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Last Call #1
Whiskey Neat
I want a commitment like I want a rash, so why can't I get the bossy twink with pretty lips and plenty of snark out of my head?
Anyone who spends time with me knows two things.
If I want something, I get it, which is how I end up back in my old college haunts, buying a dilapidated bar with my five best friends and staring down the barrel of an unknown future.
The idea of settling down makes my skin crawl, and that's how I made it to forty with zero serious relationships in the rearview mirror.
At least I'm smart enough to hire the right people. Enter Salem Barlowe, the prettiest twink who ever twinked and my personal kryptonite. Physically, he's everything I like, but our personalities couldn't be more at odds. I didn't want to like him with all his sass and acting like he runs the place, but someone tell that to my... Uh, you get what I'm saying.
As if my hands aren't full enough figuring out how to run the town's only gay bar, my nights are filled with a man younger than me, bossier than me, and definitely prettier than me. Like a finely aged whiskey, Salem should be enjoyed slowly, savoring every complex note.
We just have to keep it casual. No problem. I can do casual with my eyes closed.
Whiskey Neat is book one in Last Call, a contemporary series set in the New Onyx universe. You can expect the antics and bond of six long time friends, the shenanigans happening at a quirky gay bar, a commitment phobe with a penchant for sweet guys, a bossy twink with mad top energy who doesn't have a sweet bone in his body (or does he?), the eternal f*ckboi who has finally met his match, you can come home again vibes, midlife glow ups, an easter egg or two, and plenty of steam. At Moby's Bar, there aren't any rogue white whales to harpoon, but they are serving up plenty of d… Drinks, folks. Come on.
Includes Lights Out, a Last Call prequel novella.
Anyone who spends time with me knows two things.
If I want something, I get it, which is how I end up back in my old college haunts, buying a dilapidated bar with my five best friends and staring down the barrel of an unknown future.
The idea of settling down makes my skin crawl, and that's how I made it to forty with zero serious relationships in the rearview mirror.
At least I'm smart enough to hire the right people. Enter Salem Barlowe, the prettiest twink who ever twinked and my personal kryptonite. Physically, he's everything I like, but our personalities couldn't be more at odds. I didn't want to like him with all his sass and acting like he runs the place, but someone tell that to my... Uh, you get what I'm saying.
As if my hands aren't full enough figuring out how to run the town's only gay bar, my nights are filled with a man younger than me, bossier than me, and definitely prettier than me. Like a finely aged whiskey, Salem should be enjoyed slowly, savoring every complex note.
We just have to keep it casual. No problem. I can do casual with my eyes closed.
Whiskey Neat is book one in Last Call, a contemporary series set in the New Onyx universe. You can expect the antics and bond of six long time friends, the shenanigans happening at a quirky gay bar, a commitment phobe with a penchant for sweet guys, a bossy twink with mad top energy who doesn't have a sweet bone in his body (or does he?), the eternal f*ckboi who has finally met his match, you can come home again vibes, midlife glow ups, an easter egg or two, and plenty of steam. At Moby's Bar, there aren't any rogue white whales to harpoon, but they are serving up plenty of d… Drinks, folks. Come on.
Includes Lights Out, a Last Call prequel novella.
258 pages, Paperback
First published August 14, 2024
391 people are currently reading
639 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 231 reviews
August 19, 2024
4.25**** stars
I ATE THIS UP!
I’m so glad I didn’t realized before picking up this series that I’ve read this author before and all my previous attempts were fails. I really loved this book. Sure it got a tiny bit cheesy here and there but it still counted as swoony for me. ♡
The college boys we met in the prequel have grown up, took chances, claimed successes and failures and are now returning to the town where they parted ways almost 20 years ago to open a queer bar together.
Can’t wait for this series to continue. This first one was glorious with the romance between beautiful Indy and the sassy femme guy, Salem, they hired to support them getting their bar open and running.
And it was hoooot! Loved that too!
***********
Last Call Series
Prequel - Lights Out - 3.5 stars
Book 1 - Whiskey Neat - 4.25 stars
Despite the tiny voice inside of me screaming no, I nod, filled with a desire strong enough to power a city.
I ATE THIS UP!
I’m so glad I didn’t realized before picking up this series that I’ve read this author before and all my previous attempts were fails. I really loved this book. Sure it got a tiny bit cheesy here and there but it still counted as swoony for me. ♡
The college boys we met in the prequel have grown up, took chances, claimed successes and failures and are now returning to the town where they parted ways almost 20 years ago to open a queer bar together.
Can’t wait for this series to continue. This first one was glorious with the romance between beautiful Indy and the sassy femme guy, Salem, they hired to support them getting their bar open and running.
And it was hoooot! Loved that too!
“Mmm.” He grips my throat, not squeezing, but tight enough to make me feel owned in the best way. Sayonara to my bossy bottom or topping days. I’m officially a pillow princess.
***********
Last Call Series
Prequel - Lights Out - 3.5 stars
Book 1 - Whiskey Neat - 4.25 stars
August 25, 2024
I really love books about more mature characters ❤️
After reading the prequel, I kind of imagined this to be a series about a couple of college friends who’re about to start their “adult” lives all over the country, just loosely connected to each other.
Imagine my (very pleasant) surprise when the book starts 18 years AFTER their graduation, each of them at a point in their lives where they’re ready to start something new. And that new path brings them all together again to the place where they spent a huge part of their college days: the old bar, that they decide to buy and turn into a gay bar.
This book is about Indy, the “love them and leave them” guy. His counterpart is Salem, a 28yo (femme ish twink) who’s forced to return home when his life in the “big city” didn’t turn out the way he planned to.
The attraction between them is immediate, and what I loved most about this book is that they’re 2 adult men, going after what they want. There’s no huge miscommunication, apart from the fact that it takes them (both) a while to realise that their “no relationship/feelings” policy is moot.
Another thing I loved: their “found family” and the way each of them is unique in their own way. I can’t even decide which book I’m most excited about, I really like all of them and want them to find their significant other (or, in one case, see what’s been in front of their eyes for 20 years).
It’s not a perfect, and I can’t even put my finger on why I can’t give it 5 stars - maybe the almost complete lack of drama? But I definitely enjoyed myself, and I feel like I got to know them. In fact, I want them all to be my friends in real life 😅
Can’t wait for the next books in this series!
After reading the prequel, I kind of imagined this to be a series about a couple of college friends who’re about to start their “adult” lives all over the country, just loosely connected to each other.
Imagine my (very pleasant) surprise when the book starts 18 years AFTER their graduation, each of them at a point in their lives where they’re ready to start something new. And that new path brings them all together again to the place where they spent a huge part of their college days: the old bar, that they decide to buy and turn into a gay bar.
This book is about Indy, the “love them and leave them” guy. His counterpart is Salem, a 28yo (femme ish twink) who’s forced to return home when his life in the “big city” didn’t turn out the way he planned to.
The attraction between them is immediate, and what I loved most about this book is that they’re 2 adult men, going after what they want. There’s no huge miscommunication, apart from the fact that it takes them (both) a while to realise that their “no relationship/feelings” policy is moot.
Another thing I loved: their “found family” and the way each of them is unique in their own way. I can’t even decide which book I’m most excited about, I really like all of them and want them to find their significant other (or, in one case, see what’s been in front of their eyes for 20 years).
It’s not a perfect, and I can’t even put my finger on why I can’t give it 5 stars - maybe the almost complete lack of drama? But I definitely enjoyed myself, and I feel like I got to know them. In fact, I want them all to be my friends in real life 😅
Can’t wait for the next books in this series!
February 17, 2025
I do have to say, I struggled a bit to get into this book but in the end i was really in a flow and kept reading until I finished it!!
I loved the characters especially since they came across much more mature, in the way they handled things and their character and relationship development. I‘m really excited to read the other coulombs from this series.
I loved the characters especially since they came across much more mature, in the way they handled things and their character and relationship development. I‘m really excited to read the other coulombs from this series.
March 19, 2025
This was pretty good. Easy read. A bit cheesy at times. Also the characters were quite annoying at times. Looking forward to more of the series.
September 20, 2024
I think this author is really not for me.
There is *gasp* too much screwing and not much plot. Or anything else happening.
And I kept thinking what 6 grown men in their forties are going to do all day long with no job (they co-own a bar).
They hire a chef, bartender and inventory manager (is this a full time job???) and have a firm doing their payroll....so what's left? Maybe that's the reason for too much screwing 🤔
And all those love you 4eva declarations after knowing each other for 6 weeks.
Not a fan.
There is *gasp* too much screwing and not much plot. Or anything else happening.
And I kept thinking what 6 grown men in their forties are going to do all day long with no job (they co-own a bar).
They hire a chef, bartender and inventory manager (is this a full time job???) and have a firm doing their payroll....so what's left? Maybe that's the reason for too much screwing 🤔
And all those love you 4eva declarations after knowing each other for 6 weeks.
Not a fan.
June 11, 2025
I want a commitment like I want a rash so why can’t I get the bossy twink with pretty lips and plenty of snark out of my head? Anyone who spends time with me knows two things.
1. If I want something I get it, which is how I end up back in my old college haunts, buying a dilapidated bar with my five best friends and staring down the barrel of an unknown future.
2. The idea of settling down makes my skin crawl, and that’s how I made it to forty with zero serious relationships in the rear-view mirror. /i>
Mia Monroe seems to have come back to visit the world of "contemporary" and so very glad that she has. There is just something about her contemporary work that I can't seem to resist.
Indy has come back to Willows Bay with his six best friends to live and to open a bar. These guys have a really beautiful friendship. It's even lasted through the years when they were away...and when they get back in the old familiar place, and it's like nothing has changed.
Salem has come home to start afresh after his "not so great" luck in New Onyx. When he walks into the bar that isn't open yet, everything changes. Salem & Indy started off as "friends with benefits", but over time, and the building of trust things began to change...becoming so much more to each other. There's "instalust" but that's not the same as "iinstalove". I enjoyed the buildup and the pace of them working towards much, much more, that they both wanted.
Whiskey Neat is a great start to this new series. This was a fun, steamy and quick read, but both the characters still have depth and some "real world" issues. I am looking forward to the rest of the men's stories.
1. If I want something I get it, which is how I end up back in my old college haunts, buying a dilapidated bar with my five best friends and staring down the barrel of an unknown future.
2. The idea of settling down makes my skin crawl, and that’s how I made it to forty with zero serious relationships in the rear-view mirror. /i>
Mia Monroe seems to have come back to visit the world of "contemporary" and so very glad that she has. There is just something about her contemporary work that I can't seem to resist.
Indy has come back to Willows Bay with his six best friends to live and to open a bar. These guys have a really beautiful friendship. It's even lasted through the years when they were away...and when they get back in the old familiar place, and it's like nothing has changed.
Salem has come home to start afresh after his "not so great" luck in New Onyx. When he walks into the bar that isn't open yet, everything changes. Salem & Indy started off as "friends with benefits", but over time, and the building of trust things began to change...becoming so much more to each other. There's "instalust" but that's not the same as "iinstalove". I enjoyed the buildup and the pace of them working towards much, much more, that they both wanted.
Whiskey Neat is a great start to this new series. This was a fun, steamy and quick read, but both the characters still have depth and some "real world" issues. I am looking forward to the rest of the men's stories.
November 13, 2025
“Sayonara to my bossy bottom or topping days. I’m officially a pillow princess.”
3.50⭐
One of those super fast rom-com kind of style romances with a whole gang of characters. I thought there would be more push and pull between Indiana and Salem since Indiana is known not to be one for relationship relationships, but he fell straight for Salem the moment he walked through the door. It’s definitely written as one of those books where it’s about a group of friends or a large family where you’re gonna get multiple books in a series of characters, and this is definitely in the style of the first one because we get a lot of side glances from other characters towards other characters, hinting at the romantic interests of the other books throughout the series.
Overall, it’s a pretty good book. I wouldn’t say it made me feel anything super serious. It’s a fast read if you’re looking for something when you’re bored. Also, Salem wears his panties, you know like lingerie, so if you’re into that this is for you
3.50⭐
One of those super fast rom-com kind of style romances with a whole gang of characters. I thought there would be more push and pull between Indiana and Salem since Indiana is known not to be one for relationship relationships, but he fell straight for Salem the moment he walked through the door. It’s definitely written as one of those books where it’s about a group of friends or a large family where you’re gonna get multiple books in a series of characters, and this is definitely in the style of the first one because we get a lot of side glances from other characters towards other characters, hinting at the romantic interests of the other books throughout the series.
Overall, it’s a pretty good book. I wouldn’t say it made me feel anything super serious. It’s a fast read if you’re looking for something when you’re bored. Also, Salem wears his panties, you know like lingerie, so if you’re into that this is for you
August 9, 2024
4 stars
Indy, a forty years old, just lost his job and, exasperated, called his 5 best friends who lived around U.S and abroad to make them a business proposition: buying the bar where they used to hang out during college and converting it into a gay bar.
Salem, twenty eight years old, lost his job too and he returned to his childhood home, after living for a decade in the city. He goes back to live with his parents while looking for a new employement.
Between Indy and Salem it's lust at first sight: they are exactly each other's type but Indy is never been in love and he's not interested in a relationship, while Salem has been burned too many times and he doesn't want anything serious anymore.
This should be the perfect friends with benefits arrangement if they weren't so right for one another.
I liked how they became aware of their feelings by working together and getting to know each other.
What I really liked it's that Salem and Indy were very good at communicating with each other and also at apoloogising and admitting when they're wrong.
What prevented me from givng a higher rate:
They admit their feelings too late in the story, I needed more "open" romance between them.
The guys are amazing, kind, funny and especially not meddling or noisy. They're all in each others' business, but they never intrude, they are very respectful of each others' spaces.
I really enjoyed Salem's friendship with Lowen
This is going to be a good series, I really like all the 6 friends and I cannot wait to read Lowen's story because he deserves a lot of love after what he went through (maybe Oakley will be the love of his life?).
I also hope Wren, Jackson and Jimmy's grandson will find a place in the following books.
I received an ARC of this book from Gay Romance Review and this is my honest review.
Indy, a forty years old, just lost his job and, exasperated, called his 5 best friends who lived around U.S and abroad to make them a business proposition: buying the bar where they used to hang out during college and converting it into a gay bar.
Salem, twenty eight years old, lost his job too and he returned to his childhood home, after living for a decade in the city. He goes back to live with his parents while looking for a new employement.
Between Indy and Salem it's lust at first sight: they are exactly each other's type but Indy is never been in love and he's not interested in a relationship, while Salem has been burned too many times and he doesn't want anything serious anymore.
This should be the perfect friends with benefits arrangement if they weren't so right for one another.
I liked how they became aware of their feelings by working together and getting to know each other.
What I really liked it's that Salem and Indy were very good at communicating with each other and also at apoloogising and admitting when they're wrong.
What prevented me from givng a higher rate:
They admit their feelings too late in the story, I needed more "open" romance between them.
The guys are amazing, kind, funny and especially not meddling or noisy. They're all in each others' business, but they never intrude, they are very respectful of each others' spaces.
I really enjoyed Salem's friendship with Lowen
This is going to be a good series, I really like all the 6 friends and I cannot wait to read Lowen's story because he deserves a lot of love after what he went through (maybe Oakley will be the love of his life?).
I also hope Wren, Jackson and Jimmy's grandson will find a place in the following books.
I received an ARC of this book from Gay Romance Review and this is my honest review.
August 30, 2024
I started off really enjoying this and thought the premise would make a good book.
However, I really didn't warm to Salem and Indy. I thought Indy for a 40 year old man was quite immature due to his jealousy. The attraction between him and Salem was a little too insta love. Both men being tops and wouldn't bottom for anything... yeah right.
If there are more books I might continue on with the series as I liked the remaining 5 friends and would be interested to find out their HEAs.
However, I really didn't warm to Salem and Indy. I thought Indy for a 40 year old man was quite immature due to his jealousy. The attraction between him and Salem was a little too insta love. Both men being tops and wouldn't bottom for anything... yeah right.
If there are more books I might continue on with the series as I liked the remaining 5 friends and would be interested to find out their HEAs.
October 30, 2024
It’s almost a dnf for me. But the setup is interesting. It could be something great, but it wasn’t. Six adults in their forties changing their life to open a bar. It could be nice. But they don’t do nothing. They hire a bartender, a bar manager,… what’s left for them ? I don’t know.
There isn’t any plot, lot of sex. Too much for me.
I couldn’t warmup to the character. I honestly didn’t like Salem at all…
There isn’t any plot, lot of sex. Too much for me.
I couldn’t warmup to the character. I honestly didn’t like Salem at all…
August 18, 2024
Naughty, dirty, cute and sexy.
But most of all, feel good and sweeeeeeet 🤗
Loved it.
I'm loving the world building, I'm loving the hope of starting over with besties. I love the feeling that everything is going to be o.k. I love the feeling of new friends. And also, I'm loving that Salem and Indy are not compatible, I think this is a first for me. It makes for an interesting hook. And I'm hooked to see how these gorgeous men navigate the relationship.
i can't wait for the rest of the stories, so much potential here!
But most of all, feel good and sweeeeeeet 🤗
Loved it.
I'm loving the world building, I'm loving the hope of starting over with besties. I love the feeling that everything is going to be o.k. I love the feeling of new friends. And also, I'm loving that Salem and Indy are not compatible, I think this is a first for me. It makes for an interesting hook. And I'm hooked to see how these gorgeous men navigate the relationship.
i can't wait for the rest of the stories, so much potential here!
July 10, 2025
I deserve better than this bottom shelf smut
August 16, 2025
Mia Monroe is quickly becoming one of my go-to authors for low angst sweet & steamy romance with humour and heart. While I've loved her Immortal Assassins series and the first book in its spin-off series, this is actually my first time reading a contemporary book of hers. Am definitely a fan now!
Whiskey Neat is about a group of friends that met in college. They each went in their own directions, but the friendship never went away. Now they're all about forty, and in need of a change when their unofficial group leader Indy suggests a wild idea. Open up a gay bar together in the town where their group started. While Indy has never had a serious relationship and has always been fine with that, the moment Salem walks through the doors, he's a goner. Salem is a beautiful, snarky twink who just moved back home with a bunch of baggage of his own. Neither of them wants something serious, but they want each other.
Man, the sparks flew between these two. I loved their chemistry and how well they fit together even when they were both too blind to see it for a long while. Their growing connection is beautiful to see though and I loved every bit of it. I also loved Indy's friends and can't wait to read their stories in the upcoming books!
Definitely recommend reading this one! Also be sure to grab the prequel novella! It's a great, fun introduction to the group of friends, honestly. It's their last night before graduating college, in their favorite bar (which actually ends up being theirs in this book!) and it's a bit of an insight into their personalities and shows their connection as friends. So don't miss out on that!
I received an ARC (Advanced Reader Copy) in exchange for an honest review.
Whiskey Neat is about a group of friends that met in college. They each went in their own directions, but the friendship never went away. Now they're all about forty, and in need of a change when their unofficial group leader Indy suggests a wild idea. Open up a gay bar together in the town where their group started. While Indy has never had a serious relationship and has always been fine with that, the moment Salem walks through the doors, he's a goner. Salem is a beautiful, snarky twink who just moved back home with a bunch of baggage of his own. Neither of them wants something serious, but they want each other.
Man, the sparks flew between these two. I loved their chemistry and how well they fit together even when they were both too blind to see it for a long while. Their growing connection is beautiful to see though and I loved every bit of it. I also loved Indy's friends and can't wait to read their stories in the upcoming books!
Definitely recommend reading this one! Also be sure to grab the prequel novella! It's a great, fun introduction to the group of friends, honestly. It's their last night before graduating college, in their favorite bar (which actually ends up being theirs in this book!) and it's a bit of an insight into their personalities and shows their connection as friends. So don't miss out on that!
I received an ARC (Advanced Reader Copy) in exchange for an honest review.
January 25, 2025
A great romance with a connection for both characters.
August 17, 2024
Did I finish this in less than 24 hours? I absolutely did! This is a low angst, quick and easy read that gave me all the good vibes, found family, banter, laughs, swoon and spice I wanted.
Indy and his 5 friends go back to the college town they met at and buy a bar, which they want to turn into the towns first gay bar. Salem also goes back to that town, which is his hometown, after things not working out for him and is in search for a job. A job which he finds by asking Indy and friends what they plan to do with the bar. From the moment they meet we feel the tension between them and things just escalate from there.
Salem is guarded because of his past relationships and it's not easy for him to be open with Indy. Indy on the other hand has only had casual relationships, thinking that is what he's made for. They both want to keep things casual, but that never works like that does it? I loved how they were each others perfect men and they still tried to fight it, even when Indy was jealous and possessive. I loved them together. They were swoony, cute, funny and spicy. There is a 12 year age gap, but you don't even notice it. I love how bossy Salem could be, but how he melted for Indy.
The cherry on top was Indy's friend group. Indy, Lowen, Ridley, Kit, Bane and Jerryn have known each other since college and you can see the history in their friendship. I loved all the banter and all the teasing and talks they had. They truly made the vibes of the book even better.
I loved how the whole story progressed and how everything ended. The spice was consistent and really good.
I'm excited to read the other men's stories when they come out. Safe to say this won't be my last Mia Monroe book.
Indy and his 5 friends go back to the college town they met at and buy a bar, which they want to turn into the towns first gay bar. Salem also goes back to that town, which is his hometown, after things not working out for him and is in search for a job. A job which he finds by asking Indy and friends what they plan to do with the bar. From the moment they meet we feel the tension between them and things just escalate from there.
Salem is guarded because of his past relationships and it's not easy for him to be open with Indy. Indy on the other hand has only had casual relationships, thinking that is what he's made for. They both want to keep things casual, but that never works like that does it? I loved how they were each others perfect men and they still tried to fight it, even when Indy was jealous and possessive. I loved them together. They were swoony, cute, funny and spicy. There is a 12 year age gap, but you don't even notice it. I love how bossy Salem could be, but how he melted for Indy.
The cherry on top was Indy's friend group. Indy, Lowen, Ridley, Kit, Bane and Jerryn have known each other since college and you can see the history in their friendship. I loved all the banter and all the teasing and talks they had. They truly made the vibes of the book even better.
I loved how the whole story progressed and how everything ended. The spice was consistent and really good.
I'm excited to read the other men's stories when they come out. Safe to say this won't be my last Mia Monroe book.
January 6, 2025
Rating: 4/5 🌟
Spice: 2.5/5 🌶️
Characters: Indiana and Salem
Indy is 40 years old and after being laid off from his current job he decides he needs a change. He calls up his best friends and they all agree to move back to their hometown to open a queer bar.
Salem is 28 years old and has just moved back to his parent's home so he can figure out where he wants to go with his life. He lost his job, had a bad breakup, and is has had several negative experiences throughout his life that have left him a bit jaded.
Neither of them wants a relationship but are drawn to each other right away and find it hard to ignore the pull. They hook up really early on but when it comes to more it's a slow build. I enjoyed how possessive and growly Indy was when it came to Salem. I also enjoyed that Salem fit in seamlessly with the group and how he was welcomed in so easily. I love the dynamics between all of the guys in the friend group and can't wait to find out more about each of their stories.
This was sweet, fun, steamy, and a quick read. I'm looking forward to continuing the series.
Spice: 2.5/5 🌶️
Characters: Indiana and Salem
Indy is 40 years old and after being laid off from his current job he decides he needs a change. He calls up his best friends and they all agree to move back to their hometown to open a queer bar.
Salem is 28 years old and has just moved back to his parent's home so he can figure out where he wants to go with his life. He lost his job, had a bad breakup, and is has had several negative experiences throughout his life that have left him a bit jaded.
Neither of them wants a relationship but are drawn to each other right away and find it hard to ignore the pull. They hook up really early on but when it comes to more it's a slow build. I enjoyed how possessive and growly Indy was when it came to Salem. I also enjoyed that Salem fit in seamlessly with the group and how he was welcomed in so easily. I love the dynamics between all of the guys in the friend group and can't wait to find out more about each of their stories.
This was sweet, fun, steamy, and a quick read. I'm looking forward to continuing the series.
February 28, 2025
i think there was a series or something that i probably should have read first because i felt like at times there were characters i was supposed to know already and i just didnt?
either way this was pretty cute, i love good age gap with a side of workplace romance.
i did feel like there were too many characters to keep up with? like i had to constantly try to remember who these people were and what their relevance was. like i think for Salem he had both insecurities due to Blaine and Jackson and i think only focusing on one of them would have been a little better? also how Indy talked about his past hook-ups was kind of meh like it didnt make him very endearing tbh but hey that could just be me!
overall this was a cute, low angst read and i think the bedroom dynamics between Indy and Salem were interesting especially how they change from beginning to end of book
either way this was pretty cute, i love good age gap with a side of workplace romance.
i did feel like there were too many characters to keep up with? like i had to constantly try to remember who these people were and what their relevance was. like i think for Salem he had both insecurities due to Blaine and Jackson and i think only focusing on one of them would have been a little better? also how Indy talked about his past hook-ups was kind of meh like it didnt make him very endearing tbh but hey that could just be me!
overall this was a cute, low angst read and i think the bedroom dynamics between Indy and Salem were interesting especially how they change from beginning to end of book
September 2, 2024
“We’re really doing this?”
“We’ve been doing this, beautiful. We’re just gonna stop pretending that we’re not all in.”
A new start for 6 best friends who met in college almost 20 years ago. This book focuses on Indy - the unofficial owner/leader of the bar and Salem a younger man who moved back home when his life didn’t go as planned. I loved how immediately obsessed they were with each other - esp Indy. His jealousy and need to stake his claim (even in the office during working hours!) was so hot! 🥵 There’s not a ton of drama or anything, just a bit of hurt/comfort and the slow realisation that neither of these two has been acting particularly casual about their relationship. I’m excited to see the other guys meet their matches!
“We’ve been doing this, beautiful. We’re just gonna stop pretending that we’re not all in.”
A new start for 6 best friends who met in college almost 20 years ago. This book focuses on Indy - the unofficial owner/leader of the bar and Salem a younger man who moved back home when his life didn’t go as planned. I loved how immediately obsessed they were with each other - esp Indy. His jealousy and need to stake his claim (even in the office during working hours!) was so hot! 🥵 There’s not a ton of drama or anything, just a bit of hurt/comfort and the slow realisation that neither of these two has been acting particularly casual about their relationship. I’m excited to see the other guys meet their matches!
February 16, 2025
After getting laid off from the company he previously worked for, Indy decides it's time to do something new. To get a fresh start. And he ropes in his best friends. Together, they move to their hometown and open the towns first queer bar. It's different for all of them, but they all agree it may be what they need.
Enter Salem– the twink with an attitude Indy instantly wants in his bed. He's just Indy's type. Indy, the notorious playboy who's allergic to commitment. But one time isn't enough and Salem doesn't seem to think so either. Both deny what they may feel, not willing to open themselves up to that... Until it becomes apparent they can't stop thinking about each other. Nor can they stop the feelings building between them.
As it turns out, they are just what the other needed.
Indy and Salem's story is pretty low angst. It's insta attraction/lust, it's sweet, but there's spice. There's a little tension. Some everyone knows but us vibes. It's a bit fast moving, so I wouldn't recommend if you are someone who wants a lot more build up. However, if you want a quick read that will cleanse your pallet while still being a good time? I say go for it!
Enter Salem– the twink with an attitude Indy instantly wants in his bed. He's just Indy's type. Indy, the notorious playboy who's allergic to commitment. But one time isn't enough and Salem doesn't seem to think so either. Both deny what they may feel, not willing to open themselves up to that... Until it becomes apparent they can't stop thinking about each other. Nor can they stop the feelings building between them.
As it turns out, they are just what the other needed.
Indy and Salem's story is pretty low angst. It's insta attraction/lust, it's sweet, but there's spice. There's a little tension. Some everyone knows but us vibes. It's a bit fast moving, so I wouldn't recommend if you are someone who wants a lot more build up. However, if you want a quick read that will cleanse your pallet while still being a good time? I say go for it!
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August 14, 2024I love anything Mia Monroe writes, but honestly, my heart gave a start when I found out she was writing a new contemporary series and I wasn't disappointed by the friend group we get to explore with the Last Call series! Blending into her New Onyx world, without the vampires and demons, we get a return to a simpler, sweeter story and meet up with Indy and Salem... and get instalust and a FWB that goes beyond benefits and even a little cameo from the New Onyx family that started it all...
This was a fun, steamy and quick read, but the characters still have depth and real world issues that are so much a hallmark of Monroe's writing. Whether you've been introduced to the New Onyx world or this is your first jump off, you'll enjoy getting to know Salem and Indy (I definitely did)
This was a fun, steamy and quick read, but the characters still have depth and real world issues that are so much a hallmark of Monroe's writing. Whether you've been introduced to the New Onyx world or this is your first jump off, you'll enjoy getting to know Salem and Indy (I definitely did)
August 26, 2024
So sexy
This is a low angst sex fest. Indy and Salem's relationship starts off hot and heavy and never slows down. The sex is varied and very hot.
So why only 3 stars? Well, I like some hot sex, but that's not really why I read romance novels. I like to get to know new characters, and these guys don't have much personality. They don't have a passion for their work, or a hobby, or a charity. There isn't anything about these guys I will remember more than a week, except maybe how frustrated I was that I didn't learn why Indy is so divorced from his emotions.
I also don't know why (or if) Indy never had a real relationship before, and does with Salem. Did he have relationships and didn't acknowledge them? His backstory is largely a mystery.
Overall, I'd say it's worth reading if you're mostly interested in a lot of hot gay sex.
This is a low angst sex fest. Indy and Salem's relationship starts off hot and heavy and never slows down. The sex is varied and very hot.
So why only 3 stars? Well, I like some hot sex, but that's not really why I read romance novels. I like to get to know new characters, and these guys don't have much personality. They don't have a passion for their work, or a hobby, or a charity. There isn't anything about these guys I will remember more than a week, except maybe how frustrated I was that I didn't learn why Indy is so divorced from his emotions.
I also don't know why (or if) Indy never had a real relationship before, and does with Salem. Did he have relationships and didn't acknowledge them? His backstory is largely a mystery.
Overall, I'd say it's worth reading if you're mostly interested in a lot of hot gay sex.
May 2, 2025
This is a very enjoyable read. I loved the instant connection with Indy and Salem. I love all of Indy’s friends, especially Lowen. I love how Indy and Salem couldn’t stay away from each other, no matter how hard they tried. I really love that the author was able to tell their story without adding an extra hundred or so pages of nothing more than filler words and unnecessary drama. There was a tiny amount of drama, but it was handled quickly. I’ve read way too many 300+ page books lately that could’ve easily ended at 200 to 250. Sometimes I just want to read a quick story that doesn’t drag on and on.
I'm loving the guy on the cover.
Full review can be found at -
I'm loving the guy on the cover.
Full review can be found at -
August 15, 2024
I really enjoyed this story; it was the first in a new series. Indy is looking for a change and decides to open a bar with his group of friends. Salem is also at a turning point in his life and comes back home to regroup. He gets a job with this new bar. Indy and Salem have great chemistry from the beginning. The storyline was good, pretty much insta-love/attraction and low angst. It contains a diverse group of friends that I loved. I'm looking forward to reading the next book in the series.
January 2, 2025
4. ☆
🅢🅟🅘🅒🅔:🌶🌶🌶
🅛🅐🅤🅖🅗🅢:🤣
🅣🅔🅐🅡🅢:😅
🅜🅒🅢: Indiana, Salem
🅟🅞🅥: 1st Dual.
🅣🅡🅞🅟🅔🅢: Age/gap, Size Diference.
Mia me decepciono mucho con su libro de vampiros tan extraño que pense que nunca mas leerla. Error aca estoy y aunque este librones algo lento y carece de acción es una historia agradable, repito lenta, pero agradable los personajes son adorables los amigos de Indi te ganan desde el inicio y Salem es Salem super adorable.
🅢🅟🅘🅒🅔:🌶🌶🌶
🅛🅐🅤🅖🅗🅢:🤣
🅣🅔🅐🅡🅢:😅
🅜🅒🅢: Indiana, Salem
🅟🅞🅥: 1st Dual.
🅣🅡🅞🅟🅔🅢: Age/gap, Size Diference.
Mia me decepciono mucho con su libro de vampiros tan extraño que pense que nunca mas leerla. Error aca estoy y aunque este librones algo lento y carece de acción es una historia agradable, repito lenta, pero agradable los personajes son adorables los amigos de Indi te ganan desde el inicio y Salem es Salem super adorable.
October 20, 2025
Calling this at the end of Chapter 3. So upset that I wasted a credit on this book. The writing is terrible, actually painful. And Michael Dean’s narration really does nothing for me. But it’s really the painfully bad writing.
Just as our MC decides he wants to start a gay bar, the literal same minute, he gets a phone call from his friend who has inherited a bunch of money from an elderly relative he never knew - eye roll. And then the way these characters talk is beyond farcical.
So, so bad.
Just as our MC decides he wants to start a gay bar, the literal same minute, he gets a phone call from his friend who has inherited a bunch of money from an elderly relative he never knew - eye roll. And then the way these characters talk is beyond farcical.
So, so bad.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 2, 2024
It was a great book. I couldn't put it down and read it in one day. Indy and Salem were great together. I think it was instalove but they were both too scared and/or confused to admit it. Very low angst and high heat. I can't wait to read the other friends' stories.
I received the arc from GRR for my honest review
I received the arc from GRR for my honest review
April 5, 2025
First book by a new to me author and while I also struggle with books written in the present tense I enjoyed this a lot 🤩
May 5, 2025
Super sweet and low angst. I loved how their revelation that they’re more than fwbs came organically and with time even though it was obvious from the start and obvious to everyone around them. It wasn’t super quick and rushed but it didn’t take forever. I’m excited to read the rest of the guys 🥹
September 7, 2025
Прикольна, легка історія, без важкої драми…
Старший вкачаний мужик з татухами і молодий твінк…мммм я це люблю (як в рекламі)🌚
Старший вкачаний мужик з татухами і молодий твінк…мммм я це люблю (як в рекламі)🌚
August 20, 2024
I loved this so much, it have me all the feels and even had me teary at times.
I enjoyed meeting the 6 men who make up the foundation of this new series in the prequel Lights Out as it set the stage for the friendship they have all these years on. But it's not a must read if you haven't read the prequel.
This first book revolves around Indy who is 'not ever going to fall in love' and who brings his friends back to join him in opening a gay bar. But in walks Salem looking for a job and there goes Indy, falling in love.
These two men were just perfect for each other and though they both had things to work through, there was plenty of communication between them and their chemistry was off the charts.
I know I am going to really enjoy this series, I also liked seeing the guys from the Immortal Assassins series near the end.
I enjoyed meeting the 6 men who make up the foundation of this new series in the prequel Lights Out as it set the stage for the friendship they have all these years on. But it's not a must read if you haven't read the prequel.
This first book revolves around Indy who is 'not ever going to fall in love' and who brings his friends back to join him in opening a gay bar. But in walks Salem looking for a job and there goes Indy, falling in love.
These two men were just perfect for each other and though they both had things to work through, there was plenty of communication between them and their chemistry was off the charts.
I know I am going to really enjoy this series, I also liked seeing the guys from the Immortal Assassins series near the end.
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