went from disliking each other to trying not to give in to their feelings. And when they did, they were so hot together. But of course they had to keep it all a secret. The struggles these two had to go through were worth it in the end. I was happy to see them get their HEA.
This was such a great addition to this series, and I look forward to the next!
I received an advanced copy of this book, and this is my honest review.
Hail Mary is book two in the Big Bend Bears series. This MM small town romance story is about Benny and Rowan.
We first met Benny in book one, Red Zone. I absolutely loved him and couldn’t wait to read his story. He is full of sunshine and such a sweet and happy guy. He has always dated girls and loves love. Benny’s parents are amazing and just so accepting. If only more people from their small town could be that way too.
Unfortunately for Rowan, his father was one of those people that was not accepting of gay people. Rowan’s mother had passed away when he was young, so his father was all he had left. Benny was a grumpy guy, but he was also scared and had to hide who he really was from everyone.
Benny and Rowan lived close by each other. They were classmates and played on the football team together. One almost kiss between the two of them had Benny questioning what it would be like to be with Rowan for real. They went from disliking each other to trying not to give in to their feelings. And when they did, they were so hot together. But of course they had to keep it all a secret. The struggles these two had to go through were worth it in the end. I was happy to see them get their HEA.
This was such a great addition to this series, and I look forward to the next!
I received an advanced copy of this book, and this is my honest review.
December 3, 2024
Benny + Rowan
-mm high school romance
-enemies to lovers
-football teammates
-small town
-self discovery
omggg benny & rowans dynamic was ELECTRICCCCC & had me hooked from the get go!! the tension was sooooo amazing & their development in such a short story impressed me & made me feel all the feels!!
-mm high school romance
-enemies to lovers
-football teammates
-small town
-self discovery
omggg benny & rowans dynamic was ELECTRICCCCC & had me hooked from the get go!! the tension was sooooo amazing & their development in such a short story impressed me & made me feel all the feels!!
April 29, 2025
3.5 stars✨
Benny and his family becoming Rowan’s family😭😭
Benny and his family becoming Rowan’s family😭😭
November 7, 2025
I enjoyed Benny and Rowan's story quite a bit. They had some good chemistry and their relationship was pretty believable.
I have to knock some points for the rushed scene where the guy who tops all the way through the book suddenly wants to bottom. So tired of this.
Also, the last 10% of the book rushes by so fast. Basically a year, if not more, and a lot happens off page. It was rushed, and it shows. That really sucks, because, like I said, I liked Benny and Rowan a lot, and it would have been great to have had more information on the beginning of their official relationship.
I have to knock some points for the rushed scene where the guy who tops all the way through the book suddenly wants to bottom. So tired of this.
Also, the last 10% of the book rushes by so fast. Basically a year, if not more, and a lot happens off page. It was rushed, and it shows. That really sucks, because, like I said, I liked Benny and Rowan a lot, and it would have been great to have had more information on the beginning of their official relationship.
December 10, 2024
2 stars. This might be a me issue more than it is the book or author’s fault. I just couldn’t connect with the characters much, nor was the plot anything special. I mean, the blurb makes it apparent enough that the contents of the book aren’t anything new, but this didn’t meet my expectations at all. I was hoping we’d get more enemy-time between Rowan and Benny, but when it was made clear that that wouldn’t be the case, I pretty much lost interest.
April 30, 2025
2.5 stars rounded up to 3
This was okay but idk. It was just sooooooo teen insta-love/I can't come out for you.
This was okay but idk. It was just sooooooo teen insta-love/I can't come out for you.
December 6, 2024
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I was so ready for this book! I was counting the days to read it and it didn't let me down.
After the disappointment that Simplicity turned out to be (I enjoyed reading it but it was by far my least fav of the author since, for me, it was way too simplistic even though I get that was kinda the point, but it was a sad miss for me), I was afraid this one might let me down too. But nope, not at all.
For those discovering these books now, you should know that you can read them in any order. However, there are three interconnected sagas: the main one is Kensley Panthers, which branches into two spinoffs: Big Bend Bears (this book belongs to this one) and Oakley’s Crew, which includes the aforementioned Simplicity. I always recommend following the original order because, well, the earlier books are great, they have a similar style, and it’s always nice to catch the cameos and references, so why not read those too, right?
Now, focusing on this book… Benny is our new MC, whom we met in Red Zone as Dallas’s best friend. The other MC is Rowan, his high school teammate and nemesis. Both appear in the first book, but we really only get to truly know Benny.
This book kicks off strong. There’s already chemistry and strong sexual tension between them, sparked by a prior “situation” that sets off alarm bells for both.
As is usual in the three sagas I mentioned, small town pressure and what-would-others-say are key themes for the story. So it’s no surprise that at least one of the MCs struggles to accept their sexuality—in this case, Rowan. While Benny experiences a bisexual awakening thanks to Rowan and what he’s beginning to feel for him, Benny has the advantage of having loving and understanding parents. Meanwhile, Rowan’s family situation is more complicated, which exacerbates his struggles.
Their relationship develops at a perfect pace. They start off on the wrong foot, but the attraction, as I said, is palpable. Even so, they take their time before diving in and giving in to their feelings, which keeps the reader in suspense until we hit a point of no return.
At that point, their relationship is adorable, though not without complications. Rowan’s hesitations stem from his fear of losing everything he knows and not being accepted by the entire town—a fear that, unfortunately, is quite justified in their context. Despite this, the drama is well-handled (even if not surprising, since you can see what’s coming most of the time, but it doesn’t detract from the enjoyment), delivered in the right doses and at the right moments. Even in the worst moments, the supporting characters—especially Benny’s parents, whom I adore—help balance things with their love and support.
Overall, this book is very much in line with the previous ones, with perhaps a slightly heavier dramatic tone, but nothing too excessive. I love the relationship Benn and Rowan develope, how they care for each other, and how they’re not afraid to show it (not gonna lie, all those My Benny moments melt me)
Now I’m just hoping the upcoming books live up to this one and keep the bar high (and fingers crossed the next one is Vaughn Montgomery’s story because I’ve been needing that one for yesterday!)
I was so ready for this book! I was counting the days to read it and it didn't let me down.
After the disappointment that Simplicity turned out to be (I enjoyed reading it but it was by far my least fav of the author since, for me, it was way too simplistic even though I get that was kinda the point, but it was a sad miss for me), I was afraid this one might let me down too. But nope, not at all.
For those discovering these books now, you should know that you can read them in any order. However, there are three interconnected sagas: the main one is Kensley Panthers, which branches into two spinoffs: Big Bend Bears (this book belongs to this one) and Oakley’s Crew, which includes the aforementioned Simplicity. I always recommend following the original order because, well, the earlier books are great, they have a similar style, and it’s always nice to catch the cameos and references, so why not read those too, right?
Now, focusing on this book… Benny is our new MC, whom we met in Red Zone as Dallas’s best friend. The other MC is Rowan, his high school teammate and nemesis. Both appear in the first book, but we really only get to truly know Benny.
This book kicks off strong. There’s already chemistry and strong sexual tension between them, sparked by a prior “situation” that sets off alarm bells for both.
As is usual in the three sagas I mentioned, small town pressure and what-would-others-say are key themes for the story. So it’s no surprise that at least one of the MCs struggles to accept their sexuality—in this case, Rowan. While Benny experiences a bisexual awakening thanks to Rowan and what he’s beginning to feel for him, Benny has the advantage of having loving and understanding parents. Meanwhile, Rowan’s family situation is more complicated, which exacerbates his struggles.
Their relationship develops at a perfect pace. They start off on the wrong foot, but the attraction, as I said, is palpable. Even so, they take their time before diving in and giving in to their feelings, which keeps the reader in suspense until we hit a point of no return.
At that point, their relationship is adorable, though not without complications. Rowan’s hesitations stem from his fear of losing everything he knows and not being accepted by the entire town—a fear that, unfortunately, is quite justified in their context. Despite this, the drama is well-handled (even if not surprising, since you can see what’s coming most of the time, but it doesn’t detract from the enjoyment), delivered in the right doses and at the right moments. Even in the worst moments, the supporting characters—especially Benny’s parents, whom I adore—help balance things with their love and support.
Overall, this book is very much in line with the previous ones, with perhaps a slightly heavier dramatic tone, but nothing too excessive. I love the relationship Benn and Rowan develope, how they care for each other, and how they’re not afraid to show it (not gonna lie, all those My Benny moments melt me)
Now I’m just hoping the upcoming books live up to this one and keep the bar high (and fingers crossed the next one is Vaughn Montgomery’s story because I’ve been needing that one for yesterday!)
December 17, 2024
Hail Mary is the second book In the Big Bend Bears series. While it is a series on its own, it kind of ties in with the Kensley Panthers series.
Benny is a serial dater and womanizer. He is also sunshine. He is the new quarterback of the Big Bends Bears now that Dallas, his best friend, has graduated, and he is good at it. He is protected on the field by Rowan. He wants to be protected by him off the field as well. Rowan has the complete opposite life of Benny. He has a dead mother and a father who seems to care more about how “gay” things appear than his son himself. After an almost kiss, Benny decides he is all in with Rowan, and whether he likes it or not, they will be a couple.
Benny is such a sweet character. He actually reminds me a lot of Oakley in the Kensley Panthers series. Happy-go-lucky with great parents. He is Rowan’s complete opposite, and they somehow end up complementing each other perfectly. I was rooting for them since the beginning. I love how Benny's family just knew who Rowan was to him, and despite his poor father seeing something he shouldn’t and wishes he hadn’t seen, he doesn’t make anything awkward and embraces Rowan as another addition to the family.
I loved seeing Dallas and his son popping up in the story, which we knew would happen since Benny and he were besties. Benny would be a great dad after seeing him with the baby. I look forward to the next book even more. Somehow, I always look forward to the next book in Nicole’s series.
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure. A review wasn't a requirement. ***
Benny is a serial dater and womanizer. He is also sunshine. He is the new quarterback of the Big Bends Bears now that Dallas, his best friend, has graduated, and he is good at it. He is protected on the field by Rowan. He wants to be protected by him off the field as well. Rowan has the complete opposite life of Benny. He has a dead mother and a father who seems to care more about how “gay” things appear than his son himself. After an almost kiss, Benny decides he is all in with Rowan, and whether he likes it or not, they will be a couple.
Benny is such a sweet character. He actually reminds me a lot of Oakley in the Kensley Panthers series. Happy-go-lucky with great parents. He is Rowan’s complete opposite, and they somehow end up complementing each other perfectly. I was rooting for them since the beginning. I love how Benny's family just knew who Rowan was to him, and despite his poor father seeing something he shouldn’t and wishes he hadn’t seen, he doesn’t make anything awkward and embraces Rowan as another addition to the family.
I loved seeing Dallas and his son popping up in the story, which we knew would happen since Benny and he were besties. Benny would be a great dad after seeing him with the baby. I look forward to the next book even more. Somehow, I always look forward to the next book in Nicole’s series.
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure. A review wasn't a requirement. ***
December 5, 2024
Oh my goodness. I'm obsessed with Benny. His outlook on life is so refreshing. He's truly such a happy person, and so full of life. He sees the good in everyone, and doesn't let anything bring him down. It's exactly what Rowan needs. He needs someone to see the good because he only focuses on the bad. He has his reasons, his fears. But Benny is there for him, showing him the amazing things love has to offer. They push through the hard times, and come together in ways they both needed. Their relationship is pure, and while there are struggles, you can feel how much they love each other.
December 24, 2024
needed a quick fun read after Lor 😫
October 27, 2025
A stolen moment a long time ago leaves an ever lasting effect and now Benny can’t stop thinking about the grumpy Roman who has been avoiding him for years now. I loved that Nicole can always get me sucked into these epic love stories! And the narration by Nick J Russo and Devon Ryder was heated and yet sweet!
December 3, 2024
benny + rowan
🌶️🌶️/5
Thank you Nicole Dykes and Chaotic Creatives for this ARC in exchange for my honest review🫶🏼
second book in Big Bend Bears series | MM | football | high school | grumpy x sunshine | Kansas | small town | enemies to lovers | bi awakening | QB x guard | size difference | opposites attract | homophobia | HEA🏈
>>Blond haired, blue eyed sunshine BENNY and big, broody, dark hair, green eyed ROWAN. Gah, I just loved these two because they are quite simply polar opposites. Benny's sunshine personality and mouthy demeanor made me laugh because Rowan just didn't know what to do with all that LIGHT. Of course Benny is magic because his parents are angels on earth supporting Benny and loving him just as he is. But Rowan. Poor, poor Rowan he made my heart hurt. The repression he suffers was heartbreaking. Love shouldn't be conditional - especially based on sexuality - and that poor boy just didn't know what to do. The FEAR he had...I wanted to give him a big hug and tell him everything would be okay. Benny and Rowan are true country boys who just want to find their happily ever after because Benny boy loves LOVE. And Rowan deserves the world. The cameos with Dallas from the first book of the Big Bend Bears series made me giddy and the spice was HOT. No cringe words or crazy immature scenes which I appreciate especially with the high school trope. Well done, Nicole!
🌶️🌶️/5
Thank you Nicole Dykes and Chaotic Creatives for this ARC in exchange for my honest review🫶🏼
second book in Big Bend Bears series | MM | football | high school | grumpy x sunshine | Kansas | small town | enemies to lovers | bi awakening | QB x guard | size difference | opposites attract | homophobia | HEA🏈
>>Blond haired, blue eyed sunshine BENNY and big, broody, dark hair, green eyed ROWAN. Gah, I just loved these two because they are quite simply polar opposites. Benny's sunshine personality and mouthy demeanor made me laugh because Rowan just didn't know what to do with all that LIGHT. Of course Benny is magic because his parents are angels on earth supporting Benny and loving him just as he is. But Rowan. Poor, poor Rowan he made my heart hurt. The repression he suffers was heartbreaking. Love shouldn't be conditional - especially based on sexuality - and that poor boy just didn't know what to do. The FEAR he had...I wanted to give him a big hug and tell him everything would be okay. Benny and Rowan are true country boys who just want to find their happily ever after because Benny boy loves LOVE. And Rowan deserves the world. The cameos with Dallas from the first book of the Big Bend Bears series made me giddy and the spice was HOT. No cringe words or crazy immature scenes which I appreciate especially with the high school trope. Well done, Nicole!
December 28, 2024
I've read ikea instruction manuals that were more exciting than this.
December 5, 2024
Arc Review
Benjamin ‘Benny’ McBride has had many girlfriends over the years while at high school, he loves the idea of love. He inevitably gets bored and breaks up and moves on, no one can stick and he cannot pinpoint why.
He plays football with someone who he does not like, but for some reason he gets under his skin.
Rowan Kincaid has dated girls but he knows in his heart it has never felt right. His mom died a few years ago, and the only family he has is his dad, so he doesn't want to disappoint him, and being gay would be not allowed. His dad says he needs to find a girl, and not hang with the football guys so much.
Rowan cannot come out, as he feels the whole town is homophobic and it would mean loosing his dad too.
The more and more Rowan and Benny become involved, the more the idea of coming out scares Rowan. He breaks it off, but is utterly miserable. Is living with his unloving father worth giving up on love?
I loved the first book ‘Red Zone’ by Nicole Dykes in her Big Bend Bears series. It is where we first meet Benny.
There is a third act break up, which hurt my heart, as you could feel how much it was hurting both Rowan and Benny. Once Rowan realises family is not just about blood, and he has people who love him regardless, they are on course for their HEA.
It was also lovely to catch up with Dallas and Colt, and their family.
“I have a family now. A real one. Who loves me for me and just wants me to be happy”.
Benjamin ‘Benny’ McBride has had many girlfriends over the years while at high school, he loves the idea of love. He inevitably gets bored and breaks up and moves on, no one can stick and he cannot pinpoint why.
He plays football with someone who he does not like, but for some reason he gets under his skin.
Rowan Kincaid has dated girls but he knows in his heart it has never felt right. His mom died a few years ago, and the only family he has is his dad, so he doesn't want to disappoint him, and being gay would be not allowed. His dad says he needs to find a girl, and not hang with the football guys so much.
Rowan cannot come out, as he feels the whole town is homophobic and it would mean loosing his dad too.
The more and more Rowan and Benny become involved, the more the idea of coming out scares Rowan. He breaks it off, but is utterly miserable. Is living with his unloving father worth giving up on love?
I loved the first book ‘Red Zone’ by Nicole Dykes in her Big Bend Bears series. It is where we first meet Benny.
There is a third act break up, which hurt my heart, as you could feel how much it was hurting both Rowan and Benny. Once Rowan realises family is not just about blood, and he has people who love him regardless, they are on course for their HEA.
It was also lovely to catch up with Dallas and Colt, and their family.
“I have a family now. A real one. Who loves me for me and just wants me to be happy”.
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