Lover, Come on Over

by A.E. Jensen

KaydenComing back to Barnacle Cove feels like standing at the edge of something new. While transitioning wasn’t easy, it brought me home to myself. I’ve always known I was a man, and now the world finally gets to see Kayden, too.

All I want is to be accepted, desired, and loved for exactly who I am. I want someone who makes me feel safe, who is steady and kind… someone a lot like my dad’s best friend—and my new boss—Caleb. He’s been my anchor for as long as I can remember, grounding me with quiet strength and unwavering care.

But I know better than to want him.

So instead, in the privacy of my bedroom, I let myself explore my desires by trading words and fantasies with a faceless stranger online, BigOnBacks, who makes me feel wanted in ways I never knew I needed. No expectations. No risks. Just heat, honesty, and the thrill of being seen.

CalebI’ve known Kayden his entire life. He’s Sal’s kid, meaning he’s always been off-limits. Still, I couldn’t be prouder of the man he’s become—confident and resilient, breathtaking in ways that sneak up on me unexpectedly.

I tell myself it’s just protectiveness. That I don’t notice the way his curls fall into his eyes, or how his lean body moves so gracefully. That I don’t ache every time he smiles at me like I’m his safe place.

But truthfully? I want him—and I absolutely shouldn’t.

I’m a flirt. A commitment-phobe. The last man who deserves someone like Kayden. So I turn to my favorite distraction, losing myself in late-night hookups and explicit messages with an online stranger named dicKmedown… never imagining how close to home that desire really is.

Lover, Come on Over is a sweet and steamy MM romance with trans representation, featuring forbidden longing, secret online chemistry, and a notorious flirt falling hard for the one man he shouldn’t want. When two hearts are drawn together with undeniable force, even the strongest boundaries blur.

Join Caleb and Kayden in Barnacle Cove as they navigate desire, trust, and the courage it takes to claim a love that feels like coming home—chasing their hard-earned HEA together.

Please Lover, Come on Over features mature content and is intended for an adult audience only.
Please use the "Look Inside" feature for a full list of what you can expect.

Genres: M M Romance, Friends To Lovers, Forced Proximity, Workplace, Transgender, Contemporary

287 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 28, 2026

Reviews

[Sully (sulliedjedi) · Rating 4 out of 5]

“Look at you.” His voice vibrates with want. “So fucking responsive.” He mentioned that earlier, too, how responsive I am, but I think I’m just touch- starved. A spell of sadness courses through me. It’s true. My body is starved of touch.

4 solid stars for this one! Full RTC.


I ease him down on Marilyn’s hood, then unbutton his pants and slide down the zipper.

Fuck, he’s stunning, all splayed out for me on top of my car.

(Public blowjob on the hood of a dark blue 1968 Ford Mustang Fastback (Marilyn) at the beach somewhere in Massachusetts.)




Add review and excerpts.

MC Names: Kayden (K) & Caleb

Add full tags: KU, contemporary romance, MM, trans masc MC, 18-year age-gap (22 & 40), Dad's best friend (family friend), Massachusetts, spanking, jockstraps, anonymous hookup app, tattoos, parent with epilepsy, ace author (she/her)

CWs: mention of deceased parents (off-page, past, from old age), body dysphoria related to one MC being transgender (includes reacting negatively to female body parts, comparison with cis men, and negative internal dialogue), mention of surgery (off-page, past, top surgery), mention of suicidal thoughts (transgender MC before transitioning), mention of brief transphobic experiences (off-page, past), misgendering in official papers resulting in a dysphoric incident, mention of brief racist experiences (off-page, past, side character), mention of child leukemia (past, side character)


Cover design: Jenn ReadsBooks
Cover images, fonts, and graphics: Pexels, Deposit Photos, Canva

Sensitivity reader: Magne (book_mmagic3)

[kaye taz · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.8 ⭐️
spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️.5/5
format: ebook

this was really cute and i really adored the trans representation. kayden was such a beautiful character and i wanted only the best things for him.

i do think the attraction between the mc’s felt a little sudden and unrealistic. and then the i love you’s also felt really rushed. i don’t know, i could’ve taken another 100 of so pages of them being fleshed out a bit more. something was just missing in that aspect.

i also think the side characters who possibly have other books(?) took up a lot of page time too—the band and other couples who showed up. i just really don’t vibe with obvious plugs of other stories.

but overall this was a very sweet read with 10/10 trans rep.

[✨ · Rating 5 out of 5]

✨ ARC review ✨

🩷 Lover, Come On Over by A.E. Jensen 🩵

“He gives me purpose. He makes me want to try harder and be better. He makes me fucking greedy too. I want it all. I want everything with him.”

okay, i’m still feeling emotional from this book 😭 it was so good. SO fucking good! honestly - i think this was a six star read for me ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ i cried so much. im not sure why really, but i got super emotional at the concert scene. maybe it’s because it shows how much Caleb paid attention, or maybe it’s because live music in general makes me emotional and it reminded me of how i felt seeing my favorite band in concert next to the one i love. 🤍

Kayden is our sweet (okay, actually pretty feisty) trans MC who just moved back home after finishing college. he’s been through a lot to get to where he is today but he’s finally starting to be his true self - even though there are times where life just sucks and some old insecurities come rushing in.

Caleb is our flirty, non-commitment type MC who just so happens to be best friends with Kayden’s dad. he’s known Kayden his whole life, and has always been supportive and a safe space for him, but now he’s seeing his ‘Little K’ in a whole new light.

not gonna lie, at first i thought Caleb was gonna fuck up. i thought he was going to break Kayden’s heart. IM SENDING ALL OF MY APOLOGIES TO THIS SWEET MAN. Caleb is SO GOOD. he’s a consent KING, is always there to comfort his K, and does the most to let him know how he feels about him. he’d do anything for him, probably even give up his precious car, ‘Marilyn’, which is saying a lot hahahaha.

i loved Kayden sososo much, and though im not trans, i thought the rep here was phenomenal and i wanted to hug him so tight every time he was having his doubts. WE MUST PROTECT HIM AT ALL COSTS.

oh, and i have to mention one of the best parts of the book: Caleb and Kayden chat with each other UNKNOWINGLY on a hookup app called ‘Pulse’, and whew. the messages are 🥵🥵🥵

add this to your TBR immediately. thank me later ✨

some tidbits:
🩷 small town
🩵 age gap
🩷 jockstraps in every color 😏
🩵 dads best friend
🩷 shebang is my new favorite word thank you
🩵 FILTHY dirty talk 🔥

[Kaez · Rating 5 out of 5]

this book is absolutely beautiful!! full rtc

[what_emmareadnext · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5

This book is a gentle portrayal of falling for someone who makes you feel safe and seen and having no control over who that person is.
Kayden is 22 and moves back home after graduating to work for his father’s company. Said company is run by his dad and his dad’s best friend Caleb Morgan, who has been a steady figure in K’s life since he was young. When K was 18 he transitioned, started T and had top surgery. Nowadays he is living as his authentic self and has been accepted by his parents and Caleb, but when he starts to realise he has feelings for Caleb he struggles with his feelings for the older man.
Caleb Morgan is a bit of a slut. He never commits and he never stays. He’s never been in a relationship and has never hidden his bisexuality. When he starts to look at K differently, with feelings, he battles with falling for his best friends son. But neither can stop the way they feel or the need to be together. Caleb offers K a safe place, where he can be himself, where he is enough, where he is a man. He supports K with his body dysphoria, and steps up to be the man he needs.
This book is gentle. It’s a gentle love between two men who adore each other. I felt the trans rep was well written, and the relationship with K and his parents was also touching. Thoroughly enjoyed this and it didn’t break my heart too much!!! 🩶

[David · Rating 4 out of 5]

Caleb and Kayden’s dynamic was a lot of fun to witness. The way they bantered so easily yet could be so serious and there for each other smoothing their worries…so well done. This worked well because Caleb was never referred to as Kayden’s uncle, rather his friend. I knew there’d be some hesitation from Sal and Viv but I assumed it’d happen on the Sunday Caleb and Kayden planned to tell them, so color me surprised when not only does Kayden tell Viv earlier in the week but then Sal finds out quite literally against everyone’s will. It was rough seeing Sal and Caleb at odds but it made sense due to a few factors. Which made it all the more sweeter when we learned that Caleb asked Sal for his blessing for marrying Kayden. The way both Kayden and Caleb helped each other come to their own understandings about themselves Kayden in his validation of being a man and Caleb in his understanding that he needed the right person to accept love and a family…yeah this was really good.

[Tonya Druckenmiller · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a beautiful story 💙

It’s a story about trust, safety, longing, desire, and intimacy.

Kayden longs for all of those things and finds them in the most unexpected person: his dad’s best friend — the man who has been a constant presence his entire life, the man who knew him “before.”

Caleb’s unwavering respect and adoration for Kayden slowly grow into something deeper, something profoundly meaningful.

This story isn’t without its hurdles, but it was beautifully written from beginning to end, and the HEA was everything.

**I received a complimentary copy of this book.**

[Michelle Exploringwithchapters · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hello New Favorite Author. AE Jensen - I LOVED THIS STORY SO MUCH. We 100% got the love story between Kayden and Caleb. And I loved every moment of it. But this book gave me so much more. As someone who has trans friends, I strive to educate myself and be as supportive as I can - and this book opened a window. It was honest and real and seemed like so much more than the love story. It didn't pretend. It was so refreshing. I am excited to more transgender stories and will be posting a more complete review shortly.

[Caroline Forrester · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 ⭐️

[Ana Silva · Rating 5 out of 5]

It’s hard to put into words how this story made me feel. In the last week and a half, I’ve been put through the wringer when it comes to emotional instability. My heart has been torn to pieces and then stomped on by the beautiful stories I’ve read.

Then I read this book and I’m a complete wreck again. The level of love and care A.E. Jensen put into this book can be felt on every page. From the delicate way she described Kayden’s struggles with his body, to the love and acceptance from Caleb, this book feels more like an homage to the trans community than just a love story.

I have read a few books with trans MCs but this one is by far the one that has touched me the deepest. I’ll admit I have a lot to learn, but this story beautifully highlighted their struggle to be seen and accepted by society. How easily the world can judge what it doesn’t understand. It’s so easy for trans people to feel insecure and let those insecurities can take over their minds.

It took a while for him to feel comfortable in his new body and be happy in his own skin. Caleb was a huge part of that. He never saw Kayden as anything more than a man.

I’ve have loved many green flag MCs but I think Caleb is the absolute best green flag I’ve ever read. That man was the greatest pillar of strength for Kayden besides his parents. From the moment Kayden was born, Caleb took it upon himself to always protect him and make him feel safe. To some it might seem like grooming but they’d be so wrong.

Caleb never saw him as anything else but his best friend’s kid. There was never any creepy feelings for Kayden as a kid other than genuine love and care for someone he saw being born and later grew up to be the most amazing man he ever met.

You can’t tell your heart who to love. Caleb never thought he was the type to settle down. After all, everyone including himself; only saw him as a hookup guy. Only, it wasn’t that he wasn’t the relationship type, he was just waiting for the right person.

“𝓘 𝓷𝓮𝓿𝓮𝓻 𝓽𝓱𝓸𝓾𝓰𝓱𝓽 𝓘’𝓭 𝓯𝓲𝓷𝓭 𝓼𝓸𝓶𝓮𝓸𝓷𝓮 𝓵𝓲𝓴𝓮 𝔂𝓸𝓾, 𝓚. 𝓢𝓸𝓶𝓮𝓸𝓷𝓮 𝔀𝓱𝓸 𝓶𝓪𝓴𝓮𝓼 𝓶𝓮 𝔀𝓪𝓷𝓽 𝓽𝓸 𝓫𝓮 𝓪 𝓫𝓮𝓽𝓽𝓮𝓻 𝓿𝓮𝓻𝓼𝓲𝓸𝓷 𝓸𝓯 𝓶𝔂𝓼𝓮𝓵𝓯.”

It wasn’t hard for Kayden to fall in love with Caleb. Not only was he beautiful on the outside, but he was also beautiful in the inside. He was always there for him during the hardest times of Kayden’s life. Caleb could always tell when Kayden needed encouragement without having to ask for it.

Caleb was the only person he could be himself intimately. He knew that Caleb would never ridicule him or make him feel inadequate. He saw all of Kayden and loved every part of him.

𝓘 𝓵𝓸𝓿𝓮 𝓲𝓽 𝔀𝓱𝓮𝓷 𝓱𝓮 𝓵𝓪𝓾𝓰𝓱𝓼. 𝓘𝓽’𝓼 𝓵𝓲𝓴𝓮 𝓱𝓲𝓼 𝔀𝓱𝓸𝓵𝓮 𝓫𝓸𝓭𝔂 𝓫𝓮𝓬𝓸𝓶𝓮𝓼 𝓪𝓵𝓲𝓿𝓮, 𝓸𝓷𝓮 𝔀𝓪𝓿𝓮 𝓪𝓯𝓽𝓮𝓻 𝓪𝓷𝓸𝓽𝓱𝓮𝓻 𝓻𝓲𝓹𝓹𝓵𝓲𝓷𝓰 𝓽𝓱𝓻𝓸𝓾𝓰𝓱 𝓱𝓲𝓼 𝓬𝓱𝓮𝓼𝓽, 𝓾𝓷𝓽𝓲𝓵 𝓽𝓱𝓮 𝓼𝓸𝓾𝓷𝓭 𝓫𝓾𝓫𝓫𝓵𝓮𝓼 𝓼𝓸 𝓿𝓲𝓿𝓪𝓬𝓲𝓸𝓾𝓼𝓵𝔂 𝓪𝓷𝓭 𝓾𝓷𝓲𝓷𝓱𝓲𝓫𝓲𝓽𝓮𝓭𝓵𝔂 𝓯𝓻𝓸𝓶 𝓱𝓲𝓼 𝓵𝓲𝓹𝓼. 𝓣𝓱𝓮𝓻𝓮’𝓼 𝓷𝓸𝓽𝓱𝓲𝓷𝓰 𝓵𝓲𝓴𝓮 𝓲𝓽.

I loved Kayden’s parents so much. They were the types of parents every queer kid needs in their lives. The level of love and support they had for Kayden was admirable. Their loved for him made me so emotional because that’s how parents should be. Parents are supposed to love their children no matter what. A parent’s love should unconditional.

I have so much more to say but this is already long enough😅 Just do yourselves a favor and read this beautiful story. It will help you understand a little better how much harder trans people have it and why they deserve to be treated with kindness, love and respect. You’d think that should be a given for everyone, yet it isn’t. It’s time we took a closer look at how much harder life is for trans people and be a little more accepting.

[Eli Tosh · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lover, Come On Over tells the story of Kayden, a recent graduate who unexpectedly falls for his dad’s best friend, a man who has known him his entire life and is also his boss. Despite the potentially complicated setup, the story itself was easy to follow. Nothing felt confusing or overly dramatic, and the pacing stayed steady throughout. The length felt right as well; there were no unnecessary scenes or filler, and the title suited the tone and direction of the book.

What made the story believable for me was the honesty between the characters. Their openness grounded the relationship and made both the plot and the character development feel balanced. I found myself drawn equally to Caleb and Kayden. Their humour, respect for one another, and willingness to communicate honestly made them easy to root for. They never acted as though their age gap defined them, nor did they treat their long history as something that should hold them back. It felt like Caleb was meeting Kayden for the first time when he moved back, and from there, their attraction grew naturally.

There wasn’t a single character I disliked, which is rare. The story didn’t rely on a villain or a hateful personality to create tension, and I appreciated that. I related most to Kayden, especially in the way he hoped to find someone who would accept him as he is. The difference between us is that Kayden always seemed sure of who he was, while I’m still figuring that out. Even so, his emotional journey resonated with me.

Caleb and Kayden felt like a couple who genuinely belonged together. Their chemistry was obvious, but it was their communication and honesty that convinced me they would last. I especially liked how open they were with each other — they asked questions without judgement, always wanting to understand one another better. I also admired that Caleb didn’t give in when Sal asked him to break things off with Kayden. He stood his ground, which made their relationship feel even more solid.

There wasn’t much I disliked about the book. The pacing felt smooth, sitting comfortably in the middle — not too slow, not too fast. One moment that stayed with me was their semi‑breakup. It showed how much they wanted to be together and what they were willing to risk for each other. It added emotional weight without feeling forced.

The ending was especially satisfying. Seeing their future — married, thinking about children, and watching the relationship with Kayden’s parents evolve — gave the story a hopeful, complete feeling. I also took away something meaningful from the book: a better understanding of body dysphoria from a trans perspective. I hadn’t realised how triggering it can be to hear a dead name or be misidentified, and how deeply that can affect someone’s sense of self.

Overall, I gave the book four stars because I genuinely enjoyed reading it. It was warm, honest, and easy to connect with. One of my favourite quotes was the playful moment between them:

"Don't fall asleep yet,"
"I'm not."
“Liar."
"Ouch, you little devil. But I guess that's what I get for dating someone half my age."
"We're not dating, one date. We've been on one date."
"This? Baby, this counts for more than one date."
"You're impossible."
"And you're in denial."

It captured their dynamic perfectly — teasing, affectionate, and full of chemistry. The song that best matches the vibe of the book for me is Love Will Keep Us Together by Captain & Tennille, which fits the tone of their relationship beautifully.

[HappilyEverReader · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was so sweet! It was such a heartwarming, feel-good story from beginning to end. I think this is some of the best trans representation I've read in a romance novel. I appreciated that it explored both the positive and more difficult aspects of being trans, including body dysphoria, sexual insecurities, and personal preferences. At the same time, I loved that Kayden was surrounded by such a loving, affirming, and supportive family and friend group.

Kayden and Caleb's relationship is definitely unconventional. Caleb is Kayden's dad's best friend and has known him since he was born. On paper, that could have felt taboo, but it never came across that way to me. When Kayden returns home after four years away at college, having completed his transition, it feels like the two of them are meeting each other for the first time. They've always shared a deep friendship and connection, but now those feelings begin to develop into something more.

Caleb was once a commitment-phobe who swore relationships and marriage weren't for him, but his feelings for Kayden change everything. He falls hard and fast for Kayden and works to overcome his past reputation in order to earn Kayden's trust. Kayden is such a sweet, vulnerable, and open character as he navigates life as an out trans man. One of my favorite aspects of their relationship was how honestly they communicated, especially when it came to intimacy. Caleb was always thoughtful, patient, and focused on making sure Kayden felt safe, comfortable, and respected.
I really enjoyed their relationship arc and the way they worked through the tougher moments together. Caleb truly proved how serious he was about their relationship, especially in the way he handled things with Kayden's parents.

And the epilogues? They were easily my favorite part. I loved getting to see different snapshots of their future and watch them build the happy ending they both deserved.

If you enjoy the dad's-best-friend trope, plenty of swoony romance, thoughtful trans representation, and an epilogue that delivers the sweetest HEA, I definitely recommend this one!

[Simantha · Rating 5 out of 5]

“He gives me purpose. He makes me want to try harder and be better. He makes me fucking greedy too. I want it all. I want everything with him.”

Wow, this book truly took me on an emotional journey. Some moments made me laugh, others brought me to tears, and several had me completely swooning 🥰 Kayden and Caleb absolutely stole my heart, and I have so much love for both of them.

Kayden is our sweet, occasionally bratty (when he wants to be) Trans MC who returns home after college to help with the family business. More than anything, Kayden wants to be loved and desired exactly as he is. There are moments when his insecurities surface, and he fears he may never find that kind of acceptance. During those moments, I wanted nothing more than to wrap him in a hug and remind him how incredible he truly is.

Caleb is our older, charming, Bi, playboy MC who never envisioned himself settling down or starting a family. He also happens to be Kayden’s dad’s best friend and business partner, and has known Kayden his entire life. Their relationship unexpectedly begins to evolve into something deeper and watching them rediscover one another in a new and exciting way was so fun. Their love story unfolded naturally and never felt forced or uncomfortable, which I appreciated.

Caleb’s unwavering support for Kayden was especially meaningful. He made Kayden feel safe, valued, and seen. The care he took to educate himself and ensure he would never unintentionally trigger Kayden spoke volumes about his character and he was also a consent king which I loved!!!

I also want to give a special mention to Kayden’s parents, Sal and Viv, who embody what truly supportive parents should be. Their unconditional love, acceptance, and encouragement of Kayden, embracing him fully for who he is and who he has always been, moved me to tears more than once.

This is a story about love, courage, healing, and acceptance, and it was written beautifully. This was my first A.E. Jensen book but it definitely won’t be my last.

“I always feel safe with you, Caleb. I always have. Even when I wasn’t at home in my own body, I felt at home with you.”

[Kiki Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

A. E. Jensen delivers another masterful story in Lover, Come On Over.
Kayden returns home to Barnacle Cove a new man, freshly graduated, ready to join his father’s boat building business.
In delicate brushstrokes Anja shows us his determination, body dysmorphia, and optimistic spirit. Thank goodness this brave, beautiful boy had amazing parents and support system as he transitioned. It hurts my heart anyone would have to make that journey alone.
Caleb is his father’s best friend and business partner. He’s has always had Kayden’s back. An equal opportunity playboy, no one is more surprised than him when he falls in love with Kayden. His tenderness and patience showed he was more than the man for K. He may say he’s a selfish man, but I saw him as someone who cared deeply and was determined to be a better man.
The little moments they shared: going for a drive, cooking together, sharing workouts, were everything. Who needs a grand gesture when simply savoring time spent together is so satisfying?
Communication was top tier. The honesty these two men share is almost sacred, laying bare their innermost thoughts and pushing through uncomfortable moments. Caleb has done his homework and their physical connection is tender and sexy, sweet and swoony.
A surprise discovery has Kaden pushing Caleb away, and it takes real talk from his BFF Emily (love her!) to see what he and Caleb have is real and worth the risk.
Anja’s writing leaves you with so much empathy for K and his feeling of otherness and longing for love.
You’ll celebrate with Kayden the gift of being truly seen.
This is a love story. A beautiful, hopeful, achingly romantic journey of two men who deserve every happiness.
I wish the world was a kinder place where people didn’t feel the need to police who you love or what pronouns you prefer. We get a glimpse of that possibility in the way Barnacle Cove embraced Kayden in this gorgeously written story.
Plus there was a surprise double cameo I absolutely adored! Highly recommend. All the stars.

[True Loveislovereview · Rating 5 out of 5]

I highly respect people who understand how this world should work. Who understands what’s really important in life, how people should act, and should love. In essence, it’s so simple: be kind, live and let live. This author has these skills!

I suggest you sit back, read, and enjoy this beautiful, sensitive piece of work!

Kayden is a twenty-two-year-old trans man who started his transition when he turned eighteen.
Kayden’s parents are the best. When I read that they saved money and called him K, it already made me cry and gave me thick goosebumps!
This is how it should be! Unconditional love and acceptance!

Caleb and Kayden’s dad are best friends and run a company together. Caleb has been part of Kayden’s life as long as Kayden remembers; he has always been part of their family. He’s kind, easygoing, and fun. Caleb is in awe of how Kayden lives his life.
After college, Kayden starts working with his dad and Caleb, he will run the social media side of the company.
The feelings for each other turned into something deeper, they see each other in a different daylight. It can’t happen; they are off-limits to each other.
Both found a way to let off steam… a dating app.

This is just 25% of the whole picture. What follows is so impressive.
The process is immensely intense and beautifully crafted.

Throughout the story, Kayden shows us his life, his struggles, his insecurities, his pain, his joy, and his happiness. Man, what a beautiful personality he is, my heart beat faster for him, and Caleb… no words can express Caleb… swoon!!

“You are fucking normal, whatever that even means. There is nothing wrong with you. Not a damn thing, you hear me?”

I think there was no better way to invent how Kayden and Caleb got together, absolutely non. It was brilliantly done! Applause!
I was in awe of the way the author touched this subject and how she made it an unforgettable piece of work that will stay with me for a long time!

I speak my wish for every trans person in this world that they will find happiness.
You are so loved!

[Shyandmoodreader · Rating 5 out of 5]

✨ ARC Review ✨

This story was absolutely breathtaking in every possible way. I finished it last night and my mind is still grappling to put thoughts to words over how much I absolutely adored this book 💜. It's a romance, but more than that it's about finding yourself and the struggles and triumph that come alongside it.

Kayden is such a strong, brave, lovely character and my heart both breaks, for the battles he's fought, both within himself and from the outside world, and heals for the beautiful way that he's able to finally be who he was all along as well as find his safety in Caleb.

This book definitely dives into the depths of what being trans can mean for some, but overall it's a book about strength, acceptance, pride and love 🏳️‍⚧️. It's heartfelt and sweet, even in its complexity.. after all, the sun shines brightest after a storm 🫶.

Anja did a divine job of depicting the highs & lows of this character, alongside the beauty in being who you were always meant to be, & finding those who accept you without any conditions 🥹. Caleb was that person for Kayden, & it was phenomenal to watch these two fall in love, as well as learn some truths about themselves along the way.

I adored the care and affection that Caleb treats Kayden with, knowing Kayden is one of the strongest people he's ever met, but still taking the time to learn and discuss new things regarding their relationship. It was so wholesome to read, and watching their love flourish under that guidance and care made this book so easy to read!
I feel like I'm rambling, but truly, this is definitely an amazing, and I believe, informative book about what it means to be so trans, but more importantly, a good person and human being 😍.

I think in this day and age, we need this more than ever, and that at the end of the day, whether you understand someone's differences or not, we are all human, and it takes absolutely nothing to be kind to one another. Anja shows us this while also taking us on the wondrous journey watching two amazing men fall in love 😘.

[Anisha Choudhury | A Literary Autopsy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Disclosure: I received a complimentary Advance Review Copy (ARC) of Lover, Come On Over directly from the author in exchange for an honest review.

With Lover, Come On Over, A. E. Jensen has delivered an absolute triumph of contemporary queer romance. This book is a profoundly moving, sweet, and high-heat MM romance that beautifully balances traditional tropes—like the dad's best friend, workplace proximity, and anonymous online messaging—with some of the finest trans representation I have ever read.

The story follows Kayden as he returns to Barnacle Cove, navigating life after his transition and wanting nothing more than to be desired and loved for exactly who he is. He finds himself falling for Caleb, his new boss and his father's best friend. Meanwhile, both men are secretly venting their off-limits desires to each other online under anonymous usernames. Kayden and Caleb are characters who will completely steal your heart, break it, and piece it back together. The romantic and physical chemistry between them serves as the beautiful, beating heart of this entire book.

From an analytical standpoint, Jensen made an incredible narrative choice by excluding external transphobia from the plot. Kayden has spent his life dealing with internal dysphoria; by surrounding him with fiercely supportive parents, a dedicated childhood best friend, and a protective love interest, Jensen grants the queer and trans community a much-needed reprieve from trauma. Furthermore, the intimacy is written with extraordinary care and precision. The prose displays a deep, authentic understanding of a trans man's body, mind, and emotional landscape, ensuring Kayden is seen completely as a man being loved by another man.

Lover, Come On Over transcends standard romance tropes to become something truly precious. It is a stunning, essential piece of literature that demands to be read, shared, and celebrated.
If you love deeply emotional hurt/comfort, high-heat forbidden dynamics, and flawless representation, this book is non-negotiable.

I urge you to read this incredibly heartfelt story of love, suport and undeterred acceptance.

[between.heas · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lover, Come on Over is a warm and lovely story about identity, acceptance, and finding love where you least expect it.

Kayden Somner always knew he was a boy, even as a little kid in first grade. His journey of transitioning and growing into himself is told with so much care. Through it all, he has his parents Sal and Viv, his friend Emily, and Caleb, his dad's childhood friend and business partner, who has been there for him through everything. The good days, the bad days, and everything in between.

When Kayden returns to Barnacle Cove at 22, fully transitioned and ready for a fresh start, things between him and Caleb slowly begin to change. Caleb has always been someone who kept things casual, no serious relationships, no commitments. But Kayden makes him feel things he never has before. Still, the nearly 20 year age gap, his close friendship with Kayden's dad, and having been a lifelong constant in Kayden's life make him hold back. Kayden has carried feelings for Caleb for years too, but their complicated history keeps him quiet as well.

A vulnerable moment finally breaks the wall between them. What starts as something casual slowly grows into something neither of them expected, deep, real, and full of love. With Caleb, Kayden feels safer than he ever has. With Kayden, Caleb feels more deeply than he ever has before.

What makes this book really stand out is how A.E. Jenson has handled Kayden's identity and his body dysphoria - honestly and gently, without any unnecessary drama. It is simply a part of who he is, written with care and respect.

Also, the spice was off the charts. So so hot!!

Lover, Come on Over is a story about coming home — to yourself, and to the person who feels like home. A beautiful, heart-warming read.

[fortheloveofmmromancebooks · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ever since he can remember Kayden Somner was born in the wrong body, with the help and support of his family, he begins transitioning.
At the age of twenty-two he moves back home to Barnacle Cove, after college, to help his Dad with his business.

Caleb Morgan has been best friends with Sal (Kayden’s Dad) for years, even when he came in and swept Vivian (Kayden’s Mom) his then girlfriend off her feet.
Caleb and Sal own a successful sail boat building business.

Caleb is not the relationship type, he never wants a future with his conquests. Being almost twenty years older than Kayden, he has known him all his life, but that doesn't stop his desire towards him when he comes back into town.
With Kayden being his best friend’s son, he knows he is off limits, but he just cannot stay away.

A. E. Jensen is simply a remarkable author. The way you are transported into the world that has been created is nothing short of exceptional. Anja makes you feel every emotion the main characters feel. Anja has the ability to make you fall in love with them, but then breaks you to the core, before putting you back together in the best way possible.
Everything Anja has written I have adored, and I will always recommend her books to anyone, especially Loud Places, which is phenomenal.
Kayden and Caleb are such amazing characters, who love wholeheartedly. The tenderness, and care between them is beautiful to read. Sal and Vivian are everything parents should be, to love their child unconditionally with support and care.
The epilogue made me beyond happy.
Anja has such a unique style of writing that is both informative and sensitive.

[judith vaughan · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just finished reading “Lover Come On Over” by A.E Jensen, and first off, this book is wonderful. A.E wrote two characters who are just beautiful and found their other half of their soul. I have read a few of A. E’s books and they never disappoint and this one is the same. This tells the story of Kayden and Caleb who have known each other their whole lives albeit Caleb is Kayden’s dads’ best friend but that doesn’t matter because literally these two are the other half of each other’s souls.
Kayden has never felt like he belonged in his own body it wasn’t until he became the person, he truly is that he began to live again. Caleb has always seen Kayden he sees his heart, his soul and the person he is. When Kayden starts working at his fathers and Caleb’s ship building business things between Caleb and Kayden change or becomes what it was supposed to be. As their relationship changes and grows into something I can only describe as beautiful Kayden’s father finds out. Are they doomed before they can truly become something great?
I was hooked from the opening words I cried when things were ugly for Kayden, I cried when Caleb and Kayden found each other and I was happy when Kayden finally found that person who saw him as he always was. He wasn’t alone yes; he had his parents but that is different when it is finding someone who sees them and can love them as they truly are. If you have never read an A.E. Jensen book this is the one you need to read first. Trust me you will fall in love with these two characters and will root for them to get their HEA. So thank you A.E for writing this the world needs more books like this they are very much needed.

[Ella · Rating 5 out of 5]

Can you hear me scream excitedly about this book? I am all over the place - screaming - because oh em gee this book is AMAZING!!!

I wanna wrap myself in it… it’s perfect, sweet, wonderful, extraordinary and just so beautiful!!!

Anja brought those two wonderful guys to life in such a sweet, loveable and graceful way… it’s an amazing love story and trans representation!

Kayden & Caleb 💗💗💗

Kayden made it through a lot of shitty stuff with the help of his awesome parents and Caleb (his dad‘s best friend) - who was always right by his side with support and all the right words… always…
No wonder Kayden fell quick and hard for Caleb when the time was right.

Caleb is hot and way older then K… he knows Kayden his whole life and one day out of the blue, grown up Kayden, becomes his whole world, his home, his everything…

Oh to see them fall in love and get to know each other in a completely new exciting way was sooo sooo so perfect.

Kayden is so special… is the perfect combination of sweet and bratty and Caleb has his hands full… and doesn’t want it any other way…

Kayden brings all the good things out in Caleb - he wants the whole shebang (yes even this is perfect) with K - his special K… oh my I am a puddle of goo because of these two….

There are two epilogues which are everything and totally sugary sweet overk!ll….in the most romantic and delicious way! 🫠

And still I need more.. I wanted to start this book all over again as soon as I read „The End“ and it effortlessly made it quickly into my TOP 10 this year!!!
I received an ARC from the author.

[Chasary Mendez · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had the honor of getting an advance copy of this book by the author Arc Review

My gosh when I tell you this book had me in such a beautiful chokehold. This book is just so beautiful I can’t even put into words.

Kayden my gosh Kayden he’s a trans man but his journey wasn’t easy. Even though he has the best parents anything can asked for. It was so endearing and loving. How his dad and mom supported Kayden unconditionally. He comes back from college but still has insecurities. One thing happen that had Kayden go into a depression. His dad’s busy so he send his best friend Caleb

Caleb!! Yes he’s known as the playboy butcher me tell you he’s a walking green flag in my book. He’s known Kayden all his life. Caleb is the one person Kayden feel safe around to live his true self as a man. My gosh the love and support Caleb give Kayden is beautiful. He’s done his research always checking with Kayden to make sure he’s comfortable.

Caleb and Kayden both deserve each other, they brought out their vulnerability. Love each other unconditionally.

This book is more than just a book is a love letter to the trans community. Anja wrote this with so much tender loving care. She made sure Kayden found his voice his acceptance as a man. My heart swelled with so much love and pride. I will totally recommend this book a million times over.

[read.beforeyou.think · Rating 4 out of 5]

A.E. Jansen did a wonderful job with Lover, Come On, and I’m so happy I had the chance to read this book. It’s a rollercoaster of emotions, spice, and love in all its forms.

Kayden has always known he was born in the wrong body. Since transitioning, he has finally been able to put the pieces of himself together. When he returns home, everything seems to fall into place.

Working alongside his father, he reconnects with Caleb, his father’s best friend and business partner. Caleb has been part of his life forever, but only now does Kayden realize how beautiful he truly is—inside and out.

Caleb is struggling with feelings he never expected to have. Being attracted to his best friend’s son is complicated, and there is so much at stake if he gives in to those feelings. But running away isn’t an option, and Kayden is far too special to let go.

Their relationship is intense, emotional, and deeply satisfying. Through all the ups and downs, A.E. Jansen delivers a story that shows love is love. What stood out to me most was the healthy relationship dynamic and the way the characters continually choose to stand by and support each other despite the challenges they face.

This book takes you through every emotion imaginable, and by the end, you may find yourself shedding a few happy tears.

A book I highly recommend.

[Amanda Winter · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lover Come On Over was such a sweet, heartfelt read and honestly felt like a warm hug from beginning to end.

Kayden and Caleb completely stole my heart. What starts as an anonymous connection online quickly turns into something much deeper when they realize they're already connected in real life. The chemistry between them is immediate, but what I loved most was the emotional connection that develops alongside it.

Kayden's journey was especially beautiful. Returning home as his authentic self and learning to trust both himself and the people around him was incredibly touching. His desire to be fully seen, accepted, and loved felt so genuine. Caleb was exactly the kind of partner he needed—steady, caring, patient, and completely devoted. Watching his admiration for Kayden slowly grow into something deeper was wonderful to read.

This is definitely a lower-angst romance, but that doesn't mean it lacks emotion. It's full of tenderness, acceptance, healing, and two people learning that they deserve happiness. The relationship felt mature, supportive, and full of genuine affection.

I laughed, swooned, got a little emotional, and couldn't stop reading once I started. The HEA was absolutely worth the journey.

[Angela I. · Rating 5 out of 5]

And here we are again : another beautiful story by Anja 🥹🥹

This story felt so soft, sweet, and precious. Reading it was like listening to a symphony...everything flowed so naturally and harmoniously 🎵🎶

That’s something I’ve come to love about Anja’s books: they always leave me feeling comforted and somehow a little more hopeful about humanity.

She handles sensitive topics with so much care and compassion, and one thing I especially appreciate is how she never falls into unnecessary drama just for the sake of it. There’s always intention, tenderness, and emotional honesty ; and this story is the perfect example of that.

Kayden (22) is trans and back in his hometown, still navigating self-acceptance while surrounded by people who genuinely support him.
Caleb (40) is Kayden’s dad’s best friend, business partner, and a self-proclaimed commitment-phobe.

On paper, they might not make sense, but together, they see and accept each other exactly as they are. Watching them grow, heal, and learn from one another was genuinely beautiful.

I always finish Anja’s books feeling peaceful, and this one was no exception 🩷🩵

[bookswithbull · Rating 4 out of 5]

Kayden & Caleb. A dad’s best friend story. Kayden is coming back to his small hometown after being away for college. In the years since he graduated high school he’s transitioned and is living his best life as his truest self. The relationship between Kayden and his dad’s best friend, Caleb, starts to change. Caleb has a reputation as a “love em and leave em” type. Never been a relationship man. Yet all of that begins to change…

I really enjoyed this book. The story was so sweet. Kayden and Caleb’s relationship evolved slowly and then all at once they were in it - which I loved. I am not a trans person myself, so I do not have a good reference, but it seems that Kayden’s character was written with a lot of care. A lot of dysphoria talk and the struggle of being trans. I liked that there wasn’t much on-page bigotry or things like that, but Kayden’s struggles were still well represented. Kayden’s best friend, Emily, was also a big plus for me. I’m glad that Kayden has a friend outside of his family and Caleb to talk with. And ooooooo boy was this book spicy!! Overall, v much enjoyed.

Thank you to the author for an ARC of this book💗🤍💙

[Seraphina Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lover Come On Over
A.E. Jensen

Kayden & Caleb

Dad’s best friend
Trans MC / Bisexual MC
Age-gap (18 years)
Boss/employee
Hookup app
Forbidden attraction
“You’re my safe place”
“I can’t think when you’re around”
“Going bat-shit crazy when he wears my clothes”
A lot of firsts / Body worship
All the jockstraps

Oh, my heart. This was so sweet and beautiful.

I just… wow, watching in real time Kayden finding peace with his body, and the struggles of his body, Caleb worshiping his body, the care, and tenderness, the respect Caleb has for Kayden was literally everything.

The realness of this, what Kayden was going through, what he has overcome, I really, really appreciate the communications Kayden and Caleb had. Talking about the hard things just felt so right. It made me think of all the incredible, strong and brave trans people out there going through this very thing. Finding someone to love them for who they are, as they are… oh my heart. This was so beautiful.


I really believe these two were perfect for each other.  They were so great together.  I adored their dates, and hangouts, banter and their spicy scenes were fun and adventurous, and others so sweet and vulnerable

They just fit so well together

A.E. Jensen just has a beautiful way of handling delicate or sensitive topics with such grace.

Kayden and Caleb did have some ups and downs, but they oh so wonderfully got their hea.

I adored this. Beautiful book.

SO thankful for this arc

[Taylor Dawicke · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a good story. Initially I was a little skeptical how the dad’s best friend relationship would play out, but it turned out alright. It’s written tastefully and doesn’t give the ‘I’ve known you your whole life ick’.

Caleb and Kayden are both likable characters. From the beginning you’re drawn to Kayden and his inner turmoil before transitioning. You feel the stress being in the wrong body causes him and the longing he feels to be his true self. Caleb is Kayden’s dad’s best friend and coworker. He’s known Kayden his entire life but after Kayden returns from college their relationship shifts. You feel the tension between characters from the start when Caleb helps Kayden with his new apartment.

I like how much trust these characters have for one another, from the fact they’ve known each other forever, but also because of Caleb’s acceptance of Kayden. He doesn’t judge him and did his research so he knew what to expect to make Kayden feel wanted and safe. This was a great read.

Thank you AE Jensen for an ARC copy of this book! I’ve been super excited for this release!

[Brit ✨ · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lover, Come on Over was such a heart warming story from start to finish. Kayden and Caleb just felt inevitable and I was rooting for them the moment they see each other again when Kayden returns to Barnacle Cove.

Kayden and Caleb both tried to fight their connection due to the age gap and the forbidden nature of their relationship. Kayden was so incredibly strong and I loved how supportive the people in his life were regarding his transition. Caleb was in for a surprise when he realized what he is feeling for Kayden. I love when an MC who has never had a serious relationship is blindsided by their feelings for the other MC. Their relationship is so deep and strong, I just adored how amazing they were together. Kayden’s dad, obviously, struggled and while it caused some drama, I LOVE how Caleb handled it. It just showed his love for Kayden and just how deep his feelings for Kayden run.

This story was handled with so much care and was just beautiful. I feel thankful that I got the opportunity to read this story. Definitely recommend!!

[Lauren Adkins · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book deserves 10 stars really. It's so amazing I just can't put into words how much this book could mean to the world.

Kayden is a transgender man wanting the last thing to complete his beautiful life, love.
Can he come to terms with this being his dad's best friends and long term family friend Caleb, who also happens to be a bi sexual major playboy in his past relationships.

This book goes into the deeper feelings and traumas associated with the transition process and all the emotion that comes with life and intimacy with a new partner. This is written so well and so genuinely in the characters interests and so informative yet sensitively done. I just finished this and wanted to hug the author and sing to anyone that would listen about just how gorgeous this book is.

Anyone going through the transition process or having feelings of body/ gender dysphoria could find this read reassuring and comforting and the love story and gorgeous relationship building and trust is just amazing to read as well.