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Soho Knights #4
Convenient Rivals
In the heart of London, where privilege and ambition collide, Gregory and Oscar's tumultuous past threatens to resurface in unexpected ways. Once childhood friends, their relationship took a dark turn when Oscar became Gregory's high school bully. Now successful in their own right, their paths continue to intertwine due to the dysfunctional bond between their mothers. While Oscar seeks to atone for his past, Gregory remains trapped in a cycle of hurt and betrayal.
After being abandoned by his family when they discovered he was gay, Gregory yearns for their acceptance, but only on their terms. As he struggles to support his financially reckless brother, entangled with the mob, the stability of his Soho home with his chosen family of true brothers hangs by a thread. With desperation setting in, a glimmer of hope emerges when Oscar proposes a marriage of convenience, which could solve both of their problems.
Oscar’s mother has her own agenda, threatening to upend everything he believes about love and loyalty. Can the reserved tech genius and the charming former athlete put aside their painful history to forge a new beginning? As the tension between them sizzles and threatens to ignite into something undeniably passionate, they must confront their pasts and decide how much they are willing to sacrifice. In a world of titles and privilege, family ties threaten to strangle the love which is building between them. Will they find the courage to defy their legacies for a chance at happiness, even if it means risking everything they’ve ever known?
After being abandoned by his family when they discovered he was gay, Gregory yearns for their acceptance, but only on their terms. As he struggles to support his financially reckless brother, entangled with the mob, the stability of his Soho home with his chosen family of true brothers hangs by a thread. With desperation setting in, a glimmer of hope emerges when Oscar proposes a marriage of convenience, which could solve both of their problems.
Oscar’s mother has her own agenda, threatening to upend everything he believes about love and loyalty. Can the reserved tech genius and the charming former athlete put aside their painful history to forge a new beginning? As the tension between them sizzles and threatens to ignite into something undeniably passionate, they must confront their pasts and decide how much they are willing to sacrifice. In a world of titles and privilege, family ties threaten to strangle the love which is building between them. Will they find the courage to defy their legacies for a chance at happiness, even if it means risking everything they’ve ever known?
220 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 30, 2025
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
June 16, 2025
To be honest, it is pretty off putting watching these two grown men conform to the confines of family dictation. One dates men his mother chooses and the other financially supports the family that threw him away 🤔
Not a good look on either of these self made men.
Gregory is pretty robotic, I honestly don't like him. He's pretty dumb for a smart man. They are both hard to read and don't know what they want and yet are set on playing the martyrs 🙄
So... 70%in and we still don't know how they feel and Oscar is still contemplating another man (Daniel) in whatever capacity 🤔
This author has a very busy mind.
I wanted to like this more but it missed a few marks for me by not sufficiently showing the actual falling in love. The kinky sex was over played making it feel heartless
Problems felt like they were created just to take up space. It feels like the book needed editing.
I love the concept and brotherly love and the world created, but it needed less scenes and more feelings.
Not a good look on either of these self made men.
Gregory is pretty robotic, I honestly don't like him. He's pretty dumb for a smart man. They are both hard to read and don't know what they want and yet are set on playing the martyrs 🙄
So... 70%in and we still don't know how they feel and Oscar is still contemplating another man (Daniel) in whatever capacity 🤔
This author has a very busy mind.
I wanted to like this more but it missed a few marks for me by not sufficiently showing the actual falling in love. The kinky sex was over played making it feel heartless
Problems felt like they were created just to take up space. It feels like the book needed editing.
I love the concept and brotherly love and the world created, but it needed less scenes and more feelings.
September 21, 2025
Like I said in my last review, I haven't read this series in order and this was the last book that I had left to read. I've loved it just as much as I loved the others.
I was very curious about Gregory from the beginning. He always seemed very reserved and not very talkative, although it was obvious he cared deeply for his friends. In this book I got to know Gregory better, who was not as introverted as I initially thought.
Gregory and Oscar had known each other their whole lives. They both came from rich families and were best friends until High School and Oscar joined the group who bullied Gregory. They both had so much in common, starting with despicable families. Although I must say Gregory's won the award for worst family ever. His family disowned him when he came out as they saw being gay as something awful. Like I said, a heinous family with detestable parents.
I don't usually like stories where one of the MC was a bully to the other in the past, but here the story was so well written and everything was explained clearly in a way that I couldn't dislike Oscar, also he tried hard to make it up to Gregory for it. He had apologised many times over the years, but he finally found a way to redeem himself by faking a relationship with his former friend.
This was a very emotional story, but I couldn't help laughing a few times. I loved how the author pictured both families, their prejudices and the behaviour of the upper class. It was also shown how money wasn't the key to happiness and how much falsehood went around those aristocratic families.
Gregory and Oscar were amazing together. Gregory had always been in love with his friend and Oscar had also had feelings for Gregory since they were young. It was great to see how they became closer and finally got through their past to start something new. It's true it was very frustrating to see Gregory giving in to his parents's money demands, so I applauded Oscar for making him see he didn't have to do it.
I loved this book and was happy to see Gregory get his HEA. I've loved this whole series so much and I can't wait to carry on reading whatever this author brings next.
I was very curious about Gregory from the beginning. He always seemed very reserved and not very talkative, although it was obvious he cared deeply for his friends. In this book I got to know Gregory better, who was not as introverted as I initially thought.
Gregory and Oscar had known each other their whole lives. They both came from rich families and were best friends until High School and Oscar joined the group who bullied Gregory. They both had so much in common, starting with despicable families. Although I must say Gregory's won the award for worst family ever. His family disowned him when he came out as they saw being gay as something awful. Like I said, a heinous family with detestable parents.
I don't usually like stories where one of the MC was a bully to the other in the past, but here the story was so well written and everything was explained clearly in a way that I couldn't dislike Oscar, also he tried hard to make it up to Gregory for it. He had apologised many times over the years, but he finally found a way to redeem himself by faking a relationship with his former friend.
This was a very emotional story, but I couldn't help laughing a few times. I loved how the author pictured both families, their prejudices and the behaviour of the upper class. It was also shown how money wasn't the key to happiness and how much falsehood went around those aristocratic families.
Gregory and Oscar were amazing together. Gregory had always been in love with his friend and Oscar had also had feelings for Gregory since they were young. It was great to see how they became closer and finally got through their past to start something new. It's true it was very frustrating to see Gregory giving in to his parents's money demands, so I applauded Oscar for making him see he didn't have to do it.
I loved this book and was happy to see Gregory get his HEA. I've loved this whole series so much and I can't wait to carry on reading whatever this author brings next.
February 26, 2026
4.5⭐️
Tropes: Enemies to Lovers • Former Bully • Marriage of Convenience
Gregory and Oscar are so into each other, but the drama that’s followed them since childhood makes trust hard — especially when your childhood crush turns into your secondary school bully. The tension between them is thick, messy, and absolutely addictive.
Between family drama, mafia chaos, and unresolved feelings, they lean into each other for stress relief… because sometimes it’s easier than facing what’s really going on between them 😏. And let’s just say… private office moments were very well utilized 🙃🔥
I loved this one! Perfect for MM romance lovers who live for the banter, tension, emotional messiness, and spicy payoff.
Tropes: Enemies to Lovers • Former Bully • Marriage of Convenience
Gregory and Oscar are so into each other, but the drama that’s followed them since childhood makes trust hard — especially when your childhood crush turns into your secondary school bully. The tension between them is thick, messy, and absolutely addictive.
Between family drama, mafia chaos, and unresolved feelings, they lean into each other for stress relief… because sometimes it’s easier than facing what’s really going on between them 😏. And let’s just say… private office moments were very well utilized 🙃🔥
I loved this one! Perfect for MM romance lovers who live for the banter, tension, emotional messiness, and spicy payoff.
February 10, 2026
I loved this! I enjoyed the last one as well but I love a good enemies to lovers trope. Watching this group has been fun. I look forward to Jason’s story! Gregory and Oscar are cute and the tension is insane. Gary Furlong and Elliot Matthews voices these two spot on. You could feel the tension. The passion. I just really enjoyed it! Spice is 3.5 fo me but could be a 4 if you don’t do a lot of spice. Narrators were 5⭐️.👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻
February 26, 2026
ALC Review
The book is written in the 3rd person dual pov. The audiobook is a duet and Elliot and Gary did a great job, even though Im not a fan of 3rd pov the accents were perfection and I stayed interested in the story.
Gregory and Oscar were an unlikely pair, they had a weird dynamic but the sexual relationship was intense. I enjoyed the characters especially Jason, he was hilarious
Overall I enjoyed the narration very much!
The book is written in the 3rd person dual pov. The audiobook is a duet and Elliot and Gary did a great job, even though Im not a fan of 3rd pov the accents were perfection and I stayed interested in the story.
Gregory and Oscar were an unlikely pair, they had a weird dynamic but the sexual relationship was intense. I enjoyed the characters especially Jason, he was hilarious
Overall I enjoyed the narration very much!
February 11, 2026
AUDIO REVIEW
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
🎧🎧🎧🎧🎧
Convenient Rivals by Oliver Takely Book 4 in the Soho Knights series
Performed in duet by Gary Furlong & Elliot Matthews
Convenient Rivals is book 4 in the Soho Knights series and is Gregory’s story who has been the main reason all the friends live together after he become successful when he designed a fitness app called “Legs Up.” He has always come across as reserved and not very talkative, but due to his family situation he always wanted his friends to,have a place that they would never have to leave, so he created a safe space for all.
Gregory and Oscar both came from rich families and were best friends until they went to secondary school where Oscar fighting his sexuality become part of a group of so called friends who’s sole purpose was to bully Gregory who was comfortable when he came out, although his family decided to disown him until they needed something from him usually money, to his family are the pits is an understatement.
Due to a dangerous situation Oscar and Gregory are thrown back into each other’s orbit after years apart and they broker a deal to ensure there is a peaceful outcome but guilt and feelings of mistrust are freely flowing even though Oscar is falling hard for Gregory and struggles with how to make things right and redeem himself, and this side of the story is so well written and narrated you can’t be help feel every emotion.
This was a very emotional story, but some of the banter and situation both find themselves in had me laughing out loud. Oliver Takely perfectly pictures both families, their prejudices, expectations and behaviour of the upper class. It was also shown how money wasn't the key to happiness and how much falsehood went around those aristocratic families.
Gregory and Oscar were amazing together. Gregory had always had feelings deep down for Oscar but wasn’t sure he could act on them due to the treatment he received in school but Oscar has been in love with Gregory from the very beginning and the surprising power play between the two was unexpected.
This story isn’t just two people finally finding each other through difficult life experiences but I enjoyed the way Oscar helped Gregory see his worth to himself was more than his money and his family’s unhealthy demands.
At the end there is a major shocking twist I absolutely didn’t see coming and can’t wait to see where it goes.
The narration from Gary Furlong & Elliot Matthews is absolutely sublime and just took this audio to another level.
I love Oliver Takely’s writing and can’t wait for the next instalment he never disappoints.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
🎧🎧🎧🎧🎧
Convenient Rivals by Oliver Takely Book 4 in the Soho Knights series
Performed in duet by Gary Furlong & Elliot Matthews
Convenient Rivals is book 4 in the Soho Knights series and is Gregory’s story who has been the main reason all the friends live together after he become successful when he designed a fitness app called “Legs Up.” He has always come across as reserved and not very talkative, but due to his family situation he always wanted his friends to,have a place that they would never have to leave, so he created a safe space for all.
Gregory and Oscar both came from rich families and were best friends until they went to secondary school where Oscar fighting his sexuality become part of a group of so called friends who’s sole purpose was to bully Gregory who was comfortable when he came out, although his family decided to disown him until they needed something from him usually money, to his family are the pits is an understatement.
Due to a dangerous situation Oscar and Gregory are thrown back into each other’s orbit after years apart and they broker a deal to ensure there is a peaceful outcome but guilt and feelings of mistrust are freely flowing even though Oscar is falling hard for Gregory and struggles with how to make things right and redeem himself, and this side of the story is so well written and narrated you can’t be help feel every emotion.
This was a very emotional story, but some of the banter and situation both find themselves in had me laughing out loud. Oliver Takely perfectly pictures both families, their prejudices, expectations and behaviour of the upper class. It was also shown how money wasn't the key to happiness and how much falsehood went around those aristocratic families.
Gregory and Oscar were amazing together. Gregory had always had feelings deep down for Oscar but wasn’t sure he could act on them due to the treatment he received in school but Oscar has been in love with Gregory from the very beginning and the surprising power play between the two was unexpected.
This story isn’t just two people finally finding each other through difficult life experiences but I enjoyed the way Oscar helped Gregory see his worth to himself was more than his money and his family’s unhealthy demands.
At the end there is a major shocking twist I absolutely didn’t see coming and can’t wait to see where it goes.
The narration from Gary Furlong & Elliot Matthews is absolutely sublime and just took this audio to another level.
I love Oliver Takely’s writing and can’t wait for the next instalment he never disappoints.
February 13, 2026
I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again: I’M OBSESSED WITH THIS SERIES!
I love a bully redemption story, I love childhood friends to lovers, but what I love most; it’s the I’ll marry him to help him stories. But when all of those tropes are combined into one? It’s perfection!
Oscar and Gregory grew up together but along the way, their friendship ended after Oscar unintentionally became one of his bullies. Being gay wasn’t something Oscar wanted people to know, therefore, he kept his distance from Gregory. Especially when he saw what it did to Gregory when his family found out.
Oscar regretted his actions and apologized to Gregory, but the damage was already done. Some things aren’t easy to forget, especially when they cut so deep.
Gregory hated Oscar with all of his heart. But at the same time he was attracted to him. And when he found out they had similar lifestyle tastes, it was a double low blow because Oscar was everything Gregory always wanted in a man.
I love role reversals so much. Oscar being such a big man and loving being manhandled by Gregory is the hottest thing ever. Gregory being all nerdy really did something to Oscar and he couldn’t get enough of him. Same Oscar, same🥵 It’s always the quiet ones🤭
When Gregory is forced into a difficult situation, Oscar offers him a way out by proposing they get married. They both had something to gain by doing so but the powers that be would not allow this to happen.
What started as a spur of the moment, an only one time thing, turned into something none of them could live without. They couldn’t deny their feelings anymore and gave in to the love that hit them out of nowhere.
Gregory deserved to have his own happy ending after everything he went through. I was so proud of him for standing up to his family. They only saw him as an ATM and had the audacity to demand things from him.
The end of chapter 15 was my favorite part! I wish I could have seen that scene! I almost choked listening to it🤣 Way to go Gregory!
Awesome story. Fantastic series. Can’t recommend it enough. Gary Furlong and Elliot Mathews did a phenomenal job with the narration.
I love a bully redemption story, I love childhood friends to lovers, but what I love most; it’s the I’ll marry him to help him stories. But when all of those tropes are combined into one? It’s perfection!
Oscar and Gregory grew up together but along the way, their friendship ended after Oscar unintentionally became one of his bullies. Being gay wasn’t something Oscar wanted people to know, therefore, he kept his distance from Gregory. Especially when he saw what it did to Gregory when his family found out.
Oscar regretted his actions and apologized to Gregory, but the damage was already done. Some things aren’t easy to forget, especially when they cut so deep.
Gregory hated Oscar with all of his heart. But at the same time he was attracted to him. And when he found out they had similar lifestyle tastes, it was a double low blow because Oscar was everything Gregory always wanted in a man.
I love role reversals so much. Oscar being such a big man and loving being manhandled by Gregory is the hottest thing ever. Gregory being all nerdy really did something to Oscar and he couldn’t get enough of him. Same Oscar, same🥵 It’s always the quiet ones🤭
When Gregory is forced into a difficult situation, Oscar offers him a way out by proposing they get married. They both had something to gain by doing so but the powers that be would not allow this to happen.
What started as a spur of the moment, an only one time thing, turned into something none of them could live without. They couldn’t deny their feelings anymore and gave in to the love that hit them out of nowhere.
Gregory deserved to have his own happy ending after everything he went through. I was so proud of him for standing up to his family. They only saw him as an ATM and had the audacity to demand things from him.
The end of chapter 15 was my favorite part! I wish I could have seen that scene! I almost choked listening to it🤣 Way to go Gregory!
Awesome story. Fantastic series. Can’t recommend it enough. Gary Furlong and Elliot Mathews did a phenomenal job with the narration.
February 14, 2026
Convenient Rivals is the fourth audiobook in Oliver Takely’s Soho Knights series, which is a collection of interconnected standalone MM romances. I have loved every story in this series so far, but I was very interested in getting Gregory’s story. And it certainly did not disappoint. This trope-tastic audio is primarily a marriage of convenience and friends-to-enemies-to-lovers story, but also features reformed bully, size difference, light dom/sub, athletic/nerd, and found family storylines. The adorably geeky Gregory and athletic Oscar were childhood friends, whose wealthy, influential families were also connected. However, while Gregory was secure enough in his feelings to come out at an early age (despite being all but disowned by his family), Oscar struggled with his sexuality as a teen and was terrified of being seen as gay. As a result, when his friends began to bully Gregory, he not only didn’t defend his friend, but also joined in. Years later, after he had come to grips with his own sexuality, he had apologized to Gregory and tried to mend the friendship. But Gregory had been too hurt by his previous actions to let that happen. Despite that, there had always been an underlying attraction. When Gregory’s ne’er-do-well brother winds up causing major issues for them both, they decide to get married in order to gain access to Oscar’s secondary trust, which requires marriage to obtain. Little by little, Oscar is able to win Gregory over, and real feelings begin to develop. That’s not to say their road to love is an easy one. It’s complicated by mistrust and family interference—not to mention the nearly impossible task of winning over Gregory’s friends, whom he views as his real brothers. But that journey is definitely well worth it, for them and for us lucky listeners. This story is emotional, hopeful, romantic, spicy, heartwarming, and witty.
The duet-style narration from Gary Furlong and Elliott Matthews brings this wonderful story to life so beautifully. Their performances are absolute perfection, laced with emotion. passion, and authenticity. I cannot wait for the next audiobook in this series!
The duet-style narration from Gary Furlong and Elliott Matthews brings this wonderful story to life so beautifully. Their performances are absolute perfection, laced with emotion. passion, and authenticity. I cannot wait for the next audiobook in this series!
February 14, 2026
This is my first venture into the Soho Knights series by new to me author, Oliver Takely. As soon as I finished Convenient Rivals I proceeded to purchase the previous books in this series. I dove into Convenient Rivals completely blind, and rather happy I did. The support network these men provide for each other is truly heartwarming.
Gregory, disowned by his parents for being gay, yet when it suited them, they treated Gregory as a cash cow. I felt so very disappointed and angry at his parents for their behaviour towards him. Gregory’s decision to not let this negative influence take over, allowed him to embrace safety within a group of friends at university. The devotion to his uni brothers is evident. With this supportive group of brothers onboard offering constant encouragement for each other, only good things can come for all these men.
I particularly enjoyed the dynamic of Gregory and Oscar’s connection and how it evolved over the years, you never know what may happen when paths cross again. Oscar had made Gregory’s life at school, miserable. What was he here to offer Gregory now? The sassy banter between these two is performed with just the right intensity and emotion by Gary Furlong and Elliot Matthews. I can hear a blend of confidence and uncertainty as these characters wade through their now.
What I enjoyed most about this book, is the family drama the MMC’s had to deal with. The sense of duty they both felt, to do the right thing for their families, yet, said families were not willing to do the same for Gregory and Oscar. I had to keep reading to find out how they dealt with these challenges.
Gary Furlong and Elliot Matthews had me captivated throughout this book. A flawless performance from both actors. In particular the banter, which encompassed everything from humour, sass, passion to pure joy!
Thank you Oliver for an engaging story and to Blue Nose Audio for an incredibly entertaining advanced listener copy. Can’t wait to go back and start book one.
Gregory, disowned by his parents for being gay, yet when it suited them, they treated Gregory as a cash cow. I felt so very disappointed and angry at his parents for their behaviour towards him. Gregory’s decision to not let this negative influence take over, allowed him to embrace safety within a group of friends at university. The devotion to his uni brothers is evident. With this supportive group of brothers onboard offering constant encouragement for each other, only good things can come for all these men.
I particularly enjoyed the dynamic of Gregory and Oscar’s connection and how it evolved over the years, you never know what may happen when paths cross again. Oscar had made Gregory’s life at school, miserable. What was he here to offer Gregory now? The sassy banter between these two is performed with just the right intensity and emotion by Gary Furlong and Elliot Matthews. I can hear a blend of confidence and uncertainty as these characters wade through their now.
What I enjoyed most about this book, is the family drama the MMC’s had to deal with. The sense of duty they both felt, to do the right thing for their families, yet, said families were not willing to do the same for Gregory and Oscar. I had to keep reading to find out how they dealt with these challenges.
Gary Furlong and Elliot Matthews had me captivated throughout this book. A flawless performance from both actors. In particular the banter, which encompassed everything from humour, sass, passion to pure joy!
Thank you Oliver for an engaging story and to Blue Nose Audio for an incredibly entertaining advanced listener copy. Can’t wait to go back and start book one.
February 16, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
🎤🎤🎤🎤🎤
Ok I knew Gregory’s story was going to be good, what I didn’t expect was for it to EPIC. Hands down Gregory and Oscar are my favourite of all the SoHo boys. Their banter was 👩🍳💋. The way their relationship developed was written and done so freaking well. You learn quickly that these two had a past, once being best friends. However Oscar became Gregory’s bully once he came out. Now they’re put into an awkward situation together and the truth of the past starts to come out, feelings from the past revealed, and questions about the future come into play. I truly had a lot of fun with these two finding myself laughing through a lot of their interactions.
Now I don’t want you to think for a second that there wasn’t some hard parts to have to sit through, because there definitely was. For starters I’d like to shake the shit out of Gregory’s family. What a bunch of manipulative pricks, the entire lot of them. To disown your kid because they’re gay and then to have the audacity to use them later because they became successful and you just want a portion of that money … it made my blood fucking boil!! Hence the reaction to the end of chapter 15. It’s now one of my favourite word vomit, tell ‘em how it really is to family moments I’ve heard. It makes me so glad that all the Soho boys found each other because there’s nothing better than having a great support system. Found family for the win in this group. Also Gregory and Oscar’s dynamic was a pleasant surprise. This was my first book where the power play was 100% not what I first assumed, and that’s my bad for making that assumption.
I’m new to Gary Furlong and I’ve only heard Elliot Matthews once before and both did amazing bringing these boys to life. It’s always such a treat when I come across new narrators that I immediately know I’m going to be a fan of and both Gary and Elliot definitely fit into that category for me. They were both able to easily become the charters and convey all the emotions perfectly at every point of the book.
🌶️🌶️🌶️
🎤🎤🎤🎤🎤
Ok I knew Gregory’s story was going to be good, what I didn’t expect was for it to EPIC. Hands down Gregory and Oscar are my favourite of all the SoHo boys. Their banter was 👩🍳💋. The way their relationship developed was written and done so freaking well. You learn quickly that these two had a past, once being best friends. However Oscar became Gregory’s bully once he came out. Now they’re put into an awkward situation together and the truth of the past starts to come out, feelings from the past revealed, and questions about the future come into play. I truly had a lot of fun with these two finding myself laughing through a lot of their interactions.
Now I don’t want you to think for a second that there wasn’t some hard parts to have to sit through, because there definitely was. For starters I’d like to shake the shit out of Gregory’s family. What a bunch of manipulative pricks, the entire lot of them. To disown your kid because they’re gay and then to have the audacity to use them later because they became successful and you just want a portion of that money … it made my blood fucking boil!! Hence the reaction to the end of chapter 15. It’s now one of my favourite word vomit, tell ‘em how it really is to family moments I’ve heard. It makes me so glad that all the Soho boys found each other because there’s nothing better than having a great support system. Found family for the win in this group. Also Gregory and Oscar’s dynamic was a pleasant surprise. This was my first book where the power play was 100% not what I first assumed, and that’s my bad for making that assumption.
I’m new to Gary Furlong and I’ve only heard Elliot Matthews once before and both did amazing bringing these boys to life. It’s always such a treat when I come across new narrators that I immediately know I’m going to be a fan of and both Gary and Elliot definitely fit into that category for me. They were both able to easily become the charters and convey all the emotions perfectly at every point of the book.
August 25, 2025
Convenient Rivals (Soho Knights 4)
By Oliver Takely
Published by the author, 2025
4 stars
Oliver Takely loves his romance tropes, but he also embraces his genre as a sort of paean to the universal experience of gay men. However fanciful the situation and however high-powered the characters’ sex lives, Takely takes these stories personally. It’s rather endearing overall.
As in the other Soho Knights books, one of the inhabitants of the huge Soho duplex flat finds true love—usually the hard way. This time, it falls to Gregory Balfour, the unsocial nerd millionaire who bought the flat and made it home for his band of brothers.
Gregory (whose surname, I’m pretty sure, was never mentioned until this book) is profoundly nerdy, and not at all the jocky gym-rat his brothers tend to be. We finally learn the full story of his life, which has hitherto only been hinted at. The son of a high-society family, Gregory was basically thrown out by his parents when he came out. Only after he made all his money, and his father lost all of his, did his parents reclaim him. That’s not really a spoiler, because the family issues get very complicated.
The outside twist is Oscar Montgomery, son of another posh London family, who was Gregory’s best friend in childhood—but now seen by Gregory as anathema. The unpacking of that story is poignant in a way gay men only can understand. Even as all the moving parts of the Soho brotherhood shift toward change, Gregory’s story becomes the centerpiece and we all come to really understand how deeply Gregory needs his found family, and how much they love him.
Oscar has his own family issues, but let those be an ongoing surprise and one of the pleasures of discovering this 4th chapter in the Soho Knights saga.
By Oliver Takely
Published by the author, 2025
4 stars
Oliver Takely loves his romance tropes, but he also embraces his genre as a sort of paean to the universal experience of gay men. However fanciful the situation and however high-powered the characters’ sex lives, Takely takes these stories personally. It’s rather endearing overall.
As in the other Soho Knights books, one of the inhabitants of the huge Soho duplex flat finds true love—usually the hard way. This time, it falls to Gregory Balfour, the unsocial nerd millionaire who bought the flat and made it home for his band of brothers.
Gregory (whose surname, I’m pretty sure, was never mentioned until this book) is profoundly nerdy, and not at all the jocky gym-rat his brothers tend to be. We finally learn the full story of his life, which has hitherto only been hinted at. The son of a high-society family, Gregory was basically thrown out by his parents when he came out. Only after he made all his money, and his father lost all of his, did his parents reclaim him. That’s not really a spoiler, because the family issues get very complicated.
The outside twist is Oscar Montgomery, son of another posh London family, who was Gregory’s best friend in childhood—but now seen by Gregory as anathema. The unpacking of that story is poignant in a way gay men only can understand. Even as all the moving parts of the Soho brotherhood shift toward change, Gregory’s story becomes the centerpiece and we all come to really understand how deeply Gregory needs his found family, and how much they love him.
Oscar has his own family issues, but let those be an ongoing surprise and one of the pleasures of discovering this 4th chapter in the Soho Knights saga.
February 13, 2026
Convenient Rivals, the fourth instalment in the Soho Knights series, delves into Gregory’s journey of self-discovery and reconciliation. As the mastermind behind the successful fitness app “Legs Up,” Gregory uses his success to create a sanctuary for his friends, fostering a sense of belonging and security. The narrative intricately explores Gregory’s tumultuous past with Oscar, his childhood best friend who betrayed him due to societal pressures and his struggle with his own sexuality. Oliver Takely masterfully portrays the complexities of both families, highlighting the superficiality and prejudice often found within the confines of wealth. The tension-laden reunion between Gregory and Oscar is both poignant and compelling, as they navigate the turbulent waters of trust and redemption. Their evolving relationship challenges them to confront past wounds and embrace vulnerability, culminating in a powerful exploration of love, self-worth, and forgiveness. With a blend of humour and emotion, this story resonates with anyone who has ever sought to reconcile with the past while forging a path toward a more authentic future.
Gary Furlong and Elliott Mathews have truly mastered the art of delivering powerful performances that resonate with listeners on multiple levels. Their ability to convey angst, vulnerability, and intensity in every confrontation and charged moment truly elevates the experience. Despite being a quick listen, their collaboration manages to pack an emotional and spicy punch, leaving the audience captivated and wanting more. Their dynamic chemistry and expressive delivery ensure that every scene is both impactful and memorable, showcasing their exceptional talent in bringing stories to life.
Gary Furlong and Elliott Mathews have truly mastered the art of delivering powerful performances that resonate with listeners on multiple levels. Their ability to convey angst, vulnerability, and intensity in every confrontation and charged moment truly elevates the experience. Despite being a quick listen, their collaboration manages to pack an emotional and spicy punch, leaving the audience captivated and wanting more. Their dynamic chemistry and expressive delivery ensure that every scene is both impactful and memorable, showcasing their exceptional talent in bringing stories to life.
May 4, 2025
This series just gets better and better, it makes me sad that almost off of the Soho Knights are off the market. I am not usually one for enemies to lovers and especially not bully romance but this has some additional layers that have the story and entirely different feel.
Gregory we've met throughout this series, he is the owner of the home that all of our favorite guys have lived at one time or another. It was truly a home for the lost and broken, this series is the definition of found family. Gregory shows us that you cannot judge a man by his nerdy t shirts and why appearance. He can be a beast in the boardroom and the bedroom. But no one fits his criteria for the long term until an unwelcome blast the past renters his orbit.
Oscar is silver spoons with charm oozing out of him but while the world sees him as Mr. Montgomery, he's just Oscar. He has made mistakes, namely in secondary school abandoning and borderline tormenting Gregory to quell his own burgeoning sexuality. But he's out and proud and has atoned for his sins but Gregory does not see it that way. But one day the line line of hate and love cracks and it opens the floodgates. Not only do these men have chemistry but it's explosive and it feeds the desires they've never been able to fully trust.
This story was hot and full of unexpected twists and turns. We also had some insight to another storyline that has been bubbling under the surface. Oliver Takley has built a wonderful world in the Soho Knights and while I sad for it to end, I cannot wait for the spin-off because I believe we have met several new book boyfriends and I need to become well aquatinted with them!
Gregory we've met throughout this series, he is the owner of the home that all of our favorite guys have lived at one time or another. It was truly a home for the lost and broken, this series is the definition of found family. Gregory shows us that you cannot judge a man by his nerdy t shirts and why appearance. He can be a beast in the boardroom and the bedroom. But no one fits his criteria for the long term until an unwelcome blast the past renters his orbit.
Oscar is silver spoons with charm oozing out of him but while the world sees him as Mr. Montgomery, he's just Oscar. He has made mistakes, namely in secondary school abandoning and borderline tormenting Gregory to quell his own burgeoning sexuality. But he's out and proud and has atoned for his sins but Gregory does not see it that way. But one day the line line of hate and love cracks and it opens the floodgates. Not only do these men have chemistry but it's explosive and it feeds the desires they've never been able to fully trust.
This story was hot and full of unexpected twists and turns. We also had some insight to another storyline that has been bubbling under the surface. Oliver Takley has built a wonderful world in the Soho Knights and while I sad for it to end, I cannot wait for the spin-off because I believe we have met several new book boyfriends and I need to become well aquatinted with them!
May 14, 2025
MY OPINION: I liked this book a lot. I read the first one but didn’t get a chance to read the other two, but they don’t need to be read together or even in order; other than the few cameos the characters have, there isn’t any overlap. This is a pretty classic enemies-to-lovers situation. The hate turns into passion at some point, and that’s the start of a very slippery slope for these two because they both like the chemistry between them very much. The spicy bits are fantastic; there is a nice mix of spice and story. There are some humorous bits as well.
This was a story that burned hot and built slow, with a fairly complex backstory of families that are terrible to their sons. The two MCs have a history from when they were children, but they reconnected in each other's lives because of the social circles their mothers are in. They are like angry dogs circling and biting each other, but it ends up being more than either of them can handle when that spark ignites.
There are a lot of players in the book, making for a rich background of some wonderful people, and the two MCs have their struggles that their ‘family’ helps them through. You get a great feel for the lives they lead, including the people who love them and the places they live.
This is simply a wonderful story. There is a little bit of family drama, some burning hot spice scenes, and a whole lot of story about two men falling for each other, no matter how hard they try to keep it from happening.
Pick it up if you are looking for a good book about good men, figuring it out.
This was a story that burned hot and built slow, with a fairly complex backstory of families that are terrible to their sons. The two MCs have a history from when they were children, but they reconnected in each other's lives because of the social circles their mothers are in. They are like angry dogs circling and biting each other, but it ends up being more than either of them can handle when that spark ignites.
There are a lot of players in the book, making for a rich background of some wonderful people, and the two MCs have their struggles that their ‘family’ helps them through. You get a great feel for the lives they lead, including the people who love them and the places they live.
This is simply a wonderful story. There is a little bit of family drama, some burning hot spice scenes, and a whole lot of story about two men falling for each other, no matter how hard they try to keep it from happening.
Pick it up if you are looking for a good book about good men, figuring it out.
May 7, 2025
Finally, we get to know the enigmatic Gregory
You know what they say about it's always the quiet ones? It's definitely the quiet one here! Gregory has been a mystery until now, unassuming but fiercely loyal to his four best friends, but his hidden depths call to Oscar like a siren and there's no resisting each other.
As with the other books, the five friends are at the heart of the story and I love their found family dynamic. The partners are there for support in the background this time, while Gregory's and Oscar's mothers take centre stage in all their meddling awfulness. Gregory's family were absolutely despicable and didn't get their just desserts at all, which really pissed me off.
I'm not keen on enemies to lovers when it's because of bullying, but this is almost bully-lite as Oscar was on the fringes of the bad crowd, hiding in plain sight. What made it worse, though, is that he and Gregory were childhood best friends until then.
The physical attraction and sexual compatibility were off the charts and the pages sizzled when they were together. Their story was one of inconvenience rather than convenience, really, and they did make it more difficult for themselves throughout, but it all came right in the end and I was so happy for them.
After what we learned this time, I can't believe we'll have to wait four months for Jason's story. That's just so mean!
You know what they say about it's always the quiet ones? It's definitely the quiet one here! Gregory has been a mystery until now, unassuming but fiercely loyal to his four best friends, but his hidden depths call to Oscar like a siren and there's no resisting each other.
As with the other books, the five friends are at the heart of the story and I love their found family dynamic. The partners are there for support in the background this time, while Gregory's and Oscar's mothers take centre stage in all their meddling awfulness. Gregory's family were absolutely despicable and didn't get their just desserts at all, which really pissed me off.
I'm not keen on enemies to lovers when it's because of bullying, but this is almost bully-lite as Oscar was on the fringes of the bad crowd, hiding in plain sight. What made it worse, though, is that he and Gregory were childhood best friends until then.
The physical attraction and sexual compatibility were off the charts and the pages sizzled when they were together. Their story was one of inconvenience rather than convenience, really, and they did make it more difficult for themselves throughout, but it all came right in the end and I was so happy for them.
After what we learned this time, I can't believe we'll have to wait four months for Jason's story. That's just so mean!
February 12, 2026
AUDIOBOOK REVIEW:
Story - ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
Spice - 🌶🌶🌶
Narration - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Convenient Rivals is book #4 in the Soho Knights series. Ooooo, I was hoping for an epic story for Gregory and wow, Mr. Takely delivered! Gregory is a self-made man, doing very well financially, not with the help or support of his real family, but from his found family of friends from university. When he runs into his high school bully, Oscar, his long-time crush still remains even after everything Oscar put him through. These two must navigate through so many obstacles (warring mothers, scheming families) to finally find their way clear to an HEA. I love this series so much. Each story is full of broken characters that find love and family in the best way. But this one really pulled on ALL my heartstrings. Maybe it's because I wanted something spectacular for Gregory, who really takes care of his friends, and deserves to be loved fully. Don't miss this MM, enemies-to-lovers, found family romance!
The duet narration was fantastic! Gary Furlong and Elliot Matthews (he's new to me) really brought the hurt, the passion, the angst, the jealousy...gah, it was so good. I hope to see more of Mr. Matthews in the future. 5/5 stars!
Story - ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
Spice - 🌶🌶🌶
Narration - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Convenient Rivals is book #4 in the Soho Knights series. Ooooo, I was hoping for an epic story for Gregory and wow, Mr. Takely delivered! Gregory is a self-made man, doing very well financially, not with the help or support of his real family, but from his found family of friends from university. When he runs into his high school bully, Oscar, his long-time crush still remains even after everything Oscar put him through. These two must navigate through so many obstacles (warring mothers, scheming families) to finally find their way clear to an HEA. I love this series so much. Each story is full of broken characters that find love and family in the best way. But this one really pulled on ALL my heartstrings. Maybe it's because I wanted something spectacular for Gregory, who really takes care of his friends, and deserves to be loved fully. Don't miss this MM, enemies-to-lovers, found family romance!
The duet narration was fantastic! Gary Furlong and Elliot Matthews (he's new to me) really brought the hurt, the passion, the angst, the jealousy...gah, it was so good. I hope to see more of Mr. Matthews in the future. 5/5 stars!
May 7, 2025
KC's boys, the pink pound, relaxation room, cats & gays, treacle, spanking bench, cufflinks, Dom Top, Capt Bowtie
Our favorite Soho gang is back. It's Gregory's turn at love. Because their mothers are good friends, Gregory and his hated school bully, Oscar, run into each other more often than Gregory cares to. Gregory owns a wildly successful fitness app. Oscar has an equally successful financial equity firm. Booted from his own family for being gay, Gregory has his best friends as his true brothers. At one time or another, the five roommates lived in the Soho flat that Gregory owns. He and his brothers have had difficult pasts with their family. Gregory guaranteed them they would always have a place to live, creating a huge safety net. Needless to say, we get to see the whole gang again, including Jason. Yay!
I love this series, each book is as fantastic as the previous ones. The roommates have their unique personalities, strengths, and foibles that all mesh to form an enviable close-knit family. It's best if you've read the books in order. The group dynamics will make more sense.
I'm happy I read this book; the storyline is compelling. I ardently recommend this.
Our favorite Soho gang is back. It's Gregory's turn at love. Because their mothers are good friends, Gregory and his hated school bully, Oscar, run into each other more often than Gregory cares to. Gregory owns a wildly successful fitness app. Oscar has an equally successful financial equity firm. Booted from his own family for being gay, Gregory has his best friends as his true brothers. At one time or another, the five roommates lived in the Soho flat that Gregory owns. He and his brothers have had difficult pasts with their family. Gregory guaranteed them they would always have a place to live, creating a huge safety net. Needless to say, we get to see the whole gang again, including Jason. Yay!
I love this series, each book is as fantastic as the previous ones. The roommates have their unique personalities, strengths, and foibles that all mesh to form an enviable close-knit family. It's best if you've read the books in order. The group dynamics will make more sense.
I'm happy I read this book; the storyline is compelling. I ardently recommend this.
September 27, 2025
Fourth in series (Soho Knights), can be read as a standalone but might be better if read in order. Former bully. Size difference. Found family. Dual POV. Heed content warnings.
Gregory overcame being disowned by his family and became a successful tech entrepreneur, and he has his own found family he keeps close while unfortunately still bailing out his troublesome family. Oscar regrets bullying Gregory in their youth, they grew up in the same social circles, and now he has a chance to help the man he secretly wishes would wreck him on a nightly basis.
I appreciated that Gregory doesn’t let his attraction immediately dictate his forgiveness of Oscar, but they did have a friendship of sorts when they were younger and somehow they match each other in the bedroom department really well. The Soho Knights are just as protective and loyal as always, but the family drama was a lot for two independent men that are almost thirty years old. Overall, this was a fun read, with well-meaning main and secondary characters, some spice, and of course the closeness of true friendships.
Gregory overcame being disowned by his family and became a successful tech entrepreneur, and he has his own found family he keeps close while unfortunately still bailing out his troublesome family. Oscar regrets bullying Gregory in their youth, they grew up in the same social circles, and now he has a chance to help the man he secretly wishes would wreck him on a nightly basis.
I appreciated that Gregory doesn’t let his attraction immediately dictate his forgiveness of Oscar, but they did have a friendship of sorts when they were younger and somehow they match each other in the bedroom department really well. The Soho Knights are just as protective and loyal as always, but the family drama was a lot for two independent men that are almost thirty years old. Overall, this was a fun read, with well-meaning main and secondary characters, some spice, and of course the closeness of true friendships.
February 9, 2026
Huge thank you to Blue Nose Audio for this ALC!
Holy. Hot. And. Steamy. 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
This one is a solid 4/5 chili peppers and I am not exaggerating.
Enemies/ex-friends to lovers? ✔️
Marriage of convenience? ✔️
Tangled family drama and old wounds that never healed? ✔️✔️✔️
Gregory and Oscar’s history is messy in the best way — childhood friends turned high school bully/victim, now forced back into each other’s orbit thanks to their chaotic mothers and a very strategic proposal. The tension? Immediate. The chemistry? Off the charts. The emotional baggage? Suitcase and a carry-on.
Gregory’s hurt runs deep, especially with the abandonment from his family and the weight of trying to hold everything together. Watching Oscar try to atone while still being very much himself was chef’s kiss. The push and pull between them felt raw, sharp, and intensely intimate.
And the narration? Gary Furlong and Elliott Mathews absolutely brought the angst, vulnerability, and heat. Their performances elevated every confrontation and every charged moment.
It’s a quick listen, but it packs an emotional and spicy punch. If you love privileged London settings, broken pasts, redemption arcs, and explosive chemistry wrapped in a marriage-of-convenience bow… this one’s for you. 🔥
Holy. Hot. And. Steamy. 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
This one is a solid 4/5 chili peppers and I am not exaggerating.
Enemies/ex-friends to lovers? ✔️
Marriage of convenience? ✔️
Tangled family drama and old wounds that never healed? ✔️✔️✔️
Gregory and Oscar’s history is messy in the best way — childhood friends turned high school bully/victim, now forced back into each other’s orbit thanks to their chaotic mothers and a very strategic proposal. The tension? Immediate. The chemistry? Off the charts. The emotional baggage? Suitcase and a carry-on.
Gregory’s hurt runs deep, especially with the abandonment from his family and the weight of trying to hold everything together. Watching Oscar try to atone while still being very much himself was chef’s kiss. The push and pull between them felt raw, sharp, and intensely intimate.
And the narration? Gary Furlong and Elliott Mathews absolutely brought the angst, vulnerability, and heat. Their performances elevated every confrontation and every charged moment.
It’s a quick listen, but it packs an emotional and spicy punch. If you love privileged London settings, broken pasts, redemption arcs, and explosive chemistry wrapped in a marriage-of-convenience bow… this one’s for you. 🔥
May 13, 2025
This flew by too fast. My only consolation is that there will be one more book in the series, and a clear and obvious spinoff if I am not mistaken.
This is a take on the enemies-to-lovers storyline, except Gregory is only one with enmity. Oscar has apologized to him several times, and appears to really enjoy Gregory's disgruntled presence. To me it could have lasted longer, even after the first few sex scenes when Gregory dominates Oscar. Why waste such good frustration by having it resolve so soon?
This series deals with many dysfunctional and abusive family relationships, and this book is no exception. The families in question are ridiculous upper class characters, but it's okay - they contrast with their sons and we can't wait for them to get their comeuppance. I'm still a little mystified why Gregory tolerates his family, and that is one area where I think his POV is the weakest. Although Oscar explains it to some extent.
This is a take on the enemies-to-lovers storyline, except Gregory is only one with enmity. Oscar has apologized to him several times, and appears to really enjoy Gregory's disgruntled presence. To me it could have lasted longer, even after the first few sex scenes when Gregory dominates Oscar. Why waste such good frustration by having it resolve so soon?
This series deals with many dysfunctional and abusive family relationships, and this book is no exception. The families in question are ridiculous upper class characters, but it's okay - they contrast with their sons and we can't wait for them to get their comeuppance. I'm still a little mystified why Gregory tolerates his family, and that is one area where I think his POV is the weakest. Although Oscar explains it to some extent.
May 11, 2025
I was not sure what I thought about this book from the blurb. I am not usually a fan of bully storylines, but the pain and heartbreak that Gregory has lived through drew me in quickly. Gregory and Oscar were childhood friends, but that all changed in high school when Oscar become Gregory's bully. Fortunately they both went onto good lives, but their worlds kept interacting due to their toxic mother's relationship. My heart hurt for Gregory they way he was abandoned from his family for being gay and then the way he was treated by Oscar broke my heart. Ironic that due to circumstances Oscar proposes a marriage of convenience as a way for both of them to deal with life's issues. I am not sure I would have agreed but it did make for a great read. Expect lots of pain and hurt coupled with hope, romance, and spice. I did receive an ARC and leave this honest review.
May 12, 2025
Delicious! I liked this book but I liked most of the characters old and newly introduced. I'd love to hear their stories. Gregory, was rejected by his family when he came out. He pulled himself up and made a success of his business and his life. Oscar, is accepted by his parents, but his Mother is a bit much. When they were younger, Oscar was insecure and stupid and made a mistake that carries on to the current day and Gregory, never forgot. They often cross paths socially and the fireworks can be seen miles away. There are a family crisis in both men's lives, that requires conversations, committment, sacrifices and owning their truths. Good story, great friends I like Gregory and Oscar professionally and as friends, I am not impressed by their relationship with their family. I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 8, 2026
Overall 5 STAR
Performance 5 STAR
Story 5 STAR
Oh my goodness this is the first story I have read / listened to by Oliver Takely and I am hooked.
The world he has created and the cast of characters who have invited me in and warmed my heart are absolutely wonderful and I want more. I did not want the story to end and have to go check out the rest of the Soho Knights and the spin off series Sinful Knights.
Even though these stories can be read as a standalone I feel like the story will be enriched further if read in order.
Listening to Gary Furlong and Elliot Matthews perform in duet was an absolute delight!
*found family
*friends to enemies to lovers
*2nd chance
*hurt comfort
Thank You to Oliver and to the Blue Nose production company for allowing me to listen to this advanced copy!
Performance 5 STAR
Story 5 STAR
Oh my goodness this is the first story I have read / listened to by Oliver Takely and I am hooked.
The world he has created and the cast of characters who have invited me in and warmed my heart are absolutely wonderful and I want more. I did not want the story to end and have to go check out the rest of the Soho Knights and the spin off series Sinful Knights.
Even though these stories can be read as a standalone I feel like the story will be enriched further if read in order.
Listening to Gary Furlong and Elliot Matthews perform in duet was an absolute delight!
*found family
*friends to enemies to lovers
*2nd chance
*hurt comfort
Thank You to Oliver and to the Blue Nose production company for allowing me to listen to this advanced copy!
February 12, 2026
Convenient Rivals🎧
By: Oliver Takely
Narrated by: Gary Furlong & Elliot Matthews
SoHo Nights book 4
This is a series that you read when you want that HEA and smoking hot spice! This is my 3rd read in the series; which are interconnected stand alones.
Each book follows a certain roommate and their mate. Whether they know that’s who they are or not. This was a “frenemies” to lovers. And I was here for it! This time, it was Gregory’s turn.
He definitely needed his turn in the spotlight and his story needed telling.
The dom/sub vibe was definitely hot, which made you definitely see Gregory in a whole new light. His geeky personality and style is hiding something monstrous! Yes!
Gary Furlong is a name I’m hearing quite often and he and Elliot did an amazing job telling Gregory’s story. You don’t want to miss it.
Story: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Narration: 🎙️🎙️🎙️🎙️
By: Oliver Takely
Narrated by: Gary Furlong & Elliot Matthews
SoHo Nights book 4
This is a series that you read when you want that HEA and smoking hot spice! This is my 3rd read in the series; which are interconnected stand alones.
Each book follows a certain roommate and their mate. Whether they know that’s who they are or not. This was a “frenemies” to lovers. And I was here for it! This time, it was Gregory’s turn.
He definitely needed his turn in the spotlight and his story needed telling.
The dom/sub vibe was definitely hot, which made you definitely see Gregory in a whole new light. His geeky personality and style is hiding something monstrous! Yes!
Gary Furlong is a name I’m hearing quite often and he and Elliot did an amazing job telling Gregory’s story. You don’t want to miss it.
Story: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Narration: 🎙️🎙️🎙️🎙️
February 13, 2026
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ 🌶 🌶 🌶
Former Bully. Size Difference. Found Family. Marriage of Convenience.
This is book 4 of the series, but the first book I've read/listened to and does well as a standalone. Reading the full series would give you the stories of the friends and family involved.
Gregory overcomes the rejection of his family and becomes successful in his own right. Oscar regrets bullying Gregory as a kid and has embraced his attraction to him. The relationship between these two elite families has been tense for years.
Family drama on both sides brings these two together, and the solution: Marriage.
I was a huge fan of this MM romance where the redeemed larger bully craves being topped by his smaller geekier crush. I adored the dynamic of this couple.
The duet narration by Gary Furlong & Elliot Matthews was perfect.
Former Bully. Size Difference. Found Family. Marriage of Convenience.
This is book 4 of the series, but the first book I've read/listened to and does well as a standalone. Reading the full series would give you the stories of the friends and family involved.
Gregory overcomes the rejection of his family and becomes successful in his own right. Oscar regrets bullying Gregory as a kid and has embraced his attraction to him. The relationship between these two elite families has been tense for years.
Family drama on both sides brings these two together, and the solution: Marriage.
I was a huge fan of this MM romance where the redeemed larger bully craves being topped by his smaller geekier crush. I adored the dynamic of this couple.
The duet narration by Gary Furlong & Elliot Matthews was perfect.
February 23, 2026
I really enjoyed this childhood friends to convenient rivals to lovers storyline. Gregory and Oscar were childhood friends until popular athletic Oscar started to bully "nerdy" Gregory as they were getting older. This was my first book I read in the series and I definitely want to go back and read the other books to get better context around Gregory and his friends/brothers because I love the found family dynamic. Especially because Gregorys family is not supportive when he came out and he finds that love and supports from his brothers.
The audiobook was fantastic as its duet narrated and the narrators did an incredible job portraying the characters. The spice was spicing loved the unexpected dynamic of who you would assume would be the more dominant person in the bedroom 😉 . Will definitely be going back to the previous books to learn about the other couples.
The audiobook was fantastic as its duet narrated and the narrators did an incredible job portraying the characters. The spice was spicing loved the unexpected dynamic of who you would assume would be the more dominant person in the bedroom 😉 . Will definitely be going back to the previous books to learn about the other couples.
April 30, 2025
Gregory and Oscar, once childhood friends turned high school enemies, are forced back into each other's lives through their mothers' toxic connection. Oscar seeks redemption for his bullying past, while Gregory, still grappling with the trauma of family rejection over his sexuality, is burdened by his brother's mob entanglements and financial ruin. As both men face personal crises, Oscar proposes a marriage of convenience that could offer them mutual salvation. But with family pressure, unresolved pain, and simmering romantic tension between them, they must confront their history and decide if love can truly overcome legacy, loyalty, and betrayal.
I'm looking forward to the next book in this series
I'm looking forward to the next book in this series
May 10, 2025
I enjoyed this book, the history and dynamic between Gregory and Oscar was deep but old. The dynamics of their preferences in a relationship were easily navigated.
You could tell Oscar cared deeply about Gregory early on and that grew throughout the book.
I liked how the characters seemed to understand each other and how they both face or process problems and issues. The drama in the book mainly circled through Gregory’s family, and I am glad his relationship ended with them that way.
The book was entertaining although the end seemed rushed as in the author was trying to fit in a lot of information potentially for the next book in the series and then in the epilogue it was all very quickly brushed over when mentioned.
I look forward to reading more from this author
You could tell Oscar cared deeply about Gregory early on and that grew throughout the book.
I liked how the characters seemed to understand each other and how they both face or process problems and issues. The drama in the book mainly circled through Gregory’s family, and I am glad his relationship ended with them that way.
The book was entertaining although the end seemed rushed as in the author was trying to fit in a lot of information potentially for the next book in the series and then in the epilogue it was all very quickly brushed over when mentioned.
I look forward to reading more from this author
April 29, 2025
Convenient Rivals (Soho Knights #4) is wonderfully written, just like the previous installments in this series. Gregory embodies a stoic demeanor, yet he also possesses a profound sense of compassion. On the other hand, Oscar plays the role of an old-school bully. Their connection is truly remarkable.
The storyline revolves around a family member who may not deserve the help being offered. With Oscar, Gregory’s presence is incredibly strong, and it’s great to see how well they complement each other. Additionally, witnessing the flatmates together is a joy; their camaraderie is delightful to read.
The storyline revolves around a family member who may not deserve the help being offered. With Oscar, Gregory’s presence is incredibly strong, and it’s great to see how well they complement each other. Additionally, witnessing the flatmates together is a joy; their camaraderie is delightful to read.
May 11, 2025
Thanks to the Goodreads Giveaway program for this ARC.
I giggled and sighed my way through it, even though there were definitely some sobering moments.
Gregory's brother needs to grow up and his family needs to figure out who really deserves to be supported.
Intensive therapy should be in all of their futures.
Bullying is an ongoing problem, leaving such traumatic memories and devastating impacts on a person's soul and psyche.
When your parents can't be counted on to be there for you, it's twice as hard.
Oscar comes to the rescue and pulls Gregory out of family and financial crises.
There is a sweet HEA for our heroes.
Second chances and chosen families are the best!
I giggled and sighed my way through it, even though there were definitely some sobering moments.
Gregory's brother needs to grow up and his family needs to figure out who really deserves to be supported.
Intensive therapy should be in all of their futures.
Bullying is an ongoing problem, leaving such traumatic memories and devastating impacts on a person's soul and psyche.
When your parents can't be counted on to be there for you, it's twice as hard.
Oscar comes to the rescue and pulls Gregory out of family and financial crises.
There is a sweet HEA for our heroes.
Second chances and chosen families are the best!
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