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Wanderlust #1

Honey, Moon

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An uptight travel journalist and a free-spirited photographer find themselves inextricably drawn to each other when assigned to travel the world together in this steamy new romance from indie author Kent Holland.

Crispin McCloud has always put his career first, before anything else. A travel writing for acclaimed fashion and culture brand Beau Lindon, Crispin has dreams of someday taking the place of the iconic Mira Clinnon as Editor in Chief. His latest assignment? Travel the globe to visit the “hottest gay honeymoon destinations.” Should be the dream, right?

The only complication is that he has been paired with Willem Abajian, a photographer with whom he has had a famously difficult relationship.

Between sipping wine on the Italian Riviera, sailing in Greece, and lounging on the beach in Bora Bora, Crispin and Willem discover that they have more in common than they originally thought.

Will the men manage to grit their teeth and get through the globetrotting tour together, or in doing so will they find something unexpected and beautiful along the way?

321 pages, Kindle Edition

Published June 1, 2025

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About the author

Kent Holland

15 books55 followers
Kent Holland is an openly Queer writer of gay and queer romance novels that have a lot of heart and a healthy amount of spice. He is based in Tennessee. When he is not writing, he enjoys listening to music, running marathons, spending time with his friends, and reading books in any number of genres. A percentage of the profits of all of his book sales goes to support various LGBTQ+ charities, and you can explore various resources to support the LGBTQ+ community on his website, or through the QR code linked in each book. You can connect with him on Instagram at kenthollandwrites.

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5 stars
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18 (34%)
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Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
Profile Image for Marcos “MSMDragon”.
734 reviews26 followers
June 19, 2025
What a great summer read!! Crispin and Willem are a great couple. Their personalities clash at times but they also complement each other and provide some much needed balance in each other’s life!
Profile Image for Tanner.
32 reviews
June 1, 2025
“Besides, is that the kind of love we want? The kind we have to earn? The kind we have to edit ourselves in order for people to approve?”

“No.”

Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5)


Honey, Moon is a charming, globe-trotting romance packed with chemistry, snark, and steamy escapism.

Think: Enemies ➝ Frenemies ➝ Frenemies with benefits ➝ (maybe?) Feelings. No spoilers, but the payoff is sweet.

Kent Holland weaves together several beloved romance tropes—Enemies to Lovers, Fake Relationship, Forced Proximity, and Opposites Attract—but it’s the Forced Proximity that truly shines. Crispin and Willem are stuck together on assignment, visiting dreamy honeymoon destinations, and it’s this constant closeness that peels back their layers and sparks something real. While the Enemies to Lovers element kicks off the story, it isn’t the strongest thread, and the Fake Relationship angle feels more like a fun consequence than a major driver. Still, the dynamic tension from their differences adds depth, and their growth feels earned.


What I Loved:

* Willem. Hooked on him before his intro chapter ended. He’s vibrant, grounded, and full of personality. Crispin, on the other hand, takes time to warm up to—but that’s the point. His transformation is satisfying, and watching Willem chip away at his walls is part of the fun.

* Chapters 19–20. Steamy. Bold. Worthy of a blush in public. I now associate Mamma Mia with… very different vibes. You’ll get it when you read it.

What Didn’t Work as Well:

* The prologue and early chapters are heavy on exposition. There’s a lot of telling rather than showing, especially in the beginning. The history between the characters is interesting, but delivering it more organically could’ve made for a richer, more immersive ride.

* The initial falling out that sparked their rivalry is teased for a long time, with a lot of build-up that didn’t quite match the eventual reveal. It almost felt like chasing a secret that stayed just out of reach—and when we got there, I was expecting something... bigger (not murder-level big, but you get me).

Final Thoughts:

This is a fun, sexy romance with heartfelt moments and an irresistible setting. Willem steals the show for me, the tension simmers in all the right ways, and while the story takes a bit to find its rhythm, once it does, it's a delight. I'd happily book a second honeymoon with these two.

I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Tom Shah.
Author 4 books1 follower
January 2, 2026
Earlier in the summer, like the mood reader that I am, I suddenly got hit with the strong desire to read a summery romance. I wanted beach days under the hot summer sun, endless yearning, and authentic characters falling truly, deeply, in love. I wanted to be swept off my feet, my breath taken from me, with every page-turn. That's a lot to ask for from a book, and none of the books I had at the time felt like they’d fulfill this desire (I’m an empath haha), which only gave me the excuse to buy a new book. That's when I stumbled onto a post about the Wanderlust trilogy, and decided to pick up the first book.

Honey, Moon follows Crispin, a travel journalist, and Willem, a photographer, who both work for the world-renowned Garde Magazine. Three years ago they were partnered for an assignment, and after a heated and messy ending, both requested to never be partnered ever again, and from then on avoided each other like the plague out of dislike for one another. Cripsin is about to get his biggest break yet, his idea for a travel story that would see him journey across the globe has been approved. This big project will see him go to several gay honeymoon destinations across the world in the span of three weeks, writing about his experiences, but due to a last minute alteration, he is partnered with none other than Willem. Three weeks of Crispin and Will working together in close quarters, despite their vows to never see each other ever again.

While it didn’t fit my summer criteria 100%, this read was absolutely phenomenal!

Holland manages to blend the workplace and romantic elements perfectly, with sprinkles of politics and awe-inspiring reflective moments. I smiled, giggled, kicked my feet, and cried.

I liked how queerness was depicted through their work. Cripsin centers queerness in his writing because it is a fundamental aspect of his life that has shaped his lived experiences and how he has interacted with the world. I feel like through his character we see the nuances of growing up and living as a queer individual experiencing both queer trauma and queer joy. Every now and then I see people online discussing queer themes in books, with one such topic being that they don’t want to read queer trauma for whatever their reasons are, and while I can understand why, I feel like it's a little bit reductive because of how queerness is a core part of people's lives, no matter how visibly queer or not-visibly queer you are. Yes, I want more queer joy, but that's not always a luxury which people have. In life people experience both good and bad things, and I like how thats highlighted through both Crispin and Will.

Lastly, the emotions! OMG THE EMOTIONS!! Holland excels at writing emotively, and with tension that you could cut with a knife. The romantic tension was absolutely ELECTRIC, and literally had me breathtaken and flustered to the point where I had to start fanning myself WITH THE BOOK simply from the buildup. THIS is exactly what I want in a romance book, slowburn tension that goes up and up and up until it finally breaks and I can feel my heart racing. Then there was a reflective scene – that I will only refer to as THE beach scene, iykyk – where I felt my heart break from the sheer rawness and relatability. It had me feeling like I was reading some genius amalgamation of a romcom and literary fiction novel.

Overall I would 100% recommend this book, I loved it SO so much, and its definitely up their in my romance book ranking for sure!

Not to mention that a percentage of all of — paperback sales go to LGBTQ+ charities?! Kent Holland the man that you are!!
Profile Image for Bernard Jan.
Author 12 books230 followers
June 29, 2025
With Honey, Moon Kent Holland set his ladder high. Very high.

Because I liked its cover and the good summer vibe it sent me, I began reading Kent Holland and getting to know him as a writer with this book. I can’t tell if that was a mistake, for I didn’t know what to expect from this young author, and I was confused when the first thing I found in the book was Honey, Moon Synopsis, which was an unusual thing. I skimmed through it because I don’t like to know in advance what’s going to happen. I said to myself, Ooohkay, and then continued to Take Action, Author’s Note, and Content Guidance. Another Okay to myself, but the author had my attention by then.

Staying true to himself, Kent Holland surprised me again with his first pages written in more narrative tone and character-driven storytelling. This is not something I expected from a typical mm romance with a few steamy sex scenes. However, I also didn’t expect the lyrical beauty and the strength of his writing, which is a fine mixture of literary and contemporary fiction.

This book is everything I hoped to get from Kent Holland, and much more. It is everything a love story needs to stay imprinted in your memory: emotion, beauty, angst, heartache, healing, passion, break-up, reconciliation, forgiveness, intensity, authenticity, relatability, and, of course, love. It has maturity and depth many gay romance books fail to reach because Holland knows that beauty is more than skin deep. Meaning no offence to other gay romance stories I’ve read and loved, Honey, Moon launched me straight into emotional and visually happy state I haven’t experienced so intensely since reading The Sea Ain’t Mine Alone by C.L. Beaumont, Out of Time, Into You by Jay Bell, or Call Me By Your Name by André Aciman.

Honey, Moon is gay romance that shines like a twinkling stardust. Read Kent Holland. He’s got talent. This boy knows how to write!
Profile Image for Esther.
137 reviews1 follower
October 29, 2025
Other than his unique writing style, which will always make me feel like I am sitting in a lonely dive bar on a Tuesday early evening talking to his characters and getting them to tell me their stories, I absolutely love that tropes are never beaten to death.

You know the books were the main trope is just stretched to infinity and although you know they end up together it’s not until the very end that this happens. Rest usually filled with sex and reminders of the main trope.

In Kent’s books they are present and plentiful - like here: enemies to lovers, forced proximity, only one bed - but they just nudge at the edges awhile the characters navigate their falling in love. Also something I love is that the characters talk things out and set boundaries. Even if it may hurt. They rather separate for a while and figure it out themselves so they can be better for themselves and not only for this relationship.

I am not one to write much about the story itself because I rather you discover that for yourself. I must say it was one beautiful journey. Not just with Crispin and Willem but traveling through these countries and feeling the different places, really made me wish I had made having a honeymoon experience a priority at the start of my marriage.

Just one piece of advice: don’t read this book hungry. AND read Kent’s other books.
Profile Image for Gunner James.
95 reviews2 followers
November 13, 2025
Where do I even begin with Honey, Moon by Kent Holland?

I first stumbled across Kent on Instagram and quickly found myself befriending him. He’s just one of those people you connect with instantly. Naturally, it didn’t take long before one of his books ended up on my shelf. The only downside? I’ve already lent my physical copy to a friend, so now I’ll need to buy myself a little book trophy to remember it by.

Supporting an indie author always feels rewarding, but when the book is as genuine as the person behind it, you end up with an unbeatable combination.

I was completely swept up in this story. I chose to read it slowly, savoring every moment because I genuinely loved spending time with these characters.

Kent can absolutely quote me on this: this book reads like sipping fine wine.

It’s a fun, heartfelt read with an ending that left me perfectly satisfied. I also appreciate the creative liberties Kent took as a writer, bold in all the right ways. And the core message, the one that starts between the lines and eventually steps right into the spotlight, really resonated with me:

“Worth, however, cannot be distributed, because worth is not something that can be taken away. You have your worth. It belongs to no one but you.”

I’m so excited to see what the future holds for such a bright mind. Wishing Kent Holland nothing but success!
Profile Image for Andreu.
60 reviews
June 1, 2025
📖Honey, Moon by Kent Holland📖 @kenthollandwrites

Happy release day! Today Honey, Moon is officially published! And I could read it beforehand thanks to Kent that he sent me an ARC of his book 🫶🏻

In this book, we will follow Crispin and Willem in a honeymoon trip to Italy, Greece, Thailand and Bora Bora, visiting luxury hotels with the most relaxing activities.

And where's the issue? That they are not a real couple. They are just co-workers from a travel amagzine and, in fact, they hate each other for something that happened in their first (and only) job together.

They will have to fake their relationship, also with the cliche of only one bed 😏 What will happen? Who knows...

I really enjoyed the book, and it's really easy and fast to read their story!

And most importantly: a percentage of all paperback sales are donated to the Human Rights Campain.

TW: Non-safe sex, drugs
Profile Image for James A..
4 reviews3 followers
August 23, 2025
“Love is the desire for life, for growth, for truth. It is that fierce desire for life and growth that pushes the Universe to expand, that pushes us to find love.”

This tale of a writer and a photographer truly enthralled me. At times, the prose was gorgeous and captivating, and the vivid descriptions of the locations made me feel as though I were right there alongside the characters. The real payoff came with Crispin’s final article and the satisfying conclusion.

As a queer romance, I especially appreciated the careful crafting and deliberate messaging around respecting and communicating boundaries and feelings. It felt honest and refreshing to see these elements woven naturally into the story, giving the romance both depth and authenticity.

Thank you, Kent, for such a memorable and beautifully written story!
Profile Image for Alex Alberti.
3 reviews24 followers
June 1, 2025
This book was such a perfect, beautiful summer read. It was a quick enemies-to-lovers MM romance that I binged in just a couple days. The writing is clear with distinct characters that you want to root for! I loved the vivid imagery and author’s approach to describing beautiful destinations around the globe. My only critique is that I wanted more! The pacing of the story felt a little accelerated at the end, and I wish I could have lived in the evolution of the relationship a bit longer! Otherwise, if you’re looking for a spicy beach read this summer, this is your pick.
205 reviews
March 29, 2026
Yesssss!

So pleasantly surprised! Like finding a hidden gem. Low angst, slow burn. Enemies to lovers, forced proximity & only one bed. Their luxurious tour around global vacation spots made this a great spring/ summer read. I honestly picked this up after the author showed up on my Instagram feed with a post calling out the heteronormative puritanical standards common with romance readers, which I adored. I'm looking forward to reading more of his books!
Profile Image for Kevin.
1 review3 followers
February 18, 2026
A great escape from the chaos of my life right into the chaos of Crispin and Willem’s. An enjoyable read that doesn’t shy away from the steamy parts of gay relationships while developing the characters and their relationship in far deeper ways than just sexual. Holland’s writing is engaging, funny, thought-provoking, and raw. Excited for the journey that lies ahead in “Up for Air.”
Profile Image for Claire Melanie.
546 reviews11 followers
June 10, 2025
This was a really sweet love story but also layers of contemplation about queerness and adulthood. Slightly let down by repetition in places which could have been caught in the editing process. Overall an excellent read though.
Profile Image for Lo Reads Books.
513 reviews3 followers
January 20, 2026
Discovering Kent Holland is the best thing that happened to me this January
Profile Image for Garrett.
11 reviews92 followers
June 12, 2025
“Honey, Moon” had me giggling and kicking my feet from start to finish. I love me some witty banter. Crispin and Willem are emotionally layered characters and rich with personality. You can tell what makes them tick; Willem being the carefree type and Crispin having type A ambition. Their clashing personalities and hidden vulnerabilities elevate the story, making their slow burn connection all the more compelling.

The alternating povs enriched the reading experience, getting the opportunity to dive into their psyche during certain moments. My only critique, I wish it was longer. I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know Crispin, Willem and April. I know there’s more story here to tell. I might just have to rely on my headcanon 😂

Appreciate seeing the positive and affirming conversations around sexual health, HIV, and mental health. While some enjoy very spicy reads, I found this to be the right amount of spice for me. I may have to dive into Kent’s other works for the spicier reads.

If your summer needs any more heat, “Honey, Moon” delivers! Serving wanderlust and witty banter.

“Was his taxi hit by a garbage truck? Did his cat die? Was he suddenly struck dead with a pulmonary embolism?”

“I don’t know what I believe about the afterlife—whether it exists or not. Who goes there. What we would do if or when we get there. But if there is a heaven, I don’t think we should spend our lives waiting to get there. I think we should spend our lives finding heaven here.”

“This one is a bit more challenging, as I realize that for so much of the trip thus far, I have been so intently focused on getting everything right that I may have forgotten to enjoy it.”
Profile Image for Luis M..
Author 2 books46 followers
June 19, 2025
This book was such a surprise in the best way. It follows Crispin McCloud, a very focused journalist who’s determined to climb the career ladder. His latest assignment sounds like a dream—traveling the world to visit the best gay honeymoon spots. But there’s a catch: he has to do it with Willem Abajian, a photographer he’s had a tense and complicated history with.

From Italy to Greece to Bora Bora, the two are stuck together on this assignment, and what starts off cold and awkward slowly turns into something warmer, more honest, and unexpectedly romantic. There’s real tension between them, but also moments of softness and understanding that make the story feel real and emotional.

I really loved how this book blends fun, heat, and heart. The travel settings are beautiful, the chemistry is strong, and both Crispin and Willem felt like full, complicated people. Watching them slowly let their guards down was one of my favorite parts.

You can order Honey, Moon now on Amazon. And if you buy the paperback, a portion of the proceeds will be donated to the Human Rights Campaign, which I think is such a thoughtful and important gesture. There’s also a QR code at the beginning of the book that links to resources and ways to take action in support of the LGBTQ+ community—which I really appreciated.

Thank you Kent for sending me an advance copy. This story is sexy, emotional, and full of charm. I definitely recommend it if you love a good slow burn romance with heart, it’s the perfect summer read, I wish I’d read this at the beach.
Profile Image for Javier Cuevas Santos Molnar.
19 reviews
August 28, 2025
This is the first book I read authored by Kent Holland. I enjoyed reading it from cover to cover. It’s not just a story about two people, but a story about love growing from an unexpected work encounter. Can’t wait to read the next book!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews