What do you think?
Pretty Boys
Thirty-one, not thriving, and heading for divorce.
Cade has everything she always wanted out of life. A loving husband, a beautiful daughter, and a comfortable home, but a night of exploration with another couple leaves her with more questions than answers. Julien Morreau is not what Cade expected, but everything she thought she was missing. As she spends more time with him, she begins questioning her reality and whether she is getting the fulfillment she yearns for. Friendships bend and break, and unexpected relationships form, causing Cade to make an impossible decision.
Mistakes will be made, boundaries will be crossed, and hearts will be broken. In a world of pretty boys and even prettier lies, who would you choose?
Cade has everything she always wanted out of life. A loving husband, a beautiful daughter, and a comfortable home, but a night of exploration with another couple leaves her with more questions than answers. Julien Morreau is not what Cade expected, but everything she thought she was missing. As she spends more time with him, she begins questioning her reality and whether she is getting the fulfillment she yearns for. Friendships bend and break, and unexpected relationships form, causing Cade to make an impossible decision.
Mistakes will be made, boundaries will be crossed, and hearts will be broken. In a world of pretty boys and even prettier lies, who would you choose?
323 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 27, 2025
About the author
N.J. Rodman
4 books70 followersMy name is N.J. and I am a
stay at home mom to a three year old pterodactyl ... I mean daughter. Don’t let
my bookish exterior fool you. I do in fact have a dark side. Though I enjoy
writing about love, I also have a slight obsession with serial killers.
My pen name Amara Rose came to be when I began writing my first dark
romance novel, Babydoll. Due to the extreme nature of the content I decided to
separate it from my other works under N.J. Rodman. Amara gives me the space
to explore my inner crazy and to really let it all out. Though I love all of my titles,
I think I will always have a soft spot for the dark little demon living inside me.
So whether you enjoy pitch black MMC’s or golden retrievers, I have written
something for everybody. I hope that through my writing you will experience all
of the feelings that make us human. My stories aren’t for the faint of heart, but if
you are willing to take an emotional trust fall with me, I promise I’ll catch you.
stay at home mom to a three year old pterodactyl ... I mean daughter. Don’t let
my bookish exterior fool you. I do in fact have a dark side. Though I enjoy
writing about love, I also have a slight obsession with serial killers.
My pen name Amara Rose came to be when I began writing my first dark
romance novel, Babydoll. Due to the extreme nature of the content I decided to
separate it from my other works under N.J. Rodman. Amara gives me the space
to explore my inner crazy and to really let it all out. Though I love all of my titles,
I think I will always have a soft spot for the dark little demon living inside me.
So whether you enjoy pitch black MMC’s or golden retrievers, I have written
something for everybody. I hope that through my writing you will experience all
of the feelings that make us human. My stories aren’t for the faint of heart, but if
you are willing to take an emotional trust fall with me, I promise I’ll catch you.
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews
May 30, 2025
First off, please check your triggers. Also, this was my first alpha reader book!! Let me just say, love this author very much!!
With this story some parts of Cade I relate! I know it hard when you lose yourself. But know things do work it self out. But also you grow! This book show me, it ok what happened in a relationship. But yourself is impotent too!
With this story some parts of Cade I relate! I know it hard when you lose yourself. But know things do work it self out. But also you grow! This book show me, it ok what happened in a relationship. But yourself is impotent too!
June 2, 2025
Firstly, please check the trigger warnings! ⚠️
This was my first time alpha reading a book! I absolutely love N. J. and everything she writes!! I’m also so honoured to have been mentioned in the acknowledgements which I was not expecting!! 🥹
I read this in 24 hours and was hooked because I had no clue which direction the story was going in!
It’s so different to any other romance I’ve read and almost felt like less of a romance and more of a story highlighting the different disorders that the fmc has and trying to teach us about them and how they can affect relationships which was so important to the story!
The beginning started out with such an interesting format with the flashbacks and the present day therapy session which made it so much more engaging for the beginning of a book rather than a massive buildup before anything happens! From the first chapter I was loving the funny little unhinged commentary and fourth wall breaks!
As someone who has no firsthand experience with some of these mental disorders or polygamy, I wasn’t sure how to feel about the fmc initially with the way she interacted with the men but by the end I felt like I understood so much more and could see why certain things had played out the way they did. I learnt a lot through the story, even if it wasn’t a “conventional” romance!
One thing that was so well done, and I don’t know if it was intentional or not, was the way that the fmcs actions go from hot to cold and from one man to another because it felt like it was giving me whiplash but it really made me feel like I was the fmc because I was so confused just like she was when she was trying to navigate her emotions, and it felt like an accurate representation of how the disorders could affect someone’s relationships and outlook on love and monogamy.
The whole story felt so real and you could tell that N. J. poured so much of herself and her heart into this book!
This was my first time alpha reading a book! I absolutely love N. J. and everything she writes!! I’m also so honoured to have been mentioned in the acknowledgements which I was not expecting!! 🥹
I read this in 24 hours and was hooked because I had no clue which direction the story was going in!
It’s so different to any other romance I’ve read and almost felt like less of a romance and more of a story highlighting the different disorders that the fmc has and trying to teach us about them and how they can affect relationships which was so important to the story!
The beginning started out with such an interesting format with the flashbacks and the present day therapy session which made it so much more engaging for the beginning of a book rather than a massive buildup before anything happens! From the first chapter I was loving the funny little unhinged commentary and fourth wall breaks!
As someone who has no firsthand experience with some of these mental disorders or polygamy, I wasn’t sure how to feel about the fmc initially with the way she interacted with the men but by the end I felt like I understood so much more and could see why certain things had played out the way they did. I learnt a lot through the story, even if it wasn’t a “conventional” romance!
One thing that was so well done, and I don’t know if it was intentional or not, was the way that the fmcs actions go from hot to cold and from one man to another because it felt like it was giving me whiplash but it really made me feel like I was the fmc because I was so confused just like she was when she was trying to navigate her emotions, and it felt like an accurate representation of how the disorders could affect someone’s relationships and outlook on love and monogamy.
The whole story felt so real and you could tell that N. J. poured so much of herself and her heart into this book!
June 15, 2025
I really enjoyed this book!
I was so intrigued reading this, which is written from one point of view that is the main female character called Cade. I was hooked from the beginning and was very curious to see how this story would pan out.
She goes through many struggles through life, and discovering her sexuality becomes one factor she questions. She initially thinks she would like to experiment in multiple romantic and sexual relationships and is attracted to many people of the opposite sex at the same time. I really liked the polyamorous part as it also showed the inner turmoil she was going through and that she didn't know what she wanted, but she just wanted to feel good. I felt like this was a very important and great part of the story as she just wants to be wanted and accepted for who she is. This story continues further clearly demonstrating her mental health struggles and N.J. Rodman executes Cade's trust issues, overthinking and anxiety brilliantly.
I found the plot to be very interesting, believable, and relatable, and I thought it was beautifully written. It is steady paced, which is perfect for the story and delivered the maximum effect and turmoil of the FMC's emotions. It is a contemporary romance that heavily emphasises on BPD / mental health. I really embraced it and I absolutely loved Cade and her story.
I love how Will is a nice man and maintains to be even when things take a turn and Chase was so great for her and really helped her grow and be confident and happy in herself.
It was a nice change and a pleasure to read, and I would definitely read more books like this.
I would HIGHLY recommend it! I am so glad to have discovered this author, and I look forward to reading more from her.
I was so intrigued reading this, which is written from one point of view that is the main female character called Cade. I was hooked from the beginning and was very curious to see how this story would pan out.
She goes through many struggles through life, and discovering her sexuality becomes one factor she questions. She initially thinks she would like to experiment in multiple romantic and sexual relationships and is attracted to many people of the opposite sex at the same time. I really liked the polyamorous part as it also showed the inner turmoil she was going through and that she didn't know what she wanted, but she just wanted to feel good. I felt like this was a very important and great part of the story as she just wants to be wanted and accepted for who she is. This story continues further clearly demonstrating her mental health struggles and N.J. Rodman executes Cade's trust issues, overthinking and anxiety brilliantly.
I found the plot to be very interesting, believable, and relatable, and I thought it was beautifully written. It is steady paced, which is perfect for the story and delivered the maximum effect and turmoil of the FMC's emotions. It is a contemporary romance that heavily emphasises on BPD / mental health. I really embraced it and I absolutely loved Cade and her story.
I love how Will is a nice man and maintains to be even when things take a turn and Chase was so great for her and really helped her grow and be confident and happy in herself.
It was a nice change and a pleasure to read, and I would definitely read more books like this.
I would HIGHLY recommend it! I am so glad to have discovered this author, and I look forward to reading more from her.
July 18, 2026
I am only finishing this book because I have an obligation to my book club. I hated everything about this book, how it was written, the characters, the tropes. It was just not good. Picking up this book to read was my least favourite thing to do and honestly made me dread reading. I felt like our FMC was whiny and a total pick-me girl. She did anything and everything to ruin her relationship and then just blamed her mental illness. You cannot hide behind your mental illness to forgive that you are a shitty person. She constantly said “but I love my husband” girl if you loved your husband you would follow boundaries put up and would respect him. I understand polyamory and swingers but in order for that to work you need to listen to your partner and their boundaries and she completely disregarded it multiple times over. Every time she went against it she would feel bad and have a self-pity party but realistically you made your own decision. Just stop being a shit human. I hated her and I hate how she talked about her kid and what kind of role model she was being for her kid. Showing her kid what a toxic relationship looks like because she can’t stop seeking out the affection and validation from other men. This woman is 30 years old and acts like she’s 16. I wouldn’t put up with her behaviour or shit at all and I’m shocked that anyone does. I think the worst part is her bff’s name is my name which I hate because I definitely would not be friends with her. I wrote that first part before the twist with her friend and all I can say is what a strange twist to add. Wasn’t necessary.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 17, 2025
I want to start by saying that I absolutely love N.J. Rodman’s writing and have enjoyed everything I’ve read from this author so far. Her books usually pull me in from page one—but this one was different for me.
The premise of Pretty Boys is intriguing, and the author’s signature style is as polished as ever, but unfortunately, I just couldn’t connect with the characters the way I hoped. Cade’s journey and her choices didn’t resonate with me personally, and I found myself struggling to stay invested in her story and relationships.
That being said, this is purely a personal disconnect—not a reflection of the author’s talent. The emotional depth and writing quality are still there, and I’m sure this book will absolutely hit the mark for other readers who enjoy complex, introspective characters and stories about self-discovery.
I’ll definitely continue reading anything N.J. Rodman writes, because her voice is unique and powerful—this one just wasn’t the right fit for me.
The premise of Pretty Boys is intriguing, and the author’s signature style is as polished as ever, but unfortunately, I just couldn’t connect with the characters the way I hoped. Cade’s journey and her choices didn’t resonate with me personally, and I found myself struggling to stay invested in her story and relationships.
That being said, this is purely a personal disconnect—not a reflection of the author’s talent. The emotional depth and writing quality are still there, and I’m sure this book will absolutely hit the mark for other readers who enjoy complex, introspective characters and stories about self-discovery.
I’ll definitely continue reading anything N.J. Rodman writes, because her voice is unique and powerful—this one just wasn’t the right fit for me.
June 7, 2025
This book covers some pretty heavy topics so I would suggest checking the trigger and content warnings!
I haven’t ever read a romance book like this and I just want to say that it was well written but some parts of the story was so much more about what was happening in the present, and more about the FMC and her mental health struggles / disorders and overcoming them.
The fact that I have no firsthand experience with any of the mental disorders or personality traits that the FMC does but I still felt so connected to the FMC and that I was able to put myself in her shoes and feel her confusion, anxiety and emotional whiplash is just a statement to how this book was so well written.
This book was raw and emotions were felt pouring out from every word. I am so grateful I had the opportunity to alpha read for NJ. She is an outstanding writer!
I haven’t ever read a romance book like this and I just want to say that it was well written but some parts of the story was so much more about what was happening in the present, and more about the FMC and her mental health struggles / disorders and overcoming them.
The fact that I have no firsthand experience with any of the mental disorders or personality traits that the FMC does but I still felt so connected to the FMC and that I was able to put myself in her shoes and feel her confusion, anxiety and emotional whiplash is just a statement to how this book was so well written.
This book was raw and emotions were felt pouring out from every word. I am so grateful I had the opportunity to alpha read for NJ. She is an outstanding writer!
June 4, 2026
A beautifully raw, validating read that made me feel so less alone...
I had the absolute pleasure of meeting N.J. Rodman briefly at Southgate Mall and picked up copies of Pretty Boys for myself and other books from her for my mom. Such a kind soul!!
Reading this book was an incredibly profound experience as it felt like reading a reflection of my own life; Living with BPD can be an incredibly isolating experience, but N.J.'s willingness to bare her soul on the page completely shattered that loneliness for me.
It is so rare to find a book that hits this close to home and connects on such a deep level. I am incredibly grateful to N.J. for her vulnerability, honesty, and courage. I would absolutely love to read more about her past in future books.
If you are looking for a powerful, deeply authentic read, I cannot recommend Pretty Boys enough. Thank you, N.J. Rodman, for being you!!
I had the absolute pleasure of meeting N.J. Rodman briefly at Southgate Mall and picked up copies of Pretty Boys for myself and other books from her for my mom. Such a kind soul!!
Reading this book was an incredibly profound experience as it felt like reading a reflection of my own life; Living with BPD can be an incredibly isolating experience, but N.J.'s willingness to bare her soul on the page completely shattered that loneliness for me.
It is so rare to find a book that hits this close to home and connects on such a deep level. I am incredibly grateful to N.J. for her vulnerability, honesty, and courage. I would absolutely love to read more about her past in future books.
If you are looking for a powerful, deeply authentic read, I cannot recommend Pretty Boys enough. Thank you, N.J. Rodman, for being you!!
June 30, 2025
Firstly, I appreciated the author diving in and writing a book with mental health representation. I myself have GAD and mild depression so it was refreshing to read this.
I found myself having a few things in common with Cade and it made me feel seen.
Will and Chase both help our FMC in their own special way. They had a pertinent role in Cade's life.
Did I mention Cade is also a mama? Yeah, that made this book even more relatable.
This book gripped me from the beginning and it made me cry and laugh and feel like I am definitely not alone. So this book will hold a special place in my heart ❤️
I found myself having a few things in common with Cade and it made me feel seen.
Will and Chase both help our FMC in their own special way. They had a pertinent role in Cade's life.
Did I mention Cade is also a mama? Yeah, that made this book even more relatable.
This book gripped me from the beginning and it made me cry and laugh and feel like I am definitely not alone. So this book will hold a special place in my heart ❤️
June 15, 2025
“ pretty boys are dangerous, but beautiful women could break your heart”
FMC- Cade (Cadence) A momma with BPD just trying to figure out where she belongs and who she can trust.
Overall, okay read.
This is solely my opinion and I do think people that enjoy all these tropes will enjoy it.
The book just wasnt for me and that is perfectly okay.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
FMC- Cade (Cadence) A momma with BPD just trying to figure out where she belongs and who she can trust.
Overall, okay read.
This is solely my opinion and I do think people that enjoy all these tropes will enjoy it.
The book just wasnt for me and that is perfectly okay.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
July 5, 2025
I could NOT put down the book. The main character is hilarious and brilliant.
I got so involved with the story I couldn’t believe what kept happening.
Without giving anything away. She’s married they decide to switch it up and things get rocky. This is a sexy story and full of all the spicy romance you could ask for.
Again, thank you for another great read! Cannot wait to see what you write next.
I got so involved with the story I couldn’t believe what kept happening.
Without giving anything away. She’s married they decide to switch it up and things get rocky. This is a sexy story and full of all the spicy romance you could ask for.
Again, thank you for another great read! Cannot wait to see what you write next.
July 11, 2025
I really liked this book! The character development was unreal and I love how everything played out.
I was hooked from the first few pages and needed to know everything about Cades journey. I enjoyed watching her grow as a person and being a part of every experience. The spice was hot but the plot was even better.
Highly recommend this one, it's very emotional and empowering as a woman too! I
I was hooked from the first few pages and needed to know everything about Cades journey. I enjoyed watching her grow as a person and being a part of every experience. The spice was hot but the plot was even better.
Highly recommend this one, it's very emotional and empowering as a woman too! I
March 9, 2026
I wish I could do 1/2 stars. I would give it 3.5. I enjoyed this book very much. I enjoyed the point of view and the Cade's inner monolog. There were a few gaps in the story at various points, and I'm not sure the expletive sex scenes added to or distracted from the story. I'm a fan of spicy romance, but I'm not sure it fits with this story. Just my thoughts.
June 22, 2025
I'm giving this one a 3 star only because it's not a story I enjoyed. the writing it's still good and I like the authors other books but the story in this one was not something I enjoyed. However I am sure there are lots that will because we all like different things.
March 15, 2026
I picked up this book today and I couldn’t put it down.
The rawness, the humour, there was so much I could relate to. I loved the flow, the story and the spice was chefs kiss 🌶️ This is my first NJ Roman book, and it did not disappoint - its made me eager to read more of her books!
The rawness, the humour, there was so much I could relate to. I loved the flow, the story and the spice was chefs kiss 🌶️ This is my first NJ Roman book, and it did not disappoint - its made me eager to read more of her books!
Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews