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Teachers in Love #3
Napkins and Other Distractions: An Enemies-to-Lovers LGBTQ+ Workplace Romance with Heat and Heart
Enemies at work, lovers at night – but what happens when the lines blur?
‘M.A. Wardell's stories are sweetness and spice wrapped into a big warm hug’ Alice Oseman, author of HEARTSTOPPER
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On paper, they’re a disaster. Between the sheets, they’re a perfect match.
Kent Lester, a hard working principle, is finally ready to put himself back out there. His first date? Vincent. Uptight, stubborn… and unforgettable in bed.
But when Kent’s school faces a crisis, the last man he expects to see walk in is Vincent, hired to fix the mess. With their jobs – and reputations – on the line, they’ll have to work together.
The problem? Every argument sparks more heat. And the closer they get, the harder it becomes to keep things strictly professional.
Enemies at work. Something much hotter after hours. Could it ever turn into more?
–
Perfect for fans of Casey McQuiston and Anita Kelly.
Now with bonuses! A new epilogue and artwork of the characters.
–
Reviews Hotter Than Their Chemistry…
‘Each book just gets better’ 5* Reader Review
‘A delightful balance between light hearted humor, nuanced character development, and blossoming romance’ 5* Reader Review
‘MA Wardell writes the most wholesome books ever. I cried, I swooned and I giggled’ 5* Reader Review
‘This was a warm hug. i'm happy’ 5* Reader Review
‘M.A. Wardell's stories are sweetness and spice wrapped into a big warm hug’ Alice Oseman, author of HEARTSTOPPER
–
On paper, they’re a disaster. Between the sheets, they’re a perfect match.
Kent Lester, a hard working principle, is finally ready to put himself back out there. His first date? Vincent. Uptight, stubborn… and unforgettable in bed.
But when Kent’s school faces a crisis, the last man he expects to see walk in is Vincent, hired to fix the mess. With their jobs – and reputations – on the line, they’ll have to work together.
The problem? Every argument sparks more heat. And the closer they get, the harder it becomes to keep things strictly professional.
Enemies at work. Something much hotter after hours. Could it ever turn into more?
–
Perfect for fans of Casey McQuiston and Anita Kelly.
Now with bonuses! A new epilogue and artwork of the characters.
–
Reviews Hotter Than Their Chemistry…
‘Each book just gets better’ 5* Reader Review
‘A delightful balance between light hearted humor, nuanced character development, and blossoming romance’ 5* Reader Review
‘MA Wardell writes the most wholesome books ever. I cried, I swooned and I giggled’ 5* Reader Review
‘This was a warm hug. i'm happy’ 5* Reader Review
349 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 4, 2024
147 people are currently reading
2814 people want to read
About the author
M.A. Wardell
11 books830 followersI write steamy queer romance and romantic comedies. My goal is to make you laugh and turn you on. Often at the same time.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 325 reviews
June 2, 2024
Every book in this series is so good. AND THIS IS MY FAVE ONE YET!!!
Ok Kent. KENT! Kent is one of my new favorite book characters. We got to see a little bit of his iconicness in Mistletoes & Mashigas and I loved him in that! And then to get a whole book on him and fall even more in love with him?? Daddyyyyyy. He is the sweetest bean to ever bean. THE WAY HE WAS SO PATIENT WITH VINCENT?? Ugh SWOON. And then top it off with the fact that he is great at his job and is the cutest parent/grandparent? We get to see Kent from all angles (not in the way Vincent gets to, lucky bastard) and he's just the whole package. Honestly one of my favorite book characters I've ever had the pleasure of getting to know. KENT!
Ok since I mentioned the patience...REPRESENTATION HELLUR! And no, not just because this book is gay af (not mad about it) but because Vincent has OCD, something that has ruined dating for him time and time again. The guy can't catch a break, and it isn't even his fault. But then Kent swoops in and not only accepts Vincent's OCD, but helps with it. And Vincent finally starts to see change in his habits. And to see him light up the way he does when his OCD isn't taking over in situations it normally would is TEAR-JERKING! Ugh my heart was so full reading this as the story and the relationship began to unfold.
I've always loved a good workplace romance, and this one TAKES IT THERE! The whole series really. I mean this book takes IT everywhere. And by it I mean sex. Hehe. Much like its predecessors, this one serves the spice and it serves it GHOST PEPPER. Grab a bucket and a mop for this...book. And something about them doing the NASTY and then going to work the next day and being like "oh this data is bad, let me rework the code" and then 4 hours later go back and once again rework them insides. SPICE.
Ok Wardell we are ready for Book 4 nowwwwwwwww!
Ok Kent. KENT! Kent is one of my new favorite book characters. We got to see a little bit of his iconicness in Mistletoes & Mashigas and I loved him in that! And then to get a whole book on him and fall even more in love with him?? Daddyyyyyy. He is the sweetest bean to ever bean. THE WAY HE WAS SO PATIENT WITH VINCENT?? Ugh SWOON. And then top it off with the fact that he is great at his job and is the cutest parent/grandparent? We get to see Kent from all angles (not in the way Vincent gets to, lucky bastard) and he's just the whole package. Honestly one of my favorite book characters I've ever had the pleasure of getting to know. KENT!
Ok since I mentioned the patience...REPRESENTATION HELLUR! And no, not just because this book is gay af (not mad about it) but because Vincent has OCD, something that has ruined dating for him time and time again. The guy can't catch a break, and it isn't even his fault. But then Kent swoops in and not only accepts Vincent's OCD, but helps with it. And Vincent finally starts to see change in his habits. And to see him light up the way he does when his OCD isn't taking over in situations it normally would is TEAR-JERKING! Ugh my heart was so full reading this as the story and the relationship began to unfold.
I've always loved a good workplace romance, and this one TAKES IT THERE! The whole series really. I mean this book takes IT everywhere. And by it I mean sex. Hehe. Much like its predecessors, this one serves the spice and it serves it GHOST PEPPER. Grab a bucket and a mop for this...book. And something about them doing the NASTY and then going to work the next day and being like "oh this data is bad, let me rework the code" and then 4 hours later go back and once again rework them insides. SPICE.
Ok Wardell we are ready for Book 4 nowwwwwwwww!
July 3, 2024
4.5 stars
Napkins and Other Distractions is my favourite so far. He we get Kent's romance. We meet him in the previous books as a minor side character, but he was always so much fun when he popped up so I was so happy he was getting his own book.
Kent's the principal of Lear Elementary School, which is implementing new technology to help track student performance. Vincent is apart of the team implementing the program. The only thing making it a bit awkward is that Kent and Vincent had recently gone on a date, which while they did hook up, didn't end on the best note.
I fell in love with Kent and Vincent. They have a bit of opposites attract going on which I really enjoyed. This was such a good romance!
Napkins and Other Distractions is my favourite so far. He we get Kent's romance. We meet him in the previous books as a minor side character, but he was always so much fun when he popped up so I was so happy he was getting his own book.
Kent's the principal of Lear Elementary School, which is implementing new technology to help track student performance. Vincent is apart of the team implementing the program. The only thing making it a bit awkward is that Kent and Vincent had recently gone on a date, which while they did hook up, didn't end on the best note.
I fell in love with Kent and Vincent. They have a bit of opposites attract going on which I really enjoyed. This was such a good romance!
January 4, 2025
I love this series so much and it’s really hard knowing that the next one is the last. I wanna say that I take my time and savor every second, but I’m gonna speed through, fall in love and read again when I want to revisit characters and stories I love. And seeing as how I saw myself in both Kent and Vincent, in one way or another, I will definitely be rereading the entire series again before the conclusion in February of 2025.
Kent is a character that I immediately fell in love with while reading Mistletoe and Mishigas. He’s that cool (and sexy) principal that you want to run into when dropping off your kids. He is bisexual, but hasn’t explored that since before he was married to his now ex-wife. So from the start, I was excited to see how that exploration went. Surprise! Surprise! It was HAWT!!!! 😝
Vincent is the tech guy brought in to upgrade the software and monitor data on the school… that, of course, Kent is the principal of. They actually met before this though, on a first date that ended with a quickie and a quick exit. So it’s almost kismet that they have a second chance to actually get to know each other and maybe something more will come from it. As we all know it does.
My biggest want from any book is representation. I like to read and promote books that feature characters that come from diverse backgrounds, are queer, or end up somewhere on the rainbow spectrum, or maybe are neurodivergent or a person with a disability. So the fact that one of the MC’s has obsessive compulsive disorder and deals with that throughout the book is really important and IMO written incredibly well.
I loved this immensely, almost more than the last two books, but they all have a special place in my heart. If you haven’t picked up this series yet, what are you doinnnnnnnnnnng??? Get to it!
Kent is a character that I immediately fell in love with while reading Mistletoe and Mishigas. He’s that cool (and sexy) principal that you want to run into when dropping off your kids. He is bisexual, but hasn’t explored that since before he was married to his now ex-wife. So from the start, I was excited to see how that exploration went. Surprise! Surprise! It was HAWT!!!! 😝
Vincent is the tech guy brought in to upgrade the software and monitor data on the school… that, of course, Kent is the principal of. They actually met before this though, on a first date that ended with a quickie and a quick exit. So it’s almost kismet that they have a second chance to actually get to know each other and maybe something more will come from it. As we all know it does.
My biggest want from any book is representation. I like to read and promote books that feature characters that come from diverse backgrounds, are queer, or end up somewhere on the rainbow spectrum, or maybe are neurodivergent or a person with a disability. So the fact that one of the MC’s has obsessive compulsive disorder and deals with that throughout the book is really important and IMO written incredibly well.
I loved this immensely, almost more than the last two books, but they all have a special place in my heart. If you haven’t picked up this series yet, what are you doinnnnnnnnnnng??? Get to it!
July 13, 2024
This book was SPICY!!! I love this series so much and these characters were just adorable. They complimented each other very well while dealing with their own issues. They truly helped one another be more comfortable with who they are. I will continue reading anything by this author because I am always left with a huge smile on my face! 4 STARS!
June 13, 2024
two imperfectly perfect guys
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🌶️🌶️🌶️1/2. The support, kindness, patience, and love that these two men had was exactly the story I needed right now. Two guys finding love and learning how to love their imperfections. A great addition to the series. I can’t wait for another book by MA Wardell
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🌶️🌶️🌶️1/2. The support, kindness, patience, and love that these two men had was exactly the story I needed right now. Two guys finding love and learning how to love their imperfections. A great addition to the series. I can’t wait for another book by MA Wardell
June 22, 2024
Another fantastic, heartfelt M M romance featuring two men, both older (one in their 40s, the other in their 50s). I loved the OCD rep, the bi rep and the finding love later in life story. Throw in a little forced proximity, workplace romance and cameos from previous Teachers in love characters and this was another home run from Jewish indie author M.A. Wardell. It was also fantastic on audio and I'm glad I got a chance to listen to it so quickly!
March 28, 2024
Each book just gets better.
MA Wardell wrote Napkins with such thought and care, it was a true joy to read. Being “older” *cough* 41, I appreciate characters finding love again, established in their careers and lives, etc.
There was so much heart and love and discovery in Napkins & Other Distractions and I’ll be ready to read it again soon.
MA Wardell wrote Napkins with such thought and care, it was a true joy to read. Being “older” *cough* 41, I appreciate characters finding love again, established in their careers and lives, etc.
There was so much heart and love and discovery in Napkins & Other Distractions and I’ll be ready to read it again soon.
June 20, 2024
I had high hopes for this, but in 2024 framing OCD like it’s a character flaw that can be overcome by falling in love and broadening your horizons is a terrible look. I’m confused by all of the reviews saying that Kent helped Vincent learn to accept his OCD, because what actually happened is Vincent gradually stopped having as many issues despite getting no actual treatment.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 9, 2024
Loved Vincent & Kent! This book is all about acceptance and love ❤️
June 6, 2024
[I received an early copy as a supporter of the authors Patreon ]
Napkins and Other Distractions is a quality addition to the Teacher of the Year series by MA Wardell!
Vincent deserved all the love in the world and while on the surface a klutzy person wouldn't seem like a good match , Kent absolutely is. He is kind, patience, understand and accepting of all aspects of Vincent.
This book is the absolute sweetest from the tender moments between the MCs to the moments they spent with kids. Then it does a complete switch to dirty as f*ck between the MCs when they are alone. Vincent as a praise kink "good boy " all the way 🔥 and Kent has a feet kink that I was in no way prepared for . 😂
Overall Napkins and Other Distractions by MA Wardell is an MM romance with olders MCs, a Klutsy principal , OCD rep, mysophobia (fear of germs) , Bi-rep, low angst, high steam, shenanigans in the supply closet, Shtupping adjacent activities, praise kink, a first date do-over, LEGO building , patience , support, and love.
Napkins and Other Distractions is a quality addition to the Teacher of the Year series by MA Wardell!
Vincent deserved all the love in the world and while on the surface a klutzy person wouldn't seem like a good match , Kent absolutely is. He is kind, patience, understand and accepting of all aspects of Vincent.
This book is the absolute sweetest from the tender moments between the MCs to the moments they spent with kids. Then it does a complete switch to dirty as f*ck between the MCs when they are alone. Vincent as a praise kink "good boy " all the way 🔥 and Kent has a feet kink that I was in no way prepared for . 😂
Overall Napkins and Other Distractions by MA Wardell is an MM romance with olders MCs, a Klutsy principal , OCD rep, mysophobia (fear of germs) , Bi-rep, low angst, high steam, shenanigans in the supply closet, Shtupping adjacent activities, praise kink, a first date do-over, LEGO building , patience , support, and love.
January 26, 2024
Wardell, in his third book, has found a delightful balance between light hearted humor, nuanced character development, and blossoming romance. This low stakes, low angst, but deeply moving work was relatable on many levels while still offering the quippy humor and breezy storytelling that is quickly becoming his brand identity. I particularly enjoyed the representation of character types outside the norm, and I strongly believe these fellows will find themselves with many rabid fans.
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July 24, 2024DNF at 35%
Unfortunately, I cannot connect to this book at all, which is a shame because I loved the previous one.
Unfortunately, I cannot connect to this book at all, which is a shame because I loved the previous one.
April 30, 2024
The third book in the Teachers in Love series is the perfect mix between sweet and spicy, with a healthy dose of funny. With new lovable characters, and a few exciting cameos, Napkins and Other Distractions is a quick, fun read that will make you want to take a cold shower immediately. It's THAT hot.
I loved the way Kent tried to accommodate all of Vincent's quirks and needs. They're really good for each other, even if they're so different.
We need more romance novels with older main characters. Kent is 52 and Vincent is 40, but boooooy were they horny!! This was incredibly spicy. I wasn't expecting anything less from the King of Spice himself, though. 😋
I loved the way Kent tried to accommodate all of Vincent's quirks and needs. They're really good for each other, even if they're so different.
We need more romance novels with older main characters. Kent is 52 and Vincent is 40, but boooooy were they horny!! This was incredibly spicy. I wasn't expecting anything less from the King of Spice himself, though. 😋
September 15, 2024
MA Wardell writes the most wholesome books ever. I cried, I swooned and I giggled. The OCD rep was amazing. And YESSSS to the side rep. This was so refreshing for a MM romance. And made for very interesting sexual shenanigans. Kent is the sweetest most caring human and Vincent is a baby and deserves all the love Kent has for him.
February 9, 2025
Kent and Vincent are very cute together. I loved seeing both Side and OCD representation. The book was a bit too spicy for me, but that's an asexual me problem; others wouldn't mind it.
I like Kent and Vincent A LOT.
I like Kent and Vincent A LOT.
June 24, 2025
Book 3 of Teachers in Love! I have to say, as an educator, I appreciate the POVs of the characters Wardell includes in this series. There’s enough realism in how they interact with others during the school day and what’s on their mind outside of school…it feels like this series was made for someone like me. Can’t express how much I appreciate that.
MAN, was this book horny. Not that the first 2 books weren’t plenty sexy themselves, but there’s was SO MUCH sex in this one. Not mad about that one bit, as these scenes helped Vincent become more comfortable with the idea of a relationship, so everything flowed very nicely.
Vincent was a hard character for me to trust in, odd as that statement is. (Not that I thought he was a bad person at all!) He was certainly relatable, in that his OCD can feel very similar to aspects of many people’s lives, perhaps in smaller ways. I found his immediate switches from not being able to handle germs to being totally okay with Kent’s entirely unkempt person. Seemed a bit erratic, for me.
Kent was an angel. What a mensch!
Overall, I had a good time with Kent & Vincent’s story. If you’re in the mood for some Daddy/Good Boy role play, I’m sure that’ll sweeten the deal for you, as well.
MAN, was this book horny. Not that the first 2 books weren’t plenty sexy themselves, but there’s was SO MUCH sex in this one. Not mad about that one bit, as these scenes helped Vincent become more comfortable with the idea of a relationship, so everything flowed very nicely.
Vincent was a hard character for me to trust in, odd as that statement is. (Not that I thought he was a bad person at all!) He was certainly relatable, in that his OCD can feel very similar to aspects of many people’s lives, perhaps in smaller ways. I found his immediate switches from not being able to handle germs to being totally okay with Kent’s entirely unkempt person. Seemed a bit erratic, for me.
Kent was an angel. What a mensch!
Overall, I had a good time with Kent & Vincent’s story. If you’re in the mood for some Daddy/Good Boy role play, I’m sure that’ll sweeten the deal for you, as well.
June 19, 2024
this was a warm hug. i'm happy.
October 30, 2025
Since I enjoyed the first two books in M.A. Wardell's Teachers in Love series, I was excited to check out Napkins and Other Distractions. Just like with the others, it was a sweet comfort read that I still think about months later. While it can be read on its own, it contains some spoilers for the first two books.
I loved both Kent and Vincent and enjoyed seeing them together. They're wonderful characters whom I was rooting for the entire time. They presented as flawed and vulnerable, but that just made them more endearing. I appreciated that they were older too. Kent and Vincent appeared in the first two novels, but in smaller roles, so it was nice for them to have a turn in the limelight. The story was cozy, romantic, and wildly spicy. The supporting characters were great and I got to revisit with some from the previous novels. I especially adored Kent's granddaughter. His cat also had a fun personality. The school scenes reminded me of when my kids were little. It made me think of their elementary school days.
What I really loved was Kent's supportiveness of Vincent's needs for cleanliness and hygiene. He did everything he could to make Vincent comfortable, which was just so sweet and amazing.
I need to be upfront that the bedroom scenes are extremely raunchy. This is for ages 18 and up, no exceptions. The activity is all consensual and both characters take turns as givers and receivers.
I would have appreciated some more Jewish influence. The dinners they went to with Kent's family could have been Shabbat dinners and had some of the customs. Also the conflict came too close to the end and then was resolved too quickly. It could have been drawn out more. Neither concern was a deterrent to how much I adored this novel.
I already can't wait for the next novel in this series, which revisits with the characters from Teacher of the Year. I know the author has other series in the works, but I'd love for him to keep this series going. It's really special.
As far as movie casting goes, all of M.A. Wardell's characters are unicorns to me, as I can't find actors who would be a good fit. (I only look for gay actors, considering what's involved in the role, should a movie ever be made.)
(Trigger warnings below.)
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TW: Obsessive-compulsive disorder. Panic attack.
I loved both Kent and Vincent and enjoyed seeing them together. They're wonderful characters whom I was rooting for the entire time. They presented as flawed and vulnerable, but that just made them more endearing. I appreciated that they were older too. Kent and Vincent appeared in the first two novels, but in smaller roles, so it was nice for them to have a turn in the limelight. The story was cozy, romantic, and wildly spicy. The supporting characters were great and I got to revisit with some from the previous novels. I especially adored Kent's granddaughter. His cat also had a fun personality. The school scenes reminded me of when my kids were little. It made me think of their elementary school days.
What I really loved was Kent's supportiveness of Vincent's needs for cleanliness and hygiene. He did everything he could to make Vincent comfortable, which was just so sweet and amazing.
I need to be upfront that the bedroom scenes are extremely raunchy. This is for ages 18 and up, no exceptions. The activity is all consensual and both characters take turns as givers and receivers.
I would have appreciated some more Jewish influence. The dinners they went to with Kent's family could have been Shabbat dinners and had some of the customs. Also the conflict came too close to the end and then was resolved too quickly. It could have been drawn out more. Neither concern was a deterrent to how much I adored this novel.
I already can't wait for the next novel in this series, which revisits with the characters from Teacher of the Year. I know the author has other series in the works, but I'd love for him to keep this series going. It's really special.
As far as movie casting goes, all of M.A. Wardell's characters are unicorns to me, as I can't find actors who would be a good fit. (I only look for gay actors, considering what's involved in the role, should a movie ever be made.)
(Trigger warnings below.)
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TW: Obsessive-compulsive disorder. Panic attack.
August 22, 2024
DNFed at 31%
I really really really almost never DNF a book. I’ve read literally hundreds of books I didn’t like, found boring or even a few I found hurtful but I usually push through till the end.
And this is the maybe second book in +500 books reviewed here that I am reviewing after dnfing.
I really don’t like this author’s style. I liked his second book a bit better than the first so I gave this one a try but I honestly just couldn’t. The whole kink thing is not my cup of tea but I could probably had read it anyways if it wasn’t for the poor OCD rep and this that plays into a really awful dynamic.
The OCD is portrayed as a character flaw. It is a bit ironic that, considering this is an author that makes such a huge discourse about “own stories” (aka only cis gay men should write achillean stories in his opinion; which is borderline transphobic); he continues to write characters that I assume have very little to do with himself (not great fat rep in the previous book; simply awful OCD rep here) and thinks it’s ok because a few sensibility writers have thumbed it up (but refuses to listen to any criticism, regardless of how constructive and pointedly ignores any hints that he might not be doing such a good job on his rep).
Also the plot simply didn’t make sense. One of the characters has paralysing OCD but then he is ok kneeling in the floor of a supply closet in school. His job is the most important thing and he is having s*x on school perimeters. The other character is the HEADMISTER OF A SCHOOL AND HAS SEX IN SAID SCHOOL.
Just no.
I really really really almost never DNF a book. I’ve read literally hundreds of books I didn’t like, found boring or even a few I found hurtful but I usually push through till the end.
And this is the maybe second book in +500 books reviewed here that I am reviewing after dnfing.
I really don’t like this author’s style. I liked his second book a bit better than the first so I gave this one a try but I honestly just couldn’t. The whole kink thing is not my cup of tea but I could probably had read it anyways if it wasn’t for the poor OCD rep and this that plays into a really awful dynamic.
The OCD is portrayed as a character flaw. It is a bit ironic that, considering this is an author that makes such a huge discourse about “own stories” (aka only cis gay men should write achillean stories in his opinion; which is borderline transphobic); he continues to write characters that I assume have very little to do with himself (not great fat rep in the previous book; simply awful OCD rep here) and thinks it’s ok because a few sensibility writers have thumbed it up (but refuses to listen to any criticism, regardless of how constructive and pointedly ignores any hints that he might not be doing such a good job on his rep).
Also the plot simply didn’t make sense. One of the characters has paralysing OCD but then he is ok kneeling in the floor of a supply closet in school. His job is the most important thing and he is having s*x on school perimeters. The other character is the HEADMISTER OF A SCHOOL AND HAS SEX IN SAID SCHOOL.
Just no.
June 29, 2024
Thank you so much to the author for the gifted copy!!
This book has a lot of sweetness and a lot of spice in it as well. I love how patient Kent is as a person with the students and with Vincent as they build a relationship together! Their connection is really sweet and the way that they both learned to live together metaphorically speaking is soooo nice. Vincent obviously has a hard time with change, and seeing the way he was able to surprise himself and be supported as someone worthy of love was very touching.
I feel that this book may not have been for me. I had a rather difficult time connecting to these characters, especially as a couple. For me, I feel that the relationship came on very quickly and went 0-100 without us really seeing an evolution to get them there, if that makes sense. The smut started rather immediately which as a gay man, I totally get 😂 BUT the immediate intensity left a build missing for me and my investment in them and their connection was lacking.
That said, I love the rep in here and Wardell’s mission to highlight not only Gay Jewish men and culture in this series, but also spotlighting mental illness within the queer community.
This book has a lot of sweetness and a lot of spice in it as well. I love how patient Kent is as a person with the students and with Vincent as they build a relationship together! Their connection is really sweet and the way that they both learned to live together metaphorically speaking is soooo nice. Vincent obviously has a hard time with change, and seeing the way he was able to surprise himself and be supported as someone worthy of love was very touching.
I feel that this book may not have been for me. I had a rather difficult time connecting to these characters, especially as a couple. For me, I feel that the relationship came on very quickly and went 0-100 without us really seeing an evolution to get them there, if that makes sense. The smut started rather immediately which as a gay man, I totally get 😂 BUT the immediate intensity left a build missing for me and my investment in them and their connection was lacking.
That said, I love the rep in here and Wardell’s mission to highlight not only Gay Jewish men and culture in this series, but also spotlighting mental illness within the queer community.
June 4, 2024
Keeps getting better!
First, I am so grateful to have been able to have this ARC and be part of M.A Wardell's book community. I was already head over heels for this series and love the previous two entries, however, feel this series got even better! I won't say much as it's not released yet but will release a more in-depth review after its release.. I can give nothing but praise for this book. M.A Wardell continues developing Vincent and Kent's characters and they truly shine in their story. I was excited to see how these previous introduced characters were going to develop their romance and this delivered on the romance, the feels, and of let's not forget the spice! If you wanted some extra spice in your reading diet then you will be feeling fed! I love the new side characters to this series but loved having both couples back in action and not just as cameos. I highly recommend this book to romance lovers but will recommend this be part after reading the first two in the series.
First, I am so grateful to have been able to have this ARC and be part of M.A Wardell's book community. I was already head over heels for this series and love the previous two entries, however, feel this series got even better! I won't say much as it's not released yet but will release a more in-depth review after its release.. I can give nothing but praise for this book. M.A Wardell continues developing Vincent and Kent's characters and they truly shine in their story. I was excited to see how these previous introduced characters were going to develop their romance and this delivered on the romance, the feels, and of let's not forget the spice! If you wanted some extra spice in your reading diet then you will be feeling fed! I love the new side characters to this series but loved having both couples back in action and not just as cameos. I highly recommend this book to romance lovers but will recommend this be part after reading the first two in the series.
July 14, 2024
2.5. this is the weakest of the series, but the spice was damn good
April 30, 2025
Smoothie is a stupid nickname.
April 30, 2024
Oh wow, this might be my favorite M.A. Wardell book yet! In Napkins and Other Distractions, we finally get the chance to read Kent and Vincent's story, who are side characters in previous books in the series. While it's a fantastic spicy romcom overall, I LOVED that the primary theme was about older men finding each other later in life. Unique, oh so sweet, and unputdownable.
The story begins with a disastrous date between Kent, a divorced elementary school principal finally getting back into the dating scene, and Vincent, an educational software engineer with clinical OCD. While they both feel sparks, in some ways their relationship feels doomed from the start. Kent is a bit of a disorganized klutz while Vincent lives for order. They unexpectedly run into each other again when Vincent is involved in the implementation of some new software at Kent's school. The more time they spend together, the more they clearly seem to fall for each other. However, Vincent worries that his OCD is too much for anyone to handle while Kent is worried for his job. Can they both prove to each other that they are worthy of love?
Y'all, Kent and Vincent are such interesting, nuanced characters. I loved Kent's hot grandpa vibes, and omg, his ability to understand what Vincent needed from him is SO endearing. The mental health rep in this book was SO well done- Vincent's struggles with OCD felt incredibly real. And wow, I just love the way Matt writes spice scenes. Incredibly s3x positive, tons of consent, and super hot without being exploitative.
I'm a huge fan of all of Matt's books - they are all well-written, funny, and full of DELICIOUS spice. However, what I love most about them is how freaking fresh they feel. I read a TON of romance, and there just aren't a lot of romance books in general and MM in particular with plus size MCs, interracial couples, or *older* MCs. It's so nice that there's someone out there intentionally telling those stories, as they are so relatable to so many people.
The story begins with a disastrous date between Kent, a divorced elementary school principal finally getting back into the dating scene, and Vincent, an educational software engineer with clinical OCD. While they both feel sparks, in some ways their relationship feels doomed from the start. Kent is a bit of a disorganized klutz while Vincent lives for order. They unexpectedly run into each other again when Vincent is involved in the implementation of some new software at Kent's school. The more time they spend together, the more they clearly seem to fall for each other. However, Vincent worries that his OCD is too much for anyone to handle while Kent is worried for his job. Can they both prove to each other that they are worthy of love?
Y'all, Kent and Vincent are such interesting, nuanced characters. I loved Kent's hot grandpa vibes, and omg, his ability to understand what Vincent needed from him is SO endearing. The mental health rep in this book was SO well done- Vincent's struggles with OCD felt incredibly real. And wow, I just love the way Matt writes spice scenes. Incredibly s3x positive, tons of consent, and super hot without being exploitative.
I'm a huge fan of all of Matt's books - they are all well-written, funny, and full of DELICIOUS spice. However, what I love most about them is how freaking fresh they feel. I read a TON of romance, and there just aren't a lot of romance books in general and MM in particular with plus size MCs, interracial couples, or *older* MCs. It's so nice that there's someone out there intentionally telling those stories, as they are so relatable to so many people.
January 5, 2025
**please note that all page numbers cited are from the kindle edition, usually from the kindle app for iPhone
look, if I could give this book no stars I would. I am deeply troubled and borderline disgusted by the representation of mental health, specifically OCD, in the book and I’m just out of patience for shenanigans like this from authors.
First, let’s start with what I liked/didn’t mind: older MCs (in their 40s and 50s no less!), bisexual exploration, lots of smut. I would also like to note that this is a M/M romance written by an openly queer man, so I wanted to give it a fair shot. The prevalence (or lack thereof) of queer male authors in M/M romance spaces is frequently a topic of discussion, and it’s important to recognize said authors and the work they are doing.
regardless, I don’t think I will ever read a book by this author again. The main reason for this is the portrayal of Vincent, one of the MMCs, and the portrayal of his OCD.
Vincent’s character arc is this: at the beginning of the book he is single, 40, and on thin ice at his job, Hopscotch (an educational software company). The book opens with him nervously awaiting a first date, arising from a meeting on an app, with Kent, the other MMC. They hook up, then find out they are going to be temporary coworkers, and are in forced proximity for the next several weeks. Vincent is unable to deny his attraction to Kent (and Kent isn’t either) and through a series of hook ups and forced meetings, they fall in love.
In addition, at least in the first half or so of the book, Vincent is REALLY struggling – he’s lonely and disconnected from those around him, struggling at his job, and managing having a serious mental illness alone. Vincent also has mysophobia – a fear of germs – making connections with those around him even more difficult. Kent, otoh, has a messy but full life: a granddaughter, a cat, he is perpetually clumsy, and moves through the world more freely than someone with OCD.
As Vincent spends more time with Kent, and is forced to “face his fears” so to speak, and his OCD symptoms abate. By the end of the book, and less than one year after meeting Kent, Vincent is working as an elementary school teacher and living with Kent and his cat.
And - IN THE YEAR OF OUR LORD 2024 - never once was mental health treatment for Vincent’s serious mental health condition discussed or mentioned.
All of this to say: Vincent is cured by the power of love (and some good dick) of a serious mental heath condition. This is irresponsible, unrealistic, and genuinely confusing for a book that was very clearly angling to be considered “good OCD rep.” The author even says in a note at the beginning of the book: “My hope is people with OCD feel seen and represented, and others will gain understanding and empathy. Through my research/interviews, one thing I’ve learned is OCD is not a one-size-fits-all disorder. This is Vincent’s story, but everyone experiences OCD differently.”
Vincent has contamination type OCD: his obsessions and compulsions related to dirt and contagions and his compulsions related to cleaning and keeping clean. Here’s the thing: Vincent was experiencing, and seemingly had been experiencing – serious consequences due to his (probably, IT IS NEVER MENTIONED SO WE DON’T KNOW) untreated OCD. Here’s how those consequences are presented:
•First, it is mentioned multiple times that Vincent does not often visit his parents because they own a goat farm and he is disgusted by animals – his OCD is affecting his relationship with his parents (no siblings). (p. 93, p.94)
•It is also mentioned that Vincent struggles to maintain friendships due to his OCD (pg. 64), his OCD causes him to struggle to be open with friends (p. 39).
•His OCD affected his job performance in the past and does at the end of the book. It is stated that his is on thin ice with his employer because of the effects of his OCD compulsions (p. 6, p. 65, p. 80, p. 265)
It is absurd to think that a person with CONTAMINATION OCD would be able to handle living with a cat and working with children (Vincent living w a cat: p. 279, Vincent working w kids: p. 277)- both of which are disgusting (affectionate) - without SOME kind of treatment for his LIFELONG MENTAL HEALTH DISORDER.
OCD is a serious disorder and needs years of treatment and then ongoing treatment in order to manage. Where is the therapy? Where is the medication? Why is Vincent suddenly doing better now and the only things that’s changed is that he’s fallen in love? Not every treatment modality works for every person, but treatment IS needed to effectively mitigate the symptoms of OCD.
Seriously - I don’t understand how a college educated, upper middle class single person gets to 40 years old, when it said on page in the book that his parents discovered his fear of germs when he was a child (p. 149), has never sought mental health treatment, or the author chose to never mention the character seeking mental health treatment. And I seriously don’t understand how someone who whose mental health condition is affecting both their relationships, with their parents, friends and romantic partners as well as their job doesn’t seem to think, “Hey, maybe I should do something about this.” Why was Vincent so helpless for so long??
It’s one thing to have your character provide understanding and care for someone’s mental health condition, but it is another for their love and their magic dick to cure and or significantly treat your mental health condition. That’s not appropriate mental health representation in a contemporary romance it’s or it is it’s not well-researched, effective representation. It is irresponsible for authors to clearly angle for their book to be “good” mental health rep and at the same time omit THE critical necessity for managing said mental health condition.
now that I’ve said my piece about the OCD rep in this book here are some other things that I hated:
-the cat’s name and how it paints Kent to be an 85 yr old in a nursing home
-the MMCs have no taste in music (except for Vincent and his OCD album) and no other hobbies or tastes - they read as very one dimensional
-MMCs have no relationships beyond family and people they talk about their relationship with
-Vincent doesn’t have anything in his life that is not directly related to, and not just merely affected by, his OCD
-how is Kent a M/M sex god and so comfortable when he’s literally never had sex w a man
-some weird, possibly biphobic comments made by mostly side characters (see highlights)
-LOTS of small mentions of diet culture (see highlights)
-MMCs having sex on school grounds, in an elementary school, WHILE STUDENTS WERE IN THE BUILDING
-federally illegal representation of the IEP process, seriously Brodie’s parents should be suing the shit out of Kent’s district - no evaluation process should take (and is not allowed to take) TWO YEARS
look, if I could give this book no stars I would. I am deeply troubled and borderline disgusted by the representation of mental health, specifically OCD, in the book and I’m just out of patience for shenanigans like this from authors.
First, let’s start with what I liked/didn’t mind: older MCs (in their 40s and 50s no less!), bisexual exploration, lots of smut. I would also like to note that this is a M/M romance written by an openly queer man, so I wanted to give it a fair shot. The prevalence (or lack thereof) of queer male authors in M/M romance spaces is frequently a topic of discussion, and it’s important to recognize said authors and the work they are doing.
regardless, I don’t think I will ever read a book by this author again. The main reason for this is the portrayal of Vincent, one of the MMCs, and the portrayal of his OCD.
Vincent’s character arc is this: at the beginning of the book he is single, 40, and on thin ice at his job, Hopscotch (an educational software company). The book opens with him nervously awaiting a first date, arising from a meeting on an app, with Kent, the other MMC. They hook up, then find out they are going to be temporary coworkers, and are in forced proximity for the next several weeks. Vincent is unable to deny his attraction to Kent (and Kent isn’t either) and through a series of hook ups and forced meetings, they fall in love.
In addition, at least in the first half or so of the book, Vincent is REALLY struggling – he’s lonely and disconnected from those around him, struggling at his job, and managing having a serious mental illness alone. Vincent also has mysophobia – a fear of germs – making connections with those around him even more difficult. Kent, otoh, has a messy but full life: a granddaughter, a cat, he is perpetually clumsy, and moves through the world more freely than someone with OCD.
As Vincent spends more time with Kent, and is forced to “face his fears” so to speak, and his OCD symptoms abate. By the end of the book, and less than one year after meeting Kent, Vincent is working as an elementary school teacher and living with Kent and his cat.
And - IN THE YEAR OF OUR LORD 2024 - never once was mental health treatment for Vincent’s serious mental health condition discussed or mentioned.
All of this to say: Vincent is cured by the power of love (and some good dick) of a serious mental heath condition. This is irresponsible, unrealistic, and genuinely confusing for a book that was very clearly angling to be considered “good OCD rep.” The author even says in a note at the beginning of the book: “My hope is people with OCD feel seen and represented, and others will gain understanding and empathy. Through my research/interviews, one thing I’ve learned is OCD is not a one-size-fits-all disorder. This is Vincent’s story, but everyone experiences OCD differently.”
Vincent has contamination type OCD: his obsessions and compulsions related to dirt and contagions and his compulsions related to cleaning and keeping clean. Here’s the thing: Vincent was experiencing, and seemingly had been experiencing – serious consequences due to his (probably, IT IS NEVER MENTIONED SO WE DON’T KNOW) untreated OCD. Here’s how those consequences are presented:
•First, it is mentioned multiple times that Vincent does not often visit his parents because they own a goat farm and he is disgusted by animals – his OCD is affecting his relationship with his parents (no siblings). (p. 93, p.94)
•It is also mentioned that Vincent struggles to maintain friendships due to his OCD (pg. 64), his OCD causes him to struggle to be open with friends (p. 39).
•His OCD affected his job performance in the past and does at the end of the book. It is stated that his is on thin ice with his employer because of the effects of his OCD compulsions (p. 6, p. 65, p. 80, p. 265)
It is absurd to think that a person with CONTAMINATION OCD would be able to handle living with a cat and working with children (Vincent living w a cat: p. 279, Vincent working w kids: p. 277)- both of which are disgusting (affectionate) - without SOME kind of treatment for his LIFELONG MENTAL HEALTH DISORDER.
OCD is a serious disorder and needs years of treatment and then ongoing treatment in order to manage. Where is the therapy? Where is the medication? Why is Vincent suddenly doing better now and the only things that’s changed is that he’s fallen in love? Not every treatment modality works for every person, but treatment IS needed to effectively mitigate the symptoms of OCD.
Seriously - I don’t understand how a college educated, upper middle class single person gets to 40 years old, when it said on page in the book that his parents discovered his fear of germs when he was a child (p. 149), has never sought mental health treatment, or the author chose to never mention the character seeking mental health treatment. And I seriously don’t understand how someone who whose mental health condition is affecting both their relationships, with their parents, friends and romantic partners as well as their job doesn’t seem to think, “Hey, maybe I should do something about this.” Why was Vincent so helpless for so long??
It’s one thing to have your character provide understanding and care for someone’s mental health condition, but it is another for their love and their magic dick to cure and or significantly treat your mental health condition. That’s not appropriate mental health representation in a contemporary romance it’s or it is it’s not well-researched, effective representation. It is irresponsible for authors to clearly angle for their book to be “good” mental health rep and at the same time omit THE critical necessity for managing said mental health condition.
now that I’ve said my piece about the OCD rep in this book here are some other things that I hated:
-the cat’s name and how it paints Kent to be an 85 yr old in a nursing home
-the MMCs have no taste in music (except for Vincent and his OCD album) and no other hobbies or tastes - they read as very one dimensional
-MMCs have no relationships beyond family and people they talk about their relationship with
-Vincent doesn’t have anything in his life that is not directly related to, and not just merely affected by, his OCD
-how is Kent a M/M sex god and so comfortable when he’s literally never had sex w a man
-some weird, possibly biphobic comments made by mostly side characters (see highlights)
-LOTS of small mentions of diet culture (see highlights)
-MMCs having sex on school grounds, in an elementary school, WHILE STUDENTS WERE IN THE BUILDING
-federally illegal representation of the IEP process, seriously Brodie’s parents should be suing the shit out of Kent’s district - no evaluation process should take (and is not allowed to take) TWO YEARS
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 13, 2024
You can trust M.A. Wardell to bring such lovable characters to your life! Kent and Vincent finally got their story.
MM book world is full of young horny guys (love them, don‘t get me wrong), so it‘s SO refreshing to read about older men (Kent is 52, and Vincent is 40). I love that in Matt‘s books – he makes sure that everyone is seen. In this particular case we have Kent, who is rediscovering himself, and Vincent, who is convinced no one wants to love him and his OCD.
I loved to watch the growth of characters. Acceptance is the core in Kent and Vincent‘s relationship and it was written so smoothly! Not a single glance or emotion out of the place. I just wanted to say that I adore Vincent -- he‘s trying so hard and is amazing at it! -- but Kent, oh Kent! What a wonderful human being you are! Only if there would be more kents in this world...
What I didn‘t expect: kinks! Light exploration of some of them was a really nice touch and made the story even spicier than it already was. And it is spicy, believe me :D
The world M.A. Wardell is creating should be like this not just in books. This series bring so much positivity and joy – I couldn‘t even begin to comprehend how important such stories are to people who are really represented in them with such love and care. Please, never stop, Matt!
MM book world is full of young horny guys (love them, don‘t get me wrong), so it‘s SO refreshing to read about older men (Kent is 52, and Vincent is 40). I love that in Matt‘s books – he makes sure that everyone is seen. In this particular case we have Kent, who is rediscovering himself, and Vincent, who is convinced no one wants to love him and his OCD.
I loved to watch the growth of characters. Acceptance is the core in Kent and Vincent‘s relationship and it was written so smoothly! Not a single glance or emotion out of the place. I just wanted to say that I adore Vincent -- he‘s trying so hard and is amazing at it! -- but Kent, oh Kent! What a wonderful human being you are! Only if there would be more kents in this world...
What I didn‘t expect: kinks! Light exploration of some of them was a really nice touch and made the story even spicier than it already was. And it is spicy, believe me :D
The world M.A. Wardell is creating should be like this not just in books. This series bring so much positivity and joy – I couldn‘t even begin to comprehend how important such stories are to people who are really represented in them with such love and care. Please, never stop, Matt!
June 7, 2024
I’m always speechless after a good read or maybe I’m just too lazy to articulate all my thoughts but I adored this.
The best OCD representation with the cutest dynamic ever top it off with all the things I learnt + how filthy this was, it’s safe to say I had FUN. The chemistry in this pages made me think about LOVE in every sense of the word.
It’s a 4.75🌟 for me!
Would’ve given it 5 🌟 but I can’t begin to pretend I understood the whole thing with the teachers software🤣
The best OCD representation with the cutest dynamic ever top it off with all the things I learnt + how filthy this was, it’s safe to say I had FUN. The chemistry in this pages made me think about LOVE in every sense of the word.
It’s a 4.75🌟 for me!
Would’ve given it 5 🌟 but I can’t begin to pretend I understood the whole thing with the teachers software🤣
December 15, 2025
presenting vincent's ocd as something that can just be overcome by falling in love without really discussing any treatment or therapy was certainly a choice... i honestly feel like i can't give this anything higher than one star given how the plot was boring, the ocd rep was bad, and none of the characters (main or side) felt fleshed out. maybe that last one is partly because i accidentally started an interconnected standalone series with book three, but i don't care to find out and have no intention of reading the others.
July 23, 2024
2.5 stars
dnf
August 4, 2024Don’t think this author is for me.
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