When Lane realizes he’s attracted to his straight stepbro, he’s absolutely thunderstruck . . .
It’s not the worst day of Lane’s life when his team, the Toronto Thunder, drafts his baby stepbro, Trevor, but it’s close.
No. The worst day was when his mom married Trevor’s dad. Trevor’s just too good, too naïve, too sheltered. Too hot.
Lane might claim he wants nothing to do with him, but that’s the worst delusion of all. He’s always wanted everything to do with Trevor. Even when they have zero in common. Even when Trevor’s always been on the straight and narrow. Literally.
Lane’s the total opposite. He’s walked—and danced and sashayed—to the beat of his own drum, forever. Mentoring Trevor now that they’re on the same team? Sounds like his idea of hell—and heaven, too. There’s a reason their teammates call them the demon twins.
But with the final few games of the season and the Thunders’ playoff run looming, Lane’s self-control is weaker than ever. Especially when Trevor confesses that he’s been thinking about it, too.
Suggesting Trevor experiment with their mutual attraction would be a terrible idea, but Lane’s had worse, and that’s never stopped him before.
And when it becomes way more than just sex? When Trevor becomes the first guy he wants to see in the mornings and the last thing before he goes to bed at night? When they’re so completely entangled together that he couldn’t get free, even if he wanted to?
A lifelong Oregonian, Beth Bolden has just recently moved to North Carolina with her supportive husband and their sweet kitten, Earl Grey. Beth still believes in Keeping Portland Weird, and intends to be just as weird in Raleigh.
Beth has been writing practically since she learned the alphabet. Unfortunately, her first foray into novel writing, titled Big Bear with Sparkly Earrings, wasn’t a bestseller, but hope springs eternal. She’s published fourteen novels and five short stories.
This is just a note to my future self as to why I DNF.
Yearning and self denial are not my thing. I skimmed the story because it's painful to read years of want and denial without honest discussion only for it to be "o.k" in the end when it all comes out. The realization of missed years and opportunities doesn't sit well with me.
Or, I wasn't in the right headspace for this.。◕‿◕。
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
I would’ve been happy if this book had like an extra several hundred pages because I love Lane and Trevor so much and could gladly read about them forever
This was soooooo good! I loved getting to know Lane and Trevor and see their journey toward their happily ever after and also toward the team Super Bowl win. I t was great to see the team again, and see how all of the other couples were doing. I love the teammate banter so it was great to see that again. Lane and Trevor though??? It was interesting to see how much time they needed to put two and two together. The pining on Lane's end was soooo good! His parts at the start were making me really emotional. Seeing the depth of his feelings, him trying to fight it and then seeing that nothing worked really had me in my feels and had my heart going out to him. I loved how much Tervor pushed them forward though! How Trevor didn't back down, brought up the hard topics and pushed for discussion and communication.
This was sweet and cute! I loved how much they liked each other from the get go. I was very happy to see Lane get what he thought was impossible. It was great to see both of them grow into themselves and the feelings they had for each other.
If you'd like to read about stepbrothers going from teammates to lovers then this is the book for you! The story is sweet and cute and you'll instantly fall in love with Lane and Trevor.
I hate lack of communication / miscommunication so much. Lane was annoying as hell at times and the fact that Trevor kept trying and it was like pulling teeth omfg… tedious
If you want pining this is your book! God delicious scrumptious pining, lovely self discovery, layers of connection, oodles of found family and just an overall lovely lovely read.
I enjoyed Trev and Lane’s story so much. It’s a great sports romance, Beth Bolden is stellar at that and I always love her books so much and this was no exception. Trevor and Lane are wonderful complex characters both growing during the course of the book, the romantic plot is simple and tugs at your heart… ah I’m so happy I read this book.
Expect unsuspecting stepbrothers, tonnes of pining, lots of experimenting, hilarious and supportive found family, learning to be vulnerable
I'd literally die for this series and I'm not even remotely mad about it. I loved everything about this book. The characters, the relationship, the story and the football. You can always count on Beth to havea lot of actual accurate sport in her books and I'm so here for it. I can't wait to see what's next in this series!! 🩷
Lane and Trevor were cute together and I liked the book. I’m glad we got to see their relationship progress especially after Lane kept try to keep his feelings hidden from everyone but then couldn’t in the end.
I’m also really glad they both have very supportive parents as well as team mates and friends.
I will say I feel like the writing could’ve been better and I think I would’ve enjoyed it even more if it was.
Thunderstruck by Beth Bolden is the 4th book in her Toronto Thunder series. I suggest that you read the others before this one because of reoccurring characters and action that comes before. This is the story of two football players who became stepbrothers in their late teens, the attraction one had for the other that he thought could never be returned, and how that changed when they became teammates and fell in love. Lane Robinson was raised by his mother in a trailer park and it had always been just the two of them. His mother loved him dearly and did all that she could to make him successful, often working multiple jobs. He was great at football, playing tight end, and had a scholarship to college. He had noticed one of the younger players before but didn’t realize who he was until his mother, Delia, met a doctor, Tom, and both had fallen in love. When they met for dinner Lane realized that Tom’s son, Trevor, was the boy he was infatuated with and everyone would think they were brothers. Even though they were no relation and were stepbrothers, and he knew he couldn’t do anything about the way he felt because he didn’t want to upset anyone in the family, especially his mother, and he thought Trevor was straight. He didn’t understand it but as time went on his attraction only grew and he tried to stay away from home as much as he could. He eventually got into the NFL and was playing for the Toronto Thunder. Meanwhile Trevor was also doing well as a football player and in college he was playing tight end. On his NFL draft night Lane had come home to be with the family and couldn’t believe it when Trevor was taken by the Toronto Thunder and his mother asked him to have him live with him for a while to get used to professional life. This was very hard for him but he agreed and they soon got the nickname the demon twins because they could be nice to one another and suddenly be bickering. As time went on, they played together, with Lane teaching Trevor a lot. At night they watched TV and played video games, and Lane liked to do puzzles. Trevor also made friends with the other rookies including Cam, Dawson, and Jordan and would often go to them with his problems. Trevor had never had much success with dating girls and was starting to develop feelings for Lane but wasn’t sure about what to do so he asked him how he knew he liked guys and said he might like them, too, but isn’t sure. Lane goes to his best friend Nate and tells him that and Nate encourages him to talk to Trevor and when he does, he says he can experiment with him which leads to a kiss and some hot experimental love scenes. Lane really wants the relationship to be real but is not willing to push Trevor and doesn’t say anything so they continue to be together in secret and both are falling more and more for each other. The team is doing well and heading for the play offs so their parents are going to come to see them play which sends them into a tizzy because they are sure they will see they are together even as they try to hide it. Trevor doesn’t like not telling them but he knows Lane isn’t ready. They finally admit their feelings for each other and that they want to be together and that Lane will tell them when they come and Trevor tells him that he will let him do it when he is ready. There are some problems with one of the play off games that Lane helps with, since he loves looking at tapes of them and figuring out ways to help the team defeat the other one, and they keep advancing. Then Lane finally tells his parents they are together and both are happy for them. Meanwhile, Aiden, the quarterback and Lane’s friend, helps him see that his feelings for Trevor after all this time are love and that he needs to tell him. So he plans a romantic dinner that backfires but in the end finally tells him and Trevor says he loves him, too. Plus the team keeps on winning! I really enjoyed this book, as I have the others in the series. Meeting Trevor has ruined any other relationship Lane might have yet he felt so helpless because there wasn’t anything he could do about it because of his family and also because he thought he was straight. It was made worse when Trevor got drafted to the Thunder and became his roommate. Trevor was a sweet accepting guy and was confused that Lane didn’t want to get to know him. That changed when they lived together and each one began to see what the other was like. Then Trevor questioned if he liked men and Lane was all over wanting him to experiment with him but both men wondered if it could become something real. After a while they realized they loved each other and it took a little time for them to say it out loud. There was lots of football and a somewhat suspenseful game in this book and it helped them to bond. Their parents and the rest of their friends on the team were very important in the story and also added some humor as well as advice as they came to them for help. I highly recommend this book, especially if you like stories about NFL football players, stepbrothers who aren’t real brothers and let everyone know it, one who is pining for the other but thinks he’s straight, and a very happy ending when he discovers that he’s not and that he wants to be with him as they fall in love.
I think Trevor and Lane might be my favorite pairing of the entire series. I had no idea these two had so much sweetness and pining lurking under the surface, and it was exhilarating to discover all they'd been hiding. Lane had been halfway in love with Trevor for over six years, but in typical "right guy / wrong time" circumstances, their parents started dating and got married before he could ever process those feelings. Instead, Lane felt he had no choice but to distance himself from Trevor and his family in the hopes that he could get over the man, but we all know that was destined to be an epic failure. Poor Trevor had no clue why Lane was so prickly around him -- he looked up to him as a fellow tight end and just wanted to be friends. When Trevor was drafted to the Thunder, I thought Lane might go into total crisis mode, but he did an admirable job of holding it together as they got settled in as roommates.
I'm not convinced that Trevor didn't have some latent attraction to his stepbro, but the one thing that was glaringly obvious is that he wanted Lane's attention. I was in angsty heaven watching Lane fumble all over himself around Trevor in a desperate bid to hide his feelings while Trevor was absolutely clueless. When Trevor confessed that he'd been having not so platonic thoughts about men, it was both the best Christmas present Lane could have ever dreamed of and the catalyst for a freakout of epic proportions. Thank goodness Lane had solid friends like Nate and Adrian to talk him out of spiraling, because if he hadn't offered himself as the man for Trevor to explore with I was going to be so mad. Lane and Trevor's chemistry was absolutely insane, with Trevor reveling in the ability to take what he wanted from Lane and Lane barely restraining his own fantasies that were years in the making. My brain melted into a happy little puddle as the two of them got cozy with each other, and they were so dang sweet together that my heart stood no chance as well. Telling their parents, their football family, and the public about their relationship were the biggest romantic tension points in the story, and I was satisfied with the level of attention Beth Bolden gave to resolving them. In terms of the football storylines, I was excited to see the highs and lows of Thunder games, watch as Trevor learned how to be a better tight end, and see Lane overcome his mental block about sharing his smarts along with his brawniness with the team. I especially enjoyed the Thunder team camaraderie showcased frequently in this book, and I have to give a special shoutout to the rookie trio Cam, Trevor, and Jordan for their entertaining banter. All in all, every element of this book was dialed in to deliver a compelling sports narrative, a swoony romance, and a fantastic half-series finale. I can't wait to see where Beth Bolden picks things back up next!
**I voluntarily read an early copy of this book. This review expresses my honest thoughts and opinions.
4.5+ stars We’ve known during the series that there’s been some major tension between Lane and his stepbrother Trevor. They are nicknamed "The Demon Twins" by the team due to their tension and snarking. But we never knew the extent of their story until now.
Lane's always been kind of the grumpy, guarded, prickly one, while Trevor is the sunshine, sweet, oblivious one. But I loved seeing under Lane's armor and just realizing how long and how hard it’s been for him to curb his attraction and feelings for his stepbrother. He avoided him as much as possible for years, but now they are on the same pro team and in close quarters. And there has always been some hero worship from Trevor to Lane.
Bless Trevor, he's a golden retriever, and he’s a little clueless. He’s always thought he was straight, but now he’s starting to question a little bit, and the person who comes out to is his stepbrother Lane. So now there’s a big elephant in the room, and Lane is shocked to realize that maybe the impossible may actually be a little bit possible.
And Trevor needs the acceptance and support in this confusing time. So the only logical explanation is of course, for Lane to offer to allow Trevor to experiment with him.
But will Lane's heart be able to handle it if he’s just a test subject for the guy that he has been crushing on for years? He guarded himself due to guilt and shame, and now there is a fear of getting this and losing it. But Trevor is good about pushing him and breaking down his walls.
I loved seeing their shift in dynamics as they began to be more vulnerable and trust, even when they are not sure about what exactly they are doing and what it all means. And their situation has other potential complications due to their family and team. But I loved them together.
This is a secret longtime crush, off-limits, grumpy-sunshine, forced proximity, stepbrother and teammates, bi-awakening romance. And of course you’ve got a team of both nosy and supportive players who want to weigh in and push them along and make sure that the team doesn’t suffer for any issues. I am really enjoying this series and am looking forward to more.
Lane and Trevor’s book carries on the story of the “demon twins” from the previous book. Technically stepbrothers due to their parent’s marriage the summer Lane was 18 and leaving for college, they have never lived together nor had anything but a distant relationship until Trevor is drafted by the Toronto Thunder, Lane’s team, and becomes his new roommate. A member of the team for three years, the thinking is that Lane can help Trevor develop his skills since both are in the same position.
For Lane, it is torture to begin with since he has had a crush on Trevor for the last six years, avoiding family time to handle his feelings. Now, Trevor is everywhere, making Lane tense and snappish, leading to sniping at each other, hence the “demon twins” nickname. When Trevor admits that he isn’t quite as straight as he thought, Lane volunteers to let Trevor experiment with him —if this is the only way to have his crush, he’ll do it. As could be expected, the two have a deep attraction and feelings get involved. Facing what is developing between them is difficult for both, but especially Lane, as he has turned over what they explore and how to Trevor, Lane needing to hold himself and his desires under control while Trevor runs what is happening. The closer and more comfortable they get, the more things move into an unacknowledged relationship. Are both ready to admit their feelings and how deep they go, or will they hold them inside? Do they come out to family, the team, or only to close friends for support? All of this unfolds within the backdrop of the team heading into the playoffs, a skill that Lane has which can make a difference in the games, and the need to focus on the game rather than what is happening between them at times so they can focus on the job ahead.
There is a lot of football action, steamy times between them, some angst on both sides as they each process their thoughts and feelings in several contexts, supportive friends, and anxiety about sharing their new dynamic with their parents, but things do eventually work out (it’s a romance after all) and all is good at the end. The characters are realistic and relatable, the developing relationship goes through a natural progression on both sides, there is banter and soul-baring for both, and a sense of finally getting the person meant for them as they move forward together. It was easy to root for them to finally realize what had been there since the beginning, to appreciate the timing and the process as they embraced their feelings and their future. A story that is a great addition to learning about the members of the team and growing the series.
At eighteen, Lane never would have imagined the guy he was crushing on would be the son of his mom’s current and very serious boyfriend. From the moment he saw how happy his mom was and that her boyfriend may be an actual good guy, he knew he could never act on his feelings for Trevor. Or tell him or anyone that there are feelings at all. So he spent the next six years refusing to call Trevor “brother” or being around much at home to avoid it, hoping his feelings would go away. But when Trevor is drafted to the Toronto Thunder with Lane, well, he can’t decide if this is the best or the worst thing to ever happen. Scratch that, learning that Trevor may be into guys and wanting to explore that may be what kills Lane. Especially when Lane volunteers himself. Trevor has never understood why Lane has been so distant with him. And moving in with him when was drafted didn’t seem like a great idea. But spending months slowly getting to know one another, helped bring them a bit closer. Though Trevor can still see Lane’s walls are very much still up. But when Trevor is realizing he may be into guys and says something to Lane, he can’t help but feel deep down that maybe Lane can help. And then Trevor’s eyes are open to Lane for the first time. Because he now is truly getting to see and know Lane and that may be the best thing that has ever happened. I loved these two! Oh man, poor Lane has been torturing himself for years trying to get over his feelings for Trevor and just never succeeding. It was so great he finally had a chance to do something about it and even more amazing for him to admit what has been going on with him for so long. He definitely deserved a nice happy ending. I loved how their relationship developed in this story. They slowly broke down one another’s walls and it showed that those gut feelings they had for one another since they met were proven right. Great story all around! And I can’t wait for the next book!
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
MY OPINION: I’m such a Beth Bolden fan, and I have enjoyed all the men in this series. It’s also fun to see what the other couples are up to. This one brings us to the duo we’ve seen in the other books—The Demon Twins.
They got the name because from the minute Lane’s stepbrother joins his team, they are at each other's throats, snipping, growling, pulling each other's pigtails. This is an interesting story about how they both have things to work out. Lane has wanted Trevor since they were teens, and Trevor realizes he sees Lane in a not-so-brotherly way.
Because they are ‘family,’ it’s a scary dance. Trevor being straight had always helped Lane keep that boundary, but when Trevor says he’s not so straight after all, everything becomes harder, much harder. Behind the closed door of Lane’s condo, they learn about each other physically. There are several spicy moments, and the way Beth makes you feel the hesitancy and the pleasure is wonderful. Trevor is new to being with men, and new to emotionally charged intimacy, and as a reader, you really get that.
As mentioned at first, I appreciate seeing how the couples from the previous books are doing. They are wrapped into the story, coupled up, and we get a taste of a few characters we hadn’t before.
Lane and Trevor’s parents are in and out, but hold a steady part since they are the couple’s parents and are married. Plus, there are several great moments where they go to their friend groups for advice. Overall, this hits all the notes: identity awakening, stepbrothers, roommates, no third-act breakup, lots of worry, and plenty of spice.
The story is around NFL football, and this one has a good amount of on-field scenes. For me, it is part of the characters, but if you don’t like reading about football, you should know it’s there.
I recommend all the books in this series and look forward to what comes next. This book can stand alone, but it’s more fun with the other books included. A fun summer read.
This wasn't the story I was expecting but it's a beautiful one all the same!
A six-year-long crush has mean Lane has kept his distance not only from his step-father Tom, who he really appreciates for giving his mum a much happier life, but also from his younger step-brother Trevor, who he was attracted to before he even knew who he was, so having him drafted for the Toronto Thunder has just made his life even more difficult.
The demon twins as they get nicknamed as there's only two years between them, have appeared in the background of this series and I was very much looking forward to finding out what was going on between them.
What I didn't expect was this far more angsty at first story which slowly morphed into an incredibly sweet romance once Trevor realises that he might actually be attracted to Lane.
Experimentation leads to feelings and feelings lead to fears as Lane really has to learn how to get over the thought of Trevor actually being his and the panic it induces because he's never believed it could happen.
Beth delivers a truly sweet slow burn relationship but fast off the blocks sexual experimentation muddle for both young men which is compounded by a playoff run and a potential Super Bowl appearance.
We also get a secondary plotline which focuses on Lane not thinking he's smart enough to put forward his thoughts and ideas on route running and opposition weaknesses, which fortunately Trevor - in combination with Aiden - puts paid to in a way that I felt suited both of their characters.
There's also plenty of on page appearances from the rest of the Thunder, as well as an occasional glimpse of my favourite ice hockey player Ramsey!
This is the end of Season One of the Thunder, but Beth will be coming back to them later and I'm really hoping that Mo is going to get his story!
#ARC kindly received from the author via Neon Rainbow ARC Reviews, I am voluntarily leaving a review
I have been enjoying and loving all of Beth Bolden’s books since I started reading them in 2023. I like the way her series connect to each other and yet standalone so you don’t have to have read the other series to enjoy the current one. Within each series, though, you might enjoy the books more if you read them in order but it’s not absolutely necessary.
Thunderstruck is book four in the Toronto Thunder series and we’ve been teased about Lane and Trevor, the “demon twins,” in previous books. They aren’t really twins and aren’t even blood brothers. Lane’s mother married Trevor’s father when they were both in their late teens. What Lane never told anyone was that he had a crush on Trevor before he knew that Trevor was the son of his mother’s new beau. This crush kept Lane away from his mother and new stepfather because he was afraid that he couldn’t hide how felt about Trevor. Flash forward six years and they end up playing for the same NFL team.
Their bickering got them the nickname of the “demon twins” but that kind of energy was just building up to a very different dynamic. I loved how the relationship between Lane and Trevor evolved from Trevor experimenting with gay sex to something much deeper. I also liked how their parents – and everyone else – accepted their relationship without any drama about them being stepbrothers.
While I loved reading this book with my eyes, I really can’t wait to listen to the audiobook when it comes out. Darcy Stark has been doing a great job with this series (as he has with many of Beth’s other series).
I’m also very excited that Beth Bolden will be a featured author at Coastal Magic Convention (coastalmagicconvention.com) next February in Daytona Beach. It’s a fantastic convention where there are a lot of opportunities for readers to mingle with the authors over a long weekend.
An advanced copy of this book was provided to me at my request; my review was voluntary and not influenced by the author.
Ever since I started reading this series, the incredible amount of tension between Lane and Trevor was impossible to ignore. I was practically holding my breath, wondering whether they would get their own story or not. And when I found out that the demon twins were, in fact, getting a book of their own, I immediately thought: I need this right now!
And I have to say, this book did not disappoint.
I loved finally getting a glimpse into just how long and how intensely Lane had been yearning for Trevor, and how hard he tried to avoid him for as long as he could because he was absolutely terrified of how his mother and Trevor’s father would react if they found out about his feelings.
And then things get even better: not only do they end up on the same team, but they become roommates too, and the walls between them slowly begin to crumble.
Of course, we also get to see Trevor’s adorable golden retriever personality shine through. He’s caring, sweet, and sometimes a little naïve, and when he asks Lane to help him explore his sexuality? Woah!
The slow-burn dynamic between them evolves from awkward stepbrother tension into something incredibly deep and heartwarming. I also loved their character development, watching Lane slowly learn to trust his instincts on the football field, while Trevor embraces the changes in his sexuality so naturally and effortlessly, becoming the perfect boyfriend for Lane.
And what did I love the most? The support they receive from both their team and their family.
This book strikes the perfect balance between funny moments, steamy scenes, and heartwarming emotions.
Thank you to the author and Neon Rainbow ARC Reviews for providing me with an ARC. This review reflects my honest opinion.
This book was fabulous! I’ve been looking forward to reading Trevor and Lane’s story since Hell or High Water. It was obvious there was some tension between them and I couldn’t wait to find out what it was.
Now we know it all stemmed from Lane’s love for Trevor. I felt so bad for him because he really liked Trevor from the moment he saw him but he didn’t want to make things hard for his mom.
Lane spent years trying to get over his feelings for Trevor. He avoided spending time with him as much as possible, but when Trevor is drafted to his team, he has nowhere to run.
There’s no avoiding him and hiding how much he wants him becomes impossible. Trevor is sweet, kind and so beautiful. The more he gets to know him, the harder he falls.
Trevor never understood why Lane always kept him at arms length. No matter how hard he tried to get close to him, Lane would always push him away.
Trevor hoped that being teammates would bring them together but instead, Lane was more distant than ever. Trevor didn’t know why he wanted to be closer to Lane. As far as he knew, he’d never been interested in men.
Yet, his attraction to Lane only grew stronger as the days passed. Trevor needed to know whether he was as straight as he thought he was or if it was just a phase.
When Lane offers to help him experiment, Trevor can’t hide how much he loves that idea. Lane exceeded his expectations and Trevor wanted more. He wanted all of Lane.
Watching them go from constantly bickering and fighting with each other to being completely in love, was absolutely swoon worthy. After pining for so many years, Lane deserved to get his man.
I can’t get enough of this series. I really hope we get Jordan’s story next. The poor guy needs to find someone 😆
This is the last book in Season 1 of the Toronto Thunder series and possibly my favorite! It’s about the demon twins that we’ve seen throughout the series, stepbrothers Lane and Trevor. They’re not your typical stepbrothers, they’ve never lived under the same roof. Their parents got married when they were 16 and 18. They’ve never spent much time together because Lane has had a crush on Trevor (who identified as straight) since high school, so Lane avoided his family as much as possible throughout college and his early career. Then Trevor is drafted to Lane’s NFL team and suddenly is moving in to Lanes condo. It doesn’t take long before Trevor starts noticing Lane in a way he never expected. He’s curious and Lane suggests Trevor experiment with him.
I loved that even though Trevor was the inexperienced one, he took control, not only in the bedroom, but also in their relationship by being the one to openly communicate and bring up the hard subjects. It was refreshing to have characters that talked through things together. And when they needed a sounding board, they both had great friends who were there to listen and support them.
And of course, the sex was hot! The chemistry between Lane and Trevor had been building up throughout the first 3 books and when it finally exploded, it was scorching! Lane gave Trevor full control of his experiments and let him take the lead as much as he wanted. It was sweet and hot and everything you’d want in a partner.
I really loved this book and all the characters. I laughed a lot and especially when Jordan was around. I hope we get to see Jordan finally get to experiment in the future! Can’t wait to visit the Thunder again!
Beth Bolden should be labeled the 'Queen of Inner Angst', at least for this novel anyway. Lane has been attracted to his stepbrother since before their parents got married. Lane has always been the protector of the family since his father was no longer in the picture. When his mother marries Trevor's father, Lane is a bit lost, and, combined with his pining over Trevor, he turns into a ball of angst. Over his college years, he ended up avoiding his home because he didn't want to act on his feelings toward Trevor, and confronting his feelings about his new family was something he wasn't ready for. Fast forward to draft day when Trevor is drafted on the same team as Lane, and he's an even bigger ball of angst. He ends up being prickly to Trevor, and they end up bikering. Hence, the moniker the team gives them—'The Demon Twins'. But, Trevor confesses he might not be as straight as he thinks he is, and Lane takes it upon himself to be the one that Trevor experiments on. What they didn't count on was the chemistry they have. Experimentation leads to feelings, and those feelings lead Lane to realize he's loved Trevor for quite a while. The conversation Lane has with Aiden and the realization he comes to might be one of Beth's best scenes in a while. There was a lot of character growth and family bonding in this novel, and the series as a whole has an underlying theme of finding or reconnecting with family. Overall, a great read with characters from other books making appearances. I know this is the last book in this series for now, but I can't wait to read about other characters getting their happy endings.
I've been waiting to read 'The Demon Twin's' story for ages and Beth sure delivered with this one.
Lane's had a crush on Trevor for ages, even longer before his mom married Trevor's dad, making them stepbrothers. Due to this and being afraid to disappoint his mom, he stayed away from home as much as possible thinking this crush will go away. He thought wrong because of course Trevor also gets drafted for the Toronto Thunder.
Trevor has always looked up to Lane, not understanding why he never came home or spend time with him. So when he's drafted to the Toronto Thunder he's as happy as a clam when he's able to room with Lane, giving him a chance to get to know him better. Unfortunately Lane is still as grumpy as ever but at the same time Trevor also starts to see another side of Lane. And, it turns out Trevor isn't as straight as he always thought to be. Living in close proximity of Lane and being on the same team opens up his eyes.
When he talks to Lane about is doubts, Lane offers to experiment with him even though it's really hard to keep his true feelings to himself. The closer Trevor gets to Lane, the more Trevor reaslises he wants to have something real. Both have doubts however because they're afraid it'll disturbe the family dynamics. Luckily both have very supportive team mates who don't hesitate to step in.
Thunderstruck concludes Season 1 of the Toronto series which has been super so far. I can't wait to see what Beth has in store for Season 2.
**ARC kindly received from the author through Neon Rainbow Reviews. This is my honest opinion.**
Lane gets the surprise of his life when the cute boy at the school gym is the son of the man his Mom is dating. He keeps his crush to himself to not upset his Mom, and eventually she marries Tom, a great guy.
But that leads to Lane avoiding home and hoping his feelings fade, until Trevor joins his team in the NFL and they become roommates.
Trevor doesn’t get why Lane is so prickly, kind and funny one minute, abrupt and grumpy the next. He’s also starting to question his sexuality because he’s not very interested in girls and isn’t into hookups.
He reveals this to Lane, who offers to let him experiment, getting at least some of his desire for Lane fulfilled. As they spend time together and Trev tells Lane he likes him, it leads him to confess he’s liked Trevor for a long time.
They both realize the feeling are deeper than a crush for each other and seek support from their friends. They finally agree to be boyfriends and tell their parents when they come for a visit.
They also finally say the words, after a stumble or two, and go on to bring their team a Super Bowl win, knowing they’ve found something much more valuable together.
A good read, with characters from other stories featuring and the story behind the demon twins revealed. I love Lane’s sweet vulnerability and cluelessness, but absolute support for Trev. Trev steers things forward or Kane might never, but that’s how they work well together.
I’m glad to provide my honest review for this book, which I received as an ARC for free.
This is book four in the Toronto Thunder series, and you should read the other books to enjoy the wonderful characters throughout the story.
The team calls them the demon twins, but Lane and Trevor don’t particularly like the nickname. They are stepbrothers working their way through a complicated relationship. Lane has had feelings for Trevor since he first admired him at the gym 6 years ago, before finding out their parents were getting married. Then after he is drafted by the Toronto Thunder and becomes his roommate, Lane discovers that Trevor may not be as straight as he thought, so he offers himself up for any experimenting Trevor would like to do.
What starts as a chance to figure out what makes Lane attractive to Trevor, becomes a way to explore why Lane has always been someone he wants to be around and who he has developed feelings for. Taking the advice of his fellow rookies, Trevor decides to spend as much time as he possibly can with Lane and see where it takes them.
Like all Beth Bolden books, the reader is engaged immediately and will enjoy the realistic way the characters interact and the found family they have in one another. There is humor, spicy romance, heartwarming moments and it will leave you waiting to see what happens in the next season. Beth Bolden is a must read author for me, and I recommend her books for everyone.
THUNDERSTRUCK is the fourth in Beth Bolden's superb Toronto Thunder m/m football series. Tight end Lane Robinson is thrilled for his mother when she finally meets a man who treats her like the queen she is. Realizing that his straight son is the guy he's been eyeing at the gym is a painful shock to his system, and in the interest of familial harmony, he defaults to making himself scarce at home, culminating in being drafted to the NFL. When Trevor Thompson, said stepbrother, follows in his footsteps a couple years later, down to being drafted by his current team, Lane doesn't know whether he's living in hell or living the dream, with the guy he's always wanted but knows he has no chance of having now sharing his apartment...
Beth Bolden outwrites herself with every new release, and she breaths a freshness into each book and character. I loved Lane and Trevor finally building a friendship and giving themselves a chance to appreciate the men they've grown into being. I also love their friends and teammates, and the supportive camaraderie that is a vital part of the series. Thunderstruck is a fantastic, fun read that brings all the feels, and I couldn't read it fast enough, despite wanting to linger over every page. I laughed aloud at the banter, sighed with their moments of angst, held my breath as they played their hearts out on the field. I'll enjoy rereading this and the rest of the series as I eagerly await Ms Bolden's next book.
In this story, we get all the best things once again: - Stepbrothers trope, - One of them has been crushing hard for years, thinking he never stood a chance, - Until the other signs as the newest Toronto Thunder player and crashes back into his life.
Watching Lane slowly let his guard down and believe that a HEA with his dream guy is actually possible? Absolutely beautiful. And Trevor discovering new things about himself, facing his fears, and refusing to let Lane run away from the tough conversations? Perfection. They’re the demon twins after all—there had to be love, but also plenty of banter!
I completely understood why Lane was so terrified to talk about his feelings for Trevor, and I totally believed his need to keep it a secret. But I absolutely loved how Trevor approached everything with such an open mind. Even though he had his own fears—since he’d never been in a situation like this before—he always pushed for communication. I love how Trevor figured out Lane’s tells and refused to let him overthink different scenarios all on his own, choosing to be right there by his side instead. And their first "I love you"? Yes, it was absolutely perfect. 🥹❤️
And of course, the teammates are right there in the background—cheering them on, giving advice (sometimes great, sometimes hilariously bad—but we love them anyway). This entire series has completely stolen my heart, and I already know it’s going to be my ultimate comfort series whenever I need a happy place.
When you walk into a restaurant to meet your Mom's new partner, and it's the guys you've been lusting afters Dad! That is how Thunderstruck by @bethboldenauthor starts. Thank you, Beth & Neon Rainbow, for my copy of Thunderstruck, the 4th Toronto Thunders book. Fast forward to the present day and Trevor has been drafted to the Toronto Thunders & their parents insist he moves in with Lane.
On NYE Trevor tell Lane he thinks he likes men... Lane completely freaks out; he has been pining over Trevor for 6 years by this point. After a pep talk from Nate & Ramsey, he returns to Trevor with an idea.
"If you're looking to experiment. If that's what you're looking for, experiment with me."
Thunderstruck can be read as a standalone, but why miss out read the whole Toronto Thunder series. I loved how the prologue gave us the backstory for Lane & Trevor, and their HEA felt inevitable. Thunderstruck was full of heart, hope, heat and concludes with a HEA.
Thunderstruck means to be extremely surprised, shocked, or amazed. It describes a state of sudden astonishment so intense it leaves a person temporarily speechless or stunned.
Thunderstruck by Beth Bolden is book 4 in the Toronto Thunder series. This series definitely has a chokehold on me. I have loved each and every one of these books. Beth Bolden is one of my favorite authors and I will read anything that she writes.
Lane and Trevor met when their parents got married. Lane was heading off to college and Trevor was in high school. Lane was attracted to Trev and decided that limiting his time spent with Trevor would be best. That became a problem when his team drafted Lane.
I loved all of this. The pining, the realization that Trevor wasn’t as straight as he thought, the friendships, etc. Beth writes found family very well. The team is one big family and the way that they care (and meddle) is amazing.
Lane letting Trevor experiment with him was hard to read sometimes because it was obvious how much Lane already loved Trevor. But watching Trevor fall was extra sweet that way. I also love that their parents took everything in stride.
I am SO excited because the book I’ve been waiting for forever is finally next. I cannot wait for Wes and Marcus’ second chance. I want to know exactly how everything went down and I want these two back together. I cannot wait. I highly recommend all of Beth’s books and series. This one is definitely my fave.
I received an ARC from the author and Neon Rainbow ARC Reviews for my honest review.
From the start of this series, we are introduced to the Lane and Trevor aka The Demon Twins, getting their nickname from their constant bickering. Lane was the one that tended to start it, but there was a reason why he had so much animosity, keep your stepbrother at a distant, try to stop crushing on your stepbrother. Now they both play for the Toronto Thunders, living together, feelings resurface/surface. I really enjoy the stepbrother trope and I was excited to read this book. I did feel sorry for both Lane and Trevor, Lane after seeing the most beautiful boy, finding out it was his mom's boyfriend's son and wanting his mom to be happy, trying and failing to get his crush under control and Trevor who did not know what he had done to get on Lane's bad side. However when feelings were known their communication improved on and off the field and I enjoyed seeing their relationship grow. As it was Trevor's rookie season, it was good to see him connect with Cam and Jordan and I had such fun reading their scenes, some of Jordan's comments had me laughing and he definitely needs his own relationship, I have my wishes for him. The action on the field was exciting and the more I read the more I understand the game. Lane's analysis helped. I still cannot get over how relaxed Aiden is and who has still decided he is the relationship expert. Can't wait to read more of the team's story
Lane Robinsons Mom meets and falls in love with Dr Thompson. The main problem with that is his son Trevor.. Lane had spotted the new guy in the gym an had an immediate attraction to him.But before he could work up the nerve to talk to him ...his mom introduced him as the son of the new boyfriend she had. So Lane decided that his moms happiness was worth everything and kinda stay away from family life until Trevor became drafted to the Toronto Thunder team too. An his mom and stepdad had asked for Trevor to stay with him.. Would Lane survive having temptation doors down from him?? Would the demon twins finally figure out life?
Trevor Thompson all he wanted was to play football an to figure out why his step brother ignored him. Trevor hoped that by being drafted to the Toronto Thunder that would give him an Lane something to bond over. Oh little did Trevor know that while living an working with Lane he would discover more about himself than the type of football player he really was.. Wanting Lanes attention off the field has somehow become everything. Can the demon twins become more than a force on the field.. Will Trevor's awakening give Lane his dream?
I could not put this one down and read it in about a day. That prologue just made me hurt for Lane and it explains so much of the dynamic between the two. But once things become different, once they have the chance to explore an attraction between them … at one point Cam calls men “the most thickheaded morons” when in love and I couldn’t agree more :)
Both of them are so hesitant and so unsure about the other. But as their experiment turns into feelings and those feelings deepen, things get even more complicated and neither is really sure what to do about it. Especially Lane who has spent so many years having to repress his feelings, and now no longer able to with Trevor in his home. In all his caring, sweet, earnestness while telling him that he may be into guys. Poor Lane didn’t have a chance.
Bolden’s characters are always so appealing and so delicious in their downfall that I don’t even need to read the blurb to know that it’s a must read. And once again she delivers a steamy slow burn, low angst, idiots-to-lovers romance but at least Lane & Trevor are fun in their idiocy.
**I voluntarily read and reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.**