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Blackwood Knights #2
Balls & Falls
They were just friends… until they weren’t.
Gabriel
Ten years ago I lost my best friend, and now with the dream I only shared with him back then coming to fruition, I have the perfect excuse to make things right, fixing what I broke. Everything's in place so I make an offer I hope he can't refuse. If I hope for more than friendship, well then no one has to know.
Charley
Ten years ago, Gabriel didn’t just break our friendship, he broke my heart. Not that he ever knew.
His offer to run the Polo centre comes at exactly the right time but can I keep my feelings in check as I know he’ll never want me? All I can hope for is to be friends again.
Gabriel
Ten years ago I lost my best friend, and now with the dream I only shared with him back then coming to fruition, I have the perfect excuse to make things right, fixing what I broke. Everything's in place so I make an offer I hope he can't refuse. If I hope for more than friendship, well then no one has to know.
Charley
Ten years ago, Gabriel didn’t just break our friendship, he broke my heart. Not that he ever knew.
His offer to run the Polo centre comes at exactly the right time but can I keep my feelings in check as I know he’ll never want me? All I can hope for is to be friends again.
- GenresRomanceM M Romance
206 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 16, 2026
1 person is currently reading
14 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
March 20, 2026
This was a lovely estranged friends to lovers story. The polo and setting added a poshness that was fun to read.
This found family/working team keeps growing and is promising more thrilling reads.
This found family/working team keeps growing and is promising more thrilling reads.
March 2, 2026
Beta Read
Gabriel Barclay-Sinclair is the heir of the Monkswood estate, he is in need of a manager for his polo club, which is opening on the estate soon. He can only think of one person he wants for the job, but it is the person who he hasn't spoken to for ten years, his childhood best friend, Charley.
Charley Marshall hates his job and needs an out, but to where? Gabriel contacts him out of the blue, asking to meet up to discuss a business opportunity. He offers him the job, but initially turns it down. They need to work out their issues as to why they haven't spoken for ten years.
Can they make the polo club successful, as well as their relationship?
I loved this second book in Jem Wendel’s ‘Blackwood Knights’ series.
The writing flows effortlessly and the story is easy to keep track of. I loved how Larchdown was mentioned, and this is where they first met as children.
I felt I could see the estate in my mind, and where everything fitted, from the descriptions alone.
I liked the low angst angle to this story, and the fact they were already in love with each other, so the progression to lovers was easy.
I am hoping Pete gets his HEA, not necessarily in a story but that it is alluded to.
Felix and Oscar need to get together too.
Gabriel Barclay-Sinclair is the heir of the Monkswood estate, he is in need of a manager for his polo club, which is opening on the estate soon. He can only think of one person he wants for the job, but it is the person who he hasn't spoken to for ten years, his childhood best friend, Charley.
Charley Marshall hates his job and needs an out, but to where? Gabriel contacts him out of the blue, asking to meet up to discuss a business opportunity. He offers him the job, but initially turns it down. They need to work out their issues as to why they haven't spoken for ten years.
Can they make the polo club successful, as well as their relationship?
I loved this second book in Jem Wendel’s ‘Blackwood Knights’ series.
The writing flows effortlessly and the story is easy to keep track of. I loved how Larchdown was mentioned, and this is where they first met as children.
I felt I could see the estate in my mind, and where everything fitted, from the descriptions alone.
I liked the low angst angle to this story, and the fact they were already in love with each other, so the progression to lovers was easy.
I am hoping Pete gets his HEA, not necessarily in a story but that it is alluded to.
Felix and Oscar need to get together too.
March 16, 2026
This was a cute, sweet and enjoyable quick read for me.
Gabriel and Charley were once best friends and after ten years of no contact Gabriel offers Charley a job at a very crucial moment for them both. I loved seeing them reconnect and finally confess their feelings for each other. 11 year old Gabriel and Charley didn't know what they started when they met, but at 28 and with hindsight they knew what that moment was.
I loved Gabriel's jealousy and possessiveness, although he didn't need to worry about Charley. They were really sweet and funny together. I loved their connection and their friendship which they were able to rekindle fast.
It was great to see more of Andrés and Simon. I really enjoyed getting more polo scenes and getting to see them play.
If you're looking for a lighthearted, sweet and fun read with a different type of sport at the forefront then this book is for you.
Gabriel and Charley were once best friends and after ten years of no contact Gabriel offers Charley a job at a very crucial moment for them both. I loved seeing them reconnect and finally confess their feelings for each other. 11 year old Gabriel and Charley didn't know what they started when they met, but at 28 and with hindsight they knew what that moment was.
I loved Gabriel's jealousy and possessiveness, although he didn't need to worry about Charley. They were really sweet and funny together. I loved their connection and their friendship which they were able to rekindle fast.
It was great to see more of Andrés and Simon. I really enjoyed getting more polo scenes and getting to see them play.
If you're looking for a lighthearted, sweet and fun read with a different type of sport at the forefront then this book is for you.
March 23, 2026
Gabriel & Charley
This was a sweet second chance romance. It was definitely a slow burn but it was all worth in the end for Gabriel and Charley's happily ever after.
I received an ARC and this is my unbiased opinion
This was a sweet second chance romance. It was definitely a slow burn but it was all worth in the end for Gabriel and Charley's happily ever after.
I received an ARC and this is my unbiased opinion
Review of advance copy received from Author
Balls and Falls by Jem Wendel is the second book in her Blackwood Knights series. I suggest you read the first one before this one to learn the background of the polo club that one of the main characters starts and also the story of two of the men who work there and support it. This is the story of two men who were best friends growing up, had a falling out and didn’t speak for 10 years, and then came back together to support the dreams they had when young and discover they loved each other all along. Charley Marshall was living with his uncle when his parents died when he was 7. He didn’t know anyone in the town but had a bike that he rode everywhere. One day he encountered Gabriel Barclay who was on a horse and they talked, had a race, and became best friends. Gabriel was actually the son of Lord Sinclair and the family owned a lot of ground in the area as well as had horses, barns, and a huge manor. He went to a private school so he also didn’t have many friends in the area for when he was home and Charley became very special to him. As they grew up Garbriel taught Charley to ride horses and to play polo which they both enjoyed. They also shared their dreams and the big one Gabriel had was to have a polo centre where they could hold tournaments, a restaurant, and a place where they could also have other events. When they were 18 and Gabriel was just about to return to school they had a huge blowup that caused Charley to leave and not come back. Meanwhile Gabriel’s father had died and he had to take care of everything to do with their estate. They hadn’t spoken in 10 years. Gabriel’s polo centre dreams were about to come true but he needed a manager and polo 4th player besides himself, Andres who was his polo instructor, and a friend from college. All he could think of was Charley who he had always wanted to manage the centre but he wasn’t sure if he would do it after all that had happened. His sister, Imogen, suggested he get in touch with him and when he did, he first said no. But Charley had a horrid boss who was bullying him badly and when the final straw came, he quit and contacted Gabriel who was ecstatic but Charley said he would never date his boss again and was adamant about it. He took the job, was good at it, and very much liked it but there was a lot to do as the first tournament and opening for the centre were coming up. He also had to relearn riding the horse he was given as enticement for the job and to play polo at a high level again. Things were moving along and going well and the people who made up the work team were becoming family which Charley really liked. He and Gabriel finally talked about what had caused them to lose their friendship and apologized which led to some stunning revelations about the feelings they had for each other even back then which in turn, led to some hot love scenes. The tournament and opening are a big success and things are looking very good for the centre and they even come up with some other ideas to make it even better. They are now showing their love for each other and looking forward to their future. I really enjoyed this story. Charley had a hard beginning in life, but meeting Gabriel changed everything. Gabriel had also been lonely and Charley filled that gap. Growing up they shared their plans and dreams and it all went away when they had their fight and both regretted it every day. It really made everything better when it worked out for Charley to become the manager and Gabriel supported him in every way. When they were finally able to say they loved each other it and show it, it was the best thing that ever happened to them. The other members of their team played a big part in the story, and I learned a lot about playing polo and what is involved in it. I highly recommend this book, especially if you like stories that revolve around horses and polo, two men who mean the world to each other but have it taken away with a few words, and having them get back together to find the love they had all along.
Review of advance copy received from Author
The so really good story and second book in the Polo series.
It's a childhood friends to lovers with a bit of a second chance in as it takes these two while to reconnect. It is very low angst and no drama.
After years of no contact Gabriel really is desperate to reconnect with Charley to get him to take over the management of the new polo centre.
The author is good in world building and her description of the centre, the manor house and the stables is really detailed. You can basically feel you are there and seeing the landscape, the building and the horses. The author definitely knows her way around horses so you really have a good description of the game you can follow the story without having any idea how polo is actually played.
I felt Charlie agreed a bit too fast to Gabriel's plan and also is too fast in abandoning his rule about not getting involved with the boss. I had hoped for Gabriele to do a lot more growelling.
Charlie and Gabriele definitely do have chemistry and I love how Charlie is helping Gabriel with his insecurities when it comes to physical relationships. Some of the reconnection and the happy ever after feels a bit too easy hence the star deduction.
I love the Latchdown Valley connection and also seeing Simon and Andres back from the first book. They are plenty of other secondary characters who really help fleshing out the whole storyline and I do hope we will see them again for other stories. There's a hint about who will be in the next book but I definitely hope the author will take the new bar manager and provide him as a story.
But if you like a good romance with an unusual sport you normally don't read, the series is definitely worth reading and it's great to just enjoy a cup of tea and some chocolate and learn about polo.
It's a childhood friends to lovers with a bit of a second chance in as it takes these two while to reconnect. It is very low angst and no drama.
After years of no contact Gabriel really is desperate to reconnect with Charley to get him to take over the management of the new polo centre.
The author is good in world building and her description of the centre, the manor house and the stables is really detailed. You can basically feel you are there and seeing the landscape, the building and the horses. The author definitely knows her way around horses so you really have a good description of the game you can follow the story without having any idea how polo is actually played.
I felt Charlie agreed a bit too fast to Gabriel's plan and also is too fast in abandoning his rule about not getting involved with the boss. I had hoped for Gabriele to do a lot more growelling.
Charlie and Gabriele definitely do have chemistry and I love how Charlie is helping Gabriel with his insecurities when it comes to physical relationships. Some of the reconnection and the happy ever after feels a bit too easy hence the star deduction.
I love the Latchdown Valley connection and also seeing Simon and Andres back from the first book. They are plenty of other secondary characters who really help fleshing out the whole storyline and I do hope we will see them again for other stories. There's a hint about who will be in the next book but I definitely hope the author will take the new bar manager and provide him as a story.
But if you like a good romance with an unusual sport you normally don't read, the series is definitely worth reading and it's great to just enjoy a cup of tea and some chocolate and learn about polo.
March 22, 2026
It’s a welcome return to Monkswood and the Black KNIGHTS Polo Club in Balls & Falls.
Gabriel Barclay-Sinclair is heir to the Monkswood estate, and his dreams of a polo center are finally coming true. There’s just one person he needs to complete his team and tie everything together: Charley Marshall
Charley and Gabriel were instant friends at age 11 and stayed that way… until they weren’t.
A decades old disagreement left them both regretting what happened. There’s a sense of melancholy about careless comments, things let unsaid, and the question of what could have been.
When Gabriel reaches out and gives Charley an easy exit from a horrible work situation, he declines. But as things escalate with his vindictive and boundary-ignoring boss, he accepts and has the kind of “I quit” moment most of us have dreamed about.
These two lovely men easily fall into old patterns. And while Gabriel respects Charley not wanting to blur the lines between their personal and professional relationships, Gabriel can’t stop wondering…
When they finally have the talk that’s been ten years in the making, it’s as cathartic and satisfying as you’d hoped.
I felt the tide begin to turn when Charley slipped back to his old habit of calling Gabriel Gabby. (And why do I find that nickname, so adorable?)
Favorite moments: Charley taking charge and Gabriel’s epic proposal.
Bonus points for Jem bringing back characters I loved in book 1 and the Larchdown universe. (Hello Cole!)
Plus there are new character who have me wanting their stories! Hopefully Jem has a lot of books planned for this series because after book 3’s announced couple, Im hoping Oscar, Felix, and Pete will also get HEAs.
Sweet, swoony, and highly recommended.
Gabriel Barclay-Sinclair is heir to the Monkswood estate, and his dreams of a polo center are finally coming true. There’s just one person he needs to complete his team and tie everything together: Charley Marshall
Charley and Gabriel were instant friends at age 11 and stayed that way… until they weren’t.
A decades old disagreement left them both regretting what happened. There’s a sense of melancholy about careless comments, things let unsaid, and the question of what could have been.
When Gabriel reaches out and gives Charley an easy exit from a horrible work situation, he declines. But as things escalate with his vindictive and boundary-ignoring boss, he accepts and has the kind of “I quit” moment most of us have dreamed about.
These two lovely men easily fall into old patterns. And while Gabriel respects Charley not wanting to blur the lines between their personal and professional relationships, Gabriel can’t stop wondering…
When they finally have the talk that’s been ten years in the making, it’s as cathartic and satisfying as you’d hoped.
I felt the tide begin to turn when Charley slipped back to his old habit of calling Gabriel Gabby. (And why do I find that nickname, so adorable?)
Favorite moments: Charley taking charge and Gabriel’s epic proposal.
Bonus points for Jem bringing back characters I loved in book 1 and the Larchdown universe. (Hello Cole!)
Plus there are new character who have me wanting their stories! Hopefully Jem has a lot of books planned for this series because after book 3’s announced couple, Im hoping Oscar, Felix, and Pete will also get HEAs.
Sweet, swoony, and highly recommended.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This is a lovely, romantic, low angst -formal best friends to lovers- story!💗 I enjoyed it very much…
Gabriel & Charley met when they were eleven… best friends back then and sharing EVERYTHING - except their blooming attraction for each other.
Things got weird on Gabriel’s 18th birthday and they got estranged for over a decade.
Gabriel reaches out one day… with his dream of the equestrian center opening soon almost everything in his life fell into place like he anticipated it… except for Charley! He never could forget the blond boy on his bike…even after all these years… Charley is his true love after all!
Oh it’s about time you guys!
When Gabriel offers Charley the center managing position he is reluctant at first - still thinking that Gabriel is straight and there is too much history - but comes around quickly… because having him in his life again even only as his best friend could be everything.
They fall back quickly into their friendship… and soon they get together and it is perfect! They deserve their HEA.
Oh I am excited for the next book in the series… I have my fingers crossed for who might be the next couple already and I hope I get to see their next event - a very special tournament soon….
Gabriel & Charley met when they were eleven… best friends back then and sharing EVERYTHING - except their blooming attraction for each other.
Things got weird on Gabriel’s 18th birthday and they got estranged for over a decade.
Gabriel reaches out one day… with his dream of the equestrian center opening soon almost everything in his life fell into place like he anticipated it… except for Charley! He never could forget the blond boy on his bike…even after all these years… Charley is his true love after all!
Oh it’s about time you guys!
When Gabriel offers Charley the center managing position he is reluctant at first - still thinking that Gabriel is straight and there is too much history - but comes around quickly… because having him in his life again even only as his best friend could be everything.
They fall back quickly into their friendship… and soon they get together and it is perfect! They deserve their HEA.
Oh I am excited for the next book in the series… I have my fingers crossed for who might be the next couple already and I hope I get to see their next event - a very special tournament soon….
Review of advance copy received from Author
Friends to Strangers to Friends to Lovers is how our two MMCs have journeyed through life together. Both men experienced sexual awakening as young men, but were unable to voice their feelings, creating strain and distance that changed their entire friendship. Gabriel became a victim of duty and obligation, thinking that he had his life planned out, but always with the hope that his best friend Charley, was by his side. Charley was an outsider looking in, but never felt that way with Gabriel until the days when another placed a wedge too large to move and broke what should have been the start of their adult ventures. Now they are older and wiser, but they have never forgotten one another, so Gabriel needs help to follow through on his dreams; there is only one person he needs to follow through with: Charley. Charley is apprehensive about letting Gabriel back into his life, but he is beyond ready for a change in his mundane life. But neither man expects to pine, neither man expects reciprocation, and neither man expects to find love that feels like the most natural thing that either have experienced in this life. But can they trust that it's a forever thing and not a fleeting moment in time.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 21, 2026
Gabriel as Lord of the manor is able to continue with his dreams of running his own Polo centre, he has the Chef and the trainer, but what he needs is someone who will be great running the whole thing, one name comes to mind, his old childhood friend Charley. But to get him working for him, he needs to ask for forgiveness.
One of my favourite tropes is 2nd chance where the MCs have been best friends when they were children. One reason is that you get to learn all about their younger years, their hopes and dreams. So finding out that Charley and Gabriel were friends from the age of 12 until they weren't, I knew that I would enjoy this story.
This is a low angst read as you could see that they missed each other's friendship. I liked Gabriel and Charley and with them reconnecting, you could see how close they were. Gabriel rarely mentioned his wealth and never put on airs and graces.
The polo scenes held my interest and I found myself learning more about the sport. Loved seeing Andre and Simon and with some new characters and some returning secondary characters. There is so many stories I want to hear about. With Linden and Xander's story teased I would love for Felix and Pete to have their stories as they were both interesting characters
One of my favourite tropes is 2nd chance where the MCs have been best friends when they were children. One reason is that you get to learn all about their younger years, their hopes and dreams. So finding out that Charley and Gabriel were friends from the age of 12 until they weren't, I knew that I would enjoy this story.
This is a low angst read as you could see that they missed each other's friendship. I liked Gabriel and Charley and with them reconnecting, you could see how close they were. Gabriel rarely mentioned his wealth and never put on airs and graces.
The polo scenes held my interest and I found myself learning more about the sport. Loved seeing Andre and Simon and with some new characters and some returning secondary characters. There is so many stories I want to hear about. With Linden and Xander's story teased I would love for Felix and Pete to have their stories as they were both interesting characters
Review of advance copy received from Author
3.75⭐️
A cute, sweet, likeable quick read. Gabriel and Charley are both gorgeous characters - though Charley’s initial predicament seemed a little extreme. I settled into this instalment more quickly than I did its predecessor, now more familiar with those in it and the setting.
The first half of this is Gabriel and Charley reconnecting after a fall out 10 years prior. I liked that their move to a deeper relationship wasn’t instant though some parts do seem to move quite quickly once there. As with the first in the series there’s a fair amount of polo here and there’s also a lot of involvement with the players and coworkers - some of whom I hope get their own stories.
I love the cheeky titles of this series, though the books aren’t the wink wink, nudge nudge the names may suggest!
This is my third Wendel book but there’s something familiar about her writing for me - I think it’s that they remind me of the Mills and Boon books I’d read years ago, but with proper spice and MM.
A good alternative to the typical sport MM spicy reads.
A cute, sweet, likeable quick read. Gabriel and Charley are both gorgeous characters - though Charley’s initial predicament seemed a little extreme. I settled into this instalment more quickly than I did its predecessor, now more familiar with those in it and the setting.
The first half of this is Gabriel and Charley reconnecting after a fall out 10 years prior. I liked that their move to a deeper relationship wasn’t instant though some parts do seem to move quite quickly once there. As with the first in the series there’s a fair amount of polo here and there’s also a lot of involvement with the players and coworkers - some of whom I hope get their own stories.
I love the cheeky titles of this series, though the books aren’t the wink wink, nudge nudge the names may suggest!
This is my third Wendel book but there’s something familiar about her writing for me - I think it’s that they remind me of the Mills and Boon books I’d read years ago, but with proper spice and MM.
A good alternative to the typical sport MM spicy reads.
March 17, 2026
A soft, second-chance romance that leans heavily into nostalgia and unresolved feelings. The story centres on two former best friends reconnecting after a decade apart, and it captures that mix of familiarity and awkwardness that comes with trying to rebuild something that once meant everything.
What works particularly well is the shared history between Gabriel and Charley. You get a real sense that their bond never fully disappeared, even if it was left behind for years. The emotional payoff comes from watching them finally confront what was left unsaid, rather than any big external drama.
The pacing is quick, but it suits the tone, this is very much a comfort read, focused on rekindled friendship, quiet longing, and the hope of something more. There are also some nice touches with the polo setting, which gives it a slightly different backdrop compared to more typical sports romances.
Overall, it’s a sweet, easy read with plenty of heart, perfect if you enjoy gentle second-chance stories with a strong emotional core.
I received a free arc copy and this is my honest review
What works particularly well is the shared history between Gabriel and Charley. You get a real sense that their bond never fully disappeared, even if it was left behind for years. The emotional payoff comes from watching them finally confront what was left unsaid, rather than any big external drama.
The pacing is quick, but it suits the tone, this is very much a comfort read, focused on rekindled friendship, quiet longing, and the hope of something more. There are also some nice touches with the polo setting, which gives it a slightly different backdrop compared to more typical sports romances.
Overall, it’s a sweet, easy read with plenty of heart, perfect if you enjoy gentle second-chance stories with a strong emotional core.
I received a free arc copy and this is my honest review
March 19, 2026
I’m really enjoying this series! I never thought I’d find the game of polo so fascinating or maybe it’s the fact that it’s MM😏
I love child friends to lovers and second chances. Charley and Gabriel were too young to understand what they were feeling. But just when Charley figured it out, things between him and Gabriel had changed and they drifted apart.
It took Gabriel ten years to get his act together and now he needs Charley back in his life. But Charley has built a life for himself, one where he won’t allow himself to think about Gabriel. Not after the pain he went through after losing him.
But when Charley’s job becomes too much to handle, he takes a chance on Gabriel’s offer to work for him. After all, Charley was a big part of Gabriel’s dream.
Gabriel knew he wanted Charley back in his life whether as an employee or as the man he loved and would do anything to get his forgiveness. And this time he wouldn’t let him go without a fight.
It took him too long to realize he was in love with Charley but this time, he would be brave enough to keep him.
I love child friends to lovers and second chances. Charley and Gabriel were too young to understand what they were feeling. But just when Charley figured it out, things between him and Gabriel had changed and they drifted apart.
It took Gabriel ten years to get his act together and now he needs Charley back in his life. But Charley has built a life for himself, one where he won’t allow himself to think about Gabriel. Not after the pain he went through after losing him.
But when Charley’s job becomes too much to handle, he takes a chance on Gabriel’s offer to work for him. After all, Charley was a big part of Gabriel’s dream.
Gabriel knew he wanted Charley back in his life whether as an employee or as the man he loved and would do anything to get his forgiveness. And this time he wouldn’t let him go without a fight.
It took him too long to realize he was in love with Charley but this time, he would be brave enough to keep him.
March 20, 2026
Review of advance copy received from the author.
Another lovely story by Jem. Gabriel is the heir to his father's home and Charley was his best friend until hasty words separated them for ten years. During which Gabriel's father died and he finally got to start work on what he always wanted to do with his family's estate, Monkswood, including starting his own polo team. He needs a manager, which is a job he's always wanted Charley for. Charley having left his previous job, agrees, but as part of the reason he left his job was that he was involved with his boss, he decides not to mix his job with pleasure any more. Which is fine by Gabriel, he missed his friend more than anything. At least initially, it works, but soon the tension grows tight between them. Luckily, Charley is willing to reconsider his stance, considering he's had feelings for Gabriel for years as well. I like the details about polo and the story is sweet. I like the details of their friendship and their places around the estate. Lovely story, and already looking forward to the next in the series.
Another lovely story by Jem. Gabriel is the heir to his father's home and Charley was his best friend until hasty words separated them for ten years. During which Gabriel's father died and he finally got to start work on what he always wanted to do with his family's estate, Monkswood, including starting his own polo team. He needs a manager, which is a job he's always wanted Charley for. Charley having left his previous job, agrees, but as part of the reason he left his job was that he was involved with his boss, he decides not to mix his job with pleasure any more. Which is fine by Gabriel, he missed his friend more than anything. At least initially, it works, but soon the tension grows tight between them. Luckily, Charley is willing to reconsider his stance, considering he's had feelings for Gabriel for years as well. I like the details about polo and the story is sweet. I like the details of their friendship and their places around the estate. Lovely story, and already looking forward to the next in the series.
Review of advance copy received from Author
4.5 stars rounded up
Balls & Falls is the second book in the Blackwood Knights series.
We're still with the same polo team, this time it's Gabriel's turn. The owner and player of the team is looking for a new player and someone to take care of part of the business. Here he remembers Charley, an old childhood friend with whom things didn't end well.
I always say this, but what I like about this author is that the entire work is a shared universe, with characters from the first book and other series appearing.
Another noteworthy aspect is that there is no bi awakening because one of the characters is established as bisexual from the beginning. I appreciate this so much.
The couple from the third book is introduced, which will be an enemies-to-lovers story, which I am really looking forward to reading.
Balls & Falls is the second book in the Blackwood Knights series.
We're still with the same polo team, this time it's Gabriel's turn. The owner and player of the team is looking for a new player and someone to take care of part of the business. Here he remembers Charley, an old childhood friend with whom things didn't end well.
I always say this, but what I like about this author is that the entire work is a shared universe, with characters from the first book and other series appearing.
Another noteworthy aspect is that there is no bi awakening because one of the characters is established as bisexual from the beginning. I appreciate this so much.
The couple from the third book is introduced, which will be an enemies-to-lovers story, which I am really looking forward to reading.
March 17, 2026
Review of advanced reader copy received by author
This is the second book in the blackwoods knights series.
It can be read as a standalone but I would recommend reading the first book first to get a feeling of the characters.
This is a really sweet second chance romance.
Gabriel and Charlie were best friends growing up
Gabriel taught Charlie how to ride and play polo and dreamed of the two of them being partners in Gabriel’s dream of running a polo club.
after 10 years of having no contact Gabriel finds Charlie and offers him a job but will he accept.
I really enjoyed the story I would have enjoyed a little more tension between Gabriel and Charlie they forgave each other to fast but that’s just my opinion I still loved their story!
It was great seeing Andres and Simon again and to be back in the polo world.
Can’t wait for the next book
This is the second book in the blackwoods knights series.
It can be read as a standalone but I would recommend reading the first book first to get a feeling of the characters.
This is a really sweet second chance romance.
Gabriel and Charlie were best friends growing up
Gabriel taught Charlie how to ride and play polo and dreamed of the two of them being partners in Gabriel’s dream of running a polo club.
after 10 years of having no contact Gabriel finds Charlie and offers him a job but will he accept.
I really enjoyed the story I would have enjoyed a little more tension between Gabriel and Charlie they forgave each other to fast but that’s just my opinion I still loved their story!
It was great seeing Andres and Simon again and to be back in the polo world.
Can’t wait for the next book
March 17, 2026
Thank you for the book; here is my honest opinion:
3.5⭐️This was a sweet and light read and I really liked both Charley and Gabriel. Childhood best friends to lovers is my favorite variation on this particular trope, and these two have a lovely second chance at a happy ending. I would have loved a more
detailed look into the childhood friendship and a little less polo, but these two are easy to root for. It’s kind of a mix between too slow and too fast. It’s well into the story before these two start reconnecting and sharing their feelings but once they do, forgiveness comes super easy. I quite enjoy the side characters and the polo club setting was interesting, Imogen was a particular highlight. Fun series.
3.5⭐️This was a sweet and light read and I really liked both Charley and Gabriel. Childhood best friends to lovers is my favorite variation on this particular trope, and these two have a lovely second chance at a happy ending. I would have loved a more
detailed look into the childhood friendship and a little less polo, but these two are easy to root for. It’s kind of a mix between too slow and too fast. It’s well into the story before these two start reconnecting and sharing their feelings but once they do, forgiveness comes super easy. I quite enjoy the side characters and the polo club setting was interesting, Imogen was a particular highlight. Fun series.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I absolutely loved this story. Charlie and Gabriel are so perfect together. Childhood best friends to lovers, who had a falling out over miscommunication. I’m so glad they were able to put everything aside and come back together in such a sweet way. I also loved getting to learn more about Polo. I liked that it’s not a main line sport and brings something so different. I can’t wait for Linden’s book but also really hope Felix gets his own at some point as well. I also really love how this book is connected to Larchdown series as well as to The Himbo and The Lord.
I received this book as an ARC and these are my honest opinions.
I received this book as an ARC and these are my honest opinions.
March 18, 2026
A wonderful story with two men who have a fantastic connection and a reason to take it slow.
One terrible fight, led by an equally terrible ex, created a wedge. Then Gabriel’s dad died, and he had to take over the estate, and by the time he could get his head above water, the rift was too great.
But now that Gabriel’s dream equestrian centre is coming true, he wants his best friend, Charley, back at his side.
The reunion isn’t hearts and cupcakes, but their journey back to one another is really touching and fun. And it’s beautiful that they get the happy ever after that neither of them expected.
One terrible fight, led by an equally terrible ex, created a wedge. Then Gabriel’s dad died, and he had to take over the estate, and by the time he could get his head above water, the rift was too great.
But now that Gabriel’s dream equestrian centre is coming true, he wants his best friend, Charley, back at his side.
The reunion isn’t hearts and cupcakes, but their journey back to one another is really touching and fun. And it’s beautiful that they get the happy ever after that neither of them expected.
March 16, 2026
A truly lovely romcom
I enjoyed this so much! It's sweet and sexy, and a lot of fun. Childhood best friends with a second chance at being more is one of my favourite tropes, and it's done really well here.
The MCs are both big green flags, which is so nice. Every time Gabriel said "Please, Charley" my heart melted!
It's so cool to read such a unique sports romance too. I've never read an MM romance about equine sports, and I knew nothing about polo until I read the two Blackwood Knights novels. There are more planned I believe, and I can't wait!
I enjoyed this so much! It's sweet and sexy, and a lot of fun. Childhood best friends with a second chance at being more is one of my favourite tropes, and it's done really well here.
The MCs are both big green flags, which is so nice. Every time Gabriel said "Please, Charley" my heart melted!
It's so cool to read such a unique sports romance too. I've never read an MM romance about equine sports, and I knew nothing about polo until I read the two Blackwood Knights novels. There are more planned I believe, and I can't wait!
March 17, 2026
I devoured this book in one sitting. It's a sweet best friends to strangers to friends to lovers, set in this new to me polo world Jem is creating. I loved both main characters, their chemistry, their interactions, the cameos of Simon and Andrés. As always with Jem's book I enjoy the writing style, that is in the case efficient in the best way, we are there with them.
This is the second book of the Blackwood Knights series, it can be read as a standalone but would be more enjoyable read in order.
I got an ARC and this is my honest review.
This is the second book of the Blackwood Knights series, it can be read as a standalone but would be more enjoyable read in order.
I got an ARC and this is my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Gabriel has reached that point in his life where all his dreams are coming true with the exception of no Charley, the boy that he hurt in his youth. When Gabriel reaches out Charley understandably is hesitant to take part in this grand adventure but knows in his heart he belongs on the estate with Gabriel and starting this inclusive polo club. To be frank I would have appreciated more groveling on Gabriels behalf, but his sincerity spoke more than his actions in this case. Jem does a beautiful job in teaching us about polo yet not shoving it down our throats in a way that feels forced. These two take their time in allowing the full truths of their pasts out, yet once they do both men are equally all in. In both men's lives there wasn't one without the other, even if it took them ten years to be able to fully commit to their future. Gabriels sister and mother, along with Charleys uncle, all were a beautiful addition, showing what is like to have a supportive family in a community it may not be so easy to be. With a found family of a brilliant group of friends, I'm looking forward to seeing future pairings from this world.
March 16, 2026
A mistake 10 years ago costed Gabriel who he considered the most important person, the only one he had ever told about his dream for the future. With that dream becoming reality he knows who he wants by his side, working together or maybe(if he's lucky) more.
It's a beautiful second chance story with a touch of former best friends to lovers, easy to read and with low angst. It's is so lovely seeing Gabriel and Charley find their HEA
It's a beautiful second chance story with a touch of former best friends to lovers, easy to read and with low angst. It's is so lovely seeing Gabriel and Charley find their HEA
March 17, 2026
Aw, that was a sweet low angst best friends to lovers tale with a bunch of horses and a couple of polo matches thrown in for good measure. I loved it. The MC's were both sweethearts, the secondary characters fun and who doesn't love a good polo match? It's not going to set the world on fire, but if you want a short, sweet, cozy romance, this'll do it.
March 18, 2026
A GREAT SECOND CHANCE ROMANCE BETWEEN TWO WONDERFUL CHARACTERS!
I ENJOYED GABRIEL AND CHARLEY VERY MUCH!
These two are originally childhood friends, and everything doesn't work out. Then they meet back up and I found them realyI really good. I liked being back in this world and love the way this author writes. This is an ARC review.
I ENJOYED GABRIEL AND CHARLEY VERY MUCH!
These two are originally childhood friends, and everything doesn't work out. Then they meet back up and I found them realyI really good. I liked being back in this world and love the way this author writes. This is an ARC review.
March 18, 2026
MC 1: Gabriel
MC 2: Charley
Dynamic: MM
Character Cameos:
Tropes: Friends-to-Lovers, Polo
Micro Tropes, TW, and Random Facebook ask: British, Horses, Ritch love interest
Owned Editions: Kindle
Read/Listened: DNF
I really tried to finish this book but it was very slow burn, the story took a long time to move and ¾ of the way after their first kiss I decided to move on.
MC 2: Charley
Dynamic: MM
Character Cameos:
Tropes: Friends-to-Lovers, Polo
Micro Tropes, TW, and Random Facebook ask: British, Horses, Ritch love interest
Owned Editions: Kindle
Read/Listened: DNF
I really tried to finish this book but it was very slow burn, the story took a long time to move and ¾ of the way after their first kiss I decided to move on.
March 21, 2026
Childhood friends to lovers, second chance romance
Charlie and Gabriel were childhood best friends but a miscommunication between them ked to them parting ways.
Now years later, their worlds collide again.
As they slowly get to know one another better, their easy friendship soon develops into something much more.
I really enjoyed learning about polo as well.
Charlie and Gabriel were childhood best friends but a miscommunication between them ked to them parting ways.
Now years later, their worlds collide again.
As they slowly get to know one another better, their easy friendship soon develops into something much more.
I really enjoyed learning about polo as well.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Wonderful second chance story of Gabriel, owner of a new Polo Centre and Charley, his former friend who Gabriel asks to run his new business. Loved these characters and how they come back together. Couldn't put it down.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Balls & Falls is beautiful low angst, no-drama, second-chance love story between childhood friends Gabriel and Charley.
The book was very well written and the description to good that I almost wished I could visit for a tournament.
Gabriel and Charley are both sweethearts with great friends and families.
I loved that we got to revisit with Simon and Andres from book one asweel as Linden.
The book was very well written and the description to good that I almost wished I could visit for a tournament.
Gabriel and Charley are both sweethearts with great friends and families.
I loved that we got to revisit with Simon and Andres from book one asweel as Linden.
March 16, 2026
Balls and Falls is the second book in the Blackwood Knights series, it can be read as a standalone but is best read in order. This was a fantastic second chance book about Gabriel and Charley. I love the characters in this series and can't wait for the next one.
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