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Nothing To Lose
A brutal attack. An unexpected bond.
How far will they go to protect each other when they have everything to lose?
Isaac
I’ve spent my whole life struggling to survive and provide for the people who depend on me. The last thing I need is another person to take care of, but there’s something different about the broken boy on my doorstep.
My protective instincts always get the best of me. But when I take him in, I start to see more than just a victim. I see someone who might just heal me, too. Someone who makes me want to be more than I am. To be worthy.
Tyler
One night is all it takes to shatter my carefully constructed world. The mask I’ve worn for the world is cracked and bruised. My only refuge is the stranger who saved me, who offers me a distraction from reality and gives me space to heal and grow in more ways than one.
When the truth of my attack comes out, the backlash lands Isaac in trouble. But I won’t let him risk everything he’s worked for to keep sheltering me. I’ll sacrifice my future if it means saving his.
Because everything means nothing if we can’t have each other.
Nothing To Lose is a standalone MM romance. For content information, check the author's website.
How far will they go to protect each other when they have everything to lose?
Isaac
I’ve spent my whole life struggling to survive and provide for the people who depend on me. The last thing I need is another person to take care of, but there’s something different about the broken boy on my doorstep.
My protective instincts always get the best of me. But when I take him in, I start to see more than just a victim. I see someone who might just heal me, too. Someone who makes me want to be more than I am. To be worthy.
Tyler
One night is all it takes to shatter my carefully constructed world. The mask I’ve worn for the world is cracked and bruised. My only refuge is the stranger who saved me, who offers me a distraction from reality and gives me space to heal and grow in more ways than one.
When the truth of my attack comes out, the backlash lands Isaac in trouble. But I won’t let him risk everything he’s worked for to keep sheltering me. I’ll sacrifice my future if it means saving his.
Because everything means nothing if we can’t have each other.
Nothing To Lose is a standalone MM romance. For content information, check the author's website.
406 pages, Paperback
First published May 1, 2025
387 people are currently reading
2313 people want to read
About the author
Rebecca Rathe
27 books1,110 followersDeliciously dirty, delightfully neurotic, ratchet mess of a daydreamer.
See www.rebeccarathe.com for a full list of books, social media, and trigger warnings.
See www.rebeccarathe.com for a full list of books, social media, and trigger warnings.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 349 reviews
August 24, 2025
IM SOOOO UNWELL BUT LIKE IN THE MOSTTTTTT BEAUTIFUL WAY .
April 30, 2025
5 ⭐️
spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️.5/5
format: ebook
this was hurt/comfort the nth degree, and i absolutely adored these two together.
tyler and isaac are strangers that have a mutual attraction to each other from a distance, but a tragic event brings them together and gives us the most delicious slice of forced proximity pie.
by all accounts these guys are complete opposites, and that’s what draws them to each other even more. i loved the way they took care of each other and built one another up.
rebecca put my emotions through the wringer with these boys. there was angst and tension and moments of total hopelessness. but the hard-fought hea was worth it all.
and shout out to all the side characters who added so much to the story. lots of found family vibes here.
as usual, rebecca rathe served us a win and i can’t wait to see what’s next!
*i received a free, advanced copy of this book from the author and this is my voluntary, honest review.
spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️.5/5
format: ebook
this was hurt/comfort the nth degree, and i absolutely adored these two together.
tyler and isaac are strangers that have a mutual attraction to each other from a distance, but a tragic event brings them together and gives us the most delicious slice of forced proximity pie.
by all accounts these guys are complete opposites, and that’s what draws them to each other even more. i loved the way they took care of each other and built one another up.
rebecca put my emotions through the wringer with these boys. there was angst and tension and moments of total hopelessness. but the hard-fought hea was worth it all.
and shout out to all the side characters who added so much to the story. lots of found family vibes here.
as usual, rebecca rathe served us a win and i can’t wait to see what’s next!
*i received a free, advanced copy of this book from the author and this is my voluntary, honest review.
June 11, 2025
4.5***** stars
Goddammit. This was the bestest kind of hurt/comfort. Isaac and Tyler’s dynamic was so cute and so hot. They were everything!
As always, I loved the emotional intensity and the drama this author writes so good. Even if the villain was really one-dimensional. *lol I ate it all up and was glad that at least daddy found his conscience somewhere before it was too late.
Goddammit. This was the bestest kind of hurt/comfort. Isaac and Tyler’s dynamic was so cute and so hot. They were everything!
"Fine," he says begrudgingly. "But later…"
"Later I'll let you dry hump me until we're both in tears if you like.
As always, I loved the emotional intensity and the drama this author writes so good. Even if the villain was really one-dimensional. *lol I ate it all up and was glad that at least daddy found his conscience somewhere before it was too late.
May 11, 2025
Isaac + Tyler 🖤
Hurt/comfort galore | "Teach Me" | Size difference | "Kitten"
This book was so good. Two boys in desperate need of each other. They both thought that the other MC was out of their league and would never be interested in them. It was adorable.
....
"You can stay here as long as you need or want to." "Are you sure? Because I might never leave. I'm like a stray cat that you fed one time, and now I'll be at your doorstep every time I get hungry." I laugh out loud at that, and muss his hair. "I’ve always wanted a cat."
"I'm opening a MMA training gym." I'm racking my brain to remember what MMA is. “That’s not the guys in funny costumes that wrestle, right?” “That would be WWE,” he says, looking amused. “Ah yeah, that’s basically drag for straight people, right?” Isaac barks out a laugh. “I guess so.”
"I'm not really a cuddler," he said. "Me neither," I said. Liars, both of us.
"When he comes out of the bathroom, wearing a pair of my boxers and my hoodie, my knees almost buckle. Seeing him in my clothes triggers a part of my lizard brain I've never felt before. It's primal, like I've marked him in some way, claimed ownership by having my scent on him. It's ridiculous, I know, and it's not something I've ever thought or felt before. It should be worrisome, but my inner caveman is too busy preening that he's mine, mine, mine."
"Where is that shy virgin I met the other day?" "You drowned him in the shower yesterday,"
"Tell me, Tyler." He takes a deep breath, looks at me, then looks away again. Finally, he settles on staring at my bare chest again. "Will you teach me?" "Teach you what, exactly?" Maybe we're finally broaching the subject of self- defense? I could get on board with that. "Sex." I choke on the water I just tried to swallow. Some of it comes out of my nose. So, not self- defense, then. Holy shit.
"He's so fucking hot when he comes, especially with the little surprised face he makes, like he didn't know it would happen."
"I don’t know what this need is that’s taken over me. It’s not even about sex. It’s about holding him inside me, about being closer than any two people can get."
"He’s not just the man I love. He’s the man who held me when I was broken. Who never asked me to be anything but exactly who I am."
....
⚠️ potential spoilers below in detailed tropes and trigger warnings
Tropes:
Preppy student & blue collar worker/MMA fighter
Strangers to lovers
Hurt/comfort galore
They saw each other a lot in a cafe but only met officially after Isaac saved Tyler from an attacker in the alleyway near his building and the cafe
Both MCs never approached each other previously because they each thought the other was out of their league
"Damn, he’s cute"
Class difference
Size difference
Steals his hoodie
Nightmares
Tylers first kiss, first everything
Virgin MC
"Will you teach me?"
Sex lessons
Shower sex
💦 in pants multiple times
Cleaning him up after he 💦 in his pants
"Kitten"
Mine
Pierced nips
Isaac had a bad experience with bottoming so he doesnt trust anyone to do it. But Tyler changes that for him.
Emotional love making. Brought to tears.
Falls asleep with 🍆 still inside
Accurate autoimmune rep in a side character
Versatile roles
Flip fuck love making like its their last time
Bareback
Tyler is the first one to ever 💦 inside Isaac
Help each other discover their worth
TWs:
Brutal attack
Threatened rape from attacker
Hospital stay
Severe injuries
Account recounted on page in detail
Emotionally and financially abusive father
Mentions of Isaac's dad dying and how
Cage fighting
Violence from an MC to a side character (well deserved)
Hurt/comfort galore | "Teach Me" | Size difference | "Kitten"
This book was so good. Two boys in desperate need of each other. They both thought that the other MC was out of their league and would never be interested in them. It was adorable.
....
"You can stay here as long as you need or want to." "Are you sure? Because I might never leave. I'm like a stray cat that you fed one time, and now I'll be at your doorstep every time I get hungry." I laugh out loud at that, and muss his hair. "I’ve always wanted a cat."
"I'm opening a MMA training gym." I'm racking my brain to remember what MMA is. “That’s not the guys in funny costumes that wrestle, right?” “That would be WWE,” he says, looking amused. “Ah yeah, that’s basically drag for straight people, right?” Isaac barks out a laugh. “I guess so.”
"I'm not really a cuddler," he said. "Me neither," I said. Liars, both of us.
"When he comes out of the bathroom, wearing a pair of my boxers and my hoodie, my knees almost buckle. Seeing him in my clothes triggers a part of my lizard brain I've never felt before. It's primal, like I've marked him in some way, claimed ownership by having my scent on him. It's ridiculous, I know, and it's not something I've ever thought or felt before. It should be worrisome, but my inner caveman is too busy preening that he's mine, mine, mine."
"Where is that shy virgin I met the other day?" "You drowned him in the shower yesterday,"
"Tell me, Tyler." He takes a deep breath, looks at me, then looks away again. Finally, he settles on staring at my bare chest again. "Will you teach me?" "Teach you what, exactly?" Maybe we're finally broaching the subject of self- defense? I could get on board with that. "Sex." I choke on the water I just tried to swallow. Some of it comes out of my nose. So, not self- defense, then. Holy shit.
"He's so fucking hot when he comes, especially with the little surprised face he makes, like he didn't know it would happen."
"I don’t know what this need is that’s taken over me. It’s not even about sex. It’s about holding him inside me, about being closer than any two people can get."
"He’s not just the man I love. He’s the man who held me when I was broken. Who never asked me to be anything but exactly who I am."
....
⚠️ potential spoilers below in detailed tropes and trigger warnings
Tropes:
Preppy student & blue collar worker/MMA fighter
Strangers to lovers
Hurt/comfort galore
They saw each other a lot in a cafe but only met officially after Isaac saved Tyler from an attacker in the alleyway near his building and the cafe
Both MCs never approached each other previously because they each thought the other was out of their league
"Damn, he’s cute"
Class difference
Size difference
Steals his hoodie
Nightmares
Tylers first kiss, first everything
Virgin MC
"Will you teach me?"
Sex lessons
Shower sex
💦 in pants multiple times
Cleaning him up after he 💦 in his pants
"Kitten"
Mine
Pierced nips
Isaac had a bad experience with bottoming so he doesnt trust anyone to do it. But Tyler changes that for him.
Emotional love making. Brought to tears.
Falls asleep with 🍆 still inside
Accurate autoimmune rep in a side character
Versatile roles
Flip fuck love making like its their last time
Bareback
Tyler is the first one to ever 💦 inside Isaac
Help each other discover their worth
TWs:
Brutal attack
Threatened rape from attacker
Hospital stay
Severe injuries
Account recounted on page in detail
Emotionally and financially abusive father
Mentions of Isaac's dad dying and how
Cage fighting
Violence from an MC to a side character (well deserved)
December 13, 2025
Nothing to Lose by Rebecca Rathe
MC:Tyler & Isaac 5⭐
Tropes & tags
Preppy nerd vs. MMA fighter
Virgin MC “teach me” vibes
“Wrong side of the tracks” opposites attract
Emotional intimacy leading to healing
They save each other
Hot, fresh cinnamon rolls
Found family
Micro tropes Versatile + flip-fucking
Bareback/first time finishing inside
Quiet cafe glances before they ever speak
Each assuming the other is out of their league
“Damn, he’s cute” moments
Hoodie stealing
Nightmares + being comforted
First kiss, first touch, first everything
Sex lessons
Shower sex
Multiple accidental coming in pants
Tender cleaning after he, yeah that
“Kitten” “Mine”
Tattoos and Pierced nipples
Intense, emotional sex that brings tears
F.E.R.A.L.
🔥 Fierce
💫 Emotional
🩸 Raw
🫀 All-consuming
❤️ Love
From the blurb alone, this promises a very familiar setup: two men from completely different worlds, one inexperienced and quietly yearning, the other older, guarded, and carrying the weight of responsibility. It is a trope-heavy story — and I mean that in the best possible way.
New author, total trope galore, and honestly? That just made me even more curious to dive in. And now I desperately want more.
The story centres on Tyler, a preppy, nerdy, sheltered virgin who has grown up under control, pressure, and emotional neglect. He’s sweet, awkward, eager, and deeply touch-starved — desperate to want things for himself for once. Opposite him is Isaac, an MMA fighter from the “wrong side of the tracks,” rough around the edges, fiercely protective, and used to putting everyone else first. He’s experienced, patient, and absolutely wired to worship the person he cares about.
I loved this story. No matter how many times I read this kind of plot, I never get tired of it — especially when the characters are this adorable, this emotionally open, and this charged together.
The whole teach me dynamic gets me every single time, but here? Naive yet eager virgin + the most patient, reverent, genuinely kind teacher? Swoon-level explosion 💥💘 Isaac never rushes Tyler. He explains, reassures, checks in, and makes every “first” feel intentional and safe — and that care bleeds into every part of their connection.
This book was sooooooooo hot 🥵🔥 Everything they do together feels loaded — with want, trust, and vulnerability. Their chemistry is unreal. Isaac’s patience while teaching is downright delicious. He’s the kind of man who gets off on making his partner feel good first, so you know the intimacy is going to be intense. But it’s not just sex — it’s the talks, the honesty, the way they slowly let each other in. Step by step, they build something real and deeply intimate.
Also: feral Isaac now lives rent-free in my mind 🫠 Permanently.
That said, there are a few odd narrative choices — moments that are told rather than shown. Isaac’s trip home skips meaningful family interaction, Tyler’s solo gym time stays off-page, and Isaac coming back beaten up barely gets acknowledged 🤨 Slightly strange.
But then we get Tyler standing up to his father and to Guy, and honestly? Standing ovation only 👏👏👏👏👏👏👏 Tyler finding his voice, setting boundaries, and choosing himself was incredibly satisfying.
Isaac’s insecurities, though? Baby… you are worthy 🥹 Please believe it.
And now let’s talk about Isaac ferally punching Guy 👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏
I cheered. Out loud. Because in so many books the characters always choose the morally correct, restrained response — and here I was like, nope. That man got less than he deserved. Absolute coward, disgusting human. And Tyler kicking him in the balls?? 👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏🤌🫶 Iconic.
The charges being dropped felt a bit rushed and slightly unrealistic, but honestly? Who cares. Perfect baby Isaac is free, and he gets to love openly — and that’s all I needed.
After a brief emotional chokehold, I absolutely loved the ending. I was genuinely emotional through the final chapters and the epilogue — soft, tender, and earned. I’m so happy I randomly picked this up on my Kindle. A perfect surprise read 💖📖✨
⚠️Author Content Warnings
Significant traumatic abuse in the form of a violent assault, threatened sexual assault, recurring threatening behavior and abusive language, slut shaming, misrepresentation of homosexuality (including projection of heteronormative roles and other harmful idealization), internalized homophobia, mentions and on page struggle with mental health including PTSD-related flashbacks and anxiety, blatant classism, and of course strong language and graphic sex acts. None of the abuse or threats occur between the main love interests. Instances of harmful sexist, homophobic, and ableist language may be present throughout the book. This language does not reflect the author’s beliefs or ideals, but are meant as a realistic portrayal of lived experiences.
❣️Book Safety & Content
Cheating: No
Sharing: No
Other Person Drama: No
Third-Act Breakup: Almost, but no
Role Dynamics: Versatile
POV: 1st person (dual)
Format: Standalone
Ending: HEA
Angst Level:Medium
Spice Level: Medium / High heat
Communication: Some miscommunication
Pining: Mutual
MC:Tyler & Isaac 5⭐
I have nothing to lose, and everything to gain.
Tropes & tags
Preppy nerd vs. MMA fighter
Virgin MC “teach me” vibes
“Wrong side of the tracks” opposites attract
Emotional intimacy leading to healing
They save each other
Hot, fresh cinnamon rolls
Found family
Micro tropes Versatile + flip-fucking
Bareback/first time finishing inside
Quiet cafe glances before they ever speak
Each assuming the other is out of their league
“Damn, he’s cute” moments
Hoodie stealing
Nightmares + being comforted
First kiss, first touch, first everything
Sex lessons
Shower sex
Multiple accidental coming in pants
Tender cleaning after he, yeah that
“Kitten” “Mine”
Tattoos and Pierced nipples
Intense, emotional sex that brings tears
F.E.R.A.L.
🔥 Fierce
💫 Emotional
🩸 Raw
🫀 All-consuming
❤️ Love
From the blurb alone, this promises a very familiar setup: two men from completely different worlds, one inexperienced and quietly yearning, the other older, guarded, and carrying the weight of responsibility. It is a trope-heavy story — and I mean that in the best possible way.
New author, total trope galore, and honestly? That just made me even more curious to dive in. And now I desperately want more.
The story centres on Tyler, a preppy, nerdy, sheltered virgin who has grown up under control, pressure, and emotional neglect. He’s sweet, awkward, eager, and deeply touch-starved — desperate to want things for himself for once. Opposite him is Isaac, an MMA fighter from the “wrong side of the tracks,” rough around the edges, fiercely protective, and used to putting everyone else first. He’s experienced, patient, and absolutely wired to worship the person he cares about.
I loved this story. No matter how many times I read this kind of plot, I never get tired of it — especially when the characters are this adorable, this emotionally open, and this charged together.
The whole teach me dynamic gets me every single time, but here? Naive yet eager virgin + the most patient, reverent, genuinely kind teacher? Swoon-level explosion 💥💘 Isaac never rushes Tyler. He explains, reassures, checks in, and makes every “first” feel intentional and safe — and that care bleeds into every part of their connection.
This book was sooooooooo hot 🥵🔥 Everything they do together feels loaded — with want, trust, and vulnerability. Their chemistry is unreal. Isaac’s patience while teaching is downright delicious. He’s the kind of man who gets off on making his partner feel good first, so you know the intimacy is going to be intense. But it’s not just sex — it’s the talks, the honesty, the way they slowly let each other in. Step by step, they build something real and deeply intimate.
Also: feral Isaac now lives rent-free in my mind 🫠 Permanently.
That said, there are a few odd narrative choices — moments that are told rather than shown. Isaac’s trip home skips meaningful family interaction, Tyler’s solo gym time stays off-page, and Isaac coming back beaten up barely gets acknowledged 🤨 Slightly strange.
But then we get Tyler standing up to his father and to Guy, and honestly? Standing ovation only 👏👏👏👏👏👏👏 Tyler finding his voice, setting boundaries, and choosing himself was incredibly satisfying.
Isaac’s insecurities, though? Baby… you are worthy 🥹 Please believe it.
And now let’s talk about Isaac ferally punching Guy 👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏
I cheered. Out loud. Because in so many books the characters always choose the morally correct, restrained response — and here I was like, nope. That man got less than he deserved. Absolute coward, disgusting human. And Tyler kicking him in the balls?? 👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏🤌🫶 Iconic.
The charges being dropped felt a bit rushed and slightly unrealistic, but honestly? Who cares. Perfect baby Isaac is free, and he gets to love openly — and that’s all I needed.
After a brief emotional chokehold, I absolutely loved the ending. I was genuinely emotional through the final chapters and the epilogue — soft, tender, and earned. I’m so happy I randomly picked this up on my Kindle. A perfect surprise read 💖📖✨
I wake up exactly how I want to wake up for the rest of my life—tangled in his arms. My head against his chest. His breath is steady, warm against my hair.
⚠️Author Content Warnings
Significant traumatic abuse in the form of a violent assault, threatened sexual assault, recurring threatening behavior and abusive language, slut shaming, misrepresentation of homosexuality (including projection of heteronormative roles and other harmful idealization), internalized homophobia, mentions and on page struggle with mental health including PTSD-related flashbacks and anxiety, blatant classism, and of course strong language and graphic sex acts. None of the abuse or threats occur between the main love interests. Instances of harmful sexist, homophobic, and ableist language may be present throughout the book. This language does not reflect the author’s beliefs or ideals, but are meant as a realistic portrayal of lived experiences.
❣️Book Safety & Content
Cheating: No
Sharing: No
Other Person Drama: No
Third-Act Breakup: Almost, but no
Role Dynamics: Versatile
POV: 1st person (dual)
Format: Standalone
Ending: HEA
Angst Level:Medium
Spice Level: Medium / High heat
Communication: Some miscommunication
Pining: Mutual
May 5, 2025
4.5 stars!!
I’m pretty sure this was my first book from this author and idk what took me so long.
I loved this book from the very beginning. I was over here with fingers crossed that it stayed a 5 star book the entire time because there’s nothing worse than absolutely loving a book and then it goes downhill. That wasn’t the case here.
I just have to say I loved Issac soooo much!! He was just..mmmm, chefs kiss!! I loved Tyler as well though. But Issac just did something to me! And them together was even better. I loved how they just lifted each other up. They made each other better and helped one another work through their insecurities. They were such a great couple!! I appreciated that pretty much every chapter was them together.
The missing half star was because I did feel like there were too many sex scenes. It didn’t take away from their story but I could have done without at least 3 or 4 of them since there were so many. Also I feel like Tyler’s dad was a big villain in this book and he didn’t get what was coming to him. He might have changed his tune a tiny bit at the end but I felt like he won and that didn’t sit right with me.
Loved loved loved the other secondary characters. Issac’s mom and sister are the best!! So are Mac and Anders and their daughter Brena. Loved them all so much!! I’ll definitely be reading more by this author.
NO CHEATING
NO OM DRAMA (not in the sense of either of them getting hit on or anyone wanting them but there was a villain in here that caused problems)
ALMOST THIRD ACT BREAK UP (I was going to be so mad if they got separated. I was ready to riot!!!!)
VIRGIN MC (never been kissed either)
ASSAULT ON MC (beat up badly and a threat of SA but SA never happened)
VERSE COUPLE
HEA (living together)
I’m pretty sure this was my first book from this author and idk what took me so long.
I loved this book from the very beginning. I was over here with fingers crossed that it stayed a 5 star book the entire time because there’s nothing worse than absolutely loving a book and then it goes downhill. That wasn’t the case here.
I just have to say I loved Issac soooo much!! He was just..mmmm, chefs kiss!! I loved Tyler as well though. But Issac just did something to me! And them together was even better. I loved how they just lifted each other up. They made each other better and helped one another work through their insecurities. They were such a great couple!! I appreciated that pretty much every chapter was them together.
The missing half star was because I did feel like there were too many sex scenes. It didn’t take away from their story but I could have done without at least 3 or 4 of them since there were so many. Also I feel like Tyler’s dad was a big villain in this book and he didn’t get what was coming to him. He might have changed his tune a tiny bit at the end but I felt like he won and that didn’t sit right with me.
Loved loved loved the other secondary characters. Issac’s mom and sister are the best!! So are Mac and Anders and their daughter Brena. Loved them all so much!! I’ll definitely be reading more by this author.
NO CHEATING
NO OM DRAMA (not in the sense of either of them getting hit on or anyone wanting them but there was a villain in here that caused problems)
ALMOST THIRD ACT BREAK UP (I was going to be so mad if they got separated. I was ready to riot!!!!)
VIRGIN MC (never been kissed either)
ASSAULT ON MC (beat up badly and a threat of SA but SA never happened)
VERSE COUPLE
HEA (living together)
May 24, 2025
A hot man with tattoos who *checks notes* REMEMBERS YOUR COFFEE ORDER?
A twinky little graphic designer with *checks notes* A BIG HEART AND AN EVEN BIGGER D?
As a former barista (+ former twink) and a current graphic designer this book had me in full feral rat mode. 🐀🐀🐀🐀🐀
Rathe did an incredible job with Isaac and Tyler story. A masterclass of hurt/comfort and size difference. Whatever magic she put into this book, I want MORE.
Issac and Tyler were fully fleshed out characters. Fully developed backstories, lore and all. Did their relationship move fast? Yeah. But did it feel forced or cheesy? No! These people felt real. I was cheering them on the entire time. Rathe also did a great job with the supporting cast, I will ALWAYS be a sucker for found family and gay dads.
The spice was delicious. There was great balance of heated moments and soft kisses. I was so glad to see Tyler admit he was feral for his man bc same. If these two approached me from across the room and said they liked my vibe I would have to ask my husband for a hall pass. 🐀🐀🐀🐀🐀
Nothing to Lose left me with a tragically beautiful (beautifully tragic?) book hangover and the only cure is an iced oat milk chai with extra cinnamon.
Also huge shout out to Rebecca for donating all her preorder profits to LGBTQ + BIPOC supporting organizations WITH RECEIPTS. That is so mother.
"You taste good," he remarks. "So sweet. And so fucking big." 🐀🐀🐀🐀🐀
A twinky little graphic designer with *checks notes* A BIG HEART AND AN EVEN BIGGER D?
As a former barista (+ former twink) and a current graphic designer this book had me in full feral rat mode. 🐀🐀🐀🐀🐀
Rathe did an incredible job with Isaac and Tyler story. A masterclass of hurt/comfort and size difference. Whatever magic she put into this book, I want MORE.
Issac and Tyler were fully fleshed out characters. Fully developed backstories, lore and all. Did their relationship move fast? Yeah. But did it feel forced or cheesy? No! These people felt real. I was cheering them on the entire time. Rathe also did a great job with the supporting cast, I will ALWAYS be a sucker for found family and gay dads.
The spice was delicious. There was great balance of heated moments and soft kisses. I was so glad to see Tyler admit he was feral for his man bc same. If these two approached me from across the room and said they liked my vibe I would have to ask my husband for a hall pass. 🐀🐀🐀🐀🐀
Nothing to Lose left me with a tragically beautiful (beautifully tragic?) book hangover and the only cure is an iced oat milk chai with extra cinnamon.
Also huge shout out to Rebecca for donating all her preorder profits to LGBTQ + BIPOC supporting organizations WITH RECEIPTS. That is so mother.
"You taste good," he remarks. "So sweet. And so fucking big." 🐀🐀🐀🐀🐀
April 26, 2025
Nothing to Lose is an emotional story about two opposites, Tyler and Isaac, who develop an intense bond after a devastating incident threatens each other's safety. I really enjoyed this narrative of forgiveness, patience, and moving forward as Tyler and Isaac grapple with a horrific event while protecting each other. Isaac is caring and thoughtful with Tyler as he navigates his new reality while developing intense feelings for each other.
Overall, this is a strong and meaningful story about two opposites who develop a deep dependence on one another while nurturing a meaningful relationship. This narrative touches on many important topics, and I love how everything is handled with care and consideration. Isaac is remarkable in his responses, and I love how he adores Tyler and will do anything to make him feel safe.
*** I reviewed a complimentary copy of this story.***
Overall, this is a strong and meaningful story about two opposites who develop a deep dependence on one another while nurturing a meaningful relationship. This narrative touches on many important topics, and I love how everything is handled with care and consideration. Isaac is remarkable in his responses, and I love how he adores Tyler and will do anything to make him feel safe.
*** I reviewed a complimentary copy of this story.***
June 2, 2025
4.25 ⭐️
[It was so hard to choose a quote, there were too many good ones.]
It was so freaking good; I ate it all up. Isaac and Tyler are everything. They're exactly what I was looking for, a sweet and codependant couple, who can only breathe when the other is there 🫶
On another note, I can't believe it's the same author who wrote Man On, because I didn't particularly like this book.
In this story, you can feel the love and the care the boys have for each other. And they were so hot together. I'm not ashamed to say that I loved the smut in this one.
Isaac is a whole green flag, an extremely good book-boyfriend, if I'm perfectly honest. Where can I found one, please? I appreciated how he was patient and understanding, how he cared for Tyler, and how he was willing to try everything with Tyler regarding sex.
I'm pleased when authors wrote true versatile couples, and don't deminished that aspect. Too often, it happened off-page, barely described in a line. We have the full package, here.
I won't lie, the story was OTT, and very dramatic. Do I care, though? Not in the slightest. Rebecca Rathe wrote such an amazing pairing, I couldn't care less about the rest.
[Special thank you to Emna, I probably wouldn’t read this, if it weren't for your review!]
"I like the roughness of your hands, because they show how far you've come and how hard you're willing to work for a better future, not just for yourself, but for your family. You've sacrificed everything for them, and even now, this dream you’re following is still about supporting them.”
[It was so hard to choose a quote, there were too many good ones.]
It was so freaking good; I ate it all up. Isaac and Tyler are everything. They're exactly what I was looking for, a sweet and codependant couple, who can only breathe when the other is there 🫶
On another note, I can't believe it's the same author who wrote Man On, because I didn't particularly like this book.
In this story, you can feel the love and the care the boys have for each other. And they were so hot together. I'm not ashamed to say that I loved the smut in this one.
Isaac is a whole green flag, an extremely good book-boyfriend, if I'm perfectly honest. Where can I found one, please? I appreciated how he was patient and understanding, how he cared for Tyler, and how he was willing to try everything with Tyler regarding sex.
I'm pleased when authors wrote true versatile couples, and don't deminished that aspect. Too often, it happened off-page, barely described in a line. We have the full package, here.
I won't lie, the story was OTT, and very dramatic. Do I care, though? Not in the slightest. Rebecca Rathe wrote such an amazing pairing, I couldn't care less about the rest.
I pause, but not to think. Only to take a breath, because I’m suffocating without Tyler.
“There is no price, Mr. Valdin. Everything means nothing if I can’t love him.”
[Special thank you to Emna, I probably wouldn’t read this, if it weren't for your review!]
July 19, 2025
DNF @ 40%
While it started out fine, I just lost interest and got annoyed mostly over Tyler.
The book pretty much starts off with a heavy bang of Tyler being brutally attacked, then being rescued and taken in by Isaac while they drool over each other.
I found Tyler being heavily immature. Even though he’s 23, he comes off as 17. He has severe daddy issues, because his daddy is a Disney villain - over dramatic, sassy, stereotypical villain. - He hates being treated as a child, but he didn’t get the memo that if you wanna stop being treated as a child, you should stop acting like one.
Tyler is a young, nerdy, inexperienced college student who comes from a well-off family, and likes to spend his daddy’s money to piss him off. LITERALLY! I cringed so hard.
On the other hand we have Isaac who had to fight for everything and every penny in his life, dropped out of high school to support his family.
We don’t know how old is Isaac, but he’s super tall, super handsome, super dark hair - dark eyes has tattoos and piercings at all the right spots. He’s a bit stereotypical, with some minimal depth, but he at least has the potential to be a likable character unlike Tyler.
I don’t know… It just feels like Tyler is being obnoxiously over-dramatic about trifle things, but when it’s time to address the elephant in the room he starts drooling over Isaac, who has unlimited patience and compassion.
It just felt artificial and delusional.
While it started out fine, I just lost interest and got annoyed mostly over Tyler.
The book pretty much starts off with a heavy bang of Tyler being brutally attacked, then being rescued and taken in by Isaac while they drool over each other.
I found Tyler being heavily immature. Even though he’s 23, he comes off as 17. He has severe daddy issues, because his daddy is a Disney villain - over dramatic, sassy, stereotypical villain. - He hates being treated as a child, but he didn’t get the memo that if you wanna stop being treated as a child, you should stop acting like one.
Tyler is a young, nerdy, inexperienced college student who comes from a well-off family, and likes to spend his daddy’s money to piss him off. LITERALLY! I cringed so hard.
On the other hand we have Isaac who had to fight for everything and every penny in his life, dropped out of high school to support his family.
We don’t know how old is Isaac, but he’s super tall, super handsome, super dark hair - dark eyes has tattoos and piercings at all the right spots. He’s a bit stereotypical, with some minimal depth, but he at least has the potential to be a likable character unlike Tyler.
I don’t know… It just feels like Tyler is being obnoxiously over-dramatic about trifle things, but when it’s time to address the elephant in the room he starts drooling over Isaac, who has unlimited patience and compassion.
It just felt artificial and delusional.
May 3, 2025
when i started this, my main concern was that it would be over the top and with way too much drama.
well, it is over the top and has a lot of drama.
but i liked it, so who cares?
well, it is over the top and has a lot of drama.
but i liked it, so who cares?
April 24, 2025
If Rebecca Rathe writes it, I’m gonna read it and this was so freaking good. Easily a five star read. I absolutely loved Tyler and Isaac’s story. I was completely hooked from the very beginning and couldn’t put it down. If you’re looking for a book with opposites attract, virgin MC with “teach me” vibes, hurt comfort and they save each other then I definitely recommend this one!
May 15, 2025
"I will wait for you for as long as it takes. I have nothing to lose, and everything to gain."
A quote I'm sure will be thrown around in lots of reviews for this, which, before you read the book, sounds like a cliché cringefest. Packs quite the punch with context, though.
"Everything means nothing if I can’t love him."
A time is coming when Rebecca Rathe will be a really good author. Once upon a time, her books were my 'Full smut ahead, no pretense at plot' reads.
And to be clear, I was fine with that. Great even. Sometimes, it is enough to read about two hot guys doing hot things.
If this trajectory continues, those days may be behind us. Sure, it starts with all plot, no steam, then goes to a period of all steam, minimal plot, but it finds a happy balance towards the end.
Honestly, I wasn't too sold on this at first. Hurt/comfort is usually a toss up between morose and morose for me, and I wasn't really in a mood to be sad, but what I was worried about isn't what had happened, so that helped.
Also helped that these two were adorably balls to the wall into each other and could NOT hide it. Tyler tried, but Isaac(bless his heart) had ZERO chill about how into Tyler he was.
I love angst so much that sometimes I forget how wholesome it is when the conflict is external to the MC's feelings for each other. This was a welcome reminder.
That said.....I wasn't very convinced by Guy as the Big Bad. If anything, I felt like Daddy Dearest had that market cornered and needed no support. But there's no hurt /comfort without Guy so one must endure.
I also didn't like how neatly things resolved themselves towards the end BUT I also loved how the author saw the opportunity for miscommunication and looked the other way.
I was already fatigued by the idea of it in advance.
This really stuck the ending. I wasn't very into it for most of it, but let me tell you, the ending was well worth the journey.
Reckless decisions all round. Love to see it.
A quote I'm sure will be thrown around in lots of reviews for this, which, before you read the book, sounds like a cliché cringefest. Packs quite the punch with context, though.
"Everything means nothing if I can’t love him."
A time is coming when Rebecca Rathe will be a really good author. Once upon a time, her books were my 'Full smut ahead, no pretense at plot' reads.
And to be clear, I was fine with that. Great even. Sometimes, it is enough to read about two hot guys doing hot things.
If this trajectory continues, those days may be behind us. Sure, it starts with all plot, no steam, then goes to a period of all steam, minimal plot, but it finds a happy balance towards the end.
Honestly, I wasn't too sold on this at first. Hurt/comfort is usually a toss up between morose and morose for me, and I wasn't really in a mood to be sad, but what I was worried about isn't what had happened, so that helped.
Also helped that these two were adorably balls to the wall into each other and could NOT hide it. Tyler tried, but Isaac(bless his heart) had ZERO chill about how into Tyler he was.
I love angst so much that sometimes I forget how wholesome it is when the conflict is external to the MC's feelings for each other. This was a welcome reminder.
That said.....I wasn't very convinced by Guy as the Big Bad. If anything, I felt like Daddy Dearest had that market cornered and needed no support. But there's no hurt /comfort without Guy so one must endure.
I also didn't like how neatly things resolved themselves towards the end BUT I also loved how the author saw the opportunity for miscommunication and looked the other way.
I was already fatigued by the idea of it in advance.
This really stuck the ending. I wasn't very into it for most of it, but let me tell you, the ending was well worth the journey.
Reckless decisions all round. Love to see it.
October 2, 2025
“Everything means nothing if I can’t love him.”
“Because everything means nothing if I can’t save him.”
“Everything means nothing if I can’t have him,”
“Because everything means nothing if we don’t have each other.”
Rebecca Rathe never fails me! This book had no right being this good, cute, and hot. I honestly have nothing bad to say about it—the plot was incredible, the spice was even better, and the MMCs were just the cutest people ever. Solid 5 stars all around, such an amazing book to start the month with.
Isaac was such an easy character to love. His life has always been rough and challenging, and the amount of things this man has sacrificed for his family is incredible. What makes it even more powerful is that he doesn’t do it because he has to, but because he wants to—because he genuinely wishes for a stable life for them. There’s such a big difference in that. He’s a proud man who struggles to accept or ask for help, and even though I did get a little frustrated with him when he fought Tyler’s help, I could still understand him. I felt Isaac’s panic and worry about his gym through this author’s writing—it really killed me to see someone with such a big dream, but so limited by money. And if that isn’t the most human thing ever, then I don’t know what is. I just wanted to hug him, and I’m so happy that he got his dream and his dream man in the end, he really deserves nothing less.
“I like the roughness of your hands, because they show how far you've come and how hard you're willing to work for a better future, not just for yourself, but for your family. You've sacrificed everything for them, and even now, this dream you’re following is still about supporting them.”
“When he comes out of the bathroom, wearing a pair of my boxers and my hoodie, my knees almost buckle. Seeing him in my clothes triggers a part of my lizard brain I've never felt before. It's primal, like I've marked him in some way, claimed ownership by having my scent on him. It's ridiculous, I know, and it's not something I've ever thought or felt before. It should be worrisome, but my inner caveman is too busy preening that he's mine, mine, mine.”
"I will wait for you for as long as it takes. I have nothing to lose, and everything to gain."
Tyler is just so freaking cute, I loved him instantly and I just wanted to protect him. What he went through was horrible and his life, even though privileged, was nothing more than lonely and basically a cage for him. His dad was an asshole, and I do hate him, but I can appreciate that he backed off at the end and he did seem to care about what happened to Tyler, even though it was too late. I love the fact that despite the environment and role model Tyler grew up with, he was the complete opposite of that. He adapted to a life where he had less than before with such ease, because all he wanted was to have someone who loved him for him and who supported and picked him up when necessary. I adore him. His innocence and just how sweet he was, paired with that dirty mind, made him impossible not to love. I enjoyed seeing him explore his sexuality and grow more confident in himself, not only with sex but in life in general. And I mean, the fact that he was bigger… I wasn’t expecting that, but I loveee that for him and Isaac.
“I feel him in my chest, in the butterflies in my stomach. He's wrapped around my brain in such a way that I can't see past him. He's rushing through my veins and pumping through my arteries. He's filling my lungs, becoming part of the molecules that make me a living, breathing person.”
“Where is that shy virgin I met the other day?"
"You drowned him in the shower yesterday," he says flatly, not looking up from my chest.
“You taste good," he remarks. "So sweet. And so fucking big.”
Tyler and Isaac made me feel everything. They really went through a lot, both together and individually. They felt so real to me—their problems, insecurities, their feelings—it all just felt raw and genuine, and I loved that. Their connection was instant and yes, their relationship moved fast, but the depth of their bond and the way it developed felt right for them. It didn’t leave me questioning where it came from; it just felt like something that had to happen. Nothing about it felt forced, it felt natural and so, so beautiful. Both of them had faced difficulties alone before, but once they found each other, that completely changed. They learned how to lean into each other—Isaac took a little more time than Tyler—but in the end, they both supported one another through the hard times. I loved that there was a balance in their dynamics; they created a safe place for each other, a support system they had both been missing, and that made their relationship feel so incredibly real to me.
“I want you any way I can get you, Tyler. Sex or no sex. Top or bottom."
"I do want it… to be inside you. To have you inside me." His cock twitches against mine, but he still doesn't make a move. "I don't want to be afraid. I'm not afraid," I say, wanting to be very clear. "I'm not afraid with you.”
“You are probably the most beautiful man I've ever laid eyes on," I say honestly. “But that beauty is on the inside as well as outside. I've never met anyone like you. You say you have nothing to your name, yet you were willing to share what you have with a stranger. You saved me, not just from a potentially worse fate when you chased that guy away, but when you stayed by my side and cared for me." Pausing, I take a breath, looking at our hands intertwined together. "I'm nothing like you. I'm not bigger on the inside like you are. I'm not brave or selfless or even pretty to look at. I'm just a twenty-three-year-old loser who's never touched or so much as kissed another person. I don't have anything to offer you other than what you see. If you ask me, you're the one who's out of my league.”
I am never disappointed with the spice in the books of this author, I just know that it will always be so good. In this book, there was more talk and explanations of roles, and a slower build-up. And with that, I don’t mean it was a slow burn, because it definitely wasn’t, but they moved through the “stages” in a more step-by-step way. I think that was perfect for them, since both had struggles when it came to sex that made it necessary to have those conversations and take things gradually. I actually loved that they talked about it—Tyler had a misconception, Isaac had a bad experience, and together they were able to explore and build trust, creating the explosive sexual relationship they shared.
“Oh, I want the mess," he says, tossing the offending item over his shoulder. "I want all the mess. Fucking mess me up, Tyler.”
“All I can think about is how much I want to strip you out of your clothes and clean up your mess with my tongue.”
“Everyone's so concerned over who's the top and who's the bottom. Who fucking cares? What you like to feel doesn't make you more or less strong. What matters is that it feels good to you and your partner. It's about mutual respect and pleasure and trust.”
The plot and writing were incredibly good, as always. The way the story developed in this book was a bit different—it had plenty of hot, spicy scenes, but it was also balanced with the plot and heartfelt moments. Oh, and those romantic moments actually made me tear up. The last part of the book was something else.
“Tyler is the best thing that’s ever happened to me. He believes in me in a way no one ever has. So if you’re trying to scare me off because you think I’ll crumble under the weight of your judgement? Don’t waste your breath. I’ve carried more than my share, and I’ll carry this too. I’ll carry him, if that’s what he needs.”
Another reason to love this book was the side characters. Brenna, Mac, and Anders are just the kindest people ever. I loved how they accepted and cared for Isaac and Tyler—it was so funny and cute how invested they were in them getting together. Along with Isaac's mother and sister, plus all the other supportive characters, they created a beautiful support system for both Isaac and Tyler. I absolutely loved the found-family aspect they added to the story.
This book was definitely nothing like I expected. I mean, that cover kind of led me in a different direction than the story actually took, but I’m not complaining. It was so good! I loved everything about it, and I just can’t wait to see what other incredible books this author comes out with.
“A YEAR AGO, we were strangers. Two people from different worlds, crashing together under the worst circumstances. I found him broken and bleeding behind a dumpster, and I didn’t know then that he’d become my everything. In him, I found the acceptance I didn’t know I needed. Confidence I didn’t think I deserved. A kind of love that rebuilt me from the inside out. We almost lost everything—our futures, our freedom, each other. But we made it work. We fought for it. We sacrificed for it. And now… now we have this life we built from the ashes. Because everything means nothing if we don’t have each other. And now? We have everything.”
Quotes worth mentioning:
“Being polite doesn’t mean I was interested. Being kind doesn’t mean I consented.”
“Because it's embarrassing."
"Well, between you and me, every time you blush, my cock twitches. Apparently, it’s a new kink of mine. So, go on…" He laughs, but turns even redder. I fucking love it.
“Because everything means nothing if I can’t save him.”
“Everything means nothing if I can’t have him,”
“Because everything means nothing if we don’t have each other.”
Rebecca Rathe never fails me! This book had no right being this good, cute, and hot. I honestly have nothing bad to say about it—the plot was incredible, the spice was even better, and the MMCs were just the cutest people ever. Solid 5 stars all around, such an amazing book to start the month with.
Isaac was such an easy character to love. His life has always been rough and challenging, and the amount of things this man has sacrificed for his family is incredible. What makes it even more powerful is that he doesn’t do it because he has to, but because he wants to—because he genuinely wishes for a stable life for them. There’s such a big difference in that. He’s a proud man who struggles to accept or ask for help, and even though I did get a little frustrated with him when he fought Tyler’s help, I could still understand him. I felt Isaac’s panic and worry about his gym through this author’s writing—it really killed me to see someone with such a big dream, but so limited by money. And if that isn’t the most human thing ever, then I don’t know what is. I just wanted to hug him, and I’m so happy that he got his dream and his dream man in the end, he really deserves nothing less.
“I like the roughness of your hands, because they show how far you've come and how hard you're willing to work for a better future, not just for yourself, but for your family. You've sacrificed everything for them, and even now, this dream you’re following is still about supporting them.”
“When he comes out of the bathroom, wearing a pair of my boxers and my hoodie, my knees almost buckle. Seeing him in my clothes triggers a part of my lizard brain I've never felt before. It's primal, like I've marked him in some way, claimed ownership by having my scent on him. It's ridiculous, I know, and it's not something I've ever thought or felt before. It should be worrisome, but my inner caveman is too busy preening that he's mine, mine, mine.”
"I will wait for you for as long as it takes. I have nothing to lose, and everything to gain."
Tyler is just so freaking cute, I loved him instantly and I just wanted to protect him. What he went through was horrible and his life, even though privileged, was nothing more than lonely and basically a cage for him. His dad was an asshole, and I do hate him, but I can appreciate that he backed off at the end and he did seem to care about what happened to Tyler, even though it was too late. I love the fact that despite the environment and role model Tyler grew up with, he was the complete opposite of that. He adapted to a life where he had less than before with such ease, because all he wanted was to have someone who loved him for him and who supported and picked him up when necessary. I adore him. His innocence and just how sweet he was, paired with that dirty mind, made him impossible not to love. I enjoyed seeing him explore his sexuality and grow more confident in himself, not only with sex but in life in general. And I mean, the fact that he was bigger… I wasn’t expecting that, but I loveee that for him and Isaac.
“I feel him in my chest, in the butterflies in my stomach. He's wrapped around my brain in such a way that I can't see past him. He's rushing through my veins and pumping through my arteries. He's filling my lungs, becoming part of the molecules that make me a living, breathing person.”
“Where is that shy virgin I met the other day?"
"You drowned him in the shower yesterday," he says flatly, not looking up from my chest.
“You taste good," he remarks. "So sweet. And so fucking big.”
Tyler and Isaac made me feel everything. They really went through a lot, both together and individually. They felt so real to me—their problems, insecurities, their feelings—it all just felt raw and genuine, and I loved that. Their connection was instant and yes, their relationship moved fast, but the depth of their bond and the way it developed felt right for them. It didn’t leave me questioning where it came from; it just felt like something that had to happen. Nothing about it felt forced, it felt natural and so, so beautiful. Both of them had faced difficulties alone before, but once they found each other, that completely changed. They learned how to lean into each other—Isaac took a little more time than Tyler—but in the end, they both supported one another through the hard times. I loved that there was a balance in their dynamics; they created a safe place for each other, a support system they had both been missing, and that made their relationship feel so incredibly real to me.
“I want you any way I can get you, Tyler. Sex or no sex. Top or bottom."
"I do want it… to be inside you. To have you inside me." His cock twitches against mine, but he still doesn't make a move. "I don't want to be afraid. I'm not afraid," I say, wanting to be very clear. "I'm not afraid with you.”
“You are probably the most beautiful man I've ever laid eyes on," I say honestly. “But that beauty is on the inside as well as outside. I've never met anyone like you. You say you have nothing to your name, yet you were willing to share what you have with a stranger. You saved me, not just from a potentially worse fate when you chased that guy away, but when you stayed by my side and cared for me." Pausing, I take a breath, looking at our hands intertwined together. "I'm nothing like you. I'm not bigger on the inside like you are. I'm not brave or selfless or even pretty to look at. I'm just a twenty-three-year-old loser who's never touched or so much as kissed another person. I don't have anything to offer you other than what you see. If you ask me, you're the one who's out of my league.”
I am never disappointed with the spice in the books of this author, I just know that it will always be so good. In this book, there was more talk and explanations of roles, and a slower build-up. And with that, I don’t mean it was a slow burn, because it definitely wasn’t, but they moved through the “stages” in a more step-by-step way. I think that was perfect for them, since both had struggles when it came to sex that made it necessary to have those conversations and take things gradually. I actually loved that they talked about it—Tyler had a misconception, Isaac had a bad experience, and together they were able to explore and build trust, creating the explosive sexual relationship they shared.
“Oh, I want the mess," he says, tossing the offending item over his shoulder. "I want all the mess. Fucking mess me up, Tyler.”
“All I can think about is how much I want to strip you out of your clothes and clean up your mess with my tongue.”
“Everyone's so concerned over who's the top and who's the bottom. Who fucking cares? What you like to feel doesn't make you more or less strong. What matters is that it feels good to you and your partner. It's about mutual respect and pleasure and trust.”
The plot and writing were incredibly good, as always. The way the story developed in this book was a bit different—it had plenty of hot, spicy scenes, but it was also balanced with the plot and heartfelt moments. Oh, and those romantic moments actually made me tear up. The last part of the book was something else.
“Tyler is the best thing that’s ever happened to me. He believes in me in a way no one ever has. So if you’re trying to scare me off because you think I’ll crumble under the weight of your judgement? Don’t waste your breath. I’ve carried more than my share, and I’ll carry this too. I’ll carry him, if that’s what he needs.”
Another reason to love this book was the side characters. Brenna, Mac, and Anders are just the kindest people ever. I loved how they accepted and cared for Isaac and Tyler—it was so funny and cute how invested they were in them getting together. Along with Isaac's mother and sister, plus all the other supportive characters, they created a beautiful support system for both Isaac and Tyler. I absolutely loved the found-family aspect they added to the story.
This book was definitely nothing like I expected. I mean, that cover kind of led me in a different direction than the story actually took, but I’m not complaining. It was so good! I loved everything about it, and I just can’t wait to see what other incredible books this author comes out with.
“A YEAR AGO, we were strangers. Two people from different worlds, crashing together under the worst circumstances. I found him broken and bleeding behind a dumpster, and I didn’t know then that he’d become my everything. In him, I found the acceptance I didn’t know I needed. Confidence I didn’t think I deserved. A kind of love that rebuilt me from the inside out. We almost lost everything—our futures, our freedom, each other. But we made it work. We fought for it. We sacrificed for it. And now… now we have this life we built from the ashes. Because everything means nothing if we don’t have each other. And now? We have everything.”
Quotes worth mentioning:
“Being polite doesn’t mean I was interested. Being kind doesn’t mean I consented.”
“Because it's embarrassing."
"Well, between you and me, every time you blush, my cock twitches. Apparently, it’s a new kink of mine. So, go on…" He laughs, but turns even redder. I fucking love it.
November 26, 2025
4 🌟
audio read 🎧 — Jake Bordeaux
Tyler and Isaac 🖤
These two. Damn they really pulled at the heart strings.
Isaac is probably the most selfless and near perfect man I’ve ever read. I would say he had no flaws, but I mean, I guesssssss what happened at the end could be considered a flaw. . . Although he was certainly justified.
The way Tyler was able to grow and truly embrace himself once he had a safe place was beautiful. The strength to stand up for himself, and feel empowered in his own skin 😢
I loved the family and friends of these guys as well. It was one giant found family that looked out for each other no matter how big or small.
If you’re wanting some hurt / comfort with extra hurt and spicy first times this is it.
.
.
.
.
‼️⚠️ Potential spoilers ⚠️‼️
Dynamic: MM — vers
Sharing? No
Cheating? No
Breakup? Technically yes? It’s difficult to answer because they never actually speak about it, it happens because of outside forces and neither of them wants it, and they’re back together within 24 hours
Sex scene with OM or OW No
‼️⚠️ Content ⚠️‼️
— MMC saves him
— forced proximity
— one bed
— hurt / comfort
— opposites
— size difference
— both think the other is too good for them
— virgin MMC
— “teach me”
— possessive / protective
— nightmares
— wears his clothes
— MMC wears glasses
— instalove
— “baby”
— “kitten”
— pierced nipples
— flip f*cking
— cockwarming
— 💦 in his pants
— snowballing
— rimming
— breeding kink
audio read 🎧 — Jake Bordeaux
Tyler and Isaac 🖤
These two. Damn they really pulled at the heart strings.
Isaac is probably the most selfless and near perfect man I’ve ever read. I would say he had no flaws, but I mean, I guesssssss what happened at the end could be considered a flaw. . . Although he was certainly justified.
The way Tyler was able to grow and truly embrace himself once he had a safe place was beautiful. The strength to stand up for himself, and feel empowered in his own skin 😢
I loved the family and friends of these guys as well. It was one giant found family that looked out for each other no matter how big or small.
If you’re wanting some hurt / comfort with extra hurt and spicy first times this is it.
.
.
.
.
‼️⚠️ Potential spoilers ⚠️‼️
Dynamic: MM — vers
Sharing? No
Cheating? No
Breakup? Technically yes? It’s difficult to answer because they never actually speak about it, it happens because of outside forces and neither of them wants it, and they’re back together within 24 hours
Sex scene with OM or OW No
‼️⚠️ Content ⚠️‼️
— MMC saves him
— forced proximity
— one bed
— hurt / comfort
— opposites
— size difference
— both think the other is too good for them
— virgin MMC
— “teach me”
— possessive / protective
— nightmares
— wears his clothes
— MMC wears glasses
— instalove
— “baby”
— “kitten”
— pierced nipples
— flip f*cking
— cockwarming
— 💦 in his pants
— snowballing
— rimming
— breeding kink
December 16, 2025
I don't understand how Tyler, at 23, when the book started, barely acted like an adult, and by the time of the epilogue, just a year later, he was heading the Graphic design branch of a Law firm (I guess thats a thing?) and being so good at his unique graphic design job that people book months in advance. Like, ok, wow, talk about plot points that make no sense at all.
I guess the book was fine, Tyler was annoying, being so dependent first on his dad and then on his new boyfriend. Why didn't he tell the police about the guy who assaulted him? I have no idea and don't understand.
The meddling coffee owners' neighbours were cool, if a bit too nice. Tyler's dad was a stereotype, and Isaac was there to provide Tyler's arc some growth.
I guess the book was fine, Tyler was annoying, being so dependent first on his dad and then on his new boyfriend. Why didn't he tell the police about the guy who assaulted him? I have no idea and don't understand.
The meddling coffee owners' neighbours were cool, if a bit too nice. Tyler's dad was a stereotype, and Isaac was there to provide Tyler's arc some growth.
November 13, 2025
There are some topics in this book that may be triggering for some, so please, as always, check the tw-list 🫶🏻
Boy, oh boy this book. It's been on my tbr since forever, and I was finally able to pick it up and read it and I’m so happy I did.
This is definitely a story that changes you. It runs deep, the characters and the plot, and it captures you and doesn't let you go, even after finishing it. Isaac and Tyler, Tyler and Isaac... they are made for each other. Everything led them to each other, again, and again, until they couldn’t deny their pure love and devotion for each other 🤧
This was the first book from this author that I read, but I can gurantee you, it won’t be the last.
Definitely a top read for me this year 💕
Boy, oh boy this book. It's been on my tbr since forever, and I was finally able to pick it up and read it and I’m so happy I did.
This is definitely a story that changes you. It runs deep, the characters and the plot, and it captures you and doesn't let you go, even after finishing it. Isaac and Tyler, Tyler and Isaac... they are made for each other. Everything led them to each other, again, and again, until they couldn’t deny their pure love and devotion for each other 🤧
This was the first book from this author that I read, but I can gurantee you, it won’t be the last.
Definitely a top read for me this year 💕
September 20, 2025
3⭐️ This started off okay—very sweet and syrupy and instalusty. But then it started to feel very artificial and cheesy. The dialogue and internal monologue were heavy on the enlightened therapy-speak for two 20-something dudes. And the over-explanation of the mechanics of sex pulled me out of the story and reminded me this is a grown woman author lecturing me about mental health and gay sex between two men.
I need a love story to feel authentic to the characters so the author doesn’t feel like a third person in the room.
Also, too many MM authors have a checklist they use:
Discuss testing and condoms - check
Discuss who’s going to top - check
Discuss consent - check
Frotting scene then BJ scene then anal scene - check
It gets tedious and boring, and starts to feel fake. I want raw emotions and ROMANCE.
I need a love story to feel authentic to the characters so the author doesn’t feel like a third person in the room.
Also, too many MM authors have a checklist they use:
Discuss testing and condoms - check
Discuss who’s going to top - check
Discuss consent - check
Frotting scene then BJ scene then anal scene - check
It gets tedious and boring, and starts to feel fake. I want raw emotions and ROMANCE.
June 11, 2025
4.5 Rounded up.
I absolutely loved these two.
I skimmed some of the sex scenes because I've been finding myself less interested in those and more interested in the rest of the story.
I especially loved how smitten Issac was from the beginning.
-.5 only because of a few personal niggles but overall it was a great read.
I absolutely loved these two.
I skimmed some of the sex scenes because I've been finding myself less interested in those and more interested in the rest of the story.
I especially loved how smitten Issac was from the beginning.
-.5 only because of a few personal niggles but overall it was a great read.
May 18, 2025
Unfortunately, I found the story very boring. According to the blurb, I had completely different expectations. There was no tension, and it just dragged on.
April 24, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️.5
SWEET BABIES who went through hell and back twice together just ended up being so damn sweet. SO SWEET. And they made serious LOVEEEE in this book. I’m not even gonna call it spice because every interaction was pure PASSION. SOULMATES. Absolutely perfect for one another.
Okay, now that I’m done just swooning so hard over these two, I feel like I can actually write some thoughts down here. First thought, everyone needs to read this book! The cover makes it look a little dark, a little emotional (?) but MAN, were these two fun. They were actually so ooey gooey sweet, so precious, so loving, and although there were some heavy topics when it came to Tyler and his accident, these two really just made me SO happy.
Tyler and Isaac are both crushing on each other hard.. from a distance. Until one night Isaac comes to Tyler’s aid after an incident behind his soon-to-be gym, and offers him a place to rest and recover.
Tyler is inexperienced, slightly antisocial, smart as hell, and has no idea why this handsome, tattooed, pierced, rugged man wants anything to do with him.
These two spend lots of time just getting to know one another, doing everything together, and really building a friendship above all else.
Like I said above, they made LOVE, PEOPLE. Like, passionate, emotional, beautiful love making. There were some fun and very spicy moments too of course, as we’ve come to expect from Rebecca. The “Teach Me” moments were delicious. The dirty talk, the 💦? Lots and lots of 💦. All SO GOOD.. but something really beautiful took place too. Falling. Hard.
These two went THROUGH it. Not once, twice, but three times. They WORKED hard to get where they ended up. And I can’t think of two people more deserving and more perfect for one another than them.
I didn’t expect to love this book as much as I did but.. alas, it’s my new favourite RR book to date. I’m missing them already.
🌶️🌶️🌶️.5
SWEET BABIES who went through hell and back twice together just ended up being so damn sweet. SO SWEET. And they made serious LOVEEEE in this book. I’m not even gonna call it spice because every interaction was pure PASSION. SOULMATES. Absolutely perfect for one another.
Okay, now that I’m done just swooning so hard over these two, I feel like I can actually write some thoughts down here. First thought, everyone needs to read this book! The cover makes it look a little dark, a little emotional (?) but MAN, were these two fun. They were actually so ooey gooey sweet, so precious, so loving, and although there were some heavy topics when it came to Tyler and his accident, these two really just made me SO happy.
Tyler and Isaac are both crushing on each other hard.. from a distance. Until one night Isaac comes to Tyler’s aid after an incident behind his soon-to-be gym, and offers him a place to rest and recover.
Tyler is inexperienced, slightly antisocial, smart as hell, and has no idea why this handsome, tattooed, pierced, rugged man wants anything to do with him.
These two spend lots of time just getting to know one another, doing everything together, and really building a friendship above all else.
Like I said above, they made LOVE, PEOPLE. Like, passionate, emotional, beautiful love making. There were some fun and very spicy moments too of course, as we’ve come to expect from Rebecca. The “Teach Me” moments were delicious. The dirty talk, the 💦? Lots and lots of 💦. All SO GOOD.. but something really beautiful took place too. Falling. Hard.
These two went THROUGH it. Not once, twice, but three times. They WORKED hard to get where they ended up. And I can’t think of two people more deserving and more perfect for one another than them.
I didn’t expect to love this book as much as I did but.. alas, it’s my new favourite RR book to date. I’m missing them already.
May 3, 2025
"Everything means nothing if we don’t have each other."
It was my first read from this author. And I'm so glad I decided to give this new author a chance...
This book was sooo good. A little dramatic, a little cheesy - but it was never too much. Loved the characters
It was my first read from this author. And I'm so glad I decided to give this new author a chance...
This book was sooo good. A little dramatic, a little cheesy - but it was never too much. Loved the characters
May 2, 2025
Rating: 5/5 🌟
Spice: 3.5/5 🌶️
Characters: Tyler and Isaac
I loved every second of this book. Isaac and Tyler are both attracted to one another but never actually talk to one another. And then one night Isaac finds Tyler being beaten in an alley and rushes him to the hospital. He ends up bringing him back to his home afterwards to help him with his recovery since Tyler doesn't have a support system. Essentially living together their feelings grow and their relationship develops while Tyler heals, finds his confidence, and gains some... experience. The "teach me" aspect of their relationship was so good. Seriously, Rebecca's steam is always spot on perfect for me and this one was no different (I LOVE a good breeding kink). While their feelings are growing for one another along with their physical relationship, Isaac is trying to get his MMA gym up and running so he can open it up. He's been planning on running the business for years and had finally started the process. He has worked so hard and given up so much to build a better life for himself, his mom, and his sister and this gym is the light at the end of that tunnel.
They do face a lot and have to overcome a lot to get their HEA. All outside factors causing the drama. What I loved was that their relationship was never really at question. They felt steady, stable, and real. I also loved all of the side characters that were there providing their support system. My eyes watered several times over the last few chapters.
The entire story felt real and organic to me. I wanted the world for Tyler and was so happy when he found his voice against those that pushed him around. And my heart flat out belonged to Isaac. No joke, I loved him so much.
This will easily be a book that I can reread for comfort and to just feel joy.
Spice: 3.5/5 🌶️
Characters: Tyler and Isaac
I loved every second of this book. Isaac and Tyler are both attracted to one another but never actually talk to one another. And then one night Isaac finds Tyler being beaten in an alley and rushes him to the hospital. He ends up bringing him back to his home afterwards to help him with his recovery since Tyler doesn't have a support system. Essentially living together their feelings grow and their relationship develops while Tyler heals, finds his confidence, and gains some... experience. The "teach me" aspect of their relationship was so good. Seriously, Rebecca's steam is always spot on perfect for me and this one was no different (I LOVE a good breeding kink). While their feelings are growing for one another along with their physical relationship, Isaac is trying to get his MMA gym up and running so he can open it up. He's been planning on running the business for years and had finally started the process. He has worked so hard and given up so much to build a better life for himself, his mom, and his sister and this gym is the light at the end of that tunnel.
They do face a lot and have to overcome a lot to get their HEA. All outside factors causing the drama. What I loved was that their relationship was never really at question. They felt steady, stable, and real. I also loved all of the side characters that were there providing their support system. My eyes watered several times over the last few chapters.
The entire story felt real and organic to me. I wanted the world for Tyler and was so happy when he found his voice against those that pushed him around. And my heart flat out belonged to Isaac. No joke, I loved him so much.
This will easily be a book that I can reread for comfort and to just feel joy.
April 29, 2025
4.5/5 stars 4/5 spice
This was a super sweet and spicy read. Isaac was the ideal green flag book boyfriend. He gave off broody vibes but the man was total sweetheart, a thoughtful caretaker, hardworking, always putting others first, and completely obsessed with his man.
It was so beautiful to see the meek Tyler transform into someone who was confident, happy, and able to stand up for himself, especially when it came to his father. This was all accomplished with Isaac by his side being his little cheerleader.
These two were so in love, those messy and intense love making scenes really made you feel their connection. My heart broke when things went south and there was a possibility that they wouldn’t see each other again. Both really struggled with the idea of being without one another.
I loved the found family in this as well. The family that owned The Nook, were really there for the boys and Isaac’s family were so loving. His sister was such a hoot, she was my favourite.
If you’re looking for a sweet and spicy, opposites attract read, with an amazing book boyfriend, look no further!
- Hurt/comfort
- Opposites attract
- Size difference
- Found family
- Rich X poor backgrounds
This was a super sweet and spicy read. Isaac was the ideal green flag book boyfriend. He gave off broody vibes but the man was total sweetheart, a thoughtful caretaker, hardworking, always putting others first, and completely obsessed with his man.
It was so beautiful to see the meek Tyler transform into someone who was confident, happy, and able to stand up for himself, especially when it came to his father. This was all accomplished with Isaac by his side being his little cheerleader.
These two were so in love, those messy and intense love making scenes really made you feel their connection. My heart broke when things went south and there was a possibility that they wouldn’t see each other again. Both really struggled with the idea of being without one another.
I loved the found family in this as well. The family that owned The Nook, were really there for the boys and Isaac’s family were so loving. His sister was such a hoot, she was my favourite.
If you’re looking for a sweet and spicy, opposites attract read, with an amazing book boyfriend, look no further!
- Hurt/comfort
- Opposites attract
- Size difference
- Found family
- Rich X poor backgrounds
May 7, 2025
EASY 5 STARS.
RTC.
RTC.
January 20, 2026
52% DNF.
Can we please stop babying grown men in MM books just because they have daddy issues? The only one who had a shot at saving this mess was Isaac—he actually had the potential to be likable. But alas, Tyler’s toddler-level emotional maturity tanked the whole thing
Can we please stop babying grown men in MM books just because they have daddy issues? The only one who had a shot at saving this mess was Isaac—he actually had the potential to be likable. But alas, Tyler’s toddler-level emotional maturity tanked the whole thing
May 11, 2025
⭐️
4.5 stars rounded up!
⭐️
My first read of this author outside her Forbidden series, and it was a success.
Isaac and Tyler were so very adorable and sweet and sexy together. There was that connection from the start, and while they perhaps happened a bit too fast and all, it worked well. You could really feel the quick love they grew to have for each other. While it had only been a few weeks before before the L word came into play, I didn't feel like it came too soon or out of nowhere. They were just all about each other and so into each other from the get go that I believe the L word when it was exchanged between them.
Perhaps it helped that circumstances put them together so early and around each other almost 24/7.
Isaac and Tyler both frequented the local coffee shop only a few blocks down from Isaac's place, which he's constructing himself into a gym, where his apartment would be on the upper floor, once he gets that fixed up too.
They literally ran into each other, and Isaac found Tyler to be adorable while Tyler found Isaac to be extremely hot and sexy - but a bit intimidating, as Isaac has tattoos and is bigger and muscled, and has a bit of a resting bitch face that doesn't do him any favors.
But underneath that intimidating exterior is an very sweet, gentle guy who treats Tyler amazingly. He does have some fight in him, as he's an excellent MMA fighter who was trained by one of the best. He can definitely fuck someone up, he just doesn't....although, when it comes to Tyler and the person who hurt him in the beginning of this story - and Isaac is the one who finds him that way in his alleyway, beat up horribly - that might be a different story.
See, Isaac is extremely loyal and all about doing all he can to help and provide for his family and those closest to him.
As his father died when he was 14, Isaac had to drop out of school when he was 15 to work at the same job - at an oil rig - that killed his father. Then he got into fighting and he does that illegally sometimes in order to pay the pills. Isaac has had to rely on himself only for a long time, especially to help his mother who has a condition which puts her in almost constant pain, and his younger sister who was just a kid when their father died.
At the start of this, the sister has her own job and is starting to be able to help out too, but Isaac hasn't learned how to let go a bit and accept help.
So when Tyler comes along, Isaac falls hard and fast, and this man hurt him, could have killed him, and threatened to rape Tyler as well (he didn't get to do that, thankfully, and no SA happens in this. The threat of it happens, though). To say Isaac loses his shit when he finally finds out exactly who hurt Tyler is an understatement.
But Tyler himself grew up with money, but a very unloving father. They are almost opposites. Isaac has a loving family, but grew up in poverty. Tyler grew up in luxury but had no one loving in his life. And despite his horrible father, he's incredibly sweet and kind.
These two are such opposites, but so perfect together, so perfect for each other. I loved them together.
I guess my only reason for the .5 stars off was that for some reason this was a bit slow at times. I'm not quite sure why, I just didn't fly through this. Maybe because the plot wasn't always front and center? So at times it kind of dragged a bit. Nothing too bad, but enough for it to go a bit slower than it could have.
Otherwise, I loved this and it was so so good. Isaac and Tyler had great chemistry too - although Tyler topping Isaac felt a bit forced tbh. But whatever, I was largely able to get past it - and the romance between them was top notch.
So I definitely highly recommend this. Overall this author has not missed, and I cannot wait for more from her in the future.
Until then! 😍😘
My first read of this author outside her Forbidden series, and it was a success.
Isaac and Tyler were so very adorable and sweet and sexy together. There was that connection from the start, and while they perhaps happened a bit too fast and all, it worked well. You could really feel the quick love they grew to have for each other. While it had only been a few weeks before before the L word came into play, I didn't feel like it came too soon or out of nowhere. They were just all about each other and so into each other from the get go that I believe the L word when it was exchanged between them.
Perhaps it helped that circumstances put them together so early and around each other almost 24/7.
Isaac and Tyler both frequented the local coffee shop only a few blocks down from Isaac's place, which he's constructing himself into a gym, where his apartment would be on the upper floor, once he gets that fixed up too.
They literally ran into each other, and Isaac found Tyler to be adorable while Tyler found Isaac to be extremely hot and sexy - but a bit intimidating, as Isaac has tattoos and is bigger and muscled, and has a bit of a resting bitch face that doesn't do him any favors.
But underneath that intimidating exterior is an very sweet, gentle guy who treats Tyler amazingly. He does have some fight in him, as he's an excellent MMA fighter who was trained by one of the best. He can definitely fuck someone up, he just doesn't....although, when it comes to Tyler and the person who hurt him in the beginning of this story - and Isaac is the one who finds him that way in his alleyway, beat up horribly - that might be a different story.
See, Isaac is extremely loyal and all about doing all he can to help and provide for his family and those closest to him.
As his father died when he was 14, Isaac had to drop out of school when he was 15 to work at the same job - at an oil rig - that killed his father. Then he got into fighting and he does that illegally sometimes in order to pay the pills. Isaac has had to rely on himself only for a long time, especially to help his mother who has a condition which puts her in almost constant pain, and his younger sister who was just a kid when their father died.
At the start of this, the sister has her own job and is starting to be able to help out too, but Isaac hasn't learned how to let go a bit and accept help.
So when Tyler comes along, Isaac falls hard and fast, and this man hurt him, could have killed him, and threatened to rape Tyler as well (he didn't get to do that, thankfully, and no SA happens in this. The threat of it happens, though). To say Isaac loses his shit when he finally finds out exactly who hurt Tyler is an understatement.
But Tyler himself grew up with money, but a very unloving father. They are almost opposites. Isaac has a loving family, but grew up in poverty. Tyler grew up in luxury but had no one loving in his life. And despite his horrible father, he's incredibly sweet and kind.
These two are such opposites, but so perfect together, so perfect for each other. I loved them together.
I guess my only reason for the .5 stars off was that for some reason this was a bit slow at times. I'm not quite sure why, I just didn't fly through this. Maybe because the plot wasn't always front and center? So at times it kind of dragged a bit. Nothing too bad, but enough for it to go a bit slower than it could have.
Otherwise, I loved this and it was so so good. Isaac and Tyler had great chemistry too - although Tyler topping Isaac felt a bit forced tbh. But whatever, I was largely able to get past it - and the romance between them was top notch.
So I definitely highly recommend this. Overall this author has not missed, and I cannot wait for more from her in the future.
Until then! 😍😘
July 6, 2025
iiii love it! Isaac and Tyler are the cutest!!!
Also Jake Bordeaux... what a narrator!!
Also Jake Bordeaux... what a narrator!!
August 7, 2025
3.75⭐
That was cute! 🥰
That was cute! 🥰
January 19, 2026
This was way more sweet and emotional that I had thought it would be. The absolute and immediate protective vibes that were coming from Isaac were just beautiful. A total caregiver to his core. Such a great character - they both were.
Isaac is an MMA fighter (non pro, more like fight club guy) who is struggling to open his own gym. He comes across a preppy cutie that he has a run in with (literally) but never has the guts to ask out. A horrific even brings the two together and Isaac right away goes into caregiver mode. Tyler is a bit broken, and has very little self worth, so its wonderful to see how he blossoms with Isaac.
There is a lot of spice thats done so well - the 'sex lessons' really turns into real trust and care quickly. These two just go together so well. There is some family drama (although there is also some found family elements to balance that out) and overall its just a sweet read, with sweet characters that go through some shit together. Great hurt/comfort read.
Contemporary MM
Hurt / Comfort
Sweet MMA Fighter w/RBF
Preppy Nerd
Forced Proximity
Rich / Poor
Insta-Lust
Sex Lessons
Virgin MC
Spice: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Isaac is an MMA fighter (non pro, more like fight club guy) who is struggling to open his own gym. He comes across a preppy cutie that he has a run in with (literally) but never has the guts to ask out. A horrific even brings the two together and Isaac right away goes into caregiver mode. Tyler is a bit broken, and has very little self worth, so its wonderful to see how he blossoms with Isaac.
There is a lot of spice thats done so well - the 'sex lessons' really turns into real trust and care quickly. These two just go together so well. There is some family drama (although there is also some found family elements to balance that out) and overall its just a sweet read, with sweet characters that go through some shit together. Great hurt/comfort read.
Contemporary MM
Hurt / Comfort
Sweet MMA Fighter w/RBF
Preppy Nerd
Forced Proximity
Rich / Poor
Insta-Lust
Sex Lessons
Virgin MC
Spice: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
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