What do you think?
Rate this book
Salvaged Heart
Beckham
I thought I had the future all figured out , but even the best plans fall apart.
Now, I’m lost.
Directionless.
Just going through the motions, hoping my girlfriend, Laurel, doesn’t realize I’m a fraction of the man I used to be.
What I need is a purpose. An opportunity to prove I’m still the guy she fell in love with, and when that opportunity comes knocking, I jump at the chance.
Enter Laurel’s inheritance. A crumbling lakeside mansion. She needs it restored, and I’m the man for the job.
Three months.
One summer.
Just us—and her enigmatic stepbrother, Anders.
Everyone tells me he’s trouble.
Everyone tells me to keep my distance.
But the more time I spend with him, the more I see cracks beneath his surface—and the harder it is to walk away.
If there’s one thing I’ve learned from restoring broken places, it’s that somethings are worth saving.
Anders
I think I’ve got a problem—actually, scratch that, I definitely have a problem.
I’m cut off from my family,
living on the edge and barely hanging on.
I know exactly where this path is leading, but I’m too far gone to change it.
When the only person who ever had faith in me dies, leaving me a fortune I can’t yet touch, I finally see a glimmer of hope. But there’s a catch. I have to return to a place I swore I’d never set foot in, face the demons I’ve been trying to escape, and confront a sister I’ve only ever let down. Not to mention meet her undoubtedly insufferable boyfriend.
But the moment I’m introduced to Beckham, I can tell he sees something in me that no one else has.
I should stay away.
I should run.
But I’ve never made good decisions—and this time, I don’t think I want to.
If there’s one thing I’ve learned from running from my problems, it’s that somethings are worth running towards.
**Salvaged Heart is a stand-alone MM Romance, perfect for fans of hurt/comfort, forced proximity, bi awakening, and hard-earned HEA's. It contains a cinnamon roll MMC, second chances, medium heat, and heaps of playful banter. Not intended for readers under the age of 18.
I thought I had the future all figured out , but even the best plans fall apart.
Now, I’m lost.
Directionless.
Just going through the motions, hoping my girlfriend, Laurel, doesn’t realize I’m a fraction of the man I used to be.
What I need is a purpose. An opportunity to prove I’m still the guy she fell in love with, and when that opportunity comes knocking, I jump at the chance.
Enter Laurel’s inheritance. A crumbling lakeside mansion. She needs it restored, and I’m the man for the job.
Three months.
One summer.
Just us—and her enigmatic stepbrother, Anders.
Everyone tells me he’s trouble.
Everyone tells me to keep my distance.
But the more time I spend with him, the more I see cracks beneath his surface—and the harder it is to walk away.
If there’s one thing I’ve learned from restoring broken places, it’s that somethings are worth saving.
Anders
I think I’ve got a problem—actually, scratch that, I definitely have a problem.
I’m cut off from my family,
living on the edge and barely hanging on.
I know exactly where this path is leading, but I’m too far gone to change it.
When the only person who ever had faith in me dies, leaving me a fortune I can’t yet touch, I finally see a glimmer of hope. But there’s a catch. I have to return to a place I swore I’d never set foot in, face the demons I’ve been trying to escape, and confront a sister I’ve only ever let down. Not to mention meet her undoubtedly insufferable boyfriend.
But the moment I’m introduced to Beckham, I can tell he sees something in me that no one else has.
I should stay away.
I should run.
But I’ve never made good decisions—and this time, I don’t think I want to.
If there’s one thing I’ve learned from running from my problems, it’s that somethings are worth running towards.
**Salvaged Heart is a stand-alone MM Romance, perfect for fans of hurt/comfort, forced proximity, bi awakening, and hard-earned HEA's. It contains a cinnamon roll MMC, second chances, medium heat, and heaps of playful banter. Not intended for readers under the age of 18.
300 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 18, 2025
105 people are currently reading
295 people want to read
About the author
D.G. Holloway
2 books17 followersD.G. Holloway was born in Melton Mowbray, England, and now lives in Charlotte, North Carolina, with her two boys.
A lifelong romance reader, she writes emotional love stories that explore mental health, celebrate love in all its forms, and make readers work for that hard-earned happily-ever-after.
When she’s not writing, she’s probably reading or testing new baking recipes with varying levels of success.
Follow her on Instagram @authordgholloway for behind-the-scenes content, writing updates, and news on upcoming releases.
A lifelong romance reader, she writes emotional love stories that explore mental health, celebrate love in all its forms, and make readers work for that hard-earned happily-ever-after.
When she’s not writing, she’s probably reading or testing new baking recipes with varying levels of success.
Follow her on Instagram @authordgholloway for behind-the-scenes content, writing updates, and news on upcoming releases.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews
June 13, 2025
This was so good.
I love it when a book gets you to cheer on the MCs and feel everything they are feeling. I was laughing, blushing, and crying alongside Becks and Anders. Both of them were broken in different ways and really completed each other.
I'm proud of these little fictional dudes and all their accomplished. Very enjoyable, would read it again!
I love it when a book gets you to cheer on the MCs and feel everything they are feeling. I was laughing, blushing, and crying alongside Becks and Anders. Both of them were broken in different ways and really completed each other.
I'm proud of these little fictional dudes and all their accomplished. Very enjoyable, would read it again!
June 22, 2025
⭐️
3.5 stars rounded up
⭐️
Was tempted to round down, but I ultimately enjoyed enough of this to round up.
This new-to-me author (and potentially new author, period? I forgot to check if this was a debut novel or not) gave an overall, okay outing with this book.
This was mainly focused on Anders and his addiction, and for part of this Beck was with Anders' step-sister, Laurel, so perhaps this wasn't as...I guess, steamy as I was hoping? I felt for Anders and his journey, of course, I just wish we could have had a more even balance in focus.
I did tag this for cheating, because these two DO start something while Beck is technically still with Laurel, even if she's away in another city doing a veterinary internship. Soon after this she and Beck break up, but it's not like Beck feels all that guilty about it, an indication that he was fairly checked out of that relationship already.
Anders kind of freaked out, but it wasn't clear at all if it was about Laurel. To me, it seemed more personal than thinking about his sister.
Laurel is also....a lot through most of this, and she treats Anders pretty horribly, but one conversation with Beck late in the book and she pretty much changes her tune. It was perhaps a bit too fast and too much of a 180 for her character, even with what she learned. It felt, to me, like an easy out. Like she was sort of a main "antagonist" for the book and then all the sudden she got over her awful attitude and was great to Beck and Anders. Nice, but not really earned in my opinion.
I started to check out of this story about near 70% in, and was contemplating DNF-ing, before it picked up once again after I kinda...skipped and skimmed some parts. Then I was back into the story until the end (with perhaps a short skim here or there, but for the most part reading it all).
The heat in this was....meh. Not much. I liked the attraction between them at the start, but then didn't feel much of it later on when they were really into their relationship.
This was also perhaps a bit too rambly and wandering in the inner monologues at times for my tastes. At least near the end, that's when i started skimming, I just wasn't much interested anymore sometimes.
Also the thing that sent Anders into his spiral near the end felt a bit contrived, in my opinion. Beck is acting a fool, doesn't say anything, lets Laurel treat Anders like shit, but then he comes to his senses...only to say NOTHING to Anders to let him know that and then all the sudden is ready to stand up to Laurel...when Anders isn't there to see? Which leads to him ?? I don't know, it felt a bit silly to me. And also WHY did Beck just . It just felt mightily convenient for the climax to go down as dramatically as possible without making proper build up and making of sense.
But, all that said...I did enjoy this. I did like Anders and Beck as characters and their connection for the most part. They were sweet together and Beck was a good guy, a strong person that someone like Anders needs.
The first half of this book, especially held my attention and for that it gets points. And for managing to recapture my attention near the end as it began to wane.
It just could have had a stronger showing, to be sure. It could have a bit more oomph to really make this remarkable. As it is, that was missing from this.
It was still enjoyable for a good portion of it and the romance was overall fairly good.
So would I recommend this? Sure. It is an interesting story. It just wasn't amazing, by any means. So it is up to you on whether to pick this up.
Overall, an intriguing story about addiction, that just fell a bit short here and there at times and could have used improvement.
Until the next one.
Was tempted to round down, but I ultimately enjoyed enough of this to round up.
This new-to-me author (and potentially new author, period? I forgot to check if this was a debut novel or not) gave an overall, okay outing with this book.
This was mainly focused on Anders and his addiction, and for part of this Beck was with Anders' step-sister, Laurel, so perhaps this wasn't as...I guess, steamy as I was hoping? I felt for Anders and his journey, of course, I just wish we could have had a more even balance in focus.
I did tag this for cheating, because these two DO start something while Beck is technically still with Laurel, even if she's away in another city doing a veterinary internship. Soon after this she and Beck break up, but it's not like Beck feels all that guilty about it, an indication that he was fairly checked out of that relationship already.
Anders kind of freaked out, but it wasn't clear at all if it was about Laurel. To me, it seemed more personal than thinking about his sister.
Laurel is also....a lot through most of this, and she treats Anders pretty horribly, but one conversation with Beck late in the book and she pretty much changes her tune. It was perhaps a bit too fast and too much of a 180 for her character, even with what she learned. It felt, to me, like an easy out. Like she was sort of a main "antagonist" for the book and then all the sudden she got over her awful attitude and was great to Beck and Anders. Nice, but not really earned in my opinion.
I started to check out of this story about near 70% in, and was contemplating DNF-ing, before it picked up once again after I kinda...skipped and skimmed some parts. Then I was back into the story until the end (with perhaps a short skim here or there, but for the most part reading it all).
The heat in this was....meh. Not much. I liked the attraction between them at the start, but then didn't feel much of it later on when they were really into their relationship.
This was also perhaps a bit too rambly and wandering in the inner monologues at times for my tastes. At least near the end, that's when i started skimming, I just wasn't much interested anymore sometimes.
Also the thing that sent Anders into his spiral near the end felt a bit contrived, in my opinion. Beck is acting a fool, doesn't say anything, lets Laurel treat Anders like shit, but then he comes to his senses...only to say NOTHING to Anders to let him know that and then all the sudden is ready to stand up to Laurel...when Anders isn't there to see? Which leads to him ?? I don't know, it felt a bit silly to me. And also WHY did Beck just . It just felt mightily convenient for the climax to go down as dramatically as possible without making proper build up and making of sense.
But, all that said...I did enjoy this. I did like Anders and Beck as characters and their connection for the most part. They were sweet together and Beck was a good guy, a strong person that someone like Anders needs.
The first half of this book, especially held my attention and for that it gets points. And for managing to recapture my attention near the end as it began to wane.
It just could have had a stronger showing, to be sure. It could have a bit more oomph to really make this remarkable. As it is, that was missing from this.
It was still enjoyable for a good portion of it and the romance was overall fairly good.
So would I recommend this? Sure. It is an interesting story. It just wasn't amazing, by any means. So it is up to you on whether to pick this up.
Overall, an intriguing story about addiction, that just fell a bit short here and there at times and could have used improvement.
Until the next one.
June 16, 2025
3.75 stars
This started off extremely strong. I enjoyed Beck and Anderson getting to know each other. Anders is especially a great character and with his addiction and the story really is his. This is a story about him getting help to become clean after his addiction to opioids. His family is terrible and he has had no one to support him.
Beck arrives for the summer at the lake house of his girlfriend’s late aunt. He is going to renovate it with her help and the help of her stepbrother Anders. Laurel has nothing good to say about Anders, in fact she seems like a horrible person all together. I’m am happy she’s not in the story too much and she does become an ally for Anders and Beck. The author turned her character around. Beck is intrigued by Anders from the moment he meets him and this turns into attraction.
What bothered me is that Beck realizes very quickly he wants to be intimate with Anders. There is some cheating but that didn’t bother me. Beck was just very pushy. It became stifling and I’m glad Anders pushed him away when he needed to.
This would have been a solid 4 stars but there was drama, and lots of it. I knew it was coming but I was hoping it wouldn’t be so over the top. The epilogue was great but it was also disappointing because I would have loved to read about Beck and Anders in a healthy relationship and instead we’re given a news column of what has happened in the 10 years after the story.
This was the authors first book and it was very good with room for improvement. I felt like parts of the story needed to be expanded to fully make the connection between the characters more believable. I think this author will continue to be stronger in her writing and I am excited to read what she has coming!
This started off extremely strong. I enjoyed Beck and Anderson getting to know each other. Anders is especially a great character and with his addiction and the story really is his. This is a story about him getting help to become clean after his addiction to opioids. His family is terrible and he has had no one to support him.
Beck arrives for the summer at the lake house of his girlfriend’s late aunt. He is going to renovate it with her help and the help of her stepbrother Anders. Laurel has nothing good to say about Anders, in fact she seems like a horrible person all together. I’m am happy she’s not in the story too much and she does become an ally for Anders and Beck. The author turned her character around. Beck is intrigued by Anders from the moment he meets him and this turns into attraction.
What bothered me is that Beck realizes very quickly he wants to be intimate with Anders. There is some cheating but that didn’t bother me. Beck was just very pushy. It became stifling and I’m glad Anders pushed him away when he needed to.
This would have been a solid 4 stars but there was drama, and lots of it. I knew it was coming but I was hoping it wouldn’t be so over the top. The epilogue was great but it was also disappointing because I would have loved to read about Beck and Anders in a healthy relationship and instead we’re given a news column of what has happened in the 10 years after the story.
This was the authors first book and it was very good with room for improvement. I felt like parts of the story needed to be expanded to fully make the connection between the characters more believable. I think this author will continue to be stronger in her writing and I am excited to read what she has coming!
August 14, 2025
a really great start but I honestly liked Beck less and less as the story went on
i also don’t think anders ever got over jonah so I just wasn’t feeling the connection between anders and beck after the third act conflict
them not talking during rehab or after and just going straight to sex was mad weird i’m sorry
idk a lot of this was good but those things and a couple others just really threw me off
i also don’t think anders ever got over jonah so I just wasn’t feeling the connection between anders and beck after the third act conflict
them not talking during rehab or after and just going straight to sex was mad weird i’m sorry
idk a lot of this was good but those things and a couple others just really threw me off
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 13, 2025
I just finished this book and I’m in awe. The story of Beck and Anders will stay with me for a very long time. These two boys found each other at the same time that they were trying to find themselves. Anders is suffering from a crippling addiction and Beck has lost his way.
The writing in this book is tight and not one word is wasted or superfluous. The story is expertly woven, and the characters come to life. The way the author described the house and the grounds gave me a clear picture in my mind.
This one has an incredible ending that leaves you very satisfied. I cannot wait to see what this author is going to do in the future. I am definitely a DG Holloway fan.
If you like broken boys and a well crafted story, pick this book up today. You won’t be sorry.
The writing in this book is tight and not one word is wasted or superfluous. The story is expertly woven, and the characters come to life. The way the author described the house and the grounds gave me a clear picture in my mind.
This one has an incredible ending that leaves you very satisfied. I cannot wait to see what this author is going to do in the future. I am definitely a DG Holloway fan.
If you like broken boys and a well crafted story, pick this book up today. You won’t be sorry.
April 2, 2025
I literally DEVOURED this book. I’m obsessed and you will be too! I instantly fell in love with Beck and Anders. Both had amazing character development and depth. Anders is definitely misunderstood—he’s the emo guy who you’ll fall for quickly—although extremely guarded, you’ll get to know him more throughout his journey-his story is unforgettable. Beckham is so so sweet, a closeted swifty, good with his hands—in more ways than one, a deep thinker, and loyal to a fault.
Love, self-discovery, and second chances.
The story follows Beckham who thought he had his life figured out, but after losing his direction, he struggles to find purpose. His relationship with his girlfriend, Laurel, is on shaky ground, and he fears she’ll notice he’s not the man he used to be. When Laurel inherits a rundown lakeside mansion in need of restoration, Beckham seizes the opportunity to prove himself. However, his plans become complicated when he meets Anders—Laurel’s troubled stepbrother.
Anders has spent his life running from his problems, cut off from his family and living recklessly. When his only supporter dies and leaves him an inheritance he can’t access yet, he’s forced to return to the place he swore never to go back to, facing his past and reconnecting with his estranged sister. He expects to clash with Beckham but instead finds someone who sees beyond his flaws.
As the summer unfolds, Beckham and Anders are drawn to each other in ways neither anticipated. Beckham, skilled in restoring broken things, begins to see Anders as something worth saving, while Anders, used to running, finally finds something worth staying for. Their growing connection forces them to confront their feelings, their pasts, and what they truly want from life.
Love, self-discovery, and second chances.
The story follows Beckham who thought he had his life figured out, but after losing his direction, he struggles to find purpose. His relationship with his girlfriend, Laurel, is on shaky ground, and he fears she’ll notice he’s not the man he used to be. When Laurel inherits a rundown lakeside mansion in need of restoration, Beckham seizes the opportunity to prove himself. However, his plans become complicated when he meets Anders—Laurel’s troubled stepbrother.
Anders has spent his life running from his problems, cut off from his family and living recklessly. When his only supporter dies and leaves him an inheritance he can’t access yet, he’s forced to return to the place he swore never to go back to, facing his past and reconnecting with his estranged sister. He expects to clash with Beckham but instead finds someone who sees beyond his flaws.
As the summer unfolds, Beckham and Anders are drawn to each other in ways neither anticipated. Beckham, skilled in restoring broken things, begins to see Anders as something worth saving, while Anders, used to running, finally finds something worth staying for. Their growing connection forces them to confront their feelings, their pasts, and what they truly want from life.
January 11, 2026
4.25⭐️ This book had the potential to be a 5-star read, but it had a few flaws that prevented it from quite reaching that level. But overall I loved it. This is the kind of book I like to read over and over again, even if the story has been kind of rewritten many times.
Anders is exactly the kind of character I love in books. Misunderstood, tough on the outside but sensitive on the inside, he has been through a lot and is struggling with addiction. He has built walls around himself, until Beckham slowly begins to break them down and see what lies beneath the surface. This book was almost perfect definition of hurt&comfort and who doesn't love forced proximity; Anders and Beckham may or may not start sharing a bed at some point...
”Meanwhile, I was a cynic who saw only what could be lost in any situation. I walked through life not trusting anything I couldn’t see with my own two eyes, and even then, I maintained a healthy wariness. I learned a long time ago that you couldn’t trust other people. The day you gave even the smallest piece of yourself to another was the day you gave them the ammunition to break you.”
Beckham's character didn't have the depth that I usually want from the main characters in books, but he had a lot of good qualities. Unlike others in Anders' past, Beckham did not judge him, and the way Beck was patient, understanding, and supportive towards him, was everything.
The author knows how to write in a way that brings out the emotions and chemistry between these two. There are so many sweet and beautiful moments between them.
”I didn’t know what this meant in the grand scheme of things, but I did know my heart would stop if he kissed me. And it would break if he did not.”
However, I was surprised at the beginning when Beck seemed to be clearly infatuated with Laurel, but then he started building something with Anders with very little hesitation and didn't seem to mourn the loss of his six-year(!!) relationship at any point. It would have been good to develop this aspect of Beckham's character a little more.
Also, the ending with Anders and Beckham's reunion was too rushed. There was potential here to give the book more depth and substance but it was a bit disappointing that the author rushed this important part of their story. The book has some spice but not too much, just right amount. I will definitely read more books by this author.
_______
”I didn’t know what I wanted Anders to mean to me yet, but I did know that regardless of where we were headed, his ability to be with me was not contingent on him forgetting Jonah. If Anders could never love me, it would have nothing to do with the man he still held a torch for and everything to do with us not being meant to be. Being with someone meant accepting every little piece of them—and Anders had a million complex pieces, many of which I’d surely yet to discover. That thought didn’t scare me. I wanted to learn all his different parts—what made him whole—and find exactly where I could fit in among them.”
Anders is exactly the kind of character I love in books. Misunderstood, tough on the outside but sensitive on the inside, he has been through a lot and is struggling with addiction. He has built walls around himself, until Beckham slowly begins to break them down and see what lies beneath the surface. This book was almost perfect definition of hurt&comfort and who doesn't love forced proximity; Anders and Beckham may or may not start sharing a bed at some point...
”Meanwhile, I was a cynic who saw only what could be lost in any situation. I walked through life not trusting anything I couldn’t see with my own two eyes, and even then, I maintained a healthy wariness. I learned a long time ago that you couldn’t trust other people. The day you gave even the smallest piece of yourself to another was the day you gave them the ammunition to break you.”
Beckham's character didn't have the depth that I usually want from the main characters in books, but he had a lot of good qualities. Unlike others in Anders' past, Beckham did not judge him, and the way Beck was patient, understanding, and supportive towards him, was everything.
The author knows how to write in a way that brings out the emotions and chemistry between these two. There are so many sweet and beautiful moments between them.
”I didn’t know what this meant in the grand scheme of things, but I did know my heart would stop if he kissed me. And it would break if he did not.”
However, I was surprised at the beginning when Beck seemed to be clearly infatuated with Laurel, but then he started building something with Anders with very little hesitation and didn't seem to mourn the loss of his six-year(!!) relationship at any point. It would have been good to develop this aspect of Beckham's character a little more.
Also, the ending with Anders and Beckham's reunion was too rushed. There was potential here to give the book more depth and substance but it was a bit disappointing that the author rushed this important part of their story. The book has some spice but not too much, just right amount. I will definitely read more books by this author.
_______
”I didn’t know what I wanted Anders to mean to me yet, but I did know that regardless of where we were headed, his ability to be with me was not contingent on him forgetting Jonah. If Anders could never love me, it would have nothing to do with the man he still held a torch for and everything to do with us not being meant to be. Being with someone meant accepting every little piece of them—and Anders had a million complex pieces, many of which I’d surely yet to discover. That thought didn’t scare me. I wanted to learn all his different parts—what made him whole—and find exactly where I could fit in among them.”
June 10, 2025
Beckham & Anders
Rating: 3.9⭐
- Forced Proximity
- Hurt/Comfort
- Girlfriend's Stepbrother
- Banter
- Sexual Awakening
- Addiction Recovery
- Grief/Loss
- Two Beds But Shared Anyway
Well, this was a rollercoaster for both Beckham and Anders all the way to the end of this book. These are two lost souls desperately trying to get themselves together and figure out how to move on with a future. The girlfriend/stepsister is a whole spoiled brat until the end, and the author does a great job at making you hate her until then too.
Beckham and Laurel have been together for years but they have drifted apart. Beckham has been following Laurels plans for them and their future this whole time and now that he got injured, the possible MLB dream is gone for her plan. Beckham needs to find himself again and decide what he wants to do, his purpose. The summer brings a chance for Beckham to be useful with completing renovations and to spend more time with his girlfriend. Laurel has a tense and basically a nonexistent relationship with Anders, so these two clash from first sight at the lake house. Beckham on the other hand is intrigued by Anders and wants to get to know him better. Anders is hanging on by a thread and is doing the best he can every day to fulfill the request of his aunt's will, then plans to get fully sober. He wants a relationship with his stepsister again, but he also wants to know more about Beckham.
These two end up healing pieces of each other during their time together, it starts even before Laurel ends up having to leave the lake house for the summer early. They go through it and the whole time Beckham is the sweetest thing ever, he wants to help Anders so badly. I did really like how the breakup and the ending was handled. Anders will never be cured of his addiction, this was made abundantly clear in this book, and I appreciate that it wasn't sugar coated.
Content Warnings (may contain spoilers):
- Graphic sexual content between consenting adults
- Explicit language
- Mentions mental health struggles
- Addiction (on and off-page)
- Mentions death of partner to overdose (past; off-page)
- Mentions sports injury and slow-healing
- Suicidal thoughts and attempt (on-page)
- Alcohol intoxication
- Smoking
- Bar fight violence (off-page)
- Mentions SA and physical assault (past; off-page)
- Homophobia
- Parental disownment (past; off-page)
- Mentions death of a family member due to illness (past; off-page)
I received a free copy of this book via the author and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Verse: No, but it's discussed as a possibility
HEA: Yes
POV: Dual
Breakup: Yes, for about 4 months
Cheat: Yes, but not on each other.
OM/OW Drama: Yes, Beckham is dating Anders stepsister
Ages: 23 & 26
Rating: 3.9⭐
- Forced Proximity
- Hurt/Comfort
- Girlfriend's Stepbrother
- Banter
- Sexual Awakening
- Addiction Recovery
- Grief/Loss
- Two Beds But Shared Anyway
Well, this was a rollercoaster for both Beckham and Anders all the way to the end of this book. These are two lost souls desperately trying to get themselves together and figure out how to move on with a future. The girlfriend/stepsister is a whole spoiled brat until the end, and the author does a great job at making you hate her until then too.
Beckham and Laurel have been together for years but they have drifted apart. Beckham has been following Laurels plans for them and their future this whole time and now that he got injured, the possible MLB dream is gone for her plan. Beckham needs to find himself again and decide what he wants to do, his purpose. The summer brings a chance for Beckham to be useful with completing renovations and to spend more time with his girlfriend. Laurel has a tense and basically a nonexistent relationship with Anders, so these two clash from first sight at the lake house. Beckham on the other hand is intrigued by Anders and wants to get to know him better. Anders is hanging on by a thread and is doing the best he can every day to fulfill the request of his aunt's will, then plans to get fully sober. He wants a relationship with his stepsister again, but he also wants to know more about Beckham.
These two end up healing pieces of each other during their time together, it starts even before Laurel ends up having to leave the lake house for the summer early. They go through it and the whole time Beckham is the sweetest thing ever, he wants to help Anders so badly. I did really like how the breakup and the ending was handled. Anders will never be cured of his addiction, this was made abundantly clear in this book, and I appreciate that it wasn't sugar coated.
Content Warnings (may contain spoilers):
- Graphic sexual content between consenting adults
- Explicit language
- Mentions mental health struggles
- Addiction (on and off-page)
- Mentions death of partner to overdose (past; off-page)
- Mentions sports injury and slow-healing
- Suicidal thoughts and attempt (on-page)
- Alcohol intoxication
- Smoking
- Bar fight violence (off-page)
- Mentions SA and physical assault (past; off-page)
- Homophobia
- Parental disownment (past; off-page)
- Mentions death of a family member due to illness (past; off-page)
I received a free copy of this book via the author and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Verse: No, but it's discussed as a possibility
HEA: Yes
POV: Dual
Breakup: Yes, for about 4 months
Cheat: Yes, but not on each other.
OM/OW Drama: Yes, Beckham is dating Anders stepsister
Ages: 23 & 26
September 22, 2025
I loved the caretaking one of our MMCs did to our other MMC but it was quite insta-lovey. Also I didn’t love how the cheating was like not discussed. It was basically our one MMC being like “I found someone else” and his ex-girlfriend being like “okay bet” like girl you were cheated on and then was supportive of the relationship in the end. I would have lost it. Regardless, an entertaining and quick read 💊🏠
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 19, 2026
This book was all over the place. The first 30% was really interesting but as the plot went it was like 4 different books. Beckham was an idiot, Anders was suffering and Laurel was WILDLY inconsistent. DNF 80% because I just couldn’t do it anymore.
January 2, 2026
4.5/5 ⭐️
Once again, I’m over here recovering from various shed tears. I wasn’t too confident over this book for the first 40% but after that it was like a complete switch. I couldn’t stop at that point and had to force myself to stop!!! I’ve read so many books about addiction and while this isn’t the deepest depiction I’ve read, it still left an impact on me 🥲 Anders’ story with addiction was absolutely devastating but the way in which he was honest with Beck about it from the start was such a good foundation for their relationship. Something had clicked between them when they first met, especially with Beck. Their relationship got to grow once they were alone renovating house, with them sharing more and more about each other as the days went on. We not only learn about Anders’ past with Jonah and the subsequent addiction, but that Beck had been seeking out a future that had nothing to do with Laurel’s plans. He learned that renovation was his passion and it was time he took back his future and make a new plan for himself. Soon enough, he wanted that future to involve Anders.
Their time together at the beach house may have been short but they learned so much about the other, practiced vulnerability, and became each other’s safe space. Beck saw something in Anders that no one bothered to see and that was just that he needed someone to see him, to want him, even with his addiction, a part of him that would never go away. I loved how much Beck saw him, especially with the drawings and making it come alive within the house, it actually made me so emotional when he brought Anders back to see the house and how his vision had come to life. The time they spent apart while Anders was in rehab HURT actually. I was bawling my eyes out when Anders told him to leave at the hospital. He was right that they became too wrapped up in each other and it was important for him to focus on himself and recovery, but ugh it still hurt.
But when they reunited on Christmas?? Yeah those were happy tears. Anders never stopped loving Beck and Beck had never stoped loving him either. He asked him that same question in the hospital about waiting, but this time Anders response was immediate… Beck didn’t have to wait for him because Anders didn’t want to either. He knew what and who he wanted. When they got back to the beach house and he saw the look on Becks face over the transformation, he knew that this was what he wanted his future to look like. A future doing something him and Beck both wanted and were so passionate about.
While I obviously missed out on them getting married and their life between then and the 10 years later like I do with all books where it’s skipped, I did love the epilogue. We get to see the two of them living their dreams together and becoming so successful with it. We see them purchase a mansion that they’ll turn into a rehab facility called Jonah’s place and that just warms by heart to no end. In that way, the epilogue was almost perfect like that. All of what they went through when they first met renovating the beach house led to that. A life they never saw coming and a life they never thought they’d have… but they did it and I’m so proud of them. I am SO proud of Anders for finding a life that’s worth living for and endlessly grateful for Beck for being with him and supporting him every step of the way 🥹
— quotes (lots of them bc i have a problem)
“Kryptonite was Superman’s downfall, and backward ball caps were most certainly mine.”
“On the page in front of me was another rendering, but instead of the interior of this house, my face looked back at me. I’d never seen myself captured like this, completely candid, head thrown back in a playful laugh. Youth and joy danced in my eyes, my hair messy, and dirt smudged across my cheek. An easy, carefree expression on my face—it was beautiful. I looked beautiful.”
“When Beckham smiled, his entire face lit up with joy. The normally chiseled planes of his face grew soft, and his eyes sparkled with mirth. And when he smiled at you, when you were the sole focus of that delight—God, it was breathtaking.”
“I could have been long gone already.” — “But this place has been healing me, you Beckham, have been healing me.” (I can’t 😭😭)
“But there was something about him. Something I could say I had never felt with anyone before in my life. I knew I was safe with him. Even though we hardly knew one another, he would do everything in his power to shelter me from this storm. It was just who he was. This strong, loyal man who loved and cared with his entire being, even if the recipient of all his kindness, was a stranger who had done nothing to deserve it.”
“You can, and you will do this, Anders. I’ll be by your side the entire time.”
“Something about Beck’s presence calmed my soul. I didn’t need to speak for him to hear me. With him, I could simply exist.”
“Not handsome—beautiful. Every inch of Anders was breathtaking. I didn’t know when I’d started to see Anders that way but now I had seen it, I couldn’t see anything else.”
“At first, the kiss was soft and uncertain, barely a whisper, but I took what I could get, greedily swallowing the soft moan that left his lips. If this was all he would give me, it would be enough. It would have to be. But fucking hell, it would never be enough.”
“I didn’t know how to communicate that the craziest thought of all was that this didn’t scare me. Being with him didn’t scare me at all. It felt utterly and irrevocably right.”
“There’s something about you, Anders. Something I can’t look away from. Some kind of strange gravity that pulls me to you, and I don’t want to fight it anymore.”
“You are the most beautiful cake I’ve ever seen.” (This had me 🥹)
“There had been something about Anders from the moment I met him, something that called to me that I hadn’t been able to put my finger on.”
“And that need to see inside the enigma that was Anderson Carmichael had become so desperate that I no longer wanted just to know his heart but also carve myself a place in his soul.”
“Being with someone meant accepting every little piece of them. And Anders had a million complex pieces. Many of which I'd surely yet to discover. But that thought didn’t scare me. I wanted to learn all his different parts–what made him whole–and find exactly where I could fit in among them.”
“I wanted to make him smile every minute of every day. Wanted to keep him safe and warm and healthy. Wanted to make him happy and whole. Who was I kidding, saying I didn’t know what I wanted Anders to mean to me? At this moment, with him pressed up against me, the answer was glaringly obvious. I wanted him to mean everything to me, and I hoped I could mean everything to him one day, too.”
“If I allowed myself to be happy, why couldn’t that be with Beck? I hadn’t tricked him into feeling this way about me. He didn’t have to be here. He now knew all the terrible parts of me, but he hadn’t run.”
“He reached up and released my lip from where I was mangling it between my teeth, pressing the palm of his hand softly against my cheek. Then, as if reading my mind, he added, “You deserve good things, Anders. Let me be your good thing.””
“I'd already given Beck all of my secrets, he knew all the fucked up darkness in my soul, and he still wanted me. I wouldn’t deny myself any longer. I wouldn’t hold back under the false assumption that it was what was better for him. Let me be your good thing, and goddamnit, maybe I could be his good thing, too. Beck deserved the world, and if he wanted this, I would give it to him.”
“I won’t hurt you,” he’d said, “not on purpose. For you, I’ll keep trying every day to be a better man. A better man.” And, “for you, Beck, for you, for you, for you.”
“A moment passed where he just looked at me, gorgeous hazel eyes sparkling in the morning sun. He looked so goddamn happy, and it warmed my soul that I was the one who made him feel that way. That it was me who was so lucky. But then he said, “All my thoughts are of you, Beck,” and I knew. I knew that he felt lucky, too.”
“Anders had said I was healing him, but the truth of it was he had been healing me, too.”
“Are you happy, baby?” I whispered back. I loved how his eyes seemed to spark when I called him that. I loved the warm feeling in my chest that grew at the sight of it. And despite it being too soon, the surge of emotion bubbling up inside me as I took in the elegant lines of his face told me that maybe I loved him, too. “So, so, happy, Beck.”
“I knew it then, like I knew my own name, I loved this man. I loved him with my entire being, and just the slightest touch, one single kiss, heck, even a smile, was enough to bring me back from the edge.”
“He was so fucking beautiful. How was I so lucky that he was mine? Was he, though, or had I just presumed that he belonged to me in every way I belonged to him?”
“You knew I wasn’t strong enough to live without you.” — “Anders, you’re so strong, but you must know I will always come back for you. What we have, I can’t describe it, but…” (He might have thought he was talking to Jonah but i’m still sobbing)
“He needed to know how I felt about him. That I wouldn’t abandon him.” — “Fuck, Anders, I’m in love with you.”
“I would fight for his life, and we would come out victorious. Then, I would make sure Anders got the help he needed. I would be by his side for all of it.”
“He looked at me like I was his entire world, and I looked back at him like he was mine.”
“I know things between us are new, but something about us, Anders, feels eternal. Like this was always meant to happen.”
“Tell me you love me, and I'll wait for you. No matter how long it takes.” “I don’t love you.” Lies, fucking lies.” (SOBBBBBBING)
“Do you have something you need to tell me, Anders?” — “Just tell me, and I’ll wait as long as it takes.” — “I love you.” The three words made him practically crumple against me. “I love you so fucking much, Beck. I don’t need you to wait. I should never have let you go.” (Yup i cant!! 😭)
“I wanted to leave marks, wanted the reminder of everywhere I'd touched him, every ounce of pleasure I had rung from his body. I was feral with the thought of it. He was mine, and I was his, and that meant everything.”
“I was so deeply and irrevocably in love with the man before me that I would never recover from him allowing me to be his.”
“Thank you for giving me this, Beck. Thank you for visiting him. I’ll never be able to repay you for that.” — “You never need to repay me for anything. You love me, and that’s all I’ll ever need.” (Crying still)
“Coming to Arbor Ct. this summer led me to Beck. This place had transformed from everything I had been running from into everything I had been running to.”
“I want a life with you, Anders. I don’t just want to wake up and fall asleep with you. I want to build something together. Something that’s ours.”
“His eyes sparkled with excitement and hope. I saw it then, clear as day, something I had never let myself imagine before. I saw my future. Our future. The life we would create together.”
“It looked like the bluest eyes and the brightest of smiles. It looked like sunrises and sunsets and a million things in between. There would be joy and laughter, and sometimes sadness, too, but as long as he was holding me, the worst of it could no longer touch me.”
“There was nothing to think about. It was the easiest decision I’d ever had to make.” — “I’m in.”
“Anders is the strongest human I know. His everyday commitment to his sobriety and giving back to the community is my single greatest source of inspiration. Each day I get to spend with him is a blessing, one I would have lost if it wasn’t for the dedication of the countless organizations that specialize in assisting those battling addiction.”
Once again, I’m over here recovering from various shed tears. I wasn’t too confident over this book for the first 40% but after that it was like a complete switch. I couldn’t stop at that point and had to force myself to stop!!! I’ve read so many books about addiction and while this isn’t the deepest depiction I’ve read, it still left an impact on me 🥲 Anders’ story with addiction was absolutely devastating but the way in which he was honest with Beck about it from the start was such a good foundation for their relationship. Something had clicked between them when they first met, especially with Beck. Their relationship got to grow once they were alone renovating house, with them sharing more and more about each other as the days went on. We not only learn about Anders’ past with Jonah and the subsequent addiction, but that Beck had been seeking out a future that had nothing to do with Laurel’s plans. He learned that renovation was his passion and it was time he took back his future and make a new plan for himself. Soon enough, he wanted that future to involve Anders.
Their time together at the beach house may have been short but they learned so much about the other, practiced vulnerability, and became each other’s safe space. Beck saw something in Anders that no one bothered to see and that was just that he needed someone to see him, to want him, even with his addiction, a part of him that would never go away. I loved how much Beck saw him, especially with the drawings and making it come alive within the house, it actually made me so emotional when he brought Anders back to see the house and how his vision had come to life. The time they spent apart while Anders was in rehab HURT actually. I was bawling my eyes out when Anders told him to leave at the hospital. He was right that they became too wrapped up in each other and it was important for him to focus on himself and recovery, but ugh it still hurt.
But when they reunited on Christmas?? Yeah those were happy tears. Anders never stopped loving Beck and Beck had never stoped loving him either. He asked him that same question in the hospital about waiting, but this time Anders response was immediate… Beck didn’t have to wait for him because Anders didn’t want to either. He knew what and who he wanted. When they got back to the beach house and he saw the look on Becks face over the transformation, he knew that this was what he wanted his future to look like. A future doing something him and Beck both wanted and were so passionate about.
While I obviously missed out on them getting married and their life between then and the 10 years later like I do with all books where it’s skipped, I did love the epilogue. We get to see the two of them living their dreams together and becoming so successful with it. We see them purchase a mansion that they’ll turn into a rehab facility called Jonah’s place and that just warms by heart to no end. In that way, the epilogue was almost perfect like that. All of what they went through when they first met renovating the beach house led to that. A life they never saw coming and a life they never thought they’d have… but they did it and I’m so proud of them. I am SO proud of Anders for finding a life that’s worth living for and endlessly grateful for Beck for being with him and supporting him every step of the way 🥹
— quotes (lots of them bc i have a problem)
“Kryptonite was Superman’s downfall, and backward ball caps were most certainly mine.”
“On the page in front of me was another rendering, but instead of the interior of this house, my face looked back at me. I’d never seen myself captured like this, completely candid, head thrown back in a playful laugh. Youth and joy danced in my eyes, my hair messy, and dirt smudged across my cheek. An easy, carefree expression on my face—it was beautiful. I looked beautiful.”
“When Beckham smiled, his entire face lit up with joy. The normally chiseled planes of his face grew soft, and his eyes sparkled with mirth. And when he smiled at you, when you were the sole focus of that delight—God, it was breathtaking.”
“I could have been long gone already.” — “But this place has been healing me, you Beckham, have been healing me.” (I can’t 😭😭)
“But there was something about him. Something I could say I had never felt with anyone before in my life. I knew I was safe with him. Even though we hardly knew one another, he would do everything in his power to shelter me from this storm. It was just who he was. This strong, loyal man who loved and cared with his entire being, even if the recipient of all his kindness, was a stranger who had done nothing to deserve it.”
“You can, and you will do this, Anders. I’ll be by your side the entire time.”
“Something about Beck’s presence calmed my soul. I didn’t need to speak for him to hear me. With him, I could simply exist.”
“Not handsome—beautiful. Every inch of Anders was breathtaking. I didn’t know when I’d started to see Anders that way but now I had seen it, I couldn’t see anything else.”
“At first, the kiss was soft and uncertain, barely a whisper, but I took what I could get, greedily swallowing the soft moan that left his lips. If this was all he would give me, it would be enough. It would have to be. But fucking hell, it would never be enough.”
“I didn’t know how to communicate that the craziest thought of all was that this didn’t scare me. Being with him didn’t scare me at all. It felt utterly and irrevocably right.”
“There’s something about you, Anders. Something I can’t look away from. Some kind of strange gravity that pulls me to you, and I don’t want to fight it anymore.”
“You are the most beautiful cake I’ve ever seen.” (This had me 🥹)
“There had been something about Anders from the moment I met him, something that called to me that I hadn’t been able to put my finger on.”
“And that need to see inside the enigma that was Anderson Carmichael had become so desperate that I no longer wanted just to know his heart but also carve myself a place in his soul.”
“Being with someone meant accepting every little piece of them. And Anders had a million complex pieces. Many of which I'd surely yet to discover. But that thought didn’t scare me. I wanted to learn all his different parts–what made him whole–and find exactly where I could fit in among them.”
“I wanted to make him smile every minute of every day. Wanted to keep him safe and warm and healthy. Wanted to make him happy and whole. Who was I kidding, saying I didn’t know what I wanted Anders to mean to me? At this moment, with him pressed up against me, the answer was glaringly obvious. I wanted him to mean everything to me, and I hoped I could mean everything to him one day, too.”
“If I allowed myself to be happy, why couldn’t that be with Beck? I hadn’t tricked him into feeling this way about me. He didn’t have to be here. He now knew all the terrible parts of me, but he hadn’t run.”
“He reached up and released my lip from where I was mangling it between my teeth, pressing the palm of his hand softly against my cheek. Then, as if reading my mind, he added, “You deserve good things, Anders. Let me be your good thing.””
“I'd already given Beck all of my secrets, he knew all the fucked up darkness in my soul, and he still wanted me. I wouldn’t deny myself any longer. I wouldn’t hold back under the false assumption that it was what was better for him. Let me be your good thing, and goddamnit, maybe I could be his good thing, too. Beck deserved the world, and if he wanted this, I would give it to him.”
“I won’t hurt you,” he’d said, “not on purpose. For you, I’ll keep trying every day to be a better man. A better man.” And, “for you, Beck, for you, for you, for you.”
“A moment passed where he just looked at me, gorgeous hazel eyes sparkling in the morning sun. He looked so goddamn happy, and it warmed my soul that I was the one who made him feel that way. That it was me who was so lucky. But then he said, “All my thoughts are of you, Beck,” and I knew. I knew that he felt lucky, too.”
“Anders had said I was healing him, but the truth of it was he had been healing me, too.”
“Are you happy, baby?” I whispered back. I loved how his eyes seemed to spark when I called him that. I loved the warm feeling in my chest that grew at the sight of it. And despite it being too soon, the surge of emotion bubbling up inside me as I took in the elegant lines of his face told me that maybe I loved him, too. “So, so, happy, Beck.”
“I knew it then, like I knew my own name, I loved this man. I loved him with my entire being, and just the slightest touch, one single kiss, heck, even a smile, was enough to bring me back from the edge.”
“He was so fucking beautiful. How was I so lucky that he was mine? Was he, though, or had I just presumed that he belonged to me in every way I belonged to him?”
“You knew I wasn’t strong enough to live without you.” — “Anders, you’re so strong, but you must know I will always come back for you. What we have, I can’t describe it, but…” (He might have thought he was talking to Jonah but i’m still sobbing)
“He needed to know how I felt about him. That I wouldn’t abandon him.” — “Fuck, Anders, I’m in love with you.”
“I would fight for his life, and we would come out victorious. Then, I would make sure Anders got the help he needed. I would be by his side for all of it.”
“He looked at me like I was his entire world, and I looked back at him like he was mine.”
“I know things between us are new, but something about us, Anders, feels eternal. Like this was always meant to happen.”
“Tell me you love me, and I'll wait for you. No matter how long it takes.” “I don’t love you.” Lies, fucking lies.” (SOBBBBBBING)
“Do you have something you need to tell me, Anders?” — “Just tell me, and I’ll wait as long as it takes.” — “I love you.” The three words made him practically crumple against me. “I love you so fucking much, Beck. I don’t need you to wait. I should never have let you go.” (Yup i cant!! 😭)
“I wanted to leave marks, wanted the reminder of everywhere I'd touched him, every ounce of pleasure I had rung from his body. I was feral with the thought of it. He was mine, and I was his, and that meant everything.”
“I was so deeply and irrevocably in love with the man before me that I would never recover from him allowing me to be his.”
“Thank you for giving me this, Beck. Thank you for visiting him. I’ll never be able to repay you for that.” — “You never need to repay me for anything. You love me, and that’s all I’ll ever need.” (Crying still)
“Coming to Arbor Ct. this summer led me to Beck. This place had transformed from everything I had been running from into everything I had been running to.”
“I want a life with you, Anders. I don’t just want to wake up and fall asleep with you. I want to build something together. Something that’s ours.”
“His eyes sparkled with excitement and hope. I saw it then, clear as day, something I had never let myself imagine before. I saw my future. Our future. The life we would create together.”
“It looked like the bluest eyes and the brightest of smiles. It looked like sunrises and sunsets and a million things in between. There would be joy and laughter, and sometimes sadness, too, but as long as he was holding me, the worst of it could no longer touch me.”
“There was nothing to think about. It was the easiest decision I’d ever had to make.” — “I’m in.”
“Anders is the strongest human I know. His everyday commitment to his sobriety and giving back to the community is my single greatest source of inspiration. Each day I get to spend with him is a blessing, one I would have lost if it wasn’t for the dedication of the countless organizations that specialize in assisting those battling addiction.”
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 5, 2025
I received an advanced reader copy of this book, and although I'm not typically a romance reader, I finished it in just 24 hours. D.G. Holloway does an outstanding job of drawing you into the characters' lives. I was completely invested in the relationship between Anders and Beckham, as well as their personal growth. I loved the banter between them, and I found myself relating to Beckham’s constant introspection more than I'd like to admit. Holloway skillfully captures the challenges of caregiving for a loved one, and the struggles of fighting the demons of addiction. I can't wait to see what Holloway does next!
P.S. – Don’t be like me and take half the book to realize the "David Comma Beckham" reference 🫣.
P.S. – Don’t be like me and take half the book to realize the "David Comma Beckham" reference 🫣.
November 11, 2025
DNF @ 42%
Beckham's intro chapter was incredibly dull with the expo dumping. Almost had me DNF right then and there w9th hours much info and background was shoved at us when this story of stuff could just be spread out when it became relevant.
Idk why Anders and Beckham were immediately cordial with each other when Laurel had essentially poisoned the well for Beckham by talking shit about Anders before they met. What was the point of that anger if it wasn't going to impact Beckham and Anders' initial dynamic?
And idk why Beckham was so negative on Laurel's dislike of Anders. If he really liked and trusted his GF, then wouldn't he have wondered why her normally gregarious persona was disappeared in the face of her step brother? Wouldn't he take her side and wonder what horrible thing Anders had done to earn the ire of someone as sweet as he made Laurel out to be? Why was his first thought that she was being too aggressive in her hatred?
Honestly, it was just so weird how casual Beckham was with Anders considering how fraught Anders' relationship was with Laurel. I want expecting Beckham to hate him as strongly as she did, but I feel like there needed to be some level of wariness on his part that Anders work past before they did things like drive to town together.
The sudden attraction that came from Beckham was a bit gross imo considering he was in a relationship but then goes and watches someone sleep.
The entire fact that I couldn't understand why Beckham was so casual about Anders really affected my enjoyment of the book since so much of the plot hinged on the readers believing that they meant something more to each other than just acquaintances. Like when Beckham is offended that he found Anders was going to sell something he stole for money, I felt that the degree to which he felt betrayed was much too strong for how little Anders should've meant to him at that point. Ditto for Anders claiming that Beckham had been healing him when all they'd done was talk a little (and he didn't even do that wholeheartedly because he was keeping things surface level until that moment).
Timelasping away Anders' first support group meeting was a super weird choice. Why not show him struggling with his first step towards accountability and support? Why not show how Beckham's presence help ground him? Why not show the emotional embarrassment, anger, or acceptance that come with such a pivotal moment? It just suddenly cuts away to a scene where Anders is laying on Beckham's thigh? Huh? No explanation for the intimate position or how they got comfortable enough to start laying on each other?
I DNFed when Beckham kissed Anders. Cheating when it isn't properly set up or given justification is just straight up gross. We don't see any guilt in Beckham for being attracted to someone else while he was in a relationship. No second guessing if what he was doing was ok or toeing the line (because we already barely see displays of romantic affection from either of them, which makes the kiss even worse because it comes out of the blue). Beckham then suddenly just gives this underdeveloped explanation that he needed to break up with Laurel because she was just the result of him trying to live without friction but was now willing to "throw away six years of his life" for an "amazing orgasm"? Why the hell was cheating treated so casually here? Where was the guilt? Beckham has the gall to chuckle as he told Anders he was going to break up with Laurel then it cuts to Beckham just baking a cake without showing us a proper emotional decompression over his decision to end a six year relationship (that he CHEATED IN).
I was already on the fence given how little I believed in Beckham and Anders' relationship, but the cheating pushed me well over the line.
Beckham's intro chapter was incredibly dull with the expo dumping. Almost had me DNF right then and there w9th hours much info and background was shoved at us when this story of stuff could just be spread out when it became relevant.
Idk why Anders and Beckham were immediately cordial with each other when Laurel had essentially poisoned the well for Beckham by talking shit about Anders before they met. What was the point of that anger if it wasn't going to impact Beckham and Anders' initial dynamic?
And idk why Beckham was so negative on Laurel's dislike of Anders. If he really liked and trusted his GF, then wouldn't he have wondered why her normally gregarious persona was disappeared in the face of her step brother? Wouldn't he take her side and wonder what horrible thing Anders had done to earn the ire of someone as sweet as he made Laurel out to be? Why was his first thought that she was being too aggressive in her hatred?
Honestly, it was just so weird how casual Beckham was with Anders considering how fraught Anders' relationship was with Laurel. I want expecting Beckham to hate him as strongly as she did, but I feel like there needed to be some level of wariness on his part that Anders work past before they did things like drive to town together.
The sudden attraction that came from Beckham was a bit gross imo considering he was in a relationship but then goes and watches someone sleep.
The entire fact that I couldn't understand why Beckham was so casual about Anders really affected my enjoyment of the book since so much of the plot hinged on the readers believing that they meant something more to each other than just acquaintances. Like when Beckham is offended that he found Anders was going to sell something he stole for money, I felt that the degree to which he felt betrayed was much too strong for how little Anders should've meant to him at that point. Ditto for Anders claiming that Beckham had been healing him when all they'd done was talk a little (and he didn't even do that wholeheartedly because he was keeping things surface level until that moment).
Timelasping away Anders' first support group meeting was a super weird choice. Why not show him struggling with his first step towards accountability and support? Why not show how Beckham's presence help ground him? Why not show the emotional embarrassment, anger, or acceptance that come with such a pivotal moment? It just suddenly cuts away to a scene where Anders is laying on Beckham's thigh? Huh? No explanation for the intimate position or how they got comfortable enough to start laying on each other?
I DNFed when Beckham kissed Anders. Cheating when it isn't properly set up or given justification is just straight up gross. We don't see any guilt in Beckham for being attracted to someone else while he was in a relationship. No second guessing if what he was doing was ok or toeing the line (because we already barely see displays of romantic affection from either of them, which makes the kiss even worse because it comes out of the blue). Beckham then suddenly just gives this underdeveloped explanation that he needed to break up with Laurel because she was just the result of him trying to live without friction but was now willing to "throw away six years of his life" for an "amazing orgasm"? Why the hell was cheating treated so casually here? Where was the guilt? Beckham has the gall to chuckle as he told Anders he was going to break up with Laurel then it cuts to Beckham just baking a cake without showing us a proper emotional decompression over his decision to end a six year relationship (that he CHEATED IN).
I was already on the fence given how little I believed in Beckham and Anders' relationship, but the cheating pushed me well over the line.
May 31, 2025
•Bi-awakening
•Forced proximity
•Grief/loss
•Hurt/comfort
•Addiction
When I saw that a new author on instagram had followed me, I went to her page and noticed that she had just released her debut novel, and it just so happened to checked all of my boxes that I look for in a book. So I went to my kindle right away and downloaded it. At like 20% in, I was shook that this was her first book because it was already so good! The writing was smooth as butter and I loved the characters right off the bat. So much so that I stayed up way past my bedtime to finish the book because I couldn’t put it down!
The story starts out with Beckham and his girlfriend traveling to her recently deceased aunts mini mansion to clean it up so they can resell it as per the agreement in her will. And in order for her stepbrother, Anders, to get his share, he also needed to be there, so that’s how those two meet. You could instantly feel the ‘zing’ between Beckham and Anders when they first laid eyes upon each other.
Beckham. Theee maaannnnn thattttt youuu areee. He’s the perfect man, and I’ll die on that hill with Anders, haha. But seriously. Within the first couple of chapters, you could tell that he is a gentle giant with a heart made of gold. And please don’t think Beckham’s a dick for feeling something for a man while in a relationship, because those two were barely hanging on by a thread. Beckham and Laurel had too many different views on what their future looked like, so this was the push that was needed to put an end to their relationship.
Anders is a lost soul battling demons in his head everyday. He turns to alcohol and drugs to help get through the day, but when he and Beckham start to spend more time together, he realizes that those voices in his head go quiet. Beckham notices things here and there so he steps up to help take care of him - it varies from little things such as making sure he eats, or being a solid presence to help him come down from anxiety attacks. Every time Anders had said that he wasn’t good enough, Beckham was like let me show you that you are. Be still my heart! (Here I go swooning over Beckham again lol).
No scene between these two went unwasted. Every interaction was meaningful - them rebuilding parts of the house together, opening up to one another, making each other laugh and feel safe. And of course Beckham was there every step of the way to help Anders through his recovery in any and every way that he could. (Damnit, he’s got me wanting to swoon for the third time lol!).
I will mention that this book isn’t spice heavy. There is only 1 sex scene, due to several reasons, but it was so beautifully executed that I wasn’t even mad that I had to wait til the end of the book to get to it. But don’t worry because there are still plenty of hot foreplay scenes where they got to explore and learn each other’s bodies without penis penetration. In fact, things got hot and heavy several times where they could barely wait to get into the house before they got their hands on each other, literally! All of it was just so beautiful because there was so much emotion woven into every intimate scene.
Lastly, it has the most unique epilogue chapter that I’ve ever read, but it was perfect. I don’t cry often from books, but I had a little teardrop slide down my cheek at how happy I was for them. If you’re still wondering if I recommend this book, my answer is 1000% yes! I am already a huge fan, and can’t wait to see what she comes up with next!
•Forced proximity
•Grief/loss
•Hurt/comfort
•Addiction
When I saw that a new author on instagram had followed me, I went to her page and noticed that she had just released her debut novel, and it just so happened to checked all of my boxes that I look for in a book. So I went to my kindle right away and downloaded it. At like 20% in, I was shook that this was her first book because it was already so good! The writing was smooth as butter and I loved the characters right off the bat. So much so that I stayed up way past my bedtime to finish the book because I couldn’t put it down!
The story starts out with Beckham and his girlfriend traveling to her recently deceased aunts mini mansion to clean it up so they can resell it as per the agreement in her will. And in order for her stepbrother, Anders, to get his share, he also needed to be there, so that’s how those two meet. You could instantly feel the ‘zing’ between Beckham and Anders when they first laid eyes upon each other.
Beckham. Theee maaannnnn thattttt youuu areee. He’s the perfect man, and I’ll die on that hill with Anders, haha. But seriously. Within the first couple of chapters, you could tell that he is a gentle giant with a heart made of gold. And please don’t think Beckham’s a dick for feeling something for a man while in a relationship, because those two were barely hanging on by a thread. Beckham and Laurel had too many different views on what their future looked like, so this was the push that was needed to put an end to their relationship.
Anders is a lost soul battling demons in his head everyday. He turns to alcohol and drugs to help get through the day, but when he and Beckham start to spend more time together, he realizes that those voices in his head go quiet. Beckham notices things here and there so he steps up to help take care of him - it varies from little things such as making sure he eats, or being a solid presence to help him come down from anxiety attacks. Every time Anders had said that he wasn’t good enough, Beckham was like let me show you that you are. Be still my heart! (Here I go swooning over Beckham again lol).
No scene between these two went unwasted. Every interaction was meaningful - them rebuilding parts of the house together, opening up to one another, making each other laugh and feel safe. And of course Beckham was there every step of the way to help Anders through his recovery in any and every way that he could. (Damnit, he’s got me wanting to swoon for the third time lol!).
I will mention that this book isn’t spice heavy. There is only 1 sex scene, due to several reasons, but it was so beautifully executed that I wasn’t even mad that I had to wait til the end of the book to get to it. But don’t worry because there are still plenty of hot foreplay scenes where they got to explore and learn each other’s bodies without penis penetration. In fact, things got hot and heavy several times where they could barely wait to get into the house before they got their hands on each other, literally! All of it was just so beautiful because there was so much emotion woven into every intimate scene.
Lastly, it has the most unique epilogue chapter that I’ve ever read, but it was perfect. I don’t cry often from books, but I had a little teardrop slide down my cheek at how happy I was for them. If you’re still wondering if I recommend this book, my answer is 1000% yes! I am already a huge fan, and can’t wait to see what she comes up with next!
June 18, 2025
Nothing brings me more joy than discovering an author's debut and having it completely surpass all my expectations. I already had a feeling I’d enjoy this book based on the synopsis and tropes, but I never anticipated falling so completely in love with Beckham and Anders.
This story really taps into every emotion possible. As the highs of Beckham and Anders’ relationship left me feeling hopeful and warm, seeing Beckham bring so much love and light into Anders’ life stright up had me giggling and kicking my feet. These two are the ultimate golden retriever x black cat dynamic. In contrast, their lows left me feeling utterly raw, as if I’d been filleted open. But to be honest, no character in this book really walks away unscathed. Every person in the main cast is hurting in son way, and while it may be hard to come to terms with sometimes (especially) if you don’t like them) almost everyones feeling/actions are justified in some capacity. And as the pieces pf the story come together, so does this deep sense of understanding for everyone involved. That’s what makes books like this so difficult (in an emotional way)— because there’s just so much pain, yet no one to blame.
Despite these emotional extremes, Holloway manages a perfect balance, ensuring the book never feels too overwhelming/emotionally draining while keep the severity of its themes intact. The narrative they paint through our character never once loses its momentum or heart.
All in all, I don’t think I have enough words to express how much I loved this book. If you get the chance, please check it out. This book deserves infinite praise in my opinion. I can’t wait to see what this author creates next!
This story really taps into every emotion possible. As the highs of Beckham and Anders’ relationship left me feeling hopeful and warm, seeing Beckham bring so much love and light into Anders’ life stright up had me giggling and kicking my feet. These two are the ultimate golden retriever x black cat dynamic. In contrast, their lows left me feeling utterly raw, as if I’d been filleted open. But to be honest, no character in this book really walks away unscathed. Every person in the main cast is hurting in son way, and while it may be hard to come to terms with sometimes (especially) if you don’t like them) almost everyones feeling/actions are justified in some capacity. And as the pieces pf the story come together, so does this deep sense of understanding for everyone involved. That’s what makes books like this so difficult (in an emotional way)— because there’s just so much pain, yet no one to blame.
Despite these emotional extremes, Holloway manages a perfect balance, ensuring the book never feels too overwhelming/emotionally draining while keep the severity of its themes intact. The narrative they paint through our character never once loses its momentum or heart.
All in all, I don’t think I have enough words to express how much I loved this book. If you get the chance, please check it out. This book deserves infinite praise in my opinion. I can’t wait to see what this author creates next!
June 16, 2025
Salvaged Heart completely stole my attention from the moment I saw the cover—and thankfully, the story delivered just as much as the artwork promised. This book is tender, heartbreaking, and full of unexpected warmth.
Beckham’s bi awakening felt so real—messy, slow, and filled with genuine conflict. Watching him fall for Anders, his girlfriend’s troubled stepbrother, was gripping. There’s an emotional vulnerability in both characters that really shines. Beckham is steady, kind, and trying so hard to hold it all together. Anders is raw, flawed, battling addiction, and just trying to survive—yet he’s impossible not to root for.
The forced proximity setup (renovating a lakeside mansion for the summer) gives the perfect backdrop for quiet moments, playful banter, and emotional breakthroughs. Their chemistry is a slow burn but so satisfying. What I loved most is how the story treats healing—not as something easy or linear, but as something you fight for, one choice at a time.
This is a beautiful book about second chances, rediscovering yourself, and finding love in the unlikeliest place.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Beckham’s bi awakening felt so real—messy, slow, and filled with genuine conflict. Watching him fall for Anders, his girlfriend’s troubled stepbrother, was gripping. There’s an emotional vulnerability in both characters that really shines. Beckham is steady, kind, and trying so hard to hold it all together. Anders is raw, flawed, battling addiction, and just trying to survive—yet he’s impossible not to root for.
The forced proximity setup (renovating a lakeside mansion for the summer) gives the perfect backdrop for quiet moments, playful banter, and emotional breakthroughs. Their chemistry is a slow burn but so satisfying. What I loved most is how the story treats healing—not as something easy or linear, but as something you fight for, one choice at a time.
This is a beautiful book about second chances, rediscovering yourself, and finding love in the unlikeliest place.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 4, 2026
MM
🌶️🌶️
Bi awakening
Girlfriend’s stepbrother
Beckham is spending the summer renovating his girlfriend’s late aunts house, so that it can be put up for sale. There are two other parties that will get a share of the selling price, a cousin (I think, don’t remember) and a stepbrother. The first will be funding the renovations, while the second will be there to help with the work. He has been estranged from the family for seven years.
Anders left home when he turned 18 and never looked back. He has been an addict for all those years plus some. He lost the love of his life, his stepbrother from another marriage, to an overdose. He is the one who got Anders addicted. Now he is ready to kick the habit for good, hoping to use his portion of the sale to get into rehab.
Beckham and Anders are instantly drawn to one another. When Beck’s girlfriend gets an internship she can’t turn down and leaves, the two become inseparable. Anders slowly lets Beck know his deepest darkest secrets.
I had no idea this was going to be so good when I started it. I was just looking for a sweet story after the dark heavy one I just finished. But this packed an emotional punch.
🌶️🌶️
Bi awakening
Girlfriend’s stepbrother
Beckham is spending the summer renovating his girlfriend’s late aunts house, so that it can be put up for sale. There are two other parties that will get a share of the selling price, a cousin (I think, don’t remember) and a stepbrother. The first will be funding the renovations, while the second will be there to help with the work. He has been estranged from the family for seven years.
Anders left home when he turned 18 and never looked back. He has been an addict for all those years plus some. He lost the love of his life, his stepbrother from another marriage, to an overdose. He is the one who got Anders addicted. Now he is ready to kick the habit for good, hoping to use his portion of the sale to get into rehab.
Beckham and Anders are instantly drawn to one another. When Beck’s girlfriend gets an internship she can’t turn down and leaves, the two become inseparable. Anders slowly lets Beck know his deepest darkest secrets.
I had no idea this was going to be so good when I started it. I was just looking for a sweet story after the dark heavy one I just finished. But this packed an emotional punch.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 12, 2025
🏚
🏠
🏞
Every once in a while, you get a book that just gives you the chills. This is one of those books. Right from the beginning, I was hooked on Beckham and Anders.
Beckham was the sweetest thing. I wish everyone like Anders had a Beckham. Someone who sees past the flaws and loves you unconditionally.
What I really enjoyed was getting to see the relationship between Beckham and Anders grow. It wasn't instalove or lust. It grew from friendship and was actually genuine. I know they didn't know each other for very long, so it can seem like the relationship was rushed, but I didn't see it like that. Sometimes, in a short period of time, you really can find your person.
For me, as a reader, an epilogue can make or break a book. Without it, the story never feels finished, and I'm left feeling like I wasted my time reading the book.
This epilogue gave me everything I needed! For some reason, it actually gave me the chills. It won't be like that for everyone, but for me, it was a beautiful ending for a beautiful story!!
Started: June 8th, 2025
Finished: June 10th, 2025
Format: Kindle
🏠
🏞
Every once in a while, you get a book that just gives you the chills. This is one of those books. Right from the beginning, I was hooked on Beckham and Anders.
Beckham was the sweetest thing. I wish everyone like Anders had a Beckham. Someone who sees past the flaws and loves you unconditionally.
What I really enjoyed was getting to see the relationship between Beckham and Anders grow. It wasn't instalove or lust. It grew from friendship and was actually genuine. I know they didn't know each other for very long, so it can seem like the relationship was rushed, but I didn't see it like that. Sometimes, in a short period of time, you really can find your person.
For me, as a reader, an epilogue can make or break a book. Without it, the story never feels finished, and I'm left feeling like I wasted my time reading the book.
This epilogue gave me everything I needed! For some reason, it actually gave me the chills. It won't be like that for everyone, but for me, it was a beautiful ending for a beautiful story!!
Started: June 8th, 2025
Finished: June 10th, 2025
Format: Kindle
December 7, 2025
I’m going with 4 ⭐️ on this one. I really enjoyed the story-line and the characters. Love me some hurt/comfort vibes. And Beck was such a good caregiver.
Although Beckham was a bit of a dumb dumb towards the end there. I feel like he should have taken some time during those 4 months to get some therapy cause co-dependency was definitely present for both parties. And the main conflict? How could you just stand there, Beck?! And say nothing?! Booo.
I’m so glad for the ending and the business together.
I think something that was missed a bit was hearing more about Anders’ treatment during the 4 months. We heard about the substance use treatment but what about the therapy to deal with his feelings about Jonah? I’m assuming it happened but I would have liked to hear more about his journey through that.
Otherwise, I’m left feeling like he still carries a torch for him.
Minor issues with proofreading - to and too were confused, along with the author having a strange understanding of the use of commas. However, it didn’t pull away from the story too much.
Although Beckham was a bit of a dumb dumb towards the end there. I feel like he should have taken some time during those 4 months to get some therapy cause co-dependency was definitely present for both parties. And the main conflict? How could you just stand there, Beck?! And say nothing?! Booo.
I’m so glad for the ending and the business together.
I think something that was missed a bit was hearing more about Anders’ treatment during the 4 months. We heard about the substance use treatment but what about the therapy to deal with his feelings about Jonah? I’m assuming it happened but I would have liked to hear more about his journey through that.
Otherwise, I’m left feeling like he still carries a torch for him.
Minor issues with proofreading - to and too were confused, along with the author having a strange understanding of the use of commas. However, it didn’t pull away from the story too much.
January 16, 2026
3.75-4. I liked a shit ton about this book, most towards the first say 50-60% maybe? Then it just became a bit off and I wasn’t feeling the flow and the way things were going down. And the love was not balanced!
The beginning was def a rush and insta obsession especially when considering the crap Laurel said about her brother.
Then after all is rainbows and roses, the sudden stop by Anders which I know had a good reason but… it went on for months. No contact, no attempt and even hanging up when Beck was near on the other side of the phone. It was roadblocks everywhere.. and here is the rush again but not in a good way. One chance meeting at dinner, 10 min later all is forgotten and they are mauling each other. All the I love you’s and no communication of all the reasons they separated for so damn long. I just did NOT feel like Anders loved even as close to what Beck did. I mean shit.. even the ‘can you wrap this up’ after their first time having full sex was pretty effing rude. Idk… he just ticked me off a lot.
The beginning was def a rush and insta obsession especially when considering the crap Laurel said about her brother.
Then after all is rainbows and roses, the sudden stop by Anders which I know had a good reason but… it went on for months. No contact, no attempt and even hanging up when Beck was near on the other side of the phone. It was roadblocks everywhere.. and here is the rush again but not in a good way. One chance meeting at dinner, 10 min later all is forgotten and they are mauling each other. All the I love you’s and no communication of all the reasons they separated for so damn long. I just did NOT feel like Anders loved even as close to what Beck did. I mean shit.. even the ‘can you wrap this up’ after their first time having full sex was pretty effing rude. Idk… he just ticked me off a lot.
June 4, 2025
This book randomly popped up on my feed and I instantly grabbed it! I also ate it up in less than 24 hrs. Often times books that deal with addiction and recovery scoot around the edges, we don’t get to see the nitty gritty of what detox and loving someone in early recovery looks like. This is not that book, the largest chunk of the book takes place doing just that Beck caring for Anders while he goes through early recovery. What it looks like to fall for someone when it’s not the right time, but is the right person. It was sweet, emotional, and really pulled at my heart. A quick read with all the feelings, some spice, and a lot of love. I can’t wait to see what comes from this author next!
July 10, 2025
A MUST READ
I don’t know what I was expecting but this book seriously exceeded any expectations I may have had. This story was BEAUTIFUL. Anders is so strong and as hard as his journey was, I loved being along for part of the ride. Beckham, you sweet sweet man. You are the epitome of sunshine and the way he believed in Anders and helped him… I have no words. I don’t think addiction is easy for any author to write but Holloway did such an amazing job. While Holloway did rip my heart out when Anders pushed Beck away, I understood it and I was so glad they ended up getting their HEA. This book was stay with me for a long time. I highly suggest giving it a shot, I don’t think you will be disappointed. I can’t wait for more from this author.
I don’t know what I was expecting but this book seriously exceeded any expectations I may have had. This story was BEAUTIFUL. Anders is so strong and as hard as his journey was, I loved being along for part of the ride. Beckham, you sweet sweet man. You are the epitome of sunshine and the way he believed in Anders and helped him… I have no words. I don’t think addiction is easy for any author to write but Holloway did such an amazing job. While Holloway did rip my heart out when Anders pushed Beck away, I understood it and I was so glad they ended up getting their HEA. This book was stay with me for a long time. I highly suggest giving it a shot, I don’t think you will be disappointed. I can’t wait for more from this author.
August 12, 2025
I liked this book. I really liked Anders and Beckham!!!
Loved Anders!!! I really felt for him. Reading about his struggles was sad and heartbreaking.
Loved Beck!!! Loved how sweet he was. I loved how he wasn’t afraid to go after Anders or of his attraction towards him. Love how he was there for him and supported Anders.
Ch. 29 made me want to give both of them a hug and cry.
🚨Sporlier🚨
I will say this tho, I hate that Beck didn’t stand up for Anders right away and waited til after Laurel tore into him. When Laurel found out about them and started saying all these insults and negative things to Anders, he just stood there silently doing nothing. He waited tell after to finally say something. It made me want to slap him.
Loved Anders!!! I really felt for him. Reading about his struggles was sad and heartbreaking.
Loved Beck!!! Loved how sweet he was. I loved how he wasn’t afraid to go after Anders or of his attraction towards him. Love how he was there for him and supported Anders.
Ch. 29 made me want to give both of them a hug and cry.
🚨Sporlier🚨
I will say this tho, I hate that Beck didn’t stand up for Anders right away and waited til after Laurel tore into him. When Laurel found out about them and started saying all these insults and negative things to Anders, he just stood there silently doing nothing. He waited tell after to finally say something. It made me want to slap him.
September 28, 2025
I read this book after a reading slump so I wasn't very hopeful, but I end up loving this book.
I really loved Beck and Anders relationship development. I felt their strong connection throughout, due to the slow burn and how they became friends first. Also, I love that their relationship wasn't based on lust but a deeper connection that emerged from the need to have each other. I also loved the steamy scenes as they felt intimate and appropriate for their feelings.
Was it a perfect book? No
Did I feel the connection between the MMCs? Yes and million times yes, from beginning till the end.
Will I re-read? Absolutely yes
Also, the cover is stunning
I really loved Beck and Anders relationship development. I felt their strong connection throughout, due to the slow burn and how they became friends first. Also, I love that their relationship wasn't based on lust but a deeper connection that emerged from the need to have each other. I also loved the steamy scenes as they felt intimate and appropriate for their feelings.
Was it a perfect book? No
Did I feel the connection between the MMCs? Yes and million times yes, from beginning till the end.
Will I re-read? Absolutely yes
Also, the cover is stunning
March 9, 2025
I received an advanced copy of this book, and loved it so much I read it twice. Probably because I’m a sucker for broken boys and Anders is such a really well written character that really tugs at your heart strings. Beckham is an all around sweetheart with a white night complex who is up to the challenge of picking up the pieces of Anders. Together their story is totally unputdownable. The characters are so well rounded you can’t help but fall in love with both of them from the start. This is a sexy first awakening MM romance you want to curl up with and devour.
June 11, 2025
I picked this up after seeing another review and I'm so glad I did. I really enjoyed this book. Anders struggles with addiction and his mental health were so prominent, and I loved Beck's role in supporting but not necessarily fixing him. I thought this was a really engaging read about complicated family dynamics, finding your way back to yourself, and discovering that we all deserve good things too. I wouldn't have minded a couple more chapters before the ending, but not enough for it to ruin my enjoyment at all. And the epilogue was really neat too!
June 21, 2025
I loved this book. It was such a beautiful romance with hurt/comfort, healing, and bi-awakening. I loved both Beckham and Anders. I really liked how their relationship developed- it was well paced and believable to me. Anders and his stepsister Laurel- Bechkam's girlfriend- did not have good history. I really got hooked on the dynamics between the characters, the circumstances that brought them all together, and seeing how things played out between everyone. This is the first book I've read by this author and I will definitely be reading more. 5 stars.
P.S.- Beautiful cover!
P.S.- Beautiful cover!
July 18, 2025
Anders and Beck. Once I picked up this book I did't want to put it down. Beck found his purpose and direction in life and Anders found someone to ground him and help him through his addiction and grief. I think Beck and Anders complemented each other in so many ways and I just wanted to see them find their happiness with each other and a future together. The new paper clipping in the epilogue was a clever way to wrap up their story. It was heartwarming to see what they accomplished over the years.
August 2, 2025
still crying like a baby
this book right here. going into this i was very excited and this book exceeded my expectations by 10000%. i cried, i laughed, and i fell in love with the characters. anders story of overcoming addiction is truly beautiful, and it shows the highs and lows of living with a disease that most people couldn’t imagine dealing with. the love story of anderson carmichael the third and david comma beckham is one that will be hard for me to forget, and impossible to move on from. you’ve outdone yourself d.g!
this book right here. going into this i was very excited and this book exceeded my expectations by 10000%. i cried, i laughed, and i fell in love with the characters. anders story of overcoming addiction is truly beautiful, and it shows the highs and lows of living with a disease that most people couldn’t imagine dealing with. the love story of anderson carmichael the third and david comma beckham is one that will be hard for me to forget, and impossible to move on from. you’ve outdone yourself d.g!
April 10, 2025
I am so in love with this book and still can't believe it's a debut. I ate this up in under 24 hours. I was instantly invested in Beckham and Anders. There is so much growth, healing, and maturity taking place here. This story deals with drug addiction and somehow you are not left feeling like that was the WHOLE story. It was handled with such care, and obvious the author put effort into research. I am so damn proud of Anders.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews