The Fullback

Lincoln Knights #5

by Charlie Novak

The Chance To Find Love Without My Heart Getting Totally Rucked

When I end up in bed with my best friend, Hunter, and our teammate’s younger brother, Aiden, it’s only meant to be one night of casual fun… but my heart has other ideas.

I’ve had feelings for Hunter for years, but I’ve never allowed myself to admit them. Not even to myself. Then there’s Aiden, whose stunning confidence is making both of us fall for him. He’s sexy, funny, assertive, and utterly irresistible, and Hunter and I are drawn to him in a way we’ve never been to anyone.

The pair of us have never considered dating each other, let alone a relationship with someone else, and I’m terrified that telling Hunter how I feel will only lead to me getting hurt.

I have to take the risk though, because I can’t bear to lose Hunter or Aiden. If not, I’ll always wonder what if…

Content Hunter has a history of disordered eating, body dysmorphia, and excessive exercise.

Genres: Sports, M M M, M M Romance, Romance, Friends To Lovers, LGBT, Sports Romance

324 pages, Kindle Edition

Published March 19, 2026

About the author

Charlie lives in England with her husband and a dachshund named Biscuit. She spends most of her days wrangling other people’s words in her day job and then trying to force her own onto the page in the evening.

She loves cute stories with a healthy dollop of fluff, plenty of delicious sex, and happily ever afters – because the world needs more of them. Charlie also believes that love comes in all shapes and sizes.

Charlie has very little spare time, but what she does have she fills with cooking, pole-dancing, reading and ice-hockey. She also thinks that everyone should have at least one favourite dinosaur…

Reviews

[Dani · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed many things about this book! The spice definitely did not leave you wanting. It happens quick, frequently, and with variety 🔥. There’s best friends to lovers which I’m a total sucker for. The addition of Aiden as their third fit perfectly. And his representation as a confident trans man was refreshing to read.
This was my first book of the series that I’ve read and it has made me really want to read about the side characters we met along the way. I do wish I knew anything about rugby though so I knew what the sport terms meant. My only other critique is that I wish there was just a little more obvious emotional connection/growth between the three to help it feel like deeper than friends.

*Arc review

[Ash · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 ⭐️
4 🌶️

Aiden, Hunter and Bailey were very cute together. I enjoyed their banter and the gentle way they were with each other.

It was a very spicy book and I loved how all in they were for each other. When Aiden and Bailey started calling Hunter babygirl I melted.

Unfortunately the later part of the book dragged on for me. I was frustrated it took them so long to discuss anything and even then it still felt like friends that hookup. I felt like some of the romance pieces I wanted outside of spice were told and not shown.

I do love reading stories with trans representation. Aiden was confident in himself and didn’t take sh!t for being a trans man which I adored.

Bacon - Aiden’s bestie - was probably the shining light for me. They were very funny and their love for Aiden was sooooo dang sweet.

Overall if you’re looking for a low angst spicy read this one was pretty good.

[Wicked River Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was sweet. I really enjoyed seeing Aiden, Hunter and Bailey come together. Hunter was the sweetest and Bailey was a great support system while Aiden tied them all together by being the firm hand they both needed to feel secure in their dynamic. It was nice seeing Hunter learn to ask for what he wanted and become more comfortable with himself and what makes him happy. I also enjoyed seeing Aiden begin to break down his walls and let Hunter and Bailey in. It was outside of his comfort zone but as time went on he was able to see that letting them get closer wasn’t such a terrible thing. The relationship developed was great, there were cookies, and sleep overs! The side characters are always fun!

🤍ARC REVIEW🩷

[Heather MMRomanceReviewed]

I've been trying to read a lot of queer joy lately to combat the world we live in and I have to say that The Fullback hit all the marks! Oblivious besties, a confident trans man and a boatload of patience to reach their true triad relationship... I loved watching Hunter & Bailey open up to themselves and each other as Aiden directs them masterfully - a natural Dom and his eager submissives... While each of the men has issues to overcome, Hunter's body dysmorphia, disordered eating and excessive exercising was woven into the story in a sensitive and meaningful way.

I also like that this continues the supportive friend group and team that has been a hallmark of this Lincoln Knights series! I can't wait to see what comes next!

[ashlee ❤ · Rating 4 out of 5]

Bailey, Hunter, + Aiden

-mmm romance
-rugby romance
-players x baker
-hookups to lovers
-best friends to lovers
-teammates brother

this was a perfect story of how these three needed each other for all of their love work for each other too...which perfectly sums up polyamory!! & they were all just so cute!!

[Stacktheforest - Natalie · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a found family, MMM rugby romance with best friends to lovers, trans rep and adorable sibling relationships. Make sure you have a towel to sit on when you read this. Omg, the spice! Every second chapter was steamy, threesomes galore!

- MMM
- Rugby Teammates x Baker
- Best Friends to Lovers
- Trans Rep
- Friend’s Little Brother
- ONS to More

As someone who doesn’t watch or understand rugby, it’s honestly incredible that Charlie has written books that are so amazing that I’m back for book 5! These books can easily be read as stand-alones, I have read them completely out of order.

This follows two rugby hunks who are best friends & teammates, they like to pick up a third for some bedroom fun and their teammate’s little brother, Aiden, is very fond of bedroom fun. Aiden is a super confident, dominant trans man who gets lots of joy out of encouraging his hook ups, Hunter and Bailey, to explore their feelings and sexual attraction to each other.

The eating disorder rep in this was incredible. Soft and kind but not shy!

Thank-you to The Author Agency for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Valeen Robertson (Live Thru Books Blog) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Amazon

Aiden's been warned by his brother Jonny that rugby players are the worst, he should know - he's one of them and so is his boyfriend. But when he meets two of Jonny's teammates, Hunter and Bailey, he can't resist some fun with them, fun that is just fun. No commitment, no feelings. Except that fun is leading to feelings for all three of them, and Aiden wants to run from them like he always does. He just didn't count on Bailey and Hunter's persistence. Should he uproot his whole life for a committed relationship? Or continue on moping, lonely without his guys?



Bailey and Hunter are best friends, who've been flirting with feelings for awhile. But it's not until they have a memorable experience with Aiden that they start exploring those feelings. Then Aiden moves back home and leaves them without telling them if they'll see him again. They want a real relationship though, the three of them, and Aiden's their glue. If they have to track Aiden down and convince him that they should all be together, they will.



These 3 make such a perfect for each other trio. Aiden became the very dominant glue of their relationship, Hunter became the babygirl, and Bailey the caretaker. Their chemistry is 5 alarm hot, but it's the way their feelings evolved into love that they knew would stand the test of everything a relationship can throw at you, that I swooned over so hard.



ARC provided by The Author Agency for an honest review.

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[CharlotteAtena · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you like to read about trans joy and you enjoy poly relationships then The Fullback is definitely the book for you.

Hunter, Bailey and Aiden are so freaking sweet together, and hot, I can't.

Hunter is our resident babygirl and I love his 6'7 a*s to the moon and back. Whenever I was in his pov I was feeling this urge to hug and protect him, this is how precious he is.

Bailey is our caretaker, and the way he loves is so selfless, uff... he deserves the freaking world.

Aiden, oh, Aiden, he is like a cactus. I am obsessed with him, and the fact that he is basically me says a lot. I am not joking, I am Aiden and Aiden is me. Period.

The story between them is a fast burn when it comes to the physical part, but a slow burn when it comes to the emotional side, at least between the three of them.

Oh, the pining in this book is top tier. These three are doing it like it's their full time job and I was so here for it.

I am someone who loves spice from chapter one because with that out of the way we can focus on the emotions, the getting to know each other part, them being a couple etc... We had everything, but I feel like I would've loved a bit more of them being a couple, all three of them, together... in the same place.

Aside from the love story and the characters ( personality wise ) what I loved the most about this book was not only the queer joy, but the trans joy specifically. In today's world, and UK in particular ( in the book... and in general ) I feel like we need more representation for trans people. I need more trans characters in books, in movies, in TV shows, everywhere. I need people to educate themselves ( me included ) on this and learn how to be better allies for our trans siblings. How to protect them from this cruel world, how to give them the space they deserve to shine and books like this one are important and a step in the right direction.

Aiden is such a bada*s character and I hope everyone will love and appreciate him. I loved how Hunter and Bailey loved him, appreciated him and cared for him like he deserves. Everyone deserves love in this world, and the sooner we realize this the better.

Another thing worth mentioning is how much I appreciate Charlie for writing about Hunter's eating disorder, I feel like these topics are also important to be talked about in a world that has been obsessed with superficial things and has been built on some dubios beauty/healthy standards. The way Aiden and Bailey made Hunter feel beautiful and desired will always hold a special place in my heart.

I have a lot of things to say, I also know that I don't have the proper words to describe everything that I feel. I hope my feelings came across somehow in all this mess, but know this, 'The Fullback' and this series are definitely worth reading, worth hyping, worth loving. Every character is so beautiful and amazing and I am glad I got to see everyone else as well.

I loved this book and after reading 'Only Orlando' last year ( and it was one of my favs of 2025 ) I knew I'd love to read another MMM written by Charlie.

4.75✨️. The only reason it wasn't a 5 is because, as mentioned, I would've loved to read about them being a couple ( in the same place ) a bit more. This is a personal thing, the book is still absolutely perfect and beautifully written.

[Nancy Bennett · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC REVIEW
THE FULLBACK (Lincoln Knights 5) di Charlie Novak
USCITA: 19/03/2026
VOTO: 5⭐4.5🌶️
RECENSIONE: Nonostante questo libro sia il quinto di una serie, non ho avuto alcun problema perché la storia mi ha catturata sin dalla prima pagina ed é stato più faticoso mettere giù il Kindle! Questo libro racchiude tre cose che amo e desidero sempre leggere in più libri: giocatori di rugby, protagonista transgender e poliamore.
Già questi tre punti mi avevano intrigata, ma più leggevo il libro e piú mi sono innamorata dell’atmosfera ma soprattutto dei tre protagonisti: Bailey, Hunter e Aiden. Ammetto di aver avuto bisogno di leggere almeno 3 capitoli prima di capire chi era chi, ma poi é stato facilissimo immedesimarmi nella storia che desideravo non finisse mai. Aiden é il fratello minore di un compagno di squadra di Hunter e Bailey e lavora in una pasticceria in un’altra città rispetto ai due. I loro primi incontri sono solo per sfogarsi ma Bailey e Hunter, già dopo la prima volta insieme, non riescono a non pensare a lui e cercano di vedersi il più possibile. Bailey ha una cotta per Hunter da anni, ma ha sempre avuto il terrore di confessargli i suoi sentimenti perché terrorizzato dall’idea di perderlo per sempre. I due non solo fanno parte della stessa squadra di rugby, ma convivono e hanno anche una macchina in comune. Entrambi provano qualcosa per l’altro ma la paura di rovinare tutto é così forte che servirà l’aiuto di Aiden affinché i due possano finalmente aprire gli occhi. Hunter mi ha letteralmente conquistata man mano che leggevo il libro e più volte ho empatizzato con lui. Bailey e Aiden sono perfetti per lui e ho amato come si prendono cura l'uno dell’altro nella storia. Le scene spicy sono state MERAVIGLIOSE e più leggevo e poi vedevo non solo sesso ma tanto amore e sentimenti non detti ad alta voce. Questo era il primo libro che leggevo di Charlie Novak e devo dire che adesso sono curiosissima di leggere gli altri libri di questa serie! ❤️
Grazie mille per la copia ARC!
Attenzione: in questo libro si parla di rapporto con il cibo, dismorfismo corporeo e eccessivo allenamento!

English Review:
The Fullback is the fifth book in the series Lincoln Knights. This is the first time I read Charlie Novak’s book and… wow, I really loved everything! We really need more books with polyamory and trans main characters! Aiden is an amazing man I really loved his independence and his fear of falling in love and having a serious relationship after a bad breakup. But after a sexy time with Bailey and Hunter (they both play in the same rugby team with Jonny Aiden’s older brother) they can’t stop thinking about each other and the more they see each other, the more they want to spend time together. Hunter is so amazing and I really loved him. The spicy scenes were FIRE! The last spicy scene in the book is one of the best I ever read and The Fullback is, without any doubt, one of the best reads of 2026! Thank you so much for my ARC copy!
Content Warning: eating disorder, body dysmorphia and excessive exercise.

[Aleja · Rating 5 out of 5]

MMM romance | Rugby romance | Players x baker | Hookups to lovers | Best friends to lovers | Teammate's brother | Mild D/s relationship | Praise kink | Pet names | Trans rep | Eating disorder rep


Debo decir que estoy gratamente sorprendida por esta historia!

Viniendo de leer Double Coverage (otro libro con una dinámica MMX) donde todo era muy softie y con un aire juvenil, The Fullback mantiene esa dulzura pero con un tono mucho más maduro. Nuestros protagonistas ya están cerca de los 30 años y eso se nota muchísimo en su forma de actuar.

Aiden, Hunter y Bailey se llevaron todo mi corazón. Qué buenos personajes, loco!🤌🏻 Disfruté muchísimo leyéndolos; sus dinámicas y sus momentos juntos fueron muy buenos y completamente naturales, sin dramas innecesarios.

Si bien a Aiden lo presentan como alguien que se aleja para proteger sus emociones, lo sentí superconectado con Hunter y Bailey desde el principio, ¡y eso me encantó! Hunter es todo lo que está bien en este mundo y Bailey es un amor; amé lo protector que era con Hunter y cómo ese instinto de cuidado se fue extendiendo a Aiden también 🥹.

Sus escenas spicy fueron una sorpresa total; no sabía qué esperar y de verdad fueron intensas, cargadas de química y muy bien desarrolladas. El hecho de que Aiden llevara la batuta en todo momento me gustó muchísimo! 🔥

〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️

I have to say, I’m pleasantly surprised by this story!

Coming off of Double Coverage (another MMX dynamic) where everything was very soft and had a youthful vibe, The Fullback is just as sweet but with a much more mature feel. Our protagonists are nearing their 30s, and you can really tell by the way they handle things.

Aiden, Hunter, and Bailey completely stole my heart. Such great characters! 🤌🏻 I truly enjoyed reading them; their dynamics and their moments together were wonderful and completely seamless, without any unnecessary drama.

Even though Aiden is shown as someone who keeps his distance to protect his emotions, I felt him deeply connected to Hunter and Bailey from the very beginning—I loved that! Hunter is everything that is right with the world, and Bailey is a sweetheart; I loved how protective he was of Hunter and how that care extended to Aiden as well. 🥹

The spicy scenes were a total surprise; I didn't know what to expect, and they were intense, full of chemistry, and beautifully written. The fact that Aiden took charge the whole time was everything! 🔥

[Adeselna · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you so much to The Author Agency and Charlie Novak for the ARC! <3

Sometimes it’s really hard to talk about books that you liked, especially because we don’t know how to explain why. “The Fullback” is one of those books. Books that make you feel good, that make you feel all the right things and you can’t really put a finger on it.

Maybe it’s the vulnerability, how Bailey and Hunter are so emotionally blocked that they spend years without admitting their feelings to each other, even though they do everything together. Maybe it’s how Aiden thinks he’s not someone good for a relationship, and he shuts everyone out.

I loved Bacon’s character! I love that he called BS on Aiden, and we all need a friend like that, that lets us mope around for a little bit, sulk, and then snaps us out of it. Because we are all full of crap a lot of time. This is probably why so many books hit home, because we all have our insecurities and our neurotic moments. We don’t want to go through this by ourselves. We want to read other people going through the motions but ending up happy with their loved ones. Aiden deserved everything he wanted but thought could not have, because he thought he wasn’t worthy of love. He wasn’t worthy of people caring for him. He wasn’t worth the trouble. And I get that. It’s exhausting to live your life in full panic mode when you have something good because, what if it ends? What if the other person wakes up and realises wth am I doing and leaves?

So sometimes we have no idea why we like a book, because sometimes the book handles themes that hit a lot closer to home and we just can’t help to love watching other people getting everything they wanted in life, because everything ends well. Everyone is happy. Everyone is loved, and it feels right. It feels right that Aiden, Hunter, and Bailey get to have their forever.

Even though in this review I’ve steered towards feelings, “The Fullback” is a very cute and spicy book, Hunter and Bailey explore a lot between themselves, but always with Aiden on their mind. Aiden might think he’s unworthy of love, but he commands these two like puppies in the bedroom and that’s what they need. They needed someone to make their relationship into something real. While it focuses a lot on the three of them and their emotional baggage, “The Fullback” has a lot of sexual exploration and uses those scenes to complement the character’s journey through their feelings.

[Cadiva · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've loved spending time with the Lincoln Knights over the last four books and Charlie's rounded off their journey with a really wonderful MMM romance that has fantastic FtM trans rep.

Everything about this book's narrative is so very tenderly expressed and the relationship development handled with real care.

This isn't a token trans character thrown in just to satisfy a queer goal, Aiden's as real and believable as all the other people who have appeared in this universe and I absolutely adored his fierceness that he used to hide all the insecurities which occasionally flooded to the surface.

For Bailey and Hunter, Aiden's as vital to them as breathing because, without his presence, they'd have never got over themselves and admitted they had feelings, not only for each other, but for their sexual preferences.

And oh boy is this book steamy! It has some of the hottest stuff Charlie's ever written, as Hunter, the giant second row forward, discovers he really loves been called a baby girl and getting railed by Aiden's toys.

I love it when a strong man is able to give in and feel they don't have to be the one always performing and Aiden's confidence in knowing how to use his toys to get Hunter off is something to see.

For Bailey, the idea of being a service top wouldn't have occurred to him until Aiden tells him what to do for Hunter and himself, again it's packed full of all the emotional connectivity you'd hope to see when people let themselves become vulnerable and open to experiences.

All together, this has such a lovely feel good factor that runs through the book, even while it's still touching on some tough subjects for both professional sportsmen and also the ever-increasing threats to trans people being able to just live their lives.

Charlie's written five fantastic Rugby Union sports romances (and a prequel novella), each looking at a completely different set of circumstances and characters facing different challenges, but she's wrapped them all up within the fabulous community that exists at the Lincoln Knights club.

I can't wait to see where she goes next with her new RU series when that launches!

#ARC kindly received from the author via The Author Agency, I am voluntarily leaving a review

[Maggie · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC REVIEW
The Fullback by @charlienwrites
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4/5)

What a deliciously sexy MMM romance. I loved the dynamic between rugby players Hunter and Bailey and cookie baker Aiden—it’s playful, intense, and completely addictive. I especially loved how the relationship subverts expectations. You think you know how the power dynamics will play out, and then the book completely flips it in the best way.

Aiden is confident and assertive on the surface, but dig a little deeper, and you’ll find someone guarded and slow to trust. He’s used to keeping people at a distance—until Hunter and Bailey. Despite his best efforts, they don’t let him push them away, and their persistence eventually gives him the space to admit what he feels and let them in.

Hunter was my favorite of the three. He’s larger than life, but carries deep insecurities about his body and control that add real depth to his character. Underneath it all, he has the softest heart—the kind you can’t help but want to protect. And listen—there is something about watching a 6’7” rugby player fall apart while being called “babygirl” that is wildly unexpected and insanely hot.

Bailey is used to being in control—both in and out of the bedroom—but Aiden shifts that dynamic. Aiden’s confidence allows Bailey to finally let go and confront the feelings he’s kept buried, especially his fear of losing Hunter if he admits he wants more. Watching that emotional unraveling was incredibly satisfying.

As a throuple, they’re both sexy and tender. It’s genuinely heartwarming to see how deeply they care for one another, even when they struggle to put their feelings into words. Their love is obvious in the way they show up for each other.

This is the fifth book in the Lincoln Knights series, and I highly recommend reading in order to avoid spoilers for previous couples.

Thank you to @theauthor.agency for providing an ARC!

For fans of:
🏉 MMM Rugby Romance | 🧁 Rugby Players x Baker | 🐈‍⬛🐶 Black Cat x Golden Retrievers | 👬 Best Friends to Lovers | 👬🧍‍♂️ Teammate’s Younger Brother | 🌶️ Spicy & Sweet | 🌈 Trans Rep | 🕊️ Low Angst

#TheFullback #CharlieNovak #MMMRomance #PolyamRomance #RugbyRomance #QueerRomance #TransRep #BestFriendsToLovers #TeammatesBrother #SpicyAndSweet #LowAngstReads #Bookstagram #ARCReview #RomanceReaders

[That One Romance Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

*ARC Review* Thank you for the copy!

Intro:
This book is an MMM romance between Aiden, a Trans business owner and brother to a rugby player, and Hunter and Bailey, two best friends who play on the same rugby team as Aiden's brother

Tropes/Highlights:
-Triple POV
-Open Door
-Hookups To Lovers/Bestfriends To Lovers
-Teammate's younger brother
-Black Cat/Two Golden Retrievers
-Rugby Players/Baker
-Trans Rep
-Low Angst
-Eating Disorder Rep
-HEA


Likes:
-Opening chapter
-Well developed characters
-Side character relationships
-"Babygirl" nickname
-Spicy scenes, toy exploration
-Sweet/gentle/lovable MCs
-Size difference
-MCs encouraged to ask for what they want
-Aiden's middle name
-Teasing

Quotes:
-"I loved it when big men realised their place around me. And it was usually on their knees"
-"Men whimpering and whining had always been my weakness"
-"He almost reminded me of a stray cat, sizing me up and debating whether to trust me or not"
-"But when your brain is telling you all these things, and you've been listening for years, it's hard to believe it's wrong"
-"Look at you both. So needy. So desperate. My beautiful sluts"
-"They loved and wanted me as I was. They thought I was beautiful. Gorgeous. Perfect. I didn't need to change. I just needed to let them adore me"


This is the first book I have read from this author and I need to go back and read the rest of the series because I loved this one. The MCs were so cute/sweet together and the spice scenes were amazing. The rugby aspect was more of a side note, but not in a bad way. The characters are very well written and I adore each of them individually. Aiden is funny/loves to take charge, while nudging his men when needed. Bailey is such a nurturing/sweet soul with a little hint of sass. Hunter is such a sweet baby that struggled with an eating disorder. All three MCs worked so well together and their dynamic felt balanced. I recommend giving this book a read if you want a high spice, low sport, low angst romance with sweet/lovable characters discovering parts of themselves they were too afraid to explore.

[Ana Silva · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a beautiful poly story. I have enjoyed every book from this series and this one was top notch.

I fell in love with Aiden. I loved how Charlie wrote such a strong, independent character that thrived in business and had great confidence in himself.

His personal life was basically nonexistent, but all of that changed when he met Bailey and Hunter. He never expected to fall for one man, much less two.

When Hunter and Bailey were looking for a third, they never expected they would find the one man who would bring them together. They were used to sharing everything with each other, except how they felt. It took Aiden’s presence in their lives for them to finally acknowledge they loved each other. They couldn’t have been more oblivious to each other’s feelings. Dense much?🤦🏻‍♀️

Bailey had always been Hunter’s anchor and pillar of strength. He was there for him during his struggles with his eating disorder and stayed despite Hunter trying to push him away. The fact that they couldn’t tell it was love, it’s beyond me.

Hunter couldn’t have dealt with his sickness without Bailey’s support and encouragement. He didn’t know when his feelings changed but he was afraid of losing the only person who never judged him.

Aiden coming into their lives didn’t just allowed them to face their feelings. It allowed them to find the missing piece they needed. He was the glue that held them together and the one who understood them better than anyone else.

I loved how they gave Aiden the space he needed without feeling left out. They understood that Aiden needing space was simply him feeling too much and Aiden hated feeling too much. I’m glad that they found a way to give each other what they needed without overwhelming each other.

If this is the last book, I’m sad that it’s over but satisfied with the conclusion.

[Xanthe · Rating 5 out of 5]

**4.5**
This is such a great series from Charlie and it continues on with The Fullback.
teammates and best friends, Bailey and Hunter, have to be the most oblivious of men to not notice in themselves what they feel for their best friend. When they spot Aiden at The Court, and spend time with him together, things become very interesting for them. It's not the first time they've shared but Aiden is something else and knows who he is and what he wants. He also seems to be the key in bringing them together and unlocking their desires, not just for each other but for all three of them.
Aiden has had to protect himself his whole life and he still does that now, from any possible emotional hurt. It's why he doesn't do relationships. However, it's completely impossible for him to stay away from Bailey and Hunter and he does things that he never saw himself doing - spending the weekend, mini golf dates, and maybe developing some feelings along the way.
It's a really enjoyable story from the start. Bailey and Hunter's friendship shines through, especially in what they have been through. The characters on the team don't disappoint in their entertainment, Danny still making the odd comment. Though this one will have more connection with Jonny as Aiden is his brother.
Emotional at times and memories of tougher times, especially for Hunter and Aiden, but their important people were there to support them through it. Now it's time for all the fun that Aiden can give to two huge rugby players who maybe want different things than some would expect. Who knew what someone really needed was to be called baby girl? ❤️
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review.

**trigger warning - talk of experience with eating disorder, orthorexia, exercise obsession**

[Bethany Chastain · Rating 5 out of 5]

We're back with the Lincoln Knights, the queerest rugby team in existence, and we check in on best friends Hunter and Bailey. They're basically just existing as best friends, teammates, and roommates...who are both harboring secret feelings for each other.

When Aiden, their teammate Jonny's brother, comes on to both of them at a party, Hunter and Bailey take him up on the offer. Under Aiden's instructive bossiness, they're comfortable finally touching each other and expressing their feelings. Aiden makes them feel safe, and the fact that he can take them both apart with unimaginable skill doesn't hurt either.

Aiden's brother always warned him not to hook up with rugby players, but he can't seem to stay away from Hunter and Bailey. Hunter is a 6'7" gentle giant who loves to be taken apart, and Bailey absolutely falls to pieces when he services Hunter and Aiden. They're basically perfect...but only for casual hookups. Because Aiden doesn't do relationships.

But as they spend more and more time together and the feelings intensify, Aiden quickly realizes that keeping the two men at arm's length may not work after all.

This one was so sweet and SO HOT. Seriously, the smut starts in chapter one and doesn't let up. MMM can be hard to do, but this one was lovely. I worried a bit about Hunter and Bailey being in love with each other; that it might be a bit lopsided, but it wasn't. It worked so well for Aiden to be so dominant and take charge because Hunter and Bailey would have never gotten together otherwise. I love best friends to lovers, and I LOVE seeing trans rep (so rare in MM books) and this was just sweet, spicy, and low angst. Exactly what this world needs now: queer joy.

[Erin · Rating 4 out of 5]

Two big rugby players (one of them is 6'7"!) and a short trans man. You make assumptions. Of course you do. Well. DON'T!

I loved all three of these guys for different reasons. First, Aidan. He trans, isn't shy about it, has the confidence only people dream of, and is a total alpha top. Hunter, the 6'7" guy turns into a giant pile of needy mush and Bailey, also a rugby player, is always watching out for Hunter, and now Aidan. And all three together are just fireworks.

*spoiler-ish?*
Seeing Hunter disolve into a needy begging bottom was a delight. Sure, we see big guys bottom in books. But rarely to this level. It was refreshing. And he never questioned himself either.

Aidan was a breath of fresh air with his "top-ness". It was not only in the bedroom but just a character trait of his. He took control of the three of them together pushing Hunter and Bailey to explore what they hadn't before. Each other. And he did it in a way that was bossy, but also suggestive. "Do you think Hunter wants to kiss you? Hunter, do you want to kiss Bailey?" (not a direct quote, just an example).

Through it all they still have rugby, nosy friends, an hours car drive distance a lot of the time and Aidan's own business.

Aidan was also the perfect example of someone who will do anything for anyone, but refuses to ask for help when he needs it. He is also innately aware of the needs of others. Like I said, total toppy alpha.

Another thing I loved is that Hunter and Bailey were like, oh you're trans. Cool. Limits? Boundaries? They never ever treated him like anythhing other than the man he is.

Definitely one of the best triad/poly books I've read in a while.

[Perusing The Pages · Rating 3 out of 5]

2.5⭐️

This gets the rating it does purely for the Trans and Poly rep as tbh I found the romance between the three love interests lacking. Don't get me wrong, Hunter, Bailey, and Aiden are cute together, and there was some decent banter, but the actual emotional connection was practically nonexistent. That's because this book relies too heavily on the "spice" to form the bond between these three. They had chemistry, and the first couple of spicy scenes were great, but then I found myself rolling my eyes and skim-reading when their characters would once again fall into bed with each other instead of having any sort of meaningful conversation or interaction. I mean, outside of them playing mini golf once and Aiden attending a couple of Hunter and Bailey's rugby games, they spent very little to no time outside of the bedroom together for any feelings other than lust to develop, in my opinion.I found the reasons Hunter and Bailey had for not acting upon their attraction to each other prior to being with Aiden to be flimsy. Therefore, despite the author's best efforts, Aiden still ended up feeling like a plot device to facilitate that relationship getting started when, given how Hunter and Bailey already felt and acted towards each other, it should've been happening anyway.

Overall, I'm left underwhelmed with this installment, and although I think the Trans and Poly representation were well done, the actual storytelling and romance weren't what they could or should have been.🌶🌶🌶


"None of us knew what we were to each other, and none of us seemed to want to start that conversation."

[Zoe · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved it!

I had so much fun with this book! I loved Aiden, Hunter, and Bailey and I love that there’s a MMM book in this series! I really enjoyed seeing the relationship between these three grow and change throughout the book. Aiden’s relationship with Hunter and Bailey started off as just a hookup but it was clear that they all wanted more of each other and that Aiden was perfect for them. Hunter and Bailey needed Aiden’s confidence to bring them together and give them that push to do and say the things they’ve been avoiding for years. I really liked how close Hunter and Bailey were and how much they cared about one another even before Aiden came along, it was clear that they were a good fit together and I love that Aiden added to their relationship and made it even stronger without taking away from it. It made me so happy once they realized their feelings together and took it upon themselves to show Aiden that they were staying for the long haul and he wasn’t going to be able to get rid of them easily. I also really liked how Aiden was so confident in the bedroom and casual situations but was more hesitant when it came to a commitment even when he treated Hunter and Bailey like they were the most important people in his life before they all admitted to having feelings. I think it was really sweet how they all took care of one another in different ways in and outside of the bedroom and the way their relationship just works. Also I can’t write a review on this book without mentioning Aiden’s best friend Bacon who was an absolute star and 100% deserves his own book because he was just such a brilliant character. I absolutely adore these rugby players and I hope that there will be more rugby romances from Charlie Novak in the future!

Received a review copy from TAA, all thoughts and opinions are my own!

[Stacey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Charlie Novak brings us the next story in her Lincoln Knights series with “The FullBack”. This book is a little different from her usual as it is a Poly story, but it still gives us all of the things I expect from a Charlie Novak story, true emotion, laughter and catching up with old friends.
Sometimes recipes don’t work unless you have the 1 special ingredient and that is the way the relationship between Bailey and Hunter works in this story. As teammates on the Knights, they have been living in each other's pockets for years, but neither has ever taken that next step, or even put the interest out there in the open. In walks Aiden, the younger brother of a teammate and things just fall into place. Aiden brings the cohesiveness to the relationship between the three that was needed. Aiden has his own issues as he’s so afraid of being hurt that he never lets himself get to the place in a relationship that it is a possibility. Bailey and Hunter have their work cut out for them to show Aiden who he really belongs with. As always I love the fact that with Charlie Novak’s novels I feel like it comes from a place of reality in storytelling. It's not “Poof” you're in love and it works. There are real human issues both physical and emotional that people need to learn to handle in order to make relationships work, or really even just life in general and she shows that anything is possible if you are willing to put the effort in. Can’t wait to continue in her wonderful world of characters.

[S.M. Harshell · Rating 5 out of 5]

The FULLBACK is the fifth book in the Lincoln Knights series.

What to expect:
🔥MMM Rugby Romance
🔥Rugby Players x Cookie Baker
🔥Trans Rep
🔥Black Cat x Two Golden Retrievers
🔥Hookups To Lovers
🔥Teammates Younger Brother
🔥Best Friends To Lovers
🔥Idiots To Lovers
🔥Sex Toys
🔥Low Angst
🔥Spicy & Sweet
🔥Pining/Yearning

Bailey and Hunter are best friends, roommates and teammates. Bailey has had feelings for Hunter for some time and hunter feels some type of way about Bailey but they don't know how the other feels. They have "shared" other people between them but never made a point to touch in anyway until Aiden. Aiden immediately sees what's between them and knows without his help they wouldn't make a move on each other. While Aiden thinks he'll bring the two men together have a little fun and walk away when they realize their feelings what he wasn't expecting was to fall for them. While Hunter and Bailey realize there is something between them and has been for a while they know they need Aiden with them.

This is the first book I read in this series and didn't have any trouble as it reads as a standalone. I did find myself interested in the side characters and want to go back and read the rest of the books to get the full effect of the series. I loved these three characters they each brought something to the relationship that was different but so needed for them all to be whole.

I was given a free copy of this book to read and review for The Author Agency.

[Dhatri Pandya · Rating 4 out of 5]

*Overall Book Rating: 4 / 5

*Tropes:
-MMM Romance
-Sports Romance (Rugby)
-Rugby Players x Baker
-Trans Rep
-Black Cat x Golden Retrievers
-Teammate’s Younger Brother
-Best Friends to Lovers
-Size Difference
-Mutual Pining
-Hookups to Lovers

*Spiciness: 4 / 5

I had fun reading The Fullback. Charlie has done a good job at weaving a story with 3 main characters all with widely different personalities but who also have similarities they bond over. Aiden is super independent, is allergic to emotions and guards his heart by keeping everyone at arm’s length. Bailey is sweet and loves to take care of people he cares for and loves by his acts of service. Hunter is shy, sweet and struggles with asking for what he wants. Aiden, Bailey, and Hunter’s relationship begins as casual hookups whenever Aiden is in town. Gradually, they transition to exchanging texts and eventually spend more time together on and off. All three of them work amazingly well together as each bring something the other two needs. Like Aiden gently nudging Bailey and Hunter to express their true feelings and taking control of situations that takes off mental and emotional load from the other two. Bailey taking care of them and making sure the other two are happy and healthy. And Hunter’s calm and gentle nature helping other two to relax and unwind emotionally and mentally. All 3 of them are like puzzle pieces who click together seamlessly and are each other’s anchor, safe space, supporters and loving partners. That being said, if you like any of the above mentioned tropes, give this book a go.

[Mikaela (risqué.romance) · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Fullback - Charlie Novak
4.5/5✨🌟

* SPOILERS *

I have been waiting for this book when I saw that this book was going to be MMM and man, this book really did not disappoint at all. I love that there was a bit of angst but it wasn’t too heavy.

Hunter, Bailey and Aiden were super adorable together and I was here for every moment seeing them fall into each other’s graces from start to end. I love the dynamo of their relationship too. What I loved was the one you least expect is the one that gets called “babygirl” and man, I was here for it! I loved it when Aiden and Bailey called sweet Hunter that.

This book is definitely one of the spiciest in this series. At least to me. I just loved how Aiden was the one that controlled the intimacy aspects.

I loved how Aiden’s brother’s boyfriend knew what he had been up to. That scene was too cute. I just loved how the forced proximity due to some things happening in Aiden’s life made them spend more time together.

I also love me a good best friends to lovers and th way that Hunter and Bailey finally came together with Aiden was so cute. I love how Hunter and Bailey get together with a little experimenting with Aiden. There was no doubt these two were going to end up together.

I’m a sweets girl so I loved how one of the MC’s was a baker. Also, Bacon. I just loved him so much and hope to see him later.

I cannot wait for more from these characters.

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

[The Secret Librarian · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rating: 4
Steam: 4
PoV: multiple, 1st person
Genre: sport romance, MMM
Tropes / tags: hookups to lovers, teammates, size difference

The Fullback was a super sweet romance full of banter, friendship, pining and steam! I adored Bailey, Hunter and Aiden, and it was a lot of fun to see two golden retriever MCs slowly falling in love with their grumpy hookup!

I've been so curious about what was going on between these three, as there had been hints / speculation about them in the previous books. It was obvious from early on though that all three felt a pull towards each other, and they had a hard time keeping things casual. It was a steamy read as there were plenty of no strings hookups initially, but while things got physical fast between them, the feelings were more of a slow burn. These three were the definition of idiots to lovers, and of course they had to be a little stubborn about their feelings for each other.

Aiden was prickly and used to be self-reliable, so it was a total treat to see him slowly opening up and letting Hunter and Bailey into his life. Hunter and Bailey had a lot of history together as friends, teammates and roommates, and they were the sweetest, but absolutely clueless about their feelings for each other. Hunter was precious, and the kind of character that I just wanted to hug and protect. Bailey was a caretaker, and he was so protective and supportive of his men.

The connection and dynamic between them were great, and they worked really well together. I loved the self-discoveries they made along the way, and Aiden guiding them with a firm hand? So hot! Aiden was fantastic with them, making Hunter and Bailey feel safe enough to explore and act on the feelings they've both been harbouring for each other. And watching Hunter falling apart every time they called him babygirl? Best thing ever!

The Fullback was a great addition to the Lincoln Knight series, and I completely adored these characters! There was a lot of sweetness and trans joy, and I found myself smiling at my Kindle quite a few times. I'm loving this series, and the found family and friendly banter within the team is always a treat to read!

-
I received a complimentary copy of this book, and these are my honest thoughts and opinions.

[Copper · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars, Hunter, Bailey, and Aiden are a hook up to love everyone has been waiting for. Seeing gimpses of the beginning of the relationship from the previous books we had a idea of how things started. But seeing these three emotionally suppressed men fall into a relationship was great.

The rugby boys Hunter and Bailey have been using threesomes to bridge the gap in their un-said emotional feeling for each other. Aiden doesn't want to drop his guard in case he is hurt, building up this distance with everyone. One hook up changes everything, Aiden can see the underlying feelings between the boys and pushes them exactly how they need and slowly becomes an essential part of the dynamic.

Such a great balanced story all three of them felt developed giving each solid motivation thoughout the story. Loved Aidan's relationship with Jonny, Devon and Bacon (we need a Bacon book!) it's good to see a solid friend support system.

The smut was great and felt interesting and dynamic each time. This is a cheaper 1 smut book and it delivers. The level of care for our trans character was great inside and outside the bedroom, both rugby lads are so addoring of Aiden. I liked the care taken with talking about Aiden's needs in the bedroom and his kit he used to was a great rep.

Great way to end the rugby series what a great group of lads.

[Caroline Griffith · Rating 5 out of 5]

This storyline has been hinted at throughout this series, and it was delivered. MMM is my jam, and Charlie Novak does it so well, making all members of a triad feel loved and adored. This story also provides a viewpoint of a trans man that is not often portrayed, and in my own ignorance, it was not what I expected, but I truly could not see Aiden any other way. The other members of this triad also have alternative preferences that are less seen as well. Hunter and Bailey represent one of my other favorite tropes, the obliviously in love best friends. I want to shake them often throughout the story, like come on, but I also love that Aiden bridges their gap and completes the build. This is a high heat with a burn that spikes and falls. All these men feel they have something and someone to lose if they put their hearts on the line for the others. This love goes against so much for all of them, but it is also the most precious thing that should be treasured. We still get our rugby antics and the taboo nature of the secretive relationship, but the growth of all of these men to wish, hope, and find a love together is watching the perfect dream unfold. The last line of this story sums everything up iykyk ahahahaha

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Magne Einar · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m always here for good trans representation, and Aiden is such a bossy MF—and I absolutely love him for it. We need more bossy trans representation and more transmasc characters who take control. Aiden is incredibly strong and doesn’t let anyone push him around, which is something I really admired about him. And clearly he knows how to handle two rugby players… he’s had plenty of practice dealing with his brother after all. 🤣

Then we have Hunter and Bailey. These two are absolute cuties. Let’s start with Hunter: he struggles with a food phobia, and I really appreciate that Charlie included this topic in the book. We need more awareness around how athletes—and people in general—can end up harming themselves trying to meet certain societal expectations. Hunter is such an interesting character on so many levels, and I really enjoyed reading his perspective.

And finally, Bailey. I kind of get the feeling that he’s the “Daddy” of the relationship—the one holding everyone and everything together. In my mind, he forms the foundation of the relationship the three of them build. That said, I personally would have liked to see a bit more depth from his perspective. The other two stand out very strongly in my mind, while Bailey fades slightly into the background in comparison.

[Stuart Dunn · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the latest book in the Lincoln Knights series and I didn’t want to put this down, I literally devoured it within one sitting lol

This book tells us the story of Aiden, Hunter & Bailey. Hunter and Bailey are both members of the Linclon Knights, Aiden is the brother of one of their team mates, Jonny. This story and blossoming poly-relationship has definitely been hinted at through the past couple of books when Aiden has been visiting his brother and is great to see them open up and develop throughout the course of the book.

Totally agree with one of the tropes of this book idiots to lovers and Hunter & Bailey have obviously denying and skirting around their feelings for each other for a long time as you begin to know them.

Aiden's trans representation is carefully and respectfully handled, showing Charlie’s awareness to how our trans brothers and sisters are unfortunately still being treated. I think many people will also fall in love with Aiden’s best friend “Bacon”, and I think there could be an opportunity for a spin-off series centred around Bacon’s pub, The Nag’s Head.

Now how many more Knight’s books are we going to get, I think we’ve covered half of the team??

[Jess Pierce · Rating 3 out of 5]

When your brother tells you to stay away from rugby players, do you listen?

The Fullback is the latest novel in the Lincoln Knights series and showcases the hallmarks of found family, love, and acceptance that make this series a fan favorite.

Bailey, Hunter, and Aiden have chemistry from the start but each has their own struggle that could keep them from telling the others what they mean to them. For Bailey and Hunter there is a shared history and longing that has never been brought to light. For Aiden there is fear of getting hurt and not be accepted for who he is. Their journey from one night stand to the conclusion of this story is one that truly shows you what loving and being accepted is truly about.

Throughout the story, you’ll get everything you love about Charlie Novak novels. The emotion and growth of the characters, the cheeky and laugh out loud moments, and the steamy moments that will have the characters and you blushing. The dynamics between Bailey and Hunter and the dynamics between the trio will keep you reading to see how these character will navigate their old and new relationships.

Come back to the Lincoln Knights and join them as they embark on another season and continue being the safe space everyone needs.