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Unpredictable #1
Not That Guy
Not him.
Not that guy, Weston Lively.
The one I've hated since law school.
The man who gets by on good looks, a fat bank account, and a powerful, political father.
Our more-than-just-a-kiss one drunken night changes nothing between us.
We’re both still straight.
And we still hate each other.
It doesn’t matter that we work for the same law firm.
We’ve put what happened behind us.
Except....oops.
It might’ve happened again.
And again.
Hmm.
Maybe we don’t really hate each other anymore.
But there’s a bigger roadblock in our way.
Weston’s evil father.
The two of us together could ruin his chance at becoming President.
Especially with the press digging into my past and haunting our every move.
Then his father makes Weston a terrible offer he might not be able to refuse.
It would mean breaking us apart.
And breaking our hearts.
It was easier when I hated him.
Now I can’t imagine walking away.
How did the man I once hated with a fiery passion become the one who now sets my soul on fire?
Not that guy, Weston Lively.
The one I've hated since law school.
The man who gets by on good looks, a fat bank account, and a powerful, political father.
Our more-than-just-a-kiss one drunken night changes nothing between us.
We’re both still straight.
And we still hate each other.
It doesn’t matter that we work for the same law firm.
We’ve put what happened behind us.
Except....oops.
It might’ve happened again.
And again.
Hmm.
Maybe we don’t really hate each other anymore.
But there’s a bigger roadblock in our way.
Weston’s evil father.
The two of us together could ruin his chance at becoming President.
Especially with the press digging into my past and haunting our every move.
Then his father makes Weston a terrible offer he might not be able to refuse.
It would mean breaking us apart.
And breaking our hearts.
It was easier when I hated him.
Now I can’t imagine walking away.
How did the man I once hated with a fiery passion become the one who now sets my soul on fire?
281 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 15, 2025
167 people are currently reading
294 people want to read
About the author
Felice Stevens
89 books1,717 followersFelice Stevens writes romance because what is better than people falling in love? Her favorite part of a romance novel is that first kiss…sigh. She loves creating stories of hopes and dreams and happily ever afters. Her stories are character-driven, rich with the sights, sounds and flavors of New York City and filled with men who are sometimes deeply flawed but always real.
Felice writes M/M romance because she believes that everyone deserves a happily ever after. Having traveled all over the world, she can safely say that the universal language that unites people is love. Felice has written in a variety of sub-genres, including contemporary, paranormal and has a mystery series as well.
Felice is a two-time Lambda Literary Award nominee and the Lambda award-winner for Best Gay Romance for her book, The Ghost and Charlie Muir, as well as the e-Lit gold medal winner in romance for Broken Silence.
Felice writes M/M romance because she believes that everyone deserves a happily ever after. Having traveled all over the world, she can safely say that the universal language that unites people is love. Felice has written in a variety of sub-genres, including contemporary, paranormal and has a mystery series as well.
Felice is a two-time Lambda Literary Award nominee and the Lambda award-winner for Best Gay Romance for her book, The Ghost and Charlie Muir, as well as the e-Lit gold medal winner in romance for Broken Silence.
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October 3, 2025
Not That Guy by Felice Stevens is an Enemies to Lovers, MM romance. This is the story of two men that met in law school and instantly became rivals. They constantly were trying to best the other. One of them came from money and politics, the other a scholarship student, a foster child trying to make his foster father proud. Years later when they saw each other again, that old animosity was still there, but there was something else too. Sparks they couldn’t ignore. Sparks that became a flame that was destined to become more.
Weston Lively is the Senator’s son. But he wants nothing to do with his father. He went his own way and went to the school of his choice to be a lawyer. Did he have a chip on his shoulder during law school? Yes, but it was his armor. He also greatly enjoyed poking the bear when it came to fellow law student, Brenner. It made him work harder than ever, just to win. Now, years later, Weston is thirty nine. He’s a partner at a successful firm and still dealing with his animosity towards his father. When he runs into his old rival in a bar, things take a surprising turn and it changes everything.
Brenner Fleming couldn’t stand Weston. But that rivalry made him work harder than ever through law school. Then years later, when he runs into him in a bar, their rivalry takes a surprising turn.
One year after that night, Brenner is now working for the same firm as Weston. They need to learn to get past their feelings against each other now that they are co-workers. When his life takes another shocking turn, it’s West that is there for him, that stands by his side, and their relationship changes again. Because all those feelings over the years might have just been leading up to something surprising. Something neither of them ever saw coming! Weston’s father, though, is now running for president, and is not happy to hear his son is in a relationship with a man. With a powerful father against them, the press constantly on their heels, not to mention the huge differences between them, is there any chance for them? Or do none of these things matter in the face of true love?
I’ll just start by saying that enemies to lovers isn’t my favorite trope. I get too emotionally involved with the characters and worry about how they are feeling. I’m such a sap and I know it’s ridiculous. I can’t help it. So, it took me a little longer to warm up to these two. When they started to give in to their feelings, I fell for them at the same time. The ending was super sweet. There is going to be another book on two of the side characters which I’m so excited about and we’re promised a little more on these two. I can’t wait.
Weston Lively is the Senator’s son. But he wants nothing to do with his father. He went his own way and went to the school of his choice to be a lawyer. Did he have a chip on his shoulder during law school? Yes, but it was his armor. He also greatly enjoyed poking the bear when it came to fellow law student, Brenner. It made him work harder than ever, just to win. Now, years later, Weston is thirty nine. He’s a partner at a successful firm and still dealing with his animosity towards his father. When he runs into his old rival in a bar, things take a surprising turn and it changes everything.
Brenner Fleming couldn’t stand Weston. But that rivalry made him work harder than ever through law school. Then years later, when he runs into him in a bar, their rivalry takes a surprising turn.
One year after that night, Brenner is now working for the same firm as Weston. They need to learn to get past their feelings against each other now that they are co-workers. When his life takes another shocking turn, it’s West that is there for him, that stands by his side, and their relationship changes again. Because all those feelings over the years might have just been leading up to something surprising. Something neither of them ever saw coming! Weston’s father, though, is now running for president, and is not happy to hear his son is in a relationship with a man. With a powerful father against them, the press constantly on their heels, not to mention the huge differences between them, is there any chance for them? Or do none of these things matter in the face of true love?
I’ll just start by saying that enemies to lovers isn’t my favorite trope. I get too emotionally involved with the characters and worry about how they are feeling. I’m such a sap and I know it’s ridiculous. I can’t help it. So, it took me a little longer to warm up to these two. When they started to give in to their feelings, I fell for them at the same time. The ending was super sweet. There is going to be another book on two of the side characters which I’m so excited about and we’re promised a little more on these two. I can’t wait.
September 10, 2025
Yes there's definitely enemies to lovers in this one - not two pages of I don't like you but let's go sleep together and we're in love - but years of attrition and competition to get over.
Both lawyers, this adds another dimension to this romance as Brenner and Weston end up at the same prestigious firm dealing with marriage break-ups, divorce and custody battles, as well as their own mixed up college years.
Misconceptions about who each other are provides the driving forces behind the hatred which, when it comes down to it, has more to do with resentment and feelings of self-doubt, coupled with somewhat angsty childhoods.
Felice never makes this overly dramatic though, it's not a depressing drag hearing about how each man grew up, instead it provides insights into why they clashed from the start when they met at law school.
Coupled with a drunken encounter that leads to a bisexual awakening for both men, the absolute best thing about this book is that neither of them goes into masses of introspective reasoning over the fact they're attracted to someone of the same sex.
The disquiet in both men is WHO it is that they can't stay away from, not what sex they are and I really loved how, once they'd begun to talk to each other and finally discover their misunderstandings, the attraction element is just not an issue at all.
They explore and experiment together, learning as they go, and it's super sweet to see them both take the time to work out how to do things and how to make sure they're constantly talking and reassuring the other's feelings.
The majority of the tension in this narrative, once they're together, comes from Weston's absolute dick of a father, a US Senator running for Presidential candidate. He's another of those should never have had kids arseholes and he's been riding West to back his campaign by threatening to never let him meet his now four-year-old half sister.
It's when the proverbial hits the fan that these two men come into their own, fighting for their relationship in the face of media pressure and their own doubts.
Family is always such a big part of Felice's stories and here she throws fathers under the microscope with the contract between West's scheming one and Brenner's wonderfully supportive foster dad.
There are still a few surprises to come before we reach a well-deserved HEA and I loved every bit of the journey. Oh and I also very much appreciated the guest appearances of Christine, Madden and Archer from Just One Night.
#ARC kindly received from the author, I am voluntarily leaving a review
Both lawyers, this adds another dimension to this romance as Brenner and Weston end up at the same prestigious firm dealing with marriage break-ups, divorce and custody battles, as well as their own mixed up college years.
Misconceptions about who each other are provides the driving forces behind the hatred which, when it comes down to it, has more to do with resentment and feelings of self-doubt, coupled with somewhat angsty childhoods.
Felice never makes this overly dramatic though, it's not a depressing drag hearing about how each man grew up, instead it provides insights into why they clashed from the start when they met at law school.
Coupled with a drunken encounter that leads to a bisexual awakening for both men, the absolute best thing about this book is that neither of them goes into masses of introspective reasoning over the fact they're attracted to someone of the same sex.
The disquiet in both men is WHO it is that they can't stay away from, not what sex they are and I really loved how, once they'd begun to talk to each other and finally discover their misunderstandings, the attraction element is just not an issue at all.
They explore and experiment together, learning as they go, and it's super sweet to see them both take the time to work out how to do things and how to make sure they're constantly talking and reassuring the other's feelings.
The majority of the tension in this narrative, once they're together, comes from Weston's absolute dick of a father, a US Senator running for Presidential candidate. He's another of those should never have had kids arseholes and he's been riding West to back his campaign by threatening to never let him meet his now four-year-old half sister.
It's when the proverbial hits the fan that these two men come into their own, fighting for their relationship in the face of media pressure and their own doubts.
Family is always such a big part of Felice's stories and here she throws fathers under the microscope with the contract between West's scheming one and Brenner's wonderfully supportive foster dad.
There are still a few surprises to come before we reach a well-deserved HEA and I loved every bit of the journey. Oh and I also very much appreciated the guest appearances of Christine, Madden and Archer from Just One Night.
#ARC kindly received from the author, I am voluntarily leaving a review
September 15, 2025
"Contrary to what I’d anticipated, it was nice to have someone to come home to and eat dinner with. And true to what he’d insisted, Weston wasn’t the sarcastic, showboating asshole he’d been in school. We shared similar tastes in television, sports teams, and movies. We were politically compatible and— although I hated to admit it— he was funny as hell. Every day, that wall of anger I’d built toward him tumbled down, brick by brick."
Not That Guy: An Enemies to Lovers M/M Romance by new-to-me author Felice Stevens is an endearing MM romance, with so many of my favourite tropes. Loved Weston and Brenner's chemistry and banter and their united front in the face of adversity. Super cute!
What To Expect:
🏢MM romance
🏢Rivals to lovers
🏢Office romance
🏢Double bi-awakening
🏢Steamy first times
🏢Low angst
🏢HEA
4 stars
Not That Guy: An Enemies to Lovers M/M Romance by new-to-me author Felice Stevens is an endearing MM romance, with so many of my favourite tropes. Loved Weston and Brenner's chemistry and banter and their united front in the face of adversity. Super cute!
What To Expect:
🏢MM romance
🏢Rivals to lovers
🏢Office romance
🏢Double bi-awakening
🏢Steamy first times
🏢Low angst
🏢HEA
4 stars
September 21, 2025
Review to come, I’m unwell😩😭
September 20, 2025
Will forever be a sucker for the, I hate you so much I’m going to kiss you vibes.
October 10, 2025
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.25 stars
Not That Guy is a double bisexual-awakening, enemies-to-lovers story about two long-time rivals finding new common ground and mutual attraction. They are reasonable men, except within each other’s orbit. That said, there are a couple of tense moments that lead Brenner and Weston to connect in more than sexual ways. Brenner is unexpectedly injured, and Weston becomes his temporary caretaker. This prolonged proximity creates a safe space for continued exploration and emotional connection. I enjoyed experiencing their changes of heart, and getting past their superficial posturing.
While fine as a standalone, readers of Just One Night will appreciate some cameos from the MCs and secondary characters of that story in Not That Guy. Expect a decidedly happy ending, though the situation with Weston’s father was both unpleasant and resolved conveniently quickly.
I’m eager to see what happens next, as some breadcrumbs have been dropped portending a possible next book featuring a side character finding love.
Read Veronica’s review in its entirety here.
4.25 stars
Not That Guy is a double bisexual-awakening, enemies-to-lovers story about two long-time rivals finding new common ground and mutual attraction. They are reasonable men, except within each other’s orbit. That said, there are a couple of tense moments that lead Brenner and Weston to connect in more than sexual ways. Brenner is unexpectedly injured, and Weston becomes his temporary caretaker. This prolonged proximity creates a safe space for continued exploration and emotional connection. I enjoyed experiencing their changes of heart, and getting past their superficial posturing.
While fine as a standalone, readers of Just One Night will appreciate some cameos from the MCs and secondary characters of that story in Not That Guy. Expect a decidedly happy ending, though the situation with Weston’s father was both unpleasant and resolved conveniently quickly.
I’m eager to see what happens next, as some breadcrumbs have been dropped portending a possible next book featuring a side character finding love.
Read Veronica’s review in its entirety here.
September 9, 2025
brenner & weston - 4 stars 🩵 this was so much fun!! had rom-com vibes to me. now i looove a good enemies to lovers so i was so happy to get a copy of this book and it didn’t disappoint. i always love a good academic rivalry so it was very fun that they were competitive rivals in law school and i do love a good hook up before anything romantic and then they realise they can’t stop thinking about each other. the book was well paced and i loved watching our mc’s grow and fall in love cause these two fell HARD. the only thing i didn’t particularly like is i personally hateeee the meddling/nosy friend or coworker trope 😭😭 like baby it’s none of your business what our mc’s are doing!!🤣☝🏼 that being said, it’s a very minute thing and not something that affected how much i loved this book because i did. brenner and weston are my babies and deserved their hea, i heard this will be a duet with another book coming soon so im definitely excited to read that!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews and I am voluntarily leaving a review :)
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews and I am voluntarily leaving a review :)
September 21, 2025
Not That Guy by Felice Stevens is book 1 in this duet. Brenner and Weston have been at odds for fifteen year stemming from a contentious relationship in law school. When the two hook up, it becomes difficult for them to move on. I loved the banter between the two and how Weston loved getting under Brenner’s skin. I also really enjoyed how they finally admitted that they cared about each other (Weston taking care of Brenner after he was attacked). I didn’t really enjoy Weston’s Republican father because it left such a sour taste in my mouth due to actual events. But the ending was sweet and I’m looking forward to Bailey’s story,
I received an ARC from GRR for my honest review.
I received an ARC from GRR for my honest review.
September 14, 2025
Not That Guy is a enemies to lovers M/M Romance.
This book is a fantastic MM Romance that was so hard to put down! It kept me up all night long! I think the author did a fantastic job with the storyline, and the characters. I enjoyed the details that made the characters feel realistic, and the story relatable to some readers. If you enjoy MM romance than I would highly recommend adding this book to your TBR! I can't wait to read more of this author work!
This book is a fantastic MM Romance that was so hard to put down! It kept me up all night long! I think the author did a fantastic job with the storyline, and the characters. I enjoyed the details that made the characters feel realistic, and the story relatable to some readers. If you enjoy MM romance than I would highly recommend adding this book to your TBR! I can't wait to read more of this author work!
October 24, 2025
5 stars for the narration, 4 for the story
An entertaining, if uneven, bi-awakening enemies-to-lovers romance with a bit of depth to it and wonderful narration by J.F. Harding.
An entertaining, if uneven, bi-awakening enemies-to-lovers romance with a bit of depth to it and wonderful narration by J.F. Harding.
September 15, 2025
One hookup, years of rivalry.A love story they never saw coming .
What a beautiful story I couldn’t stop reading, enemies to lovers it was so very good.
Brenner and Weston both lawyers met at law school they became complete rivals plus they came from completely different backgrounds.
They had a drunken hookup at one time which has left a lasting impression on both.
They meet again as the work as partners in the same firm.
There is no questioning their attraction to each other they just go with it .
This is such a beautiful love story.
All the supporting characters are written wonderfully written.
What a beautiful story I couldn’t stop reading, enemies to lovers it was so very good.
Brenner and Weston both lawyers met at law school they became complete rivals plus they came from completely different backgrounds.
They had a drunken hookup at one time which has left a lasting impression on both.
They meet again as the work as partners in the same firm.
There is no questioning their attraction to each other they just go with it .
This is such a beautiful love story.
All the supporting characters are written wonderfully written.
September 21, 2025
This was a such a quick read for me! The story had my attention from the get-go. If you love Bi-awakening, this I highly suggest to pick this one up. This is a workplace rivals that started in Law School that turn more towards “there's something there” on a night out. Weston who is a politician son and then you have Brenner who was a foster kid but ended up with very supportive foster parents. You can tell the hate stemmed from the lack of knowing each other and judgement (on both of their ends!) but seeing them get closer and closer as they start to learn more and more about not only each other but themselves. If you are looking for a steamy MM romance, Run to grab this one! You wont be disappointed.
December 13, 2025
This was a new-to-me author and I was happily surprised at how much I enjoyed this book. A slow, cute buildup and no romance crisis or miscommunication. Interesting side characters. There were a couple head-scratching moments.
October 9, 2025
This was a well written well paced story. It did get a little slow at one point, but there was a lot of characters and a lot of different things going on. They kept my attention.
September 15, 2025
Thanks to Happily Booked PR for the arc! Really enjoyed! Great characters & liked the banter. Also enjoyed the setting. Excited for more from this author!
October 9, 2025
An enemies to lovers story about two men whose past experiences have caused them to despise one another. At the same law school, it was all about one upmanship between them. Weston Liley is shown as a privileged, handsome, and arrogant individual from a politically powerful family. Brenner has worked hard all of his life, a foster kid, who's been lucky enough to be adopted by a lovely couple.
A year after a drunken one night stand, the two guys later find themselves working for the same firm, and gradually come together passionately, their connection developing into a deep, ' sets my soul on fire' love. However, their relationship isn't at all easy for them, they have to navigate not only their evolving feelings, but also the external pressures of family, career, and public scrutiny. Against all the odds the two just work.
“You are so much more. My safety net. The one I know will be there for me, like I’m there for you. I don’t care anymore either how or why this happened. It did, and I hope you know I’m all in with you."
Weston's evil father, (can't think of another way to describe him), and his political ambitions, are a real problem. Running for president, he has presented himself as anti gay. Weston and Brennan's relationship could jeopardise his chance at succeeding. This leads to an ultimatum that tests the commitment of the two. As usual, Felice handles the family dynamics perfectly, the contrast between Weston’s hateful father and Brenner’s supportive adoptive father, and his friends is stark.
I absolutely loved the characters in this book. I felt all the emotions and enjoyed both POVs... Brennan and Weston were so intense and yet so heartwarming ... such a sweet love story. There was humour and such a caring concern for each other. Really a great read. I highly recommend it.
“Ironic, isn’t it, that the boy I couldn’t stand to be in the same room with now becomes the man I can’t live without.” Our fingers laced together, Weston held up our entwined hands. “And that’s the only guy I want to be. Yours.”
A year after a drunken one night stand, the two guys later find themselves working for the same firm, and gradually come together passionately, their connection developing into a deep, ' sets my soul on fire' love. However, their relationship isn't at all easy for them, they have to navigate not only their evolving feelings, but also the external pressures of family, career, and public scrutiny. Against all the odds the two just work.
“You are so much more. My safety net. The one I know will be there for me, like I’m there for you. I don’t care anymore either how or why this happened. It did, and I hope you know I’m all in with you."
Weston's evil father, (can't think of another way to describe him), and his political ambitions, are a real problem. Running for president, he has presented himself as anti gay. Weston and Brennan's relationship could jeopardise his chance at succeeding. This leads to an ultimatum that tests the commitment of the two. As usual, Felice handles the family dynamics perfectly, the contrast between Weston’s hateful father and Brenner’s supportive adoptive father, and his friends is stark.
I absolutely loved the characters in this book. I felt all the emotions and enjoyed both POVs... Brennan and Weston were so intense and yet so heartwarming ... such a sweet love story. There was humour and such a caring concern for each other. Really a great read. I highly recommend it.
“Ironic, isn’t it, that the boy I couldn’t stand to be in the same room with now becomes the man I can’t live without.” Our fingers laced together, Weston held up our entwined hands. “And that’s the only guy I want to be. Yours.”
October 2, 2025
3.5 stars. Really enjoyed this one. The characters had amazing chemistry and kept me hooked. The ending dragged a bit, but overall it was still a great read.
December 6, 2025
***SPOILERS AHEAD***
I listened to the audio, and while I didn't think much of the story, JF Harding's narration was great and is the only reason I give this novel 2 stars.
What a horribly depressing world Ms. Stevens has created for her characters in this novel (and her other novels, for that matter). First, we have Brenner, a poor, orphaned former foster child who was lucky enough to eventually find a loving home. His mother, a child herself when he was born, was a drug addicted sex worker who exposed him to drugs. We later learn that after serving her sentence, she got sober only to be murdered by a corrupt cop. In Felice's world, being a foster child stains you for life. Aside from Brenner's friends and colleagues, everyone else in the world seems to believe that it is an irredeemable character flaw.
Then we have Weston. Poor Weston. He's a bit of a peacock, but it's all just a front to cover up the gaping wound caused by his father. Daddy dearest is a conservative "family values" style politician with presidential ambitions. Weston is already persona non grata in his father's life, and that's when he's still "straight." "Straight" Weston is somehow so terrible that he has never been allowed to meet his own sister. When dear old dad finds out Weston likes sucking dick in his spare time, pops levels up his evil villain era and threats, blackmail, and hijinks ensue.
Throw in some redneck bigots, a violent gay bashing, an involuntary outing by the press, and a sprinkle of public shaming by the press for the crime of being a foster child and the offspring of a drug addicted sex worker, and you've got yourself one helluva fun time.
In all seriousness, my issue isn't that the characters face adversity. I also don't necessarily have a problem with the sheer amount of adversity faced by each character. My problem is that I don't feel that Ms. Stevens handles these issues as delicately as she should. In real life, foster kids, especially ones who come from circumstances similar to those presented in this novel, have experienced a trauma that most of us can't even imagine. Isn't it bad enough that a character had to go through that experience as a child? Does that character also need to have most of society find him lacking and judge him for that experience? Does that character also have to experience the press digging into his parentage and shaming him for it? And isn't it enough that a drug addicted teenage mother was in bad enough circumstances that she had to turn to sex work to survive? Does she really need to have been murdered after getting out of jail? In a previous recent book by Ms. Stevens (I'm too lazy to look up which one), the main character's brother has both intellectual and physical disabilities and I believe he is non-verbal. The author writes the character as if he is some kind of social pariah who is laughed at and pointed at when out in public. As someone with a non-verbal, intellectually disabled family member, I found this portrayal insensitive and offensive. Like, come on! It is so backwards, unnecessary, and harmful to write about these characters as if they are pitiable and pathetic and as if they have little to no agency.
I think when writing about sensitive subjects that also happen to be things experienced by real people, it's important to reflect on how those things are portrayed. In this instance, I would suggest that the author ask herself, "If a young foster kid read my portrayal of that experience on both a personal and societal level, what message would they come away with?" In this case, I don't think the message is love and empowerment. The message is that you'd better find some good friends because you're going to need them when society kicks you in the teeth and treats you like you're a second class citizen and shames you for your background.
I listened to the audio, and while I didn't think much of the story, JF Harding's narration was great and is the only reason I give this novel 2 stars.
What a horribly depressing world Ms. Stevens has created for her characters in this novel (and her other novels, for that matter). First, we have Brenner, a poor, orphaned former foster child who was lucky enough to eventually find a loving home. His mother, a child herself when he was born, was a drug addicted sex worker who exposed him to drugs. We later learn that after serving her sentence, she got sober only to be murdered by a corrupt cop. In Felice's world, being a foster child stains you for life. Aside from Brenner's friends and colleagues, everyone else in the world seems to believe that it is an irredeemable character flaw.
Then we have Weston. Poor Weston. He's a bit of a peacock, but it's all just a front to cover up the gaping wound caused by his father. Daddy dearest is a conservative "family values" style politician with presidential ambitions. Weston is already persona non grata in his father's life, and that's when he's still "straight." "Straight" Weston is somehow so terrible that he has never been allowed to meet his own sister. When dear old dad finds out Weston likes sucking dick in his spare time, pops levels up his evil villain era and threats, blackmail, and hijinks ensue.
Throw in some redneck bigots, a violent gay bashing, an involuntary outing by the press, and a sprinkle of public shaming by the press for the crime of being a foster child and the offspring of a drug addicted sex worker, and you've got yourself one helluva fun time.
In all seriousness, my issue isn't that the characters face adversity. I also don't necessarily have a problem with the sheer amount of adversity faced by each character. My problem is that I don't feel that Ms. Stevens handles these issues as delicately as she should. In real life, foster kids, especially ones who come from circumstances similar to those presented in this novel, have experienced a trauma that most of us can't even imagine. Isn't it bad enough that a character had to go through that experience as a child? Does that character also need to have most of society find him lacking and judge him for that experience? Does that character also have to experience the press digging into his parentage and shaming him for it? And isn't it enough that a drug addicted teenage mother was in bad enough circumstances that she had to turn to sex work to survive? Does she really need to have been murdered after getting out of jail? In a previous recent book by Ms. Stevens (I'm too lazy to look up which one), the main character's brother has both intellectual and physical disabilities and I believe he is non-verbal. The author writes the character as if he is some kind of social pariah who is laughed at and pointed at when out in public. As someone with a non-verbal, intellectually disabled family member, I found this portrayal insensitive and offensive. Like, come on! It is so backwards, unnecessary, and harmful to write about these characters as if they are pitiable and pathetic and as if they have little to no agency.
I think when writing about sensitive subjects that also happen to be things experienced by real people, it's important to reflect on how those things are portrayed. In this instance, I would suggest that the author ask herself, "If a young foster kid read my portrayal of that experience on both a personal and societal level, what message would they come away with?" In this case, I don't think the message is love and empowerment. The message is that you'd better find some good friends because you're going to need them when society kicks you in the teeth and treats you like you're a second class citizen and shames you for your background.
September 16, 2025
Felice has a way to always make me come back to her books as soon as I see they're out and this book is no different. This one is about Brenner and Weston. Law school rivals who are straight yet share a hot steamy night of firsts one drunken night. A year later neither has forgotten about that night though they pretend that they have. Except now they're working for the same firm so that old years long rivalry should be all in the past now right? Wrong. Both men continue to go about their one up banter both making assumptions about each other instead of seeing that even though they're different in class, as Weston is the son of a senator who is in the running for a possible presidency but is also the biggest jerk on the planet and Brenner is a foster kid who worked hard all his life with the support of his foster parents, there's also so much that's the same. Brenner thinks Weston has had a good life with everything handed to him while that couldn't be farther from the truth. In reality he has an evil dad who broke his family and Weston's trust in him and hasn't showed him the love a father should show his son. And Weston honestly just likes to get under Brenner's skin for the reaction but then starts to uncover who Brenner really is under that uptight scowly personality he has whenever Weston is around. They both slowly start to open up after Weston takes Brenner in at a time of need and they spend some time seeing each other beyond the mask they put up with the world while that animosity they once shared becomes mutual understanding and gradually love and respect. This was definitely a high heat high emotion book especially with some of the topics the books covers and I won't be afraid to say I did shed some tears for both Brenner and Weston but man Weston really made me develop a soft spot for him and the way him and Brenner are with each other is beautiful. Together they embark into something scary yet worth fighting for and that's what these two did. They looked at all the reasons they couldn't work and didn't care because they mattered to each other too much to let obstacles stand in their way and didn't let outside sources tear them apart although they tried. This was another enjoyable read by Felice Stevens and I again fell in love with her characters and now I have another couple to hold close to my heart.
September 16, 2025
I love enemies to lovers and so I was eagerly awaiting this book and it didn’t disappoint. I was smitten with the blossoming romance between Brennan and Weston.
They first met at law school and it was resentment at first sight. Brenner a quiet introspective guy found the rich privileged Weston obnoxious and the fact that they were rivals for 1st in class meant staying away from him difficult. Weston made goading Brenner a sport, unaware of Brenner’s unhappy past in foster care but they were both guilty of misconceptions as Weston’s privileged life came with a cold and nasty father, a senator who had ambitions of being president. Felice always adds a character that makes my blood boil and in this book it was definitely Weston’s hateful father!
Years later they have flourishing careers as family lawyers, handling divorce, child custody and marital finances when they bump into each other at a conference. The animosity is still there but after consuming too much alcohol they find themselves in a bi-sexual awakening which has a major effect on their lives. I liked the way they never freaked out about having s*x with a man but more WHO the man was.
Weston works for a prestigious law firm and transfers to the NY office whilst Brenner is headhunted. Working together brings all their old animosity and rivalry back but when Brenner is hurt and needs help it is Weston that quickly steps up, giving them a chance to get to know each other, discuss their pasts and bring into the open the intense chemistry they feel towards each other leaving them to explore and experiment. Faced with media pressure and Weston’s awful father it makes them fight for their relationship and brings them closer.
I love Felice’s style of writing, there is angst but not too much and family, chosen, is always important. The father’s were total opposites with Brenner’s foster father Bill being loving and supportive. The side characters all bring something to the story and I loved the cameos from Christine, Madden and Archer from Just One Night.
I found the character of Grady, another lawyer in the firm and Weston’s friend interesting and likeable and I really hope he can have his own story. The book was very enjoyable and I recommend it.
They first met at law school and it was resentment at first sight. Brenner a quiet introspective guy found the rich privileged Weston obnoxious and the fact that they were rivals for 1st in class meant staying away from him difficult. Weston made goading Brenner a sport, unaware of Brenner’s unhappy past in foster care but they were both guilty of misconceptions as Weston’s privileged life came with a cold and nasty father, a senator who had ambitions of being president. Felice always adds a character that makes my blood boil and in this book it was definitely Weston’s hateful father!
Years later they have flourishing careers as family lawyers, handling divorce, child custody and marital finances when they bump into each other at a conference. The animosity is still there but after consuming too much alcohol they find themselves in a bi-sexual awakening which has a major effect on their lives. I liked the way they never freaked out about having s*x with a man but more WHO the man was.
Weston works for a prestigious law firm and transfers to the NY office whilst Brenner is headhunted. Working together brings all their old animosity and rivalry back but when Brenner is hurt and needs help it is Weston that quickly steps up, giving them a chance to get to know each other, discuss their pasts and bring into the open the intense chemistry they feel towards each other leaving them to explore and experiment. Faced with media pressure and Weston’s awful father it makes them fight for their relationship and brings them closer.
I love Felice’s style of writing, there is angst but not too much and family, chosen, is always important. The father’s were total opposites with Brenner’s foster father Bill being loving and supportive. The side characters all bring something to the story and I loved the cameos from Christine, Madden and Archer from Just One Night.
I found the character of Grady, another lawyer in the firm and Weston’s friend interesting and likeable and I really hope he can have his own story. The book was very enjoyable and I recommend it.
September 27, 2025
I really wanted so badly to like this book more. |
The story concept was great.
Spoiler alert:
Old arch enemy from college who always vied for 1st place, turned one off gay hook up, confusing both guys. Then their growing mutual attraction and having to be collegues in the same firm culminating in forced proximity when one gets injured and the other one takes care of him.
Toss in the "grown up terribly poor as an abandonded child of a drug addict under age mother" on one side and on the other an exceedingly rich and much neglected son of a "cheating, narcissistic, presidential hopeful senator" leading up to the presidential primaries.
One would think this makes for a great book.
So why was it not what I had hoped for?
For one there are some annoying gramatical errors an editor ought to have picked up, which stopped my easy reading flow.
The book was way too long. The attraction and ultimate getting together period too drawn out. Too much self-talk and worrying. Too many side characters that were all too "over the top" and way too helpful as if they had nothing better to do.
The whole story felt too "americanized" - too hyped up. Everyone was super rich or from the worst background imaginable. The father's antics felt like "added homophobia" for the sake of spicing up the story with drama. And the end fizzled out with a typical over the top rich person buying an exceedingly expensive holiday get away place that the other person in the relationship couldn't afford to chip in for the up keep cost. And he then graciously made arrangements for how the other guy could pay for it. It felt transactional, heartless, and as an end did not satisfy me as a reader. Instead of working out how Brenner, the poorer of the two, could "chip in", West should have proposed and told him "what's mine is yours, you don't have to worry about up keep costs." It felt cold and uncaring.
I kind of lost interest half way through because it was just too long. A lot of details could have easily been cut from the story to make it move quicker.
The story concept was great.
Spoiler alert:
Old arch enemy from college who always vied for 1st place, turned one off gay hook up, confusing both guys. Then their growing mutual attraction and having to be collegues in the same firm culminating in forced proximity when one gets injured and the other one takes care of him.
Toss in the "grown up terribly poor as an abandonded child of a drug addict under age mother" on one side and on the other an exceedingly rich and much neglected son of a "cheating, narcissistic, presidential hopeful senator" leading up to the presidential primaries.
One would think this makes for a great book.
So why was it not what I had hoped for?
For one there are some annoying gramatical errors an editor ought to have picked up, which stopped my easy reading flow.
The book was way too long. The attraction and ultimate getting together period too drawn out. Too much self-talk and worrying. Too many side characters that were all too "over the top" and way too helpful as if they had nothing better to do.
The whole story felt too "americanized" - too hyped up. Everyone was super rich or from the worst background imaginable. The father's antics felt like "added homophobia" for the sake of spicing up the story with drama. And the end fizzled out with a typical over the top rich person buying an exceedingly expensive holiday get away place that the other person in the relationship couldn't afford to chip in for the up keep cost. And he then graciously made arrangements for how the other guy could pay for it. It felt transactional, heartless, and as an end did not satisfy me as a reader. Instead of working out how Brenner, the poorer of the two, could "chip in", West should have proposed and told him "what's mine is yours, you don't have to worry about up keep costs." It felt cold and uncaring.
I kind of lost interest half way through because it was just too long. A lot of details could have easily been cut from the story to make it move quicker.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 15, 2025
West and Brenner have known one another for fifteen years when they were bitter rivals in law school. They couldn’t tolerate each other then and that hasn’t changed fifteen years later then they meet again at a conference.
Both have had too much to drink and their snipping at one another ends up in a passionate tryst. It was a night both men would love to forget but can’t. A year later they meet again when Weston’s law firm offers Brenner a partnership with their firm.
The barbs and snarky remarks continue until a retreat forces the two together with exercises in team building and trust. West and Brenner learn things about one another that begins to change how they see one another.
Secrets and wrong assumptions are revealed after Brenner is hurt and West insists on bringing him back to his place to watch over him. West is the first to realize how wrong he’s been about Brenner and examines his true feelings for the man.
Brenner too discovers things about West that completely changes how he he sees the man. He also admits he made some very wrong assumptions about West. As the two men are drawn closer and closer to one another, that thin line between love and hate begins to blur.
More secrets are revealed as West’s father is a Senator making a run for the presidency. Brenner fears his past as a product of the Foster Care system and a deceased mother with a very shady past, will destroy the bond they’ve built. It doesn’t help that West’s father is strictly conservative and doesn’t approve of his son’s relationship with Brenner.
This book has it all. Blackmail, secrets, strong friends and family, and some homophobic violence. West and Brenner have strong support which the press doesn’t hesitate to put to the test. Not That Guy is a can’t put down kind of read. There are also some great secondary characters I hope to see from this truly prolific author.
Both have had too much to drink and their snipping at one another ends up in a passionate tryst. It was a night both men would love to forget but can’t. A year later they meet again when Weston’s law firm offers Brenner a partnership with their firm.
The barbs and snarky remarks continue until a retreat forces the two together with exercises in team building and trust. West and Brenner learn things about one another that begins to change how they see one another.
Secrets and wrong assumptions are revealed after Brenner is hurt and West insists on bringing him back to his place to watch over him. West is the first to realize how wrong he’s been about Brenner and examines his true feelings for the man.
Brenner too discovers things about West that completely changes how he he sees the man. He also admits he made some very wrong assumptions about West. As the two men are drawn closer and closer to one another, that thin line between love and hate begins to blur.
More secrets are revealed as West’s father is a Senator making a run for the presidency. Brenner fears his past as a product of the Foster Care system and a deceased mother with a very shady past, will destroy the bond they’ve built. It doesn’t help that West’s father is strictly conservative and doesn’t approve of his son’s relationship with Brenner.
This book has it all. Blackmail, secrets, strong friends and family, and some homophobic violence. West and Brenner have strong support which the press doesn’t hesitate to put to the test. Not That Guy is a can’t put down kind of read. There are also some great secondary characters I hope to see from this truly prolific author.
September 8, 2025
Be warned: I stayed up all night reading this book. I was hooked from the first page and could not put it down until the very end. Weston and Brenner are so hot together, and their story is compelling and complex and so addictive.
This is also a really touching story of what makes a father, what makes a family, and the power of love from friends who become family. Weston and Brenner are both lawyers - law school rivals who came from the most opposite worlds. Weston is the son of a politician on track to run for president. Brenner is a former foster kid who never knew his birth parents. They are both successful divorce and family lawyers in New York City. They had one drunken night together one year ago, but that changed nothing. In fact, it might have made their distaste for each other even stronger. Now both partners at the same firm, they’re forced to participate in a team building event and things get hot. And then they get hotter. And I could not get enough. These two men become not just the hottest of lovers, but they become family. And when Weston’s father becomes like a Batman villain trying to break them apart, they become each other’s biggest champion, A beautiful exploration of love and strength. Of acceptance.
Plus it is spicy and sexy and full of passion. This book is a perfect enemies-to-lovers; I bought their animosity in the beginning and the journey they took to become lovers was emotional and layered.
I can’t stop thinking about these two, and I can’t wait for the next book so that I can spend more time with these men and their friends.
I received an advance review copy for no cost from the author, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. All opinions are my own.
This is also a really touching story of what makes a father, what makes a family, and the power of love from friends who become family. Weston and Brenner are both lawyers - law school rivals who came from the most opposite worlds. Weston is the son of a politician on track to run for president. Brenner is a former foster kid who never knew his birth parents. They are both successful divorce and family lawyers in New York City. They had one drunken night together one year ago, but that changed nothing. In fact, it might have made their distaste for each other even stronger. Now both partners at the same firm, they’re forced to participate in a team building event and things get hot. And then they get hotter. And I could not get enough. These two men become not just the hottest of lovers, but they become family. And when Weston’s father becomes like a Batman villain trying to break them apart, they become each other’s biggest champion, A beautiful exploration of love and strength. Of acceptance.
Plus it is spicy and sexy and full of passion. This book is a perfect enemies-to-lovers; I bought their animosity in the beginning and the journey they took to become lovers was emotional and layered.
I can’t stop thinking about these two, and I can’t wait for the next book so that I can spend more time with these men and their friends.
I received an advance review copy for no cost from the author, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. All opinions are my own.
September 8, 2025
Here's Felice Steven's latest "Not That Guy."
["Not him.
Not that guy, Weston Lively.
The one I've hated since law school.
The man who gets by on good looks, a fat bank account, and a powerful, political father.
Our more-than-just-a-kiss one drunken night changes nothing between us.
We’re both still straight.
And we still hate each other.
It doesn’t matter that we work for the same law firm.
We’ve put what happened behind us.
Except....oops.
It might’ve happened again.
And again.
Hmm.
Maybe we don’t really hate each other anymore.
But there’s a bigger roadblock in our way.
Weston’s evil father.
The two of us together could ruin his chance at becoming President.
Especially with the press digging into my past and haunting our every move.
Then his father makes Weston a terrible offer he might not be able to refuse.
It would mean breaking us apart.
And breaking our hearts.
It was easier when I hated him.
Now I can’t imagine walking away.
How did the man I once hated with a fiery passion become the one who now sets my soul on fire?"]
I picked this one next on my list, because I thought it was make me cry (I was craving a good book-cry). But I was surprised how relatively angst-less it was….after they got their heads out of their asses and stopped being stubborn. They took their feelings out on each other on purpose, which wasn’t healthy in any sense. But they eventually figured it out. Eventually.
With help from some friends…and some assholes…and some lovely cliches.
Trigger Warnings: homophobia, foster system, asshole parents, parental death, cheating (not MCs), violence, and more.
#gayromancereviews #grr #arcs #arcteammember
#notthatguy #felicestevens #books #queerbooks #queererotica #bodicerippers #bookstagram #bookphotography #ilovebooks
["Not him.
Not that guy, Weston Lively.
The one I've hated since law school.
The man who gets by on good looks, a fat bank account, and a powerful, political father.
Our more-than-just-a-kiss one drunken night changes nothing between us.
We’re both still straight.
And we still hate each other.
It doesn’t matter that we work for the same law firm.
We’ve put what happened behind us.
Except....oops.
It might’ve happened again.
And again.
Hmm.
Maybe we don’t really hate each other anymore.
But there’s a bigger roadblock in our way.
Weston’s evil father.
The two of us together could ruin his chance at becoming President.
Especially with the press digging into my past and haunting our every move.
Then his father makes Weston a terrible offer he might not be able to refuse.
It would mean breaking us apart.
And breaking our hearts.
It was easier when I hated him.
Now I can’t imagine walking away.
How did the man I once hated with a fiery passion become the one who now sets my soul on fire?"]
I picked this one next on my list, because I thought it was make me cry (I was craving a good book-cry). But I was surprised how relatively angst-less it was….after they got their heads out of their asses and stopped being stubborn. They took their feelings out on each other on purpose, which wasn’t healthy in any sense. But they eventually figured it out. Eventually.
With help from some friends…and some assholes…and some lovely cliches.
Trigger Warnings: homophobia, foster system, asshole parents, parental death, cheating (not MCs), violence, and more.
#gayromancereviews #grr #arcs #arcteammember
#notthatguy #felicestevens #books #queerbooks #queererotica #bodicerippers #bookstagram #bookphotography #ilovebooks
September 15, 2025
Brenner & Weston were law school rivals and a year ago they got too drunk at a conference and things got heated. Now a year later they face off in a divorce mediation that ends with the couple reconciling & then Weston’s big law firm offers Brenner a role as partner. Now the two are thrown together in the office with that old rivalry and the memory of their one steamy encounter. When they are mandated to attend a team building weekend for the firm and split into different teams for a scavenger hunt, Brenner is assaulted while he and his gay coworker are out collecting clues for the hunt. They end up in the ER and West rushes to be at Brenner’s side. With how injured he is Weston offers for him to stay in his guest room in his apartment so there is someone to help care for him while he heals his four bruised ribs, sprained ankle, & bruised face. With living in such close proximity their spark reignites and they fall into bed together after sharing some major vulnerabilities with one another-including Brenner being a foster child whose mother was an addict and abandoned him & Weston revealing his Senator father cheated on his mother for years while she was fighting and then dying of cancer and wrote him off after he married his very young personal assistant less than a year after West’s mom died. So much drama goes down when West’s dad becomes the conservative party’s candidate for the Presidency and he disowns West for being in a relationship ship with a man. West & Bren are super banter-y and fun and the heat between them is spicy good. I really enjoyed it and can’t wait to read more in this world.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 29, 2025
Received as an ARC.
4 ⭐⭐️⭐️⭐️
The first solely MM book I have read, and it did not disappoint.
The years of tension, ‘hatred’, rivalry and backstory build to support this story as a whole. The dual POV chapters show both characters feelings and experiences and give more depth as we get different insights from both Brenner and Weston. Their upbringings couldn’t be any different but they end up working at the same firm as lawyers and it adds an additional layer to their relationship.
A drunken encounter unlocks a bi-awakening for both MMC’s which builds and builds over a year gap where neither one can stop thinking about their drunken trist, leading to pent up hatred’ towards each other and inevitable longing. There is never a big deal made around the WHY they’re both suddenly longing after another man, they both just accept it as they want this person and explore it in their own way.
Again the dual POV chapters really helps to give more insight as to why the MMCs acted how they did as younger ‘enemies’ during law school and helps add to the building tension between them. Their chemistry and back and forth banter is evident throughout.
Throughout the book they both constantly check in with each others feelings and the pace in which they are going. They explore and learn together.
The father figures of both MMCs couldn’t be more different, Westons is a stone cold political figure (who lies and manipulates to get is own way/standing), whereas Brenners is a family man through and through and only wants the best for his son. The tension builds and the MMCs work their way through it and stand up for themselves and fight for what they want.
4 ⭐⭐️⭐️⭐️
The first solely MM book I have read, and it did not disappoint.
The years of tension, ‘hatred’, rivalry and backstory build to support this story as a whole. The dual POV chapters show both characters feelings and experiences and give more depth as we get different insights from both Brenner and Weston. Their upbringings couldn’t be any different but they end up working at the same firm as lawyers and it adds an additional layer to their relationship.
A drunken encounter unlocks a bi-awakening for both MMC’s which builds and builds over a year gap where neither one can stop thinking about their drunken trist, leading to pent up hatred’ towards each other and inevitable longing. There is never a big deal made around the WHY they’re both suddenly longing after another man, they both just accept it as they want this person and explore it in their own way.
Again the dual POV chapters really helps to give more insight as to why the MMCs acted how they did as younger ‘enemies’ during law school and helps add to the building tension between them. Their chemistry and back and forth banter is evident throughout.
Throughout the book they both constantly check in with each others feelings and the pace in which they are going. They explore and learn together.
The father figures of both MMCs couldn’t be more different, Westons is a stone cold political figure (who lies and manipulates to get is own way/standing), whereas Brenners is a family man through and through and only wants the best for his son. The tension builds and the MMCs work their way through it and stand up for themselves and fight for what they want.
October 18, 2025
The bones of this story were pretty good: law school rivals who hated each other due to a host of misunderstandings, reconnecting in a surprisingly erotic way at a conference and then mutually pretending it never happened until they end up at the same prestigious NYC firm. The tension started out strong…but fizzled out quickly.
This couple was cute on the surface— but that was the problem. Every relationship in this story was just that: on the surface. I didn’t feel the connection between anyone. Whether it was nosy/pushy friends, little sisters, foster parents, or even our main men, there was no depth at all. The author just tells the reader everything : this man is important to me, I am very attracted to my colleague, Madden is a powerful man. She didn’t back it up with anything but a few sentences of inner monologue. Even the love scenes felt very rushed and lukewarm. She told us it was HOT, but it didn’t feel hot.
I also fought a lot of incredulity to get through this. For example, neither of these guys had previously had any attraction to men, but neither struggled for a single second to accept their sexuality or to engage in gay sex. Brenner’s insecurity about his childhood felt very forced when, in reality, he should be proud of what he overcame, and the press’s attitude about his mother was absurd. A presidential candidate’s campaign is going to be affected by the dead mother of his child’s significant other, who didn’t even raise him? That feels— tangential at best. But most of all, the idea that a modern day presidential candidate of ANY party would go on TV and call homosexuality repugnant is patently ridiculous. That would be absolute career suicide! Could he be a homophobe to his son behind closed doors? Absolutely! But stating that blatantly in a televised speech is inconceivable! 🤦🏻♀️
I think there are people out there who might love this book, but unfortunately, it just didn’t do anything for me. 🤷🏻♀️
This couple was cute on the surface— but that was the problem. Every relationship in this story was just that: on the surface. I didn’t feel the connection between anyone. Whether it was nosy/pushy friends, little sisters, foster parents, or even our main men, there was no depth at all. The author just tells the reader everything : this man is important to me, I am very attracted to my colleague, Madden is a powerful man. She didn’t back it up with anything but a few sentences of inner monologue. Even the love scenes felt very rushed and lukewarm. She told us it was HOT, but it didn’t feel hot.
I also fought a lot of incredulity to get through this. For example, neither of these guys had previously had any attraction to men, but neither struggled for a single second to accept their sexuality or to engage in gay sex. Brenner’s insecurity about his childhood felt very forced when, in reality, he should be proud of what he overcame, and the press’s attitude about his mother was absurd. A presidential candidate’s campaign is going to be affected by the dead mother of his child’s significant other, who didn’t even raise him? That feels— tangential at best. But most of all, the idea that a modern day presidential candidate of ANY party would go on TV and call homosexuality repugnant is patently ridiculous. That would be absolute career suicide! Could he be a homophobe to his son behind closed doors? Absolutely! But stating that blatantly in a televised speech is inconceivable! 🤦🏻♀️
I think there are people out there who might love this book, but unfortunately, it just didn’t do anything for me. 🤷🏻♀️
October 24, 2025
I am absolutely in love with Felice Stevens’ writing style and her series of books! I have been fortunate enough to have received this advanced copy, just like her other books! I fell in love with her writing in the Brooklyn Kings series and I was absolutely excited to see where else we were going in this world !
They both end up being at the same place where they just get lost in the music and drinks, and emotions start to rise. You can sense the sexual tension between these two, in the way they are dancing and get lost with each other. They end up hooking up in a hotel room, letting their passion get the best of themselves but quickly saying that this was a one time thing. Little did they know that they just opened up a can of worms that they didnt think could have been open, the spark being lit, waiting to see what happens next.
One year later, they both meet again during a divorce case, and their feelings are still lingering in the shadows. They end up working with each other at the law firm that Weston is a partner and they have to navigate working with each other. As well as trying to navigate their emotions for each other and being professionals at the law firm. But the tension between these two is sooo palpable, you can cut it with a knife. This is the story of two people who are deeply in love with one another, who have to figure out how to tell one another and deal with the outside world and their opinions. Once again, Felice Steven’s knocks it out of the park! I loved reading every minute of their life’s and the realization that they are meant for each other 🥹
Rating: 5/5
Steamy scenes: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
They both end up being at the same place where they just get lost in the music and drinks, and emotions start to rise. You can sense the sexual tension between these two, in the way they are dancing and get lost with each other. They end up hooking up in a hotel room, letting their passion get the best of themselves but quickly saying that this was a one time thing. Little did they know that they just opened up a can of worms that they didnt think could have been open, the spark being lit, waiting to see what happens next.
One year later, they both meet again during a divorce case, and their feelings are still lingering in the shadows. They end up working with each other at the law firm that Weston is a partner and they have to navigate working with each other. As well as trying to navigate their emotions for each other and being professionals at the law firm. But the tension between these two is sooo palpable, you can cut it with a knife. This is the story of two people who are deeply in love with one another, who have to figure out how to tell one another and deal with the outside world and their opinions. Once again, Felice Steven’s knocks it out of the park! I loved reading every minute of their life’s and the realization that they are meant for each other 🥹
Rating: 5/5
Steamy scenes: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
September 22, 2025
I love the enemies to lovers trope but it has to be realistic, no insta-forgiveness and immediately falling madly in love. That wasn’t the case here, which was fitting as the two main characters had been rivals for so long - since law school days 15 years earlier, when they were competitive over everything.
I liked that the book was solely set present day with references to their history, as I’m not a fan of lengthy flashback scenes. The chemistry between them was obvious from the beginning, even if it was mostly shown when they were still antagonising each other and arguing! The enemies part came about more because of misconceptions they held about each other than because either of them were particularly horrible to the other. Both Weston & Brenner were likeable, despite being very different and coming from vastly different backgrounds - Weston the career politician’s son and Brenner the foster child.
The change in their relationship as the book progressed seemed natural and I have to say this is one of my favourite pairings from the author’s recent releases. I also liked the reappearance of Christine, Tony, Madden and Archer - got to love an Easter egg appearance. As well as getting to see those guys again, there was the usual supportive background cast of Bill (Brenner’s foster dad), Grady, Bailey, Manny etc. who all provided the support needed when Weston’s Dad proved himself to be the pantomime villain of the story.
I was very pleased to see this is now a duet not a standalone and am looking forward to reading Baileys story next.
I liked that the book was solely set present day with references to their history, as I’m not a fan of lengthy flashback scenes. The chemistry between them was obvious from the beginning, even if it was mostly shown when they were still antagonising each other and arguing! The enemies part came about more because of misconceptions they held about each other than because either of them were particularly horrible to the other. Both Weston & Brenner were likeable, despite being very different and coming from vastly different backgrounds - Weston the career politician’s son and Brenner the foster child.
The change in their relationship as the book progressed seemed natural and I have to say this is one of my favourite pairings from the author’s recent releases. I also liked the reappearance of Christine, Tony, Madden and Archer - got to love an Easter egg appearance. As well as getting to see those guys again, there was the usual supportive background cast of Bill (Brenner’s foster dad), Grady, Bailey, Manny etc. who all provided the support needed when Weston’s Dad proved himself to be the pantomime villain of the story.
I was very pleased to see this is now a duet not a standalone and am looking forward to reading Baileys story next.
September 18, 2025
4.25 Stars!
Weston and Brenner's story is an enemies-to-lovers, double-bi-awakening tale. They genuinely disliked each other and have been in competition from the first time they met. Most of that dislike has to do with misconceptions and a certain someone leaning into the "expected". It was hard to see how these two would get past their rivalry, but suddenly working in the same office and getting to know each other outside of their college rivalry was a good, uncomfortable experience for them both.
I liked and could understand how both Brenner and Weston ended up the way they were, and how their past experiences led to them being rivals. Their secrets and misconceptions really did them more harm than good for far too long. I really liked seeing them slowly soften towards each other as they both reveal pieces of their pasts. Their unexpected attraction was a nice touch, helping them move to a better place together. I liked their boss and was glad that Brenner had friends who were willing and able to help them as needed. Brenner's dad was awesome as well. I thought one of the resolutions with Weston's father was a little easy, but otherwise, this was a fun read.
While you can definitely read this one as a standalone, if you've read Just One Night, you'll get to see some old friends show up in this one.
*Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure. A review wasn't a requirement.*
Weston and Brenner's story is an enemies-to-lovers, double-bi-awakening tale. They genuinely disliked each other and have been in competition from the first time they met. Most of that dislike has to do with misconceptions and a certain someone leaning into the "expected". It was hard to see how these two would get past their rivalry, but suddenly working in the same office and getting to know each other outside of their college rivalry was a good, uncomfortable experience for them both.
I liked and could understand how both Brenner and Weston ended up the way they were, and how their past experiences led to them being rivals. Their secrets and misconceptions really did them more harm than good for far too long. I really liked seeing them slowly soften towards each other as they both reveal pieces of their pasts. Their unexpected attraction was a nice touch, helping them move to a better place together. I liked their boss and was glad that Brenner had friends who were willing and able to help them as needed. Brenner's dad was awesome as well. I thought one of the resolutions with Weston's father was a little easy, but otherwise, this was a fun read.
While you can definitely read this one as a standalone, if you've read Just One Night, you'll get to see some old friends show up in this one.
*Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure. A review wasn't a requirement.*
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