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Evergreen University #1
Blitz'd
Zander
Kissing my rival shouldn’t have felt so good.
Finding out my girlfriend has been cheating on me for months makes me do something crazy: kiss my rival to make her jealous. I wasn’t supposed to like kissing Kerian Slade. He’s a psycho who demands things of me…things I shouldn’t want. But there’s something about Kerian that draws me in, and now that I’m caught in his web, he won’t let me go.
Kerian
The number one rule: don’t care about people.
Caring is a distraction, and emotions are messy… and messy is something I hate. Which is why I’m confused when the messiest player I’ve ever met—my rival—kisses me and turns my world on its head. Zander Braithe is sweet, emotional, and straight. That doesn’t stop him from coming back for more, and that doesn’t stop me from realizing I’ll burn the world down to make him mine.
Blitz'd is a dark themed MM romance between two rival football quarterbacks and a kiss that changes everything. It contains high heat, unexpected sweetness and a possessive quarterback that thinks stalking is a love language and a NFL hopeful that wants to love him despite his initial misgivings.
Kissing my rival shouldn’t have felt so good.
Finding out my girlfriend has been cheating on me for months makes me do something crazy: kiss my rival to make her jealous. I wasn’t supposed to like kissing Kerian Slade. He’s a psycho who demands things of me…things I shouldn’t want. But there’s something about Kerian that draws me in, and now that I’m caught in his web, he won’t let me go.
Kerian
The number one rule: don’t care about people.
Caring is a distraction, and emotions are messy… and messy is something I hate. Which is why I’m confused when the messiest player I’ve ever met—my rival—kisses me and turns my world on its head. Zander Braithe is sweet, emotional, and straight. That doesn’t stop him from coming back for more, and that doesn’t stop me from realizing I’ll burn the world down to make him mine.
Blitz'd is a dark themed MM romance between two rival football quarterbacks and a kiss that changes everything. It contains high heat, unexpected sweetness and a possessive quarterback that thinks stalking is a love language and a NFL hopeful that wants to love him despite his initial misgivings.
354 pages, Paperback
First published April 28, 2025
1283 people are currently reading
3126 people want to read
About the author
Lee McCormick
17 books380 followersLee McCormick has been writing since they were very young, and they've finally found the courage to offer up some of their favorite ideas to the world. Parent to two amazing kids and three pretty fantastic dogs, they've always been fascinated with dark romance and love that transcends time and reason.
When they aren't busy working on their novels, you can usually find them browsing queer romance recommendations or playing a video game.
When they aren't busy working on their novels, you can usually find them browsing queer romance recommendations or playing a video game.
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May 4, 2025
MM Romance
DNF @ 5%
Jacob, I need a favor! You scolded me for picking up a Lee McCormick book and hating it a few months ago although I genuinely thought I’d like that one but I digress. I need you to come back and say terrible things to me on this review too so if I’m ever tempted to pick up another book by McCormick, I have your nasty words to shock some sense into me.
I’ve never read a solo RS McKenzie book so I guess they are still fair game but this is my 3rd attempt at McCormick and the 3rd time was definitely not a charm. NOPE, more like 3 times makes me a masochistic clown 🤡
This review is absolutely unhinged. You’ve been warned.
In the first 3%, chapter 1, we learn our MC Zander has a girlfriend named Megan. I finally get some name rep and she’s a cheating whore (the book’s words ok, not mine). Megan has been banging the kicker of the football team behind Zander’s back. She says she did it because Zander is too obsessed with his rival Kieran. Whatever. I saw a Clueless movie clip the other day so the slang is back in my head. As if Megan! How dare you fuck the kicker when you have the quarterback! I’ve obviously lost my mind reading this for 5 minutes. Ok so, Megan tells him this before his big game and he plays like shit surprise, surprise. But plot twist he gets his shit together at the last minute and they win. While the teams are shaking hands saying good game and all that jazz, he can see his slutty ex on the sidelines practically humping the kicker and in a retaliative move which honestly made absolutely no fucking sense he grabs his rival and kisses him randomly, on the field in front of everyone. EVERYONE. Reporters, friends, family, teammates, the slutty ex and the kicker, all of them. WTAF. This is your rival Zander, the guy you supposedly hate and bitched about for 10 pages and you’re randomly kissing him in the middle of a college football game with scouts? The blurb said kissed during a stunt but a stunt is planned and this wasn’t and it was so fucking random. After he kisses his rival, his ex & the kicker look at him dumbfounded as did I because WTF. Talk about no build up. I was immediately turned off and wanted nothing to do with this book. I think that’s a new record tbh. Part of what makes a rivals to lovers great is the tension and build up not them tongue fucking at 3% in chapter 1 🙄🙄🙄🙄
So I read chapter 2 just to see if Kieran’s POV is any less ridiculous and HAHAHAHAH omg just because a book says “dark” doesn’t mean it has to have this crazy OTT shit. So we have Kieran turned on by the kiss but pissed that Zander did it to make a chick jealous so he’s low key stalking him at his dorm. He swiped some guys keycard and is planning on making his move because he’s obsessed now and he always gets what he wants. 👀👀👀 Sir, I give you major side eye because it’s literally been 5 minutes but ok whatever. He goes into the dorm but has no idea what room he’s looking for but no worries there’s a white board with “Zandy” written on it. This boy gets incensed that Zander has this nickname because how dare he have a pet name someone else gave him. Sir! You’re a bit too intense here. He pounds on Zander’s door and barges in. Zander is obviously surprised and annoyed when he sees his rival in his room but his dick still gets hard because of course it does and Kieran notices. Cue hand necklaces which get Zandy even more worked up and the realization he likes some pain with his pleasure. Threats happen, drama ensues & Kieran stalks off leaving Zandy needing a handy. Kieran was nice enough to spit into Zander’s hand to give him some lubrication too! What a nice boy!
So yah, I’m good on this one, couldn’t even make it through the sample and am now going to be putting Lee McCormick on perma DNR. It’s not me, it’s you? It’s not you, it’s me? I don’t know but if anyone sees me attempting to read this author again can they smack me in the face? K thanks 🙏💗 I usually don’t rate books if I can’t make it out of the sample and/ or don’t make it to 50% but I need to 1 star this so if I ever attempt this author again I’ll have irrefutable proof that they are NOT FOR ME!
DNF @ 5%
Jacob, I need a favor! You scolded me for picking up a Lee McCormick book and hating it a few months ago although I genuinely thought I’d like that one but I digress. I need you to come back and say terrible things to me on this review too so if I’m ever tempted to pick up another book by McCormick, I have your nasty words to shock some sense into me.
I’ve never read a solo RS McKenzie book so I guess they are still fair game but this is my 3rd attempt at McCormick and the 3rd time was definitely not a charm. NOPE, more like 3 times makes me a masochistic clown 🤡
This review is absolutely unhinged. You’ve been warned.
In the first 3%, chapter 1, we learn our MC Zander has a girlfriend named Megan. I finally get some name rep and she’s a cheating whore (the book’s words ok, not mine). Megan has been banging the kicker of the football team behind Zander’s back. She says she did it because Zander is too obsessed with his rival Kieran. Whatever. I saw a Clueless movie clip the other day so the slang is back in my head. As if Megan! How dare you fuck the kicker when you have the quarterback! I’ve obviously lost my mind reading this for 5 minutes. Ok so, Megan tells him this before his big game and he plays like shit surprise, surprise. But plot twist he gets his shit together at the last minute and they win. While the teams are shaking hands saying good game and all that jazz, he can see his slutty ex on the sidelines practically humping the kicker and in a retaliative move which honestly made absolutely no fucking sense he grabs his rival and kisses him randomly, on the field in front of everyone. EVERYONE. Reporters, friends, family, teammates, the slutty ex and the kicker, all of them. WTAF. This is your rival Zander, the guy you supposedly hate and bitched about for 10 pages and you’re randomly kissing him in the middle of a college football game with scouts? The blurb said kissed during a stunt but a stunt is planned and this wasn’t and it was so fucking random. After he kisses his rival, his ex & the kicker look at him dumbfounded as did I because WTF. Talk about no build up. I was immediately turned off and wanted nothing to do with this book. I think that’s a new record tbh. Part of what makes a rivals to lovers great is the tension and build up not them tongue fucking at 3% in chapter 1 🙄🙄🙄🙄
So I read chapter 2 just to see if Kieran’s POV is any less ridiculous and HAHAHAHAH omg just because a book says “dark” doesn’t mean it has to have this crazy OTT shit. So we have Kieran turned on by the kiss but pissed that Zander did it to make a chick jealous so he’s low key stalking him at his dorm. He swiped some guys keycard and is planning on making his move because he’s obsessed now and he always gets what he wants. 👀👀👀 Sir, I give you major side eye because it’s literally been 5 minutes but ok whatever. He goes into the dorm but has no idea what room he’s looking for but no worries there’s a white board with “Zandy” written on it. This boy gets incensed that Zander has this nickname because how dare he have a pet name someone else gave him. Sir! You’re a bit too intense here. He pounds on Zander’s door and barges in. Zander is obviously surprised and annoyed when he sees his rival in his room but his dick still gets hard because of course it does and Kieran notices. Cue hand necklaces which get Zandy even more worked up and the realization he likes some pain with his pleasure. Threats happen, drama ensues & Kieran stalks off leaving Zandy needing a handy. Kieran was nice enough to spit into Zander’s hand to give him some lubrication too! What a nice boy!
So yah, I’m good on this one, couldn’t even make it through the sample and am now going to be putting Lee McCormick on perma DNR. It’s not me, it’s you? It’s not you, it’s me? I don’t know but if anyone sees me attempting to read this author again can they smack me in the face? K thanks 🙏💗 I usually don’t rate books if I can’t make it out of the sample and/ or don’t make it to 50% but I need to 1 star this so if I ever attempt this author again I’ll have irrefutable proof that they are NOT FOR ME!
December 19, 2025
IM A MESS
May 27, 2025
This is the exact brand of OTT melodrama that I consider peak entertainment 😂 I am a huge fan of possessive characters, whether it's a disturbing dark romance or a more ridiculous, cheesy and completely batshit story like this one. I had a smile on my face the whole time I was reading.
I actually really liked how unhinged Kerian was! He behaved like he'd lost his mind and honestly I wanted some popcorn for the sheer car crash that was the relationship between him and Zander! The way Zander gets weak in the knees, quite literally, when it comes to Kerian was both sweet and out of the blue, but somehow their relationship just worked for me.
There was a lot of drama going on that wouldn't have been out of place in a teen drama show in the 00's, and considering those were my teenage years and my addiction to The OC, Gossip Girl and Laguna Beach, I was so here for it 😂😂
Did this feel realistic at any point? Absolutely not! Was I thoroughly entertained regardless? Most definitely!
I'm even curious enough to want to read Luca's book, and I'm even hoping Asher gets a story too.
I actually really liked how unhinged Kerian was! He behaved like he'd lost his mind and honestly I wanted some popcorn for the sheer car crash that was the relationship between him and Zander! The way Zander gets weak in the knees, quite literally, when it comes to Kerian was both sweet and out of the blue, but somehow their relationship just worked for me.
There was a lot of drama going on that wouldn't have been out of place in a teen drama show in the 00's, and considering those were my teenage years and my addiction to The OC, Gossip Girl and Laguna Beach, I was so here for it 😂😂
Did this feel realistic at any point? Absolutely not! Was I thoroughly entertained regardless? Most definitely!
I'm even curious enough to want to read Luca's book, and I'm even hoping Asher gets a story too.
May 18, 2025
Kerian + Zander 🖤
Rivals | Possesive AF | Marking | Bi-awakening | Jock in lace
“I’m not into you, you crazy asshole.”
“Keep saying it, Dimples. I don’t think your dick believes you.”
"I plan on making you come so hard you’re shouting my name every time you have an orgasm for the rest of your life.”
“I told you, Dimples. You’re going to beg for it… and when you’re a good boy, I’m going to fuck you so hard you’ll be ruined. I’m going to fuck you until you’re wrecked for anybody but me.”
“You want to come? Beg me, Dimples. Let me hear you say please.” “Fuck you, Kerian,”
“I can have you splayed out for me, my cock pegging your prostate. You want that, don’t you, Dimples? You want me inside you, making you fly? You want me to give you something no one else has? Who else has made you feel like this? This good?”
“God, you’re so responsive.” His blue eyes flash up to me, almost boring into my soul. “No one else gets this. Just me. Understand?”
“I’m going to breed your ass, Braithe. Going to come inside you. Fuck, I can’t wait to paint the walls of your pretty hole.”
"He’s like an infection, a fever burning through me and stripping away my senses. He’s making me sick and I don’t know what to do about it. I was soft with him last night. I’d meant to bring him to my apartment and fuck him silly, but I took care of him. And fuck me, it felt good."
“I’m the only one you do this with.” He actually laughs. “I know. You already—” “No, Zander, I mean it. You’re mine. It’s just me.” I flash a look over my shoulder and realize that’s the first time I’ve ever called him by his name. I think he realizes it too, because his eyes are wide and a little shocked. “Only me. Do you get it? If I catch you with anyone else, I’ll fucking kill them.”
"Fucking hell, I really am in love with this asshole."
....
⚠️potential spoilers below in detailed tropes and trigger warnings
Tropes:
Rivals
Possessive AF
Jealousy
Bi awakening
Taunting
Touch him and die
A grump who's only soft for his sunshine
Bathroom blowjobs
Face fucking
"Dimples" pet name
Begging
Unhinged
Borderline kidnapping
MC says he's straight while his body responds otherwise
Restaurant hand jobs
"Beg for it"
Breeding
First times
Ass virgins
Bareback
Gentleness during first time even with the teasing and taunting
Came inside now I love you
Rimming
"No one else gets this but me"
"You're mine"
Marking
Hands free 💦
Praise/degradation combo
Gentleness mixed with intensity and possessivness during sex
MC breaks hands of a guy who touched the other MC
Phone sex in hotel bathroom while teammate is in the room
"Fuck you" to hide real feelings
Quick desperate sex while roomate is in the shower
Large muscular jock in red lace and silk
Dressing room sexcapades
Love making
Camper sex
He falls first but he falls harder
Angry love admission
Revenge
Found family
First time one MC has ever heard "I love you"
Versatile roles
TWs:
MC finds out his girlfriend cheated on him at the beginning of the book
Unwanted touch by creepy stranger at a bar
Violence
Drug deal on page witnessed by an MC
Abusive parents
Beatings (not to MC)
Rivals | Possesive AF | Marking | Bi-awakening | Jock in lace
“I’m not into you, you crazy asshole.”
“Keep saying it, Dimples. I don’t think your dick believes you.”
"I plan on making you come so hard you’re shouting my name every time you have an orgasm for the rest of your life.”
“I told you, Dimples. You’re going to beg for it… and when you’re a good boy, I’m going to fuck you so hard you’ll be ruined. I’m going to fuck you until you’re wrecked for anybody but me.”
“You want to come? Beg me, Dimples. Let me hear you say please.” “Fuck you, Kerian,”
“I can have you splayed out for me, my cock pegging your prostate. You want that, don’t you, Dimples? You want me inside you, making you fly? You want me to give you something no one else has? Who else has made you feel like this? This good?”
“God, you’re so responsive.” His blue eyes flash up to me, almost boring into my soul. “No one else gets this. Just me. Understand?”
“I’m going to breed your ass, Braithe. Going to come inside you. Fuck, I can’t wait to paint the walls of your pretty hole.”
"He’s like an infection, a fever burning through me and stripping away my senses. He’s making me sick and I don’t know what to do about it. I was soft with him last night. I’d meant to bring him to my apartment and fuck him silly, but I took care of him. And fuck me, it felt good."
“I’m the only one you do this with.” He actually laughs. “I know. You already—” “No, Zander, I mean it. You’re mine. It’s just me.” I flash a look over my shoulder and realize that’s the first time I’ve ever called him by his name. I think he realizes it too, because his eyes are wide and a little shocked. “Only me. Do you get it? If I catch you with anyone else, I’ll fucking kill them.”
"Fucking hell, I really am in love with this asshole."
....
⚠️potential spoilers below in detailed tropes and trigger warnings
Tropes:
Rivals
Possessive AF
Jealousy
Bi awakening
Taunting
Touch him and die
A grump who's only soft for his sunshine
Bathroom blowjobs
Face fucking
"Dimples" pet name
Begging
Unhinged
Borderline kidnapping
MC says he's straight while his body responds otherwise
Restaurant hand jobs
"Beg for it"
Breeding
First times
Ass virgins
Bareback
Gentleness during first time even with the teasing and taunting
Came inside now I love you
Rimming
"No one else gets this but me"
"You're mine"
Marking
Hands free 💦
Praise/degradation combo
Gentleness mixed with intensity and possessivness during sex
MC breaks hands of a guy who touched the other MC
Phone sex in hotel bathroom while teammate is in the room
"Fuck you" to hide real feelings
Quick desperate sex while roomate is in the shower
Large muscular jock in red lace and silk
Dressing room sexcapades
Love making
Camper sex
He falls first but he falls harder
Angry love admission
Revenge
Found family
First time one MC has ever heard "I love you"
Versatile roles
TWs:
MC finds out his girlfriend cheated on him at the beginning of the book
Unwanted touch by creepy stranger at a bar
Violence
Drug deal on page witnessed by an MC
Abusive parents
Beatings (not to MC)
April 24, 2025
Blitz'd is a highly entertaining romance between two athletes who kiss at the end of a game as a stunt, which quickly escalates into a real, possessive, and intense attraction as both realize their shared animosity toward one another was covering up a deeply held connection.
I love how fast-paced this story is. Both Kerian and Zander quickly realize their spontaneous kiss is not the end of their obvious attraction to each other. This rapidly developed chemistry evolves into a primal and possessive demand for one another's attention and time.
I loved watching these two develop their dynamic. They clearly cannot get enough of each other, and witnessing their feelings grow and change within an unorthodox environment created a fantastic romance that I could not get enough of.
*** I reviewed a complimentary copy of this story.***
I love how fast-paced this story is. Both Kerian and Zander quickly realize their spontaneous kiss is not the end of their obvious attraction to each other. This rapidly developed chemistry evolves into a primal and possessive demand for one another's attention and time.
I loved watching these two develop their dynamic. They clearly cannot get enough of each other, and witnessing their feelings grow and change within an unorthodox environment created a fantastic romance that I could not get enough of.
*** I reviewed a complimentary copy of this story.***
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June 27, 2025
update: june 27, 2025
ah fuck it. changing my rating to 4 stars bc i somehow can't stop thinking about Kerian and Zander. 😩
***
3.5 stars ☆
To my surprise, Kerian laughs again. A deep belly laugh that transforms his face.
Sighing, I smile at him, planting my elbow on the table and resting my chin on my hand. “You’re kinda beautiful, you know that?”
His cheeks turn the faintest shade of pink, but he rolls his eyes and says, “Shut the fuck up, Braithe.”
i HAD to pick this up the moment i heard it had possessiveness, jealousy and ott dramatics. it definitely delivered on all three. i wouldn’t say it was on the same level as books i had lovedd from these tropes (hence, my 3.5 rating) but i enjoyed it enough to still have a fun time (especially the second half, omg i REALLY enjoyed all the “you’re mine” “i’ve never felt this way towards anyone but you” moments from both the mc and li 😭🥹). Kerian is my favorite kind of unhinged. <3
ah fuck it. changing my rating to 4 stars bc i somehow can't stop thinking about Kerian and Zander. 😩
***
3.5 stars ☆
To my surprise, Kerian laughs again. A deep belly laugh that transforms his face.
Sighing, I smile at him, planting my elbow on the table and resting my chin on my hand. “You’re kinda beautiful, you know that?”
His cheeks turn the faintest shade of pink, but he rolls his eyes and says, “Shut the fuck up, Braithe.”
i HAD to pick this up the moment i heard it had possessiveness, jealousy and ott dramatics. it definitely delivered on all three. i wouldn’t say it was on the same level as books i had lovedd from these tropes (hence, my 3.5 rating) but i enjoyed it enough to still have a fun time (especially the second half, omg i REALLY enjoyed all the “you’re mine” “i’ve never felt this way towards anyone but you” moments from both the mc and li 😭🥹). Kerian is my favorite kind of unhinged. <3
October 26, 2025
6 ⭐️
spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
format: ebook
obsessed obsessed OBSESSED. easily a top 10 read of this year.
full rtc
spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
format: ebook
obsessed obsessed OBSESSED. easily a top 10 read of this year.
full rtc
July 11, 2025
I GUESS I LIKE SPORTS NOW???
Full.
Feral.
Rat.
🐀🐀🐀🐀🐀
Ngl, it took me a few chapters to really get into this. I just finished a hurt/comfort and going straight into a little spicy time was a hard transition (pun intended).
But I'm SO glad I beared down and took a breath (wink wink) Once we got to learn more about Kerian's childhood and see his possessive side I was like "oh THERE IS THE DARKNESS" and I just ate ate that shit up.
Zander is a lovely little creature who is so sweet, caring and has a good relationship with his mooooom. His texting skills were terrible but I'll give him a pass.
I really enjoyed their dialogue with each other and the ending was cheesy but not ott which I appreciate.
An enjoyable piece of smut with some good heart.
Full.
Feral.
Rat.
🐀🐀🐀🐀🐀
Ngl, it took me a few chapters to really get into this. I just finished a hurt/comfort and going straight into a little spicy time was a hard transition (pun intended).
But I'm SO glad I beared down and took a breath (wink wink) Once we got to learn more about Kerian's childhood and see his possessive side I was like "oh THERE IS THE DARKNESS" and I just ate ate that shit up.
Zander is a lovely little creature who is so sweet, caring and has a good relationship with his mooooom. His texting skills were terrible but I'll give him a pass.
I really enjoyed their dialogue with each other and the ending was cheesy but not ott which I appreciate.
An enjoyable piece of smut with some good heart.
May 17, 2025
⭐️ 5/5 🌶️ 4/5
This book? Fucking epic. The blurb warned me about darkness, and hell yeah, I got the bones breaking, blood spilling, and rage-fueled chaos… but I also laughed, giggled, blushed, and felt so freakin much! 🥹
Kerian is a whole walking contradiction—murderous rage wrapped in awkward, clueless affection. The man literally tried every trick in the book to fuck Zander out of his system, only to fail so spectacularly each time that I cried laughing. Watching his game plan backfire over and over again? Comedy gold. This psycho tried convincing himself it was just sex. Babe, no. You’re whipped. Fully, totally, and royally fucked. 💀
And Zander? My sweet, soft, needy golden retriever jock baby. Kerian calling him “Dimples”? Dead. Every blush, every smile Zander coaxed out of him had me squealing. The way Zander brings out the humanity in Kerian—the patience, love, and real growth—it’s so fucking satisfying. 😍
Kerian, who’s never dated, never heard or said “I love you,” who learned about love from TV, let Zander see him. Bloodied, beaten down, vulnerable. And still he reached out. Fought for Zander and for their relationship. That’s fucking courage. That’s love. ❤️🔥
And can we talk about that adorable miscommunication where Kerian gave Zander three days of radio silence because he was psyching himself up to say “I love you”? Baby, what?! The poor man didn’t even know that kind of silence usually means a breakup. I was screaming. 🤣
Also, Kerian staying at Zander’s sweet, loving home and realizing—this is what family should feel like? That shit broke me. 💔
This book gave me everything. Heat, humor, heartbreak, healing. Zander is the sunshine to Kerian’s storm. Opposites attract? More like soulmates colliding. 💞
And finally, let's talk about the ending. This is actually the first sports romance I’ve read where the MCs are both pro NFL players, out and proud, married as hell, and not forced to hide their relationship like it’s some dirty little secret. They’re publicly accepted—by their teammates, coaches, and even the goddamn fans. No last-minute scandals, no dramatic press coverage, no bullshit drama after college—besides the jerks Justin and Easton, who can choke. 🖕🏻
And sure, okay, maybe it's not exactly realistic given how conservative the NFL tends to be. But you know what? I don’t fucking care. Thank God for that ending! I'm so emotionally drained from all these “realistic” sports romances where the characters have to stay deep in the fucking closet for 95% of the book, just to maybe—MAYBE—get a half-assed HFN by the end. Like, no thanks. I want the full goddamn fairy tale, and Blitz’d fucking delivered. 👏🏻🌹✨️
Let my boys have their epic love story. Let them win, both on and off the field. Let Kerian be a fucking groomzilla, stressing about flowers and venue colors, and Zander just rolling with it like the precious golden retriever baby he is. 😂
They earned their happily ever after—and so did we, babes... so did we... 🙂↕️🥹
This is my first Lee McCormick & R.S. McKenzie book, and I need more immediately. I want Russ and Asher’s story yesterday. And Luca, Colton… all of 'em. Gimme everything. 🫴🏻
-
Quotes:
Zander Braithe doesn’t know what he did when he kissed me. He doesn’t realize that pressing his lips to mine gave me every right to figure out where he lived, every right to track him down. Every right to do whatever I wanted. It wasn’t my fault if the fucker signed a check he wasn’t ready to cash.
-
I mean, I wouldn’t be gay. Maybe bi? Kerian-sexual?
-
“Close your mouth and suck, Braithe. If you’re a really good boy, maybe I’ll let you come tonight.”
-
“I’m the only one you do this with. Only me. Do you get it? If I catch you with anyone else, I'll fucking kill them."
-
"I don't need anyone cheering me on but you, Dimples."
-
"Did I just see you put your fucking dick beaters on my boyfriend?"
-
"God damn it, Zander. I never said I was done. I'm not trying to treat you like shit. I was trying to figure out how to tell you I fucking love you."
-
RC and MCs:
🏈 MM
🏈 Kerian Slade and Zander Michael Braithe
🏈 Kerian: Blond hair, blue eyes, 6ft4/193cm
🏈 Zander: Dark brown hair, brown eyes, dimples, 200pounds/90.7kg, 6ft2/188cm
Genre, tropes, and all things my safety fam needs to know:
🏈 MM dark sports contemporary romance
🏈 Football quarterbacks x football quarterbacks
🏈 Rivals-to-lovers
🏈 Grumpy/sunshine
🏈 Bi-awakening
🏈 Golden Retriever MMC
🏈 Sociopath MMC
🏈 J/P obsessive MMC
🏈 Mine mine mine
🏈 Touch him and die
🏈 Only soft for him
🏈 Hot jock in lingerie
🏈 First time vers
🏈 Topping from the bottom
🏈 Opposite attract
🏈 Angst: Medium
🏈 Vibes: Dark, intense, funny, adorable, sweet, steamy. All the feels!!
🏈 OW/OM drama: No
🏈 Cheating/sharing: No
🏈 Third act breakup: No
🏈 Ending: HEA!!! A truly well-deserved one!!
🏈 Epilogue: Yes
🏈 Series structure: Interconnected standalone
Spice and kinks:
Degradation, praise, feminization (lingerie), exhibitionism, spit play, semi-public sex (night club bathroom, pizza restaurant, car, mall's dressing room), cum play, rimming, coming hands-free, breeding (1 scene), mutual jerk-off session, light Dacryphilia, snowballing, dry humping orgasm, cum as lube
CW/TW:
Extreme violence, mentions of past abuse, mentions of neglectful/abusive parents, homophobia (not from MCs), panic attacks, obsession/stalking
This book? Fucking epic. The blurb warned me about darkness, and hell yeah, I got the bones breaking, blood spilling, and rage-fueled chaos… but I also laughed, giggled, blushed, and felt so freakin much! 🥹
Kerian is a whole walking contradiction—murderous rage wrapped in awkward, clueless affection. The man literally tried every trick in the book to fuck Zander out of his system, only to fail so spectacularly each time that I cried laughing. Watching his game plan backfire over and over again? Comedy gold. This psycho tried convincing himself it was just sex. Babe, no. You’re whipped. Fully, totally, and royally fucked. 💀
And Zander? My sweet, soft, needy golden retriever jock baby. Kerian calling him “Dimples”? Dead. Every blush, every smile Zander coaxed out of him had me squealing. The way Zander brings out the humanity in Kerian—the patience, love, and real growth—it’s so fucking satisfying. 😍
Kerian, who’s never dated, never heard or said “I love you,” who learned about love from TV, let Zander see him. Bloodied, beaten down, vulnerable. And still he reached out. Fought for Zander and for their relationship. That’s fucking courage. That’s love. ❤️🔥
And can we talk about that adorable miscommunication where Kerian gave Zander three days of radio silence because he was psyching himself up to say “I love you”? Baby, what?! The poor man didn’t even know that kind of silence usually means a breakup. I was screaming. 🤣
Also, Kerian staying at Zander’s sweet, loving home and realizing—this is what family should feel like? That shit broke me. 💔
This book gave me everything. Heat, humor, heartbreak, healing. Zander is the sunshine to Kerian’s storm. Opposites attract? More like soulmates colliding. 💞
And finally, let's talk about the ending. This is actually the first sports romance I’ve read where the MCs are both pro NFL players, out and proud, married as hell, and not forced to hide their relationship like it’s some dirty little secret. They’re publicly accepted—by their teammates, coaches, and even the goddamn fans. No last-minute scandals, no dramatic press coverage, no bullshit drama after college—besides the jerks Justin and Easton, who can choke. 🖕🏻
And sure, okay, maybe it's not exactly realistic given how conservative the NFL tends to be. But you know what? I don’t fucking care. Thank God for that ending! I'm so emotionally drained from all these “realistic” sports romances where the characters have to stay deep in the fucking closet for 95% of the book, just to maybe—MAYBE—get a half-assed HFN by the end. Like, no thanks. I want the full goddamn fairy tale, and Blitz’d fucking delivered. 👏🏻🌹✨️
Let my boys have their epic love story. Let them win, both on and off the field. Let Kerian be a fucking groomzilla, stressing about flowers and venue colors, and Zander just rolling with it like the precious golden retriever baby he is. 😂
They earned their happily ever after—and so did we, babes... so did we... 🙂↕️🥹
This is my first Lee McCormick & R.S. McKenzie book, and I need more immediately. I want Russ and Asher’s story yesterday. And Luca, Colton… all of 'em. Gimme everything. 🫴🏻
-
Quotes:
Zander Braithe doesn’t know what he did when he kissed me. He doesn’t realize that pressing his lips to mine gave me every right to figure out where he lived, every right to track him down. Every right to do whatever I wanted. It wasn’t my fault if the fucker signed a check he wasn’t ready to cash.
-
I mean, I wouldn’t be gay. Maybe bi? Kerian-sexual?
-
“Close your mouth and suck, Braithe. If you’re a really good boy, maybe I’ll let you come tonight.”
-
“I’m the only one you do this with. Only me. Do you get it? If I catch you with anyone else, I'll fucking kill them."
-
"I don't need anyone cheering me on but you, Dimples."
-
"Did I just see you put your fucking dick beaters on my boyfriend?"
-
"God damn it, Zander. I never said I was done. I'm not trying to treat you like shit. I was trying to figure out how to tell you I fucking love you."
-
RC and MCs:
🏈 MM
🏈 Kerian Slade and Zander Michael Braithe
🏈 Kerian: Blond hair, blue eyes, 6ft4/193cm
🏈 Zander: Dark brown hair, brown eyes, dimples, 200pounds/90.7kg, 6ft2/188cm
Genre, tropes, and all things my safety fam needs to know:
🏈 MM dark sports contemporary romance
🏈 Football quarterbacks x football quarterbacks
🏈 Rivals-to-lovers
🏈 Grumpy/sunshine
🏈 Bi-awakening
🏈 Golden Retriever MMC
🏈 Sociopath MMC
🏈 J/P obsessive MMC
🏈 Mine mine mine
🏈 Touch him and die
🏈 Only soft for him
🏈 Hot jock in lingerie
🏈 First time vers
🏈 Topping from the bottom
🏈 Opposite attract
🏈 Angst: Medium
🏈 Vibes: Dark, intense, funny, adorable, sweet, steamy. All the feels!!
🏈 OW/OM drama: No
🏈 Cheating/sharing: No
🏈 Third act breakup: No
🏈 Ending: HEA!!! A truly well-deserved one!!
🏈 Epilogue: Yes
🏈 Series structure: Interconnected standalone
Spice and kinks:
Degradation, praise, feminization (lingerie), exhibitionism, spit play, semi-public sex (night club bathroom, pizza restaurant, car, mall's dressing room), cum play, rimming, coming hands-free, breeding (1 scene), mutual jerk-off session, light Dacryphilia, snowballing, dry humping orgasm, cum as lube
CW/TW:
Extreme violence, mentions of past abuse, mentions of neglectful/abusive parents, homophobia (not from MCs), panic attacks, obsession/stalking
May 3, 2025
I don't understand.... Did I read a different book? This book is so horrible, I'm tempted to tell the author to stop writing.
Hello??? What's all these reviews? Maybe friend's of the Author? or paid reviews? cause ain't no way y'all enjoyed shit out of this book. Such a lame ass book.
Hello??? What's all these reviews? Maybe friend's of the Author? or paid reviews? cause ain't no way y'all enjoyed shit out of this book. Such a lame ass book.
May 8, 2025
Rival quarterbacks share an on-the field-kiss that leads to obsession for one, and a bi-awakening for the other.
I've had my issues with both author's books in the past (some I liked, some I didn't) but the blurb for this book sucked me in and I had to give it a shot. The book hit that perfect line (for me) between a 'bully' romance and a character who was a little messed up but not irredeemable. I really liked that Kerian went after what he wanted (Zander) and didn't apologize for it. I liked how Zander didn't try to change Kerian; he not only accepted him but appreciated him. The growth in each character was unrelated to the typical vibes in a dark romance (where one asshat character needs to be redeemed and stops being such an asshat in the name of love) which honestly was pretty refreshing.
I really enjoyed the book, probably 70% due to the high heat and filthy mouth Kerian had, and 30% for the plot. I wish the epilogue wasn't so far in the future, which seemed odd since it largely focussed on wrapping up more recent plot points, but that's a minor complaint. I also found all the italics really distracting and unnecessary. Normally that would make me DNF but the book's quick burn and grumpy/sunshine vibes kept me around and will even bring me back for book 2. It seems I will never get tired of darkish romance, and this one was pretty great overall.
I've had my issues with both author's books in the past (some I liked, some I didn't) but the blurb for this book sucked me in and I had to give it a shot. The book hit that perfect line (for me) between a 'bully' romance and a character who was a little messed up but not irredeemable. I really liked that Kerian went after what he wanted (Zander) and didn't apologize for it. I liked how Zander didn't try to change Kerian; he not only accepted him but appreciated him. The growth in each character was unrelated to the typical vibes in a dark romance (where one asshat character needs to be redeemed and stops being such an asshat in the name of love) which honestly was pretty refreshing.
I really enjoyed the book, probably 70% due to the high heat and filthy mouth Kerian had, and 30% for the plot. I wish the epilogue wasn't so far in the future, which seemed odd since it largely focussed on wrapping up more recent plot points, but that's a minor complaint. I also found all the italics really distracting and unnecessary. Normally that would make me DNF but the book's quick burn and grumpy/sunshine vibes kept me around and will even bring me back for book 2. It seems I will never get tired of darkish romance, and this one was pretty great overall.
Read
May 6, 2025Time of death: 14%
Should have been sooner but..ya know!
I looked past the absolutely bizarre reasoning as to why Zander would kiss his rival in front of thousands of people to make his ex, who just broke up with him, mad.
I was intrigued when I realized Kerian might be a little unhinged because he starts following Zander and talks about how after that kiss now he’s obsessed and he’s “mine mine mine”
I decided this would probably be a DNF when in the next chapter (after he says obsessed) Kerian is driving home thinking about how he can’t wait to get there and make his roommate get on his knees for him. And then we find out he regularly effs his roommate and then I skimmed and found out this roommate/f buddy is around for the entire book and he actually becomes besties with him and he’s going to have his own book. Yay!
Idk why I kept reading past that but I wanted to see if maybe it would get better when Zander decides to go out and find someone to suck him off so he can send a video of it to Kerian so Kerian will leave him alone. He doesn’t do it but he does find a girl, dances with her, lets her rub all over him and then thinks about all the things he’s gonna do to her one of them being letting her sit on his face.
So yeah I decided this book wasn’t safe enough for me and I’m not going to torture myself with it.
Should have been sooner but..ya know!
I looked past the absolutely bizarre reasoning as to why Zander would kiss his rival in front of thousands of people to make his ex, who just broke up with him, mad.
I was intrigued when I realized Kerian might be a little unhinged because he starts following Zander and talks about how after that kiss now he’s obsessed and he’s “mine mine mine”
I decided this would probably be a DNF when in the next chapter (after he says obsessed) Kerian is driving home thinking about how he can’t wait to get there and make his roommate get on his knees for him. And then we find out he regularly effs his roommate and then I skimmed and found out this roommate/f buddy is around for the entire book and he actually becomes besties with him and he’s going to have his own book. Yay!
Idk why I kept reading past that but I wanted to see if maybe it would get better when Zander decides to go out and find someone to suck him off so he can send a video of it to Kerian so Kerian will leave him alone. He doesn’t do it but he does find a girl, dances with her, lets her rub all over him and then thinks about all the things he’s gonna do to her one of them being letting her sit on his face.
So yeah I decided this book wasn’t safe enough for me and I’m not going to torture myself with it.
May 12, 2025
Okay so this book caught me off guard. This one is definitely one of my highlights this month for sure 😏
Did I read it in a few hours since I couldn't put it down? Yes. Yes, I did.
So do I love Kerian and already miss him? Yeah, I'm afraid so.
Can't I stop thinking about Zander and Kerian? Oh, absolutely.
The chemistry of the MCs, the writing, the plot? Wow. Really. Just amazing. I definitely need a re-read of it, once I cooled down 🥵
Did I read it in a few hours since I couldn't put it down? Yes. Yes, I did.
So do I love Kerian and already miss him? Yeah, I'm afraid so.
Can't I stop thinking about Zander and Kerian? Oh, absolutely.
The chemistry of the MCs, the writing, the plot? Wow. Really. Just amazing. I definitely need a re-read of it, once I cooled down 🥵
November 4, 2025
4.75 stars
I flew right through this book, I seriously ate every page up. I do wish that there was more progression for their attraction towards each other, especially Kieran. It just felt too fast and I would’ve liked to see them be “enemies” more.
Kieran had some questionable moments but I ended up loving him at the end. He would do anything for Zander and he was so obsessed with him. Zander is such a cutie, I was not expecting to like him so much.
I flew right through this book, I seriously ate every page up. I do wish that there was more progression for their attraction towards each other, especially Kieran. It just felt too fast and I would’ve liked to see them be “enemies” more.
Kieran had some questionable moments but I ended up loving him at the end. He would do anything for Zander and he was so obsessed with him. Zander is such a cutie, I was not expecting to like him so much.
May 14, 2025
I'm still wondering how these two manage to walk around with a perma-boner, but oh well. I ate this shit up. The grump who insists he hates his rival (but secretly wants to own him) and the sunshine who insists he is straight (but he's absolutely gone for the grump). There are amazing friends (Russ and especial mention to Asher), hot sex, American football (sorry, I'm European 😆), a nice mum, two awful parents, and greasy food. The transformation from 'we hate each other' to "we are in love" was progressive and it wasn't as jarring as I though it would the beginning. I liked how Zandy helped Kerian heal and how Kerian protected Zandy like the unhinged little thing that he is.
May 16, 2025
Tropes: rivals to lovers, hurt/comfort, grumpy/sunshine
Feels: 2.5/5
Steam*: 2/5
Kinks: degradation, praise, lingerie, exhibitionism
Angst: low
HEA: yes
Pairing: MM
Triggers/potential icks/content warnings: violence, child abuse, neglectful/abusive parents, homophobia, Panic attacks, Sociopath MC
Cheating between MCs: No
Any cheating: No
Other person drama: there isn't much op drama, they're really pretty obsessed with each other. At one point both of them consider hooking up with others, think it's what they should do, but neither of them have any interest in it. Kieran's roommate is a fuckbuddy of his until Kieran starts being obsessed with Zander, but there's no feelings between them, nothing during the course of the book, and they both move on fast.
3.5 stars
Kieran and Zander are college seniors. They are both quarterbacks at rival colleges. They have had a competitive bitter rivalry going for years. When Zander's girlfriend Megan cheats on him with one of his teammates Justin, and breaks up with him at a game, saying he gives more attention to his rival then he gives to Megan, Zander decides to hit back by kissing Kieran on the football field after the game. Zander thought he was straight but the kiss is hot and stirs up intense feelings. Kieran is openly bi, and he is immediately obsessed with Zander.
Kieran stalks Zander, wanting hookups at first. But Zander is a sunshine golden retriever and looks at Kieran with awestruck heart eyes and gives Kieran affection he's never had before. Kieran's father is abusive and his mom enables it. So Kieran quickly realizes he wants to hold on to Zander. They have conflict because they are boys and they are immature, Megan and Justin are creating drama, so is a homophobic Easton and Kieran's parents.
This was a decent book. It was an interesting dynamic between the characters. I do enjoy a grumpy/sunshine, unhinged down bad character dynamic. I liked how obsessed with each other they were and I love the moments where you saw Zander giving heart eyes and Kieran just clutching the strands of love and hoarding them. I like that they got a happy ending. I like that Kieran was smart enough to not get caught when he was doing the violent s*** he did.
One thing that bothered me throughout the book was just how immature the both of them were. I know they were college boys and they were stupid when it comes to emotional maturity and life in general, but it also just doesn't make a very compelling and endearing MMC when you are just side eyeing their dumb dumb moments. Zander drives drunk in one scene, and luckily nothing happens, but there's something particularly offensive to me about an MC driving under the influence and the authors not condemning the behaviour at minimum, and not having any consequences.
Some notable moments:
Poor innocent Luca, lol! "“Dimples, you’re either coming with me or I’m going to make you beg for my dick in your ass right here, right now.” He stares at me, wide-eyed, and I feel it when his cock twitches in his jeans. “I can just go. I, uh…” Behind us, Luca sounds absolutely mortified"
"No one has ever looked at me like that, like they’re helpless and caught in the gravity of everything I am, everything I can give them. I want more. I need him to look at me like that until the universe around him explodes in a wash of obsession—until he admits how much he wants this. How much he needs me. I need to hear him choking on my name, on sobs, on pleasure. I need him to belong to me."
I approve of the trash talk. "Me: We both know I’m the better QB Me: Just admit it Me: You’ll feel better Kerian: LMAO! Fuck off, Braithe. Me: I’ll wear that lingerie u love so much 2 cheer u up Me: it’ll soften the blow of loss Kerian: Or you can wear it for me to celebrate my win. Me: Fuck you Slade Kerian: Love you too, Dimples."
*FYI about steam: I rate steam based on a combination of quality & quantity. I note kink separate from steam because I don't want to underrate steamy reads that don't have much kink.
**Note about spoilers: I like to comment on the plot of a book in reviews, so I almost always mark my reviews as containing spoilers. But I try to avoid spoiling the big dramatic moments! As a reader, I personally like to know what I'm getting into before I read a book so I know more about the content and if it's to my taste/mood, so I try to give that information in my reviews for myself when I'm considering rereading and also for other readers.
Feels: 2.5/5
Steam*: 2/5
Kinks: degradation, praise, lingerie, exhibitionism
Angst: low
HEA: yes
Pairing: MM
Triggers/potential icks/content warnings: violence, child abuse, neglectful/abusive parents, homophobia, Panic attacks, Sociopath MC
Cheating between MCs: No
Any cheating: No
Other person drama: there isn't much op drama, they're really pretty obsessed with each other. At one point both of them consider hooking up with others, think it's what they should do, but neither of them have any interest in it. Kieran's roommate is a fuckbuddy of his until Kieran starts being obsessed with Zander, but there's no feelings between them, nothing during the course of the book, and they both move on fast.
3.5 stars
Kieran and Zander are college seniors. They are both quarterbacks at rival colleges. They have had a competitive bitter rivalry going for years. When Zander's girlfriend Megan cheats on him with one of his teammates Justin, and breaks up with him at a game, saying he gives more attention to his rival then he gives to Megan, Zander decides to hit back by kissing Kieran on the football field after the game. Zander thought he was straight but the kiss is hot and stirs up intense feelings. Kieran is openly bi, and he is immediately obsessed with Zander.
Kieran stalks Zander, wanting hookups at first. But Zander is a sunshine golden retriever and looks at Kieran with awestruck heart eyes and gives Kieran affection he's never had before. Kieran's father is abusive and his mom enables it. So Kieran quickly realizes he wants to hold on to Zander. They have conflict because they are boys and they are immature, Megan and Justin are creating drama, so is a homophobic Easton and Kieran's parents.
This was a decent book. It was an interesting dynamic between the characters. I do enjoy a grumpy/sunshine, unhinged down bad character dynamic. I liked how obsessed with each other they were and I love the moments where you saw Zander giving heart eyes and Kieran just clutching the strands of love and hoarding them. I like that they got a happy ending. I like that Kieran was smart enough to not get caught when he was doing the violent s*** he did.
One thing that bothered me throughout the book was just how immature the both of them were. I know they were college boys and they were stupid when it comes to emotional maturity and life in general, but it also just doesn't make a very compelling and endearing MMC when you are just side eyeing their dumb dumb moments. Zander drives drunk in one scene, and luckily nothing happens, but there's something particularly offensive to me about an MC driving under the influence and the authors not condemning the behaviour at minimum, and not having any consequences.
Some notable moments:
Poor innocent Luca, lol! "“Dimples, you’re either coming with me or I’m going to make you beg for my dick in your ass right here, right now.” He stares at me, wide-eyed, and I feel it when his cock twitches in his jeans. “I can just go. I, uh…” Behind us, Luca sounds absolutely mortified"
"No one has ever looked at me like that, like they’re helpless and caught in the gravity of everything I am, everything I can give them. I want more. I need him to look at me like that until the universe around him explodes in a wash of obsession—until he admits how much he wants this. How much he needs me. I need to hear him choking on my name, on sobs, on pleasure. I need him to belong to me."
I approve of the trash talk. "Me: We both know I’m the better QB Me: Just admit it Me: You’ll feel better Kerian: LMAO! Fuck off, Braithe. Me: I’ll wear that lingerie u love so much 2 cheer u up Me: it’ll soften the blow of loss Kerian: Or you can wear it for me to celebrate my win. Me: Fuck you Slade Kerian: Love you too, Dimples."
*FYI about steam: I rate steam based on a combination of quality & quantity. I note kink separate from steam because I don't want to underrate steamy reads that don't have much kink.
**Note about spoilers: I like to comment on the plot of a book in reviews, so I almost always mark my reviews as containing spoilers. But I try to avoid spoiling the big dramatic moments! As a reader, I personally like to know what I'm getting into before I read a book so I know more about the content and if it's to my taste/mood, so I try to give that information in my reviews for myself when I'm considering rereading and also for other readers.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 22, 2025
⭐️
4.5 stars rounded up!
⭐️
Finished this yesterday but forgot to say I was finished and review it. I'm too tired to review it rn, so...
RTC...
~*~
What started out a bit too fast and a bit outta nowhere evolved into something amazing.
Kerian and Zander are apparent rivals on the football field, have been for about 2 years since they met in sophomore year of college. In their senior year, everything changes when Zander's longtime girlfriend callously dumped him after informing him she'd been cheating on him with one of his teammates.
When she, a cheerleader, is blatantly shoving it in his face with the teammate, Justin, on the field for him to see literally after the game he played against Kerian's team - in which she told him all this and dumped him before the game - while in the line to shake the other teams hands, he gets to Kerian, his rival and decides to just plant one on him to get at her.
From that moment on, they're both obsessed. Zander tries to fight it for a time, before he full gives in. Kerian doesn't fight the attraction and feeling of possession, but he does fight the the ~feelings where Zander doesn't.
It's like they were the opposites of each other. Zander fought the attraction at first, not necessarily because Kerian was a guy and he'd thought he was straight up until that point - there was a little of that from him, but not much - it was more that it was Kerian he was into. They'd 'hated' each other all this time and now he wanted him and couldn't get him out of his head? What?!
Kerian, once there thing continued, couldn't quite get his head around that. He didn't do feelings or relationships, just casual sex, probably no more than a handful of times with someone, and Zander changes all that.
As I said, the beginning was quite fast, in my opinion. They 'hated' each other and then all the sudden didn't after one kiss - a good one, sure, but that was just such a fast transition, in my opinion. Going from dislike to obsession with the snap of fingers.
I think why it felt so fast for me as well was because this happens in the very beginning of the story, so there was no establishment, really, of their relationship and dynamic, and getting maybe repressed attraction that bloomed with a kiss and all that. Nah, they just 'hated' each other and then...didn't. It was a too much, too fast.
But soon enough as I got into this, I got really into these two. I really loved Zander and his sweet, kind nature, and Kerian, the 'sociopathic' asshole who didn't like almost anyone but couldn't get enough of Zander. I am such a sucker for the 'asshole' falling for the sweet, kind one who is their exception.
Now I dunno if I fully bought Kerian as a sociopath. I mean, not to say he didn't do shit that was like 'woah' like severely beating on others when he could and wishing to kill them, but just...it felt more like he felt almost 'nothing' because of what he went through with his abusive father and weak willed mother who just stood by while it happened. And it starting with him so young, I feel, hardened him in a lot of way and he learned to feel nothing, to have a mask of nothingness to get by.
All this to say, I know many others might disagree and feel he is a sociopath on top of it all, but I just felt like he felt more than a sociopath would. Not that they always feel nothing, just...idk. He didn't quite feel that far gone, I guess.
But what do I know *shrug*
Anyway, I came to love these two together, and their chemistry was amazing, I loved it. I loved Zander's sweet disposition being able to get through Kerian's tough outer shell. And he also became sweetly clingly and I think Kerian totally loved it - given that he literally stalked the guy on numerous occasions - and they just worked perfectly together. The sex scenes didn't hurt either ;)
I'm so so happy this one worked out for me after my DNF of Lee McCormick's last book I tried to read. This one was firing on all cylinders after a bit of a fast start. Could have also been the help of their co-author, R.S. McKenzie, who I've never read before this book. Makes me want to, though!
I definitely highly recommend this, it was a great start to a new series by these authors. I can't wait for Luca's story, and whoever his LI is. He was so sweet in this one I can't wait to see who falls for his adorable charms. Also interested in the enigma that is Asher and whatever is going on with him in the future.
Until then! 😘
Finished this yesterday but forgot to say I was finished and review it. I'm too tired to review it rn, so...
RTC...
~*~
What started out a bit too fast and a bit outta nowhere evolved into something amazing.
Kerian and Zander are apparent rivals on the football field, have been for about 2 years since they met in sophomore year of college. In their senior year, everything changes when Zander's longtime girlfriend callously dumped him after informing him she'd been cheating on him with one of his teammates.
When she, a cheerleader, is blatantly shoving it in his face with the teammate, Justin, on the field for him to see literally after the game he played against Kerian's team - in which she told him all this and dumped him before the game - while in the line to shake the other teams hands, he gets to Kerian, his rival and decides to just plant one on him to get at her.
From that moment on, they're both obsessed. Zander tries to fight it for a time, before he full gives in. Kerian doesn't fight the attraction and feeling of possession, but he does fight the the ~feelings where Zander doesn't.
It's like they were the opposites of each other. Zander fought the attraction at first, not necessarily because Kerian was a guy and he'd thought he was straight up until that point - there was a little of that from him, but not much - it was more that it was Kerian he was into. They'd 'hated' each other all this time and now he wanted him and couldn't get him out of his head? What?!
Kerian, once there thing continued, couldn't quite get his head around that. He didn't do feelings or relationships, just casual sex, probably no more than a handful of times with someone, and Zander changes all that.
As I said, the beginning was quite fast, in my opinion. They 'hated' each other and then all the sudden didn't after one kiss - a good one, sure, but that was just such a fast transition, in my opinion. Going from dislike to obsession with the snap of fingers.
I think why it felt so fast for me as well was because this happens in the very beginning of the story, so there was no establishment, really, of their relationship and dynamic, and getting maybe repressed attraction that bloomed with a kiss and all that. Nah, they just 'hated' each other and then...didn't. It was a too much, too fast.
But soon enough as I got into this, I got really into these two. I really loved Zander and his sweet, kind nature, and Kerian, the 'sociopathic' asshole who didn't like almost anyone but couldn't get enough of Zander. I am such a sucker for the 'asshole' falling for the sweet, kind one who is their exception.
Now I dunno if I fully bought Kerian as a sociopath. I mean, not to say he didn't do shit that was like 'woah' like severely beating on others when he could and wishing to kill them, but just...it felt more like he felt almost 'nothing' because of what he went through with his abusive father and weak willed mother who just stood by while it happened. And it starting with him so young, I feel, hardened him in a lot of way and he learned to feel nothing, to have a mask of nothingness to get by.
All this to say, I know many others might disagree and feel he is a sociopath on top of it all, but I just felt like he felt more than a sociopath would. Not that they always feel nothing, just...idk. He didn't quite feel that far gone, I guess.
But what do I know *shrug*
Anyway, I came to love these two together, and their chemistry was amazing, I loved it. I loved Zander's sweet disposition being able to get through Kerian's tough outer shell. And he also became sweetly clingly and I think Kerian totally loved it - given that he literally stalked the guy on numerous occasions - and they just worked perfectly together. The sex scenes didn't hurt either ;)
I'm so so happy this one worked out for me after my DNF of Lee McCormick's last book I tried to read. This one was firing on all cylinders after a bit of a fast start. Could have also been the help of their co-author, R.S. McKenzie, who I've never read before this book. Makes me want to, though!
I definitely highly recommend this, it was a great start to a new series by these authors. I can't wait for Luca's story, and whoever his LI is. He was so sweet in this one I can't wait to see who falls for his adorable charms. Also interested in the enigma that is Asher and whatever is going on with him in the future.
Until then! 😘
May 2, 2025
4.5 rounded up. This was great! I love a silly unhinged/stalker/touch him and die story. Rating purely on vibes here, but I loved every moment of this story!!
May 1, 2025
I loved both of them; emotionally stable and open zander with his protectively psychotic kieran who breaks anyone who touches his man <3333
May 20, 2025
Zander and Kerian are rival quarterbacks and their feud turns dirty in the best way.
I had a hate/love relationship with this story. On the one hand, it was hot, sad at times, and emotional with an intriguing plot.
On the other hand, Zander was completely annoying. There’s no way a football quarterback is that much of a “submissive.” I felt like he had no self respect, acted like a door mat 75% of the time and was dickmatized all the time. Like bro, what are you doing?!
Kerian had the emotional maturity of a three year old and treated Zander like trash several times. But sure, he loved his f*ck toy.
The believability of the start of this story was so strange to me and honestly came out of nowhere. I wanted more tension and push/pull. I wanted more manliness from two guys that are supposed to be big and strong. Maybe I didn’t like this as much as I thought 😂😅.
I had a hate/love relationship with this story. On the one hand, it was hot, sad at times, and emotional with an intriguing plot.
On the other hand, Zander was completely annoying. There’s no way a football quarterback is that much of a “submissive.” I felt like he had no self respect, acted like a door mat 75% of the time and was dickmatized all the time. Like bro, what are you doing?!
Kerian had the emotional maturity of a three year old and treated Zander like trash several times. But sure, he loved his f*ck toy.
“I told you, Dimples. You’re going to beg for it… and when you’re a good boy, I’m going to fuck you so hard you’ll be ruined. I’m going to fuck you until you’re wrecked for anybody but me.”
The believability of the start of this story was so strange to me and honestly came out of nowhere. I wanted more tension and push/pull. I wanted more manliness from two guys that are supposed to be big and strong. Maybe I didn’t like this as much as I thought 😂😅.
May 22, 2025
A touch of grumpy/pushy/bully - sunshine. The rivalry was real and the first kiss a thing of inspirational beauty. The rest was nothing I hadn't read before, but still had a good time reading it. Sometimes oversimplified but still cute, sexy, with a dash of angst.
Points off for 'Dimples' overuse.🙄
Points off for the next book coming out in a year.🙃
Points off for 'Dimples' overuse.🙄
Points off for the next book coming out in a year.🙃
July 11, 2025
Holyfuckingshit i LOVED it! I had my doubts after reading these mixed reviews but my, oh my, Zander and Kerian took me on a wild ride. Now all i need is a QB who's freaking obsessed and so OTT for me to literally obliterate anyone who dares to hurt me😭
October 26, 2025
I love McCormick. I love McKenzie. And together? They’ve basically formed a literary supergroup and dropped an absolute banger of a book.
It's everything I hoped for and then sprinted ten laps past my expectations. I’m honestly speechless which is rare for me. Just trust me: read it. NOW.
It's everything I hoped for and then sprinted ten laps past my expectations. I’m honestly speechless which is rare for me. Just trust me: read it. NOW.
May 1, 2025
A dark themed MM romance between two rival football quarterbacks - immediately yes! Most of the time I tend to favor one main character, but I have to say I absolutely loved both Kerian and Zander. I will definitely be rereading this one and I can’t wait for more in this series.
December 19, 2025
Rating: ♾️/5 🌟
Spice: 4/5 🌶️
Heroes: Zander and Kerian
I loved this so much!
It's days later and I'm still trying to figure out what I want to say for this review. I went into this book a bit blind. All I knew going into it was that it was a dark mm romance and they are rival football players. And in truth, that pretty much sums it up. But it was done so incredibly well, written perfectly for me. I was obsessed with both of our main characters from the very first page. I could have read another 500 pages of these two and would have asked for more.
I'd consider it to be on the much lighter side of dark, if you can even really call it dark.
And the spice...yeah, perfection.
So basically, it took me a few days to come up with: this was a pretty perfect book to me, and I'll absolutely be rereading it plenty in the future because I'm obsessed with these two together.
Spice: 4/5 🌶️
Heroes: Zander and Kerian
I loved this so much!
It's days later and I'm still trying to figure out what I want to say for this review. I went into this book a bit blind. All I knew going into it was that it was a dark mm romance and they are rival football players. And in truth, that pretty much sums it up. But it was done so incredibly well, written perfectly for me. I was obsessed with both of our main characters from the very first page. I could have read another 500 pages of these two and would have asked for more.
I'd consider it to be on the much lighter side of dark, if you can even really call it dark.
And the spice...yeah, perfection.
So basically, it took me a few days to come up with: this was a pretty perfect book to me, and I'll absolutely be rereading it plenty in the future because I'm obsessed with these two together.
May 9, 2025
From the very first page, I was drawn into this beautiful story of self-acceptance and love, with just a touch of darkness that makes the light shine even brighter. Zander and Kerian, sworn rivals, unexpectedly spark a romance so deep and true that it took my breath away. Zander’s patient, loving nature shines through every scene. He falls deeply for Kerian, and his unwavering, unconditional love becomes the anchor that helps Kerian heal and grow.
This is such a beautiful story 💜
This is such a beautiful story 💜
October 12, 2025
5 ⭐️ No notes!!! When I picked this up I had no idea this was what I was going to be reading.Zander is the all American quarterback and Kerian is this closed off, no emotions, borderline psycho.
When Zander kisses Kerian to make his cheating ex mad, that turned Kerian’s stalker, touch him and 💀 meter up to 100!
I absolutely loved this book and recommend everyone to read it !!!
When Zander kisses Kerian to make his cheating ex mad, that turned Kerian’s stalker, touch him and 💀 meter up to 100!
I absolutely loved this book and recommend everyone to read it !!!
May 13, 2025
dnf at 3% :) the way women are talked about already in like 10 pages is so horrible and what the coach said was icky and i’ve already seen bitch like three times i’m done
May 14, 2025
killl meeeeeee! this was so good. the heat… i will be tuning in for the second one. please be luca x colson
June 28, 2025
4/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I absolutely loved this book. The total devotion between these two left me in love and just a little obsessed haha. Now I’m dying to read Lucas’s book and see more of my boys.
I absolutely loved this book. The total devotion between these two left me in love and just a little obsessed haha. Now I’m dying to read Lucas’s book and see more of my boys.
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