Kaden I’m a little anxious, I’m aware of the fact. I’ve done my best to maneuver through life with minimal effects from it. Although, it does make it hard to meet guys. My track record hasn’t been the greatest in the relationship department. I stopped believing in love and soulmates, no matter how many times my sister tried to convince me Mr. Right was out there. Then one night, one party, changed it all. There’s only one problem; he’s straight. Just my luck, he’s off limits…until he’s not.
Luke No relationships and stay focused on my goals. That was the plan, and it was working for years, until he came along. This man is the most adorable and alluring person I’ve ever met. Everything about him draws me into his orbit. I’ve never been attracted to a man before, but I cannot resist him. One-night turns into something much more than I ever expected. There isn’t anything I wouldn’t do for him. His happiness is of utmost importance to me, until protecting him takes precedence.
Content Just Is Not Enough is a low-angst MM romance. If you love a possessive/protective MMC, hurt/comfort, and bi-awakenings, then come meet Kaden and Luke. Possibly triggering subjects such as non-demonstrative family unit, aggressive/violent behavior, and stalking are present.
4 Stars for Haleigh Falcon's debut of Just Is Not Enough!
This story was exactly what my mood reader heart needed. With it you'll find:
- Fast Burn - Low Angst - Green Flags - Communication - No Third-Act-Breakup - Steamy Public Indecency - Bi-Awakening with minimal fuss
Luke and Kaden. Bug and Angel. These two sweethearts swept me off my feet. I know the reading community salivates over the high-angst, red-flag, unhinged book boyfriends (and so do I), but sometimes I just NEED the opposite and JINE was more than "just" what I needed when I needed it. It was immensely satisfying for me after a string of pretty angsty reads.
Luke and Kaden cross paths at a radio station party their respective friends/family made them attend. Luke has always considered himself straight, but he's immediately drawn to Kaden. And though these feelings are new for him, he doesn't much care to question them. No existential crisis for this green-eyed green flag! Kaden is understandably hesitant to dabble with an alleged straight guy (even though he's hotter than the Mojave) but reasons "just" this once. As we see their bond grow and develop, we all discover that "just" is not enough.
Solid foundation and as a debut, Haleigh did a great job! Any qualms I have were minor and I still enjoyed the book a lot. A few technical errors, but like Luke and his sexuality, that's not much of a fuss for me. I look forward to seeing more from her and seeing her grow as an author. I can't wait to hear Ender's story (I'll invest in some tissues)
*~I received an e-ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review~*
A dentist and a chef that raises the cutest orange Maine Coon and would do anything for the said dentist even when the said dentist pushes him away?? They're a 10. Please, I need more books like this one right here.
This turned out to be the fluff I needed after a while of 'complicated feelings' and dark romance I read. Kaden and Luke were so delicious, and their dynamic made me want more of them with each chapter, because they were perfect for each other since the first night at the club. Might seem like a cliché at first, the way they meet in contrast with each other's inner thoughts, but I think that's what made it a good read for me. I'm not necessarily a fan of comedy in romance, but I couldn't complain about this one. The inner voice was everything, I'm telling you. And also!! The smut in this one felt ten times better when you could feel the chemistry between them radiating. They made sure to let the readers know from the start that it wasn't just sex, and Luke was there for the long ride. Rooting for them with all my heart. ♥
And last, but not least, could we get a moment of appreciation for the aesthetic of this book? Not only the cover is absolutely gorgeous, but the chapters??? So beautiful!!!!!
I’ll start by saying, I definitely think this was good for a debut. Unfortunately, there were a bunch of things that didn’t work for me and I thought there was a lot of room for improvement.
This is one I probably should’ve DNF’d, but at around 250 pages, I pushed through hoping it would pick up. I liked the first 20-ish percent... then it just… didn’t get better. It got boring.
The main characters, Kaden and Luke, felt wooden and lacked any real spark. There was no build-up or chemistry. It was all telling instead of showing. Lines like “we have so much in common” and “I’ve never felt this way before” didn’t land because... where was this connection? Is it in the room with us? I didn’t feel it at all.
I couldn’t connect with any of the side characters either—except Ender, and dude had maybe three lines of dialogue total. The “twist” or “downturn” of the story was underwhelming and felt either unnecessary or rushed, at best.
Definitely a miss for me, though it might hit differently for someone else.
Right place, right time! Kaden had given up hope of finding his soulmate,and Luke was too focused on his goals to be concerned about getting into a relationship with anyone.After a chance meeting, what they both thought they wanted and needed changed.Kaden and Luke are 'relationship goals.' Their story is beautifully written and heartwarming, and I couldn't put it down.They truly were the sweetest couple,and the side characters were all entertaining and added that 'little bit extra' to the story. I can't wait for more of this series.The author's writing was so engaging that I know I'm going to love every characters stories.
I enjoyed this so much. I read the entire book in less than a day. I liked the chef/dentists aspect, it’s new to me and I love it when I find new dynamics. Luke and Kaden were so cute and I loved watching their relationship develop. Their banter was good and their struggles were real and it was nice to see them be there for each other and give on another the support that was needed. I loved the side characters except Tyler. Connor was hilarious, I don’t hope to see more of him! Ender has an interesting backstory I’d love to learn more about. I’m excited for what to come in this series. 🖤💛🖤
Luke is a “straight” guy opening his own restaurant. Kaden is a dentist and not straight. Both go to a party to appease their siblings and quickly realize they have a connection. But Kaden has been hurt by the “straight” guys before and decides it is a one a done. Luke refuses to accept Kaden’s decision. The story has great banter between all the characters. Found family as well as supportive family. Representation of healthy conversations, no miscommunication between the MMCs. This is the first in the series. Great set up of other characters to follow next. Bi-awaking Found family MM romance Possessiveness Dirty Talk Cat Dad Laugh out loud banter 🍆🍆🍆 perfect spice ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ stars
First off, thank you so much for the ARC, Haleigh!
I really enjoyed this one. Had everything you could want from a book, some nice, hot spice, a good love story, and a bit of intrigue!
Kaden and Luke were so sweet together. Just honest and open with eachother about how they were feeling, no beating around the bush.
Luke was such a green flag the entire book. He always made sure Kaden knew how important he was to him and was always there for him “You come first….If you need me, ever, for anything, you are my priority.”❤️
This book went down like smooth cream. Just a book about falling in love. Nothing too dramatic, nothing over the top. Just the beauty and feeling of falling deeply. I absolutely loved it and how it made me feel.
The little drama just added the little bit of angst that always makes romances and love stories stronger. Kaden and Luke are absolutely gorgeous together.♥️🌈🌹 Gah!! I just love the pet name 'Bug' 🙃 This is such a great Sunday read♥️ *great cover art. Hello Haleigh Falcon, cannot wait for more from you👏
I really like reading a story when I can feel how much the author enjoyed writing it, and this is one of those books. It was clear the author had a lot of affection for the characters in the way she wrote about them with tenderness. It made me care about them too.
Because I was invested in the characters so much, I was able to overlook a few things that otherwise would have bugged me like lots of editing errors and a shaky sub-plot. The errors I can mostly deal with. I know how hard it can be to get a manuscript out. But, the sub-plot issues really made this challenging for me at times.
I don't want to spoil the book for others, so I'll just say that there's a crazy ex-bf that causes some drama. I never really felt like this storyline was really fleshed out. It was just like "boom!" here you go, this is what's happening now. It just seemed to take a left turn drastically when we were in cruise control.
All that aside, it's a good read with a great MCs, who clearly love each other. It's easy to cheer for them, and once they get together, their relationship just gets stronger and stronger over the book, which I love.
And it's hot.
My one gripe about the spicy scenes is...several times they jump right into sexy shenanigans with zero attention paid to hygiene. This drives me crazy whenever I read it in books. Like, in one scene, one MC gets wasted one night, and the next morning, they wake up and are immediately sucking face and fucking. Like gross. His mouth must taste like ass, and not in a good way. Can he take one minute to run to the restroom and brush his teeth? I don't know a single person alive who wouldn't hold a finger up and be like, "gimme a sec, babe." And in another scene, one MC comes home from working all night in a restaurant--one of the dirtiest jobs on planet earth--and the other MC just drops to his knees and starts rimming him. I mean if that's your kink, do you, boo. But at least have an explicit conversation for the rest of us so we know that it's your kink and you're not just NOT considering babycakes might want to feel fresh and clean for his first rim job ever. Anyways. if you can ignore the fact that they probably taste yucky, the things they're doing are hot.
Some Spoilers Below
MCs white (presumably) gay, bi dentist, chef southeast US
TROPES sexual awakening ONS to Lovers InstaLust/Love Hurt/Comfort Found Family
SEXY STUFF dirty talk face fucking rimming cock warming vers MCs
I really liked the premise of this book—it had so much potential. But unfortunately, the execution left a lot to be desired. The entire plotline felt completely unnecessary and pushed the story into soap-opera territory. It didn’t add depth or suspense—just melodrama, and not in a good way.
And seriously, if you're self-publishing (nothing wrong with that!), at least get a decent beta reader or editor. The number of typos, tense inconsistencies, missing or misplaced commas, and grammar slip-ups (e.g. plural s vs. possessive 's—come on!) made this feel incredibly unpolished. Sloppy, sloppy, SLOPPY—and entirely avoidable.
Frustrating, because the story could have been compelling. Don't think I'll be picking up another book by this author anytime soon.
"I didn't realize I was lonely until I met someone that made me feel something, and not merely lust, more than that.
R A T I N G: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ . 5 / 5 S P I C E: 🌶🌶🌶 / 5 G R E E N F L A G S: 🏳️🏳️🏳️🏳️🏳️ / 5
🖤 MM Romance 🦷 Socially awkward Dentist with a filthy mouth + bratty attitude 🔪 Possessive/Protective Chef 🐱 Cat Dads 🏳️🌈 Bi-awakening 🔥 Fast Burn 🖤 Low Angst 🗣 Public Dirty Talk 🌶 Spicy Public Shenanigans 🫂 Found Family 🥂 Strong Group of Friends 💔 No Third-Act Breakup 🖤 HEA
I read so much dark romance and see so many red flags that I’m constantly at the carnival of all these unhinged MMCs. (Not that I'm complaining...) Sooooo... what do we do when we’re color blind and actually get GREEN FLAG MMCs?!
We screammm the biggest screams we can possibly scrumpt!
Kaden + Luke are the epitome of green flags and they weren’t looking for love, connection/friendship, or even a quick bathroom romp when they were literally third-wheeling their siblings' + friends date-night antics of love finding.
Kaden is a socially awkward dentist with anxiety who isn’t interested in people-ing (felt all that straight to the depths of my blackened soul🥴), but is a major cock tease with a dirty mouth and Luke is a possessive/protective cinnamon roll cat dad + chef who is not afraid to punish his brat in a very public setting either (🥵).
I think one of the main things I loved (aside from EVERYTHING really) was that Luke didn't overthink his feelings/attraction for Kaden. He was like "a'ight then" and ran with it. This was extremely new territory for him, Kaden knew that, but he wasn't interested in hiding any part of their relationship, especially if it would have made Kaden feel uncomfortable to do so. Kaden also didn't push him into anything either. I loved that they talked feelings and emotions and had open communication.
It was just beautifully done. And then to have all those strong supportive side characters as friends/found family/family?! OMG! I was living for it. I'm in my "found family" trope era for real and this just hit everything for me.
Just is Not Enough by Haleigh Falcon is the perfect balance of plot, spice, and angst. It was a well-written feel good debut that had me smiling, giggling, kicking my feet, fanning myself, cussing, screaming and crying all in one. I’m forever a fan and I can’t wait to devour the next book in the series.
I liked both of the characters. I liked that Luke was literally all about Kaden from the first time they meet even though he’s never been attracted to a guy before. I loved that Luke was the one pursuing! They were cute together.
I liked their friend group but I hate that Kaden hooked up with one of his friends in the past for months and is still really good friends with him. I honestly hate when authors do that. Him hooking up with Ender in the past didn’t add anything to the book, it wasn’t even needed. And now Ender is going to be paired with Luke’s bestie, Gabe. So both Luke and Gabe have to forever be around someone their significant other has been with and I hate that!!
I’m also not excited about how there’s multiple manwhores in the group. I am interested in the fact that this series will be a mix of both MM books and MF. I didn’t like Faith at all though so I’m not too eager to read her book. Idk what she’s been through but she was such a bitch and I didn’t like her character as of now. Not sure if I’ll continue the series but this was entertaining for the most part. Maybe a little boring in parts but still enjoyable.
Neither is with or interested in anyone else during the book.
NO CHEATING OM DRAMA (kadens ex is unhinged but Kaden wants nothing to do with him) NO THIRD ACT BREAKUP NO VIRGINS (both have been around) SEXUAL AWAKENING (I don’t think it’s bi I think he’s only been attracted to Kaden) STALKING (not by MMC) HEA/HFN (I love yous but nothing more, epilogue is 3 years later but still just dating I guess)
I thoroughly enjoyed Just Is No Enough. The story was well written, sweet, low angst with moderate spice.
Kaden & Luke meet at a singles party they both reluctantly agreed to attend and quickly hit it off. There was undeniable chemistry and an immediate connection between them.
Despite Luke being straight and Kaden swearing off straight men after a bad experience with a closeted man, they sneak off to the venues bathrooms for a little tryst before parting ways.
After several weeks they reconnect. While Kaden struggles with wanting a straight man and is hesitant to go down that path again, Luke is open to experiencing everything with Kaden and pretty easily accepted his sexuality and attraction towards Kaden.
It isn’t long before sparks fly and they give into their attraction and their little exhibitionist kink. I adored seeing the relationship between Kaden & Luke develop. It was very natural, there was never any significant conflict within their relationship.
I love the found family element with this story, the set up for future couples left me craving their stories, especially Endar & Gabe
I am excited to follow the authors writing journey. For a debut Haleigh absolutely nailed it.
A great debut by author Haleigh Falcon! I absolutely adored Kaden and Luke. They are both so sweet and thoughtful, total green flags all around. And their nicknames for each other are totally adorable. And the spice? Ooof. The sexual tension between these two is thiiick, and I was loving every moment of it. Their playful teasing and praise was perfect. Such good boys 😏😈
If you are in need of a low angst, swoony and steamy story with insta-love bi-awakening and found family vibes, this is the perfect read. There were some moments that felt a bit rushed, particularly the ending, but I enjoyed every bit of it and totally ate this book up. I have a feeling we will continue to see snippets of these two throughout the next books.
I am so excited for Ender’s and Gabe’s story next! I know Ender’s story especially is gonna hurt, but I am so ready for it.
Looking forward to all that author Haleigh Falcon has in store for us! A huge thank you for the ARC opportunity!
Bi-Awakening Found Family Low angst High spice All the nicknames/pet names
Just is Not Enough is the first book in a new romance series by Haleigh Falcon. This book is low angst, high spice, and full of lovable characters. This book sucked me right in and not wanting to put it down. Perfect for palate cleanser or when you need a happy read. There is drama (not between the MMCs) toward the end of the book, but overall it is deliciously light and fluffy. I am a sucker for pet names and nicknames in books and this one does not disappoint. Angel and Bug might be my new favorites. Haleigh does a perfect job adding in bits about side characters to ensure you will come back for more! Cannot wait for the rest of this series! I especially love that the series will include MM, MF, MMF, and FF stories!
Just Is Not Enough kicks off a new romance series featuring bi awakening, a possessive MC, and strong found family vibes. It’s also spicy right from the start, so if you’re looking for heat, it’s here!
The romance between the main characters is low angst, making it a comforting dynamic to follow even as an external plot twist adds some tension to keep the story engaging. No spoilers, but there’s just enough conflict to give it momentum without overwhelming the relationship.
I’m giving this 4 stars based on it being a debut. There’s a solid foundation here, and I’m excited to see how the author grows as the series continues. I plan on reading book 2!!!❤️
If you’re into spicy MM romance with a found family, and a world you can grow into, this is worth checking out!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 🌶️🌶️🌶️ If you love heartfelt, swoon-worthy moments, this book is definitely for you. The insta-love, the protection, the raw HEAT between Luke and Kaden had me sweating with heart eyes like I was standing right next to them. The character growth they both show from beginning to end, from not wanting to date to falling head of heels for each other was incredible to read. The writing was east to read, flowed well, and the story had a good pace to it. The side characters stood out and made me excited to see who the next book is about and how the stories between this group of friends unfold. Connor is everything, I loved him SO much and I'll always be rooting for his HEA! If you need a feel-good fluffy romance, come meet Luke, Kaden, and their found family.
"I don't want to find anyone else. I want to be here with you. Stay, please."
Just is Not Enough - a debut novel by Haleigh Falcon, which is the first book in The Charlotte Socials series. I couldn't put it down, was up half the night devouring it and can't recommend it enough.
Kaden is still healing from a past experience.... Luke is focused on his career..... They both swore off relationships for their own reasons. That is until their siblings drag them out for one night of fun with friends which completely changes everything.
I loved the witty banter, heartfelt tender moments, spice and angst throughout the book. The different dynamics and very supportive friendships between all the characters was amazing.
This was a fantastic read, one I will definitely re-read again. I can't wait to read the second book in the series to learn more about the group!
This is a sweet, fast-paced, low-angst, MM romance!
It’s great if you’re looking for a quick and sweet read with no third act breakup (because ugh those are rough)!
This is Kaden and Luke’s story that starts with a bump in at a singles mingling event. This is a bi-awakening with zero struggles with that aspect and insta-lust/love vibes. I loved that they were both golden retriever vibes.
I don’t want to spoil but will say both Luke and Kaden face their own personal conflicts that bring them closer and are resolved fairly quickly. There a a great cast of side characters that make you excited for book 2!
What an unbelievably sweet book this is! Luke, oh Luke. That man is one of the biggest walking green flags you will ever meet! Kaden, my sweet sweet Kaden. His anxiety ridden bratty self is perfect! If you like your guys full of humor, public teasing, no so private moments, and protective you get that all here! This is going into my comfort reads pile for sure!
This book was so good it was my fist book like this and i never knew i needed it until now. Omg the world win. This book too me on was amazing I spent a lot of my time kicking my feet and giggling even through the nail biting parts. There was so much humor in it. I’m really hoping to see these characters again.
Luke and Kaden had me giggling and just hooked from the very beginning. I absolutely loved Luke , he was so freaking cute. Especially his cat Fred who’s cute and cuddly which he totally gets from Luke. Kaden just instantly fit right in with him, even when he was being a pain in the butt . And taking forever on giving him a chance. & I’m totally jealous of Kaden, I need someone cooking for me all the time too! The spice , whew someone needs to put out the fire. My goodness this was sweet, fun and absolute perfection.
this was a beautiful read. I love these boys. the spice was spicing, and my heart was swooning. You have to love a possessive man. And shout out to Fred! 😽
I also can not wait to hear the other character's stories. I will definitely be getting the physical copy of this masterpiece as well!
spice: 🌶🌶🌶 swoon: 💞💞💞💞 10/10 will always recommend