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Hits Different: An MM Friends to Lovers Sports Romance
Parker Di Rossi and Brandon Carter were best friends until the last night of high school, when Brandon made a confession, and Parker broke his heart.
Three years later, Brandon is now the MVP of the college soccer scene. But after a career-threatening injury lands him in rehab, he’s thrown back into his old friend’s orbit and forced to confront not only Parker, but the feelings he thought were buried a long time ago.
Faced with a family scandal and growing media pressure, Brandon's determined not to fall back in love with the one person he can never have. Romance between best friends never works, especially when one of them is straight.
The only problem?
Nobody told Parker that.
Parker has one goal: make his family proud by honouring his late father's legacy as a mixed martial artist.
But after getting expelled from college and kicked out of his MMA gym, he's forced to take a job working for his disapproving cousin at Summit, an elite soccer rehabilitation facility, as he desperately tries to get his life back on track.
The one bright side? It gives Parker the chance to finally make things right with Brandon Carter - Parker's former best friend, who he can't stop thinking about.
As Parker determinedly pursues his MMA ambitions, he grows closer to Brandon in ways that he never expected. Now, he has to choose what he wants to fight for more: his father’s legacy, or Brandon’s heart.
Three years later, Brandon is now the MVP of the college soccer scene. But after a career-threatening injury lands him in rehab, he’s thrown back into his old friend’s orbit and forced to confront not only Parker, but the feelings he thought were buried a long time ago.
Faced with a family scandal and growing media pressure, Brandon's determined not to fall back in love with the one person he can never have. Romance between best friends never works, especially when one of them is straight.
The only problem?
Nobody told Parker that.
Parker has one goal: make his family proud by honouring his late father's legacy as a mixed martial artist.
But after getting expelled from college and kicked out of his MMA gym, he's forced to take a job working for his disapproving cousin at Summit, an elite soccer rehabilitation facility, as he desperately tries to get his life back on track.
The one bright side? It gives Parker the chance to finally make things right with Brandon Carter - Parker's former best friend, who he can't stop thinking about.
As Parker determinedly pursues his MMA ambitions, he grows closer to Brandon in ways that he never expected. Now, he has to choose what he wants to fight for more: his father’s legacy, or Brandon’s heart.
438 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 8, 2025
397 people are currently reading
1020 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 125 reviews
March 13, 2025
A huge thank you to Joel Rustin for the ARC!
Release Date: May 8, 2025.
5⭐️ 2🌶
Hits Different is my first ARC and I couldn’t be more thrilled about it. I ate this book up! I received my copy before a long, four-day trip and couldn’t stop thinking about it between the small moments I got to read it. The story progresses quickly, the banter is phenomenal, and the romance… chefs kiss. I would've loved the spicey scenes to be just a touch more however the romance was everything and more than made up for it.
Aside from the romance, the character development throughout was wonderful to watch unfold. You get plenty of backstory at just the right time, quite a few things I never seen coming, and a beautiful ending to wrap it all up.
All in all, this is a delightful book and soon to become my new comfort read.
Release Date: May 8, 2025.
5⭐️ 2🌶
Hits Different is my first ARC and I couldn’t be more thrilled about it. I ate this book up! I received my copy before a long, four-day trip and couldn’t stop thinking about it between the small moments I got to read it. The story progresses quickly, the banter is phenomenal, and the romance… chefs kiss. I would've loved the spicey scenes to be just a touch more however the romance was everything and more than made up for it.
Aside from the romance, the character development throughout was wonderful to watch unfold. You get plenty of backstory at just the right time, quite a few things I never seen coming, and a beautiful ending to wrap it all up.
All in all, this is a delightful book and soon to become my new comfort read.
June 1, 2025
ARGH the disappointment
New mm release with a football player mc (I refuse to call it soccer)? Second chance? YES PLS.
I really like the first chapters. But then when they meet again at the club, everything starts to become SO CONFUSING with all the weird flashbacks and messy transitions. I mean I like flashbacks, but you gotta know how to write them. This was not the case.
I kept on because I was weirdly invested in Brandon even if he's the prototype for a character I would hate and written so confusingly I didn't really know how his arc was going to end up (in a bad way). Turns out, I absolutely fucking hated every single thing that happened in this book, like:
- the weird threesome in their past
- the Millie plot line
- Parker of course being totally innocent (because dear me we should never write actually problematic characters who make mistakes and redeem themselves)
- the whole Brandon's parents side plot was SO USELESS and so confusing
- the setting of this multimegamillionaire rehab facility was ludicrous
- them reconnecting without a single real emotion that isn't clichéd
- Parker's bi-awakening but only for Brandon!! (this is called gay for you and I always find it... questionable).
- the sex is SO BAD I am truly convinced the author wrote it because I'm sure even chatgpt could do a better job. Talk about unsexy sex
- these two are idiots
- there are so many continuity mistakes and so many details askew that kept pulling me out of the story. needs a good editor ASAP
anyway, dnf-ed at 80%? I honestly had no idea wtf I was reading anymore
the most confusing book of the year!!
so long
New mm release with a football player mc (I refuse to call it soccer)? Second chance? YES PLS.
I really like the first chapters. But then when they meet again at the club, everything starts to become SO CONFUSING with all the weird flashbacks and messy transitions. I mean I like flashbacks, but you gotta know how to write them. This was not the case.
I kept on because I was weirdly invested in Brandon even if he's the prototype for a character I would hate and written so confusingly I didn't really know how his arc was going to end up (in a bad way). Turns out, I absolutely fucking hated every single thing that happened in this book, like:
- the weird threesome in their past
- the Millie plot line
- Parker of course being totally innocent (because dear me we should never write actually problematic characters who make mistakes and redeem themselves)
- the whole Brandon's parents side plot was SO USELESS and so confusing
- the setting of this multimegamillionaire rehab facility was ludicrous
- them reconnecting without a single real emotion that isn't clichéd
- Parker's bi-awakening but only for Brandon!! (this is called gay for you and I always find it... questionable).
- the sex is SO BAD I am truly convinced the author wrote it because I'm sure even chatgpt could do a better job. Talk about unsexy sex
- these two are idiots
- there are so many continuity mistakes and so many details askew that kept pulling me out of the story. needs a good editor ASAP
anyway, dnf-ed at 80%? I honestly had no idea wtf I was reading anymore
the most confusing book of the year!!
so long
March 3, 2025
First of all thank you so much, Joel Rustin, for giving me the opportunity to receive an ARC of this lovely book.
I’m just finished reading it and I’m overwhelmed with so many emotions. I was so engrossed by the story, it was like a magnet pulling me continuously.
I appreciated how the author emphasised the importance of mental health: how having someone who stands by your side, during good and bad moments, is really important. But also seeking the help of some professional guidance is fundamental too.
It was intense, heart warming and inspiring. Sad too, dealing with a loss of an important person is not simple, the sorrow can really swallow you up.
Highly recommend it because it really was great, fantastic and very special! In addition, Joel Rustin is a very talented author, trust me when I say you shouldn’t miss the opportunity of reading it, you’ll do yourself a wonderful favour!!
5 stars without doubt!
I’m just finished reading it and I’m overwhelmed with so many emotions. I was so engrossed by the story, it was like a magnet pulling me continuously.
I appreciated how the author emphasised the importance of mental health: how having someone who stands by your side, during good and bad moments, is really important. But also seeking the help of some professional guidance is fundamental too.
It was intense, heart warming and inspiring. Sad too, dealing with a loss of an important person is not simple, the sorrow can really swallow you up.
Highly recommend it because it really was great, fantastic and very special! In addition, Joel Rustin is a very talented author, trust me when I say you shouldn’t miss the opportunity of reading it, you’ll do yourself a wonderful favour!!
5 stars without doubt!
April 9, 2025
Thank you so much to Joel Rustin for this ARC!
When I say I want a story about a bi-awakening, THIS is what I mean!
I found myself rolling my eyes, giggling, crying, and absolutely engrossed in these characters. Not only do we get to follow Brandon and Parker as they once again cross paths with each other, but we follow them on their own separate journeys of self love and healing.
The character development is just 🤌🏻
I’m seriously feeling all the warm & fuzzies inside after this.
When I say I want a story about a bi-awakening, THIS is what I mean!
I found myself rolling my eyes, giggling, crying, and absolutely engrossed in these characters. Not only do we get to follow Brandon and Parker as they once again cross paths with each other, but we follow them on their own separate journeys of self love and healing.
The character development is just 🤌🏻
I’m seriously feeling all the warm & fuzzies inside after this.
![Profile Image for ash[hearts]angst.](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fi.gr-assets.com%2Fimages%2FS%2Fcompressed.photo.goodreads.com%2Fusers%2F1765847299i%2F164504656._UX200_CR0%2C0%2C200%2C200_.jpg&w=128&q=75)
May 10, 2025
I reallllllly liked this 😭🥹 Parker and Brandon were giving “good boy meets bad boy” and I loved it.
Brandon is our “good boy”, soccer star, golden boy and politicians kid. Right off the bat we know that there is much more to Brandon than meets the eye, and that he has way more feelings than he lets on. Because of his upbringing, he is always analyzing his actions and life through the lens of a politician, and seemingly lives his life for his parents. Although they have a horrible relationship, he still tries to stay in their good graces.
Parker is our “bad boy”, with a temper and a love for fighting. He definitely has an attitude but at his core he is a great person who is very misunderstood. He harbors his father’s death very close to this heart and it effects his life is numerous ways.
After being great friends for years, one night changes it all for them in high school. Years later through crazy circumstances and a twist of fate, these two are brought back into each other’s lives. I loved how they ended up back in orbit and trying to piece together what happened was engaging.
The story goes back and forth between the past and present (which I love) and I thought it was done well and was clear enough in format to the before and after chapters.
Brandon was definitely the standout for me. I really enjoyed his character development and his love for Parker. I felt for him and just wanted to give him all the hugs!! Especially after dealing with his parents and their limelight bullshit. I also really enjoyed Parker’s ending. It wasn’t what I expected but it made so much sense and it was much more realistic.
ALSO I’m pretty sure there was a whole My Best Friend’s Wedding reference scene and it made my entire day! Either that or apparently I’m really old and there’s another reference lol.
This was a great medium-angst second chance friends to lovers with the perfect amount of romance, spice, and dialogue.
Brandon is our “good boy”, soccer star, golden boy and politicians kid. Right off the bat we know that there is much more to Brandon than meets the eye, and that he has way more feelings than he lets on. Because of his upbringing, he is always analyzing his actions and life through the lens of a politician, and seemingly lives his life for his parents. Although they have a horrible relationship, he still tries to stay in their good graces.
Parker is our “bad boy”, with a temper and a love for fighting. He definitely has an attitude but at his core he is a great person who is very misunderstood. He harbors his father’s death very close to this heart and it effects his life is numerous ways.
After being great friends for years, one night changes it all for them in high school. Years later through crazy circumstances and a twist of fate, these two are brought back into each other’s lives. I loved how they ended up back in orbit and trying to piece together what happened was engaging.
The story goes back and forth between the past and present (which I love) and I thought it was done well and was clear enough in format to the before and after chapters.
Brandon was definitely the standout for me. I really enjoyed his character development and his love for Parker. I felt for him and just wanted to give him all the hugs!! Especially after dealing with his parents and their limelight bullshit. I also really enjoyed Parker’s ending. It wasn’t what I expected but it made so much sense and it was much more realistic.
ALSO I’m pretty sure there was a whole My Best Friend’s Wedding reference scene and it made my entire day! Either that or apparently I’m really old and there’s another reference lol.
This was a great medium-angst second chance friends to lovers with the perfect amount of romance, spice, and dialogue.
March 1, 2025
ARC Review, ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5 (4.5)
Sports romance + friends to lovers = 😍
Three years ago, Brandon and Parker were best friends until a miscommunication (and some outside meddling) broke both their hearts, now they are thrust together at Summit, where they are both working on their recoveries on and off the field.
I absolutely loved this book, I laughed and cried and may have made threatening remarks to certain fictional characters (cough they know who they are). I planned on taking my time reading this, but once I started there was no way that I could stop.
I love how Parker showed up for Brandon when he was most needed, and stood up to Brandon’s father when he felt abandoned. (Screw you Winston) He took showing up for the person you love to the next level, while grappling with his own feelings of parental abandonment.
Can we all agree that if the parents simply talked to their adult children like adults that so many difficulties would have been avoided! Real life take note! When communication finally opened up, our lovely MCs were finally able to really begin to become who they needed to be.
Also not cool Millie, not cool at all. The boys may forgive you but I’m keeping my eye on you.
And Agatha, didn’t you ever learn not to judge a book by its cover? Because girl you are not giving managerial vibes.
Oh and Winston 🖕🏻
Favourite quote: “I know the Internet is going to Internet”
Sports romance + friends to lovers = 😍
Three years ago, Brandon and Parker were best friends until a miscommunication (and some outside meddling) broke both their hearts, now they are thrust together at Summit, where they are both working on their recoveries on and off the field.
I absolutely loved this book, I laughed and cried and may have made threatening remarks to certain fictional characters (cough they know who they are). I planned on taking my time reading this, but once I started there was no way that I could stop.
I love how Parker showed up for Brandon when he was most needed, and stood up to Brandon’s father when he felt abandoned. (Screw you Winston) He took showing up for the person you love to the next level, while grappling with his own feelings of parental abandonment.
Can we all agree that if the parents simply talked to their adult children like adults that so many difficulties would have been avoided! Real life take note! When communication finally opened up, our lovely MCs were finally able to really begin to become who they needed to be.
Also not cool Millie, not cool at all. The boys may forgive you but I’m keeping my eye on you.
And Agatha, didn’t you ever learn not to judge a book by its cover? Because girl you are not giving managerial vibes.
Oh and Winston 🖕🏻
Favourite quote: “I know the Internet is going to Internet”
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 23, 2025
ARC review:
4.5 ⭐️/🌶️🌶️
I really enjoyed this one! Both MMCs were fully realized and their relationship was well fleshed out. I loved both Parker and Brandon, and wanted nothing but good things for them. Their HEA was beautiful and well deserved. Yes, I cried a few times (the cemetery scene hit me in the feels)
My only critique would be the pacing. I get needing to move the plot along and to create challenges to overcome, but I never felt that Brandon and Parker had time to enjoy their budding romantic entanglement. Romance needs time to breathe, but this sometimes felt like an obstacle course.
An impressive debut for this author and I hope they write more!
4.5 ⭐️/🌶️🌶️
I really enjoyed this one! Both MMCs were fully realized and their relationship was well fleshed out. I loved both Parker and Brandon, and wanted nothing but good things for them. Their HEA was beautiful and well deserved. Yes, I cried a few times (the cemetery scene hit me in the feels)
My only critique would be the pacing. I get needing to move the plot along and to create challenges to overcome, but I never felt that Brandon and Parker had time to enjoy their budding romantic entanglement. Romance needs time to breathe, but this sometimes felt like an obstacle course.
An impressive debut for this author and I hope they write more!
March 13, 2025
Brandon and Parker get a second chance at their friendship. Or perhaps more !
I loved the banter between the two. Funny and super cute.
There couldn’t have been more drama between 2 simple people if they tried. But I loved it.
The author warns you he’s British so there’s plenty of britishisms (that’s a word) while also being set in America with Americans. And I love that. I can’t wait for the Americans to die over it lol.
Super fun read.
Thanks so much for giving me the opportunity to ARC read this title.
March 27, 2025
A soccer player x aspiring mma fighter second chance-ish dual timelines-ish romance that had me audibly screaming at every new reveal.
These dumb boys (affectionate) instantly captured my heart and dragged me around on a wild ride. It’s angsty, it’s sweet, it’s miscommunications and grief, it’s the full range of human emotions bottled up in a safe and comforting hug. I was not prepared for how much this was going to make me cry today, but it certainly was cathartic! An incredibly strong debut from an author who wholeheartedly earned a spot on my must-read list.
These dumb boys (affectionate) instantly captured my heart and dragged me around on a wild ride. It’s angsty, it’s sweet, it’s miscommunications and grief, it’s the full range of human emotions bottled up in a safe and comforting hug. I was not prepared for how much this was going to make me cry today, but it certainly was cathartic! An incredibly strong debut from an author who wholeheartedly earned a spot on my must-read list.
October 12, 2025
3.5, it's good but not special
April 27, 2025
“Dancing with your best friend sounds like a great way to spend an evening”, He holds out his hand. “But dancing with the love of your goddamn life? That sounds pretty fucking perfect to me. Shall we?”
I really enjoyed this debut novel by Joel Rustin. The author is British - which means you get British-isms mixed with American-isms, which I found to be fun.
Brandon is a college soccer player who has been in love with his best friend, Parker, since high school. Unfortunately, at the end of their high school years, there is a miscommunication (that comes to light later), resulting in them not speaking for 3 years. Brandon is injured during a game and sent to a rehab facility where, surprise, Parker is working.
Parker is an aspiring MMA fighter wanting to follow in his dad’s footsteps after he passed away. He gets kicked out of college due to fighting and ends up working at the same soccer rehab facility where he ends up rekindling his friendship with Brandon.
I really enjoyed the development of both Brandon and Parker and the natural progression from a rekindled friendship to a relationship. It didn’t feel forced. I also really enjoyed how both Brandon and Parker supported the other in their struggles, whether that be family struggles or coming out struggles or future making struggles. Both boys really had the other’s back.
I also really enjoyed how mental health was represented and not shied away from. Therapy was constantly mentioned as a way to help and have an unbiased perspective to their struggles - and I think it’s so important for therapy to not be a dirty word.
What you’re getting:
Best friends - strangers - friends - lovers
Bi awakening
Second chance
Aspiring MMA fighter x soccer player
Unrequited love
Secret relationship
Mental health rep
HEA
TWs: death of a parent (off page), misunderstanding leading to internalized homophobia, family dramas
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
**ARC review**
I really enjoyed this debut novel by Joel Rustin. The author is British - which means you get British-isms mixed with American-isms, which I found to be fun.
Brandon is a college soccer player who has been in love with his best friend, Parker, since high school. Unfortunately, at the end of their high school years, there is a miscommunication (that comes to light later), resulting in them not speaking for 3 years. Brandon is injured during a game and sent to a rehab facility where, surprise, Parker is working.
Parker is an aspiring MMA fighter wanting to follow in his dad’s footsteps after he passed away. He gets kicked out of college due to fighting and ends up working at the same soccer rehab facility where he ends up rekindling his friendship with Brandon.
I really enjoyed the development of both Brandon and Parker and the natural progression from a rekindled friendship to a relationship. It didn’t feel forced. I also really enjoyed how both Brandon and Parker supported the other in their struggles, whether that be family struggles or coming out struggles or future making struggles. Both boys really had the other’s back.
I also really enjoyed how mental health was represented and not shied away from. Therapy was constantly mentioned as a way to help and have an unbiased perspective to their struggles - and I think it’s so important for therapy to not be a dirty word.
What you’re getting:
Best friends - strangers - friends - lovers
Bi awakening
Second chance
Aspiring MMA fighter x soccer player
Unrequited love
Secret relationship
Mental health rep
HEA
TWs: death of a parent (off page), misunderstanding leading to internalized homophobia, family dramas
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
**ARC review**
March 6, 2025
Hits different is a best friends - Strangers - lovers, MM Sports romance and Joel Rustins FIRST book!
I absolutely loved this book.. and these guys.. ahhh!
This book had me giggling at most parts & also cursing some of these side characters 😠
I knew I didn’t like Winston and for a good reason!
𝘉𝘦𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘪𝘯 𝘭𝘰𝘷𝘦 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘴𝘵𝘳𝘢𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵 𝘣𝘦𝘴𝘵 𝘧𝘳𝘪𝘦𝘯𝘥 𝘪𝘴 𝘵𝘰𝘶𝘨𝘩 𝘸𝘩𝘦𝘯 𝘺𝘰𝘶’𝘳𝘦 𝘪𝘯 𝘩𝘪𝘨𝘩 𝘴𝘤𝘩𝘰𝘰𝘭.
Poor Parker, such a kind hearted soul who was just trying to help and stick up for people when they needed it but just seemed to get into trouble ..
Parker was trying to live his life in his dad’s legacy because he thought it would make him feel closer to him.. ahh my heart! I also loved how Parker stuck up for Brandon and was truly there for him & also knew when he needed him & would just be there.
Branden was always there for Parker when he needed someone in his corner & it was nice for him to have someone understand & he there for him .. Since Brandon & Parker fell out he hadn’t let anyone in & truly know him as he thought people would just leave him or abandon him as he felt his parents did .. I’m so glad Parker proved this wrong ♥️
I’m so glad they had a friendship first and then blossomed into something more and they got there HEA dancing together at the end of the night to their song, just like Brandon’s perfect movie ending ☺️
I’m so glad with how this book went, Parker realised he should live his own life and his own dreams … Brandon finally believed in himself & got his mojo back for football (I mean soccer)
“ᴅᴀɴᴄɪɴɢ ᴡɪᴛʜ ʏᴏᴜʀ ʙᴇsᴛ ғʀɪᴇɴᴅ sᴏᴜɴᴅs ʟɪᴋᴇ ᴀ ɢʀᴇᴀᴛ ᴡᴀʏ ᴛᴏ sᴘᴇɴᴅ ᴀɴ ᴇᴠᴇɴɪɴɢ”, ʜᴇ ʜᴏʟᴅs ᴏᴜᴛ ʜɪs ʜᴀɴᴅ. “ʙᴜᴛ ᴅᴀɴᴄɪɴɢ ᴡɪᴛʜ ᴛʜᴇ ʟᴏᴠᴇ ᴏғ ʏᴏᴜʀ ɢᴏᴅᴅᴀᴍɴ ʟɪғᴇ? ᴛʜᴀᴛ sᴏᴜɴᴅs ᴘʀᴇᴛᴛʏ ғᴜᴄᴋɪɴɢ ᴘᴇʀғᴇᴄᴛ ᴛᴏ ᴍᴇ. sʜᴀʟʟ ᴡᴇ?”
I am so glad I got an ARC for this book, it was truly beautifully written & I loved reading every bit of it.
I absolutely loved this book.. and these guys.. ahhh!
This book had me giggling at most parts & also cursing some of these side characters 😠
I knew I didn’t like Winston and for a good reason!
𝘉𝘦𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘪𝘯 𝘭𝘰𝘷𝘦 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘴𝘵𝘳𝘢𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵 𝘣𝘦𝘴𝘵 𝘧𝘳𝘪𝘦𝘯𝘥 𝘪𝘴 𝘵𝘰𝘶𝘨𝘩 𝘸𝘩𝘦𝘯 𝘺𝘰𝘶’𝘳𝘦 𝘪𝘯 𝘩𝘪𝘨𝘩 𝘴𝘤𝘩𝘰𝘰𝘭.
Poor Parker, such a kind hearted soul who was just trying to help and stick up for people when they needed it but just seemed to get into trouble ..
Parker was trying to live his life in his dad’s legacy because he thought it would make him feel closer to him.. ahh my heart! I also loved how Parker stuck up for Brandon and was truly there for him & also knew when he needed him & would just be there.
Branden was always there for Parker when he needed someone in his corner & it was nice for him to have someone understand & he there for him .. Since Brandon & Parker fell out he hadn’t let anyone in & truly know him as he thought people would just leave him or abandon him as he felt his parents did .. I’m so glad Parker proved this wrong ♥️
I’m so glad they had a friendship first and then blossomed into something more and they got there HEA dancing together at the end of the night to their song, just like Brandon’s perfect movie ending ☺️
I’m so glad with how this book went, Parker realised he should live his own life and his own dreams … Brandon finally believed in himself & got his mojo back for football (I mean soccer)
“ᴅᴀɴᴄɪɴɢ ᴡɪᴛʜ ʏᴏᴜʀ ʙᴇsᴛ ғʀɪᴇɴᴅ sᴏᴜɴᴅs ʟɪᴋᴇ ᴀ ɢʀᴇᴀᴛ ᴡᴀʏ ᴛᴏ sᴘᴇɴᴅ ᴀɴ ᴇᴠᴇɴɪɴɢ”, ʜᴇ ʜᴏʟᴅs ᴏᴜᴛ ʜɪs ʜᴀɴᴅ. “ʙᴜᴛ ᴅᴀɴᴄɪɴɢ ᴡɪᴛʜ ᴛʜᴇ ʟᴏᴠᴇ ᴏғ ʏᴏᴜʀ ɢᴏᴅᴅᴀᴍɴ ʟɪғᴇ? ᴛʜᴀᴛ sᴏᴜɴᴅs ᴘʀᴇᴛᴛʏ ғᴜᴄᴋɪɴɢ ᴘᴇʀғᴇᴄᴛ ᴛᴏ ᴍᴇ. sʜᴀʟʟ ᴡᴇ?”
I am so glad I got an ARC for this book, it was truly beautifully written & I loved reading every bit of it.
April 1, 2025
4.75⭐️
ARC REVIEW: I don’t typically read romance, but I’m trying to broaden my horizons so to say. This wasn’t an insufferable MM romance, their chemistry was perfect, the mini plot twists were nice to see. In the end it was a comforting palate cleanser, oh I didn’t mention the spice 🌶️🌶️🌶️ 10/10.
ARC REVIEW: I don’t typically read romance, but I’m trying to broaden my horizons so to say. This wasn’t an insufferable MM romance, their chemistry was perfect, the mini plot twists were nice to see. In the end it was a comforting palate cleanser, oh I didn’t mention the spice 🌶️🌶️🌶️ 10/10.
April 12, 2025
This book wasn’t for me. Main reason: flashback storytelling. It’s something I usually DNF a book for so already this started off badly for me. The flashbacks went on for 46% of the book and by the time we got done with that, I was beyond irritated. I felt bad wanting to DNF an ARC so instead I finished it, barely. I just couldn’t enjoy it after that, no matter how much I tried. This book was also too long. Again, this could just be from my obvious irritation and wanting to hurry and get it over with but I’m not entirely sure that’s the case. I did like the MMC’s and I also somewhat related to the family dynamic between them and their parents.
March 12, 2025
The best thing about this book was the friendship, I loved how easily Brandon and Parker fit back into each other’s life.
The banter was super good, and the sweet way they spoke to each other ♥️
I loved Parker’s growth, and Brandon was always so good at showing up for Parker. The give and take of their relationship was pretty amazing. Both boys had gone through a lot but they were always selfishly there for one another.
The dual time line was great as well.
Thank you to the author for this ARC
The banter was super good, and the sweet way they spoke to each other ♥️
I loved Parker’s growth, and Brandon was always so good at showing up for Parker. The give and take of their relationship was pretty amazing. Both boys had gone through a lot but they were always selfishly there for one another.
The dual time line was great as well.
Thank you to the author for this ARC
March 16, 2025
I adored this MM friends to lovers, sports romance!
🥊⚽️
Brandon & Parker’s relationship is so raw and real. I loved getting to know both characters separately and together.
Joel’s writing was funny, emotional, & intentional. The complicated relationships each character has and is faced with was written so beautifully. He so perfectly writes about death, grief, trauma, politics & love. And this being his first novel?! Amazing!!
I highly recommend this book, do yourself a favor and go read it!
🥊⚽️
Brandon & Parker’s relationship is so raw and real. I loved getting to know both characters separately and together.
Joel’s writing was funny, emotional, & intentional. The complicated relationships each character has and is faced with was written so beautifully. He so perfectly writes about death, grief, trauma, politics & love. And this being his first novel?! Amazing!!
I highly recommend this book, do yourself a favor and go read it!
November 22, 2025
3.25🌟
I had very high expectations going into this book from seeing a clip on Instagram but I will have to say that I was very disappointed.
The romance between the two characters was very sweet and the plot interesting enough. But the writing and exploration of other things was seriously lacking.
The way conflicts were resolved truly felt very convenient and not realistic at all. I loved our characters individually but the lead up to their relationship went from zero to hundred
enjoyable just not what I was expecting
I had very high expectations going into this book from seeing a clip on Instagram but I will have to say that I was very disappointed.
The romance between the two characters was very sweet and the plot interesting enough. But the writing and exploration of other things was seriously lacking.
The way conflicts were resolved truly felt very convenient and not realistic at all. I loved our characters individually but the lead up to their relationship went from zero to hundred
enjoyable just not what I was expecting
May 7, 2025
*ARC REVIEW*
I'm a huge fan of friends to lovers, so it's no surprise I signed up to read this. Despite them being estranged for three years, they jumped back and continued where they left off.
Brandon and Parker are some of the funniest characters I've come across, and they really had me laughing and giggling the entire time. But just because they were making jokes all the time didn't mean it was all sunshine and rainbows. There was a bit of angst for the both of them-- together and separately. The chemistry between them was top tier and I think them being friends before they fell into a relationship really helped with that. They were very protective of each other and we see it in the way they helped each other out-- Brandon with Parkers expulsion and Parker with Brandons dad.
I can't wait to see what the author has planned next.
I would like to thank Joel Rustin for the opportunity of receiving an early copy of this book and this is my honest review.
I'm a huge fan of friends to lovers, so it's no surprise I signed up to read this. Despite them being estranged for three years, they jumped back and continued where they left off.
Brandon and Parker are some of the funniest characters I've come across, and they really had me laughing and giggling the entire time. But just because they were making jokes all the time didn't mean it was all sunshine and rainbows. There was a bit of angst for the both of them-- together and separately. The chemistry between them was top tier and I think them being friends before they fell into a relationship really helped with that. They were very protective of each other and we see it in the way they helped each other out-- Brandon with Parkers expulsion and Parker with Brandons dad.
I can't wait to see what the author has planned next.
I would like to thank Joel Rustin for the opportunity of receiving an early copy of this book and this is my honest review.
April 13, 2025
Hits Different is a wholesome second chance, friends to lovers romance about Parker and Brandon. Brandon is a soccer player and Parker is training to be an MMA fighter.
I loved Parker’s and Brandon’s dynamic. I loved the emotional depth between them. Both characters are well fleshed out and their personalities are vibrant. The banter between them was so good and they had many cute moments that made me swoon.
Overall, I absolutely enjoyed this book. Hits different is funny, emotional and has swoon worthy romance that will make your heart melt. The depths of this book that explores the topics of death, grief, trauma, politics and love definitely made for an engaging read. Thank you to the author for sending me an ARC to read and review.
I loved Parker’s and Brandon’s dynamic. I loved the emotional depth between them. Both characters are well fleshed out and their personalities are vibrant. The banter between them was so good and they had many cute moments that made me swoon.
Overall, I absolutely enjoyed this book. Hits different is funny, emotional and has swoon worthy romance that will make your heart melt. The depths of this book that explores the topics of death, grief, trauma, politics and love definitely made for an engaging read. Thank you to the author for sending me an ARC to read and review.
June 6, 2025
I absolutely loved Parker and Brandon’s relationship - the way they are always best friends before anything else helps create such a healthy environment for both of them to grow. Even though they are young, they are both very mature and self-aware.
This book focuses a lot on queer joy but also highlights the obstacles queer relationships can have - all the little micro-agressions, from people assuming they are straight to having to consider the very real possibility that there environments where it isn’t safe for them to show PDA. It also does a wonderful job of highlighting the struggles of queer athletes.
I would highly recommend this for readers who enjoyed Red White and Royal Blue ❤️🏳️🌈
TW: queerfobic language, loss of a parent (off page)
This book focuses a lot on queer joy but also highlights the obstacles queer relationships can have - all the little micro-agressions, from people assuming they are straight to having to consider the very real possibility that there environments where it isn’t safe for them to show PDA. It also does a wonderful job of highlighting the struggles of queer athletes.
I would highly recommend this for readers who enjoyed Red White and Royal Blue ❤️🏳️🌈
TW: queerfobic language, loss of a parent (off page)
May 6, 2025
Thank you Joel Rustin for this ARC!
First off I loved Parker’s and Brandon’s banter. Because with everything that they both were going through they still tried to make the best of things especially when they had each other. Even though they lost touch for a few years because of some miss communication I loved reading how they grow and become better for themselves and each other. Their story was emotional, with each of them having their own drama with their families and personal issues it was great watching them become better versions of themselves and finally being honest with what they both want and what they were feeling. I loved their HEA it was well deserved.
First off I loved Parker’s and Brandon’s banter. Because with everything that they both were going through they still tried to make the best of things especially when they had each other. Even though they lost touch for a few years because of some miss communication I loved reading how they grow and become better for themselves and each other. Their story was emotional, with each of them having their own drama with their families and personal issues it was great watching them become better versions of themselves and finally being honest with what they both want and what they were feeling. I loved their HEA it was well deserved.
April 18, 2025
Thank you so much for the chance to arc read this for you before release! I would definitely recommend it. If you want something with emotion but also not something serious, serious, this is the book for you. It had me laughing and giggling out loud so many times that people just looked at me 😀 . The characters truly are amazing, and not only do we get to see them come into each other's life again after so long, but we get to see them grow and heal on their own as well. it was a great read and wonderfully written!
May 14, 2025
Hits Different is a solid queer romance debut. I'm a sucker for second chance romance and these two definitely have some tension to work out.
I initially wasn't sure how to feel about the societal homophobia subplot but I ended up warming up to it. I felt it was realistic about the often underhanded time of LGBTQ+ support in politics and professional sports. While this is a rough topic, especially at present, I came away from this book feeling hopeful for the future.
Thanks so much to the author for sending an ARC my way. I'm leaving this review of my own accord.
I initially wasn't sure how to feel about the societal homophobia subplot but I ended up warming up to it. I felt it was realistic about the often underhanded time of LGBTQ+ support in politics and professional sports. While this is a rough topic, especially at present, I came away from this book feeling hopeful for the future.
Thanks so much to the author for sending an ARC my way. I'm leaving this review of my own accord.
May 2, 2025
This book surprised me in the best way. I originally thought this would be a long, drawn-out story of these two but was pleasantly surprised. Thrre was so much more than just the main relationship going on, and I love how those things are addressed as well. This is a debut novel, and I personally can't wait tonsee what is coming next from this author. I had a blast reading this one.
April 30, 2025
I got an ARC for this book and it’s truly great, a debut that’s made me excited for other books from this author. I just liked it all, the main characters are sweet and funny. I laughed and cried! The storyline kept me entertained and interested. More books from this universe please!
May 8, 2025
A well written debut novel with two sports focused MCs, although for very different reasons. Both struggled with family, although in very different ways. Parker's bi-awakening was really well done. The time jumping was good. The characters showed a lot of growth, as did those around them.
April 21, 2025
I loved this one it was passionate and I loved how they figured out what they wanted
May 4, 2025
RTC ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️❤️
April 16, 2025
Hits Different is an excellent best friends to strangers to lovers romance.
Carter seems to have the perfect life on the surface but struggles with his unwanted fame as a Senator’s son and his feelings for his straight best friend.
Parker is still grieving his father who passed when he was a child. He manifests this by getting into fights and is threatened with expulsion from his university. Parker wants to be an MMA fighter but no one in his life is aware of his dream.
An incident near high school graduation forced these best friends apart but they are reunited when they both end up at the same soccer training facility for the summer.
There are some interesting twists and turns in this story and things are not always what they seem. Both MCs are very likable and the plot is engaging.
🌶️🌶️ spice level
Carter seems to have the perfect life on the surface but struggles with his unwanted fame as a Senator’s son and his feelings for his straight best friend.
Parker is still grieving his father who passed when he was a child. He manifests this by getting into fights and is threatened with expulsion from his university. Parker wants to be an MMA fighter but no one in his life is aware of his dream.
An incident near high school graduation forced these best friends apart but they are reunited when they both end up at the same soccer training facility for the summer.
There are some interesting twists and turns in this story and things are not always what they seem. Both MCs are very likable and the plot is engaging.
🌶️🌶️ spice level
Read
May 26, 2025Yeah, this is definitely not for me. I DNF'ed around 35% but I did read between the lines to find out what happened in the end.
This has everything I hate in a book - if you don't mind/like these that is totally fine. For me, however, it was painful.
SPOILERS AHEAD!
The things I hated:
- the on page making out with other people
- the cheating trope
- the alternate timelines (this is very hard to do right)
- the miscommunication trope
- the vilifying of women
Yes, all that happens in the first 30% of the book.
I'm just so tired of mediocre books but I don't know what to read to escape them.
This has everything I hate in a book - if you don't mind/like these that is totally fine. For me, however, it was painful.
SPOILERS AHEAD!
The things I hated:
- the on page making out with other people
- the cheating trope
- the alternate timelines (this is very hard to do right)
- the miscommunication trope
- the vilifying of women
Yes, all that happens in the first 30% of the book.
I'm just so tired of mediocre books but I don't know what to read to escape them.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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