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Southeastern Alumni #2
Poolside
Divorce left Tommy Littleton shaken. He thought he’d checked all the boxes in his marriage, but none of it mattered when “love” was left out. With nothing else to show for his life, Tommy will stop at nothing to get a promotion–even if it means participating in an open-water swim to impress his boss. Unfortunately, he looks like a drowning raccoon in the water. Good thing his best friend is a swim coach.
Chuck McCormac knows how the world sees the easy-going friend and the successful head coach of the Southeastern University swim team. After years of hiding his sexuality, Chuck is ready to be his most authentic self and find a partner. When he comes out to his college friends, he’s met with love and support. What he doesn’t expect is Tommy’s curiosity–or the heated kiss that turns into deeper questioning.
Chuck thought his unrequited crush on Tommy would always stay that way, but when Tommy expresses his interest, Chuck isn’t sure if he can trust that his friend’s feelings are real. Tommy might be ready to dive in, but Chuck is afraid that what he’s hiding could muddy the water between them.
Poolside is a friends-to-lovers romance filled with vulnerable men who watch Spartacus together, accepting friends, healing, an opossum under a house, and, ultimately, two people who fight for a future together—in and out of the water.
Chuck McCormac knows how the world sees the easy-going friend and the successful head coach of the Southeastern University swim team. After years of hiding his sexuality, Chuck is ready to be his most authentic self and find a partner. When he comes out to his college friends, he’s met with love and support. What he doesn’t expect is Tommy’s curiosity–or the heated kiss that turns into deeper questioning.
Chuck thought his unrequited crush on Tommy would always stay that way, but when Tommy expresses his interest, Chuck isn’t sure if he can trust that his friend’s feelings are real. Tommy might be ready to dive in, but Chuck is afraid that what he’s hiding could muddy the water between them.
Poolside is a friends-to-lovers romance filled with vulnerable men who watch Spartacus together, accepting friends, healing, an opossum under a house, and, ultimately, two people who fight for a future together—in and out of the water.
328 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 23, 2025
82 people are currently reading
464 people want to read
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May 4, 2025My favorite part of this book was the bi-awakening. Tommy takes it all in stride that he’s totally falling for his best buddy and it works with his golden retriever energy. The initial friendship between the men is sweet and observing them take those steps from friends to lovers is rewarding.
The role of depression in the book is significant and Taylor addresses the side effects of SSRIs head on. I felt like Chuck’s experience is a common one that isn’t spoken about very often.
The sports scenes are great and the cast of found family is supportive and quirky in their own rights!
The spice be spicinggggg! The tension and trust between the two combined with a hint of “teach me” makes for some steam.
The role of depression in the book is significant and Taylor addresses the side effects of SSRIs head on. I felt like Chuck’s experience is a common one that isn’t spoken about very often.
The sports scenes are great and the cast of found family is supportive and quirky in their own rights!
The spice be spicinggggg! The tension and trust between the two combined with a hint of “teach me” makes for some steam.
June 27, 2025
Oh my goodness y'all, I've got your PERFECT summer read right here. I absolutely LOVED Taylor Weston's Poolside - it's relatively low angst, the characters are so likeable, and omg it has, like, ALL the rep. It has friends to lovers with mutual pining, of the best bi and demi awakenings I've read, INCREDIBLE depression rep, and ALL the summer vibes. Highly recommend checking this one out!
The primary focus of Poolside is two college friends falling for each other while training for an open water swim. Cocky and confident Tommy is trying to find his feet after his divorce, and he's a little bit floored to realize that he's attracted to his best friend Chuck. Chuck, on the other hand, has been closeted from most of his friends and hiding his struggles with depression. He's also had a crush on Tommy for YEARS that he thought was unrequited, so he's a little blindsided when his friend who he thought was straight starts to return his feelings.
I love that Tommy is so comfortable with his revelations about his sexuality. This book has one of the most low angst bi and demi awakenings I've ever read, probably because Tommy figures both out at the same time. And, while Chuck does come out to his friends on page, it's such a non event and full of love and support. The hardest part of the book to read was about Chuck's struggles with depression, which felt so real and raw. I loved that Tommy is so incredibly supportive of Chuck while he works through a major depressive episode - when he says he's all in, he really is, and it's beautufil. And while there's a lot of sweet caretaking moments throughout the book (seriously, these guys are so sweet to each other), the moments where Tommy is so incredibly present for Chuck were my favorite.
I'm SO glad I picked up this book, and I really hope more people read it. I'm very much looking forward to meeting Taylor next year at Sports Romance Con so I can gush about it in person! So excited to have found a new author to love.
The primary focus of Poolside is two college friends falling for each other while training for an open water swim. Cocky and confident Tommy is trying to find his feet after his divorce, and he's a little bit floored to realize that he's attracted to his best friend Chuck. Chuck, on the other hand, has been closeted from most of his friends and hiding his struggles with depression. He's also had a crush on Tommy for YEARS that he thought was unrequited, so he's a little blindsided when his friend who he thought was straight starts to return his feelings.
I love that Tommy is so comfortable with his revelations about his sexuality. This book has one of the most low angst bi and demi awakenings I've ever read, probably because Tommy figures both out at the same time. And, while Chuck does come out to his friends on page, it's such a non event and full of love and support. The hardest part of the book to read was about Chuck's struggles with depression, which felt so real and raw. I loved that Tommy is so incredibly supportive of Chuck while he works through a major depressive episode - when he says he's all in, he really is, and it's beautufil. And while there's a lot of sweet caretaking moments throughout the book (seriously, these guys are so sweet to each other), the moments where Tommy is so incredibly present for Chuck were my favorite.
I'm SO glad I picked up this book, and I really hope more people read it. I'm very much looking forward to meeting Taylor next year at Sports Romance Con so I can gush about it in person! So excited to have found a new author to love.
November 20, 2025
Amazing book. I loved this twist in friends to lovers
Specially the mental health rep was extremely well done.
Specially the mental health rep was extremely well done.
May 20, 2025
I fell in love very quickly with these characters. One thing I'm not a fan of is a boring Mary Sue MC, but you won't find that here. These characters are real people with flaws and difficult pasts and that only makes me love them more. Chuck's family history and mental health issues make you want to hug him and tell him he is loved, but I really related to Tommy, both with his failed marriage and not figuring out your sexuality until your 30's.
Taylor is really good at making you feel the emotions of the story. When they yearned, so did I. When they kissed, I got butterflies. When they hurt, I hurt as well. And when they made pasta salad with extra olives, I had to have some too (she's also really good at making me hungry).
I enjoyed the queer discussions and topics brought up in this book. It would be easy for a woman writing a M/M romance to skip past a lot of the real issues but Taylor didn't shy away from any of it.
Lastly, if you're not a sports romance fan, don't let that stop you from reading this series. I wouldn't normally reach for this genre but I still thoroughly enjoyed both books. With the beautiful love story, honest conversations, secure masculinity forehead kisses from straight friends & animal side characters with personalities of their own, this is so much more than a sports romance!
#leonardisnotaraccoon
Taylor is really good at making you feel the emotions of the story. When they yearned, so did I. When they kissed, I got butterflies. When they hurt, I hurt as well. And when they made pasta salad with extra olives, I had to have some too (she's also really good at making me hungry).
I enjoyed the queer discussions and topics brought up in this book. It would be easy for a woman writing a M/M romance to skip past a lot of the real issues but Taylor didn't shy away from any of it.
Lastly, if you're not a sports romance fan, don't let that stop you from reading this series. I wouldn't normally reach for this genre but I still thoroughly enjoyed both books. With the beautiful love story, honest conversations, secure masculinity forehead kisses from straight friends & animal side characters with personalities of their own, this is so much more than a sports romance!
#leonardisnotaraccoon
May 19, 2025
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Chuck and Tommy have been friends for a long time. Chuck is a closet gay by choice. He doesn't think his straight friend group will embrace him like his LGBTQIA+ group has. He keeps them separate.
Enter Tommy. Tommy is Chuck's safe space. Tommy starts discovering he may be into men after his divorce from his wife. His discovery takes you on a journey of figuring out how to just be who you are all the while loving the sight of men just as well as women but in different ways.
Taylor E Weston does an excellent job of showing and sharing the journey with the reader. This hands down is one of the best bi-awakening books I have read this year. It is a very delicate balance of ensuring the character is seen as well as given the space to flourish.
Without giving away key details just know that you will be pulled in and engaged with Tommy's journey about finding his sexuality to be fluid. & with Chuck's journey of managing his medication needs and walking the tie rope of therapy because depression is not a virus that can be cured. It has to be managed and never goes away.
I loved this cozy read and enjoyed the story between Chuck and Tommy. Their journey of friends to lovers. The thought and care that went into their communication and checking in with one another. I loved every bit of it. We love open communication in this house.
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Chuck and Tommy have been friends for a long time. Chuck is a closet gay by choice. He doesn't think his straight friend group will embrace him like his LGBTQIA+ group has. He keeps them separate.
Enter Tommy. Tommy is Chuck's safe space. Tommy starts discovering he may be into men after his divorce from his wife. His discovery takes you on a journey of figuring out how to just be who you are all the while loving the sight of men just as well as women but in different ways.
Taylor E Weston does an excellent job of showing and sharing the journey with the reader. This hands down is one of the best bi-awakening books I have read this year. It is a very delicate balance of ensuring the character is seen as well as given the space to flourish.
Without giving away key details just know that you will be pulled in and engaged with Tommy's journey about finding his sexuality to be fluid. & with Chuck's journey of managing his medication needs and walking the tie rope of therapy because depression is not a virus that can be cured. It has to be managed and never goes away.
I loved this cozy read and enjoyed the story between Chuck and Tommy. Their journey of friends to lovers. The thought and care that went into their communication and checking in with one another. I loved every bit of it. We love open communication in this house.
May 5, 2025
*This is my honest review of an ARC of Poolside.
In preparation for Poolside, I read Courtside immediately before diving into this one, as it's the second of a connected series. I devoured both books in the matter of a 4 days total. I loved Chuck from the few scenes he's in with David, the MMC from Courtside. He's instantly a favorite of all the side characters. If you haven't read Courtside yet, please consider reading it first. It will give you a basis for Chuck and I guarantee you will be excited to read more about him as an individual as well as see him get his own love story.
This story centers on Chuck and Tommy, both characters introduced in Courtside as part of the central friend group. Chuck's POV incorporates his journey of coming out, his decade-long crush on one of his closest friends, and his relationship with depression. Tommy, a character we briefly met prior, is coming to terms with his failed marriage, reconciling his feelings for his best friend, and navigating the future of his career. The initial catalyst of the friends spending more time together (training for an open swim in order to gain a promotion) deepens their friendship and leads to them finding a deep love.
Overall, I thought this was beautifully done. I really enjoyed both POVs as each have strong viewpoints of their own. Neither voice was lesser than the other. I never felt let down that I was in one of their heads and counting pages until I could return to the other's. I loved seeing each of them navigate the same scene. Because Chuck and Tommy are in their mid-30s, there's a maturity to them and how they question themselves and the people around them. Tommy's queer awakening is not the same as Chuck's. Tommy's is not the same as those who discovered this part of themselves at a younger age, with bigoted friends and family. His discovery touches upon learning that a connection is essential to how he feels about another person, regardless of their gender. Tommy comes to additional realizations, propelling how he would like to treat his own career.
For Chuck, he finds relief in his friends love and support after revealing his sexual identity, enough so that he wants other aspects of his life to change to further benefit him. This results in the decision to change his mental health treatment. When combined with the uncertainty he feels of Tommy's new feelings for him, the result is a depressive episode that ultimate teaches him more about his friends and how he needs to further develop his mental health treatment plan.
Taylor E. Weston used sensitivity readers to assist her in crafting a story that feels authentic to different queer experiences and identities as well as mental health.
There are great moments within the friendship group, expanding on the characters we met previously as well as growing the cast of characters with the newly introduced queer group we meet through Chuck, and even a "new generation" of alums.
It is my opinion that the Southeastern Alumni series as a whole is a fresh, more adult take of the sports romance genre. It's not about one or two characters achieving a professional sports-related goal or continuing or maintaining one they already achieved. In this book, Chuck was a college swimmer who is now the swim coach of his alma mater. Tommy was a college basketball athlete who now works in management at a national car rental company. In the previous book, David was returning to coach and Sage (the FMC) was working towards a masters and deciding what to do with her degree. The friendship group is a beautiful found family.
As Book 2 progressed, and it was somewhat hinted at in Book 1 as well, Book 3 is clearly starting to shape up and I would be deeply disappointed if the author doesn't continue the series. I need to see [redacted] and [redacted] engage in a [redacted trope]. I can also see how the series can continue outside of the current cast of characters introduced in Courtside and expanded in Poolside - as college characters from Book 1 graduate, they too become Southeastern Alumni.
This series is solid. If you feel like college/new adult stories are too young for you and all BookTok is recommending to you for sports romances is that age group, I highly recommend this series.
In preparation for Poolside, I read Courtside immediately before diving into this one, as it's the second of a connected series. I devoured both books in the matter of a 4 days total. I loved Chuck from the few scenes he's in with David, the MMC from Courtside. He's instantly a favorite of all the side characters. If you haven't read Courtside yet, please consider reading it first. It will give you a basis for Chuck and I guarantee you will be excited to read more about him as an individual as well as see him get his own love story.
This story centers on Chuck and Tommy, both characters introduced in Courtside as part of the central friend group. Chuck's POV incorporates his journey of coming out, his decade-long crush on one of his closest friends, and his relationship with depression. Tommy, a character we briefly met prior, is coming to terms with his failed marriage, reconciling his feelings for his best friend, and navigating the future of his career. The initial catalyst of the friends spending more time together (training for an open swim in order to gain a promotion) deepens their friendship and leads to them finding a deep love.
Overall, I thought this was beautifully done. I really enjoyed both POVs as each have strong viewpoints of their own. Neither voice was lesser than the other. I never felt let down that I was in one of their heads and counting pages until I could return to the other's. I loved seeing each of them navigate the same scene. Because Chuck and Tommy are in their mid-30s, there's a maturity to them and how they question themselves and the people around them. Tommy's queer awakening is not the same as Chuck's. Tommy's is not the same as those who discovered this part of themselves at a younger age, with bigoted friends and family. His discovery touches upon learning that a connection is essential to how he feels about another person, regardless of their gender. Tommy comes to additional realizations, propelling how he would like to treat his own career.
For Chuck, he finds relief in his friends love and support after revealing his sexual identity, enough so that he wants other aspects of his life to change to further benefit him. This results in the decision to change his mental health treatment. When combined with the uncertainty he feels of Tommy's new feelings for him, the result is a depressive episode that ultimate teaches him more about his friends and how he needs to further develop his mental health treatment plan.
Taylor E. Weston used sensitivity readers to assist her in crafting a story that feels authentic to different queer experiences and identities as well as mental health.
There are great moments within the friendship group, expanding on the characters we met previously as well as growing the cast of characters with the newly introduced queer group we meet through Chuck, and even a "new generation" of alums.
It is my opinion that the Southeastern Alumni series as a whole is a fresh, more adult take of the sports romance genre. It's not about one or two characters achieving a professional sports-related goal or continuing or maintaining one they already achieved. In this book, Chuck was a college swimmer who is now the swim coach of his alma mater. Tommy was a college basketball athlete who now works in management at a national car rental company. In the previous book, David was returning to coach and Sage (the FMC) was working towards a masters and deciding what to do with her degree. The friendship group is a beautiful found family.
As Book 2 progressed, and it was somewhat hinted at in Book 1 as well, Book 3 is clearly starting to shape up and I would be deeply disappointed if the author doesn't continue the series. I need to see [redacted] and [redacted] engage in a [redacted trope]. I can also see how the series can continue outside of the current cast of characters introduced in Courtside and expanded in Poolside - as college characters from Book 1 graduate, they too become Southeastern Alumni.
This series is solid. If you feel like college/new adult stories are too young for you and all BookTok is recommending to you for sports romances is that age group, I highly recommend this series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 11, 2025
4.5 stars | 4/5 spice
What a lovely summer read by Weston! This was an ARC read (my first one) and I’m so grateful to have had an opportunity to read a great romance. First of all, it’s set in Charleston and Charleston is gorgeous. We get an opossum under the house, mental health rep, and a slow building love story. Overall, I did absolutely enjoy this read. I took my time with it and got enveloped with the characters journey. Neither one felt flat. I enjoyed the limerence and the pining. I enjoyed the spice and I also enjoyed the level of depth put into discussing Chuck’s mental health.
Overall, this was a great read and I will absolutely be reading more by Taylor E Weston.
What a lovely summer read by Weston! This was an ARC read (my first one) and I’m so grateful to have had an opportunity to read a great romance. First of all, it’s set in Charleston and Charleston is gorgeous. We get an opossum under the house, mental health rep, and a slow building love story. Overall, I did absolutely enjoy this read. I took my time with it and got enveloped with the characters journey. Neither one felt flat. I enjoyed the limerence and the pining. I enjoyed the spice and I also enjoyed the level of depth put into discussing Chuck’s mental health.
Overall, this was a great read and I will absolutely be reading more by Taylor E Weston.
August 13, 2025
4.5⭐️
OH DO I LOVE A FRIENDS TO LOVERS!! i just loved chuck and tommy together, i love how self-assured tommy was in wanting chuck and the way they navigated their mental health was done super well. i love some depresh representation. just overall such a warm feeling in my chest after reading this, very glad i picked it up
OH DO I LOVE A FRIENDS TO LOVERS!! i just loved chuck and tommy together, i love how self-assured tommy was in wanting chuck and the way they navigated their mental health was done super well. i love some depresh representation. just overall such a warm feeling in my chest after reading this, very glad i picked it up
May 1, 2025
This was a great read by a great indie author. If need your romance books to have more of a plot than: they get together, this one’s for you! Both characters are dealing with heavy issues, which Taylor navigates with authenticity and respect.
I was engaged in the story from the start--rooting for Chuck as he tried to navigate his depression, rooting for Tommy as he tried to figure out his sexuality and his demanding job. And I was obviously rooting for the two of them to fall in love and bang (which they did, a lot).
Taylor writes great dialogue, and it’s easy to imagine you’re sitting around with the friend group, laughing and drinking with them. My only tiny complaint was that the story’s takeaways were shouted at the reader too many times. I would have preferred a lighter touch, as I think there were some great moments between the characters at the end that spoke for themselves, and the heavy handed narration took away from them. But that’s a genre norm, so I’m probably in the minority.
Anyway, go buy this book when it comes out!
I was engaged in the story from the start--rooting for Chuck as he tried to navigate his depression, rooting for Tommy as he tried to figure out his sexuality and his demanding job. And I was obviously rooting for the two of them to fall in love and bang (which they did, a lot).
Taylor writes great dialogue, and it’s easy to imagine you’re sitting around with the friend group, laughing and drinking with them. My only tiny complaint was that the story’s takeaways were shouted at the reader too many times. I would have preferred a lighter touch, as I think there were some great moments between the characters at the end that spoke for themselves, and the heavy handed narration took away from them. But that’s a genre norm, so I’m probably in the minority.
Anyway, go buy this book when it comes out!
May 23, 2025
Poolside by Taylor E. Weston is a M/M romance following business-centric and recently divorced Tommy and pool instructor/coach Chuck.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐.5 (rounded up to 4)
💦Bi/Demi Awakening
💦Friends to lovers
💦Queer rep
💦Cat Daddy
💦Forced Proximity Possum
💦Just keep swimming
💦Mental Health Rep
After his divorce, Tommy was in a relationship and dating rut. So, instead, he decides to focus his attention on a work promotion, one which involves a weekend getaway at a head honcho's lakeside house and a marathon swim across said lake. Problem is, Tommy hates open water. But luckily his best friend Chuck gives in and helps him overcome his fears. The more time they spend together, Tommy begins to realize that he might be having feelings for Chuck and when Chuck finally comes out to his friends, wonders if they could be more together.
I really enjoyed this book. Tommy and Chuck were the perfect compliments to one another. I liked seeing both of their struggles in terms of former relationships and dealing with them together. The vulnerability between them was wonderful. That being said, I did think there were some slower moments, a plot point I didn't quite get the purpose, and a 3rd act pause that, while I understood, was not my favorite. Still, the relationship stood out between our boys and it was sweet and spicy.
If you're just getting into MM Romances and want something with heart and heat, Poolside is a great place to dip your toes in and test the waters.
Thank you to Taylor E. Weston for a copy of this ARC.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐.5 (rounded up to 4)
💦Bi/Demi Awakening
💦Friends to lovers
💦Queer rep
💦Cat Daddy
💦Forced Proximity Possum
💦Just keep swimming
💦Mental Health Rep
After his divorce, Tommy was in a relationship and dating rut. So, instead, he decides to focus his attention on a work promotion, one which involves a weekend getaway at a head honcho's lakeside house and a marathon swim across said lake. Problem is, Tommy hates open water. But luckily his best friend Chuck gives in and helps him overcome his fears. The more time they spend together, Tommy begins to realize that he might be having feelings for Chuck and when Chuck finally comes out to his friends, wonders if they could be more together.
I really enjoyed this book. Tommy and Chuck were the perfect compliments to one another. I liked seeing both of their struggles in terms of former relationships and dealing with them together. The vulnerability between them was wonderful. That being said, I did think there were some slower moments, a plot point I didn't quite get the purpose, and a 3rd act pause that, while I understood, was not my favorite. Still, the relationship stood out between our boys and it was sweet and spicy.
If you're just getting into MM Romances and want something with heart and heat, Poolside is a great place to dip your toes in and test the waters.
Thank you to Taylor E. Weston for a copy of this ARC.
May 19, 2025
There are some authors who just 'get' writing emotion, vulnerability, messiness and kindness in relationships.
As an author, Taylor has a skill in recording the nitty gritty of mental health struggles with an authenticity that never leaves the reader feeling like they are voyeurs. There is no enjoyment in the pain and struggle the characters face. You are carried through the story arc to sit beside the characters and feel as they struggle, as they see light and as they find balance.
Poolside takes us back to Southeastern Alumni to the friend-family group introduced in Courtside. Chuck, a collegiate swim coach, has been living with clinical depression. Something that only his college roommate, David Hughes, knows. What David isn't aware of, is that Chuck has been carrying the weight of his hidden sexuality since high school.
Well known member of the group, Tommy, is recalibrating to his life after a divorce from his university sweetheart. Chuck is who Tommy turns to in moments only a best friend can fill. As part of vying for a work promotion, Tommy engages Chuck to train him for an open water swim. Over the course of Poolside, we traverse the evolution of their relationship from steadfast friends to more.
I loved the way the character, Tommy was written to accept his developing feelings and ergo, fluid sexuality so simply. There was a brief moment of hesitance but no freakout, just a simple acceptance that this burgeoning relationship with Chuck was as natural as breathing. Bi-awakening, demi-identifying, whichever label we affix, this was an ideal that suited Tommy's big hearted character.
The author portrayed Chuck's depression was so real and vulnerable. As a partner to somone who has struggled with depression, I recognised the malaise, the fear, the impacts of medication (both positive and negative) and struggle to keep the external "everythings alright" image intact for fear of rejection. This story navigates some of the complex elements that make asking for and accepting help so hard when you're "in the weeds".
Chuck living with his cats and the opossum added pieces of recognisable reality. I loved the imagery, that when the world is falling apart the constancy of the care and companionship of the cats is something to hold even when there is a feral animal under the floorboards causing problems.
The found family dynamic in the Southeastern Alumni are a standout cast. They are so beautifully individual yet cohesive and supportive as a group, as only mates who you’ve grown into adulthood can be. That authenticity of a longstanding friendship
I fell in love with Taylor's writing in S&F and I can see between Courtside and Poolside the writer growth that is taking place. As an auto read author for me, Poolside will stand as story against which to measure all other contemporary romance this year.
Chuck and Tommy are couple and friendship goals. They each have a story to share and Taylor E Weston does them justice.
With many thanks to Taylor E Weston for the eARC to read ahead of publication,
As an author, Taylor has a skill in recording the nitty gritty of mental health struggles with an authenticity that never leaves the reader feeling like they are voyeurs. There is no enjoyment in the pain and struggle the characters face. You are carried through the story arc to sit beside the characters and feel as they struggle, as they see light and as they find balance.
Poolside takes us back to Southeastern Alumni to the friend-family group introduced in Courtside. Chuck, a collegiate swim coach, has been living with clinical depression. Something that only his college roommate, David Hughes, knows. What David isn't aware of, is that Chuck has been carrying the weight of his hidden sexuality since high school.
Well known member of the group, Tommy, is recalibrating to his life after a divorce from his university sweetheart. Chuck is who Tommy turns to in moments only a best friend can fill. As part of vying for a work promotion, Tommy engages Chuck to train him for an open water swim. Over the course of Poolside, we traverse the evolution of their relationship from steadfast friends to more.
I loved the way the character, Tommy was written to accept his developing feelings and ergo, fluid sexuality so simply. There was a brief moment of hesitance but no freakout, just a simple acceptance that this burgeoning relationship with Chuck was as natural as breathing. Bi-awakening, demi-identifying, whichever label we affix, this was an ideal that suited Tommy's big hearted character.
The author portrayed Chuck's depression was so real and vulnerable. As a partner to somone who has struggled with depression, I recognised the malaise, the fear, the impacts of medication (both positive and negative) and struggle to keep the external "everythings alright" image intact for fear of rejection. This story navigates some of the complex elements that make asking for and accepting help so hard when you're "in the weeds".
Chuck living with his cats and the opossum added pieces of recognisable reality. I loved the imagery, that when the world is falling apart the constancy of the care and companionship of the cats is something to hold even when there is a feral animal under the floorboards causing problems.
The found family dynamic in the Southeastern Alumni are a standout cast. They are so beautifully individual yet cohesive and supportive as a group, as only mates who you’ve grown into adulthood can be. That authenticity of a longstanding friendship
I fell in love with Taylor's writing in S&F and I can see between Courtside and Poolside the writer growth that is taking place. As an auto read author for me, Poolside will stand as story against which to measure all other contemporary romance this year.
Chuck and Tommy are couple and friendship goals. They each have a story to share and Taylor E Weston does them justice.
With many thanks to Taylor E Weston for the eARC to read ahead of publication,
May 12, 2025
I am a walking advertisement for this novel. Never has a book rendered me so book-drunk as Poolside, by Taylor E. Weston. It has taken me too long to write this review because I have struggled putting into coherent words my feelings. I have never read a more accurate and heart-breaking description of clinical depression. Chuck’s journey and self-acceptance with his mental health so closely mirrors mine that I feel as though Weston managed to take my experiences and eloquently put them in this book.
Poolside is the second novel in the Southeastern Alumni series, but is a complete stand-a-lone. Chuck has been hiding his true self from all his closest friends. He’s seen as the friendly, easy-going swim coach, and he is. But he is also a gay man and struggles with clinical depression. Tommy thought he had it all, until his divorce left him feeling rudderless and empty, focusing on a job that doesn’t bring him joy. Needing swim lessons to compete in his boss’s lake race, Tommy naturally goes to Chuck. Chuck has been his safe space ever since his divorce, plus he’s the swim coach for their alma mater. He’s Tommy’s favorite person in the world, so it’s a no-brainer. As the two spend more time together, the two men learn about themselves, about friendship, and about love.
Oh. My heart. I want to read Poolside for the first time again. And I also want to live in Chuck and Tommy’s world. There is nothing I love more than a book about men being nurturing and vulnerable. Especially when these men live and work in heavily hetereo-normative-coded worlds like athletics or bro-heavy careers. And Chuck and Tommy are couple goals - their friendship is the basis for a supportive and steamy love story that gave me warm-and-fuzzies as well as hot-and-bothereds. The book has hilarious and eccentric friends, an animal-based adventure (I love a good opossum side-character), a bi/demi-awakening, and super steamy scenes. (showers, the tv show Spartacus, a car? mama mia.)
Read Poolside. I love this book. I love Tommy and Chuck and I love Tommy-and-Chuck (Chommy? Tuck?). I love that clinical depression is a part of Chuck’s story but not his defining characteristic. I love Tommy’s self-exploration and his growth. I love this book. And I love that you can read it, too.
I received an advance review copy for free from the author, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Poolside is the second novel in the Southeastern Alumni series, but is a complete stand-a-lone. Chuck has been hiding his true self from all his closest friends. He’s seen as the friendly, easy-going swim coach, and he is. But he is also a gay man and struggles with clinical depression. Tommy thought he had it all, until his divorce left him feeling rudderless and empty, focusing on a job that doesn’t bring him joy. Needing swim lessons to compete in his boss’s lake race, Tommy naturally goes to Chuck. Chuck has been his safe space ever since his divorce, plus he’s the swim coach for their alma mater. He’s Tommy’s favorite person in the world, so it’s a no-brainer. As the two spend more time together, the two men learn about themselves, about friendship, and about love.
Oh. My heart. I want to read Poolside for the first time again. And I also want to live in Chuck and Tommy’s world. There is nothing I love more than a book about men being nurturing and vulnerable. Especially when these men live and work in heavily hetereo-normative-coded worlds like athletics or bro-heavy careers. And Chuck and Tommy are couple goals - their friendship is the basis for a supportive and steamy love story that gave me warm-and-fuzzies as well as hot-and-bothereds. The book has hilarious and eccentric friends, an animal-based adventure (I love a good opossum side-character), a bi/demi-awakening, and super steamy scenes. (showers, the tv show Spartacus, a car? mama mia.)
Read Poolside. I love this book. I love Tommy and Chuck and I love Tommy-and-Chuck (Chommy? Tuck?). I love that clinical depression is a part of Chuck’s story but not his defining characteristic. I love Tommy’s self-exploration and his growth. I love this book. And I love that you can read it, too.
I received an advance review copy for free from the author, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 19, 2025
*Thank you Taylor for letting me read an ARC! Per usual, my review and opinions are 100% my own*
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️
"Are you with me, baby?"
Top headline, I LOVED Tommy and Chuck and their band of friends and this entire story! You don’t need to have read Courtside (book 1 in this series) to enjoy this but I do recommend you read that as well!
We don’t deserve Tommy and Chuck. They’re perfect in all their imperfections.
Taylor just knows how to write down-to-earth, relatable, yet engaging stories. Sometimes when authors write about very normal people (not crazy mafia, billionaire, or some other fantastical storyline, which don't get me twisted I love those stories), it can feel rather boring and flat. Not when Taylor writes it though. This felt like a cozy warm hug in front of a perfectly tended fireplace. It has heat (the spice is... ooh... so good), but it develops so naturally. The relationships and the character development happen in such an organic way that you never once read something and go "wtf just happened there?". I absolutely love the mental health rep, the bi-awakening, and the depth and education that happens in this book about both of those things was pure perfection. You feel their stories even if you personally know nothing about them, and you're invested in their happiness. The relationship not only between Tommy and Chuck, but all of their friends, are so understanding and mature, this is the way we should all strive for our loves (romantic or not) to show up for us, and we could all learn a thing or two about how to be better friends and partners.
This book made me feel so warm and fuzzy inside, and I am going to love these two throughout this entire series. And TAYLOR!!! Teasing us with Keaton and Maggie?! Pleaseeeeee tell me that's the next book in this series because I need it NOW.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️
"Are you with me, baby?"
Top headline, I LOVED Tommy and Chuck and their band of friends and this entire story! You don’t need to have read Courtside (book 1 in this series) to enjoy this but I do recommend you read that as well!
We don’t deserve Tommy and Chuck. They’re perfect in all their imperfections.
Taylor just knows how to write down-to-earth, relatable, yet engaging stories. Sometimes when authors write about very normal people (not crazy mafia, billionaire, or some other fantastical storyline, which don't get me twisted I love those stories), it can feel rather boring and flat. Not when Taylor writes it though. This felt like a cozy warm hug in front of a perfectly tended fireplace. It has heat (the spice is... ooh... so good), but it develops so naturally. The relationships and the character development happen in such an organic way that you never once read something and go "wtf just happened there?". I absolutely love the mental health rep, the bi-awakening, and the depth and education that happens in this book about both of those things was pure perfection. You feel their stories even if you personally know nothing about them, and you're invested in their happiness. The relationship not only between Tommy and Chuck, but all of their friends, are so understanding and mature, this is the way we should all strive for our loves (romantic or not) to show up for us, and we could all learn a thing or two about how to be better friends and partners.
This book made me feel so warm and fuzzy inside, and I am going to love these two throughout this entire series. And TAYLOR!!! Teasing us with Keaton and Maggie?! Pleaseeeeee tell me that's the next book in this series because I need it NOW.
May 7, 2025
🛁 𝚁𝚎𝚟𝚒𝚎𝚠 🛁
Poolside by Taylor E. Weston
“Yes, Tommy. Yes to all of it.”
Synopsis: When Tommy Littleton, divorce and workaholic, realizes that a promotion hangs in the balance, he’ll do anything to get his hands on it. That including asking his swim coach best friend Chuck to coach him in open-water swimming so that Tommy can beat all the competition at his bosses annual lake retreat. Little do Tommy and Chuck know that sometimes, when you find yourself in the deep end, you either sink or swim.
Firstly, let me thank Taylor for allowing me to be on the ARC team for this fabulous MM romance. My first read of hers and it will certainly not be the last, Poolside reminded me why I love romance books in the first place, specifically MM.
These two characters felt so genuine, both individually and in the friendship they share that eventually blossoms into more. I love their friend dates making dinner and watching Spartacus just as much as I love Chucks perpetually blue nails and Tommy’s drive to put his all into anything he does. Wonderful characters whose love story you will devour.
The spice in this book hit the exact right spot for me (specifically the “that’s how it’s supposed to feel” scene 🤤) and the care that these two friends to lovers take with each other is the every person should handle their significant other. I also adored the mental health representation, the found family aspects, and the overall lightness this book had surrounding it (much like Taylor herself, who I had the pleasure of meeting in person at Sports Romance Con, and is a ball of pure sunshine.
If you like your MM romance with a side of bi-awakening, Instalove, HEA’s, and that touch of sports romance we all love, then add Poolside to your 2025 TBR and pick it up when it releases on 5/23/25.❤️✨📚🩲
Poolside by Taylor E. Weston
“Yes, Tommy. Yes to all of it.”
Synopsis: When Tommy Littleton, divorce and workaholic, realizes that a promotion hangs in the balance, he’ll do anything to get his hands on it. That including asking his swim coach best friend Chuck to coach him in open-water swimming so that Tommy can beat all the competition at his bosses annual lake retreat. Little do Tommy and Chuck know that sometimes, when you find yourself in the deep end, you either sink or swim.
Firstly, let me thank Taylor for allowing me to be on the ARC team for this fabulous MM romance. My first read of hers and it will certainly not be the last, Poolside reminded me why I love romance books in the first place, specifically MM.
These two characters felt so genuine, both individually and in the friendship they share that eventually blossoms into more. I love their friend dates making dinner and watching Spartacus just as much as I love Chucks perpetually blue nails and Tommy’s drive to put his all into anything he does. Wonderful characters whose love story you will devour.
The spice in this book hit the exact right spot for me (specifically the “that’s how it’s supposed to feel” scene 🤤) and the care that these two friends to lovers take with each other is the every person should handle their significant other. I also adored the mental health representation, the found family aspects, and the overall lightness this book had surrounding it (much like Taylor herself, who I had the pleasure of meeting in person at Sports Romance Con, and is a ball of pure sunshine.
If you like your MM romance with a side of bi-awakening, Instalove, HEA’s, and that touch of sports romance we all love, then add Poolside to your 2025 TBR and pick it up when it releases on 5/23/25.❤️✨📚🩲
May 30, 2025
“There’s no one in the world who could compare to you.”
“Bullshit.” Chuck rolled his eyes as he felt a grin tug at his lips.
“Those pretty eyes and freckles?” Tommy reached over the center console and placed a big hand on Chuck’s thigh. “You’re in a league of your own, Chuck.”
Poolside is a “picked up on a whim” book that morphed into a, “guess I'm staying up all night to read this” book. That's primarily down to the main characters, Tommy and Chuck. Tommychuck are actually interesting and fleshed out characters who's friends-to-lovers romance progressed at decent, if a bit unrealistic, pace.
“Why are you so good to me?” Chuck knew he sounded like a broken record, but even after more than a month with Tommy, it still felt new to trust someone like this. Tommy tightened his hold around him.
“Being good to you is the easiest thing I’ve ever done, Chuck. It’s not work or an obligation. Every part of me wants to l—” He broke off, clearing his throat. Chuck heard his own heartbeat slamming in his ears. “To care for every part of you,” Tommy finished. “It’s just that easy.”
While I would have preferred the switch from friends-to-lovers (on Tommy's part) had taken a bit longer I still really bought into their relationship. I also thought Weston did a great job highlighting, and not glossing over, Chuck's struggle with depression.
Now I guess I'll just wait patiently for Wade's book <3
May 23, 2025
“𝓨𝓸𝓾 𝓴𝓷𝓸𝔀 𝓽𝓱𝓪𝓽 𝔂𝓸𝓾’𝓻𝓮 𝓶𝔂 𝓯𝓪𝓿𝓸𝓻𝓲𝓽𝓮, 𝓻𝓲𝓰𝓱𝓽?”
These two are everything you want in a friends to lovers romance. They have the connection and the banter and the care. The care they have for each other warmed my heart to no end.
Tommy is the definition of business bro in the way he talks and acts but has the biggest heart especially for Chuck. Chuck sweet Chuck is struggling with not only how to come out to his friends but also his mental health. It was handled with such grace both aspects of him coming out to his friends and him dealing with his mental health and the changes that happen. When Chuck does come out Tommy goes through many emotions like worrying why his best friend didn’t tell him but also woke up his feelings I feel they were always there but when Chuck came out it allowed Tommy to understand himself a little more. It does a great job talking about how everyone’s journey is different in many aspects but these two are goals.
~~What to Expect~~
🌊Friends to Lovers
🌊Bi-Awakening/ MM
🌊Demi Rep
🌊Business Bro X Swim Coach
🌊Dual 3rd Person POV
🌊Mental Health Rep
🌊Found Family
🌊No 3rd Act Break Up
~~Quote~~
🩲You’re everything a person could ever want
🩲Just once. One time wouldn’t be enough to leave him broken.
🩲He couldn’t lift the weight of the world from Chuck’s shoulders but he could stand by his side while he got back on his feet.
These two are everything you want in a friends to lovers romance. They have the connection and the banter and the care. The care they have for each other warmed my heart to no end.
Tommy is the definition of business bro in the way he talks and acts but has the biggest heart especially for Chuck. Chuck sweet Chuck is struggling with not only how to come out to his friends but also his mental health. It was handled with such grace both aspects of him coming out to his friends and him dealing with his mental health and the changes that happen. When Chuck does come out Tommy goes through many emotions like worrying why his best friend didn’t tell him but also woke up his feelings I feel they were always there but when Chuck came out it allowed Tommy to understand himself a little more. It does a great job talking about how everyone’s journey is different in many aspects but these two are goals.
~~What to Expect~~
🌊Friends to Lovers
🌊Bi-Awakening/ MM
🌊Demi Rep
🌊Business Bro X Swim Coach
🌊Dual 3rd Person POV
🌊Mental Health Rep
🌊Found Family
🌊No 3rd Act Break Up
~~Quote~~
🩲You’re everything a person could ever want
🩲Just once. One time wouldn’t be enough to leave him broken.
🩲He couldn’t lift the weight of the world from Chuck’s shoulders but he could stand by his side while he got back on his feet.
May 15, 2025
4.5/5 ⭐️s!!
I LOVED this book! Chuck and Tommy were *chef’s kiss* perfect characters for this story.
Watching them go from best friends who weren’t being completely honest about who they were (Chuck) and feeling like something was missing in their life (Tommy) to two men being completely vulnerable and open with one another was so beautiful. They both have their own struggles and challenges that come up throughout the book but the way they choose to support each other was so wonderful.
In my opinion the spice hit just right 🫦🥵😍 I’m also glad we got some more time with the friend group we were introduced to in Courtside (Southeastern Alumni Book 1).
So much happened in this book, and I don’t want to give away too much, but some things you can expect are:
- Friends to lovers
- Bi & Demi-awakening
- Mental health & depression representation
- Coming out
- Found family
- Forehead kisses
- Speedos
Get your hands on Poolside when it comes out on May 23!
I LOVED this book! Chuck and Tommy were *chef’s kiss* perfect characters for this story.
Watching them go from best friends who weren’t being completely honest about who they were (Chuck) and feeling like something was missing in their life (Tommy) to two men being completely vulnerable and open with one another was so beautiful. They both have their own struggles and challenges that come up throughout the book but the way they choose to support each other was so wonderful.
In my opinion the spice hit just right 🫦🥵😍 I’m also glad we got some more time with the friend group we were introduced to in Courtside (Southeastern Alumni Book 1).
So much happened in this book, and I don’t want to give away too much, but some things you can expect are:
- Friends to lovers
- Bi & Demi-awakening
- Mental health & depression representation
- Coming out
- Found family
- Forehead kisses
- Speedos
Get your hands on Poolside when it comes out on May 23!
May 26, 2025
[“You want to try” … “I’m in if you are”]
I really enjoyed my first read from Taylor E. Weston, and I really look forward to reading Courtside, and Taylor’s next published stories. I met this author earlier this year and she was absolutely lovely.
I loved Tommy and Chuck’s story, individually and together, for so many reasons. This story follows two best friends as they learn and come to terms with their sexuality. One, with more of an understanding of his sexually, but having lost because of it, while the other experiences a bi-awakening after learning of his best friend, and after having gone through a divorce with a woman. This story teaches readers that everyone’s journey in sexuality is different and can change over time, and it offers an understanding into the inner workings of the challenges of having depression and the challenges exploring medication can have on an individual.
I resonated with the mental health aspect of the story, and cried with happiness and pride for the couple even at 27% into the read.
I very much enjoyed this read.
What to expect:
MM
Friends to Lovers
Sports Romance (swimming)
Mental Health Rep
Biawakening and Queer Rep
Cat daddy
I voluntarily read an Advance Reader Copy of Poolside, and I am providing my honest review. Thank you, Taylor E. Weston, for the opportunity
I really enjoyed my first read from Taylor E. Weston, and I really look forward to reading Courtside, and Taylor’s next published stories. I met this author earlier this year and she was absolutely lovely.
I loved Tommy and Chuck’s story, individually and together, for so many reasons. This story follows two best friends as they learn and come to terms with their sexuality. One, with more of an understanding of his sexually, but having lost because of it, while the other experiences a bi-awakening after learning of his best friend, and after having gone through a divorce with a woman. This story teaches readers that everyone’s journey in sexuality is different and can change over time, and it offers an understanding into the inner workings of the challenges of having depression and the challenges exploring medication can have on an individual.
I resonated with the mental health aspect of the story, and cried with happiness and pride for the couple even at 27% into the read.
I very much enjoyed this read.
What to expect:
MM
Friends to Lovers
Sports Romance (swimming)
Mental Health Rep
Biawakening and Queer Rep
Cat daddy
I voluntarily read an Advance Reader Copy of Poolside, and I am providing my honest review. Thank you, Taylor E. Weston, for the opportunity
May 28, 2025
I read this book in 2 sittings, and I cannot wait to go back and read book 1. It was such a great read. I don't know who I loved more, because Tommy and Chuck are both so damn lovable and they are so cute together. Both characters had baggage, and they felt so real.
The progression from friends to lovers was so sweet but the tension added some spice. I loved that Tommy wasn't that phased by the realisation that he was into his best friend. The bisexual awakening was done really well and the support he got was beautiful.
If you know me, you know I love found family, and this one was perfect. The way they all rallied to offer support and love even when Chuck was trying to hide melted my heart. I adored the way they were all rooting for Tommy on his quest to understand and prove his feelings for Chuck.
Chuck's depression was written well and was great representation. I felt every emotion along with him and it was so heartbreaking. It also deals with the side effects of SSRIs and how they affect your life.
The perfect sweet and spicy romance with some added emotional depth.
The progression from friends to lovers was so sweet but the tension added some spice. I loved that Tommy wasn't that phased by the realisation that he was into his best friend. The bisexual awakening was done really well and the support he got was beautiful.
If you know me, you know I love found family, and this one was perfect. The way they all rallied to offer support and love even when Chuck was trying to hide melted my heart. I adored the way they were all rooting for Tommy on his quest to understand and prove his feelings for Chuck.
Chuck's depression was written well and was great representation. I felt every emotion along with him and it was so heartbreaking. It also deals with the side effects of SSRIs and how they affect your life.
The perfect sweet and spicy romance with some added emotional depth.
May 2, 2025
5 ⭐️ 4 🌶️
On the surface, Poolside is a fluffy story about a bi-curious guy discovering an attraction to his best friend. It’s much deeper than that, though.
Tommy is a lovable, fun guy; a good boss, a good friend. He’s also divorced, and navigating a life of unexpected loneliness. He expected to be sharing his life with a wife, but that didn’t work out, and he’s somewhat lost.
Chuck has been hurt by the people who are supposed to love him unconditionally. That experience has had him hiding the parts of himself he believes are unlovable. He’s not out to his close-knit friend group, and he doesn’t share his mental health struggles with his friends either.
Chuck’s decision to come out really opens Tommy’s eyes to his not so innocent feelings and reactions to Chuck. As they navigate their new dynamic, Chuck has to learn to trust if he wants to build a future with Tommy.
Tommy and Chuck both read like real people. Their story isn’t a fairytale, their relationship requires work. I think that makes the HEA all the sweeter.
On the surface, Poolside is a fluffy story about a bi-curious guy discovering an attraction to his best friend. It’s much deeper than that, though.
Tommy is a lovable, fun guy; a good boss, a good friend. He’s also divorced, and navigating a life of unexpected loneliness. He expected to be sharing his life with a wife, but that didn’t work out, and he’s somewhat lost.
Chuck has been hurt by the people who are supposed to love him unconditionally. That experience has had him hiding the parts of himself he believes are unlovable. He’s not out to his close-knit friend group, and he doesn’t share his mental health struggles with his friends either.
Chuck’s decision to come out really opens Tommy’s eyes to his not so innocent feelings and reactions to Chuck. As they navigate their new dynamic, Chuck has to learn to trust if he wants to build a future with Tommy.
Tommy and Chuck both read like real people. Their story isn’t a fairytale, their relationship requires work. I think that makes the HEA all the sweeter.
May 13, 2025
*ARC REVIEW*
Chuck and Tommy are adorable. Friends to lovers is a top tier trope for me, I'll never get tired of it. I adored their friendship with each other and with the rest of the group. It's the type of supportive friend group every person dreams of. The relationship between them was full of fluff but also struggles. Chuck and Tommy have struggles of their own but they're always there for each other when it matters. The way the author portrayed depression in this was handled so well and delicately and I love that. Knowing she had sensitivity readers not only for mental health but for queers as well made this story feel more authentic. I think she did great dealing with Chuck's mental health and the reality of what its like not just for him but for those around him who love him and want to help.
This was my first Taylor book and it did not disappoint. Looking forward to what she has planned next.
I would like to thank Taylor E. Weston for the opportunity to ARC read this and this is my honest review.
Chuck and Tommy are adorable. Friends to lovers is a top tier trope for me, I'll never get tired of it. I adored their friendship with each other and with the rest of the group. It's the type of supportive friend group every person dreams of. The relationship between them was full of fluff but also struggles. Chuck and Tommy have struggles of their own but they're always there for each other when it matters. The way the author portrayed depression in this was handled so well and delicately and I love that. Knowing she had sensitivity readers not only for mental health but for queers as well made this story feel more authentic. I think she did great dealing with Chuck's mental health and the reality of what its like not just for him but for those around him who love him and want to help.
This was my first Taylor book and it did not disappoint. Looking forward to what she has planned next.
I would like to thank Taylor E. Weston for the opportunity to ARC read this and this is my honest review.
May 7, 2025
Tommy and Chuck's story was everything I hoped for after reading Courtside last year! I intended to take my time reading this one but from the first page, I was invested in these wonderfully real characters and their supportive friends. The whole crew of supporting characters brought so much depth and humor to the story. There were plenty of sweet romantic moments that had me giggling, kicking my feet. But what struck me the most was Taylor's willingness to explore the more complex and bittersweet realities of life and falling in love. As someone who also navigates life with depression, Chuck's experiences really resonated with my own lived experience. I really appreciate that the heavier topics in the story were explored with so much care and compassion. Taylor E. Weston has earned a spot on my favorite authors list, and so I'm excited to see what's next!
Some of my favorite, possibly spoiler-y quotes:
Some of my favorite, possibly spoiler-y quotes:
May 1, 2025
This. Was. So. Good.
Now at first I was scared because I'm a third person pov hater.... HOWEVER: this still ate. This entire Southeastern friend group is so fun and wholesome I just love them.
Tommy was truly so precious, and his journey was so interesting to read. As with Chuck and his mental health struggles. Absolutely none of the issues in this book were relatable to me at all, but I loved it just the same.
Tommy's obsession with Alexander the Great kinda threw me off at first, but he's just got quirks, it's alright.
This book had me rooting for these guys SO intensely. Precious besties that found out they could be even more than besties. So much care and love in these pages. So good. Also best friend in the world award does go to David Hughes for sure.
"They were a pair of adorable idiots, that's what they were" is such a good line and I think it sums Chuck and Tommy up so well.
So many thanks to Taylor for this ARC <333
Now at first I was scared because I'm a third person pov hater.... HOWEVER: this still ate. This entire Southeastern friend group is so fun and wholesome I just love them.
Tommy was truly so precious, and his journey was so interesting to read. As with Chuck and his mental health struggles. Absolutely none of the issues in this book were relatable to me at all, but I loved it just the same.
Tommy's obsession with Alexander the Great kinda threw me off at first, but he's just got quirks, it's alright.
This book had me rooting for these guys SO intensely. Precious besties that found out they could be even more than besties. So much care and love in these pages. So good. Also best friend in the world award does go to David Hughes for sure.
"They were a pair of adorable idiots, that's what they were" is such a good line and I think it sums Chuck and Tommy up so well.
So many thanks to Taylor for this ARC <333
May 6, 2025
Ahhh I loved this book SOOOO much!! It is a heavy emotional read (HUGE on the mental health rep) but Taylor did an amazing job with navigating the heavy topics in such a realistic way and the romance between Chuck and Tommy.
Tommy is struggling with what to do with his life after his divorce, and Chuck is just straight up struggling with his emotions. I really loved how Taylor fleshed out Tommy and Chuck's characters in this book, their emotional growth, and yes COMMUNICATION!! The dual POV was incredibly insightful into both characters and enhanced my emotional connection to the two. I do resonate with Chuck and his depression, I love that it's portrayed accurately in how it can affect those in a relationship when one person has depression.
This book also navigates the struggles/fears of coming out, having a bi/demi awakening, and also holy hell it is SPICYYY.
Thank you Taylor E. Weston for the eARC!
Tommy is struggling with what to do with his life after his divorce, and Chuck is just straight up struggling with his emotions. I really loved how Taylor fleshed out Tommy and Chuck's characters in this book, their emotional growth, and yes COMMUNICATION!! The dual POV was incredibly insightful into both characters and enhanced my emotional connection to the two. I do resonate with Chuck and his depression, I love that it's portrayed accurately in how it can affect those in a relationship when one person has depression.
This book also navigates the struggles/fears of coming out, having a bi/demi awakening, and also holy hell it is SPICYYY.
Thank you Taylor E. Weston for the eARC!
May 4, 2025
I will never ever be over these two!
I went into Poolside loving the premise of the story, but also unsure seeing as I am the biggest hater of third person point of view. However Taylor E. Westons writing is so beyond beautiful I hardly noticed it. This story is one that speaks for itself. I hardly have the words to describe how much I loved this story and these characters.
Taylor not only gave us a sweet romance but she also gave us Plot. These characters don't just fall in love and live happily ever after. Chuck and Tommy both faced heavy, real life struggles that were handled in a very respectful way. Between bi-disasters, accurate mental health struggles, conflicts within the job, and a found family that goes above and beyond for their people. I am beyond obsessed with this world and can't wait to see where these characters go from here.
I went into Poolside loving the premise of the story, but also unsure seeing as I am the biggest hater of third person point of view. However Taylor E. Westons writing is so beyond beautiful I hardly noticed it. This story is one that speaks for itself. I hardly have the words to describe how much I loved this story and these characters.
Taylor not only gave us a sweet romance but she also gave us Plot. These characters don't just fall in love and live happily ever after. Chuck and Tommy both faced heavy, real life struggles that were handled in a very respectful way. Between bi-disasters, accurate mental health struggles, conflicts within the job, and a found family that goes above and beyond for their people. I am beyond obsessed with this world and can't wait to see where these characters go from here.
May 15, 2025
Chuck and Tommy’s friends-to-lovers journey is emotionally layered. Chuck, a swim coach carrying the weight of past trauma and depression, is someone you want to reach into the pages and hug. And Tommy? The supportive, emotionally grounded businessman who’s been in love with Chuck for years—he’s a total softie and exactly what Chuck needs.
My absolute favorite scenes were the swim practices. There’s something so intimate and electric about those moments—when Chuck is coaching Tommy, but their emotions and attraction simmer just beneath the surface.
And when they finally cross that line into physical intimacy, it’s written with so much care and emotion. It wasn’t just a steamy scene—it felt earned. Their first time was tender, intense, and beautifully captured. One of my favorite scenes in the whole book.❤️🔥❤️🔥
My absolute favorite scenes were the swim practices. There’s something so intimate and electric about those moments—when Chuck is coaching Tommy, but their emotions and attraction simmer just beneath the surface.
And when they finally cross that line into physical intimacy, it’s written with so much care and emotion. It wasn’t just a steamy scene—it felt earned. Their first time was tender, intense, and beautifully captured. One of my favorite scenes in the whole book.❤️🔥❤️🔥
May 19, 2025
Such a great read! Totally add it to your TBR for your summer poolside/beachside entertainment. We meet our MMC's Tommy and Chuck. They have been friends since college - Tommy recently divorced and Chuck in the closet gay man. It's a lovely slow burn/bi awakening/friends to lovers romance. It also touches on live post divorce and very well written and realistic day to day struggles with depression. There's an amazing supporting cast that are just as well written as the current MMC's.
While this is book 2 in this series - you don't need to read the first one, there are some references among the friend group - but nothing that you miss on - tho would probably be spoilers if you read them in reverse. I was so lucky to get an ARC read of this book and I can't wait to go back and read book 1 and I'm already anxiously awaiting book3!
While this is book 2 in this series - you don't need to read the first one, there are some references among the friend group - but nothing that you miss on - tho would probably be spoilers if you read them in reverse. I was so lucky to get an ARC read of this book and I can't wait to go back and read book 1 and I'm already anxiously awaiting book3!
May 23, 2025
In Poolside, Taylor E. Weston gives us a gorgeously layered friends-to-lovers romance between Tommy—a divorced, career-focused guy trying to win a work competition—and Chuck, a closeted queer, soft-hearted college swim coach quietly battling depression. When Tommy’s promotion hinges on surviving an open water swim, he turns to Chuck for help. What begins as coaching quickly turns into emotional closeness, and then something tender, electric, and beautifully complicated.
Chuck has been quietly in love with Tommy for a decade, but never crossed that line. Watching them finally confront those feelings, navigate boundaries, and discover new parts of themselves is pure magic. Tommy’s bi and demi awakening is written with stunning sensitivity—affirming, slow, and never forced. Chuck’s mental health journey is honest and respectful, making this romance feel as emotionally nourishing as it is hot. And yes, the spice delivers—three peppers worth of earned intimacy.
It’s hard to overstate how good the queer rep is here. This is representation that feels lived-in, thoughtful, and deeply respectful. I’d give it six stars if I could.
Chuck has been quietly in love with Tommy for a decade, but never crossed that line. Watching them finally confront those feelings, navigate boundaries, and discover new parts of themselves is pure magic. Tommy’s bi and demi awakening is written with stunning sensitivity—affirming, slow, and never forced. Chuck’s mental health journey is honest and respectful, making this romance feel as emotionally nourishing as it is hot. And yes, the spice delivers—three peppers worth of earned intimacy.
It’s hard to overstate how good the queer rep is here. This is representation that feels lived-in, thoughtful, and deeply respectful. I’d give it six stars if I could.
May 27, 2025
story of Tommy and Chuck
This is a friends to more romance, featuring Tommy Littleton and Chuck McCormac, and is book four in the Southeastern Alumni series.
After his divorce, Tommy tries to impress his boss with a swim challenge and turns to his best friend Chuck for help. When a kiss sparks unexpected feelings, both men must figure out if their friendship can turn into something more.
Tommy was all kinds of adorable, almost like a golden retriever, he has bi awakening for his bestie Chuck and is all in. Chuck tries to guard his heart but Tommy proves he is there for Chuck. They were beautiful together.
Things to expect in this book are:
Book 2 in series
MM romance
Best friends to more
Coach x Trainer
Divorced MC
Unrequited love
Cat dad
Mental health themes
Closeted MC coming out
Curiosity
Demi / bi awakening
Spicy times
Being there for each other
HEA
This is a friends to more romance, featuring Tommy Littleton and Chuck McCormac, and is book four in the Southeastern Alumni series.
After his divorce, Tommy tries to impress his boss with a swim challenge and turns to his best friend Chuck for help. When a kiss sparks unexpected feelings, both men must figure out if their friendship can turn into something more.
Tommy was all kinds of adorable, almost like a golden retriever, he has bi awakening for his bestie Chuck and is all in. Chuck tries to guard his heart but Tommy proves he is there for Chuck. They were beautiful together.
Things to expect in this book are:
Book 2 in series
MM romance
Best friends to more
Coach x Trainer
Divorced MC
Unrequited love
Cat dad
Mental health themes
Closeted MC coming out
Curiosity
Demi / bi awakening
Spicy times
Being there for each other
HEA
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