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As Above #4
The Chance
Jordan
Keep him safe.
That’s my only assigned job as the bodyguard for the drummer of As Above. I know that doesn’t include sharing space and secrets, but it works for us. For the band. For the security company I work for.
For my client.
Until it doesn’t.
Until I want … more?
But I can’t want more without losing everything I have.
And I can’t go through that again.
Mac
My name’s Mac Thompson, and I’m in love with my best friend—wait, no. My best friend is my bodyguard—no, wait. That’s not supposed to happen, either.
Let me try again.
I’m Mac, and I play drums in the band that my brothers and I created out of my Ma’s garage when we were teens. We’ve made it big enough that people know my name. That our music is played in clubs and stages alike.
I’ve seen the world.
Played to thousands.
Yet, the only thing I’ve ever pined for … is him.
The Chance is an MM rock star romance where best friends become strangers who become lovers, and includes topics not meant for audiences under the age of eighteen. This is the fourth book in the As Above series but can be read as a complete standalone.
Keep him safe.
That’s my only assigned job as the bodyguard for the drummer of As Above. I know that doesn’t include sharing space and secrets, but it works for us. For the band. For the security company I work for.
For my client.
Until it doesn’t.
Until I want … more?
But I can’t want more without losing everything I have.
And I can’t go through that again.
Mac
My name’s Mac Thompson, and I’m in love with my best friend—wait, no. My best friend is my bodyguard—no, wait. That’s not supposed to happen, either.
Let me try again.
I’m Mac, and I play drums in the band that my brothers and I created out of my Ma’s garage when we were teens. We’ve made it big enough that people know my name. That our music is played in clubs and stages alike.
I’ve seen the world.
Played to thousands.
Yet, the only thing I’ve ever pined for … is him.
The Chance is an MM rock star romance where best friends become strangers who become lovers, and includes topics not meant for audiences under the age of eighteen. This is the fourth book in the As Above series but can be read as a complete standalone.
399 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 17, 2025
93 people are currently reading
383 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 112 reviews
February 4, 2025
Rating: 2.75, rounded to 3
Note: People are saying this can be read as a standalone. I HIGHLY disagree. I did not read the other books in series and on several occasions the book is clearly referencing another event that was likely a major plot point in another book.
Plot: 3/5
Spice: 2.5/5
Characters: 3/5
Overall reco:There is an interesting book in here, and maybe if I'd read the other books I wouldn't be judging this so harshly but this was advertised as a complete stand alone during the ARC sign up. Shit, the one I saw didn't even mention that there were other books. My process for rating books is looking at my list of read books and going 'if I was to reco this to my past self, what would I tell them to read before?' And that's how I settled on 2.75. It would probably be higher if you read the other books in the series and were not sure about the drummers story. It's pretty good for a hurt/comfort book, not the best for sure, but there were things about it I liked. Jordan's chapters while Mac was really hit hard. I agree with others that say this wasn't friends to lovers this was fucking idiots to lovers. The whole middle part of the book, all the way up to was fucking enjoyable and totally had me forgetting the initial frustration with this book.
I want to say that had I not been reading this as an ARC, I would have DNF'd this book before the good stuff. I don't want that to encourage people to push through a DNF, but if you are doing this as a standalone and struggling, maybe go read the others and then try again.
(Rant Time)
About that not a standalone thing. There is a specific plot point that comes up halfway through that comes out of fucking left field and probably spoiled an earlier book, not that I care that much about it, but it creates a fucking weird plot hole in this one. beyond that one event There are weird cuts in the beginning that cause the book to feel disjointed and I think that's because they are cutting around chapters that happened in other books. At least, that's what I'm rationalizing. Specifically We don't see the interaction. So I can only assume this was in another book and we are getting Mac's POV after the moment. I was already struggling with getting into this authors style and this was jarring.
Rereading
I want to put a bit in here about how often I had to go back and reread pages. I don't know if I was just skipping over lines or what but often I had trouble understanding the flow of a conversation and would have to go back a page to try and figure it out. I occasionally have this issue with books and reading and for a very long time I thought this was me and a reading comprehension thing, but I've read enough books in the past year to make me think this is a thing. Some author's have a style that makes me get lost on who is talking. This is one of those authors. That alone will probably keep me from reading the other books in this series.
Time jumps?
I feel like the author forgot to tell us when time jumped in the beginning. Like we get the hints in the dialog but a few chapters in we start to get "one year later" in the chapter heading and holy shit I wish the first few chapters had that. I was so distracted at the beginning trying to understand what was going on. How long ago was the last chapter? Did it happen immediately? No? Yes?
Plot holes
I an not one of those people that keeps detailed notes in books. I do notice plot holes or things that don't make sense to me. It's not always and really depends on how into the book I'm in. But enough of them will rip me out of a book. There are several inconsistencies that just fucking bothered me about this book.
First, .
Second,
Third,
Fourth,
I recieved a copy of this book for free for an honest review.
Note: People are saying this can be read as a standalone. I HIGHLY disagree. I did not read the other books in series and on several occasions the book is clearly referencing another event that was likely a major plot point in another book.
Plot: 3/5
Spice: 2.5/5
Characters: 3/5
Overall reco:There is an interesting book in here, and maybe if I'd read the other books I wouldn't be judging this so harshly but this was advertised as a complete stand alone during the ARC sign up. Shit, the one I saw didn't even mention that there were other books. My process for rating books is looking at my list of read books and going 'if I was to reco this to my past self, what would I tell them to read before?' And that's how I settled on 2.75. It would probably be higher if you read the other books in the series and were not sure about the drummers story. It's pretty good for a hurt/comfort book, not the best for sure, but there were things about it I liked. Jordan's chapters while Mac was really hit hard. I agree with others that say this wasn't friends to lovers this was fucking idiots to lovers. The whole middle part of the book, all the way up to was fucking enjoyable and totally had me forgetting the initial frustration with this book.
I want to say that had I not been reading this as an ARC, I would have DNF'd this book before the good stuff. I don't want that to encourage people to push through a DNF, but if you are doing this as a standalone and struggling, maybe go read the others and then try again.
(Rant Time)
About that not a standalone thing. There is a specific plot point that comes up halfway through that comes out of fucking left field and probably spoiled an earlier book, not that I care that much about it, but it creates a fucking weird plot hole in this one. beyond that one event There are weird cuts in the beginning that cause the book to feel disjointed and I think that's because they are cutting around chapters that happened in other books. At least, that's what I'm rationalizing. Specifically We don't see the interaction. So I can only assume this was in another book and we are getting Mac's POV after the moment. I was already struggling with getting into this authors style and this was jarring.
Rereading
I want to put a bit in here about how often I had to go back and reread pages. I don't know if I was just skipping over lines or what but often I had trouble understanding the flow of a conversation and would have to go back a page to try and figure it out. I occasionally have this issue with books and reading and for a very long time I thought this was me and a reading comprehension thing, but I've read enough books in the past year to make me think this is a thing. Some author's have a style that makes me get lost on who is talking. This is one of those authors. That alone will probably keep me from reading the other books in this series.
Time jumps?
I feel like the author forgot to tell us when time jumped in the beginning. Like we get the hints in the dialog but a few chapters in we start to get "one year later" in the chapter heading and holy shit I wish the first few chapters had that. I was so distracted at the beginning trying to understand what was going on. How long ago was the last chapter? Did it happen immediately? No? Yes?
Plot holes
I an not one of those people that keeps detailed notes in books. I do notice plot holes or things that don't make sense to me. It's not always and really depends on how into the book I'm in. But enough of them will rip me out of a book. There are several inconsistencies that just fucking bothered me about this book.
First, .
Second,
Third,
Fourth,
I recieved a copy of this book for free for an honest review.
March 19, 2025
2.75/5 stars 3/5 spice
This should be read as a series and not a standalone. You’ll miss important details about the main characters and the side characters which will leave you confused.
If you’re easily aggravated by characters jumping to conclusions and not communicating properly, this isn’t the book for you.
***
I really wanted to love this one. The overall plot was good, the characters were interesting, and the undying love they had for each other was emotional. The problem that I had was that there were parts in this book where I had to read a scene a couple of times and fill in the blanks myself to make it make sense. Like when Jordan crashes the concert to see Mac but he sees him with another drummer on stage. During my first read through, I thought the guy was a fan (maybe I’m the only one who had trouble comprehending it). And why was this scene never mentioned again to Mac so he could know Jordan flew over to see him but left straight after?
Some scenes and characters were just confusing because I haven’t read any other book in the series and I didn’t think I had to since it was mentioned that you could read this as a standalone, but I think you have to to make some things clearer. Like I had no idea why Rex had an attitude towards Mac and Jordan. It was something that happened in a previous book that we don’t really get a lot of details to. Or the other bandmates journey with alcohol addiction.
Jordan’s intentions also left me clueless. He loves Mac but can’t tell him. He lets him go because he thinks it would make him happier but then asks him for three days to prove himself, but prove what exactly? Mac questions this and Jordan doesn’t seem to have a clue either. There were so many conversations they had that lacked actual open communication, all they did was jump to conclusions that made no sense or Jordan just didn’t say anything at all.
One of the hurdles is Jordan not being able to open up to Mac and you’d think that would happen towards the end when they finally get together but not once does Jordan talk about his past with Mac.
Mac was my favourite character, he had a big heart for all of those around him and all he was wanted was for his love for Jordan to be reciprocated.
I think if I’d read the series first before starting this I would have enjoyed it more and things would have made more sense.
This should be read as a series and not a standalone. You’ll miss important details about the main characters and the side characters which will leave you confused.
If you’re easily aggravated by characters jumping to conclusions and not communicating properly, this isn’t the book for you.
***
I really wanted to love this one. The overall plot was good, the characters were interesting, and the undying love they had for each other was emotional. The problem that I had was that there were parts in this book where I had to read a scene a couple of times and fill in the blanks myself to make it make sense. Like when Jordan crashes the concert to see Mac but he sees him with another drummer on stage. During my first read through, I thought the guy was a fan (maybe I’m the only one who had trouble comprehending it). And why was this scene never mentioned again to Mac so he could know Jordan flew over to see him but left straight after?
Some scenes and characters were just confusing because I haven’t read any other book in the series and I didn’t think I had to since it was mentioned that you could read this as a standalone, but I think you have to to make some things clearer. Like I had no idea why Rex had an attitude towards Mac and Jordan. It was something that happened in a previous book that we don’t really get a lot of details to. Or the other bandmates journey with alcohol addiction.
Jordan’s intentions also left me clueless. He loves Mac but can’t tell him. He lets him go because he thinks it would make him happier but then asks him for three days to prove himself, but prove what exactly? Mac questions this and Jordan doesn’t seem to have a clue either. There were so many conversations they had that lacked actual open communication, all they did was jump to conclusions that made no sense or Jordan just didn’t say anything at all.
One of the hurdles is Jordan not being able to open up to Mac and you’d think that would happen towards the end when they finally get together but not once does Jordan talk about his past with Mac.
Mac was my favourite character, he had a big heart for all of those around him and all he was wanted was for his love for Jordan to be reciprocated.
I think if I’d read the series first before starting this I would have enjoyed it more and things would have made more sense.
February 21, 2025
Barely 1 star
If you looked up the word “redundant” in the dictionary this book will come up.
So much unnecessarily angst, so much empty drama and miscommunication.
Also, this book made me ITCH. For some reason Mac genuinely felt like a drug addict looking for his next hit with his description. He’s always nauseous and itching and sweating and more. Like holyshit it’s unrequited love not a drug addiction chill.
Also I don’t see what the fanfare is about. We’re supposed to ship Jordan and Mac but both more or less are bland characters. Remind me again why Mac is obsessed with Jordan? Idk
I was surprised by the amount of positive ratings for this book. I guess it was just me.
If you looked up the word “redundant” in the dictionary this book will come up.
So much unnecessarily angst, so much empty drama and miscommunication.
Also, this book made me ITCH. For some reason Mac genuinely felt like a drug addict looking for his next hit with his description. He’s always nauseous and itching and sweating and more. Like holyshit it’s unrequited love not a drug addiction chill.
Also I don’t see what the fanfare is about. We’re supposed to ship Jordan and Mac but both more or less are bland characters. Remind me again why Mac is obsessed with Jordan? Idk
I was surprised by the amount of positive ratings for this book. I guess it was just me.
February 11, 2025
This book had some serious angst to get to that HEA. I loved Mac and Jordan so much, but damn these two did not communicate well for the majority of the book. I kept wanting to lock them in a room together to force them to talk. It was a beautiful ride though. I really enjoyed this.
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February 22, 2025
"𝘐’𝘮 𝘥𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘮𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘰𝘳 𝘩𝘦𝘢𝘥𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘵𝘰 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘢𝘧𝘵𝘦𝘳𝘭𝘪𝘧𝘦, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘪𝘴 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘳𝘦𝘴𝘶𝘭𝘵. 𝘐 𝘥𝘰𝘯’𝘵 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳 𝘸𝘢𝘯𝘵 𝘵𝘰 𝘸𝘢𝘬𝘦 𝘶𝘱. 𝘋𝘕𝘙 𝘮𝘦, 𝘣𝘪𝘴𝘩."
Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟.5/5
Spice: ❤️🔥❤️🔥
I have never wanted to chuck my kindle across the room and simultaneously hold it close to me because these two were the best mess ever.
Mac is our superstar drummer in a famous band, and Jordan is his bodyguard bestie. Mac has had deep unrequited feelings for Jordan for YEARS. He's the epitome of "I'll take what I can get" and clings to Jordan like white on rice. Like, even the tabloids joke about their bodyguard/friend relationship.
Jordan has been on the go since childhood and likes the thrill of being a bodyguard. It isn't until Mac really needs him one night that he begins to cling back to him. For years, Jordan enjoys being his bodyguard and friend.
Suddenly (but not so suddenly) Jordan starts to notice that Mac's light has begun to dull, and he can't help but feel like he's the reason why. He feels like he's holding Mac back, and keeping him away from being his best self.
Mac on the other hand, is slowly dying because he's in love with his bestie and can't take it anymore!! This is the definition of a miscommunication trope. Goodness, it was done SO well. TOO well lol.
I was annoyed at their situation, I was angry with their miscommunication and back and forth, I was sad for Mac and his feelings, and I was heartbroken for Jordan feeling like he was the problem.
Mac's character is super relatable, and super well written. He's hilarious and to the point, but he still puts himself and his heart first and that's not always easy.
Jordan I still have mixed feelings about and there were quite a few times I wanted to shake him but that's why i loved this book. I was pulled in and HOOKED.
If you don't mind a messy slow burn miscommunication from hell, this is the book for you! it's super funny, raw real, and emotional at times. Very sweet and deserved ending for these two.
**This is book 4 in the As Above series, but can we read as a standalone**
Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟.5/5
Spice: ❤️🔥❤️🔥
I have never wanted to chuck my kindle across the room and simultaneously hold it close to me because these two were the best mess ever.
Mac is our superstar drummer in a famous band, and Jordan is his bodyguard bestie. Mac has had deep unrequited feelings for Jordan for YEARS. He's the epitome of "I'll take what I can get" and clings to Jordan like white on rice. Like, even the tabloids joke about their bodyguard/friend relationship.
Jordan has been on the go since childhood and likes the thrill of being a bodyguard. It isn't until Mac really needs him one night that he begins to cling back to him. For years, Jordan enjoys being his bodyguard and friend.
Suddenly (but not so suddenly) Jordan starts to notice that Mac's light has begun to dull, and he can't help but feel like he's the reason why. He feels like he's holding Mac back, and keeping him away from being his best self.
Mac on the other hand, is slowly dying because he's in love with his bestie and can't take it anymore!! This is the definition of a miscommunication trope. Goodness, it was done SO well. TOO well lol.
I was annoyed at their situation, I was angry with their miscommunication and back and forth, I was sad for Mac and his feelings, and I was heartbroken for Jordan feeling like he was the problem.
Mac's character is super relatable, and super well written. He's hilarious and to the point, but he still puts himself and his heart first and that's not always easy.
Jordan I still have mixed feelings about and there were quite a few times I wanted to shake him but that's why i loved this book. I was pulled in and HOOKED.
If you don't mind a messy slow burn miscommunication from hell, this is the book for you! it's super funny, raw real, and emotional at times. Very sweet and deserved ending for these two.
**This is book 4 in the As Above series, but can we read as a standalone**
February 28, 2025
DNF @ 65%
nothing ever pissed me off as much as this
nothing ever pissed me off as much as this
February 21, 2025
This might be a harsh review but my honest thoughts: Maybe if I read the other books, this one would be better but honestly I’m just disappointed by the whole story. It was majorly confusing at times. Their relationship could have been explored more, most of the book was them pining over each other and fighting because they weren’t COMMUNICATING CORRECTLY. The time jumps + the car accident were absolutely not necessary and didn’t add to the story in a good way. I wanted more of their relationship once they actually fucking had it and the epilogue felt rushed. Overall, 2.5 stars. 3 because of Cookie the cat.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
did-not-finish
February 19, 2025DNF @ 65% - So much melodrama! Too much focus on the relationship drama (nondrama?) and not enough on the real issues.
March 4, 2025
Mac Thompson is the drummer for “As Above” one of the hottest rock bands. He is gorgeous, talented and most of all he is secretly in love with his bodyguard Jordan.
Jordan Kauffman knows Mac Thompson better than anyone else after all he is with Mac practically 24-7. What Jordan doesn’t know as well is himself. His feelings for his client/best friend are suddenly feeling different and he is not sure how to deal with it.
The Chance is the 4th book in the “As Above” Series from Rae Stone. If you have not been reading this series I would highly recommend you read them in order because while each story highlights a different band member, you also get to know the band and it all intertwines. I personally have been excited to read Mac’s story since book number one. I love his personality and you can see how much he loves his band…his family…. and how much he has a thing for Jordan, his bodyguard. So I was thrilled to get an advanced copy of The Chance and devoured it in less than 48 hours after the email arrived!
This book was everything I wanted and more! Watching Jordan find his true self and realize he wants Mac. Mac trying so hard to let Jordan in and being careful not to let himself get hurt. It makes for a rollercoaster of emotions, but I would not change a thing. I loved every part of this book even the parts where they are apart and trying to figure it all out. It makes for an even sweater ending for these two who to definitely deserve to be happy with each other.
If you are not comfortable reading about two guys falling love you have probably realized by now this book is not for you. But if you are like me and love to see two people come together and fall in love then this book should absolutely be on your reading list. I also want to give a huge shout out to author Rae Stone for her inclusion of the LGBTQ+ characters into her writing. I just hope we get to see how Mac and Jordan are doing in the next books in this series!
Thank you again, Rae, for allowing me to read and review this. It was an honor. Truly.
Jordan Kauffman knows Mac Thompson better than anyone else after all he is with Mac practically 24-7. What Jordan doesn’t know as well is himself. His feelings for his client/best friend are suddenly feeling different and he is not sure how to deal with it.
The Chance is the 4th book in the “As Above” Series from Rae Stone. If you have not been reading this series I would highly recommend you read them in order because while each story highlights a different band member, you also get to know the band and it all intertwines. I personally have been excited to read Mac’s story since book number one. I love his personality and you can see how much he loves his band…his family…. and how much he has a thing for Jordan, his bodyguard. So I was thrilled to get an advanced copy of The Chance and devoured it in less than 48 hours after the email arrived!
This book was everything I wanted and more! Watching Jordan find his true self and realize he wants Mac. Mac trying so hard to let Jordan in and being careful not to let himself get hurt. It makes for a rollercoaster of emotions, but I would not change a thing. I loved every part of this book even the parts where they are apart and trying to figure it all out. It makes for an even sweater ending for these two who to definitely deserve to be happy with each other.
If you are not comfortable reading about two guys falling love you have probably realized by now this book is not for you. But if you are like me and love to see two people come together and fall in love then this book should absolutely be on your reading list. I also want to give a huge shout out to author Rae Stone for her inclusion of the LGBTQ+ characters into her writing. I just hope we get to see how Mac and Jordan are doing in the next books in this series!
Thank you again, Rae, for allowing me to read and review this. It was an honor. Truly.
February 2, 2025
4.0 ⭐
Genre: M/M Romance
Format: eBook
Series: As Above #4
Can be read as a standalone
Character Development: 3.5/5 • Mac was such a sweetheart. I wanted to wrap him up and protect him from the world. His journey through therapy was emotionally and raw. Jordan just needed to realize he deserves love and his past does not define him. The character growth from beginning to end was done well.
Plot: 3.5/5 • The plot was engaging and well written. Two idiots that finally get their shit together. There is A LOT of pining so prepare your heart.
Writing Style: 3/5 • The book was well written, with no grammatical or spelling errors.
Spice Level: 2/5 • Jordan's internal thoughts, omg swoon. They were so good together, which is why every time they didn't choose each other just hurt more.
Overall Rating: 4/5 • The amount of pining in this book had my poor heart weeping. The first half of the book was rough (Part 1 & 2). Definitely idiots to lovers, high on the miscommunication. I have never wanted to smash two characters heads together more than I did Jordan & Mac. However, Part 3 was the redemption Jordan & Mac, needed and deserved. I was honestly so sad to see these two go. I wanted more but alas all good things must end.
This was my first book by Rae Stone and I will definitely check out any other MM books she decides to release. This was book 4 in the As Above series but can be read as a standalone. The other books in the series are MF pairings. I haven't read any of the other books in the series and didn't feel that I was missing out.
Tropes:
🖤 Bodyguard x Rockstar
🧡 Queer Awakening
🖤 High Angst
🧡 All the Pining
🖤 Best Friends to Strangers to Lovers
🧡 Idiots to Lovers
🖤 Miscommunication
Cheating:
Third-act breakup:
POV: Dual POV (First Person POV)
KU: Yes (Releasing February 17, 2025)
I received an advance review copy, and this is my honest review.
Genre: M/M Romance
Format: eBook
Series: As Above #4
Can be read as a standalone
Character Development: 3.5/5 • Mac was such a sweetheart. I wanted to wrap him up and protect him from the world. His journey through therapy was emotionally and raw. Jordan just needed to realize he deserves love and his past does not define him. The character growth from beginning to end was done well.
Plot: 3.5/5 • The plot was engaging and well written. Two idiots that finally get their shit together. There is A LOT of pining so prepare your heart.
Writing Style: 3/5 • The book was well written, with no grammatical or spelling errors.
Spice Level: 2/5 • Jordan's internal thoughts, omg swoon. They were so good together, which is why every time they didn't choose each other just hurt more.
Overall Rating: 4/5 • The amount of pining in this book had my poor heart weeping. The first half of the book was rough (Part 1 & 2). Definitely idiots to lovers, high on the miscommunication. I have never wanted to smash two characters heads together more than I did Jordan & Mac. However, Part 3 was the redemption Jordan & Mac, needed and deserved. I was honestly so sad to see these two go. I wanted more but alas all good things must end.
This was my first book by Rae Stone and I will definitely check out any other MM books she decides to release. This was book 4 in the As Above series but can be read as a standalone. The other books in the series are MF pairings. I haven't read any of the other books in the series and didn't feel that I was missing out.
Tropes:
🖤 Bodyguard x Rockstar
🧡 Queer Awakening
🖤 High Angst
🧡 All the Pining
🖤 Best Friends to Strangers to Lovers
🧡 Idiots to Lovers
🖤 Miscommunication
Cheating:
Third-act breakup:
POV: Dual POV (First Person POV)
KU: Yes (Releasing February 17, 2025)
I received an advance review copy, and this is my honest review.
July 9, 2025
It had good bones, but needed a lot of editing and some beta readers that hadn’t read other books in this world because this is not a standalone.
I spent so much of this book confused. Spoiler-free thoughts 👇
The pacing felt choppy, the dialogue lost me frequently, some of the most major events in the book I have to assume happened in other books, because they were just glossed over as if I should already know about them.
So many of the events that did fully happen in this book felt pointless. The prologue (how did that tie into the story?), the epilogue (didn’t fit the timeline the book laid out), the third act major event/scene… (ugh why though?).
Not to mention the frustratingly repetitive nature of the “angst” between the characters. It was the same reasons, the same internal monologue, the same external dialogue, over and over. The author was correct at the beginning saying I’d want to throw my book — but it wasn’t in a good way.
I also felt like there were several loops that still needed closure but never got it, like the fact that Mac never learned about Jordan’s past (or like anything about him), or the fact that Jordan made a cross-continental trip to see him that Mac never hears about, to name just two.
This could have been really good. It just needed a lot of editing and revising.
I spent so much of this book confused. Spoiler-free thoughts 👇
The pacing felt choppy, the dialogue lost me frequently, some of the most major events in the book I have to assume happened in other books, because they were just glossed over as if I should already know about them.
So many of the events that did fully happen in this book felt pointless. The prologue (how did that tie into the story?), the epilogue (didn’t fit the timeline the book laid out), the third act major event/scene… (ugh why though?).
Not to mention the frustratingly repetitive nature of the “angst” between the characters. It was the same reasons, the same internal monologue, the same external dialogue, over and over. The author was correct at the beginning saying I’d want to throw my book — but it wasn’t in a good way.
I also felt like there were several loops that still needed closure but never got it, like the fact that Mac never learned about Jordan’s past (or like anything about him), or the fact that Jordan made a cross-continental trip to see him that Mac never hears about, to name just two.
This could have been really good. It just needed a lot of editing and revising.
February 12, 2025
ARC REVIEW
The Chance is the fourth book in the As Above series and tells the story of Jordan and Mac’s relationship. Jordan is Mac’s bodyguard, and Mac is a famous drummer. Their relationship isn’t just that of boss and employee, they are also best friends.
However, Mac's feelings start to change, and now he doesn’t know what to do with them. He doesn’t want to risk his friendship with Jordan if he finds out their dynamic has shifted. He’s tried to keep his feelings hidden, but they keep pushing to the surface. Besides, Jordan is super straight, so he could never feel the same way… right? Sure, Jordan is affectionate and thoughtful with him, but at the end of the day, that’s just his job. Mac is absolutely certain that nothing will ever happen between them.
But what if…?
These two took me on a rollercoaster of pining and miscommunication. I was stressed, I cried, I laughed, and I celebrated when they finally got together. But their journey wasn’t easy, there were plenty of obstacles along the way. Still, none of that diminished the chemistry and deep affection they share.
Loving your friends is one thing, but the things these two said to each other had me like… what? I kept wondering how blind they could be. The idiots-to-lovers trope fits them perfectly, and did I love it? Absolutely! They are the kind of characters that make you root for them, hoping with all your heart that they’ll get their HEA. And when they do, it’s nothing short of beautiful.
The way they treat each other with such warmth and ease pulls you even deeper into the story. Even in their worst moments, they were always thinking about each other, and their love was obvious in every little action. On top of that, their character growth, self-discovery, and journey toward acceptance were so well done.
And I can’t forget the meaning behind the nickname Jordan gave Mac “Vida”. Omg, as someone whose first language is Spanish, every time Jordan called him that or spoke in Spanish, I couldn’t help but smile. Jordan, Bilingual King. I won’t spoil the meaning behind it because you need to read it and fall in love with this couple just like I did.
P.S. The side characters… I need to know more about Lemon, Peach, and Dare. I was left so intrigued by them! Plus, I loved how they also played a role, one way or another, in helping Mac and Jordan realize their feelings.
If you like to read:
🥁 Bodyguard/Rockstar
🥁 Idiots to lovers
🥁 Angst
🥁 Mental health rep
🥁 Hurt/comfort
🥁 Clothes swapping
🥁 Best friends-strangers-lovers
🥁 Miscommunication
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice Level: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
The Chance is the fourth book in the As Above series and tells the story of Jordan and Mac’s relationship. Jordan is Mac’s bodyguard, and Mac is a famous drummer. Their relationship isn’t just that of boss and employee, they are also best friends.
However, Mac's feelings start to change, and now he doesn’t know what to do with them. He doesn’t want to risk his friendship with Jordan if he finds out their dynamic has shifted. He’s tried to keep his feelings hidden, but they keep pushing to the surface. Besides, Jordan is super straight, so he could never feel the same way… right? Sure, Jordan is affectionate and thoughtful with him, but at the end of the day, that’s just his job. Mac is absolutely certain that nothing will ever happen between them.
But what if…?
These two took me on a rollercoaster of pining and miscommunication. I was stressed, I cried, I laughed, and I celebrated when they finally got together. But their journey wasn’t easy, there were plenty of obstacles along the way. Still, none of that diminished the chemistry and deep affection they share.
Loving your friends is one thing, but the things these two said to each other had me like… what? I kept wondering how blind they could be. The idiots-to-lovers trope fits them perfectly, and did I love it? Absolutely! They are the kind of characters that make you root for them, hoping with all your heart that they’ll get their HEA. And when they do, it’s nothing short of beautiful.
The way they treat each other with such warmth and ease pulls you even deeper into the story. Even in their worst moments, they were always thinking about each other, and their love was obvious in every little action. On top of that, their character growth, self-discovery, and journey toward acceptance were so well done.
And I can’t forget the meaning behind the nickname Jordan gave Mac “Vida”. Omg, as someone whose first language is Spanish, every time Jordan called him that or spoke in Spanish, I couldn’t help but smile. Jordan, Bilingual King. I won’t spoil the meaning behind it because you need to read it and fall in love with this couple just like I did.
P.S. The side characters… I need to know more about Lemon, Peach, and Dare. I was left so intrigued by them! Plus, I loved how they also played a role, one way or another, in helping Mac and Jordan realize their feelings.
If you like to read:
🥁 Bodyguard/Rockstar
🥁 Idiots to lovers
🥁 Angst
🥁 Mental health rep
🥁 Hurt/comfort
🥁 Clothes swapping
🥁 Best friends-strangers-lovers
🥁 Miscommunication
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice Level: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
February 15, 2025
“Sex doesn’t solve much. But it sure as shit feels like a number forty-two to me right about now.”
Overall: ⭐⭐⭐.5 / 5 (rounded up)
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️ / 5
A rockstar, his bodyguard, and one monstrous lack-of-communication trope walk into a romance novel…okay, this isn’t a comedy set, but I think you get the idea. The first 50% of this book, for me, was rough. It was scene after scene of Mac and Jordan being complete and utter idiots in love. Now, don’t get me wrong, I am HERE for idiots in love. Adore a himbo. But these two are both so angsty and in their own heads that neither can qualify.
That said, the second half was much more 🎶melodious🎶. It was like an emotional, not physical, slowburn. And when they finally let down those walls and communicate like adult humans? UGH. It’s sweet. It’s swoony. I even grinned and bit my lip while reading, which is rare af. Is emotional edging a thing? Because I think Rae Stone managed that here.
I’m new to the series (this is book 4 and marketed as a standalone) and author, and I’ll be honest–there were several confusing moments with the extended cast of characters. But they seemed like a family despite my lack of context, had heartfelt interactions, and enriched things overall. I’m a sucker for an awesome side character and Peach absolutely fits the bill. I want more of his story, and soon.
I also get the sense we missed some pretty significant plot points and maybe some time jumps (and don’t look too closely, because here there be holes and maybe an unnecessary left turn or two). I imagine those who are familiar with the series will find it a clearer, more enjoyable read.
The spice is raw, intense, harried, and spicing, especially in the latter half. Overall, this was a decent read that turned out to be a lovable good time by the close.
And that quote at the top of my review? Couldn’t resist a “42 is the answer to the ultimate question” reference (in fact, add it to the mention of Trapt and Goo Goo Dolls, and this elder millennial felt very seen).
I recommend this for fans of Lark Taylor, Scarlett Drake, and similar.
📚Fast facts📚
✨ Rockstar / bodyguard
✨ Friends / idiots-to-lovers
✨ Hurt / comfort
✨ To avoid spoilers, I’ll just say there’s an “awakening”
✨ Angstyyyy
✨ Fourth in a series of standalones
✨ Contemporary MM
✨ Dual POV, first person, present tense
I am grateful to the author to have received an ARC of this story! This is my honest and unbiased review.
Overall: ⭐⭐⭐.5 / 5 (rounded up)
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️ / 5
A rockstar, his bodyguard, and one monstrous lack-of-communication trope walk into a romance novel…okay, this isn’t a comedy set, but I think you get the idea. The first 50% of this book, for me, was rough. It was scene after scene of Mac and Jordan being complete and utter idiots in love. Now, don’t get me wrong, I am HERE for idiots in love. Adore a himbo. But these two are both so angsty and in their own heads that neither can qualify.
That said, the second half was much more 🎶melodious🎶. It was like an emotional, not physical, slowburn. And when they finally let down those walls and communicate like adult humans? UGH. It’s sweet. It’s swoony. I even grinned and bit my lip while reading, which is rare af. Is emotional edging a thing? Because I think Rae Stone managed that here.
I’m new to the series (this is book 4 and marketed as a standalone) and author, and I’ll be honest–there were several confusing moments with the extended cast of characters. But they seemed like a family despite my lack of context, had heartfelt interactions, and enriched things overall. I’m a sucker for an awesome side character and Peach absolutely fits the bill. I want more of his story, and soon.
I also get the sense we missed some pretty significant plot points and maybe some time jumps (and don’t look too closely, because here there be holes and maybe an unnecessary left turn or two). I imagine those who are familiar with the series will find it a clearer, more enjoyable read.
The spice is raw, intense, harried, and spicing, especially in the latter half. Overall, this was a decent read that turned out to be a lovable good time by the close.
And that quote at the top of my review? Couldn’t resist a “42 is the answer to the ultimate question” reference (in fact, add it to the mention of Trapt and Goo Goo Dolls, and this elder millennial felt very seen).
I recommend this for fans of Lark Taylor, Scarlett Drake, and similar.
📚Fast facts📚
✨ Rockstar / bodyguard
✨ Friends / idiots-to-lovers
✨ Hurt / comfort
✨ To avoid spoilers, I’ll just say there’s an “awakening”
✨ Angstyyyy
✨ Fourth in a series of standalones
✨ Contemporary MM
✨ Dual POV, first person, present tense
I am grateful to the author to have received an ARC of this story! This is my honest and unbiased review.
February 20, 2025
The Chance - Rae Stone
The Chance was a beautiful follow up to intense journey that we got from The Fix!
Mac & Jordan’s journey together was tragic in a way, because honestly their biggest obstacles were themselves. The Fix was my favorite book in this series, and I was honestly worried that The Chance was not going to be able to live up to the hype following that intense story, but Mac’s hope and devotion for his love towards Jordan was really pulling at my heart.
As the other books in the series, The Chance was broken up into three parts, and I can honestly say that the second portion of the book will always be my favorite portions of these books. The raw emotions that we get from the characters is so powerful, especially because the author always has some aspects of mental health awareness or issue that the characters are struggling to overcome. For Mac, he had a lot of things going on, and others may not agree with me, but my favorite thing he did was choosing himself and pulling away from Jordan to protect himself. While I think it’s romantic and beautiful to see a love interest pinning and fighting for who they want, I will always love it even more when someone chooses themselves because it’s such a stronger decision.
Jordan was all over the place, but he also wasn’t. As I read along the story and lived the moments of realization with him, I truly felt for his character. Discovering one’s sexuality is super easy and quick for some, while it’s such a life-changing moment for others. Having the moment with the photoshoot was AMAZING. That small little moment where he asks for the hoodie with his flag colors had me crying, not just because he asked for MY flag, but because that was one of the first moments of acceptance with his new reality. I wish that he had been more open about his journey with Mac because I truly think things would have been easier for the two of them, but of course, that is a very personal and private journey so I also understand why he kept things to himself.
Overall, I devoured the book and absolutely loved it. I would definitely check out the content warnings before reading it as there are some tougher topics in this story. It is a standalone and can be read without reading the others in the series, BUT, I do recommend reading the others first. While their aren’t any spoilers and its easy to follow, there are moments that are impactful because of past characters in the series that will not make sense/have the intended impact because you have not read the previous books.
The Chance was a beautiful follow up to intense journey that we got from The Fix!
Mac & Jordan’s journey together was tragic in a way, because honestly their biggest obstacles were themselves. The Fix was my favorite book in this series, and I was honestly worried that The Chance was not going to be able to live up to the hype following that intense story, but Mac’s hope and devotion for his love towards Jordan was really pulling at my heart.
As the other books in the series, The Chance was broken up into three parts, and I can honestly say that the second portion of the book will always be my favorite portions of these books. The raw emotions that we get from the characters is so powerful, especially because the author always has some aspects of mental health awareness or issue that the characters are struggling to overcome. For Mac, he had a lot of things going on, and others may not agree with me, but my favorite thing he did was choosing himself and pulling away from Jordan to protect himself. While I think it’s romantic and beautiful to see a love interest pinning and fighting for who they want, I will always love it even more when someone chooses themselves because it’s such a stronger decision.
Jordan was all over the place, but he also wasn’t. As I read along the story and lived the moments of realization with him, I truly felt for his character. Discovering one’s sexuality is super easy and quick for some, while it’s such a life-changing moment for others. Having the moment with the photoshoot was AMAZING. That small little moment where he asks for the hoodie with his flag colors had me crying, not just because he asked for MY flag, but because that was one of the first moments of acceptance with his new reality. I wish that he had been more open about his journey with Mac because I truly think things would have been easier for the two of them, but of course, that is a very personal and private journey so I also understand why he kept things to himself.
Overall, I devoured the book and absolutely loved it. I would definitely check out the content warnings before reading it as there are some tougher topics in this story. It is a standalone and can be read without reading the others in the series, BUT, I do recommend reading the others first. While their aren’t any spoilers and its easy to follow, there are moments that are impactful because of past characters in the series that will not make sense/have the intended impact because you have not read the previous books.
June 10, 2025
Alright well let’s just get right into this review.
It shouldn’t be read as a standalone. Idc what’s advertised, you will be severely lost for 70% of the book as far as references, history with other characters as well as feelings with both the main characters and side characters. I found myself so so sooooo confused because apparently there’s a lot going on with Toby? And Rex has some predisposed feelings about Jordan? It’s just one of those books where you HAVE to have read the other books in the series to really appreciate these men and their story.
I’m honestly not a fan of the miscommunication trope. That was my bad that I didn’t see that listed underneath the tropes. It just doesn’t feel like a valid reason for 2 grown adults to have constant miscommunication issues back and forth, 70% into the book. At that point they feel like teenagers, instead of adults of actually talk it out.
Now don’t get me wrong. The vibes were vibing. Poor Mac has so many mental health issues and insecurities in himself. Poor Jordan is going through a crisis in putting a label to his identity and his confusing feelings towards Mac. I found myself rooting for them since I got the gist of their relationship. The best of relationships are built on friendship, and the way Jordan just KNOWS Mac and his comforts? It’s just chefs kiss.
I also LOVED how he didn’t really put a label on himself. He identified that he potentially be Demi but he never committed to that label…and that is OKAY. We need to normalize this! Humans don’t fit into a “box” or “category” that society deems appropriate or worthy. Because fuck that! So yes! Men can be beautiful and pretty. Yes someone can go throughout their whole life without conforming to a certain label and still live and be authentically themselves. This book did such a great job at saying “eff what society thinks” because who cares?!
Overall, this book was cute. Mac and Jordan got the HEA they so desperately deserved and I’m so glad the author didn’t quit on their story. I truly think I would have enjoyed it much more if I read the other MF stories before this one, but even then, I’m unsure as the miscommunication trope and I are frenemies, borderline enemies lol.
I would recommend this book in MM romance community but only if they read the other books first. Thank you for a cute story Rae Stone 🖤🖤.
It shouldn’t be read as a standalone. Idc what’s advertised, you will be severely lost for 70% of the book as far as references, history with other characters as well as feelings with both the main characters and side characters. I found myself so so sooooo confused because apparently there’s a lot going on with Toby? And Rex has some predisposed feelings about Jordan? It’s just one of those books where you HAVE to have read the other books in the series to really appreciate these men and their story.
I’m honestly not a fan of the miscommunication trope. That was my bad that I didn’t see that listed underneath the tropes. It just doesn’t feel like a valid reason for 2 grown adults to have constant miscommunication issues back and forth, 70% into the book. At that point they feel like teenagers, instead of adults of actually talk it out.
Now don’t get me wrong. The vibes were vibing. Poor Mac has so many mental health issues and insecurities in himself. Poor Jordan is going through a crisis in putting a label to his identity and his confusing feelings towards Mac. I found myself rooting for them since I got the gist of their relationship. The best of relationships are built on friendship, and the way Jordan just KNOWS Mac and his comforts? It’s just chefs kiss.
I also LOVED how he didn’t really put a label on himself. He identified that he potentially be Demi but he never committed to that label…and that is OKAY. We need to normalize this! Humans don’t fit into a “box” or “category” that society deems appropriate or worthy. Because fuck that! So yes! Men can be beautiful and pretty. Yes someone can go throughout their whole life without conforming to a certain label and still live and be authentically themselves. This book did such a great job at saying “eff what society thinks” because who cares?!
Overall, this book was cute. Mac and Jordan got the HEA they so desperately deserved and I’m so glad the author didn’t quit on their story. I truly think I would have enjoyed it much more if I read the other MF stories before this one, but even then, I’m unsure as the miscommunication trope and I are frenemies, borderline enemies lol.
I would recommend this book in MM romance community but only if they read the other books first. Thank you for a cute story Rae Stone 🖤🖤.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 13, 2025
So many stars! I have been so ready for this book and let me say, Rae delivered her best book yet! I’ve been here from the first pages of The Moment and it only gets better from here! Although, technically each book could be a stand alone, I suggest reading in order to fully understand the background to these characters.
Jordan and Mac are just….gosh….so heartwarming and beautifully written along with the angst and pining I love so much! These two brought so much to the pages that I could feel every tear, every heartbeat, every emotion and had all of those drawn from me as a reader.
These two literally spend a decade in each other’s lives as best friends, as more than just a bodyguard and drummer, but fighting their own demons as to what they are. Mac has loved Jordan even when he believed he was straight. Jordan made himself to believe he was straight to fit into what he felt society was to him, though not quite feeling a sense of belonging, apart from Mac. Jordan and Mac have the hottest chemistry (and a hawt first time) but when the lines are crossed, it doesn’t make the answers any clearer and just offer more questions. Mac has always believed Jordan was endgame for him, but wouldn’t allow himself to push Jordan into something he didn’t think he’d want. Jordan spends years confused about his sexuality and knowing that Mac is what he can’t live without but has trouble realizing why that is. With help from a friend, he’s able to identify as Demi and as the pieces of the puzzle come together, time apart finally allows them to find one another again and let go, when a near tragedy almost takes away their chance. Both have hurt one another and their miscommunication and missed opportunities leads to missed chances at happiness but their love story is real and honest, and I ate every word up and left no crumbs!! Though it took some work to get these two idiots to recognize they’ve had each other all along, it was worth it for the HEA!
Thanks Rae for letting me ARC read again for you. Opinions are my own and given honestly.
Jordan and Mac are just….gosh….so heartwarming and beautifully written along with the angst and pining I love so much! These two brought so much to the pages that I could feel every tear, every heartbeat, every emotion and had all of those drawn from me as a reader.
These two literally spend a decade in each other’s lives as best friends, as more than just a bodyguard and drummer, but fighting their own demons as to what they are. Mac has loved Jordan even when he believed he was straight. Jordan made himself to believe he was straight to fit into what he felt society was to him, though not quite feeling a sense of belonging, apart from Mac. Jordan and Mac have the hottest chemistry (and a hawt first time) but when the lines are crossed, it doesn’t make the answers any clearer and just offer more questions. Mac has always believed Jordan was endgame for him, but wouldn’t allow himself to push Jordan into something he didn’t think he’d want. Jordan spends years confused about his sexuality and knowing that Mac is what he can’t live without but has trouble realizing why that is. With help from a friend, he’s able to identify as Demi and as the pieces of the puzzle come together, time apart finally allows them to find one another again and let go, when a near tragedy almost takes away their chance. Both have hurt one another and their miscommunication and missed opportunities leads to missed chances at happiness but their love story is real and honest, and I ate every word up and left no crumbs!! Though it took some work to get these two idiots to recognize they’ve had each other all along, it was worth it for the HEA!
Thanks Rae for letting me ARC read again for you. Opinions are my own and given honestly.
February 19, 2025
4.5☆
I really enjoyed this. Mac and Jordan are everything, even if I had a strong urge to bash their heads together 🤭. The book can be read as a standalone, but being the 4th book in this series, means some things weren't as clear and it would have definitely helped if I would have read the other books in this series as well.
Mac is the drummer in the band As Above and Jordan is his bodyguard and let me tell you, their journey is a roller coaster. Mac has been in love with Jordan for years, but Jordan is straight, until he starts to realize that he's not as straight as he thought he was. It was hard to watch them try to let each other go because of thinking that the other would be better off if they would be out of each others lives. I understand why it was hard for Jordan to communicate, but that doesn't mean the lack of communication on his part didn't annoy me. And yes, Mac could have read between the lines, but he thought Jordan was straight, so he needed the words from Jordan. I was glad when they finally laid it all out, but it was emotional to watch them struggle until then, both of them having very strong feelings for each other. I was sad seeing them push each other away. Jordan accepting the fact that he deserves all the good things really helped them move forward. I guessed the surprise Jordan was planning for Mac, that we got to see in the epilogue, but it was really cute!
The book was quite angsty, but I enjoyed reading Mac and Jordan's story. I loved how Jordan refered to Mac as his drummer even before everything. And I loved their terms of endearment for each other! I enjoyed the writing and it felt easy to read. I also loved Jordan's caretaking a lot.
Definitely worth a read if you want to read about a drummer and his bodyguard going from best friends and idiots to lovers.
I received a copy of this book from the Author, and this is my honest review.
I really enjoyed this. Mac and Jordan are everything, even if I had a strong urge to bash their heads together 🤭. The book can be read as a standalone, but being the 4th book in this series, means some things weren't as clear and it would have definitely helped if I would have read the other books in this series as well.
Mac is the drummer in the band As Above and Jordan is his bodyguard and let me tell you, their journey is a roller coaster. Mac has been in love with Jordan for years, but Jordan is straight, until he starts to realize that he's not as straight as he thought he was. It was hard to watch them try to let each other go because of thinking that the other would be better off if they would be out of each others lives. I understand why it was hard for Jordan to communicate, but that doesn't mean the lack of communication on his part didn't annoy me. And yes, Mac could have read between the lines, but he thought Jordan was straight, so he needed the words from Jordan. I was glad when they finally laid it all out, but it was emotional to watch them struggle until then, both of them having very strong feelings for each other. I was sad seeing them push each other away. Jordan accepting the fact that he deserves all the good things really helped them move forward. I guessed the surprise Jordan was planning for Mac, that we got to see in the epilogue, but it was really cute!
The book was quite angsty, but I enjoyed reading Mac and Jordan's story. I loved how Jordan refered to Mac as his drummer even before everything. And I loved their terms of endearment for each other! I enjoyed the writing and it felt easy to read. I also loved Jordan's caretaking a lot.
Definitely worth a read if you want to read about a drummer and his bodyguard going from best friends and idiots to lovers.
I received a copy of this book from the Author, and this is my honest review.
February 18, 2025
This was an ARC from @raestone_ and her team and I greatly appreciate it!!
I haven't read the three previous books in this series, because they're MF. This is Rae's first MM book.
I don't want to give spoilers, but Mac, drummer from the famous band As Above, has been in love with his bodyguard Jordan for years. Jordan is always near him, keeping him company, making sure he eats, sleeping next to him. But Jordan is straight, and the desire Mac has for him is eating him up inside. It's hard to be near his best friend at this point because of how much Mac wants him.
When Jordan realizes that his presence seems to make his best friend and client completely miserable, Jordan asks for a change. The last thing he wants to do is cause Mac pain. Also Jordan could use the breather himself. He's having new, uncomfortable feelings for Mac, ones that confuse him and make him question his sexuality. He knows that time apart should provide some clarity.
But when days turn to weeks turn to months, Mac is miserable. He can't understand why the man he loves doesn't want to be near him anymore. But Mac knows nothing will ever come of his crush. The best thing to do is to cut ties now...and try to repair his broken heart.
This was a fast read, as I finished it in one sitting! Each book stands alone, but I think I could have picked up some more context from the first three books, so you may want to do that before diving into this one on Monday.
Rae's writing style is great, it sucks you in and shows more than tells. There is spice, but it's definitely not a super spicy book. I did feel like I was missing a bit of context and world building by not reading the others, so I suggest doing that if you want a more immersive experience.
Excited to see what other MM stories this author brings to us next!!
I haven't read the three previous books in this series, because they're MF. This is Rae's first MM book.
I don't want to give spoilers, but Mac, drummer from the famous band As Above, has been in love with his bodyguard Jordan for years. Jordan is always near him, keeping him company, making sure he eats, sleeping next to him. But Jordan is straight, and the desire Mac has for him is eating him up inside. It's hard to be near his best friend at this point because of how much Mac wants him.
When Jordan realizes that his presence seems to make his best friend and client completely miserable, Jordan asks for a change. The last thing he wants to do is cause Mac pain. Also Jordan could use the breather himself. He's having new, uncomfortable feelings for Mac, ones that confuse him and make him question his sexuality. He knows that time apart should provide some clarity.
But when days turn to weeks turn to months, Mac is miserable. He can't understand why the man he loves doesn't want to be near him anymore. But Mac knows nothing will ever come of his crush. The best thing to do is to cut ties now...and try to repair his broken heart.
This was a fast read, as I finished it in one sitting! Each book stands alone, but I think I could have picked up some more context from the first three books, so you may want to do that before diving into this one on Monday.
Rae's writing style is great, it sucks you in and shows more than tells. There is spice, but it's definitely not a super spicy book. I did feel like I was missing a bit of context and world building by not reading the others, so I suggest doing that if you want a more immersive experience.
Excited to see what other MM stories this author brings to us next!!
February 12, 2025
This book put me through it. The miscommunication was beyond frustrating—I nearly threw my Kindle. Six years of pining, longing, and bad decisions! Not in book time (which spans about two years), but in their lives. I was torn between wanting to shake them and being completely invested.
Mac, a rock band drummer, is in love with his best friend and bodyguard, Jordan. Jordan, convinced he’s straight, pulls away just as his feelings start to shift, leaving Mac heartbroken. When he finally asks for a chance, they still fail to communicate, dragging out the angst. This wasn’t friends to lovers—it was idiots to lovers.
The hurt/comfort was strong, especially in Jordan’s chapters while Mac was on tour. But the pacing felt off at times, and there were a lot of missing pieces. What exactly happened in Jordan’s past? Why couldn’t they be together a year ago? Why does Mac need therapy? Why isn’t he sleeping? Does Mac even know Jordan flew across the world for him? The story hinted at these things but never really explored them, which left me feeling like important moments were glossed over.
Though marketed as a standalone, some parts felt like they needed context from earlier books. Certain events seemed to reference past storylines, and a few plot points felt underdeveloped. The time jumps also weren’t always clear, which made it harder to stay fully engaged.
Despite my frustrations, their HEA was worth it. The emotional build-up was strong, and while not my favorite MM romance, I’d still give it 4 stars. If you love intense angst and characters who take way too long to figure things out, this book is for you.
🅡🅐🅣🅘🅝🅖
⭐⭐⭐⭐
🅢🅟🅘🅒🅔
🌶️🌶️🌶️
🅣🅡🅞🅟🅔🅢
🥁MM
🥁Bi-Awakening
🥁Rockstar
🥁Best Friends to Lovers
🥁It Was Always You
🥁Bodyguard
Mac, a rock band drummer, is in love with his best friend and bodyguard, Jordan. Jordan, convinced he’s straight, pulls away just as his feelings start to shift, leaving Mac heartbroken. When he finally asks for a chance, they still fail to communicate, dragging out the angst. This wasn’t friends to lovers—it was idiots to lovers.
The hurt/comfort was strong, especially in Jordan’s chapters while Mac was on tour. But the pacing felt off at times, and there were a lot of missing pieces. What exactly happened in Jordan’s past? Why couldn’t they be together a year ago? Why does Mac need therapy? Why isn’t he sleeping? Does Mac even know Jordan flew across the world for him? The story hinted at these things but never really explored them, which left me feeling like important moments were glossed over.
Though marketed as a standalone, some parts felt like they needed context from earlier books. Certain events seemed to reference past storylines, and a few plot points felt underdeveloped. The time jumps also weren’t always clear, which made it harder to stay fully engaged.
Despite my frustrations, their HEA was worth it. The emotional build-up was strong, and while not my favorite MM romance, I’d still give it 4 stars. If you love intense angst and characters who take way too long to figure things out, this book is for you.
🅡🅐🅣🅘🅝🅖
⭐⭐⭐⭐
🅢🅟🅘🅒🅔
🌶️🌶️🌶️
🅣🅡🅞🅟🅔🅢
🥁MM
🥁Bi-Awakening
🥁Rockstar
🥁Best Friends to Lovers
🥁It Was Always You
🥁Bodyguard
February 5, 2025
Rating: 4⭐️
Emotion: 4
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
I received an ARC of The Chance in exchange for an honest review.
It took me a little while to get into this one, it wasn’t until around 20% that I really felt I was fully invested in the story. From there I couldn’t put it down… let’s just say I was up until an ungodly hour so I could finish the book.
The Chance is book 4 in the As Above series and this can be read as a standalone, however I’m not sure if I would have connected with the characters earlier if I’d read the first 3. The first 3 are MF which I don’t read. So this is on me and nothing against the author.
The Chance was an emotional rollercoaster. The amount of angst and pining between Mac & Jordan almost gave me an anxiety attack. Don’t get me wrong I LOVE high angst books, but this was next level. The miscommunication between Mac & Jordan and the resulting fallouts had me all up in my feelings 😭 .. so make sure you have tissues handy when reading
The spicy scenes were 🤌🏻💋… like really hot and some of the best I’ve read.
I adored the relationship between Mac & Jordan. Both men were so blind to how the other felt and when they finally had an honest conversation without assuming what the other felt , wanted or needed my heart damn near exploded. They deserved their HEA
This was my first book by Rae Stone and I am looking forward to reading more in the future (especially any MM)
Favourite quote:
All I’ve ever seen is him since the moment I laid eyes on him. I know that now. That there was no other way for this to end up. No universe exists without him and me. No story where the two of us don’t make our own ending, together.
Emotion: 4
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
I received an ARC of The Chance in exchange for an honest review.
It took me a little while to get into this one, it wasn’t until around 20% that I really felt I was fully invested in the story. From there I couldn’t put it down… let’s just say I was up until an ungodly hour so I could finish the book.
The Chance is book 4 in the As Above series and this can be read as a standalone, however I’m not sure if I would have connected with the characters earlier if I’d read the first 3. The first 3 are MF which I don’t read. So this is on me and nothing against the author.
The Chance was an emotional rollercoaster. The amount of angst and pining between Mac & Jordan almost gave me an anxiety attack. Don’t get me wrong I LOVE high angst books, but this was next level. The miscommunication between Mac & Jordan and the resulting fallouts had me all up in my feelings 😭 .. so make sure you have tissues handy when reading
The spicy scenes were 🤌🏻💋… like really hot and some of the best I’ve read.
I adored the relationship between Mac & Jordan. Both men were so blind to how the other felt and when they finally had an honest conversation without assuming what the other felt , wanted or needed my heart damn near exploded. They deserved their HEA
This was my first book by Rae Stone and I am looking forward to reading more in the future (especially any MM)
Favourite quote:
All I’ve ever seen is him since the moment I laid eyes on him. I know that now. That there was no other way for this to end up. No universe exists without him and me. No story where the two of us don’t make our own ending, together.
February 10, 2025
The Chance is a rock star x bodyguard, second chance-ish romance with a lot of missing communinication between the characters.
It’s the 4th book in a series and it can be read as a standalone if you don’t care much about some missing plot points (or whole scenes/events) and scenes and/or people that don’t really make sense. I started the book with the thought that it can be read as a standalone but I wouldn’t agree to this. There are some events and plot points that are mentioned or happen between the chapters that are not told in this story so it’s sometimes confusing to read and understand whats happening and why.
And some things are not really realistic like a two year Europe tour (not happening) and they are only home for a three day visit after one year? While one of the the band members has young twins? But because I ignored some of the other plot holes I also ignored this.
But apart from these two points I really liked the story. Rock star x bodyguard is one of my all time favorite tropes so I knew I had to read it and I wasn’t disappointed. Mac and Jordan, Vida and Tyro, are best friends who really care for each other and spend their free time being close, sharing space and watching movies.
Mac is in love with his best friend for years but Jordan doesn’t know it. He thinks that he is the reason that kills Macs brightness and he decides to put space between them while all Mac wants is Jordan to choose him. Which leads each time to one of their miscommunications/break ups. They are each others missing piece and Mac is waiting for Jordan to catch up. The character growth was well done.
It’s the 4th book in a series and it can be read as a standalone if you don’t care much about some missing plot points (or whole scenes/events) and scenes and/or people that don’t really make sense. I started the book with the thought that it can be read as a standalone but I wouldn’t agree to this. There are some events and plot points that are mentioned or happen between the chapters that are not told in this story so it’s sometimes confusing to read and understand whats happening and why.
And some things are not really realistic like a two year Europe tour (not happening) and they are only home for a three day visit after one year? While one of the the band members has young twins? But because I ignored some of the other plot holes I also ignored this.
But apart from these two points I really liked the story. Rock star x bodyguard is one of my all time favorite tropes so I knew I had to read it and I wasn’t disappointed. Mac and Jordan, Vida and Tyro, are best friends who really care for each other and spend their free time being close, sharing space and watching movies.
Mac is in love with his best friend for years but Jordan doesn’t know it. He thinks that he is the reason that kills Macs brightness and he decides to put space between them while all Mac wants is Jordan to choose him. Which leads each time to one of their miscommunications/break ups. They are each others missing piece and Mac is waiting for Jordan to catch up. The character growth was well done.
July 11, 2025
The Chance by Rae Stone
4.25/5✨🌟
** SPOILER **
𝘔𝘢𝘤 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘳𝘵 𝘰𝘧 𝘴𝘰 𝘮𝘢𝘯𝘺 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨𝘴 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘮𝘦. 𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘦𝘯𝘵𝘳𝘺 𝘵𝘰 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘭𝘪𝘧𝘦, 𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘭𝘰𝘷𝘦, 𝘸𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘦 𝘐 𝘦𝘯𝘥 𝘶𝘱 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘩𝘪𝘮 𝘣𝘺 𝘮𝘺 𝘴𝘪𝘥𝘦. 𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘪𝘯𝘵𝘳𝘰𝘥𝘶𝘤𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯 𝘵𝘰 𝘮𝘺 𝘴𝘦𝘹𝘶𝘢𝘭𝘪𝘵𝘺, 𝘮𝘺 𝘤𝘢𝘳𝘦𝘦𝘳, 𝘮𝘺 𝘣𝘶𝘴𝘪𝘯𝘦𝘴𝘴. 𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘭𝘪𝘧𝘦 𝘐 𝘢𝘭𝘸𝘢𝘺𝘴 𝘸𝘢𝘯𝘵𝘦𝘥 𝘣𝘶𝘵 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘵𝘰𝘰 𝘢𝘧𝘳𝘢𝘪𝘥 𝘵𝘰 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘤𝘩 𝘧𝘰𝘳. 𝘐𝘵’𝘴 𝘢𝘭𝘮𝘰𝘴𝘵 𝘢𝘴 𝘪𝘧 𝘩𝘦 𝘬𝘯𝘦𝘸 𝘣𝘢𝘤𝘬 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘯. 𝘏𝘦 𝘮𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵 𝘣𝘦 𝘮𝘺 𝘭𝘪𝘧𝘦, 𝘣𝘶𝘵 𝘐’𝘮 𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘣𝘦𝘨𝘪𝘯𝘯𝘪𝘯𝘨.
This is the first book by Rae Stone that I’ve read and man, I was not disappointed by it. When I saw this arc, I ran for it!
Mac and Jordan were everything that I wanted and also did not because the lack of communication was so off. The drummer and the bodyguard that liked each other but didn’t know how to act on their feelings.
Mac’s been in love with his best friend/bodyguard for years and Jordan was just realizing how much he truly likes him or rather, loves him. It took these two an adventure to get where they were.
And holy heavens, what happened to Mac and Peaches, I wanted to cry because why?! But then things turned around and made me so happy.
The found family in this book was everything because they all had each other’s back. I loved how we got to see all the characters and how much they loved one another, especially how they were there for Mac’s follow up at the appointment. That was the sweetest moment ever.
And the spice… I loved every bit of it. It was steamy and made me want to see what kind of kinks these two were all about. I loved how Jordan was figuring it all out and how Mac was there for it all. I loved the pining that we got to see with these two and cannot wait to see who is next!
I received a copy of this book and this is my honest review.
4.25/5✨🌟
** SPOILER **
𝘔𝘢𝘤 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘳𝘵 𝘰𝘧 𝘴𝘰 𝘮𝘢𝘯𝘺 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨𝘴 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘮𝘦. 𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘦𝘯𝘵𝘳𝘺 𝘵𝘰 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘭𝘪𝘧𝘦, 𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘭𝘰𝘷𝘦, 𝘸𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘦 𝘐 𝘦𝘯𝘥 𝘶𝘱 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘩𝘪𝘮 𝘣𝘺 𝘮𝘺 𝘴𝘪𝘥𝘦. 𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘪𝘯𝘵𝘳𝘰𝘥𝘶𝘤𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯 𝘵𝘰 𝘮𝘺 𝘴𝘦𝘹𝘶𝘢𝘭𝘪𝘵𝘺, 𝘮𝘺 𝘤𝘢𝘳𝘦𝘦𝘳, 𝘮𝘺 𝘣𝘶𝘴𝘪𝘯𝘦𝘴𝘴. 𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘭𝘪𝘧𝘦 𝘐 𝘢𝘭𝘸𝘢𝘺𝘴 𝘸𝘢𝘯𝘵𝘦𝘥 𝘣𝘶𝘵 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘵𝘰𝘰 𝘢𝘧𝘳𝘢𝘪𝘥 𝘵𝘰 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘤𝘩 𝘧𝘰𝘳. 𝘐𝘵’𝘴 𝘢𝘭𝘮𝘰𝘴𝘵 𝘢𝘴 𝘪𝘧 𝘩𝘦 𝘬𝘯𝘦𝘸 𝘣𝘢𝘤𝘬 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘯. 𝘏𝘦 𝘮𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵 𝘣𝘦 𝘮𝘺 𝘭𝘪𝘧𝘦, 𝘣𝘶𝘵 𝘐’𝘮 𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘣𝘦𝘨𝘪𝘯𝘯𝘪𝘯𝘨.
This is the first book by Rae Stone that I’ve read and man, I was not disappointed by it. When I saw this arc, I ran for it!
Mac and Jordan were everything that I wanted and also did not because the lack of communication was so off. The drummer and the bodyguard that liked each other but didn’t know how to act on their feelings.
Mac’s been in love with his best friend/bodyguard for years and Jordan was just realizing how much he truly likes him or rather, loves him. It took these two an adventure to get where they were.
And holy heavens, what happened to Mac and Peaches, I wanted to cry because why?! But then things turned around and made me so happy.
The found family in this book was everything because they all had each other’s back. I loved how we got to see all the characters and how much they loved one another, especially how they were there for Mac’s follow up at the appointment. That was the sweetest moment ever.
And the spice… I loved every bit of it. It was steamy and made me want to see what kind of kinks these two were all about. I loved how Jordan was figuring it all out and how Mac was there for it all. I loved the pining that we got to see with these two and cannot wait to see who is next!
I received a copy of this book and this is my honest review.
February 4, 2025
This was my first Rae Stone book and I absolutely loved it.
It's a first person, dual point of view book about a gay rockstar and his "straight" bodyguard and it's angsty perfection!
Mac is the drummer for a popular band he formed with his brothers as a teenager and Jordan is Mac's bodyguard/best friend with a trauma filled past. He lost his parents to a fire when he was a teen, and developed a "anything good in my life never lasts" complex.
While Mac is secretly in love with Jordan, and has been for years, Jordan dedicates his life to keeping Mac safe and happy. Jordan would do anything for Mac, including walking away from him when he thinks he's the reason Mac has lost his spark.
The lack of communication between these two made me want to slap them both across the head! Even when you think they're finally getting their act together they go and screw it up again by not talking to each other. But it did make for great angst and an addictive read. Once I started I didn’t want to put this book down.
The plot is captivating, the characters, while frustrating at times, are relatable and loveable and the spice was just perfection.
Definitely recommend!
Story: 4.5⭐️
Spice: 3🌶
Vibes:
- Friends to strangers to lovers
- So much miscommunication
- Idiots to lovers
- Pining
- Bodyguard/rockstar
- Queer awakening
- Hurt/Comfort
- Clothes swapping
- Angst
- Bilingual MC
- HEA
It's a first person, dual point of view book about a gay rockstar and his "straight" bodyguard and it's angsty perfection!
Mac is the drummer for a popular band he formed with his brothers as a teenager and Jordan is Mac's bodyguard/best friend with a trauma filled past. He lost his parents to a fire when he was a teen, and developed a "anything good in my life never lasts" complex.
While Mac is secretly in love with Jordan, and has been for years, Jordan dedicates his life to keeping Mac safe and happy. Jordan would do anything for Mac, including walking away from him when he thinks he's the reason Mac has lost his spark.
The lack of communication between these two made me want to slap them both across the head! Even when you think they're finally getting their act together they go and screw it up again by not talking to each other. But it did make for great angst and an addictive read. Once I started I didn’t want to put this book down.
The plot is captivating, the characters, while frustrating at times, are relatable and loveable and the spice was just perfection.
Definitely recommend!
Story: 4.5⭐️
Spice: 3🌶
Vibes:
- Friends to strangers to lovers
- So much miscommunication
- Idiots to lovers
- Pining
- Bodyguard/rockstar
- Queer awakening
- Hurt/Comfort
- Clothes swapping
- Angst
- Bilingual MC
- HEA
February 12, 2025
Jordan and Mac's story at its very core is full of love. Mac's been in love with Jordan for years but has kept it to himself since his best friends is straight, or so he thought. Jordan on the other hand knows he feels some type of way about Mac but doesn't know how to put it into words, which leaves both men uncertain about the other's feelings. Throughout the course of this story we see both men go through different journeys of self growth, and self discovery.
If you want an angsty read that features a bodyguard/best friends to lovers romance then this book might be your next read! While I did like this book by the end of it, the constant back and forth between Mac and Jordan left me feeling uninterested in some parts of the story. Both of these men definitely needed to communicate better with each other, however, Mac not even letting Jordan try to talk and explain how he felt before he just sent him away, was a bit frustrating. I do understand the purpose of those angsty moments, I just think there could've been less of the hot 'n cold between these two men and it still would've been a great story. Other than that though I did like the story. Jordan may appear gruff towards others but he's an absolute teddy bear. The ending of the book where he shows Mac his surprise was so cute!
I liked that Mac and Jordan's relationship was different, and I loved the side characters! Especially Peach, he was awesome! Overall a good book from a new-to-me author.
If you want an angsty read that features a bodyguard/best friends to lovers romance then this book might be your next read! While I did like this book by the end of it, the constant back and forth between Mac and Jordan left me feeling uninterested in some parts of the story. Both of these men definitely needed to communicate better with each other, however, Mac not even letting Jordan try to talk and explain how he felt before he just sent him away, was a bit frustrating. I do understand the purpose of those angsty moments, I just think there could've been less of the hot 'n cold between these two men and it still would've been a great story. Other than that though I did like the story. Jordan may appear gruff towards others but he's an absolute teddy bear. The ending of the book where he shows Mac his surprise was so cute!
I liked that Mac and Jordan's relationship was different, and I loved the side characters! Especially Peach, he was awesome! Overall a good book from a new-to-me author.
February 13, 2025
This is my first book my Rae and I absolutely loved it, I now need to go back and read the previous books in the series but I absolutely don't think I've missed anything vital by reading this as a standalone.
My heart absolutely melted for this couple, it broke for Jordan who has always thought he was straight but now he's been having these fluttery feelings towards his best friend who is the drummer in a band and Jordan is his bodyguard so they're together a lot. The way these two act and support each other as best friends was beautiful to read and the glimpses into what each of them was thinking in those intimate moments was so honest and real that I spent most of the book wanting to tell at them to just talk to each other.
Mac has always known he liked guys but falling in love with his best friend who he knows is straight is not something he could avoid.
These two have some beautiful, sizzling and heartfelt moments between them, alongside the heartbreak when they just don't have the faith in what they're feeling to actually tell the other one. Anxiety and feeling like you'll never be good enough are crippling in this story and I want wanted the hug Jordan tight.
There is a HEA, when these two finally sort themselves out it's still not smooth sailing but it's sweet and it's honest. Rae's writing has blown me away and I'll be reading many more stories from this author.
My heart absolutely melted for this couple, it broke for Jordan who has always thought he was straight but now he's been having these fluttery feelings towards his best friend who is the drummer in a band and Jordan is his bodyguard so they're together a lot. The way these two act and support each other as best friends was beautiful to read and the glimpses into what each of them was thinking in those intimate moments was so honest and real that I spent most of the book wanting to tell at them to just talk to each other.
Mac has always known he liked guys but falling in love with his best friend who he knows is straight is not something he could avoid.
These two have some beautiful, sizzling and heartfelt moments between them, alongside the heartbreak when they just don't have the faith in what they're feeling to actually tell the other one. Anxiety and feeling like you'll never be good enough are crippling in this story and I want wanted the hug Jordan tight.
There is a HEA, when these two finally sort themselves out it's still not smooth sailing but it's sweet and it's honest. Rae's writing has blown me away and I'll be reading many more stories from this author.
February 18, 2025
4.5⭐️ 3🌶
I love a good, messy relationship, and this has it. It's got a stressful among of angst , friends to lovers, miscommunication filled book with a great demi rep bi awakening mm romance.
Mac has had it bad for his bodyguard/best friend Jordan for a really long time. But Mac feels like he can't have Jordan because Jordan identifies as straight. Mac pines so hard for Jordan that it compromises his mental health even more. Here comes the heartbreak cuse Jordan will do anything to keep Mac safe, even more than just being his bodyguard. He wants to keep Mac happy, too. So much so that he walks out of Macs life because he feels he is the cause for Macs diminished spark. This all leads up to an awful fallout while Jordan starts to realize he is attracted to Mac and also has deeper feelings. Once they both go through a separation and therapy, do they learn to listen to each other and how to talk about their feelings do we finally get some real happiness...not because that was an awfully painful 3 act twist I didn't see coming.
This is a hard fought HEA that takes years to come to fruition. I laughed, cried, got so frustrated, and fell in love with them both, but Jordan stole my heart.
I can't wait to go back and read the first 3 books in this series. I'm so intrigued.
Thank you, Rea, for allowing me to read this as an ARC in exchange for my honest feelings and opinions.
I love a good, messy relationship, and this has it. It's got a stressful among of angst , friends to lovers, miscommunication filled book with a great demi rep bi awakening mm romance.
Mac has had it bad for his bodyguard/best friend Jordan for a really long time. But Mac feels like he can't have Jordan because Jordan identifies as straight. Mac pines so hard for Jordan that it compromises his mental health even more. Here comes the heartbreak cuse Jordan will do anything to keep Mac safe, even more than just being his bodyguard. He wants to keep Mac happy, too. So much so that he walks out of Macs life because he feels he is the cause for Macs diminished spark. This all leads up to an awful fallout while Jordan starts to realize he is attracted to Mac and also has deeper feelings. Once they both go through a separation and therapy, do they learn to listen to each other and how to talk about their feelings do we finally get some real happiness...not because that was an awfully painful 3 act twist I didn't see coming.
This is a hard fought HEA that takes years to come to fruition. I laughed, cried, got so frustrated, and fell in love with them both, but Jordan stole my heart.
I can't wait to go back and read the first 3 books in this series. I'm so intrigued.
Thank you, Rea, for allowing me to read this as an ARC in exchange for my honest feelings and opinions.
February 2, 2025
⭐️ 4.5
🌶️ 2 1/2
🥁MM
🥁Friends-Idiots-lovers
🥁Demi rep
🥁high angst
🥁Slow burn
Rae really had us pulling our hair out with this miscommunication trope between Mac and Jordan. These two were the definition of Friends to utter idiots lol. Everyone could see how much they loved and wanted each other but the two people themselves. It was painful when Jordan decided to distance himself because he believed him being around hurt Mac. And oh my goodness when Mac took it so personally that he felt he wasn’t being chosen and continued to grow the divide between Jordan and himself I was on the brink of madness between them. I loved when they finally had their final blow up it felt cathartic to watch their miscommunication and terrible decisions to not listen to what the other person was not explicitly saying result in a year long separation where they could really reflect on themselves. I’m happy Jordan was able to come to terms and a comfortable spot with himself and that Mac was okay to sit in silence to wait out Jordan’s silence so he could speak his feelings without the pressure. These two characters had me fighting for their HEA right along with them and Rae Stone almost had us nose diving into despair with what happens to Mac and Peach 😤 but she saves us from irrefutable trauma in the end.
I Received an ARC of this book for free and am posting a review voluntarily
🌶️ 2 1/2
🥁MM
🥁Friends-Idiots-lovers
🥁Demi rep
🥁high angst
🥁Slow burn
Rae really had us pulling our hair out with this miscommunication trope between Mac and Jordan. These two were the definition of Friends to utter idiots lol. Everyone could see how much they loved and wanted each other but the two people themselves. It was painful when Jordan decided to distance himself because he believed him being around hurt Mac. And oh my goodness when Mac took it so personally that he felt he wasn’t being chosen and continued to grow the divide between Jordan and himself I was on the brink of madness between them. I loved when they finally had their final blow up it felt cathartic to watch their miscommunication and terrible decisions to not listen to what the other person was not explicitly saying result in a year long separation where they could really reflect on themselves. I’m happy Jordan was able to come to terms and a comfortable spot with himself and that Mac was okay to sit in silence to wait out Jordan’s silence so he could speak his feelings without the pressure. These two characters had me fighting for their HEA right along with them and Rae Stone almost had us nose diving into despair with what happens to Mac and Peach 😤 but she saves us from irrefutable trauma in the end.
I Received an ARC of this book for free and am posting a review voluntarily
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 16, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
I know it’s early, but I’m going on record that this will be in my top 5 favorite reads for 2025! I am always deeply moved with a good mental health rep and Rae Stone did not disappoint with Mac and Jordan. Add in the beautifully written angst and hurt/comfort and you get something truly special.
Mac is someone I desperately wanted to reach into the pages and hug from the get-go. There’s such a rawness to how he views himself and the people around him that makes him incredibly relatable.
And then there’s Jordan – someone who seems a bit removed in his ambiguity but no less captivating. His struggle to communicate openly costs him so much but I really love that it all comes full circle.
I went in thinking the mental health rep was going to be my favorite part and, while it is beautifully depicted, it is not my favorite part of this book. There is a lot of depth surrounding the Queer-awakening throughout the book, but when it all comes to a head it is truly moving. There are so many ways to go about representation and I love that this author went the direction she did. I don’t often cry over books, but the tears shed were a lot and the smiles they brought on after were big. The whole book is so well written, but that part was absolute top tier.
As always, please check your triggers, but I highly recommend this book!
🌶️🌶️🌶️
I know it’s early, but I’m going on record that this will be in my top 5 favorite reads for 2025! I am always deeply moved with a good mental health rep and Rae Stone did not disappoint with Mac and Jordan. Add in the beautifully written angst and hurt/comfort and you get something truly special.
Mac is someone I desperately wanted to reach into the pages and hug from the get-go. There’s such a rawness to how he views himself and the people around him that makes him incredibly relatable.
And then there’s Jordan – someone who seems a bit removed in his ambiguity but no less captivating. His struggle to communicate openly costs him so much but I really love that it all comes full circle.
I went in thinking the mental health rep was going to be my favorite part and, while it is beautifully depicted, it is not my favorite part of this book. There is a lot of depth surrounding the Queer-awakening throughout the book, but when it all comes to a head it is truly moving. There are so many ways to go about representation and I love that this author went the direction she did. I don’t often cry over books, but the tears shed were a lot and the smiles they brought on after were big. The whole book is so well written, but that part was absolute top tier.
As always, please check your triggers, but I highly recommend this book!
February 17, 2025
The Chance ARC Review:
Mac and Jordan 🧡
Over the years that Jordan has been a bodyguard for Mac, who is the famous drummer of the band As Above, their professional relationship grows into a friendship. As Mac fights the weight of the unrequited love he has for Jordan from eating at him, Jordan notices changes in Mac he doesn't quite understand. At the same time, Jordan becomes aware of changes in himself that he has trouble pinpointing the cause, let alone the meaning, of. Here is where their story begins.
The Chance made me have watery eyes and stuttered breathing throughout the whole book. I found the angst between them to be understandable, as both men needed time to grow in their own ways. Doesn't mean that I wasn't heartbroken for them during their moments of pain, just means that the HEA was worth it. My feelings on Jordan changed as he understood more of himself, but there were plenty of times that I wanted to also toss things at him. I ended up loving him though! Mac was a lot easier for me to root for at first, and I did like that he tried to make himself clear on where he stood with his feelings once Jordan became aware of them and the pain that Mac carries.
If you’re looking for an angsty book where the leads need time to get things right, this could be just what you are looking for!
5/5🌟
Mac and Jordan 🧡
Over the years that Jordan has been a bodyguard for Mac, who is the famous drummer of the band As Above, their professional relationship grows into a friendship. As Mac fights the weight of the unrequited love he has for Jordan from eating at him, Jordan notices changes in Mac he doesn't quite understand. At the same time, Jordan becomes aware of changes in himself that he has trouble pinpointing the cause, let alone the meaning, of. Here is where their story begins.
The Chance made me have watery eyes and stuttered breathing throughout the whole book. I found the angst between them to be understandable, as both men needed time to grow in their own ways. Doesn't mean that I wasn't heartbroken for them during their moments of pain, just means that the HEA was worth it. My feelings on Jordan changed as he understood more of himself, but there were plenty of times that I wanted to also toss things at him. I ended up loving him though! Mac was a lot easier for me to root for at first, and I did like that he tried to make himself clear on where he stood with his feelings once Jordan became aware of them and the pain that Mac carries.
If you’re looking for an angsty book where the leads need time to get things right, this could be just what you are looking for!
5/5🌟
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