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Hot Set
While the cameras roll, can Alex and Brandon take a chance on love, or will their story end up on the cutting room floor?
Brandon
I’ve seen plenty of talented make-up artists, but Alex Addams is different. His artistry is impressive, sure, but he’s also stubborn, witty, and way hotter than I’d like to admit. Besides, he’s straight—or so he claims.
But getting involved could mean pushing Alex further from his FBI dreams. Is it selfish to want him here with me? Or are we both ready to risk it all for a love worth fighting for?
Alex
I had my future mapped out—join the FBI’s art forgery team, track down priceless artifacts, live a life filled with purpose and adventure. Instead, I’m back in my hometown, broke, and clinging to the hope that one day my career will take off. So, when my new friend Brandon offers me a job on his indie horror set, I jump at the chance.
Now, I’m torn between the career I’ve always wanted and the man who’s changing everything I thought I knew about myself.
Hot Set explores straight-to-gay and coming out between a hunky billionaire producer and his hired hot make-up artist. This MM romance features the challenges of making an indie film in a small town and chasing loftier dreams.
Brandon
I’ve seen plenty of talented make-up artists, but Alex Addams is different. His artistry is impressive, sure, but he’s also stubborn, witty, and way hotter than I’d like to admit. Besides, he’s straight—or so he claims.
But getting involved could mean pushing Alex further from his FBI dreams. Is it selfish to want him here with me? Or are we both ready to risk it all for a love worth fighting for?
Alex
I had my future mapped out—join the FBI’s art forgery team, track down priceless artifacts, live a life filled with purpose and adventure. Instead, I’m back in my hometown, broke, and clinging to the hope that one day my career will take off. So, when my new friend Brandon offers me a job on his indie horror set, I jump at the chance.
Now, I’m torn between the career I’ve always wanted and the man who’s changing everything I thought I knew about myself.
Hot Set explores straight-to-gay and coming out between a hunky billionaire producer and his hired hot make-up artist. This MM romance features the challenges of making an indie film in a small town and chasing loftier dreams.
- GenresM M Romance
178 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 14, 2025
7 people are currently reading
19 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
February 15, 2025
Why didn't I like this?
There was little to no relationship development. Alex is supposed to be straight but once him and Brandon are alone they kiss and it leads to mutual bjs, Alex then goes on to avoid Brandon and have repetitive inner monologues about how he isn't gay, it was just a bit of fun and didn't mean anything until after who knows how long he decides he actually does have feelings for Brandon, he doesn't just like him, he LOVES him but they dont talk about their feelings or spend any quality time together. There's an argument about Brandon not fighting hard enough for the movie and Alex walks off. They talk again at Alex's going farewell party and express their mutual love for each other and Brandon says he wants to try the long distance thing and Alex doesn't respond. The next chapter is Alex at the airport to pursue his dream job at the FBI but he decides he loves Brandon so much he leaves the airport and heads back to Brandon and tells him he doesn't want to do long distance and they say words of love again and give each other another blow job and that's how it ends 💀
I'm sorry but you need to give me more page time with the MCs bonding with each other before I'll believe that their love is soooo big that one of them is willing to give up their dream job for it.
Was Brandon actually able to crowdfund his project?? What is Alex going to do for a job once the movie is over?
I didn't even have a full understanding of the time line. 🤷♀️
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 8, 2025
I have to say that I didn’t find this one as realistic as Logan and Mark’s story in ‘You Were Mine’. At least they had lived together as roommates for two years and were FWB for a long time. Here Alex and Brandon have a short conversation at a bar, and Alex tells him he is straight . Later Alex goes to work as a make up artist on Brandon’s crazy movie venture while he waits to hear back from the FBI. Alex’s dream has always been to work in the Art Forgery Investigative Department in the FBI, it’s why he studied Art at University. After one night of stressful work with the Script Rewrite team in Brandon’s apartment, everyone goes home except Alex. Both share bjs and Alex leaves in the early hours while Brandon still sleeps. They never talk of it again at work or meet up outside work.
A lot of space is given to Alex and. Brandon’s individual internal musings about how they feel for the other, escalating very quickly to their telling themselves they are in love. This sounded much too fast a turnabout for someone like Alex who said he was straight.
Both Brandon and Alex are facing huge stressful situations about their future plans. Alex waiting for a second interview with FBI regarding his dream job. Brandon trying to meet his wealthy father’s deadline of finishing the movie he’s making with his father’s money, and coming to work in this family business in Telecommunications Industry.
After more visits and threats from his father Brandon finally caves and all comes tumbling down. Just grab a copy of this short story in this series and find out just how brainless these two guys are in the aftermath.
I want to know a hella lot more about Seth a hugely important character in this story who has been friends with Mark, Logan and Brandon since book 1, ‘You Were Mine.
A lot of space is given to Alex and. Brandon’s individual internal musings about how they feel for the other, escalating very quickly to their telling themselves they are in love. This sounded much too fast a turnabout for someone like Alex who said he was straight.
Both Brandon and Alex are facing huge stressful situations about their future plans. Alex waiting for a second interview with FBI regarding his dream job. Brandon trying to meet his wealthy father’s deadline of finishing the movie he’s making with his father’s money, and coming to work in this family business in Telecommunications Industry.
After more visits and threats from his father Brandon finally caves and all comes tumbling down. Just grab a copy of this short story in this series and find out just how brainless these two guys are in the aftermath.
I want to know a hella lot more about Seth a hugely important character in this story who has been friends with Mark, Logan and Brandon since book 1, ‘You Were Mine.
February 10, 2025
An MM romance featuring a very confidently out, proud and gay rich boy who is currently using daddy's money to create a film, his latest passion project whilst he decides what it is he wants to do with life and a very straight college graduate who has had to move home and live with his mum whilst he applies for his dream job.
Alex is living with his mum whilst he hopes that the FBI will interview him for his dream job investigating art cimes - I find that alone fascinating but as soon as Alex meets Brandon, after he has decided to take his mother's advice and try to be sociable, his plans begin to change. First there is the night at the bar when he meets Brandon, then he goes to the film set, they have lunch and he finds himself employed to help with makeup. In the process Alex finds he enjoys meeting all those on the set, including the irascible Seth (I hope he gets a story too)! But he especially bonds with Brandon, this confuses him. He really likes Brandon as a person and friend but it is when he starts to notice he has other feelings too that he gets confused...
Brandon is not at all confused, not any more. He knows how attracted he is to Alex and he is beginning to see that he is, in fact, enjoying directing a film and that it might be time for him to stand up to his father, to stop relying on his father's funds and to make something for and of himself. Brandon has less voice than Alex in this story but he is present through it all, he is the one Alex see's always sees, who is, perhaps without realising it, inspiring Alex, supporting and helping him. He is also far more inspirational to his crew than he gives himself credit for. He is a great character, they both are.
Hot Set is a charming story. Easy to read, it offers just the right amount of character development, a really interesting an unusual story - we don't often find ourselves enjoying small town romances on film sets! The employee-boss relationship is a nice easy one and the straight-to-gay is well supported. Nothing is sensationalised, it is all presented beautifully without fanfare, a great story that will charm every reader.
Alex is living with his mum whilst he hopes that the FBI will interview him for his dream job investigating art cimes - I find that alone fascinating but as soon as Alex meets Brandon, after he has decided to take his mother's advice and try to be sociable, his plans begin to change. First there is the night at the bar when he meets Brandon, then he goes to the film set, they have lunch and he finds himself employed to help with makeup. In the process Alex finds he enjoys meeting all those on the set, including the irascible Seth (I hope he gets a story too)! But he especially bonds with Brandon, this confuses him. He really likes Brandon as a person and friend but it is when he starts to notice he has other feelings too that he gets confused...
Brandon is not at all confused, not any more. He knows how attracted he is to Alex and he is beginning to see that he is, in fact, enjoying directing a film and that it might be time for him to stand up to his father, to stop relying on his father's funds and to make something for and of himself. Brandon has less voice than Alex in this story but he is present through it all, he is the one Alex see's always sees, who is, perhaps without realising it, inspiring Alex, supporting and helping him. He is also far more inspirational to his crew than he gives himself credit for. He is a great character, they both are.
Hot Set is a charming story. Easy to read, it offers just the right amount of character development, a really interesting an unusual story - we don't often find ourselves enjoying small town romances on film sets! The employee-boss relationship is a nice easy one and the straight-to-gay is well supported. Nothing is sensationalised, it is all presented beautifully without fanfare, a great story that will charm every reader.
February 16, 2025
Hot SetI by Caleb Marks is the second book in the Art of Love series. It’s the story of Brandon and Alex. We first met Brandon in You Were Mine: A M/M College Roommates, Friends to Lovers Romance. This book is a cute, feel-good story that perfectly blends humour, romance, and self-discovery.
Brandon has no clue what he wants to do with his life. He’s tried on a bunch of different things but hasn’t really clicked with any of them. Luckily for him, his parents are loaded, they are in telecommunications, and they are funding all his projects, so he’s not in a rush to figure things out. Alex, on the other hand, just finished his degree and moved back home while he looks for a job. His dream is to work for the FBI in the art forgery team.
Brandon and Alex meet at a bar, and Brandon makes the first move, showing interest in Alex. But Alex is ‘straight’. He lets Brandon down gently, saying he’s not into him like that, but would like to be friends. Brandon’s latest project is a zombie b-movie. It turns out Alex minored in theatrical make-up, so he ends up joining the crew as a makeup artist.
As Alex spends more time with Brandon, working together every day, he starts to notice him in a different way. Little by little, he realized he’s attracted to him. It catches him off guard since he’s never felt this way about another guy before, and at first, he struggles to accept it. But eventually, he comes to terms with his feelings. Then come the nerves and uncertainty, does Brandon feel the same way?
One of the best things about this book is watching Alex slowly figure out his feelings for Brandon and wondering if his crush is one-sided or if something more could happen between them.
I also loved the side characters. They were hilarious and made the story feel like you were hanging out with a group of friends. I’d like for Seth to have his own book.
I received an ARC from Booksprout for free, and I am voluntarily leaving my honest review and recommendation.
Brandon has no clue what he wants to do with his life. He’s tried on a bunch of different things but hasn’t really clicked with any of them. Luckily for him, his parents are loaded, they are in telecommunications, and they are funding all his projects, so he’s not in a rush to figure things out. Alex, on the other hand, just finished his degree and moved back home while he looks for a job. His dream is to work for the FBI in the art forgery team.
Brandon and Alex meet at a bar, and Brandon makes the first move, showing interest in Alex. But Alex is ‘straight’. He lets Brandon down gently, saying he’s not into him like that, but would like to be friends. Brandon’s latest project is a zombie b-movie. It turns out Alex minored in theatrical make-up, so he ends up joining the crew as a makeup artist.
As Alex spends more time with Brandon, working together every day, he starts to notice him in a different way. Little by little, he realized he’s attracted to him. It catches him off guard since he’s never felt this way about another guy before, and at first, he struggles to accept it. But eventually, he comes to terms with his feelings. Then come the nerves and uncertainty, does Brandon feel the same way?
One of the best things about this book is watching Alex slowly figure out his feelings for Brandon and wondering if his crush is one-sided or if something more could happen between them.
I also loved the side characters. They were hilarious and made the story feel like you were hanging out with a group of friends. I’d like for Seth to have his own book.
I received an ARC from Booksprout for free, and I am voluntarily leaving my honest review and recommendation.
February 11, 2025
A short, fun story that's a pleasure to read.
I loved all the characters in this story, even the secondary characters (I'd love to know Seth's story :)).
Alex and Brandon are just adorable. They both find themselves in this story somehow. When Brandon discovers his career calling after years of wandering, Alex discovers his sexuality, after long believing himself to be banally straight.
Brandon and Alex find love, but they also make incredible friends, some of them particularly crazy. For Alex, he even represents a family and his first real friends.
I'd love to be able to see the film they've managed to produce - it's rubbish, but it looks like absolute fun!
I loved this story, the writing is fluid. I loved watching Alex gradually become aware of his feelings. Brandon is an absolutely perfect guy who supports Alex even when he's convinced his feelings can never be shared.
I just have one regret... It's almost too short :)
I recommend it!
----
Une histoire courte et amusante, très agréable à lire.
J'ai adoré tous les personnages de cette histoire, même les caractères secondaires (j'adorerai connaître l'histoire de Seth :)).
Alex et Brandon sont juste adorables. L'un comme l'autre se trouvent d'une certaine manière dans cette histoire. Quand Brandon découvre sa vocation de carrière après des années d'errance, Alex, lui, c'est sa sexualité qu'il découvre, après avoir longtemps cru être banalement hétéro.
Brandon et Alex trouvent l'amour, mais également des amis incroyables, même si pour certains particulièrement déjantés. Pour Alex, il représente même une famille et ses premiers vrais amis.
J'aurai adoré pouvoir voir le film qu'ils auront réussi à produire c'est n'importe quoi mais ça a l'air absolument fun !
J'ai adoré cette histoire, l'écriture est fluide. J'ai aimé voir Alex, prendre peu à peu conscience de ses sentiments. Brandon est un mec absolument parfait et qui soutient Alex même quand il est persuadé que ces sentiments ne pourront jamais être partagés.
J'ai juste un regret... C'est presque trop court :)
Je recommande !
I loved all the characters in this story, even the secondary characters (I'd love to know Seth's story :)).
Alex and Brandon are just adorable. They both find themselves in this story somehow. When Brandon discovers his career calling after years of wandering, Alex discovers his sexuality, after long believing himself to be banally straight.
Brandon and Alex find love, but they also make incredible friends, some of them particularly crazy. For Alex, he even represents a family and his first real friends.
I'd love to be able to see the film they've managed to produce - it's rubbish, but it looks like absolute fun!
I loved this story, the writing is fluid. I loved watching Alex gradually become aware of his feelings. Brandon is an absolutely perfect guy who supports Alex even when he's convinced his feelings can never be shared.
I just have one regret... It's almost too short :)
I recommend it!
----
Une histoire courte et amusante, très agréable à lire.
J'ai adoré tous les personnages de cette histoire, même les caractères secondaires (j'adorerai connaître l'histoire de Seth :)).
Alex et Brandon sont juste adorables. L'un comme l'autre se trouvent d'une certaine manière dans cette histoire. Quand Brandon découvre sa vocation de carrière après des années d'errance, Alex, lui, c'est sa sexualité qu'il découvre, après avoir longtemps cru être banalement hétéro.
Brandon et Alex trouvent l'amour, mais également des amis incroyables, même si pour certains particulièrement déjantés. Pour Alex, il représente même une famille et ses premiers vrais amis.
J'aurai adoré pouvoir voir le film qu'ils auront réussi à produire c'est n'importe quoi mais ça a l'air absolument fun !
J'ai adoré cette histoire, l'écriture est fluide. J'ai aimé voir Alex, prendre peu à peu conscience de ses sentiments. Brandon est un mec absolument parfait et qui soutient Alex même quand il est persuadé que ces sentiments ne pourront jamais être partagés.
J'ai juste un regret... C'est presque trop court :)
Je recommande !
February 13, 2025
Hot Set is a fun, heartwarming, and effortlessly enjoyable read that stands out for its natural and authentic romance. The story follows Alex, who moves back in with his mom after his post-university plans fall through, feeling lost and unsure of his next steps. Determined to break out of his rut, he takes a chance and heads to a local bar—where he meets Brandon, a charming and confident filmmaker who mistakes Alex’s friendliness for flirtation. When Alex clarifies he’s straight, the two form an easygoing friendship instead.
Brandon, who’s working on a small-town film project, invites Alex to join the crew, and their connection deepens as they spend more time together. A late-night script rewrite becomes a turning point when Brandon opens up about his strained relationship with his father, revealing a vulnerable side that draws Alex in. In a moment of raw emotion, their friendship takes an unexpected turn, leaving Alex questioning everything he thought he knew about himself.
What follows is a beautifully written exploration of self-discovery, connection, and the way love can defy expectations. Alex’s journey of coming to terms with his feelings for Brandon is both tender and relatable, while Brandon’s unwavering support and understanding make him the perfect counterpart. Their romance unfolds organically, with a slow burn that ignites into something passionate and real.
Filled with endearing characters, witty banter, and a touch of small-town charm, Hot Set is a delightful read for anyone who loves low-angst, self-discovery romances. It’s a story about finding love where you least expect it and embracing the beautiful messiness of life. Highly recommended!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Brandon, who’s working on a small-town film project, invites Alex to join the crew, and their connection deepens as they spend more time together. A late-night script rewrite becomes a turning point when Brandon opens up about his strained relationship with his father, revealing a vulnerable side that draws Alex in. In a moment of raw emotion, their friendship takes an unexpected turn, leaving Alex questioning everything he thought he knew about himself.
What follows is a beautifully written exploration of self-discovery, connection, and the way love can defy expectations. Alex’s journey of coming to terms with his feelings for Brandon is both tender and relatable, while Brandon’s unwavering support and understanding make him the perfect counterpart. Their romance unfolds organically, with a slow burn that ignites into something passionate and real.
Filled with endearing characters, witty banter, and a touch of small-town charm, Hot Set is a delightful read for anyone who loves low-angst, self-discovery romances. It’s a story about finding love where you least expect it and embracing the beautiful messiness of life. Highly recommended!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 15, 2025
This is the second book in the Art of Love series. Each book can be enjoyed as a standalone read. This is the story of Alex and Brandon. Alex has just finished college and is lamenting the fact that he has to move back in with his mom in Bluehaven. Alex was hoping to join the FBI’s art forgery team and help track down priceless artifacts. He has given up hope that they will call him for an interview. Brandon comes from a rich family and his father is expecting him to join the family business. In the mean time, Brandon is trying different things to find what sparks his interest. Right now he is trying to produce a zombie movie. The two meet at a bar where Brandon tries to pick up Alex. Alex explains that he is straight. Since Alex has worked in the niche of theatrical make-up, Brandon invites him to work on the set. This is their story. The book is written well and is easy to read. I was a little put off by the ending. I couldn't relate to how someone could give up their dream job without more supporting evidence. Other than that, I enjoyed the book overall.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 23, 2025
This is a Great Story to Read! This is a story about two people trying to find their place. Alex moved back home to Bluehaven after college because he could not find a job. Alex wants to work for the FBI in their forgery department. Alex is looking for a job until he hears back from the FBI. Alex lives with his mother while he is looking for work. Alex meets Brandon at a Bar, they start talking. Brandon was originally going into Biomedical Science then changed his mind. Brandon is now trying to make a movie with zombies. His father is financing the movie. Brandon invites Alex out to the site where they are making the movie. Alex agrees to work as a makeup artist while he is waiting to hear back from the FBI. Alex also feels in as painter or anything else that is needed. Brandon is given a deadline for the movie from his father. While Brandon and Alex work on the movie they grow closer. Alex gets the job with the FBI and has to move to DC. Will he make the move???? Brandon's father stop the movie. Will Brandon continue the movie on his own??? How will he get the funding????.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 15, 2025
Alex and Brandon . . .
Just out of college, Alex Addams moves home to find a job when he doesn’t hear back from the FBI's art forgery team where he had hoped he could be a real asset. At a local bar, he meets Brandon who comes from a wealthy family and is producing a horror movie. He is interested in Alex, but Alex is only interested in friendship. Alex also had another skill to offer Brandon since he had minored at college in theatrical make-up, which Brandon could use on his movie set, so he offers him the job.
As luck would have it, Alex finally hears back from Michelle who had interviewed him for the FBI art forgery team job. But he will have to move to Washington, DC, for training if he decides to accept the offer. What choice will he make? Does he still want the art forgery job with the FBI that had been the major focus of his studies? Or is he ready to make up his mind about how he feels toward Brandon? Would he be able to leave him behind? Would Brandon choose to come with him? Or would they decide to remain here and make a life together?
Just out of college, Alex Addams moves home to find a job when he doesn’t hear back from the FBI's art forgery team where he had hoped he could be a real asset. At a local bar, he meets Brandon who comes from a wealthy family and is producing a horror movie. He is interested in Alex, but Alex is only interested in friendship. Alex also had another skill to offer Brandon since he had minored at college in theatrical make-up, which Brandon could use on his movie set, so he offers him the job.
As luck would have it, Alex finally hears back from Michelle who had interviewed him for the FBI art forgery team job. But he will have to move to Washington, DC, for training if he decides to accept the offer. What choice will he make? Does he still want the art forgery job with the FBI that had been the major focus of his studies? Or is he ready to make up his mind about how he feels toward Brandon? Would he be able to leave him behind? Would Brandon choose to come with him? Or would they decide to remain here and make a life together?
February 16, 2025
This was my first time reading Caleb Marks. It was a short and sweet story.
Alex was a college student whose dream was to work for the FBI. Brandon was a billionaire with too much money and time on his hands.
While Alex had worked hard to achieve his dream, Brandon didn’t have a dream. He was too complacent about depending on his daddy’s money to figure out what to do with his life.
Alex and Brandon meet at a bar. They immediately became friends and Alex becomes part of Brandon’s movie as a makeup artist.
The closer they become, the more their feelings grow. Alex thinks he’s straight but can’t deny his attraction to the charismatic and charming Brandon.
Their chemistry was outstanding. I only wish it wasn’t such a slow burn. It’s pretty fluffy in comparison to other mm books. Very green flag.
I enjoyed it though the characters needed more development. It felt like Alex and Brandon needed more time to get to know each other before making important, life changing decisions.
All in all, a nice read.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Alex was a college student whose dream was to work for the FBI. Brandon was a billionaire with too much money and time on his hands.
While Alex had worked hard to achieve his dream, Brandon didn’t have a dream. He was too complacent about depending on his daddy’s money to figure out what to do with his life.
Alex and Brandon meet at a bar. They immediately became friends and Alex becomes part of Brandon’s movie as a makeup artist.
The closer they become, the more their feelings grow. Alex thinks he’s straight but can’t deny his attraction to the charismatic and charming Brandon.
Their chemistry was outstanding. I only wish it wasn’t such a slow burn. It’s pretty fluffy in comparison to other mm books. Very green flag.
I enjoyed it though the characters needed more development. It felt like Alex and Brandon needed more time to get to know each other before making important, life changing decisions.
All in all, a nice read.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 10, 2025
This was a fun, cute, and easy read.
Alex has had to move back in with his mum when his post university plans didn't work out. Alex decides he needs to get out of the house and socialise more so he goes to a bar to try to talk to some women but ends up getting hit on by a guy, Brandon. When he realises what's happening Alex apologises that he's straight and they decide to stay in touch anyway as Brandon is working on a film locally that Alex might be able to get involved in.
During a late night script re-write Alex and Brandon end up alone, Brandon is opening up about his father to Alex and they end up kissing and then having sex. They were both consenting but Alex is confused afterwards because he's never been interested in a guy before.
What follows is a sweet story about connecting with someone in an unexpected way and how that connection can change everything you thought you wanted.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Alex has had to move back in with his mum when his post university plans didn't work out. Alex decides he needs to get out of the house and socialise more so he goes to a bar to try to talk to some women but ends up getting hit on by a guy, Brandon. When he realises what's happening Alex apologises that he's straight and they decide to stay in touch anyway as Brandon is working on a film locally that Alex might be able to get involved in.
During a late night script re-write Alex and Brandon end up alone, Brandon is opening up about his father to Alex and they end up kissing and then having sex. They were both consenting but Alex is confused afterwards because he's never been interested in a guy before.
What follows is a sweet story about connecting with someone in an unexpected way and how that connection can change everything you thought you wanted.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 16, 2025
This book was fun, cute, and an easy read, but what really stood out was how naturally the romance unfolded.
Alex moves back in with his mom after his post-university plans fall through, feeling stuck and restless. Determined to get out of the house and meet people, he heads to a bar—where he unexpectedly gets hit on by Brandon. When Alex realises what’s happening, he politely lets Brandon know he’s straight, but the two strike up an easy friendship instead.
Brandon, who’s working on a local film, offers Alex a chance to get involved, and soon, they’re spending more time together. During a late-night script rewrite, emotions run high, and Brandon opens up about his father. The vulnerability of the moment shifts something between them—and suddenly, they’re kissing. Then sleeping together.
Alex is confused but undeniably drawn to Brandon, questioning everything he thought he knew about himself. What follows is a heartfelt and charming journey about finding connection in unexpected places, embracing change, and realising that sometimes, love doesn’t fit into the neat little boxes we expect.
If you love low-angst, self-discovery romances with a slow-burn that turns scorching, Hot Set is a must-read!
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review
Alex moves back in with his mom after his post-university plans fall through, feeling stuck and restless. Determined to get out of the house and meet people, he heads to a bar—where he unexpectedly gets hit on by Brandon. When Alex realises what’s happening, he politely lets Brandon know he’s straight, but the two strike up an easy friendship instead.
Brandon, who’s working on a local film, offers Alex a chance to get involved, and soon, they’re spending more time together. During a late-night script rewrite, emotions run high, and Brandon opens up about his father. The vulnerability of the moment shifts something between them—and suddenly, they’re kissing. Then sleeping together.
Alex is confused but undeniably drawn to Brandon, questioning everything he thought he knew about himself. What follows is a heartfelt and charming journey about finding connection in unexpected places, embracing change, and realising that sometimes, love doesn’t fit into the neat little boxes we expect.
If you love low-angst, self-discovery romances with a slow-burn that turns scorching, Hot Set is a must-read!
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review
February 14, 2025
I have never read anything by Caleb Marks before, OMG this was fantastic; this is book two in The Art of Love Series. Alex moves back to his hometown of Bluehaven, he's a broke twenty three year old, and moves back in with his mom. His dream is to join the FBI's art forgery team. He needs to meet people, so he goes to a bar and meets Brandon. Brandon offers him a job as a makeup artist. Brandon is trying to produce a film "his project" with his daddies money. Brandon and Alex become good friends, but how "good" of friends. Alex always thought he was straight, but is he? Alex gets and interview with the FBI, and gets the job; he needs to move to Washington DC. He doesn't want to leave Brandon behind, does he take the job? Love the plot, great setting, and strong intense interesting characters. I look forward to reading more from Mr. Caleb Marks!!!
February 18, 2025
This was a cute and entertaining story. Alex, fresh out of college and searching for both a job and a social life, meets Brandon at a bar. Brandon, coming from a wealthy family, is trying to fund his horror movie while dealing with the pressure of his father wanting him to join the family business. Alex asks for a makeup artist job on Brandon’s film, hoping to use it as a stepping stone until he lands his dream job with the FBI.
The characters were engaging, and I enjoyed the chemistry between Alex and Brandon. However, while I liked the story overall, I really wish the ending had been different. It left me wanting more or perhaps a resolution that felt more satisfying. Despite that, it was still an enjoyable read with plenty of charm!
This is a standalone with a HEA.
I received this book to review and am leaving my thoughts voluntarily.
The characters were engaging, and I enjoyed the chemistry between Alex and Brandon. However, while I liked the story overall, I really wish the ending had been different. It left me wanting more or perhaps a resolution that felt more satisfying. Despite that, it was still an enjoyable read with plenty of charm!
This is a standalone with a HEA.
I received this book to review and am leaving my thoughts voluntarily.
February 14, 2025
Hot Set by Caleb Marks When Alex came back home, he was embarrassed as this was not what he felt like a failure. When he went out to a bar, he met Brandon. Spending time with Brandon while working at his film set as a makeup artist brought back a lot of joy and friendships he was missing when he finished college. Alex was also dealing with a new side of himself he never realized and that he was either gay or bisexual because he was falling for Brandon hard and fast. When he gets an offer from his dream job with the FBI, he is having a hard time deciding whether to stay or leave his friends and, of course, Brandon. I really enjoyed this book as it is sweet, funny, and frustrating as you want Alex to finally tell Brandon he loves him.
December 27, 2025
2.5 stare. Quick... surface level...easy read but there was no character development. There were time skips that could have made for great development scenes. SPOILERS》》》
After a chance meeting at a bar where Brandon hits on Alex. He says he is straight and Brandon respects that. He goes the friendship route instead even hires him as a make up artist for his film.
(28% into the book)After a late night strategy session, they end up exchanging BJs.
Alex is confused and spends the next few months trying to avoid Brandon. Brandon being the amazing person he was noticed and kept his distance. They barely spoke or had a scene together until 60%😳
During that time Alex confides in Seth (side character) about liking with Brandon, and he tells him it is a bad idea.
Him and Seth go for pizza and watched a game (not on page)
Seth takes him to a "gay bar" to make sure he is really gay/bi.
The conflict with Alex's job comes up along with Brandon's dad shutting down production.
I will say Alex not leaving was a pleasant surprise I expected a long distance situationship. It was a sweet scene.......followed by mutal BJs ...the end.
Alex was terrible about communicating. I hated that he didn't confide in Brandon that he was gay or bi first. Brandon wasn't even the first to know he got the job.
***To me....those are not the actions of someone "in love"/pining. Everyone came before Brandon.
I can see this as a HFN but there isn't enough development for HEA.
After a chance meeting at a bar where Brandon hits on Alex. He says he is straight and Brandon respects that. He goes the friendship route instead even hires him as a make up artist for his film.
(28% into the book)After a late night strategy session, they end up exchanging BJs.
Alex is confused and spends the next few months trying to avoid Brandon. Brandon being the amazing person he was noticed and kept his distance. They barely spoke or had a scene together until 60%😳
During that time Alex confides in Seth (side character) about liking with Brandon, and he tells him it is a bad idea.
Him and Seth go for pizza and watched a game (not on page)
Seth takes him to a "gay bar" to make sure he is really gay/bi.
The conflict with Alex's job comes up along with Brandon's dad shutting down production.
I will say Alex not leaving was a pleasant surprise I expected a long distance situationship. It was a sweet scene.......followed by mutal BJs ...the end.
Alex was terrible about communicating. I hated that he didn't confide in Brandon that he was gay or bi first. Brandon wasn't even the first to know he got the job.
***To me....those are not the actions of someone "in love"/pining. Everyone came before Brandon.
I can see this as a HFN but there isn't enough development for HEA.
February 15, 2025
This had some cute moments and I liked the two main characters- Brandon and Alex. Hot Set is a friends to lovers romance with minimal angst and an overall light and engaging style. However, for me, it did not quite come together as a romance, largely I think because there isn’t much relationship development or real chemistry between Alex and Brandon. I also didn’t love Alex giving up his FBI dreams, that made me a little sad. I did like the time spent on the horror movie Brandon is making, the crew was fun and the film stuff was entertaining.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book
February 18, 2025
Alex had to move back with his mother wanted to join the FBI art forgery team. Met Brandon at a bar who was talking about his movie he was making so Alex went the warehouse to see and ended getting a job doing some of the makeups for the movie. Alex fell in love with Brandon but didn’t know how Brandon felt, he got the job with the FBI. Brandon said they could do a long distance relationship Brandon’s father took away his financial support on the movie he just couldn’t do the job his father wanted him to do. Alex couldn’t leave Brandon behind so he stayed and helped with getting the money for the movie.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 16, 2025
This was a fun take on the billionaire romance trope. Brandon is the heir to a fortune but is not interested in joining the family business. He's pursued many passion projects, funded reluctantly by his father, but his latest is an independent zombie movie. Brandon thinks he may have found what he wants to do, and coincidently WHO he wants to do. Alex is a struggling art student with dreams of being part of the FBI's forged art division. On that side he does theatrical make up and that gets him hired on Brandon's set. The 2 have crazy chemistry together but Alex claims he's straight. As they spend more and more time together, Alex realizes he might not be as straight as he thought and Brandon knows that he doesn't want to let Alex go. I enjoyed the will they-won't they dynamic in the book. It heats things up nicely and builds the emotional component that I like. It's a fun and quick read that had me smiling the whole time.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 16, 2025
I laughed so hard at the beginning, I almost cried. And the idea for the movie is one I’d love to see in reality. It’s a fun book, cute story, interesting twists, and without the usual miscommunication breakup, which is a relief. It was a fun read. The author made me fall in love with the characters. I laughed with them, bit my nails over their choices, and cheered for them! I just wish the movie was real.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 16, 2025
Not his best, but the movie premise was hilarious. Hamilton meets The Rocky Horror Picture Show. Brandon was determined to make a movie that was so bad it was good and built a cult following. Alex had a dream to work for the FBI in the stolen art and forgery division. Armed with a BA in art history with a minor in theatrical makeup he is ready to take on the world. Will he take on the FBI or will he throw in with the exciting world of indie film making.
February 16, 2025
Surprisingly fun. Alex's goals were to join the FBI's art forgery team. He is working as a makeup artist on Brandon's movie set. Brandon is attracted to Alex. He wants Alex in his life. Brandon is a rich man who is trying to find his path in life. The story is delightful with a few twists, turns and unexpected events. Both men are nice and a bit funny and fun. Nicely done. I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 10, 2025
Hot Set delivers a steamy, small-town romance with a compelling premise, but it moves too quickly for my taste. The chemistry between Brandon and Alex is there, but the story lacks depth, and the dialogue feels a bit basic at times. I wanted more emotional buildup and character development, especially with Alex’s journey of self-discovery. That said, it’s still an enjoyable read with some fun moments.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 12, 2025
Alex, who always believed himself to be straight, (silly boy), that is until he meets Brandon. Working together on an indie movie, of which the plot sounds bizarre and hilarious, their friendship morphs into something that jolts Alex's world. Then comes an offer he always dreamed of, but it meant moving far away. I thoroughly loved this tale, the push and pull really kept me hooked, a lovely read.
April 28, 2025
Not his best, but the movie premise was hilarious. Hamilton meets The Rocky Horror Picture Show. Brandon was determined to make a movie that was so bad it was good and built a cult following. Alex had a dream to work for the FBI in the stolen art and forgery division. Armed with a BA in art history with a minor in theatrical makeup he is ready to take on the world. Will he take on the FBI or will he throw in with the exciting world of indie film making.
February 16, 2025
3.5⭐️ read rounded upto 4. This is the second book in the Art of Love series and they can be read as standalones, this is Brandon and Alex’s story. The characters were good and there was some good side characters the story was short, low angst and had some funny moments. There wasn’t a big deal of relationship development between Brandon and Alex but the story was sweet.
February 16, 2025
Hot Set is the second book in the Art of Love series, each can be read as a standalone. This is a sexual awakening, employee/employer, short story about Alex and Brandon. I loved the characters and the story was really good, I hope to see more of this series.
February 16, 2025
L’histoire est intéressante !!! Les personnages sont attachant ! Livre M/M !! Livre léger à lire, sans toxicité !!
February 17, 2025
This one was so reminiscent of a Hallmark Movie plot and I enjoyed every page! Reading Brandon and Alex’s story was so sweet and satisfying. I enjoyed the backdrop of making a move as well!
March 1, 2025
Brandon and Alex meet and Brandon offers a job. Alex needs a job so accepts. The two fall for each other but are afraid to tell the other. I really liked this book.
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