Burning Enemies

Burning Torments #2

by Mina Elwood

Jack
Control. I strive for it. In school, on the soccer field, and definitely with my unwanted crush. When things heat up between my team and the football players, it takes all I’ve got to stay out of it. Then Cal steps in, and my control snaps.
I’m drawn to him, but we ignite at every turn. And the more I push him away, the more he leaves me burning.

Cal
I’m already shaken, stretched thin. My parents’ divorce, violence at school, football, a girlfriend who’s no angel. And now Jack? He sees through my smile, sees the cracks in my armor. He keeps pushing until even the smallest spark sets us off. When the fires ebb, loathing becomes a building fascination I can’t explain.
I don’t want to hate him, but I’m not sure we can be anything other than enemies.

Burning Enemies, Book Two in the Burning Torments series, is a brooding and seductive return to the small town of Hickory Bend. When two jocks find out just how thin the line is between love and hate, which side will they choose to be on?

MM Romance. Includes tropes/ enemies-to-lovers, high angst, high school shenanigans (MCs are 18), bullying, fighting, SA, abuse, forced proximity, small town, and HEA.

Genres: Enemies To Lovers, Sports, M M Romance, Sports Romance, Contemporary

367 pages, Kindle Edition

Published February 3, 2026

Reviews

[Renae Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

Burning Enemies is a great slow-burn romance between soccer player Jack and football player Cal. What makes this story captivating is the intense push/pull dynamic between these two. There is ample resistance to their mutual attraction, confusion as to what it means, and the potential fallout of their shared feelings. All of these elements make for a compelling story that kept me invested throughout.

Overall, I couldn't get enough of Cal and Jack. They have sizzling chemistry that builds authentically throughout the story. What was most fascinating was wondering how and when their mutual attraction would be revealed to one another and the fallout of that acknowledgment. The dancing around their feelings made for a great will-they/won't-they dynamic. It was riveting to see it play out. I love these two characters and love how hard-won their HEA was.

*** I reviewed a complimentary copy of this story.***

[Seraphina Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

Burning Enemies
Burning Torments Book 2
Mina Elwood

Jack & Cal

Sports romance
Bully romance
Fighting as foreplay
Small Town
Slow Burn
First times
Enemies to lovers

I love a good enemies to lovers. This was so well done.

These guys are rivals, one on a football team, one on a soccer team. Both teams have started a prank war that inevitably goes too far.

Now tasked with detention together, they are forced to work together on school projects…. Shoot, all that forced proximity leads to hot like fire chemistry.

The angst and tension between these two was so hot. The sexual tension was flying off the page. They hated that they wanted each other.

Beneath the tension, these men have depth to them. There is a lot going on at home, especially for Cal, he has a huge weight on his shoulders and is carrying it alone.

You know that moment, when the enemies to lovers turn to hurt comfort… this has that… epically!

This was well done, the plot and depth was there. I really enjoyed their story. Great character development too.

Sheesh, when these two finally give into their feelings, wowzers, sparks fly. It was emotional at times too. I appreciated the eventual communication. These guys really cared for each other.

That epilogue was everything!!

I can’t wait to read more from this world!

[Kim Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jack and Cal have been enemies since forever. Both of them are athletes, although in different sports and they have a lot unresolved energy going on between them 🙈

When they have to get to know each other more, they discover that there might be more to it than just dislike 🙂‍↕️

Their banter is so entertaining, even with the angsty themes that take place in this book.

I really enjoyed this one and I would recommend it to everyone who likes their enemies snarky, their romance story angsty and their spice dirty 😏

[ashlee ❤ · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jack + Cal

-mm bully romance
-enemies to lovers
-sports romance
-small town & first times
-forced proximity

ohhhh this story got sooo deep with stupid bitch face cunt bag sasha!! ohhhh she can just go straightttttt to hell!!! but theee two were literally inevitable & i love them!!

[gab_e_reading · Rating 5 out of 5]

I devoured this story in one sitting, so to speak. It's a great bully romance with all the trimmings. The main characters are soccer player Jack and football player Cal. Both have their own burdens to bear. Cal has had enough of his current situation; his family situation is very stressful and his girlfriend is showing signs of abusive behavior. Jack has built high walls around himself due to bad experiences in the past. Their hostility distracts them from everyday life and gives them the attention they seek and need. But it quickly becomes clear that there is more to it than that! The chemistry between the two is explosive and the passion intense ✨❤️! The spicy scenes are hot and well written 🌶️🔥!
I also liked the dynamics within the group of friends and I am excited to learn more about each of them. Ty, in particular, has found a place in my heart 🥰.
I highly recommend this book!

[Natalie · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was my first read by this author, and I read it in one sitting. I couldn’t put it down. I really enjoyed the dynamics between Jack and Cal. This was a slow burn, and there were a few characters I wanted to yell at, but I loved the connection between both MCs and the author’s writing. I can’t wait to read more from the author.

[Leilani Noack · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book made my heart hurt for both Cal and Jake like why did they have to go through so much? But I love how Jake was there for Cal especially when it came to Sasha and doing everything he could to protect him. I really hope that Ty gets a book but this one was really good.

[Tara Parsa]

Started reading, unfortunately lost interest after 2/3 😏😕

Enemies to lovers is my trope but this one wasn’t. didn’t keep my attention and interest
, shortly after the MMCs started dating. The stakes were very low….

Sorry but no thank you

DNF

[Amanda Vierra · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved it! The banter between these two is perfect. They want to hate each other so much. I especially loved the growth that Cal went through and I dont think he would have done it without Jack by his side. There wasnt much spice but the handful of chapters are delicious. Now I need to go back and read book 1 🤭

[Ishika · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5⭐ it was good.



●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●



I rattled off my number, quickly so he'd have to ask me to repeat it, but the dipshit caught every single digit.

Unknown number:
Fuck you.

Me:
Not in this fucking life.

"What did you say to each other?" Trent asked.

I lifted my phone and waved it. "He said, 'Hey, it's Cal,"

"Did Jack respond, Cal?"

Cal stared at his phone as he supposedly read my message from his screen.

""Hey, Cal, it's Jack. I'm glad we're doing this, and I hope we can be friends.' Oh, and he mistyped friends." Cal scrunched his nose in my direction, and with a friendly tone I'd never have imagined him having, he said, "Don't feel bad. A lot of people typo that word."


●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●


Talk about Ty again, and I swear, I'll kick your fucking teeth in.

Now whose dreaming?

Who's, dumbfuck.

God, I hate you.

Mutual.


●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●


JackASS:
Tell me something for today's session, Dipshit.

Me:
Who dis?


●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●


"I dunno what sparked this war zone between you and Cal, but I got a good idea. I also don't know how much longer he's gonna keep pretending with Sasha, but I got a good idea about that too."

At the mention of a possible breakup, I straightened in my chair and leaned closer. "What else?"

Asher kept his darkly outlined eyes on mine. "I don't know which of you is gonna make the first move, but it'll be epic."

I snorted. "Way off the mark, Asher."

"Am I?"

I nodded. I wasn't about to break the fragile truce, or whatever was between us, and get in trouble again.

"Then tell me nothin's brewin' between you even when he's starin' at you right now."

I glanced at Cal, and sure as shit, he was watching me over his shoulder.

"How the fuck did you know that?" I hissed.

"Better question is when the fuck is he not starin' at you?"

I liked the sound of that more than I should.


●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●



Princess:
I'm younger than Ty by 12 minutes and he loves reminding me.

Me:
Aww, that's cute, Princess.

Princess:
Tell me your new thing, then stfu.

Me:
You're really not a morning person, are you?

Princess:
......

Me:
Whatever. Sometimes I wish I was an only child.

Princess:
Dark, but okay. Why?

Me:
I didn't mean it dark. Just meant, worrying about Cara can be a lot.

Ty would understand.

Princess:
Doubt it. Ty doesn't have a little sister.

Me:
Doesn't he though?

Princess:
I hate you.

Me:
Do you though?

Princess:
God, I wish I could block your number.


●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●


"Jack," a feminine voice called.

Jack mumbled something and reached for her hand, which she squeezed, but she didn't stop until she stood right beside the long lines of hay bales we'd already placed.

"What's all this?" she asked.

I glanced at Jack, waiting for him to answer, but he only chewed the corner of his mouth and adjusted from foot to foot.

"Pumpkin bowlin'," I said.

"Oh my. That sounds-messy."

I nodded with a big grin that only widened when Jack's scowl darkened. "It is. They put out the really ripe ones. Makes it easier to bust 'em open, which is all anyone wants to see."

She laughed, then stepped closer. "I'm Alissa, Jack's mom."

I took off my glove to shake her offered hand. "Cal."

Alissa eyed me up and down. "You don't play soccer, do you?"

"No, ma'am. Football. Jack and Ty are really good, though. If we'd had a decent team before I started football, I might've joined."

Alissa glanced at Jack, who was still frowning a few feet from us. "They are good. We're really proud of them. How come they've got you two out here doing all this?" She glanced around, probably noting the lack of other students helping.

I was close to telling her this was punishment but stopped. She had to know about him getting detention, but I didn't know if Jack had told her the rest of it.

"This is Cal, Mom. The dipshit I got in trouble with."

Well, I supposed he'd told her everything.

"Jack." Alissa rolled her eyes.

"Yes, ma'am. I am that dipshit. Good to know he talks about me at home." I winked at Jack to piss him off more. It worked, so I smiled even wider.

"I'll let you get back to it, then. It was nice to meet you, Cal."

I nodded. "Ma'am."


●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●


Jack twisted his upper body and growled, "Don't talk to my mom."

Uh... "What?"

"You heard me. I don't need you being fake nice to her."

"What the hell? That wasn't fake. I am nice." I threw my hands up. "Why do I even try to defend myself to you as if it matters."


●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●


"Finish your shit. I've got an exhibition match after school." Jack bent over to grab the bale I'd launched at him, then stood with a snap of his spine and barked, "You better not fucking be there either. I don't need you fucking up my game with your vibes, Princess."

His words played over in my mind as I got back to work. It was as if he was asking me to be there by insulting me about it. The ole reverse-psychology thing. If I truly wanted to mess with him, then I'd show up. So why even say that to give me the idea? Unless he wanted me there, and he was putting that idea in my head. Plus, he told me he'd notice if I were there.

Jesus, when did I start analyzing everything to death? Fuck.


●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●



Me:
Think Trent will have any special projects for us today?

Dipshit:
One guess as to how many fucks I have to fucking give about what fucking Trent wants from me today.

Yep. He was angry. This wasn't good. So naturally, I fought fire with more fire.

Me:
Apparently, you've got plenty of fucks in that pretty mouth of yours.

"Pretty" mouth? The fuck had that come from? Maybe he'd just read into it as me being an ass, which was fact, but also because damn, that mouth ...

Dipshit:
I fucking hate you.

Me:
Any more fucks, Princess? Open wide.

Dipshit:
Fuck you.


●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●


Me:
Still think we have nothing to talk about?

Dipshit:
Define talking.

Me:
You opening your mouth and something stupid coming out.

Dipshit:
Okay, that's not what you want with my mouth.

Me:
Think not? Enlighten me then. What do I want with your mouth?

Dipshit:
Didn't know I needed to dumb it down for you.

Me:
Oh, this ought to be good. Yeah, dumb it down.

Dipshit:
...

Me:
What I thought. It's okay, Princess. At least you're pretty.


●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●



Dipshit:
Morning, Princess.

Me:
This princess can be a bitch.

If Sasha so much as breathes near you, you better let me know.

Dipshit:
Calm down, sheesh.

Me:
I'm serious.

Dipshit:
Lol. Fine.

Meet me at Johnston Pier at 4.

Me:
Who says I want to meet you anywhere?

Dipshit:
Thought you'd stopped playing hard to get.

Me:
Me play hard to get? That's rich coming from mister "nothing to talk about."

Dipshit:
Fine. Meet me at the pier because I've got nothing-to-talk-about with you.

[Sunny Shelly Reads · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 Stars for Burning Enemies

(This is a high school romance, but both characters are 18.)

Jack and his twin brother, Ty, move to small-town Alabama from California just before their senior year. They are both talented soccer players, which immediately puts them at odds with the football team… including popular player Cal. Jack had been bullied at his previous school for being gay, and even though he's wildly drawn to Cal, something about the popular jock triggers his anxiety. When prank wars and animosity between the soccer and football teams get out of hand, Jack and Cal are forced to work together by the school — and Jack discovers that Cal might have feelings for him, too.

I felt bad for Cal. His home life is a mess; there is a ton of unnecessary responsibility on him, and he always feels like he has to be "on." In contrast, Jack has a solid support system in his brother and parents. Plus, Cal's girlfriend is a major witch who is actually abusing him, but he's hesitant to come forward about that. (They break up before anything happens between him and Jack, so no cheating there.) His feelings for Jack kind of sneak up on him, and there's push and pull between these characters as he comes to terms with his confusion and Jack figures out whether Cal is someone he can actually trust.

While I enjoyed parts of this book, I felt like it took a while for me to get into the story. The lead-up to Jack and Cal eventually hooking up was a slow-burn, but I was skimming over pages to get to the bona fide relationship because I felt like there was too much back-and-forth. And even when Cal was clearly trying to reach out, Jack kept pulling away. And while his past trauma influenced that reaction, I felt like it just happened too many times, and I wondered why Cal was even bothering with him. BUT... once they finally came clean with one another and admitted how they were feeling, the story clicked for me and I enjoyed the latter part much more. (Admittedly, I am obsessed with a very popular enemies-to-lovers television series at the moment, so there was a high bar, here.)

This is the second book in the series, but it totally reads as a standalone. The characters from Book 1 show up towards the end as part of a larger friend circle, so I didn't feel like I was missing any plot points by not having read that book first.

I received an advanced copy and voluntarily left a review.

[Cassandra Booth · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

This was my first Mina Elwood book, and it absolutely did not disappoint. 🔥

If you love true enemies to lovers, not mild annoyance, not playful banter, but genuine rivalry and animosity, this delivers. Jack and Cal start this book at each other’s throats. Captain of the football team 🏈 versus captain of the soccer team ⚽, with a prank war between their teams that spirals completely out of control.

Detention and forced counseling sessions force them into close proximity, and what begins as hostility slowly turns into something far more complicated. 😮‍💨

The tension in this book is spectacular. The push and pull. The anger masking attraction. The way they hate that they want each other. It’s intense, layered, and perfectly paced. This is a true slow burn 🔥, and when it finally ignites? The payoff is absolutely worth it.

What really elevates this story is the emotional depth. Beneath the rivalry, both of these men are carrying heavy burdens. Cal especially broke my heart 💔, the weight he carries at home, the pressure, the expectations. Watching him confront that pain was powerful. Jack’s walls and internal struggle felt just as real, especially as his anger slowly gave way to vulnerability and self-acceptance.

The bi-awakening 🌈, the fear of homophobia, the gradual emotional growth — all of it was handled with care and authenticity.

The side characters were just as strong. Jack and Ty’s bond 🫶 meant so much, and the support system around Cal added real heart to the story. And yes, I am more than ready for Asher’s book next. 👀

The chemistry is fire 🔥, the angst is top-tier 😭, the hurt/comfort moments hit perfectly 🤍, and that epilogue? Absolute perfection.

If you’re looking for:
• Enemies to lovers 🔥
• Sports romance 🏈⚽
• Forced proximity 🚪
• Slow burn 🔥
• First times 🌈
• Small town vibes 🏡
• Emotional depth with real growth 💔✨

Pick this up immediately.

[Wicked River Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

This read was so much more than what I was expecting! There were so many topics that were touched on that I think need to be discussed more and I was glad to see them acknowledge in this book. Cal is in his last year of high school and part of the football team. In the beginning he is in a relationship with Sasha who is on the surface sweet and petite. Does her size matter?! NO! I mention it because it plays a role in the thought process of Cal who is in an abusive relationship and doesn’t think he’ll be believed because how could someone so small hurt someone so big. This is not a thing although there are people who believe it is. Abuse never looks one way and size difference, gender nor sexuality matters. This applies to assault as well. Cal takes this on in silence until Jack. Jack has his own history with unprovoked violence that he has worked through but still affects him and this helps him connect with Cal once he finds out the truth. Neither of them deserved what they went through and having support in each other was great to see. I really enjoyed the relationship dynamic between these two and the bond they formed over time. I loved Jack’s family! They were caring, supportive and understanding. I liked seeing Ty and Jack together. Their brotherly bond and banter was sweet. Cal and his sister were great as well. I appreciated that therapy was mentioned as something Jack used to help himself find tools to help him work through his past and his family reminding him to implement them was great to see. I loved the side characters. Asher was a fun time!

These are topics I believe deserve further discussion and hopefully we see more doors being open to do just that. I’m definitely interested in reading what’s next!

❤️ARC REVIEW 💙

☑️Trigger Warnings.

[Babara-Anne · Rating 5 out of 5]

AN ENEMIES TO LOVERS BULLY LOVE STORY!💕⚽️🏉

I love this series and it just keeps getting better and better!

We got a glimpse of Cqlvin Winters in Burning Demons and now we get the in-depth look into the running back for the school football team and how he overcame his bullies in his last year of high school…

Jack Rutledge running back for the soccer club has the biggest crush on Calvin winters but the football players and the soccer players are in the middle of a pranking territorial war and Cal has a clingy girlfriend…

They hate each other but they have so much in common it is unreal- they could be the best of friends or perhaps even more if they really wanted to try, however they do have major issues…

“I supposed our hatred was all for the best. Cal had given no indication he was into guys; not like I had either.”

Trust, acceptance and love will play a major role in their journey together with forced projects , counselling sessions, a psycho bullying stalker, parent neglect and a found family of pranking sweet, zany ball players on a group chat!

I loved their journey and how they got to know each other as enemies first who became reluctant forced friends who became intense lovers and protectors!

I was rooting for them all the way as they were just so sweet,broken, vulnerable and lovable when they finally overcame their differences…❤️‍🩹

“Kiss me,” I whispered. “Kiss me for the first time when we both know what we mean by it.”

An epilogue four years later will entertain as well as endear as these two broken souls were definitely each other’s true north! 🎃🧭

Who will be next - it seems Asher 🤔

I voluntarily received an ARC from Nisha’s Coffee & PR for an honest non biased review.

[Ana Silva · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m speechless. I wasn’t ready for the turn of events in this story. I obviously knew about the enemies to lovers trope but I wasn’t prepared for the DV caused by a female character.

It’s so messed up that society is conditioned to believe a big man can be abused by his much smaller female partner. The idea is so preposterous that it’s just impossible to believe.

But that’s exactly what happened to Cal. He had been emotionally and physically abused by his girlfriend. It was so subtle that he himself couldn’t believe it. Being caught up with all his family drama didn’t allow him to what was happening.

It took his altercation with Jack for him to realize how much he wanted to end things with his ex. He was afraid of her and felt like he was losing it for feeling like that.

Cal couldn’t understand why being around Jack just put him in combat mode. Their animosity was just their way of fore-playing. The more they disliked each other, the more attracted they became. Two complete idiots🤦🏻‍♀️

I hated the way Cal’s family treated him. They demanded so much from him yet were never there for him when he needed them. Argh! I wanted to get inside the book and slap both his parents into next week! Seriously, how self centered can you be to not see how much you’re hurting your kids?!😡

Jack was the only one who cared about Cal’s safety and feelings. He was ready to go after everyone who hurt him. I loved how protective he was of him. They might have started as enemies but the attraction was always there.

Loved the epilogue. Leave it to them to bicker even then😆

I’m so glad Mina wrote this story. Bringing awareness to DV towards men and how important it is for men to be believed the way women are. Men too deserve to be protected.

[Erin · Rating 3 out of 5]

Let's go with a 3.5 here...

This is book 2, but easily read as a stand alone. And extrapolating from what I read, characters from book 1 only really show up at the end and you don't miss any context.

Also, these are high school students. Seniors that are 18, but just know that there are naked times between them. So if that isn't your scene, move on.

Jack and his twin are new to the town and high school, having moved there for their dad's job. In their previous town Jack was the victim of some serious bullying and a hate crime. So even though they moved away from that, Jack still bears the scars- emotionally and physically. And unfortunately, Cal- football captain seems to be a trigger for him.

The animosity continues after they are forced together as punishment at school. Until...

Honestly, I feel like Jack was kind of the jerk in the beginning. He had reason to be, but still. I felt really terrible for Cal. He is going through it all and no one seems to notice. Until Jack finally does. Including a psycho ex who will not go away.

When they finally give in to each other and what they want- it was awesome. All of a sudden this softer side of Jack came out. Also a fierce protectiveness to Cal. A bit misguided but still.

My biggest issue was the never ending narrative and inner monologues. "Is he gay or queer?" "Does he like me?" "Does he know how hot he is?" "He would never like someone like me". It went on for pages and pages and pages and was often repetitive.

Good story, strong characters, but cut WAY down on the narrative.

[Dhatri Pandya · Rating 4 out of 5]

*Overall Book Rating: 4 / 5

*Tropes:
-MM Sports Romance
-Football Player x Soccer Player
-Small Town
-Bi-Awakening
-Enemies to Lovers
-Forced Proximity / Interactions
-First Times
-Slow Burn
-Bully Romance
-High Angst
-New Adult High School Romance

*Spiciness: 2.5 / 5

This was my first book Mina Elwood and I enjoyed the storyline and all the characters. Jack and Cal’s characters are complex and Mina has done a good job at creating characters who are in high school and are trying to figure themselves out. Jack’s past is traumatic and it definitely shaped him in a lot of ways. Jack is an introvert who keeps to himself and has difficult time letting people in or showing vulnerability. It was nice to read how supportive and understanding his family and twin brother are. My heart broke for Cal because of what he has to go through with his parents and his girlfriend. Cal is definitely a sweetheart, social and goes above and beyond to help anyone. Cal definitely deserves better in terms of family and a partner. Cal and Jack’s relationship starts off as enemies with constant conflict, rivalry and animosity but when they are forced to interact with each other during their counseling, they get to see each other’s true self. There is a lot of pull and push between them but in the end they both are able to be vulnerable and raw with each other and ended up being each other’s safe place. I enjoyed reading this book and if you like any of the above mentioned tropes, give this book a read.

[riaz ☆ · Rating 5 out of 5]

"'Kiss me for the first time when we both know what we mean by it.' He didn't make me wait."

── ARC Review ──

If there is one thing Mina Elwood knows how to do, it’s writing the BEST slow burn. Pair it with two athletes who bring out the worst (best) in each other, and you have the most beautiful story of acceptance in Burning Enemies. For Cal, it takes giving in to the one person he shouldn’t, Jack, to embrace happiness.

Oh, it would not be me if I didn't take a whole paragraph to just talk about the pet names. Imagine my surprise when I find out that not only does Jack call Cal my favorite pet name, PRINCESS, but it was originally done in a mocking way that later becomes affectionate. Beloved football star, Cal Winters, melting at being called princess? There is no way this book wasn't made for me!

Obviously, melting was not Cal's initial reaction. Why would it be when Jack grinds his every gear, but understanding starts to oil those gears when Cal pushes Jack to show reactions not hidden behind a mask of control. The book does contain heavy topics, but the author writes about trauma with such sensitivity and care that I trust her works.

I love the emphasis that is put on the side characters. It doesn't feel like the world only revolves around the main characters because there is a support system in their family and friends that aid in them finally having the courage to be together. Yes, there is always going to be hate lurking in the corners of Hickory Bend, but it's nothing compared to the surrounding love.

[Mari · Rating 3 out of 5]

Burning Enemies was my first time reading this author, and overall it was an enjoyable enemies-to-lovers sports romance. Jack and Cal had some fun banter, and I liked the way their rivalry and physical tension turned into a way for them to work through feelings they didn’t quite understand yet or tried to ignore.

Jack is a star soccer player who’s actively trying to hate Cal because admitting his attraction feels way too risky, while football star Cal doesn’t fully understand why he’s drawn to Jack and uses their fighting as a way to stay close. That push-pull dynamic worked well, especially once Cal started figuring out what he actually wanted.

I’ll be honest…it took me a bit to get into the story. Around 17%, I wasn’t totally sure how I felt or whether it was going to click for me. But once the emotional tension ramped up and the characters started circling their feelings, it became much easier to stay engaged.

My one struggle was the repeated running away. Jack pulling back again and again even after Cal was clearly trying to communicate. A couple of times made sense given his past, but after that it started to feel a little repetitive. Still, when they finally come to terms with their feelings, the payoff was there.

Overall, this was an easy read with a classic enemies-to-lovers vibe. While it didn’t completely blow me away, it kept me reading and I’d be open to trying more from this author in the future.

[VicReads · Rating 5 out of 5]

𝙱𝚞𝚛𝚗𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝙴𝚗𝚎𝚖𝚒𝚎𝚜

🄰🅁🄲 🅁🄴🅅🄸🄴🅆

4.5/5 ⭐️
1/5 🌶️

↓↓
Gah the tension was so good with these two.

Jack and Cal. Man these two were at each other's throats from the beginning. Jack covering up his true feelings with anger and Cal not realizing how and what he was actually feeling.

One thing went too far and they end up being stuck together for detention. They slowly begin to open up and things begin to shift. The slow burn and push and pull dynamic was incredible and they could only resist each other for so long.

I loved watching them finally be vulnerable and open to each other on a deeper level. They slowly built up their relationship and their chemistry was off the charts.

My heart went out to Cal and everything he had going on at home and the weight that was on his shoulder due to his parents. I loved when he finally went off on his dad. Oh and Sasha, yeah, she can go fuck herself, she definitely got what she deserved in the end.

I really really loved Jack and Ty's relationship. They had such an incredible bond and the support was incredible. Also I wouldn't mind a story with Ty, his personability is just so magnetic.

That epilogue, gah, so perfect 🥹

I really loved some of these side characters. The amount of support for Cal was incredible. Asher is next and based on the little snippet we got, I just know he is going to bring all the laughs.

𝕋𝕣𝕠𝕡𝕖𝕤 / 𝕎𝕙𝕒𝕥 𝕥𝕠 𝔼𝕩𝕡𝕖𝕔𝕥
💔 Enemies to Lovers
💔 Small Town
💔 Forced Proximity
💔 Bully
💔 Sports Romance
💔 Bi-Awakening
💔 Slow Burn
💔 First Times

[ana lopes · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC Review
4,5

Jack & Cal

I absolutely loved this book. it had me hooked right from the start. That I’m a fan of a good MM romance is no surprise at this point, and this one, on top of being MM, is also a sports romance, enemies to lovers, between the captain of the football team and the captain of the soccer team, who are forced to work together to get past all that animosity.

At the beginning, these two are full, on rivals, real enemies who genuinely hate each other, but it’s very clear that hate walks hand in hand with love here. The angst, the hatred, and the tension between them are intense, clearly hiding the sexual tension and the incredible chemistry they share. And all of that just jumps right off the pages.

That said, this isn’t just a romance. Alongside an amazing and very gradual bi awakening, we also get a lot of past trauma and a very real fear of the homophobia they could face. Watching both of them grow in such an emotional and engaging way leads to an absolutely epic ending.

The author’s writing is wonderful, immersive and emotional, and really makes you feel everything. Since this is the second book in a series, I’m definitely excited to get to know all the other guys still to come in this universe. And that epilogue? Everything. Absolutely wonderful. 💖✨

[Shyandmoodreader · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is full of amazing tension between MC's and it's spectacular 🔥🥵. I mean from the get go there is undeniable chemistry between Jack & Cal, even if it's bickering and fighting that eventually turns into more and that more is so hot 🫠.

Jack is a complex character, his attraction comes out in anger and walls so high he has trouble letting people on or even wanting to let them in. Unfortunately (or fortunately for us, however you look at it 😏😘) Cal takes the brunt of that attention. Jack has his reasons for acting the way he does, and thankfully Cal sees through his mean attitude anyway 😍.

Cal on the other hand is a delightful cinnamon roll just trying to keep up with Jack's attention and life. Fighting with Jack is the only thing that clears his mind and gives him a break from his everyday struggles.

I absolutely adored this book and it's characters and the journey Mina takes us on is delightful, even if I wanted to yell at the characters to just get together already... But really isn't that half the fun of reading 💯🫣😂.

Y'all definitely won't want to miss when sparks fly between Cal & Jack! It's an amazing addition to the series, AND there's some cameos from previous characters we know and love 💕. Plus some serious hints for future books that I can't wait for! (but I will wait super patiently 😈🫶).

[Chanel · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a fantastic read that perfectly proves there’s a very fine line between hate and love.

Football player Cal and soccer star Jack cannot stand each other. Every interaction is charged with sharp words, shoves, and barely restrained anger. But when they’re forced to work together and actually confront their animosity, cracks begin to form and with them, the uncomfortable realization that what they’ve been feeling might not be hatred after all.

Cal and Jack are both genuinely sweet beneath the bravado. They’re each dealing with their own struggles, making mistakes, and learning as they go. Their youth shows in a way that's messy, emotional but also real.

The tension, angst and push pull between them is intense and their chemistry is absolutely electrified. Every interaction crackles with heat, but there’s also a sweet longing woven through it.

When they finally move past the feud, they’re surprisingly tender together. Watching them navigate their growing feelings, awakenings, and first times with patience and support was incredibly rewarding. The found family dynamic with their friends adds a warmth that balances the angst beautifully.

If you love slow burn, high angst, enemies to lovers with sizzling chemistry, sweet first times, and an endearing found family then I highly recommend Burning Enemies.

[Mikaela (risqué.romance) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Burning Enemies - Mina Elwood
5/5✨🌟

* SPOILERS *

This is the first book by Mina that I’ve read and man, I’m so obsessed. I can’t stress enough by how well written this was done. I’m usually not a fan of high school romances but when I saw all the tropes, I just knew this book was going to be different and it suited mention from beginning to end.

Cal and Jack have my whole heart. The way that forced proximity takes a whole new level and I loved every minute of how they had to be in each other’s company just because the school is sick and tired of the football and soccer team with their pranks.

And don’t get me started on Sasha. I wanted to wring her neck the whole book. I felt for Cal so hard and that conversation at the end with his parents had me in tears.

I just love the slow burn moments from the basement scene to the library scene and just so many other fun scenes. I loved how they could count on one another and were just able to lean on one another when things were really hard.

I loved the found family aspect and I cannot wait to read the next book because I need Asher’s story. Also, the graduation scene was so cute to give the guys their little moment together. This book was so emotional and I love how a book has me sucked in from the start all the way to the end with the pumpkin scene. Perfection.

I received a copy of this book and this is my honest review.

[Jen · Rating 5 out of 5]

My second 5-star read of 2026, I love Cal & Jack!
Cal Winters football star and all around nice guy. Cannot stand Jack. Jack Rutledge, captain of the soccer team - strives for control and perfection whether it is in school or on the soccer field. Hates that he has an obsession with Cal.
When the football team and soccer team take pranking to a whole new level, Cal and Jack are forced to work together as a united front.
Cal - Is struggling, trying to keep it together for his sister despite his parents' very volatile divorce. He also has a girlfriend who refuses to acknowledge the ending of their relationship and tends to err on the violent side taking all her frustrations out on Cal.
Jack has inner demons of his own, his past trauma still remains fresh, even with the therapy and the support of his family - he wants to keep focused on school, soccer and not his developing feelings towards Cal.
Once these two get past their stubbornness and a truce is formed, their attraction and chemistry is undeniable. You begin to slowly see their pull towards each other into love. This book is so beautifully written - between the amazing relationship each of them have with their siblings and friends, it is a slow burn, enemies to lovers masterpiece. I absolutely loved it and cannot wait for this series to continue.

[Julia Toth · Rating 5 out of 5]

We are back in Hickory Bend and I couldn't be more happier! I really enjoyed the first book in this series and I was excited to come back to this world. We know Cal from book 1, while Jack just moved there during the summer and is a star soccer player along with his twin brother.
I really enjoyed the animosity and the tension between them, and when it snapped it was spectacular. My heart went out to both of them and I was crossing my fingers that they would talk and things would resolve between them. There was a lot going on in their lives and I feel like all of that enhanced their story. I loved how they were there for each other. I felt like even with the aggression, the back and forth, they brought out the best in each other. I also loved how brave they both were.
The pacing was really good, and while this is a slow burn I really didn't notice it. It is a darker book, but these boys are also funny and I ended chuckling at their antics. The epilogue is so them and it felt like the best way to say bye for now to the boys.

If you'd like a bully romance with great tension between the main characters, hurt/comfort and some forced proximity thrown in then this is the book for you.

[Joyfully Jay · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Joyfully Jay review.

4 stars

Burning Rivals is the second story in Mina Elwood’s Burning Torments series. It takes place a year or so after the events in the first book, Burning Demons, but works very well as a standalone given the fact that Jack has just moved to Cal’s area and the MCs in the first story only make a brief cameo. The story is told in the first person with Jack and Cal sharing narration duties, but Cal does the lion’s share of the story telling. The drama focuses on Cal’s self discovery of his queerness and, to a lesser extent, Jack’s learning to let someone in again.

For me, the book’s defining features were its well-formed enemies-to-lovers thread and the slow-burn dynamic between Jack and Cal.

If you’re a fan of this series (I know I’m interested in the other stories!) and like enemies-to-lovers and sports rivalries, I think you’ll find a lot to enjoy about this story. The pacing was perfect and the development in Jack and Cal’s relationship was well defined and very enjoyable.

Read Camille’s review in its entirety here.

[Jenni]

DNF @20%

I was excited about this because I liked Burning Demons, but unfortunately, this one didn't appeal to me. To me, the book was just really boring.

Jack is on the soccer team and Cal is on the football team and for some ridiculous reason they have this constant competition between the two teams and only Cal and Jack gets punished for the pranks and fighting.

Jack admits to others that he actually likes Cal, but still at the same claims to hate him? And Cal is also interested in Jack. This whole thing made no sense and lacked that proper enemies-to-lovers vibe -the trope and the dynamic is poorly executed, there was no tension between them.

I enjoyed Burning Demons even though the characters were in high school and 18 years old, but in this everyone behaves ridiculously and I'm not interested in reading about constant pointless fighting between the two teams. Plus, Cal is with his girlfriend, who is written to be really annoying, and he clearly doesn't even like her company but strings her along -this makes me like Cal less.

I don't know if the book gets better as it progresses, but at least so far, there was nothing in the book that motivated me to read more so DNF for me.

[Book.addict.princess · Rating 4 out of 5]

✨ 𝐴𝑅𝐶 𝑟𝑒𝑣𝑖𝑒𝑤✨

Jake and Cal my two scarred angels.

Jake is the soccer player with a traumatic past with his walls up for everyone. All he wants is to get through high school with no drama.

Cal is the football player carrying scars of his own, and one of them is being haunted by an abusive ex who refuses to let him go.

These angels has been through it, both emotionally wrecked and trying go get through high school in one piece. Both who loves to hard but hides it to protect themselves.

Cal and Jake started off as enemies, two people who couldn’t stand each other but made it work with some pushing of others.

These angels has my heart, they both deserved so much better then what they've been through. Watching them slowly break each other's walls, facing their past, and choosing something better for themselves which is them being together was everything, I love them sm.

This is my first book with Mina Elwood and it was good, loved every second of Jake and Cal.

𝑅𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑛𝑔: 4 ⭐
𝑆𝑝𝑖𝑐𝑒: 2 🌶
𝑂𝑣𝑒𝑟𝑎𝑙𝑙 𝑒𝑛𝑗𝑜𝑦𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡: 4 🥰

✨ 𝑇𝑟𝑜𝑝𝑒𝑠 ✨
❧ enemies to lovers
❧ bully romance
❧ High angst
❧ MM romance
❧ slow burn
❧ bi awakening

[Kata · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ll admit, I was a little scared when I read the book’s description and saw that it included bullying, but honestly, I had nothing to worry about—it wasn’t harsh at all.

The two boys were both so lovable in their own ways, each dealing with their own struggles individually, but together—oh my God, I loved them so, so much.

Their chemistry was amazing, and I absolutely loved how their friends and families supported them (okay, Cal’s parents were pretty weird), but no one hurt them, questioned them, or challenged their decisions or choices. And honestly, aside from Cal’s ex, there was nothing else that really made me upset.

But that girl—oh my God… I’m not an aggressive person and I’m definitely not a fan of physical violence, but she really pushed me over the edge. Her behavior was incredibly infuriating. She’s that typical entitled bitch—and honestly, she deserved what she got in the end.

And the epilogue… ahh 🥹🥹🥹 it was sooo sweet 🫠🫠🫠🫠

Thank you so much for the ARC copy of this book—this is my honest opinion 🥰