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Home in the Berkshires #1
Building Home
This house isn’t the only one in need of a fresh start
Spencer Lim has a good life—a decent apartment, a job renovating houses with his best friend, and a dog who’s the goodest boy on the planet. So what if he hasn’t slept with the same guy twice since he moved to Pittsfield? It’s not like he’s looking for a relationship, anyway.
Then he gets a call from Ian Collier, who has a wreck of a house and no idea what to do with it. This should be just like any other job. Except that Ian is quiet and serious and looks at Spencer in a way that intrigues him like nothing has in a long time. There’s a reason Spencer doesn’t do repeats, but it’s getting harder and harder to remember the more time he spends with Ian.
When Spencer volunteers to help Ian clean out the house’s basement, he starts to understand why dealing with the place has been so hard for Ian, and he’s tempted to share in return. Will opening up to Ian be a mistake? Or is Spencer finally ready to put himself out there again?
Spencer Lim has a good life—a decent apartment, a job renovating houses with his best friend, and a dog who’s the goodest boy on the planet. So what if he hasn’t slept with the same guy twice since he moved to Pittsfield? It’s not like he’s looking for a relationship, anyway.
Then he gets a call from Ian Collier, who has a wreck of a house and no idea what to do with it. This should be just like any other job. Except that Ian is quiet and serious and looks at Spencer in a way that intrigues him like nothing has in a long time. There’s a reason Spencer doesn’t do repeats, but it’s getting harder and harder to remember the more time he spends with Ian.
When Spencer volunteers to help Ian clean out the house’s basement, he starts to understand why dealing with the place has been so hard for Ian, and he’s tempted to share in return. Will opening up to Ian be a mistake? Or is Spencer finally ready to put himself out there again?
- GenresM M Romance
Kindle Edition
Published March 21, 2025
4 people are currently reading
77 people want to read
About the author
J. Mackenzie
2 books6 followersAvid reader and writer of queer romance. Favorite tropes: friends-to-lovers, second-chance romance, found family. Building Home is out now!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews
December 28, 2025
ARC review
It was a good book, I liked it.
Spencer didn't want a relationship but the moment he met Ian, he knew he was diferent.
Ian had just lost his parents and inherited a house that he didn't know what to do with, and lo and behold, he mets Spencer that helps him.
These two helped each other and their relationship was so mature and full of love
It was a good book, I liked it.
Spencer didn't want a relationship but the moment he met Ian, he knew he was diferent.
Ian had just lost his parents and inherited a house that he didn't know what to do with, and lo and behold, he mets Spencer that helps him.
These two helped each other and their relationship was so mature and full of love
March 18, 2025
4.25 stars - I really appreciated this slower paced, lower angst romance. I went in knowing there would be consensual non-monogamy and was intrigued to see how it would play out. We follow Spencer's third person POV, and he has never conceived of the concept, certainly not for himself. He had an abusive ex, which has made anything more than a one-night stand feel like too much. But when he takes a chance on a client who asks him out, and Ian mentions it when they start to get serious, Spencer really ponders how he feels about the concept for himself.
I am always a fan of a house being made into a home, so all the talk about renovations and visions for the space were catnip for me. And I didn't mind the slightly meandering speed of this book at all, and in fact appreciated this potentially fraught issue being presented without anyone countering with the case for monogamy. (I'm monogamous myself, but its case has well and truly been made, to the point that people who aren't built for it feel they have to exist within it or chafe against it.)
The 'conflict', if there is one, is Spencer's internal struggle to accept that this works for him, that he can be committed to one person emotionally, but share pleasure with others from time to time. This isn't a poly romance, but is still expansive, which . . . there are 40 billion romance novels out there, a little bit more variety can only be a good thing.
It's not a five star because it didn't knock me out, but that's not what this book was trying to do. I'll let slip a secret: some of my most re-read books are 4/4.25 stars. I have some 5 star books I never want to return to, for various reasons, but a very good solidly snuggly sweet comforting 4 star? Much more likely I'll be returning. And who knows? I've had four star books that I have re-read so much they are upgraded to fives on principle, and I could see this book having that potential.
I am always a fan of a house being made into a home, so all the talk about renovations and visions for the space were catnip for me. And I didn't mind the slightly meandering speed of this book at all, and in fact appreciated this potentially fraught issue being presented without anyone countering with the case for monogamy. (I'm monogamous myself, but its case has well and truly been made, to the point that people who aren't built for it feel they have to exist within it or chafe against it.)
The 'conflict', if there is one, is Spencer's internal struggle to accept that this works for him, that he can be committed to one person emotionally, but share pleasure with others from time to time. This isn't a poly romance, but is still expansive, which . . . there are 40 billion romance novels out there, a little bit more variety can only be a good thing.
It's not a five star because it didn't knock me out, but that's not what this book was trying to do. I'll let slip a secret: some of my most re-read books are 4/4.25 stars. I have some 5 star books I never want to return to, for various reasons, but a very good solidly snuggly sweet comforting 4 star? Much more likely I'll be returning. And who knows? I've had four star books that I have re-read so much they are upgraded to fives on principle, and I could see this book having that potential.
March 21, 2025
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.25 stars
The premise for this one caught my interest and I was quick to dive in. Mackenzie is a new-to-me author and, for the most part, I enjoyed her narrative style and the characters that inhabit this world. There are some heavy themes in this book, and while they are given their due, they don’t take over the sweet story of two men finding each other at the right time and falling in love.
Both Spencer and Ian have their issues. Spencer’s past makes it hard to trust himself and others. Though he’s put in the work in therapy, he still feels it’s safer to stick to hook ups rather than get involved. Ian is dealing with loss that weighs heavily, and the house he hires Spencer to renovate is tied to that. I thought the author did a pretty good job of showcasing both these broken men and how they are working through their trauma to find a new normal.
Overall, this was a sweet story with plenty of heat. The MCs worked together well, their love story was believable, and the secondary characters rounded out the cast nicely.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
4.25 stars
The premise for this one caught my interest and I was quick to dive in. Mackenzie is a new-to-me author and, for the most part, I enjoyed her narrative style and the characters that inhabit this world. There are some heavy themes in this book, and while they are given their due, they don’t take over the sweet story of two men finding each other at the right time and falling in love.
Both Spencer and Ian have their issues. Spencer’s past makes it hard to trust himself and others. Though he’s put in the work in therapy, he still feels it’s safer to stick to hook ups rather than get involved. Ian is dealing with loss that weighs heavily, and the house he hires Spencer to renovate is tied to that. I thought the author did a pretty good job of showcasing both these broken men and how they are working through their trauma to find a new normal.
Overall, this was a sweet story with plenty of heat. The MCs worked together well, their love story was believable, and the secondary characters rounded out the cast nicely.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
April 23, 2025
So so so lovely!!!!
I fell in love with J. Mackenzie’s writing when I read THE LAST DANCE and with BUILDING HOME, it’s even more solidified. A wonderful start to a new series, BUILDING HOME is about friendship, making your own way in life, and how sometimes your home isn’t four walls, but the people you surround yourself with.
First things first, I REALLY enjoy J. Mackenzie’s writing. It’s smart, sophisticated, humorous, and so romantic! I know I’m going to get a fully realized world when I start a Mackenzie novel. And I was not let down! I absolutely love this town and the cast of characters so far. So cute and fun and hilarious. I especially love Cat!!! Although, I’d imagine this is what it would be like for a friend group to have, like, all people who seem to have their shit together. I was lowkey hoping for someone a little messy in the mix.
Ian and Spencer were precious omg. Like…. Talk about healthy communication and just, like, overall mature mentality. Both Ian and Spencer were so lovely and romantic and just fun! God, it was incredible how they looked out for each other and actually talked and didn’t play games and wow. Yes. Just yes!
Also, Norman. Star of the show, obviously.
I was so intrigued by the nonmonogamous aspect of Spencer and Ian's relationship. I have a jealousy thing I need to work on but I actually loved how J. Mackenzie incorporated nonmonogamy into their relationship and how it was communicated thoroughly and the threesome scene... yesssssss.
I think my only issue is that there were hardly any stakes. It got emotional and serious when Ian and Spencer were talking about their pasts, of course, and the subject matter is handled very delicately, which is great. But, other than that, BUILDING HOME was verrrrrry low angst. That’s not necessarily a problem; however, it just felt a bit Too Good To Be True, if that makes sense. (I know it’s a work of fiction, shut up.) Idk, maybe that’s my own problem of needing some sort of chaos.
Regardless, BUILDING HOME is a magnificent start to a new series and I cannotttttttt wait for more.
Thank you J. Mackenzie for the ARC! 🫶🏼
I fell in love with J. Mackenzie’s writing when I read THE LAST DANCE and with BUILDING HOME, it’s even more solidified. A wonderful start to a new series, BUILDING HOME is about friendship, making your own way in life, and how sometimes your home isn’t four walls, but the people you surround yourself with.
First things first, I REALLY enjoy J. Mackenzie’s writing. It’s smart, sophisticated, humorous, and so romantic! I know I’m going to get a fully realized world when I start a Mackenzie novel. And I was not let down! I absolutely love this town and the cast of characters so far. So cute and fun and hilarious. I especially love Cat!!! Although, I’d imagine this is what it would be like for a friend group to have, like, all people who seem to have their shit together. I was lowkey hoping for someone a little messy in the mix.
Ian and Spencer were precious omg. Like…. Talk about healthy communication and just, like, overall mature mentality. Both Ian and Spencer were so lovely and romantic and just fun! God, it was incredible how they looked out for each other and actually talked and didn’t play games and wow. Yes. Just yes!
Also, Norman. Star of the show, obviously.
I was so intrigued by the nonmonogamous aspect of Spencer and Ian's relationship. I have a jealousy thing I need to work on but I actually loved how J. Mackenzie incorporated nonmonogamy into their relationship and how it was communicated thoroughly and the threesome scene... yesssssss.
I think my only issue is that there were hardly any stakes. It got emotional and serious when Ian and Spencer were talking about their pasts, of course, and the subject matter is handled very delicately, which is great. But, other than that, BUILDING HOME was verrrrrry low angst. That’s not necessarily a problem; however, it just felt a bit Too Good To Be True, if that makes sense. (I know it’s a work of fiction, shut up.) Idk, maybe that’s my own problem of needing some sort of chaos.
Regardless, BUILDING HOME is a magnificent start to a new series and I cannotttttttt wait for more.
Thank you J. Mackenzie for the ARC! 🫶🏼
March 18, 2025
This author's writing has a very comforting feel that I really enjoy reading. At first I was a little hesitant going in because Ian and Spencer have a non monogamous relationship. But it felt incredibly natural between the two of them and I kind of liked it for them, their communication around it was so open and respectful and loving. It was written in a very easy way and I appreciated the author's style in that regard.
These romances read very soft while also dealing with some heavy character growth and healing. It seems to be a theme in this author's books and both times I've found them a little reprieve from the world. They're very calming. It's a funny way to describe a book but as I was thinking about it that's the descriptor I kept coming back to. It's not cozy but it sort of is? Like HGTV cozy or something. Not to get too metaphysical here but the house seemed to stand as a metaphor, with its rebuilding and repair signifying the journeys we can take to do our own healing and how other people can help with that process. A sweet and low angst romance.
These romances read very soft while also dealing with some heavy character growth and healing. It seems to be a theme in this author's books and both times I've found them a little reprieve from the world. They're very calming. It's a funny way to describe a book but as I was thinking about it that's the descriptor I kept coming back to. It's not cozy but it sort of is? Like HGTV cozy or something. Not to get too metaphysical here but the house seemed to stand as a metaphor, with its rebuilding and repair signifying the journeys we can take to do our own healing and how other people can help with that process. A sweet and low angst romance.
March 22, 2025
4.5 Stars
I thought this book was lovely. It was low angst and just so soft and cozy. Spencer and Ian were the sweetest (seriously, Ian was pretty perfect and very swoonworthy). Their relationship developed slowly and I loved how it unfolded. Despite clicking right away, they were a little tentative at first, with both men dealing with their own baggage. But ultimately they built a solid foundation of trust and caring which blossomed into a wonderful relationship. It left me feeling all warm and fuzzy inside.
There was one aspect of Spencer and Ian’s relationship that I wasn’t sure how I was going to feel about. I’m hesitant to say what it was so I don’t spoil anything, but it was something I hadn’t really read about before. It’s not something I’d ever be comfortable with in my own life, but I actually loved how it worked out in the context of these characters. It showcased the level of trust and commitment they had between them, and yeah, it was very hot. But I also saw it as a way for Spencer to reclaim some agency over his sex life after what he experienced in a previous relationship. It was really great to see. I know this was a vague paragraph, but perhaps it’s intrigued you to read the book!
Outside of Spencer and Liam, I also loved all the home renovation, the dogs (so many dogs!), and the friendships in this book. Spencer had a diverse and fun group of friends, and I enjoyed getting to know them and would happily read future books about any of them. As a Western Mass native myself, it was also cool that the book takes place in the Berkshires!
If you’re in the mood for a sweet, cozy book that feels a lot like a warm hug, I would recommend checking this one out!
“When we met, I was pretty untethered. And you were the softest possible place to land, taking care of me when I wasn’t even sure how to take care of myself.”
I thought this book was lovely. It was low angst and just so soft and cozy. Spencer and Ian were the sweetest (seriously, Ian was pretty perfect and very swoonworthy). Their relationship developed slowly and I loved how it unfolded. Despite clicking right away, they were a little tentative at first, with both men dealing with their own baggage. But ultimately they built a solid foundation of trust and caring which blossomed into a wonderful relationship. It left me feeling all warm and fuzzy inside.
There was one aspect of Spencer and Ian’s relationship that I wasn’t sure how I was going to feel about. I’m hesitant to say what it was so I don’t spoil anything, but it was something I hadn’t really read about before. It’s not something I’d ever be comfortable with in my own life, but I actually loved how it worked out in the context of these characters. It showcased the level of trust and commitment they had between them, and yeah, it was very hot. But I also saw it as a way for Spencer to reclaim some agency over his sex life after what he experienced in a previous relationship. It was really great to see. I know this was a vague paragraph, but perhaps it’s intrigued you to read the book!
Outside of Spencer and Liam, I also loved all the home renovation, the dogs (so many dogs!), and the friendships in this book. Spencer had a diverse and fun group of friends, and I enjoyed getting to know them and would happily read future books about any of them. As a Western Mass native myself, it was also cool that the book takes place in the Berkshires!
If you’re in the mood for a sweet, cozy book that feels a lot like a warm hug, I would recommend checking this one out!
He wanted Spencer, however Spencer wanted to be, and that was maybe the most overwhelming thing in the world, but also maybe the best.
March 28, 2025
3.5/5
This one started off really great for me, and before anyone gets up in arms, I did read the warning about consensual non-monogamy. That wasn’t my issue.
I liked the idea of following a character who had trauma in past relationships, and I really enjoyed getting to know Spencer and his world and his friends, and the way Ian was slowly helping him combat bad memories and experiences with good ones.
The pacing was just very very slow, and the second half was about half on page sex with little conflict. I wanted a broader scope. Seeing how relationships shifted after other interactions came to fruition, something coming up in one of their jobs. Something longer term that they had to work through tougher. Though things happened, they were all more short term and while that’s important in a relationship, the lack of a longer term problem didn’t entirely convince me that they’d stick together, especially with the big gesture at the end.
I also felt like we didn’t know Ian very well as a person. Spencer is the only pov, but that shouldn’t have changed anything. I feel like I don’t know much about his personality outside of his job or the bedroom and it was hard for me to connect with him because of that. The rest of the side characters are similar—we know very little about most of them, and they feature more in the first 75% than they do the end.
If you’re looking for something low angst and spicy, this is for you, but I’m not sure it was the perfect book for me.
This one started off really great for me, and before anyone gets up in arms, I did read the warning about consensual non-monogamy. That wasn’t my issue.
I liked the idea of following a character who had trauma in past relationships, and I really enjoyed getting to know Spencer and his world and his friends, and the way Ian was slowly helping him combat bad memories and experiences with good ones.
The pacing was just very very slow, and the second half was about half on page sex with little conflict. I wanted a broader scope. Seeing how relationships shifted after other interactions came to fruition, something coming up in one of their jobs. Something longer term that they had to work through tougher. Though things happened, they were all more short term and while that’s important in a relationship, the lack of a longer term problem didn’t entirely convince me that they’d stick together, especially with the big gesture at the end.
I also felt like we didn’t know Ian very well as a person. Spencer is the only pov, but that shouldn’t have changed anything. I feel like I don’t know much about his personality outside of his job or the bedroom and it was hard for me to connect with him because of that. The rest of the side characters are similar—we know very little about most of them, and they feature more in the first 75% than they do the end.
If you’re looking for something low angst and spicy, this is for you, but I’m not sure it was the perfect book for me.
March 22, 2025
I would like to thank GRR for the opportunity to read and review this ARC.
Soothing about this cozy narrative style really hooked me. Building Home was one of the most culturally diverse romances i'd read in a long time, and i liked that it wasn't: here's this brown skinned guy. And that would be the token touch for the whole story. Here Mackenzie explored a group of multicultural friends and lovers healing, loving and restoring themselves through house restoration and relationships. All of this was lovely to read, but also so very very hot when sexual reclamation became part of Spencer's journey.
While not the most energetic narrative, Building Home was patient and transformative for the characters nonetheless. Loved the rep and the careful consideration J. Mackenzie did to give each character their moment to share themselves. It was such a change to read the relationship dynamics that this story showcased, and i loved how Spencer was able to reclaim intimacy and pleasure from an empowered space with the support of Ian and all his friends.
Happy to have discovered J. Mackenzie and i'm very much looking forward to whatever else she releases in the future because this was quite the satisfying and provocative read!
Soothing about this cozy narrative style really hooked me. Building Home was one of the most culturally diverse romances i'd read in a long time, and i liked that it wasn't: here's this brown skinned guy. And that would be the token touch for the whole story. Here Mackenzie explored a group of multicultural friends and lovers healing, loving and restoring themselves through house restoration and relationships. All of this was lovely to read, but also so very very hot when sexual reclamation became part of Spencer's journey.
While not the most energetic narrative, Building Home was patient and transformative for the characters nonetheless. Loved the rep and the careful consideration J. Mackenzie did to give each character their moment to share themselves. It was such a change to read the relationship dynamics that this story showcased, and i loved how Spencer was able to reclaim intimacy and pleasure from an empowered space with the support of Ian and all his friends.
Happy to have discovered J. Mackenzie and i'm very much looking forward to whatever else she releases in the future because this was quite the satisfying and provocative read!
March 24, 2025
I thought this was a good debut novel by the author. Spencer Lim and Ian Collier are the protagonists of this story. Spenser relocated to Pittsfield in an effort to end a toxic relationship. There he met some new pals and even got an inherited dog named Norman. He runs a home improvement business with his best friend Cat. Restoring historic homes and restoring their original charm is one of his favorite things to do. In Stockbridge, you can find Ian, an emergency room doctor. His grandmother's aspirations for the house's renovation have been a constant theme in his life. He has received the house and sufficient funds to make necessary renovations after the unanticipated passing of his parents. Dealing with loss and shame intensifies the difficulty of any restoration project. It is fortunate that Spenser is around to guide him and assist him. Their tale is this. This book is a breeze to read. This romance is low-angst and builds slowly. Observing the blossoming of Spenser and Ian's friendship was a joy. Consensual non-monogamous relationships are rare in literature that I've perused. Seeing their perspective on the mechanics was fascinating. I thought the book was good overall.I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review.
March 9, 2025
I received this book for free from Gay Romance Reviews in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
I went into Building Home by J. Mackenzie with no expectations, and I came away absolutely loving it. The dynamic between Spencer and Ian was captivating, and their connection felt both genuine and deeply moving.
One of the standout aspects of this book was the personal growth of both characters. Watching Spencer and Ian not only navigate their relationship but also help each other through difficult times added such an emotional depth to the story. Their journey was raw, heartfelt, and beautifully written.
This was also my first time reading a book that included a non-monogamous relationship, and I was surprised by how much I liked it. The way it was handled felt natural, respectful, and integral to their story rather than just an added detail.
Overall, Building Home is a touching and well-crafted romance that explores love, healing, and the beauty of finding someone who truly understands you. Highly recommended!
I went into Building Home by J. Mackenzie with no expectations, and I came away absolutely loving it. The dynamic between Spencer and Ian was captivating, and their connection felt both genuine and deeply moving.
One of the standout aspects of this book was the personal growth of both characters. Watching Spencer and Ian not only navigate their relationship but also help each other through difficult times added such an emotional depth to the story. Their journey was raw, heartfelt, and beautifully written.
This was also my first time reading a book that included a non-monogamous relationship, and I was surprised by how much I liked it. The way it was handled felt natural, respectful, and integral to their story rather than just an added detail.
Overall, Building Home is a touching and well-crafted romance that explores love, healing, and the beauty of finding someone who truly understands you. Highly recommended!
March 31, 2025
Though the book starts off slowly, with a lot of setup that I struggled at times to fully engage with, the story hits its stride once the book hits the halfway mark. Spencer is a hit 'em and quit 'em kind of guy after escaping an emotionally abusive relationship. Ian is grieving a major loss and trying to honor family wishes. They are drawn to each other, and with encouragement from friends, Spencer takes a leap of faith with Ian.
This was my first read with consensual non-monogamy, and seeing how Spencer and Ian navigated that type of relationship - the healthy discussions and boundary setting - was thoughtful and realistic. The relationship between Spencer and Ian is incredibly sweet, and watching them begin to heal together was touching. Their journey is full of quiet, tender moments that make the emotional payoff worth the wait.
That said, there were a couple of times that I was yanked out of the comfort of the story in a not pleasant way. While one of the characters is Chinese-American, there was almost too much emphasis put on that. In one conversation with a side character, Spencer wonders if Ian being white will be a problem. And while that is a concern for a lot of people, I feel like it could have been woven a little more softly into the story line. As is, it came across as heavy handed and unnatural, and pulled me from the story.
Overall, despite the slow start and some narrative choices that didn’t fully work for me, the romance between Spencer and Ian was beautifully done. I enjoyed the way the author explored love, healing and non-traditional relationships with care and thoughtfulness. Push through the slow start - this is worth the read!
[I received an advanced copy of this book. All reviews and ratings are my own.]
This was my first read with consensual non-monogamy, and seeing how Spencer and Ian navigated that type of relationship - the healthy discussions and boundary setting - was thoughtful and realistic. The relationship between Spencer and Ian is incredibly sweet, and watching them begin to heal together was touching. Their journey is full of quiet, tender moments that make the emotional payoff worth the wait.
That said, there were a couple of times that I was yanked out of the comfort of the story in a not pleasant way. While one of the characters is Chinese-American, there was almost too much emphasis put on that. In one conversation with a side character, Spencer wonders if Ian being white will be a problem. And while that is a concern for a lot of people, I feel like it could have been woven a little more softly into the story line. As is, it came across as heavy handed and unnatural, and pulled me from the story.
Overall, despite the slow start and some narrative choices that didn’t fully work for me, the romance between Spencer and Ian was beautifully done. I enjoyed the way the author explored love, healing and non-traditional relationships with care and thoughtfulness. Push through the slow start - this is worth the read!
[I received an advanced copy of this book. All reviews and ratings are my own.]
March 17, 2025
I loved J Mackenzie’s first book, The Last Dance, so I figured I would love this one just as much but I unfortunately.. did not. This was not a bad book in ANY way, I still really enjoyed it and would highly recommend it. BUT it didn’t start getting good for me until maybe 50-60% in which is not ideal. The first 50% was truthfully boring and felt like nothing was happening. Despite that, I did get very attached to the characters by the end and I am looking forward to the rest of the series.
EDIT: I would also like to mention that the main character in this book is a Chinese American man and the book was written by a white woman. The author, through my also white perspective, seemed to do a good job portraying his life/struggles with having Chinese parents and being a Chinese man. BUT I don’t know that this is her story to tell if that makes sense. Please take this with a grain of salt because again I am also white and cannot speak to this very well.
Thank you to J. Mackenzie and Gay Romance Reviews for sending me this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
EDIT: I would also like to mention that the main character in this book is a Chinese American man and the book was written by a white woman. The author, through my also white perspective, seemed to do a good job portraying his life/struggles with having Chinese parents and being a Chinese man. BUT I don’t know that this is her story to tell if that makes sense. Please take this with a grain of salt because again I am also white and cannot speak to this very well.
Thank you to J. Mackenzie and Gay Romance Reviews for sending me this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
March 24, 2025
Building Home by J. Mackenzie – A Heartfelt Slow-Burn Romance
This was my first book by J. Mackenzie, and I really enjoyed it! Building Home follows Spencer, a house renovator rebuilding his life after an emotionally abusive relationship, and Ian, an ER doctor struggling with grief after inheriting his late parents’ home. With dreams of restoring the house but overwhelmed by the emotional weight of it all, Ian turns to Spencer for help.
Their relationship unfolds as a slow-burn, low-angst romance, with a deep focus on healing, trust, and new beginnings. I loved watching their bond develop naturally, and the exploration of their consensual non-monogamous relationship added an interesting layer to the story.
The writing is smooth and engaging, making this a comforting, character-driven read. If you enjoy thoughtful, emotional romances with a touch of home renovation charm, this one is worth picking up!
This was my first book by J. Mackenzie, and I really enjoyed it! Building Home follows Spencer, a house renovator rebuilding his life after an emotionally abusive relationship, and Ian, an ER doctor struggling with grief after inheriting his late parents’ home. With dreams of restoring the house but overwhelmed by the emotional weight of it all, Ian turns to Spencer for help.
Their relationship unfolds as a slow-burn, low-angst romance, with a deep focus on healing, trust, and new beginnings. I loved watching their bond develop naturally, and the exploration of their consensual non-monogamous relationship added an interesting layer to the story.
The writing is smooth and engaging, making this a comforting, character-driven read. If you enjoy thoughtful, emotional romances with a touch of home renovation charm, this one is worth picking up!
March 3, 2025
I didn't know exactly what to expect from this book, based on the blurb (which I think may have been changed since I initially saw it—perhaps other people wondered if it was going to be a paranormal, too). What I got was a well-written romance that developed believably, if perhaps a tiny bit too smoothly. If you're looking for a story where the angst has little or nothing to do with the main relationship—and you're okay with ethical nonmonogamy—you'll likely enjoy this a lot. I'll be interested to see where the author goes with this series.
I'm cis and not Chinese, so I don't have any lived experience to inform my interpretation, but I didn't notice any issues with the way the main and secondary characters' race and gender issues were presented.
My thanks to Gay Romance Reviews for an advance copy of this book.
I'm cis and not Chinese, so I don't have any lived experience to inform my interpretation, but I didn't notice any issues with the way the main and secondary characters' race and gender issues were presented.
My thanks to Gay Romance Reviews for an advance copy of this book.
March 16, 2025
Avocado shag carpet, corgi butts, yellow Power Ranger t-shirt, Blue Goo, steeping timer, bath caddy, pompom snowman, Chemex
A medium steam and low angst story that is endearing, and lacking any real conflict. It's mostly a feel good book that's heavy on details of the renovating/reconstruction of homes. The story is largely character interactions and 'drama' driven. Because I'm old-fashioned, it was difficult getting through the consensual nonmonogamous sex scenes. The MCs chose that and neither had any issues with it. There's also a few unresolved secondary plot threads.
Spencer Lim is the design contractor and Ian Collier is the client and an ER doctor. It's an immediate mutual attraction. Both try to suppress it. The main plot line is uncomplicated, and doesn't get too deep. The book is entertaining and lighthearted.
A medium steam and low angst story that is endearing, and lacking any real conflict. It's mostly a feel good book that's heavy on details of the renovating/reconstruction of homes. The story is largely character interactions and 'drama' driven. Because I'm old-fashioned, it was difficult getting through the consensual nonmonogamous sex scenes. The MCs chose that and neither had any issues with it. There's also a few unresolved secondary plot threads.
Spencer Lim is the design contractor and Ian Collier is the client and an ER doctor. It's an immediate mutual attraction. Both try to suppress it. The main plot line is uncomplicated, and doesn't get too deep. The book is entertaining and lighthearted.
May 20, 2025
The start of a new series and a refreshing trope. This is a story that shows devotion and commitment but drops the formality of tradition. Both men find each other, but they also know they need other things. This leads to a poly relationship, which again isn't rigid and varies between three people or a different partner, but they remain a couple. I loved how honest this relationship is, I guess openess is the key when other people are invited in. Both very gentle characters, this book isn't noisy, it is calm and despite both men suffering with their own traumas there is a calmness when these two men are together. His book is a single POV from Spencer and we read how he heals and finds love whilst restoring love back to an old house. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 10, 2025
The formatting of the ARC of this annoyed me. There was chapters, but the chapters weren't broken up in the ToC, so it was just one BIG block of text. I assume that would be fixed in the final version, but it made reading this a bit annoying. Other than that, it was decent enough. It was interesting to see a healthy non-monogamous relationship portrayed. I've read poly books before where there is 3 or more people in a relationship, but I can't recall if I've ever read an ethically non-monogamous story before. I really appreciated that the MCs communicated openly twith each other and didn't let issues fester.
***
I was provided with an ARC from Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest review.
***
I was provided with an ARC from Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest review.
March 21, 2025
3.5 Stars.
3rd person POV. Slow burn, and semi closed door spicy scenes, at least in the beginning. They go into a little more detail later in the book but still nothing too heavy. I like how the two MMCs helped to heal each other and how accepting they were of each other’s needs. I also really liked the found family aspect with their friend’s group.
The configuration of the “Brown Street House” confuses me and I can’t seem to let that go. It goes from a house to a duplex back to a house and it is never really clear what is going on with it.
There were a couple of things i felt weren’t needed and actually took away from the story a bit. The “Tyler Street House”, after the complaining about the owners choices a few time it just was kind of fell off the face of the planet never to be heard about again. Spencer and Ian having a non-monogamous relationship, and bringing Marty, Raj, and Eric into the fold for one minor scene each. And the way “white men” is used derogatorily more than once, while i understand most of these character’s are of different ethnicities, it still seems to come off weird the way it is written.
3rd person POV. Slow burn, and semi closed door spicy scenes, at least in the beginning. They go into a little more detail later in the book but still nothing too heavy. I like how the two MMCs helped to heal each other and how accepting they were of each other’s needs. I also really liked the found family aspect with their friend’s group.
The configuration of the “Brown Street House” confuses me and I can’t seem to let that go. It goes from a house to a duplex back to a house and it is never really clear what is going on with it.
There were a couple of things i felt weren’t needed and actually took away from the story a bit. The “Tyler Street House”, after the complaining about the owners choices a few time it just was kind of fell off the face of the planet never to be heard about again. Spencer and Ian having a non-monogamous relationship, and bringing Marty, Raj, and Eric into the fold for one minor scene each. And the way “white men” is used derogatorily more than once, while i understand most of these character’s are of different ethnicities, it still seems to come off weird the way it is written.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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March 23, 2025DNF 33%
There are bits of a good book here, and I’m sorry to have DNFd, but it’s super, super slow, and the author doesn’t seem to understand how to pace a novel: they provide way too much detail (food detail, relationship detail, work detail, etc.) about things that rely could have been elided. At 80 pages into a 240 page book, I still don’t have a good sense of who the focus character is, but I’ve learned a lot about remodeling 120-year-old New England houses, and what the author thinks indicates poor taste in this kind of remodeling. And there’s a huge crop of secondary characters, which feels like it’s foreshadowing next books.
I think there’s maybe a story here? But not for me. I wish this new author good luck.
There are bits of a good book here, and I’m sorry to have DNFd, but it’s super, super slow, and the author doesn’t seem to understand how to pace a novel: they provide way too much detail (food detail, relationship detail, work detail, etc.) about things that rely could have been elided. At 80 pages into a 240 page book, I still don’t have a good sense of who the focus character is, but I’ve learned a lot about remodeling 120-year-old New England houses, and what the author thinks indicates poor taste in this kind of remodeling. And there’s a huge crop of secondary characters, which feels like it’s foreshadowing next books.
I think there’s maybe a story here? But not for me. I wish this new author good luck.
April 3, 2025
Ian and Spencer are two damaged men who find wholeness together. Spencer loves his job, his dog and his friends. His relationship with his parents is strained and he only has one night stands. Meeting Ian changes the last thing. He decides, with encouragement from his friends, to be brave and trust his heart to Ian. Their relationship forms slowly but steadily with little angst. This is a simple romance between two adults with problems. But their strong support systems, found family, and lovable pets are there all along the way. I recommend Building Home to anyone who enjoys simple, sweet, and low angst romance with a lovely HEA. Also there are dogs named Reptar and Cynthia. Did I mention this book had me laughing many times?
April 8, 2025
Spencer needed to move on emotionally from an abusive relationship, 4 years after moving away physically. He’s built a home for himself in Pittsfield, with a great job and great friends. He’s happy.
Ian is a bit of a mess. He’s grieving and doesn’t know how to deal with all his conflicting emotions. To top it off, he’s inherited a house that’s both dear to him and a reminder of loss.
Spencer is the perfect guy to handle the renovation of that beautiful house. He’s brilliant in that way, and a gifted artist. Perfect.
His is and Ian’s relationship is complicated and bit unconventional. It works for them, and that’s all that matters.
I love Ian’s approach to making Christmas decorations- of course a doctor would do it that way!
Loved it.
Ian is a bit of a mess. He’s grieving and doesn’t know how to deal with all his conflicting emotions. To top it off, he’s inherited a house that’s both dear to him and a reminder of loss.
Spencer is the perfect guy to handle the renovation of that beautiful house. He’s brilliant in that way, and a gifted artist. Perfect.
His is and Ian’s relationship is complicated and bit unconventional. It works for them, and that’s all that matters.
I love Ian’s approach to making Christmas decorations- of course a doctor would do it that way!
Loved it.
March 23, 2025
A good first book for this series and a series I will read book two. This one is about two tortured me, Spencer and Ian, both in need of healing before they can emotionally committee to love. Spencer loves his life even if he only engages in hook up (seems his past relationship has scared him and made him not sure he can do the relationship thing), and Ian is in pain having lost his parents recently. A nice slow burn romance with no angst (well there is some but it is not about the love story). I love a book where two men learn to trust and get past their past hurt to find love..that is the book. I did receive an ARC and leave this honest review.
March 25, 2025
It was interesting that Spencer was living a kind of day to day, if content, life with enough of everything. Work he enjoyed, a place he liked living and a dog to keep him company. He has not connected with anyone significantly in a while to rate a repeat. Then he meets Ian and it was like he was waiting for him. This pair actually seemed to be waiting for one another to help them move forward, to heal and to build more in each of their lives and to build something together. This was such a lovely story that was moving in a lot of ways.
I received an ARC from GRR and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received an ARC from GRR and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 7, 2025
This book was great. I loved that Spencer and Ian both came to the relationship with baggage, and knew how to support each other. I loved that they created their relationship to meet their needs. I loved that they approached the relationship as two fully-functioning adults (with trauma, and compassion) and listened to each other. I loved their found family. I loved Norman, I have a Golden too and the way Norman’s personality was captured was PERFECT. I loved that it was just assumed that they were each in therapy, so that instead of a character resisting therapy because “doesn’t believe in it” or is “too tough for that” BS there was discussion about dysfunction around that-refreshing!
February 2, 2026
DNF @ 14%
The writing just didn't work for me. It felt more like I was reading a series of actions rather than a story play out. "Spencer did this. They did that. He went here. They talked. Spencer thought this." It felt like we were too distant from the characters and it bored me. Third person POVs tend to have that effect, but I found it much too big of a problem here.
Also, the story could've used some structural work. Idk why we needed to have a couple of pages dedicated to seeing Spencer work with Cat on a completely unrelated project that didn't involve Ian since that felt like a waste of time. I also didn't buy Spencer suddenly getting so bent out of shape over Ian (so much so that he needed Raj to come visit him). They'd only met like twice before then and Ian hadn't even done anything so idk what how "Ian had gotten under his skin"
The writing just didn't work for me. It felt more like I was reading a series of actions rather than a story play out. "Spencer did this. They did that. He went here. They talked. Spencer thought this." It felt like we were too distant from the characters and it bored me. Third person POVs tend to have that effect, but I found it much too big of a problem here.
Also, the story could've used some structural work. Idk why we needed to have a couple of pages dedicated to seeing Spencer work with Cat on a completely unrelated project that didn't involve Ian since that felt like a waste of time. I also didn't buy Spencer suddenly getting so bent out of shape over Ian (so much so that he needed Raj to come visit him). They'd only met like twice before then and Ian hadn't even done anything so idk what how "Ian had gotten under his skin"
March 8, 2025
That title says so much more than just what Spencer does for a living. He makes each house home for his clients and Ian is feeling very mixed up about the house on Brown Street. It is also about found family and doing what is right for a relationship, not what everyone else expects. These two slot together almost too perfectly but it definitely works. This is a hurt comfort and no angst read that certainly worth your time. These two don’t have a 3rd act breakup and there is absolutely no cheating. It is a nice story to read with a bit of spice and some less than “normative” relationships.
March 24, 2025
I received an ARC from GRR and this is the first book I've read by J. Mackenzie.
My eyes were opened, in a good way, to the different kinds of love that can be experienced over a lifetime.
As Spencer renovates the house Ian has inherited from his grandmother, they learn more about themselves, each other and their capacity for exploring their sensual sides deeply.
While social mores may frown on certain aspects of the topics covered here, J. Mackezie does a beautiful job delicately moving between relationships and expressions of joy and acceptance.
A worthwhile read.
My eyes were opened, in a good way, to the different kinds of love that can be experienced over a lifetime.
As Spencer renovates the house Ian has inherited from his grandmother, they learn more about themselves, each other and their capacity for exploring their sensual sides deeply.
While social mores may frown on certain aspects of the topics covered here, J. Mackezie does a beautiful job delicately moving between relationships and expressions of joy and acceptance.
A worthwhile read.
March 30, 2025
The title of this one and the premise that brings Spencer and Ian together is in fact a home - one Ian has inherited and Spencer is going to advise him about renovating. When these two hit it off, it becomes for both men figuring out what a relationship and home means to them and what kind of life they might build together. That relationship doesn't always fit the traditional "romance" definition and I loved finding a book that took chances with that. Look forward to finding other books by this author and seeing what surprises they contain.
March 4, 2025
A modern story with a somewhat unorthodox relationship even in today’s society. The characters didn’t really jump out in any distinguishable way, however, they played their parts well. The storyline was easy to follow, again, didn’t jump out at me but it was an easy read. A happy ending between the m/c’s and good friends makes this book’s conclusion very pleasing. I voluntarily reviewed an arc of this book.
March 22, 2025
Somehow, this felt like an unexpectedly warm story, including consensual non-monogamy. Ian's patience with Spencer's struggles (due to his abusive ex) was really touching. The friend group was excellent, and their support and banter were great. The basement part in the beginning felt like it would become a paranormal story. Although this didn't happen, it didn't quite feel resolved for Ian either. The rest of the book was filled with respect for feelings and great communication.
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