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Chicago Awakenings #1
Accidentally Joining His Cult
Beckett
When the hottest guy I’ve ever seen teaches one of those weird New Age, self-help seminars at my company, I don’t exactly pay attention to the content of the presentation. I just know I want to see him again.
He’s flirty and charming, and I find myself asking him on a date. I’m usually all about casual hookups, but Cody is different. He doesn’t care about my family’s money or that I’m the owner of an NHL team. He wants to get to know me for me.
His sunshine personality is addicting, and I’m worried that one hookup won’t be enough.
Just when I start thinking this could be something real, I realize I might have misread his always happy and interested, golden retriever energy. Because when I finally lean in to kiss him, he looks confused instead of excited.
Just my luck to want something serious for the first time, only to find out he’s straight.
Cody
I work for the best company in the world! I get to travel around the country, helping motivate people to find success and happiness—it’s my dream job.
I’m always meeting new people and making new friends, so when the cool, confident guy at one of my seminars asks me to hang out after class, it feels completely normal.
But spending time with Beckett is different. When the night ends sooner than I’d like, I find myself wishing it hadn’t, and that’s... unusual for me.
Thankfully, we exchange numbers, and I can’t stop thinking about him—what he’s doing or what I could say to make him smile. I’ve never been this eager to see someone again, and it makes me nervous in a way I can’t explain.
Then he leans in to kiss me, and everything suddenly makes sense. There’s a reason I can’t get him out of my head. Maybe I’m not as straight as I thought I was.
When the hottest guy I’ve ever seen teaches one of those weird New Age, self-help seminars at my company, I don’t exactly pay attention to the content of the presentation. I just know I want to see him again.
He’s flirty and charming, and I find myself asking him on a date. I’m usually all about casual hookups, but Cody is different. He doesn’t care about my family’s money or that I’m the owner of an NHL team. He wants to get to know me for me.
His sunshine personality is addicting, and I’m worried that one hookup won’t be enough.
Just when I start thinking this could be something real, I realize I might have misread his always happy and interested, golden retriever energy. Because when I finally lean in to kiss him, he looks confused instead of excited.
Just my luck to want something serious for the first time, only to find out he’s straight.
Cody
I work for the best company in the world! I get to travel around the country, helping motivate people to find success and happiness—it’s my dream job.
I’m always meeting new people and making new friends, so when the cool, confident guy at one of my seminars asks me to hang out after class, it feels completely normal.
But spending time with Beckett is different. When the night ends sooner than I’d like, I find myself wishing it hadn’t, and that’s... unusual for me.
Thankfully, we exchange numbers, and I can’t stop thinking about him—what he’s doing or what I could say to make him smile. I’ve never been this eager to see someone again, and it makes me nervous in a way I can’t explain.
Then he leans in to kiss me, and everything suddenly makes sense. There’s a reason I can’t get him out of my head. Maybe I’m not as straight as I thought I was.
274 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 25, 2025
101 people are currently reading
551 people want to read
About the author
Lexi Amber
9 books92 followersLexi is an American author who is obsessed with queer happily ever afters. Most of her time is spent with her two kids, but if they’re asleep then she is either reading, writing, or watching hockey.
Professionally trained as a nurse, Lexi decided to start writing when she became a stay at home mom and the characters in her head haven’t stopped talking since.
Lexi also loves Diet Coke, traveling, and Halloween. Her house is probably obnoxiously decorated for whatever holiday is next because she thinks that little things that make people smile are important.
You can find her attempting to stay up to date with all social media under the name Lexi Amber.
Professionally trained as a nurse, Lexi decided to start writing when she became a stay at home mom and the characters in her head haven’t stopped talking since.
Lexi also loves Diet Coke, traveling, and Halloween. Her house is probably obnoxiously decorated for whatever holiday is next because she thinks that little things that make people smile are important.
You can find her attempting to stay up to date with all social media under the name Lexi Amber.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 195 reviews
June 2, 2025
2.5
Not for me....
This book is just over 80% focused on sex, all the getting to know each other happens off page and I'm never a fan of that kind of imbalance in a romance story.
If they aren't thinking about sex, they're talking about it or doing it!
The cult plot was what grabbed my attention with this book, but literally every chance that Beck has to realise something sinister is happening, he zones out and thinks about sex. It was beyond frustrating, especially when the whole cult revelation, information gathering and take down happens in the last 15% of the book!
The set up for future pairings was also focused on really frequently, and I found that off-putting because I don't even know enough about the MCs in this book to care about the outcome of their story, let alone the entire cast of side characters.
I don't think this author is for me, but if you like more spice than plot, you'll probably enjoy.
Not for me....
This book is just over 80% focused on sex, all the getting to know each other happens off page and I'm never a fan of that kind of imbalance in a romance story.
If they aren't thinking about sex, they're talking about it or doing it!
The cult plot was what grabbed my attention with this book, but literally every chance that Beck has to realise something sinister is happening, he zones out and thinks about sex. It was beyond frustrating, especially when the whole cult revelation, information gathering and take down happens in the last 15% of the book!
The set up for future pairings was also focused on really frequently, and I found that off-putting because I don't even know enough about the MCs in this book to care about the outcome of their story, let alone the entire cast of side characters.
I don't think this author is for me, but if you like more spice than plot, you'll probably enjoy.
April 10, 2025
“Come on my face.” less than an hour after realizing your straight self was on a date with a guy and just agreed to share a hotel room with only one bed is CRAZYYYYYY.
It's hot, I'm not going to lie, but you JUST SAID you were straight???? Cody?! Even Beck can't believe his luck😂😂😂😂
This has got to be the most rapid bi-awakening EVER.
“Are you my boyfriend?” I ask, just in case.
Day after guys. DAY AFTER.
💀💀💀💀💀I don't know which side Beck faces as he speaks to whichever deity he believes in because I've never seen an answered prayer so instantaneous and so THOROUGH that it far outpaced the prayer's initial intention.
This hook up is on the express lane to commitment 💀
Talk about getting more than you bargained for.
I'm so entertained. Beck wanted Cody to choke on something but look who's choking now?
And the gag is that Beck is a commitment phobe😂. Honestly the jokes write themselves.
Unhinged. No notes.
This man went from straight to needy bottom in less time than it would take to say 'bi-awakening'. Whatever Beck wanted? Cody wanted it too, with bells on, AND THEN SOME.
Oh, the cult is definitely real and it's a major subplot. Won't get into that.
I went into this expecting ridiculousness and ridiculousness is exactly what I got(very complimentary).
Love when an ARC works for me. And I'll be sat for Parker and Oakley's book because double bi-awakening? Sign me TF up.
It's hot, I'm not going to lie, but you JUST SAID you were straight???? Cody?! Even Beck can't believe his luck😂😂😂😂
This has got to be the most rapid bi-awakening EVER.
“Are you my boyfriend?” I ask, just in case.
Day after guys. DAY AFTER.
💀💀💀💀💀I don't know which side Beck faces as he speaks to whichever deity he believes in because I've never seen an answered prayer so instantaneous and so THOROUGH that it far outpaced the prayer's initial intention.
This hook up is on the express lane to commitment 💀
Talk about getting more than you bargained for.
I'm so entertained. Beck wanted Cody to choke on something but look who's choking now?
And the gag is that Beck is a commitment phobe😂. Honestly the jokes write themselves.
Unhinged. No notes.
This man went from straight to needy bottom in less time than it would take to say 'bi-awakening'. Whatever Beck wanted? Cody wanted it too, with bells on, AND THEN SOME.
Oh, the cult is definitely real and it's a major subplot. Won't get into that.
I went into this expecting ridiculousness and ridiculousness is exactly what I got(very complimentary).
Love when an ARC works for me. And I'll be sat for Parker and Oakley's book because double bi-awakening? Sign me TF up.
May 7, 2025
Sorry if this makes no sense and I’ll probably come back to clean this up once I’m not dying from lack of sleep (I feel you Becks) but HOLY did this go a direction I didn’t think it would go.
Ok. I fucking LOVED these two. I loved how the author described their smiles, jokes, touches and glances. How you could *feel* the tension, how you see these two men gravitate towards each other (with our oblivious Goldie being so oblivious), and how it all felt SO real. I’ve read so many books where the authors TELL us there’s affection and eventually love, but this author *showed* us and it felt so damn believable. I loved their cute nicknames and how Cody is SO damn adorable and cute and is literally a golden ray of sunshine, whereas Beckett is like “GIVITH ME COFFEE OR DIE.” Same my dude, SAME. From the moment these two meet and the instant connection they shared, I just knew that this one would be a favorite.
THESE TWO WERE ABSOLUTE FIRE. Every time they talked, touched and kissed, it was perfection! The chemistry they had, the dates they accidentally went on, and how miserable they were apart but were so desperate to be as close as they could when they were together was just chefs kissssss. I loved the praise and dirty talk, I loved Cody being greedy for Becks and his… ahem. But the *marking* and hints of a breeding kink? AYYYYEEEEE.
I thought this book was going to be more rom-com, Himbo, joke of a book but it was so much better. I thought Beckett was just literally following a cult member around and going to his presentations because he was hot, which… he did. But it was so much bigger and better than that. You can tell the author took the time to really research her topics and I’m glad to see there was a sensitivity reader (it was mentioned at the front so I’m assuming the reader was for this topic) as it took on some pretty heavy and dark themes but honestly I thought the author handled it very well. I’m being vague on purpose here but make sure to check your TW, because... well, cults.
I will be ZOOMING to buy a copy of this book IMMEDIATELY and the way I am waiting for the two codependent besties now?! GAHHHH. I need more of Lexi’s books!!!
Also, that fucking BONUS SCENE AHHHHHHH. It was PERFECT.
But ALSO. A certain hockey cap’n and assistant ehh?! EHHHH?!?!?!??! 🙌🙌
Ok. I fucking LOVED these two. I loved how the author described their smiles, jokes, touches and glances. How you could *feel* the tension, how you see these two men gravitate towards each other (with our oblivious Goldie being so oblivious), and how it all felt SO real. I’ve read so many books where the authors TELL us there’s affection and eventually love, but this author *showed* us and it felt so damn believable. I loved their cute nicknames and how Cody is SO damn adorable and cute and is literally a golden ray of sunshine, whereas Beckett is like “GIVITH ME COFFEE OR DIE.” Same my dude, SAME. From the moment these two meet and the instant connection they shared, I just knew that this one would be a favorite.
THESE TWO WERE ABSOLUTE FIRE. Every time they talked, touched and kissed, it was perfection! The chemistry they had, the dates they accidentally went on, and how miserable they were apart but were so desperate to be as close as they could when they were together was just chefs kissssss. I loved the praise and dirty talk, I loved Cody being greedy for Becks and his… ahem. But the *marking* and hints of a breeding kink? AYYYYEEEEE.
I thought this book was going to be more rom-com, Himbo, joke of a book but it was so much better. I thought Beckett was just literally following a cult member around and going to his presentations because he was hot, which… he did. But it was so much bigger and better than that. You can tell the author took the time to really research her topics and I’m glad to see there was a sensitivity reader (it was mentioned at the front so I’m assuming the reader was for this topic) as it took on some pretty heavy and dark themes but honestly I thought the author handled it very well. I’m being vague on purpose here but make sure to check your TW, because... well, cults.
I will be ZOOMING to buy a copy of this book IMMEDIATELY and the way I am waiting for the two codependent besties now?! GAHHHH. I need more of Lexi’s books!!!
Also, that fucking BONUS SCENE AHHHHHHH. It was PERFECT.
But ALSO. A certain hockey cap’n and assistant ehh?! EHHHH?!?!?!??! 🙌🙌
July 9, 2025
3,5 ⭐️
The writing was engaging, the flow of the story was really smooth but the cult plot was REALLY under exploited, considering its legit the name of the book… the epilogue set the scene for more books and it seems interesting but I’m not into it enough to read more.
The writing was engaging, the flow of the story was really smooth but the cult plot was REALLY under exploited, considering its legit the name of the book… the epilogue set the scene for more books and it seems interesting but I’m not into it enough to read more.
April 6, 2025
Grumpy/sunshine ✅
Only 1 bed ✅
Straight to bi ✅
No gay freak outs ✅
No third act break ups ✅
Laugh out Loud moments ✅
This is a romantic comedy with a new plot twist.
🤣 This dedication
DEDICATION
For any author who’s ever written “that one time you almost joined a cult” to show how oblivious a character is, and for any reader who wished they could read more about it.
I’m the reader who wanted to read more about the golden retriever himbo 🙋🏻♀️
Beckett sees our sexy himbo at a coffee shop and is instantly in lust and speechless. Unfortunately Beckett loses any chance of getting his name or number when ordering his coffee.
Beckett’s family founded Caldwell Corporation and he is president of one of their companies. He is acting CEO of the Chicago Werewolves Hockey Team.
Cody - coffee shop himbo- is sunshine personified. He is a corporate seminar leader / speaker for the Kyla Corporate Empowerment Program. He really loves his job.
“Maybe we could go out Saturday, hook up after my class?” I offer, perking up at the idea. “Were you planning to attend?” He grins back at me. “Absolutely.”
How does he not know the connotations of saying hook up? 🤦🏻♀️
Beckett thinks it’s a date. He already has some intense feelings. No kiss at the end but was still on awesome date in his mind.
3 weeks later and they are at Cody’s company retreat . Oh and oops there’s only one bed which Beckett is more than ok with.
“Wait. Our date? We went on a date? Like a romantic one?” His tone elevates a little with each question, and my heart sinks. Fuck. “Cody, are you straight?”
They are both experiencing some confusion.
‘Fuck. Are we dating? Am I so oblivious that I didn’t even realize I’ve been dating a man?’
Confusion cleared and sexy times are on.
‘I feel like I’ve won the lottery. Some sort of sex lottery where my prize is Beck showing me everything that I’ve been missing out on by not being with men.’
We go from sexy times to Cody clarifying the situation.
‘So, I’m, like, seventy percent sure that we’re not actually dating. “Are you my boyfriend?” I ask, just in case.’
Beckett establishes they are not boyfriends.
They are obviously gonna become boyfriends lol they both got it bad.
‘Not my man like my boyfriend, I just meant…well, I’m not sure. I guess we did just agree to be exclusive. Now is not the time for this commitment panic ‘
Cody visits Beckett and meets his family and friends.
Beckett visits Cody at his weird cult like work/town.
‘Awesome, a whole city full of people drinking the Kool-Aid. I shake off that disturbing thought. I’m sure it’s not like that.’
Yeah Cody’s company , boss, town is all super weird. Everything is intertwined.
Cody and Beckett admit to each other they are in love 🥰 but they live so far away and both love their jobs .
‘I’m starting to really question Viktor’s motives and teachings, and I don’t want him to suspect I’m anything less than an enthusiastic participant in whatever the hell is happening in this town until I can figure out what’s really going on here.’
It clicks for Beckett they are in a cult. He tries to convince Cody and Cody believes him but he can’t leave. His boss / Cult leader made him sign a notarised secret , ‘He also has access to all of his bank accounts and credit cards,
and Cody can’t go anywhere without him knowing. He can’t even withdraw large sums of money without Viktor’s pre-approval with the bank. ‘
Cody and Beckett involve Becketts friends and family to try to leave. It
‘It’s been almost three weeks of pretending like I’m super invested in this stupid company and this fake ass city with its annoying people.’
They plan their escape. The cult leader is arrested. It’s a happy ending all around.
I can see future potential book couples in :-
Hudson Roy and Adrian ( confirmed book three )
Nick and Jordan
Oakley and Parker. THEIR BOOK IS NEXT!
Only 1 bed ✅
Straight to bi ✅
No gay freak outs ✅
No third act break ups ✅
Laugh out Loud moments ✅
This is a romantic comedy with a new plot twist.
🤣 This dedication
DEDICATION
For any author who’s ever written “that one time you almost joined a cult” to show how oblivious a character is, and for any reader who wished they could read more about it.
I’m the reader who wanted to read more about the golden retriever himbo 🙋🏻♀️
Beckett sees our sexy himbo at a coffee shop and is instantly in lust and speechless. Unfortunately Beckett loses any chance of getting his name or number when ordering his coffee.
Beckett’s family founded Caldwell Corporation and he is president of one of their companies. He is acting CEO of the Chicago Werewolves Hockey Team.
Cody - coffee shop himbo- is sunshine personified. He is a corporate seminar leader / speaker for the Kyla Corporate Empowerment Program. He really loves his job.
“Maybe we could go out Saturday, hook up after my class?” I offer, perking up at the idea. “Were you planning to attend?” He grins back at me. “Absolutely.”
How does he not know the connotations of saying hook up? 🤦🏻♀️
Beckett thinks it’s a date. He already has some intense feelings. No kiss at the end but was still on awesome date in his mind.
3 weeks later and they are at Cody’s company retreat . Oh and oops there’s only one bed which Beckett is more than ok with.
“Wait. Our date? We went on a date? Like a romantic one?” His tone elevates a little with each question, and my heart sinks. Fuck. “Cody, are you straight?”
They are both experiencing some confusion.
‘Fuck. Are we dating? Am I so oblivious that I didn’t even realize I’ve been dating a man?’
Confusion cleared and sexy times are on.
‘I feel like I’ve won the lottery. Some sort of sex lottery where my prize is Beck showing me everything that I’ve been missing out on by not being with men.’
We go from sexy times to Cody clarifying the situation.
‘So, I’m, like, seventy percent sure that we’re not actually dating. “Are you my boyfriend?” I ask, just in case.’
Beckett establishes they are not boyfriends.
They are obviously gonna become boyfriends lol they both got it bad.
‘Not my man like my boyfriend, I just meant…well, I’m not sure. I guess we did just agree to be exclusive. Now is not the time for this commitment panic ‘
Cody visits Beckett and meets his family and friends.
Beckett visits Cody at his weird cult like work/town.
‘Awesome, a whole city full of people drinking the Kool-Aid. I shake off that disturbing thought. I’m sure it’s not like that.’
Yeah Cody’s company , boss, town is all super weird. Everything is intertwined.
Cody and Beckett admit to each other they are in love 🥰 but they live so far away and both love their jobs .
‘I’m starting to really question Viktor’s motives and teachings, and I don’t want him to suspect I’m anything less than an enthusiastic participant in whatever the hell is happening in this town until I can figure out what’s really going on here.’
It clicks for Beckett they are in a cult. He tries to convince Cody and Cody believes him but he can’t leave. His boss / Cult leader made him sign a notarised secret , ‘He also has access to all of his bank accounts and credit cards,
and Cody can’t go anywhere without him knowing. He can’t even withdraw large sums of money without Viktor’s pre-approval with the bank. ‘
Cody and Beckett involve Becketts friends and family to try to leave. It
‘It’s been almost three weeks of pretending like I’m super invested in this stupid company and this fake ass city with its annoying people.’
They plan their escape. The cult leader is arrested. It’s a happy ending all around.
I can see future potential book couples in :-
Hudson Roy and Adrian ( confirmed book three )
Nick and Jordan
Oakley and Parker. THEIR BOOK IS NEXT!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 26, 2025
Okay so this author either did some very extensive research about a cult like this or she was in one because the details and the accuracy are on point!! How do I know this you ask? Because years ago my poor brother got roped into one by his girlfriend at the time and all the freaking seminars and coaching and stuff talked about in his book are exactly what he went through!!! Even down to the weird ass long hugs!! Omg I’m not gonna lie I got PTSD from reading this!! It was so hard seeing my brother go through that, knowing he was being brain washed and not being able to do anything because he didn’t want to hear it!! Ugh it was rough and so I found this book to be so very frustrating because of how long it took for either of these MCs to open their freaking eyes!!!!
Which i get is the point because when you’re in a cult you don’t realize it but still it was starting to get to me by 70%.
Now I did like both of these characters. They were both sweet guys, very likable and I liked their relationship. Cody was so very naive and oblivious. Which sure, it was adorable at first but over time it kind of started to annoy me. And then Beck started seeing the red flags but because he loved Cody so much he kept ignoring them!! Brushing them off like oh I don’t want to make Cody mad so I’m going to go along with this freaking cult!!!! Ugh I wanted to smack both of them!!
I was bummed we didn’t see the villains reaction to getting caught for his crimes. It was super anticlimactic and I felt robbed of reading about the look on his face when his star employee (Cody) figured out that he was robbing everyone!! I wanted to SEE it not just read about it.
Anyway I’m very intrigued by the rest of the series but I’m not gonna lie im glad this one’s over because it was giving me ANXIETY!!!!! lol. But I will say the writing here was top notch!! Super good!!
NO CHEATING
NO OP DRAMA
NO THIRD ACT BREAK UP
BI AWAKENING
CULT BEHAVIOR!!!!!
HFN (living together)
Which i get is the point because when you’re in a cult you don’t realize it but still it was starting to get to me by 70%.
Now I did like both of these characters. They were both sweet guys, very likable and I liked their relationship. Cody was so very naive and oblivious. Which sure, it was adorable at first but over time it kind of started to annoy me. And then Beck started seeing the red flags but because he loved Cody so much he kept ignoring them!! Brushing them off like oh I don’t want to make Cody mad so I’m going to go along with this freaking cult!!!! Ugh I wanted to smack both of them!!
I was bummed we didn’t see the villains reaction to getting caught for his crimes. It was super anticlimactic and I felt robbed of reading about the look on his face when his star employee (Cody) figured out that he was robbing everyone!! I wanted to SEE it not just read about it.
Anyway I’m very intrigued by the rest of the series but I’m not gonna lie im glad this one’s over because it was giving me ANXIETY!!!!! lol. But I will say the writing here was top notch!! Super good!!
NO CHEATING
NO OP DRAMA
NO THIRD ACT BREAK UP
BI AWAKENING
CULT BEHAVIOR!!!!!
HFN (living together)
June 13, 2025
Tropes: black cat/golden retriever, billionaire MMC, miscommunication
Feels: 2/5
Steam*: 1.75/5
Kinks: good boy kink, phone sex
Angst: low
HEA: yes
Pairing: MM
Triggers/potential icks/content warnings/representation: cult, absentee parents
Cheating between MCs: No
Any cheating: No
Other person drama: neither are interested in anyone else once they start hanging out
3.25 stars
Beckett is 32. He is from an extremely wealthy family, and his family is very close and supportive of each other. He works as the CEO of an NHL team owned by his family and he loves his job. One morning he meets a stunner of a guy out of coffee shop who flusters him. The guy leaves before Beckett can make a move. Luckily enough, the guy turns out to be on his way to do a seminar at Beckett's office, which Beckett is attending. Beckett strikes up a conversation with him and they make plans to meet up later. Beckett thinks it's a date, but Cody is straight and oblivious and just thinks he's making a friend and someone who's more interested in the teachings of his organization.
Cody is 28. He's from a wealthy family as well, but his parents are pretty absentee, they don't feel the need for family that he has. He got a job out of college at the Kyla organization run by Viktor. Unbeknownst to him, it's a cult! Cody ends up becoming their VP of recruitment because he honestly believes in the teachings so much, and loves the sense of community, he's blind to the negatives. After a few Hangouts / dates, Cody realizes he is actually out on dates and he realizes he actually is attracted to Beckett.
They go ahead and start hooking up, but they have to have a long distance relationship because they live in different states and Cody travels for work so much. They really enjoy each other's company, and they decide to be exclusive and try to meet up whenever they can. Beckett is so interested in Cody, he's hardly paying any attention to the Kyla organization and their teachings. But then all the sudden he realizes it's a cult and all the restrictions that are placed on Cody aren't in his best interest. But Cody is so tightly nestled in the cult, can he get out?
This book had a good start, it was hilarious how Cody's day was so perfect the day that he met Beckett, and Cody was so oblivious to why everything was going so perfectly for him that he didn't see things that were happening behind the scenes. Cody was a sweetheart. Overall I found the book a nice little love story. There was a nice amount of closure in the epilogue, wrapping things up.
But there were some things that kind of hurt my enjoyment:
- I found it unromantic how both of them kept thinking from time to time that this thing between them have no future, that it couldn't last.
- I know Beckett wad a skeptic of this organization. But I lost a lot of respect for him as a businessman and a smart person because he keeps tuning out what he's hearing and he's not putting two and two together quickly enough. He ignored his surroundings and did not listen to the words being spoken around him, and he let himself be used as a celebrity endorsement, when all smart businessmen know to dig before you let yourself be associated with something.
- the initial miscommunication about whether they were hanging out as friends or dates was cute. But the miscommunication / poor communication continued, their relationship lasted for months and they spent all this time talking over the phone, yet they didn't talk about serious stuff and make plans to have a long-term relationship. They couldn't find time when they're in person and it was frustrating.
Some notable moments:
"When I enter the room, my first instinct is to grab a chair in the last row and ignore this entire pointless presentation, but familiar golden curls draw my attention to the stage. Holy shit. It’s the coffee shop guy. On second thought, this is obviously too far from the stage to properly enjoy the seminar."
"I know that I’m getting ahead of myself, but there’s something about him that draws me in. Makes me want to wrap my arms around him and protect him from anything bad ever happening. Even though he’s taller than me and a little more built, he’s just adorable, and I want to take care of him. Which is a fucking weird thing for me to think about a practical stranger."
*FYI about steam: I rate steam based on a combination of quality & quantity. I note kink separate from steam because I don't want to underrate steamy reads that don't have much kink.
**Note about spoilers: I like to comment on the plot of a book in reviews, so I almost always mark my reviews as containing spoilers. But I try to avoid spoiling the big dramatic moments! As a reader, I personally like to know what I'm getting into before I read a book so I know more about the content and if it's to my taste/mood, so I try to give that information in my reviews for myself when I'm considering rereading and also for other readers.
Feels: 2/5
Steam*: 1.75/5
Kinks: good boy kink, phone sex
Angst: low
HEA: yes
Pairing: MM
Triggers/potential icks/content warnings/representation: cult, absentee parents
Cheating between MCs: No
Any cheating: No
Other person drama: neither are interested in anyone else once they start hanging out
3.25 stars
Beckett is 32. He is from an extremely wealthy family, and his family is very close and supportive of each other. He works as the CEO of an NHL team owned by his family and he loves his job. One morning he meets a stunner of a guy out of coffee shop who flusters him. The guy leaves before Beckett can make a move. Luckily enough, the guy turns out to be on his way to do a seminar at Beckett's office, which Beckett is attending. Beckett strikes up a conversation with him and they make plans to meet up later. Beckett thinks it's a date, but Cody is straight and oblivious and just thinks he's making a friend and someone who's more interested in the teachings of his organization.
Cody is 28. He's from a wealthy family as well, but his parents are pretty absentee, they don't feel the need for family that he has. He got a job out of college at the Kyla organization run by Viktor. Unbeknownst to him, it's a cult! Cody ends up becoming their VP of recruitment because he honestly believes in the teachings so much, and loves the sense of community, he's blind to the negatives. After a few Hangouts / dates, Cody realizes he is actually out on dates and he realizes he actually is attracted to Beckett.
They go ahead and start hooking up, but they have to have a long distance relationship because they live in different states and Cody travels for work so much. They really enjoy each other's company, and they decide to be exclusive and try to meet up whenever they can. Beckett is so interested in Cody, he's hardly paying any attention to the Kyla organization and their teachings. But then all the sudden he realizes it's a cult and all the restrictions that are placed on Cody aren't in his best interest. But Cody is so tightly nestled in the cult, can he get out?
This book had a good start, it was hilarious how Cody's day was so perfect the day that he met Beckett, and Cody was so oblivious to why everything was going so perfectly for him that he didn't see things that were happening behind the scenes. Cody was a sweetheart. Overall I found the book a nice little love story. There was a nice amount of closure in the epilogue, wrapping things up.
But there were some things that kind of hurt my enjoyment:
- I found it unromantic how both of them kept thinking from time to time that this thing between them have no future, that it couldn't last.
- I know Beckett wad a skeptic of this organization. But I lost a lot of respect for him as a businessman and a smart person because he keeps tuning out what he's hearing and he's not putting two and two together quickly enough. He ignored his surroundings and did not listen to the words being spoken around him, and he let himself be used as a celebrity endorsement, when all smart businessmen know to dig before you let yourself be associated with something.
- the initial miscommunication about whether they were hanging out as friends or dates was cute. But the miscommunication / poor communication continued, their relationship lasted for months and they spent all this time talking over the phone, yet they didn't talk about serious stuff and make plans to have a long-term relationship. They couldn't find time when they're in person and it was frustrating.
Some notable moments:
"When I enter the room, my first instinct is to grab a chair in the last row and ignore this entire pointless presentation, but familiar golden curls draw my attention to the stage. Holy shit. It’s the coffee shop guy. On second thought, this is obviously too far from the stage to properly enjoy the seminar."
"I know that I’m getting ahead of myself, but there’s something about him that draws me in. Makes me want to wrap my arms around him and protect him from anything bad ever happening. Even though he’s taller than me and a little more built, he’s just adorable, and I want to take care of him. Which is a fucking weird thing for me to think about a practical stranger."
*FYI about steam: I rate steam based on a combination of quality & quantity. I note kink separate from steam because I don't want to underrate steamy reads that don't have much kink.
**Note about spoilers: I like to comment on the plot of a book in reviews, so I almost always mark my reviews as containing spoilers. But I try to avoid spoiling the big dramatic moments! As a reader, I personally like to know what I'm getting into before I read a book so I know more about the content and if it's to my taste/mood, so I try to give that information in my reviews for myself when I'm considering rereading and also for other readers.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 6, 2025
This book was such a fun read from what I usually read?!! I laughed so much reading this book!!! I may now need all the book recs with Himbos!!
I can't wait to read book two of this series!!!
I can't wait to read book two of this series!!!
September 18, 2025
5 No Scary Feelings Happening Stars
⭐
ARC Read: 16/04/2025
I received this ebook for free from the author and I'm leaving this review of my own accord. Thank you, Lexi Amber for this gift. 🥰
2nd Time
ALC Read: 29/08/2025
I received this audiobook for free from the author and I'm leaving this review of my own accord. Thank you, Lexi Amber for this gift. 🥰
What to expect from this book? 🤔🙃
🫶 Adult MM Romance 🫣 🥵🤌
👉 Opposites Attract
💕 Adorable Clueless Idiots In Love
🤌 Oblivious Himbo
👉 Black Cat x Golden Retriever
🥵 Only One Bed
👉 Bisexual Awakening
🥰☕️ Coffee Shop Meet-Cute
🧲 Insta-Attraction
😍 Lust At First Sight
😚 Sunshine Cinamon Roll x Sarcastic Grump
👉 Long-Distance
🏒 NHL Team Owner x Kyla (not a cult) VP 🌄
🔥 Hot Tattoos
👉 Consent King
😳 Some First Times
🥵 So Horny For Each Other
😳 Claiming Kisses
🥵 Dirty Talk
🔥 Manhandling
🥵 Praise Kink
🔥 Facial
🥵 Cum Kink
😳"Good Boy" / Light "Sir"
🥵 Light Breeding Kink
🔥 Rimming
🥵 Hands-Free Orgasm
😳 Dirty Texting & Facetime
🥵 Possessiveness “MINE”
🐈⬛ Pet Names ☀️s
🤤 Daydreaming
🐶 Puppy Energy x Caffeine Powered ☕️
👉 Self-Help Seminars
📲 Adorable Double Texting
🌄 Creepy Cult Subplot
😲 We're In A Cult?
💖 Laugh Out Loud
👉 Found Family
👉 Low Angst
🙌 Loving All The Characters In This World
Series: Chicago Awakenings #1
Cover: 5/5
Format: Ebook ARC
Story: 5/5
ARC Read: 16/04/2025
I received this ebook for free from the author and I'm leaving this review of my own accord. Thank you, Lexi Amber for this gift. 🥰
2nd Time
ALC Read: 29/08/2025
I received this audiobook for free from the author and I'm leaving this review of my own accord. Thank you, Lexi Amber for this gift. 🥰
What to expect from this book? 🤔🙃
🫶 Adult MM Romance 🫣 🥵🤌
👉 Opposites Attract
💕 Adorable Clueless Idiots In Love
🤌 Oblivious Himbo
👉 Black Cat x Golden Retriever
🥵 Only One Bed
👉 Bisexual Awakening
🥰☕️ Coffee Shop Meet-Cute
🧲 Insta-Attraction
😍 Lust At First Sight
😚 Sunshine Cinamon Roll x Sarcastic Grump
👉 Long-Distance
🏒 NHL Team Owner x Kyla (not a cult) VP 🌄
🔥 Hot Tattoos
👉 Consent King
😳 Some First Times
🥵 So Horny For Each Other
😳 Claiming Kisses
🥵 Dirty Talk
🔥 Manhandling
🥵 Praise Kink
🔥 Facial
🥵 Cum Kink
😳"Good Boy" / Light "Sir"
🥵 Light Breeding Kink
🔥 Rimming
🥵 Hands-Free Orgasm
😳 Dirty Texting & Facetime
🥵 Possessiveness “MINE”
🐈⬛ Pet Names ☀️s
🤤 Daydreaming
🐶 Puppy Energy x Caffeine Powered ☕️
👉 Self-Help Seminars
📲 Adorable Double Texting
🌄 Creepy Cult Subplot
😲 We're In A Cult?
💖 Laugh Out Loud
👉 Found Family
👉 Low Angst
🙌 Loving All The Characters In This World
Series: Chicago Awakenings #1
Cover: 5/5
Format: Ebook ARC
Story: 5/5
⛰️⛰️⛰️⛰️⛰️⛰️⛰️⛰️⛰️⛰️⛰️Q⛰️u⛰️o⛰️t⛰️e⛰️⛰️⛰️⛰️⛰️⛰️⛰️⛰️⛰️⛰️⛰️
Beck: He cups my face with both hands as he leans down to kiss me, and his soft lips against my own send a shiver of pleasure down my spine. Then his tongue is in my mouth, and I pull back to bite his bottom lip before sucking it. Kissing him is addicting. I’d happily stay here all night and enjoy every moment.
⛰️⛰️⛰️⛰️⛰️⛰️⛰️⛰️⛰️⛰️⛰️⛰️⛰️⛰️⛰️⛰️⛰️⛰️⛰️⛰️
Genre/Trope:Adult/MM Romance/ARC
Trigger Warnings:
Plot: 5/5
POV: 2
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Beck: When I eventually calm down, I see he’s still staring dreamily at me, his release shining on his exposed muscles.
“Good boys don’t waste cum,” I warn him.
He looks confused for a moment before I see his eyes darken and his full lips twist into an amused smirk. “What do you want me to do with it, sir?” he asks, and my dick stirs, already wanting another round. His teeth are digging into his bottom lip now, no doubt trying to stop a huge smile as he blinks at me expectantly. Fuck me, what did I do to deserve this perfect man’s attention?
“Clean it up with two fingers, and then I want you to pretend it’s my cock you’re licking clean,” I instruct.
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Main Characters:
5/5 – Beckett Cadwell, 32yo, cis-man, he/him, nickname: Beck, petname: Salem
5/5 – Cody, 28yo, cis-man, he/him, petname: Goldie
This book was hilarious!
The meet cute at the coffee shop was so adorable!
This two are completely opposites.
Beck: the grumpiest cat and Cody: the adorable himbo golden retriever.
Beck was completely over the hills from the first moment he set his eyes on the beautiful himbo Cody is.
I laughed so much with this book.
Even though I was sad about the challenges the MCs had to face to be together and how Cody was treated by , in the end, it was a very low-angst, funny and adorable read.
I love them both equally... but Cody, my adorable sunshine idiot, stole my heart. He is just a perfect sunshine.
I really liked how positive and friendly he was with everything in his orbit. And it felt so genuine, not fake-sunshiney at all.
That's not my Cody!
One of the things I loved most was how Cody never took Beck's grumpiness and sarcasm as an insult, he always found it funny.
Underneath all that sarcasm, Beck is the most considerate and reliable person ever. He isn’t your typical bachelor billionaire from a rich family.
He and his family are the most amazing and down-to-earth people.
I love how close and big (looking at you potential books) his family is!
They’re super supportive and loving toward Cody... so of course, I’ve got their back if they love my perfect Goldie! Who wouldn’t love him?! Really 🔪
Cody & Beck are truly the perfect couple.
I love how Beck (the consent king he is) always made Cody feel safe and heard when he accepted his newfound sexuality with no second thoughts.
The chemistry these two brewed was explosive. I love how instantly hot they were for each other. The only-one-bed trope helped and the surprise "good boy" kink (obviously) made it even better.
They were always so needy for each other and the long-distance only fueled that... just absolutely insatiable.
And the bonus epilogue? Absolutely the cherry on top.
⛰️⛰️⛰️⛰️⛰️⛰️⛰️⛰️⛰️⛰️⛰️Q⛰️u⛰️o⛰️t⛰️e⛰️⛰️⛰️⛰️⛰️⛰️⛰️⛰️⛰️⛰️⛰️
Cody: “Thank you for coming,” he says softly. “I had a really great time having you there with all of my people. I’m glad they got to meet you, even if it meant I had to share you for a few hours.” I didn’t think it was possible, but I swear his cheeks darken. This broody man is actually blushing. Because of me. I’m not sure how he feels about airport PDA, but I can’t possibly stop myself after seeing that. I cup his jaw with my hand, tilting his face up for a kiss. I mean for it to be a tame kiss goodbye, but it’s like the moment our mouths meet, I lose all control, pushing my tongue into his mouth and pulling him closer.
He responds with equal passion, trying to take control of the kiss. By the time someone coughs loudly near us, and we break apart, we’re both panting, and my dick is straining against my zipper. We both burst out laughing, and eventually I take my bag. “I’ll see you soon then?” I ask hopefully, not wanting to say goodbye.
“See you soon,” he agrees with a smile.
⛰️⛰️⛰️⛰️⛰️⛰️⛰️⛰️⛰️⛰️⛰️⛰️⛰️⛰️⛰️⛰️⛰️⛰️⛰️⛰️
Side Characters:
The cult can’t even come for my boys because I’ve got their back!
P.S. Fuck Victor✌
Humor: High Focus
Angst: Medium Focus
Steam Level: 5/5
Romance: High Focus
Cheating?
The Ending: 5/5
HEA/HFN?
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Cody: “Have you used any toys or anything here?” he asks, dipping his hand beneath my pants and underwear before sliding his fingers closer to my hole. I admit, feeling my cheeks heat. He cups my face with the hand that isn’t down my pants and runs his thumb over the blush, staring at it.
“You’re the most beautiful thing I’ve ever seen,” he whispers reverently.
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Favorite character?
Would I read more of this author? Yes. Can’t wait what Lexi has in store for us!
Would I recommend this book? YES!!!
Will I read this again in the future? YES
⛰️⛰️⛰️⛰️⛰️⛰️⛰️⛰️⛰️⛰️⛰️Q⛰️u⛰️o⛰️t⛰️e⛰️⛰️⛰️⛰️⛰️⛰️⛰️⛰️⛰️⛰️⛰️
Cody: “Look at you, baby,” he says, his tone full of awe. “You look so fucking hot. All needy and whining, begging for my big cock to fill you up. Fuck, that’s so good,” he continues as he slowly thrusts into me. “You’re so good for me. This is the best hole I’ve ever had, so fucking tight and warm. You were made to be filled up by me,” he’s rambling now, and I’m obsessed with the effect this is having on him, how blissed out and desperate he looks.
⛰️⛰️⛰️⛰️⛰️⛰️⛰️⛰️⛰️⛰️⛰️⛰️⛰️⛰️⛰️⛰️⛰️⛰️⛰️⛰️
Enjoyment: 5/5
This is my 1st book by Lexi Amber.
Reading Challenge 2025: /150
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Cody: “I’ve wanted nothing more than to fuck you, to be the only man who’s ever been inside of you,” he says. “To fill your perfect ass with my cum and mark you as mine forever.”
His words make everything even more intense. “Fuck, I’m gonna—”
“Come for me, baby”.
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Chicago Awakenings Series:
Book 1: Beckett & Cody
Accidentally Joining His Cult
Book 2: Oakley & Parker
Accidentally Falling For My Best Friend
Book 3: Adrien & Hudson Roy
!! I don't equate fiction stories to real life. It's a matter of personal taste and what you are willing or want to tolerate in the books you read. We all have different opinions and preferences when it comes to the kind of books we enjoy, so it's important to respect and remember that it's just a book!!
Hope this review was helpful.
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April 13, 2025
3.5⭐️
To be honest, with a title like this, I went in expecting silliness, and I feel like that’s what we got.
It is the quickest bi-awakening I think I’ve ever read, and Cody was literally straight one minute and ready to marry Beck the next. It was all made fun though, and like I said, I don’t think we’re expected to take it at all seriously.
I think I would have preferred less story about them meeting up. The hockey side of the story felt a little forced like a tick on a checklist of what to include. I wish we’d got more story on the actual cult. I feel like we waited ages for the inevitable realisation from Cody only for it to be over very quickly and very easily.
The couple had good chemistry when they were together, but it’s all very fast. The book was fun and a light read, and we get set up for future couples. I think we’ve already had Oakley and Peter confirmed as the next book.
The thing I would change the most is the cult side of it. I was expecting more given the title, but I’d say only 20% of it is actually about the cult. The rest is a build-up to Beckett realising that’s what Cody is in. Cody’s been in this cult for 10 years, trusts everyone in it, has handed over his life’s savings. Then accepts that it’s a cult and he needs to leave with Beckett immediately. No questions asked. The author tries to build up angst regarding him leaving and drops hints that he’s noticing odd things. However it all falls a bit short, he’s been in the outside world before he met Beckett and never noticed these things before. I think this could have been done better because it was a really good idea the cult angle.
It is the author’s debut book, I believe, and I think it was a really good start. She definitely gets you interested and ready for their story. Also, she sets you up to become very curious about other potential couples.
————-
I received an ARC of this from GRR, and this is my honest review.
To be honest, with a title like this, I went in expecting silliness, and I feel like that’s what we got.
It is the quickest bi-awakening I think I’ve ever read, and Cody was literally straight one minute and ready to marry Beck the next. It was all made fun though, and like I said, I don’t think we’re expected to take it at all seriously.
I think I would have preferred less story about them meeting up. The hockey side of the story felt a little forced like a tick on a checklist of what to include. I wish we’d got more story on the actual cult. I feel like we waited ages for the inevitable realisation from Cody only for it to be over very quickly and very easily.
The couple had good chemistry when they were together, but it’s all very fast. The book was fun and a light read, and we get set up for future couples. I think we’ve already had Oakley and Peter confirmed as the next book.
The thing I would change the most is the cult side of it. I was expecting more given the title, but I’d say only 20% of it is actually about the cult. The rest is a build-up to Beckett realising that’s what Cody is in. Cody’s been in this cult for 10 years, trusts everyone in it, has handed over his life’s savings. Then accepts that it’s a cult and he needs to leave with Beckett immediately. No questions asked. The author tries to build up angst regarding him leaving and drops hints that he’s noticing odd things. However it all falls a bit short, he’s been in the outside world before he met Beckett and never noticed these things before. I think this could have been done better because it was a really good idea the cult angle.
It is the author’s debut book, I believe, and I think it was a really good start. She definitely gets you interested and ready for their story. Also, she sets you up to become very curious about other potential couples.
————-
I received an ARC of this from GRR, and this is my honest review.
April 9, 2025
This was an interesting concept and overall I enjoyed it, but the escape from the cult was WAY overly rushed. Cody has been fully embroiled in this cult and is one of its TOP leaders FOR YEARS, but he accepted immediately that it was a cult and that they needed to escape? It felt very unrealistic. Putting aside that particular weak point, the rest of the story was fun and spicy. Cody really did seem like a golden retriever in human form and was very bright and bubbly. I can definitely see why Beck found him so adorable and couldn't get enough of him. Cody's bi-awakening was really funny and I love how low angst it was.
***
I was provided with an ARC from Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest review.
***
I was provided with an ARC from Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest review.
May 16, 2025
Scoffed so hard at the fact that someone could not know they were in a cult, and then remembered that I am, in fact, balls deep in a Sleep Token cult. I get it, Cody. I understand now.
August 25, 2025
Hello hotness, I am on fire. That was absolutely amazing. I don’t know how Lexi does it but this was freaking stunning. I was hooked and no one was taking this book away from me.
The characters literally were amazing and I loved them so much 🥹
The characters literally were amazing and I loved them so much 🥹
April 9, 2025
I was so excited about this book! I just knew from the title that I would love this and I wasn’t wrong! The title of this book says it all! The obliviousness of Cody in this story is hilarious- how can he not realise that he is on a date? Or that he’s bisexual? Or that he’s in a cult? Such an outstanding idea for a book, and it is so funny.
Beckett is a trust fund baby, richer than Richy Rich and working for his family business, loving his role as CEO of the Werewolves hockey team. He is broody, grumpy and a commitment-phobe.
Cody is the polar opposite of Beck- he is the golden retriever to Beck’s black cat! Cody is sunshine, he’s happy and ever-so-slightly absolutely oblivious to everything!!!!!
These two are oblivious to the relationship they have formed, Beck still remaining anti-relationship when he doesn’t even realise he’s in one!
Cody has the most delicious bi-awakening when he realises Beck doesn’t want to just hang out as friends and from that moment he doesn’t look back!
I loved this book! I don’t have enough good things to say! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Beckett is a trust fund baby, richer than Richy Rich and working for his family business, loving his role as CEO of the Werewolves hockey team. He is broody, grumpy and a commitment-phobe.
Cody is the polar opposite of Beck- he is the golden retriever to Beck’s black cat! Cody is sunshine, he’s happy and ever-so-slightly absolutely oblivious to everything!!!!!
These two are oblivious to the relationship they have formed, Beck still remaining anti-relationship when he doesn’t even realise he’s in one!
Cody has the most delicious bi-awakening when he realises Beck doesn’t want to just hang out as friends and from that moment he doesn’t look back!
I loved this book! I don’t have enough good things to say! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
May 7, 2025
First thing I want to say is that I’m grateful to have reviewed an ARC of Accidentally Joining His Cult, my opinion is my own and freely given.
This story was hilarious and adorable, with one stereotypical Golden Retriever character (Cody) and another one masquerading as a Black Cat (Beck) character.
Sure in the beginning it seems that Beck is a grumpy, unable to find love and not just lust, character but as the story progresses it’s clear that he was just a Golden Retriever in disguise. The way he loves and cares for Cody, opening talking to his family about this man and happily following Cody around the retreat shows his true nature.
Cody is the unapologetically happy, bubbly and loving Golden that we all know and love, and his naivety into his sexuality just adds to his cuteness. The way he comes into his bi realization without the panic we often see in similar characters makes perfect sense with his personality. It isn’t a sudden rush as he looks back and has his Ah Ha moment, his sexuality was always there he just hadn’t seen it.
I loved the slow way that Beck realizes that Kyla is a cult parallel to Cody’s own slow realization that something didn’t seem quite right anymore. The charismatic cult leader was the perfect blend of creepy and “loving” where we the reader can see what’s happening and as the characters discover it, we can also see why Cody fell for it.
Overall I enjoyed this book, everything flowed nicely together. The timing of falling in love worked, without the often seen immediate head over heels infatuation. They started as lust filled, but slowly after actually getting to know each other, they fell in love. I definitely prefer a story with a more realistic falling into love moment and Accidentally Joining His Cult has that.
Thank you for the chance to be an ARC reader, I can’t wait for the next instalment of this series!
My apologies that due to personal reasons this review is late.
This story was hilarious and adorable, with one stereotypical Golden Retriever character (Cody) and another one masquerading as a Black Cat (Beck) character.
Sure in the beginning it seems that Beck is a grumpy, unable to find love and not just lust, character but as the story progresses it’s clear that he was just a Golden Retriever in disguise. The way he loves and cares for Cody, opening talking to his family about this man and happily following Cody around the retreat shows his true nature.
Cody is the unapologetically happy, bubbly and loving Golden that we all know and love, and his naivety into his sexuality just adds to his cuteness. The way he comes into his bi realization without the panic we often see in similar characters makes perfect sense with his personality. It isn’t a sudden rush as he looks back and has his Ah Ha moment, his sexuality was always there he just hadn’t seen it.
I loved the slow way that Beck realizes that Kyla is a cult parallel to Cody’s own slow realization that something didn’t seem quite right anymore. The charismatic cult leader was the perfect blend of creepy and “loving” where we the reader can see what’s happening and as the characters discover it, we can also see why Cody fell for it.
Overall I enjoyed this book, everything flowed nicely together. The timing of falling in love worked, without the often seen immediate head over heels infatuation. They started as lust filled, but slowly after actually getting to know each other, they fell in love. I definitely prefer a story with a more realistic falling into love moment and Accidentally Joining His Cult has that.
Thank you for the chance to be an ARC reader, I can’t wait for the next instalment of this series!
My apologies that due to personal reasons this review is late.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 15, 2025
This was a fun book and I really enjoyed the characters. Cody was literally a golden retriever with his long blonde hair and a tongue that practically hung out of his mouth as he bounced around. I also think it was quite a unique narrative in terms of Kyla and the whole cult thing. Beck may have appeared as a total grump to everyone else, but he was definitely a big simp for his Goldie and I loved that.
The only downside for me was that I think the cult realisation and investigation came far too late. Considering the book is literally called "accidentally joining his cult", I sort of expected this to come a bit earlier than 80%. Yes we're given a lot of hints and it's obvious to the reader, yet Beck spends a lot of time umming and ahhing over how weird everything is with Kyla. Not to mention Cody's reaction to the whole thing... he's pretty easy going and I could totally imagine his reaction to his sexuality being like "okay, sure, I'm bi now". But finding out the last 10 years of his life in a company that meant so much to him was basically a lie, he's just like "yep, I'm fine, I believe you." I kinda expected his reaction to be a bit bigger, maybe some tension between the two MCs since Cody has been so indoctrinated into the cult's way of life for a decade. But there wasn't any, it was just kinda resolved straight away and they moved on to bringing the cult down. Had all of this come a bit earlier and been fleshed out more, I think I would've scored it higher, but the cult almost seemed like an afterthought compared to Cody and Beck's relationship.
Either way I totally enjoyed the story and the huge expanse of side characters we've got. I can already imagine who the next books will be about, and I look forward to seeing if I'm right!
*ARC through GRR in exchange for honest review*
The only downside for me was that I think the cult realisation and investigation came far too late. Considering the book is literally called "accidentally joining his cult", I sort of expected this to come a bit earlier than 80%. Yes we're given a lot of hints and it's obvious to the reader, yet Beck spends a lot of time umming and ahhing over how weird everything is with Kyla. Not to mention Cody's reaction to the whole thing... he's pretty easy going and I could totally imagine his reaction to his sexuality being like "okay, sure, I'm bi now". But finding out the last 10 years of his life in a company that meant so much to him was basically a lie, he's just like "yep, I'm fine, I believe you." I kinda expected his reaction to be a bit bigger, maybe some tension between the two MCs since Cody has been so indoctrinated into the cult's way of life for a decade. But there wasn't any, it was just kinda resolved straight away and they moved on to bringing the cult down. Had all of this come a bit earlier and been fleshed out more, I think I would've scored it higher, but the cult almost seemed like an afterthought compared to Cody and Beck's relationship.
Either way I totally enjoyed the story and the huge expanse of side characters we've got. I can already imagine who the next books will be about, and I look forward to seeing if I'm right!
*ARC through GRR in exchange for honest review*
April 7, 2025
ARC Review
Accidentally Joining His Cult – Lexi Amber
Lexi Amber’s debut? Absolutely knocked it out of the park. I’m still grinning like an idiot. There wasn’t a single page that didn’t have me smiling, giggling, or kicking my feet in joy.
This gem follows Beckett, the closed-off, grumpy (aka perfect) CEO of a werewolf hockey team. Enter Cody—sunshine incarnate and VP of recruitment for Kyla... which is definitely not a cult. (It’s 100% a cult.)
Their meet-cute?Perfection. Hello hot person panic. Cody's Bi awakening, that one scene is forever living rent-free in my head:
“Cody, you just told me you woke up this morning thinking you're straight, and now you're making out with me like it’s no big deal. Shouldn’t you be freaking out?”
“Do you want me to freak out? If I need to have a sexual identity crisis before we go back to kissing, just let me know. I’ll make it quick.”
Honestly? If Cody handed me a flyer about waking up at 4am, I’d still sign up. That’s how powerful this man’s energy is.
This book gave me:
- Found family
- No third-act breakup
- Low angst
- The sunshiniest of sunshine MMCs
- An overwhelming urge to join a (fictional?) cult
I couldn’t put it down, and I need more Caldwell clan chaos immediately. Lexi, I am so ready for that best-friends-to-lovers sequel.
Rating:
5/5 Stars
3/5 Spice
5/5 Would Join Cody’s Cult
Accidentally Joining His Cult – Lexi Amber
Lexi Amber’s debut? Absolutely knocked it out of the park. I’m still grinning like an idiot. There wasn’t a single page that didn’t have me smiling, giggling, or kicking my feet in joy.
This gem follows Beckett, the closed-off, grumpy (aka perfect) CEO of a werewolf hockey team. Enter Cody—sunshine incarnate and VP of recruitment for Kyla... which is definitely not a cult. (It’s 100% a cult.)
Their meet-cute?Perfection. Hello hot person panic. Cody's Bi awakening, that one scene is forever living rent-free in my head:
“Cody, you just told me you woke up this morning thinking you're straight, and now you're making out with me like it’s no big deal. Shouldn’t you be freaking out?”
“Do you want me to freak out? If I need to have a sexual identity crisis before we go back to kissing, just let me know. I’ll make it quick.”
Honestly? If Cody handed me a flyer about waking up at 4am, I’d still sign up. That’s how powerful this man’s energy is.
This book gave me:
- Found family
- No third-act breakup
- Low angst
- The sunshiniest of sunshine MMCs
- An overwhelming urge to join a (fictional?) cult
I couldn’t put it down, and I need more Caldwell clan chaos immediately. Lexi, I am so ready for that best-friends-to-lovers sequel.
Rating:
5/5 Stars
3/5 Spice
5/5 Would Join Cody’s Cult
May 25, 2025
Sunshiny Golden Retriever Cody
Beck Caldwell has the best job in the world - managing the Chicago Werewolves hockey team for the family business.
He's mostly a one night stand guy as people tend to use him for his status.
Then one day in a coffee shop queue he sees Cody; a gorgeous golden retriever guy who also happens to be delivering a Kyla course at his office.
Beck is hooked, and finds himself tagging along with Cody to his events.
But as the title suggests, Cody hasn't realised he's part of a cult, or bi for that matter.
This is so much fun, whilst also touching on some difficult areas that affect America right now.
We meet some great characters such as Adrian and Jordan plus Beck's whole family.
Cody is just adorable even as his world is being turned upside down.
There's a fair amount of steam, a great story arc and a nice HEA.
Beck Caldwell has the best job in the world - managing the Chicago Werewolves hockey team for the family business.
He's mostly a one night stand guy as people tend to use him for his status.
Then one day in a coffee shop queue he sees Cody; a gorgeous golden retriever guy who also happens to be delivering a Kyla course at his office.
Beck is hooked, and finds himself tagging along with Cody to his events.
But as the title suggests, Cody hasn't realised he's part of a cult, or bi for that matter.
This is so much fun, whilst also touching on some difficult areas that affect America right now.
We meet some great characters such as Adrian and Jordan plus Beck's whole family.
Cody is just adorable even as his world is being turned upside down.
There's a fair amount of steam, a great story arc and a nice HEA.
April 6, 2025
✨ARC Review✨
Accidentally Joining His Cult by Lexi Amber
Release Date: 4/25/25
Tropes:
🏔️Bi-Awakening
🏔️Grumpy x Sunshine
🏔️Idiots to Lovers
🏔️Oblivious Himbo
🏔️One Bed
🏔️Found Family
Review:
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I was lucky enough to beta read this book a while back and now reread it as an ARC. I loved it then and if it’s possible I love it even more this time around. This is the miscommunication trope done RIGHT. This book is funny, swoony, sexy and just everything I want in a low angst MM romance. There is a little bit of hockey which you KNOW I love. This is Lexi’s debut novel and the first in a series that I cannot wait to continue reading. The side characters are so likable and makes you want to read more about alllll of them. Beck and Cody are both such relatable characters and their chemistry is just so perfect. The golden retriever/black cat vibes are everything. Plus, like, who doesn’t want a one bed trope honestly? Lexi, I’m so proud of what you’ve created here and I can’t wait to watch all the reviews and edits come in. You have worked so hard and it really, really paid off.
Accidentally Joining His Cult by Lexi Amber
Release Date: 4/25/25
Tropes:
🏔️Bi-Awakening
🏔️Grumpy x Sunshine
🏔️Idiots to Lovers
🏔️Oblivious Himbo
🏔️One Bed
🏔️Found Family
Review:
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I was lucky enough to beta read this book a while back and now reread it as an ARC. I loved it then and if it’s possible I love it even more this time around. This is the miscommunication trope done RIGHT. This book is funny, swoony, sexy and just everything I want in a low angst MM romance. There is a little bit of hockey which you KNOW I love. This is Lexi’s debut novel and the first in a series that I cannot wait to continue reading. The side characters are so likable and makes you want to read more about alllll of them. Beck and Cody are both such relatable characters and their chemistry is just so perfect. The golden retriever/black cat vibes are everything. Plus, like, who doesn’t want a one bed trope honestly? Lexi, I’m so proud of what you’ve created here and I can’t wait to watch all the reviews and edits come in. You have worked so hard and it really, really paid off.
May 8, 2025
I loved this so much. If you’re looking for lo angst and sweet, this will hit the spot! Random stream of consciousness:
-They’re both nepo babies, but Beck is the kind that works for the family business and Cody ends up in an mlm cult and are perfect for each other.
-The definition of black cat/golden retriever, even though Beck is actually a big softie.
-Only one bed and it’s a queen and Cody’s giant ass is 6’4” I love it
-It was kind of refreshing to read about a billionaire family that wasn’t trash and actually supported each other.
-I am already salivating for Adrian and Oakley’s books!
-They’re both nepo babies, but Beck is the kind that works for the family business and Cody ends up in an mlm cult and are perfect for each other.
-The definition of black cat/golden retriever, even though Beck is actually a big softie.
-Only one bed and it’s a queen and Cody’s giant ass is 6’4” I love it
-It was kind of refreshing to read about a billionaire family that wasn’t trash and actually supported each other.
-I am already salivating for Adrian and Oakley’s books!
Read
October 11, 2025DNF - the writing is so boring? like...why did the author think summarizing everything with "oh Cody is so sexy I won't listen to this presentation I paid a shit ton of money for because there's eye candy but god forbid I use any adjective other than 'adorable' to describe said eye candy" kind of moments fifteen times in a chapter was necessary?
like. if you're bored writing this imagine how I feel reading it 🫠
like. if you're bored writing this imagine how I feel reading it 🫠
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 30, 2025
Fun read!
I am not sure this story could have been told by anyone other than Cody. He is perfect in his role. Energetic and happy, a little bit oblivious, but not because he is an idiot. He genuinely loves life and it was a treat to love live along side him.
There are some great spicy moments and the slowish burn to the “main event” is delicious and perfect.
I am not sure this story could have been told by anyone other than Cody. He is perfect in his role. Energetic and happy, a little bit oblivious, but not because he is an idiot. He genuinely loves life and it was a treat to love live along side him.
There are some great spicy moments and the slowish burn to the “main event” is delicious and perfect.
January 18, 2025
Rating: 4.5/5 🌟
Spice: 3/5 🌶️
Characters: Beckett and Cody
Full RTC closer to release.
Spice: 3/5 🌶️
Characters: Beckett and Cody
Full RTC closer to release.
April 7, 2025
4,5 stars
This was such a fun read!
Black cat CEO and a golden retriever himbo completely missing their own feelings, and what's going on around them. They are both quite oblivious. Sometimes I wanted to hit them both in the head with the book just to give them some hope of realising what's going on.
End is really fast, a lot happens quickly, but I loved that they were able to find their HEA.
This was such a fun read!
Black cat CEO and a golden retriever himbo completely missing their own feelings, and what's going on around them. They are both quite oblivious. Sometimes I wanted to hit them both in the head with the book just to give them some hope of realising what's going on.
End is really fast, a lot happens quickly, but I loved that they were able to find their HEA.
April 25, 2025
story of Beckett and Cody
This is an unexpected attraction to more romance, featuring Beckett and Cody, and is book one in the Chicago Awakenings series.
Beckett is an NHL team owner who is captivated by Cody, a charming and upbeat motivational speaker who seems genuinely interested in getting to know Beck. What starts as a flirty connection soon turns confusing when an almost kiss catches Cody off guard - until he realises his feelings for Beckett might mean he’s not as straight as he always believed.
I seriously love himbos! Cody and Beckett were absolutely oblivious to anything outside of their little attraction bubble, I loved it!
This story is well written, funny, sweet and spicy. The cult aspect is extremely interesting and so much happens in it but never fear, they get their HEA.
I’m really looking forward to the next book in this series.
Things to expect in this book are:
Book 1 in series
MM romance
Unexpected attraction
NHL Team Owner
Motivational Speaker
Cinnamon Roll
Grumpy x Sunshine
Self help seminars
Oblivious himbos
Texting
Will travel for him
Forced proximity
One bed
Likes being manhandled
Bi awakening
Spicy times & dirty talk
Breeding & praise kinks
Calls him good boy
Idiots in love
Where in a cult?
Bit of drama
Found family
HEA
This is an unexpected attraction to more romance, featuring Beckett and Cody, and is book one in the Chicago Awakenings series.
Beckett is an NHL team owner who is captivated by Cody, a charming and upbeat motivational speaker who seems genuinely interested in getting to know Beck. What starts as a flirty connection soon turns confusing when an almost kiss catches Cody off guard - until he realises his feelings for Beckett might mean he’s not as straight as he always believed.
I seriously love himbos! Cody and Beckett were absolutely oblivious to anything outside of their little attraction bubble, I loved it!
This story is well written, funny, sweet and spicy. The cult aspect is extremely interesting and so much happens in it but never fear, they get their HEA.
I’m really looking forward to the next book in this series.
Things to expect in this book are:
Book 1 in series
MM romance
Unexpected attraction
NHL Team Owner
Motivational Speaker
Cinnamon Roll
Grumpy x Sunshine
Self help seminars
Oblivious himbos
Texting
Will travel for him
Forced proximity
One bed
Likes being manhandled
Bi awakening
Spicy times & dirty talk
Breeding & praise kinks
Calls him good boy
Idiots in love
Where in a cult?
Bit of drama
Found family
HEA
May 2, 2025
this was wayyyy overhyped… the romance was… okay? and too insta love and beckett was annoying.
April 17, 2025
Rating: 4⭐️
Emotion: 2🥹
Spice: 3🌶️
Lexi absolutely nailed it with her debut
The story was well written, low angst with moderate spice.
The Himbo trope is really trending right now and I am here for it, if it’s done right. Cody is the most loveable golden retriever himbo. He is just a little ray of oblivious sunshine.
Beck was smitten from the start and I loved the development of their relationship. Probably the quickest bi-awakening from Cody I’ve ever read but it suited the story and I could look past there being no existential crisis. Go directly to liking 🍆 , do not pass go, do not collect $200. I was here for it!
Loved the scenes with the cult. As a reader it was fun piecing together all red flags.
The plot, pacing and character development were done well. The set up for future couples was perfect and I am so excited for Oakley & Parker’s story
Emotion: 2🥹
Spice: 3🌶️
Lexi absolutely nailed it with her debut
The story was well written, low angst with moderate spice.
The Himbo trope is really trending right now and I am here for it, if it’s done right. Cody is the most loveable golden retriever himbo. He is just a little ray of oblivious sunshine.
Beck was smitten from the start and I loved the development of their relationship. Probably the quickest bi-awakening from Cody I’ve ever read but it suited the story and I could look past there being no existential crisis. Go directly to liking 🍆 , do not pass go, do not collect $200. I was here for it!
Loved the scenes with the cult. As a reader it was fun piecing together all red flags.
The plot, pacing and character development were done well. The set up for future couples was perfect and I am so excited for Oakley & Parker’s story
June 8, 2025
I skipped most of the sex scenes when they became repetitive and was left with a really weird cult book. I kinda thought it was going to be a “happy” organization of over-positive and happy people. Maybe some grumpy/sunshine sorta take, but nope. It was a no shit actual cult. The book was too sex focused for such a serious topic. At 85% we get pregnant females, slave collars, blackmail, fraud, food suppression, and a Jonestown like city. But we got there by constant talks of sex, blowjobs, eating cum, and bdsm? This book had a major identity crisis.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 29, 2025
This book was interesting to say the least but I actually liked it! The story is unlike anything I’ve read so I was intrigued before even starting it. I don’t have STRONG feelings over the book but we’re rating off the vibes and the vibes were chill haha. I absolutely love Cody and his positive outlook on life, and how enthusiastic he is about living life to the fullest. That enthusiasm definitely translated into him going all in with Beck after he finds out he’s bisexual like that moment was actually SO funny. Like you gotta give it to the guy fr, he knew what he wanted and nothing/no one would stop him. I absolutely loved the relationship they shared and the kinship they formed from the start even if the signals were mixed at first. Beck was such an amazing and supportive support system for Cody, and Cody was just a positive and happy light Beck never knew he needed 🥺 The only thing that was really missing for me (and is just a personal preference) is that their feelings for each other didn’t feel as deep to me. Like I yearn for the soul wrenching declarations of love and this one missed the mark. But, it goes without saying their love and need for each other was still very prevalent on page 🫶🏼
I cannot wait to see how everything plays out and am on the edge of my seat for Oakley and Parker’s double bi-awakening 🤭
—
“There’s just something about Cody that makes all of this effort seem worth it.”
“I really did attempt to be polite. It’s just so hard when the hottest man I’ve ever seen is sitting right next to me.”
“You think I’m the sexiest man you’ve ever met?” — “Easily. Have you seen yourself?”
"If I need to have some sort of sexual identity crisis before we can get back to kissing, just let me know. I’ll make it quick.” (LOL)
“I know he said he’s not freaking out, so I shouldn’t be holding back completely, but jumping from thinking you’re straight to a dick in your ass on the same day is a bit extreme.” (LOL even more 😂)
“He looks at me with such adoration and fondness, and I really want to deserve that look from such an amazing man.”
“Somehow, I’ve done something to hold his attention. Whenever I looked at him today, he was already studying me. It’s intoxicating to be the sole focus of such a self-assured man. Every time he looks at me, it makes me feel invincible.”
“The thought of saying goodbye for real feels like it might actually break me. But I want him to have these parts of me. Even though my head is arguing against it, my heart wants him to have all of me.”
“I swear he could describe the most boring day and still make it sound like the best time. I love that about him. How eternally happy he is.”
“This important, amazing, sweet man wants to not only spend his free time with me, but he’s putting in a lot of effort and going out of his way to do so. I’ve always wanted to feel important to someone in that way.”
“I love him. I don’t know why I kept trying to convince myself that it was just a fling that would fizzle out when we got bored with each other. There’s no moving on from Cody. He’s it for me.”
“I love how unapologetically himself he is. On the surface, he might seem like a grumpy loner, but once you get to know him, you see the truth—he’s an incredibly loving, fiercely loyal man who’d do anything for the people he cares about.”
“When I saw him in the airport, something clicked. As I ran toward him, it hit me—I realized that my feelings for Beck are love. I’ve never been in love before, but this has to be it. No one has ever made me this happy by just existing.”
“I want to be able to give you the perfect future you deserve. A future where neither of us has to sacrifice everything to be with the other.”
I love how you make me feel seen, like I’m allowed to be myself at all times, even in moments when I’m not happy. And I love that you can work to make me smile again in a way that doesn’t make me feel bad or guilty for being sad.”
“I never wanted a happily ever after with someone until I met Cody. But now, knowing what it’s like to be his, I’m ruined. There will never be anyone else.”
“I’m so in love with him and I’m so grateful that I get to call him mine.”
“Every night that he’s in my bed feels like a gift, and every morning, waking up with him in my arms after the sunrise is perfect.”
“Now that we’re here together, in the same place, with no end date in sight, I’m never letting him go again.”
I cannot wait to see how everything plays out and am on the edge of my seat for Oakley and Parker’s double bi-awakening 🤭
—
“There’s just something about Cody that makes all of this effort seem worth it.”
“I really did attempt to be polite. It’s just so hard when the hottest man I’ve ever seen is sitting right next to me.”
“You think I’m the sexiest man you’ve ever met?” — “Easily. Have you seen yourself?”
"If I need to have some sort of sexual identity crisis before we can get back to kissing, just let me know. I’ll make it quick.” (LOL)
“I know he said he’s not freaking out, so I shouldn’t be holding back completely, but jumping from thinking you’re straight to a dick in your ass on the same day is a bit extreme.” (LOL even more 😂)
“He looks at me with such adoration and fondness, and I really want to deserve that look from such an amazing man.”
“Somehow, I’ve done something to hold his attention. Whenever I looked at him today, he was already studying me. It’s intoxicating to be the sole focus of such a self-assured man. Every time he looks at me, it makes me feel invincible.”
“The thought of saying goodbye for real feels like it might actually break me. But I want him to have these parts of me. Even though my head is arguing against it, my heart wants him to have all of me.”
“I swear he could describe the most boring day and still make it sound like the best time. I love that about him. How eternally happy he is.”
“This important, amazing, sweet man wants to not only spend his free time with me, but he’s putting in a lot of effort and going out of his way to do so. I’ve always wanted to feel important to someone in that way.”
“I love him. I don’t know why I kept trying to convince myself that it was just a fling that would fizzle out when we got bored with each other. There’s no moving on from Cody. He’s it for me.”
“I love how unapologetically himself he is. On the surface, he might seem like a grumpy loner, but once you get to know him, you see the truth—he’s an incredibly loving, fiercely loyal man who’d do anything for the people he cares about.”
“When I saw him in the airport, something clicked. As I ran toward him, it hit me—I realized that my feelings for Beck are love. I’ve never been in love before, but this has to be it. No one has ever made me this happy by just existing.”
“I want to be able to give you the perfect future you deserve. A future where neither of us has to sacrifice everything to be with the other.”
I love how you make me feel seen, like I’m allowed to be myself at all times, even in moments when I’m not happy. And I love that you can work to make me smile again in a way that doesn’t make me feel bad or guilty for being sad.”
“I never wanted a happily ever after with someone until I met Cody. But now, knowing what it’s like to be his, I’m ruined. There will never be anyone else.”
“I’m so in love with him and I’m so grateful that I get to call him mine.”
“Every night that he’s in my bed feels like a gift, and every morning, waking up with him in my arms after the sunrise is perfect.”
“Now that we’re here together, in the same place, with no end date in sight, I’m never letting him go again.”
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 15, 2025
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
We have the story of Beckett Caldwell, the son of one of the richest families in Chicago and acting CEO of the Chicago Werewolves hockey team. I’m not lying in saying I’d love a jersey. He is on his way to work when he stops off at a coffee shop and sees this gorgeous hunk of man.
“He’s easily the most attractive human that I’ve ever seen in person. At least three or four inches taller than my six-foot frame. His long golden hair and tan skin make him look like he spends his life on a beach, and I swear, his muscles must have muscles. They're testing the seams of his perfectly fitted suit jacket, and I really want to see what he looks like without it on. His suit looks expensive, but he still seems approachable, not giving off any of the stuck-up vibes most of the men I work with do.” Even if Beck doesn’t realize it, he’s fallen in love.
He formally meets Cody at an “executive empowerment program”. Think one of these over the top self-improvement seminars for the rich and powerful and those who want to be rich and powerful. Cody is actually the one giving the seminar. He does a backflip off a chair in his suit. Beck is practically drooling at this point. He’s so screwed.
He had never been in a real relationship due to people wanting him for his name and money, and not just him. Cody is different. He’s genuine. He doesn’t care about the money. However, there’s just one little catch. Cody is straight, or at least thinks he is. A weekend in Florida at another seminar retreat changes his mind. They hook up.
Beck had been planning on hooking up with his golden boy and then let whatever they had run its course. First of all, Beck and his family, with whom he’s super close, know how much he hates Florida. Second, he goes to Florida to see Cody. Third, he finally realizes that Cody is the one for him.
So where does the cult come in? Cody works for it without realizing it is a cult. He was a typical target. He grew up as an only child. He really didn’t have any real connections with his parents. His mother was an actress who was always on set or at auditions. His father was also a Hollywood type who was always too busy. He attended a seminar in college and was hooked. He started working for them after college and because one of their top recruiters. He was blinded by the “family” that the group gave him.
My only issue with the book was that it took Beck so long to figure out that it was a cult. I would think that Beck would have been more suspicious. They ended up visiting the town in Montana where the group was based and everything finally clicked.
We get a happily ever after so it’s not a spoiler to say that Cody gets out of the group safely and leaves with Beck. Beck is successful at getting the group shut down with help from his friend Jordan, a reporter, and his brother Oakley and Oakley’s roommate Parker. I hope we get books on all these minor characters. They are so interesting and written so well. The author has a real talent for creating interesting characters. Even the bad guy is interesting.
We get lots of spicy times between Cody and Beck. Beck keeps expecting Cody to freak out at some point and realize he’s not actually bi. It makes some of the early spicy scenes a bit awkward, but Cody goes into everything with the same enthusiasm that made him the top recruiter for the cult. Nothing fazes him. His first time with Beck is really hot after the initial awkwardness. The level just rises from there.
The book starts out a bit slow, but it picks up quickly when Beck and Cody get to spend time together. The emotions really develop, and we get our couple. This is definitely a top ten book for me. I highly recommend it.
We have the story of Beckett Caldwell, the son of one of the richest families in Chicago and acting CEO of the Chicago Werewolves hockey team. I’m not lying in saying I’d love a jersey. He is on his way to work when he stops off at a coffee shop and sees this gorgeous hunk of man.
“He’s easily the most attractive human that I’ve ever seen in person. At least three or four inches taller than my six-foot frame. His long golden hair and tan skin make him look like he spends his life on a beach, and I swear, his muscles must have muscles. They're testing the seams of his perfectly fitted suit jacket, and I really want to see what he looks like without it on. His suit looks expensive, but he still seems approachable, not giving off any of the stuck-up vibes most of the men I work with do.” Even if Beck doesn’t realize it, he’s fallen in love.
He formally meets Cody at an “executive empowerment program”. Think one of these over the top self-improvement seminars for the rich and powerful and those who want to be rich and powerful. Cody is actually the one giving the seminar. He does a backflip off a chair in his suit. Beck is practically drooling at this point. He’s so screwed.
He had never been in a real relationship due to people wanting him for his name and money, and not just him. Cody is different. He’s genuine. He doesn’t care about the money. However, there’s just one little catch. Cody is straight, or at least thinks he is. A weekend in Florida at another seminar retreat changes his mind. They hook up.
Beck had been planning on hooking up with his golden boy and then let whatever they had run its course. First of all, Beck and his family, with whom he’s super close, know how much he hates Florida. Second, he goes to Florida to see Cody. Third, he finally realizes that Cody is the one for him.
So where does the cult come in? Cody works for it without realizing it is a cult. He was a typical target. He grew up as an only child. He really didn’t have any real connections with his parents. His mother was an actress who was always on set or at auditions. His father was also a Hollywood type who was always too busy. He attended a seminar in college and was hooked. He started working for them after college and because one of their top recruiters. He was blinded by the “family” that the group gave him.
My only issue with the book was that it took Beck so long to figure out that it was a cult. I would think that Beck would have been more suspicious. They ended up visiting the town in Montana where the group was based and everything finally clicked.
We get a happily ever after so it’s not a spoiler to say that Cody gets out of the group safely and leaves with Beck. Beck is successful at getting the group shut down with help from his friend Jordan, a reporter, and his brother Oakley and Oakley’s roommate Parker. I hope we get books on all these minor characters. They are so interesting and written so well. The author has a real talent for creating interesting characters. Even the bad guy is interesting.
We get lots of spicy times between Cody and Beck. Beck keeps expecting Cody to freak out at some point and realize he’s not actually bi. It makes some of the early spicy scenes a bit awkward, but Cody goes into everything with the same enthusiasm that made him the top recruiter for the cult. Nothing fazes him. His first time with Beck is really hot after the initial awkwardness. The level just rises from there.
The book starts out a bit slow, but it picks up quickly when Beck and Cody get to spend time together. The emotions really develop, and we get our couple. This is definitely a top ten book for me. I highly recommend it.
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