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Whynot #3
Prickly Pair
Not yet published
Expected 31 Mar 26In the small West Texas town of Whynot, why not take a chance on three gorgeous men—even if two of them are rivals?
After a thousand disastrous first dates, I’ve almost given up on love. But when my crush’s rival swoops in and saves me from another date gone wrong, I have a one-night-stand that leaves me breathless and yearning for more.
I’m sure I’ll never see him again . . . Until two months later, he moves back to Whynot and stirs up trouble. Suddenly, I go from having no one I’m interested in to wanting three sexy men.
Nick Steele. My long-time crush’s enemy. The former bad boy who has a mullet, piercings everywhere, and the sweetest black cat.
Matthew Jacobs. The tall, sexy small town doctor. He’s sweet, nerdy, and gives me butterflies every single time he smiles.
Austin Whynot. My forever crush who’s never looked at me twice. He’s overprotective, sweet, loyal to a fault, and has been just a friend for years.
Three gorgeous men. Three gorgeous problems.
My only solution?
Take a chance . . . even if it possibly means losing it all.
In this MMMF small town romance, you’ll find
• One Night Stand
• Why Choose Romance
• Enemies to Lovers
• Friends to Lovers
• Hurt/Comfort
• Spiciest book in the series
Prickly Pair is the third book in Whynot and can be read as a standalone.
After a thousand disastrous first dates, I’ve almost given up on love. But when my crush’s rival swoops in and saves me from another date gone wrong, I have a one-night-stand that leaves me breathless and yearning for more.
I’m sure I’ll never see him again . . . Until two months later, he moves back to Whynot and stirs up trouble. Suddenly, I go from having no one I’m interested in to wanting three sexy men.
Nick Steele. My long-time crush’s enemy. The former bad boy who has a mullet, piercings everywhere, and the sweetest black cat.
Matthew Jacobs. The tall, sexy small town doctor. He’s sweet, nerdy, and gives me butterflies every single time he smiles.
Austin Whynot. My forever crush who’s never looked at me twice. He’s overprotective, sweet, loyal to a fault, and has been just a friend for years.
Three gorgeous men. Three gorgeous problems.
My only solution?
Take a chance . . . even if it possibly means losing it all.
In this MMMF small town romance, you’ll find
• One Night Stand
• Why Choose Romance
• Enemies to Lovers
• Friends to Lovers
• Hurt/Comfort
• Spiciest book in the series
Prickly Pair is the third book in Whynot and can be read as a standalone.
371 pages, Kindle Edition
Expected publication March 31, 2026
643 people want to read
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February 26, 2026
I got to beta read Prickly Pair and yall ain’t ready! This is my favorite in the series for sure! Evie is so cute snd relatable. Matthew is a sexy nerd who is also a snappy dressing doctor (talk about swoon). Nick is a tattooed, mullet rocking brat with a dirty mouth and a heart of gold. Austin is babygirl. I will be taking no questions on that. Poor baby has been put THROUGH it but his devotion and tenderness was so sweet.
If you like kink, queer rep, the spiciest of spice, friends to lovers and rivals to lovers you’re going to love Prickly Pair.
If you like kink, queer rep, the spiciest of spice, friends to lovers and rivals to lovers you’re going to love Prickly Pair.
March 21, 2026
#lahobbitcurvyconsiglia Prickly Pair 🐱🥼👩🏼🤝👨🏾👨🏼🤝👨🏻
“I’m done waiting. Why not go fast? Why not dive in? Why not take a chance on three gorgeous men?”
Evie ha quasi perso le speranze in amore dopo una lunga serie di primi appuntamenti disastrosi. Ma una sera, durante l’ennesimo disastro, viene “salvata” dal rivale della sua crush dal liceo, con cui finisce per trascorrere una notte indimenticabile, convinta di non rivederlo mai più.
Due mesi dopo, Evie lavora nella sua bakery a Whynot, la sua città, e all’improvviso si ritrova a desiderare tre uomini contemporaneamente: Nick Steele, il bad boy con il mullet, i piercing e un dolcissimo gatto nero di nome Lucky (nonché il nemico storico della sua cotta di sempre); Matthew Jacobs, il medico del paese alto, affascinante, nerd e con un sorriso che le fa venire i brividi e Austin Whynot, la sua eterna crush, sempre protettivo e leale, che però non l’ha mai vista come un possibile interesse amoroso.
Tre uomini meravigliosi. Tre complicazioni enormi. L’unica soluzione? Rischiare tutto, anche a costo di perderli tutti e tre.
Ringrazio l’autrice per avermi inviato l’ARC ❤️
Eeeeeee niente, non ero pronta a lasciar andare Whynot e chiedo formalmente di poter ottenere la cittadinanza onoraria :’) inutile dire che sia totalmente innamorata di Nick perché è un bisexual cat dad e di Matthew perché è un dottore nerd che ti ricorda di bere acqua (È IMPORTANTE BERE ACQUA DURANTE LA GIORNATA, mi raccomando). Austin… eh. Diciamo che all’inizio mi sembrava un po’ troppo… idiota? Ma Evie è meravigliosa, e si merita tutto questo amore (e non dico cos’altro oltre a questo perché qui bisogna mantenere un tono appropriato… diciamo che inizia per C e finisce per AZZO) ✨😝
Sono sicura che amerete questa serie come l’ho amata io ❤️ Clio Evans, you did it again!
“I’m done waiting. Why not go fast? Why not dive in? Why not take a chance on three gorgeous men?”
Evie ha quasi perso le speranze in amore dopo una lunga serie di primi appuntamenti disastrosi. Ma una sera, durante l’ennesimo disastro, viene “salvata” dal rivale della sua crush dal liceo, con cui finisce per trascorrere una notte indimenticabile, convinta di non rivederlo mai più.
Due mesi dopo, Evie lavora nella sua bakery a Whynot, la sua città, e all’improvviso si ritrova a desiderare tre uomini contemporaneamente: Nick Steele, il bad boy con il mullet, i piercing e un dolcissimo gatto nero di nome Lucky (nonché il nemico storico della sua cotta di sempre); Matthew Jacobs, il medico del paese alto, affascinante, nerd e con un sorriso che le fa venire i brividi e Austin Whynot, la sua eterna crush, sempre protettivo e leale, che però non l’ha mai vista come un possibile interesse amoroso.
Tre uomini meravigliosi. Tre complicazioni enormi. L’unica soluzione? Rischiare tutto, anche a costo di perderli tutti e tre.
Ringrazio l’autrice per avermi inviato l’ARC ❤️
Eeeeeee niente, non ero pronta a lasciar andare Whynot e chiedo formalmente di poter ottenere la cittadinanza onoraria :’) inutile dire che sia totalmente innamorata di Nick perché è un bisexual cat dad e di Matthew perché è un dottore nerd che ti ricorda di bere acqua (È IMPORTANTE BERE ACQUA DURANTE LA GIORNATA, mi raccomando). Austin… eh. Diciamo che all’inizio mi sembrava un po’ troppo… idiota? Ma Evie è meravigliosa, e si merita tutto questo amore (e non dico cos’altro oltre a questo perché qui bisogna mantenere un tono appropriato… diciamo che inizia per C e finisce per AZZO) ✨😝
Sono sicura che amerete questa serie come l’ho amata io ❤️ Clio Evans, you did it again!
Review of advance copy received from Author
✨️arc review✨️
5🌟/5
So I already knew that I was gonna love this book but omg this story surpassed every single expectation that I had.
I genuinely couldn’t put my kindle down I was hooked from start to finish.
The author writing was so good the way she described every single character and all the emotions was so satisfying.
The four of them are the perfect match, I loved how everything developed so naturally. With the other two books for me was so easy choosing my favorite character but with this one it’s impossible I loved every single one of them.
Austin was so emotionally intense i wanted to know more about him from the very beginning, the grief and all the weight that he’s been carrying were heartbreaking and i’m so glad that he finally learned how to ask for help and especially I’m glad that he accepted all the love he deserved.
Matthew he’s this nerdy hot doctor that’s so damn adorably cute, he’s smart, caring and he definitely knows how to be a dominant.
Nick is a bratty smart ass with a very dirty mind but at the same time he’s such a big teddy bear, I loved the rivalry between him and Austin the tension was so strong omg their bickering got me giggling a lot the scene at Austin house was so emotional and of course how can I not mention that he’s also an adorable cat dad.
Evie was amazing I loved her from the very beginning, she knows what’s she wants and especially how to get it. She’s so caring, funny such a sweetheart with a very dirty mind.
The whynot series was so incredible good i enjoyed every single bits of it im so sad that is over now, i really recommend these books!
5🌟/5
So I already knew that I was gonna love this book but omg this story surpassed every single expectation that I had.
I genuinely couldn’t put my kindle down I was hooked from start to finish.
The author writing was so good the way she described every single character and all the emotions was so satisfying.
The four of them are the perfect match, I loved how everything developed so naturally. With the other two books for me was so easy choosing my favorite character but with this one it’s impossible I loved every single one of them.
Austin was so emotionally intense i wanted to know more about him from the very beginning, the grief and all the weight that he’s been carrying were heartbreaking and i’m so glad that he finally learned how to ask for help and especially I’m glad that he accepted all the love he deserved.
Matthew he’s this nerdy hot doctor that’s so damn adorably cute, he’s smart, caring and he definitely knows how to be a dominant.
Nick is a bratty smart ass with a very dirty mind but at the same time he’s such a big teddy bear, I loved the rivalry between him and Austin the tension was so strong omg their bickering got me giggling a lot the scene at Austin house was so emotional and of course how can I not mention that he’s also an adorable cat dad.
Evie was amazing I loved her from the very beginning, she knows what’s she wants and especially how to get it. She’s so caring, funny such a sweetheart with a very dirty mind.
The whynot series was so incredible good i enjoyed every single bits of it im so sad that is over now, i really recommend these books!
March 21, 2026
5 STARS
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I knew within 20 pages that this was going to be one of the best books I’ve ever read.
I’ve been not so patiently waiting for this book. I read Cactus Heart the day it came out and thought its was fantastic, I read an arc of Thorn Kiss and thought that would be my favourite, then Evie comes in with her pack of hot, bisexual men and blows everything else out of the water. If there’s one thing about me that I’m certain of is that I love books with poly love stories. I find them to be on a whole other level than other books. The love, vulnerability, communication and commitment that was needed for this book and was expressed was perfect. Every single element of this book was perfect.
For my sanity I’ve been needing this book so I could witness Mr Austin Whynot take a damn break and my goodness was it a journey but I’m so happy for his outcome. Evie is the perfect combination of strong and sensitive and she’s gotta be one of my favourite fmcs. Matthew and Nick, the loves of my life; I adore Matthew but Nick is my guy, I love him and I will cherish him until the day I die.
If I had to recommend one book series to anyone it would be this one. Every book is so unique and fulfilling. I’m so sad it’s over but my heart feels complete. I honestly feel so comfortable and at home reading about Whynot. Someone figure out how to get me there asap.
Thank you to Clio Evans for providing me with this e-ARC in exchange for my own review.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I knew within 20 pages that this was going to be one of the best books I’ve ever read.
I’ve been not so patiently waiting for this book. I read Cactus Heart the day it came out and thought its was fantastic, I read an arc of Thorn Kiss and thought that would be my favourite, then Evie comes in with her pack of hot, bisexual men and blows everything else out of the water. If there’s one thing about me that I’m certain of is that I love books with poly love stories. I find them to be on a whole other level than other books. The love, vulnerability, communication and commitment that was needed for this book and was expressed was perfect. Every single element of this book was perfect.
For my sanity I’ve been needing this book so I could witness Mr Austin Whynot take a damn break and my goodness was it a journey but I’m so happy for his outcome. Evie is the perfect combination of strong and sensitive and she’s gotta be one of my favourite fmcs. Matthew and Nick, the loves of my life; I adore Matthew but Nick is my guy, I love him and I will cherish him until the day I die.
If I had to recommend one book series to anyone it would be this one. Every book is so unique and fulfilling. I’m so sad it’s over but my heart feels complete. I honestly feel so comfortable and at home reading about Whynot. Someone figure out how to get me there asap.
Thank you to Clio Evans for providing me with this e-ARC in exchange for my own review.
March 22, 2026
Clio did it again, she pulled me in from page one! I have loved all the books in this series so far but I was so excited to finally see Austin's story. You see him work so hard in all the other books and his tension with Evie is already there too.
When Evie's date turns out to be a bust she runs into Nick, her crush's old high school rival, and he takes her out instead. Months later Nick is back in Whynot to open a resort. Matthew, who is the sexy doctor, is also looking for a date with Evie. And then there is Austin who Evie has had a crush on for so long but he doesn't seem to see that until she starts dating his old rival. Evie wants to try things with all the guys but can Austin and Nick get over their old rivalry.
I loved this book so much! The characters are so amazing I absolutely adored Nick's brattiness and Matthew's tendency to take the lead. This book also dealt with Austin and his burnout in a really good way. He needed to take a break but he didn't see the problem until he was at the bottom and luckily his lovers and family were there for him.
If you are looking for a queer small town, steamy, why choose romance this one is something for you!
Thanks to Clio Evans for this eARC in exchange for an honest review.
When Evie's date turns out to be a bust she runs into Nick, her crush's old high school rival, and he takes her out instead. Months later Nick is back in Whynot to open a resort. Matthew, who is the sexy doctor, is also looking for a date with Evie. And then there is Austin who Evie has had a crush on for so long but he doesn't seem to see that until she starts dating his old rival. Evie wants to try things with all the guys but can Austin and Nick get over their old rivalry.
I loved this book so much! The characters are so amazing I absolutely adored Nick's brattiness and Matthew's tendency to take the lead. This book also dealt with Austin and his burnout in a really good way. He needed to take a break but he didn't see the problem until he was at the bottom and luckily his lovers and family were there for him.
If you are looking for a queer small town, steamy, why choose romance this one is something for you!
Thanks to Clio Evans for this eARC in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC - Review
OMG - Defiantly the spiciest of the series and my favourite!
We've been teased about Evie and her love life throughout the series and her story did not disappoint.
Evie as an FMC is amazing - she is strong, independent and loves her friends and hound family fiercely. Personally, she's my favourite FMC of the series.
We start with meeting Nick the former local returning to town who became my favourite instantly - not nonsense and knows what he wants, or in this case who he wants!
Then we have Matthew, our resident hot doctor who is a big surprise in the best way possible!
Finally, we of course have our Whynot - Austin and his story of not only his growth but his grief. The book is really a journey for him not only in finding himself again but also his happiness.
While the book is technically Austin's story (being the Whynot) it defiantly feels like it's all of their stories. We see their relationships with each other blossom and change, especially Nick and Austin who happen to hate one another.
All in all, I LOVED this book and will 100% be re-reading, it's my favourite in the series and one of my favourite books Clio has written so far!
10/10 5 stars and I would 100% recommend! Thank you so much for the ARC Clio!
OMG - Defiantly the spiciest of the series and my favourite!
We've been teased about Evie and her love life throughout the series and her story did not disappoint.
Evie as an FMC is amazing - she is strong, independent and loves her friends and hound family fiercely. Personally, she's my favourite FMC of the series.
We start with meeting Nick the former local returning to town who became my favourite instantly - not nonsense and knows what he wants, or in this case who he wants!
Then we have Matthew, our resident hot doctor who is a big surprise in the best way possible!
Finally, we of course have our Whynot - Austin and his story of not only his growth but his grief. The book is really a journey for him not only in finding himself again but also his happiness.
While the book is technically Austin's story (being the Whynot) it defiantly feels like it's all of their stories. We see their relationships with each other blossom and change, especially Nick and Austin who happen to hate one another.
All in all, I LOVED this book and will 100% be re-reading, it's my favourite in the series and one of my favourite books Clio has written so far!
10/10 5 stars and I would 100% recommend! Thank you so much for the ARC Clio!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Prickly Pair was everything I wanted, needed and hoped for. This is truly one of the best MMMF romances I have gotten to read.
Having a beautiful curvy woman wanted by so many men is very healing in so many ways and Evie was absolutely stunning. Although there were times I wanted to shake some sense into her she was such an incredible FMC for this story and brought so much good out of these men.
Matthew was such a humble and understanding character. But gosh when he gets to the bedroom he comes a completely different man. Ahhhh Matthew.
Nick on the other hand was my pierced and tattooed bad boy after my own heart. Give me some piercings and a tattoo and I’ll be sold any day. And I think Evie would agree with me.
But honestly we need to talk about my favourite character of all. Austin Whynot. My heart broke for Austin repeatedly. His self doubt, his burnout. I was cheering him on every step of the way. Out of everyone, even since book one he deserved his happy ending. All I wanted to do was hold him and take all his pain and worry away. Austin really needed these 3, just as much as they needed him.
My biggest worry in MMMF is that we won't learn enough about specific characters to get attached but with Clio I knew I wouldn’t have to worry. I felt attached to everyone and just wanted to happily ever after for them all.
Well what else can I say but Why not read this book ;)
Having a beautiful curvy woman wanted by so many men is very healing in so many ways and Evie was absolutely stunning. Although there were times I wanted to shake some sense into her she was such an incredible FMC for this story and brought so much good out of these men.
Matthew was such a humble and understanding character. But gosh when he gets to the bedroom he comes a completely different man. Ahhhh Matthew.
Nick on the other hand was my pierced and tattooed bad boy after my own heart. Give me some piercings and a tattoo and I’ll be sold any day. And I think Evie would agree with me.
But honestly we need to talk about my favourite character of all. Austin Whynot. My heart broke for Austin repeatedly. His self doubt, his burnout. I was cheering him on every step of the way. Out of everyone, even since book one he deserved his happy ending. All I wanted to do was hold him and take all his pain and worry away. Austin really needed these 3, just as much as they needed him.
My biggest worry in MMMF is that we won't learn enough about specific characters to get attached but with Clio I knew I wouldn’t have to worry. I felt attached to everyone and just wanted to happily ever after for them all.
Well what else can I say but Why not read this book ;)
Review of advance copy received from Autor
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
I wasn't expecting this ARC at all and when it arrived in my inbox it made me very happy.
I have loved all Whynot books so far, so I knew this one was not going to be an exception.
Evie is a character that I wanted to see thriving, and Austin had my whole heart since day one. Since his father's death, he has always had the weight of the world on his shoulders and he doesn't know how to share that burden and let himself be loved. Matthew is adorable, nerds are always my favourite people. Add slutty little glasses and I am a puddle on the floor. And Nick, OMG. What to say about Nick. The way he and Austin are the only ones who don't know they are absolutely crazy for each other is hilarious.
I loved how naturally everything develops, and the spicy scenes are top-notch, as usual. The fact that we get one-on-one encounters as well is amazing, because they need to nurture their relationships individually as well and not only as a whole. I specially liked Nick and Austin's scene at Austin's house, Austin's vulnerability and the way he finally gives in.
It has been an amazing read and I already miss my Whynot family.
100% recommended!
Happy reading! 🥰
I wasn't expecting this ARC at all and when it arrived in my inbox it made me very happy.
I have loved all Whynot books so far, so I knew this one was not going to be an exception.
Evie is a character that I wanted to see thriving, and Austin had my whole heart since day one. Since his father's death, he has always had the weight of the world on his shoulders and he doesn't know how to share that burden and let himself be loved. Matthew is adorable, nerds are always my favourite people. Add slutty little glasses and I am a puddle on the floor. And Nick, OMG. What to say about Nick. The way he and Austin are the only ones who don't know they are absolutely crazy for each other is hilarious.
I loved how naturally everything develops, and the spicy scenes are top-notch, as usual. The fact that we get one-on-one encounters as well is amazing, because they need to nurture their relationships individually as well and not only as a whole. I specially liked Nick and Austin's scene at Austin's house, Austin's vulnerability and the way he finally gives in.
It has been an amazing read and I already miss my Whynot family.
100% recommended!
Happy reading! 🥰
March 21, 2026
I have really enjoyed every book in Clio Evan’s charming little Why Not trilogy - what’s not to love about a small town where everyone is bisexual and polyamorous?! Frankly sounds like paradise.
Prickly Pair was another highly enjoyable read - super spicy with a big slice of kinky fun and a whole lot of heart. Each character felt fleshed out and vivid, with their own journeys and enough air time in POV chapters to do them justice. I really enjoyed the enemies to lovers vibe with Nick and Austin and the hurt/comfort trope. Matthew was such a gentle and grounding character and I loved seeing both Nick and Austin’s vulnerability as the story went on. Evie was a delight and it was really nice to see our favourite characters from Cactus Heart and Thorn Kiss again!
Prickly Pair is an ideal contemporary romance if you’re looking for an easy read that’s full of heart and packed with spicy scenes - and Clio really does do excellent spice! Would def recommend to anyone who loves a why choose where the boyfriends are boyfriends too ♥️
I received an ARC and am leaving a review voluntarily ♥️
Prickly Pair was another highly enjoyable read - super spicy with a big slice of kinky fun and a whole lot of heart. Each character felt fleshed out and vivid, with their own journeys and enough air time in POV chapters to do them justice. I really enjoyed the enemies to lovers vibe with Nick and Austin and the hurt/comfort trope. Matthew was such a gentle and grounding character and I loved seeing both Nick and Austin’s vulnerability as the story went on. Evie was a delight and it was really nice to see our favourite characters from Cactus Heart and Thorn Kiss again!
Prickly Pair is an ideal contemporary romance if you’re looking for an easy read that’s full of heart and packed with spicy scenes - and Clio really does do excellent spice! Would def recommend to anyone who loves a why choose where the boyfriends are boyfriends too ♥️
I received an ARC and am leaving a review voluntarily ♥️
March 22, 2026
These four? Absolute dynamite together.
This story leans heavily into the spice (and I am not complaining), with just a light thread of mystery running underneath. The situation with debt collector wrapped up quickly, but not in the way I expected, which kept things interesting.
And listen… the male whimpering? Elite. I loved every second.
The dynamic between all four characters is what really makes this shine. I love when all the boyfriends are boyfriends, yet still completely obsessed with her. It’s chaotic, affectionate, and so fun to watch unfold. As always with this series, the men are adorable little freaks and I’m here for it.
Austin’s arc hit surprisingly deep. The burnout and emotional exhaustion felt very real, and I loved seeing him slowly come back to himself. Matthew brought that steady, take-charge energy (in and out of the bedroom), while Nick balanced things out with his playful, bratty chaos and genuinely sweet vulnerability.
And Evie? Sweet, soft… and absolutely thriving with her men. As she should.
Spicy, chaotic, and full of found family vibes another fun installment (and wrap up) for the Whynot series.
This story leans heavily into the spice (and I am not complaining), with just a light thread of mystery running underneath. The situation with debt collector wrapped up quickly, but not in the way I expected, which kept things interesting.
And listen… the male whimpering? Elite. I loved every second.
The dynamic between all four characters is what really makes this shine. I love when all the boyfriends are boyfriends, yet still completely obsessed with her. It’s chaotic, affectionate, and so fun to watch unfold. As always with this series, the men are adorable little freaks and I’m here for it.
Austin’s arc hit surprisingly deep. The burnout and emotional exhaustion felt very real, and I loved seeing him slowly come back to himself. Matthew brought that steady, take-charge energy (in and out of the bedroom), while Nick balanced things out with his playful, bratty chaos and genuinely sweet vulnerability.
And Evie? Sweet, soft… and absolutely thriving with her men. As she should.
Spicy, chaotic, and full of found family vibes another fun installment (and wrap up) for the Whynot series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 23, 2026
Since I found Creature Cafe, Clio Evans has been one of my auto-read authors. This was the perfect conclusion for the Whynot series. After book 2, I desperately wanted to know where Austin & Evie's story would go. I mean, we had to keep with the theme of "best friend's sibling". But Nick and Matthew were the perfect additions to that love square. If Whynot was a real town, I'd certainly be there looking for my HEA.
Evie is fiercely loyal, so understanding, and such a well thoughtout FMC. Matthew is the hot doctor, brought to Whynot by a depressing circumstance. Nick, a Whynot native, is back in his hometown after escaping for years. Austin is essentially the glue of Whynot. I loved seeing how all their paths crossed and how each person encouraged each individual relationship as well as the quad's relationship.
This story was MMMF to a tea! This also may have been one of the spiciest books I've read from Clio. Those 4 could not keep their hands off each other and I loved every second of it. Their individual moments (especially the men) were hot, but the 4 of them together was an inferno!
Thank you to Clio Evans and her team for the opportunity to review!
Evie is fiercely loyal, so understanding, and such a well thoughtout FMC. Matthew is the hot doctor, brought to Whynot by a depressing circumstance. Nick, a Whynot native, is back in his hometown after escaping for years. Austin is essentially the glue of Whynot. I loved seeing how all their paths crossed and how each person encouraged each individual relationship as well as the quad's relationship.
This story was MMMF to a tea! This also may have been one of the spiciest books I've read from Clio. Those 4 could not keep their hands off each other and I loved every second of it. Their individual moments (especially the men) were hot, but the 4 of them together was an inferno!
Thank you to Clio Evans and her team for the opportunity to review!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I had the absolute honor of receiving an Advance Reader Copy from Clio Evans of Prickly Pear. This story follows Lucky the cat as he gains 4 amazing parents! Okay maybe it’s not about the cat but in my mind it was. Our main character Evie has been on plenty of bad dates before but this one at a side stop may be the worst. Thankfully Nick, Lucky’s dad, shows up in all his tattoos and delish mullet to interrupt. After an amazing date with Nick, Evie returns to normal life running her bakery in Whynot, Texas. While floating on cloud nine a medical emergency strikes and thankfully a handsome doctor is quick to help and seduce. Entering the chat we meet Matthew, a very dominant doctor who fits well with Evie and Nick. The only issue is Evie’s heart partially belongs to Austin, who is a childhood rival of Nick. The two know no bounds when it comes to hatred and anger. Can these two come together to ensure these four people can be the perfect cat parents?
March 23, 2026
THIS WAS PERFECT.
I absolutely loved every dang second of this book, easily just became my favorite of the series!!!! I cannot scream enough how good this one is, the characters, the story, absolutely so good. I devoured it.
Nick, Evie, Matthew & Austin were the best characters. I loved how every single one of them had their issues & hang ups & quirks. they all battled something throughout this series & clio wrapped it up so beautifully & wonderfully. they all healed just the way they needed it & it was beautiful to see the growth & love between these four!
I am so sad to be leaving why not truly bc I have grown to genuinely love these characters in a short time & I can’t wait to see where Clio takes her small town romances next 🫶🏼
read if you like
✨FMMM
🩵healing together
✨rivals to lovers
🩵best friends brother
✨ONS
🩵friends to lovers
✨small town
🩵suspense
✨mental health rep
I absolutely loved every dang second of this book, easily just became my favorite of the series!!!! I cannot scream enough how good this one is, the characters, the story, absolutely so good. I devoured it.
Nick, Evie, Matthew & Austin were the best characters. I loved how every single one of them had their issues & hang ups & quirks. they all battled something throughout this series & clio wrapped it up so beautifully & wonderfully. they all healed just the way they needed it & it was beautiful to see the growth & love between these four!
I am so sad to be leaving why not truly bc I have grown to genuinely love these characters in a short time & I can’t wait to see where Clio takes her small town romances next 🫶🏼
read if you like
✨FMMM
🩵healing together
✨rivals to lovers
🩵best friends brother
✨ONS
🩵friends to lovers
✨small town
🩵suspense
✨mental health rep
Review of advance copy received from Author
I am so sad this series is now over, it has been on of my favorites for sure! But if your going to end a series, Why Not end it with the spiciest book of the trilogy!!! (pun intended)
I have thoroughly enjoyed my time hanging out in Whynot, Tx with all of these couples, but this book might be my absolute favourite of the bunch. I knew I was going to love Austin and Evie's book and boy was I right. I also really loved that there was no third act break-up in this book, its my least favourite trope, next to miscommunication. We got a little bit of that in here, but it was quickly resolved and all was well in the world.
The ending was perfect, and the epilogue helped finish off this series perfectly!
Thank you Clio for the opportunity to read this book before the release!
I have thoroughly enjoyed my time hanging out in Whynot, Tx with all of these couples, but this book might be my absolute favourite of the bunch. I knew I was going to love Austin and Evie's book and boy was I right. I also really loved that there was no third act break-up in this book, its my least favourite trope, next to miscommunication. We got a little bit of that in here, but it was quickly resolved and all was well in the world.
The ending was perfect, and the epilogue helped finish off this series perfectly!
Thank you Clio for the opportunity to read this book before the release!
March 20, 2026
Why Choose is one of my favorite genres and extra points when the boyfriends are boyfriends. Clio Evans has written some of my favorite why choose romance and I think this one is my top favorite. All of the characters are relatable from Evie learning to listen to herself, the care for others Nick has, the warmth Matthew has for everyone, and Austin's growth in self-care. Austin won my heart through this book because I love a harden softie that shoulders the world and has to learn to finally take care of himself. I loved watching Austin get his soft place to land and his HEA. I think this was a great send off to Whynot Texas. Clio Evans crafted a story full of love, care, and growth and I think everyone should read it.
Review of advance copy received from Author
My original rating is 4 1/2 but you can't do halfs on this app.
When Clio had mentioned that this was the most spicest book out of the series, she wasn't kidding. And I loved every bit of it! It got me so hooked that I ended up loving all of the characters and their dynamics.
Seeing how each one learns how to love and live with each other, was so sweet. Each character had their own personality and story, it makes you sympathetic to each and every one of them. knowing that this is the finale book in the trilogy makes me sad because I would love to read more. Understand new characters or perspectives in different timelines if their lives. The ending was the perfect sendoff and I just about giggled until the very end.
When Clio had mentioned that this was the most spicest book out of the series, she wasn't kidding. And I loved every bit of it! It got me so hooked that I ended up loving all of the characters and their dynamics.
Seeing how each one learns how to love and live with each other, was so sweet. Each character had their own personality and story, it makes you sympathetic to each and every one of them. knowing that this is the finale book in the trilogy makes me sad because I would love to read more. Understand new characters or perspectives in different timelines if their lives. The ending was the perfect sendoff and I just about giggled until the very end.
Review of advance copy received from Author
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🍒🍒🍒🍒
This was the perfect ending to such an AMAZING series. I really don’t want to leave Whynot - but I know I’m leaving it in great hands.
Evie, Matthew, Nick and Austin fit so well together. I especially loved the development of Nick’s character with everyone and how complete he feels by the end of the story. He craved stability and a family so badly and he absolutely found it after moving back home to Whynot.
I love how Clio is able to write her poly relationships that all compliment each other with understanding and minimal jealousy. Why choose is one of my favorite genres and Clio Evans does it so well.
I also would just like to say that OF COURSE Nick and Austin always loved each other.
Thank you to Clio Evans and her team for this ARC of Prickly Pair!
🍒🍒🍒🍒
This was the perfect ending to such an AMAZING series. I really don’t want to leave Whynot - but I know I’m leaving it in great hands.
Evie, Matthew, Nick and Austin fit so well together. I especially loved the development of Nick’s character with everyone and how complete he feels by the end of the story. He craved stability and a family so badly and he absolutely found it after moving back home to Whynot.
I love how Clio is able to write her poly relationships that all compliment each other with understanding and minimal jealousy. Why choose is one of my favorite genres and Clio Evans does it so well.
I also would just like to say that OF COURSE Nick and Austin always loved each other.
Thank you to Clio Evans and her team for this ARC of Prickly Pair!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This is my dream... I want to be Evie.
I want 3 boyfriends, and I want them to be boyfriends too. Please and thankyou Universe.
This was hands down my favourite of the series. Evie, Austin, Nick and Matthew all brought their own unique flavour to this party. Hidden underneath all their insecurities were kinky little hearts just wanting to be loved.
I absolutely adored how each and every relationship started and developed differently, and wasn't all just one big constant foursome.
The found family is top tier, I am so sad to say goodbye to Whynot. This kinky little town was such a fun time every time we take a romp through it.
I want 3 boyfriends, and I want them to be boyfriends too. Please and thankyou Universe.
This was hands down my favourite of the series. Evie, Austin, Nick and Matthew all brought their own unique flavour to this party. Hidden underneath all their insecurities were kinky little hearts just wanting to be loved.
I absolutely adored how each and every relationship started and developed differently, and wasn't all just one big constant foursome.
The found family is top tier, I am so sad to say goodbye to Whynot. This kinky little town was such a fun time every time we take a romp through it.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you to the author for a copy of this book.
This was a sweet wrap up to the Whynot series. I'm so sad to see it go! I loved Matthew and Nick from the get-go and grew to love Austin as well, and I'm so glad Evie found all of them. Everyone worked so well together, They make such a great found family. It always makes me so happy that the people in Clio's books feel like real people, insecurities and everything, not the perfect book versions.
This book is spicy from the very beginning and doesn't let up! It was really nice to get scenes with everyone but also have a few scenes with 2 people, giving each relationship room to grow.
This was a sweet wrap up to the Whynot series. I'm so sad to see it go! I loved Matthew and Nick from the get-go and grew to love Austin as well, and I'm so glad Evie found all of them. Everyone worked so well together, They make such a great found family. It always makes me so happy that the people in Clio's books feel like real people, insecurities and everything, not the perfect book versions.
This book is spicy from the very beginning and doesn't let up! It was really nice to get scenes with everyone but also have a few scenes with 2 people, giving each relationship room to grow.
Review of advance copy received from Author
[I was provided an ARC by the author in exchange for an honest review.]
•MMMF poly romance
•small town
friends to lovers
•one night stand
•rivals to lovers
ANOTHER BANGER FROM CLIO EVANS!
once again, I could not put this book down! I loved every second of it.
I loved the hate-flirting between nick and austin. they are both so hot and so dumb thinking they hated each other🤭
matthew being everyone’s voice is reason was so perfect for their dynamic. I too need a water dom🙂↕️
and I love love love evieeee!! what a baddie.
also, nick steele is the loml btw. you can’t have him.
5/5 ⭐️
3/5 spice rating🌶️
•MMMF poly romance
•small town
friends to lovers
•one night stand
•rivals to lovers
ANOTHER BANGER FROM CLIO EVANS!
once again, I could not put this book down! I loved every second of it.
I loved the hate-flirting between nick and austin. they are both so hot and so dumb thinking they hated each other🤭
matthew being everyone’s voice is reason was so perfect for their dynamic. I too need a water dom🙂↕️
and I love love love evieeee!! what a baddie.
also, nick steele is the loml btw. you can’t have him.
5/5 ⭐️
3/5 spice rating🌶️
March 19, 2026
I received an ARC of this and I’m so happy I did. This is my favorite series ever! The characters are so well written. I recently lost my dad so I totally understand grief. She wrote Austin so well I thought I was reading about myself. Each book I usually have a favorite character but it was so hard to pick one this time. Evie was so such a sweetheart with a dirty mind. Matthew was caring and warm. Nick was such a smart ass, dirty mouth, brat. I loved him. Austin is such a teddy bear underneath his sadness. I just wanted to hold him the entire book. Great ending to an amazing series.
Review of advance copy received from Indie Reviewers
ARC Review-
This series was overall fantastic!
Who doesn’t love a story were your boyfriends are boyfriends, I loved how these 4 idiots in love just worked together so well, and the hate between two of them just made more things tense and spicier.
The whole grounding of the characters and their connection was brilliant that you were just rooting for them from the start and how they all listened to each other and understood and helped was so human.
The whole Whynot series was brilliant, Clio’s writing impresses me more and more with each amazing story she writes.
This series was overall fantastic!
Who doesn’t love a story were your boyfriends are boyfriends, I loved how these 4 idiots in love just worked together so well, and the hate between two of them just made more things tense and spicier.
The whole grounding of the characters and their connection was brilliant that you were just rooting for them from the start and how they all listened to each other and understood and helped was so human.
The whole Whynot series was brilliant, Clio’s writing impresses me more and more with each amazing story she writes.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 21, 2026
I enjoyed this one! Clio def went straight for the spice in Prickly Pair but there’s plenty of plot too! I really loved (as did everyone else in the book lol) watching Nick and Austin “hate” each other when really they wanted to love each other. It was so satisfying to see them finally get past their hang ups. And of course I love Evie and Matthew and the four of them in all their iterations. This was a fun, spicy, sweet romance with a touch of suspense which I’m always here for.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I honestly don't know how Cilo does it!!! I've never wanted so much to live in a fictional town as I do whynot, with the amazing people(characters) that love there. This story follows Evie, Austin, Matthew, and Nick. Its a beautiful story of dealing with grief and the many ways it can manifest focusing mainly on Austin and how imhis people support him. If you loved the first two books you definitely love this one!
Review of advance copy received from Author
**ARC REVIEW**
AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHJ
I want to say this one’s my favorite but it’s so hard to choose. I love this series so much. Ugh EVIE 💕 my heart. I’m so happy she has so many people going for her. Everyone of those men are so crazy attractive in their own right.
Nick and Austin’s rivalry has me rattling at the doors of my enclosure and Matthew… MATTHEW ugh the hot nerd doctor…be still my heart!
This book is not a slow burn for sure and it comes at you full force and with every it’s got. I preordered this before the arc wasn’t even available to apply for haha
This is an emotional roller coaster full of a poly relationship finding themselves even in all parts of eachother, especially the dark parts.
AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHJ
I want to say this one’s my favorite but it’s so hard to choose. I love this series so much. Ugh EVIE 💕 my heart. I’m so happy she has so many people going for her. Everyone of those men are so crazy attractive in their own right.
Nick and Austin’s rivalry has me rattling at the doors of my enclosure and Matthew… MATTHEW ugh the hot nerd doctor…be still my heart!
This book is not a slow burn for sure and it comes at you full force and with every it’s got. I preordered this before the arc wasn’t even available to apply for haha
This is an emotional roller coaster full of a poly relationship finding themselves even in all parts of eachother, especially the dark parts.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This was so fun! Definitely my favorite in the Whynot Series. Evie is adorable and I love her confidence. Nick was by far my favorite with his chaotic energy. Austin and Matthew were a great balance for the group. This was very spicy and truly enjoyable to read. The found family and small town are perfect in this series and are my favorite parts by far!
March 21, 2026
After reading the other 2 books in this series & being gifted an ARC of this I was so excited to finally read Evie’s book! And finally get to read from Austin’s POV!
I really enjoyed this book & it felt like the perfect end to the Whynot series! The chemistry between the characters was perfect & as always the spice was incredible! A brilliant MMMF story!! 4.5⭐️🩷
I really enjoyed this book & it felt like the perfect end to the Whynot series! The chemistry between the characters was perfect & as always the spice was incredible! A brilliant MMMF story!! 4.5⭐️🩷
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book dives into the world of why not once again and was a very addictive read. The inter relationships between Evie, Austin, Matthew and Nick was gripping, the complexities of the characters were so in depth. The smut was also top tier and had unique aspects to it, not your average polyam smut book
Review of advance copy received from Author
3.5 I liked Austin and Evie together. There is lots and lots of spice. If you like mmfm, definitely check this out. I’m sad to see this series end- I think
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