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Sinners of Blackthorne U #2
Bitter When He Begs
Luca
I’ve built my life on control. On the field, in my reputation, and in keeping my demons buried where no one can see.
Sage Blackwell was never supposed to be a part of that. The nerdy prodigy overheard something that could ruin my entire career, so I do the only logical thing. I don’t threaten him. I don’t scare him off.
I claim him.
I tell myself it’s about survival, about keeping my secret safe. But the longer I keep him close, the more I realize I might be addicted again.
Only this time, my drug of choice is him.
Sage
I wasn’t supposed to hear it.
I definitely wasn’t supposed to get caught.
One wrong step. One overheard conversation. That’s all it takes to make me the unwilling keeper of Luca Devereaux’s darkest secret.
Now, Blackthorne U’s arrogant, untouchable quarterback, has decided I belong to him.
He’s relentless, possessive and cruel in the way only someone with too much power and too little consequences can be.
Being owned by Luca might just destroy me… especially when I realize I don’t want him to let go.
***
Bitter When He Begs is the second book in the interconnected Sinners of Blackthorne U series, but it is a complete standalone. Readers are advised to approach with caution and ensure they are comfortable with the listed triggers and content warnings before proceeding.
I’ve built my life on control. On the field, in my reputation, and in keeping my demons buried where no one can see.
Sage Blackwell was never supposed to be a part of that. The nerdy prodigy overheard something that could ruin my entire career, so I do the only logical thing. I don’t threaten him. I don’t scare him off.
I claim him.
I tell myself it’s about survival, about keeping my secret safe. But the longer I keep him close, the more I realize I might be addicted again.
Only this time, my drug of choice is him.
Sage
I wasn’t supposed to hear it.
I definitely wasn’t supposed to get caught.
One wrong step. One overheard conversation. That’s all it takes to make me the unwilling keeper of Luca Devereaux’s darkest secret.
Now, Blackthorne U’s arrogant, untouchable quarterback, has decided I belong to him.
He’s relentless, possessive and cruel in the way only someone with too much power and too little consequences can be.
Being owned by Luca might just destroy me… especially when I realize I don’t want him to let go.
***
Bitter When He Begs is the second book in the interconnected Sinners of Blackthorne U series, but it is a complete standalone. Readers are advised to approach with caution and ensure they are comfortable with the listed triggers and content warnings before proceeding.
475 pages, ebook
Published July 5, 2025
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 210 reviews
August 13, 2025
Totally not what I was expecting, and I didn't consider this to be dark at all, but I ended up really loving these two! I do think the title was misleading again because the begging isn't like a frequent occurence, and I wouldn't describe Sage as being bitter either... So I'm not sold on the titling of the books in the series, but I do enjoy the dramatics, the OTT everything, and the possessive, feral and unhinged characters.
I could not figure out the timeline for this book at all though? They're at college and their relationship spans over ten months, the weather always seems hot when I swear it was winter in the previous book, and there's no mention of any school breaks or aging... I can't really figure out how this fits with book 1, or where the timeline is starting for the next book, which is quite frustrating but I'm trying to ignore how much it's bugging me to be so clueless!
Luca is a mess. No other way to say it, but I really liked seeing him come to terms with the fact he needed help and he needed to sort his life out before he didn't have a life left. Was it realistic addiction and recovery? I have absolutely no idea, but it was emotional and I really liked Luca's character.
Sage was a bit all over the place to begin with, but once his character became more consistent he was super sassy, sharp, and so entertaining! I loved the way he hated that he'd fallen in love with Luca! His dramatics were funny and he was really well suited to Luca.
Luca becoming a 'golden retriever with a porn star body' was probably my favourite part of the book though. I love how he was absolutely enamoured with Sage and how he had to learn to think about what his partner needed and what would make them happy, rather than just thinking about his own wants and needs.
I feel like these two put a lot of effort in to get to their HEA and I'm feeling more settled in this story world and can't wait to see what comes next.
I could not figure out the timeline for this book at all though? They're at college and their relationship spans over ten months, the weather always seems hot when I swear it was winter in the previous book, and there's no mention of any school breaks or aging... I can't really figure out how this fits with book 1, or where the timeline is starting for the next book, which is quite frustrating but I'm trying to ignore how much it's bugging me to be so clueless!
Luca is a mess. No other way to say it, but I really liked seeing him come to terms with the fact he needed help and he needed to sort his life out before he didn't have a life left. Was it realistic addiction and recovery? I have absolutely no idea, but it was emotional and I really liked Luca's character.
Sage was a bit all over the place to begin with, but once his character became more consistent he was super sassy, sharp, and so entertaining! I loved the way he hated that he'd fallen in love with Luca! His dramatics were funny and he was really well suited to Luca.
Luca becoming a 'golden retriever with a porn star body' was probably my favourite part of the book though. I love how he was absolutely enamoured with Sage and how he had to learn to think about what his partner needed and what would make them happy, rather than just thinking about his own wants and needs.
I feel like these two put a lot of effort in to get to their HEA and I'm feeling more settled in this story world and can't wait to see what comes next.
February 20, 2026
3.2 ⭐️
spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
format: ebook
certain aspects of this were done really well, but overall this just didn’t hit like the first book did.
i loved luca. truly. and i think his addiction rep was real and raw, and i really adored how his friends rallied around him—especially my sweet baby damon. i also was super into the original dynamic between luca and sage. it was interesting and really got my attention.
i just think sage as a character was super inconsistent. he went through like 3 or 4 different personality changes throughout the book. and most of those personalities were lowkey really unlikeable. usually the bratty characters are my favorites, but he just kinda exhausted me.
there were also a lot of random plot holes in this. like why if he was addicted to pills for 4 years, his drug test was only flagged once. or even if it was flagged multiple times, how his coach didn’t care until only after he was sober. or why damon who doesn’t play sports was in the locker room with them. or just really weird things like that.
also this is just a personal opinion, but i really haaated that they both hooked up with other people after they started their “thing” or whatever it was in the beginning. i really debated dnfing because it bummed me out so bad. again, that’s a me thing.
i am super interested in seeing what nate and liam are up to though…
spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
format: ebook
certain aspects of this were done really well, but overall this just didn’t hit like the first book did.
i loved luca. truly. and i think his addiction rep was real and raw, and i really adored how his friends rallied around him—especially my sweet baby damon. i also was super into the original dynamic between luca and sage. it was interesting and really got my attention.
i just think sage as a character was super inconsistent. he went through like 3 or 4 different personality changes throughout the book. and most of those personalities were lowkey really unlikeable. usually the bratty characters are my favorites, but he just kinda exhausted me.
there were also a lot of random plot holes in this. like why if he was addicted to pills for 4 years, his drug test was only flagged once. or even if it was flagged multiple times, how his coach didn’t care until only after he was sober. or why damon who doesn’t play sports was in the locker room with them. or just really weird things like that.
also this is just a personal opinion, but i really haaated that they both hooked up with other people after they started their “thing” or whatever it was in the beginning. i really debated dnfing because it bummed me out so bad. again, that’s a me thing.
i am super interested in seeing what nate and liam are up to though…
May 2, 2026
ReRead April 2, 2026
Once again, a very satisfying read. I loved it.
Reread September 8, 2025.
The addiction and ultimate rehab was handled well and was a story on its own. The cruelty Luca showed was pretty much explained (even though it felt unforgivable.)
I loved this story, The first part was a little difficult to stomach but Luca's cruelty becomes explained as the book progresses. Not forgiving, but explained. The second half of the story came back strong and fulfilling and told the story we wanted to read.
The character growth for both Sage and Luca is very visible and by the end we get a good glimpse of what these men would be in the future.
Things are dealt with and feelings are put out on full display never shying away, making them stronger.
A journey and a beautiful book.
First read thoughts:
Sorry, this isn't a review, it's me gushing and blabbering away at how much I freaking loved this book. It will be an incoherent mess. please, just read this book.🥰🌈🔥💥😎
Delicious cruelty at the start making my hackles rise, but Sage takes it even though confused.☺️ The journey and turn around are both somber and joyful and witty and beautiful. This book ticked all my boxes, every single one. Avery Collins did it again. Gorgeous writing, there are so many 'moments' that had me a puddle on the floor🥲
Me? I'm a fool for this and can't wait to get the physical copy.📖📚✨🪄
Such hope, such a strong brotherhood, such a great love❣️
*I'm glad Sage didn't forgive Luca's cruelty and made him accountable.
** also, I'm so glad we got to see Roman as his true self without the devastation and pain he was drowning in book one.
And damn, I think I was in tears for the last 20% of the book. The closure, the impact , the satisfaction, chef's kiss.
🎉And yeah baby!!🥳 Liam and Nate are next!!!
ALL THE STARS
✨✨✨✨✨🪄✨✨✨✨✨
*Favorites
*To re re read again
*To buy paperback list/ BOUGHT
*Friendly warning, there is off page with other people (one time early on) but this is before they are together. It still stings a tiny bit though cause we are already focused on them.
@78% serious gorgeous Hoobastank vibes right there.
Once again, a very satisfying read. I loved it.
Reread September 8, 2025.
The addiction and ultimate rehab was handled well and was a story on its own. The cruelty Luca showed was pretty much explained (even though it felt unforgivable.)
I loved this story, The first part was a little difficult to stomach but Luca's cruelty becomes explained as the book progresses. Not forgiving, but explained. The second half of the story came back strong and fulfilling and told the story we wanted to read.
The character growth for both Sage and Luca is very visible and by the end we get a good glimpse of what these men would be in the future.
Things are dealt with and feelings are put out on full display never shying away, making them stronger.
A journey and a beautiful book.
First read thoughts:
Sorry, this isn't a review, it's me gushing and blabbering away at how much I freaking loved this book. It will be an incoherent mess. please, just read this book.🥰🌈🔥💥😎
Delicious cruelty at the start making my hackles rise, but Sage takes it even though confused.☺️ The journey and turn around are both somber and joyful and witty and beautiful. This book ticked all my boxes, every single one. Avery Collins did it again. Gorgeous writing, there are so many 'moments' that had me a puddle on the floor🥲
Me? I'm a fool for this and can't wait to get the physical copy.📖📚✨🪄
Such hope, such a strong brotherhood, such a great love❣️
*I'm glad Sage didn't forgive Luca's cruelty and made him accountable.
** also, I'm so glad we got to see Roman as his true self without the devastation and pain he was drowning in book one.
And damn, I think I was in tears for the last 20% of the book. The closure, the impact , the satisfaction, chef's kiss.
🎉And yeah baby!!🥳 Liam and Nate are next!!!
ALL THE STARS
✨✨✨✨✨🪄✨✨✨✨✨
*Favorites
*To re re read again
*To buy paperback list/ BOUGHT
*Friendly warning, there is off page with other people (one time early on) but this is before they are together. It still stings a tiny bit though cause we are already focused on them.
@78% serious gorgeous Hoobastank vibes right there.
July 14, 2025
This is so fucking repetitive! “I hate you”, “No, you love me”. I’m pretty sure I’ve read that same exact conversation like 25 times in the first 23%.
Then the same things are repeated several times in a row, but worded differently! Like we are too stupid to notice the same thing was just said but different wording! 🙄
Now for the 2 main characters! Both are annoying AF. I think both are bipolar and have no idea what they want. Their “hate” for each other is unjustifiable. They keep having the same hate fueled conversations over and over. The repetition is so bad in the first 25% it’s just ridiculous. It feels like I’m reading the same page 30 times! I can’t take this for another 400 pages!
And why the hell does Damon get his own POV in here? Keep that shit in his own book!
I’m out! I can’t anymore! DNF at 30%. Their back and forth is just too much. And with the book being 475 pages long, you just know that shit is just going to keep getting drawn out.
Don’t care enough to finish this series either.
Then the same things are repeated several times in a row, but worded differently! Like we are too stupid to notice the same thing was just said but different wording! 🙄
Now for the 2 main characters! Both are annoying AF. I think both are bipolar and have no idea what they want. Their “hate” for each other is unjustifiable. They keep having the same hate fueled conversations over and over. The repetition is so bad in the first 25% it’s just ridiculous. It feels like I’m reading the same page 30 times! I can’t take this for another 400 pages!
And why the hell does Damon get his own POV in here? Keep that shit in his own book!
I’m out! I can’t anymore! DNF at 30%. Their back and forth is just too much. And with the book being 475 pages long, you just know that shit is just going to keep getting drawn out.
Don’t care enough to finish this series either.
June 19, 2026
"You want to run your mouth for me in public?" I whisper, lips brushing the tip. "Then you'll take my mouth in private."
"You stood up to the man who made me afraid of my own name. And now I'm gonna fuck you like you just gave it back to me ."
"You stood up to the man who made me afraid of my own name. And now I'm gonna fuck you like you just gave it back to me ."
January 31, 2026
⭐️
4.5 stars rounded up!
⭐️
This was even better than the first book in this series.
I absolutely adored Luca and Sage together. This book tries to kind of go enemies to lovers, or dark and messed up, but it gives up the ghost on that pretty quick, and that's okay because I loved these two SO much.
It's hot at first between these two, and is mainly lust and that very intense attraction, perhaps even bordering on obsession - especially on Luca's end toward Sage - but Luca is going through a pill addiction, and burying so much of what hurts him, that he pushes Sage away, and it's kind of like a back and forth, push and pull between them, on Luca's end. He jerks Sage around and is a pretty big asshole to him, no question.
Does it count as going into "dark" territory? Or even all that toxic? Eh...not much. The most we get is the beginning but Luca admits his addiction problem fairly early on and starts working on detoxing and becoming truly sober early on, so a lot of his behavior from before disappears with that, and he becomes a better person, and thus a better partner for Sage.
He certainly says cruel things to Sage, but I think, honestly, he could have been worse, much worse, so I wasn't too bothered by it. And Sage, while he gave in at times with Luca, stood up for himself as well. He didn't let Luca walk all over him, and they barely did anything before Luca got sober.
Plus, Luca did things the healthy way, staying away from Sage for months while he was getting sober so he could stand sober on his own two feet, and not rely on Sage to be his new addiction. Things could have headed that way, and certainly there were hints they were headed that way, but it swerved big time to become much healthier.
Once they finally do get together properly, it was so damn sexy and hot, their first time was sooo good. Their chemistry was off the charts.
Was this perhaps a bit too long? Yeah, and that's part of my .5 stars off for this. I just think it dragged the littlest bit - even though I loved these two and was enjoying the story - near the end, and a lot of the plot could have happened earlier, especially with Luca's dad. For such a looming presence that was basically the cause of Luca's addiction, he wasn't around much. Not that I wanted to see the dad, because what we got of him showed how absolutely awful he was, but we only get one real scene of Luca struggling with *real* cravings after he's sober months into it because of his dad, and it was a bit like 'that was it'? Not that I wanted the pain and angst of that, but still...maybe some more scenes of Luca's dad being awful would have made that scene feel a bit less out of nowhere.
Not that Luca has to crave the pills all the time, but more that he's been good for MONTHS and then all the sudden the intense craving is back so badly from one phone call with his dad that he almost uses. I think some build up of cravings or a steady mix throughout of him having those cravings would have been good.
My other reason for the .5 stars off is the timeline confused me immensely in this. Because we know Luca is 21 and Sage is 19, and it seems Sage is a freshman and trying to enter into his frat at the beginning of the year, so I figured it was end of August/beginning of September, and then it says 3 months go by since the first time Luca and Sage met, so that'd be around November/December, then a few weeks go by during the more "toxic" stage of their relationship, and then 4 months go by once Luca tries to seriously get sober, so that'd be March/April, and then he and Sage get together for real, and then we get a "it's been 3 months, then 4 months since they've been together" mention.
So that should be June/July or so, into August, but Luca is having official college football games in those months, which...doesn't make sense? That isn't football season, especially as most college students are off during the summer. So I was like...okay, maybe they met in June of the previous year and both spent the summer at the college before classes started, it's plausible.
So that would shift the timeline back to - they meet in June, 3 months later in September the stuff goes down with them, near the end of the month Luca decides to get sober, 4 months later would be January, they get together, then 3, 4 months later would be April/May (which is fine, but then Luca says he's been sober 8 months, then 10 months a bit later on, which if he got sober in September, would mean it's July, maybe June if we're generous, when he's still playing football.
I guess if College Football goes into June, sure? But I doubt it, so it still didn't make much sense, timeline wise.
It just confused me and I eventually had to hand wave it away or lose it over this timeline lol.
So yeah, some niggles for me didn't make this quite perfect, but I loved everything else, and this couple was so so good, that the bit of dragging and timeline confusion didn't drag this down too much for me.
Definitely loved this overall, and I can't wait to dive into Nate and Liam's story next - I wonder if it'll actually go into Dark Romance territory or not, but I guess we'll see.
Until then!
My Ratings for the Sinners of Blackthorne U Series:
✨ Pretty When He Bleeds: 3.75 stars (my review)
✨ Bitter When He Begs: 4.5 stars
✨ Cruel When He Smiles: TBR
This was even better than the first book in this series.
I absolutely adored Luca and Sage together. This book tries to kind of go enemies to lovers, or dark and messed up, but it gives up the ghost on that pretty quick, and that's okay because I loved these two SO much.
It's hot at first between these two, and is mainly lust and that very intense attraction, perhaps even bordering on obsession - especially on Luca's end toward Sage - but Luca is going through a pill addiction, and burying so much of what hurts him, that he pushes Sage away, and it's kind of like a back and forth, push and pull between them, on Luca's end. He jerks Sage around and is a pretty big asshole to him, no question.
Does it count as going into "dark" territory? Or even all that toxic? Eh...not much. The most we get is the beginning but Luca admits his addiction problem fairly early on and starts working on detoxing and becoming truly sober early on, so a lot of his behavior from before disappears with that, and he becomes a better person, and thus a better partner for Sage.
He certainly says cruel things to Sage, but I think, honestly, he could have been worse, much worse, so I wasn't too bothered by it. And Sage, while he gave in at times with Luca, stood up for himself as well. He didn't let Luca walk all over him, and they barely did anything before Luca got sober.
Plus, Luca did things the healthy way, staying away from Sage for months while he was getting sober so he could stand sober on his own two feet, and not rely on Sage to be his new addiction. Things could have headed that way, and certainly there were hints they were headed that way, but it swerved big time to become much healthier.
Once they finally do get together properly, it was so damn sexy and hot, their first time was sooo good. Their chemistry was off the charts.
Was this perhaps a bit too long? Yeah, and that's part of my .5 stars off for this. I just think it dragged the littlest bit - even though I loved these two and was enjoying the story - near the end, and a lot of the plot could have happened earlier, especially with Luca's dad. For such a looming presence that was basically the cause of Luca's addiction, he wasn't around much. Not that I wanted to see the dad, because what we got of him showed how absolutely awful he was, but we only get one real scene of Luca struggling with *real* cravings after he's sober months into it because of his dad, and it was a bit like 'that was it'? Not that I wanted the pain and angst of that, but still...maybe some more scenes of Luca's dad being awful would have made that scene feel a bit less out of nowhere.
Not that Luca has to crave the pills all the time, but more that he's been good for MONTHS and then all the sudden the intense craving is back so badly from one phone call with his dad that he almost uses. I think some build up of cravings or a steady mix throughout of him having those cravings would have been good.
My other reason for the .5 stars off is the timeline confused me immensely in this. Because we know Luca is 21 and Sage is 19, and it seems Sage is a freshman and trying to enter into his frat at the beginning of the year, so I figured it was end of August/beginning of September, and then it says 3 months go by since the first time Luca and Sage met, so that'd be around November/December, then a few weeks go by during the more "toxic" stage of their relationship, and then 4 months go by once Luca tries to seriously get sober, so that'd be March/April, and then he and Sage get together for real, and then we get a "it's been 3 months, then 4 months since they've been together" mention.
So that should be June/July or so, into August, but Luca is having official college football games in those months, which...doesn't make sense? That isn't football season, especially as most college students are off during the summer. So I was like...okay, maybe they met in June of the previous year and both spent the summer at the college before classes started, it's plausible.
So that would shift the timeline back to - they meet in June, 3 months later in September the stuff goes down with them, near the end of the month Luca decides to get sober, 4 months later would be January, they get together, then 3, 4 months later would be April/May (which is fine, but then Luca says he's been sober 8 months, then 10 months a bit later on, which if he got sober in September, would mean it's July, maybe June if we're generous, when he's still playing football.
I guess if College Football goes into June, sure? But I doubt it, so it still didn't make much sense, timeline wise.
It just confused me and I eventually had to hand wave it away or lose it over this timeline lol.
So yeah, some niggles for me didn't make this quite perfect, but I loved everything else, and this couple was so so good, that the bit of dragging and timeline confusion didn't drag this down too much for me.
Definitely loved this overall, and I can't wait to dive into Nate and Liam's story next - I wonder if it'll actually go into Dark Romance territory or not, but I guess we'll see.
Until then!
My Ratings for the Sinners of Blackthorne U Series:
✨ Pretty When He Bleeds: 3.75 stars (my review)
✨ Bitter When He Begs: 4.5 stars
✨ Cruel When He Smiles: TBR
July 29, 2026
Iloveeeeee luca and sage so much.
This book was so hot and emotional. I mostly listened to the audiobook and read what was left. The narrators did such an awesome job with it.
Luca and Sage were soo beautiful together ughh. The love confession was everything I love it so much.
This book was so hot and emotional. I mostly listened to the audiobook and read what was left. The narrators did such an awesome job with it.
Luca and Sage were soo beautiful together ughh. The love confession was everything I love it so much.
June 28, 2026
DNF 60%
- retconning between chapters and even paragraphs (“I knew something was up with you” ~4 paragraphs later~ “I should have noticed something was up with you”) like why are you trying to gaslight your audience????
“He’ll cave first, he has to. That’s how this works, that’s how we work. I mouth off, he snaps, I win. Always.” NOPE. literally 8 lines above those sentences was MC literally caving in and obeying.
- I just don’t like the name Sage and kept forgetting that was his name and idk if it was on purpose or not but it doesn’t suit his character
- characterization is nonsensical (Luca is repeatedly ad* nauseam stated as “dangerous” but not a single clue how exactly he’s so dangerous?? other than kind of a high-school-level bully sometimes?)
- “everyone is staring at me because I’m dating Luca” LITERALLY everyone. I’m not exaggerating. the entire campus of college stopped studying, walking, eating, etc just to LITERALLY stare and whisper/“whisper” to each other about him. because of an instagram post from one of the college’s football boys implying they’re dating.
- all their friends being beyond overly invested in their relationship 🙄
- all the characters have the same conversations over and over and over and over and over. “I shouldn’t want you but I do, we’re inexplicably obsessed with each other and going to that repeat often” “same, also you’re so dangerous” “lets make out for a few pages, then next time we see each other act like we both need to be convinced all over again”. even when they get together they’re still like “he can’t know I’m obsessed”. while also repeating from pretty early on variations of “I’m in too deep/I care too much about him”. bruv.
- logic doesn’t exist.
MC balances his food on his knees…….instead of the table directly in front of him.
“He gets in my truck and squeaks when I slap his ass before closing the door.” how are you slapping the ass he’s sitting on.
- words mean things.
“It feels final. Not in a permanent kind of way” um then maybe don’t use the word “final” if that’s not what you’re trying to say
“By the time I turn the shower off and wrap a towel around my waist, it’s like he was never even here. But my body still remembers. My lips still feel bruised. My throat still aches faintly from moaning too loud. My thighs feel tight from how hard he held them. My wrists still itch from where he pinned them down with one hand like it was nothing. My lungs can’t quite catch up. And I’m fucking sore from the way he completely wrecked me. I’ll need a goddamn pillow to sit on for the next week, at least.” sooooooooooo how is that at all “like he was never even here” because you’re literally describing ways in which he very much was there.
-but then there’s random things like “I need to hurt somewhere other than my fucking thoughts.” and that’s really relatable. so it’s not fully bad, I did get to 60%, but the repetition got so fucking old and overdone that I gave up.
well.
the repetition, and also
THIS WHOLE THING:
[“Then tell me,” I say, quieter now but firmer. “Please.” He doesn’t look at me. Not right away. He just keeps staring at the far wall, at that busted tripod like it holds the answer, like it’s safer than my face. His mouth moves like he’s chewing on the words before he says them. Then, finally, after what feels like forever, he speaks. And what he tells me next has me pissed off in ways I can’t explain.
I don’t say anything at first. I’m too busy trying to keep my breathing even, to stop the heat that’s roaring through my chest and climbing up my throat. My fingers twitch in my sleeves, then curl into fists again. My whole body is tight, wired like I could tear this entire building apart with my bare hands and still not burn off the rage.]
WE DON’T FIND OUT. maybe it randomly comes back up at the end, but I’m 97% sure that the sole reason the character is told something apparently really fucking important and emotional and earth shattering but explicitly kept hidden from the audience is as a cheap basic ass tease for the next book. which I’ll never fucking read because this kind of bullshit is too dumb for me
- retconning between chapters and even paragraphs (“I knew something was up with you” ~4 paragraphs later~ “I should have noticed something was up with you”) like why are you trying to gaslight your audience????
“He’ll cave first, he has to. That’s how this works, that’s how we work. I mouth off, he snaps, I win. Always.” NOPE. literally 8 lines above those sentences was MC literally caving in and obeying.
- I just don’t like the name Sage and kept forgetting that was his name and idk if it was on purpose or not but it doesn’t suit his character
- characterization is nonsensical (Luca is repeatedly ad* nauseam stated as “dangerous” but not a single clue how exactly he’s so dangerous?? other than kind of a high-school-level bully sometimes?)
- “everyone is staring at me because I’m dating Luca” LITERALLY everyone. I’m not exaggerating. the entire campus of college stopped studying, walking, eating, etc just to LITERALLY stare and whisper/“whisper” to each other about him. because of an instagram post from one of the college’s football boys implying they’re dating.
- all their friends being beyond overly invested in their relationship 🙄
- all the characters have the same conversations over and over and over and over and over. “I shouldn’t want you but I do, we’re inexplicably obsessed with each other and going to that repeat often” “same, also you’re so dangerous” “lets make out for a few pages, then next time we see each other act like we both need to be convinced all over again”. even when they get together they’re still like “he can’t know I’m obsessed”. while also repeating from pretty early on variations of “I’m in too deep/I care too much about him”. bruv.
- logic doesn’t exist.
MC balances his food on his knees…….instead of the table directly in front of him.
“He gets in my truck and squeaks when I slap his ass before closing the door.” how are you slapping the ass he’s sitting on.
- words mean things.
“It feels final. Not in a permanent kind of way” um then maybe don’t use the word “final” if that’s not what you’re trying to say
“By the time I turn the shower off and wrap a towel around my waist, it’s like he was never even here. But my body still remembers. My lips still feel bruised. My throat still aches faintly from moaning too loud. My thighs feel tight from how hard he held them. My wrists still itch from where he pinned them down with one hand like it was nothing. My lungs can’t quite catch up. And I’m fucking sore from the way he completely wrecked me. I’ll need a goddamn pillow to sit on for the next week, at least.” sooooooooooo how is that at all “like he was never even here” because you’re literally describing ways in which he very much was there.
-but then there’s random things like “I need to hurt somewhere other than my fucking thoughts.” and that’s really relatable. so it’s not fully bad, I did get to 60%, but the repetition got so fucking old and overdone that I gave up.
well.
the repetition, and also
THIS WHOLE THING:
[“Then tell me,” I say, quieter now but firmer. “Please.” He doesn’t look at me. Not right away. He just keeps staring at the far wall, at that busted tripod like it holds the answer, like it’s safer than my face. His mouth moves like he’s chewing on the words before he says them. Then, finally, after what feels like forever, he speaks. And what he tells me next has me pissed off in ways I can’t explain.
I don’t say anything at first. I’m too busy trying to keep my breathing even, to stop the heat that’s roaring through my chest and climbing up my throat. My fingers twitch in my sleeves, then curl into fists again. My whole body is tight, wired like I could tear this entire building apart with my bare hands and still not burn off the rage.]
WE DON’T FIND OUT. maybe it randomly comes back up at the end, but I’m 97% sure that the sole reason the character is told something apparently really fucking important and emotional and earth shattering but explicitly kept hidden from the audience is as a cheap basic ass tease for the next book. which I’ll never fucking read because this kind of bullshit is too dumb for me
June 28, 2025
♾️⭐️
this series just keeps getting better and better with every book 😭😭 i literally never wanted this to end.
luca & his sunshine forever 🥹🥹🥹
this series just keeps getting better and better with every book 😭😭 i literally never wanted this to end.
luca & his sunshine forever 🥹🥹🥹
Did Not Finish
March 24, 2026Sigh, I fear I cannot. I’ve decided that I need to quit books that raise my blood pressure 🫡 I’m still raging about Damien always being involved in these damn books and I’m so over the back and forth at this point. Luca got over that mess faster than I did lol. Sage is freaking irritating me beyond belief and Luca needs to shut up too. Considering, there’s still over 200 pages left there’s no way they get it together anytime soon, I can’t do it.
July 11, 2026
Rating: 3⭐️
Format: 🎧
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
I’m not sure how to feel about this one. I enjoyed some aspects of it, some parts I got bored and thought it was too long. The sexual scenes are super hot and the characters are… So here’s the thing, there wasn’t consistency when it comes to the characters traits. We have Sage, who is a quiet nerd + mouthy bratty + tatted up baddie + sexual deviant, i felt like so many things happened and im like who the hell is this. Luca is experiencing addiction and we see his recovery journey, I can’t speak to much on it. All to say, I like this story enough and going along for the ride. I’m honestly foaming for Killain book which is last because duhh.
PS: I thought Damon was an artist, wtf is he doing in athlete’s corner?
Format: 🎧
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
I’m not sure how to feel about this one. I enjoyed some aspects of it, some parts I got bored and thought it was too long. The sexual scenes are super hot and the characters are… So here’s the thing, there wasn’t consistency when it comes to the characters traits. We have Sage, who is a quiet nerd + mouthy bratty + tatted up baddie + sexual deviant, i felt like so many things happened and im like who the hell is this. Luca is experiencing addiction and we see his recovery journey, I can’t speak to much on it. All to say, I like this story enough and going along for the ride. I’m honestly foaming for Killain book which is last because duhh.
PS: I thought Damon was an artist, wtf is he doing in athlete’s corner?
July 25, 2025
3 ⭐️
🏈 College Students (football player vs. frat(
🍺 Jealous/Possessive
🏈 Lotta Hurt/Little Comfort
🍺Found Family
🏈 Forced Proximity
🍺 Bully Romance
🖤 Not an official breakup but very off and on at the beginning
🩶 OM drama, both sleep with other people to make the other jealous after they’ve hooked up with each other before, no cheating
🤍
Luca:
If you’re going to write a character who is absolutely cruel to their love interest, I need to see the good in them to root for their love story. This author had a case of telling rather than showing. The guys say that Luca is a great friend who has supported them… but I don’t believe that when all we’ve seen is him being absolutely terrible to Sage and genuinely being neutral at best to people around him. It’s classified as bullying but it comes across as verbal and emotional abuse. If you want an example of an author who brings a character back from being the WORST human being to someone you love and root for, read “Never Let You Go” by Lyla Dane.
Sage:
Sage did not feel like he fit into the frat. Not sure that was a necessary part of his character.
General:
History
It feels like there’s a lack of history or explanation/exposition at the beginning. It felt like we were dropped into a story at the 15% mark or further. We don’t see how this dynamic/relationship has resulted. It’s just one scene… BAM! Three months later and they’ve been physical but we didn’t see that.
Continuity
In book one, Roman plays hockey and Damon isn’t an athlete. This book is about a football player and there’s no clear distinction between the sports. They’re all in the locker room after practice and it implies they’re on a team together… but they supposedly play different sports. Sage specifically refers to it as “the football locker room” in chapter 1 so why is Damon there if he plays hockey? And why is Roman there at all when he’s not an athlete? This felt like continuity error. At the very least, it needed clarity.
Damon’s Chapter
No thank you. This isn’t his story. I understand the author wanted an outside view of the situation but Damon had his story. Adding one chapter from someone who isn’t a MC is super random. Also, if Damon struggled with addiction, I don’t remember hearing about that in his book. I remember he’s on prescriptions meds and that he experienced paranoia and voices when he was unmedicated after his brother’s death, but I don’t recall addition and detox being brought up. I could have missed it, but I don’t think I did. I don’t like when authors add details on later book because they support that plot but not in the original work when it probably would have been discussed if it existed then.
It’s generally very repetitive, especially early on. I think you could easily edit 100 pages out and use some of that space to delve into the historic but I was also invested. I definitely wanted to keep reading even if parts of it ticked me off. I think the author has a lot of room for improvement but I love these kinds of stories, so I hope this gets better and better as it goes along.
Lastly, I hate when authors try and drop a nugget about the next book but leave you hanging. It’s just a means to try and hook you. Just let me enjoy this story as it is and then decide if I want to read the next one. If anything, add a bonus chapter about it at the end or something. That random conversation about Nate and Liam was unnecessary to this have in this book.
🏈 College Students (football player vs. frat(
🍺 Jealous/Possessive
🏈 Lotta Hurt/Little Comfort
🍺Found Family
🏈 Forced Proximity
🍺 Bully Romance
🖤 Not an official breakup but very off and on at the beginning
🩶 OM drama, both sleep with other people to make the other jealous after they’ve hooked up with each other before, no cheating
🤍
Luca:
If you’re going to write a character who is absolutely cruel to their love interest, I need to see the good in them to root for their love story. This author had a case of telling rather than showing. The guys say that Luca is a great friend who has supported them… but I don’t believe that when all we’ve seen is him being absolutely terrible to Sage and genuinely being neutral at best to people around him. It’s classified as bullying but it comes across as verbal and emotional abuse. If you want an example of an author who brings a character back from being the WORST human being to someone you love and root for, read “Never Let You Go” by Lyla Dane.
Sage:
Sage did not feel like he fit into the frat. Not sure that was a necessary part of his character.
General:
History
It feels like there’s a lack of history or explanation/exposition at the beginning. It felt like we were dropped into a story at the 15% mark or further. We don’t see how this dynamic/relationship has resulted. It’s just one scene… BAM! Three months later and they’ve been physical but we didn’t see that.
Continuity
In book one, Roman plays hockey and Damon isn’t an athlete. This book is about a football player and there’s no clear distinction between the sports. They’re all in the locker room after practice and it implies they’re on a team together… but they supposedly play different sports. Sage specifically refers to it as “the football locker room” in chapter 1 so why is Damon there if he plays hockey? And why is Roman there at all when he’s not an athlete? This felt like continuity error. At the very least, it needed clarity.
Damon’s Chapter
No thank you. This isn’t his story. I understand the author wanted an outside view of the situation but Damon had his story. Adding one chapter from someone who isn’t a MC is super random. Also, if Damon struggled with addiction, I don’t remember hearing about that in his book. I remember he’s on prescriptions meds and that he experienced paranoia and voices when he was unmedicated after his brother’s death, but I don’t recall addition and detox being brought up. I could have missed it, but I don’t think I did. I don’t like when authors add details on later book because they support that plot but not in the original work when it probably would have been discussed if it existed then.
It’s generally very repetitive, especially early on. I think you could easily edit 100 pages out and use some of that space to delve into the historic but I was also invested. I definitely wanted to keep reading even if parts of it ticked me off. I think the author has a lot of room for improvement but I love these kinds of stories, so I hope this gets better and better as it goes along.
Lastly, I hate when authors try and drop a nugget about the next book but leave you hanging. It’s just a means to try and hook you. Just let me enjoy this story as it is and then decide if I want to read the next one. If anything, add a bonus chapter about it at the end or something. That random conversation about Nate and Liam was unnecessary to this have in this book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 10, 2025
Sage was shy and quiet for all of two chapters and then Luca got what he wanted and suddenly he was this bratty bitchy bottom……honestly everyone was doing jumps and hops character wise and they all contradicted their characters, besides damon and luca……
And since when were Roman and Damon on the football team???? I literally read the first book and they mention football all of three times unless i just wasn’t paying attention………For this book to be so long i feel like it was still surface level…little details matter in a long book because why did we just learn that Sage has a tattoo or that Luca was texting his father all this time????
Also Lee…..should’ve seen that coming and it was never that serious. I feel like this could’ve been better for how long the book was but extremely proud of luca AND his friends, they’re really a family!
And since when were Roman and Damon on the football team???? I literally read the first book and they mention football all of three times unless i just wasn’t paying attention………For this book to be so long i feel like it was still surface level…little details matter in a long book because why did we just learn that Sage has a tattoo or that Luca was texting his father all this time????
Also Lee…..should’ve seen that coming and it was never that serious. I feel like this could’ve been better for how long the book was but extremely proud of luca AND his friends, they’re really a family!
July 13, 2025
Didn't like it at all.. had to push to finish and even then it was a skim.
Just didn't like the story line or our mc.. cant say much more dont want to give spoilers.
Just didn't like the story line or our mc.. cant say much more dont want to give spoilers.
July 11, 2025
Okay at this point I’m not sure if I am the problem or the books I read😭😭 DNF 57%
"Slow burn" girl there’s absolutely no burn they basically make heart eyes at each other on the second page💔
"Slow burn" girl there’s absolutely no burn they basically make heart eyes at each other on the second page💔
June 29, 2025
✨ARC READER REVIEW✨
It’s taken me a few days to sit with this book. I’ve been trying to find the right words to express how I feel about Luca and Sage’s story. But the words still won’t come.
So, I’ll simply say that again, Avery Collin’s has blown me away!
This is my 6th book that I have had the pleasure of reading by this author and as I’ve said in almost all of my reviews, it just keeps getting better and better!! Honestly though, better doesn’t even express how Avery Collin’s pierces my soul with every book she writes. She touches on tough subjects and always writes these scenes so beautifully and with so much care.
Luca and Sage’s story was perfect. They were truly so good for one another.
I know Luca seemed so unfeeling and cold in the beginning, but honestly, I never truly hated him. When he sent Sage away, my heart actually broke for both of them.
I really felt that Luca had such a beautiful yet broken soul due to his childhood and ongoing trauma afflicted by his father. He also put so much pressure on himself by always feeling like he had to be on top, to always be the strong one, the popular one, the one who was always the life of the party. It doesn’t surprise me with the way he dealt with everything. At times he probably felt so hopeless!
And then along came Sage. Strong and sassy Sage.
Wow, his and Luca’s dynamic together was so freaking good!!!
It took Sage a while to realize that Luca really did care for him and that he wanted him in his life.
The chemistry between the two was pure fire.
Once they gave into their feelings, I loved how their relationship blossomed, and really made them both better people. Especially with Luca, he worked so hard to be the man that would be worthy of Sage’s love. I was so damn proud of him!
And holy moly, when Sage stood up and defended Luca, sigh…. 🥹 That was the best moment ever!!!
Also, I need to give a shout out to Sage’s dad!! He loved and accepted his son with no questions asked. I adored how much he liked Luca and saw how happy he made Sage!!
I could go on and on, about this incredible book, but I’ll stop here and say this series is everything!!! This book deserves so much more than a 5 star review!!
Thank you again Avery Collin’s for allowing me to be apart of your world and honoring me by allowing me to be on your team!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
It’s taken me a few days to sit with this book. I’ve been trying to find the right words to express how I feel about Luca and Sage’s story. But the words still won’t come.
So, I’ll simply say that again, Avery Collin’s has blown me away!
This is my 6th book that I have had the pleasure of reading by this author and as I’ve said in almost all of my reviews, it just keeps getting better and better!! Honestly though, better doesn’t even express how Avery Collin’s pierces my soul with every book she writes. She touches on tough subjects and always writes these scenes so beautifully and with so much care.
Luca and Sage’s story was perfect. They were truly so good for one another.
I know Luca seemed so unfeeling and cold in the beginning, but honestly, I never truly hated him. When he sent Sage away, my heart actually broke for both of them.
I really felt that Luca had such a beautiful yet broken soul due to his childhood and ongoing trauma afflicted by his father. He also put so much pressure on himself by always feeling like he had to be on top, to always be the strong one, the popular one, the one who was always the life of the party. It doesn’t surprise me with the way he dealt with everything. At times he probably felt so hopeless!
And then along came Sage. Strong and sassy Sage.
Wow, his and Luca’s dynamic together was so freaking good!!!
It took Sage a while to realize that Luca really did care for him and that he wanted him in his life.
The chemistry between the two was pure fire.
Once they gave into their feelings, I loved how their relationship blossomed, and really made them both better people. Especially with Luca, he worked so hard to be the man that would be worthy of Sage’s love. I was so damn proud of him!
And holy moly, when Sage stood up and defended Luca, sigh…. 🥹 That was the best moment ever!!!
Also, I need to give a shout out to Sage’s dad!! He loved and accepted his son with no questions asked. I adored how much he liked Luca and saw how happy he made Sage!!
I could go on and on, about this incredible book, but I’ll stop here and say this series is everything!!! This book deserves so much more than a 5 star review!!
Thank you again Avery Collin’s for allowing me to be apart of your world and honoring me by allowing me to be on your team!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
June 29, 2026
Luca and Sage didn’t have the best start, and that’s an understatement. One conversation that should have never been heard changes Sages life, for the better? At first definitely not.
Luca is a classic don’t judge a book by its cover, he’s the QB and king of blackthorne. With a mega watt smile and cocky personality but underneath that lies a shell that he’s been hiding for 4 years. No-one would have suspected the golden boy to be an addict, but Luca knows how to pretend until Damon.
I love the fact we get little snippets of Roman and Damon!!!! And this book did not disappoint, we actually saw a lot of Damon being the help Luca needs. We also get a glimpse of what happened in them 3 years where he lost his brother, but to see Damon embrace the people in his boyfriend’s house is heartwarming. And shows he has come along way from when he first started school.
I loved the storyline and I thought the author was perfectly respectful when depicting Luca’s journey being an addict. It was so nice to see both his and Sage’s characters evolve, and them fighting for their happily ever after.
-And omg what did Nate tell Sage! I hope we find out in his book, I’m so curious, I’ve already got the next book loaded up! I gots to knowwwwww
Luca is a classic don’t judge a book by its cover, he’s the QB and king of blackthorne. With a mega watt smile and cocky personality but underneath that lies a shell that he’s been hiding for 4 years. No-one would have suspected the golden boy to be an addict, but Luca knows how to pretend until Damon.
I love the fact we get little snippets of Roman and Damon!!!! And this book did not disappoint, we actually saw a lot of Damon being the help Luca needs. We also get a glimpse of what happened in them 3 years where he lost his brother, but to see Damon embrace the people in his boyfriend’s house is heartwarming. And shows he has come along way from when he first started school.
I loved the storyline and I thought the author was perfectly respectful when depicting Luca’s journey being an addict. It was so nice to see both his and Sage’s characters evolve, and them fighting for their happily ever after.
-And omg what did Nate tell Sage! I hope we find out in his book, I’m so curious, I’ve already got the next book loaded up! I gots to knowwwwww
January 30, 2026
Bitter When He Begs by Avery Collins
Luca & Sage
-Hockey Player x nerd
-Degradation/Humiliation
-Toxic To Tender
-Red Flag Redemption Arc
-Reluctant Attraction Turned Obsession
-Broken Boy Finds His Peace
-Hurt/Comfort
-Found Family
-Possessive/Obsessive
-Dirty Talk
I love a broken golden boy story, it always adds so much depth to a “perfect” character. I loved the addiction rep here, the found family in this one was sooo strong. I do think it was a bit long for what it needed to be, but overall I really enjoyed these characters and their dynamic. I really like how both the first book and this one of this series go from toxic to tender, that is something really cool to read. I will definitely be continuing the series but I need something fluffy first.
Favorite Quote: “You’ve been it from the second you started looking at me like I was something worth seeing”
Definitely check trigger warnings for this series.
Luca & Sage
-Hockey Player x nerd
-Degradation/Humiliation
-Toxic To Tender
-Red Flag Redemption Arc
-Reluctant Attraction Turned Obsession
-Broken Boy Finds His Peace
-Hurt/Comfort
-Found Family
-Possessive/Obsessive
-Dirty Talk
I love a broken golden boy story, it always adds so much depth to a “perfect” character. I loved the addiction rep here, the found family in this one was sooo strong. I do think it was a bit long for what it needed to be, but overall I really enjoyed these characters and their dynamic. I really like how both the first book and this one of this series go from toxic to tender, that is something really cool to read. I will definitely be continuing the series but I need something fluffy first.
Favorite Quote: “You’ve been it from the second you started looking at me like I was something worth seeing”
Definitely check trigger warnings for this series.
June 9, 2026
The relationship development in this book doesn't flow very well. I couldn't really figure out why these two like each other until about 50% through.
Luca has complexity as a character, especially with his addiction, but I can't seem to grasp their dynamic as a couple. I also think the focus on all the side characters around Luca takes away from the main relationship development.
With sage,we know next to nothing about him for the first half of the book. I love a brat, and he ends being such a fun character, but it takes so long for his character to start being developed.
For the series, I really liked the first half of the first book, but it got weaker in the second half. This one started out weak, but the second half was much stronger. For the half of the books I do like in each of them, I really like, so I’ll continue the series, but I wish the pacing was more consistent throughout.
Luca has complexity as a character, especially with his addiction, but I can't seem to grasp their dynamic as a couple. I also think the focus on all the side characters around Luca takes away from the main relationship development.
With sage,we know next to nothing about him for the first half of the book. I love a brat, and he ends being such a fun character, but it takes so long for his character to start being developed.
For the series, I really liked the first half of the first book, but it got weaker in the second half. This one started out weak, but the second half was much stronger. For the half of the books I do like in each of them, I really like, so I’ll continue the series, but I wish the pacing was more consistent throughout.
July 4, 2025
ARC REVIEW ✨️
This was my first book from Avery Collins & I'm mind blown! There was something extra special about this book.The nerd & the Jock! This book had some really tough subjects & was so well written, that I felt like i was on an emotional rollercoaster rooting for these two men.I wish we all had friends like Luca, they were amazing,supportive characters.Luca & Sage were perfection together.At first,Luca was the kind of character you love to hate, the cocky guy who gets what he wants.Sage was the attractive nerdy guy who was likable straight away, but boy when these two collided Sage was feisty & didn't back down, he gave Luca a run for his money & i was cheering him on.Luca ended up being such a strong, lovable character & i just wanted everything for him.This book had me hooked from the first page & by the time i was finished i didn't want it to end.
Spice-🌶🌶🌶🌶
This was my first book from Avery Collins & I'm mind blown! There was something extra special about this book.The nerd & the Jock! This book had some really tough subjects & was so well written, that I felt like i was on an emotional rollercoaster rooting for these two men.I wish we all had friends like Luca, they were amazing,supportive characters.Luca & Sage were perfection together.At first,Luca was the kind of character you love to hate, the cocky guy who gets what he wants.Sage was the attractive nerdy guy who was likable straight away, but boy when these two collided Sage was feisty & didn't back down, he gave Luca a run for his money & i was cheering him on.Luca ended up being such a strong, lovable character & i just wanted everything for him.This book had me hooked from the first page & by the time i was finished i didn't want it to end.
Spice-🌶🌶🌶🌶
July 19, 2025
A must read! I loved this book, Sage and Luca's journey is captivating, filled with emotion and growth! Gaaah I love them so much and this series. Avery just has me hooked! I can’t wait for the next book ✨
February 24, 2026
Really really loved Luca and Sage. Jock x nerd. Addiction. Bully.
I do wish the bully or more the spit lasted longer hahaha
I do wish the bully or more the spit lasted longer hahaha
July 22, 2026
Rating: 4.5/5 🌟
Spice: 3/5 🌶️
Characters: Luca and Sage
Spice: 3/5 🌶️
Characters: Luca and Sage
March 19, 2026
24 Chapters in and the two MMCs have only fucked other people.
It makes zero sense why Luca hates Sage??? Sage overheard Luca talking about his drug test/use, so Luca ....didn't really do anything. Like the story just jumps to 3 months later and Luca and Sage have had nothing to do with eachother. Then at a party Luca gets in Sages face and says he is HIS, but then they don't do anything 🤔, well, except one hook up, then Luca is a complete asshole to Sage. So Luca has a threesome and Sage fucks Damien. Damien gets around. I wonder which MMC Damien fucks in book 3!
So yeah, 24 chapters and these 2 have nothing to do with eachother. They feel like 2 different stories in the same book.
Is this just a book about Lucas addiction and recovery? There is zero romance. These 2 have nothing to do with eachother at all!
And a recovering addict can't be in a relationship for like a year. So I guess this book will just be Luca and Sage living their separate lives, the end.
Sage stop going to Lucas house to fix Roman's camera!!! Literally stay the fuck away.
What the fuck have Sage & Luca been up to for 3 months ???
This book is not a romance.
Sage is wrestling with Roman??? What the fuck is going on here?? Roman and Sage flirting? Roman is with Damon.
I am hate reading this. All that happens is that Luca and Sage have a short interaction that ends up with them fighting and/or Luca pushing Sage away. Over and Over and Over. i want to get high to get through this shit.
24 Chapters and these 2 have barely spent any time together. I want to read a romance not whatever this is.
Chapter 600 and still Luca and Sage just not being together. Surely the school year has to be over by now. its been months and months. College is like September to May.
It makes zero sense why Luca hates Sage??? Sage overheard Luca talking about his drug test/use, so Luca ....didn't really do anything. Like the story just jumps to 3 months later and Luca and Sage have had nothing to do with eachother. Then at a party Luca gets in Sages face and says he is HIS, but then they don't do anything 🤔, well, except one hook up, then Luca is a complete asshole to Sage. So Luca has a threesome and Sage fucks Damien. Damien gets around. I wonder which MMC Damien fucks in book 3!
So yeah, 24 chapters and these 2 have nothing to do with eachother. They feel like 2 different stories in the same book.
Is this just a book about Lucas addiction and recovery? There is zero romance. These 2 have nothing to do with eachother at all!
And a recovering addict can't be in a relationship for like a year. So I guess this book will just be Luca and Sage living their separate lives, the end.
Sage stop going to Lucas house to fix Roman's camera!!! Literally stay the fuck away.
What the fuck have Sage & Luca been up to for 3 months ???
This book is not a romance.
Sage is wrestling with Roman??? What the fuck is going on here?? Roman and Sage flirting? Roman is with Damon.
I am hate reading this. All that happens is that Luca and Sage have a short interaction that ends up with them fighting and/or Luca pushing Sage away. Over and Over and Over. i want to get high to get through this shit.
24 Chapters and these 2 have barely spent any time together. I want to read a romance not whatever this is.
Chapter 600 and still Luca and Sage just not being together. Surely the school year has to be over by now. its been months and months. College is like September to May.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 14, 2025
Wow! This was a rollercoaster of emotions! It was messy, toxic, emotional, and then there was so much growth, struggle and tenderness! Luca was manipulative and mean at the start, but he turned into the most tender golden retriever-y boyfriend I've seen in a while. He was possessive from the get go, but the way he just always wanted to show Sage off was very endearing. He had to work through his issues, but the strength and determination he showed, while also putting in all the work was great to see. Sage was sarcastic, bratty and sassy and I was here for it! I especially loved how he could dress people down with words. And when he did that to Luca's dad(who is not a loving father, btw) I was clapping and cheering! I loved that Sage stood up for Luca. I loved Luca and Sage together, they were exactly what the other person needed in a partner. Luca needed someone to see him for himself and Sage was the person to do that.
Definitely a very enjoyable read and I loved the range of emotions it put me through. Tender and sappy Luca will always be my favorite!
Definitely a very enjoyable read and I loved the range of emotions it put me through. Tender and sappy Luca will always be my favorite!
July 26, 2025
Main character was a "richard"
I'm gonna be honest about 40% into the book, and my feelings for Sage started to nose dive. I wanted to like his character, but I just couldn't. Even with his few redeeming moments of showing love and support. There is a difference between being a smart arse and just being an arse. I get him being offensive in the beginning when Luca was a horrible person. But once Luca got sober and turned into a golden retriever, Sage just stayed a rude arse. Sage was literally. thinking how sweet Luca was being for taken him on a date. But the words coming out of his mouth were bitching how the date was an inconvenience.He literally was mad and yelling at Luca after Luca said "I love you". Sorry Sage ruined the story.
I'm gonna be honest about 40% into the book, and my feelings for Sage started to nose dive. I wanted to like his character, but I just couldn't. Even with his few redeeming moments of showing love and support. There is a difference between being a smart arse and just being an arse. I get him being offensive in the beginning when Luca was a horrible person. But once Luca got sober and turned into a golden retriever, Sage just stayed a rude arse. Sage was literally. thinking how sweet Luca was being for taken him on a date. But the words coming out of his mouth were bitching how the date was an inconvenience.He literally was mad and yelling at Luca after Luca said "I love you". Sorry Sage ruined the story.
August 30, 2025
I liked this one better than the first one, but hardly. What is with this author and her characters? They switch up almost immediately into a completely different version of themselves. It doesn’t fit. It’s like she can’t make up her mind on who she wants them to be.
I am Sage’s #1 fucking hater. I absolutely could not stand him no matter how hard I tried. His personality switch was ridiculous and I just couldn’t get on board with the way he acted throughout the rest of the book. Dull and annoying.
Damon and Luca are my only reasons for finishing both books.
I highly doubt I’ll read book 3.
I am Sage’s #1 fucking hater. I absolutely could not stand him no matter how hard I tried. His personality switch was ridiculous and I just couldn’t get on board with the way he acted throughout the rest of the book. Dull and annoying.
Damon and Luca are my only reasons for finishing both books.
I highly doubt I’ll read book 3.
Did Not Finish
July 15, 2025Dnf 15% (7/15/25)
This needs more development. It makes no sense. And then the continuity issues from book one (which I also DNFd but noticed the continuity errors) were lazy
This needs more development. It makes no sense. And then the continuity issues from book one (which I also DNFd but noticed the continuity errors) were lazy
August 6, 2026
I get why people like this book. If you took all the little social media snippets that make romance reader’s panties and hearts melt and stitched them together, you would have this book. On the surface it’s gold. Unfortunately, there is literally nothing under that surface. The first 25% of the book has zero plot. One guy needs a distraction so he is an asshole to the other character. The other hates him for it but still jizzes every time he looks at him. That’s it. Then something resembling a plot is revealed. Luca is hooked on Vicodin because his daddy doesn’t love him, but his boys have his back and he kicks the habit in a long and dramatically detailed series of scenes. His personality is immediately reset and he gives Sage a kicked puppy look, so they are instantly a couple. Despite knowing nothing about each other except the size and shape of their dicks. Sage has no actual personality. He is a nerd because he wears glasses and has a “photographic memory.” His father is the most famous producer and director of movies on the planet, he grew up on movie sets, and his grandfather is famous for an unspecified reason. And yet Sage freaks out because people are looking at him when he starts dating the college star quarterback. The two never learn anything about each other, just randomly know things as if there is a lot going on off page. On page they are “wrecked,” “ruined,” “devastated,” and “killed” by everything the other does. Because reasons. Side characters make dramatic statements about how they are brothers and care for the main characters with bonds forged in… frat parties, I guess. Luca has a brother in an early scene, who is maybe kind of in his corner, but is never so much as mentioned again. Sage has a best friend who has a huge problem with Sage falling for the guy who “tormented” him by saying some mean things and jerking him off. Once the friend accepts the relationship, he disappears from the book after a cryptic scene that hints at what I am guessing is a relationship (obviously love/hate) featured in a later book in the series. The book is riddled with tiny continuity errors that are barely a blip until you realize you have read a few dozen of them. The book bumps along with overly dramatic declarations of love, sex that admittedly sizzles on the page, and random plot points that are forgotten as soon as they are halfway dealt with.
As a book, this is a hot mess. As word porn, it’s still a hot mess but in a growly, dirty talking, orgasmic way. The audio narration is extremely well done, and probably the only reason I didn’t put this on the DNF list. To be completely fair, this could have been a terrific 100 page novella without the pretense of having substance and depth.
As a book, this is a hot mess. As word porn, it’s still a hot mess but in a growly, dirty talking, orgasmic way. The audio narration is extremely well done, and probably the only reason I didn’t put this on the DNF list. To be completely fair, this could have been a terrific 100 page novella without the pretense of having substance and depth.
July 5, 2025
“Luca loves me. And it’s terrifying, and it’s intense, and it’s too much, but I want it. My heart’s too full” -Avery Collins
-MM Romance
Jock (Football QB)/ Bratty Nerd (Film major)
Hurt/comfort
Aďďictiön struggles
Cute/Swoony moments
Schminkish Spicyyy time
Finding your person in the chaos of the world
Wearing boyfriends clothes
⭐️5/5 🌶️5/5
This is book 2 in the Sinners of Blackthorns U series by Avery Collins! It can be read as a standalone BUT I feel like you would definitely get a better reading experience if you read book one first just because there are a lot of interconnected characters!
Did I put all other books on hold and devour this book?.., yes yes I did! The writing in my opinion was chefs kiss 💋! I was very much hooked from line one and the book didn’t let me go till I was finished and even then it’s still living rent free in my heart!
I fell in love with Luca and his imperfections because it made him beautifully perfect in my eyes. He gave so much of himself to his sport, his school and most of all to his ugh of a father which lead him into not so great coping mechanism, but it was sooo good to see him shine not only for the one person that gave him the sun in human form… Sage 🥰 but also for HIMSELF! Once he decided to live for himself and not let the background noise AKA his POS dad and those pįłls rule his life he came to life in a phenomenal way! I very much appreciated and loved the way he LOVED Sage fully no stops!!
Then there’s Sage our bratty sarcastic funny nerdy boy! He is everything that Luca never knew he needed! What I loved most is that even thougb Sage may have his own insecurities he still shows up and fights not just for himself but for Luca too. They made such an amazing couple I loved every single moment!!
And good lawdd… The spice in this book was everything and a bag of chips definitely top notch!! I for sure ATE those scenes up!! They had just the right amount of spicy jalapeños with plenty of sauce and descriptions 🤭!! Seriously those scenes were hot as hëłł!!
Avery Collins delivered another phenomenal book and I cannot wait to see what comes next for these series!!
Happy Reading 📚
-MM Romance
Jock (Football QB)/ Bratty Nerd (Film major)
Hurt/comfort
Aďďictiön struggles
Cute/Swoony moments
Schminkish Spicyyy time
Finding your person in the chaos of the world
Wearing boyfriends clothes
⭐️5/5 🌶️5/5
This is book 2 in the Sinners of Blackthorns U series by Avery Collins! It can be read as a standalone BUT I feel like you would definitely get a better reading experience if you read book one first just because there are a lot of interconnected characters!
Did I put all other books on hold and devour this book?.., yes yes I did! The writing in my opinion was chefs kiss 💋! I was very much hooked from line one and the book didn’t let me go till I was finished and even then it’s still living rent free in my heart!
I fell in love with Luca and his imperfections because it made him beautifully perfect in my eyes. He gave so much of himself to his sport, his school and most of all to his ugh of a father which lead him into not so great coping mechanism, but it was sooo good to see him shine not only for the one person that gave him the sun in human form… Sage 🥰 but also for HIMSELF! Once he decided to live for himself and not let the background noise AKA his POS dad and those pįłls rule his life he came to life in a phenomenal way! I very much appreciated and loved the way he LOVED Sage fully no stops!!
Then there’s Sage our bratty sarcastic funny nerdy boy! He is everything that Luca never knew he needed! What I loved most is that even thougb Sage may have his own insecurities he still shows up and fights not just for himself but for Luca too. They made such an amazing couple I loved every single moment!!
And good lawdd… The spice in this book was everything and a bag of chips definitely top notch!! I for sure ATE those scenes up!! They had just the right amount of spicy jalapeños with plenty of sauce and descriptions 🤭!! Seriously those scenes were hot as hëłł!!
Avery Collins delivered another phenomenal book and I cannot wait to see what comes next for these series!!
Happy Reading 📚
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