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Bottle Service Boys #1
Shaken and Stirred
**** Cover Updated Nov 2025 ****
Alex
I've always despised Ryder Calloway. Eight years ago, at an elite summer program, Ryder and his prep school buddies made my life hell, never letting me forget I didn't belong in their world. Now I'm juggling graduate school, a sick mother, a rebellious brother, and a job doing bottle service at one of Boston's most exclusive nightclubs—where the last person I want to see is Ryder Calloway strutting through the door.
When he decides to apply for a job at my club, claiming he'd easily out-earn me in tips, I'll do anything to prove him wrong. Even if it means accepting his ridiculous challenge.
Ryder
Alex Morgan hated me on sight, and honestly? The feeling's mutual. There's something about his perpetual scowl that gets under my skin in the best way. He thinks I'm nothing but a spoiled rich brat with no work ethic. I'll show him.
With time to kill before starting a graduate program, my parents know nothing about—one that would destroy their carefully laid plans for my future—working alongside Boston's grumpiest bottle service boy sounds like the perfect distraction. I can't wait to see the look on Alex's face when he realizes we'll be working side by side.
What neither of us expects is how quickly hatred can turn into something else entirely.
Shaken and Stirred is the first book in the Bottle Service Boys series and book one of a duet. Alex and Ryder's story continues in the next in series.
Alex
I've always despised Ryder Calloway. Eight years ago, at an elite summer program, Ryder and his prep school buddies made my life hell, never letting me forget I didn't belong in their world. Now I'm juggling graduate school, a sick mother, a rebellious brother, and a job doing bottle service at one of Boston's most exclusive nightclubs—where the last person I want to see is Ryder Calloway strutting through the door.
When he decides to apply for a job at my club, claiming he'd easily out-earn me in tips, I'll do anything to prove him wrong. Even if it means accepting his ridiculous challenge.
Ryder
Alex Morgan hated me on sight, and honestly? The feeling's mutual. There's something about his perpetual scowl that gets under my skin in the best way. He thinks I'm nothing but a spoiled rich brat with no work ethic. I'll show him.
With time to kill before starting a graduate program, my parents know nothing about—one that would destroy their carefully laid plans for my future—working alongside Boston's grumpiest bottle service boy sounds like the perfect distraction. I can't wait to see the look on Alex's face when he realizes we'll be working side by side.
What neither of us expects is how quickly hatred can turn into something else entirely.
Shaken and Stirred is the first book in the Bottle Service Boys series and book one of a duet. Alex and Ryder's story continues in the next in series.
340 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 17, 2025
66 people are currently reading
84 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
July 14, 2025
"There’s a thin line between love and hate, Ry. And that line is very sexy.”
This book is gonna be huge. I was enjoying it so much I somehow missed that it’s a duet and now I have to wait 😭😭 For Ryder and Alex, it was dislike-at-first sight. When a chance encounter reunites them years later, the animosity- and undeniable chemistry- flares bright again. Add in a little forced proximity and these boys don't know what hit them! Anyone who likes high heat enemies to lovers has gotta read this book!
Over the next few weeks, I made a series of poor decisions. Every one of them involved Ryder and his cock. I couldn’t stay away. I’d become an addict, crawling back for another hit time and time again, despite the destructive nature of my actions.
I really like this E2L book by Lilly Atlas- instead of a complicated backstory where each MC was justified in disliking the other due to some situation or misunderstanding, she gives us an uncomplicated young bully who doesn't realize the true impact of his words. What was harmless fun for Ryder was devastating for Alex, who has the weight of his family's future on his shoulders. I liked that Ryder's character apologized sincerely and worked to do better, which is really all we can ask of people. I loved the spice level, the way Lilly introduced the cast of supporting characters (who will undoubtedly be receiving their own books in turn) and the bottle service boys element. I really think this is a series poised to become very popular very quickly!
Alex might enjoy getting off with me, but he didn’t like me. He’d made that clear for years, not that I didn’t deserve it. However, the conundrum I found myself in now was that I did like him. I liked him a lot.
Rating: 4.75
Angst: 3/5
Steam: 4/5
I received an advance copy of this book and this is my honest review
July 28, 2025
4.5**** stars
There was nothing really new or special about this story but I loved how it was written. It actually reminded me A LOT of “Playing Games” but I did love that one to pieces so I didn't mind.
I had a blast with the dynamic between Alex and Ryder, especially with the exclusive gay night club setting. They were hot af and later just so super cute and tender with each other.
I was honestly a bit bummed at first when I found out the second book would not be about the club owner and one of the other bottle boys (because I’m dying to get that one) but a continuation of Ryder and Alex’s story. But after finishing this I’m pumped for their sequel while still looking forward to anything else the author has in store in this series.
************
Bottle Service Boys Series
Book 1 - Stirred and Shaken - 4.5 stars
Book 2 - Sip Happens - release fall 2025
There was nothing really new or special about this story but I loved how it was written. It actually reminded me A LOT of “Playing Games” but I did love that one to pieces so I didn't mind.
I had a blast with the dynamic between Alex and Ryder, especially with the exclusive gay night club setting. They were hot af and later just so super cute and tender with each other.
I blinked. “What? Sorry, I got distracted. What were you saying?”
He gave me a skeptical look before shaking his head. “Coffee cake. That cinnamon scent is driving me wild. I’m getting the coffee cake.”
You’re driving me wild.
I was honestly a bit bummed at first when I found out the second book would not be about the club owner and one of the other bottle boys (because I’m dying to get that one) but a continuation of Ryder and Alex’s story. But after finishing this I’m pumped for their sequel while still looking forward to anything else the author has in store in this series.
************
Bottle Service Boys Series
Book 1 - Stirred and Shaken - 4.5 stars
Book 2 - Sip Happens - release fall 2025
August 14, 2025
Enemies to lovers ✅
Rich boy x poor boy ✅
Story cliffhanger ✅
Ryder and Alex meet at an elite summer program where Alex is bullied for being the underprivileged kid on a scholarship.
Now in graduate school, Alex juggles school, family drama, and work. Work is bottle service in a gay nightclub called Top Shelf, working in booty shorts, a bow tie and body glitter.
‘BJ Alley had become the worst-kept secret in Top Shelf’s history. The hidden nook patrons and staff alike disappeared to for a quick suck or fuck. After the fifth security camera mysteriously broke, Parker gave up trying to keep people away.’
Alex and Ryder are definitely going to end up here 🤣
Ryder and his buddies come to the club much to Alex’s shock.
‘There’s no way he was here. No way. I’d survived a summer program with him, made it through the same undergrad school, and finally found my freedom. What the fuck was he doing here now? ‘
There’s definitely an attraction between them.
Ryder in his drunken state declares he could work at the club and get more tips.
Ryder has changed schools and degrees. He doesn’t want to be the usual nepo baby who will work at and eventually run his father’s company. He wants to be an elementary school teacher.
Loving Ryder’s little sis Vera.
“Ooh.” Her eyes sparkled. “Enemies to lovers. My favorite trope.”“Enemies to what?” I asked as I grabbed my linen napkin. “Lo-vers. There’s a thin line between love and hate, Ry. And that line is very sexy.”’
Ryder gets a job at Top Shelf and manipulates it that Alex is his trainer/mentor.
Top Shelf has a no-fraternization policy.
Alex has to work with Ryder 4 nights a week. The sexual tension is strong. Ryder makes a blowjob proposition/ bet to Alex a few times but Alex stays strong.
There’s a dinner party at their boss Parker’s house.
“One time,” he said, narrowing his eyes at me. “One time for each of us. If I come first, you can stay. If you come first, you’re gone. Out of my life. You never come back to Top Shelf, and if you ever see me out, you turn and fucking leave. Deal?”
Alex awkwardly overhears Ryders dad on the phone losing his shit and threatening Ryder if he doesn’t follow his father’s outlined career trajectory he can find a new family.
After a shitty night at work , Alex wins the blowjob bet but tells Ryder to stay. Ryder opens up to Alex.
It’s game on now as they continue to hook up as often as possible and anywhere they can.
After Ryder helps Alex with his drug addict brother , he discovers Alex’s life consists of being a caregiver to a mother with a severe disability. In addition to attending school, working, and managing an out-of-control brother.
They spend the night together at Ryders new apartment and the next day become boyfriends.
Their jobs are safe too with Parker not caring about their relationship as long as it didn’t interfere with work.
Ryders father has a stroke and he faces pressure to run the family company .
‘The realization slammed into me like a wrecking ball. I fucking loved this man. He blinked glassy eyes. “I told her yes,” he whispered. “Oh, God, Alex, what have I done?”
Ooh the story ends on a cliffhanger or continuation for the next part?
Rich boy x poor boy ✅
Story cliffhanger ✅
Ryder and Alex meet at an elite summer program where Alex is bullied for being the underprivileged kid on a scholarship.
Now in graduate school, Alex juggles school, family drama, and work. Work is bottle service in a gay nightclub called Top Shelf, working in booty shorts, a bow tie and body glitter.
‘BJ Alley had become the worst-kept secret in Top Shelf’s history. The hidden nook patrons and staff alike disappeared to for a quick suck or fuck. After the fifth security camera mysteriously broke, Parker gave up trying to keep people away.’
Alex and Ryder are definitely going to end up here 🤣
Ryder and his buddies come to the club much to Alex’s shock.
‘There’s no way he was here. No way. I’d survived a summer program with him, made it through the same undergrad school, and finally found my freedom. What the fuck was he doing here now? ‘
There’s definitely an attraction between them.
Ryder in his drunken state declares he could work at the club and get more tips.
Ryder has changed schools and degrees. He doesn’t want to be the usual nepo baby who will work at and eventually run his father’s company. He wants to be an elementary school teacher.
Loving Ryder’s little sis Vera.
“Ooh.” Her eyes sparkled. “Enemies to lovers. My favorite trope.”“Enemies to what?” I asked as I grabbed my linen napkin. “Lo-vers. There’s a thin line between love and hate, Ry. And that line is very sexy.”’
Ryder gets a job at Top Shelf and manipulates it that Alex is his trainer/mentor.
Top Shelf has a no-fraternization policy.
Alex has to work with Ryder 4 nights a week. The sexual tension is strong. Ryder makes a blowjob proposition/ bet to Alex a few times but Alex stays strong.
There’s a dinner party at their boss Parker’s house.
“One time,” he said, narrowing his eyes at me. “One time for each of us. If I come first, you can stay. If you come first, you’re gone. Out of my life. You never come back to Top Shelf, and if you ever see me out, you turn and fucking leave. Deal?”
Alex awkwardly overhears Ryders dad on the phone losing his shit and threatening Ryder if he doesn’t follow his father’s outlined career trajectory he can find a new family.
After a shitty night at work , Alex wins the blowjob bet but tells Ryder to stay. Ryder opens up to Alex.
It’s game on now as they continue to hook up as often as possible and anywhere they can.
After Ryder helps Alex with his drug addict brother , he discovers Alex’s life consists of being a caregiver to a mother with a severe disability. In addition to attending school, working, and managing an out-of-control brother.
They spend the night together at Ryders new apartment and the next day become boyfriends.
Their jobs are safe too with Parker not caring about their relationship as long as it didn’t interfere with work.
Ryders father has a stroke and he faces pressure to run the family company .
‘The realization slammed into me like a wrecking ball. I fucking loved this man. He blinked glassy eyes. “I told her yes,” he whispered. “Oh, God, Alex, what have I done?”
Ooh the story ends on a cliffhanger or continuation for the next part?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 11, 2025
Thank you to Lilly Atlas and Gay Romance Reviews for the ARC of Shaken and Stirred.
I've always enjoyed books written by Lilly and this one was no different. I will admit I did not read The Duality of Swans (of which I will rectify that soon) so it's a little different from what I'm used to reading from her as I have read most of her other MC books. Needless to say though- I enjoyed this book immensely. The friends these characters have also make the book- I love Trevor!
What really pulled me to read the book was the synopsis because who doesn't like a good enemies to lovers book. I enjoyed the fact that we got chapters from each of the MMCs. The fact that even though Alex and Ryder were attracted to each other but fought the feelings for a while until they couldn't anymore. I loved their little bet that they had going on and watching how they dealt with it. I also would love to see more of the characters get their own books!
Throughout the book we also see the difference in the MMCs family lives and how they deal with it. I will admit though both of their families took them being gay really well. Although Alex's brother needs to definitely grow up.
As was stated in the synopsis "Shaken and Stirred is the first book in the Bottle Service Boys series and book one of a duet. Alex and Ryder's story continues in the next in series." The book ended on a cliffhanger which makes me super excited for the next instalment Sip Happens!
I've always enjoyed books written by Lilly and this one was no different. I will admit I did not read The Duality of Swans (of which I will rectify that soon) so it's a little different from what I'm used to reading from her as I have read most of her other MC books. Needless to say though- I enjoyed this book immensely. The friends these characters have also make the book- I love Trevor!
What really pulled me to read the book was the synopsis because who doesn't like a good enemies to lovers book. I enjoyed the fact that we got chapters from each of the MMCs. The fact that even though Alex and Ryder were attracted to each other but fought the feelings for a while until they couldn't anymore. I loved their little bet that they had going on and watching how they dealt with it. I also would love to see more of the characters get their own books!
Throughout the book we also see the difference in the MMCs family lives and how they deal with it. I will admit though both of their families took them being gay really well. Although Alex's brother needs to definitely grow up.
As was stated in the synopsis "Shaken and Stirred is the first book in the Bottle Service Boys series and book one of a duet. Alex and Ryder's story continues in the next in series." The book ended on a cliffhanger which makes me super excited for the next instalment Sip Happens!
July 27, 2025
I enjoyed the way this enemies to lovers trope played out. The bottle service job was a different and fun way to make a competition leading to lots of tension/banter and fun times. I also loved the side characters and can’t wait to read the next one.
August 1, 2025
I thoroughly enjoyed this book by Lilly Atlas. She is one of my favourite authors!!!
Shaken and Stirred is an enemies to lovers stories with great characters....can't wait for Trevor's book!!! Alex and Ryder come from two different backgrounds but each are trying to find their place in this world. They both have preconceived notions about each other that couldn't be farther from the truth and once they start peeling those layers back we find there is more than just sexual chemistry between these two.
Now I'm "patiently" waiting for book 2 to see how the story continues for Alex and Ryder.
Shaken and Stirred is an enemies to lovers stories with great characters....can't wait for Trevor's book!!! Alex and Ryder come from two different backgrounds but each are trying to find their place in this world. They both have preconceived notions about each other that couldn't be farther from the truth and once they start peeling those layers back we find there is more than just sexual chemistry between these two.
Now I'm "patiently" waiting for book 2 to see how the story continues for Alex and Ryder.
July 25, 2025
3.5⭐️
Initially I loved the push and pull between these two. I love when two MCs begin to understand each other, but this was just too long and I just wasn't invested in their relationship enough to see myself wanting to read a whole other book about them esp with the drama it ended with.
Initially I loved the push and pull between these two. I love when two MCs begin to understand each other, but this was just too long and I just wasn't invested in their relationship enough to see myself wanting to read a whole other book about them esp with the drama it ended with.
July 20, 2025
Alex has a heavy load to carry, looking after his sick mother, managing his wayward brother, going to grad school, and working. He’s a bottle boy at a gay nightclub, where he makes good money, but is worn out by being fake and flirty.
Rich guy Ryder made fun of Alex when they went to an elite summer camp. Now, he’s about to make a career change his father won’t approve of, but in the meantime he bets Alex he can make more money working at the club.
He likes to rile Alex, and Alex takes his bets, one of which is sexual in nature. Ry wants Alex to lighten up and smile more, and Alex wants Ryder to be more aware of tough realities.
When they start hooking up it’s casual, but soon Ryder shares his dream of being a teacher and not taking over his Dad’s business. Alex leans on him when his brother is in trouble, and he sees that Alex’s Mom is wheelchair bound with her MS.
They reveal more of themselves and fall in love, facing trials together. Alex’s Mom has a minor surgery, but on that day Ryder’s Dad has a stroke and his Mom tells him he has to look after the company.
I like the premise of the competition as bottle boys at the club, and the attraction between these two men from very different worlds. Ryder grows up a little seeing Alex’s struggles, and Alex sees the realities of the pressures on Ryder.
I didn’t know there would be a cliffhanger, which makes this a 3 1/2 star book for me.
I received this ARC for free and am glad to give it my honest review with gratitude.
Rich guy Ryder made fun of Alex when they went to an elite summer camp. Now, he’s about to make a career change his father won’t approve of, but in the meantime he bets Alex he can make more money working at the club.
He likes to rile Alex, and Alex takes his bets, one of which is sexual in nature. Ry wants Alex to lighten up and smile more, and Alex wants Ryder to be more aware of tough realities.
When they start hooking up it’s casual, but soon Ryder shares his dream of being a teacher and not taking over his Dad’s business. Alex leans on him when his brother is in trouble, and he sees that Alex’s Mom is wheelchair bound with her MS.
They reveal more of themselves and fall in love, facing trials together. Alex’s Mom has a minor surgery, but on that day Ryder’s Dad has a stroke and his Mom tells him he has to look after the company.
I like the premise of the competition as bottle boys at the club, and the attraction between these two men from very different worlds. Ryder grows up a little seeing Alex’s struggles, and Alex sees the realities of the pressures on Ryder.
I didn’t know there would be a cliffhanger, which makes this a 3 1/2 star book for me.
I received this ARC for free and am glad to give it my honest review with gratitude.
July 27, 2025
This was a great one for me! It captivated me and was an enjoyable read. The story and its characters were entertaining to read. In the beginning, Alex and Ryder are at odds with one another because Ryder was formerly Alex's bully. Alex is working as a bottle boy to support his family and pay for graduate school, while Ryder hails from a wealthy background. Ryder and Alex have become bitter rivals despite being in the same program. They labor side by side as Ryder also decides to be a bottle service boy for the summer before the graduate program starts. It brings them together in tight quarters, when chemistry and attraction are at an all-time high. Things begin to happen when they begin to see the other person's humanity, overcome their inhibitions, and experience attraction. Their chitchat and interactions were entertaining. This is a more gradual build, but it fit the bill because of their predicament—they had to face part of their shared history and put aside their first impressions of each other to realize how much they had grown and evolved. It was interesting to see a new side, and I appreciated how they stuck together through thick and thin. I loved the narrative and can't wait for the next book to see how everything turns out.I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review.
July 16, 2025
**********Contains Spoilers**********
This is the first book that I’ve read by Lilly Atlas and it won’t be my last. I really enjoyed this book and thought that it was a good start to the Bottle Service Boys Series. I didn’t read the note at the end of blurb so didn’t realise that Alex & Ryder’s story continues in book two, this book ends on a cliffhanger but not a breakup. There’s been tension between Alex & Ryder from the moment they met during an elite summer programme while in high school. They both weren’t great toward the other. Alex being the only scholarship kid at the programme full of rich prep school kids who never let Alex forget he didn’t belong in their world. Alex hated them all on sight and Ryder’s entitled snobbish attitude didn’t help matters.
They’ve been getting enjoyment out of one upping each other ever since. The tension between them is palpable. It doesn’t take long before it snaps and it’s hot as hell. I liked when they both started dropping their walls and letting the other in, as well as finally being honest not only to themselves but to each other how they actually feel. Man, Alex’s brother Kenny really needs to get his sh*t together and I absolutely loved seeing Ryder tell him some home truths, even if he didn’t really listen. I’m looking forward to reading the conclusion of their story during the next book, as well as reading more books from Lilly Atlas in the future. I’d recommend this book and author to others.
******I received a complimentary copy of this book through GRR. I would still happily review this book even if I purchased it myself. My thoughts and feelings about this book are completely unbiased******
This is the first book that I’ve read by Lilly Atlas and it won’t be my last. I really enjoyed this book and thought that it was a good start to the Bottle Service Boys Series. I didn’t read the note at the end of blurb so didn’t realise that Alex & Ryder’s story continues in book two, this book ends on a cliffhanger but not a breakup. There’s been tension between Alex & Ryder from the moment they met during an elite summer programme while in high school. They both weren’t great toward the other. Alex being the only scholarship kid at the programme full of rich prep school kids who never let Alex forget he didn’t belong in their world. Alex hated them all on sight and Ryder’s entitled snobbish attitude didn’t help matters.
They’ve been getting enjoyment out of one upping each other ever since. The tension between them is palpable. It doesn’t take long before it snaps and it’s hot as hell. I liked when they both started dropping their walls and letting the other in, as well as finally being honest not only to themselves but to each other how they actually feel. Man, Alex’s brother Kenny really needs to get his sh*t together and I absolutely loved seeing Ryder tell him some home truths, even if he didn’t really listen. I’m looking forward to reading the conclusion of their story during the next book, as well as reading more books from Lilly Atlas in the future. I’d recommend this book and author to others.
******I received a complimentary copy of this book through GRR. I would still happily review this book even if I purchased it myself. My thoughts and feelings about this book are completely unbiased******
August 1, 2025
I really enjoyed this one! The enemies-to-lovers trope was done in such a fun way having Alex and Ryder compete as bottle service boys at a gay nightclub added such a unique twist. The banter, tension, and slow-burn chemistry were all spot on.
Alex is juggling a lot grad school, a demanding job, and caring for both his mom and younger brother. He’s serious, exhausted, and just trying to stay afloat. Ryder, on the other hand, is the rich guy who used to tease Alex at summer camp, now trying to step out from under his father’s shadow. He joins the club on a bet, thinking it’ll be easy but Alex gives him a run for his money.
What starts out as antagonistic quickly turns flirty, then deeper. Their attraction is undeniable, and I loved watching them peel back each other’s layers. Ryder sees the weight Alex carries, and Alex learns that Ryder has his own struggles especially after a family emergency shifts Ryder’s whole world.
The dynamic between them is fiery and tender all at once, and I loved how they slowly came to rely on each other. The side characters were also great, and I’m already looking forward to the next book! There’s a bit of a cliffhanger, but no breakup, so I’m definitely eager for part two.
Alex is juggling a lot grad school, a demanding job, and caring for both his mom and younger brother. He’s serious, exhausted, and just trying to stay afloat. Ryder, on the other hand, is the rich guy who used to tease Alex at summer camp, now trying to step out from under his father’s shadow. He joins the club on a bet, thinking it’ll be easy but Alex gives him a run for his money.
What starts out as antagonistic quickly turns flirty, then deeper. Their attraction is undeniable, and I loved watching them peel back each other’s layers. Ryder sees the weight Alex carries, and Alex learns that Ryder has his own struggles especially after a family emergency shifts Ryder’s whole world.
The dynamic between them is fiery and tender all at once, and I loved how they slowly came to rely on each other. The side characters were also great, and I’m already looking forward to the next book! There’s a bit of a cliffhanger, but no breakup, so I’m definitely eager for part two.
July 26, 2025
There is history between Ryder and Alex. For Alex, Ryder is the spoiled rich kid who was also a former bully along with his friends when they were in school together. The last thing Alex wants is to have to spend time with this guy. Alex is working for the summer to help his family and because he needs the money. Ryder is working while waiting to start graduate school - they are both in graduate school - but he does not need the money. As they work in close proximity they learn first hand that there is indeed a thin line between intense dislike or annoyance and attraction and serious chemistry. It also gives them a chance to see one another as something more than their surface impressions has them thinking they know about one another. The gradual undoing of their antagonism gave the story a neat slow burn kind of feel. It was also nice seeing them work on the issues of the past that had them thinking so little of one another. This was a good start to the series and the little cliffy at the end has me looking forward to the next story.
I received an ARC from GRR and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received an ARC from GRR and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 26, 2025
SWEET, STEAMY AND ANGSTY! 💕
I loved the premise of the start of the two part story of how two enemies slowly became friends while being co-workers and then constant hook ups that became so much more them both expected!
The connection and attraction was always there but the hatred overshadowed it when Ryder Calloway
and Alex Morgan first met eight years ago at an elite summer program for engineering robotics, now when their paths cross again at an exclusive gay nightclub-Top Shelf- where Alex is a bottle service boy, they are mature enough to know what happened in the past was in the past right?
“I wouldn’t go to Blow Job Alley with you if my mouth could perform miracles,”
However old rivalries causes bets and competitions and this is where their crazy, sweet debauched journey begins! 😈
I enjoyed their story and look forward to their conclusion in the next book!
The staff of the club and Alex’s best friend Trevor will entertain and support them with their stoic sexy older boss- Parker!
I voluntarily received an ARC from GRR for an honest non biased review.
I loved the premise of the start of the two part story of how two enemies slowly became friends while being co-workers and then constant hook ups that became so much more them both expected!
The connection and attraction was always there but the hatred overshadowed it when Ryder Calloway
and Alex Morgan first met eight years ago at an elite summer program for engineering robotics, now when their paths cross again at an exclusive gay nightclub-Top Shelf- where Alex is a bottle service boy, they are mature enough to know what happened in the past was in the past right?
“I wouldn’t go to Blow Job Alley with you if my mouth could perform miracles,”
However old rivalries causes bets and competitions and this is where their crazy, sweet debauched journey begins! 😈
I enjoyed their story and look forward to their conclusion in the next book!
The staff of the club and Alex’s best friend Trevor will entertain and support them with their stoic sexy older boss- Parker!
I voluntarily received an ARC from GRR for an honest non biased review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 21, 2025
I love discovering a new series and new authors. I also love when book one sets a high bar as this wonderful book does. Alex and Ryder have a history, Ryder was Alex's bully, but they have great chemistry. Seems each has ideas about the other that might not be accurate. Alex sees Ryder as spoiled rich kid when in reality he is trying his best to deal with strong family expectations. Alex is struggling managing his life and taking care of his family, putting others first. He is balancing a lot and works bottle service at a nightclub where he reconnects with Ryder and a slow romance begins. Lots of issues in this one, bullying, opposites, power dynamics, misjudging people, etc so be prepared but a wonder book. It does end on a small cliffhanger but book two is a continuous of this new romance so I am so excited for book two. I did receive an ARC and leave this honest review.
July 17, 2025
The start of an intriguing duo of Alex & Ryder. these two couldn't have opposite lives, and that puts them off on the wrong footing until they slowly let the other in. Alex is barely managing the balance of all his needs to support himself along with his family to get them to have a stable life. Ryder is doing all he can to get away from the expectations set by his family. Their banter is top notch, allowing themselves to slowly thaw and really be there when the other needs them most. I appreciated that yes their may be a power imbalance, yet Ryder slows Alex he will stick by his side and support him when things get rough.
This story does end on a small cliffhanger, so be prepared to wait to see this couples' conclusion
This story does end on a small cliffhanger, so be prepared to wait to see this couples' conclusion
August 10, 2025
'I swallowed a lump of emotion that had no place rising in my throat, but I couldn’t stop myself from whispering, “I want to see you too.”'
I loved this book. It was an enemies-to-lovers, ex-bully romance. Great world building and wonderful characters. I loved both Alex and Ryder. There was animosity and tension, and Alex wasn't the type of person to roll over- he rose to the challenge. These two bickered and butted heads- and their chemistry sizzled. Both were complete opposites, yet both weighed down by their families and responsibilities in different ways. I liked that parallel, even if it wasn't the same. I liked the way their relationship developed and they began to learn about who the other was..
This is the first story I've read by this author and I would read more. 5 stars
I loved this book. It was an enemies-to-lovers, ex-bully romance. Great world building and wonderful characters. I loved both Alex and Ryder. There was animosity and tension, and Alex wasn't the type of person to roll over- he rose to the challenge. These two bickered and butted heads- and their chemistry sizzled. Both were complete opposites, yet both weighed down by their families and responsibilities in different ways. I liked that parallel, even if it wasn't the same. I liked the way their relationship developed and they began to learn about who the other was..
This is the first story I've read by this author and I would read more. 5 stars
July 10, 2025
This is an enjoyable book with some very predictable plot elements alongside others that are less standard. On the whole, I think it works quite well. (Caveat: It ends in something of a cliffhanger, though not a breakup.)
I was interested in both MCs, though I'm not sure I found either of them entirely plausible. I do hope most of the small-picture editing stuff gets fixed before publication, but I'm fussy that way.
Bottom line: I liked this and will happily read book two (and I suspect some other characters are being set up for their own books down the line).
My thanks to Gay Romance Reviews for an advance copy of this book.
I was interested in both MCs, though I'm not sure I found either of them entirely plausible. I do hope most of the small-picture editing stuff gets fixed before publication, but I'm fussy that way.
Bottom line: I liked this and will happily read book two (and I suspect some other characters are being set up for their own books down the line).
My thanks to Gay Romance Reviews for an advance copy of this book.
August 2, 2025
Shaken and Stirred is book 1 in the Bottle Service Boys series by Lilly Atlas. I enjoyed the way this enemies to lovers trope played out. The bottle service job was a different and fun way to make a competition leading to lots of tension/banter and fun times.
I like the premise of the competition as bottle boys at the club, and the attraction between these two men from very different worlds. Ryder grows up a little seeing Alex’s struggles, and Alex sees the realities of the pressures on Ryder.
This is part 1 of 2 so Ryder and Alex's story continues in the next one. There is a bit of a cliffhanger but it's not too bad and no breakup.
I like the premise of the competition as bottle boys at the club, and the attraction between these two men from very different worlds. Ryder grows up a little seeing Alex’s struggles, and Alex sees the realities of the pressures on Ryder.
This is part 1 of 2 so Ryder and Alex's story continues in the next one. There is a bit of a cliffhanger but it's not too bad and no breakup.
August 1, 2025
I love a book with a great redemption arc and this one does a superb job with Ryder's character in that respect. He was part of a group years ago who bullied Alex unmercifully neither knowing nor caring what the stresses on Alex were then or still are when they meet again. For Ryder, it's initially back to his old ways until he begins to see who Alex really is and see himself through Alex's eyes. Alex also begins to learn things about Ryder who also has some secrets. Cannot wait for the second book.
July 23, 2025
Loved it
Alex and Ryder are absolute polar opposites which causes initial animosity between them.
Alex is literally drowning trying to keep himself afloat and shoulder familial responsibilities at the same time.
Ryder is running and doing anything and everything he can to avoid familial pressure.
I really enjoyed seeing them slowly get to know one another.
While it does end on a small cliffhanger I am definitely ready to finish their story.
Alex and Ryder are absolute polar opposites which causes initial animosity between them.
Alex is literally drowning trying to keep himself afloat and shoulder familial responsibilities at the same time.
Ryder is running and doing anything and everything he can to avoid familial pressure.
I really enjoyed seeing them slowly get to know one another.
While it does end on a small cliffhanger I am definitely ready to finish their story.
January 15, 2026
It was an ok read. Not bad but not great either.
I really liked the antagonistic relationship between Alex and Ryder at the beginning of the story. I thought Ryder was a class A asshole. The second he started being attracted to Alex, he suddenly became a nice and very responsible man. 🙄
The whole story is kind of predictable and is very long !!
And, BTW, Alex's brother is despicable and I hate him !!!
I'll try the next one. I hope it won't be too long to get to their HEA.
I really liked the antagonistic relationship between Alex and Ryder at the beginning of the story. I thought Ryder was a class A asshole. The second he started being attracted to Alex, he suddenly became a nice and very responsible man. 🙄
The whole story is kind of predictable and is very long !!
And, BTW, Alex's brother is despicable and I hate him !!!
I'll try the next one. I hope it won't be too long to get to their HEA.
July 20, 2025
This is the first book that I've read by Lily Atlas and I really liked it! This is the first book in the series and Alex and Ryder's story will continue in book two. This is a Duet! I loved the story and I found the characters to be well written and immersed well throughout the book! I read an advanced copy of this book and this is my unbiased review!
July 25, 2025
This was amazing!! I'm a huge fan of hate-to-love books, and this did not disappoint. I am obsessed with the way Ryder adores Alex and shows up for him. And I also like that Alex didn't just forgive everything that happened in the past, that he made Ryder realize how awful he'd been, but found a way to move forward. I cannot wait for the next book!
July 30, 2025
Holy freakin angst!!! And I was here for it. Hear me out...this book will have a new cover, and several special editions before the year is out. I really enjoyed Ryder and Alex's push and pull dynamic. And how does like a grumpy sassy sunshine combo!? Sigh!!!! Their chemistry is insane and the spicy scenes destroyed me in the best way. Can't wait to see what is next for this author.
August 10, 2025
3.5 stars. I can't remember the book name, but I've already read something so similar that at first I thought this is it. But it was years ago, so this whole reading experience was just a constant deja vu, although I know there are some differences. If I ever remember the title, I'll edit this comment.
July 21, 2025
This is the first book in a new series called Bottle Service Boys and is book one in a duet about Alex and Ryder their story is enjoyable and well written and I’m looking forward to the second book of the duet.
July 24, 2025
"Enemies" to lovers. This book will pull on your emotions. It was fun, it was sexy and riveting .I really liked Alex and Ryder with all their push and pull. Working together and all that. Major cliffhanger .
July 24, 2025
first time reading this author and it wont be my last.
the enemies to lovers vibe was strong in this one but it was also equally warranted.
i wish this wasnt a duet, i need to know how their story plays out
the enemies to lovers vibe was strong in this one but it was also equally warranted.
i wish this wasnt a duet, i need to know how their story plays out
August 4, 2025
Prada bag, magnum, fuzzy marshmallow, walking disco ball, remedial math gorilla hair, >27Mº, beach ball, breathing tube
Booo! MAJOR cliffhanger! Just when things started to get really great, too. Alex's and Ryder's story will continue in "Sip Happens". We'll have to wait until Fall 2025 for it.
Alex is dirt-poor and a master juggler. He goes to school, takes care of his disabled mother, wrangle with his brother and his problems, AND works to support them all. Yes, his brother is a unemployed leech. Alex is a bottle service boy at an ultra-high class gay club. Even with the generous tips he earns, after his monthly money obligations, there's hardly anything left to spare.
Ryder and Alex meets at a private prep school during at Alex's robotics scholarship summer camp. Ryder is a nepo and delights in shoving Alex's low financial and social status in his face. Years later, Ryder's friends group ends up at Alex's assigned VIP table where he works. Alex despises Ryder for his past and present butthole-ness. Ryder is still a butthole after all these years. Alex is overwrought and weary of the weight he carries.
"Shaken and Stirred" is an excellent book. I enjoyed everything about it. I immensely recommend this!
Booo! MAJOR cliffhanger! Just when things started to get really great, too. Alex's and Ryder's story will continue in "Sip Happens". We'll have to wait until Fall 2025 for it.
Alex is dirt-poor and a master juggler. He goes to school, takes care of his disabled mother, wrangle with his brother and his problems, AND works to support them all. Yes, his brother is a unemployed leech. Alex is a bottle service boy at an ultra-high class gay club. Even with the generous tips he earns, after his monthly money obligations, there's hardly anything left to spare.
Ryder and Alex meets at a private prep school during at Alex's robotics scholarship summer camp. Ryder is a nepo and delights in shoving Alex's low financial and social status in his face. Years later, Ryder's friends group ends up at Alex's assigned VIP table where he works. Alex despises Ryder for his past and present butthole-ness. Ryder is still a butthole after all these years. Alex is overwrought and weary of the weight he carries.
"Shaken and Stirred" is an excellent book. I enjoyed everything about it. I immensely recommend this!
July 22, 2025
It is a good book and a couple.
I received a free copy of this book via GRR and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via GRR and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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