Strange Lad

Dreadful Boys #2

by Myka Loren

I never meant to keep this secret for so long.

I also never meant for this secret to twist and bend into something…more.

Suffering from an insatiable hero complex has been a real issue, which might explain my need to keep Oli close.

It might explain why I wanted nothing more than to help him.

What it doesn’t explain is my attraction, which grows more with every day that passes.

Being his friend has made me question everything about myself whilst simultaneously opening my eyes to the beautiful heart he hides behind layers of impenetrable armor.

I should put a stop to it all. I should come clean.

Every moment we spend together puts my band and friendships at risk.

That’s what happens when you walk hand in hand with a strange lad…

You never want to let go.

Strange Lad is an MM romance intended for an 18+ audience. Content Warnings to be advised and can be found in the front matter of the book.

Genres: M M Romance, Romance, Friends To Lovers, Slow Burn, Gay, Audiobook, Adult

335 pages, Kindle Edition

Published February 21, 2025

Reviews

[alex :) · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars!
this book was definitely an emotional rollercoaster. i genuinely believe that jorge and oli were meant to be together. i love a good story where one of the MCs is pining for the other and hoping that they’ll reciprocate their feelings. when it finally happens, it feels like such an intense kind of love. with all this said, i do want to get into why this is an overall 3.5 stars for me. upon requesting this arc, i was aware that this story would not follow in book 1’s footsteps, which was full of toxicity between the two main characters. as someone who loves toxic relationships in books, it’s no surprise that this one didn’t quite scratch the itch that i needed it to. any disagreements or “fights” between oli and jorge were resolved very quickly. good for them, but sucks for me because i love the back and forth and groveling that comes after a fight. though, on the other hand, it makes sense that they weren’t fighting much. they had great chemistry and communication, which is part of what kept me intrigued with the story. it was different from what i typically read, but i enjoyed it nonetheless!

also, once again, myka has me gasping at the sneak peaks we get for the next book. just like beneath cherry blossom memories, book three seems like it’s right up my alley. i’m super excited to learn more about it! thank you myka loren for the arc! this is my honest review.

[safeya ༒︎ · Rating 3 out of 5]

i love reading about big and soft marshmallows falling in love 😭

jorge and oli were so cute!! i adored them and i enjoyed seeing glimpses of eli and phoenix 🫶🏼

also the ENDING?? i was expecting to see devon and michael being a thing but THAT?? i did not see coming. i’m excited tho icl 🤭

quotes:

“Once an addict, always an addict. And Jorge was my first addiction.”

“I want his sunshine, not his rain. I’ll drown in it.”

“I will always need you,” I tell him gently.

“I think I’d love him even in another life. I’m not religious or spiritual. The possibility of a life after this one seems silly—farfetched. If there was one, I could see myself falling for him all over again.”

[Elodie Melody · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beta read review : ❤️
I was waiting for that story like my next breath and I was not disappointed !
I was invested in Oli’s story since book 1.

At first i thought the book would be packed with a lot of angst, at least as much as book 1 but Jorge is bringing so much fun to the story ~ I love my little needy singer ! I couldn’t get enough of him.
He brings light and fun to the story as much as he brings it into Oli’s life.
Was Oli life easy ? No. Did I forgot to breathe at some point in the book? Yes. Did I cry like my grandma died again? Yes !
The backstory of Oli wanted me to go inside the book, wrap him in a blankie & cuddle him like there is no tomorrow and whisper loving words.

Jorge & Oli are just the perfect match~
They are the cinnamon rolls I would burn the world for.

I was super happy to see Phoenix again, and my pretty Eli. I was super happy to have their “we are fighting for our happy ending”, especially with Eli keeping his sobriety. 🥰
Contrary to book 1, addiction is still a huge topic in this book, but we have the other side of it, we are deep into being sober, healing and keeping the fight.

Book 1 was amazing but book 2 is my absolute favorite and will be for a very long time.
I honestly cannot wait long enough to read book 3.

I thank again the author to allow me to be a part of this amazing journey !

[lakshmi · Rating 4 out of 5]

“What was that for?”
“To pull you out of whatever dark hole you went into.”
“How do you know that? That I go to that place sometimes.”
I shrug, “Your eyes stop shining.”



I’m sort of, kind of, maybe falling in love with this series. it’s so messy and chaotic and emotional; it’s hitting every mark for me. it’s definitely an acquired taste lmao, I’m sure many will find problematic elements in the storyline but i genuinely loved how flawed all the characters were. There was no perfect reaction or even smooth sailing, it was all rough edges and a lot of crying. a lot of crying .

read trigger warnings

so so excited to the read next book! the little teasers at the end of each book are literal crumbs that’s gonna keep me fed for god knows how long😭😭


“You are mine. My love. My novio. My babe. I feel like I’m going to explode because I love you so much.”
Oli buries his face in my throat, ignoring the cum there, and shakes in my arms. “I finally got you,” he croaks, voice raw. “I finally got you.”
“You got me beautiful. I’m yours.”

[Mary Rose · Rating 5 out of 5]

I would give Jorge a billion stars if I could. He is the bestest bestie that EVER was, and I would do ANYTHING for Jorge, if only he were real. *sigh*

This book has its share of trauma, but never between Oli and Jorge. They are the definition of co-dependent and perfect for one another. I absolutely adore the both of them.

Oli started mending his relationship with Phoenix, and I was so happy to see the support from the rest of his family too.

I couldn't get a handle on the tension between Devon and Michael and Devon and Lex. IS IT TOO MUCH TO ASK FOR A THROUPLE, PLEASE?! Seriously, it would be awesome, but I guess I'll take what you give me. You haven't steered us wrong yet! ;)

[Mal · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is phenomenal.. I was pretty heavily attached to book one after I read it so I may be biased but these books are polar opposites and I am blown away by the breadth of the authors talent to tell such impactful stories.

This is heartbreakingly beautifully messy in all sorts of ways. There are no easy outs or convenient solutions in this one, the MCs work very hard for what they build with each other . I do wish a lot worse happens to one person but no spoilers

My heart went out to Oli, wanting something so badly and being unable to have it on so many levels. And Jorge, his identity coming from being needed, floundering and drowning in his own needs. Jorge really is adorable and they both needed to be protected at all costs. Parts of Oli’s story are truly heartbreaking and quite hard to read. These two were perfect for each other, it made me glad they found each other, have each other.

Despite the heavy themes and the tough issues the book navigates, between Oli and Jorge, even with the caution there is a lightness and innocent curiosity and sweet pining to their interactions which I absolutely loved. In some ways this story is set in limbo, frozen in the past and in others it’s striding ahead and pushing for the characters to grow and change, to take a chance, to strive for more - it’s a stunning dichotomy that kept me from having the choice to put it down even for a bit.

I love this interconnected world the author has built.. do I like Lex I don’t know, I like Devon, can’t wait to read more.

I also loved the way things were exposed and developed between Pheonix and Oli.
This book has a ton of sensitive themes though so read the trigger warnings if you need.

Expect:
* friends to lovers
* vocalistXmechanic
* secret relationship
* touch aversionXtouch starved
* Sexual Awakening
* swoony
* trauma & addiction recovery rep
* Slow burn
* Snark
* Banter
* Opposites attract
* Black cat x golden retriever
* Unexpected humour
* Pining
* Unrequited love
* Estranged brother’s best friend
* Size difference
* Dirty talk
* Found family

[Lily · Rating 5 out of 5]

*ARC review*
This was such an emotional and deeply touching journey. The story and vibes are completely different from what we had in book one it's more delicate and raw in some way. I laughed and cried with these characters. The pain thier experience hurt my soul, their healing put my broken heart back together.

If you've met Jorge, you know he is such a lovable and warm character with a heart double the average size. He brings sunshine on the cloudy days, and if there is someone who deserves happiness, it is definitely him. He found himself in the situation when he had to lie to his best friend to protect the person who unexpectedly over time became an integral part of his life. You can tell it hurts him to keep the secret, and he understands that there will be consequences one everything is out, but there is simply nothing he wouldn't do for Oli. The way Jorge expresses his love to others can be described as touchy for sure, and I adore him for it. So what will happen when the person who he slowly falls for avoids physical contact at all costs...
Oli, when he was introduced in book 1, you had that nagging feeling that he had a dark story to tell. That something pushed him towards life choices he made. To learn the whole truth about his past was heartbreaking. We see his struggles, but mostly, we see how truly strong he is to overcome his addiction to fight the darkness inside him. There couldn't be a better person to hold him together than Jorge. The patience and care he had for Oli was everything. I was cheering for them on the sidelines because they both deserved hea.

Please check TW before you dive in because there are some things that won't be suitable to read for everyone.

I can't express enough how much I loved this book. I'm very excited about the riot the book 3 will bring.

[peoniesandmm · Rating 5 out of 5]

stop it right now, this book was perfection! oli & jorge forever & ever <3

convinced myka loren can do no wrong in her books & proven correct every time.

[Sofi · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Once an addict, always an addict. And Jorge was my first addiction.”

Yep, I cried... a lot. After the incredibly toxic relationship between Eli and Phoenix in the first book of this series, I was expecting this one to be somewhat similar—but wow, was I wrong. I wasn’t ready for the sweetness and heart melting cuteness of Jorge and Oli. They’re basically the complete opposite of the couple before, and it was beautiful. I loved it so, so much!

“It’s my job to bring you out of the dark place.”
His chest heaves, a clicking sound coming from his throat while he swallows. “And it’s my job to make sure you don’t get stuck in it with me.”

Jorge, you beautiful, sweet, caring, and oh so needy man—I adore you! The way he craves physical touch, how he constantly wants to care for and help everyone… he really had a hero complex. And yet, his insecurities broke my heart, especially when he described people forgetting about him after he supported them. He’s one of those characters that just feels like he needs to be protected forever. His patience with Oli and the way he loves was so healing and beautiful. He’s such an emotional character, and I could relate to him so much in that sense—especially when he cried simply because he was witnessing someone else’s emotional moment. That empathy of his? I felt so connected to it.

“That’s the thing about being a hero. You can save everyone, but when your heart is running on fumes, all those people you helped and gave every inch to forget that it needs to go both ways. Sometimes, the hero needs to be saved, even if it’s harder to see. And that is what makes Oli stand out. When all my friends forget about me and go on with their lives, Oli makes sure to remind me that I’m important in his. I am never not wanted.”

“I will always need you,” I tell him gently, folding my hands in my lap.
“Yeah?”
“Mhm.”
“Think you just gave my heart a seizure, Oli,” he says through a husky laugh. His eyes flutter in pleasure, savoring my admission. “Feels good to know that.”
“I mean it.”

Oli absolutely broke my heart. His story, his experience with addiction and the trauma that stole so much from him, made me feel everything: anger, sadness, unfairness, but also happiness in watching his growth. It was slow, not linear, but seeing him take each step toward healing was so moving. I hated that he felt unsupported for so long, that he couldn’t rely on his family, but I was so relieved there wasn’t an actual relapse in this book. It was heartbreaking to see him fight those urges, but I loved how Jorge was there for him and how he learned to lean on that support. Oli wasn’t a hard character to love, he wasn’t perfect, and he broke my heart in so many ways. Seeing him happy and finally getting justice at the end truly meant everything.

“I’ve never done this before. This intimacy. The pet names. But because it’s you, I feel safe to do it—to want it. And I want this with you. I…want you to be my baby and my kitten. I want you, Jorge. If you’ll have me.”

“He said he loves me, but I’ve loved him for twelve years. And before that, I loved him. It was innocent, soft, and careful but always there. I think I’d love him even in another life. I’m not religious or spiritual. The possibility of a life after this one seems silly—farfetched. If there was one, I could see myself falling for him all over again.”

The thing that I love the most about these two is the friendship they developed, and seeing how it evolved slowly but so beautifully made me so happy. I love how patient Jorge was, even though he was literally dying to touch and be intimate with Oli, he knew that what mattered most was maintaining the trust they had built and making Oli feel safe. It just warmed my heart how the little touches meant so much to both of them. Their intimacy started slow and innocent, but the impact was so palpable—I could feel how monumental it was, especially for Oli, whose trauma didn’t allow him to touch someone else as freely. A bop on the nose, touching pinkies, and especially the trust game, it was just so emotional to see Oli take those steps and to see Jorge’s love for physical touch fulfilled by the one person he wanted it from the most. They were adorable together, and their relationship was healing for both of them. It was a true friends to lovers, emotionally charged slow burn.

I reach over and boop his nose. He gasps. Full-on gasps. His eyes snap to mine in part shock and part horror. “What was that for?”
“To pull you out of whatever dark hole you went into.”
We stare at each other, static crawling up my arms and making the hairs stand erect. His breaths are shallow, few and far between. “How do you know that? That I go to that place sometimes.”
I shrug, maneuvering to sit on my butt. “Your eyes stop shining.”

“Sometimes,” he swallows, “I don’t want to sleep because I’m afraid if I do, I’ll wake up and realize this has been a dream.”
“Us?” I study his pinched face.
“You could have anyone you want,” he says instead of answering me. “I don’t get why you’re trying so hard for me. Why you haven’t given up.”
“Because you’re my fucking person, Oli. And I won’t give up on my person.”

The communication between them was just incredible. They actually talked things out, listened to each other, didn’t assume anything, and didn’t lie. And in the few moments when they did slip up, instead of getting mad and shutting down, they heard the other’s explanation and tried to understand. It was just so beautiful and refreshing. Miscommunication? These two don’t know her. Jorge and Oli were so beautiful together. I adored the development of their relationship—and the pet names?! Ugh, I loved it! Normally I don’t like “kitten,” but the way Jorge reacted to it was everything. And then there was “beautiful” and “baby”—yesss, I absolutely lovee it. Seeing Oli work through and start to overcome his trauma with Jorge’s support was everything. He wanted that intimacy so badly, but I loved that he didn’t force himself and Jorge didn’t force him either. Oli listened to his body and established boundaries, moved at his own pace, and Jorge respected that. That’s what made it possible for them to reach the level of intimacy they both craved.

“You don’t need to fix me. The only thing I ask is that you stay with me. I think I’ll be okay as long as I have that.”
“I’m not going anywhere. Ever.”

“Why are you mad at me?” he whimpers, wrapping his arms around his middle protectively.
“Because I don’t want to be just your friend. I don’t want to be loved like you love everyone else. I want for once in my goddamn life to be number one to someone. And I want that someone to be you,” I purge the thoughts in my head, knowing I could never lie about this. Not now.
“You are my number one. How do you not see that? Everything I’ve done for the past year has been for you. I’m risking everything for you. I don’t know what else to do to prove that, Oliver.”

“I know he understands that we were always meant to be together, just not then. I needed to go through my life drowning so I could remind myself that I knew how to swim. And he needed me to show him how.”

And that brings me to the spice in this book, although slow moving, it was really hot. I love that Jorge, even though he thought he was straight for most of his life, just jumped into it, knowing what he loved, and wow—I said it before and I’ll say it again, this man is soooo needy for Oli and I love it! Seeing Oli grow more confident each time, getting bolder with his touch, his dirty talk, and what he allowed Jorge to do, it was so much sweeter because we as readers have seen how hard it was for him to give the simplest touches. And not only with the sex scenes, but also with the hugs and little touches on the chest, hair, fingers—it was not sexual, but the author was able to portray those moments so emotionally charged with want and desire that it actually felt more sexual than they should have.

“I think this is all you can take, kitten. It’s just too tight.”
“Ohmygod.”
“Do you like being tight for me?”
“Yes,” he whines.
“Too tight for cock?”
“YES!”

“Bend over more, baby. Let me see you.” My eyelids flutter as my eyes roll in pleasure. I fold in half, pressing my ass right in his face. “I’m going to eat you out, kitten. And I want you to come just from my tongue. Can you do that?” he asks, swiping a wet digit over my fluttering hole.
“Yes.”
“Because this sweet hole is just too small for cock. We have to get you ready.”
Oh, fucking fuck. “That is so hot,”

This book really made me cry. There was definitely less drama involving the MMCs’ relationship, there was no toxicity, but man, my empathy wasn’t prepared for the amount of emotional bombs this book threw at me. The results of Oli’s trauma were so raw and just horrible to witness—it was sad. So, obviously, every time he got triggered, I cried. And then when he told Phoenix, I broke again. And his family… yep, I was in tears. It’s really not hard for a book to make me tear up, but when it actually makes me shed big, fat tears—that’s something else, and this book did that.

“I found you homeless, strung out, stinky, and so fucking sad. I found you desperate, scared, and alone in the world. But guess what?” I prompt. He blinks away his anger, replacing it with something softer. “I didn’t give you a home. I didn’t get you sober and clean. That was you, babe. All you. You wanted it badly enough to reach for it.”

“If you want vengeance, I will ruin his life for you. If you want to tell your family, I will hold your hand and be beside you. If you want to cry, I will hold you for however long it takes. But I promise you this, Oli, I will never ever not believe you.”

“It happened under our roof. We were there. We should’ve…”
“You couldn’t have,” Oli finally lifts his head, “I made sure no one knew. I…I didn’t make any noise.” (Reading this broke me in ways I can’t even describe)

Oli's relationship with his brother had me torn. I understand his anger towards Phoenix, and he is allowed to feel what he feels—I’m not taking that away—but I just don’t like the amount of blame he places on him. I hated how Oli treated Phoenix; it felt more like a punishment. That said, I feel conflicted saying this because I believe everyone is allowed to react how they want when it comes to trauma, even if it’s not always the right way. I’m glad, though, that in the end they are able to talk and start repairing their relationship.

“I broke our promise. It’s taken me up until this fucking moment to realize it, but I did. No matter what.”
“I broke our promise too,” Oli crumbles over his words. “The one I pretend I didn’t make. The one I don’t even acknowledge because I can’t blame you anymore.”
“What are you talking about?”
“Brothers forever. That was what I said.” I watch as they inch closer.

On the other hand, I’m glad Phoenix’s relationship with Jorge was not completely destroyed. I understand why Jorge decided to keep it a secret, but I also understand Phoenix’s anger and hurt. I’m just glad they resolved it, and that last fight was funny—it really shows what their friendship is. I love them, and all the platonic hugs were so cute. I also love the growing relationship between Oli and Eli, but I hate that we only got one scene of them actually talking about their individual experiences with addiction. I also loved seeing a less toxic relationship between Phoenix and Eli.

“No one tells another person everything. Some secrets are meant just for yourself. I know that Oli wasn’t one of those secrets, but by the time I realized we should tell you, I was hooked. Full-blown addicted, Phoenix. And it’s not just because he needs me. Not anymore. When I’m with him, my mind is still. I’m not searching because I’ve found.”

This book was so good! I remember how much I loved the first one (I cried with that one too), so I wasn’t expecting anything less than 5 stars—if a book makes me feel this deeply, you bet I’ll give it a high rating, and this one made me feel so, so much. I am beyond excited for the third book; that little glimpse we got made me desperate to have it and read it now. I have to admit, every scene with Devon and Michael had me thinking the third book would be about them, but the tension between Devon and Lex?! Yes! I need that book immediately!

“You are mine. My love. My novio. My babe. I feel like I’m going to explode because I love you so much.”
Oli buries his face in my throat, ignoring the cum there, and shakes in my arms. “I finally got you,” he croaks, voice raw. “I finally got you.”
“You got me beautiful. I’m yours.”

[Lore]

I`ll get right to the point : I absolutely loved Jorje and Oli and they are my babies. 🥹💕
These two were the epitome of care and MMCs supporting each other. They start off by building trust and a close friendship, which slowly but surely turns into a love story. And let me just say, faith in humanity restored!
While Oli needs to be protected at all costs, Jorje is the perfect caretaker, navigating his own insecurities but constantly trying to see the best of all situations and I absolutely loved this ray of sunshine! 🥹
As always and in true Myka fashion, we don't lack our fair share of trauma and angst, but this only makes the love story even more rewarding.
Totally recommend this series!

“I don’t get why you’re trying so hard for me. Why you haven’t given up.”

“Because you’re my fucking person, Oli. And I won’t give up on my person.”

“You’re my person, too.”

Tropes:

🖤Friends to Lovers
🖤Bi-Awakening
🖤Hurt/Comfort
🖤Recovering Add!ct
🖤Secret Romance
🖤Trauma/PTSD

[Alisia alis_reads_ · Rating 5 out of 5]

Yet again here I am, as I don’t do written reviews often unless a book truly moves me. And this one did…AGAIN.

If you read book 1, just know that book 2 (this book) is the complete opposite. Book 1 was toxic and manipulative and full of tension which I loved. AND I LOVED Book 2 as well. I loved both books for different reasons.

Strange Lad is very swoon worthy, adorable, cutesy and HEALING! It’s still very Myka and full of emotions and depth. It’s also a delightful SLOW BURN!!! Oh honey, Myka made me work for it. With them being Friends-to-lovers, making this a slow burn was perfect because it kept my attention and the moments of “Will they touch, or won’t they” was great!

Jeorge (Kitten) is our sunshine bby whose love language is physical touch and I just love how attentive and understanding he is with Oli. Some of the things Jeorge says made me laugh so hard! (The marble story 😂) I love good humor in my books👌 makes the characters more likable.

Oli is the opposite and is touch adverse for reasons you find out in the book. However, he WANTS to touch Jeorge but he has trauma and demons in his head. Also Oli used to have a HUGE crush on Jeorge when they were kids and that just made me love them more! How deep their relationship went back! Ugh I love them!!

Oli is currently sober but used to numb his trauma with addiction.He’s still early in his recovery which gets tested in this book. His reasons for pushing people away (specifically Phoenix) were understandable in my eyes. No one was there for him when he needed it. And I’m so proud of him for all he overcame in this book. Jeorge was there for him and I love their relationship.


Oli and Jeorge are so fucking cute. I was melting when their pinkies touched. Go read it!!

[FluffyRN · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow... After the absolute toxic AF relationship between Eli and Phoenix in Beneath Cherry Blossom Memories I needed this book. Jorge and Oli *sigh* they were just the sweetest thing!! I loved their friendship. I loved that they had such a solid friendship that slowly developed into something more than friends and it wasn't some instalove and lust. That made their relationship so much nore real. Jorge was so patient with Oli and that melted my heart. I swear through this whole book I was just a puddle of goo. And Oli, he broke my heart. The stuff this guy went through was awful. Not gonna lie I cried a few times. That ending though was so satisfying!!!

And come on, Kittten!? Seriously! That pet name made me swoon and giggle. 💙🩷🤍

This was a great book and I'm excited for the next one!!

[Ellie ♡ · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book. It deals with tough topics like sexual assault and drugs, but it’s also very sweet. Jorge is the sweetest bean ever, he’s been so patient with Oli, first as a friend and a support, and then as a boyfriend.

Oli’s an addict in recovery but behind this hides even more trauma. He’s been through a lot and faced everything alone. Now, he’s finally found his person and I’m so happy for him.

There was bit of drama with Phoenix but it was expected. In the end, these two boys have found each other and their bond is indestructible.

[Tess · Rating 3 out of 5]

I'm rounding up to 3. it's so low because I'm upset ok? This is probably an unpopular opinion but I didn't like Oli very much! He deliberately set out to hurt Phoenix. How can you lie to someone and blame them for believing you and not magically knowing what actually happened? WTF???

And he spent 8 fucking years blaming phoenix. Not fair. I'm not saying Phoenix is blameless but come on. Look at this objectively from both sides...

Then he set out to use Jorge to hurt Phoenix further. Almost ruining Jorge and Phoenix's relationship.

Look, I agree that Phoenix hurt Oli for not listening when Oli tried to talk. But it wasn't malicious. Phoenix was grieving, it wasn't like he blew Oli off to go see the movies.

And let's not forget that Phoenix had no idea about the drugs because practically everyone in the family knew but him. Always keeping him in the dark. Asides pressing further there was no way for Phoenix to know anything without being told.

And Oli repeatedly lied even tho the brothers didn't lie to each other. So, what do you want from Phoenix really?

Meanwhile, Olis bloodthirsty revenge was definitely intentional and malicious. And that's not cool. Deliberately hurting someone you're supposed to love. He wanted payback for Phoenix failure to be there for him. And he ensured that Jorge's betrayal to Phoenix was the worst of it all. Phoenix's annoyance with Jorge was so so justified and he forgave him too quickly.

Jorge knew how torn up Phoenix was over Oli, worrying, hurting and regretting. But he kept silent. Yes, he was respecting Olis wishes which I can't fault him for but that's why I said Oli weaponized Jorge. He knew making Jorge keep his secret will strain Phoenix relationship with Jorge but he didn't care. Selfish much?

Jorge was too sweet and too much of a pushover to have done the right thing. Which is try harder to talk to Oli about Phoenix. And Oli knew this. Oli also knew how torn up and uncomfortable Jorge was over repeatedly lying to Phoenix. but he didn't care.

I really don't get most of the blame Oli put on Phoenix.

I was just so upset and so I didn't even get to enjoy the romance between Oli and Jorge. I didn't care. I just wanted to see all the angst resolved and the bothers talking and Jorge and Phoenix good again.

All in all, the book brought a lot of emotions ( Albeit provoking ) so that counts for something I guess.

And I'm still mad that the 3rd installment isn't about Devon and Michael.

[ReadingRed125 · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was night/day difference from book 1. But I loved it just as equally (if not more). They were just so cute and supportive of each other.And with the little sample we get at the end I am ready to see what happens in book 3 with the next couple.

[AroundtheBookBend · Rating 5 out of 5]

Had to sit on my thoughts for a bit before making my review.

Strange Lad had me extremely emotional, pretty much from beginning to end. The ride I went on took me to despairing lows and soaring highs. I laughed til my side hurt and cried as my soul and heart were ripped apart. At one point, I had to put my phone down because I was crying so hard. Myka Loren has been solidified, with just two books, as one of my favorite authors. The depth of emotion these books have had is just amazing.

I adored Jorge from book one, so I was so excited for his book. His first appearance had me completely in love with him. My sensitive baby has such a beautiful soul, and getting a deeper look into it with this book made me appreciate him even more. He has such an expansive love for his friends and family. The way he takes care of Oli just warms my heart.

Oli went through so much! I just wanted to wrap him up in the warmest, fluffiest blanket and protect him from the world. Addiction and recovery aren’t easy. Watching him struggle really broke my heart. And learning why he became an addict and why he pulled away from everyone absolutely broke me.

There was so much raw pain in this, but there was also some really beautiful healing. Oli and Jorge had a beautiful relationship, and Jorge was really the perfect person to help Oli heal.

Can’t wait for the next book!!!

I received an advanced copy and this is my voluntary review

[neeshreads · Rating 5 out of 5]

Stars: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐/5
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️/5

Okay, is Myka Loren for real?! Move over cat daddy because the rat daddies are here! Strange Lad was everything I didn’t know I needed! Strange Lad picks up where Beneath Cherry Blossoms Memories ends, but we get to figure out the extent of the secret Jorge has been keeping from everyone, and what a secret it is! I am team Oli and Jorge forever because they are the cutest and sweetest friends to lovers with all the pining and yearning and the most endearing and heartwarming connection.

🐀Friends to Lovers
🎤Vocalist x Mechanic
🐀Secret Relationship
🎤Pining
🐀Touch Aversion x Touch Starved
🎤GFY
🐀Swoon-Worthy Communication
🎤Trauma & Addiction Recovery Rep
🐀Strict Roles

Jorge never meant to keep his secret for so long or for his secret to turn into something more…

All Jorge wanted to do was help Oli. Jorge’s insatiable hero complex has always been at the forefront of his mind, so maybe that’s why he wanted to keep Oli close? But that doesn’t explain his growing attraction to Oli. They were just friends, right?

Being Oli’s friend has made Jorge question everything about himself while also opening his eyes to the beautiful heart Oli hides behind his armor.

Jorge should stop it all and come clean because every second he spends with Oli puts Jorge’s band and friendships at risk.

And for Jorge? Oli is worth the risk, because he never wants to let him go…

Sweet, sweet Jorge is always there for those around him, but who is there for Jorge in the way he needs? And Oli, who has been in love with Jorge for as long as he can remember, is working through his trauma and addiction, with Jorge by his side. When Oli is the center of Jorge’s attention, he never wants to give that up.

Oli and Jorge’s story is one of self-discovery, genuine connection, and recovery. The dynamic between Oli and Jorge was so dang sweet, and they were so fiercely protective of one another that I was swooning left and right. But don’t let the sweetness fool you because these two discover how to enjoy each other and it’s spicy! Everything about Oli’s past that is revealed gives the other side to why his relationship with his brother is in ruin, and Oli has my support – I will mama bear anyone who disagrees with me. Oli deserves protection at all costs and Jorge provided that. And delightful Jorge? I could not get enough of him, he had me cracking up left and right and when he was vulnerable? I just wanted to wrap him up and never let him go like his abuela.

The way each couple fights for their HEA is relatable and endears them to your heart. I cannot wait for book 3!

[Kaya · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ok wow. That was heavy. I will be taking a good break from trigger heavy books because I fear they’re taking a toll on me. I’ll keep it short and sweet for now (in my terms lol), but I truly loved Oli and Jorge’s relationship. Having a solid foundation through a friendship makes the biggest difference when that relationship becomes more. While it wasn’t the same for Jorge at first, he really did love Oli and wanted to be there for him always. And the way he *gently* persisted in his want for him after his discovered feelings for Oli were both funny and considerate. He could tell something traumatic had happened to him and would take it as slow as Oli needed, making sure he knew he ALWAYS had a choice in what they did 🥺

Watching that trust build was just everything. Watching Phoenix and Oli start to build back their relationship made me more emotional than anything like I still want to cry about it. It was even more emotional when everyone stood behind Oli and made sure he knew how supported he was. That what happened to him didn’t define him, and that he was worth loving and fighting for!! Like the last book, the constant theme is that the relationship between the addict and their lover is that they can’t help them stay sober, but they can help pick them back up if it happens. With Oli, he had to do the work on his own and he DID, but Jorge helped him build that foundation to start working on himself. His trauma will never go away and he’ll always have the impulse to relapse, but Jorge will never leave his side no matter what.

While Eli and Phoenix’s relationship was very much toxic, Oli and Jorge’s wasn’t and it was so beautiful to read. Sometimes you just need to read about two people who do nothing other than love and support each other consistently. Two people who will always follow the others boundaries, never questioning the others choices. Oli fought so hard for the life he wanted and will continue to but he finally got what he’d always dreamed of, and that was always Jorge. It may have taken a long time, but it happened when it was meant to 🥹 The love they have for each other is so strong and withstanding, making it all worth the wait.

Oh, and I just love that Jorge truly feels needed by someone. All our overly affectionate boy wants is to feel like someone’s hero but wants to feel that love in return. And now he’ll always get to feel that, never questioning how much Oli loves and needs him all the time 🥹 It’s a feeling he’ll get to feel forever and always.

AH, one more thing. Words cannot express how happy I am for Eli. I only wish that we got a scene of him at the recital living his dream of dancing 🩰

— quotes


“Most of the time, I feel like a placeholder for people, but with Oli, he makes me feel like the most important person in the whole world. It’s too addicting to give up.”

“It’s like I’ve lived my whole life in restlessness. And I have been restless. Never being able to settle down, always looking for the next thing. Searching for a harbor when I’ve been out at sea. Oli is the lighthouse on the black horizon, guiding me home. He’s where I want to be.”

“Sometimes, the hero needs to be saved, even if it’s harder to see. And that is what makes Oli stand out. When all my friends forget about me and go on with their lives, Oli makes sure to remind me that I’m important in his. I am never not wanted.”

“I will always need you,” — “Be patient with me?” It comes out like a beg. Fuck it. It is a beg. “I’m not going anywhere.” (Like stop🥺)

“His smell is like some mystical vapor I want permanently in my nose. I can’t even figure out what the smell is; I only want it closer and deeper.”

“Tell me, and I won’t do it.” “That easy?” “Yes, Oli. It’s that easy. This whole game is about trust. You are safe and can set boundaries.” (Like yeah i’ll cry this was so important)

“But I just wanted to tell you—in person—that I’m so fucking proud of you, Oli.” (From Phoenix… yeah i’m sobbing)

“I feel his head rest on top of mine, and all is right in the world. We’re cuddling. Oli is cuddling me.”

“I think I’d love him even in another life. I’m not religious or spiritual. The possibility of a life after this one seems silly—farfetched. If there was one, I could see myself falling for him all over again.”

“I don’t want to be just your friend. I don’t want to be loved like you love everyone else. I want for once in my goddamn life to be number one to someone. And I want that someone to be you.”

“You’re my fucking person, Oli. And I won’t give up on my person.” — “You’re my person, too.”

“I’m nervous because you’re a guy and my friend. And I really want to kiss you and hold you. I want to do all the things with you. Everything.”

“I’m going to prove to myself once and for all that I can do this. I can take what I want. So I do. I obliterate the space between us and press my lips to his.”

“I’ve never done this before. This intimacy. The pet names. But because it’s you, I feel safe to do it—to want it. And I want this with you. I… want you to be my baby and my kitten. I want you, Jorge. If you’ll have me.”

“You do not have to climb mountains just to conquer your fear of heights.” — “It means that our accomplishments aren’t always measured in grand feats. It’s measured in the steps we take every day—the ones that keep us going. It’s only when we stop moving that the fear wins.”

“If Jorge, this unstoppable force of love and compassion, harbors a fear he hasn’t uttered to anyone other than me, maybe I could do the same. Maybe I could finally let it out.”

“What I feel for him goes way beyond physical need. It’s companionship on the deepest level. Soul-deep. Every corny romance line comes to my brain, even those are inaccurate. It’s more. Always more with Oli.”

“You will always be enough for me. More than enough. I’m obsessed with you, Oli. Nothing you could tell me will change that.”

“When I’m with him, my mind is still. I’m not searching because I’ve found.”

“You want out of the hole? I’m offering you a lifeline. If you want justice, fucking take it. Just take it, Oli.”

“Sometimes, it’s hard to admit, but I do trust you, Jorge. I trusted you with my heart first; it makes sense that I trust you with the rest, too.”

“Being with you gives me strength, that is true. You’ve shown me so many things I’ve missed because I was too high to care or too numb to feel. And I love you for it. I really do.”

“You don’t need to fix me. The only thing I ask is that you stay with me. I think I’ll be okay as long as I have that.”

“I will always save you, beautiful. However and whenever you need me to. I love you, Oli. And I protect what I love.”

“When it comes to you, I will always want more, beautiful.”

“You are mine. My love. My novio. My babe. I feel like I’m going to explode because I love you so much.”

“I finally got you,” he croaks, voice raw. “I finally got you.” “You got me beautiful. I’m yours.”

“How did I get so lucky?” — “Because I’m a nosey fucker who doesn’t know when to back off.” — “I’m nothing if not determined,” I tell him through a dopey smile. “I was gonna get you one way or another.” “And I’ll forever thank you for it, kitten.” (This is so real ily Jorge 😭)

“Oli is finally getting justice for everything he’s been through? Check. Phoenix and I are no longer fighting? Check. Eli is getting to live out his Men In Tights fantasy? Check. And the best part? I got to be the hero and get the guy.”

“He waited for me for so long, and to think I was always within arms’ reach of the best thing to ever happen to me, completely blind to it. I know he doesn’t resent me for my ignorance. I know he understands that we were always meant to be together, just not then. I needed to go through my life drowning so I could remind myself that I knew how to swim. And he needed me to show him how.”

[Lu · Rating 5 out of 5]

My random review I don't know what I was expecting but not this or I would have read it way earlier 💕 the first book was extremely physical and intense while this one is the exact opposite, almost ethereal, a love that is there regardless of any touch but also craving, a love that is felt and spoken before the first kiss, real soulmates and huge codependency.
Loved it.

[Bibliophile · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love it so much 😭

The story have so much depths and so raw it bought tears to my tears every time i see Oli struggles and heal 🥺 Plus I can’t believe i will experience the same intense hatred to Phoenix in this book, i hate him as much as Oli hated him 😭😭 such a complex emotion to have yet so justified too that make me feel it too but i do glad they finally reconcile together 🫂 the moment where Oli finally speak out about his incident to Phoenix, i legit bawled my eyes out 😭😭

I truly love Jorge in this book 🥹 he is such a lovely character and so easy to love, the way he help both Oli and Phoenix selflessly. And i glad he found his person with Oli 🥹 they both deserve each other ❤️ the way he is patient and very understanding with Oli recovery ❤️‍🩹Their every intimate moment are so hot and hit another level because how raw, vulnerable and such intimacy that people crave to have 🔥 brilliant i love how the author wrote everything 👏🏼

I also love Phoenix and Jorge friendship 🥺 it is so cute and sweet such a rare friendship to have nowadays… how both their partner understand their friendship and never judge and get jealous of it ✨

⬇️⬇️⬇️⬇️⬇️⬇️⬇️

So I soak up as much of this as possible, knowing these hugs will be few and far between now that Eli is here. I’m happy for them, but where the fuck does that leave me? 

I’m the guy that makes everyone else feel better.

The guy who comes swooping to the rescue when there are problems afoot. I’m the guy that lifts you so high that you forget I’m still stuck at the bottom. 
I guess being lonely is part of the job.
€

While I’m cleaning my dishes, I stew over everything. I can’t believe I agreed to talk to Eli. I don’t want to anymore, not that I did much to begin with. All the bitterness inside me is in full force; whatever nostalgic love I’d been clinging to for my brother is lost in it all.
€

Jorge scooches closer to me, picking up my hand and settling it on his hip. “You do not have to climb mountains just to conquer your fear of heights.”

Frowning, I open my mouth to ask what the hell that means, but he elaborates. “My abuela used to say that,” he whispers. “In Spanish.” Cupping his hands under his cheek, he sighs. “It means that our accomplishments aren’t always measured in grand feats. It’s measured in the steps we take every day—the ones that keep us going. It’s only when we stop moving that the fear wins.”
€

Phoenix steps into my space, his chest puffed up, face twisted. “I have given you endless opportunities to talk to me. Endless. You’ve ignored me for over a year, Oli. How is that fair?”
The fucking audacity. The fucking gall. 

Bitterness takes over as I let out the ugly, nasty truth behind my refusal to speak to him. “Now you know how it fucking feels,” I growl and shake. “Hoping for a lifeline that never fucking comes.”
€

Phoenix shuffles forward. “I should’ve listened to you, Oli. I should’ve seen the signs, but I didn’t. That’s on me.”

Oli takes a breath, easing me out of his way so he can face his brother head-on. “It’s not on you, Phoenix.”
“I can accept it.”

“No,” Oli growls, shaking. I don’t know what he’s doing. I don’t know what he’s thinking. “This…grudge. This…hatred. It’s—”

Phoenix cuts him off. “I broke our promise. It’s taken me up until this fucking moment to realize it, but I did. No matter what.”

“I broke our promise too,” Oli crumbles over his words. “The one I pretend I didn’t make. The one I don’t even acknowledge because I can’t blame you anymore.”

“What are you talking about?”
“Brothers forever. That was what I said.”
€

Oli continues, “I blame you, Phoenix. I always have. I blame you for not seeing. I blame you for being his friend. I blame you for putting me in danger whenever you brought me around. I blame you for not knowing. You have loved everyone more than you have loved me. You watched me almost die, and I woke up knowing you didn’t love me—that I was no good anymore. Tainted. Broken. An addict.” “

I hated that you didn’t tell me about the drugs,” Phoenix admits. “That you didn’t trust me. I hated that you broke our brotherhood by choosing powders over blood. I hated that I told you everything and you told me nothing. Even though I didn’t know why, I knew you blamed me for something, and that fucking killed me not knowing what. But most of all, Oli, I hated that you were gone. I miss you so much. You have to know that.”
€

Phoenix smirks then yanks Oli into his arms. 

“Fuck,” I cry.

Eli sneaks over to my side while they hug for the first time in years. “So… I know Phoenix usually does this, but do you want a hug?” Eli asks awkwardly.

“Yes, I want a hug, you dick.” And I squeeze the life out of Phoenix’s little goth boyfriend.
€

“It’s not your job to keep me sober, Jorge.”

“Then what is my job, then? Huh? Our entire relationship started because I helped you get sober. Isn’t that what I’ve been doing since? Keeping you so? Being your support system?”

“I don’t know how to tell you this, so I’m just going to say it.” I take a breath and stop at a red light. Facing him, I come right out with it. “Being an addict means I might relapse. Just because I haven’t doesn’t mean I won’t. I don’t plan on it; I’m doing everything in my power to make sure I stay clean. But fooling yourself into believing I’m cured of addiction is the wrong way to look at it, baby. I’m going to fuck up at some point. I guess…if you have one job at all, it’s not to hold it against me.”

“But…”

“Being with you gives me strength, that is true. You’ve shown me so many things I’ve missed because I was too high to care or too numb to feel. And I love you for it. I really do.”

[melissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

5⭐
“You could have anyone you want, I don’t get why you’re trying so hard for me. Why you haven’t given up.”
“Because you’re my fucking person, Oli. And I won’t give up on my person.”

First five stars of the year! I didn’t think this book could top the previous one, but it did. Why? Because we had a closure. Because I got to see each character grow, both personally and in their relationships.

“What was that for?”
“To pull you out of whatever dark hole you went into.”
“How do you know that? That I go to that place sometimes.”
“Your eyes stop shining.”

THE COMMUNICATION, they actually talked things out, understood each other’s perspectives, there were no assumptions here, the miscommunication trope didn’t stand a chance because these two left zero room for doubt. They had no problem expressing exactly what they felt to each other.

“Why are you mad at me?”
“Because I don’t want to be just your friend. I don’t want to be loved like you love everyone else. I want for once in my goddamn life to be number one to someone. And I want that someone to be you.”
“You are my number one. How do you not see that? Everything I’ve done for the past year has been for you. I’m risking everything for you, Oliver.”

They always looked out for each other and knew they could rely on each other. Oliver was just a baby screaming for help, and Jorge was the only one who truly heard him.

Having control over your body is a gift most people take for granted. Having a partner who understands that is a fucking treasure.

It was so beautiful to see Oli trust Jorge, be brave, open up to his family, and be honest with himself. His resilience was truly admirable.

“It’s my job to bring you out of the dark place.”
“And it’s my job to make sure you don’t get stuck in it with me.”

We also got to see Phoenix and Oliver rebuild their relationship, forgive each other, and actually take responsibility for their mistakes.

“I have given you endless opportunities to talk to me. Endless. You’ve ignored me for over a year, Oli. How is that fair?”
“Now you know how it fucking feels, hoping for a lifeline that never fucking comes.”

We could count on Phoenix to bring the drama and I was living for it. The toxicity and chaos that weren’t there between Jorge and Oliver? Phoenix was there to serve it (I LOVE HIM)

“You looked me in my eyes and pretended not to know anything, but you were seeing him the whole time. Laughing with him. Learning his pain and his past. You’ve held me while I cried over losing my brother. All the while, you kept him to yourself. I’m not washing my hands, Jorge. I’m fucking heartbroken. And I deserve time to process that my best friend is a goddamn liar.”

He also had so much character growth. He’s still him, but at least now he acknowledges what he did wrong with his brother and actually made things right.

“Stop eye-fucking Oli, it’s giving me nightmares.”
“Did you forget about all the nights I heard you phone-fucking Eli? Payback’s a bitch, bebe.”

I WAS SO PROUD OF MY BABY ELI, seeing him chase his dreams. He was the one calming things down when shit was about to hit the fan between Jorge, Oliver, and Phoenix, he was there for Jorge AND Oliver while still supporting and comforting Phoenix.

“And Jorge? Seriously?”
“I love him, you don’t say a word to him about it. I did this, not him.”
Phoenix smirks then yanks Oli into his arms. 
“Fuck,” I cry.
Eli sneaks over to my side while they hug for the first time in years. “So… I know Phoenix usually does this, but do you want a hug?” Eli asks awkwardly.
“Yes, I want a hug, you dick.” And I squeeze the life out of Phoenix’s little goth boyfriend.

The found family aspect? Top chief, EVERYTHING about this book was perfect.

“And it’s not just because he needs me. Not anymore. When I’m with him, my mind is still. I’m not searching because I’ve found.”

[Katsey · Rating 3 out of 5]

2.5 ⭐ from me. I rounded it up bc I loved the first book so much but the second one disappointed me.

I was super excited for Jorges story because he was just such a good friend for Phoenix in the prior book. The epiologue where we got the teaser that Jorge has apparently contact to Oli made me curious. I didn't expect what we got for their story.

I was hoping to get an emotional rollercoaster as in Beneath cherry blossom memories where you completely hurt with the characters but I felt so weird reading strange lad. First of all I don't think Jorge isn't the best friend everyone says he is. Like how could you betray your best friend like that? I totally understood why Phoenix was angry at the end. He made him out like a villain in this book. That he's to busy with Eli and doesn't have any time for him anymore when Jorge is just to scared to talk to him about it. Obviously is Phoenix busy with Eli bc he helps him with his addiction and especially Jorge should know that because he helped Oli.

That he helped Oli was cute and I think they are very good as friends but I don't ship them as a couple. I just can't see any romantic chemistry between them. Jorge needs someone who gives him a lot of physical affection. I get why Oli can't give him that and that he tries but let's be honest will it ever be enough for Jorge? I had the feeling he was more there for Oli than Oli was for him.

The story was not as exciting as in the book before too. Before you had so much hurt and heartbreak and struggled with both of the characters because you felt sorry for them. Here you couldn't really see the struggles except for the one scene where Oli saw Morgan again. It took me like 5 days to finish this book because it couldn't hold my attention.

I also love codependency in relationships. I'm a sucker for it and so many people said what they have is codependency but it actually was not. That is also because for me codependency has a lot to do with physical affection and only having each other and no one else but that's not what I got from this book.

But the worst thing in this book which really bothered me was how the author dealt with Olis abuse. Like he made Phoenix responsible for it, that it was his friend but on the other hand Jorge has no connection to it when he could've seen everything too with how close he were to Phoenix and his family? But what made me really uncomfortable was how Oli told literally everyone about his abuse. I mean telling his therapist, Jorge, Phoenix, Eli and especially Michael about it made sense but he told everyone in the band plus both of his and Jorges family who he was completely estranged to for 8 years. What. The. Hell. Why would you do that? Also how easy he told it to Eli was weird. Eli told him like "yeah I was abused by my aunt" and he without thinking just blurted "I was raped by someone". I mean ofc two people who struggle can easier relate to their trauma and talk about it but still being raped is nothing you easily want to talk about. And how he told it to both of their families made no sense. That he eventually someday tells his fanily might be okay but Jorges family totally didn't need to know that. The random way how he said he needs his mom when it came to going to the police was so strange. Maybe that he needs his big brother, Nyx or Jorge was okay but why his mom who he had no connection to at all for 8 years?

Safe to say I didn't necessarily enjoy this book but it was also not too horrible. But I think the people who like this book have never seen something like that or struggling with addiction in real life. The first book portrayed that way better in my opinion.

Let's see how the 3rd book is going to be. I would love to see a throuple between Devon, Lex and Michael but I think that we just get Devon and Lex. Im excited what these characters are going to get us through.

[Bookandmischief06 · Rating 5 out of 5]

🩵 Brother’s best friend
🩷 Slow Burn
🩵 Friends to Lovers
🩷 Vocalist x Mechanic
🩵 Secret Relationship
🩷 Pining
🩵 Touch Aversion x Touch Starved
🩷 Swoon-worthy Communication
🩵 Trauma & Addiction Recovery Rep
🩷 Strict Roles

Strange Lad is the second book in The Dreadful Boys series by Myka Loren. If you haven’t read book one, Beneath Cherry Blossom Memories, this book may be a bit difficult to follow.

In book one we were introduced to Jorge, who is Phoenix’s overly emotional, touch-starved bestie. Jorge is Dreadful’s lead singer, the band which he started with Phoenix in high school. Phoenix and Jorge are as close as brothers but Jorge is keeping secrets and lying to him. These secrets threaten to destroy their friendship the longer Jorge goes without coming clean. He knows what he’s doing will devastate his best friend, and yet, he can’t seem to let Oli go.

Oliver Sawyer can’t figure out why Jorge sticks around. Why his brother’s best friend has chosen him to try and save. He’s a recovering addict who’s barely hanging on. He’s hiding. Hiding from Phoenix, hiding from his parents and even hiding from Jorge. There’s no one he can trust. Not really. He’s loved Jorge nearly half his life, but his demons are forcing him to keep everyone who might love him back at an arm’s length.

Strange Lad had me hook, line and sinker from the very beginning. I couldn’t put it down. Oli’s backstory slowly unfolds throughout the book and my heart broke for him in slow motion. The author did an amazing job not rushing to give away all of Oli’s secrets, instead we are right there with Jorge as everything comes to a head. In the middle of all of this, Jorge and Oli are slowly finding that their connection and friendship has seemingly developed into more. Jorge is desperate for physical touch from Oli, as he is from everyone he knows but Oli struggles significantly with touch aversion. This creates many sweet encounters between the two of them as they learn how to show each other affection. I loved how the author had Jorge approach Oli’s touch aversion. It really highlighted Jorge’s overall emotional intelligence, sensitivity and feelings for Oli.

The character development and the plot were perfect in every way. Both characters really go through a lot of changes throughout the story. I felt this was a perfect follow up to Beneath Cherry Blossom Memories. It wasn’t as heavy on the angst, but there was still plenty of it to go around. It was far lighter on the toxicity between the MMCs (as in, there isn’t any) but there’s other emotionally jarring events going on that will leave you teary-eyed. If you like broken boys, then this is the book for you. I also liked that the same characters from book one were very prevalent in book two. Phoenix and Eli make numerous appearances along with the rest of Dreadful’s band members. Overall, this is one of my fav reads so far this year and I’m really looking forward to book three.

[its_a_bookish_life_for_me · Rating 3 out of 5]

okay so...i didn't like this one as much as the first. i didn't care for the fact that oli put all this blame on phoenix when phoenix literally didn't know what happened. you don't know what you don't know! yes, oli's feelings are valid but he just also pissed me off too much with how mad he was. especially because phoenix kept reaching out and oli just wouldn't talk to him but then he'd get mad when phoenix didn't push him. like hello! you can't get mad that he's respecting your wishes!

but then i also was mad at phoenix because he literally did push for more. when oli didn't respond, phoenix showed up at meeting. then he showed up at oli's house! like dude, oli wants time and space...give it to him!

and the whole thing with oli asking jorge not to tell phoenix that they were talking was just so upsetting. honestly, it was mostly why i read the book so i can't even be too mad about it. the angst! was! delicious! but at the same time, oli pissed me off because he wanted phoenix to just forgive jorge. like no dude, jorge fucking knew how much phoenix hated being the last to know things. so for his best fucking friend to know all this information about his brother, AND NOT TELL HIM!!!, yeah, dude has the right be upset and to take time to process that shit

i will say that oli and jorge's relationship was sweet. i loved jorge's realization that he was attracted to oli. i kind of hated how quickly it became about sex, especially with oli being so touch averse. i kind of felt like he pressured oli a little too much, but i also know that people process trauma differently. what might be fine one minute could be a trigger the next

oh! and i'm also mad that the next book isn't devon and michael. like come on! all their scenes the entire time was like a tease so to find out that they won't be a couple was kind of sucky. but i'll probably still read it, even if just to see how phoenix and eli and jorge and oli's relationships are doing

[T · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC REVIEW:

Strange Lad is the continuation of Beneath Cherry Blossom Memories and is the story about Oli and Jorge.
While Phoenix and Eli’s story was full of angst and toxicity, Oli and Jorge’s story is the opposite and much more sweeter and light, however it still has heavy themes in this books because it’s about Oli’s trauma.

I love Phoenix and Eli so much but I was so excited for Oli and Jorge’s story. Their love is so tender and precious. Their relationship is sweet and kind. Oli has been in love with his brother’s best friend for 12 years but something traumatic stopped him from ever acknowledging those feelings. When Jorge decides to help Oli through his trauma they developed a friendship and feelings.
I love how they talk to each other and help each other and how they want to understand each other and be patient.

Jorge is the sweetest person. All he ever wants is to be needed by the people he loves the most in his life. He loves connections and I love how he is not afraid of showing emotion and physical touch.
My heart broke for Oli and I’m so glad he had Jorge there to help him and be there for him.

Overall, Oli and Jorge’s story was so beautiful, sweet and heartwarming. Both of them are so sweet and precious. If you love the brother’s best friend trope and hurt comfort then you will like this book. However you need to read book one first and this book discusses very heavy topics so make sure to check the trigger warnings. Thank you to the author for sending me an ARC to read and review.

[Mariah · Rating 2 out of 5]

Update: I finished it. I didn’t get better.

Dnf @ 54%

Jorge is a creep who cries constantly. He guilts Oli into being the bad guy for asking not to be touched. He cries over and over again when Oli doesn’t want him hanging all over him. He has this intense need to touch Oli and it’s coming off very creepy.

Jorge is written like he’s a teenager. If I hadn’t read the first book and knew the ages of these guys I would assume he’s 18/19 years old. He’s a brat. There’s so much crying and not getting his way so he cries and not be touched constantly so he cries. “Sobbing at the sink, sobbing in the shower, tears well up in his eyes, covers his face to cry” just over and over crying, crying, crying. He also can’t control his body, he’s got a hard-on all the time, he’s sobbing with a hard dick, multiple times. And then when Oli finally hugs him, he’s got an instant boner he can’t control which immediately freaks Oli out.

Phoenix is back in this book and still just obsessed with Oli. He’s taken to showing up and accosting him at the AA meetings, the author uses the excuse that Phoenix is there to see Eli but it’s ridiculous. He can’t get Oli on the phone to talk to him so he shows up somewhere he knows he’ll be to try and trap him into talking, like a stalker.

I tried to give this book a chance even though I didn’t particularly like the first one, hoping these two guys would be better characters than Phoenix and Eli but they’re not.

I’ve never read a book that has one MC crying almost every chapter, that didn’t have severe trauma involved. Oli is struggling with addiction and past trauma and he’s not crying as much as Jorge.

Nothing about this is endearing.

[gab_e_reading · Rating 5 out of 5]

Now I really understand what is meant by „Book Boyfriend“ 😅. Jorge has the biggest heart ever, his bubbly and at the same time deeply loyal nature, his great empathy towards his friends and Oli - just to fall in love with ❤️! At the same time, I could empathize with him so well because I recognized myself in some of his characteristics. I love the musician setting and the fact that Myka Loren‘s stories are not always just about the ideal world - there's arguing, crying, feeling, and addiction is a theme. Oli's path to healing is very sensitively and impressively described. But we also get a whole handful of passionate love. Tough rock stars stand by their emotions - I love that! And I look forward to every further episode of this series!

Jetzt verstehe ich wirklich, was mit "Book Boyfriend" gemeint ist 😅. Jorge hat das größte Herz aller Zeiten, seine sprudelnde und gleichzeitig zutiefst loyale Art, seine grosse Empathie gegenüber seinen Freunden und Oli - einfach zum Verlieben ❤️! Gleichzeitig konnte ich mich so gut in ihn hineinversetzen, weil ich mich in einigen seiner Eigenschaften wiedererkannt habe. Mir gefällt das Musiker-Setting und die Tatsache, dass Myka Lorens Geschichten nicht immer nur von der heilen Welt handeln - es wird gestritten, geweint, gefühlt, und auch Sucht ist ein Thema. Olis Weg zur Heilung ist sehr einfühlsam und eindrucksvoll beschrieben. Aber wir bekommen auch eine ganze Handvoll leidenschaftlicher Liebe. Harte Rockstars stehen zu ihren Gefühlen - das liebe ich! Und ich freue mich auf jede weiter Folge dieser Serie!

[ioana just loves books · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC Review

A Heartfelt and Messy Journey of Love and Healing

• Rating 5/5
• Romance 3.5/5
• Spice Level 3.5/5
• Writing Style 5/5
• Audio Narration N/A

Strange Lad is an emotionally raw, beautifully messy, and deeply touching MM romance that will stay with you long after you turn the last page. Myka Loren once again proves incredible range as an author, delivering a story that is both heart-wrenching and hopeful, tender yet deeply complex.

Jorge is pure warmth—a character who shines like the sun, even when he’s struggling under the weight of his own emotions. His love, his need to protect, and the sacrifices he makes for Oli are both heartbreaking and beautiful. And Oli… my heart ached for him. His journey is one of pain, longing, and survival, and watching him slowly allow himself to have something good, something safe, is absolutely gut-wrenching.

This isn’t a love story with easy answers—Jorge and Oli fight for every bit of happiness they find, and the journey is all the more powerful because of it. The weight of secrets, the fear of losing friendships, and the delicate unravelling of emotions make this book impossible to put down.

If you love MM romances that are equal parts tender and devastating, with characters who will carve themselves into your heart, Strange Lad is a must-read. Prepare yourself for a whirlwind of emotions—you’ll want to protect these two at all costs.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ An unforgettable love story that hits deep.

[Bryoni Jayde · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rating: 5⭐️
Emotion: 4
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️

I received an ARC of Strange Lad in exchange for an honest review

Where do I start??… I am honestly kind of speechless. I knew Strange Lad was going to be good after reading Beneath Cherry Blossom Memories but honestly this exceeded every expectation I had.

Strange Lad was well written, full of emotion with high angst at times. My heart broke for Oli and my tears flowed freely while reading. I loved that Jorge was not afraid to show his emotions, you don’t often see MMC’s written who are so open with their feelings, who cry openly. And this really hit me in my feelings.

Myka also writes some of the best spicy scenes I’ve ever read and those last couple of chapters 🥵. The build up to those intimate scenes was worth the wait.

Jorge & Oli were so beautiful together, I adored the development of their relationship and all the sweet pet names (kitten, beautiful, bebe, baby 🥹). Seeing Oli work through and start to overcome his trauma with the support of Jorge was everything.

Kind of obsessed that Myka mentioned Artificial Suicide (albeit briefly it still had me grinning like a lunatic).

Loved seeing the other band members again, especially Phoenix and Eli 🥹.

The teaser chapter at the end for Devon & Lex 🤌🏻💋. So excited for this!

Favourite quote:

Oli is the lighthouse on the black horizon, guiding me home. He’s where I want to be.

[Ashley Rose Dead.inside_but_reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

Advanced Reader Copy Review

🌶🌶.5

Please check your TWs as they are heavy/dark topics

Jorge and Oli were just perfection here. I was Super happy when Myka said this one was not as angsty and didn't have that miscommunication thing going. Which it didn't they just adorably burted things out which made my brain very happy. I think it did still have a bit of angst not anywhere near as bad as the first book but it was perfect for the plot of the book.
We meet Jorge in the first book as Phoenix's best friend. Jorge we learn has been keeping a secret from Phoenix concerning his brother who he hasn't talked to in over a year. Jorge has not only been talking to him but has pretty much also become him best friend.
Oli is a recovering addict. Is this book he has already gone through rehab and is in recovery. We learn that Oli's addiction stemmed from a traumatic time in his life that he told no one about, but getting close to Jorge means he may have to let his past out of he wants to have a future with him.
I loved these too so much. Just the care taking and solid support from both of them. The fucking nose boops like ugh they were too cute.
If your as addicted to these Dreadful Boys as much as I am then you will love this one!