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Bluebird
Every morning, I stop at the same gas station for coffee before my shift.
Same routine. Same quiet moment before the sirens start.
And the same beautiful stranger.
We see each other almost every day—two men passing in the early hours, never speaking. Until one morning, we finally do.
Reid is kind, easy to talk to, and someone who would never be interested in me, at least not in the way I want him to.
Then the call comes in.
A wreck in town. One patient critical.
It’s Reid.
I save his life—but the accident steals ten years of his memories.
Reid doesn’t remember his past, his job, or the man he was before the crash. The only thing that feels familiar to him… is me.
He trusts me. Leans on me. And as he begins discovering who he is again—he falls for me.
But loving a man who doesn’t remember his life means living in fear of the moment he does.
Because when his memories return, I might lose him all over again.
Previously published as The Unforgettable Duet.
Same routine. Same quiet moment before the sirens start.
And the same beautiful stranger.
We see each other almost every day—two men passing in the early hours, never speaking. Until one morning, we finally do.
Reid is kind, easy to talk to, and someone who would never be interested in me, at least not in the way I want him to.
Then the call comes in.
A wreck in town. One patient critical.
It’s Reid.
I save his life—but the accident steals ten years of his memories.
Reid doesn’t remember his past, his job, or the man he was before the crash. The only thing that feels familiar to him… is me.
He trusts me. Leans on me. And as he begins discovering who he is again—he falls for me.
But loving a man who doesn’t remember his life means living in fear of the moment he does.
Because when his memories return, I might lose him all over again.
Previously published as The Unforgettable Duet.
308 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 13, 2026
About the author
Brooke Blaine
62 books2,511 followersBrooke Blaine is a USA Today Bestselling Author best known for writing romantic comedy and M/M romance. Her novels lead with humor and heart, but Brooke never shies away from throwing in something extra naughty that will scandalize her conservative Southern family for life (bless their hearts).
She’s a choc-o-holic, lives for eighties bands (which means she thinks guyliner is totally underrated), believes it’s always wine o’clock, and lives with the coolest cat on the planet—her Ragdoll/Maine Coon mix, Jackson Agador Spartacus.
She’s a choc-o-holic, lives for eighties bands (which means she thinks guyliner is totally underrated), believes it’s always wine o’clock, and lives with the coolest cat on the planet—her Ragdoll/Maine Coon mix, Jackson Agador Spartacus.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 133 reviews
May 8, 2026
~2.5~
I read this book (then titled The Unforgettable Duet) as two separate novellas when it was originally published in 2018. I thought it was absurd that Blaine didn't combine the two parts into one when the whole thing's like 300 pages, but whatever; now, she has.
The book has been rereleased with a new cover and title, but it's the same story, and it feels rather dated.
In 2018, I rated the duet as follows:
3.5 stars for part 1 Forget Me Not (The Unforgettable Duet #1)
3 stars for part 2 Remember me When (The Unforgettable Duet #2)
I'm going to let my ratings on the original pubs stand, but to be perfectly honest, I wasn't particularly impressed with the story this time around.
Part 2 especially was rushed (just so much telling!) and grossly homophobic. Reid had a personality transplant, although maybe he was always an asshole and amnesia made him nicer.
I mean, how pampered and spoiled was this man? His musical career didn't pan out - poor baby hated staying in dirty motels wah wah wah - so his parents got him a nice flat, bought him a car, and he still complained. Dude, stfu.
I hated how Reid's mother made it seem like a favor that she was okay with Reid dating a man, like okay, ma'am, do you want a standing ovation?
Also, Mike, Ollie's bestie, and his wife Deb annoyed me. The drinking scene at the bar was lame; the way the lies piled up was even lamer. Why in the world would everyone keep it secret that Reid had been Ollie's boyfriend? Ollie was the best, and Reid didn't deserve him.
Bluebird has potential, but I wish Blaine had modernized and expanded the plot, e.g., there's a way for someone to be shocked that they were in a same-sex relationship when they've always considered themselves to be straight without resorting to anti-gay rhetoric, insults, and hysterics.
Unfortunately, the narrative lacks depth and falls flat where it matters.
Rounding up for old time's sake.
I read this book (then titled The Unforgettable Duet) as two separate novellas when it was originally published in 2018. I thought it was absurd that Blaine didn't combine the two parts into one when the whole thing's like 300 pages, but whatever; now, she has.
The book has been rereleased with a new cover and title, but it's the same story, and it feels rather dated.
In 2018, I rated the duet as follows:
3.5 stars for part 1 Forget Me Not (The Unforgettable Duet #1)
3 stars for part 2 Remember me When (The Unforgettable Duet #2)
I'm going to let my ratings on the original pubs stand, but to be perfectly honest, I wasn't particularly impressed with the story this time around.
Part 2 especially was rushed (just so much telling!) and grossly homophobic. Reid had a personality transplant, although maybe he was always an asshole and amnesia made him nicer.
I mean, how pampered and spoiled was this man? His musical career didn't pan out - poor baby hated staying in dirty motels wah wah wah - so his parents got him a nice flat, bought him a car, and he still complained. Dude, stfu.
I hated how Reid's mother made it seem like a favor that she was okay with Reid dating a man, like okay, ma'am, do you want a standing ovation?
Also, Mike, Ollie's bestie, and his wife Deb annoyed me. The drinking scene at the bar was lame; the way the lies piled up was even lamer. Why in the world would everyone keep it secret that Reid had been Ollie's boyfriend? Ollie was the best, and Reid didn't deserve him.
Bluebird has potential, but I wish Blaine had modernized and expanded the plot, e.g., there's a way for someone to be shocked that they were in a same-sex relationship when they've always considered themselves to be straight without resorting to anti-gay rhetoric, insults, and hysterics.
Unfortunately, the narrative lacks depth and falls flat where it matters.
Rounding up for old time's sake.
June 16, 2026
4 ⭐️ Love survives even when memories don't ❤️
I am an absolute sucker for amnesia romances. Add the fact that it's gay for you , swoon overload.
There is just something so romantic about the idea that memories can disappear, become blurry, or be completely erased, but the feelings remain. That no matter what happens, these two people will somehow find their way back to each other. I LOVE that and I eat it up every single time.
And that's exactly what worked for me here.
Ollie was the heart of this story. Honestly, this man is such a beautiful soul that he almost felt too good to be true. His patience, loyalty, and devotion to Reid were endless. No matter what happened, Ollie was there, waiting, supporting, loving. He deserved the world.
Reid, on the other hand...
Look, I know he suffered a traumatic brain injury. I know he lost ten years of memories. I know he was trying to figure out who he was and where he fit in a life he no longer recognized.
But sweet baby Jesus, this man tested my patience.
There were moments when he was so snappy, angry, and frustrating that I had to actively remind myself about the accident before I climbed into the book and slapped some sense into him. 😂I understood why he was struggling, but that didn't stop me from wanting to shake him occasionally.
Some of his reactions also felt unnecessarily bratty to me. The complaints about his house being too flat and impersonal—the house his parents bought for him—or the tantrums about not having a piano had me rolling my eyes a little. Maybe that wasn't the intention, but those moments didn't really work for me.
I was also confused by a few plot choices, especially Reid's mother keeping Ollie away after the second surgery. I never fully understood her reasoning, and it felt more frustrating than emotional, and Ollie just accepted, when Reid asked him to make him remember.
Another thing worth mentioning is that you can definitely tell this was originally published as a duet. The first section felt a little awkward at times, and being limited to Ollie's POV made the story feel slightly unbalanced. Once everything settled, I found myself much more invested.
That said, despite my complaints, I genuinely enjoyed this book.
The sweetness, the longing, the hurt/comfort, the hope, and the idea that some connections run so deep that even memory loss can't break them completely? I loved all of that.
Watching Reid and Ollie find their way back to each other again and again was exactly the kind of romance I wanted from this story.
Was it perfect? No.
Did Reid make me want to pull my hair out more than once? Absolutely.
Did I still melt every time these two found their way back to each other? Also absolutely.
If you love amnesia romances, hurt/comfort, devoted heroes, and the idea that love can survive even when memories don't, this is definitely worth picking up.
Previously published as The Unforgettable Duet.
I am an absolute sucker for amnesia romances. Add the fact that it's gay for you , swoon overload.
There is just something so romantic about the idea that memories can disappear, become blurry, or be completely erased, but the feelings remain. That no matter what happens, these two people will somehow find their way back to each other. I LOVE that and I eat it up every single time.
And that's exactly what worked for me here.
Ollie was the heart of this story. Honestly, this man is such a beautiful soul that he almost felt too good to be true. His patience, loyalty, and devotion to Reid were endless. No matter what happened, Ollie was there, waiting, supporting, loving. He deserved the world.
Reid, on the other hand...
Look, I know he suffered a traumatic brain injury. I know he lost ten years of memories. I know he was trying to figure out who he was and where he fit in a life he no longer recognized.
But sweet baby Jesus, this man tested my patience.
There were moments when he was so snappy, angry, and frustrating that I had to actively remind myself about the accident before I climbed into the book and slapped some sense into him. 😂I understood why he was struggling, but that didn't stop me from wanting to shake him occasionally.
Some of his reactions also felt unnecessarily bratty to me. The complaints about his house being too flat and impersonal—the house his parents bought for him—or the tantrums about not having a piano had me rolling my eyes a little. Maybe that wasn't the intention, but those moments didn't really work for me.
I was also confused by a few plot choices, especially Reid's mother keeping Ollie away after the second surgery. I never fully understood her reasoning, and it felt more frustrating than emotional, and Ollie just accepted, when Reid asked him to make him remember.
Another thing worth mentioning is that you can definitely tell this was originally published as a duet. The first section felt a little awkward at times, and being limited to Ollie's POV made the story feel slightly unbalanced. Once everything settled, I found myself much more invested.
That said, despite my complaints, I genuinely enjoyed this book.
The sweetness, the longing, the hurt/comfort, the hope, and the idea that some connections run so deep that even memory loss can't break them completely? I loved all of that.
Watching Reid and Ollie find their way back to each other again and again was exactly the kind of romance I wanted from this story.
Was it perfect? No.
Did Reid make me want to pull my hair out more than once? Absolutely.
Did I still melt every time these two found their way back to each other? Also absolutely.
If you love amnesia romances, hurt/comfort, devoted heroes, and the idea that love can survive even when memories don't, this is definitely worth picking up.
“That was perfect,” I said, leaning back just enough so I could look into his eyes. “You’re perfect.”
He was the missing piece, the part of me I had felt was lost, to the point where I’d lashed out at everyone and everything out of sheer frustration. I never would’ve imagined that Ollie would be the one to give me the answers I’d sought. That he was the only one who could make me feel whole again. It was that truth that had set me free. I’d never felt more complete or more loved than I did in Ollie’s arms. And now that I knew my place, I never planned to leave.”
Previously published as The Unforgettable Duet.
April 25, 2026
4.5 🐦 Stars ✨
Now that The Unforgettable Duet is available in one volume, I was hoping for the possibility of extra content, but unfortunately not 😪 Still, in love with Ollie & Reid as much as ever 🥰 Only wish it were longer!
Now that The Unforgettable Duet is available in one volume, I was hoping for the possibility of extra content, but unfortunately not 😪 Still, in love with Ollie & Reid as much as ever 🥰 Only wish it were longer!
Review of advance copy
5 🌟
Ollie and Reid 🖤
Well shit, that hurt. 😭😭 This was a beautiful story of soulmates and finding their way back to each other no matter the circumstances.
I loved Ollie so much. He was strong, protective and so giving and caring. He would do absolutely anything for Reid, even if it was painful for himself.
Reid was strong and resilient. I can’t imagine the confusion he would be under with everything that happened to him. But even when he was at his lowest, he kept pushing forward because he knew there was something beautiful waiting for him, even if he didn’t understand the pull.
I’m just so happy these two were able to fight for their HEA, and come out the other side. I adore these two so much 💜💜
.
.
.
.
‼️⚠️ Potential spoilers ⚠️‼️
Dynamic: MM — vers, but only 1 switch scene. Ollie mostly bottoms
Sharing? No
Cheating? No
Breakup? Yes, but because of medical situations and memory loss
Sex scene with OM or OW No
‼️⚠️ Content ⚠️‼️
— strangers to lovers
— paramedic MC
— music teacher MC
— golden retriever MC
— hurt / comfort
— amnesia
— tattooed MC
— queer awakening
— “bluebird”
— “Superman”
— oral
— sex w condom
I received an ARC of this book, and this is my honest and voluntary review.
Ollie and Reid 🖤
Well shit, that hurt. 😭😭 This was a beautiful story of soulmates and finding their way back to each other no matter the circumstances.
I loved Ollie so much. He was strong, protective and so giving and caring. He would do absolutely anything for Reid, even if it was painful for himself.
Reid was strong and resilient. I can’t imagine the confusion he would be under with everything that happened to him. But even when he was at his lowest, he kept pushing forward because he knew there was something beautiful waiting for him, even if he didn’t understand the pull.
I’m just so happy these two were able to fight for their HEA, and come out the other side. I adore these two so much 💜💜
.
.
.
.
‼️⚠️ Potential spoilers ⚠️‼️
Dynamic: MM — vers, but only 1 switch scene. Ollie mostly bottoms
Sharing? No
Cheating? No
Breakup? Yes, but because of medical situations and memory loss
Sex scene with OM or OW No
‼️⚠️ Content ⚠️‼️
— strangers to lovers
— paramedic MC
— music teacher MC
— golden retriever MC
— hurt / comfort
— amnesia
— tattooed MC
— queer awakening
— “bluebird”
— “Superman”
— oral
— sex w condom
I received an ARC of this book, and this is my honest and voluntary review.
May 1, 2026
So fucking boring.
April 21, 2026
I liked it but i didn't love it? RTC
Thropes:
-amnesia
-gay for you
-hea
Thropes:
-amnesia
-gay for you
-hea
May 16, 2026
Technically a reread for me! I originally read this story back when it was published as two separate novellas under the title The Unforgettable Duet. I loved it just as much this time around.
April 16, 2026
5 stars without a shadow of a doubt 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 . Loved this story when it was published previously in 2 parts in 2018, and I've read them both many times over the years. Forget Me Not and Remember Me When, the Unforgettable Duet, were such heartwarming stories, full of love, hope and major patience and perseverance on Ollie's part.
Reid was in the very unfortunate position of having suffered .
Please read this story, it will restore your faith in humanity in these troubling times. 🩷🩵💜🧡💛
Reid was in the very unfortunate position of having suffered .
Please read this story, it will restore your faith in humanity in these troubling times. 🩷🩵💜🧡💛
May 2, 2026
This story is fine but quite boring. It stays pretty flat and lacks any real excitement for most of the book. The bond between the MCs feels shallow. I have encountered much better amnesia tropes before and this one just doesn't measure up.
June 15, 2026
YOU NEED TO READ THIS BOOK
You'll laugh and cry and have your heart broken and put back together in this novel.
Highly recommend it.
Spice - 3/5
Story - 5/5
You'll laugh and cry and have your heart broken and put back together in this novel.
Highly recommend it.
Spice - 3/5
Story - 5/5
April 18, 2026
4/5 lovely little stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Ollie and Reid had me cheering them on from the start! Since I went in blind, I had no clue what to expect however I was pleased to find the perfect mix of sweetness, angst, trauma, tenderness, spice and yearning! The only complaint I could find was the pacing as we careened toward the end of the book. It seemed like there was just an abrupt finish to it all despite being a satisfying one.
Overall, I loved Ollie’s patience and his caring personality. The reader feels his need to care for others emanate from the pages! Reid felt a little less developed but that could have been more because of the trauma he experiences than anything else.
Great book - one I would recommend to anyone who enjoys:
• MM Romance/Gay Awakening 👬
• Emotional Reads 🥹
• Spicy Scenes 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Ollie and Reid had me cheering them on from the start! Since I went in blind, I had no clue what to expect however I was pleased to find the perfect mix of sweetness, angst, trauma, tenderness, spice and yearning! The only complaint I could find was the pacing as we careened toward the end of the book. It seemed like there was just an abrupt finish to it all despite being a satisfying one.
Overall, I loved Ollie’s patience and his caring personality. The reader feels his need to care for others emanate from the pages! Reid felt a little less developed but that could have been more because of the trauma he experiences than anything else.
Great book - one I would recommend to anyone who enjoys:
• MM Romance/Gay Awakening 👬
• Emotional Reads 🥹
• Spicy Scenes 🌶️🌶️🌶️
April 23, 2026
3 1/2 Stars
It's been quite some time since I've read an amnesia romance and I enjoyed this one...especially the 'fated to be together' vibes. Reid and Ollie were destined to be together and I loved that they kept finding their way back to one another.
Part 1 of this book was great. I loved their meet cute and how their story unraveled. It was a bit of a slower burn which worked with having forgotten someone and having to get to know them again.
Part 2 felt a bit rushed (leaning more toward insta-love) and that didn't work as well for me, hence the lower rating. It didn't have the emotional depth that I would have expected with this storyline.
It's still worth a read if you enjoy amnesia or fate-related stories though. Plus, this cover is gorgeous. It made me pick this right up vs. having the original covers on my TBR for quite some time.
It's been quite some time since I've read an amnesia romance and I enjoyed this one...especially the 'fated to be together' vibes. Reid and Ollie were destined to be together and I loved that they kept finding their way back to one another.
Part 1 of this book was great. I loved their meet cute and how their story unraveled. It was a bit of a slower burn which worked with having forgotten someone and having to get to know them again.
Part 2 felt a bit rushed (leaning more toward insta-love) and that didn't work as well for me, hence the lower rating. It didn't have the emotional depth that I would have expected with this storyline.
It's still worth a read if you enjoy amnesia or fate-related stories though. Plus, this cover is gorgeous. It made me pick this right up vs. having the original covers on my TBR for quite some time.
April 26, 2026
I really liked the first half of this book, then it started feeling rushed by telling over showing in order to get to the second half. I do not like the second half, I don’t feel like Reid was ever the same. Idk I just didn’t vibe with it
April 13, 2026
Emotional, heartwarming amnesia romance!
“I’m not sure how I got so lucky. I wouldn’t have even known how to wish for you."
I originally read Reid and Ollie's story a few years ago when I was deep in an amnesia mood and reading every book I found with it. It was the most unique take on the trope that I had read and I still feel that way today. It's hopeful, emotional and truly heartbreaking at times. Even though I knew exactly what was coming, it didn't make it better for me. Actually, I feel like it made me feel the pain more because I spent the entire first half waiting for my heart to break. And Ollie and Reid definitely broke me.
“It reminds me of you. The way you feel. The way you make me feel.” He started the slow melody again from the top. “Safe… treasured… home.”
For a story that has so much pain, it's also filled with hope. There's a softness to Ollie and Reid's interaction. They're both so sweet and Ollie in particular just wants to make everything around him better. There's something so selfless about the way Ollie constantly shows up. He's there for Reid in whatever way he needs him, making sure that he's supported and loved in all the right ways. And once Reid starts to develop feelings for Ollie, he not only appreciates Ollie's all-encompasing love, but reciprocates it in his own ways.
"I just didn’t realize how empty my life was until you filled it."
I also loved how this story is so filled with these two. Like we know they have a life outside of each other, but we mostly only see them in their own bubble and that made me feel more connected to them. It made me feel the heartbreak more intensely but it also made the love shine that much brighter.
“I don’t understand how you can look at me like that,” I said. “Like what?” “With your entire heart in your eyes.” “Because I love you."
This story is one that has stayed with me for years and it felt so special to come back to Ollie and Reid again. They're truly magical and make you believe in love and soulmates because that's exactly what they are. If you're ready to go on an emotional journey with the most wonderful of HEAs, you need to read Bluebird. I mean, this book had me ugly crying in public but it was so worth it!
“I’m not sure how I got so lucky. I wouldn’t have even known how to wish for you."
I originally read Reid and Ollie's story a few years ago when I was deep in an amnesia mood and reading every book I found with it. It was the most unique take on the trope that I had read and I still feel that way today. It's hopeful, emotional and truly heartbreaking at times. Even though I knew exactly what was coming, it didn't make it better for me. Actually, I feel like it made me feel the pain more because I spent the entire first half waiting for my heart to break. And Ollie and Reid definitely broke me.
“It reminds me of you. The way you feel. The way you make me feel.” He started the slow melody again from the top. “Safe… treasured… home.”
For a story that has so much pain, it's also filled with hope. There's a softness to Ollie and Reid's interaction. They're both so sweet and Ollie in particular just wants to make everything around him better. There's something so selfless about the way Ollie constantly shows up. He's there for Reid in whatever way he needs him, making sure that he's supported and loved in all the right ways. And once Reid starts to develop feelings for Ollie, he not only appreciates Ollie's all-encompasing love, but reciprocates it in his own ways.
"I just didn’t realize how empty my life was until you filled it."
I also loved how this story is so filled with these two. Like we know they have a life outside of each other, but we mostly only see them in their own bubble and that made me feel more connected to them. It made me feel the heartbreak more intensely but it also made the love shine that much brighter.
“I don’t understand how you can look at me like that,” I said. “Like what?” “With your entire heart in your eyes.” “Because I love you."
This story is one that has stayed with me for years and it felt so special to come back to Ollie and Reid again. They're truly magical and make you believe in love and soulmates because that's exactly what they are. If you're ready to go on an emotional journey with the most wonderful of HEAs, you need to read Bluebird. I mean, this book had me ugly crying in public but it was so worth it!
April 20, 2026
You’d think that after listening to this audio three times I wouldn’t cry. Well, you’d be wrong. I think I cried even harder than the first time.
Ollie and Reid’s story is just so beautiful. From the very first time Reid and Ollie met to the point where Ollie loses him over his memory loss and finally the moment Reid falls in love with Ollie again, this story has had my heart.
Even though I knew it was coming, that cliffhanger gets me every time😭 I can feel Ollie’s heart literally breaking as Reid says those dreaded words.
They were so happy. For the first time in his life, Reid had someone who understood him and wanted him to follow his dreams.
Reid never felt so free as he did when he was with Ollie. Ollie just made him feel like he could be and do anything he wanted.
I know they get their HEA, but it still hurts so much to know what’s coming for Ollie 😭 It’s not fair for them to have to go through this.
Reid not being able to remember Ollie had me bawling my eyes out. You’d think the third time listening wouldn’t hurt as much. It did. Probably more than the first time.
But watching Reid remember their lives together was the most beautiful moment ever.
Reid might have forgotten who Ollie was, but his heart never did. He knew he was missing something important, or better yet, someone. You don’t forget a love like the one they had.
True love will always find its way back. Ollie knew he might never have Reid back in his life again, but he never gave up hope. He was patient even when his heart was breaking. All he wanted was for Reid to be healthy and happy even if it meant it’d be without him.
God, I can listen to this duet over and over and never get tired of it. I’m so glad Brooke decided to republish it. It’s such an underrated story and more people need to know about it.
Ollie and Reid’s story is just so beautiful. From the very first time Reid and Ollie met to the point where Ollie loses him over his memory loss and finally the moment Reid falls in love with Ollie again, this story has had my heart.
Even though I knew it was coming, that cliffhanger gets me every time😭 I can feel Ollie’s heart literally breaking as Reid says those dreaded words.
They were so happy. For the first time in his life, Reid had someone who understood him and wanted him to follow his dreams.
Reid never felt so free as he did when he was with Ollie. Ollie just made him feel like he could be and do anything he wanted.
I know they get their HEA, but it still hurts so much to know what’s coming for Ollie 😭 It’s not fair for them to have to go through this.
Reid not being able to remember Ollie had me bawling my eyes out. You’d think the third time listening wouldn’t hurt as much. It did. Probably more than the first time.
But watching Reid remember their lives together was the most beautiful moment ever.
Reid might have forgotten who Ollie was, but his heart never did. He knew he was missing something important, or better yet, someone. You don’t forget a love like the one they had.
True love will always find its way back. Ollie knew he might never have Reid back in his life again, but he never gave up hope. He was patient even when his heart was breaking. All he wanted was for Reid to be healthy and happy even if it meant it’d be without him.
God, I can listen to this duet over and over and never get tired of it. I’m so glad Brooke decided to republish it. It’s such an underrated story and more people need to know about it.
April 14, 2026
A Joyfully Jay review.
3.75 stars
Bluebird is a contemporary get-together set in Georgia. Major themes in the story are unrequited love, mostly on Ollie’s side, bi-awakening on Reid’s side, and coping with trauma from an auto accident. The story is told in two parts; the first half is all from Ollie’s perspective and focuses on the relationship that develops between Ollie and Reid after Reid’s car gets T-boned. The second half has Reid and Ollie sharing narration duties with Ollie trying to understand where he fits into Reid’s life after brain surgery and Reid coping with the emotional whiplash of losing only the memories from after the original car accident. Given this timeline, Bluebird is an absolute feast for readers who enjoy slow burns and a lot of angst.
Read Camille’s review in its entirety here.
3.75 stars
Bluebird is a contemporary get-together set in Georgia. Major themes in the story are unrequited love, mostly on Ollie’s side, bi-awakening on Reid’s side, and coping with trauma from an auto accident. The story is told in two parts; the first half is all from Ollie’s perspective and focuses on the relationship that develops between Ollie and Reid after Reid’s car gets T-boned. The second half has Reid and Ollie sharing narration duties with Ollie trying to understand where he fits into Reid’s life after brain surgery and Reid coping with the emotional whiplash of losing only the memories from after the original car accident. Given this timeline, Bluebird is an absolute feast for readers who enjoy slow burns and a lot of angst.
Read Camille’s review in its entirety here.
April 15, 2026
4.5 stars
I was drawn into this story right away.
First responder Ollie has been crushing on a guy he sees every morning. When that same guy, Reid, is in an accident, Ollie is the one who helps him.
This is an amazing story with more than a few of my favourite tropes.. TBI, amnesia, hurt/comfort, with a second chance bi awakening.
I enjoyed watching these two become fast friends, building trust and just having hope for the future.
Its an emotional journey of growth and change. These guys went through a lot to get the hea they both deserved and it was hard won and beautiful.
I was drawn into this story right away.
First responder Ollie has been crushing on a guy he sees every morning. When that same guy, Reid, is in an accident, Ollie is the one who helps him.
This is an amazing story with more than a few of my favourite tropes.. TBI, amnesia, hurt/comfort, with a second chance bi awakening.
I enjoyed watching these two become fast friends, building trust and just having hope for the future.
Its an emotional journey of growth and change. These guys went through a lot to get the hea they both deserved and it was hard won and beautiful.
Read
May 20, 2026
Trigger & Content Warnings
Car accident, resulting in traumatic brain injury & amnesia
Car accident, resulting in traumatic brain injury & amnesia
April 12, 2026
*I was gifted an ARC of this book*
I adored this book—definitely a five-star read for me. The amnesia trope can be tricky, but Brooke Blaine handled it so well here. I couldn’t get enough of Reid and Ollie.
My heart went out to both of them for everything they went through. This story was so emotional and had me on the edge of my seat, wondering how it was all going to play out.
Ollie was just the sweetest. Even with his heart breaking, he stayed kind and patient, always showing up for Reid without expecting anything in return. Total green flag energy. From buying him a piano to bringing flowers, taking him to the Wizard of Oz place, and taking his piano class—he showed his love in so many thoughtful ways, and I absolutely loved that.
Reid really went through it in this book—first the accident, then losing his memory twice. I felt for him so much. He was soft and vulnerable the first time, then angry and confused the second, but through it all, Ollie remained his safe place. Their connection felt so deep—very “I’d love you in every lifetime” vibes, which I will eat up every time.
Mike and Deb were fantastic side characters and added some much-needed humor to balance out the heavier moments.
This book made me feel everything—frustration, hope, love, joy. If you’re into MM romance that really puts you in your feelings, definitely check this one out.
I adored this book—definitely a five-star read for me. The amnesia trope can be tricky, but Brooke Blaine handled it so well here. I couldn’t get enough of Reid and Ollie.
My heart went out to both of them for everything they went through. This story was so emotional and had me on the edge of my seat, wondering how it was all going to play out.
Ollie was just the sweetest. Even with his heart breaking, he stayed kind and patient, always showing up for Reid without expecting anything in return. Total green flag energy. From buying him a piano to bringing flowers, taking him to the Wizard of Oz place, and taking his piano class—he showed his love in so many thoughtful ways, and I absolutely loved that.
Reid really went through it in this book—first the accident, then losing his memory twice. I felt for him so much. He was soft and vulnerable the first time, then angry and confused the second, but through it all, Ollie remained his safe place. Their connection felt so deep—very “I’d love you in every lifetime” vibes, which I will eat up every time.
Mike and Deb were fantastic side characters and added some much-needed humor to balance out the heavier moments.
This book made me feel everything—frustration, hope, love, joy. If you’re into MM romance that really puts you in your feelings, definitely check this one out.
Review of advance copy
A tender, emotionally rich romance.
What begins as a quiet, almost mundane routine, a daily coffee stop and a shared glance between strangers, quickly blossoms into something deeply meaningful and unforgettable.
The slow build between first responder Oliver McFadden and music teacher Reid Valentine, is beautifully handled, filled with longing, hesitation, and that electric what if that makes your heart ache in the best way.
Then the story takes a breathtaking turn. When Ollie is dispatched to a multi-vehicle crash with injuries, his heart sinks the moment he arrives. The mangled wreck he’s been called to, twisted metal and shattered glass, is unmistakable. It’s Reid’s bright red Mazda3.
The accident doesn’t just raise the stakes, it transforms the entire narrative into something profoundly intimate and bittersweet. Watching Reid rebuild himself from the ground up, guided by a connection he can’t explain but instinctively trusts, is both heartwarming and devastating. There’s something incredibly powerful about love that exists even without memory, and this story explores that idea with such care and emotional depth.
The dynamic between Ollie & Reid is what truly shines. Ollie's internal struggle, loving someone who might forget him all over again, is portrayed with raw honesty and quiet intensity. Every moment of closeness is laced with tension, every smile shadowed by the looming fear of loss.
It’s this emotional push and pull that makes the story impossible to put down.
The bliss of falling in love that Ollie and Reid share is cruelly shattered when tragedy strikes. Reid’s brain trauma hasn’t fully healed; bleeding in the brain is a life-threatening condition if left untreated. He needs emergency surgery, and fast.
But it doesn’t end there for them. Ollie’s world shatters all over again when Reid wakes after the operation and whispers the most devastating words: “Who are you?”
This is more than just a romance; it’s a story about identity, fate, and the enduring power of connection. It asks a haunting question: if everything you knew was taken away, would your heart still find its way back to the person it loves?
And when Reid begins to fall in love again with Ollie? It’s magic. Pure, fragile, heart-stopping magic.
In short, this is more than just a romance, it’s an experience. It’s the kind of book that makes you feel deeply, reminds you why you love reading, and leaves you with a full heart.
Highly recommended for anyone who appreciates heartfelt storytelling and unforgettable love stories.
ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy
Angsty, sweet, and a beautiful second chances at life story. Bluebird is a book that displays the beauty of what it would be like if you could start over with a clean slate. Erase all your worries, have no regrets, and just do things....right. Take that other fork in the road sort of view. But what happens if this "care free" life is only temporary and everything you've ever wanted is taken away. Would you still want to jump into something so easy? As we often know, life is never easy, or even care free, but it's often the people in our lives that make us feel like life is easier and worth getting up each day. Bluebird is sweetly angsty...I know a total opposite feel there, but trust me...it is.❤️
Bluebird is broken up into two parts, as this story was originally a duet, but I'm so happy it's now all in one book since I devoured it in one day. The first part is told only from one character's POV, which I both loved and didn't love, and both for the same reason....angst. 😂 Having only one POV builds such great angst and also...hello...all. The. Angst 🥹
Seriously though, having just one voice for the first part, was a different kind of build up. It was angsty in a way more so, waiting for the other shoe to drop, kind of tension vs. angsty angst. 😂 That actually came in part two when both POV's came out to play. Whoooo, boy. My heart could hardly take it. Honestly, I really enjoyed the writing and how it created the buildup, the tension, and yes, even the angst, 🙃 to carry out the beautiful story between Ollie and Reid.
Ollie is a paramedic, a golden retriever at heart, the most open, and sweetest caring man. ❤️ He’d been crushing on Reid for weeks and on the day they finally say hello to each other is the day Reid is in an accident. Reid loses years of his life, but he remembers Ollie. They form a friendship that turns into so much more. It's open, it's trust, it's everything that Ollie has ever wanted until Reid is taken back into surgery and unfortunately Reid once again loses his memory and it's like nothing happened between them. It's devastating and heartbreaking. Ollie begins to wonder how you convince the man you love that he's your everything when you never existed.
Bluebird is one of those books that brings light and joy, then tears of heartbreak, but also inspiration. While Ollie can definitely be described as a golden retriever, he's just a good human being. He's a beautiful soul that lit me up from the inside and times when I thought, "nope, I'd want to hole up, rock in a corner and cry for months" Ollie had such faith and hope, it was admirable. I know I won't forget about this book for quite a long time. It's one that will stick with me and I love that feeling.
Bluebird is broken up into two parts, as this story was originally a duet, but I'm so happy it's now all in one book since I devoured it in one day. The first part is told only from one character's POV, which I both loved and didn't love, and both for the same reason....angst. 😂 Having only one POV builds such great angst and also...hello...all. The. Angst 🥹
Seriously though, having just one voice for the first part, was a different kind of build up. It was angsty in a way more so, waiting for the other shoe to drop, kind of tension vs. angsty angst. 😂 That actually came in part two when both POV's came out to play. Whoooo, boy. My heart could hardly take it. Honestly, I really enjoyed the writing and how it created the buildup, the tension, and yes, even the angst, 🙃 to carry out the beautiful story between Ollie and Reid.
Ollie is a paramedic, a golden retriever at heart, the most open, and sweetest caring man. ❤️ He’d been crushing on Reid for weeks and on the day they finally say hello to each other is the day Reid is in an accident. Reid loses years of his life, but he remembers Ollie. They form a friendship that turns into so much more. It's open, it's trust, it's everything that Ollie has ever wanted until Reid is taken back into surgery and unfortunately Reid once again loses his memory and it's like nothing happened between them. It's devastating and heartbreaking. Ollie begins to wonder how you convince the man you love that he's your everything when you never existed.
Bluebird is one of those books that brings light and joy, then tears of heartbreak, but also inspiration. While Ollie can definitely be described as a golden retriever, he's just a good human being. He's a beautiful soul that lit me up from the inside and times when I thought, "nope, I'd want to hole up, rock in a corner and cry for months" Ollie had such faith and hope, it was admirable. I know I won't forget about this book for quite a long time. It's one that will stick with me and I love that feeling.
Review of advance copy
I am not okay. I repeat… I am NOT OKAY after Bluebird. This book took my heart, handled it gently for about five seconds, and then shattered it into tiny glittering pieces before putting it back together with trembling hands.
Ollie and Reid?? I’m done. Finished. Emotionally compromised.
The setup alone had me hooked. Two strangers crossing paths every morning at a gas station, sharing nothing but quiet glances and routine… it felt soft, almost fragile. Like something important was waiting to happen but hadn’t found its moment yet.
And then it does.
That first conversation?? Already special. You can feel the connection immediately, like something clicking into place.
And then the accident.
I KNEW it was coming and it still hit me like a truck.
Reid. Hurt. Broken. And Ollie being the one to save him?? The weight of that?? I felt it in my chest. But the real devastation comes after… when Reid wakes up without ten years of memories. His life, his identity, everything he knew… gone.
Except Ollie.
THE WAY HE STILL FEELS HIM. I cannot. I actually cannot deal with that level of emotional damage.
There’s something so deeply intimate about Reid trusting Ollie, leaning on him, choosing him… without even knowing why. It’s like his heart remembers what his mind can’t, and I was absolutely wrecked by that.
And Ollie?? The quiet strength in this man. The way he steps in, supports Reid, cares for him, all while knowing that this version of Reid might not be permanent?? That at any moment the memories could come back and take everything with them?? The restraint, the fear, the hope… it’s all there and it HURTS.
Because this isn’t just a love story. It’s a ticking clock.
Every soft moment, every bit of progress, every smile feels bittersweet because you know what’s hanging over them. You’re just waiting for the other shoe to drop and it is TORTURE in the best way.
And when Reid starts falling for Ollie again?? Slowly, naturally, beautifully?? I was a mess. A complete mess. It felt so pure and inevitable, like love finding its way back even through the fog.
But that fear never leaves. Not for a second.
“What happens when he remembers?”
That question lives in your head the entire time and it makes everything feel sharper, deeper, more fragile.
This book is:
• emotional devastation wrapped in something soft and beautiful
• full of quiet moments that hit louder than any dramatic scene
• about love that lingers even when memory doesn’t
• and characters that will absolutely live in your head rent free
I devoured this and then sat there staring into space like I’d just experienced something personal.
Ollie and Reid?? I’m done. Finished. Emotionally compromised.
The setup alone had me hooked. Two strangers crossing paths every morning at a gas station, sharing nothing but quiet glances and routine… it felt soft, almost fragile. Like something important was waiting to happen but hadn’t found its moment yet.
And then it does.
That first conversation?? Already special. You can feel the connection immediately, like something clicking into place.
And then the accident.
I KNEW it was coming and it still hit me like a truck.
Reid. Hurt. Broken. And Ollie being the one to save him?? The weight of that?? I felt it in my chest. But the real devastation comes after… when Reid wakes up without ten years of memories. His life, his identity, everything he knew… gone.
Except Ollie.
THE WAY HE STILL FEELS HIM. I cannot. I actually cannot deal with that level of emotional damage.
There’s something so deeply intimate about Reid trusting Ollie, leaning on him, choosing him… without even knowing why. It’s like his heart remembers what his mind can’t, and I was absolutely wrecked by that.
And Ollie?? The quiet strength in this man. The way he steps in, supports Reid, cares for him, all while knowing that this version of Reid might not be permanent?? That at any moment the memories could come back and take everything with them?? The restraint, the fear, the hope… it’s all there and it HURTS.
Because this isn’t just a love story. It’s a ticking clock.
Every soft moment, every bit of progress, every smile feels bittersweet because you know what’s hanging over them. You’re just waiting for the other shoe to drop and it is TORTURE in the best way.
And when Reid starts falling for Ollie again?? Slowly, naturally, beautifully?? I was a mess. A complete mess. It felt so pure and inevitable, like love finding its way back even through the fog.
But that fear never leaves. Not for a second.
“What happens when he remembers?”
That question lives in your head the entire time and it makes everything feel sharper, deeper, more fragile.
This book is:
• emotional devastation wrapped in something soft and beautiful
• full of quiet moments that hit louder than any dramatic scene
• about love that lingers even when memory doesn’t
• and characters that will absolutely live in your head rent free
I devoured this and then sat there staring into space like I’d just experienced something personal.
April 19, 2026
I think I devoured this book in just a few hours! I was so pleasantly surprised by this book because the amnesia trope is not my favorite, but this book did it so well… Both times that it was used.
I was worried that the second time Reid’s memory was gone, that it was going to be used for drama for the sake of drama, or that I was gonna come off hokey, and I’m very happy that it didn’t. In fact, I would say everything in this book had a purpose which I really enjoyed. Every conversation, no matter how silly or playful was felt necessary, every small scene we got, and every bit of drama that was used was necessary.
Also, I think this is one of the very few books that I’ve read where the drama is circumstantial and not from any one person in a book. What I mean is: all the drama is coming from the accident and the brain, bleed, and the subsequent amnesia and not from any sort of big bad character or family trauma or anything like that. Reid’s family might be a little overbearing and didn’t always handle his situation in the best way, but they were loving and supportive, and they really tried their best. And Ollie’s best friend Mike was supportive in his own way, even if he and his wife were a little brash in their delivery. Even the two times that Ollie was hit on, the love interest wasn’t portrayed in a nasty way, just as a regular person which I really liked.
But really, the main draw to this book is that Reid and Ollie are really good sweet people that had a wonderful romance to read about. And, we got to watch them fall in love twice, which was so special! Every character was a good person, even if they were a little clumsy at times, which I really appreciated. And Reid and Ollie weren’t perfect. Ollie was scared and held himself back a lot, and Reid was angry and lashed out because of his confusion and his lack of agency in his own life and I like that they had multiple conflicts. It was such a good and charming read because it was relatable, and the two main characters had to fight for their happy ending with each other and they were really suited for one another. I thought their dialogue was so sweet and charming and I caught myself smiling a couple of times while reading it.
I honestly can’t really think of any problems I have with this book. It was a short, easy read that had relatable characters, a sweet romance, and did what it needed to do and under 400 pages! Honestly, what more is there to love?
I was worried that the second time Reid’s memory was gone, that it was going to be used for drama for the sake of drama, or that I was gonna come off hokey, and I’m very happy that it didn’t. In fact, I would say everything in this book had a purpose which I really enjoyed. Every conversation, no matter how silly or playful was felt necessary, every small scene we got, and every bit of drama that was used was necessary.
Also, I think this is one of the very few books that I’ve read where the drama is circumstantial and not from any one person in a book. What I mean is: all the drama is coming from the accident and the brain, bleed, and the subsequent amnesia and not from any sort of big bad character or family trauma or anything like that. Reid’s family might be a little overbearing and didn’t always handle his situation in the best way, but they were loving and supportive, and they really tried their best. And Ollie’s best friend Mike was supportive in his own way, even if he and his wife were a little brash in their delivery. Even the two times that Ollie was hit on, the love interest wasn’t portrayed in a nasty way, just as a regular person which I really liked.
But really, the main draw to this book is that Reid and Ollie are really good sweet people that had a wonderful romance to read about. And, we got to watch them fall in love twice, which was so special! Every character was a good person, even if they were a little clumsy at times, which I really appreciated. And Reid and Ollie weren’t perfect. Ollie was scared and held himself back a lot, and Reid was angry and lashed out because of his confusion and his lack of agency in his own life and I like that they had multiple conflicts. It was such a good and charming read because it was relatable, and the two main characters had to fight for their happy ending with each other and they were really suited for one another. I thought their dialogue was so sweet and charming and I caught myself smiling a couple of times while reading it.
I honestly can’t really think of any problems I have with this book. It was a short, easy read that had relatable characters, a sweet romance, and did what it needed to do and under 400 pages! Honestly, what more is there to love?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 22, 2026
Absolutely Beautiful❤️
Do you ever read a book that evokes so many emotions that you can remember everything about it eight years later and the main characters find a place in your heart and never leave? Well eight years ago this book was in fact two books, Forget Me Not and Remember Me When and they took me on a rollercoaster of emotions, a gentle story with loveable characters and a lot of angst.
This is the story of Ollie, a paramedic and Reid, a music teacher who had dreams of being a concert pianist and I get the impression that these two kind souls hold a special place in the authors heart as well.
Ollie has been secretly crushing on Reid for months. Each morning he and his partner Mike would stop at a gas station in their rig that they affectionately name Big Bertha, and Ollie would get coffee and snacks and each morning Reid would be there getting coffee. Ollie drooled over the straight guy that he nicknamed Bluebird and Mike would tease him and encourage him to talk to Reid.
The morning they did talk, over the broken coffee machine, Ollie did not ask him out or find out if he was actually straight. They get a call to attend a serious traffic accident literally five minutes away and when Ollie sees the crumpled red Mazda he panics. Reid is seriously injured and it is Ollie that saves his life. They have no idea that their lives will never be the same again.
When Reid wakes up he has amnesia and has lost years of his life but he seems to remember Ollie, well bits and pieces but he finds himself drawn to Ollie, when the world spirals and doesn’t make sense Ollie’s calm nature soothes him so much that becoming attracted to a man doesn’t faze him, Ollie is his anchor.
I found the beautiful bond between them so emotional and I was glad the spice, though intense, was not overdone as it wouldn’t have fitted the story which was about the growing bond and journey between them. Ollie was a lovely kind and patient, very patient man who attracted people to him whilst Reid was quieter and more complex but of course he would be after everything that he went through.
When you think things cannot get any worse for these two adorable men it does. This story is about finding your person, conquering unimaginable obstacles and unimaginable heartache but the connection they have built goes so deep that even when the brain cannot remember the heart never forgets.
I can’t recommend this book enough.
Do you ever read a book that evokes so many emotions that you can remember everything about it eight years later and the main characters find a place in your heart and never leave? Well eight years ago this book was in fact two books, Forget Me Not and Remember Me When and they took me on a rollercoaster of emotions, a gentle story with loveable characters and a lot of angst.
This is the story of Ollie, a paramedic and Reid, a music teacher who had dreams of being a concert pianist and I get the impression that these two kind souls hold a special place in the authors heart as well.
Ollie has been secretly crushing on Reid for months. Each morning he and his partner Mike would stop at a gas station in their rig that they affectionately name Big Bertha, and Ollie would get coffee and snacks and each morning Reid would be there getting coffee. Ollie drooled over the straight guy that he nicknamed Bluebird and Mike would tease him and encourage him to talk to Reid.
The morning they did talk, over the broken coffee machine, Ollie did not ask him out or find out if he was actually straight. They get a call to attend a serious traffic accident literally five minutes away and when Ollie sees the crumpled red Mazda he panics. Reid is seriously injured and it is Ollie that saves his life. They have no idea that their lives will never be the same again.
When Reid wakes up he has amnesia and has lost years of his life but he seems to remember Ollie, well bits and pieces but he finds himself drawn to Ollie, when the world spirals and doesn’t make sense Ollie’s calm nature soothes him so much that becoming attracted to a man doesn’t faze him, Ollie is his anchor.
I found the beautiful bond between them so emotional and I was glad the spice, though intense, was not overdone as it wouldn’t have fitted the story which was about the growing bond and journey between them. Ollie was a lovely kind and patient, very patient man who attracted people to him whilst Reid was quieter and more complex but of course he would be after everything that he went through.
When you think things cannot get any worse for these two adorable men it does. This story is about finding your person, conquering unimaginable obstacles and unimaginable heartache but the connection they have built goes so deep that even when the brain cannot remember the heart never forgets.
I can’t recommend this book enough.
Review of advance copy received from Author
BLUEBIRD - BROOKE BLAINE
This was published originally as The Unforgettable Duet, and now it’s a single book with both stories called Bluebird, and it’s just as amazing as the first release!
Ollie and Reid see each other every morning at the same gas station picking up coffee, and while Ollie has been crushing on this handsome guy, Reid isn’t really aware of him. Then one day they actually have a brief conversation and Ollie finds himself even more attracted to Reid.
Then tragedy happens shortly after, but thankfully Ollie and his partner Mike are first on the scene and Ollie talks to Reid continuously while working on him and tells him how he calls him Bluebird. Reid gets to the hospital and into surgery immediately and Ollie checks in later to see how he is. When he is caught in the room by the family as Reid wakes up, he explains how he was part of the team who saved Reid. Due to his head injury, Reid woke thinking it was 10 years prior, so he has a hard time reconciling his parents and sister being older and seemed to remember Ollie’s voice and felt the most comfortable with him.
As luck would have it, Reid’s parents lived near Ollie so they ran into each other one day on a walking/jogging path by a lake in the neighborhood and started spending time together. Both men found they had a lot to talk about and enjoyed some of the same things, so it formed a closer bond between them. Ollie even found a secondhand piano and bought it for Reid to use at his house anytime he wanted.
Reid didn’t understand the attraction he was feeling for Ollie since he had always dated girls, but it felt right and he was comfortable enough to ask Ollie about it. Ollie had been crushing on Reid for month’s so this was his greatest wish coming true. They took things slow initially but then Reid was all in once they started getting more intimate. Your heart will definitely smile while reading Bluebird.
There are a lot of sweet and loving moments, as well as laugh out loud times as you go on this journey with Ollie and Reid to their HEA. Brooke writes these characters with such heart and so realistically you feel you are literally with them every step of the way. It is a very heartwarming feel good story even with the challenges they go through and I would recommend this book for everyone! A must read author and book for sure!
This was published originally as The Unforgettable Duet, and now it’s a single book with both stories called Bluebird, and it’s just as amazing as the first release!
Ollie and Reid see each other every morning at the same gas station picking up coffee, and while Ollie has been crushing on this handsome guy, Reid isn’t really aware of him. Then one day they actually have a brief conversation and Ollie finds himself even more attracted to Reid.
Then tragedy happens shortly after, but thankfully Ollie and his partner Mike are first on the scene and Ollie talks to Reid continuously while working on him and tells him how he calls him Bluebird. Reid gets to the hospital and into surgery immediately and Ollie checks in later to see how he is. When he is caught in the room by the family as Reid wakes up, he explains how he was part of the team who saved Reid. Due to his head injury, Reid woke thinking it was 10 years prior, so he has a hard time reconciling his parents and sister being older and seemed to remember Ollie’s voice and felt the most comfortable with him.
As luck would have it, Reid’s parents lived near Ollie so they ran into each other one day on a walking/jogging path by a lake in the neighborhood and started spending time together. Both men found they had a lot to talk about and enjoyed some of the same things, so it formed a closer bond between them. Ollie even found a secondhand piano and bought it for Reid to use at his house anytime he wanted.
Reid didn’t understand the attraction he was feeling for Ollie since he had always dated girls, but it felt right and he was comfortable enough to ask Ollie about it. Ollie had been crushing on Reid for month’s so this was his greatest wish coming true. They took things slow initially but then Reid was all in once they started getting more intimate. Your heart will definitely smile while reading Bluebird.
There are a lot of sweet and loving moments, as well as laugh out loud times as you go on this journey with Ollie and Reid to their HEA. Brooke writes these characters with such heart and so realistically you feel you are literally with them every step of the way. It is a very heartwarming feel good story even with the challenges they go through and I would recommend this book for everyone! A must read author and book for sure!
June 28, 2026
Just by the premise, I knew this book was for me, and even though I did love it and it made me feel so many emotions, I have to say that I expected it to hit me harder than it actually did. I expected to be sobbing while reading it. Don’t get me wrong, this book was beautiful and it definitely doesn’t lack emotional impact, but the potential to absolutely destroy me was 100% there, and it just didn’t quite get there, at least for me.
Personally, I wanted to suffer alongside these characters. I wanted the pain and angst to absolutely wreck me so that, by the time they finally got their hard-earned happy ending, every tear I shed as a reader would feel completely worth it, you know? That’s what I expected the moment I read the premise, and for me, it achieved maybe 78% of that.
I also think this story deserved to be longer. Ollie and Reid’s story had so many complications, so much pain, so much love... just so many emotions that I could clearly see the potential for it to be even more moving and leave readers with an even greater emotional impact. But it felt a little rushed, and I think the emotional payoff suffered because of it. Which is honestly sad because this book, as it is now, is already incredible, so I can only imagine how much more emotionally devastating it could have been if the story had taken more time to develop.
That said, this book is still a 4-star read because, like I said, it was absolutely beautiful. This author’s writing never disappoints, and there were so many beautiful moments that I’m not even able to post quotes because it wasn’t the individual lines that got me, it was the moments as a whole.
I loved both MMCs so much, but especially Ollie, who is the greenest of green flags. That man was just so kind, such a saint, and a yearnerrrrrr… and he saves people for a living. Pleaseee, can we talk about perfection?
Reid and Ollie’s relationship was full of obstacles that were completely out of their control, but they just kept finding their way back to each other. The fact that Reid fell for Ollie again and again, and that Ollie never gave up on what they had, felt like fate... I LOVE it.
Overall, I really enjoyed it. Even though it didn’t emotionally destroy me the way I had hoped, it still gave me two wonderful characters, a beautiful love story, and so many moments that stayed with me.
Personally, I wanted to suffer alongside these characters. I wanted the pain and angst to absolutely wreck me so that, by the time they finally got their hard-earned happy ending, every tear I shed as a reader would feel completely worth it, you know? That’s what I expected the moment I read the premise, and for me, it achieved maybe 78% of that.
I also think this story deserved to be longer. Ollie and Reid’s story had so many complications, so much pain, so much love... just so many emotions that I could clearly see the potential for it to be even more moving and leave readers with an even greater emotional impact. But it felt a little rushed, and I think the emotional payoff suffered because of it. Which is honestly sad because this book, as it is now, is already incredible, so I can only imagine how much more emotionally devastating it could have been if the story had taken more time to develop.
That said, this book is still a 4-star read because, like I said, it was absolutely beautiful. This author’s writing never disappoints, and there were so many beautiful moments that I’m not even able to post quotes because it wasn’t the individual lines that got me, it was the moments as a whole.
I loved both MMCs so much, but especially Ollie, who is the greenest of green flags. That man was just so kind, such a saint, and a yearnerrrrrr… and he saves people for a living. Pleaseee, can we talk about perfection?
Reid and Ollie’s relationship was full of obstacles that were completely out of their control, but they just kept finding their way back to each other. The fact that Reid fell for Ollie again and again, and that Ollie never gave up on what they had, felt like fate... I LOVE it.
Overall, I really enjoyed it. Even though it didn’t emotionally destroy me the way I had hoped, it still gave me two wonderful characters, a beautiful love story, and so many moments that stayed with me.
Review of advance copy
I honestly don't even know how to properly talk about this book without splitting it in two - because that's exactly what it does to you.
Part 1 is soft, fragile, and quietly devastating in a way that sneaks up on you.
After his accident, Reid wakes up without ten years of memories, and somehow…the only thing that feels right to him is Ollie.
And watching their relationship develop in that space? It’s beautiful. It's not rushed. It's not forced. It's built on trust, comfort, and this almost instinctive pull between them. Every moment between them feels so intentional and emotional. Almost like it was fate that brought them together.
Ollie knowing what they're building is real...but also possibly temporary. And that quiet fear sits behind everything. Every smile, every moment of closeness, every step forward...carries the weight of what happens when Reid remembers his past?
And then Part 2 hits.
And it breaks everything.
EVERYTHING.
Because suddenly Reid does remember.
Just…not Ollie.
Everything they built? Gone.
Every moment that felt so real and earned? Erased in an instant. And the way that loss is written...It's hollow. It's disorienting. It leaves you feeling just as lost as Ollie does.
Watching Reid move forward with his life, while Ollie is left holding onto something that technically never existed for him anymore...that hurt in a way I wasn't prepared for. It had me SOBBING.
But what makes this story unforgettable is what comes after that. Because this isn't just about losing love, it's about whether it can be found again.
And slowly...piece by piece, Reid starts to remember. Not everything, and not always in clear memories, but in feelings, in instincts, in the way he keeps being drawn back to Ollie without fully understanding why.
And that second journey? It's just as powerful (if not more) than the first.
Different. Harder. But just as real.
This book doesn't just tell one love story - it tells two. And somehow, both of them feel equally powerful.
10/10 would recommend if you enjoy suffering quietly and staring at a wall after finishing a book 🤧
Part 1 is soft, fragile, and quietly devastating in a way that sneaks up on you.
After his accident, Reid wakes up without ten years of memories, and somehow…the only thing that feels right to him is Ollie.
And watching their relationship develop in that space? It’s beautiful. It's not rushed. It's not forced. It's built on trust, comfort, and this almost instinctive pull between them. Every moment between them feels so intentional and emotional. Almost like it was fate that brought them together.
Ollie knowing what they're building is real...but also possibly temporary. And that quiet fear sits behind everything. Every smile, every moment of closeness, every step forward...carries the weight of what happens when Reid remembers his past?
And then Part 2 hits.
And it breaks everything.
EVERYTHING.
Because suddenly Reid does remember.
Just…not Ollie.
Everything they built? Gone.
Every moment that felt so real and earned? Erased in an instant. And the way that loss is written...It's hollow. It's disorienting. It leaves you feeling just as lost as Ollie does.
Watching Reid move forward with his life, while Ollie is left holding onto something that technically never existed for him anymore...that hurt in a way I wasn't prepared for. It had me SOBBING.
But what makes this story unforgettable is what comes after that. Because this isn't just about losing love, it's about whether it can be found again.
And slowly...piece by piece, Reid starts to remember. Not everything, and not always in clear memories, but in feelings, in instincts, in the way he keeps being drawn back to Ollie without fully understanding why.
And that second journey? It's just as powerful (if not more) than the first.
Different. Harder. But just as real.
This book doesn't just tell one love story - it tells two. And somehow, both of them feel equally powerful.
10/10 would recommend if you enjoy suffering quietly and staring at a wall after finishing a book 🤧
Review of advance copy received from Author
Rating: 4.25/5⭐
Spice: 3/5🌶️
Why you will love this book…
🔥Amnesia
🔥Golden Retriever
🔥Tattooed MC
🔥Paramedic
🔥Ugly Cry
🔥Someone to Watch Over Me
🔥Forgotten Past
🔥Biawakening
🔥Strangers to Lovers
🔥Hurt/Comfort
🔥Protector
I think amnesia trope is really tricky to write, but Brooke Blaine told this heartrending story artfully. I had high expectations for what promised to be a highly emotional book, and I’m happy to say those expectations were more than satisfied. I devoured this book in one day.
I loved both MCs so much, especially Ollie who is just pure of heart and soul, a genuinely good person. Both characters’ personalities were distinct and matched each other so well. Their emotional and physical chemistry was so sweet and tender. There wasn’t a single moment I doubted their love for one another, despite the circumstances of Reid’s accident and Ollie’s fears.
Speaking of the accident…Poor Reid, the trauma this man endured! I like how he was depicted a bit differently between the two times he lost his memory. It really emphasized his feelings about his life before his accident, as we see him as softer and sweeter with a clean slate versus later on when he retains his former memories he’s more bitter. And I love that Ollie loves Reid through both of these phases.
I do wish we spent a little more time seeing Reid fall in love with Ollie for the second time (after he loses his memory the second time). There’s attraction and some feelings towards Ollie when they “meet again,” but he accepts his feelings for Ollie more when his memories of their relationship start to come back and fill in the gaps. Seeing them fall in love the first time was just so magical, I wanted to see it happen again. Maybe I’m just greedy for more Ollie and Reid! 😉
**I received an ARC and this is my honest review.**
Spice: 3/5🌶️
Why you will love this book…
🔥Amnesia
🔥Golden Retriever
🔥Tattooed MC
🔥Paramedic
🔥Ugly Cry
🔥Someone to Watch Over Me
🔥Forgotten Past
🔥Biawakening
🔥Strangers to Lovers
🔥Hurt/Comfort
🔥Protector
I think amnesia trope is really tricky to write, but Brooke Blaine told this heartrending story artfully. I had high expectations for what promised to be a highly emotional book, and I’m happy to say those expectations were more than satisfied. I devoured this book in one day.
I loved both MCs so much, especially Ollie who is just pure of heart and soul, a genuinely good person. Both characters’ personalities were distinct and matched each other so well. Their emotional and physical chemistry was so sweet and tender. There wasn’t a single moment I doubted their love for one another, despite the circumstances of Reid’s accident and Ollie’s fears.
Speaking of the accident…Poor Reid, the trauma this man endured! I like how he was depicted a bit differently between the two times he lost his memory. It really emphasized his feelings about his life before his accident, as we see him as softer and sweeter with a clean slate versus later on when he retains his former memories he’s more bitter. And I love that Ollie loves Reid through both of these phases.
I do wish we spent a little more time seeing Reid fall in love with Ollie for the second time (after he loses his memory the second time). There’s attraction and some feelings towards Ollie when they “meet again,” but he accepts his feelings for Ollie more when his memories of their relationship start to come back and fill in the gaps. Seeing them fall in love the first time was just so magical, I wanted to see it happen again. Maybe I’m just greedy for more Ollie and Reid! 😉
**I received an ARC and this is my honest review.**
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy
Love will always find a way
Brooke Blaine's BLUEBIRD shattered my heart twice before slowly putting the pieces back together. It was an emotional rollercoaster, sweet, heartbreaking and also humourous. Tears flowed and smiles lit up. Brooke's writing was sublime, her empathy was perfect, and the emotions deep.
Ollie McFadden and Reid Valentine were strangers who went to the same gas station for their morning hit of coffee. Olllie is infatuated by Reid, but no words were ever exchanged until that tragic morning. Ollie, a paramedic, is called to car accident and is devastated to find Reid is severely injured. Reid wakes to find he has amnesia and has no memories of the last ten years, when Ollie enters his hospital room and speaks Reid find that Ollie's voice brings him comfort. Why?
A friendship develops between the two men, one built on trust, honesty, and understanding. Ollie is a protector, a carer, a sweet loving man who would give Reid anything. Reid is beautiful, a man who is confused and annoyed with what he is going through. As time moves forward so too does their relationship, and just when everything is running smoothly tragedy strikes again. This time the result is even more devastating. After another surgery Reid no longer remembers Ollie. (cue tears) Everything Ollie and Reid had built together was lost, could it be found again?
BLUEBIRD was emotional read, there was desolation yet also happiness. It was a journey to love which was challenging, yet the rewards were everything. Brooke Blaine nailed this story, amnesia is a heartbreaking experience, yet Brooke did it perfectly and with incredible empathy. Ollie and Reid will forever hold a piece of my heart, their story is a MUST READ.
Read and Reviewed for Reading Is Our Satisfaction
✨✨✨✨✨ FIVE STARS
Brooke Blaine's BLUEBIRD shattered my heart twice before slowly putting the pieces back together. It was an emotional rollercoaster, sweet, heartbreaking and also humourous. Tears flowed and smiles lit up. Brooke's writing was sublime, her empathy was perfect, and the emotions deep.
Ollie McFadden and Reid Valentine were strangers who went to the same gas station for their morning hit of coffee. Olllie is infatuated by Reid, but no words were ever exchanged until that tragic morning. Ollie, a paramedic, is called to car accident and is devastated to find Reid is severely injured. Reid wakes to find he has amnesia and has no memories of the last ten years, when Ollie enters his hospital room and speaks Reid find that Ollie's voice brings him comfort. Why?
A friendship develops between the two men, one built on trust, honesty, and understanding. Ollie is a protector, a carer, a sweet loving man who would give Reid anything. Reid is beautiful, a man who is confused and annoyed with what he is going through. As time moves forward so too does their relationship, and just when everything is running smoothly tragedy strikes again. This time the result is even more devastating. After another surgery Reid no longer remembers Ollie. (cue tears) Everything Ollie and Reid had built together was lost, could it be found again?
BLUEBIRD was emotional read, there was desolation yet also happiness. It was a journey to love which was challenging, yet the rewards were everything. Brooke Blaine nailed this story, amnesia is a heartbreaking experience, yet Brooke did it perfectly and with incredible empathy. Ollie and Reid will forever hold a piece of my heart, their story is a MUST READ.
Read and Reviewed for Reading Is Our Satisfaction
✨✨✨✨✨ FIVE STARS
Review of advance copy received from Author
4.5/5
I was so excited to re-read this romance! Ollie and Reid were one of the first couples I fall in love with when I first read the duology back in 2019. Now, with this new edition we have a marvelous cover and on top of it, I loved their story even more!
Ollie is a paramedic and Reid a music teacher, they’ve seen each other on a café they both frequently go to. But on one tragic morning, Reid has a car accident and Ollie is the one pulling him out of his car, saving his life.
Unfortunately, Reid experiences memory loss and Ollie is the only person he can properly talk with. They become friends and spend quality time together, learning and trying new things about each other. The attraction is there but the banter makes it so much better –and so, a beautiful, touching romance blooms.
Ollie is the kind of man who’s genuinely kind and who has it all, whilst Reid apparently is living a lie or at least, he doesn’t really know who he was or why he was spending time in his hometown since he wanted to go big and travel the world as a musician.
Now, their romance has its ups and downs with Reid’s memory not being what it used to, yet we get to see both of them trying their best –mostly Ollie being there for Reid and him hopelessly falling in love with Ollie again and again.
They made me cry a couple of times and several quotes hit me pretty hard. The beautiful moments they shared moved me and I was so glad they got their fair share of happiness. I mean, wouldn’t it be perfect to have another chance with the one you love, only to realize they never stopped loving you either?
I believe some people, some souls are meant to be together and they will always find their way back, no matter the circumstances. Love makes us see the best in others as well as within ourselves and I seriously think Reid was lucky to have been noticed by Ollie since the first day.
I totally recommend you to read this book! It’s one of the special ones that never leaves your mind nor your heart.
I received an e-book ARC in exchange for my honest review via The Author Agency.
I was so excited to re-read this romance! Ollie and Reid were one of the first couples I fall in love with when I first read the duology back in 2019. Now, with this new edition we have a marvelous cover and on top of it, I loved their story even more!
Ollie is a paramedic and Reid a music teacher, they’ve seen each other on a café they both frequently go to. But on one tragic morning, Reid has a car accident and Ollie is the one pulling him out of his car, saving his life.
Unfortunately, Reid experiences memory loss and Ollie is the only person he can properly talk with. They become friends and spend quality time together, learning and trying new things about each other. The attraction is there but the banter makes it so much better –and so, a beautiful, touching romance blooms.
Ollie is the kind of man who’s genuinely kind and who has it all, whilst Reid apparently is living a lie or at least, he doesn’t really know who he was or why he was spending time in his hometown since he wanted to go big and travel the world as a musician.
Now, their romance has its ups and downs with Reid’s memory not being what it used to, yet we get to see both of them trying their best –mostly Ollie being there for Reid and him hopelessly falling in love with Ollie again and again.
They made me cry a couple of times and several quotes hit me pretty hard. The beautiful moments they shared moved me and I was so glad they got their fair share of happiness. I mean, wouldn’t it be perfect to have another chance with the one you love, only to realize they never stopped loving you either?
I believe some people, some souls are meant to be together and they will always find their way back, no matter the circumstances. Love makes us see the best in others as well as within ourselves and I seriously think Reid was lucky to have been noticed by Ollie since the first day.
I totally recommend you to read this book! It’s one of the special ones that never leaves your mind nor your heart.
I received an e-book ARC in exchange for my honest review via The Author Agency.
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