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Knight Blade Boys: An MM Fencing Romance
NOEL
Being called a “loner Knight” doesn’t faze me; I’m not a typical eighteen-year-old compared to my classmates, and that’s fine. I prefer solitude.
The only reason I'm a Knight in the first place is because my mom thinks I'm alone too much. She wants me to make friends, which is why I joined the Knight's fencing club, even though I'd much rather be stargazing or watching anime.
When a new student shows up, I'm surprised to see it's Alexander Madison, a boy who was my science partner at thirteen, and broke my heart when he moved away without a goodbye.
He was my best friend.
But Alex doesn't recognize me when I take off my mask, and I don't tell him who I am.
I’m devastated, but more than that, I’m pissed.
From this moment on, I hate Alex.
ALEX
Running away and moving back to Vermont, into the home of a woman that never wanted custody of me, is the last thing I wanted to do my senior year of high school.
But I didn't have any other choice.
My father took things too far, and I had to get out.
Now I'm at Knight's Valor Academy and on the fencing team for shits and giggles.
Noel Hale likes to challenge me every chance he gets, and I push every single button of his with my biting comments and playful personality that he doesn't understand.
When our coach catches wind of the animosity and the almost fight we get into, she forces us to practice together outside of school.
Our mandatory bouts turn into so much more.
Our foils clash just as hard as our personalities do, but I like our kind of foreplay.
Noel's senior year gets a little wild when our three teammates and I drag him along into our world of parties, drama, and illegal activities he’d never attempt, resulting in unexpected friendships, a brawl or two, and I somehow make him fall in love with me, even though he doesn’t like people.
But fate had already written our love in the stars a long time ago.
KBB is written in first person, dual POV. Knight Blade Boys is a high school fencing romance with +18 consenting adults. There is found family, high angst, slow burn to high heat, and features a neurodivergent MC. It is a full length MM romance standalone in a series. Each book will have a separate couple.
Being called a “loner Knight” doesn’t faze me; I’m not a typical eighteen-year-old compared to my classmates, and that’s fine. I prefer solitude.
The only reason I'm a Knight in the first place is because my mom thinks I'm alone too much. She wants me to make friends, which is why I joined the Knight's fencing club, even though I'd much rather be stargazing or watching anime.
When a new student shows up, I'm surprised to see it's Alexander Madison, a boy who was my science partner at thirteen, and broke my heart when he moved away without a goodbye.
He was my best friend.
But Alex doesn't recognize me when I take off my mask, and I don't tell him who I am.
I’m devastated, but more than that, I’m pissed.
From this moment on, I hate Alex.
ALEX
Running away and moving back to Vermont, into the home of a woman that never wanted custody of me, is the last thing I wanted to do my senior year of high school.
But I didn't have any other choice.
My father took things too far, and I had to get out.
Now I'm at Knight's Valor Academy and on the fencing team for shits and giggles.
Noel Hale likes to challenge me every chance he gets, and I push every single button of his with my biting comments and playful personality that he doesn't understand.
When our coach catches wind of the animosity and the almost fight we get into, she forces us to practice together outside of school.
Our mandatory bouts turn into so much more.
Our foils clash just as hard as our personalities do, but I like our kind of foreplay.
Noel's senior year gets a little wild when our three teammates and I drag him along into our world of parties, drama, and illegal activities he’d never attempt, resulting in unexpected friendships, a brawl or two, and I somehow make him fall in love with me, even though he doesn’t like people.
But fate had already written our love in the stars a long time ago.
KBB is written in first person, dual POV. Knight Blade Boys is a high school fencing romance with +18 consenting adults. There is found family, high angst, slow burn to high heat, and features a neurodivergent MC. It is a full length MM romance standalone in a series. Each book will have a separate couple.
582 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 31, 2025
60 people are currently reading
561 people want to read
About the author
Renee Kiser
5 books53 followersRenee writes Contemporary/New Adult Romance with HEA'S. You can expect her books to have sarcastic boys with swoon-worthy lines and loveable side characters. She loves smut with lots of plot and will always end her books with a happily ever after. Renee's a sucker for the found family trope, BL, Anime, and LGBTQ+ Romance.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews
December 29, 2025
DNF @56%
I started this monthsssss ago and never finished it, and honestly, I’m fine leaving it that way 😅😬😬. I don’t even remember why I stopped, and I’m not really interested in figuring it out. DNFing it and moving on just feels like the smart choice, so that’s exactly what I’m doing.
I started this monthsssss ago and never finished it, and honestly, I’m fine leaving it that way 😅😬😬. I don’t even remember why I stopped, and I’m not really interested in figuring it out. DNFing it and moving on just feels like the smart choice, so that’s exactly what I’m doing.
January 29, 2025
Welcome to Knight's Valor Academy, and the school fencing team.
Newest member Alex doesn’t seem to remember Noel, but Noel remembers him.
There’s antagonism between them, fuelled by Alex not remembering Noel and his personal home life.
Noel is a loner, anxious and possibly neurodivergent. I don’t think it’s stated but definitely alluded to .
Alex has shitty abusive parents. His mother is not maternal, his father is cold and rich and physically hurts him.
Noel fills this void in Alex. Alex steps up his flirtations with Noel who is completely oblivious or confused by this.
“He pulls me into his lap to sit. On his fucking lap. First the hand holding, and now this?!”
Alex finds himself vulnerable around Noel and his doe eyes.
“And those eyes. What the fuck kind of sorcery is he pulling when he looks at me like that? He doesn't look at any of the other guys like he does me. With blatant trust and poorly concealed optimism.”
The side characters consist of Ace, Grady and Levi -all who are on the fencing team. These are a cool and popular group of kids, with Noel slowly getting to know them after having his walls up.
Also Noel’s mum is lovely and loving.
I can’t figure out why Alex doesn’t remember Noel , but about halfway through it’s revealed.
“Alex is always there, a stab wound to my heart that won’t heal. Always beating, bleeding, and breaking with each day he doesn't remember me.”
Alex is scared of the way Noel makes him feel, the way he needs him.
“Noel. My brightest fucking light.”
Alex is forced to go back to his father in California or be homeless. He’s finally with Noel and he doesn’t want to leave but Alex feels like there’s no other option. Noel wants him to fight for their love.
“Alex is standing in front of me. I try to turn away, but he grips my chin, forcing my wandering, wet eyes back to him. “You love me.” “I don’t—” “And I love you,” he interrupts, hands cupping my face and pulling me into his embrace as harsh, bruising lips crash against my open, shocked mouth.”
Noel wins that argument and Alex stays with him .
This book is angst, desire, love found in all relationships with a quick dramatic showdown at the end. The fencing friendship group - the knight blade boys - was like the 5 musketeers.
Some plot build up for possibly the next book, with Ace, Grady and Levi. That feels like a train wreck you can see coming but can’t avert your eyes from. I’m not sure if it will be MM or MMM.
Newest member Alex doesn’t seem to remember Noel, but Noel remembers him.
There’s antagonism between them, fuelled by Alex not remembering Noel and his personal home life.
Noel is a loner, anxious and possibly neurodivergent. I don’t think it’s stated but definitely alluded to .
Alex has shitty abusive parents. His mother is not maternal, his father is cold and rich and physically hurts him.
Noel fills this void in Alex. Alex steps up his flirtations with Noel who is completely oblivious or confused by this.
“He pulls me into his lap to sit. On his fucking lap. First the hand holding, and now this?!”
Alex finds himself vulnerable around Noel and his doe eyes.
“And those eyes. What the fuck kind of sorcery is he pulling when he looks at me like that? He doesn't look at any of the other guys like he does me. With blatant trust and poorly concealed optimism.”
The side characters consist of Ace, Grady and Levi -all who are on the fencing team. These are a cool and popular group of kids, with Noel slowly getting to know them after having his walls up.
Also Noel’s mum is lovely and loving.
I can’t figure out why Alex doesn’t remember Noel , but about halfway through it’s revealed.
“Alex is always there, a stab wound to my heart that won’t heal. Always beating, bleeding, and breaking with each day he doesn't remember me.”
Alex is scared of the way Noel makes him feel, the way he needs him.
“Noel. My brightest fucking light.”
Alex is forced to go back to his father in California or be homeless. He’s finally with Noel and he doesn’t want to leave but Alex feels like there’s no other option. Noel wants him to fight for their love.
“Alex is standing in front of me. I try to turn away, but he grips my chin, forcing my wandering, wet eyes back to him. “You love me.” “I don’t—” “And I love you,” he interrupts, hands cupping my face and pulling me into his embrace as harsh, bruising lips crash against my open, shocked mouth.”
Noel wins that argument and Alex stays with him .
This book is angst, desire, love found in all relationships with a quick dramatic showdown at the end. The fencing friendship group - the knight blade boys - was like the 5 musketeers.
Some plot build up for possibly the next book, with Ace, Grady and Levi. That feels like a train wreck you can see coming but can’t avert your eyes from. I’m not sure if it will be MM or MMM.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 9, 2025
It has its moments. I enjoyed reading the story.
I read this a week or two ago and didn't retain the details, but, essentially it's a high-school set romance featuring members of the fencing team. A reunion of sorts--confident, popular Alex befriended awkward loner Noel briefly in the past, then left town abruptly and went no contact. Alex comes back and joins the fencing team, which Noel is part of, and doesn't remember the friendship. Noel is crushed and angry. Alex seems dismissive and brash, a dick, essentially. But a strong fencer.
I wish there'd been more true fencing, it was more of a background prop to the team friendship dynamics, a few chaotic but kind members trying to draw shy, awkward Noel into the group and failing for a while (Noel reads neurodivergent), but it's the return of Alex, who doesn't seem to remember Noel at all after having had a huge impact on Noel's life, who bumps Noel out of his loner rut and inspires him to interact and accept teammates' invites for the first time, in an effort for Noel to prove to himself that Alex's ghosting and not remembering him doesn't mean he's nothing.
The angsty romance was fun, though the revelations were a bit annoying. It was believable immaturity for high school, but the partying and smooth sex and all felt far too mature for the supposed ages. Adult knowledge meets high school immaturity on other levels. But it was fine, still entertaining.
I enjoyed the connection and romance between Noel and Alex, despite it feeling contrived. Alex didn’t own and make up for his poor treatment of Noel enough for me. He had no excuse for it, and that sat wrong. But I did enjoy the tension some of it created. Just wished for actual motive beyond “I’m a dick due to my own issues Sorry.” The tension remained high. Alex has a deeply traumatic past; he's the poor little rich boy whose father is an arrogant abuser. Noel is poor, being raised by his lovely saintly single mom, and they become Alex's safe space as the boys fall in love and their relationship evolves.
The friend group has its own awkward but loyal dynamics, with pining and changing friendships and rejections adding tension and conflict to the story. I have no interest in reading the next book, I believe it'll be MMM, and I was not into the indicated main character as a love interest, though I adored him as a good friend to Noel here. Nice person.
I don't know though, it didn't rise to the Fence level of greatness, and isn't a re-read book for me. Definitely fun to read, and I'll look for more from the author in the future.
HEA, reunion of former friends who turn into lovers now romance. Fencing team, though fencing and competing wasn't part of the plot, it was just a backdrop, which was a miss for me. Great "touch him and die" vibes eventually, with some OM drama not invited by either hero. Noel is a virgin/never been kissed; Alex had hooked up in the years apart and has experience, but nothing was shoved in my face too much (the info just always irritates me. Urmph. Me.). Safe enough for me. Recommended.
I read this a week or two ago and didn't retain the details, but, essentially it's a high-school set romance featuring members of the fencing team. A reunion of sorts--confident, popular Alex befriended awkward loner Noel briefly in the past, then left town abruptly and went no contact. Alex comes back and joins the fencing team, which Noel is part of, and doesn't remember the friendship. Noel is crushed and angry. Alex seems dismissive and brash, a dick, essentially. But a strong fencer.
I wish there'd been more true fencing, it was more of a background prop to the team friendship dynamics, a few chaotic but kind members trying to draw shy, awkward Noel into the group and failing for a while (Noel reads neurodivergent), but it's the return of Alex, who doesn't seem to remember Noel at all after having had a huge impact on Noel's life, who bumps Noel out of his loner rut and inspires him to interact and accept teammates' invites for the first time, in an effort for Noel to prove to himself that Alex's ghosting and not remembering him doesn't mean he's nothing.
The angsty romance was fun, though the revelations were a bit annoying. It was believable immaturity for high school, but the partying and smooth sex and all felt far too mature for the supposed ages. Adult knowledge meets high school immaturity on other levels. But it was fine, still entertaining.
I enjoyed the connection and romance between Noel and Alex, despite it feeling contrived. Alex didn’t own and make up for his poor treatment of Noel enough for me. He had no excuse for it, and that sat wrong. But I did enjoy the tension some of it created. Just wished for actual motive beyond “I’m a dick due to my own issues Sorry.” The tension remained high. Alex has a deeply traumatic past; he's the poor little rich boy whose father is an arrogant abuser. Noel is poor, being raised by his lovely saintly single mom, and they become Alex's safe space as the boys fall in love and their relationship evolves.
The friend group has its own awkward but loyal dynamics, with pining and changing friendships and rejections adding tension and conflict to the story. I have no interest in reading the next book, I believe it'll be MMM, and I was not into the indicated main character as a love interest, though I adored him as a good friend to Noel here. Nice person.
I don't know though, it didn't rise to the Fence level of greatness, and isn't a re-read book for me. Definitely fun to read, and I'll look for more from the author in the future.
HEA, reunion of former friends who turn into lovers now romance. Fencing team, though fencing and competing wasn't part of the plot, it was just a backdrop, which was a miss for me. Great "touch him and die" vibes eventually, with some OM drama not invited by either hero. Noel is a virgin/never been kissed; Alex had hooked up in the years apart and has experience, but nothing was shoved in my face too much (the info just always irritates me. Urmph. Me.). Safe enough for me. Recommended.
January 30, 2025
read this in one day. wowza. that was so good & i didn’t expect the ending to make me SOB.
alex & noel are just so sweet, their relationship development was exactly what i needed. SWOON.
alex is so grumpy, i love it so much.
alex & noel are just so sweet, their relationship development was exactly what i needed. SWOON.
alex is so grumpy, i love it so much.
January 20, 2025
I was blessed to read an Advanced Reader Copy of Knight Blade Boys.
This book was so good! I read it in 2 days!
Knight Blade Boys starts off in Noel's senior year of high school. He's kind of a loner but likes his fencing club and teammates okay, and he's taken completely by surprise when blast-from-the-past Alex makes a sudden reappearance. Noel and Alex had been friends once, back when they were 13, but just as they were on the cusp of solidifying their friendship - and maybe something more - Alex disappeared. It's been 5 years, and Noel is devastated to find that Alex doesn't remember him. Not only that, but Alex seems more distant and aloof than ever, a far cry from the boy Noel remembers. But despite all that, Noel can't seem to stay away from Alex even though they can't stop butting heads, and Noel's teammates are desperate to be his friend. When their fencing coach forces Noel and Alex to start practicing together to get over their differences, the connection between them becomes undeniable, and the sexual tension just keeps growing. But Alex has a lot of secrets, like does he really not remember Noel? Is he really just messing with Noel when he flirts? And biggest of all, what really happened that night he disappeared?
I seriously couldn't put this book down. It was so good! Noel is such a sweet and naive character. I loved that he wasn't afraid to just be himself, even if that meant turning down offers of friendship. I loved how feisty he was and how protective he became of Alex. I loved how big his heart was. And poor Alex. He was just a broken kid from a broken family, desperate for love even though he thought he was undeserving of it. I loved how protective he was of Noel and the rest of the Knight Blade Boys. I loved that he was so desperate for Noel but forced them to take it slow even when Noel became a little sex fiend. Their relationship was so pure. Even when Alex was just being a brat, he was always conscious of Noel and made sure he wasn't taking advantage of Noel's innocence. It was just a really good love story, and I loved everything about it.
I loved the side characters, especially Ace. He reminded me of many of my friends. I can't wait to get his story. I'm not happy with Liam, and I'm intrigued by Grady. So the next book should really be good! I loved Emma and Katherine. I thought they were just awesome portrayals of good mothers. I loved that Emma never hesitated to accept Alex into her home or in her son's life. I liked the fencing aspect and that the Knight Blade Boys kept dragging Noel out to do things. All introverts need extroverted friends to keep life interesting. This was a very character-driven story and truly excelled in that department.
The writing was really beautiful, too. There were several scenes that described different parts of Noel or Alex's body that were just simple appreciation of the male physique. There's even a description of Alex's forearms that gave me major "Duke of Hastings at the Boxing Match in Bridgerton" vibes - IYKYK! I also loved the space motifs throughout the book, especially Alex's tattoo. It was just really well done. And it's so funny in a lot of places. Just kept me giggling even when things were getting serious.
There were a few things that I didn't love. Emma was an awesome, loving mother but she let Noel go completely off the rails with no worries lol. Like Noel, who never went out, suddenly was getting in fights and staying out all night and having unsupervised sleepovers with his boyfriend. I know they were 18, but I was unpersuaded that Emma would have no worries about Noel's sudden changes in behavior. The least she could have done was have some sort of talk with Alex and/or Noel about safe sex or she could have freaked out about Noel getting in the fights and Alex maybe being a bad influence. I loved how accepting she was, but I wanted to see some hesitancy in her trust of Alex. It would have made that part more believable. I was not persuaded that she would encourage Alex and Noel to bang while she was there lol.
Another thing, Noel is supposed to be high functioning neurodivergent. It's stated that he's on the spectrum. I loved that, and most of the time it was really well written that sometimes Noel just didn't track or think the same. That being said, (and I don't mean this disrespectfully at all) sometimes Noel seemed really on the ball with things that I would have expected him to have trouble understanding or comprehending. He thought ahead about having back-up in California and sometimes said things that I didn't expect. I'm not saying that neurodivergent or autistic people cannot comprehend those things. But I liked that Noel's character was a little naive, and I wished that some of those scenes were more reflective of that. I didn't hate the way it's written, but it didn't always seem consistent? I guess that's the best way I can put it.
There were also a few continuity issues when the scenes were dark. Like in the theater or in the woods, it was explicitly stated that it was too dark to see, yet it was discribed that cheeks were reddening and pupils were dilating. It just threw me off on those scenes.
Finally, I was a little unsatisfied with the ending. I'm so glad Alex finally escaped his father, but the letter from his mother was disappointing. It wasn't very loving, and I wanted more for Alex. I did, however, love the epilogue, and I wish that scene had been longer!
Overall I really, really enjoyed this book. I loved the coming-of-age theme and the first times and the all-consuming fire of first loves. I loved how respectful Alex was of Noel, and I loved how much they loved each other. I'm so excited to read the next one! 4.5/5 🌟
This book was so good! I read it in 2 days!
Knight Blade Boys starts off in Noel's senior year of high school. He's kind of a loner but likes his fencing club and teammates okay, and he's taken completely by surprise when blast-from-the-past Alex makes a sudden reappearance. Noel and Alex had been friends once, back when they were 13, but just as they were on the cusp of solidifying their friendship - and maybe something more - Alex disappeared. It's been 5 years, and Noel is devastated to find that Alex doesn't remember him. Not only that, but Alex seems more distant and aloof than ever, a far cry from the boy Noel remembers. But despite all that, Noel can't seem to stay away from Alex even though they can't stop butting heads, and Noel's teammates are desperate to be his friend. When their fencing coach forces Noel and Alex to start practicing together to get over their differences, the connection between them becomes undeniable, and the sexual tension just keeps growing. But Alex has a lot of secrets, like does he really not remember Noel? Is he really just messing with Noel when he flirts? And biggest of all, what really happened that night he disappeared?
I seriously couldn't put this book down. It was so good! Noel is such a sweet and naive character. I loved that he wasn't afraid to just be himself, even if that meant turning down offers of friendship. I loved how feisty he was and how protective he became of Alex. I loved how big his heart was. And poor Alex. He was just a broken kid from a broken family, desperate for love even though he thought he was undeserving of it. I loved how protective he was of Noel and the rest of the Knight Blade Boys. I loved that he was so desperate for Noel but forced them to take it slow even when Noel became a little sex fiend. Their relationship was so pure. Even when Alex was just being a brat, he was always conscious of Noel and made sure he wasn't taking advantage of Noel's innocence. It was just a really good love story, and I loved everything about it.
I loved the side characters, especially Ace. He reminded me of many of my friends. I can't wait to get his story. I'm not happy with Liam, and I'm intrigued by Grady. So the next book should really be good! I loved Emma and Katherine. I thought they were just awesome portrayals of good mothers. I loved that Emma never hesitated to accept Alex into her home or in her son's life. I liked the fencing aspect and that the Knight Blade Boys kept dragging Noel out to do things. All introverts need extroverted friends to keep life interesting. This was a very character-driven story and truly excelled in that department.
The writing was really beautiful, too. There were several scenes that described different parts of Noel or Alex's body that were just simple appreciation of the male physique. There's even a description of Alex's forearms that gave me major "Duke of Hastings at the Boxing Match in Bridgerton" vibes - IYKYK! I also loved the space motifs throughout the book, especially Alex's tattoo. It was just really well done. And it's so funny in a lot of places. Just kept me giggling even when things were getting serious.
There were a few things that I didn't love. Emma was an awesome, loving mother but she let Noel go completely off the rails with no worries lol. Like Noel, who never went out, suddenly was getting in fights and staying out all night and having unsupervised sleepovers with his boyfriend. I know they were 18, but I was unpersuaded that Emma would have no worries about Noel's sudden changes in behavior. The least she could have done was have some sort of talk with Alex and/or Noel about safe sex or she could have freaked out about Noel getting in the fights and Alex maybe being a bad influence. I loved how accepting she was, but I wanted to see some hesitancy in her trust of Alex. It would have made that part more believable. I was not persuaded that she would encourage Alex and Noel to bang while she was there lol.
Another thing, Noel is supposed to be high functioning neurodivergent. It's stated that he's on the spectrum. I loved that, and most of the time it was really well written that sometimes Noel just didn't track or think the same. That being said, (and I don't mean this disrespectfully at all) sometimes Noel seemed really on the ball with things that I would have expected him to have trouble understanding or comprehending. He thought ahead about having back-up in California and sometimes said things that I didn't expect. I'm not saying that neurodivergent or autistic people cannot comprehend those things. But I liked that Noel's character was a little naive, and I wished that some of those scenes were more reflective of that. I didn't hate the way it's written, but it didn't always seem consistent? I guess that's the best way I can put it.
There were also a few continuity issues when the scenes were dark. Like in the theater or in the woods, it was explicitly stated that it was too dark to see, yet it was discribed that cheeks were reddening and pupils were dilating. It just threw me off on those scenes.
Finally, I was a little unsatisfied with the ending. I'm so glad Alex finally escaped his father, but the letter from his mother was disappointing. It wasn't very loving, and I wanted more for Alex. I did, however, love the epilogue, and I wish that scene had been longer!
Overall I really, really enjoyed this book. I loved the coming-of-age theme and the first times and the all-consuming fire of first loves. I loved how respectful Alex was of Noel, and I loved how much they loved each other. I'm so excited to read the next one! 4.5/5 🌟
February 21, 2025
★★★. This was good. I liked the dynamic between Noel and Alex. However, I don’t think Alex truly deserved Noel. He apologized a bunch with was good but he also constantly did things to hurt Noel and just thought saying his feelings was the fixer upper for them. Lying about remembering him? Making fun of Noel? Yet he gets forgiven within days because of him saying how he truly feels? Not enough for me. I liked how he was protective of Noel once they got together. I felt bad for Alex and his past yet there was no reason Noel had to suffer when even Alex knew better.
I don’t know if I’m looking forward to the next book. Levi constantly being lowkey homophobic towards Ace and I’m only thinking that has to do with family trauma but to completely say what he said in the end to Ace. Unforgivable. I want Grady and Ace more but based on the note at the end it’ll be Ace and Levi with scenes with Grady…so I don’t know how I feel about that.
I don’t know if I’m looking forward to the next book. Levi constantly being lowkey homophobic towards Ace and I’m only thinking that has to do with family trauma but to completely say what he said in the end to Ace. Unforgivable. I want Grady and Ace more but based on the note at the end it’ll be Ace and Levi with scenes with Grady…so I don’t know how I feel about that.
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June 26, 2025✨ARC REVIEW✨
Knight Blade Boys by Renee Kiser
Tropes:
🤺MM Fencing Romance
💫Teammates
🤺Slow Burn
����First Times
🤺Demi Rep
💫Neurodivergent Rep
🤺Found Family
Review:
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I will start this review by saying that coming of age is usually not my thing but I heard great things about this book and was excited to get an ARC, and I am SO glad I did. Knight Blade Boys is a slow burn, fencing MM romance about reunited childhood best friends. Some of my favorite parts of this story were the neurodivergent representation and the found family aspect of the fencing team. In queer communities, especially the age these characters are, your found family is SO hugely important and the dynamics between the members of the fencing team was so refreshing and lovely to read. I can’t wait to see more from these characters. And the neurodivergent rep in this story is what really hit home for me. I have important people in my life with autism and how Renee put the details on the page of Noel’s life and personality was so special and I loveeeee seeing that in romance stories. Overall, I really loved this book and the journey the characters went on. It was painful in parts as you see these characters do their best to love each other with the ways they can and are raised but seeing them come together was so beautiful.
Knight Blade Boys by Renee Kiser
Tropes:
🤺MM Fencing Romance
💫Teammates
🤺Slow Burn
����First Times
🤺Demi Rep
💫Neurodivergent Rep
🤺Found Family
Review:
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I will start this review by saying that coming of age is usually not my thing but I heard great things about this book and was excited to get an ARC, and I am SO glad I did. Knight Blade Boys is a slow burn, fencing MM romance about reunited childhood best friends. Some of my favorite parts of this story were the neurodivergent representation and the found family aspect of the fencing team. In queer communities, especially the age these characters are, your found family is SO hugely important and the dynamics between the members of the fencing team was so refreshing and lovely to read. I can’t wait to see more from these characters. And the neurodivergent rep in this story is what really hit home for me. I have important people in my life with autism and how Renee put the details on the page of Noel’s life and personality was so special and I loveeeee seeing that in romance stories. Overall, I really loved this book and the journey the characters went on. It was painful in parts as you see these characters do their best to love each other with the ways they can and are raised but seeing them come together was so beautiful.
March 25, 2025
I went into this book blindly and first I wasn’t sure if I was gonna like it but it turned out to be good! The downside for me was that its about 18 year olds and you can also see it throughout the story. I think the book was missing part of the story regarding the relationship between Alex and his father but I guess it was also better not to focus on that story too much since it was all about Noel and Alex.
Noel Needs to be protected at all costs🥹🤍 loved him so much and loved the whole friend group -will definitely be reading the next book! 🌶️ was also good.
“Alex,” I whisper, barely able to hear myself.
”Say it, please?” He asks gently.
And that please alters my brain chemistry. I would give this boy my life if he needed a heart. There is nothing I wouldn't do to protect him. He'll never be denied love and affection again. I don’t hesitate to give him what he wants as I cup his face, my hands palming him reverently.
”I love you, Alex.” Flashing a rare smile, he closes his eyes before gently whispering the words I never thought I’d hear from him.
”I love you, Noel.”
Noel Needs to be protected at all costs🥹🤍 loved him so much and loved the whole friend group -will definitely be reading the next book! 🌶️ was also good.
“Alex,” I whisper, barely able to hear myself.
”Say it, please?” He asks gently.
And that please alters my brain chemistry. I would give this boy my life if he needed a heart. There is nothing I wouldn't do to protect him. He'll never be denied love and affection again. I don’t hesitate to give him what he wants as I cup his face, my hands palming him reverently.
”I love you, Alex.” Flashing a rare smile, he closes his eyes before gently whispering the words I never thought I’d hear from him.
”I love you, Noel.”
February 18, 2025
Spoilers??
I LOVED THIS BOOK SO MUCH OMG. I DON'T EVEN KNOW HOW TO EXPRESS MY FEELINGS.
okay wait.. I have to so...
The story was so good in general but what made it a lot better in my opinion was the neurodivergent rep (which hit close to home) and it made me relate A LOT to Noel. He also had practically my same hyperfixations so yeah..
Then even being a book about fencing, which is a sport I never followed before, it was really easy to understand what was going on thanks to the writing style which I absolutely adored.
I really enjoyed the way the author built the relationship between Noel and Alex, it somehow made me feel closer to them and more intrigued in what was going on.
Then I loved how even the background characters were developed really well even without going in depth!! I'm so curious about them and really looking forward to the next book.
ALMOST FORGOT TO SAY! The character development!! I enjoyed so much reading about how Noel started to "grow" as a person as soon as he made some friends. He started to try new things and in my opinion that made him feel more comfortable with himself or at least I saw it that way and I ATE IT UP. I love that man okay?
My favorite character was Alex though, no matter all the dark things of his past he managed to become a - let's say - better person (he was actually always good but just closed off okay..) and let himself truly fall in love with a person that could give him what he always missed in life.
Also I must say that the last chapter and the Epilogue made me cry like an idiot for some reasons I won't say. Omg I'm not okay.
Really recommend but TW for (mentions of) child abuse, violence, blood, sex, toxic parental relationship...
I LOVED THIS BOOK SO MUCH OMG. I DON'T EVEN KNOW HOW TO EXPRESS MY FEELINGS.
okay wait.. I have to so...
The story was so good in general but what made it a lot better in my opinion was the neurodivergent rep (which hit close to home) and it made me relate A LOT to Noel. He also had practically my same hyperfixations so yeah..
Then even being a book about fencing, which is a sport I never followed before, it was really easy to understand what was going on thanks to the writing style which I absolutely adored.
I really enjoyed the way the author built the relationship between Noel and Alex, it somehow made me feel closer to them and more intrigued in what was going on.
Then I loved how even the background characters were developed really well even without going in depth!! I'm so curious about them and really looking forward to the next book.
ALMOST FORGOT TO SAY! The character development!! I enjoyed so much reading about how Noel started to "grow" as a person as soon as he made some friends. He started to try new things and in my opinion that made him feel more comfortable with himself or at least I saw it that way and I ATE IT UP. I love that man okay?
My favorite character was Alex though, no matter all the dark things of his past he managed to become a - let's say - better person (he was actually always good but just closed off okay..) and let himself truly fall in love with a person that could give him what he always missed in life.
Also I must say that the last chapter and the Epilogue made me cry like an idiot for some reasons I won't say. Omg I'm not okay.
Really recommend but TW for (mentions of) child abuse, violence, blood, sex, toxic parental relationship...
February 5, 2025
I was so unsure of Alex in the first third of this book because he drove me absolutely nuts. He was mean to Noel for no reason other than he wanted to rile him up. Then when it happened, Alex felt bad, but he kept doing it. I knew there was trauma going on that caused it, but Noel was the LAST person he should have been picking on. It was definitely an I like him and I want his attention, so I'll drive him crazy until he gives it to me in a negative way situation. I understood it; I just didn't like it. lol It wasn't enemies to lovers because Noel wanted desperately to be his friend.
But once we got to the heart of the story and Alex brought down his walls one brick at a time as Noel showed him he could be loved, I finally clicked with Alex too.
Since this is a coming of age romance while they're still in high school, we get a slow burn that eventually boils over in the last quarter of the book when they're close to graduating. Just you wait for it. ;)
It was really nice that we didn't have a time jump. The story took place over several months, and we had a great build up of the characters and events. A few occasional flashbacks provided clarity but didn't overtake the story.
Noel's mom was amazing parent representation, and I loved that.
Ace is number one, for sure, in side characters for this story. Grady was cool too. Levi, though, deserved the punch he got and maybe needs another to jiggle his brain into being a good dude. I do very much look forward to Ace running him in circles in the next book!
Oh, and the fencing was a really neat aspect that I enjoyed!
But once we got to the heart of the story and Alex brought down his walls one brick at a time as Noel showed him he could be loved, I finally clicked with Alex too.
Since this is a coming of age romance while they're still in high school, we get a slow burn that eventually boils over in the last quarter of the book when they're close to graduating. Just you wait for it. ;)
It was really nice that we didn't have a time jump. The story took place over several months, and we had a great build up of the characters and events. A few occasional flashbacks provided clarity but didn't overtake the story.
Noel's mom was amazing parent representation, and I loved that.
Ace is number one, for sure, in side characters for this story. Grady was cool too. Levi, though, deserved the punch he got and maybe needs another to jiggle his brain into being a good dude. I do very much look forward to Ace running him in circles in the next book!
Oh, and the fencing was a really neat aspect that I enjoyed!
June 18, 2025
Character 4.5/5
Plot- 4.25/5
Pacing- 3.75/5
Entertainment- 4.5/5
Rating- 4.25/5
This is a super solid romance book with lots of interesting characters and very tense moments. Honestly when I seen 'Fencing MM Romance' I had to see exactly what I was in for, and it did not disappoint.
The characters and character development in this book is pretty much where it shines best, particularly in reference to Alex's progress from self-hating asshole to loving and adorable asshole. Watching him realise that he can find love and be loved by others was heart warming and emotional throughout the book, but his interactions with Noel in particular were just so moving. Noel also goes through his journey of opening up and allowing new people in, being particularly poignant due to him being neurodivergent. It takes a lot for him to attach himself to others, but its very sweet when he finally manages it.
The back and forth plot between the two is also very entertaining to read, if at times a little dragged out, but its all worth it to see these two set aside their rivalry and petty arguments to be real with one another. The history surrounding Alex also has a major influence on the events in the book, and watching him overcome his demons, is a wonderful journey to witness (and super satisfying).
Yeah this book is super solid, it has a great beating heart at the centre with our main pair and side characters all coming across as authentic and real. I was thoroughly engrossed in this book, and while I wished it had have been slightly tighter in length, I loved what I was reading and can't wait for the next entry.
Plot- 4.25/5
Pacing- 3.75/5
Entertainment- 4.5/5
Rating- 4.25/5
This is a super solid romance book with lots of interesting characters and very tense moments. Honestly when I seen 'Fencing MM Romance' I had to see exactly what I was in for, and it did not disappoint.
The characters and character development in this book is pretty much where it shines best, particularly in reference to Alex's progress from self-hating asshole to loving and adorable asshole. Watching him realise that he can find love and be loved by others was heart warming and emotional throughout the book, but his interactions with Noel in particular were just so moving. Noel also goes through his journey of opening up and allowing new people in, being particularly poignant due to him being neurodivergent. It takes a lot for him to attach himself to others, but its very sweet when he finally manages it.
The back and forth plot between the two is also very entertaining to read, if at times a little dragged out, but its all worth it to see these two set aside their rivalry and petty arguments to be real with one another. The history surrounding Alex also has a major influence on the events in the book, and watching him overcome his demons, is a wonderful journey to witness (and super satisfying).
Yeah this book is super solid, it has a great beating heart at the centre with our main pair and side characters all coming across as authentic and real. I was thoroughly engrossed in this book, and while I wished it had have been slightly tighter in length, I loved what I was reading and can't wait for the next entry.
January 28, 2025
I received an ARC and leave this review voluntarily.
This was my first book by this author and I had mixed feelings about the characters... it took me forever to get through it and I still can't figure out why I wasn't getting into a groove.
There's a lot to unpack with these characters... Alex needs professional help to help him deal with everything he's lived through. I liked Noel the most. He resonated with me as a neurospicy person.
I also felt at over 500 pages long, this could have been pared way down.. the tempo of the book drug until the last 12-15% when we all of a sudden went into warp speed to wrap everything up.
So, it wasn't bad, but it's not a book I would reread.
This was my first book by this author and I had mixed feelings about the characters... it took me forever to get through it and I still can't figure out why I wasn't getting into a groove.
There's a lot to unpack with these characters... Alex needs professional help to help him deal with everything he's lived through. I liked Noel the most. He resonated with me as a neurospicy person.
I also felt at over 500 pages long, this could have been pared way down.. the tempo of the book drug until the last 12-15% when we all of a sudden went into warp speed to wrap everything up.
So, it wasn't bad, but it's not a book I would reread.
April 30, 2025
Me gustó mucho el found family qué se formó a lo largo del libro y en general tiene una trama interesante aunque me hubiera gustado mas protagonismo del esgrima ya que literal aparece en el nombre del libro pero no es tan relevante mas que es donde se conocen los protagonistas y sin duda Ace es mi personaje favorito y se merece algo mejor.
January 21, 2025
Starting off by saying I feel so blessed to have been able to read this as an ARC! It was everything I needed and more. It took me a few hours after finishing to be able to right this because I was sobbing 🤣
Tired of hockey and football romance? RENEE GAVE US FENCING. Which is so badass specially coming from a fencing family I loved all the in-depth talk.
Alex and Noel went thru every stage of friendship and love within 36 chapters and we got to see it and feel it and most people can’t do that with their story telling.
Alex broke my heart. Coming from having no love and being abused to having a whole world of people who love you really was the kind of found family I love!
Noel was portrayed perfectly as a fellow neurodivergent. The awkwardness, shyness, not picking up on certain cues was just so cute but much like Alex the more he found his people the more himself he really could be which was a hilarious firecracker!
The side characters also need some love because I might be in love with ace. I love a good MM romance with a sassy, tiny man.
But if I had to give it to anyone in this book it was Noel’s mom. I won’t ruin it for anyone but as a mom I loved how much she loved her “boys” I couldn’t imagine seeing any of my kids friends going thru what Alex did and not help. She was an MVP 💗
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
🏳️🌈 Found family
🏳️🌈 Neurodivergent mmc
🏳️🌈 Panties/lingerie
Some of my fav tropes 😍
You rock Renee!
Tired of hockey and football romance? RENEE GAVE US FENCING. Which is so badass specially coming from a fencing family I loved all the in-depth talk.
Alex and Noel went thru every stage of friendship and love within 36 chapters and we got to see it and feel it and most people can’t do that with their story telling.
Alex broke my heart. Coming from having no love and being abused to having a whole world of people who love you really was the kind of found family I love!
Noel was portrayed perfectly as a fellow neurodivergent. The awkwardness, shyness, not picking up on certain cues was just so cute but much like Alex the more he found his people the more himself he really could be which was a hilarious firecracker!
The side characters also need some love because I might be in love with ace. I love a good MM romance with a sassy, tiny man.
But if I had to give it to anyone in this book it was Noel’s mom. I won’t ruin it for anyone but as a mom I loved how much she loved her “boys” I couldn’t imagine seeing any of my kids friends going thru what Alex did and not help. She was an MVP 💗
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
🏳️🌈 Found family
🏳️🌈 Neurodivergent mmc
🏳️🌈 Panties/lingerie
Some of my fav tropes 😍
You rock Renee!
February 4, 2025
loooooooved!!
dnf
March 4, 2025DNF. I have been trying to read this book for as month but I just can't get invested in the story or the characters, so I think it's time to call it a day.
August 7, 2025
This started off pretty strong but unfortunately fell pretty flat towards the end. Great characters though, will likely pick up the next book.
January 29, 2025
Holy crap my heart. 😭😭
This was so fucking good. Like i sobbed good. I loved but also hated that i resonated so so much with both Noel and Alex, Alex because of the trauma, Noel because of the neurodivergence-y (is that a word?). I felt so deeply for Alex and couldn’t help but cry for him more than once (like ALOT).
This was so fucking good. Like i sobbed good. I loved but also hated that i resonated so so much with both Noel and Alex, Alex because of the trauma, Noel because of the neurodivergence-y (is that a word?). I felt so deeply for Alex and couldn’t help but cry for him more than once (like ALOT).
June 28, 2025
Well this book was kinda disappointing for me. A coming of age sport romance focused on fencing (a sport that it's not talked about in a lot of books) got me really excited, but the execution….
I couldn't connect with Alex, his actions ran so hot and could that got both Noel and me very confused and pissed, I don't think with a few lines of apologies everything was supposed to be ok and I also don't feel the natural growth of their relationship, it's start with memories from childhood, goes to dismissal and hate, evolves to confusion, then to attraction and finally to a relationship.
For a really big book (longer than necessary) all of it felt very rushed and unnatural.
Also the big bad villain of the book Alex's father was very OTT for me, bad people just being bad with no reason or backstory doesn't work on a book for me.
In conclusion, a good idea with bad execution.
I couldn't connect with Alex, his actions ran so hot and could that got both Noel and me very confused and pissed, I don't think with a few lines of apologies everything was supposed to be ok and I also don't feel the natural growth of their relationship, it's start with memories from childhood, goes to dismissal and hate, evolves to confusion, then to attraction and finally to a relationship.
For a really big book (longer than necessary) all of it felt very rushed and unnatural.
Also the big bad villain of the book Alex's father was very OTT for me, bad people just being bad with no reason or backstory doesn't work on a book for me.
In conclusion, a good idea with bad execution.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 14, 2025
This is the first book in what I'm expected to be an amazing series! The book follows the two main characters, Noel and Alex. Noel is the sweetest of sweethearts. The neurodivergent demi "I don't like boys or girls" rep who is content with his life of school, fencing, stargazing, watching anime, and hanging out with his mum. Alex is the bad boy who's rich, instantly popular, and extremely talented at fencing. He also has a horrible home life, secretly loves anime too, and struggles with depression.
They were childhood friends until Alex left abruptly, without saying goodbye, leaving Noel heartbroken at the loss of his best and only friend. When Alex returns five years later, their reunion doesn't go as expected, and Noel ends hurt all over again, leading to an enemies/rivals relationship.
The story follows the boys and their fencing team during their senior year of high school. We see Noel slowly opening up to the idea of friendships with his teammates and coming out of his shell.
The relationship between Alex and Noel is full of angst and hurt and learning to trust each other. It's a slow burn, but when the spice hits, it hits hard. There are some deliciously spicy scenes in the second half of the book.
Overall, I loved it, and I'm so excited for book two in the series!
Vibes:
- found family
- first times
- slow burn
- fencing
- stargazing
- neurodivergent MC
- demi rep
- childhood friends to enemies to lovers
Rating: 5⭐️
Spice: 3🌶
They were childhood friends until Alex left abruptly, without saying goodbye, leaving Noel heartbroken at the loss of his best and only friend. When Alex returns five years later, their reunion doesn't go as expected, and Noel ends hurt all over again, leading to an enemies/rivals relationship.
The story follows the boys and their fencing team during their senior year of high school. We see Noel slowly opening up to the idea of friendships with his teammates and coming out of his shell.
The relationship between Alex and Noel is full of angst and hurt and learning to trust each other. It's a slow burn, but when the spice hits, it hits hard. There are some deliciously spicy scenes in the second half of the book.
Overall, I loved it, and I'm so excited for book two in the series!
Vibes:
- found family
- first times
- slow burn
- fencing
- stargazing
- neurodivergent MC
- demi rep
- childhood friends to enemies to lovers
Rating: 5⭐️
Spice: 3🌶
March 27, 2025
I loved this book and cannot wait to read more MM from this author! I don’t typically connect with stories based on high schoolers but this book gave me life. So many reminiscence memories from my high school days that it was so relatable. Even down to the references to what was popular back in our day with music, movies, fashion. The spice doesn’t kick in until the second half of the book but it is so well written and descriptive! And plentiful!
I did something different and decided to write my reactions as I went so… spoilers below.
2% wow I know nothing about fencing. It’s kinda complex.
4% wow does he really not remember him?! Dick!
5% “I’d be honored to have our swords cross.” 😂😂
14% “that feeling of being small is common when looking at the stars. There’s this quote I really love, ‘if people looked at the stars each night, they’d live a lot differently.’ It makes you think about the things that matter. The people you love, the things that bring you happiness. Life is such a fleeting, short thing and we should just….live.”
16% okay so we got an evil father and I hate him.
17% “the vibes? I’ve been killing those since ‘09, buddy” 🫠😁
24% the crown sounds like the coolest hang spot ever. 🤩 this book is giving me life!
28% “bippity bippity boo, bitch” we love a good glow up moment!
31% “you’ve got stars in your eyes, you know.” jeez these flashbacks! Does he really not remember him?! 😢
33% okay we got a sexy dance scene, ppl!!!like coyote ugly, sexy as shit! Get it!!
“You look like a drunk whore.”
“An expensive one, I hope.” 🙌🙌🙌
35% hmmm so he’s into polyamory… I’m sensing some foreshadowing here.
36% “you have stars in your eyes.” Well, I’ll be dammed…. I’m sensing he does fucking remember him!!!
37% we got our first kiss 🥰
38% I FUCKING KNEW IT! He did remember! That sneak!
40% OH HELL FUCKING NO. That disgusting piece of shit!!!!
41% “you reached out to me and held my hand. You didn’t let go. Thank you. I needed that more than you could ever know.” Oh be still my heart. 🥹
46% LOL nothing like a little reminder that these guys are in HIGHSCHOOL 😂
49% the spice has entered the chat. 🌶️
“You sound like a filthy whore when you whine. I fucking love it.” 🫠
58% I hate his bitch ass mother too.
59% there’s def some threes company vibes going on between the other 3 knight blade boys…
60 “my anaconda don’t want none unless you got buns, hun.” 😂 just keeps getting better!
62% fucking swoon. I love these boys!
63% “gonna nut all over my face, doe eyes?” 🌶️🙌
66% “such a slut for it.” 🌶️🙏
70% “just wait until I start bouncing on your cock.” 🌶️🫠
72% if it’s too much for you to fight, I’ll fight for the both of us.” 🫶🥰
73% more spicy spice 🌶️
74% threes company will def be a thing.
75% they hang at the coolest places! Follow the purple cats! Fuck yes!
77% there is not a damn person (except maybe the author) who can convince me that relationship isn’t gonna turn into a 3 way. So many signs!!!!
79% these boys pulling on my heart strings! Just the best friend group!
80% “not a moody little prick anymore now that I have my dick in your ass, huh baby?” 🌶️🤭
82% “the panties match, too” 🌶️💋
“You want to be a good boy for me, right?”
87% “my sword will thrust into your very soul.” 🌶️🍆
90% I seriously hate this piece of shit.
91% all for one and one for all!!! Love this damn friend group!!!
95% mwahahaha! I cannot wait to read the next book in the series. You know about all three of them?!
96% last 🌶️ hoorah
99%That letter was… underwhelming.
100% I so fucking called it!!! Threes company it is! Hashtag polyamory bitches!!
I did something different and decided to write my reactions as I went so… spoilers below.
2% wow I know nothing about fencing. It’s kinda complex.
4% wow does he really not remember him?! Dick!
5% “I’d be honored to have our swords cross.” 😂😂
14% “that feeling of being small is common when looking at the stars. There’s this quote I really love, ‘if people looked at the stars each night, they’d live a lot differently.’ It makes you think about the things that matter. The people you love, the things that bring you happiness. Life is such a fleeting, short thing and we should just….live.”
16% okay so we got an evil father and I hate him.
17% “the vibes? I’ve been killing those since ‘09, buddy” 🫠😁
24% the crown sounds like the coolest hang spot ever. 🤩 this book is giving me life!
28% “bippity bippity boo, bitch” we love a good glow up moment!
31% “you’ve got stars in your eyes, you know.” jeez these flashbacks! Does he really not remember him?! 😢
33% okay we got a sexy dance scene, ppl!!!like coyote ugly, sexy as shit! Get it!!
“You look like a drunk whore.”
“An expensive one, I hope.” 🙌🙌🙌
35% hmmm so he’s into polyamory… I’m sensing some foreshadowing here.
36% “you have stars in your eyes.” Well, I’ll be dammed…. I’m sensing he does fucking remember him!!!
37% we got our first kiss 🥰
38% I FUCKING KNEW IT! He did remember! That sneak!
40% OH HELL FUCKING NO. That disgusting piece of shit!!!!
41% “you reached out to me and held my hand. You didn’t let go. Thank you. I needed that more than you could ever know.” Oh be still my heart. 🥹
46% LOL nothing like a little reminder that these guys are in HIGHSCHOOL 😂
49% the spice has entered the chat. 🌶️
“You sound like a filthy whore when you whine. I fucking love it.” 🫠
58% I hate his bitch ass mother too.
59% there’s def some threes company vibes going on between the other 3 knight blade boys…
60 “my anaconda don’t want none unless you got buns, hun.” 😂 just keeps getting better!
62% fucking swoon. I love these boys!
63% “gonna nut all over my face, doe eyes?” 🌶️🙌
66% “such a slut for it.” 🌶️🙏
70% “just wait until I start bouncing on your cock.” 🌶️🫠
72% if it’s too much for you to fight, I’ll fight for the both of us.” 🫶🥰
73% more spicy spice 🌶️
74% threes company will def be a thing.
75% they hang at the coolest places! Follow the purple cats! Fuck yes!
77% there is not a damn person (except maybe the author) who can convince me that relationship isn’t gonna turn into a 3 way. So many signs!!!!
79% these boys pulling on my heart strings! Just the best friend group!
80% “not a moody little prick anymore now that I have my dick in your ass, huh baby?” 🌶️🤭
82% “the panties match, too” 🌶️💋
“You want to be a good boy for me, right?”
87% “my sword will thrust into your very soul.” 🌶️🍆
90% I seriously hate this piece of shit.
91% all for one and one for all!!! Love this damn friend group!!!
95% mwahahaha! I cannot wait to read the next book in the series. You know about all three of them?!
96% last 🌶️ hoorah
99%That letter was… underwhelming.
100% I so fucking called it!!! Threes company it is! Hashtag polyamory bitches!!
March 16, 2025
4.5 stars
I have been dodging this review for a few days but have finally decided to gird my loins and face it (insert clever fencing pun here). There was a lot to attract me to this book, from the cover to the fencing to the cover and the autism rep to the cover. Did I mention the cover?
Anyway, I really loved this. It took me a while to read because when I started I was going through some stuff and I had to put it on hold and come back to it later, and I'm so glad I did. The characters were wonderful and I bought into them so hard. Alex is my absolute favourite type of character, the prickly broken boy who pretends he's just fine (actually tearing up as I write this) and I love that Noel is portrayed as more stable and less vulnerable than Alex, even though he's the one with the diagnosis. Both of them change and develop a lot in the book, which is amazing to watch, and I love the development of their relationship, as painful as it was at times. Their bedroom dynamic was also incredible, and included some stuff I've always hated before, but for some reason it worked for me here? And praise kink, which is a perennial favourite, and then they introduced the lingerie kink. That was a whole drama because it was super late and I was trying to read and I really needed to sleep but every time I wanted to put the book down there was something else brought up that I NEEDED to read immediately and then they pulled out the fricking lingerie kink and I just had to complain to my friend that this was cruel and unreasonable. I ended up reading loads more before I finally passed out at silly o'clock.
I bought into this so hard and kept telling people what an amazing read it is. Shout out to the brilliant side characters, especially Ace, who I'm so invested in I have constant low-key anxiety about the next book, which is still being written. It's been a while since I read anything I bought into this hard. Docking half a star because it was a little slow to start with and lost its mojo a little in the last 10%, but overall this was an absolute banger of a book and a great read. Highly recommended.
I have been dodging this review for a few days but have finally decided to gird my loins and face it (insert clever fencing pun here). There was a lot to attract me to this book, from the cover to the fencing to the cover and the autism rep to the cover. Did I mention the cover?
Anyway, I really loved this. It took me a while to read because when I started I was going through some stuff and I had to put it on hold and come back to it later, and I'm so glad I did. The characters were wonderful and I bought into them so hard. Alex is my absolute favourite type of character, the prickly broken boy who pretends he's just fine (actually tearing up as I write this) and I love that Noel is portrayed as more stable and less vulnerable than Alex, even though he's the one with the diagnosis. Both of them change and develop a lot in the book, which is amazing to watch, and I love the development of their relationship, as painful as it was at times. Their bedroom dynamic was also incredible, and included some stuff I've always hated before, but for some reason it worked for me here? And praise kink, which is a perennial favourite, and then they introduced the lingerie kink. That was a whole drama because it was super late and I was trying to read and I really needed to sleep but every time I wanted to put the book down there was something else brought up that I NEEDED to read immediately and then they pulled out the fricking lingerie kink and I just had to complain to my friend that this was cruel and unreasonable. I ended up reading loads more before I finally passed out at silly o'clock.
I bought into this so hard and kept telling people what an amazing read it is. Shout out to the brilliant side characters, especially Ace, who I'm so invested in I have constant low-key anxiety about the next book, which is still being written. It's been a while since I read anything I bought into this hard. Docking half a star because it was a little slow to start with and lost its mojo a little in the last 10%, but overall this was an absolute banger of a book and a great read. Highly recommended.
January 25, 2025
Noel has always had trouble making friends. He’s always felt different and views things differently from others. Then there was the time he thought he finally found someone who had understood him. Alex was different and the best friend Noel had been waiting for. Until he left without saying goodbye. Now, Noel is a senior in high school just trying to make it to graduation. He is used to being on his own and hasn’t tried to make any friends. But then Alex shows up at Noel’s fencing practice. And for a moment, the hope that Noel had sparked to being reunited. Until Alex looks at him without recognition. Acting like they have never met before. Heartbreak once more but this time anger too. He won’t let Alex hurt him again. Meanwhile, Alex’s home life has been anything but good. His father hurts him and finally Alex’s self-preservation forces him to flee. Back to Vermont and to a mother who wants nothing to do with him. But he doesn’t expect Noel. Or any of the guys who want to be his friend. And Noel has a way of getting under his skin. And no matter how much Alex pushes away, he finds himself right back by his side. The two of them are magnets. Bound to come together again and again. And when they finally accept that truth, they’ll realize they are exactly what one another needs. I really loved this story! I couldn’t put it down. We had such interesting characters and dynamics. It was fun getting to know them. Even when things got rough when it came to their pasts that shaped them. I loved Noel and Alex’s romance and how they found one another once more. This time giving them a chance to be together in a way they were beginning to unwrap when they first met. Great story all around! And it looks like we are getting another one!
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
March 23, 2025
⭐♾️
M/M Contemporary Romance
eBook
Series: All for One #1
‼️Check your triggers prior to reading. Knight Blade Boys deals with some heavy themes‼️
Character Development: 4/5
Plot: 4/5
Writing Style: 4/5
Spice Level: 3/5
Overall Rating: ⭐♾️
134 highlights later and needless to say I found another favorite.
Alex & Noel, sweet baby angels. 💚
Alex, my heart broke for you. You used your anger as a cover. However, when you let yourself out, let your light out, you truly shined. You didn’t need Noel for that, it was in you already. He just helped you find your light.
Noel, sweet kind doe eyed boy. You were so sweet, so kind, so caring. I love your unwavering devotion to Alex. The kindness and dedication you show your friends. You are truly kindness personified.
The side cast in this book was incredible. I loved Ace. I want to be his best friend. I want to give him the biggest hug. Grady was such a cinnamon roll. He was so dedicated to protecting his friends especially Ace and I was so hear for it. Levi… he has some groveling to do but I think that he is just confused, letting his feels overtake him instead of figuring it out. I absolutely cannot wait for book 2!!
What to Expect:
💚 Childhood Friends to Strangers to Reluctant Friends to Lovers
🖤 Bi/Demi Rep
💚 Fencing
🖤 Found Family
💚 First Times (Vers)
🖤 Neurodivergent MC
💚 Slow Burn
Cheating:
Third-act breakup:
POV: Dual POV (First Person POV)
KU: Yes
M/M Contemporary Romance
eBook
Series: All for One #1
‼️Check your triggers prior to reading. Knight Blade Boys deals with some heavy themes‼️
Character Development: 4/5
Plot: 4/5
Writing Style: 4/5
Spice Level: 3/5
Overall Rating: ⭐♾️
134 highlights later and needless to say I found another favorite.
Alex & Noel, sweet baby angels. 💚
Alex, my heart broke for you. You used your anger as a cover. However, when you let yourself out, let your light out, you truly shined. You didn’t need Noel for that, it was in you already. He just helped you find your light.
Noel, sweet kind doe eyed boy. You were so sweet, so kind, so caring. I love your unwavering devotion to Alex. The kindness and dedication you show your friends. You are truly kindness personified.
The side cast in this book was incredible. I loved Ace. I want to be his best friend. I want to give him the biggest hug. Grady was such a cinnamon roll. He was so dedicated to protecting his friends especially Ace and I was so hear for it. Levi… he has some groveling to do but I think that he is just confused, letting his feels overtake him instead of figuring it out. I absolutely cannot wait for book 2!!
What to Expect:
💚 Childhood Friends to Strangers to Reluctant Friends to Lovers
🖤 Bi/Demi Rep
💚 Fencing
🖤 Found Family
💚 First Times (Vers)
🖤 Neurodivergent MC
💚 Slow Burn
Cheating:
Third-act breakup:
POV: Dual POV (First Person POV)
KU: Yes
April 12, 2025
To say I loved this book is truly an understatment.
Noel, being neurodivergent never saw the appeal or necessity in friends or trivial things like that. Until Alex befriended him at 12 and opened up his world, in a short time Alex became his bestfriend and then one day he was just gone. No word, just gone. 5 years later he would show up and change the very world in which noel was comfortably living in. Bringing him out of his comfort zone and testing his limits unlocking a side of himself he never knew existed and friendship beyond his imagination.
Alexs issues with self worth and feeling like noone could love him after an incredibly cruel upbringing of both physical and mental abuse. Noel was thr brightest light in an otherwise dark world. He never saw Noel as anything but the beautiful boy with the doe eyes who waltzed into his life and made him feel things he never felt before. Loved. wanted. Cared for.
"Don't ever think you meant nothing to me, Noel. You mean everything.”
This whole friendship group is just breathtaking. Its one thing to write a book conveying love between the MMCs but to have you fall inlove with side character wholeheartedly and feel connected to them too. They way they all went above and beyond for each other. Outstanding! True ride or dies.
Some of my favourite moments.
Iykyk!
The stargazing!
The save!
The letter!
The masks!
The ending had me in literal tears.
Letters in book always send me over the edge and this one was so beautiful and heartbreaking.
Also "doe eyes" is hands down my favourite pet name ever!
Noel, being neurodivergent never saw the appeal or necessity in friends or trivial things like that. Until Alex befriended him at 12 and opened up his world, in a short time Alex became his bestfriend and then one day he was just gone. No word, just gone. 5 years later he would show up and change the very world in which noel was comfortably living in. Bringing him out of his comfort zone and testing his limits unlocking a side of himself he never knew existed and friendship beyond his imagination.
Alexs issues with self worth and feeling like noone could love him after an incredibly cruel upbringing of both physical and mental abuse. Noel was thr brightest light in an otherwise dark world. He never saw Noel as anything but the beautiful boy with the doe eyes who waltzed into his life and made him feel things he never felt before. Loved. wanted. Cared for.
"Don't ever think you meant nothing to me, Noel. You mean everything.”
This whole friendship group is just breathtaking. Its one thing to write a book conveying love between the MMCs but to have you fall inlove with side character wholeheartedly and feel connected to them too. They way they all went above and beyond for each other. Outstanding! True ride or dies.
Some of my favourite moments.
Iykyk!
The stargazing!
The save!
The letter!
The masks!
The ending had me in literal tears.
Letters in book always send me over the edge and this one was so beautiful and heartbreaking.
Also "doe eyes" is hands down my favourite pet name ever!
January 28, 2025
The Knights Blade Boys" is a heartfelt MM slow-burn sports romance that deeply explores themes of connection and healing.
Noel, a neurodivergent young man, navigates life at Knights Valor Academy as a member of the fencing club. During practice one day, he unexpectedly encounters the friend who left him five years ago, stirring up a mix of emotions that he thought he had long buried.
This book is beautifully written, with a sensitivity that vividly captures the struggles and triumphs of the characters. The heartbreaking moments are a rollercoaster of emotions, evoking both tears and a desire to cheer for these boys as they embark on their journeys of growth and self-discovery.
I was particularly moved by Noel's character, as he is portrayed with remarkable authenticity. The way he navigates the world and relationships reflects a profound understanding of neurodivergence, making his experiences relatable and genuine.
On the other hand, Alex's journey is equally compelling. Witnessing him learn to heal and gradually allow others into his life is nothing short of awe-inspiring.
The bond they share is a testament to love and acceptance; Alex sees Noel as his shooting star, the one who will step up and truly love him for who he is.
This story is a beautiful exploration of healing, friendship, and the importance of being accepted for oneself.
I can't wait to read more and see where their journeys take them!
Noel, a neurodivergent young man, navigates life at Knights Valor Academy as a member of the fencing club. During practice one day, he unexpectedly encounters the friend who left him five years ago, stirring up a mix of emotions that he thought he had long buried.
This book is beautifully written, with a sensitivity that vividly captures the struggles and triumphs of the characters. The heartbreaking moments are a rollercoaster of emotions, evoking both tears and a desire to cheer for these boys as they embark on their journeys of growth and self-discovery.
I was particularly moved by Noel's character, as he is portrayed with remarkable authenticity. The way he navigates the world and relationships reflects a profound understanding of neurodivergence, making his experiences relatable and genuine.
On the other hand, Alex's journey is equally compelling. Witnessing him learn to heal and gradually allow others into his life is nothing short of awe-inspiring.
The bond they share is a testament to love and acceptance; Alex sees Noel as his shooting star, the one who will step up and truly love him for who he is.
This story is a beautiful exploration of healing, friendship, and the importance of being accepted for oneself.
I can't wait to read more and see where their journeys take them!
January 29, 2025
Knight Blade Boys is the first in the series and follows a group of boys on the high school fencing team. All but one of the boys is wealthy, money meaning nothing to them. However Noel is not in that tax bracket and lives with his mom in their cozy little house across town.
Noel had a crush on Alex all through middle school and Alex had to go. Noel is left alone and broken hearted. Until the day Alex shows up at the high school and is on the fencing team. Sparks fly, friends getting involved and soon Alex and Noel can't avoid each other or the feelings that are fighting to make their way back between the two boys.
There is a lot of push and pull in this book. Alex has a terrible home life. Noel does not. Alex and Noel play the hate you/love you game for a long time. Two of their friends, Ace and Levi, play the same game but without the coming together (yet). The friend group was fun and I liked reading about them!!
There were just a few little things I had to read past. Noel is neurodivergent and a few times I questioned if he could handle some of the things the group or he did. Alex had a terrible home life and some depression but rarely talked about the results of what his upbringing did to him mentally.
Overall it was a good read. I'm hopeful for book 2!!
**Check your trigger warnings especially for child abuse and abandonment
Story: 4/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Spice: 3.5/5 🍆🍆🍆.🌶️
Characters: 4/5 🫂🫂🫂🫂
Banter: 5/5 😋😋😋😋😋
Noel had a crush on Alex all through middle school and Alex had to go. Noel is left alone and broken hearted. Until the day Alex shows up at the high school and is on the fencing team. Sparks fly, friends getting involved and soon Alex and Noel can't avoid each other or the feelings that are fighting to make their way back between the two boys.
There is a lot of push and pull in this book. Alex has a terrible home life. Noel does not. Alex and Noel play the hate you/love you game for a long time. Two of their friends, Ace and Levi, play the same game but without the coming together (yet). The friend group was fun and I liked reading about them!!
There were just a few little things I had to read past. Noel is neurodivergent and a few times I questioned if he could handle some of the things the group or he did. Alex had a terrible home life and some depression but rarely talked about the results of what his upbringing did to him mentally.
Overall it was a good read. I'm hopeful for book 2!!
**Check your trigger warnings especially for child abuse and abandonment
Story: 4/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Spice: 3.5/5 🍆🍆🍆.🌶️
Characters: 4/5 🫂🫂🫂🫂
Banter: 5/5 😋😋😋😋😋
January 31, 2025
Knight Blade Boys ARC Review:
Noel and Alex 💚
Once friends at the age of 13, Noel and Alex meet again in their senior year of high school. Only Alex has seemingly forgotten all about Noel, which then causes Noel to fuel his pain into hatred. This makes them clash as Alex can't seem to stop poking at Noel’s buttons by the way of fencing duels or even a comment or two in Noel's direction.
This book was sweet, heart breaking, and just all around an achingly lovely story with its dark moments. Check those trigger warnings, as always when checking out a book!
Noel is loyal at his core. He is a sweet boy who has zero hesitations at throwing punches if it means protecting someone he cares about.
Alex tries to cover his pain with sarcasm and anger, but underneath is a boy who needs love and a support system to let him heal or, hell, even accept what his life has been like.
Seeing the journey these two boys went on, made me feel so dang weepy. I also loved the way that Noel's neurodivergence was handled, from his pov to how others behaved around him. Everyone is different and I felt so much love and acceptance from those who matter in this book!
Within these pages, these characters built a found family of friends that have each other's backs but are also not afraid to call each other out when one of them is in the wrong either. I am excited about where this world will end up going, and happy to see these characters more in the future!
5/5🌟
Noel and Alex 💚
Once friends at the age of 13, Noel and Alex meet again in their senior year of high school. Only Alex has seemingly forgotten all about Noel, which then causes Noel to fuel his pain into hatred. This makes them clash as Alex can't seem to stop poking at Noel’s buttons by the way of fencing duels or even a comment or two in Noel's direction.
This book was sweet, heart breaking, and just all around an achingly lovely story with its dark moments. Check those trigger warnings, as always when checking out a book!
Noel is loyal at his core. He is a sweet boy who has zero hesitations at throwing punches if it means protecting someone he cares about.
Alex tries to cover his pain with sarcasm and anger, but underneath is a boy who needs love and a support system to let him heal or, hell, even accept what his life has been like.
Seeing the journey these two boys went on, made me feel so dang weepy. I also loved the way that Noel's neurodivergence was handled, from his pov to how others behaved around him. Everyone is different and I felt so much love and acceptance from those who matter in this book!
Within these pages, these characters built a found family of friends that have each other's backs but are also not afraid to call each other out when one of them is in the wrong either. I am excited about where this world will end up going, and happy to see these characters more in the future!
5/5🌟
March 15, 2025
GUYS 😭😭😭 this freakin’ book!!!!
I had the honour of editing this and my god, it was EVERYTHING. Renee had me sobbing at my laptop multiple times, the tears were floooooowing. I related a lot to Alex, and man those feelings hit HARD. My partner, Tommy was the first person I could really be myself with. He’s my Noel.
This story was beautiful in every sense of the word.
I cannot wait for Ace and Levi’s story!!!
I messaged Renee during the editing process and here’s just one of things I sent her:
*My thoughts 200 pages in*
Alex’s dad is a huge POS, and doesn’t deserve to have Alex as a son- don’t even get me started on his “mother” 🫠
Noel is so sweet and gentle, I just want to hold him 😭
This story is filled with so much emotion, I just- WOW. It literally pours off of the pages, I feel everything that they feel.
The other boys in the fencing team are great too, I freakin’ love Ace, he’s definitely my favourite out of their friends lol. The dancing on the table scene- OMGGGGGG!! I pictured it so clearly in my head that it felt like I was there with them!
I had the honour of editing this and my god, it was EVERYTHING. Renee had me sobbing at my laptop multiple times, the tears were floooooowing. I related a lot to Alex, and man those feelings hit HARD. My partner, Tommy was the first person I could really be myself with. He’s my Noel.
This story was beautiful in every sense of the word.
I cannot wait for Ace and Levi’s story!!!
I messaged Renee during the editing process and here’s just one of things I sent her:
*My thoughts 200 pages in*
Alex’s dad is a huge POS, and doesn’t deserve to have Alex as a son- don’t even get me started on his “mother” 🫠
Noel is so sweet and gentle, I just want to hold him 😭
This story is filled with so much emotion, I just- WOW. It literally pours off of the pages, I feel everything that they feel.
The other boys in the fencing team are great too, I freakin’ love Ace, he’s definitely my favourite out of their friends lol. The dancing on the table scene- OMGGGGGG!! I pictured it so clearly in my head that it felt like I was there with them!
December 10, 2025
A Joyfully Jay review.
3.5 stars
Knight Blade Boys is the first book in the One For All series, which features high school students getting into all manner of shenanigans.
This is a book made of two disparate parts. The first is the growing friendship and relationship between Noel and Alex and the second is the many and varied ways in which the two young men have sex. Reading this felt like two different books stitched together, without any blending, and only a tacked on scene at the end to remind me of Noel’s unhappy childhood. It also feels like a good quarter of this book is spent setting up the sequel with Ace and Levi (and occasionally Grady) and their relationship drama breaking up and sliding in between the sex scenes.
The book also glorifies violence, having both Noel and Alex in various fistfights, rewarded each time with both attention and praise from the other boy.
Read Elizabeth’s review in its entirety here.
3.5 stars
Knight Blade Boys is the first book in the One For All series, which features high school students getting into all manner of shenanigans.
This is a book made of two disparate parts. The first is the growing friendship and relationship between Noel and Alex and the second is the many and varied ways in which the two young men have sex. Reading this felt like two different books stitched together, without any blending, and only a tacked on scene at the end to remind me of Noel’s unhappy childhood. It also feels like a good quarter of this book is spent setting up the sequel with Ace and Levi (and occasionally Grady) and their relationship drama breaking up and sliding in between the sex scenes.
The book also glorifies violence, having both Noel and Alex in various fistfights, rewarded each time with both attention and praise from the other boy.
Read Elizabeth’s review in its entirety here.
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