What do you think?
Rate this book
Shade Grown Coffee Boys #2
The Perfect Blend
Orion Richards is independent. So independent. He doesn’t need anyone. He’s always made it work in the past, he can keep making it work. It’s just… Hard. And draining on his mental health. He made the hard decision to leave his family at seventeen. That was six years ago. When he lands the job at the coffee shop, it’s a saving grace. It’s just enough to keep his nose above the water.
Garrett Beachum is a Daddy without a boy. After seeing his best friend find his happily ever after, Garrett starts to wonder if he’ll find that, and if maybe he’s looking for more than just a Boy. He’s nearing forty, has a stellar job, a cushioned retirement waiting in ten years, and a house large enough for a family that he shares with his dog, Riley.
When Garrett visits Shade Grown Coffee, one of the employees quickly catches his eye. The same one that went home with him six weeks ago. Garrett has his sights set on the man, but Orion has some walls that need breaking down first.
It’s a good thing Garrett loves coffee, because he’s visiting this shop often…
Garrett Beachum is a Daddy without a boy. After seeing his best friend find his happily ever after, Garrett starts to wonder if he’ll find that, and if maybe he’s looking for more than just a Boy. He’s nearing forty, has a stellar job, a cushioned retirement waiting in ten years, and a house large enough for a family that he shares with his dog, Riley.
When Garrett visits Shade Grown Coffee, one of the employees quickly catches his eye. The same one that went home with him six weeks ago. Garrett has his sights set on the man, but Orion has some walls that need breaking down first.
It’s a good thing Garrett loves coffee, because he’s visiting this shop often…
- GenresM M Romance
284 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 23, 2025
About the author
M.J. Booth
9 books14 followersI write a variety of stories, from fun and easy to hurt/ comfort. I love reading all genres and found that my writing style is the same. A scene or a plot bunny will pop into my head and I'll go from there. I'm incredibly grateful for everyone that reads my books. As an indie author, it means a lot to me for each review and page read.
While my main genre is MM romance, I am also branching out into other LGBTQ+ genres soon, so stick around to see more!
While my main genre is MM romance, I am also branching out into other LGBTQ+ genres soon, so stick around to see more!
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
Read
June 9, 2025No rating, dnf at 30%
I’m sure the book is cute, but one of my pet peeves is when things get repeated…constantly and when numbers don’t add up. ie a MC who is 22 telling about his boss thats six years older and will turn 31 soon… or saying it’s four in the morning and a few sentences later it’s three (which isn’t possible in regards to what’s been happening).
Everytime I read something that doesn’t add up or is repeated it takes me out of the reading. So I’m stopping here!
I’m sure the book is cute, but one of my pet peeves is when things get repeated…constantly and when numbers don’t add up. ie a MC who is 22 telling about his boss thats six years older and will turn 31 soon… or saying it’s four in the morning and a few sentences later it’s three (which isn’t possible in regards to what’s been happening).
Everytime I read something that doesn’t add up or is repeated it takes me out of the reading. So I’m stopping here!
May 23, 2025
This is a super cute book about Orion and how his life is basically falling apart. Until he stumbles onto his friend’s relationship and discovers a whole new side of himself. This book has some hurt/comfort and a dog who may or may not be up with painted eyebrows.
May 24, 2025
This is book 2 in the Shade Grown Coffee Boys series. It can be enjoyed as a standalone read. There are characters from the first book in this book but it is easy enough to follow along. This is the second book I have read by this author and I loved it just as much as the first. This time the book focuses on Garrett Beachum and Orion Richards. Orion is proud of his ability to keep his head above water, even if it is just barely. You heart will be hurt when you hear his backstory. He is happy to have found a job at his favourite coffee shop. When he goes to a kink club to find someone to take him home so that he will be warm for the night, you know that you want good things for him. And he gets them in the form of Garrett. Garrett is a daddy but is unsure on age play. He and Orion meet and they bond over Garrett's dog. Garrett immediately feels a pull towards Orion. They meet again at the coffee shop and Garrett asks Orion out. That is the beginning of their relationship. I really liked how Garrett stressed honesty and communication. Orion is interested but unsure of being a little. Garrett is a Dom but he too is unsure about being a daddy to a little. I enjoyed how they learned what was right for the two of them together. Thank goodness they have friends to help them both out. The book is very well written and easy to read. I really loved this book and am looking forward to the next one in this series. I received a complementary advanced review copy of this book from the author and I am voluntarily leaving a review. I can't wait until book 3 is here!
May 21, 2025
Sweet, soft, and full of heart—The Perfect Blend is everything I want in a Daddy/little romance.
Following Orion and Garrett’s journey as they explore age play for the first time was an absolute joy. Their dynamic is full of tenderness, trust, and adorable firsts—cuddles, stuffies, movie nights, and all the little things that made Orion light up and feel safe. Garrett is the perfect, caring Daddy—supportive, patient, and loving—and Orion, learning to let go of control after years of being on his own, completely stole my heart.
We first met these two in A Tall Story, and seeing them step into a new, affirming part of themselves felt so natural. Their chemistry is sweet and warm with just the right amount of spice, and their connection grows stronger with every scene. And yes—Riley the dog was an absolute scene-stealer. Any book with a beloved pet gets bonus points from me!
The return of familiar characters from book one added so much charm (those playdates were adorable), and I loved how the series ties everything together so smoothly. I'm especially excited to see what’s next for Tyler in book three!
If you’re looking for a low-angst, gentle romance with authentic exploration of the Daddy/little dynamic, soft emotional growth, and a satisfying HEA—this is it. I adored every moment.
Following Orion and Garrett’s journey as they explore age play for the first time was an absolute joy. Their dynamic is full of tenderness, trust, and adorable firsts—cuddles, stuffies, movie nights, and all the little things that made Orion light up and feel safe. Garrett is the perfect, caring Daddy—supportive, patient, and loving—and Orion, learning to let go of control after years of being on his own, completely stole my heart.
We first met these two in A Tall Story, and seeing them step into a new, affirming part of themselves felt so natural. Their chemistry is sweet and warm with just the right amount of spice, and their connection grows stronger with every scene. And yes—Riley the dog was an absolute scene-stealer. Any book with a beloved pet gets bonus points from me!
The return of familiar characters from book one added so much charm (those playdates were adorable), and I loved how the series ties everything together so smoothly. I'm especially excited to see what’s next for Tyler in book three!
If you’re looking for a low-angst, gentle romance with authentic exploration of the Daddy/little dynamic, soft emotional growth, and a satisfying HEA—this is it. I adored every moment.
May 23, 2025
This book is cozy perfection - a warm hug in the form of a sweet story, this book completely stole my heart. Orion and Garrett’s story is the perfect blend of emotional vulnerability, slow-burn romance, and a beautifully tender Daddy/boy dynamic that feels honest and deeply earned. From the beginning, I was invested in Orion’s quiet strength and Garrett’s unwavering patience.
Orion’s journey is raw and relatable—his independence is both his armor and his burden. Watching him slowly learn to trust, to lean on someone, and to believe he’s worthy of love was incredibly powerful. Garrett, meanwhile, is everything a nurturing partner should be: steady, thoughtful, and quietly commanding in all the best ways. Their connection is electric but grounded in real emotional intimacy, which makes every moment of affection and heat between them hit that much harder.
Set against the cozy backdrop of Shade Grown Coffee, this story manages to feel both warm and emotionally complex. It’s not just about romance—it’s about healing, growth, and the quiet, transformative power of being truly seen.
If you’re looking for a story that blends heartache, humor, hope, and just the right amount of spice, this book delivers in every way.
[I received an advanced copy of this book. All reviews and ratings are my own.]
Orion’s journey is raw and relatable—his independence is both his armor and his burden. Watching him slowly learn to trust, to lean on someone, and to believe he’s worthy of love was incredibly powerful. Garrett, meanwhile, is everything a nurturing partner should be: steady, thoughtful, and quietly commanding in all the best ways. Their connection is electric but grounded in real emotional intimacy, which makes every moment of affection and heat between them hit that much harder.
Set against the cozy backdrop of Shade Grown Coffee, this story manages to feel both warm and emotionally complex. It’s not just about romance—it’s about healing, growth, and the quiet, transformative power of being truly seen.
If you’re looking for a story that blends heartache, humor, hope, and just the right amount of spice, this book delivers in every way.
[I received an advanced copy of this book. All reviews and ratings are my own.]
May 13, 2025
Oh this book is sugary sweet like a double caramel macchiato with whipped cream and sprinkles (lots of colored sprinkles) on top!
I immediately fell in love with Orion, a young man who is on his own since he was seventeen and is in desperate need of a break. He meets Garrett (we met him in the first book of this series) one night at the kink club and Garrett sees Orion instantly for the sweet boy he is, who deserves every bit of love, care and affection Garrett desperately wants to give him. After there first meeting he can’t get Orion out of his head.
Orion and Garrett are soo sweet together. It’s the first time experiencing the daddy/ little boy dynamic for both of them. Where Orion is hesitant at first Garrett is the perfect daddy from the beginning. They are so sweet together and I love the pet names and Garrett‘s endearments and how their relationship starts slow to become the real deal in the end.
You are up for a absolute comfy read with lots of playtime, cuddles, stuffies, an actual pet (Garrett‘s dog is the cutest when walking threw the rain), amazing friends for play dates, lots of coloring, also🔥times and a messy boy with his very attentive daddy.
5 star recommendation from me!
I immediately fell in love with Orion, a young man who is on his own since he was seventeen and is in desperate need of a break. He meets Garrett (we met him in the first book of this series) one night at the kink club and Garrett sees Orion instantly for the sweet boy he is, who deserves every bit of love, care and affection Garrett desperately wants to give him. After there first meeting he can’t get Orion out of his head.
Orion and Garrett are soo sweet together. It’s the first time experiencing the daddy/ little boy dynamic for both of them. Where Orion is hesitant at first Garrett is the perfect daddy from the beginning. They are so sweet together and I love the pet names and Garrett‘s endearments and how their relationship starts slow to become the real deal in the end.
You are up for a absolute comfy read with lots of playtime, cuddles, stuffies, an actual pet (Garrett‘s dog is the cutest when walking threw the rain), amazing friends for play dates, lots of coloring, also🔥times and a messy boy with his very attentive daddy.
5 star recommendation from me!
May 3, 2026
Orion has been on his own since seventeen, exhausted but determined to stay independent. His new job at the coffee shop gives him just enough stability to keep going. Garrett, a Daddy nearing forty and longing for real connection, recognises Orion as the man he went home with weeks earlier and is instantly drawn to him. Orion’s walls are high, but Garrett is patient — and his frequent visits to Shade Grown Coffee make it clear he’s hoping Orion will eventually let him in.
This was such a sweet, gentle story, and Garrett was absolutely perfect for Orion. I loved how supportive and careful he was with him — never pushing, never judging, and especially never making Orion feel embarrassed about his finances or living situation. That level of respect made their relationship feel safe and genuinely nurturing. They settled into their dynamic as naturally as they settled into their kink, with clear communication and a softness that made their connection easy to root for. The whole book was simple to read and understand, with a warm tone that let the emotions shine through. This was an MM story with mature content and a BDSM-like DDLB dynamic.
This was such a sweet, gentle story, and Garrett was absolutely perfect for Orion. I loved how supportive and careful he was with him — never pushing, never judging, and especially never making Orion feel embarrassed about his finances or living situation. That level of respect made their relationship feel safe and genuinely nurturing. They settled into their dynamic as naturally as they settled into their kink, with clear communication and a softness that made their connection easy to root for. The whole book was simple to read and understand, with a warm tone that let the emotions shine through. This was an MM story with mature content and a BDSM-like DDLB dynamic.
May 21, 2025
“A Perfect Blend” is the second book in the Shade Grown Coffee Boys series by MJ Booth. It is a sweet romance of two people discovering different parts of themselves and coming together to form the relationship that works best for them. This book has themes of hurt/comfort, age gap, found family, economic disparity, DDlb, age play, and ABDL.
Orion and Garrett receive guidance from characters from the first book in the series, “A Tall Order,” and those characters play a large part in the book, but it’s not required reading. I recommend reading it though, since there are mentions of things that happen that do relate to this book (not to mention that the book is another adorable romance.)
(Adding that there is a part at the end where some changes happen and my curious self wants more information and more of the details of how everything happened. Don’t want to give spoilers but if the author sees this they might decide to fill in some gaps…)
I received a copy of this book and this is my honest opinion.
Orion and Garrett receive guidance from characters from the first book in the series, “A Tall Order,” and those characters play a large part in the book, but it’s not required reading. I recommend reading it though, since there are mentions of things that happen that do relate to this book (not to mention that the book is another adorable romance.)
(Adding that there is a part at the end where some changes happen and my curious self wants more information and more of the details of how everything happened. Don’t want to give spoilers but if the author sees this they might decide to fill in some gaps…)
I received a copy of this book and this is my honest opinion.
May 20, 2025
ARC review for The Perfect Blend -Orion and Garrett's Story
This is a really sweet, well written, story. We first meet Orion and Garrett in A Tall Story. Orion has been on his own since aged 17 and although struggling is independent and doing his best. Garrett is a dom but never been interested in being a daddy dom and Orion has no experience of being a little, this is a story of discovery of the daddy/ little boy dynamic for both of them. Great side characters, we get to see Remington and Austin again and I love, love, love Riley, so cute. I'm looking forward to the next books in the series.
This is a really sweet, well written, story. We first meet Orion and Garrett in A Tall Story. Orion has been on his own since aged 17 and although struggling is independent and doing his best. Garrett is a dom but never been interested in being a daddy dom and Orion has no experience of being a little, this is a story of discovery of the daddy/ little boy dynamic for both of them. Great side characters, we get to see Remington and Austin again and I love, love, love Riley, so cute. I'm looking forward to the next books in the series.
May 16, 2025
This second installment of the Shade Grown Coffee series is so much fun. We’ve already met both main characters, however briefly, in the previous book, A Tall Order, but it’s fantastic to get to know them both.
Orion is an independent 22-year-old who’s never had a real relationship before. Garrett is a Daddy Dom who’s never been Daddy to a Little before. It’s wonderful to watch their relationship spark from a chance meeting and grow.
Once I started reading, I literally couldn’t pull myself away from this book. Such a wonderful addition to the series.
Orion is an independent 22-year-old who’s never had a real relationship before. Garrett is a Daddy Dom who’s never been Daddy to a Little before. It’s wonderful to watch their relationship spark from a chance meeting and grow.
Once I started reading, I literally couldn’t pull myself away from this book. Such a wonderful addition to the series.
May 23, 2025
It was such a joy to join Orion and Garrett for all their firsts in their exploration of age play in this fluffy, warm hearted romance. Garrett is such a caring, fun and loving daddy and he is a perfect match for Orion who felt safe enough in his care to stop being big for a while. I was giggling right along with him in his excitement for his cuddles, stuffies, movie time and all his new adventures that daddy took him on.
Riley stole my heart! Such a great dog! (any story with a critter is golden in my eyes)
I love how the characters from Shade Grown Coffee Boys series book one join in the fun for playdates, parties and work. I am looking forward to Tyler’s story in book 3!
Sensitivity : Profanity High/Med, Spice Med/High
Riley stole my heart! Such a great dog! (any story with a critter is golden in my eyes)
I love how the characters from Shade Grown Coffee Boys series book one join in the fun for playdates, parties and work. I am looking forward to Tyler’s story in book 3!
Sensitivity : Profanity High/Med, Spice Med/High
May 12, 2025
Orion is adorable and I love him. Garrett is a perfect Daddy who just wants to take care of his boy and I love it. This community is amazingly written as I am a sucker for a good found family. I loved seeing the previous books MCs so prevalent in this book as well. I loved it. I couldn't put it down.
May 19, 2025
Simply perfect Daddy/Boy story. I absolutely loved Orion and Garrett who were so sweet and perfect for each other. I especially enjoyed following their journey and all their firsts as they both learn to be themselves ehich happens to be exactly what each other needs! Loved it!
I received a free arc copy and this is my honest review
I received a free arc copy and this is my honest review
May 23, 2025
I love Orion and Garrett’s book. It’s so sweet and steamy. I love the way Garrett comforts Orion and is always patient with him. I love all the super cute Little time. This book has everything I love in a book, all the hurt comfort (emphasis on the confort), cute outfits, soft stuffies, bottles, binkies, cuddles, and Riley, the bestest doggo friend. I recommend this book, you should read it!
May 19, 2025
Stumbling upon a specific room opens Orion’s eyes to a new world of possibilities and kink.
When a kind man named Garrett approaches him, both of their lives begin to change in the best of ways.
With unbeknown mutual friends they get the opportunity to connect again and so begins their journey of exploration and love.
A low angst, age play, Daddy/little read with cute daddy/little scenes, adorable play dates, some passion filled moments and a little bit of family and work issues with a lovely HEA.
I can’t wait to see what happens with Tyler next.
When a kind man named Garrett approaches him, both of their lives begin to change in the best of ways.
With unbeknown mutual friends they get the opportunity to connect again and so begins their journey of exploration and love.
A low angst, age play, Daddy/little read with cute daddy/little scenes, adorable play dates, some passion filled moments and a little bit of family and work issues with a lovely HEA.
I can’t wait to see what happens with Tyler next.
May 19, 2025
ARC
This was a low-angst sweet DD/lb story. I haven't read the first book yet but was easily able to follow along with this story without feeling lost or confused, though I will go back and read the first one also.
This was a low-angst sweet DD/lb story. I haven't read the first book yet but was easily able to follow along with this story without feeling lost or confused, though I will go back and read the first one also.
May 24, 2025
Hurt/comfort, slow-burn, Daddy/little
I loved sweet Orion and Riley.
Orion has had his eyes opened and is slowly discovering his little side.
Garrett is the kindest and most patient Daddy as he helps Orion navigate his new world.
This was absolutely adorable.
I loved sweet Orion and Riley.
Orion has had his eyes opened and is slowly discovering his little side.
Garrett is the kindest and most patient Daddy as he helps Orion navigate his new world.
This was absolutely adorable.
May 28, 2025
The Perfect Blend is the second book in the Shade Grown Coffee Boys series by MJ Booth. This book is about Garrett and Orion. I loved their story. It was sweet, sexy, full of feels and very well written.
Read
June 10, 2025this had a few to many inconsistencies and it just didn't work for me
He's six years older than me— well, he'll be thirty-one next month, where I'm twenty-two until June— but I have a few inches on him. He's more
check your maths authors...
He's six years older than me— well, he'll be thirty-one next month, where I'm twenty-two until June— but I have a few inches on him. He's more
check your maths authors...
May 19, 2025
A SWEET AND SPLENDID READING EXPERIENCE!
I just really liked this read and the characters involved in the story. Orion and Garrett are sublime! A great read!
I just really liked this read and the characters involved in the story. Orion and Garrett are sublime! A great read!
May 23, 2025
I absolutely loved this story. This was such a wonderful and heartfelt story. I laughed and cried and cheered my way through this fantastic story. I really enjoyed these two together.
May 24, 2025
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️1/2
Enjoyment: ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
Enjoyment: ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
August 23, 2025
So good.
This one keeps you in your mental toes. At times it’s so cute and sweet while at other times it hurts your heart. I really loved Garrett and Orion’s journey.
This one keeps you in your mental toes. At times it’s so cute and sweet while at other times it hurts your heart. I really loved Garrett and Orion’s journey.
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews