A Blind Curve

by S.N. McKibben

Relationships shouldn’t have a deadline, but Jake and Dan have agreed to try out what they have together for 3 months.Jake’s been broken by straight men before. Now that he’s dating Dan Perry, the “unattainable” man of his dreams, his fear of abandonment creeps into insecurities that make him push Dan away. Jake fights his self-doubt quietly, yet Dan suspects something is wrong.

If things don’t go well, Jake is ready to move on. But Dan has changed too much to let this relationship go without a fight.

Dan, grappling with his newfound sexuality, must conquer his fear and prejudice before he loses the first man he’s ever loved.

The truth will come out one way or another, and if Dan doesn’t fully commit to their relationship, Jake would rather cut their time short than dangle along until the love of his life decides to leave him in the end.

91 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 31, 2025

About the author

Will Write For Puppy Chow!

Slave to a dog-pack of five and the slowest computer ever that she calls "Dave", Stephanie writes Dirty Stories with Underdog Heroes revolving around Social Taboos. You’ll find her strolling the twenty-seven-acre property in Central Texas she, her main squeeze, and her dog-pack owns when she isn’t writing.

When ever asked, she'll reply her whole life has all the elements of a graphic novel—sometimes twisted, sometimes funny, but always beautiful and its title is adventure. Come play!

Reviews

[Jenni · Rating 3 out of 5]

3 - 3.5 stars
A Blind Curve is the continuation of Dan and Jake's journey, following The Silent Road. As with the first book, this MM romance is an emotionally charged tale filled with anger, tension, angst, and frustration. One character is grappling with his identity as a heterosexual man now in a relationship with another man, along with everything that entails, while the other fears rejection.
This very quick story explores themes of acceptance, understanding, and compassion for others, as well as learning to accept oneself. It emphasizes the importance of recognizing one's self-worth for who you are and what you represent.
In The Silent Road, I had some reservations about Dan and found it difficult to connect with him. He is an angry and complex character, and even though he is taking a deep look at himself and has undergone some changes, I still couldn't connect with him in the same way I have with other characters in the author's previous works. However, I did love Mimi; she is a delightful fluff ball.
I encourage you to give this book a chance, as you may end up falling in love with both characters in a way that I couldn’t.

[Francis · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Blind Curve is the sequel to The Silent Road. I would highly recommend reading the books in order as A Blind Curve is very much a continuation of the story that begins in The Silent Road.

Having determined that the relationship established in The Silent Road would end when they completed the job, Dan is back driving with Jake and hopes to give both of them a chance to work out whether they are compatible for a longer term relationship. When we rejoin the story, they are nearing the end of their three months on the road together.

It’s interesting to see how the characters are figuring out their relationship, in particular learning how to communicate and voice their needs and concerns. This does not always go smoothly but being stuck in a truck together means Dan and Jake have no choice but to be honest with each other eventually!

Something I found a bit weird is that there’s one point where Dan describes himself as demisexual, but this is not mentioned or alluded to anywhere else in the book. I was excited about the possibility of a character on the asexual spectrum but also confused as to me it didn’t really fit in with the rest of the characterisation of Dan. I’m not sure whether the author meant to establish Dan as demisexual, which would definitely be interesting in the context of this story and could do with further exploration, or got confused between demisexuality and bisexuality.

This book gets four stars from me. If you’re interested you should definitely go back and start with The Silent Road before reading A Blind Curve! You’ll enjoy the series if you like stories with characters coming to terms with their sexuality and learning to navigate new relationships.

[Angela · Rating 3 out of 5]

2.5 - 3 Stars

A Blind Curve by S.N. McKibben is the sequel to The Silent Road, so if you have not read that book yet I highly recommend that you do so before diving in here as this really isn’t a standalone. The first book contains character introductions, development, backstory, and other relevant details that you should know in order to better appreciate this instalment.
As with the first book, it is a MM romance with plenty of challenges, a relationship under tension, emotion, complications, character dynamics, angst, and drama.
The characters are complex with their own personalities, quirks, and flaws. But as with the first book, I really found it hard to connect with them, which made it hard to invest in them or their story. The author writes well for the most part- but there were some issues throughout the book such as descriptions, and descriptive word choices that were awkward or I felt were a little triggering for some/come with a charge, that pulled me out of the story and were another factor which lowered my enjoyment of the story.
Jake and Dan have some challenges to overcome if their relationship is going to make the long-haul. Will the insecurities, self-doubts, fear, prejudice, secrets, and miscommunication bring their journey to an end? Or will love find a way? If you want to find out what happens then you really should read all the developments for yourself.
Happy Reading…

Thank you, S.N. McKibben!

[Angela Shirley · Rating 4 out of 5]

Dan and Jake have been a couple for a short time, but when they have placed a three month agreement on the table, what possible could go wrong?

Dan is newly out finding his feeling overwhelming for Jake, struggling with the intermate side of the relationship which is slowly pushing Jake further away. Although Jake has been out and proud for a while he has never really had these feelings for anyone else like he has for Dan with his protection and lover side but he has had his fair share of straight men experimenting and does not want that life anymore.

As Dan becomes more bond and changes his mind set to love Jake, Jake is feeling more lost and starts distancing himself away but in the end will love overcome?

This is a short story and continues on from A Silent Road were we first get to meet Jake and Dan, I would suggest you read this book first it will set alot of the groundwork to there relationship.

Although Jake is out he still has his hang ups and shows his vulnerability with his thoughts around Dan's reluctance to do some thing to progress there relationship but you also feel sorry for Dan who has made huge steps to uncover the feelings he has for Jake but is struggling with the intermate side of the relationship as he has lived his whole life as a straight man.

I loved the story and it was a great conclusion to the story. Can't wait to read more by this great author.

[Joanne Ellis · Rating 2 out of 5]

S.N. McKibben’s Blind Curve is an emotionally charged and deeply introspective romance that explores love, insecurity, and self-discovery. At its core, the novel tells the story of Jake and Dan—two men navigating the complexities of a three-month trial relationship that could either blossom into something lasting or end in heartbreak.

Jake, having been burned by straight men before, struggles with trust and fears of abandonment. His emotional walls threaten to push Dan away, even as Dan himself wrestles with his own identity and societal expectations. Dan’s journey of self-acceptance is both compelling and painful, as he must overcome internalized fears to fight for the man he loves.

McKibben does an excellent job of crafting flawed, relatable characters who are raw and real. The novel doesn’t just focus on the romance—it delves into the psychological battles both men face, making their relationship feel authentic and high-stakes. The tension between them is palpable, and the emotional depth keeps the reader engaged, rooting for them to find their way to each other.

For fans of deeply emotional, character-driven LGBTQ+ romance, Blind Curve offers a poignant and heartfelt exploration of love’s fragility and strength. It’s a beautifully written story about breaking barriers, facing fears, and learning that love is worth fighting for—even when the road is uncertain.

[Tara Johnson · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Blind Curve is the sequel to The Silent Road, which gives the back story on the main characters. If you have not yet read book one, I highly recommend that you do because it gives the backstory of Dan and Jake and starts off where the other one left off. It is a MM Romance filled with drama, tension, anger, tension, angst, compassion, understanding, fear, and doubt. In book one, Dan and Jake established their relationship and put a three-month timeline on it to determine whether they are compatible for something that could be longer term. They are now nearing the end of that three-month term that they set for their relationship, and both are still struggling in their own ways. Until he met Jake, Dan thought that he was straight but once he met Jake his world turned upside down. Dan realized he had feelings for Jake and struggles with being gay. He worries about what other people will think and their judgments of him. Jake has his own struggles that he is trying to accept. Jake's struggles silently with insecurities and the fear of abandonment. The relationship of Dan and Jake was complex and faced plenty of challenges as they both struggled to come to terms with their own doubts and insecurities. Along their journey they learn compassion, understanding, and acceptance of themselves.

[Kerry carr · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a really interesting romance. It is a quick read. The author does a great job of placing us into the mindset of the characters in the story especially Dan. He has been a man who thought he was straight until meeting Jake changed his thinking and turned his world upside down. However things are straight forward. Dan has a lot of issues with being gay. As much as he loves Jake he has to fight against all the old programming from his parents and he is worried about other people's opinions.
Dan's struggle to accept what he is feeling and completely give Jake everything means that their relationships struggle. With the end of their trial period drawing closer will Dan be able to work through his issues to be with the man he love or will the past hold him back from a future with Jake.

I really felt for Dan because you could feel how much he loves Jake and his fear and other people's opinions hold him back and risk him losing the man he loves. I can also feel for Jake and his frustration. As much as he tries to give Dan space and be there as he works through things he does feel like at times that Dan won't get to the point of truly embracing their romance.

[Beejai Bohls · Rating 5 out of 5]

This isn't the first book in this series and I don't think it should be read as a stand alone. I feel that the information in the previous book should be read first as this carries on. The first book is, The Silent Road, and each of these books contain difficult subject matter. If you haven't read the first book and jumped into this one first, just know that the first book contains a lot of lading information to where the characters are at the starting point of this book. I love the character development that they have had from the first book to this one. Not having read the first book you will start having very strong characters that have a complex relationship. This is a MM relationship that each characters has their own struggles that they must overcome. Their communication, sharing feelings, and being open to one another seem to be the struggles that this couple is facing. This is a quick read and the pace of the book matched the pages. I don't feel like anything was rushed or the plot was shortened. It is well written and does discuss some hard topics but does so with grace. I enjoyed reading this book and look forward to reading more from this author in the future.

[Dawn Daughenbaugh · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 Stars
A Blind Curve By S.N McKibben

A Blind Curve is a MM Romance that I wasn’t sure about going in. It started out a bit slow and it didn’t realize that this was the sequel . I’m definitely going to be reading the previous book as this really isn’t a standalone. With that being said I enjoyed reading this book but I think I would have enjoyed it more if I had read the first book as I would have had more back story. The characters are complex, developed and creative. They are raw and intense at times. The storyline was a bit choppy but I got through. Can Jake and Dan be together and help each other get over their insecurities and self doubts they have? They deserve to be happy and have love can they find that with each other? There may be a few things that may trigger some but it’s worth the read.i recommend reading this book to find out what happens next. I look forward to reading more from this Author.

[Hannah · Rating 4 out of 5]

S.N. McKibben delivers a heartfelt short story with A Blind Curve, diving deeper into the complicated relationship between Jake and Dan. The chemistry between the two leads is palpable, but what really makes this story stand out is how it explores vulnerability and the struggles of self-acceptance. Their miscommunications and insecurities create a tension that kept me turning the pages they even make you want to shake them into talking things out lol. McKibben doesn't shy away from difficult conversations around identity, trust, and societal pressure, which adds depth to the romance. The writing style is straightforward, letting the characters' emotions take center stage. If you're looking for a story that blends steamy moments with emotional honesty, this book is worth the read. Just be ready to feel a little frustrated along the way because sometimes, love isn't easy. Look forward to checking out more from the author.

[Bobbi Wagner · Rating 4 out of 5]

This story is by an author that is newer for me. I enjoyed their creative characters that are written with a lot of heart and soul. I enjoyed how the author is able to pull me into the story from the start with details that make the story realistic. Dan and Jake are great characters who have agreed to give their relationship a try. Their story becomes one of acceptance and commitment. Both have to face their fears in order to stay together but will they? I enjoyed how connectable and relatable they are. I also enjoyed their chemistry and growth throughout the story. They made the story easy and entertaining to read. I had no problems picturing myself in their world. Their story is fast paced and hard to put down. I really enjoyed this book and look forward to seeing what is next for this author. I highly recommend this book.

[Tausha Treadway · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Blind Curve by S. N. McKibben. This is a good M/M romance. I do recommend reading the first book, The Silent Road to get to know these characters from the beginning. Its the story of Dan who has always been brought up that a man is a man and shouldn't be with another man. Jake is a guy who is ok with his sexuality but has tons of insecurities and trust issues. They are both truck drivers and they go on a long haul together. They are stuck in a truck together for hours on end so they have no choice but to communicate. They have agreed that they will try for 3 moths to make a relationship work and if it doesn't they can throw in the towel but Dan is beginning to think he can't give up Jake. Jake struggling with his insecurities is pushing Dan away without even meaning to. Will they survive the long haul and come out together as a couple or will it all implode?

[Shannen · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the second book in the series, so definitely read The Silent Road first. I don’t feel this would make a good book to read as a standalone because it definitely builds and continues smoothly into this one. I was excited to pick this up because I loved the first one so much, and it didn’t disappoint! This is a heartfelt and emotionally charged story about love, self-doubt, and the courage to be vulnerable. The emotional tension between the characters is palpable, making their journey toward honesty and commitment both heartbreaking and inspiring. If you’re looking for a compelling read of romantic drama that delves into the real struggles of relationships, this is a must-read. It’s such a beautifully crafted tale of two men learning that love isn’t something that can be measured by time but instead by the courage to fully commit. I’m looking forward to more by this author!

[Naomi Valkyrie · Rating 3 out of 5]

This really isn’t a standalone. You should read The Silent Road first to get the backstory on the main characters up to the point where this story begins.
As with the first book, this one was somewhat of an uncomfortable read. There were a few things that made me feel uneasy – lines like “Jake was a blond, blue-eyed Aryan masterpiece.” I’m sure there were other ways to describe the character that would have conveyed his appearance without using such a charged term.
I feel like there is potential in the story because there are parts that are executed well. Maybe if we got Jake’s POV…
And, as with the first book, I feel like with some feedback from sensitivity readers, this could be a truly great read. I’d give it a re-read after a bit of polishing.

[Christina Sanders · Rating 4 out of 5]

This story shares a man’s struggle with himself in how he was raised with how he wants to live his life to be happy. Being told only men and women belonged together makes him struggle with his wanting to be with a man he’s in love with.
They have a time frame set to decide if they want to commit and continue a relationship or not and it’s interesting to read how they are working through that as everything comes up that they have to deal with. Such an interesting story and I really liked it.
It tells a story of a struggle I haven’t personally gone through but seems like a realistic telling of how someone would struggle through society’s views and how he (they) views themselves and how they just want to be loved (by one another) and be happy without others interfering in any of that.

[Jennifer · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this fairly short MM romance and felt very engaged with the likeable and relatable characters. Jake and Dan have agreed to ‘try out’ being in a relationship for three months and end it if it’s not working. Jake has been heartbroken before by straight men and now he’s fallen for Dan, who is coming to terms with his newfound sexuality. Jake’s fear of abandonment risks pushing Dan away, whilst Dan needs to conquer his fear and prejudice before he loses Jake. At the end of three months they both need to either commit to their relationship or end things completely. The storyline was full of emotions and angst along with plenty of romance. As a sequel to ‘The Silent Road’ I would recommend reading that book first for a better understanding of the characters backstory.

[Jaimie · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Blind Curve is book two in this series. Book one is The Silent Road. In book one you meet Dan and Jake and follow along part of their story. In this book it picks back up with them on a three month long-haul deadline. Dan is trying to convince Jake that they can be truck drivers and have it all, but Jake wants more, more than Dan is willing to give. Jake has been here before and past fears are creeping in. Can these two get past their road blocks and talk things through. Come to some kind of understanding? Or will everything fall apart. Did I mention that Jake had an adorable dog that live with him in his truck? Yeah, super cute! I really enjoyed this book. I'm excited to read more from this author.

[Tammy Turner · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Blind Curve by S.N. McKibben tells a brutally honest story about one man struggling with his newfound sexuality while his partner wrestles with the insecurities of past failed relationships and fear of abandonment. Dan grew up being taught that men are not to be with men. As he struggles through his own doubts and prejudices, he is terrified of losing Jake. On the other hand, Jake is struggling with his own fears and insecurities which cause him to push Dan away. From the beginning, they agreed to give this union 3 months to succeed or fail. The book takes you through the 7 days that will make or break them. This is a poignant story that has you rooting for this couple to make it.

[Cindy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I would first recommend you read this series in order. Starting with The Silent Road, as it is the beginning of the relationship between Jake and Dan. Book two is the continuation of where this partnership could go. Jake and Dan being in the cab if the truck is on long haul have no choice but to talk to each other. Honesty finally comes out leaving the story headed in the right direction. This author wrote this MM story with truth and communication. Which is where all relationships should start. The story is a quick read and has a wonderful HEA. A real page turner with many emotions at play. I hope you enjoy this story as much as I did.

[Carrie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Yes! I love this follow up with Dan and Jake. It is nice to watch as Dan comes into his sexuality and discovers more about himself. I got frustrated at times with Dan, he says he loves Jake, and doesn’t want to live without him but is a hard no on the desires Jake has. Sometimes Jake wants to receive rather than give. It just felt as though he would never entertain the thought, and what it came down to is just poor communication all around on both of them. The ending made me smile so much and gave me the closure I was looking for. I wasn’t excepting that big of an ending with these two but am all the more happy for it.

[Heidi Eich Woodring · Rating 4 out of 5]

Jake and Dan find themselves in a new relationship and Jake is worried. In the past “straight” males have hurt him before but he still goes ahead and agrees to a three month try out to see where things will lead. Dan is so new to this lifestyle that he sometimes struggles and pushes Jake away. Jake has been out for a long time and at times pulls away from Dan. These two care for each other and both learn along the way that communication is so important.
I truly liked seeing what these two had from book one to book two. They are growing and of course good and bad happen on that journey. This was a quick read and wish it was a touch longer as I wanted more of Dan and Jakes world.

[Kirsten Berkebile · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the second book in the series, but the first one I read. It’s a short book but there is a lot to unpack in it. Dan and Jake are two truckers who have fallen in love with each other however there is a timeline of their relationship and whether or not it ends. Dan, was previously married to a woman and due to insecurities given to him by his parents he was unhesitant to enter into a relationship with a man. Jake however is very much open about his sexuality. They are given a trip that may lead them into breaking or staying together forever, I will not tell you which one it is. You must read this story to find out yourself.

[Robin Rankin · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Blind Curve

I hopped into this book as soon as I had finished the first book. I had to know what was going to happen between Dan and Jake.

The guys are working together again, but this time by choice as they explore their feelings for one another and try to build something, that is if Dan can get out of his own head.

I'm lucky and never had any questions about who I am and who I want to love, but I know several people who have struggled with the discovery and admission to themselves. Once they are out they feel free and like a huge weight has been removed. I like to think that is how Dan felt once he acknowledged it.

Great story to read if you're open minded.

[Jessica Godwin · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the sequel to The Silent Road and you really should read it first because it gives you the backstory of the characters and all the emotional turmoil they go through. This is a great story of Dan and Jake finally be able to be together and seeing if they can make it work. They decided to give it three months and by the end if Dan can't get past his own reservations and Jake can accept Dan if he doesn't, will they be able to continue their relationship? There is a lot of emotion turmoil in this book as there was in the first one. Dan and Jake have to be able to learn to communicate what they want and fear in order to make this relationship work. This was beautifully written and I loved reading more about these characters. I would love read more about Dan and Jake, their past and future together.

[Yvonne Derrig · Rating 4 out of 5]

Read The Silent Road First - This Is Not a Standalone

The trio is back! I’m so ecstatic that S. N. McKinney has given us the continuation of Dan and Jake’s story. I’m so looking forward to the possibility of there being even more to this story, as I am fully invested at this point. The characters are so well written and relatable, with real world feelings, emotions, and problems, that it is easy to like them and cheer them on. Dan and Jake are partners again, with some surprising twists and turns. You’ll definitely want to go read this one, and it won’t take you long at all! I absolutely ate this one up!

[Brittany Adams · Rating 3 out of 5]

First, let me start by saying I really need to read the synopsis of a book before deciding to read it. That being said- I'm glad I didn't! While this book is outside of my normal reading I still enjoyed.

This book is not something I would typically read. Its a sweet and very spicy story of two male truckers. Both learn to overcome some of their own fears and biases. Both in their relationship with each other and outside of that.

I think if you are a member of the LGBTQ+ community or just love a good queer story you will really appreciate this book.

[Kerry Baker · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is a quick and interesting read about a man on a path to discovering who he is despite misconceptions his whole life. I really enjoyed watching Dan learn more about himself than he thought possible. He fought hard to move past his upbringing and the opinions of others and it was a joy to see.
The story is quite a short story, but it is engaging and really draws you in. The author knows how to make you become invested in the characters and their journey, wanting to see how things will turn out. This is a thoroughly enjoyable story and a great first read by this author.

[Betsy Melano · Rating 4 out of 5]

As I’m writing this review, I realized that this is the second book in a series. I’m sure there’s some things I missed due to not reading the books in order. Anyway, the story is about Jake and Dan who are figuring out if they want to be together a couple. Dan is really struggling with his upbringing while Jake is doing his best to give Dan the time.
The story is well written and the characters are easy to connect with.

Although this is not a book I would normally pick, I try to keep an open mind and learn about people’s experiences.

[Amber Oakes · Rating 4 out of 5]

Dan and Jakes story continues from the first book, The Silent Road. You will need to read that first to see how far Dan has come with his sexuality and his relationship with Jake. With his book they have given each other three months on the road to see if this can be the relationship they truly want. But Dan is still struggling with himself and how far he is willing to go with Jake. Jake wants Dan more than anything but also understands he does not want to push him to hard to soon and scare him off. Can they both survive the open road and see they are meant for each other.

[Jayme Raffauf · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a very quick read and pretty enjoyable storyline for a MM romance. I don’t typically read MM romance stories, but it was good for that genre. I liked both Dan and Jake’s characters and of course, loved Mimi the dog. Lots of layers and emotions in the book despite it being such a fast read. You could feel the struggles and emotions from start to finish. This is book 2 of a series and I think if I had read book 1, the back story would probably have added more to the book, but that being said, it could be read as a stand-alone.