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This One Time
For some, acceptance seems like an impossible dream—Even of oneself . . .
Growing up in the military and broken promises from his parents, Ryver Nelson finds himself stuck in small-town Missouri, where his father grew up, for his senior year of high school. A town at the end of the earth with deep roots and low tolerance.
Ryver dreams of escape—making his own way in the world, that is, until he meets Jorrin Turner—a kind, genuine insider. The closer Ryver gets to Jorrin, his internal conflict of self-acceptance emerges as he navigates a homophobic father, a low acceptance from fellow students, and the urge just to be himself.
Struggling with self-identity and emotional angst, Ryver finds he is not alone in his efforts to juggle home, school, emotional maturity, and the never-ending hormonal urges that seem to plague his every thought.
How far will someone go to stand out as themselves while trying to fit in?
Growing up in the military and broken promises from his parents, Ryver Nelson finds himself stuck in small-town Missouri, where his father grew up, for his senior year of high school. A town at the end of the earth with deep roots and low tolerance.
Ryver dreams of escape—making his own way in the world, that is, until he meets Jorrin Turner—a kind, genuine insider. The closer Ryver gets to Jorrin, his internal conflict of self-acceptance emerges as he navigates a homophobic father, a low acceptance from fellow students, and the urge just to be himself.
Struggling with self-identity and emotional angst, Ryver finds he is not alone in his efforts to juggle home, school, emotional maturity, and the never-ending hormonal urges that seem to plague his every thought.
How far will someone go to stand out as themselves while trying to fit in?
- GenresM M RomanceYoung Adult
265 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 27, 2025
1 person is currently reading
17 people want to read
About the author
Kelvin Young
14 books42 followersBorn and raised in the great state of Missouri, I have always dreamed of getting out of the Midwest. Always yearned for something different, but I have found that something different always becomes the norm.
Ever indecisive, I earned three college degrees because I had no idea what I wanted to be when I grew up--and still don't. Eventually, went back for my fourth, and most likely last, degree.
I met my hubs in high school, even if we didn't know it then. He drives me crazy every day, but I'd never want another to drive. Officially together in 2000, we had our son in '11 and married in 2015, and we live in the same town I grew up in with our 3 dogs.
I've always been an avid reader and lover of all things imaginary. Fantasy is my true love, but while on vacation I picked up an MM/romance when I finished reading my book. I LOVED every moment of that story. Those passionate moments could be as simple as a look from across the room, a not-quite-graze of the leg under the table, and passions that quicken the breath.
I thought I could do that!! So, the journey began. But the best thing about getting lost is that you never get lost in the same place twice.
So, I hope you enjoy my stories. Look me up on other social platforms so we might get lost in my stories together. xo~Kelvin
Feel free to reach out to him at: Kelvin.Young.author@gmail.com
Amazon.com/author/kelvin.young
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?...
Ever indecisive, I earned three college degrees because I had no idea what I wanted to be when I grew up--and still don't. Eventually, went back for my fourth, and most likely last, degree.
I met my hubs in high school, even if we didn't know it then. He drives me crazy every day, but I'd never want another to drive. Officially together in 2000, we had our son in '11 and married in 2015, and we live in the same town I grew up in with our 3 dogs.
I've always been an avid reader and lover of all things imaginary. Fantasy is my true love, but while on vacation I picked up an MM/romance when I finished reading my book. I LOVED every moment of that story. Those passionate moments could be as simple as a look from across the room, a not-quite-graze of the leg under the table, and passions that quicken the breath.
I thought I could do that!! So, the journey began. But the best thing about getting lost is that you never get lost in the same place twice.
So, I hope you enjoy my stories. Look me up on other social platforms so we might get lost in my stories together. xo~Kelvin
Feel free to reach out to him at: Kelvin.Young.author@gmail.com
Amazon.com/author/kelvin.young
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
June 4, 2025
So good! A coming-of-age story with the usual stresses of teenage love and life. Characters were not all they seemed, and most had their own stories to tell. Ryver is a military kid, and when he describes his childhood moving around, you can’t help but feel empathy. Jorrin steps up for him from the get-go, supportive and kind; he helps him navigate a new school and explore his own sexuality.
The number of times I got annoyed at myself for reading Rye-ver instead of River was a lot. I think that was the point given the explanation for the name, but the author got me good because I did it throughout, and the epilogue, with poor Rhein (rain) history, repeats itself 😂
I absolutely loved the banter and humour in this book. At points, I outright cackled, and my kids were like ‘what’s funny, mammy?’ The doctor appointment was both funny and mortifying; I had second-hand embarrassment for poor Ryver. There were also a lot of emotional parts that made me angry, sad, teary, and relieved.
I was a bit unsure when I started reading it; I thought I might be a bit too old, but there’s nothing too inappropriate or anything that makes you cringe too much, although Ben pushed it a little 😬😂. Some storylines could be explained better just for my own mind, but I think they were cut off purposely.
I couldn’t put this down, and I enjoyed it all really well done.
————-
I received an ARC of this from GRR, and this is my honest review.
The number of times I got annoyed at myself for reading Rye-ver instead of River was a lot. I think that was the point given the explanation for the name, but the author got me good because I did it throughout, and the epilogue, with poor Rhein (rain) history, repeats itself 😂
I absolutely loved the banter and humour in this book. At points, I outright cackled, and my kids were like ‘what’s funny, mammy?’ The doctor appointment was both funny and mortifying; I had second-hand embarrassment for poor Ryver. There were also a lot of emotional parts that made me angry, sad, teary, and relieved.
I was a bit unsure when I started reading it; I thought I might be a bit too old, but there’s nothing too inappropriate or anything that makes you cringe too much, although Ben pushed it a little 😬😂. Some storylines could be explained better just for my own mind, but I think they were cut off purposely.
I couldn’t put this down, and I enjoyed it all really well done.
————-
I received an ARC of this from GRR, and this is my honest review.
June 11, 2025
A fast-flowing, sometimes lyrical sometimes teenage-horny read, which is both a coming of age story and a love story!
Ryver and Jorrin's relationship is very sweet and their friend group is immature, horny and very realistic. The parents-sons relationship is a big part of the underlying story, especially between Ryver and his distant, strict father who was a different person in the past.
The epilogue was unnecessary. Overall, a story which will bring a smile on your face, as it promised!
Ryver and Jorrin's relationship is very sweet and their friend group is immature, horny and very realistic. The parents-sons relationship is a big part of the underlying story, especially between Ryver and his distant, strict father who was a different person in the past.
The epilogue was unnecessary. Overall, a story which will bring a smile on your face, as it promised!
March 7, 2025
A very enjoyable coming of age story, where not everyone is as homophobic as it seems at first. There was quite a bit of teenage angst involving a number of characters, but even the most unpleasant became tolerable. Ryver is under a lot of stress, having to move again in his last school year to a small town and struggling to cope with a really difficult father. Jorrin is a lovely, supportive boyfriend, and I loved their epilogue.
February 10, 2025
This book has a lot going for it. I put myself in the shoes of most of the characters to try to understand why they were going through. It was so well written, I was able to do that.
I enjoyed this ebook very much.
A+++++
I enjoyed this ebook very much.
A+++++
February 13, 2025
This story follows several high school seniors that are dealing with real life situations and struggling with the decisions of growing up.
Dealing with parents, fellow students, friends and personal relationships as a teenager is tuff. But figuring out ones own feelings can be difficult. The characters are very realistic and the world building is done very well.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Dealing with parents, fellow students, friends and personal relationships as a teenager is tuff. But figuring out ones own feelings can be difficult. The characters are very realistic and the world building is done very well.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 2, 2025
A great love story, teenage high school angst unfolds with an anti-gay former military father
Ryver Nelson has faced many disappointments while growing up in a military family that is uprooted every few years, forcing him to change schools and leaving him to miss old friends. Long-term friendships are hard to come by for teens in military families.
Now, on the eve of his senior year, a promise that the family would remain in one place since his father left the military is broken, and they are moving to his father's hometown. He laments the 'backwater,' 'backwoods,' and 'remote' atmosphere of this place filled with his father's memories, but his father isn’t the sharing type and is constantly frustrated with Ryver's apparent lack of drive or motivation.
On his first day at the new school, drama arises as even his name becomes the source of teasing; "Ryver" is pronounced like "River," a name chosen by his parents to remind them of where they were when he was conceived. This naming custom seems to run in the family, as his younger sisters also have place names.
Ryver befriends someone whom others suspect is gay as one of his first actions, more out of friendship than seeking a relationship.
Jorrin, the star quarterback of the football team, takes Ryver under his wing when Ryver is frustrated trying to find his way around the high school. Jorrin dismisses those who taunt Ryver for being new in this well-established community. Ryver's running skill earns him special attention during his first team event, where he outshines the running team’s star, helping him assimilate into high school culture while also drawing more attention to himself. It also exposes some evil behavior by some who sought to sabotage his first race meet.
A surprise also comes when Ryver learns that his dad knows Jorrin's father and loudly expresses homophobic slurs against him. Meanwhile, Jorrin builds his relationship with Ryver, and both are enriched and empowered by their growing fondness for each other. The word "love" comes up, escalating tensions with Ryver's family. His mother hears his confession about his sexuality first and seeks to protect her son from the bombastic tirades of her husband.
The author fills the book with appropriate episodes about the ever hormonal, constantly horny teens with Ryver even being sought after by another high school's running team member for an encounter, which Ryver declines. His romance is with Jorrin, with whom he's able to foresee a future.
A pivotal moment takes place when Jorrin and Ryver come home very, very late from an outing and use the excuse that they got stuck in the mud, apparently unaware that their fathers had once used that ruse to explain a missed curfew.
At the high school, a fairytale dance takes place at the homecoming event, not by the two leads but by some friends who stood up to the principal, who wanted Jorrin to voluntarily refrain from dancing with his boyfriend. Their friends each pair up with someone of the same sex and dance, defying the principal's rule.
The story concludes with a happy ever after, but it doesn't happen immediately nor is it fully explained.
Kelvin Young moves the story along well, but there is a bit of loss in the contextual review of the characters. His description of how Ryver's dad speaks is fascinating and adds depth to the intensity of this former active-duty military man, who clearly struggles with having a gay son and a son who doesn’t meet his expectations. Ryver catalogues the voices as "military voice level 1 or 2," "Dad angry voice level 3," and "Mom voice level 1." It's a quick read, as the story is so compelling.
Mr. Young's storytelling is rich with descriptive elements of place and the angst of teens. Some of this stems from the fact that the state is the author's home state. He also met his husband in high school, which may lend an autobiographical touch to the narrative.
The quoted exchanges between key characters enhance the story's richness, while the sympathetic conversations between Ryver and his mother highlight the challenges of being new in town and contribute significantly to the storytelling. I only wish some character development had been more thoroughly provided so that when they reappear in the narrative, it wouldn't be necessary to search for their names to understand their role in the story. That reduced my overall rating for the book, but I will be seeking out other material from Kelvin Young.
Ryver Nelson has faced many disappointments while growing up in a military family that is uprooted every few years, forcing him to change schools and leaving him to miss old friends. Long-term friendships are hard to come by for teens in military families.
Now, on the eve of his senior year, a promise that the family would remain in one place since his father left the military is broken, and they are moving to his father's hometown. He laments the 'backwater,' 'backwoods,' and 'remote' atmosphere of this place filled with his father's memories, but his father isn’t the sharing type and is constantly frustrated with Ryver's apparent lack of drive or motivation.
On his first day at the new school, drama arises as even his name becomes the source of teasing; "Ryver" is pronounced like "River," a name chosen by his parents to remind them of where they were when he was conceived. This naming custom seems to run in the family, as his younger sisters also have place names.
Ryver befriends someone whom others suspect is gay as one of his first actions, more out of friendship than seeking a relationship.
Jorrin, the star quarterback of the football team, takes Ryver under his wing when Ryver is frustrated trying to find his way around the high school. Jorrin dismisses those who taunt Ryver for being new in this well-established community. Ryver's running skill earns him special attention during his first team event, where he outshines the running team’s star, helping him assimilate into high school culture while also drawing more attention to himself. It also exposes some evil behavior by some who sought to sabotage his first race meet.
A surprise also comes when Ryver learns that his dad knows Jorrin's father and loudly expresses homophobic slurs against him. Meanwhile, Jorrin builds his relationship with Ryver, and both are enriched and empowered by their growing fondness for each other. The word "love" comes up, escalating tensions with Ryver's family. His mother hears his confession about his sexuality first and seeks to protect her son from the bombastic tirades of her husband.
The author fills the book with appropriate episodes about the ever hormonal, constantly horny teens with Ryver even being sought after by another high school's running team member for an encounter, which Ryver declines. His romance is with Jorrin, with whom he's able to foresee a future.
A pivotal moment takes place when Jorrin and Ryver come home very, very late from an outing and use the excuse that they got stuck in the mud, apparently unaware that their fathers had once used that ruse to explain a missed curfew.
At the high school, a fairytale dance takes place at the homecoming event, not by the two leads but by some friends who stood up to the principal, who wanted Jorrin to voluntarily refrain from dancing with his boyfriend. Their friends each pair up with someone of the same sex and dance, defying the principal's rule.
The story concludes with a happy ever after, but it doesn't happen immediately nor is it fully explained.
Kelvin Young moves the story along well, but there is a bit of loss in the contextual review of the characters. His description of how Ryver's dad speaks is fascinating and adds depth to the intensity of this former active-duty military man, who clearly struggles with having a gay son and a son who doesn’t meet his expectations. Ryver catalogues the voices as "military voice level 1 or 2," "Dad angry voice level 3," and "Mom voice level 1." It's a quick read, as the story is so compelling.
Mr. Young's storytelling is rich with descriptive elements of place and the angst of teens. Some of this stems from the fact that the state is the author's home state. He also met his husband in high school, which may lend an autobiographical touch to the narrative.
The quoted exchanges between key characters enhance the story's richness, while the sympathetic conversations between Ryver and his mother highlight the challenges of being new in town and contribute significantly to the storytelling. I only wish some character development had been more thoroughly provided so that when they reappear in the narrative, it wouldn't be necessary to search for their names to understand their role in the story. That reduced my overall rating for the book, but I will be seeking out other material from Kelvin Young.
February 25, 2025
This book really hooked me. The story of Ryver, a young man whose father is a soldier. Their relationship is strange, to say the least. And now he has yet another transfer to another school with no friends and there you are. Here he meets Jorrin, among others. And Jorrin and Ryver get to know each other, they are both different. And at school this should be a problem, but fortunately it is not that bad. It takes him time to make friends. But in the end it works. Ryver's relationship with his father is not as it should be, but this becomes clear when Ryver comes out. And after all his problems, well teenage problems, hormones that have a life of their own, he finds out that his father and his father's friend share a secret. A secret that may tell a lot. I have to say I didn't see this twist coming. It was also nice that both their sons told the same excuse about their late evening, as what their parents/fathers had used in the past. But also not that the story ends so abruptly, in my opinion, and that Ryver and Jorrin are married and have a child. This undergoes the mandatory inspection with just as many doubts as his father. I want to know what happens to the parents, the sisters and what Ryver and Jorrin have been through. I have rarely laughed so much and cried a little with this story. Highly recommended.
February 28, 2025
I'm not usually someone who wants to read a book from seeing the cover, but this one was different. The cover was so eye catching, bright, vibrant, and full of cover. Upon reading the blurb I knew I had to read this, and I am so glad I did!
When I started reading this story I was caught off guard by the way this was written, I wasn't expecting it to have such a distinct voice describing the scenery and the characters. You know how in some movies there is some who is narrating what's going on? The way this was written gave off that vibe, it was really unique!
Ryvver and Jorrin both are amazing characters! I adored how they took it slow and danced around each other. There was so many awkward moments that were followed by adorable ones, that it just made their relationship more realistic and relatable. All of the side characters that are apart of this story all have a reason for being there. If one of them was missing I don't think this would've been as successful. They provided so much dialogue, both comedic dialogue and serious dialogue. They all helped the plot progress and you could tell that they all became friends by the end of the story.
Overall, I absolutely loved this story!!
When I started reading this story I was caught off guard by the way this was written, I wasn't expecting it to have such a distinct voice describing the scenery and the characters. You know how in some movies there is some who is narrating what's going on? The way this was written gave off that vibe, it was really unique!
Ryvver and Jorrin both are amazing characters! I adored how they took it slow and danced around each other. There was so many awkward moments that were followed by adorable ones, that it just made their relationship more realistic and relatable. All of the side characters that are apart of this story all have a reason for being there. If one of them was missing I don't think this would've been as successful. They provided so much dialogue, both comedic dialogue and serious dialogue. They all helped the plot progress and you could tell that they all became friends by the end of the story.
Overall, I absolutely loved this story!!
February 28, 2025
Senior year at a new school
Ryver's father has finally retired from the military and they have moved into the father's hometown. The last thing he wanted to do was move again. He had been promised he would get his senior year with the friends he had made.
Standing and staring at yet another new school he can't seem to gather himself to actually enter the building. As the crowd forces him in he finds himself in a near panic when a soothing voices reaches him. Meeting Jorrin has shifted his reality and now he has to figure out what to do now.
In this little MO town in the middle of the Bible belt he is forced to face the fact that what or rather who makes his heart race won't be readily accepted. Plus his father will certainly disown him...right?
This is a coming of age story where our lead character has to accept that against all odds he is going to be a proud gay man. The story is done in a way that you feel all the anxieties and uncertainties as well as his determination.
The school dance was freaking epic though.
Ryver's father has finally retired from the military and they have moved into the father's hometown. The last thing he wanted to do was move again. He had been promised he would get his senior year with the friends he had made.
Standing and staring at yet another new school he can't seem to gather himself to actually enter the building. As the crowd forces him in he finds himself in a near panic when a soothing voices reaches him. Meeting Jorrin has shifted his reality and now he has to figure out what to do now.
In this little MO town in the middle of the Bible belt he is forced to face the fact that what or rather who makes his heart race won't be readily accepted. Plus his father will certainly disown him...right?
This is a coming of age story where our lead character has to accept that against all odds he is going to be a proud gay man. The story is done in a way that you feel all the anxieties and uncertainties as well as his determination.
The school dance was freaking epic though.
March 17, 2025
“Never, and I mean never, apologize for being you…Do you know how special you are?”
Trigger warning it contains profanities, sex and homophobic comments.
First of all I would like to thank the author for giving me an advance digital copy of the book. This was a slow read for me, I thought I would read it in one seating. I had a slow start with the introductions of characters which a real blown whiplash for me. Several characters are introduced in one go.
When all are introduced I had a smooth read and had some mixed emotions along the way. I love how loving everybody was and how real they are. The main character, Ryver, is so true to himself. I admire how the author gave him so much character that it feels like I was reading a story so true. The only downside for me is the way the POV was written. I am not a big fan of the 3rd person’s point of view. Overall it was funny but at the same time an angst read. I regret not reading this for Pride month but I might reread it.
Trigger warning it contains profanities, sex and homophobic comments.
First of all I would like to thank the author for giving me an advance digital copy of the book. This was a slow read for me, I thought I would read it in one seating. I had a slow start with the introductions of characters which a real blown whiplash for me. Several characters are introduced in one go.
When all are introduced I had a smooth read and had some mixed emotions along the way. I love how loving everybody was and how real they are. The main character, Ryver, is so true to himself. I admire how the author gave him so much character that it feels like I was reading a story so true. The only downside for me is the way the POV was written. I am not a big fan of the 3rd person’s point of view. Overall it was funny but at the same time an angst read. I regret not reading this for Pride month but I might reread it.
March 1, 2025
This book is a heartwarming coming-of-age story about love, self-discovery, and the journey of coming out. Ryver’s emotional struggles as he grapples with his sexuality and what it means for his relationships with his family make him a relatable and endearing character, while Jorrin’s unwavering support and lovable personality add a touch of warmth to the story. The author also does a good job weaving in challenges faced by their classmates, enriching the story and making it feel well-rounded. Overall, this book explores the importance of acceptance, both from others and oneself. It’s a heartfelt and lovely read that I really enjoyed.
March 15, 2025
I enjoyed that the book kept pace. It had a great storyline. There's a twist I did not see coming and is not really explained in the end at all so I kind of feel left hanging about Jorrin's dad.
I was expecting more spice, but if you are looking for closed doors and fade to black scenes this book is perfect for you.
It has just the right amount of fluff. It was a super cute book.
I think I would have given it 5 stars if the writer had explained what had happened years ago and also did not jump so far in to the future at the end. It feels like a lot was left out.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I was expecting more spice, but if you are looking for closed doors and fade to black scenes this book is perfect for you.
It has just the right amount of fluff. It was a super cute book.
I think I would have given it 5 stars if the writer had explained what had happened years ago and also did not jump so far in to the future at the end. It feels like a lot was left out.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 1, 2025
Ryver is a military brat and has moved constantly. The last time he was told they were staying but then his dad doesn't re-enlist, and they move to a small town in nowhere USA due to inheriting a house. Ryver is starting over again for his senior year of high school. On the first day he meets Jorrin. They crush on each other which turns to more after an accident. Jorrin is out but Ryver isn't. The story tells that story and the unexpected nuggets buried deeply. My favourite part though was the Epilogue as it was set so far into the future that Ryver had his own children at the same age. Only reason I rated it 4 was because it was a big jump from end to the story to the epilogue and I wanted more of what happened in the gap.
June 15, 2025
A coming of age story that is quite realistic with setting and other characters. It's at once quite funny & cringy.....but angsty as well (with all that teenage drama).....and there's quite a bit of teenage drama !!! But one thing that really stuck out - Jorrin's patience ..very sweet. Whilst it does focus on Ryver and Jorrin, it also touches on Ryver's relationship with his parents and the struggles he has with that... it does get angsty..... but truly does end on HEA. And I absolutely loved the epilogue !!
Read
June 29, 2025*ARC received in exchange for an honest review*
Dnf’d at 52%.
I wanted to like this so bad. It’s your typical high school coming-of-age story but with more depths: some of the characters developed and turned out to be more than their first impression implied.
However, something happened halfway through the book that made me loose interest in the story. I might pick this up again in the future, but for now I have to dnf. 🫢
Dnf’d at 52%.
I wanted to like this so bad. It’s your typical high school coming-of-age story but with more depths: some of the characters developed and turned out to be more than their first impression implied.
However, something happened halfway through the book that made me loose interest in the story. I might pick this up again in the future, but for now I have to dnf. 🫢
February 8, 2025
A tender teen romance between an army brat, and a jock. Ryver is starting a new school year at yet another new school. His family is finally settling down after his father's recent retirement from the military. He's starting his senior year in the backwaters of Missouri when Jorrin approaches him and helps him find his way to class. Ryver, on his first day, stands up to protect his classmate Stanley from homophobia at lunch. Jorrin surprises him by supporting his actions. Ryver is drawn to Jorrin and the two start hanging out. When Ryver is suddenly fighting for his life it's Jorrin who rescues him. Ryver struggles to come out afraid of his father's reaction, but is surprised by the acceptance he finds.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 18, 2025
4.25/5 stars! This is a queer YA romance by author Kelvin Young. I really enjoyed the story and felt for everything Ryver is going through and how Jorrin supports him. Please note: there are some heavy themes around queer identity and acceptance that may be hard for some readers. Overall, I really appreciated the story and think it adds something important to the genre.
February 26, 2025
A teenager's life is never easy, this story is about 2 young boys in High School coming to terms with themselves & the people around them. Ryver, a young man whose father is a soldier. Being a soldier's son is never easy, moving from town to town, never growing roots. Now dad retires, they move to his dad's hometown, & senior year is upon him. Ryver being the new kid in town feels lost with no friends. Jorrin the star quarterback takes a liking to him & they build a friendship. Ryver has a crush but Jorrin has a girlfriend. The relationship between Jorrin & Ryver goes from friends to more. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 7, 2025
This was an excellent young adult romance. I loved both MC and the main characters. I also loved the way the boys were written. I liked both Ryver and Jarrin. Loved how self-discovery was the theme and how it developed.
I liked the angsty teen suspense and the heartfelt feelings. The only reason it doesn't get 5 stars is because I wish the ending and the twist had more back ground. Other than that I really enjoyed this love story.
MM
Journey of being yourself
small town
This One Time
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I liked the angsty teen suspense and the heartfelt feelings. The only reason it doesn't get 5 stars is because I wish the ending and the twist had more back ground. Other than that I really enjoyed this love story.
MM
Journey of being yourself
small town
This One Time
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 14, 2025
I have yet to read a book from this author that I didn’t like, and this one is no exception. I don’t think I have ever read an MM romance from the viewpoint of a hormonal, constantly horny, 17 year old teenage boy before, and this one was an eye opener (never having been a boy at all), and immensely entertaining in so many ways, yet emotional and sad in others. One thing I loved in the book was Ryver’s mother explaining where her children’s names came from in response to a question from Ryver — almost TMI, but memorable just the same.
When Ryver (pronounced River) begins his senior year in a new high school, courtesy of his dad’s military service, he is very tense and anxious as his fourth high school year re-do begins. No friends, unfamiliar with classes or the building layout, unsure where to go, he is rescued by this tall, hot “angel”, ready to step in and take him where he needs to be. Thus begin his crush on Jorrin, team quarterback, popular man on campus, and heartbreakingly handsome senior. The book covers Ryver’s senior year until Homecoming, with classes, making friends, standing up against bullies, a near-death experience, running on the track team, dealing with a hyper-critical and cold feeling dad but offset by a loving and supportive mom, and Jorrin — just the life of a teenage boy dealing with unexpected and inappropriate hard-ons at the most in-opportune times, all with the crush on the quarterback often in his thoughts.
There are humorous times such as Ryver’s pre-sports physical to endure (nice to know boys had those embarrassing and uncomfortable physicals, too) and a late night return home due to a “stuck in the mud” incident, among several others, as well as emotional ones when Ryver agonizes about coming out to his mom and fears telling his dad, as well as the expected concerns about what people will say and how they will treat him once he does. Luckily, Ryver has the unwavering support from Jorrin, Stanley, and Ben through many of his trials and tribulations working through the angst common to most teenagers.
Jorrin is pretty laid-back, calm and collected, sure of himself and his place in the school hierarchy, a calming influence for Ryver, and a place of safety and security with his anxiety and anger episodes. Jorrin is everything Ryver could want in a partner, a loving and stabilizing influence in his life.
The growing connection and then romance between the two is slow to develop and beautiful to watch unfold. It is not explicit but the feelings come through loud and clear. You go with Ryver on his journey of fear knowing he is gay but afraid to come out to his parents because of a strict, critical, homophobic father, to realizing he cannot hold it in anymore, to embracing who he is when confident in the attention and love from Jorrin, and also to see him stand up for his friends and be true to himself when he does. It is a heartfelt book with realistic characters as teens and adults, and a realistic situation faced by many teens today, but it is positive and uplifting, too. There is also an epilogue years later at the end, almost poetic justice for Ryver and his husband.
I highly recommend this book for one out of the ordinary, entering the mind of a teenage boy trying to figure himself and his place in life out. I would give 10 stars if I could.
When Ryver (pronounced River) begins his senior year in a new high school, courtesy of his dad’s military service, he is very tense and anxious as his fourth high school year re-do begins. No friends, unfamiliar with classes or the building layout, unsure where to go, he is rescued by this tall, hot “angel”, ready to step in and take him where he needs to be. Thus begin his crush on Jorrin, team quarterback, popular man on campus, and heartbreakingly handsome senior. The book covers Ryver’s senior year until Homecoming, with classes, making friends, standing up against bullies, a near-death experience, running on the track team, dealing with a hyper-critical and cold feeling dad but offset by a loving and supportive mom, and Jorrin — just the life of a teenage boy dealing with unexpected and inappropriate hard-ons at the most in-opportune times, all with the crush on the quarterback often in his thoughts.
There are humorous times such as Ryver’s pre-sports physical to endure (nice to know boys had those embarrassing and uncomfortable physicals, too) and a late night return home due to a “stuck in the mud” incident, among several others, as well as emotional ones when Ryver agonizes about coming out to his mom and fears telling his dad, as well as the expected concerns about what people will say and how they will treat him once he does. Luckily, Ryver has the unwavering support from Jorrin, Stanley, and Ben through many of his trials and tribulations working through the angst common to most teenagers.
Jorrin is pretty laid-back, calm and collected, sure of himself and his place in the school hierarchy, a calming influence for Ryver, and a place of safety and security with his anxiety and anger episodes. Jorrin is everything Ryver could want in a partner, a loving and stabilizing influence in his life.
The growing connection and then romance between the two is slow to develop and beautiful to watch unfold. It is not explicit but the feelings come through loud and clear. You go with Ryver on his journey of fear knowing he is gay but afraid to come out to his parents because of a strict, critical, homophobic father, to realizing he cannot hold it in anymore, to embracing who he is when confident in the attention and love from Jorrin, and also to see him stand up for his friends and be true to himself when he does. It is a heartfelt book with realistic characters as teens and adults, and a realistic situation faced by many teens today, but it is positive and uplifting, too. There is also an epilogue years later at the end, almost poetic justice for Ryver and his husband.
I highly recommend this book for one out of the ordinary, entering the mind of a teenage boy trying to figure himself and his place in life out. I would give 10 stars if I could.
June 12, 2025
I really enjoyed this one! It pulled me in from beginning to end and had me engaged with both Ryver and Jorrin from the very beginning. Ryver is the new kid again and this time he has been moved just in time to start his senior year at a new high school and in a lot of ways a different culture. His dad is military and for awhile they were stationed overseas with the last one being in California for him to now be moved to Missouri. His dad is out of the military now and this is his home town. He has a great relationship with his mom, not so great with his military dad, though he sees the great relationship his dad has with his 3 younger sisters. Ryver is struggling with his sexuality in some ways and what that means for himself and relationships within his family and how that can/will be perceived in this new town and high school. I love the instant connection and chemistry that Ryver and Jorrin have on the first day of school. I also love how Jorrin breaks your typical jock, king of the school, stereotype in a lot of ways. Jorrin is drawn to Ryver as well and invites him to join his table with him and his friends at lunch. I love how Ryver didn't leave out his new friend that he had made as they share majority of his classes together. Ryver doesn't care that he is gay and out and I love how he doesn't let the other kids opinions sway becoming friends with him. I love how he called out the jock table for what they said and did and how Jorrin then handled it. This story has a slower build between the Ryver and Jorrin as they get to know each other. Ryver has things he is working through and is coming to terms with being gay and liking guys and finally accepting that more inside himself and then struggling with does he say something to someone, when does he say something, how does he say something. I love when things finally take that turn with Jorrin and they both realizes that they are into each other and the hilariousness that ensues shortly after that when Jorrin's dad shows up. It is a catalyst for Ryver as well and has him more actively dealing with the questions of telling his mom and what that means for his family. I really enjoyed this story and the slower build of things totally fit and worked with the characters. I loved watching and seeing them work through what they had going on and finding a way to stay true to themselves. This story was really well done and it flowed really well. I was engaged with the characters and just fell more in love with them. I really loved Jorrin and Ryver and how they handled falling in love and their relationship with each other. I also fell in love with quite a few of the secondary characters. I loved getting to see the secondary characters develop and grow throughout the story. I am hopeful that we will get more in this world and this series! I'm super excited for some of the characters to get their story for sure!
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
March 11, 2025
This one time
Een young adult verhaal over nieuwe mensen leren kennen, jezelf ontdekken en nieuwe vrienden.
Over het algemeen vond ik dit een leuk verhaal. Het gaat over een coming out van de hoofdpersoon Ryver. Hij verhuist al zijn hele leven en is net weer verhuist. Nu maar een stadje ergens verweg. Hij zit in zijn senior year en moet helemaal opnieuw beginnen. Ook leert hij zichzelf beter kennen. Hij krijgt nieuwe vrienden en komt in aanraking met verliefdheid. Ik vond het verhaal mooi geschreven, maar het bleef voor mij wat te oppervlakkig. Sommige dingen waren niet helemaal duidelijk, maar misschien lag dat aan mij.
Je leest vanuit 1 persoon, maar tussendoor heb je in eens een hoofdstuk vanuit iemand anders. Dit vond ik even erg verwarrend en vond zelf dat hoofdstuk niet per se nodig. Voor de rest vond ik het wel een leuk boek. Je leert Ryver wel goed kennen. Het verhaal was wel anders dan ik verwacht had, ik had er denk ik toch net iets meer van verwacht.
🇬🇧A young adult story about getting to know new people, discovering yourself and making new friends.
In general I thought this was a nice story. It's about the main character Ryver coming out. He's been moving his whole life and has just moved again. Now to a town somewhere far away. He's in his senior year and has to start all over again. He also gets to know himself better. He makes new friends and comes into contact with love. I thought the story was beautifully written, but it remained a bit too superficial for me. Some things weren't entirely clear, but maybe that was just me.
You read from 1 person's perspective, but in between you suddenly have a chapter from someone else's perspective. I found this very confusing and didn't think that chapter was really necessary. For the rest I thought it was a nice book. You get to know Ryver well. The story was different than I expected, I think I expected a bit more.
⭐️⭐️⭐️ sterren
#lezenisontspanning #neverstopreading #spreadthebooklove #reading #bookstagramreadsmarch #boekstagram #bookblogger #lekkerlezen #leesmaand #boekenmaand #boekentips #boekenplank #feelgood #readingisgoodforthesoul #booklover #booksbooksbooks #boekenwurm #spreadthebooklove #sharethebooklove
Een young adult verhaal over nieuwe mensen leren kennen, jezelf ontdekken en nieuwe vrienden.
Over het algemeen vond ik dit een leuk verhaal. Het gaat over een coming out van de hoofdpersoon Ryver. Hij verhuist al zijn hele leven en is net weer verhuist. Nu maar een stadje ergens verweg. Hij zit in zijn senior year en moet helemaal opnieuw beginnen. Ook leert hij zichzelf beter kennen. Hij krijgt nieuwe vrienden en komt in aanraking met verliefdheid. Ik vond het verhaal mooi geschreven, maar het bleef voor mij wat te oppervlakkig. Sommige dingen waren niet helemaal duidelijk, maar misschien lag dat aan mij.
Je leest vanuit 1 persoon, maar tussendoor heb je in eens een hoofdstuk vanuit iemand anders. Dit vond ik even erg verwarrend en vond zelf dat hoofdstuk niet per se nodig. Voor de rest vond ik het wel een leuk boek. Je leert Ryver wel goed kennen. Het verhaal was wel anders dan ik verwacht had, ik had er denk ik toch net iets meer van verwacht.
🇬🇧A young adult story about getting to know new people, discovering yourself and making new friends.
In general I thought this was a nice story. It's about the main character Ryver coming out. He's been moving his whole life and has just moved again. Now to a town somewhere far away. He's in his senior year and has to start all over again. He also gets to know himself better. He makes new friends and comes into contact with love. I thought the story was beautifully written, but it remained a bit too superficial for me. Some things weren't entirely clear, but maybe that was just me.
You read from 1 person's perspective, but in between you suddenly have a chapter from someone else's perspective. I found this very confusing and didn't think that chapter was really necessary. For the rest I thought it was a nice book. You get to know Ryver well. The story was different than I expected, I think I expected a bit more.
⭐️⭐️⭐️ sterren
#lezenisontspanning #neverstopreading #spreadthebooklove #reading #bookstagramreadsmarch #boekstagram #bookblogger #lekkerlezen #leesmaand #boekenmaand #boekentips #boekenplank #feelgood #readingisgoodforthesoul #booklover #booksbooksbooks #boekenwurm #spreadthebooklove #sharethebooklove
June 2, 2025
This book was a delightful surprise, a charming blend of teenage slice-of-life, first-time romance, and self-discovery set in a small-town high school. While it didn’t quite hit the 5-star mark for me, it came close, thanks to its endearing characters, witty humor, and emotional depth.
I usually prefer stories with heavier external conflict, but this book won me over with its deeply developed characters and the organic growth of their relationships, not just the romance, but the friendships and family dynamics too. Loved the way Ryver and Jorrin orbit each other before making their feelings known, the banter of the friend group, some really funny moments I won't spoil. Ofc, the plot even dipped into heavier territory: homophobia, close minded small town npcs, and while it was well addressed, it didn't feel heavy or way too hurtful.
I do think the story stumbles in pacing, the 1st half flies by, lot of tension and possibilities, but then it meanders from time to time. Shifting into side characters perspectives and subplots diluted the focus, and despite the arcs being touching, i couldn't help buy feel bored 2 or 3 times.
I wished the mistery behing their fathers' past was adressed since it was hinted a lot, but alas that's life (or for another book). The epilogue is a really funny addition but imo it doesn't feel like it belongs with the main story. I'd have preferred the ending focused on the main couple.
Still, I'd recommend this if you enjoy stories with focus on the warmth of first love, and the awkward process of becoming oneself. Also, this was an amazing throwback to highschool years
I usually prefer stories with heavier external conflict, but this book won me over with its deeply developed characters and the organic growth of their relationships, not just the romance, but the friendships and family dynamics too. Loved the way Ryver and Jorrin orbit each other before making their feelings known, the banter of the friend group, some really funny moments I won't spoil. Ofc, the plot even dipped into heavier territory: homophobia, close minded small town npcs, and while it was well addressed, it didn't feel heavy or way too hurtful.
I do think the story stumbles in pacing, the 1st half flies by, lot of tension and possibilities, but then it meanders from time to time. Shifting into side characters perspectives and subplots diluted the focus, and despite the arcs being touching, i couldn't help buy feel bored 2 or 3 times.
I wished the mistery behing their fathers' past was adressed since it was hinted a lot, but alas that's life (or for another book). The epilogue is a really funny addition but imo it doesn't feel like it belongs with the main story. I'd have preferred the ending focused on the main couple.
Still, I'd recommend this if you enjoy stories with focus on the warmth of first love, and the awkward process of becoming oneself. Also, this was an amazing throwback to highschool years
February 11, 2025
I truly enjoyed this book and lately it seems I have been rating books that deserve the fifth star. This one does except for two facts.
I would hate to be Ryver. High School is bad enough without having to do Senior year in a small town in Missouri (I lived in Missouri briefly) after having been in high schools in Germany and California. He also has a significant problem with his Dad who expects him to be more manly.
His encounters with Stanly, Jurrin, and Ben early in the book prove Ryver to be manly in ways his father does not see. Ryver lets go when he does distance runs and one day after a bitter argument with his Dad goes running and ends up falling off a cliff and it turns out the guy he has been dreaming about - Jurrin is his rescuer.
The two things that keep me from giving it the fifth star are the epilogue where Jurrin is only referred to as "Other Dad". The other is the mystery of the two Hanks. It is never clear (suspicion alone) what Ryver's father found bad about Jurrin's father as obviously it is they were once very close. Maybe I am being picky but I would have loved to see those two things corrected.
I received an ARC for free from Book Surens, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I would hate to be Ryver. High School is bad enough without having to do Senior year in a small town in Missouri (I lived in Missouri briefly) after having been in high schools in Germany and California. He also has a significant problem with his Dad who expects him to be more manly.
His encounters with Stanly, Jurrin, and Ben early in the book prove Ryver to be manly in ways his father does not see. Ryver lets go when he does distance runs and one day after a bitter argument with his Dad goes running and ends up falling off a cliff and it turns out the guy he has been dreaming about - Jurrin is his rescuer.
The two things that keep me from giving it the fifth star are the epilogue where Jurrin is only referred to as "Other Dad". The other is the mystery of the two Hanks. It is never clear (suspicion alone) what Ryver's father found bad about Jurrin's father as obviously it is they were once very close. Maybe I am being picky but I would have loved to see those two things corrected.
I received an ARC for free from Book Surens, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 30, 2025
This might be the most perfect and realistic coming out story I have ever read. Ryver is a loner in high school trying to fit in but secretly plans how to escape this homophobic father and small town. All is on his mind till he meet Jorrin, the stable hot quarterback. I will admit I cried buckets of tears reading this book as it moved my heart. Watching Ryver come out and gain confidence along with the constant support of Jorrin was perfection. Many of us have experience this path and thus the emotions it brought out to me were raw and real, but dear lord I loved this book. I have forgotten how horny a high school gay senior boy is and that made me smile and think about my own journey. The emotional depth this plot is perfection and makes this a must read book. I did receive an ARC and leave this honest review.
June 4, 2025
A charming coming-of-age story that I really enjoyed. This feels very authentic and like many of the events depicted actually happened to the author, mostly because many of them are too daft to be made up. At one point I was tremendously excited about this book but the writing quality seemed to go down in the second half, and there was a bunch of silly typos and even a few places where it jumped into first person or switched POV without warning. Despite that I really enjoyed the book, it made me laugh a lot and all the characters were clearly drawn-- even if the author had a habit of bringing in random names like you knew who they were, forgetting that we weren't actually at school with them.
June 18, 2025
Loved Ryver and Jorrin and their story and good grief does this author do a great job of taking you back to high school with all its pain. The pain of trying to deal with feelings that seem to come from out of the blue, the pain of being "different" while surrounded by small-minded, intolerant bullies and the pain of not yet being secure enough in yourself to stand up and be counted. Fortunately, as the story progresses, these two discover each other and some support and friendship in unexpected places which gives one hope that things and people can change. A great coming of age story.
June 27, 2025
'Now, he only had one thing on his mind and one thing in his heart.
Jorrin.'
I really enjoyed this book. A coming of age journey for Ryver, trying to balance his home life, sexuality, family, and prejudices. I loved both him and Jorrin. A slow burn romance, and I enjoyed the way their got to know each other and their feelings for each other develop and grow. Things aren't easy- they never are- and I was hooked to their story. This is the first book I've read by this author and I would read more. 4 stars
Jorrin.'
I really enjoyed this book. A coming of age journey for Ryver, trying to balance his home life, sexuality, family, and prejudices. I loved both him and Jorrin. A slow burn romance, and I enjoyed the way their got to know each other and their feelings for each other develop and grow. Things aren't easy- they never are- and I was hooked to their story. This is the first book I've read by this author and I would read more. 4 stars
June 13, 2025
Just loved this story featuring Jorrin and Ryver. Such a well written angsty storyline that was so moving. Their personal and relationship growth and the issues they have to overcome and learn to deal with took me on such an emotional journey. A definite must read!
I received a free arc copy and this is my honest review
I received a free arc copy and this is my honest review
February 28, 2025
This One Time is a really sweet coming of age story. This is a friends to more story about Ryver and Jorrin. Ryver is a military kid and has moved around a lot, when they move to Missouri he becomes friends with Jorrin, who is a jock.
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