The Reality of Wanting Him

Love Without Labels #1

by Lexi Amber, Bec Benson

Blake

When my parents threatened to cut me off if I wasn’t married by the time I turned thirty, I thought finding a wife would be easy. But apparently, I’m not the best at dating, and almost two years later, I’m still very single.

My birthday is coming up fast, and unless I want to give up the comfortable lifestyle I’m used to, I need to find someone willing to settle down with quickly. I’m desperate and out of ideas, until my best friend suggests I apply for a new reality dating show.

Now I’m a contestant on the first season of Love Without Labels, a completely blind reality dating show where we talk to each other through distorted voice technology and texts. No photos, ages, genders, or even names will be revealed until we decide to move in together.

I knew all of this when I signed up, and even though I’m straight, I assumed it would be easy to tell if I was talking to a woman.

Apparently, I was wrong.

Liam

It’s my final season working for the family farm before I take over for my dad. I’m ready to find someone to build a real future with, but I know they aren’t in my small hometown.

Love Without Labels feels like the perfect chance to find my person. I’ve never cared much about labels anyway. All I want is someone who’s loyal, honest, and I can share my dreams with.

As we narrow down our matches, there’s only one person I can imagine a future with. Someone who listens, makes me laugh, and feel wanted in a way I haven’t in a long time.

But while I’ve kept my mind open about who I’m falling for, apparently, he’s been convinced I was a woman this entire time.

Will he still want to continue building on the connection we have now that he knows the truth? Or was this relationship doomed before it could really even begin?

Genres: M M Romance, Forced Proximity, Contemporary, Romance, Found Family, Friends To Lovers, LGBT

356 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 23, 2025

About the author

Lexi is an American author who is obsessed with queer happily ever afters. Most of her time is spent with her two kids, but if they’re asleep then she is either reading, writing, or watching hockey.

Professionally trained as a nurse, Lexi decided to start writing when she became a stay at home mom and the characters in her head haven’t stopped talking since.

Lexi also loves Diet Coke, traveling, and Halloween. Her house is probably obnoxiously decorated for whatever holiday is next because she thinks that little things that make people smile are important.

You can find her attempting to stay up to date with all social media under the name Lexi Amber.

Reviews

[Emna · Rating 2 out of 5]

★★½ /5 ⭐️

CURIOSITY KILLED THE CAT 🐈⚰️, BUT THERE WAS NO SATISFACTION TO BRING IT BACK..🤦🏻‍♀️🤦🏻‍♀️🤦🏻‍♀️🤦🏻‍♀️🤦🏻‍♀️

✨️Content warnings, Tropes, and safety info are below.✨️


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SPECIAL THANKS TO MY LOVELY ✨️ALEXANDRA✨️ YOU WERE RIGHT THERE WITH ME, HELPING ME HANDLE ALL THE MESS AND BEING MY EMOTIONAL SUPPORT. HONESTLY, WHAT I LOVED MOST WASN’T THE BOOK ITSELF, BUT EXPERIENCING IT WITH YOU. EVERY LAUGH, EVERY CHAT, EVERY LITTLE MOMENT WE SHARED WHILE READING MADE IT ALL SO SPECIAL. BUDDY READING WITH YOU WAS TRULY THE BEST PART BB 🥹💗💗💗💗💗.
❅❅❅❅❅❅❅❅❅❅❅❅❅❅❅❅❅❅❅❅❅❅❅❅❅❅

❋❋❋❋My full review❋❋❋❋:



I went into this book with curiosity and real hope. Reality TV Show stories aren’t always my thing ... maybe I haven’t read enough of them to know, BUT the premise intrigued me. I gave this book a shot with an open mind, expecting at least a meaningful journey. What I got instead was a frustrating, repetitive, emotionally shallow story that ultimately left me disappointed.

Let’s start with where it hurt the most for me: Blake. Oh, Blake. Where do I even start? I wanted to like you, buddy. I really did. BUT I hated Blake. I tried to be sympathetic, even understanding. His situation felt layered and complex: the immense pressure from his family to conform, the deep confusion he wrestled with regarding his own identity, and the very real fear of being disowned if he stepped out of line. These were issues that could have made him a compelling, multi-dimensional character, someone you could root for despite his flaws. I was READYYYY to give him the benefit of the doubt.

But as the story progressed, everything about how Blake handled these challenges made me dislike him more and more. Instead of showing genuine internal conflict or real growth, he seemed almost indifferent in moments that demanded seriousness. His nonchalance during serious, emotionally charged scenes was SOOOOOOO frustrating. For instance, when his parents coldly rejected him, his lack of visible reaction felt not just unrealistic but Exasperating — it SLAUGHTERED any sympathy I might have felt for him. It was as if the weight of his struggles was glossed over rather than explored.

Then there was the matter of honesty, or rather the LACK of it. Blake lied(YEAH, I KNOW HE DIDN’T TECHNICALLY LIE, BUT NOT TELLING HIM THE TRUTH IS STILL LYING!!!!!!!!!)to Liam about why he joined the show in the first place, a pivotal moment that could have revealed complexity and depth, but instead felt like a cheap plot device. His decision not to come clean when he finally finds a genuine connection only PERPETUATES
a cycle of mistrust and drama that seemed moreeee forced than organicInstead, we get predictable drama with nonsense.UGHHHHHHHHHH.


But I’ll give credit where it’s due: the early show scenes were entertaining—it was genuinely entertaining. Especially in the beginning, the first part really pulled me in. The dynamic between the participants, the overall vibe, and the simplicity of their roles created something that just worked. Everything felt natural and engaging, and for a while, it all made perfect sense—or at least it seemed that way. You’ll probably understand what I mean once you’ve read it( WHICH I.DO.NOT.RECOMMEND.) There was something refreshing about the show’s concept. It felt new, different, and like something I was really going to enjoy. At first, I was all in...the idea felt exciting, and it lived up to that excitement for a good while.

The moments when the characters were still in the show, in their rooms, were incredibly engaging. Those scenes,when they were just starting to get to know each other, meeting for the first time, and experiencing all the initial tension and emotion,were some of the best parts of the book. The drama, the shift from anger to acceptance, Blake beginning to accept himself, and his growing connection with Liam...all of that felt really really powerful. Even though those moments were relatively short and simple, they stood out to me. I honestly think they’re the strongest parts of the entire book.

THEN ..

The show moved way too fast ... SO fast that it became unrealistic and, honestly, far less enjoyable than it could have been. I’m not just referring to the beginning. I’m talking about the pacing throughout the entire series. Events unfolded so quickly that there was barely any time to develop the characters, build tension, or let important moments sink in. It felt like everything was constantly being fast-forwarded, and as a result, the story lost a lot of its emotional weight and credibility. The rapid pacing made it hard to connect with what was happening on screen, and that ultimately took away from the overall experience in a major way. What could have been compelling and immersive ended up feeling shallow and poorly thought out — all because it didn’t give itself the time to breathe.


That said, I have to admit — there were certain scenes that I genuinely appreciated. Even though the pacing was rushed overall, the way the characters dealt with their personal struggles and emotional conflicts stood out in a positive way. The characters, despite their flaws, insecurities, and emotional baggage, showed a kind of quiet resilience ( ESPECIALLY Liam ). They didn’t always make the best choices, but they had a unique way of confronting their issues and slowly making their way back to each other. Those interactions felt raw, and they added a layer of depth that the show DESPERATELY needed. Even if the story moved too fast, those moments gave it heart — and that’s something I really respected.


SOMETHING ELSE THAT ANNOYED THE CRAP OUT OF MEEEEE :

I was really looking forward to the meeting between the contestants because I thought it would be a key moment for the story to develop or for the characters to interact in a meaningful way. Especially after the entire show spent so much time on the participants getting to know each other anonymously, I was really expecting the meeting to be a big moment where they finally came together face-to-face. It felt like a natural payoff after all the buildup. But unfortunately, that meeting never actually happened. Instead, the scenes that were supposed to focus on their gathering ended up being consumed by drama, discussions about BULLSHIT. This shift felt disappointing to me because it took away from the potential of seeing the characters come together and progress the story in a different direction.





When Blake told his parents that he was going to introduce them to their partner—the person he was planning to marry—their reaction honestly didn’t bother me as much as Blake’s own reaction did. His parents just completely ignored what he said, which wasn't surprising, but what really got to me was how Blake responded. He stood there like a statue, showing absolutely no emotion, no surprise, no frustration—nothing. It was like the whole moment meant nothing to him. His total nonchalance felt so unnatural and frustrating throughout the entire book.

Honestly, Blake’s personality didn’t feel realistic to me at all. I find it hard to believe that anyone could be that indifferent or detached, especially in such a big, emotional moment. Usually, people would react with some kind of visible emotion—whether it’s anger, sadness, confusion, or even excitement—but Blake’s lack of any reaction made him seem almost robotic. His nonchalance killed the emotional impact of the scene for me and kept me from connecting with his character. It felt like the author wanted him to be mysterious or cool?????? I don’t know and i don't care because instead, it just made him seem distant and so unrelatable.


WHAT CONFUSED ME in this book— it was how the author kept hammering in, especially at the beginning, that Blake was straight. Over and over again, it was emphasized: he's straight, he wants a girl, he wants to date a woman, he wants a girl. That word—girl—used so repeatedly and so forcefully in that context really started to grate on me. It wasn’t just the repetition; it was the way it was shoved in our faces like it was the most important trait about him.

I kept thinking, Okay, we get it. He’s straight. He wants a woman to date. Can we please move on now? But no—it kept going, then why would he willingly sign up for a show that was clearly directed at queer people? It made no sense. And then there was that ridiculous part where he says something like, Even if I was communicating anonymously, I’d somehow just know it’s a girl on the other end, and we’d fall in love and live happily ever after. Like—what? That was complete nonsense.

From the way things unfolded, it was so obvious that he wasn’t as straight as he kept insisting. He wasn’t being honest—not with himself, not with the audience. And that made him come across not just as confused, but honestly, a bit stupid. The whole setup felt forced and unnecessary, and it made the first part of the book really hard to not to judge.


The thing I appreciated the most in this book was the friendship—especially the bond between Chad and Blake. Chad was such a genuinely good friend. He was always there for Blake, offering support and and a sense of stability that Blake really needed. His loyalty and patience stood out, and I found myself smiling at their moments together because they felt so real and heartfelt.
I’ve always loved seeing strong friendships in books, particularly in romance novels. While the romance is usually the central focus, it’s the friendships that often make the story feel richer and more grounded. They give the characters another dimension and show how love isn't only about romantic partners—it's also about the people who stand by you no matter what. In that sense, this book did a really good job. Maybe it wasn’t perfect, but the way the friendship was written definitely worked for me. It added warmth to the story and made me care more about the characters as individuals, not just as love interests.

++++I really appreciated how the POV shifted from one character to another and then back again, all without causing any confusion.I don't care how trivial this detail is — I just love when it happens my book.

++++The spicy scenes didn’t quite match what I usually expect or prefer, but surprisingly, they worked. It was still a win in my book.


The whole focus on sports, and how that tied into Liam’s insecurity, got really frustrating after a while. At first, it seemed like an interesting angle, but it quickly became exhausting. His insecurity, which was mainly rooted in the fact that he had cheated on his ex-boyfriend.


If it hadn’t been so repetitive, maybe it wouldn't have felt so irritating. Liam’s insecurities and emotional baggage , the tension around Blake’s supposed straightness ...could have been understandable, even sympathetic, but because the narrative kept circling back to the same issues, it wore thin really fast. By the end, it felt like the story was more about keeping the drama going than actually exploring the characters in a meaningful way.




And then when Blake and Liam went to Liam’s farm—OMFG—things just kept getting worse and worse. I’m honestly shocked my eyes didn’t roll so hard they flew out of my head. It was that cringy. Like, seriously, I don’t even know how I made it through those scenes.
For example—Blake literally gets to the farm, and after one day he’s like, “This feels like home. This is the home I’ve been searching for my whole life.” Are you kidding me? One day, and suddenly it's his spiritual sanctuary?After living in the city for 29 years, he suddenly decides a random farm is his soul’s true home? Bro, please. Just shut up.
The dynamic between them at that point became unbearable. It was all this overly sentimental, forced emotional bonding that just didn’t feel earned. The dialogue was so cheesy, and their connection didn’t feel authentic ATT.ALL.—it felt like the story was trying way tooooo hard to build up this deep, romantic moment, but it just came off as awkward and over-the-top. I couldn’t take it seriously, and honestly, it kind of ruined whatever emotional weight the story was trying to have.


And just when I thought things couldn’t get more cringy—they did. The dialogue between Blake and Liam reached a whole new level of unbearable.Every time they opened their mouths I had to fight the urge to bang my head against the wall.Nothing felt natural. It was like the author took every cliché they could find and stuffed them into every single interaction.

And don’t even get me started on the proposal. I had been waiting for that moment the entire damn book. I was hoping it would redeem at least some of the cringe and give me one genuinely heartfelt moment. But nope.Nope.NOPEEEEEEEEEEE. That scene was, without exaggeration, the cringiest thing I’ve ever read in my life. I’m holding your hand right now as I say this: that shit was cruel.

I just stared at the page in secondhand embarrassment, wondering how these characters had somehow gotten worse instead of better. The whole thing felt so rushed and fake, like the emotional depth that should’ve been built up just... wasn’t there. Instead, we got this painfully forced, saccharine mess of a scene that made me want to close the book and pretend it never happened. At that point, I wasn't rooting for them anymore—I was just waiting for the cringe to end. Honestly, if someone proposed to me like that, I’d walk into the cornfield and never come back.


And seriously, the plot couldn’t get any more predictable. The whole drama between them and Blake’s mom was pure cliché—so cringy I spotted it coming ten chapters in advance. It annoyed me more than anything. Instead of keeping me hooked,I wanted to rip my hair out. Honestly, I’d love to strangle whoever wrote that nonsense.
That scene was just textbook: you know, the rich mom showing up to threaten the poor guy like some bad movie trope. I was kind of surprised they didn’t just whip out some cash and throw it at him, but even without that, it was painfully predictable. Classic cliché.


The ending was fine, nothing unforgettable—probably something I’ll forget soon. It wasn’t anything I really liked, just the kind of ending you expect to wrap up a story.


BUT....


But honestly, what cracked me up was how, out of nowhere at the very end, the author finally made sense. The whole book felt chaotic until then, but suddenly the characters took over and decided to make their story authentic and setting their own pace, figuring things out on their own terms. It was like they stopped following a script and started living their story. I didn’t see that coming, and I loved it. Sure, it was late, but hey, better late than never.



🫶QUOTES I LIKED🫶 :



⚽️.
Maybe that's the point. Stuff doesn’t have to be for one gender or the other. It's just… you.
____________________________________
⚽️.
Producer: “What scares you most about dating?” Liam: “Being treated like my partner’s second choice.”
____________________________________
⚽️.
The last thing I want is to end up with someone who makes me feel like I don’t fit into their life because we have vastly different passions. I want to be chosen on purpose, not as an experiment or a phase.
____________________________________
⚽️.
But, sometimes, second chances lead to surprising outcomes.”
____________________________________

⚽️.
It’s interesting how people show love in such different ways.
____________________________________
⚽️.
My dad hasn’t dated again. He says that once you find the love of your life, you don’t need another one. I used to think that sounded romantic, but now that I’m older, I see the weight of it, too. He chooses to be alone because what they had was enough for him.
____________________________________
⚽️.
If I’m going to be with someone, really be with them, I want it to be the kind of love that feels like home.
____________________________________
⚽️.
Because you don’t say, I know the bad can quickly take over, unless you’ve experienced it yourself.
____________________________________
⚽️.
“I think everyone feels that way sometimes. Like they’re either too much or not enough.”
____________________________________
⚽️.
I chose him. A man.
____________________________________
⚽️.
Producer: What’s your favorite feature— the first thing you notice when you meet someone?
Liam: Probably their smile. When someone else is happy, it’s hard not to be drawn to that.
____________________________________
⚽️.
I’m sure they’re trying to figure out what Blake sees in me, or who fucks who, since that seems to be a thing straight people obsess over for some reason.
(😭😭😭😭😂😂😂😂😂)
____________________________________
⚽️.
He said he wanted to be chosen and I’m choosing him fully.
____________________________________
⚽️.
Cameraperson: Fuck. I did not see that coming.
Producer: Shut up and keep filming
____________________________________
⚽️.
“I love you,” he interrupts. “I love you, and I don’t care how long it takes. You’re worth waiting for, and I’ll be here whenever you’re ready. I’ll prove it to you every day just how much I love you.”
____________________________________
⚽️.
“And I do want to marry you, but I also don’t want to rush it. I don’t want us to feel like we have to prove anything to anyone. I want our relationship to be ours. Not something we do because of the show, or for money, or because it’s what someone else expects of us. I don’t want to do anything because we feel like we have to for the reunion. I just want us to have time to be together the way that we want to.”
____________________________________
⚽️.
“I agree. But we’ve also decided that rushing into a marriage didn’t make sense for us. We’ve had parents and producers telling us why we need to get married for so long, that we lost sight of why we’d want to be married in the first place. We’re in love, and I’m confident that Blake is my person, the one epic love I had always hoped to find.”



____________________________________
✨️TROPES✨️:
🤎MM romance
💛Reality TV Show
🤎Bi-awakening
💛Blind dating
🤎One bad
💛Soft dom/ sub
🤎Trust fund baby x Farmer
💛anonymous texting
🤎 Chicken daddy
💛Strangers to lovers
🤎Found family
💛 hurt/Comfort
____________________________________

SPICE : 🌶🌶🌶/5
____________________________________

✨️BOOK SAFETY✨️:
🐔.CHEATING: NO
⚽️.OTHER PERSON DRAMA: YES.
🐔BREAK-UP: YES.
⚽️POV : 1ST PERSON .
🐔GENRE: ROMANCE.
⚽️PAIRING: M/M.
🐔STRICT ROLES OR VERSATILE: VERS WITH SOFT DOM/SUB.
⚽️MMCs AGE: 29 AND 28.
____________________________________

🚫CWs🚫:
💔Unintentional pronoun misgendering
💔Death of a parent to cancer (off page)
💔Cheating on an MC (off-page)
💔Homophobic parent and on-page comments
💔Calling a homophobic shitty mother a bitch
💔Mild dominant and submissive roles during sex
💔Breathplay
💔Use of “straight boy” as a nickname (consensual, addressed on-page).

[Alexandra · Rating 2 out of 5]

Rating: 2.5 ⭐️

“I mean it, Liam. I want to prove to you how much. Not because I have to, but because I want to. You said you were afraid of being someone’s mistake. I’ve never been more sure that you’re the best thing that’s ever happened to me. I know it’s only been three days since we officially met, but I mean that.”

Me, the further I got into the book: can we skip to the good part? Safe to say, I'm still waiting for that good part.

•~•~•~

🩷 First, I have to thank my dear Emna for this very enjoyable reading experience. While I didn't particularly like the story, I must say our mutual dislike made up for it. I'm extremely disappointed our first buddy-read wasn't at least a four-stars read, but who cares? Us being soft haters was a slay 💅You were, quite honestly, my emotional support. I laughed too many times over the most unserious (and kinky) things we've said. And dare I say, we've discovered each other a lot more? 🩷

•~ 𝓜𝔂 𝓽𝓱𝓸𝓾𝓰𝓱𝓽𝓼 ✨️

Where was the good time I was promised? It was disappointing. A nice story with a promising setting, and a fun concept, but lacked a lot of depth.

I won't lie, I loved the first part of the story. The reality TV show, the anonymous chat between both characters - Blake and Liam - and the development of their feelings, all of that were things that brought me a lot of satisfaction. At this point, I was sure to give this four stars. Then, it went downhill.

If I'm honest, the strenght of the story began to falter [for me at least] when Liam and Blake learned who the other was. Their first meeting? Hum. I felt personally hurt by Blake's reaction, not gonna lie. While he handled it as best as he could, I didn't understand the strong emphasis on his sexuality. Yes, he's straight but you don't have to repeat it constantly. It felt too much, too ridiculous because I'm 100% certain a very straight man wouldn't take the risk by applying for a very queer positive show such as Love Without Labels. He wasn't honest with himself. But, in retrospective, that didn't bother me as much.

The characters felt one-dimensional. They didn't seem real to me: either too over the top, or too dismissive about things that shoud have mattered to them. Blake's mother at the end felt like a caricature of the typical villain in a soap opera. Paired up with the clueless dad? Cliché. The only good characters were Liam's dad and Chad, Blake's bestfriend (and they weren't the main ones!).

I found some parts repetitive, especially the smut. Liam's dirty talk became a teeny-weeny too much. I also won't comment about the nickname 'Straight Boy'. What's that, seriously? The fact that Blake found it hot bothered me because it's not! There's also 'Babe' (cringe), 'Baby' (nice one), and 'Lover' (which I loved but it was mostly said as a joke. Of course).

“You always blush this easily?” I murmur. “Or is it just when you’re around me?”
He swallows, but doesn’t move away.
“I- I think it might be you.”
My hand lingers a second longer than it probably should.
“Good.”

Ther's also a weird D/s dynamic between Liam and Blake. It was kind of thrown in our face, in my opinion. Just because Blake called Liam 'Sir' one time as a joke (there's too much jokes going on in this story, on second thought)? Maybe that's just me, but I wasn't fan of this casual D/s dynamic.

Lastly [because I'm unserious as hell], I really wanted Liam to...give-up control. I must have sounded like a broken record to Emna, but that was litteraly my whole vibe during the book:

#LetLiamTakeTheD. And spoiler alert? He took it! It was, without a doubt, the only smut scene that wasn't cringe.

Anyway, I apologize for this aparté.

On another hand, I had other expectations regarding the concept of the reality TV in itself. My favorite part of this book was their interactions as L and B. It was genuine, and really entertaining. While they absolutely needed to get past the anonymity and to leave the confines of their shared room, we lost the essence of the reality show; it just felt generic with just them getting to understand each other's world. I wanted more interactions between the candidates, I guess. Honestly, I don't know if I'm making sense.

Alright, now that I got this out of my chest, I need to adress other issues.

Liam had too much unresolved past-trauma. As a result, he assumed a lot of things regarding Blake's feelings and actions. I do think his past-experience is relatable, though. Being second best/second choice is a real fear of mine as well, so I get him. Truly. It's hard to just trust people sometimes. However, his judgment over everything annoyed me. He played the victim-card too well (woe is me attitude in a sense). He shoud have confided in Blake much sooner.

Blake's family's issues weren't discussed enough, in my opinion.

“He’s willing to leave behind his whole life to be a part of mine, to build something new with me— and I’ve never had anyone choose me like that before. That’s what makes it so terrifying.”

The whole issue of the story [and Blake's main reason for applying for Love Without Labels] was Blake keeping his parents' ultimatum a secret. I predicted the third-act breakup over this lie. Was I wrong? Again, no. Of course, why would the author not played with Liam's trust issues? It's too easy to make it as a conflict. More seriously, the whole scene - Blake's mother encouraging Liam to dump her son on their wedding day - felt like a pure soap-opera. It was dramatic, and painfully predictable. Where was the originality?

And the hypocrisy, by the way? Liam was hurt because Blake lied about his reasons for entering the show, but he never told Blake he didn't choose him/add him in his top 10 in the first place. Because, if Liam didn't give Blake another chance, both of them wouldn't have been where they are today. Alright, it's not the same, I agree. However, Blake deserved the same level of honesty from Liam.

Which led me to my main problem with the story. Their relationship wasn't balanced. I believe Blake did a lot of meaningful gestures toward Liam, but Liam didn't do enough. A couple is supposed to be a compromise for everyone, a partnership, adjusting for the other without loosing themselves in the process, accepting each other's hobbies and habits. However, I never got that impression from Liam. It was mainly Blake giving, and Liam taking it without second thought. Blake changed everything about his life for Liam, but what did Liam do for Blake? Their respective situations were drastically different, true, but Liam acted with an entitled attitude, and to an extent, quite ungratefully.

There were some positive things, though [I'm not a complete hater!] such as the writing. It was addictive, there's no doubt about it. The authors managed to create two distinct points of view; Liam and Blake's felt different from the other's which was nice! Also, the Q&A at the beginning of every chapter was an amazing addition.

Sadly, with all the repetitions over inconsequential things, it felt flat. Some scenes embarrassed me, mainly the marriage proposals, and Blake's weird obsession with chickens.

“The fact that you happen to be a man isn’t a dealbreaker. You’re the deal. A big fucking deal because you’re the thing I didn’t know I was waiting for.”

Overall, I'm disappointed by this reading. I'm not even sure I want to read the next book. It seems like these authors aren't for me. Do I recommend this book? For a good laugh only, I'd say!

•~ 𝓢𝓪𝓯𝓮𝓽𝔂 𝓭𝓮𝓽𝓪𝓲𝓵𝓼 ✨️

Safe. On Blake's side, the story began with the aftermath of a hookup. After meeting each other, there's no one else for both of them. Some OWD, though. A lady caused some problems for the couple because she wanted Blake. However, he wasn't at all interested in her.
____

[It was...something. I have a lot of thoughts (and not necessarly good ones.)]
____

Buddy-reading this with Emna 🫶

I hope this one will be a win for the both of us 🤭

[Brooke · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐️ 4 stars ⭐️

“Fuck it. You want me to kiss you, straight boy?”

In a last-ditch effort to get married before his 30th, Blake signs up for a blind dating show to find a wife…. Or maybe a husband?

Such a fun premise for a cute & swoony romance. Loved the anonymous blind dates, clueless city boy falling for the sweet farm boy, how domestic and tender the relationship was.

“More,” he begs. “Please, Liam.”
There’s no way I could say no to that.

And the spice was sooo sexy. Liam being all dominant with Blake, not-so-straight boy becoming a whimpering mess from Liam’s touch.
Their personalities seemed to really complement each other. Blake more outgoing and sunshine-y, and Liam more of a thinker.

You said you were afraid of being someone’s mistake. I’ve never been more sure that you’re the best thing that’s ever happened to me.

The Reality Of Wanting Him was a great combo of sweet moments and sexy times, a silly plot and a lovely romance. And a touch of drama, ‘cause it’s a reality show. Of course there’s gonna be some drama.

This is it. This is the love I’ve been waiting for.

I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review.

CW and NSFW info (spoilers):
- Parental death (cancer, off page)
- Cheating (off page, not between MCs)
- Homophobia
- Light D/s dynamic
- Vers MCs
- Breath play
- Coming hands-free
- Rimming
- Light restraints

[Evelyn Bella (there WILL be spoilers) · Rating 4 out of 5]

First things first. I'd watch TF out of Love Without Labels. Solid premise and guaranteed drama after the reveals.

The cutest thing is when Liam was shitting himself that Blake won't fit into his world, won't want to leave the city and his fancy apartment behind. Whole time Blake was jumping about in his own head and thinking, 'I’m going to be such a great farmer.'

Spoiler alert: he IS such a great farmer. Ridiculous, but great.

This one really worked for me. A surprisingly balanced story with just enough sweetness to make you swoon but with just enough angst to keep you nervous.

One's the fumbler of the century when he finds out his match is a man, and I'm legit surprised the other didn't end it right there, right then.

Fumbles AGAIN by hiding the money thing. It was obviously going to be the hiccup of the century but I couldn't have foreseen how it would get out.

I loved how they worked through it, though. I loved that the apology, though heartfelt, didn't immediately fix what had been broken. I love that while one knew in his head that the other was sorry, it took a while (and context) for him to feel it in his heart, too.

Not sure how I feel about the next one being a former bully love story, but I'm willing to see how bad the bullying is. Hopefully it won't be like Finding Delaware.

[Elizabeth · Rating 3 out of 5]

“Blake, what the fuck am I going to do with you?” he teases, making me laugh.
“Hopefully everything.”

Blake signs up for the reality dating show Love Without Labels in desperation when his parents threaten to cut him off financially if he isn't married and settled by age 30. He's certain he'll be able to find a wife even though the show is open to all genders. Imagine his shock when he finds an amazing connection with Liam, another man.

“I didn’t think you’d actually be so eager, straight boy,” he says, his tone somewhere between a taunt and disbelief.
“I told you I want you. And my cock digging into my zipper in response to touching your dick isn’t making me feel very straight right now.”

I really fell in love with Blake's character. He's a sweetheart of a golden retriever, just looking for someone to love him. He embraces life fully - including his own bi-awakening- and doesn't overthink things. Sure, he's aimless and a bit shallow, but when he decides he's all in, he is loyal and unwavering. I struggled a bit with Liam. He's a sweetheart, but in several ways he was selfish and judgemental. It bothered me that he had a partner willing to change his life, sexuality, where he lived, basically everything for Liam, and yet Liam couldn't even enjoy one hockey game. The book seemed to be about Blake adapting to Liam's life and the reader embracing that because Blake had been feckless before meeting Liam. But that doesn't mean that his life didn't have value. I hoped that their relationship would evolve and become more mutual, but instead Blake was able to find satisfaction with life on the farm and helping Liam fulfill his dreams. The book was interesting and I loved the reality dating show concept. I did struggle a bit with Liam's character, and felt like the book could've been edited down a bit to reduce some repetitive parts. Overall it was an enjoyable read.

Rating: 3
Angst: 3/5
Steam: 3.5/5

I received an advance copy of this book and this is my honest review

[JonathanSamuelReads · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a sensitivity read I did! I really liked how the book felt like a season of a reality show!

[Gaby · Rating 3 out of 5]

After 55%ish, I had to skip to the inevitable 3rd act conflict because I was bored. Blake was a himbo with good intentions, but Liam was insufferable. Like, I get the dude doesn’t like sports, but couldn’t he like pretend? Or just try to enjoy something that clearly meant so much to his significant other? It doesn't make you better or smarter not to like sports, my dude.

No, he just continuously judged Blake and expected him to rearrange his life to fit his, but never did the same for him. And like yeah, it was shitty Blake didn’t tell him about the ultimatum, but seriously, at that point I was just so annoyed with him that I didn’t care. Besides, it was obvious from chapter 1 that it was gonna be the reason for the conflict in the book.

[Dani (Daniiireads) · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 ⭐️

First off, I would watch the shit out of Love Without Labels. I mean the concept of a completely blind and genderless dating show sounds fantastic!

Secondly, this was adorable?!?!

𝗪𝗛𝗔𝗧 𝗧𝗢 𝗘𝗫𝗣𝗘𝗖𝗧:
- dual first person POV
- trust fund baby + farmer
- opposites attract
- oblivious mc + guarded mc
- reality show
- anonymous texting + blind dating
- bi awakening
- only one bed
- soft D/s vibes
- chicken daddy

[Kati *☆･ﾟ · Rating 3 out of 5]

3*** 🥱 stars


While I’m not specifically a fan of reality TV irl I like the idea of it as a setup for a romance. So I def was intrigued. But like with the last one I read that chose a similar setup I was actually bored with this story. Pretty much from the beginning, tbh.

Maybe it was the two main characters or rather their circumstances that I just wasn’t interested in—with Liam being a farm boy, actually taking over the family farm, and Blake being a spoiled rich “kid” with no real prospects or ambitions for his life. That was not really doing it for me and I admit that I was heavily skim-skipping the second half of the book.

“It stopped being about the money a long time ago, Liam,” he assures me.

What “long time ago”, ffs?? You’ve known each other only for a few weeks. In the setting of a reality TV show. *pulling hair

Even the conflicts that were coming for the MCs were setup from the beginning so there was not even some excitement coming from that direction. It was all pretty straightforward and predictable. Although I was a bit surprised by the evil-mom trope, tbh.


I honestly expect the second book to work better for me and my tastes. (If I decide to go for it) The prologue sounded pretty good to me.

⇢ Thank you, GRR, for providing this arc. This is my honest review.

**************
Love Without Labels Series

Book 1 - The Reality of Wanting Him - 3.0 stars
Book 2 - The Reality of Wanting My Bully - release 12/25

[Tare · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a really fun concept. A queer reality dating TV show? Yes. One where they are completely anonymous and the “straight” boy ends up being matched with a man? Double yes.

I absolutely loved the first half of this book and all of the scenes during the filming of the show. The little phone dates (although the voice changer was probably low-key creepy lol), their first meeting, the “hometown dates”. I ate it all up.

I loved Blake and how unashamedly he fell into his sexual awakening. He just really said “hmmmm that’s new” and stayed on the ride.

Their chemistry was really great too. And while this is pretty insta-love (Love Without Labels really fast-tracked the shit out of these relationships) it was very sweet.

If you are looking for *mostly super low-angst, fluffy sweetness set within a reality TV show setting I would give this one a go.

(Side note - I read during a pretty stressful few days personally and I think something lighthearted always hits for me while under that specific kind of stress - when it normally wouldn’t and for this I am grateful for this book)

[Jane aka Coughy019 (Safety info included) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Tropes: dating competition, grumpy/sunshine, miscommunication
Feels: 3.5/5
Steam*: 2/5
Kinks: dominance/submission, mild bondage, breath play
Angst: low
HEA: yes
Pairing: MM
Triggers/potential icks/content warnings/representation: past death of parents to cancer, homophobic parent, reference to ex cheating on MMC years ago
Cheating between MCs: No
Any cheating: No
Other person drama: the book starts almost 2 years in the past and opens with Blake waking up after a one night stand. There's references to Blake's hookups and dating over the 2 years. Blake and Liam meet on a dating reality TV show, where they are both dating everyone else on the show trying to find their match. There's the odd moment of jealousy, but neither of them have a true connection with anyone but each other, and once they start something there's no other interests.

4 stars

Blake is 29 at present. He was drafted to the NFL, but didn't make it past training camp. He's the younger son of a wealthy family and he's never had to work. His parents have always paid for his lifestyle. He volunteers at his mom's charity, but that's pretty much all he does. His parents are sick of his lack of ambition and flighty lifestyle and when he was 27 they gave him an ultimatum that he needs to get married by age 30 or they're going to cut him off. Blake has been trying but nothing's working out. He hears about this reality TV dating competition, and he thinks it's an opportunity because at least the people on this show are interested in getting married. It's an anonymous dating show, where people form connections without knowing the gender, age, looks, ETC of each other. Blake thinks he's straight, and he's confident he'll only form connections with women. He's surprised when the person he forms a connection with is revealed to be a man.

Liam is 28. He's a farmer who lives a quiet life with his dad. His mother and father had a real true love connection, but she sadly died when he was a kid from cancer. He wants a partner in life, so he applies for the dating competition. He's bi. When he finds out that Blake had the ulterior motive of not being cut off financially, can he and Blake last?

To me this book had a little bit of a rough start. I don't find it admirable if a person is living a flighty lifestyle off someone else's riches, not caring enough about anything to work a job. He never cared enough to be in a relationship, or to be good to the women he was with, giving them a good time in bed only and just not caring about anything else. It was hard to picture Blake making a good romantic partner. So I didn't love Blake at first. To me, I would rather have a character who works at a gas station earning peanuts then have a character who doesn't work and takes everything for granted in their life. And I didn't love the premise of Blake having spent the last 2 years desperately dating trying to find someone to marry, him dating like mad and wanting to lock down anyone into marriage isn't terribly romantic. But once we got to know Blake, his enthusiasm was infectious and I loved that he was touch starved and loved animals as much as he did. He really took to the farm life, and that made them have a really believable long-term relationship. Blake becoming a social media star promoting their farm business was very fitting. Blake and Liam really got to know each other and love each other for the person they were. I appreciate that the ending wasn't rushed, and Liam didn't just instantly forgive blake, they had to rebuild trust and go at their own pace, and that was a realistic outcome.


Some notable moments:

The horror of watching Blake attempt to wash dishes... "“Fine. Since you asked so nicely, I guess I can grace you with my dishwashing skills.” Except, I quickly learn he does not have dishwashing skills. After watching what’s unfolding in the sink, I don’t know if Blake has ever washed a dish in his life. He turned the water on full blast, grabbed a plate, and just sort of waved it under the water like that’s enough. He hasn’t even reached for the soap or the brush, and then he just sets it on the counter."

"“You do know that the camera guy followed you and this little introduction will probably be all over the internet when the show airs, right?” Liam says with a bright tone, obviously amused by my display. “Do you hear that, babies? You’re going to be famous!” I’m trying to pet as many of them as I can, not wanting any of them to feel neglected. I’m already in love with them all. Liam finally joins me in the fenced-in area and picks up a chicken, showing me how to hold them. Choosing just one to hold is stressful, but I remind myself that there’s no rush, I’ll have the rest of my life to get to know each and every one of these precious birds."

"“Speaking of updates,” he continues, pulling out his phone and flipping the camera to selfie mode. “We’re live, babe!” I stare at him in mild horror as he zooms in on my face. I should be used to this by now, but his antics are always amusing in different ways. “Say hi to the people, future husband.” I just blink at the camera, then deadpan, “Help me.” He laughs, pointing the camera back at himself. “Guys, don’t listen to him. I treat him so well."


*FYI about steam: I rate steam based on a combination of quality & quantity. I note kink separate from steam because I don't want to underrate steamy reads that don't have much kink.

**Note about spoilers: I like to comment on the plot of a book in reviews, so I almost always mark my reviews as containing spoilers. But I try to avoid spoiling the big dramatic moments! As a reader, I personally like to know what I'm getting into before I read a book so I know more about the content and if it's to my taste/mood, so I try to give that information in my reviews for myself when I'm considering rereading and also for other readers.

[Ula'ndi Hart · Rating 2 out of 5]

Overall book review: 2
Audio book: N/A
Book cover: 2

I loved the idea about it.
Loved the possibilities of it.

That is unfortunately were the "love" ended.

I did not like Blake.

I have a thing for competent people, and this guy
is 110% the opposite of that.

He has zero drive. No purpose in life.

He's 28 years old when the story starts with NOTHING
going on in his life except parties, one night stands and
living of his parents money? At least he has a dog.

Boohoo I wanted to play football but got kicked out.
I was wondering about that up until I got a little
further along in the book. I'm thinking it takes a
hell of a lot of WORK and DEDICATION to make
it in professional football?
No surprise he didn't make it past the drafts then huh?

What is there to like about his character?

I almost totally lost it with the dishwashing scene.
How many brains cells does in take to figure out
how to do dishes? Do you just stand under the
shower and rinse yourself repeatedly as well?

Is there any soap and scrubbing going on there
or do you rinse and drip dry yourself as well?

I'm sorry, you obviously see what my inner thoughts
are about this kind of character.

I found the drama ridiculous.

The female contestant from NYC that wanted
to swop partners because she's 'high-class" and
got to date a mechanic?? But strangely stays
with said mechanic till the end of the story?
That poor guy.. he deservers SO MUCH BETTER.

Blake's 180% change in sexuality eyebrow lifting.
(There are so many GOOD ways to do this!
Ways I was looking forward to!)

Don't get me started on the mother, it's throwing
everything but the kitchen sink over the top.

Even the way Blake supposedly blends in with
farm life drove me nuts. He is of NO help at all.
Runs around doing TikTok vids and putting
clothes on animals? Really?

Liam is crazy for settling with this guy.
I'm sorry. It's how I feel.

He's going to find the total lack of brains
and incompetence sweet and funny up until
the point where his dad is not capable of
helping out on the farm and then understands
that his "love bunny" is just eye candy and
trust fund. Hell at least he can hire help for
poor Liam I guess. With HIS PARENTS money
still but what the hell right? No need for any
self-respect.

I was looking forward to this one but it didn't
do anything but hike my blood pressure for all
the wrong reasons. I'm not even going into
the rest of it.

[Tonya ✨ · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was such a fun read!! I literally felt like I was live watching a reality tv show but reading it at the same time. Blake and Liam were just so freaking cute and I love their vibe and connection from the beginning.

[Crisana]

DNF. I loved the first part before they met. But it went downhill after that. Their first meet, I felt it was weird because of the over the top way Blake reacted, and for me it killed any connection they had previously built. I can't see how Blake was 100% convinced he was talking to a woman in the type of show that was presented to him. And their in person conversations after that felt stiff (no pun intended!) and not organic enough.
But where this book lost me was when their dynamics came into play. I was not expecting it, and somehow, it made me lose any remaining interest.

[mal. · Rating 2 out of 5]

1.5/5

back again to shit on a book most people enjoyed



reality of wanting him? reality of wanting this book to end because girl this DRAGGED 😭 like i'm genuinely so impressed that i somehow forced myself to finish it.

honestly, a part of me wants to feel bad—it's clear the authors tried to create an emotional connection between the MCs. but while some of the right ingredients were there, i truly didn't feel a single ounce of chemistry. liam and blake's conversations came off as stiff and unrealistic from the very beginning.

first of all, there was way, way too much telling and not nearly enough showing (convincing showing, that is) for my taste. the authors leave nothing to the imagination; everything is blatantly laid out and explained to you like you're a two-year-old. part of the fun of reading romance stories, at least for me, is reading between the lines of loaded gazes and subtle smiles. but rather than making liam and blake's growing feelings for each other obvious to the reader through dialogue and interactions alone, the authors resort to just openly narrating every single thing the MCs think and feel in the form of repetitive, rambling internal monologues, clearly intending to brainwash me into believing their characters had a convincing connection when that was unfortunately not the case.



sorry! i wasn't falling for the propaganda.

fr though the amount of unnecessary internal monologues was ridiculous. it felt like i was being forced to read the diary/journal of someone i did not care about whatsoever. and i'm far from an expert, but the writing was just... not good. no finesse, no skill. there was absolutely zero reason the book needed to be or feel this drawn out.



i was initially drawn in by the concept of a reality tv show, but even that aspect of the story was underwhelming. the idea of the show itself is interesting, but we hardly meet or get interactions with any of the other contestants, there are no fun, silly challenges used as plot devices to bring the MCs closer... what's the freaking point bro 💔

really trying to remember if there was anything i actually liked about this book and i'm drawing a blank. rounding up my rating solely because i've hated other stories more.

TLDR, my short and sweet alliterative summary: a book of boring boys with barebones backstories and a barely believable bond.

[Sjoukje · Rating 4 out of 5]

This should be a real show! I’d love a queer label less dating show! And I certainly enjoyed this book. The blurb was really good and promising. And it definitely delivered.
I do think the writers made a few easy choices though. They don’t really explain why Blake didn’t make it in the NFL, especially after being drafted. He was just not good enough? Are there no farm teams in the NFL like in hockey? (I have all my knowledge of hockey from mm romance novels, so that might not be a real thing as well, but it definitely would have made more sense.) And I get it was easier for the story that Blake didn’t have a real job, but that felt unrealistic. Also Blake’s mother? Very strange choices. Why on earth would you want your deadbeat son to get married? An ultimatum for a job would have made so much more sense in real life! As if he suddenly will contribute to society when he has a wife?!
Anyway the story itself was entertaining. I don’t know why but I kind of expected Blake to be the “dominant” person in the relationship when I started reading. Maybe because Liam seemed so insecure. I loved it to be the other way around though.
And baby goats 😍😍😍 So altogether 4 shiny gold stars!
I recommend and I am also stacking this book on my reread shelf.

Thanks to GRR and the authors for this great ARC!

[𝘼𝙨𝙝𝙡𝙚𝙚✌️📚🦄 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Blake + Liam

-anonymous dating show
-blind dating
-small town
-one bed
-oblivious mc
-soft dom/sub

the tension & angst in this was TOP TIERRRR! the idea of a COMPLETELYYYY anonymous “love without labels” dating show where they narrow it alllll the way down to just one person to LIVE WITH without knowing, seeing, or even hearing them is so wild!! & it worked out soooo well for our boys!!

[Mary · Rating 1 out of 5]

Was interested, even applauded the authors for adding a content warning in such detail, like thank you for stating that there is a death of parent due to cancer (off page) I would have appreciated that from the other author who murdered the mom of the main MC.

However as I got started in chapter 1, it was very triggering to have the mom bombard the son with an ultimatum of marriage before 30 or he is cut off. And the dad saying I just want you to know joy in life with a wife and kids.

Uh no thank you. my parents said the same to me, and I do not feel joy after being married and having kids.

DNF right away.

[Nanna Mørk-Sander · Rating 2 out of 5]

Such a good premise, but it fell into some clichés that anyone could have seen coming a mile away.

1. The parent ultimatum of getting married or be cut off (also, calling your child directionless at 28 seems early)
2. Not telling your partner about said ultimatium, just hoping for the best that they will never know.
3. Seeing someone flirting with your partner and assuming they will choose them instead of you and walking away before you hear their reaction to said flirting
4. Mean, homophobic parent confronting the partner. On the wedding day.

I would have loved this reality dating premise so much more, if I hadn't repeatedly wanted to shout at them to just. talk. to. each. other.

[Lionelle Pmuls (That's Slump Backwards & It's What I Do) · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 Cuddles Stars ⭐ | 5 🌶️
ARC Read: 10/07/2025
I received this ebook for free from the author and I'm leaving this review of my own accord. Thank you Lexi Amber & Bec Benson for this gift. 🥰

What to expect from this book? 🤔
🫶 MM Adult Slow Burnish Rom-Com 🫣 🥵🤌
Opposites Attract
Forced Proximity
Trust Fund Baby x Farmer
Blind Dating
Anonymous Texting
🎥 Reality Show
Only One Bed
Possessiveness
MINE
Cuddle Slut
Touched Starved
First Times
Liam Being A Consent King
Soft Dom/Sub Dynamic
Rimming
Hands Free
Edging
Manhandling
"Use Me" x "Such A Good Toy For Me"
Praise Kink
"Good Boy"
Needy Whimpering Mess
Brat Vibes
Oblivious MC x Guarded MC
Bisexual Awakening
🐓 "Chicken Daddy"
Big City x Small Town
Broken Trust
Some Hurt/Comfort Moments
🙌 Loving All The Characters In This World

Content/Trigger Warnings: unintentional pronoun misgendering, death of a parent to cancer (off page), cheating on a MC (off page), homophobic parent, homophobic stereotyping/comments (on page), calling a homophobic shitty mother a bitch.

Cover: 5/5
Story: 5/5
Series: Love Without Labels #1
Format: Ebook/ARC
POV: 1st Person - Dual POV
Plot: 5/5

Main Characters:
5/5 - Liam M., 28 yo, he/him
5/5 - Blake B., 29 yo, he/him
Side Characters: 5/5
Steam Level: 5/5
Romance: High Focus
Favorite character? Chicken Daddy

It was just this year that I read this two authors debut books. I love them immensely.
So it goes without saying that I freaking loved this co-write so much.
They work so well together, I think we have an "Sadenverse" on our hands! Can't wait to read more of the Bexiverse. 🤭

I can’t express how much I love B & L and their story.
And how thankful I am for making me laugh so hard... I needed it.

Humor: High Focus
Angst: Low Focus
Cheating? No
The Ending: 5/5
HEA/HFN/Cliffhanger HEA
This is my 2nd book by Lexi Amber & Bec Benson.
Enjoyment: 5/5

Love Without Labels Series:
1. The Reality of Wanting Him - 5,0 stars
Next Kieran & Jace's book
Expected on 30/12/2025:
2. The Reality of Wanting My Bully


!! I don't equate fiction stories to real life. It's a matter of personal taste and what you are willing or want to tolerate in the books you read. We all have different opinions and preferences when it comes to the kind of books we enjoy, so it's important to respect and remember that it's just a book!!

Hope this review was helpful.
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[Heather · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5⭐️

I don’t watch reality TV, but my sister does, and I’m sure there was a show very similar to this a while back. So while the concept is not so unique, the execution was great; it was a whole lot of fun and felt real enough.

I loved the relationship development between Liam and Blake. Liam really wasn’t sure in the beginning, and Blake was so adamant they would be good together; it was funny. All of the things that will run through your head about how fast Blake accepts his sexuality, how quickly they fall in love, etc., are addressed by the author, and I think the result is you put that all aside and just enjoy these two for what they are.

I was a teeny bit miffed at Liam sometimes, especially when he kept going on about Blake’s love of sports. You’re asking the man to marry you and move across the state to live on your farm; let him keep something! Also, when the inevitable third act breakup happens, he’s happy for Blake to call him future husband but not fiancé. I feel like a lot of his reasoning is a bit skew-whiff, and he needs to learn a little give and take.

It was really fun overall, and I found it to be entertaining and enjoyable to read. I liked both of the characters and was intrigued by a few of the side characters and would like their stories. It was pleasantly different. I haven’t read any dating show stories other than The Charm Offensive, and this was just as good as that. Definitely worth a read.

——————————————
I received an ARC of this book from GRR, and this is my honest review.

[Naz.reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

4/5 stars 3/5 spice

The concept of this was really entertaining. Two guys applying to be on a genderless blind dating show, looking to find someone to marry, with different motivations.

Liam is a sweetheart who is just looking for someone to spend the rest of his life with that fits into his farm life and continues to choose him. Blake is a character you don’t really like at the start. He’s introduced as this spoilt guy who lives off his parents, not doing much with his life. He goes on the show, even though he identifies as straight, therefore he can fulfill his parent’s ultimatum of being married before he turns 30 so that they don’t cut him off.

Blake has amazing character growth throughout the show where he has a queer awakening and realises that finding a deep connection with his partner and planning a future together is more important than his parent’s money.

I adored Blake’s over the top love of his dog and the farm animals. He really spiced up Liam’s life with his quirkiness and spontaneity. They completed one and another and over came the hurdles thrown at them, coming out stronger than ever together.

- Genderless blind reality dating show
- Queer awakening
- Opposites attract
- City boy X small town boy
- Farmer MMC
- Light dom X sub dynamic

[Kiandra 🦋 · Rating 2 out of 5]

This started off so good and I do think Blake and Liam had potential as a couple… but everything was just so rushed. Their relationship timeline was SO unrealistic that I just couldn’t enjoy it.

[Bookbingewithsteph · Rating 2 out of 5]

Ooooof. Thought the start was interesting but it all goes downhill once they meet face to face. The characters felt flat and really wish we got to see actual falling in love moments and not just 0-60 spice?!? The writing was also super repetitive. Honestly really disappointed.😭

[Jess Shades · Rating 3 out of 5]

If you like Love Is Blind, you’ll probably enjoy this book!

[Ash · Rating 4 out of 5]

I would absolutely watch this show 😂

The conflict was a bit…OTT? But this was soooooo good overall.

[Steven Roy · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Reality of Wanting Him was a great twist to bi-awakening and marrying for inheritance themes that are often a dime a dozen in romance novels. The reality show concept sounds great, and totally something I would watch in real life (I envisioned Big Brother/ Love Island) with Andy Cohen absolutely being the host. The authors won my reality tv heart because they included both an alliance and a villain in the show, and for a show to be good you must have the trifecta (obviously a “showmance” was the ideal outcome behind the dating show}. The book was totally worth my weekend; I’d gladly offer it up again. Blake’s blasé behavior about things seems on par with someone never having to worry about money or working hard which could absolutely be a huge thing to come as a huge red flag between someone with Liam’s background. Liam’s dad is 100% an MVP and I’m glad Blake was able to forge a relationship with him and become “Chicken Daddy!” The book is written in a dual POV. I can’t wait till Book 2 “The Reality of Wanting my Bully” to come out, the teaser at the ending of this book seems very promising.

I received a free advance copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving my honest review.

[Trip · Rating 4 out of 5]

I watch the show and our past selves on the screen - the two idiots who didn't know they were about to fall in love

This book was so much fun from start to finish, I adored Blake and Liam their alternating povs were wonderful. It was entertaining to see how different they saw situations as they get to know one another through just their voices.

I enjoyed the reality show aspect it was entertaining and interesting concept. How it worked with the dates and communication - texts and calls, voice modifiers. Ranking system, picking activities to get to know one another - the puzzle and art pieces so cute!

The contrast between Blake and Liam was fun too, they compliment one another well considering their differences. Liam needed someone to push him out of his shell and Blake needed a bit of purpose to his life, I think they both find what they need in each other.

I adored the settings too in this tale, bouncing between their solitude in the apartments to their first meeting and the city to farm life was entertaining. These two getting to see each others life's and introductions to friends, family and building a future together.

Honestly a lot of the story focuses upon Blake & Liam developing their relationship, there is plenty of sweet and spicy moments as they explore their romance. Blake's realizations and Liam's uncertainty, the push and pull between them is perfectly balanced.

The farm was certainly a highlight for me, Blake's excitement over the chickens and animals in general was hilarious. His so cute and seeing him finally feel like his found his place, with Liam and his father at the farm was so sweet. Not forgetting Lucky of course!

The reasons each of them chose to go on the show and the inevitable drama was very obvious early on, but how things finally came out was not what I expected and yet written so well. I love how it was handled and the mental health aspect, Liam's recognition he needs to work on himself a bit more and Blakes understanding he was wrong.

They both have stuff they need to work on to be able to move forward and build a life together, I really loved their conversations and how there is a brief time skip.

Glimpses at their growth and finally ready to be together, without all the reasons from the show and their history's. Just purely because they're in love and want to be together, Blake and Liam are wonderful. The ending is so cute too, very fitting 💛


Bi-Awakening
Secrets
City/Farm

First times
Versatile
Blow Jobs
Rimming
Bondage
Light Dom/Sub

Mental Health
MC was cheated on [Historic, not between or by either MC]
Childhood trauma
Parental death [Historic, off page - cancer]


*ARC provided by Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest review*

[Toddles · Rating 5 out of 5]

THE REALITY OF WANTING HIM
by Lexi Amber & Bec Benson
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

I received an E-book ARC edition of this novel in exchange for an honest review. It is available July 23rd on Amazon & Kindle Unlimited!
www.amzn.com/B0F92SJV7T

This is a 363-page Medium-Paced Opposites Attract, Bi-Awakening MM Romance with gentle Controlling Dom/sub spice and a touch starved individual. This is book 1 of a new series called LOVE WITHOUT LABELS and is about two men going on a blind dating reality show where even gender is hidden and being open-minded is a must.

--This is going to be a meme.--

Written in alternating chapters duel POV, this rom-com with depth doesn’t waste any time getting to the point of the plot. It is mostly character development forward, but the setting is obviously a huge detail throughout the entire book. Blake is a party-playboy with golden retriever vibes who comes from money. He is carefree and very Happy-Go-Lucky. He has been lost in life since his dream sports career fell apart and is just coasting on his parents' dime at the age of 29. Liam is a shy work-a-holic and a reserved person who wants a life on his farm like his parents lovingly had. He’s lonely but gets overwhelmed easily since he spends so much time on his own. He has dreams for his home & business and of the perfect marriage but has a hard time trusting people after a traumatizing relationship incident in college that still makes him fearful and jaded at the age of 28.

--This is really sounding more and more like the bi version of a Hallmark movie.--

After both men get on a dating show where you have no idea who you are talking to thanks to voice distortion technology and messaging apps, they must narrow down their options in hopes to fine their perfect spouse. Blake needs to find a wife to marry before he’s 30 so he can keep his trust fund while Liam wants to work his farm with a partner and create happy memories for everyone who visits. The blind dates may be unseeing, but they sure are revealing. The pacing of this section of the process moves at a steady speed to keep the reality show from lingering but doesn’t skimp on crucial details. The authors got creative in keeping everything interesting so it didn’t lag. Its pretty authentic from what we know how these shows are filmed, down to the stress and worry of moving on in the show with the person you want, hoping they pick you too. And only 100 pages in, Reveals get REAL! There is a time when I thought, ‘Omg, this is never going to end!’ It’s a real Soap Opera! One hurdle and twist just lead to another, keeping you running to the season finale.

--I don’t see why anyone but me should care about the gender of the person I'm dating. And if they do? That says more about them than it does about me.--

This had so much passion, emotion, and humor! From a readers POV, you find yourself along for the ride as the 3rd wheel. You will become just as attached to them as they become to each other. Blake truly is a chatterbox that can’t be controlled when he is excited about something and constantly keeps Liam on his toes and, at the same time, lifts his spirits up. While Liam gives Blake something he didn’t even know getting emotionally loved and accepted, which he never got from anyone else before. The way the authors wrote the process of dating by having interview questions sprinkled throughout helps open your mind to who the guys are to themselves, not from others' perspectives. This opens both men up to vulnerabilities they never would have shared that adds a layer of care and support that is not normally seen in Reality TV. Like the position they were in, it really triggers an addiction to them as a reader, wanting something that isn’t readily available like wanting chocolate but not having any. They go through an equal mix of emotions and challenges broken by humorous moments that keep you on the edge of your seat.

--"Look at your hard cock straining out toward me like it knows exactly who it belongs to.”--

The spice was flaming! 5/5🌶! Because of the format of the book, this was a bit of an slow burn to get to this point. BEYOND WORTH THE WAIT! Mild possessiveness and Control with light breath play and Dom/sub tendencies. First times galore with a needy individual that is always hungry for more! Plus, the authors added the details of when spice happens on TV and the worry of, HOW WILL MY RELATIVES WATCH THIS?

--"Ohmygodohmygodohmygod, it's real! Why are we driving away from them? The chickens need to meet their new daddy!”--

The ensemble was different. Cluck Cluck! The book was centrally focused on the 2 MCs especially during the blind dates. Liam’s dad is a big support for him and has a presents while Blake’s bestie Chad was there for him. You do get to know some of the other contestants in fun ways that added some bones to the plot. And you can’t have a reality show without a villain….or two! Plus, eggs are laid for Book 2 which is set during the same season of the show with 2 other perspectives.

--I never thought I'd be waking up to the sound of a goat screaming outside my window, but that’s my life now.--

This concept was so fun! I personally am not a trash TV viewer but I'm glad I jumped on this season of Love Without Labels! You can tell from the writing how well this author duo work together and how passionate they were with these characters. The message of doing anything for your person, to love & support them, through funny & challenging periods, even waiting for them to the end of time to prove your worth and also believing that you are enough regardless. How growing and healing as an individual never stops and sometime your pause button is just as important as all the other controls.

--"…true love found you at the perfect moment, when you were both ready to receive it.”--

💜Happy Reading🫶

[Cara · Rating 1 out of 5]

DNF’d at 21% - I liked the concept for this story but the writing lacked a lot of depth and it felt like I was reading the first draft with too much ‘telling’ and not enough ‘showing’.