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Free Base
I need to stop crushing on the hot new guy. Asking him to move in with me is the last thing I should do.
Ian
My main goal for sophomore year is to survive with my bruised, rejected heart intact. That looks a lot like avoiding anything that could hurt me, at least until Callum Cross shows up. He’s so quiet, it’s like he doesn’t want people to notice him, but Callum is too tall, too built, and too damn good-looking to hide from anyone, especially me.
Sure, all signs point to Callum being straight, but nobody’s had his back before, and there’s nothing stopping us from just being friends. What makes things complicated is that Callum is exactly my type, and when he ends up crashing on my couch, there’s no escaping how much I’d rather have him in bed.
Callum
A thousand miles isn’t enough distance between here and home, not with nineteen years of baggage. I’m trying to keep my head down and stay out of the way where I belong, but Ian Scott doesn’t get the memo. I’m a shell of who I want to be, but that attractive, out-of-my-league baseball player talks to me like we’re friends, and then…we actually are.
Ian noticed me, but I can’t let him notice how I really feel—someone like him could never like me back. The only problem? He takes me in with open arms when I’m at my lowest. I know I’m not supposed to crave him, but he cares for me like nobody ever has. Ian gives me so much, and all I want is for him to take something back and take me apart.
Free Base is a friends-to-lovers, hurt/comfort MM romance. It is the first book in the WMU series, but can be read as a standalone.
Tropes:
Hurt/comfort
Forced Proximity
Slow burn
Opposites attract
Found family
First time
Ian
My main goal for sophomore year is to survive with my bruised, rejected heart intact. That looks a lot like avoiding anything that could hurt me, at least until Callum Cross shows up. He’s so quiet, it’s like he doesn’t want people to notice him, but Callum is too tall, too built, and too damn good-looking to hide from anyone, especially me.
Sure, all signs point to Callum being straight, but nobody’s had his back before, and there’s nothing stopping us from just being friends. What makes things complicated is that Callum is exactly my type, and when he ends up crashing on my couch, there’s no escaping how much I’d rather have him in bed.
Callum
A thousand miles isn’t enough distance between here and home, not with nineteen years of baggage. I’m trying to keep my head down and stay out of the way where I belong, but Ian Scott doesn’t get the memo. I’m a shell of who I want to be, but that attractive, out-of-my-league baseball player talks to me like we’re friends, and then…we actually are.
Ian noticed me, but I can’t let him notice how I really feel—someone like him could never like me back. The only problem? He takes me in with open arms when I’m at my lowest. I know I’m not supposed to crave him, but he cares for me like nobody ever has. Ian gives me so much, and all I want is for him to take something back and take me apart.
Free Base is a friends-to-lovers, hurt/comfort MM romance. It is the first book in the WMU series, but can be read as a standalone.
Tropes:
Hurt/comfort
Forced Proximity
Slow burn
Opposites attract
Found family
First time
298 pages, Paperback
Published February 18, 2026
20 people are currently reading
76 people want to read
About the author
S.J. Crawford
3 books23 followersS.J. Crawford writes MM romance novels. His goal for every story is to explore the enjoyably chaotic side of relationships through realistic characters and experiences.
Growing up, S.J. moved constantly, but he decided that he likes things cold so he now lives in Canada. Rest assured, his books bring a lot more heat than the weather outside.
Growing up, S.J. moved constantly, but he decided that he likes things cold so he now lives in Canada. Rest assured, his books bring a lot more heat than the weather outside.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
February 3, 2026
The first of a new series, I’m excited to see what’s next!
Ian spots Callum on the first day of class and immediately is interested. Even after swearing off dating, something intrigues him. His best friend decides to go for it and invites Callum into their group project.
Callum ran away from his house in the middle of the night, with no one knowing where he was going besides an admin at his previous community college who had to forward a transcript. He knew how he grew up wasn’t normal, and that it wasn’t the life for him. A new state, where he could be himself, was just the start.
Their friendship starts out with crushes, thinking the other has to be straight. A freak accident at a dorm, an invite to stay over, and finally deciding to communicate, Ian and Callum get to see what could be possible for them.
One of my favorite parts of books by S.J. Crawford is that the romance is low-angst, though there can be more angst in outside circumstances. I know the love is going to be beautiful and the characters are going to be okay, even when the outside world won’t always be the same. (pay attention to the TWs! they’re there for a reason).
Perfect for fans of insta lust/insta love, crushing on the “obviously straight” guy instead of… communicating, and roommates to lovers! sprinkle in a bit of baseball too, a cute college romance with a side of sports.
Thank you to the author & EverNorth books for the ARC!
Ian spots Callum on the first day of class and immediately is interested. Even after swearing off dating, something intrigues him. His best friend decides to go for it and invites Callum into their group project.
Callum ran away from his house in the middle of the night, with no one knowing where he was going besides an admin at his previous community college who had to forward a transcript. He knew how he grew up wasn’t normal, and that it wasn’t the life for him. A new state, where he could be himself, was just the start.
Their friendship starts out with crushes, thinking the other has to be straight. A freak accident at a dorm, an invite to stay over, and finally deciding to communicate, Ian and Callum get to see what could be possible for them.
One of my favorite parts of books by S.J. Crawford is that the romance is low-angst, though there can be more angst in outside circumstances. I know the love is going to be beautiful and the characters are going to be okay, even when the outside world won’t always be the same. (pay attention to the TWs! they’re there for a reason).
Perfect for fans of insta lust/insta love, crushing on the “obviously straight” guy instead of… communicating, and roommates to lovers! sprinkle in a bit of baseball too, a cute college romance with a side of sports.
Thank you to the author & EverNorth books for the ARC!
Review of advance copy received from Autor
Me encantó, Ian es súper tierno, que ganas de abrazarlo todo el tiempo y más cuando contaba cómo lo habían tratado parejas anteriores. Es una green flag andante y nadie supo valorarlo hasta que llegó Callum. Otro dulce que venía huyendo de una familia horrible y se encontró con todo lo que no sabía que necesitaba y que iba a querer tan rápido.
El slow burn y el desarrollo de la amistad de estos dos fue muy lindo, Callum descubriendo sus intereses y sus límites, Ian encontrando por fin alguien que lo valore. 😘🤌
El slow burn y el desarrollo de la amistad de estos dos fue muy lindo, Callum descubriendo sus intereses y sus límites, Ian encontrando por fin alguien que lo valore. 😘🤌
February 21, 2026
super cute read. both characters are absolutely adorable.
dnf
February 24, 2026DNF. Too much religion which is not my thing. My bad for not checking that out before starting.
February 23, 2026
My first book by this author and I loved it. Definitely can’t wait for book 2. I love Cal & Ian together and how much Ian does for Cal. Let me say I’m glad Callum doesn’t have to deal with his crazy parents anymore but that he has Ian to fight for him and with him. Such a cute couple.
Review of advance copy
Thank you to Gay Romance Reviews and the author for this ARC!
IT. WAS. SO. CUTE.
This book gave me vibes of Game Changer by Rachel Reid and 10 Ways to Accidentally Fall in Love by Emmy Sanders, don't ask me why. It’s not even about the plot. It’s more about how freaking sweet and funny the banter was.
What I really loved about this book is that, even with the fear of open communication, it doesn't take ages for the main characters to actually TALK. Which feels so rare these days. Every time I thought “Oh no, it is starting to be annoying, he is going to keep his feelings bottled up and suffer silently for the next ten chapters”, they surprised me by actually communicating. Wow. It was refreshing.
I also loved the whole Callum's healing journey and how it was made clear that Callum doesn’t need Ian’s love to survive. That Ian doesn’t “save” him, he just adds more happiness to his life. Healthy and spicy relationship, ladies and gentlemen.
It felt a little bit long in the middle, but I still had a great time. I’ll definitely be reading more books by this author.
Even though I consider this book to be a very light reading, I am copying Content Warnings here, so you could make the best decision for yourself:
IT. WAS. SO. CUTE.
This book gave me vibes of Game Changer by Rachel Reid and 10 Ways to Accidentally Fall in Love by Emmy Sanders, don't ask me why. It’s not even about the plot. It’s more about how freaking sweet and funny the banter was.
What I really loved about this book is that, even with the fear of open communication, it doesn't take ages for the main characters to actually TALK. Which feels so rare these days. Every time I thought “Oh no, it is starting to be annoying, he is going to keep his feelings bottled up and suffer silently for the next ten chapters”, they surprised me by actually communicating. Wow. It was refreshing.
I also loved the whole Callum's healing journey and how it was made clear that Callum doesn’t need Ian’s love to survive. That Ian doesn’t “save” him, he just adds more happiness to his life. Healthy and spicy relationship, ladies and gentlemen.
I’d be okay on my own, but he adds to my life in a way I couldn’t do myself. Like how black coffee does the job to wake me up, and I like it alright, but milk helps it go down smoother. My life would be fine if I was lactose intolerant, but his cream makes it so much better— Oh, god. That analogy took a filthy turn, even if it’s true.
It felt a little bit long in the middle, but I still had a great time. I’ll definitely be reading more books by this author.
Even though I consider this book to be a very light reading, I am copying Content Warnings here, so you could make the best decision for yourself:
Review of advance copy received from Indie Reviewers
I received an advance copy from the publisher/author, and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
Ok so this is a really cute story about 2 men in college, a bi baseball player and a sheltered transfer student who is gay but hasn’t been suffocated and ran away from ultra oppressive parents.
Callum has trauma from being raised in an ultra religious, neglectful, emotionally abusive home that sheltered him from outside beliefs. He carries deep shame, not about being gay, but about being a burden, taking what he feels he doesn’t deserve. His parents enforced the belief of sexual purity to the extreme and he has trouble accepting anything kind or attentive from anyone.
Ian is super outgoing bisexual golden retriever type who was blown off previously by someone/s saying he was clingy and just too much. He has a dislike and fear of rejection. He is always second guessing his friendship with Callum because of that previous experiences.
What I really liked about this story is Callums ability to seek out help for the issues he knows he has. He follows the advice of his therapist, and throughout the book we watch him make healthy decisions, use his learned positive coping mechanisms, and communicate openly (for the most part) at his own pace with Ian.
Ian is so incredibly smitten with Callum and is just purely happy to go at Callums pace, follow his lead, and support him when needed. They communicate so well as friends and eventually boyfriends. They have a great friend group who support them and provided levity when needed.
If I had to pick something that didn’t exactly work for me I would say it felt a little long in the middle, and some of the terms were either overused or unrealistic IMO. Dude and bro were used a lot and I don’t fee like college kids would use the endearment Buddy as much as in this book. It took me out of the story because of it.
The last thing i will say without spoilers is I had to give Callum some grace in his rationale and thinking when it came to him being open with Ian and those around him. I had to remind myself that just because he had the courage to get away from his family doesn’t magically make the way he was brought up to think magically go away, and he needed to open up at his own pace and comfort.
This is a low angst, MM, friends to roommates to lovers, hurt comfort book with some spice and an HEA.
Ok so this is a really cute story about 2 men in college, a bi baseball player and a sheltered transfer student who is gay but hasn’t been suffocated and ran away from ultra oppressive parents.
Callum has trauma from being raised in an ultra religious, neglectful, emotionally abusive home that sheltered him from outside beliefs. He carries deep shame, not about being gay, but about being a burden, taking what he feels he doesn’t deserve. His parents enforced the belief of sexual purity to the extreme and he has trouble accepting anything kind or attentive from anyone.
Ian is super outgoing bisexual golden retriever type who was blown off previously by someone/s saying he was clingy and just too much. He has a dislike and fear of rejection. He is always second guessing his friendship with Callum because of that previous experiences.
What I really liked about this story is Callums ability to seek out help for the issues he knows he has. He follows the advice of his therapist, and throughout the book we watch him make healthy decisions, use his learned positive coping mechanisms, and communicate openly (for the most part) at his own pace with Ian.
Ian is so incredibly smitten with Callum and is just purely happy to go at Callums pace, follow his lead, and support him when needed. They communicate so well as friends and eventually boyfriends. They have a great friend group who support them and provided levity when needed.
If I had to pick something that didn’t exactly work for me I would say it felt a little long in the middle, and some of the terms were either overused or unrealistic IMO. Dude and bro were used a lot and I don’t fee like college kids would use the endearment Buddy as much as in this book. It took me out of the story because of it.
The last thing i will say without spoilers is I had to give Callum some grace in his rationale and thinking when it came to him being open with Ian and those around him. I had to remind myself that just because he had the courage to get away from his family doesn’t magically make the way he was brought up to think magically go away, and he needed to open up at his own pace and comfort.
This is a low angst, MM, friends to roommates to lovers, hurt comfort book with some spice and an HEA.
February 18, 2026
FREE BASE is the first book in the WMU series. In it, we meet Ian, Nick, Sabrina, and Laura, before adding Callum into the mix. For Ian, it is crush at first sight when he spots Callum, but it is only thanks to Nick that they speak.
Ian has been told (and rejected because) he's too clingy and needy. Callum is pretty much touch-starved and is messed up mentally, through no fault of his own. He has been 'sheltered' to use his own words. Ian works hard to get over his crush on the straight guy, while Callum desperately wants to stop feeling things for Ian, which he is sure goes against the friendship code.
Well, now, these two melted my heart! I loved how Ian was so giving in every situation, and yet never boasted or bragged about what he had. His friends are also the best, and I loved the encouragement they not only gave him, but Callum too. And Callum, man, if ever there was a character I wanted to wrap in cotton wool to stop him from getting hurt again, it's Callum. Luckily for me, Ian is on hand to look after him, with the added bonus of Callum looking after Ian in return. And you could say both of them are needy and clingy... or you could just say they are a perfect match.
This was a great introduction to a new series. I really hope Nick gets a book of his own. One thing I need to add is that I was happy to read a book that isn't hockey- or football-related. You don't get much detail on the baseball side of things, but the fact that it's there was enough to make me want to read this book.
A low-angst, golden retriever-type book that I thoroughly enjoyed and have no hesitation in recommending. I can't wait to continue with this series.
** Same worded review will appear elsewhere. **
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book; the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Feb 18, 2026
Ian has been told (and rejected because) he's too clingy and needy. Callum is pretty much touch-starved and is messed up mentally, through no fault of his own. He has been 'sheltered' to use his own words. Ian works hard to get over his crush on the straight guy, while Callum desperately wants to stop feeling things for Ian, which he is sure goes against the friendship code.
Well, now, these two melted my heart! I loved how Ian was so giving in every situation, and yet never boasted or bragged about what he had. His friends are also the best, and I loved the encouragement they not only gave him, but Callum too. And Callum, man, if ever there was a character I wanted to wrap in cotton wool to stop him from getting hurt again, it's Callum. Luckily for me, Ian is on hand to look after him, with the added bonus of Callum looking after Ian in return. And you could say both of them are needy and clingy... or you could just say they are a perfect match.
This was a great introduction to a new series. I really hope Nick gets a book of his own. One thing I need to add is that I was happy to read a book that isn't hockey- or football-related. You don't get much detail on the baseball side of things, but the fact that it's there was enough to make me want to read this book.
A low-angst, golden retriever-type book that I thoroughly enjoyed and have no hesitation in recommending. I can't wait to continue with this series.
** Same worded review will appear elsewhere. **
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book; the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Feb 18, 2026
February 4, 2026
Huge thank you to Gay Romance Reviews, the author S. J. Crawford and the publisher for the chance to read and review an advanced copy of Free Base!
Oh man, I am completely in love with Callum and lan! I thought lan was awkward in the beginning... just wait until you get to Callum's pov in the next chapter. That poor boys awkwardness was off the charts (for good reason!)
Callum... sweet, sweet, baby Callum. Our LLBean model meets nightclub bouncer? (Is that even a thing? lan says it is.) Can we all just give the guy a hug? He needs it. His story broke my heart. He has lived a very sheltered life with verbally abusive religious extremists parents. Callum over analyzes everything he does and says to try to be "normal". He's not used to someone caring about him.
Which brings me to lan, THE MOST CARING PERSON YOU WILL LITERALLY EVER MEET. He's a lil clingy and possessive and he just wants someone that will be clingy back. He wants someone to fall for him with the same amount of energy, intensity and love that he gives.
The friends to roommates to lovers relationship between Callum and lan was
*chefs kiss*
The side characters were fire!
And the spice was SPICING.
It doesn't get much better.
Shoutout to Nick Russell - lan's EPIC wingman! Without him, we wouldn't even have this book, because I doubt lan would have gathered the courage to fist bump the sexy flannel wearing new guy Also, the banter between lan and Nick is top notch! I'm keeping my fingers crossed for a Nick book!!!
Release date: February 18, 2026
Hurt/Comfort
Forced Proximity
Friends to Lovers
Slow Burn
Found family
First Time (also known as Virgin MC)
Secondary Tropes
College
Baseball
Caretaking
Height Difference
#DugoutDaddies #HomePlateHotties #BallparkBoyfriends
Oh man, I am completely in love with Callum and lan! I thought lan was awkward in the beginning... just wait until you get to Callum's pov in the next chapter. That poor boys awkwardness was off the charts (for good reason!)
Callum... sweet, sweet, baby Callum. Our LLBean model meets nightclub bouncer? (Is that even a thing? lan says it is.) Can we all just give the guy a hug? He needs it. His story broke my heart. He has lived a very sheltered life with verbally abusive religious extremists parents. Callum over analyzes everything he does and says to try to be "normal". He's not used to someone caring about him.
Which brings me to lan, THE MOST CARING PERSON YOU WILL LITERALLY EVER MEET. He's a lil clingy and possessive and he just wants someone that will be clingy back. He wants someone to fall for him with the same amount of energy, intensity and love that he gives.
The friends to roommates to lovers relationship between Callum and lan was
*chefs kiss*
The side characters were fire!
And the spice was SPICING.
It doesn't get much better.
Shoutout to Nick Russell - lan's EPIC wingman! Without him, we wouldn't even have this book, because I doubt lan would have gathered the courage to fist bump the sexy flannel wearing new guy Also, the banter between lan and Nick is top notch! I'm keeping my fingers crossed for a Nick book!!!
Release date: February 18, 2026
Hurt/Comfort
Forced Proximity
Friends to Lovers
Slow Burn
Found family
First Time (also known as Virgin MC)
Secondary Tropes
College
Baseball
Caretaking
Height Difference
#DugoutDaddies #HomePlateHotties #BallparkBoyfriends
February 22, 2026
4.5/5 stars
"Free Base" is a superior, page-turning (or page-swiping), well-plotted and well-written m/m college romance novel. This is a trickier genre than a lot of readers (and writers) realize, because writing two male first-person narrators who don't sound alike and who are believable as college-age men and as romance main characters at the same time isn't easy. Crawford hits a home run both with baseball player Ian Scott, whose desire for affection has frightened off men before, and even more so with the appropriately-surnamed Callum Cross, who literally escaped in the night from fanatically religious parents and finds an emotional home with Ian.
Crawford's plotting is tight, with relatively little overt authorial nudging of his characters or external events. He lays the groundwork for the big climax well and his characters earn their happy ending. Callum's process of emotional and sexual self-discovery is compelling. The spicy scenes are very hot but also very believable, and better still, believably written in the characters' voices. The supporting characters get the job done, and I hope that Nick returns in the next book in the series.
"Free Base" is a good story well-told. This was the first book I've read by Crawford, but I'm going to check out his previous two.
With thanks to the author and Evernorth Books for access to a digital ARC on Gay Romance Reviews. All opinions are very definitely my own.
"Free Base" is a superior, page-turning (or page-swiping), well-plotted and well-written m/m college romance novel. This is a trickier genre than a lot of readers (and writers) realize, because writing two male first-person narrators who don't sound alike and who are believable as college-age men and as romance main characters at the same time isn't easy. Crawford hits a home run both with baseball player Ian Scott, whose desire for affection has frightened off men before, and even more so with the appropriately-surnamed Callum Cross, who literally escaped in the night from fanatically religious parents and finds an emotional home with Ian.
Crawford's plotting is tight, with relatively little overt authorial nudging of his characters or external events. He lays the groundwork for the big climax well and his characters earn their happy ending. Callum's process of emotional and sexual self-discovery is compelling. The spicy scenes are very hot but also very believable, and better still, believably written in the characters' voices. The supporting characters get the job done, and I hope that Nick returns in the next book in the series.
"Free Base" is a good story well-told. This was the first book I've read by Crawford, but I'm going to check out his previous two.
With thanks to the author and Evernorth Books for access to a digital ARC on Gay Romance Reviews. All opinions are very definitely my own.
February 21, 2026
A lovely soft, friends-to-lovers, sweet, emotionally satisfying start to a new series.
Ian is determined to keep his heart safe after being labelled “too much” one too many times. Then Callum arrives on campus, quiet, guarded and clearly carrying more than just a sports bag’s worth of baggage. Ian’s crush is immediate, but he’s convinced it’s hopeless. Callum, meanwhile, is battling his own history and a deep-seated belief that he’s better off unnoticed. Watching these two try (and fail) to keep their feelings neatly in the “just friends” box is both tender and quietly addictive.
What really worked for me was the emotional dynamic. Ian’s openness and generosity never feel performative; he simply cares, instinctively and without keeping score. Callum, who has spent most of his life starved of affection, doesn’t quite know what to do with that at first. Their connection builds through small acts of kindness, shared space and late-night vulnerability rather than grand gestures.
The supporting cast adds warmth without overshadowing the central pairing, and while baseball forms the backdrop, the focus stays firmly on character growth and healing. This is low-angst, high-comfort reading, the kind of story where two “needy” boys turn out to be exactly what the other needs.
I received a free arc copy and this is my honest review
Ian is determined to keep his heart safe after being labelled “too much” one too many times. Then Callum arrives on campus, quiet, guarded and clearly carrying more than just a sports bag’s worth of baggage. Ian’s crush is immediate, but he’s convinced it’s hopeless. Callum, meanwhile, is battling his own history and a deep-seated belief that he’s better off unnoticed. Watching these two try (and fail) to keep their feelings neatly in the “just friends” box is both tender and quietly addictive.
What really worked for me was the emotional dynamic. Ian’s openness and generosity never feel performative; he simply cares, instinctively and without keeping score. Callum, who has spent most of his life starved of affection, doesn’t quite know what to do with that at first. Their connection builds through small acts of kindness, shared space and late-night vulnerability rather than grand gestures.
The supporting cast adds warmth without overshadowing the central pairing, and while baseball forms the backdrop, the focus stays firmly on character growth and healing. This is low-angst, high-comfort reading, the kind of story where two “needy” boys turn out to be exactly what the other needs.
I received a free arc copy and this is my honest review
February 22, 2026
Callum is from a religious family with views he doesn't share especially when his sexual preference isn't one they'd ever agree with. He wants to blend in and not be noticed but he is. By Ian. The gorgeous baseball player who sees him and can't just let him slide by. This starts the beginning of them being classmates and then becoming friends until slowly they're something even more beautiful. Ian was there for Callum every step of the way even when he was crushing and didn't want to show it. Both felt that the other wouldn't want them but man were they wrong. They definitely took their time but when they got there it was so worth the wait. They were sweet, tender and a bit kinky which is a nice mix especially when first times are involved. I loved the way they were with each other and they definitely made a good hurt/comfort story because some of the things they go through especially Callum will break your heart but the salvation they find in each other will definitely soothe it. S.J Crawford is starting to become an automatic read for me as they always deliver a sweet story that's just as real and full of heart as the world needs now a days. Ian and Callum were a joy and I'm looking foward to reading the rest of the books that will make up this series.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
This book was so cute but also rather spicy too? Ian and Callum are both second year university students, but Callum is a new transfer from community college so Ian’s never seen him in class before. The two of them take no time at all to realise their feelings, but they think the other is straight so the general burn is slower.
There was more focus on character development than external plot which is a departure from the author’s last book (and that one admittedly kind of dragged plot-wise). There was some external plot drama towards the end which I won’t spoil, but it was believable and made sense.
All around I think the relationship was done well. There was very little angst there, which surprised me given Callum’s backstory. The dynamic between Ian and Callum was supportive and they basically cancelled out each other's insecurities, and that was sweet.
There was a lot of spice especially in the second half, but it was steamy and not overwhelming. Things got adventurous after a while and Callum was the one who did most of the initiating there, and that was new to me.
Thank you to the author and publisher for the ARC.
There was more focus on character development than external plot which is a departure from the author’s last book (and that one admittedly kind of dragged plot-wise). There was some external plot drama towards the end which I won’t spoil, but it was believable and made sense.
All around I think the relationship was done well. There was very little angst there, which surprised me given Callum’s backstory. The dynamic between Ian and Callum was supportive and they basically cancelled out each other's insecurities, and that was sweet.
There was a lot of spice especially in the second half, but it was steamy and not overwhelming. Things got adventurous after a while and Callum was the one who did most of the initiating there, and that was new to me.
Thank you to the author and publisher for the ARC.
February 22, 2026
potato quality, raw toast, nocturnal emission, moose, internet & a carrot, Scott hoodie, dog poop, poof, 5" inseam, sex ed pamphlets, janky controller, t-shirt from Greece, same plastic container
The angst level is low and the steam level is high. Ian Scott and Callum Cross make a delightful and cute couple. The story itself is easy-to-read, simple, and satisfying.
Ian is a WMU baseball player college sophomore. He sees an unfamiliar face in one of his classes. Ian is dumbstruck by the hot and sexy man. His best friend notices and forces the two men to meet. Nick gets Callum to agree to be in his and Ian's class's group project. As they get to know each other, Ian is amazed at how sheltered Callum has been.
Callum is new to WMU having transferred mid semester from a community college. Ian is naïve, shy, socially stunted, and a virgin. He has his ultra-religious, hateful, and controlling parents to thank for that. It's been drilled into him how much sex and sexual thoughts are sinful. Callum ran away from them to WMU to escape their oppression.
I enjoyed reading this book and recommend it.
The angst level is low and the steam level is high. Ian Scott and Callum Cross make a delightful and cute couple. The story itself is easy-to-read, simple, and satisfying.
Ian is a WMU baseball player college sophomore. He sees an unfamiliar face in one of his classes. Ian is dumbstruck by the hot and sexy man. His best friend notices and forces the two men to meet. Nick gets Callum to agree to be in his and Ian's class's group project. As they get to know each other, Ian is amazed at how sheltered Callum has been.
Callum is new to WMU having transferred mid semester from a community college. Ian is naïve, shy, socially stunted, and a virgin. He has his ultra-religious, hateful, and controlling parents to thank for that. It's been drilled into him how much sex and sexual thoughts are sinful. Callum ran away from them to WMU to escape their oppression.
I enjoyed reading this book and recommend it.
February 22, 2026
This was the ultimate sweet n' spicy heartfelt cuteness overload MM romance. This plot and the characters were so funny and swoony yet emotional and made my heart so happy.
Ian and Callum's flirty awkwardness was so cute. I just loved their dynamic and I was rooting for them from the start.
Callum is so wholesome and just so precious. Seeing his confidence grow throughout the story was heartwarming.
Ian is chaotic and loud and such a fun outgoing ball of sunshine. His internal dialogue had me cracking up.
I really enjoyed how their relationship developed as they explored and got to know each other both emotionally and physically.
I loved their friend group and found family. They were so supportive and caring of one another.
Overall this was such a fun feel-good MM romance and I loved it.
Tropes:
MM Romance
College
Baseball player
Roommates
Mental health rep
ADHD rep
Friends to lovers
Opposites attract
Slow-burn
First times
Virgin
Forced proximity
Found Family
Hurt/comfort
Dual POV
Thank you GRR and S.J. Crawford for the opportunity to read this book.
Ian and Callum's flirty awkwardness was so cute. I just loved their dynamic and I was rooting for them from the start.
Callum is so wholesome and just so precious. Seeing his confidence grow throughout the story was heartwarming.
Ian is chaotic and loud and such a fun outgoing ball of sunshine. His internal dialogue had me cracking up.
I really enjoyed how their relationship developed as they explored and got to know each other both emotionally and physically.
I loved their friend group and found family. They were so supportive and caring of one another.
Overall this was such a fun feel-good MM romance and I loved it.
Tropes:
MM Romance
College
Baseball player
Roommates
Mental health rep
ADHD rep
Friends to lovers
Opposites attract
Slow-burn
First times
Virgin
Forced proximity
Found Family
Hurt/comfort
Dual POV
Thank you GRR and S.J. Crawford for the opportunity to read this book.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This story was everything—sweet, hilarious, heart-wrenching, and spicy in all the right ways. Ian and Callum have my whole heart.
Reading about them felt like being back in college, grabbing coffee with friends between classes (their circle of friends was amazing too, they were so supportive and funny—honestly, the exact kind of friends everyone deserves to have.)
The author nailed the college atmosphere and that feeling of navigating adulthood and first loves. Ian and Callum are soulmate material. I’m a total sucker for the ‘shy/reserved vs. sunshine/golden retriever’ trope, and the chemistry between Callum’s shyness and Ian’s affectionate energy was perfection.
Since it’s a hurt/comfort story, there are some heavy moments where they deal with past traumas, but it’s so beautifully balanced by the 'comfort' side of the plot. This is officially a new favorite comfort read for me. I’m already counting down the days until the next book.
I received an advance copy from the publisher/author, and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
Reading about them felt like being back in college, grabbing coffee with friends between classes (their circle of friends was amazing too, they were so supportive and funny—honestly, the exact kind of friends everyone deserves to have.)
The author nailed the college atmosphere and that feeling of navigating adulthood and first loves. Ian and Callum are soulmate material. I’m a total sucker for the ‘shy/reserved vs. sunshine/golden retriever’ trope, and the chemistry between Callum’s shyness and Ian’s affectionate energy was perfection.
Since it’s a hurt/comfort story, there are some heavy moments where they deal with past traumas, but it’s so beautifully balanced by the 'comfort' side of the plot. This is officially a new favorite comfort read for me. I’m already counting down the days until the next book.
I received an advance copy from the publisher/author, and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy received from Indie Reviewers
This was so delightfully wholesome, full of cosy and swoony feels, and the accepting atmosphere and queer found family vibes are everything.
Ian crushes awkwardly hard on new student Callum, he is tall, handsome and unbelievably sweet, but he's also pretty sure Callum is straight, so accepts the platonic friend role.
Callum has a big secret though, he's been sheltered and restricted and is just beginning to find himself, and he's also crushing on his new friend Ian, the one he also thinks is straight and totally off limits.
When fate intervenes and helps bring them closer, it soon blossoms from innocent flirting to late night confessions, and becomes the ultimate healing journey for them both.
It's sweet and spicy, navigates first times and sexual exploration, and has a delightfully supportive cast of side characters.
I really enjoyed the positivity in this, the encouraged communication and bravery, challenging oppression, and the hurt comfort.
"I'm handy and affectionate when I'm drunk"
-
"Good. Then I won't have to tell everyone at the bar that you're mine"
Ian crushes awkwardly hard on new student Callum, he is tall, handsome and unbelievably sweet, but he's also pretty sure Callum is straight, so accepts the platonic friend role.
Callum has a big secret though, he's been sheltered and restricted and is just beginning to find himself, and he's also crushing on his new friend Ian, the one he also thinks is straight and totally off limits.
When fate intervenes and helps bring them closer, it soon blossoms from innocent flirting to late night confessions, and becomes the ultimate healing journey for them both.
It's sweet and spicy, navigates first times and sexual exploration, and has a delightfully supportive cast of side characters.
I really enjoyed the positivity in this, the encouraged communication and bravery, challenging oppression, and the hurt comfort.
"I'm handy and affectionate when I'm drunk"
-
"Good. Then I won't have to tell everyone at the bar that you're mine"
February 22, 2026
I love this book soooo much! Callum and Ian are so freaking perfect together. Callum is new to campus after he walked away from home. His parents are really religious? (probably not the right word, but well, English isn't my first language so please forgive me) and because of his parents believes Callum hasn't had a great upbringing. When he gets to campus he is placed in a dorm, but soon the dorm isn't to be lived in anymore. Ian volunteers for Callum to live with him, because Callum otherwise has to travel a very long time every day to get to campus. Oh and Ian might also want Callum to live with him because he has a teeny tiny crush on him.
From that moment on their friendship develops and that's gonna turn into a very sweet relationship.
This is not all of the plot of course, because I wouldn't wanna spoil to much, but this is to give you an indication of what happens.
I loved this book soooo much like I said!!!
P.S. I received an ARC, but this is my honest opinion. Thank you to GRR for the ARC, I loved reading this book!
From that moment on their friendship develops and that's gonna turn into a very sweet relationship.
This is not all of the plot of course, because I wouldn't wanna spoil to much, but this is to give you an indication of what happens.
I loved this book soooo much like I said!!!
P.S. I received an ARC, but this is my honest opinion. Thank you to GRR for the ARC, I loved reading this book!
Review of advance copy
Callum runs away from home after securing a scholarship at a big university (he's already spent 2 years in community college). He's running away from fanatical parents – mostly his mother – who are extremely religious and over-controlling. As he starts his new college, he's free for the first time in his life. He meets Ian and they are instantly attracted to each other, but both think each other is straight. When a tree falls on Callum's dorm and all the students have to relocate, he ends up sharing Ian's apartment.
Callum's got a ton of baggage from an awful childhood, which he seems to be working through pretty well with Ian's help and the help of a counselor. Ian's a baseball player (that's where the name of the book partially comes from), and from a well-off family. Despite Callum's hang-ups, this is a fairly drama-less romance between 2 really nice guys. Medium spice, lots of interesting side characters. Enjoyed this and read it pretty quickly.
Callum's got a ton of baggage from an awful childhood, which he seems to be working through pretty well with Ian's help and the help of a counselor. Ian's a baseball player (that's where the name of the book partially comes from), and from a well-off family. Despite Callum's hang-ups, this is a fairly drama-less romance between 2 really nice guys. Medium spice, lots of interesting side characters. Enjoyed this and read it pretty quickly.
February 18, 2026
Callum arrives as a transfer student and feels like a fish out of water. Ian notices him immediately and gets him to join he and his friend Nick for a project.
Ian loves Cal’s clothes and sweet shyness, but he thinks he must be straight. Callum feels Ian is way out of his league as a baseball player and cool guy, and also thinks he’s straight.
When a tree falls on Callum’s dorm Ian offers his place for him to stay, and Cal can’t believe how generous he is. He also makes friends with Ian’s friends, who all encourage him to share that he’s gay.
He’s seeing a therapist to help him talk about his repressive parents who made him feel guilty about any sexual thoughts and expressed hatred of gay people.
Ian tells him he’s bi while also trying to reassure him they’re bros so Cal won’t be uncomfortable. Little does he know that this makes Cal doubt the possibility of him seeing Cal as a potential person to date.
Finally, after Cal comes out they give in to their attraction and start with kisses. Callum shares his messed up family experience, so they go slow, but he quickly realizes his sexual urges and desires are very “normal”, when he hasn’t known how to be normal before.
Once things heat up both men find they’re just right for each other. What previous hookups told Ian was being too clingy is exactly what Callum needs from him, simple care and support.
Cal’s parents are looking for him, and when his and Ian’s picture goes viral after a game they show up at the baseball stadium. There’s a crowd to overhear his Mom making threats and he’s finally able to stand up to her, then she pulls a gun on him.
Ian arrives to see this and she calls him forward, then she hands the gun to Ian’s Dad, who doesn’t seem to want it. Cal jumps him and ian gets the gun, which isn’t loaded, and then the police show up. Callum’s parents go to jail and there will be a trial, but he’s finally free and has found himself and his person.
This story brings Cal through a growth process in an accelerated fashion, but it’s fun to see him catch up, and for Ian to get his chance to be a cuddler and carer without being told he’s too much.
I received this ARC for free and I’m glad to write my honest review of it as a thank you.
Ian loves Cal’s clothes and sweet shyness, but he thinks he must be straight. Callum feels Ian is way out of his league as a baseball player and cool guy, and also thinks he’s straight.
When a tree falls on Callum’s dorm Ian offers his place for him to stay, and Cal can’t believe how generous he is. He also makes friends with Ian’s friends, who all encourage him to share that he’s gay.
He’s seeing a therapist to help him talk about his repressive parents who made him feel guilty about any sexual thoughts and expressed hatred of gay people.
Ian tells him he’s bi while also trying to reassure him they’re bros so Cal won’t be uncomfortable. Little does he know that this makes Cal doubt the possibility of him seeing Cal as a potential person to date.
Finally, after Cal comes out they give in to their attraction and start with kisses. Callum shares his messed up family experience, so they go slow, but he quickly realizes his sexual urges and desires are very “normal”, when he hasn’t known how to be normal before.
Once things heat up both men find they’re just right for each other. What previous hookups told Ian was being too clingy is exactly what Callum needs from him, simple care and support.
Cal’s parents are looking for him, and when his and Ian’s picture goes viral after a game they show up at the baseball stadium. There’s a crowd to overhear his Mom making threats and he’s finally able to stand up to her, then she pulls a gun on him.
Ian arrives to see this and she calls him forward, then she hands the gun to Ian’s Dad, who doesn’t seem to want it. Cal jumps him and ian gets the gun, which isn’t loaded, and then the police show up. Callum’s parents go to jail and there will be a trial, but he’s finally free and has found himself and his person.
This story brings Cal through a growth process in an accelerated fashion, but it’s fun to see him catch up, and for Ian to get his chance to be a cuddler and carer without being told he’s too much.
I received this ARC for free and I’m glad to write my honest review of it as a thank you.
Review of advance copy
Advanced copy provided for free by Gay Romance Reviews.
This is a cute little college romance. Ian, a baseball player, and Callum, the hot guy in one of his classes. Callum ran away from his religion crazy parents and is hiding out and trying to figure himself out. He’s apart and goes to therapy and works at developing a better opinion of himself and confidence.
He and Ian become friends and when the dorms where Callum lives are destroyed by a tree, Ian opens his apartment to Callum. They don’t stay just roommates for very long and before we know it they are boyfriends.
Of course, the crazy pants parents find Callum. There’s an overly dramatic standoff resulting in his parents being arrested. It was a little OTT.
The pacing is decent and the story is sweet if a bit dull in some parts.
This is a cute little college romance. Ian, a baseball player, and Callum, the hot guy in one of his classes. Callum ran away from his religion crazy parents and is hiding out and trying to figure himself out. He’s apart and goes to therapy and works at developing a better opinion of himself and confidence.
He and Ian become friends and when the dorms where Callum lives are destroyed by a tree, Ian opens his apartment to Callum. They don’t stay just roommates for very long and before we know it they are boyfriends.
Of course, the crazy pants parents find Callum. There’s an overly dramatic standoff resulting in his parents being arrested. It was a little OTT.
The pacing is decent and the story is sweet if a bit dull in some parts.
February 21, 2026
This was a super sweet romance with two genuinely likeable characters. Ian was so considerate and caring; Callum was kind, brave and determined. They both learned so much about how they best fit together and supported each other and I just really enjoyed their journey. The world building was clear and there were several interesting and funny secondary characters (like Nik!) who I hope get their own HEAs. It was pretty low angst until right near the end and the HEA was sweet. They had great chemistry but it definitely remained a romance at heart. I'm looking forward to reading the bonus of chapter 1 from Callum's POV to further develop that backstory and I hope that there's more to come in the series. Overall, a really enjoyable mm romance that I'd definitely recommend.
I received an ARC and this is my honest review.
I received an ARC and this is my honest review.
Review of advance copy
Free Base is a very cute, wholesome read. Callum and Ian meet in a class they share together and end up working on a project together. Their relationship develops first into friendship and then romantically. Their relationship is definitely sweet and well balanced. They both have their own insecurities, but they really bring out the best in each other. Ian is so supportive and all in from the beginning and Callum blossoms into who he is and wants to be. It’s beautiful really. There are some intimate scenes but I wouldn’t say this book is smut heavy at all. There’s a little excitement at the end, which I didn’t expect at all, but am not surprised. Overall, I enjoyed this book, the characters and their sweet romance.
Review of advance copy
Ian crushes hard from the moment he sees Callum on the first day of classes, and after Ian’s best friend meddles and asks Callum to do a project with them, the pair quickly become friends.
The chemistry between Ian and Callum is instantaneous, but both think the other is straight—surprise, they’re not, and it isn’t until a dorm fiasco has Callum crashing on Ian’s couch that they finally air their feelings out.
Their story was super sweet and definitely steamy, but a bit emotional as well with Callum’s past and his trauma coming to light.
𝗪𝗛𝗔𝗧 𝗧𝗢 𝗘𝗫𝗣𝗘𝗖𝗧:
- friends to lovers
- forced proximity
- hurt x comfort
- found family
- instant attraction
- first times
- slow burn + low-ish angst
The chemistry between Ian and Callum is instantaneous, but both think the other is straight—surprise, they’re not, and it isn’t until a dorm fiasco has Callum crashing on Ian’s couch that they finally air their feelings out.
Their story was super sweet and definitely steamy, but a bit emotional as well with Callum’s past and his trauma coming to light.
𝗪𝗛𝗔𝗧 𝗧𝗢 𝗘𝗫𝗣𝗘𝗖𝗧:
- friends to lovers
- forced proximity
- hurt x comfort
- found family
- instant attraction
- first times
- slow burn + low-ish angst
February 3, 2026
So sweet!! Ian and Callum are seriously so cute together once they finally admit their feelings for each other. This book is def a slower burn but worth it once they get there. I love how supportive Ian is of Callum in every aspect, even when they were just friends. He was always there for him when he needed help or a safe place to land. Poor Callum goes through it and it breaks my heart but watching him grow into such a wonderful happy person is beautiful, and a lot of that is thanks to Ian. I can’t wait for the next book, I really hope it’s Nick!!
Thank you GRR for the ARC. These are my honest opinions.
Thank you GRR for the ARC. These are my honest opinions.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This is a sweet romance with tonnes of character growth and a lot of self discovery. It’s sprinkled with lovely accepting found family that made it a joy to read. Callum is brave, resilient, his introduction to us is in phases and when I discovered his backstory and the mental hurdles he is trying to overcome it was truly heartbreaking. I liked the metal health rep. I also loved how supportive Ian is. What a stellar character. Needs all the love and his nature is to give love in all sorts of vulnerable ways.
Their journey is a slow progression but steady and that ending is quite the climax.
Their journey is a slow progression but steady and that ending is quite the climax.
February 20, 2026
This book follows Callum, a gay college student escaping his extremely religious family and Ian, a loveable bisexual college baseball player. These two find love in a hurt/comfort relationship. The instalove was a bit extreme for my tastes but believable. The baseball was very miniscule so hopefully you aren't thinking you will learn anything about the sport other than baseball pants show off nice assets.
Overall, I thought it was a nice story where good triumphed over evil and we don't get nearly enough of that these days.
Overall, I thought it was a nice story where good triumphed over evil and we don't get nearly enough of that these days.
February 21, 2026
Growing up in a small town, where any kind of sexuality is forbidden till marriage. Callum escapes the reigns his parents have on him by transferring to another college. It's there he meets Ian.They hit it off as friends instantly, but Callum is still hiding from his true self. The dorm Callum lives in gets damaged & Ian offers him to stay at his place. As the friendship grows so do their feelings for each other. Callum finally reveals he's gay & they form a relationship. Low angst, slight banter, HEA. I was offered an ARC from GRR & this is my honest opinion.
February 21, 2026
So sweet. Ian and Callum are both so adorable. The pace of their getting together was just right. They needed their friendship to grow first. They take their time and get on a good footing on their way to finally sharing with one another that they have feelings that go beyond just being friends. Ian is a good supportive friend at a time when Callum really needed the support. These guys are both so sweet and when they get together things just feel right. Such a nice reading treat in crazy times.
I received an ARC from GRR and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received an ARC from GRR and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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