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Hot Under the Collar #3
Joint Penetration
Liam Kelly is in love with his best friend. His straight, freshly divorced best friend, who wants to experiment…with him.
The last thing I expected from my wife was a divorce. I’d checked all the boxes off—cozy house near my folks, joined the family business as a contractor, and married right out of high school. Except the more I think about how distant we’ve been, the more our split makes sense. And the more time I spend blowing off steam with my best friend, the more I want to actually...blow him.
Have I been hopelessly in love with Ollie my entire life? Yes, yes, I have. Has he been married for the past decade? Yes, yes, he has. However, when his wife calls it quits, my heart can’t help contriving scenarios where he might not be as straight as he seems. And when those scenarios start coming true—from scorching looks to playful grapples until we go much further—I throw myself into the deep end.
The second we start hooking up, I can’t hold back the feelings I’ve been clutching tight to for over a decade. But if this ends up a rebound for Ollie, a blip before he looks for a new wife, I won’t only be out a best friend, but the love of my life.
The last thing I expected from my wife was a divorce. I’d checked all the boxes off—cozy house near my folks, joined the family business as a contractor, and married right out of high school. Except the more I think about how distant we’ve been, the more our split makes sense. And the more time I spend blowing off steam with my best friend, the more I want to actually...blow him.
Have I been hopelessly in love with Ollie my entire life? Yes, yes, I have. Has he been married for the past decade? Yes, yes, he has. However, when his wife calls it quits, my heart can’t help contriving scenarios where he might not be as straight as he seems. And when those scenarios start coming true—from scorching looks to playful grapples until we go much further—I throw myself into the deep end.
The second we start hooking up, I can’t hold back the feelings I’ve been clutching tight to for over a decade. But if this ends up a rebound for Ollie, a blip before he looks for a new wife, I won’t only be out a best friend, but the love of my life.
6 pages, Audible Audio
First published July 9, 2024
65 people are currently reading
247 people want to read
About the author
Katherine McIntyre
87 books729 followersGeeky Queer Romance.
Katherine McIntyre is feisty with a big attitude despite their short stature. They write stories featuring snarky women, ragtag crews, and men with bad attitudes—high chance for a passionate speech thrown into the mix. As a genderqueer geek who’s always stepped to their own beat, they've made it their mission to write stories that represent the broad spectrum of people out there. Easily distracted by cats and sugar.
Katherine McIntyre is feisty with a big attitude despite their short stature. They write stories featuring snarky women, ragtag crews, and men with bad attitudes—high chance for a passionate speech thrown into the mix. As a genderqueer geek who’s always stepped to their own beat, they've made it their mission to write stories that represent the broad spectrum of people out there. Easily distracted by cats and sugar.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 179 reviews
February 13, 2025
Second read through on audio: this was awesome to listen to and I loved it just as much as the first time! Just lots of low angst high steam fun that I definitely recommend!
This entire series has been fantastic! Low-angst, high-steam romances are sometimes exactly what I’m in the mood for and all of them have been great! I definitely recommend reading them all in order just to get the most out of the story!
Liam and Ollie were perfect together and they finally had the chance to realize just how much really. This is the most low-angst biawakening ever. Ollie just rolled with it! I loved how compatible they were together in the bedroom and seeing some scenes that aren’t in too many books I’ve read!
There was a bit of miscommunication but was handled well and fixed super quickly. I loved their HEA and can’t wait for the spinoff series! Highly recommend this entire series!
This entire series has been fantastic! Low-angst, high-steam romances are sometimes exactly what I’m in the mood for and all of them have been great! I definitely recommend reading them all in order just to get the most out of the story!
Liam and Ollie were perfect together and they finally had the chance to realize just how much really. This is the most low-angst biawakening ever. Ollie just rolled with it! I loved how compatible they were together in the bedroom and seeing some scenes that aren’t in too many books I’ve read!
There was a bit of miscommunication but was handled well and fixed super quickly. I loved their HEA and can’t wait for the spinoff series! Highly recommend this entire series!
May 13, 2025
This was sweet but aggressively ordinary. Except for the bit where the guy who had his bi-awakening was more certain about the budding romance than the one who'd been in love with him for 14 years.
Seemed like this is part of an interconnected series of works about the same friend group and I kinda hated that the first chapter was mostly orientation on who was with whom and what the trope in their love story was. Felt like there could have been a more organic way to weave it in.
I also feel like it's a good example of my biggest issue with friends to lovers in the sense that there doesn't seem to be a difference between when they were friends and when they became lovers, except that now they have sex.
It lacks that thrill of falling in love, either because one was already supposedly in love and had been for 14 years, or because the other was so unmoved by the bi-awakening that it hardly warranted a mention.
Simply, oh, I'd never thought of Liam this way because I was in a serious relationship from my late teens and now that it's ended, he's immediately the hottest person I've ever seen and we really need to work on settling down together.
Literally. Wife asks for a divorce today and he spends the night in Liam's bed and the next morning thinks to himself, 'Huh. Liam IS kinda hot in those panties.'
Took Ollie a MONTH between 'Josie asked for a divorce' and trying to hold himself back from saying he sees Liam as his future husband.
I see that they fell in love but I felt like a secondary observer twice removed from the process. I don't really feel it happen.
That said, I can appreciate a romance where there are no emotional war crimes committed and someone treats his best friend with the consideration you'd expect. No unclear communication. No hiding (except that one time, and it really had nothing to do with him hiding Liam or their relationship).
Also, this is one of those times where I'm left wondering what on earth the title has to do with the story.
Listened to an ARC of the audio and I don't think it added to or detracted from my enjoyment of this story.
Like I said, it felt aggressively ordinary to me.
Seemed like this is part of an interconnected series of works about the same friend group and I kinda hated that the first chapter was mostly orientation on who was with whom and what the trope in their love story was. Felt like there could have been a more organic way to weave it in.
I also feel like it's a good example of my biggest issue with friends to lovers in the sense that there doesn't seem to be a difference between when they were friends and when they became lovers, except that now they have sex.
It lacks that thrill of falling in love, either because one was already supposedly in love and had been for 14 years, or because the other was so unmoved by the bi-awakening that it hardly warranted a mention.
Simply, oh, I'd never thought of Liam this way because I was in a serious relationship from my late teens and now that it's ended, he's immediately the hottest person I've ever seen and we really need to work on settling down together.
Literally. Wife asks for a divorce today and he spends the night in Liam's bed and the next morning thinks to himself, 'Huh. Liam IS kinda hot in those panties.'
Took Ollie a MONTH between 'Josie asked for a divorce' and trying to hold himself back from saying he sees Liam as his future husband.
I see that they fell in love but I felt like a secondary observer twice removed from the process. I don't really feel it happen.
That said, I can appreciate a romance where there are no emotional war crimes committed and someone treats his best friend with the consideration you'd expect. No unclear communication. No hiding (except that one time, and it really had nothing to do with him hiding Liam or their relationship).
Also, this is one of those times where I'm left wondering what on earth the title has to do with the story.
Listened to an ARC of the audio and I don't think it added to or detracted from my enjoyment of this story.
Like I said, it felt aggressively ordinary to me.
July 8, 2024
Liam & Ollie
Rating: 3.8 ⭐
- Best Friends-to-Lovers
- Bi-Awakening
- Divorced MC
- Oral Fixation
- Low Angst
- Secret Pining
- Lingerie
- Loud Loving Family
- Game-Related "Fun" Times
- Birdwatching
- PT/Construction Contractor
This is the third book and last book in this series and it is sweet and adorable all around. These two best friends have been inside each other's pockets forever, of course one is very straight and married while one fell in love with the other. Liam and Ollie are perfect for each other, especially sexually once they get there.
This is a very low angst bi-awakening story. Ollie is newly divorced and a kind of sad that he couldn't make his marriage work, although deep down he knows they were never right for each other. He still feels like a failure because of it. Of course, he's sad for like two seconds because he goes to see his best friend Liam and his world is righted upon contact. They have always been each others person but it never clicked for Ollie that Liam could also be his, never having gave himself a chance to question his sexuality since he was with his now ex-wife since high school. Once it clicks for Ollie, I loved that he just rolled with it, no confusion just all of their moments clicking into place for him to realize that he's in love with his best friend.
Liam is rightfully wary, because Ollie is getting divorced and he's never shown interest in men. He has loved Ollie since they were teens and now that he's getting a chance to be with him, he takes all he can get. They ended up being so compatible in bed, giving each other's something they never knew they needed. Ollie allowing Liam to indulge in his oral fixation and need to be filled, turned out to be a closeness he always needed as well but didn't understand until now. That scene in the living room while playing a video game was steamy as hell 🔥. They have some miscommunication but it was handled well and quickly, so there was no unnecessary drama or breakups.
I appreciated that Ollie and his ex-wife were so civil and maintained their friendship once they sat down and realized she did the right thing by pulling the plug. They were just existing and fighting with each other all the time, so it was time to stop trying to hold on. It's always nice to see an ex that isn't portrayed in a negative light and there's no malice involved. Hopefully the new spin-off series will be just as good as this one. You also get an epilogue for six months later to see how their relationship has grown.
Content Warnings:
- Graphic sexual content between consenting adults
- Mild exhibitionism
I received a free copy of this book via GRR and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Verse: No
HEA: Yes
POV: Dual
Breakup: No
Cheating: No
OM/OW Drama: No
Ages: 29 & 29
Rating: 3.8 ⭐
- Best Friends-to-Lovers
- Bi-Awakening
- Divorced MC
- Oral Fixation
- Low Angst
- Secret Pining
- Lingerie
- Loud Loving Family
- Game-Related "Fun" Times
- Birdwatching
- PT/Construction Contractor
This is the third book and last book in this series and it is sweet and adorable all around. These two best friends have been inside each other's pockets forever, of course one is very straight and married while one fell in love with the other. Liam and Ollie are perfect for each other, especially sexually once they get there.
This is a very low angst bi-awakening story. Ollie is newly divorced and a kind of sad that he couldn't make his marriage work, although deep down he knows they were never right for each other. He still feels like a failure because of it. Of course, he's sad for like two seconds because he goes to see his best friend Liam and his world is righted upon contact. They have always been each others person but it never clicked for Ollie that Liam could also be his, never having gave himself a chance to question his sexuality since he was with his now ex-wife since high school. Once it clicks for Ollie, I loved that he just rolled with it, no confusion just all of their moments clicking into place for him to realize that he's in love with his best friend.
Liam is rightfully wary, because Ollie is getting divorced and he's never shown interest in men. He has loved Ollie since they were teens and now that he's getting a chance to be with him, he takes all he can get. They ended up being so compatible in bed, giving each other's something they never knew they needed. Ollie allowing Liam to indulge in his oral fixation and need to be filled, turned out to be a closeness he always needed as well but didn't understand until now. That scene in the living room while playing a video game was steamy as hell 🔥. They have some miscommunication but it was handled well and quickly, so there was no unnecessary drama or breakups.
"With Josie, I’d spent thirteen years trying to make us work. With Liam, it had always been effortless."
I appreciated that Ollie and his ex-wife were so civil and maintained their friendship once they sat down and realized she did the right thing by pulling the plug. They were just existing and fighting with each other all the time, so it was time to stop trying to hold on. It's always nice to see an ex that isn't portrayed in a negative light and there's no malice involved. Hopefully the new spin-off series will be just as good as this one. You also get an epilogue for six months later to see how their relationship has grown.
“Loving you is as easy as breathing, Liam Kelly, and I don’t know how I missed this connection for all these years.”
Content Warnings:
- Graphic sexual content between consenting adults
- Mild exhibitionism
I received a free copy of this book via GRR and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Verse: No
HEA: Yes
POV: Dual
Breakup: No
Cheating: No
OM/OW Drama: No
Ages: 29 & 29
June 22, 2024
Liam has been in love with his best friend Ollie since they were teens, but Ollie is very straight and very much married. Until he isn’t.
Newly divorced and seeking comfort from his best friend, Ollie begins to see Liam in a new light, and the growing attraction to his best friend has him crossing lines he never thought he would.
Honestly I was nervous about sweet Liam getting his heartbroken and very disappointed in Ollie for lying every time Josie came up with his family—especially since Ollie seemed like he was all in with Liam, but everything worked out in the end. Their story actually ended up being my favorite of the series, and I’m so looking forward to the spin off!
Newly divorced and seeking comfort from his best friend, Ollie begins to see Liam in a new light, and the growing attraction to his best friend has him crossing lines he never thought he would.
Honestly I was nervous about sweet Liam getting his heartbroken and very disappointed in Ollie for lying every time Josie came up with his family—especially since Ollie seemed like he was all in with Liam, but everything worked out in the end. Their story actually ended up being my favorite of the series, and I’m so looking forward to the spin off!
July 28, 2024
I love the buildup. I love when they were communicating properly and the sex was hot!!!
February 9, 2025
Audio update
Dan Levy pairs up with Kat in the last of the Hot Under Collar series that also introduces us to the Brannons. Dan does a beautiful job in differentiating the characters so you can easily tell who's talking.
What a perfect ending for the Hot Under the Collar series, and not to mention the introduction to the Brannons! That family is gonna be a hoot in her all new upcoming series, the Brannon Boys!
So lovely clueless Ollie is just so perfect. Yes, you want to hit him with a clue by four, but you still wanna snuggle him full stop. Liam is just that perfect best friend who doesn't initiate, but let's it play out as it was always meant to be. It's no surprise when they finally take a shot it's fire and moves warp speed full stop because they've been each other's person so dang long. Can't say how much I love this book, just pure happiness and sunshine!
Dan Levy pairs up with Kat in the last of the Hot Under Collar series that also introduces us to the Brannons. Dan does a beautiful job in differentiating the characters so you can easily tell who's talking.
What a perfect ending for the Hot Under the Collar series, and not to mention the introduction to the Brannons! That family is gonna be a hoot in her all new upcoming series, the Brannon Boys!
So lovely clueless Ollie is just so perfect. Yes, you want to hit him with a clue by four, but you still wanna snuggle him full stop. Liam is just that perfect best friend who doesn't initiate, but let's it play out as it was always meant to be. It's no surprise when they finally take a shot it's fire and moves warp speed full stop because they've been each other's person so dang long. Can't say how much I love this book, just pure happiness and sunshine!
July 13, 2024
This one wasn’t for me.
Even though the MCs were supposed to be best friends their connection mainly felt surface level and unbelievable.
Ollie went from being upset at his failed marriage to waking up the next day in his best friend’s bed super turned on by his best friend wearing sexy underwear to becoming obsessed with seeing more of his sexy underwear and lusting over him and having sex with him.
I think this would’ve worked for me a little more if Ollie started seeing Liam differently and noticing how much more compatible they were by spending more time together BEFORE jumping into sex. In this instance it felt like “ oh, we’re super sexually compatible and we’re best friends so I guess I love you back now” 🤷🏻♀️
Even though the MCs were supposed to be best friends their connection mainly felt surface level and unbelievable.
Ollie went from being upset at his failed marriage to waking up the next day in his best friend’s bed super turned on by his best friend wearing sexy underwear to becoming obsessed with seeing more of his sexy underwear and lusting over him and having sex with him.
I think this would’ve worked for me a little more if Ollie started seeing Liam differently and noticing how much more compatible they were by spending more time together BEFORE jumping into sex. In this instance it felt like “ oh, we’re super sexually compatible and we’re best friends so I guess I love you back now” 🤷🏻♀️
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 19, 2025
I read Katherine McIntyre's Joint Penetration, which is the third book in their Hot under the Collar series. All of these stories can be enjoyed as standalones.
This is a fun "first time" friends to lovers story with little angst and a nice supporting cast.
The audio version of Joint Penetration is nicely performed by Dan Levy.
an audiobook copy of Joint Penetration was provided for the purpose my honest review, all opinions are my own
This is a fun "first time" friends to lovers story with little angst and a nice supporting cast.
The audio version of Joint Penetration is nicely performed by Dan Levy.
an audiobook copy of Joint Penetration was provided for the purpose my honest review, all opinions are my own
September 16, 2025
I enjoyed this. It’s a story that’s been told so many times that I’m looking for something that makes it stand out. Unfortunately, it really wasn’t amazing. The only thing different was Ollie being so comfortable with suddenly being bisexual. I know he had gay brothers and a gay best friend, but it was still refreshing to have his positive attitude. I’m sure if this was one of the first books I’d read with the best friends to lovers trope I’d have rated it higher. So for that I’ll say it’s me and not the book.
June 16, 2024
Best friends to lovers stories that include a bi-awakening AND an unrequited requited love plotline will simply always have my heart. And, boy did Katherine McIntyre deliver that so beautifully.
Ollie and Liam have been best friends since forever and Liam has been in love with Ollie for just as long. And, he has accepted nothing will ever come of that since Ollie is straight and married. That is until Ollie’s wife wants a divorce and now suddenly he’s seeing Liam in a whole new light.
Joint Penetration is a low angst, high steam book with lots of pining and an earned happy ending. I really liked this one a lot.
Ollie and Liam have been best friends since forever and Liam has been in love with Ollie for just as long. And, he has accepted nothing will ever come of that since Ollie is straight and married. That is until Ollie’s wife wants a divorce and now suddenly he’s seeing Liam in a whole new light.
Joint Penetration is a low angst, high steam book with lots of pining and an earned happy ending. I really liked this one a lot.
January 29, 2025
Low-angst. High steam. What's not to love?
July 9, 2024
Rating: 4
Steam: 4
PoV: dual, 1st person
Genre: contemporary romance, MM
Tropes / tags: friends to lovers, sexual discovery, pining
Joint Penetration was a deliciously steamy read!
This story had me smiling a lot - it was a fast paced and high heat romance, with low angst despite the friends to lovers and sexual discovery tropes. Liam and Ollie were so sweet together and I loved how Ollie just went with his attraction to Liam and didn't get hung up on the fact that it was a guy, or that they had known each other for ages.
The glimpses of their friendship was precious, and my heart couldn't help but ache a little for Liam, who had been pining for his straight best friend for ages. Liam was hesitant and wary at first, which made sense, but these two were truly meant to be together. There were a little tension in the story as well as a little miscommunication, Ollie wasn't always handling things perfectly, but in his defence he had a lot going on and plenty of things to process.
Joint Penetration was a pretty short read, but I didn't feel like anything was missing - Liam and Ollie's feelings were well portrayed and I loved the background that I got of their friendship and lives. The tropes were great, lots of things I love and the story overall was just the best combo of funny, sweet and steamy!
-
Thanks to Gay Romance Reviews for the opportunity to read and review this book. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.
Steam: 4
PoV: dual, 1st person
Genre: contemporary romance, MM
Tropes / tags: friends to lovers, sexual discovery, pining
Joint Penetration was a deliciously steamy read!
This story had me smiling a lot - it was a fast paced and high heat romance, with low angst despite the friends to lovers and sexual discovery tropes. Liam and Ollie were so sweet together and I loved how Ollie just went with his attraction to Liam and didn't get hung up on the fact that it was a guy, or that they had known each other for ages.
The glimpses of their friendship was precious, and my heart couldn't help but ache a little for Liam, who had been pining for his straight best friend for ages. Liam was hesitant and wary at first, which made sense, but these two were truly meant to be together. There were a little tension in the story as well as a little miscommunication, Ollie wasn't always handling things perfectly, but in his defence he had a lot going on and plenty of things to process.
Joint Penetration was a pretty short read, but I didn't feel like anything was missing - Liam and Ollie's feelings were well portrayed and I loved the background that I got of their friendship and lives. The tropes were great, lots of things I love and the story overall was just the best combo of funny, sweet and steamy!
-
Thanks to Gay Romance Reviews for the opportunity to read and review this book. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.
July 22, 2024
I got an ARC of this book.
Whew! Last book I was overdue on reviewing. First time I have been caught up since 2022.
I DNFed book 2 of this series and left a LONG rant of a review about my issues. I was worried that I would have issues with this one too or that I would be missing key details to be able to understand this one. In the end, I really didn't need to know anything from book 2 to enjoy this one, which I am very thankful for. There were the characters from the other books, but they were more like sprinkles to add to the fun instead of the cake.
This book had some new to my reading kinks in it, something that McIntrye is good at doing. The romance felt way too quick for me, but it worked well with these charcters. They have known each otheer forever, so the fast pace fit. Though it felt a little weird for a seemingly straight character to be like "yeah, into dudes now" and just jump right into the deep end. It worked, but I side eyed it the whole time.
Overall, a great end of this series.
Whew! Last book I was overdue on reviewing. First time I have been caught up since 2022.
I DNFed book 2 of this series and left a LONG rant of a review about my issues. I was worried that I would have issues with this one too or that I would be missing key details to be able to understand this one. In the end, I really didn't need to know anything from book 2 to enjoy this one, which I am very thankful for. There were the characters from the other books, but they were more like sprinkles to add to the fun instead of the cake.
This book had some new to my reading kinks in it, something that McIntrye is good at doing. The romance felt way too quick for me, but it worked well with these charcters. They have known each otheer forever, so the fast pace fit. Though it felt a little weird for a seemingly straight character to be like "yeah, into dudes now" and just jump right into the deep end. It worked, but I side eyed it the whole time.
Overall, a great end of this series.
July 9, 2024
Katherine McIntyre’s Hot Under the Collar series concludes with Ollie and Liam’s story. I honestly have not read the other books in this series (though I will now after reading this), so this could definitely be read as a standalone.
Liam has always been in love with his best friend, Ollie. However, Ollie was straight and married. After his wife asks for a divorce, Ollie realizes that the feelings he has for his friend are not platonic.
I love how Ollie was so sure of his feelings for Liam. He was afraid to tell his family about the divorce, but it wasn’t because he was ashamed of his feelings for Liam. Ollie did a great job of standing up when he was needed. Ollie and Liam had a very sweet relationship and I understood Liam’s minor freakout.
I am really glad that the author is intending to write more about the Brannon boys because they are intriguing and I want to know more. This was an enjoyable low-angst friends to lovers romance. I look forward to going back and reading the rest of the series.
I received an ARC from GRR for my honest review
Liam has always been in love with his best friend, Ollie. However, Ollie was straight and married. After his wife asks for a divorce, Ollie realizes that the feelings he has for his friend are not platonic.
I love how Ollie was so sure of his feelings for Liam. He was afraid to tell his family about the divorce, but it wasn’t because he was ashamed of his feelings for Liam. Ollie did a great job of standing up when he was needed. Ollie and Liam had a very sweet relationship and I understood Liam’s minor freakout.
I am really glad that the author is intending to write more about the Brannon boys because they are intriguing and I want to know more. This was an enjoyable low-angst friends to lovers romance. I look forward to going back and reading the rest of the series.
I received an ARC from GRR for my honest review
July 8, 2024
[I received a digital arc for an honest review]
The emotion welling inside me grew so intense I couldn't stand it. Like this kiss had the ability to break me apart and remake me all over again.
Joint Penetration is the last book in the Hot Under the Collar series. It fits into it the series perfectly by being another low angst, high steam romance.
A best friends to lovers romance with a long time crush, bi awakening, loveable characters, found family, game nights, snuggling, delicious steam, pretty panties, strip Mortal Kombat, all the PDA and a happy ending.
"Loving you is as easy as breathing , Liam Kelly and I don't know how I missed this connection for all these years."
The emotion welling inside me grew so intense I couldn't stand it. Like this kiss had the ability to break me apart and remake me all over again.
Joint Penetration is the last book in the Hot Under the Collar series. It fits into it the series perfectly by being another low angst, high steam romance.
A best friends to lovers romance with a long time crush, bi awakening, loveable characters, found family, game nights, snuggling, delicious steam, pretty panties, strip Mortal Kombat, all the PDA and a happy ending.
"Loving you is as easy as breathing , Liam Kelly and I don't know how I missed this connection for all these years."
Read
July 9, 2024Joint Penetration wraps up the Hot Under the Collar series with a hot besties to lovers story that blends cheesy romance lines with bi-awakening in a truly low angst setting. I love that Ollie just opens himself up to the possibilities and makes Liam's long time crush and hopes a reality! This was a great read that gives us enough connection to the series that those of us who have read from the beginning will appreciate the cameos, but if this is your first look at Hot Under the Collar, you can easily read it as standalone!
I can't wait to see what Kat has in the works for the next contemporary series!
I can't wait to see what Kat has in the works for the next contemporary series!
July 13, 2024
*4.5 stars *
This book, similarly to previous stories in this series is not only opposites attract and funny but it is also scorching hot🔥 🔥 🔥
The story is very uncomplicated and predictable
But it is a nice, very enjoyable read. There is no drama, no angst just two best friends finally being together ☺️
It is well written and full of likable characters, it was a pleasure to meet Cole, Theo, Lex and all guys once again.
The romance is sweet and fast, there is no realization or bi-awakening.
I liked the story but I wish there was some character development 🤷
* I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review *
This book, similarly to previous stories in this series is not only opposites attract and funny but it is also scorching hot🔥 🔥 🔥
The story is very uncomplicated and predictable
But it is a nice, very enjoyable read. There is no drama, no angst just two best friends finally being together ☺️
It is well written and full of likable characters, it was a pleasure to meet Cole, Theo, Lex and all guys once again.
The romance is sweet and fast, there is no realization or bi-awakening.
I liked the story but I wish there was some character development 🤷
* I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review *
May 16, 2024
I received an ARC copy of this book in return for writing a review, so here are my unfiltered thoughts.
This is a sweet, light-hearted best friends-to-lovers story. No angst, no drama, lots of heart eyes. If that’s your thing, you’ll enjoy it. I prefer a little more tension, a little more “will they won’t they?” or “why did is he do THAT?,” so it felt like it dragged a bit for me, but that’s strictly a personal preference. Reading this book is like eating an ooey gooey chocolate chip cookie. It’ll warm you right up with all its sweetness. The best friend (Ollie) is particularly adorable. He definitely has golden retriever vibes. Liam was a littler harder for me to get into, but he was just more reserved with his feelings.
The book synopsis covers the main points so I won’t reiterate here. Nothing will take you by surprise. Some specs:
HEA ✅
🌶️ 4/5 (strict roles)
CWs: none
Kinks: manties
This is a sweet, light-hearted best friends-to-lovers story. No angst, no drama, lots of heart eyes. If that’s your thing, you’ll enjoy it. I prefer a little more tension, a little more “will they won’t they?” or “why did is he do THAT?,” so it felt like it dragged a bit for me, but that’s strictly a personal preference. Reading this book is like eating an ooey gooey chocolate chip cookie. It’ll warm you right up with all its sweetness. The best friend (Ollie) is particularly adorable. He definitely has golden retriever vibes. Liam was a littler harder for me to get into, but he was just more reserved with his feelings.
The book synopsis covers the main points so I won’t reiterate here. Nothing will take you by surprise. Some specs:
HEA ✅
🌶️ 4/5 (strict roles)
CWs: none
Kinks: manties
July 25, 2024
4.5 stars - this was so dang cute!! This is why I love a good best friends to lovers story. Hits me in all the feels 🥰❤️
Also these 2 guys, not only the sweetest friendship and so touchy feely at all times, but they are 🔥🔥 together!
I only wished it was a bit longer, to have a little more character development and a few more spicy bits that were teased but not shown.
But overall, such a fun read!
Also these 2 guys, not only the sweetest friendship and so touchy feely at all times, but they are 🔥🔥 together!
I only wished it was a bit longer, to have a little more character development and a few more spicy bits that were teased but not shown.
But overall, such a fun read!
May 11, 2025
Liam has been in love with his best friend Ollie since they were teens, but Ollie is very straight and very much married. Until he isn’t.
Newly divorced and seeking comfort from his best friend, Ollie begins to see Liam in a new light, and the growing attraction to his best friend has him crossing lines he never thought he would.
Honestly I was nervous about sweet Liam getting his heartbroken and very disappointed in Ollie for lying every time Josie came up with his family—especially since Ollie seemed like he was all in with Liam, but everything worked out in the end.
Their story actually ended up being my favorite of the series.
Newly divorced and seeking comfort from his best friend, Ollie begins to see Liam in a new light, and the growing attraction to his best friend has him crossing lines he never thought he would.
Honestly I was nervous about sweet Liam getting his heartbroken and very disappointed in Ollie for lying every time Josie came up with his family—especially since Ollie seemed like he was all in with Liam, but everything worked out in the end.
Their story actually ended up being my favorite of the series.
June 27, 2024
Joint Penetration is the third book in the Hot Under the Collar series. This book can be read as a standalone but why not enjoy the rest of the series also. This book is about Liam and Ollie who are best friends. Ollie just went through a divorce and is straight. Liam has been in love with Ollie his best friend forever. This is where all the fun starts. This is a low- angst high steam story for a nice read. I love how perfect these two are together and that any miscommunication is handled well. I would definitely recommend this book and series.
May 19, 2024
I loved this book… Fact, I’ve loved the entire series and I’m going back to reread them lol
These two boys are perfect for each other and I’m so glad they finally get there and their love.
As always, Catherine’s books, crack me up. So much steam and sweetness with shenanigans thrown in.
Can’t wait for what’s next.
This is an ARC review - thank you for sharing it with me.
These two boys are perfect for each other and I’m so glad they finally get there and their love.
As always, Catherine’s books, crack me up. So much steam and sweetness with shenanigans thrown in.
Can’t wait for what’s next.
This is an ARC review - thank you for sharing it with me.
July 2, 2024
Nice best friend to lovers
May 16, 2025
Reread as audiobook. Really enjoyable and well fitting narration.
Story - 4.5 stars. Definitely one of the best best friends to more, including clueless to bi-awakening that I've read. Ollie's complete loyalty to Josie while they were together was really a very appealing character trait, and his lack of concern about realising he felt more for Liam after they decided on divorcing was charming. The next spin-off series with more of the Brannon family sounds great.
Story - 4.5 stars. Definitely one of the best best friends to more, including clueless to bi-awakening that I've read. Ollie's complete loyalty to Josie while they were together was really a very appealing character trait, and his lack of concern about realising he felt more for Liam after they decided on divorcing was charming. The next spin-off series with more of the Brannon family sounds great.
July 22, 2024
I really rather enjoyed this one. SUPER steamy, low angst, and really sweet. I will say that both these MC's, Ollie and Liam, were easy to like and had individual characteristics that set them apart. These guys are besties and have been for years. Ollie is our big bear, overly sweet, loving, cuddle whore with Liam being a bit more jaded but down to earth, fun, and also craves touch, especially by his bestie and long long long time crush. Friends to lovers is literally my favorite so I was very much looking forward to this shorter read that incorporated my favorite trope. Add in the fact that they are borderline co-dependent ad I was loving it. I will say that with it being on the shorter side I know I needed to go into it expecting a rushed love story which that's what we 100% got, but the one big thing is Ollie is recently on the path of divorce and the events that led up to these guys falling into bed together happened literally the next day. Panty peek anyone? Which hell yes that was yummy don't get me wrong, but I really wish there was a bit more to the buildup to Ollie finding his best friend attractive and having no limits to being with a man right up front. I certainly felt the draw, I felt Liam's unrequited love for Ollie and the bond they shared, I just wish there was a little more on the friend front so I could really relish in the whole FRIENDS to lover's thing. That aside, I LOVED how hot this book was. I am all for major and frequent heat in my romances and that was very much here with Ollie and Liam. LOVED the incorporation of one MC wearing panties and the other going absolutely bat shit cray for it. Loved the games they played to turn each other on. Loved how they still did all the things they loved doing as friends, just with a lot more bodily fluids shared. The cock warming was YUM as well. I also liked the big family feel with the very present friend group albeit a bit overwhelming at times with how many there were. I know some characters where from previous books and I honestly would have enjoyed this one much more had I read them even though this is technically a standalone story. I really loved Ollies big loud and nosey family and am looking forward to seeing where his siblings find their HEA's.
Overall, I liked this one a lot and for sure will be reading more from McIntyre and most likely will go back to the beginning of this series to read Theo and Lex then Rhys and Cole's big, realized love stories.
This was more a 3.5 for me but I bumped it up to a 4 simply because the chemistry was drool worthy. And the love declarations were major swoon, and I really liked the easy writing style.
I voluntarily read and reviewed a complimentary copy of this book provided by GRR.
Overall, I liked this one a lot and for sure will be reading more from McIntyre and most likely will go back to the beginning of this series to read Theo and Lex then Rhys and Cole's big, realized love stories.
This was more a 3.5 for me but I bumped it up to a 4 simply because the chemistry was drool worthy. And the love declarations were major swoon, and I really liked the easy writing style.
I voluntarily read and reviewed a complimentary copy of this book provided by GRR.
July 15, 2024
Here's "Joint Penetration" by Katherine McIntyre. Its the third and final book in her Hot Under The Collar series.
["Liam Kelly is in love with his best friend. His straight, freshly divorced best friend, who wants to experiment…with him.
Ollie
The last thing I expected from my wife was a divorce. I’d checked all the boxes off—cozy house near my folks, joined the family business as a contractor, and married right out of high school. Except the more I think about how distant we’ve been, the more our split makes sense. And the more time I spend blowing off steam with my best friend, the more I want to actually…blow him.
Liam
Have I been hopelessly in love with Ollie my entire life? Yes, yes, I have. Has he been married for the past decade? Yes, yes, he has. However, when his wife calls it quits, my heart can’t help contriving scenarios where he might not be as straight as he seems. And when those scenarios start coming true—from scorching looks to playful grapples until we go much further—I throw myself into the deep end.
The second we start hooking up, I can’t hold back the feelings I’ve been clutching tight to for over a decade. But if this ends up a rebound for Ollie, a blip before he looks for a new wife, I won’t only be out a best friend but the love of my life."]
You know that meme of a car on the highway heading towards option A, but it suddenly (and dangerously) veers towards the exit, towards option T? That was me and this book. I was all happy, trying to pick out an ARC to read, but then I saw an add for this book (which was on my TBR). The second I saw "twink with an oral fixation," I was veering off course and barreling towards this utter gem.
There was very little angst (Ollie's guilt over telling his family about the divorce, and Liam truly believing he was a stepping stone in Ollie's future). But the heat? Holy. Fucking. Hell. That was high, very high (gloriously high).
And Ollie's official bi-awakening? Liam's "pretty purple panties" (an official quote). Another official quote from Ollie: "who could have known my best friend would be a powder keg of heat and promise?"
Oh, you want a quote from Liam? Twist my arm. "My heart felt like it might escape my chest. He didn't understand how his hope poisoned me at a deadly pace now that he was single, now that all my fantasies were brimming again like I hadn't stamped them down for years."
#sweatconnection #hotconduit #jointpenetration #katherinemcintyre #hotunderthecollar #hotunderthecollarseries #books #queerbooks #queererotica #bodicerippers #bookstagram #bookphotography #ilovebooks
["Liam Kelly is in love with his best friend. His straight, freshly divorced best friend, who wants to experiment…with him.
Ollie
The last thing I expected from my wife was a divorce. I’d checked all the boxes off—cozy house near my folks, joined the family business as a contractor, and married right out of high school. Except the more I think about how distant we’ve been, the more our split makes sense. And the more time I spend blowing off steam with my best friend, the more I want to actually…blow him.
Liam
Have I been hopelessly in love with Ollie my entire life? Yes, yes, I have. Has he been married for the past decade? Yes, yes, he has. However, when his wife calls it quits, my heart can’t help contriving scenarios where he might not be as straight as he seems. And when those scenarios start coming true—from scorching looks to playful grapples until we go much further—I throw myself into the deep end.
The second we start hooking up, I can’t hold back the feelings I’ve been clutching tight to for over a decade. But if this ends up a rebound for Ollie, a blip before he looks for a new wife, I won’t only be out a best friend but the love of my life."]
You know that meme of a car on the highway heading towards option A, but it suddenly (and dangerously) veers towards the exit, towards option T? That was me and this book. I was all happy, trying to pick out an ARC to read, but then I saw an add for this book (which was on my TBR). The second I saw "twink with an oral fixation," I was veering off course and barreling towards this utter gem.
There was very little angst (Ollie's guilt over telling his family about the divorce, and Liam truly believing he was a stepping stone in Ollie's future). But the heat? Holy. Fucking. Hell. That was high, very high (gloriously high).
And Ollie's official bi-awakening? Liam's "pretty purple panties" (an official quote). Another official quote from Ollie: "who could have known my best friend would be a powder keg of heat and promise?"
Oh, you want a quote from Liam? Twist my arm. "My heart felt like it might escape my chest. He didn't understand how his hope poisoned me at a deadly pace now that he was single, now that all my fantasies were brimming again like I hadn't stamped them down for years."
#sweatconnection #hotconduit #jointpenetration #katherinemcintyre #hotunderthecollar #hotunderthecollarseries #books #queerbooks #queererotica #bodicerippers #bookstagram #bookphotography #ilovebooks
0-mm-borrowed-kindle-unlimited
July 19, 2024This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 13, 2024
I was gifted my copy straight for the author.
Jumping straight in, again!
What this book is, book 3 in the series, is an abso-freaking-lutely brilliantly written, brilliantly told story, of realising what has been in front of you for 15 years, and not questioning, not once, what you really feel for your best friend.
Liam has been in love with Ollie since he was 14. His best friend, his straight MARRIED best friend. He knows he can never have him, but he cannot let go. Ollie announces hi is getting a divorce, and promptly turns to Liam for his shoulder. Not to cry on, though, Ollie just needs Liam close, as always. Making a discovery about Liam that Ollie did not know, sets off a chain reaction, and Ollie sees, really SEES Liam for the first time.
I cannot, and never will be able to, express how much I loved this book of 2 friends falling in love. Of two friends finally seeing what everyone else sees: that they are perfect for each other. I mean, this is another , ANOTHER book that I need to add to myMasterpieces shelf of McIntyre's and she keeps delivering them! I really gotta change my rules for that shelf!
It's steamy, yes, but I loved that Ollie jumped straight in, once he was aware of his feelings and, more importantly, of LIAM'S feelings about them sleeping together. I loved that Ollie didn't really question what he was feeling: he knew, KNEW that Liam was his, and now he would be in all ways, but Ollie questioned WHAT he was feeling when he touched Liam. He never felt anything like this when he touched his ex-wife, so what he was feeling for Liam had to be monumental.
It's super low angst, and it's too freaking cute, and so warm and fuzzies, its off the scale!
I loved that we got to catch up with Liam's group of friends, and the guys from books one and two. We are also introduced to Ollie's brothers, and THEY are the subject of a new series that will feature drop ins from these guys.
I might go on all day, but I'll cut myself short.
READ THE FREAKING BOOK, GUYS! Better yet, read the whole SERIES cos they are all. . .
5 full and shiny stars!
*same worded review will appear elsewhere
Jumping straight in, again!
What this book is, book 3 in the series, is an abso-freaking-lutely brilliantly written, brilliantly told story, of realising what has been in front of you for 15 years, and not questioning, not once, what you really feel for your best friend.
Liam has been in love with Ollie since he was 14. His best friend, his straight MARRIED best friend. He knows he can never have him, but he cannot let go. Ollie announces hi is getting a divorce, and promptly turns to Liam for his shoulder. Not to cry on, though, Ollie just needs Liam close, as always. Making a discovery about Liam that Ollie did not know, sets off a chain reaction, and Ollie sees, really SEES Liam for the first time.
I cannot, and never will be able to, express how much I loved this book of 2 friends falling in love. Of two friends finally seeing what everyone else sees: that they are perfect for each other. I mean, this is another , ANOTHER book that I need to add to myMasterpieces shelf of McIntyre's and she keeps delivering them! I really gotta change my rules for that shelf!
It's steamy, yes, but I loved that Ollie jumped straight in, once he was aware of his feelings and, more importantly, of LIAM'S feelings about them sleeping together. I loved that Ollie didn't really question what he was feeling: he knew, KNEW that Liam was his, and now he would be in all ways, but Ollie questioned WHAT he was feeling when he touched Liam. He never felt anything like this when he touched his ex-wife, so what he was feeling for Liam had to be monumental.
It's super low angst, and it's too freaking cute, and so warm and fuzzies, its off the scale!
I loved that we got to catch up with Liam's group of friends, and the guys from books one and two. We are also introduced to Ollie's brothers, and THEY are the subject of a new series that will feature drop ins from these guys.
I might go on all day, but I'll cut myself short.
READ THE FREAKING BOOK, GUYS! Better yet, read the whole SERIES cos they are all. . .
5 full and shiny stars!
*same worded review will appear elsewhere
January 8, 2025
#4. This is Liam. Liam has been quietly existing in the background of his friend's books, in love with his best friend Ollie, who is straight and married. But at the end of Theo and Lex's book, we find out that Ollie is getting divorced, and it's been a long time coming.
Now we're in Liam's head, and he's finally got a spark of hope at hearing Ollie's news. Liam has just been casually hooking up his entire adulthood, holding space for the possibility of a relationship with Ollie. Nobody else has ever been able to compare, and now, at least Ollie is single.
Since the blinders of his loyalty to his ex wife are now gone, Ollie is suddenly seeing his best friend in a different light. Liam has always been gorgeous but now, Ollie's body is responding to Liam and making him think very impure thoughts about his best friend. There's just one problem: Ollie's loud, over involved, boisterous family who doesn't yet know that Ollie is getting divorced. Ollie knows how it would look to them, jumping immediately from a marriage to a woman to a relationship with his male best friend, but he knows Liam is the one.
Liam is afraid to hope. Things seem to be going great with Ollie, but he doesn't want to be anybody's secret. Especially the secret of the man Liam's wanted since he was fourteen years old.
*happy sigh* You guys all know how I feel about best friends to lovers and bi-awakenings. When they're in the same book? Chef's kiss. This one was so sweet. And I love how Ollie went from thinking he was totally straight to being like, oh, I like dick now! That's cool! 😂 What a cinnamon roll.
Rating 🔥🔥🔥🔥 1/2
Definitely check out this series. It's so good. AND the first book in the spinoff series featuring Ollie's brothers comes out in four days!!
#mmromance #bestfriendstolovers #gayromance #jointpenetration @authorkmcintyre
Now we're in Liam's head, and he's finally got a spark of hope at hearing Ollie's news. Liam has just been casually hooking up his entire adulthood, holding space for the possibility of a relationship with Ollie. Nobody else has ever been able to compare, and now, at least Ollie is single.
Since the blinders of his loyalty to his ex wife are now gone, Ollie is suddenly seeing his best friend in a different light. Liam has always been gorgeous but now, Ollie's body is responding to Liam and making him think very impure thoughts about his best friend. There's just one problem: Ollie's loud, over involved, boisterous family who doesn't yet know that Ollie is getting divorced. Ollie knows how it would look to them, jumping immediately from a marriage to a woman to a relationship with his male best friend, but he knows Liam is the one.
Liam is afraid to hope. Things seem to be going great with Ollie, but he doesn't want to be anybody's secret. Especially the secret of the man Liam's wanted since he was fourteen years old.
*happy sigh* You guys all know how I feel about best friends to lovers and bi-awakenings. When they're in the same book? Chef's kiss. This one was so sweet. And I love how Ollie went from thinking he was totally straight to being like, oh, I like dick now! That's cool! 😂 What a cinnamon roll.
Rating 🔥🔥🔥🔥 1/2
Definitely check out this series. It's so good. AND the first book in the spinoff series featuring Ollie's brothers comes out in four days!!
#mmromance #bestfriendstolovers #gayromance #jointpenetration @authorkmcintyre
July 7, 2024
4.5⭐️
A perfect way to end the series! Liam and Ollie had just the right blend of steam and sweetness in their story. I’ve loved all the couples in the series, but Ollie and Liam I think are my favorite. I have a soft spot for this kind of childhood best friends to lovers romance. Liam and Ollie share a closeness that maybe borders on codependency, their friendship is very committed. Things change quickly when Ollie’s wife asks for a divorce and makes plans to leave town. One of my favorite things about this author is that she includes such strong female characters in her books. So, I loved that Josie, Ollie’s soon to be ex wife, is not made into the villain of the story, as is often the case. In fact, the side characters are strong and well developed across the series. I also adored how chill Ollie was about embracing his newly discovered attraction to his best friend, he jumps right in. I really felt for Liam though, he has been in love with Ollie since they were fourteen. Liam’s been stuck in a holding pattern as Ollie married his high school girlfriend and then had to watch them build a life together under his nose. So, it’s very understandable that he struggles to trust Ollie’s intentions. This was a really lovely and spicy low angst romance with just enough tension from Liam’s insecurities and Ollie’s cluelessness, to keep it interesting. I definitely appreciated that the author doesn’t let tension linger too long or escalate, because these two definitely deserve their big happy ending. Looking forward to more from the Brannon brothers!
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
A perfect way to end the series! Liam and Ollie had just the right blend of steam and sweetness in their story. I’ve loved all the couples in the series, but Ollie and Liam I think are my favorite. I have a soft spot for this kind of childhood best friends to lovers romance. Liam and Ollie share a closeness that maybe borders on codependency, their friendship is very committed. Things change quickly when Ollie’s wife asks for a divorce and makes plans to leave town. One of my favorite things about this author is that she includes such strong female characters in her books. So, I loved that Josie, Ollie’s soon to be ex wife, is not made into the villain of the story, as is often the case. In fact, the side characters are strong and well developed across the series. I also adored how chill Ollie was about embracing his newly discovered attraction to his best friend, he jumps right in. I really felt for Liam though, he has been in love with Ollie since they were fourteen. Liam’s been stuck in a holding pattern as Ollie married his high school girlfriend and then had to watch them build a life together under his nose. So, it’s very understandable that he struggles to trust Ollie’s intentions. This was a really lovely and spicy low angst romance with just enough tension from Liam’s insecurities and Ollie’s cluelessness, to keep it interesting. I definitely appreciated that the author doesn’t let tension linger too long or escalate, because these two definitely deserve their big happy ending. Looking forward to more from the Brannon brothers!
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
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