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Friends, Benefits, and Problems
Since the summer they met as kids, Reece and Nick have been chasing their dreams—Nick with his eyes set on going pro, and Reece balancing his love for the game with a budding modeling career. Basketball has always been their shared passion, but so has something they never dared to admit: each other.
What starts as a casual agreement between friends—just a little fun, nothing serious—quickly spirals into something neither of them can walk away from.
This is the story of two friends who want each other enough to risk crossing the line, even when it scares them. A friends-with-benefits arrangement… except it was never just that.
What starts as a casual agreement between friends—just a little fun, nothing serious—quickly spirals into something neither of them can walk away from.
This is the story of two friends who want each other enough to risk crossing the line, even when it scares them. A friends-with-benefits arrangement… except it was never just that.
298 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 12, 2026
About the author
Keeran Lee
1 book23 followersKeeran Lee is a writer of M/M romance with high-heat chemistry and love that always has a happy ending.
When not daydreaming about ways to make their character's blush, Keeran enjoys the outdoors, listening to music, and gaming.
Keeran's debut novel "Friends, Benefits, and Problems" is book one in The Coastal Miami Series, which follows a new couple's journey in each book.
When not daydreaming about ways to make their character's blush, Keeran enjoys the outdoors, listening to music, and gaming.
Keeran's debut novel "Friends, Benefits, and Problems" is book one in The Coastal Miami Series, which follows a new couple's journey in each book.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 65 reviews
June 27, 2026
₊˚⊹ | 2.5 ★ read .ᐟ
You know what to expect when you read the title of this book, right? A plot based on fucking, fucking and so much more fucking, right? Well, I can say the first few times were enjoyable, but if every chapter is all about it, it's getting boring. And I don't usually mind excessive smut in books, but I was desperately hoping for a character development here. The only thing I extracted was Reece being so clingy and needy and whiny about the man he fell for, but couldn't muster up the courage to tell him straight that Nick's body isn't the only thing he wants. I expected a bit more initiative from both sides and that kinda slowed the reading for me.
But on another note, did they respect the theme of the book and the trope? Of course, they made sure to add extra benefits in each chapter 🤣🤯
You know what to expect when you read the title of this book, right? A plot based on fucking, fucking and so much more fucking, right? Well, I can say the first few times were enjoyable, but if every chapter is all about it, it's getting boring. And I don't usually mind excessive smut in books, but I was desperately hoping for a character development here. The only thing I extracted was Reece being so clingy and needy and whiny about the man he fell for, but couldn't muster up the courage to tell him straight that Nick's body isn't the only thing he wants. I expected a bit more initiative from both sides and that kinda slowed the reading for me.
But on another note, did they respect the theme of the book and the trope? Of course, they made sure to add extra benefits in each chapter 🤣🤯
August 18, 2026
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
Spice Level: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ / 5
“The AUDACITY of this book…”
I went into Friends, Benefits & Problems expecting a cute, spicy friends-to-lovers romance… and while it absolutely delivered on that, it also surprised me with how much heart, personality, and depth it had.
Nick and Reece have been best friends for years, carrying around feelings they’ve both tried to ignore. One drunken night turns into a friends-with-benefits arrangement (with rules that were obviously never going to last 😫), and watching them slowly realize this was never just physical was honestly so much fun.
Reece completely stole my heart. He’s soft, loyal, loving, and unapologetically himself. He’s the kind of character you immediately want to protect because he gives so much of himself to the people he loves. 🥹
And Nick? This man stressed me out, but I mean that lovingly. He is so obviously in love with Reece and spends so much time trying to convince himself otherwise. Watching him finally stop fighting what’s right in front of him was so satisfying. The “you’re mine” energy once he accepts his feelings? Yeah… we love to see it 😩❤️
One of my favorite things about this book was how well Keeran Lee creates characters you immediately want to know more about. It’s not just Nick and Reece who shine. The entire cast feels like they have their own personalities, their own stories, and their own reasons for being there.
The second characters like Ivory and Draven appeared, I was hooked. I am genuinely DYING for their story because the author did such an amazing job making me care about them before they even had their own book. Like, how do you make me this invested in characters who are not even the main couple yet? 😭That’s something I really appreciate in a series. When an author can make you excited for every character’s journey instead of only caring about the main couple. Keeran Lee has a way of introducing characters that makes you immediately think, “Okay, but when do I get THEIR story?”
I also loved the diversity throughout this book. Nick being a POC main character was such a big plus for me, and I loved seeing how every character brought something different to the story. Reece being a model was also such a fun change, and I loved how confident and comfortable he was with who he is.
The overall vibe of this book is exactly what I love: sweet, spicy, emotional, and a little messy. The spice is definitely there, but it never takes away from the relationship. It adds to the chemistry and connection between Nick and Reece.
Overall, this was such a strong debut. I loved these characters, I loved this world, and I’m already excited for what comes next. I literally applied for the street team because I already know I need to be here for the rest of this series.
Keeran Lee is officially an author I’m watching. ❤️
Spice Level: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ / 5
“The AUDACITY of this book…”
I went into Friends, Benefits & Problems expecting a cute, spicy friends-to-lovers romance… and while it absolutely delivered on that, it also surprised me with how much heart, personality, and depth it had.
Nick and Reece have been best friends for years, carrying around feelings they’ve both tried to ignore. One drunken night turns into a friends-with-benefits arrangement (with rules that were obviously never going to last 😫), and watching them slowly realize this was never just physical was honestly so much fun.
Reece completely stole my heart. He’s soft, loyal, loving, and unapologetically himself. He’s the kind of character you immediately want to protect because he gives so much of himself to the people he loves. 🥹
And Nick? This man stressed me out, but I mean that lovingly. He is so obviously in love with Reece and spends so much time trying to convince himself otherwise. Watching him finally stop fighting what’s right in front of him was so satisfying. The “you’re mine” energy once he accepts his feelings? Yeah… we love to see it 😩❤️
One of my favorite things about this book was how well Keeran Lee creates characters you immediately want to know more about. It’s not just Nick and Reece who shine. The entire cast feels like they have their own personalities, their own stories, and their own reasons for being there.
The second characters like Ivory and Draven appeared, I was hooked. I am genuinely DYING for their story because the author did such an amazing job making me care about them before they even had their own book. Like, how do you make me this invested in characters who are not even the main couple yet? 😭That’s something I really appreciate in a series. When an author can make you excited for every character’s journey instead of only caring about the main couple. Keeran Lee has a way of introducing characters that makes you immediately think, “Okay, but when do I get THEIR story?”
I also loved the diversity throughout this book. Nick being a POC main character was such a big plus for me, and I loved seeing how every character brought something different to the story. Reece being a model was also such a fun change, and I loved how confident and comfortable he was with who he is.
The overall vibe of this book is exactly what I love: sweet, spicy, emotional, and a little messy. The spice is definitely there, but it never takes away from the relationship. It adds to the chemistry and connection between Nick and Reece.
Overall, this was such a strong debut. I loved these characters, I loved this world, and I’m already excited for what comes next. I literally applied for the street team because I already know I need to be here for the rest of this series.
Keeran Lee is officially an author I’m watching. ❤️
August 17, 2026
This turned out to be a great read. I was honestly surprised to learn this is a debut novel. I LOVE a good friends-to-lovers, friends-with-benefits to oops-I-fell-in-love storyline. “I don’t kiss” is another of my favorites, especially when the MC who “doesn’t kiss” finally breaks…that first kiss is always 🥵🥵🥵🥵 This had just enough angst and pining to keep me totally engrossed - I couldn’t stop until they got their HEA. Sometimes I wanted to thump their heads together because they were so obviously DATING even though they denied it. Yes, there is a third act breakup, and at first I didn’t think Nick did enough pining but he more than made up for it in the end…definitely some grinning and feet-kicking on my end 🤣🤣
3rd person, dual POV
Basketball
Spicyyyy
Jock vs model
FWB
Friends to lovers
3rd act breakup
HEA
3rd person, dual POV
Basketball
Spicyyyy
Jock vs model
FWB
Friends to lovers
3rd act breakup
HEA
Read
April 10, 2026I did finish the book even though I thought about stopping pretty much from the third chapter on.
What I did like:
❤️ the friends with benefits situation — I don’t think I’ve read many of those
❤️ I am not a big basketball fan so that was different for me
❤️ I really liked Reece‘s character and how sweet he was
😬 overall I felt confused by how angry Nick’s character seemed to be
😬 it seemed like Nick’s and Reece’s emotional responses were disproportionate to any given situation
(IMO this is a risk with writing in a third person POV for a romance — it’s difficult to convey underlying motives and thought processes that way)
😬 I came away with the sense that Nick was incredibly toxic for Reece; maybe I missed something but it just seemed that he was mean without any underlying reason or motive to support it. By the end, I really didn’t want Reece to end up with Nick
😬 Random note, I didn’t understand how Nick had a cook/butler person—weren’t they college students?
TBH there were multiple things that I was confused about. But maybe it was just me. Lots of other people seemed to enjoy the book. I kept hoping for some kind of redemption for Nick’s behavior and attitude. I’m giving no stars rather than one or two because it’s entirely possible that I’ve just missed something significant.
Please note, I did receive this advanced copy ahead of publication; I am writing this honest review voluntarily and appreciate the opportunity provided by the author to review this book.
What I did like:
❤️ the friends with benefits situation — I don’t think I’ve read many of those
❤️ I am not a big basketball fan so that was different for me
❤️ I really liked Reece‘s character and how sweet he was
😬 overall I felt confused by how angry Nick’s character seemed to be
😬 it seemed like Nick’s and Reece’s emotional responses were disproportionate to any given situation
(IMO this is a risk with writing in a third person POV for a romance — it’s difficult to convey underlying motives and thought processes that way)
😬 I came away with the sense that Nick was incredibly toxic for Reece; maybe I missed something but it just seemed that he was mean without any underlying reason or motive to support it. By the end, I really didn’t want Reece to end up with Nick
😬 Random note, I didn’t understand how Nick had a cook/butler person—weren’t they college students?
TBH there were multiple things that I was confused about. But maybe it was just me. Lots of other people seemed to enjoy the book. I kept hoping for some kind of redemption for Nick’s behavior and attitude. I’m giving no stars rather than one or two because it’s entirely possible that I’ve just missed something significant.
Please note, I did receive this advanced copy ahead of publication; I am writing this honest review voluntarily and appreciate the opportunity provided by the author to review this book.
July 30, 2026
LOVED THIS SO FUCKING MUCH!!
Nicky and Reece🥹🥹 I was swooning giggling and kicking my feet throughout this book!
His kitten had me🫠 I live for grumpy sunshine and this book did it so well! I was hooked and having to put this down for adult responsibilities was the worst I just wanted to stay in the world forever!
Absolutely phenomenal debut novel🫶 will be recommending this from now till the end of time!
Nicky and Reece🥹🥹 I was swooning giggling and kicking my feet throughout this book!
His kitten had me🫠 I live for grumpy sunshine and this book did it so well! I was hooked and having to put this down for adult responsibilities was the worst I just wanted to stay in the world forever!
Absolutely phenomenal debut novel🫶 will be recommending this from now till the end of time!
August 10, 2026
✭✭✭✭✭
▷ There is something SO special about a friends to lovers story that actually feels earned, and Friends, Benefits, and Other Problems delivered that in a way that had me fully invested from beginning to end.
▷ Nick and Reece are not just friends. They are history, shared dreams, inside jokes, late night talks, and feelings that have been building long before either of them was ready to face them. That foundation made EVERYTHING hit harder because you could feel this was never just about attraction. It was always deeper than that.
▷ Reece was easily one of my favorite parts of this book. He is confident, secure in who he is, and loves so openly it almost hurts to watch him hold back. He wants more, has wanted more, but still settles for less just to keep Nick close. That kind of restraint?? It hurt.
▷ Nick, on the other hand, is the definition of denial. He is SO obviously in love it’s almost painful to read at times, but it makes sense for him. Basketball, his future, and the fear of ruining what they already have keeps him stuck. Watching him slowly unravel and finally face what Reece means to him was SO satisfying. And when he finally stops fighting it, his love becomes loud, protective, and impossible to ignore.
▷ Their friends with benefits situation was NEVER giving casual, and that’s exactly why it worked. Every moment had weight. Every touch meant something more, even when they refused to say it out loud. The tension built so naturally, and when it finally broke, it felt completely deserved.
▷ One thing I really appreciated was the representation. As a Black reader, seeing a POC main character in an MM romance like this felt refreshing. It shouldn’t feel rare, but it does, and it made this story stand out even more for me.
▷ The side characters deserve their moment too. Declan brought such a warm, grounding presence, and even the quieter characters had moments that made them feel REAL. Kasir, Ivory, and Draven especially stood out in a way that made me curious about their stories without taking anything away from Nick and Reece.
▷ The vibe of this book is exactly what I love. Sweet, emotional, a little messy, and unapologetically spicy. The physical side never overshadows the emotional one. It actually makes it stronger, showing how much trust and history exists between them.
▷ By the end, I wasn’t just satisfied with their story. I was already thinking about what comes next for everyone around them, which says everything.
▷ This is one of those books that reminds you WHY you love this trope so much.
◈ Friends to Lovers
◈ Friends with Benefits
◈ Mutual Pining
◈ Athlete x Model
◈ Miscommunication
◈ Possessive Energy
◈ Found Family
◈ Emotional Growth
▷ There is something SO special about a friends to lovers story that actually feels earned, and Friends, Benefits, and Other Problems delivered that in a way that had me fully invested from beginning to end.
▷ Nick and Reece are not just friends. They are history, shared dreams, inside jokes, late night talks, and feelings that have been building long before either of them was ready to face them. That foundation made EVERYTHING hit harder because you could feel this was never just about attraction. It was always deeper than that.
▷ Reece was easily one of my favorite parts of this book. He is confident, secure in who he is, and loves so openly it almost hurts to watch him hold back. He wants more, has wanted more, but still settles for less just to keep Nick close. That kind of restraint?? It hurt.
▷ Nick, on the other hand, is the definition of denial. He is SO obviously in love it’s almost painful to read at times, but it makes sense for him. Basketball, his future, and the fear of ruining what they already have keeps him stuck. Watching him slowly unravel and finally face what Reece means to him was SO satisfying. And when he finally stops fighting it, his love becomes loud, protective, and impossible to ignore.
▷ Their friends with benefits situation was NEVER giving casual, and that’s exactly why it worked. Every moment had weight. Every touch meant something more, even when they refused to say it out loud. The tension built so naturally, and when it finally broke, it felt completely deserved.
▷ One thing I really appreciated was the representation. As a Black reader, seeing a POC main character in an MM romance like this felt refreshing. It shouldn’t feel rare, but it does, and it made this story stand out even more for me.
▷ The side characters deserve their moment too. Declan brought such a warm, grounding presence, and even the quieter characters had moments that made them feel REAL. Kasir, Ivory, and Draven especially stood out in a way that made me curious about their stories without taking anything away from Nick and Reece.
▷ The vibe of this book is exactly what I love. Sweet, emotional, a little messy, and unapologetically spicy. The physical side never overshadows the emotional one. It actually makes it stronger, showing how much trust and history exists between them.
▷ By the end, I wasn’t just satisfied with their story. I was already thinking about what comes next for everyone around them, which says everything.
▷ This is one of those books that reminds you WHY you love this trope so much.
◈ Friends to Lovers
◈ Friends with Benefits
◈ Mutual Pining
◈ Athlete x Model
◈ Miscommunication
◈ Possessive Energy
◈ Found Family
◈ Emotional Growth
June 25, 2026
✎This story is one of the sweetest story I’ve ever read,two best friends that loves and care about each other unconditionally.The characters are some of the sweetest and adorable characters I’ve ever read about and highly one of the most horniest to have ever horny😭😂.
✎Nick is sweet guy,basketball is like second nature to him and he’s good at it,his dream has always been to play in the big leagues and that’s what he’s working towards with the help and support of his friends.But when it comes to his love life,he try’s to avoid his feelings and heart,and that’s exactly what he did for years when it came to his beautiful and sweet bestfriend,he buried what he felt for him and hoped that longing he felt will fade out with time and omg he tried for years till he broke one night at a party.
✎Reece might just be one of the cutest sweetest and kindest character I’ve ever read about and he deserves the best.The beautiful model has been pining for his best friend for years and it’s been a long year of longing and flirting that doesn’t yield any results,till he tried his tricks again and this time it worked,now he has to find a way to hide his heart from his best friend because he’s not looking to be in a relationship,he just wants a fvckbuddy.
✎Seriously this is one of the sweetest books I’ve read in a long time,the characters are so easy to love,the story is so easy to fall in love with,the side characters are funny and sweet,the setting is beautiful and the spice is incredible.
✎Nick is sweet guy,basketball is like second nature to him and he’s good at it,his dream has always been to play in the big leagues and that’s what he’s working towards with the help and support of his friends.But when it comes to his love life,he try’s to avoid his feelings and heart,and that’s exactly what he did for years when it came to his beautiful and sweet bestfriend,he buried what he felt for him and hoped that longing he felt will fade out with time and omg he tried for years till he broke one night at a party.
✎Reece might just be one of the cutest sweetest and kindest character I’ve ever read about and he deserves the best.The beautiful model has been pining for his best friend for years and it’s been a long year of longing and flirting that doesn’t yield any results,till he tried his tricks again and this time it worked,now he has to find a way to hide his heart from his best friend because he’s not looking to be in a relationship,he just wants a fvckbuddy.
✎Seriously this is one of the sweetest books I’ve read in a long time,the characters are so easy to love,the story is so easy to fall in love with,the side characters are funny and sweet,the setting is beautiful and the spice is incredible.
June 16, 2026
ARC REVIEW
We follow three childhood friends with very different dreams and paths in life.
Nick and Declan are on their way to being drafted into the NBA, while Reece has built a career as a fashion and runway model. Despite their different worlds, they all share a love for basketball, which helped them form a lifelong friendship as teenagers.
What initially attracted me to this book was the refreshing pairing of a model and a basketball player. I would have loved to see a little more insight into both the modelling and basketball worlds.
This book is definitely for readers who enjoy plenty of spice, because the “benefits” part of their friendship plays a major role. 😉
I also missed some emotional depth and more development as their relationship evolved. Although, let’s be honest Nick was in a relationship from the start, no matter how much he tried to convince himself otherwise. 😂
The story leans heavily on miscommunication, with Nick sometimes making assumptions about what Reece wants for his future. I would have enjoyed seeing more open conversations between them, particularly about their long-term plans after the draft.
Overall, this was a cute, spicy read with a very likeable main character in Reece. Nick also grew on me as the story progressed. 😂
We follow three childhood friends with very different dreams and paths in life.
Nick and Declan are on their way to being drafted into the NBA, while Reece has built a career as a fashion and runway model. Despite their different worlds, they all share a love for basketball, which helped them form a lifelong friendship as teenagers.
What initially attracted me to this book was the refreshing pairing of a model and a basketball player. I would have loved to see a little more insight into both the modelling and basketball worlds.
This book is definitely for readers who enjoy plenty of spice, because the “benefits” part of their friendship plays a major role. 😉
I also missed some emotional depth and more development as their relationship evolved. Although, let’s be honest Nick was in a relationship from the start, no matter how much he tried to convince himself otherwise. 😂
The story leans heavily on miscommunication, with Nick sometimes making assumptions about what Reece wants for his future. I would have enjoyed seeing more open conversations between them, particularly about their long-term plans after the draft.
Overall, this was a cute, spicy read with a very likeable main character in Reece. Nick also grew on me as the story progressed. 😂
April 28, 2026
Who hasn’t been a victim of unrequited love? The story of Reece and Nick is full of nostalgia for the reader whilst leaning into the stereotype that the btm being more emotionally involved. Exceptionally well written.
Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
June 3, 2026
Thank you so much to Keeran for the opportunity to read an ARC of FBP! I obsessed over the art for this book, and it was amazing to see those scenes come to life 🥹
June 17, 2026
3.5 ⭐️
June 30, 2026
Friends with benefits to friends to lovers ❤️🔥❤️🔥❤️🔥
This book was really sweet, seeing their relationship from the start and growing was beautiful!
The spice was SPICY!
The push and pull, the will they won’t they? And Nick just being so damn blind with what he had in front of him 😂
A man in lingerie… WIN
5⭐️ 🌶️🌶️🌶️
This book was really sweet, seeing their relationship from the start and growing was beautiful!
The spice was SPICY!
The push and pull, the will they won’t they? And Nick just being so damn blind with what he had in front of him 😂
A man in lingerie… WIN
5⭐️ 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Read
August 17, 2026***Edited few hours later:
Okay fine, I've decided I'm not rating the book. This is the debut novel and the author isn't popular so I don't wanna ruin the Average rating. But my review stays here.
1.5 stars and I'm seriously being kind right now.
I know this is a debut novel and I need to be kind but I'm dissapointed so I'm gonna be REALLY honest. I ain't hypocrite.
The book start off so strong, seriously. I was very interested in the story tho at the beginning I was confused with the descriptions because sometimes I thought the author was describing Reece's eyes but then I realized they were Nick's. I mean I know some black people have light eyes but like... having light blue eyes and being black is something common? I don't know. Anyway, they both were physically stunning and I was invested.
As I was saying, the book start off good BUT then, suddenly there was smut. In the beginning it was interesting and hot becasue they were best friends and then they wanted those benefits and have intimacy. It was hot, definitely. But then there was no plot and the entire book was about the smut. It felt like the background of the characters: the modeling, basketball and stuff was... nothing. It was pure smut. WHERE'S THE PLOT!!!!
Then the reason why Nick didn’t really want to be with Reece was not clear at all. He just wanted to have sex with him and do things like if they were together but like...he didn't want something serious?. Then when Reeces says he loves Nick, he finishes the thing with Reece, tells him that they are better apart and need to move on. It breaks Reece's heart but accepts it, since it was just friends with benefits.
They keep their relationship of friends like before but when Nick realizes Reece is moving on, doing a career and following his dreams, he decides he was not sure of his feelings and now wants Reece back. He is willing to do anything to have him again. Bitch, why you didn't do that in the first place.
Then, there's Harrison which feels pointless because he was just here to ruins Reece's basketball career (pointless too). Which takes me to another point: Reece's description.
In the very start he was kinda masculine? For few chapters and starts playing basketball. Even if he was kind of doing some modeling. Then when he starts he career as model after quitting basketball he starts to act differently. Like a twink, cute, kawaii, cringe. He turned annoying and I was like, whut?. And don't get me wrong, I love my twinks. They are perfect. I love cute kind and beautiful guys but Reece was not THAT twink in the beginning but then he was it.
I don't know, this book has zero plot, the chemistry turned boring and flat. You could've written it all in a hundred pages and tell the same shit: nothing. Next.
The only good thing that i can accept is that the author has a good writing style. It is easy to get involved with, fast paced, engages very easy the reader, I like that. Perhaps I could give it a try to the next book but for now this is a big NO for me.
If you are looking for a book with no plot and only rough sex then this is the one for you.
Okay fine, I've decided I'm not rating the book. This is the debut novel and the author isn't popular so I don't wanna ruin the Average rating. But my review stays here.
1.5 stars and I'm seriously being kind right now.
I know this is a debut novel and I need to be kind but I'm dissapointed so I'm gonna be REALLY honest. I ain't hypocrite.
The book start off so strong, seriously. I was very interested in the story tho at the beginning I was confused with the descriptions because sometimes I thought the author was describing Reece's eyes but then I realized they were Nick's. I mean I know some black people have light eyes but like... having light blue eyes and being black is something common? I don't know. Anyway, they both were physically stunning and I was invested.
As I was saying, the book start off good BUT then, suddenly there was smut. In the beginning it was interesting and hot becasue they were best friends and then they wanted those benefits and have intimacy. It was hot, definitely. But then there was no plot and the entire book was about the smut. It felt like the background of the characters: the modeling, basketball and stuff was... nothing. It was pure smut. WHERE'S THE PLOT!!!!
Then the reason why Nick didn’t really want to be with Reece was not clear at all. He just wanted to have sex with him and do things like if they were together but like...he didn't want something serious?. Then when Reeces says he loves Nick, he finishes the thing with Reece, tells him that they are better apart and need to move on. It breaks Reece's heart but accepts it, since it was just friends with benefits.
They keep their relationship of friends like before but when Nick realizes Reece is moving on, doing a career and following his dreams, he decides he was not sure of his feelings and now wants Reece back. He is willing to do anything to have him again. Bitch, why you didn't do that in the first place.
Then, there's Harrison which feels pointless because he was just here to ruins Reece's basketball career (pointless too). Which takes me to another point: Reece's description.
In the very start he was kinda masculine? For few chapters and starts playing basketball. Even if he was kind of doing some modeling. Then when he starts he career as model after quitting basketball he starts to act differently. Like a twink, cute, kawaii, cringe. He turned annoying and I was like, whut?. And don't get me wrong, I love my twinks. They are perfect. I love cute kind and beautiful guys but Reece was not THAT twink in the beginning but then he was it.
I don't know, this book has zero plot, the chemistry turned boring and flat. You could've written it all in a hundred pages and tell the same shit: nothing. Next.
The only good thing that i can accept is that the author has a good writing style. It is easy to get involved with, fast paced, engages very easy the reader, I like that. Perhaps I could give it a try to the next book but for now this is a big NO for me.
If you are looking for a book with no plot and only rough sex then this is the one for you.
June 12, 2026
Friends, Benefits & Problems
I was given an arc to review honestly and as always this is a 100% honest review in exchange for the arc.
Let me start with the perspective choice. Using 3rd person perspective was a smart movie here. Given the type of story this wants to be and succeeds at being. 3rd was a must, it wouldn't have worked in a 1st pov. I say this mainly because I see a lot of stories who are great but told from the wrong pov for the type of story they are trying to portray. Thankfully this doesn't have this issue.
Vibe
This is somehow mange to be very spicy book but a very cute cozy romance who never forgets its promise of being a romance while dealing with its massive spice.
Spice 🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶
It was very well written, used with purpose and not just there for fan service. There are emotional stakes baked into each interaction. And while there is a lot it never feels like it's too much. They have strict roles but for this story it works well. Sometimes I'll read a story and wish they was vers or even worse reversed roles.
Characters
Reese or as I've dubbed him Reese littlespoon.
He is an adorable, loveable, giant marshmallow of a crybaby who is genuinely endearing, sexy and humble above all. His experiences throughout this book I found to be extremely resonating, when I was younger I was reese so in regards his experiences actually portrayed Cis gay men's lived experiences which honestly can be rare to write accurately. Besides being okay with his feminine side he also does a lot of ‘masc’ things which we love to see. I enjoyed his journey even though it was rocky and he needed to find his footing again. It really ended up working well for him at the end.
Onto Nick
Let me start with the obvious: it is refreshing as all hell to see a person of color as the protagonist. Especially our African Americans folk who are often missing from the industry as a whole. Anyway I won't go on a rant about race. Moving on his character is one that is clearly displayed from the very beginning. He had a very rough start in his personal life but having his best friends there really helped soften the blow as a reader. Meaning it didn't lean too far away from still being cozy. We see him from his beginning to being successful which is really fulfilling. I will say he had me the entire plot yelling in my head like. YOU DUMMY ALL THE ANSWERS ARE RIGHT THERE, YOU KNOW, I KNOW IT JUST SWALLOW YOUR PRIDE AND FEARS. Over all I enjoyed it
Shout out to the side characters Declan and Alex who actually help to make the story feel lived in vs used as props that serve little purpose. Overall I can't wait for their story.
A short note, none of the characters have any issues with sexuality, coming to terms etc they are all comfortable in their sexuality which is very refreshing as it's just the norm which I love to see.
The story as a whole is a cared after story that follows things through into a full circle moment. And while there was some delays getting this book to arcs and release dates. Honestly it was really smart this story is a full realized effective story so congrats to the author Keeran
Overall i would recommend this book to anybody who is looking for a cutsy cozy read to just slip away from the stresses of the world
I was given an arc to review honestly and as always this is a 100% honest review in exchange for the arc.
Let me start with the perspective choice. Using 3rd person perspective was a smart movie here. Given the type of story this wants to be and succeeds at being. 3rd was a must, it wouldn't have worked in a 1st pov. I say this mainly because I see a lot of stories who are great but told from the wrong pov for the type of story they are trying to portray. Thankfully this doesn't have this issue.
Vibe
This is somehow mange to be very spicy book but a very cute cozy romance who never forgets its promise of being a romance while dealing with its massive spice.
Spice 🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶
It was very well written, used with purpose and not just there for fan service. There are emotional stakes baked into each interaction. And while there is a lot it never feels like it's too much. They have strict roles but for this story it works well. Sometimes I'll read a story and wish they was vers or even worse reversed roles.
Characters
Reese or as I've dubbed him Reese littlespoon.
He is an adorable, loveable, giant marshmallow of a crybaby who is genuinely endearing, sexy and humble above all. His experiences throughout this book I found to be extremely resonating, when I was younger I was reese so in regards his experiences actually portrayed Cis gay men's lived experiences which honestly can be rare to write accurately. Besides being okay with his feminine side he also does a lot of ‘masc’ things which we love to see. I enjoyed his journey even though it was rocky and he needed to find his footing again. It really ended up working well for him at the end.
Onto Nick
Let me start with the obvious: it is refreshing as all hell to see a person of color as the protagonist. Especially our African Americans folk who are often missing from the industry as a whole. Anyway I won't go on a rant about race. Moving on his character is one that is clearly displayed from the very beginning. He had a very rough start in his personal life but having his best friends there really helped soften the blow as a reader. Meaning it didn't lean too far away from still being cozy. We see him from his beginning to being successful which is really fulfilling. I will say he had me the entire plot yelling in my head like. YOU DUMMY ALL THE ANSWERS ARE RIGHT THERE, YOU KNOW, I KNOW IT JUST SWALLOW YOUR PRIDE AND FEARS. Over all I enjoyed it
Shout out to the side characters Declan and Alex who actually help to make the story feel lived in vs used as props that serve little purpose. Overall I can't wait for their story.
A short note, none of the characters have any issues with sexuality, coming to terms etc they are all comfortable in their sexuality which is very refreshing as it's just the norm which I love to see.
The story as a whole is a cared after story that follows things through into a full circle moment. And while there was some delays getting this book to arcs and release dates. Honestly it was really smart this story is a full realized effective story so congrats to the author Keeran
Overall i would recommend this book to anybody who is looking for a cutsy cozy read to just slip away from the stresses of the world
Review of advance copy received from Author
I’d describe this one as a fast-burn spice with a slow-burn emotional MM romance. (FYI: they are already hooking up within the first three chapters) Nick and Reece are longtime best friends who shared a kiss years ago during a game of spin the bottle, and Reece never really got over it. He’s always had a thing for Nick, while Nick is the ultimate non-committal guy who just doesn’t do relationships. So naturally… they end up in a friends-with-benefits situation.
This is definitely a very spice-forward story. There’s not a ton of plot or deep character development, but the chemistry? So good. 🔥🔥🔥 Reece is an absolute sweetheart—total marshmallow energy—and it was really nice to see Nick slowly start to soften as things between them progressed. They’re basically acting like boyfriends for months without putting a label on it… until Nick has a bit of a panic moment and pulls away.
Watching Nick come to terms with his feelings during that time and realize that he does want a future with Reece was really sweet. And once he figured it out? He was all in—like, full speed ahead. And he was POSSESSIVE. If you like the micro-trope "YOU'RE MINE". You'll love this.
That said, I do wish we had gotten more backstory for these characters, especially for Nick. I kept wanting to understand why he was so against commitment. What made him that way? We don’t get a ton of insight into either of their pasts, and I definitely felt that missing when it came to character depth. And the sweet side character Kent? The reader is left almost clueless as to this father like figure in Nick's life and what role he plays. I wanted to know more about him- he was obviously a very important person to Nick but the reader is never told why.
Overall though, this was an easy, super entertaining, hot and spicy MM romance that I flew through in one sitting. If you’re in the mood for something heavy on the chemistry and light on angst and plot, you’ll probably have a great time with this one.
This is definitely a very spice-forward story. There’s not a ton of plot or deep character development, but the chemistry? So good. 🔥🔥🔥 Reece is an absolute sweetheart—total marshmallow energy—and it was really nice to see Nick slowly start to soften as things between them progressed. They’re basically acting like boyfriends for months without putting a label on it… until Nick has a bit of a panic moment and pulls away.
Watching Nick come to terms with his feelings during that time and realize that he does want a future with Reece was really sweet. And once he figured it out? He was all in—like, full speed ahead. And he was POSSESSIVE. If you like the micro-trope "YOU'RE MINE". You'll love this.
That said, I do wish we had gotten more backstory for these characters, especially for Nick. I kept wanting to understand why he was so against commitment. What made him that way? We don’t get a ton of insight into either of their pasts, and I definitely felt that missing when it came to character depth. And the sweet side character Kent? The reader is left almost clueless as to this father like figure in Nick's life and what role he plays. I wanted to know more about him- he was obviously a very important person to Nick but the reader is never told why.
Overall though, this was an easy, super entertaining, hot and spicy MM romance that I flew through in one sitting. If you’re in the mood for something heavy on the chemistry and light on angst and plot, you’ll probably have a great time with this one.
June 12, 2026
ARC REVIEW
Friends, Benefits, and Problems by Keeran Lee
⭐⭐⭐ (3/5)
Reece and Nick have a sweet, steamy friends-to-lovers romance built on years of friendship and unspoken feelings. After meeting in middle school, both develop crushes on each other early on, but it isn't until after college graduation that they finally act on their attraction. What starts as a friends-with-benefits arrangement quickly becomes complicated by feelings that neither of them can fully ignore.
My heart really went out to Reece. From the beginning, he's honest with himself about how deeply he cares for Nick, even if he isn't always willing to admit it out loud. He's the kind of person who would do anything for the people he loves, whether that's Nick or their best friend Declan. He has such a golden retriever personality, always focused on supporting and uplifting those around him. I also loved that he's a model, which is a profession you don't often see represented in romance heroes.
Nick broke my heart in a completely different way. It's obvious that he loves Reece, but grief and loss have convinced him that he's not good enough for the people he cares about. After losing his parents, he's developed a deep fear of abandonment and genuinely believes he's protecting Reece by keeping him at arm's length. Even when his choices frustrated me, I understood where they were coming from.
One of my favorite aspects of the book was how accepted their relationship is by everyone around them. There is no homophobia, no dramatic coming-out conflict, and no pushback from friends or family. Their relationship is simply embraced, and honestly, it was refreshing to spend time in a world where love is treated so matter-of-factly.
Overall, this was a heartfelt friends-to-lovers romance with lovable characters, plenty of chemistry, and a strong emotional foundation built on years of friendship.
Thank you to the author for providing an ARC!
Friends, Benefits, and Problems by Keeran Lee
⭐⭐⭐ (3/5)
Reece and Nick have a sweet, steamy friends-to-lovers romance built on years of friendship and unspoken feelings. After meeting in middle school, both develop crushes on each other early on, but it isn't until after college graduation that they finally act on their attraction. What starts as a friends-with-benefits arrangement quickly becomes complicated by feelings that neither of them can fully ignore.
My heart really went out to Reece. From the beginning, he's honest with himself about how deeply he cares for Nick, even if he isn't always willing to admit it out loud. He's the kind of person who would do anything for the people he loves, whether that's Nick or their best friend Declan. He has such a golden retriever personality, always focused on supporting and uplifting those around him. I also loved that he's a model, which is a profession you don't often see represented in romance heroes.
Nick broke my heart in a completely different way. It's obvious that he loves Reece, but grief and loss have convinced him that he's not good enough for the people he cares about. After losing his parents, he's developed a deep fear of abandonment and genuinely believes he's protecting Reece by keeping him at arm's length. Even when his choices frustrated me, I understood where they were coming from.
One of my favorite aspects of the book was how accepted their relationship is by everyone around them. There is no homophobia, no dramatic coming-out conflict, and no pushback from friends or family. Their relationship is simply embraced, and honestly, it was refreshing to spend time in a world where love is treated so matter-of-factly.
Overall, this was a heartfelt friends-to-lovers romance with lovable characters, plenty of chemistry, and a strong emotional foundation built on years of friendship.
Thank you to the author for providing an ARC!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Ok let me start by saying that’s a smutty smut book.
So yep there is the spice & then the plot around it 😌
It’s a BFF to lovers.
Reece is sweet and wears his heart on his sleeve.
Nick is this grumpy tall guy who is actually certain his doesn’t deserve to be loved so chose distance instead of vulnerability (ok it doesn’t get that deep in the book)
Reece & Nick are friends since childhood. Playing Soin the bottle at another friend’s birthday they end up kissing.
At this moment Reece knew he will fall hard for Nick.
Nick knew if he was touching Reece one more time, he would never be able to let him go but is convinced he doesn’t deserve Reece.
None of them confess those feelings to each other & they kept on being friends up until college.
Reece tried time to time throughout the years to poke the bear and nothing happened until graduation night celebration.
Nick can’t resist and they have their first night together.
The rest of the book is them having sex on the grounds that they are just friends with Benefits. Nick said to Reece, he will never be able to reciprocate his feelings, Reece said he just wanted some fun…
Yep that didn’t go as planned.
My favorite part?
Nick being away for a month and being grumpy and miserable & yet fighting the fact he misses Reece.
Second favorite part?
Nick reaction when he comes back home & how happy he is to see Reece kind of moved in
Third favorite part?
Nick being miserable bc he ended everything & don’t know & how he finally went to get his man.
“Declan looked at him, cocking his brows.
- “You want him back.”
- “No shit,” Nick scoffed. “I’m getting him back. I just don’t know how yet.”
I’m so glad I was able to get a copy of this book as an Arc and been able to meet the sweet Reece & his broody Nick.
Btw I am ready for Alex & Declan story x)
So yep there is the spice & then the plot around it 😌
It’s a BFF to lovers.
Reece is sweet and wears his heart on his sleeve.
Nick is this grumpy tall guy who is actually certain his doesn’t deserve to be loved so chose distance instead of vulnerability (ok it doesn’t get that deep in the book)
Reece & Nick are friends since childhood. Playing Soin the bottle at another friend’s birthday they end up kissing.
At this moment Reece knew he will fall hard for Nick.
Nick knew if he was touching Reece one more time, he would never be able to let him go but is convinced he doesn’t deserve Reece.
None of them confess those feelings to each other & they kept on being friends up until college.
Reece tried time to time throughout the years to poke the bear and nothing happened until graduation night celebration.
Nick can’t resist and they have their first night together.
The rest of the book is them having sex on the grounds that they are just friends with Benefits. Nick said to Reece, he will never be able to reciprocate his feelings, Reece said he just wanted some fun…
Yep that didn’t go as planned.
My favorite part?
Nick being away for a month and being grumpy and miserable & yet fighting the fact he misses Reece.
Second favorite part?
Nick reaction when he comes back home & how happy he is to see Reece kind of moved in
Third favorite part?
Nick being miserable bc he ended everything & don’t know & how he finally went to get his man.
“Declan looked at him, cocking his brows.
- “You want him back.”
- “No shit,” Nick scoffed. “I’m getting him back. I just don’t know how yet.”
I’m so glad I was able to get a copy of this book as an Arc and been able to meet the sweet Reece & his broody Nick.
Btw I am ready for Alex & Declan story x)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 12, 2026
This book left me with so many questions.
Reece gets scouted my agents for modeling but declines them because it’s a hobby, then decides he wants to make a “real” career out of it. What was he doing before? He did shoots that paid for his lifestyle, isn’t that a career? Also he did basketball while also doing modeling, I was really curious to know what type of photo shoots was he doing when he had an athlete body. I feel like having an athletes body is way different than having a model body. But there are different shoots out there so I was curious as to what kind he does exactly. We don’t really find much out about his modeling til the last chapters of the book.
Kent is Nick’s legal guardian yet somehow has never met Nick’s childhood best friends? It was mentioned how much Nick thought of him as close family member yet Kent never went to a single game of his?
No one brings up sexuality in this book, it’s like “I don’t like guys” “do you like girls” “fu$k”. That’s pretty much it.
Nick is gonna be a pro athlete and he never worries how being gay/bi/pan would affect his career? And forget Reece thinking about anything but Nick’s di%k.
I also wanted Nick to grovel more and wanted Reece to have a back bone. Reece just gave in, was a total simp for a guy who told him he didn’t want to ever date him.
I don’t understand the death of his parents, it was unnecessary. I know the author used it as a reason why Nick couldn’t be with Reece but it would have made more sense if we saw more of a struggle with the passing of his parents from Nick throughout the book and maybe him getting therapy to help with his trauma. But it’s glossed over. I think it would have been more believable about Nick keeping it strictly friends with benefits if he was worried about coming out or just losing his friendship with Reece.
Reece gets scouted my agents for modeling but declines them because it’s a hobby, then decides he wants to make a “real” career out of it. What was he doing before? He did shoots that paid for his lifestyle, isn’t that a career? Also he did basketball while also doing modeling, I was really curious to know what type of photo shoots was he doing when he had an athlete body. I feel like having an athletes body is way different than having a model body. But there are different shoots out there so I was curious as to what kind he does exactly. We don’t really find much out about his modeling til the last chapters of the book.
Kent is Nick’s legal guardian yet somehow has never met Nick’s childhood best friends? It was mentioned how much Nick thought of him as close family member yet Kent never went to a single game of his?
No one brings up sexuality in this book, it’s like “I don’t like guys” “do you like girls” “fu$k”. That’s pretty much it.
Nick is gonna be a pro athlete and he never worries how being gay/bi/pan would affect his career? And forget Reece thinking about anything but Nick’s di%k.
I also wanted Nick to grovel more and wanted Reece to have a back bone. Reece just gave in, was a total simp for a guy who told him he didn’t want to ever date him.
I don’t understand the death of his parents, it was unnecessary. I know the author used it as a reason why Nick couldn’t be with Reece but it would have made more sense if we saw more of a struggle with the passing of his parents from Nick throughout the book and maybe him getting therapy to help with his trauma. But it’s glossed over. I think it would have been more believable about Nick keeping it strictly friends with benefits if he was worried about coming out or just losing his friendship with Reece.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 12, 2026
FWB turns into so much more
This was such a sweet story. I give this a 4.5 rounding up to 5. That is not to say there were not challenges (I mean it's even in the title).
When Reece was forced to move he was angry and frustrated but he quickly find that the neighbor is about his age. While Reece is more feminine he still fids himself playing basketball with his friends. I love how these guys became almost instant friends and they were quick to help him learn all they knew about basketball so he could keep playing with them.
A silly game of spin the bottle has Reece and Nick sharing their first kisses. This kiss is never forgotten but it is also not talked about.
Nick has always dreamed of going pro and having his best friends at his side is even better. Unfortunately when Reece messes up his ankle he is unable to continue playing. He is happy to continue cheering the others on and instead chooses to focus on his modeling.
A drunken night has these two hooking up for the first time. Nick is definitely scared of getting to close to people and refuses to date. He does agree toa friends with benefits situation with Reece. These two were freaking adorably perfect together. I did find myself wanting to shake Nick and be like open your eyes this guy is perfect for you. Stop holding back.
I loved seeing the way this story came together. Both men struggled in different ways but it always came down to them needing each other. The spice in this story was done very well. It showed their need, connection and growth throughout the story. Sometimes it was pure claiming and other times it was so much more.
I can't wait to see what's next.
This was such a sweet story. I give this a 4.5 rounding up to 5. That is not to say there were not challenges (I mean it's even in the title).
When Reece was forced to move he was angry and frustrated but he quickly find that the neighbor is about his age. While Reece is more feminine he still fids himself playing basketball with his friends. I love how these guys became almost instant friends and they were quick to help him learn all they knew about basketball so he could keep playing with them.
A silly game of spin the bottle has Reece and Nick sharing their first kisses. This kiss is never forgotten but it is also not talked about.
Nick has always dreamed of going pro and having his best friends at his side is even better. Unfortunately when Reece messes up his ankle he is unable to continue playing. He is happy to continue cheering the others on and instead chooses to focus on his modeling.
A drunken night has these two hooking up for the first time. Nick is definitely scared of getting to close to people and refuses to date. He does agree toa friends with benefits situation with Reece. These two were freaking adorably perfect together. I did find myself wanting to shake Nick and be like open your eyes this guy is perfect for you. Stop holding back.
I loved seeing the way this story came together. Both men struggled in different ways but it always came down to them needing each other. The spice in this story was done very well. It showed their need, connection and growth throughout the story. Sometimes it was pure claiming and other times it was so much more.
I can't wait to see what's next.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Friends, Benefits and Problems is the debut novel from Keeran Lee. This book is a best friends to lovers with loads of pining and spice.
Reece and Nick have been best friends ever since Reece moved to Miami. The two and Declan have been joined at the hip all through high school and even college. Nick and Reece drift apart alittle bit when Reece got injured and was no longer able to play basketball. Reece then decided to focus on his modeling career. This put a bit of a wedge in their friendship.
Nick had a difficult childhood. After a tragic accident, he is left to his own and distances himself from all his friends. He was always hanging out with his friends, but never really put himself out there.
Reece has always been in love with Nick. The yearning and pining for each other was amazing. Reece was willing to take any scraps that Nick would give in a “relationship”. This is how the pair became friends with benefits. Nick also has feelings for Reece but has always been afraid to put himself out there.
I loved all the small moments when these two showed up for one another. I loved the gift basket Reece made for Nick when he was going away to training camp. I loved how possessive and obsessed Nick was with Reece. And don’t get me started on the spicy scenes 🤭…. The strict roles in the bedroom were just amazing.
I loved this book and cannot wait for Alex and Declan’s story. Thank you Keeran Lee for thr advanced copy.
Reece and Nick have been best friends ever since Reece moved to Miami. The two and Declan have been joined at the hip all through high school and even college. Nick and Reece drift apart alittle bit when Reece got injured and was no longer able to play basketball. Reece then decided to focus on his modeling career. This put a bit of a wedge in their friendship.
Nick had a difficult childhood. After a tragic accident, he is left to his own and distances himself from all his friends. He was always hanging out with his friends, but never really put himself out there.
Reece has always been in love with Nick. The yearning and pining for each other was amazing. Reece was willing to take any scraps that Nick would give in a “relationship”. This is how the pair became friends with benefits. Nick also has feelings for Reece but has always been afraid to put himself out there.
I loved all the small moments when these two showed up for one another. I loved the gift basket Reece made for Nick when he was going away to training camp. I loved how possessive and obsessed Nick was with Reece. And don’t get me started on the spicy scenes 🤭…. The strict roles in the bedroom were just amazing.
I loved this book and cannot wait for Alex and Declan’s story. Thank you Keeran Lee for thr advanced copy.
July 12, 2026
2.5 stars.
It started ok, I kinda liked how they met each other but the moment they have sex for the first time that's all the book turns into. When they're not having sex, they're thinking about having sex or about each other. It got boring after a while.
The plot is pretty much non-existent, even the build up to where they met/got to know each other was pretty fast paced leading up to their years in college.
The reasoning behind Nick not wanting to date originally would have been slightly more effective if it was ever really brought up again but I don't remember it ever being the case. Instead we have a guy who refuses to date because reasons even though he knows the feelings would be reciprocated and they're both obsessed with each other. The third act break up is one of the most frustrating I've ever read. I'm not one to ask for groveling because I feel like most of the time it's not done by the right person or pushed too far but here that was something else. Reece has no self-respect. Barely an apology, no hesitation to get back together and an explanation we got a glimpse of before getting a TLDR version of what was said.
Also I was confused why their job, especially Reece's, would be an issue for the relationship. That guy is a model not an accountant or any other desk job. On top of that he is supposed to be a supermodel and recognized by people so in what world would he be restrained to a city ?
It started ok, I kinda liked how they met each other but the moment they have sex for the first time that's all the book turns into. When they're not having sex, they're thinking about having sex or about each other. It got boring after a while.
The plot is pretty much non-existent, even the build up to where they met/got to know each other was pretty fast paced leading up to their years in college.
The reasoning behind Nick not wanting to date originally would have been slightly more effective if it was ever really brought up again but I don't remember it ever being the case. Instead we have a guy who refuses to date because reasons even though he knows the feelings would be reciprocated and they're both obsessed with each other. The third act break up is one of the most frustrating I've ever read. I'm not one to ask for groveling because I feel like most of the time it's not done by the right person or pushed too far but here that was something else. Reece has no self-respect. Barely an apology, no hesitation to get back together and an explanation we got a glimpse of before getting a TLDR version of what was said.
Also I was confused why their job, especially Reece's, would be an issue for the relationship. That guy is a model not an accountant or any other desk job. On top of that he is supposed to be a supermodel and recognized by people so in what world would he be restrained to a city ?
June 25, 2026
3.5⭐️
This was a sweet read overall and one I enjoyed enough to keep turning the pages, but it didn’t completely hit for me. It’s written in 3rd person POV which was a little hard to follow at times.
This definitely felt like a book that leaned lower on plot and higher on spice. If you’re going in wanting chemistry and steam, it delivers more there than in the storyline itself.
Reece was probably my favourite part of the book. He was lovely and felt like someone who would do absolutely anything for the people he loves, and I really enjoyed his character throughout.
Nick frustrated me at times. I kept waiting for more grovelling and more accountability, but it felt like he was forgiven pretty easily considering everything. Honestly, a lot of their conflict felt like something that could’ve been solved if they had actually communicated about the future because they seemed to be on the same page in the end anyway.
I also would’ve liked more background and development for Kent, Declan and Alex. We met some of Reece’s friends, they were introduced and seemed interesting, but then didn’t really go anywhere in this book.
That said… I’m definitely planning to read Alex and Declan’s book because somehow I ended up invested in their relationship even though they’re already together here.
This was a sweet read overall and one I enjoyed enough to keep turning the pages, but it didn’t completely hit for me. It’s written in 3rd person POV which was a little hard to follow at times.
This definitely felt like a book that leaned lower on plot and higher on spice. If you’re going in wanting chemistry and steam, it delivers more there than in the storyline itself.
Reece was probably my favourite part of the book. He was lovely and felt like someone who would do absolutely anything for the people he loves, and I really enjoyed his character throughout.
Nick frustrated me at times. I kept waiting for more grovelling and more accountability, but it felt like he was forgiven pretty easily considering everything. Honestly, a lot of their conflict felt like something that could’ve been solved if they had actually communicated about the future because they seemed to be on the same page in the end anyway.
I also would’ve liked more background and development for Kent, Declan and Alex. We met some of Reece’s friends, they were introduced and seemed interesting, but then didn’t really go anywhere in this book.
That said… I’m definitely planning to read Alex and Declan’s book because somehow I ended up invested in their relationship even though they’re already together here.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Let me tell you something, this entire series is going to be fucking amazing, I already know.
Friends, Benefits and Problems is what happens when a ray of sunshine clingy kitten befriends an emotionally repressed disaster and promptly falls in love with his grumpy ass.
Reece and Nick have been friends since forever ago, and Reece has always had feelings. But Nick is “totally not gay”, so nothing can happen between them, right? WRONG. Nick is Down Bad ™ for Reece, despite the fact that he’s fighting for his life trying to convince himself that they are JUST FRIENDS. But you know what, we stan a delulu king.
Fresh out of college and slowly heading in different directions, now is their chance to act on this unspoken thing between them without it impacting their friendship. And what could possibly go wrong with a good ole friends with benefits arrangement, especially when there’s a “no kissing” rule?
What to expect:
- Childhood friends to lovers
- Model x Basketball player
- Spice right off the bat
- Emotional slowburn
- Cute/silly moments
- Jealous Nick
- Baby girl Reece
- Idiots in love
- Did I mention SPICE?
Huge thank you to the author for the chance to read this book early! Looking forward to the next one in this series.
Friends, Benefits and Problems is what happens when a ray of sunshine clingy kitten befriends an emotionally repressed disaster and promptly falls in love with his grumpy ass.
Reece and Nick have been friends since forever ago, and Reece has always had feelings. But Nick is “totally not gay”, so nothing can happen between them, right? WRONG. Nick is Down Bad ™ for Reece, despite the fact that he’s fighting for his life trying to convince himself that they are JUST FRIENDS. But you know what, we stan a delulu king.
Fresh out of college and slowly heading in different directions, now is their chance to act on this unspoken thing between them without it impacting their friendship. And what could possibly go wrong with a good ole friends with benefits arrangement, especially when there’s a “no kissing” rule?
What to expect:
- Childhood friends to lovers
- Model x Basketball player
- Spice right off the bat
- Emotional slowburn
- Cute/silly moments
- Jealous Nick
- Baby girl Reece
- Idiots in love
- Did I mention SPICE?
Huge thank you to the author for the chance to read this book early! Looking forward to the next one in this series.
May 30, 2026
‼️SPOILERS‼️
I really loved this book! I had started it with the original copy and then found out the author added more to the story and I was immediately excited because I was curious. It is crazy but Keeran made up for the missing information from how they met and whatnot.
Nick and Reece were just so perfect for one another. I had a few favorite moments but the whole gift basket of Reece making for Nick going away, that was so cute. Also, at the end when Nick got all protective for Reece because Harrison is a creep.
First off, these two are so stubborn when it comes to their feelings but what do you expect from a best friends with benefits to lovers expectation? I was swooning over this whole book and my heart at a certain point. IYKYK. I was baffled to what happened because ugh!
The fact that this is Keeran’s debut completely surprise me because I love me a good meet cute story with the best found family. Declan is definitely one of my favorite side characters where sometimes he had me giggling from time to time.
If you love a book with all the emotions or best friends that are super protective over one another or just how these two can’t get enough of one another, this book is for you.
I received a copy of this book and this is my honest review.
I really loved this book! I had started it with the original copy and then found out the author added more to the story and I was immediately excited because I was curious. It is crazy but Keeran made up for the missing information from how they met and whatnot.
Nick and Reece were just so perfect for one another. I had a few favorite moments but the whole gift basket of Reece making for Nick going away, that was so cute. Also, at the end when Nick got all protective for Reece because Harrison is a creep.
First off, these two are so stubborn when it comes to their feelings but what do you expect from a best friends with benefits to lovers expectation? I was swooning over this whole book and my heart at a certain point. IYKYK. I was baffled to what happened because ugh!
The fact that this is Keeran’s debut completely surprise me because I love me a good meet cute story with the best found family. Declan is definitely one of my favorite side characters where sometimes he had me giggling from time to time.
If you love a book with all the emotions or best friends that are super protective over one another or just how these two can’t get enough of one another, this book is for you.
I received a copy of this book and this is my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Friends, Benefits and Problems was a fun, easy read that leans heavily into the friends with benefits chaos. Nick and Reece have been best friends for years, but after one unforgettable kiss during a game of spin the bottle, Reece never truly moved on. Watching him pine for Nick while trying to settle for something casual definitely kept me invested.
This is very much a spice first, feelings later kind of romance. The chemistry between Nick and Reece was undeniable and the tension carried the story, but I did wish there had been a little more depth when it came to the emotional side of their relationship. I kept waiting for a stronger redemption arc for Nick because some of his choices and attitude frustrated me throughout the book.
Even with that, I still enjoyed the ride. The athlete × model pairing was fun, the friends to lovers dynamic worked well, and I absolutely loved Declan and Alex whenever they appeared on page. If you're looking for a high heat MM romance packed with mutual pining, friends with benefits drama, and plenty of chemistry, this one is worth checking out.
Friends, Benefits and Problems was a fun, easy read that leans heavily into the friends with benefits chaos. Nick and Reece have been best friends for years, but after one unforgettable kiss during a game of spin the bottle, Reece never truly moved on. Watching him pine for Nick while trying to settle for something casual definitely kept me invested.
This is very much a spice first, feelings later kind of romance. The chemistry between Nick and Reece was undeniable and the tension carried the story, but I did wish there had been a little more depth when it came to the emotional side of their relationship. I kept waiting for a stronger redemption arc for Nick because some of his choices and attitude frustrated me throughout the book.
Even with that, I still enjoyed the ride. The athlete × model pairing was fun, the friends to lovers dynamic worked well, and I absolutely loved Declan and Alex whenever they appeared on page. If you're looking for a high heat MM romance packed with mutual pining, friends with benefits drama, and plenty of chemistry, this one is worth checking out.
April 13, 2026
Review of advance copy received from author.
I was very grateful to be chosen as an ARC reader for Keeran Lee’s debut novel.
What to expect:
•Best friends to lovers
•Friends with benefits
•Mutual pining
•LOTS OF SPICE
•Emotional slow burn
The book overall wasn’t bad. It did take me a little while to actually get into it. The first half felt very repetitive, there wasn’t much happening as far as plot progression, just a lot of smut. Believe me, I LOVE a smutty MM romance, but I felt very disconnected from the characters as there wasn’t much of a backstory on them. The second half of the story is where I felt more connected to them as the plot started progressing. This story does have a third-act breakup, but does have an HEA! I was honestly a little pissed off that Nick hurt my boy Reece like that, but he redeemed himself in the best way! Overall the book was solid, I do wish that there was a little more background on the characters, but I digress. I will be reading the next story that involves 2 of the characters that played a role in this book.
I was very grateful to be chosen as an ARC reader for Keeran Lee’s debut novel.
What to expect:
•Best friends to lovers
•Friends with benefits
•Mutual pining
•LOTS OF SPICE
•Emotional slow burn
The book overall wasn’t bad. It did take me a little while to actually get into it. The first half felt very repetitive, there wasn’t much happening as far as plot progression, just a lot of smut. Believe me, I LOVE a smutty MM romance, but I felt very disconnected from the characters as there wasn’t much of a backstory on them. The second half of the story is where I felt more connected to them as the plot started progressing. This story does have a third-act breakup, but does have an HEA! I was honestly a little pissed off that Nick hurt my boy Reece like that, but he redeemed himself in the best way! Overall the book was solid, I do wish that there was a little more background on the characters, but I digress. I will be reading the next story that involves 2 of the characters that played a role in this book.
July 1, 2026
I'm super excited for this series and this was a great start. One of the things I love to see in drama/romance stories is character development and we have it here. The start of the story where we are introduced to the MCs (AND their sunshine friend, making them the best trio imo) already had my heart. We travel through what starts as a captivating friendship to a spicy hot """casual""" hook-up, to sweet romance while still in denial, to real life and acceptance of feelings obstacles, until they finally see what's worth embracing in life: love. Author also navigates you through basketball world without dumping info or making you feel lost, which is great. Oh, I REALLY appreciate it being a 3rd person story too, as I don't like 1st person much (but will read regardless if story is good). OH also, kudos for having a successful black main character, we need more of those. Can't comment more without giving spoilers but I recommend it if you like yummy explicit stories with a good side of romance.
Review of advance copy received from Author
1.5 stars rounded up. I thank the author graciously for sending me their novel for an honest review. This book was unfortunately not for me. I found there to be very minimal plot, which may be fine with other readers, but it was difficult for me and did not engage me. I wanted to know more about the characters on a deeper level, but the smut absolutely overwhelmed the novel. The third act had some glimmers of promise for me as some angst was introduced, but it felt slapdash and then too quickly resolved. The characters themselves just did not gel with me - with Nick coming off as too obnoxiously and unnecessarily protective and Reece being absolutely saccharine with sweetness. I unfortunately found myself cringing. Should note as well that while basketball and modeling are parts of each of these characters lives, they are not delved into much at all. Hate to not have many positive things to say, but I once again appreciated the opportunity the author has given me in reviewing.
Review of advance copy received from Author
⭐️⭐️⭐️.5 (rounded up to 4)
🌶🌶🌶🌶
Boy meets boy. Friendship made. 7 minutes in a closet. Attraction burns.
A few years later and Nick and Reece are burning for one another, they become more than just friends but Nick doesn't believe they can be more.
I thoroughly enjoyed this take on a MM college to adult romance and maaaan was the spice turned up from the very start!
The Author Keeran Lee's debut is a blend of yearning, tension and copious amounts of sizzle 🥵.
The only piece of the book i didnt like was that the longer these men were together the more Reece became dependent on Nick being around and that he couldn't function for example when they were apart due to a training camp. I felt that was a bit too much for the storyline.
But yeah if you want a new MM book with smut right from the start and throughout- Friends, Benefits And Problems will serve you well.
Thank you so much for the opportunity to advance read this novel in return for a review.
🌶🌶🌶🌶
Boy meets boy. Friendship made. 7 minutes in a closet. Attraction burns.
A few years later and Nick and Reece are burning for one another, they become more than just friends but Nick doesn't believe they can be more.
I thoroughly enjoyed this take on a MM college to adult romance and maaaan was the spice turned up from the very start!
The Author Keeran Lee's debut is a blend of yearning, tension and copious amounts of sizzle 🥵.
The only piece of the book i didnt like was that the longer these men were together the more Reece became dependent on Nick being around and that he couldn't function for example when they were apart due to a training camp. I felt that was a bit too much for the storyline.
But yeah if you want a new MM book with smut right from the start and throughout- Friends, Benefits And Problems will serve you well.
Thank you so much for the opportunity to advance read this novel in return for a review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This started off pretty wholesome - Reece and Nick had been friends since their teenage years, but a devastating event meant Nick kept Reece at arms length despite their undeniable love and attraction for one another. And then BAM. S*xy times happen for the first time in the story and it’s wholesome no more.
This was a really gratifying read, written from a third person duel POV. Nick and Reece go through a whole heap of challenges to end up together but it’s worth waiting for. Also, you’ll be melting at Nick’s dirty talk and Reece’s begging!
✨MM
✨Basketball player x model
✨No strings attached
✨Friends to lovers
✨Possessive MC
Who is it for:
If you love a romance with mutual pining but both MC’s keep it physical, until it becomes impossible to deny there were always strings attached.
I generously received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This was a really gratifying read, written from a third person duel POV. Nick and Reece go through a whole heap of challenges to end up together but it’s worth waiting for. Also, you’ll be melting at Nick’s dirty talk and Reece’s begging!
✨MM
✨Basketball player x model
✨No strings attached
✨Friends to lovers
✨Possessive MC
Who is it for:
If you love a romance with mutual pining but both MC’s keep it physical, until it becomes impossible to deny there were always strings attached.
I generously received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
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