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Fine Line
Caelyx - My life took a sharp dip last year when my billionaire dad confiscated my credit cards and kicked me out of the house, demanding I get a business degree before I can come back. I didn’t know how to deal, until I met Aspen Davis. He’s prickly, moody, and his emotions are guarded more securely than Fort Knox, but I’ve never wanted anyone like I want him. He claims he’s not into feelings or long term attachments, especially not with guys like me, who are used to having everything handed to them. When I finally start chipping away at his reservations, I discover we have a lot more in common than we thought. Can I convince him to get over his trust issues and realize we’re perfect for each other?
Aspen - The last thing I need in my already chaotic life is a distraction like Caelyx Vane. We’re in the same classes, have the same friends, and now I can’t even get away from him at work. It’s no secret that he has a giant crush on me, but I have to focus on keeping up my grades for my scholarship and supporting my sick mom. When he finally starts to sneak past my defenses, I realize he’s not exactly the clueless idiot I’d thought. He actually knows how to quiet all the voices in my head so I can relax, for once. Still, I don’t want to be a plaything for a nepo baby on a temporary break from his rich boy life. Part of me is desperate to give in to him, but he has to prove that he’s more than he seems.
Fine Line is a guaranteed HEA dual 1st POV college romance featuring a black cat emo trans boy and the reformed player rich boy who is obsessed with him. Opposites attract, forced proximity, idiots to lovers, lots of spice and fluff, and an oddball friend group.
Aspen - The last thing I need in my already chaotic life is a distraction like Caelyx Vane. We’re in the same classes, have the same friends, and now I can’t even get away from him at work. It’s no secret that he has a giant crush on me, but I have to focus on keeping up my grades for my scholarship and supporting my sick mom. When he finally starts to sneak past my defenses, I realize he’s not exactly the clueless idiot I’d thought. He actually knows how to quiet all the voices in my head so I can relax, for once. Still, I don’t want to be a plaything for a nepo baby on a temporary break from his rich boy life. Part of me is desperate to give in to him, but he has to prove that he’s more than he seems.
Fine Line is a guaranteed HEA dual 1st POV college romance featuring a black cat emo trans boy and the reformed player rich boy who is obsessed with him. Opposites attract, forced proximity, idiots to lovers, lots of spice and fluff, and an oddball friend group.
333 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 27, 2026
11 people are currently reading
72 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews
April 29, 2026
This was so sweet and a really fun read! We met Aspen and Caelyx in the first book of the series and most of us probably didn't have a great opinion about Caelyx. We see a big change in Caelyx from book 1. He's still impulsive and a huge flirt, but his crush on Aspen is going strong and making him make different life choices. I loved how obsessed and totally loyal he was to Aspen, even with Aspen trying to keep him at arms length. I loved how Aspen's prickliness and Caelyx' sunshine-y persona played with each other. I loved their banter and the back and forth they had. It was fun to see Caelyx be over the top just to get a reaction out of Aspen. Aspen was guarded, and rightfully so, his life hadn't been easy and he had a lot of things on his plate. I loved that Caelyx tried to lighten Aspen's plate and tried to help him relax.
I really enjoyed how their relationship progressed. I loved the clingy and needy version of Caelyx that only Aspen got to have. I loved their dynamic and how much they trusted each other from the start.
Apart from the beautiful and loving relationship Caelyx and Aspen we're building, we got to see more of this great little found family/friend group they were building. It was great to see the whole group and see their mutual ribbing of each other.
I laughed, I smiled, I kicked my feet and had a great time reading this book. I'm excited to see more of this group.
I really enjoyed how their relationship progressed. I loved the clingy and needy version of Caelyx that only Aspen got to have. I loved their dynamic and how much they trusted each other from the start.
Apart from the beautiful and loving relationship Caelyx and Aspen we're building, we got to see more of this great little found family/friend group they were building. It was great to see the whole group and see their mutual ribbing of each other.
I laughed, I smiled, I kicked my feet and had a great time reading this book. I'm excited to see more of this group.
May 2, 2026
This was so adorable! Caelyx is the sweetest, most perfect, people pleasing golden retriever. He would do absolutely anything to make Aspen happy. And Aspen is the cutest, prickly little feral black cat with a soft, melty center. It was an absolute privilege to get to see them fall in love. Thank you for that, L.A. Lambert!
I haven't read many romances featuring trans MC's, so it was nice to learn a bit more about some of the details that are often glossed over. I even did a bit of research, just so I could picture it properly in my head. Some of the highlights from Aspen's inner monologue were so beautiful, how he felt so comfortable with Caelyx because he came to trust how much Caelyx wanted him. How hungry Caelyx was to be intimate with him and all of his parts. That was so heartwarming!
And lastly, I love how there is no gratuitous angst in either of these books. Mistakes are made, misunderstandings happen, lies are told... but the characters are reasonable and rational about how they react. They remember what they know of the other person and their feelings. They don't just make assumptions and jump to ridiculous conclusions. That was so refreshing! I may actually end up adding this book to my favorites, but I need to sit on a bit more and see how it fares with my memory. I HIGHLY recommend reading this series, and this book, if you are on the fence! =D
I haven't read many romances featuring trans MC's, so it was nice to learn a bit more about some of the details that are often glossed over. I even did a bit of research, just so I could picture it properly in my head. Some of the highlights from Aspen's inner monologue were so beautiful, how he felt so comfortable with Caelyx because he came to trust how much Caelyx wanted him. How hungry Caelyx was to be intimate with him and all of his parts. That was so heartwarming!
And lastly, I love how there is no gratuitous angst in either of these books. Mistakes are made, misunderstandings happen, lies are told... but the characters are reasonable and rational about how they react. They remember what they know of the other person and their feelings. They don't just make assumptions and jump to ridiculous conclusions. That was so refreshing! I may actually end up adding this book to my favorites, but I need to sit on a bit more and see how it fares with my memory. I HIGHLY recommend reading this series, and this book, if you are on the fence! =D
May 7, 2026
ARC Review
This book was phenomenal. I don’t even know what words to use to describe how much I loved this book. It exceeded all my expectations.
”I’ve heard the line between love and hate can be very fine.”
In the first book of this series, Aspen and Caelyx don’t seem to get a long. Aspen is annoyed by the Caelyx, who seems to be doing anything in his power to push the others buttons. Throughout this book however, we see how that starts to shift, how opposites can attract even if it doesn’t seem to make any sense. How a rich golden retriever can annoy an emo black cat into eventually falling in love 😭 Getting there is definitely not easy, but Caelyx patience and understand of Aspen and how that helps Aspen is beautifully written.
Little did he know, my brain had long ago shifted from creeped out to infatuated when it came to his slightly psychotic and unhinged declarations of his attraction to me.
Overall, as a transman, this story was everything to me. I related so much to Aspen. Aspen and Caelyx relationship reminded me of my relationship with my husband. Even Caelyx dad reminded me of my dad 😂
God, he was so fucking cute. Almost too cute, like he’d been created in a lab as some kind of conspiracy to keep me hypnotized and obsessed.
I’m honestly sad to have finished it already, because I don’t want to let go of Aspen and Caelyx yet! Loved both of these characters so much and the story was everything I wanted. Again, I almost can’t put into words how much this book affected me. It was an honor to read this book early, I don’t think I could have waited any longer 🩵
”Come for me, Cupcake,” he rasped out. “Show me how much you love my cock in you.”
“I do,” I promised him, nearly delirious with pleasure. “I fucking love it. Oh my god, Caelyx.”
Please Note: I did receive a copy of this book inadvance from the author for my honest review!
This book was phenomenal. I don’t even know what words to use to describe how much I loved this book. It exceeded all my expectations.
”I’ve heard the line between love and hate can be very fine.”
In the first book of this series, Aspen and Caelyx don’t seem to get a long. Aspen is annoyed by the Caelyx, who seems to be doing anything in his power to push the others buttons. Throughout this book however, we see how that starts to shift, how opposites can attract even if it doesn’t seem to make any sense. How a rich golden retriever can annoy an emo black cat into eventually falling in love 😭 Getting there is definitely not easy, but Caelyx patience and understand of Aspen and how that helps Aspen is beautifully written.
Little did he know, my brain had long ago shifted from creeped out to infatuated when it came to his slightly psychotic and unhinged declarations of his attraction to me.
Overall, as a transman, this story was everything to me. I related so much to Aspen. Aspen and Caelyx relationship reminded me of my relationship with my husband. Even Caelyx dad reminded me of my dad 😂
God, he was so fucking cute. Almost too cute, like he’d been created in a lab as some kind of conspiracy to keep me hypnotized and obsessed.
I’m honestly sad to have finished it already, because I don’t want to let go of Aspen and Caelyx yet! Loved both of these characters so much and the story was everything I wanted. Again, I almost can’t put into words how much this book affected me. It was an honor to read this book early, I don’t think I could have waited any longer 🩵
”Come for me, Cupcake,” he rasped out. “Show me how much you love my cock in you.”
“I do,” I promised him, nearly delirious with pleasure. “I fucking love it. Oh my god, Caelyx.”
Please Note: I did receive a copy of this book inadvance from the author for my honest review!
April 28, 2026
Best Boyfriend Award
Dee’s Grade: A+
Caelyx is so different from who we meet in the first book. At least we get a better understanding of him in this book. I adore him. Aspen was perfectly prickly. These two are a delight.
Dee’s Grade: A+
Caelyx is so different from who we meet in the first book. At least we get a better understanding of him in this book. I adore him. Aspen was perfectly prickly. These two are a delight.
April 18, 2026
✨ ARC review ✨
🧁 Fine Line by L.A. Lambert 🧁
“You know, they say there’s a fine line between love and hate.”
AH!! i absolutely LOVED these boys. Caelyx is our rich, preppy golden retriever f*ckboy turned loverboy, and Aspen is our poor, emo black cat brick wall turned .. well .. loverboy (but not as much as Caelyx. that man has got it BADDDDD. i love it.)
when we first meet the two, we learn they both go to Byron Bay University and work together at Common Grounds, the campus coffee shop. from the beginning, we know that Caelyx is obsessed with Aspen. like, the flirting is practically nonstop.. but Aspen, being the closed door he is, usually just rolls his eyes and moves on.
throughout the book, Caelyx and Aspen get closer, which really turns into SOMETHING when Caelyx makes his move at a rave party 😏
it takes some time for Aspen to open up, but when he does, things get super sweet and extremely spicy 🔥
SPECIAL SHOUT OUT TO THEIR FRIEND GROUP. I love every single one of them. I’m more nosy than Faulkner Vane and wanna know what’s going on with Cyprian and ‘the two hot femboys’ (as Caelyx called them 😅). also LOVED the banter.
this was such a fun read and i need MOOORE. please? ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
some tidbits:
🧁 trans MC
🧁 rich x poor
🧁 ‘Cupcake’
🧁 emo boy with colorful tattoos 🌈
🧁 forced proximity
🧁 vibe date 😏
🧁 most anticipated first kiss EVER
🧁 Fine Line by L.A. Lambert 🧁
“You know, they say there’s a fine line between love and hate.”
AH!! i absolutely LOVED these boys. Caelyx is our rich, preppy golden retriever f*ckboy turned loverboy, and Aspen is our poor, emo black cat brick wall turned .. well .. loverboy (but not as much as Caelyx. that man has got it BADDDDD. i love it.)
when we first meet the two, we learn they both go to Byron Bay University and work together at Common Grounds, the campus coffee shop. from the beginning, we know that Caelyx is obsessed with Aspen. like, the flirting is practically nonstop.. but Aspen, being the closed door he is, usually just rolls his eyes and moves on.
throughout the book, Caelyx and Aspen get closer, which really turns into SOMETHING when Caelyx makes his move at a rave party 😏
it takes some time for Aspen to open up, but when he does, things get super sweet and extremely spicy 🔥
SPECIAL SHOUT OUT TO THEIR FRIEND GROUP. I love every single one of them. I’m more nosy than Faulkner Vane and wanna know what’s going on with Cyprian and ‘the two hot femboys’ (as Caelyx called them 😅). also LOVED the banter.
this was such a fun read and i need MOOORE. please? ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
some tidbits:
🧁 trans MC
🧁 rich x poor
🧁 ‘Cupcake’
🧁 emo boy with colorful tattoos 🌈
🧁 forced proximity
🧁 vibe date 😏
🧁 most anticipated first kiss EVER
April 27, 2026
I have loved everything LA Lambert has written, and Fine Line was no exception. Fine Line is the sweet and sassy romantic story of Aspen & Caelyx, college students attending the same university. From the moment Caelyx met Aspen, he was smitten. He made positive changes to his life in the hopes that Aspen would give him a chance. Up to this point, he has denied that there is anything between them.
They are constantly thrown together with the same friend group, taking many of the same classes together, and working together. Caelyx tries to downplay his crush on Aspen so he doesn’t scare him away, but Aspen knows and tries (not very) hard to ignore him. Aspen has preconceived ideas of who he thinks Caelyx is because of his wealthy family and his smug confidence. I appreciated that Caelyx never let Aspen push him too far away. His steady presence and golden retriever energy and charm made Aspen’s emo black cat walls crumble.
There is a lot going on in this story: an awesome trans representation, feelings of inadequacy, yet wanting to be seen, how alcoholism affects family members, and how a wonderful found family support system can make all the difference. The characters are wonderful. I was invested in all of their lives and wanted the best for each of them. Hopefully we will get all of their stories! I enjoyed this book and can’t wait to read the next one.
They are constantly thrown together with the same friend group, taking many of the same classes together, and working together. Caelyx tries to downplay his crush on Aspen so he doesn’t scare him away, but Aspen knows and tries (not very) hard to ignore him. Aspen has preconceived ideas of who he thinks Caelyx is because of his wealthy family and his smug confidence. I appreciated that Caelyx never let Aspen push him too far away. His steady presence and golden retriever energy and charm made Aspen’s emo black cat walls crumble.
There is a lot going on in this story: an awesome trans representation, feelings of inadequacy, yet wanting to be seen, how alcoholism affects family members, and how a wonderful found family support system can make all the difference. The characters are wonderful. I was invested in all of their lives and wanted the best for each of them. Hopefully we will get all of their stories! I enjoyed this book and can’t wait to read the next one.
April 28, 2026
BLACK CAT GOLDEN RETRIEVER BB FOREVER!💕 🐈⬛🐾 🧁
I adored the main characters from the first book and side characters golden retriever rich playboy Caelyx and his co-worker emo black cat-Aspen and now we get their poignant, sweet, adorable love story!
“Have I mentioned that I hate you?”
“You know, they say there’s a fine line between love and hate.”
I loved their banter and how patient Caelyx was with his 🧁and cautiously went about crumbling those stubborn hard to reach walls that were firmly placed for a reason…
🐾Caelyx was perfect boyfriend material whether Aspen wanted it or not…
🐈⬛Aspen was exactly what a lonely, financially cut off, lovable, generous, sweet soul like Caelyx needed- someone to ground him and clear his head…
🐾Caelyx was what Aspen didn’t know he needed- someone who saw him, appreciated him, loved every part of him and accepted him as transmasc…
The long awaited 💋…… was awe inspiring sweet and sensual not to mention their amazing dynamic and chemistry was off the charts!
Their friends group was still crazy with their Friday night socials and supportive as ever with new relationships brewing… and additions…
Parental neglect, alcoholism, trans masculinity rep and body disphoria is depicted tactfully and subtly!
I voluntarily received an ARC from GRR for an honest non biased review.
I adored the main characters from the first book and side characters golden retriever rich playboy Caelyx and his co-worker emo black cat-Aspen and now we get their poignant, sweet, adorable love story!
“Have I mentioned that I hate you?”
“You know, they say there’s a fine line between love and hate.”
I loved their banter and how patient Caelyx was with his 🧁and cautiously went about crumbling those stubborn hard to reach walls that were firmly placed for a reason…
🐾Caelyx was perfect boyfriend material whether Aspen wanted it or not…
🐈⬛Aspen was exactly what a lonely, financially cut off, lovable, generous, sweet soul like Caelyx needed- someone to ground him and clear his head…
🐾Caelyx was what Aspen didn’t know he needed- someone who saw him, appreciated him, loved every part of him and accepted him as transmasc…
The long awaited 💋…… was awe inspiring sweet and sensual not to mention their amazing dynamic and chemistry was off the charts!
Their friends group was still crazy with their Friday night socials and supportive as ever with new relationships brewing… and additions…
Parental neglect, alcoholism, trans masculinity rep and body disphoria is depicted tactfully and subtly!
I voluntarily received an ARC from GRR for an honest non biased review.
April 27, 2026
Ahhh this book was so sweet. This is the third LA Lambert book I’ve read and am officially a fan of his sweet and sexy style, and his likable and charmingly flawed characters.
Caelyx and Aspen were just so sweet together. I loved how Caelyx let Aspen open up on his own time, both emotionally and physically (that first kiss scene! Aw.) because he just had no other option. There was no way he was going anywhere, lol. and I also loved that Aspen, despite his initial reluctance, let Caelyx be his obsessive, borderline-himbo self because, similarly, he’d accepted their shared fate. I was so happy for Aspen by the end! 😭
Sometimes, it’s nice to read a lower angst, sexy, healing book, and this is a great one. I’m looking forward to what comes next—and I have my fingers crossed about who the next couple might be.
Caelyx and Aspen were just so sweet together. I loved how Caelyx let Aspen open up on his own time, both emotionally and physically (that first kiss scene! Aw.) because he just had no other option. There was no way he was going anywhere, lol. and I also loved that Aspen, despite his initial reluctance, let Caelyx be his obsessive, borderline-himbo self because, similarly, he’d accepted their shared fate. I was so happy for Aspen by the end! 😭
Sometimes, it’s nice to read a lower angst, sexy, healing book, and this is a great one. I’m looking forward to what comes next—and I have my fingers crossed about who the next couple might be.
May 2, 2026
Okay, how freaking cute are these two idiots!? Seriously, from the first chapter, I was hooked by their banter. Caelyx and his relentless shameless flirting were just too much fun, and Aspens' quick-witted responses had me giggling. They seem so opposite from the start, but as their relationship develops, they really were so perfect together. I found myself smiling throughout this book it was such a good time. This was such a feel-good fun story with amazing characters I couldn't help but root for. I loved the close-knit group of friends, and I'm looking forward to the next book in the series.
Tropes:
College
Trans
Emo/Prep
Rick/Poor
Forced proximity
Spicy
Emotional slow burn
Dual POV
Check TW
Tropes:
College
Trans
Emo/Prep
Rick/Poor
Forced proximity
Spicy
Emotional slow burn
Dual POV
Check TW
Review of advance copy received from Author
This brought me joy. I loved Aspen so much. Seeing him really open up to Caelyx as the book went on was lovely. I can only imagine how difficult it would be to trust people and even in the best circumstance people questioning how to best be with you. I sounds truly exhausting and I loved that Caelyx was good with Aspen and gave him exactly what he needed. This was perfect and somehow even better than the first book.
April 29, 2026
Simp ex fuck boy meets black cat emo boy may be my favourite trope.
Caelyx is literally the gold standard of boyfriend goals, he's sweet, funny and I will never ever even be able to look at a cupcake without thinking of all the swoony moments in this book.
But without a doubt, Aspen is perfect, prickly black cat energy personified. The slow and often small ways he gives into Caelyx is going to live rent free in my head forever.
Caelyx is literally the gold standard of boyfriend goals, he's sweet, funny and I will never ever even be able to look at a cupcake without thinking of all the swoony moments in this book.
But without a doubt, Aspen is perfect, prickly black cat energy personified. The slow and often small ways he gives into Caelyx is going to live rent free in my head forever.
April 28, 2026
I really enjoyed this book. Caelyx is the biggest golden retriever walking green flag and was into Aspen from the moment they met. Aspen took a little bit of time to warm up to Caelyx but once he did, it really heated up. The trans representation and level of acceptance is everything that I love in books like this.
Read
April 28, 2026This is a well crafted opposites attract college romance with an adorable trans man and the guy who won't take no for an answer. The boys are incredibly adorable and they get along and work towards a HEA despite themselves, their families and Aspen's obvious reluctance... This book was a quick and easy read that balanced plot and spice well and left me craving the next book in the series!
April 29, 2026
cute as heck
I love this one. Aspen is so stubborn the entire time and little by little the grumpy little cupcake comes around and it was adorable. I dig it
I love this one. Aspen is so stubborn the entire time and little by little the grumpy little cupcake comes around and it was adorable. I dig it
April 25, 2026
ARC Review-
I really enjoyed this one!
Caelyx and Aspen were such a good read. I loved their story. I adored how Caelyx had no shame about how much he liked Aspen from day 1. Aspen took a little bit more convincing but once he got there it was *chefs kiss* perfection.
Would definitely recommend!
I really enjoyed this one!
Caelyx and Aspen were such a good read. I loved their story. I adored how Caelyx had no shame about how much he liked Aspen from day 1. Aspen took a little bit more convincing but once he got there it was *chefs kiss* perfection.
Would definitely recommend!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Wary black cat meets horny golden retriever, rich/poor MM romance with mild forced proximity and billionaire hijinks.
Caelyx has a massive problem. His billionaire father kicked him out and drastically reduced his monthly support in a tough love, ‘shove the baby bird out of the nest to see if it can fly’ type of move. The guy he’s obsessed with - Aspen- thinks he’s a useless idiot, and he’s kind of right. Caelyx is doing his best, but his upbringing wasn’t exactly normal. While he doesn’t excel at things like household chores, he’s quick with a horny comment and knows his designer labels- too bad Aspen rarely gives him credit for any of that. Lucky for Caelyx, he charms Aspen into taking advantage of his most notable skills… the kind you demonstrate naked. Only, now Caelyx doesn’t know how to get Aspen to take him seriously and progress past seeing him as a casual hookup.
Aspen has had to work hard for everything he has. His family situation isn’t ideal, and he definitely wasn’t born with a silver spoon in his mouth like Caelyx. Aspen’s a bossy, surly stray cat with smudged eyeliner and trust issues. Caelyx, on the other hand, is the flirty, enthusiastic, sunny golden retriever type. If he was really a golden retriever he’d happily spend his days humping Aspen’s leg. I haven’t read a book where one of the MCs had a legit crush or infatuation with the other MC like this in AGES. He’s so transparently into Aspen and it’s beyond cute. Caelyx hasn’t had to overcome much adversity in his life, aside from having to get a job and attempting to convince Aspen to finally let him kiss him on the lips.
For Aspen, Calyx’s proximity to wealth and only recent brush with ‘hardship’ is more proof that he’s a fuckboy just slumming it until he can go back to his glitzy 1%er life. Aspen can’t imagine anything permanent happening between the two of them and he doesn’t want to give Caelyx the power or opportunity to hurt him. It would be way easier if Caelyx just left him alone. To his credit, Caelyx isn’t oblivious to his sheltered upbringing and knows that he doesn’t have many practical life skills. He does his best to learn (with mixed results, puppies mess up sometimes) and never complains when Aspen bosses him around. Caelyx seem like nothing more than a happy-go-lucky casual pervert, but he’s loyal and perceptive when it comes to Aspen. Caelyx wants to give Aspen everything while taking all his worries away. The funny thing is that they both think the other is a stray cat in need of rescuing and careful tiptoeing around to protect its feelings and dignity 😂.
Caelyx’s eccentric billionaire dad turned out to be a surprise scene stealer- he’s a lunatic but I liked him so much more than I thought I would. I also really loved the way Aspen’s character was portrayed. He’s trans, but it’s not his sole defining characteristic or something that dominates every interaction he and Caelyx have. That’s why I’m shoving this at the end of my review- because it was footnote to Aspen’s trust issues and fear of being vulnerable. He’s not fetishized, nor is he responsible for educating his entire friend group (or the whole campus!) on what his experiences have been taking hormones and having top surgery. He just gets to be himself as a normal person who happens to be trans, and that’s the kind of energy I’m here for in 2026. Refreshingly, the book has zero homophobia and transphobia. I’ve read some amazing books that covered those topics (BBU #1, Dire Straights, for example) but we don’t need it in every book. Heated Rivalry offered us all a nuanced look at queer joy, and I think we get the same experience in Fine Line. If anyone’s going to hate on Aspen it’ll be because he can be cranky and avoidant, not because he’s trans. I tend to prefer angstier reads, but the more LGBTQ rights come under attack, the less I seek them out. Fine Line is fluffy and irreverent and a bit of a Cinderella fantasy and that’s exactly what I wanted to read this week.
Rating: 5 stars
Angst: 2/5
Steam: 3/5
I received an advance copy of this book from the author and this is my honest review.
“You know, they say there’s a fine line between love and hate.”
Caelyx has a massive problem. His billionaire father kicked him out and drastically reduced his monthly support in a tough love, ‘shove the baby bird out of the nest to see if it can fly’ type of move. The guy he’s obsessed with - Aspen- thinks he’s a useless idiot, and he’s kind of right. Caelyx is doing his best, but his upbringing wasn’t exactly normal. While he doesn’t excel at things like household chores, he’s quick with a horny comment and knows his designer labels- too bad Aspen rarely gives him credit for any of that. Lucky for Caelyx, he charms Aspen into taking advantage of his most notable skills… the kind you demonstrate naked. Only, now Caelyx doesn’t know how to get Aspen to take him seriously and progress past seeing him as a casual hookup.
What could I say? I had a crush. A big, fat, unrequited crush, like when I’d been in the first grade and liked a girl and all I’d known how to do was pull her pigtails on the playground. Except now I was an adult and I was only interested in pulling Aspen’s hair if my cock was in his mouth.
Aspen has had to work hard for everything he has. His family situation isn’t ideal, and he definitely wasn’t born with a silver spoon in his mouth like Caelyx. Aspen’s a bossy, surly stray cat with smudged eyeliner and trust issues. Caelyx, on the other hand, is the flirty, enthusiastic, sunny golden retriever type. If he was really a golden retriever he’d happily spend his days humping Aspen’s leg. I haven’t read a book where one of the MCs had a legit crush or infatuation with the other MC like this in AGES. He’s so transparently into Aspen and it’s beyond cute. Caelyx hasn’t had to overcome much adversity in his life, aside from having to get a job and attempting to convince Aspen to finally let him kiss him on the lips.
“You know he spent the first six months we lived together thinking he was controlling the thermostat, but it was just a dimmer switch connected to a light in the closet, right?”
For Aspen, Calyx’s proximity to wealth and only recent brush with ‘hardship’ is more proof that he’s a fuckboy just slumming it until he can go back to his glitzy 1%er life. Aspen can’t imagine anything permanent happening between the two of them and he doesn’t want to give Caelyx the power or opportunity to hurt him. It would be way easier if Caelyx just left him alone. To his credit, Caelyx isn’t oblivious to his sheltered upbringing and knows that he doesn’t have many practical life skills. He does his best to learn (with mixed results, puppies mess up sometimes) and never complains when Aspen bosses him around. Caelyx seem like nothing more than a happy-go-lucky casual pervert, but he’s loyal and perceptive when it comes to Aspen. Caelyx wants to give Aspen everything while taking all his worries away. The funny thing is that they both think the other is a stray cat in need of rescuing and careful tiptoeing around to protect its feelings and dignity 😂.
As irritating as he was and as clueless as he seemed most of the time, Caelyx was making it supremely easy to just lean into whatever was going on between us. There was no pressure, no unpleasant tension, no stress. For the first time since I’d started having sex, I wasn’t in my head about how my partner felt about my body or if they wished I was something else or could give them something else.
Caelyx’s eccentric billionaire dad turned out to be a surprise scene stealer- he’s a lunatic but I liked him so much more than I thought I would. I also really loved the way Aspen’s character was portrayed. He’s trans, but it’s not his sole defining characteristic or something that dominates every interaction he and Caelyx have. That’s why I’m shoving this at the end of my review- because it was footnote to Aspen’s trust issues and fear of being vulnerable. He’s not fetishized, nor is he responsible for educating his entire friend group (or the whole campus!) on what his experiences have been taking hormones and having top surgery. He just gets to be himself as a normal person who happens to be trans, and that’s the kind of energy I’m here for in 2026. Refreshingly, the book has zero homophobia and transphobia. I’ve read some amazing books that covered those topics (BBU #1, Dire Straights, for example) but we don’t need it in every book. Heated Rivalry offered us all a nuanced look at queer joy, and I think we get the same experience in Fine Line. If anyone’s going to hate on Aspen it’ll be because he can be cranky and avoidant, not because he’s trans. I tend to prefer angstier reads, but the more LGBTQ rights come under attack, the less I seek them out. Fine Line is fluffy and irreverent and a bit of a Cinderella fantasy and that’s exactly what I wanted to read this week.
I knew I couldn’t give him enough of anything to make it worth his time, but even knowing that… I didn’t want him to stop trying. I wanted his attention. I liked that he put me first.
Rating: 5 stars
Angst: 2/5
Steam: 3/5
I received an advance copy of this book from the author and this is my honest review.
Review of advance copy
It took me a while to warm up to this one, but once it caught fire, I enjoyed it a lot! I still prefer the author’s romantasies, but, by about 40% I was immersed.
This is a college/NA romance between two guys who are part of the same social circle and work at a coffee shop together. It’s a fun kind of flipped trope with the hot rich playboy who's estranged from his disapproving father and distant mother having become entranced by the prickly scholarship student, a transmasc MC whose home life is loving but overshadowed by his mom’s alcoholism. In a nutshell!
At first I didn’t really feel the chemistry, with Caelyx chasing after Aspen constantly and Aspen seeming pretty indifferent, unimpressed, not interested. That gets to me. I didn’t really feel there was something to root for. They hook up at a big rave party, but Aspen’s one of those “I don’t kiss” hands off hooker-uppers (grumph), and Caelyx is saaaaaad but still completely whipped.
But then the connection develops…and develops…and you can see eager retriever Caelyx wearing down Aspen’s walls and just being so into him without being truly annoying, supportive without overstepping, just…truly adoring Aspen in all his moods and snark and wanting to be with him all the time, but also being okay alone (apart from totally cock-blocking Aspen from dating anyone else LMAO), and his complete acceptance and adoration of Aspen’s body and mind are so right for Aspen that Aspen really doesn’t stand a chance.
This hookup king has completely turned around, having realized Feelings for Aspen last year and stopping partying, hooking up at all, and focusing on studies and turning his life around to try to show Aspen he’s worth his time (but in a way that you realize Caelyx is also gaining self-respect, it isn’t all for Aspen, he just wants to be worthy of him). I enjoyed that so much, and began totally rooting for them!
Caelyx is Ren’s housemate (from the previous book Dire Straights Ren and Maddox’s story) and Aspen is Maddox’s, so they’ve been in each other’s company for game nights and so forth. But when Aspen finally starts opening up to hooking up with Caelyx, Caelyx takes that inch and turns it into a lifetime with his dedication to Aspen’s physical—ahem—and mental well-being. Their physical chemistry is on fire, steamy, and written beautifully (for the most part. Then there’s my Issue…oh gee, what could that have been?!)
Yeah. ALL the mentions of past hookups. Please why. Why. WHYYYYY. I got a lot of ick from that, and this is an incestuous acquaintanceship where it turns out they both hooked up with a few of the same people, one of whom has a cameo and asks about a threesome and I just…No. Blech. I know, it’s a Me issue, but the fact that they talk about how Aspen’s used that strapon for that guy and a whoooole bunch of others…I know it’s the same as a body but I just did not need that in my head.
Mmkay, PSA over. That won’t bother most readers. And I know I just can’t have all my MCs have no past whatsoever (but really? In this big school they had to have f’d the same person? Ew.) ANYway ahem. I will now STFU myself.
Loved the thread with Caelyx’s dad…hard to believe he’d have been that pushy?! That inappropriate with his offer??!! BUT I found it so cute how much he really liked Aspen and approved of them, and if he bumbled…a LOT…trying to repair his relationship with Caelyx, oh well. Billionaire meant well.
The solution with Aspen’s mom also resonated, and even though it all gets to a fairy-tale level of wow that all sure worked out great, hey…it’s a romance. That’s what I’m here for.
HEA, annoyance/no-way-ever to friends to lovers, transmasc hero, bi hero, college romance. NO OM action; OP drama from girls flirting with Caelyx and Caelyx doing all he can to keep Aspen’s focus on him and not any other potential hookup, of which there were a few possibilities. But that made me laugh. WAY too much info on past hookups for both for me, but, most won’t care. Safe enough for me. Highly recommended, as is the previous story.
My thanks to Gay Romance Reviews for the ARC; this is my free and impartial opinion.
This is a college/NA romance between two guys who are part of the same social circle and work at a coffee shop together. It’s a fun kind of flipped trope with the hot rich playboy who's estranged from his disapproving father and distant mother having become entranced by the prickly scholarship student, a transmasc MC whose home life is loving but overshadowed by his mom’s alcoholism. In a nutshell!
At first I didn’t really feel the chemistry, with Caelyx chasing after Aspen constantly and Aspen seeming pretty indifferent, unimpressed, not interested. That gets to me. I didn’t really feel there was something to root for. They hook up at a big rave party, but Aspen’s one of those “I don’t kiss” hands off hooker-uppers (grumph), and Caelyx is saaaaaad but still completely whipped.
But then the connection develops…and develops…and you can see eager retriever Caelyx wearing down Aspen’s walls and just being so into him without being truly annoying, supportive without overstepping, just…truly adoring Aspen in all his moods and snark and wanting to be with him all the time, but also being okay alone (apart from totally cock-blocking Aspen from dating anyone else LMAO), and his complete acceptance and adoration of Aspen’s body and mind are so right for Aspen that Aspen really doesn’t stand a chance.
This hookup king has completely turned around, having realized Feelings for Aspen last year and stopping partying, hooking up at all, and focusing on studies and turning his life around to try to show Aspen he’s worth his time (but in a way that you realize Caelyx is also gaining self-respect, it isn’t all for Aspen, he just wants to be worthy of him). I enjoyed that so much, and began totally rooting for them!
Caelyx is Ren’s housemate (from the previous book Dire Straights Ren and Maddox’s story) and Aspen is Maddox’s, so they’ve been in each other’s company for game nights and so forth. But when Aspen finally starts opening up to hooking up with Caelyx, Caelyx takes that inch and turns it into a lifetime with his dedication to Aspen’s physical—ahem—and mental well-being. Their physical chemistry is on fire, steamy, and written beautifully (for the most part. Then there’s my Issue…oh gee, what could that have been?!)
Yeah. ALL the mentions of past hookups. Please why. Why. WHYYYYY. I got a lot of ick from that, and this is an incestuous acquaintanceship where it turns out they both hooked up with a few of the same people, one of whom has a cameo and asks about a threesome and I just…No. Blech. I know, it’s a Me issue, but the fact that they talk about how Aspen’s used that strapon for that guy and a whoooole bunch of others…I know it’s the same as a body but I just did not need that in my head.
Mmkay, PSA over. That won’t bother most readers. And I know I just can’t have all my MCs have no past whatsoever (but really? In this big school they had to have f’d the same person? Ew.) ANYway ahem. I will now STFU myself.
Loved the thread with Caelyx’s dad…hard to believe he’d have been that pushy?! That inappropriate with his offer??!! BUT I found it so cute how much he really liked Aspen and approved of them, and if he bumbled…a LOT…trying to repair his relationship with Caelyx, oh well. Billionaire meant well.
The solution with Aspen’s mom also resonated, and even though it all gets to a fairy-tale level of wow that all sure worked out great, hey…it’s a romance. That’s what I’m here for.
HEA, annoyance/no-way-ever to friends to lovers, transmasc hero, bi hero, college romance. NO OM action; OP drama from girls flirting with Caelyx and Caelyx doing all he can to keep Aspen’s focus on him and not any other potential hookup, of which there were a few possibilities. But that made me laugh. WAY too much info on past hookups for both for me, but, most won’t care. Safe enough for me. Highly recommended, as is the previous story.
My thanks to Gay Romance Reviews for the ARC; this is my free and impartial opinion.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Finally! I've been searching all over for more trans representation and I'm so glad I found it! Will definitely be recommending this story to others. To start we have 2 main characters Aspen aka Cupcake and Caelyx. Aspen is our FTM trans who gives off emo vibes but like in the 2000s Emo era where you can walk into any hot topic and hear "King for the day by Pierce the Veil" booming through speakers. If I would have to describe their relationship with a song it would definitely be between "CrushCrushCrush by Paramore" and "The only exception by Paramore" I feel like those 2 songs gives the overall vibes of the story. "The only exception" represent Aspen perfectly and his fear of letting people in. The fear of receiving love and acceptance. Thinking that he's content with being alone because of past traumas,family issues, and events. Until Caelyx arrives in his life someone who isn't afraid to tear down those walls. Giving him everything he never knew he needed or wanted. Which in return gives Aspen the courage to risk everything deeming Caelyx the "Only exception". Also the melody is like a slow soft buildup which helps me correlate with Aspen slowly starting to open up. Caelyx is our golden retriever type energy guy. I feel the song "CrushCrushCrush by Paramore" represent Caelyx fairly well. It has this upbeat rock kinda fun type vibe but if you listen to the lyrics you can feel the chaoticness hidden underneath and the yearning of wanting someone so bad that being friends is no longer satisfying. Your so enamored that if you could you would live in their skin. That I want you, I need you, love me, choose me! Which I think is similar to how Caelyx felt towards Aspen the yearning of wanting to be with him and taking it further but afraid of making a mistake and having Aspen run for the hills. But the overall need to just being in their presence because it brings him much peace and comfort. So we see Caelyx struggling alot internally. This crush he has on Aspen has bloom into something much more then a simple crush it's an indescribable desire with a dash of possession. He's no longer able to continue this friendly flirty banter he wants more he needs more. Not to mention he also discovers sides of him that he never knew existed as well. I really enjoyed reading about these 2 characters and seeing their clumsy but adorable attempts at being the missing pieces for each other. Overall the story was fantastic, the story building was good, friendships were sweet, the spice was nice and plentiful, very minimal to low drama, and I enjoy the other characters as well. I cant wait to see if we will be getting a thruple or maybe even a quadruple in the next story I'm a the more the merrier type person. Oh, I must say 2 background characters I was very intrigued by was Isaak and Cyprian both gave cute dorky sweet energy so I'm looking forward to their stories if we get them fingers crossed. While I did received an advanced copy of this book all thoughts are my own. And I'm leaving this review on my own accord.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received a copy of this book for my honest review.
Oh boy was this book worth the wait. Book 2 in the world of The Boys of BBU and we have Aspen and Caelyx’s story.
Aspen is a trans man juggling school, working as much as he can, and trying to take care of and help his struggling alcoholic mother from afar. He sends money to her, supports her emotionally, and visits her when he can. Something I appreciated about Aspen and his mothers struggles is that she isn’t portrayed as a bad mother even though she struggles with alcohol addiction. He never described her a neglectful or belligerent, only a sick woman who struggles to better herself but lacks the means and support needed to make it happen as a person straddling the poverty line. She is always spoken of in a loving and caring way. It’s a nice change from other alcoholic parent portrayals in many books.
Caelyx is a trust fund baby who’s father cut him off (with limitations) in order to get him to grow up and appreciate what he has and what he need to work for. His housing and school is paid for but Caelyx still needs to work for food/gas/book and such.
Aspen is the black cat to Caelyx’s golden retriever. Watching their relationship grow felt real and organic. As a trans man, Aspen was very closed off to Caelyx’s advances and obvious crush. While not ashamed of his body, he didn’t share it with many and that attributed to the lack of actual relationships that Aspen had. Caelyx is unaware of this, knowing that Aspen does hook up with men, but since he only sees and desires Aspen for the way he is, he doesn’t understand the gravity of the nature of their sexual experiences together till later in the book. Add in the huge wealth and lifestyle divide and Aspen wasn’t in a rich to take Caelyx very seriously.
Caelyx on the other hand was completely smitten with Aspen from the beginning and understood that he needed to play the long game in order to get Aspen into his life seriously. Caelyx’s unabashed affection and love bombing was something that Aspen needed in order to believe the seriousness of Caelix and his advances.
The angst and underlying drama felt like it could happen in real life and the resolution felt like a weight of my chest. I felt the emotion and had tear in my eyes when it all comes out. There is no third act break up and I’m so grateful for that. Not just because a third act break up is usually for a dumb reason, but in this instance I feel like it makes more sense for the characters and their personalities that it doesn’t happen.
I loved Dire Straits, BBU book 1 and I absolutely love this one as well. A really great follow up, individual story, and I’m thankful the friend group grows some while the chemistry of the friendship remains.
Review of advance copy received from Author
🧁 ARC Review 🧁
OKAY so I will be honest and say, I absolutely do no remember applying for this ARC 😅 so when I saw the accepted email come through I was so confused. I read the synopsis and decided “meh why not.”
With that disclaimer out of the way….I absolutely ADORED this read. Since I wasn’t expecting this to show up in my inbox I really didn’t know what to assume going into it and honestly wasn’t expecting to enjoy it as much as I did.
Fine Line follows Aspen, a transmasc very stressed and VERY grumpy college student working to keep his scholarship and support his struggling mother. Then comes Caelyx, Aspen’s annoyingly cheerful rich boy coworker, who is down ASTRONOMICALLY BAD for our emo boy Aspen even though the feelings are no reciprocated…YET. Caelyx is determined to prove the he is BB(best boyfriend) material.
What I truly appreciated throughout this book was the treatment of Aspen and his identity. His identity was incorporated in a way that felt natural and flowed perfectly with the story progression. The author really made it feel like, yupp he’s trans, yupp that is important and matters a lot but it’s chill fr.
AND CAELYX? Absolutely BB material in the way he handles and supports his cupcake. OBVIOUSLY, he cares about making sure Aspen is comfortable but overall, he just treated Aspen as he would any other person no questions asked. Aspen’s identity wasn’t an anomaly or taboo experience for him, and if he fucked up? Then he damn well owns it. BBx1000000.
My ONE complaint keeping it from being a 5 star read was mainly in the handle of Aspen’s mom and her recovery. I feel like this conflict was such a major part of Aspen’s life and the resolution just felt underwhelming at the end. It almost felt as if her story was forgotten about and was shoehorned in at the end.
Besides that, the story was a silly and sweet easy read. I loved all of these chaotic queer gremlins so much. 🌈
OKAY so I will be honest and say, I absolutely do no remember applying for this ARC 😅 so when I saw the accepted email come through I was so confused. I read the synopsis and decided “meh why not.”
With that disclaimer out of the way….I absolutely ADORED this read. Since I wasn’t expecting this to show up in my inbox I really didn’t know what to assume going into it and honestly wasn’t expecting to enjoy it as much as I did.
Fine Line follows Aspen, a transmasc very stressed and VERY grumpy college student working to keep his scholarship and support his struggling mother. Then comes Caelyx, Aspen’s annoyingly cheerful rich boy coworker, who is down ASTRONOMICALLY BAD for our emo boy Aspen even though the feelings are no reciprocated…YET. Caelyx is determined to prove the he is BB(best boyfriend) material.
What I truly appreciated throughout this book was the treatment of Aspen and his identity. His identity was incorporated in a way that felt natural and flowed perfectly with the story progression. The author really made it feel like, yupp he’s trans, yupp that is important and matters a lot but it’s chill fr.
AND CAELYX? Absolutely BB material in the way he handles and supports his cupcake. OBVIOUSLY, he cares about making sure Aspen is comfortable but overall, he just treated Aspen as he would any other person no questions asked. Aspen’s identity wasn’t an anomaly or taboo experience for him, and if he fucked up? Then he damn well owns it. BBx1000000.
My ONE complaint keeping it from being a 5 star read was mainly in the handle of Aspen’s mom and her recovery. I feel like this conflict was such a major part of Aspen’s life and the resolution just felt underwhelming at the end. It almost felt as if her story was forgotten about and was shoehorned in at the end.
Besides that, the story was a silly and sweet easy read. I loved all of these chaotic queer gremlins so much. 🌈
Review of advance copy received from Author
**I was gifted an ARC copy of this book**
This was my first book by this author, and I really enjoyed it! It’s an MM college romance with a trans MC, grumpy/sunshine vibes, and a really fun relationship arc. Caelyx and Aspen start out as coworkers who run in the same friend group, then shift into a FWB situation before eventually becoming boyfriends—and I loved getting to watch that progression develop int he story.
Caelyx is completely gone for Aspen from the start, and the way he pursues him—despite Aspen’s constant annoyance—is honestly so endearing. He has major golden retriever energy and just refuses to give up, and slowly but surely, Aspen’s tough exterior starts to crack. Watching him come to terms with his feelings and open up to Caelyx was one of my favorite parts of the story.
What really stood out to me was how much Caelyx loved Aspen exactly as he is. He loved his emo boy! He was patient, understanding, and always respectful of Aspen’s boundaries, which gives Aspen the space to feel safe in a way he hasn’t before. Seeing that trust build and turn into something deeper was really sweet. I also loved their friend group—the mix of personalities added a lot of charm to the story.
The trans representation was handled thoughtfully, and I appreciated the insight into Aspen’s journey as a trans man. It added meaningful depth to his character and helped explain some of his guardedness, which made his growth throughout the story even more impactful.
The subplot involving Caelyx’s father and Aspen didn’t feel as fully developed as it could have been, but I did like how things ultimately resolved, especially with Aspen’s mom getting the help she needed and Aspen finally being able to breathe a little easier.
Overall, this was such a sweet love story. If you’re into grumpy/sunshine dynamics, low angst, found family, and great banter, this is definitely one to pick up!
This was my first book by this author, and I really enjoyed it! It’s an MM college romance with a trans MC, grumpy/sunshine vibes, and a really fun relationship arc. Caelyx and Aspen start out as coworkers who run in the same friend group, then shift into a FWB situation before eventually becoming boyfriends—and I loved getting to watch that progression develop int he story.
Caelyx is completely gone for Aspen from the start, and the way he pursues him—despite Aspen’s constant annoyance—is honestly so endearing. He has major golden retriever energy and just refuses to give up, and slowly but surely, Aspen’s tough exterior starts to crack. Watching him come to terms with his feelings and open up to Caelyx was one of my favorite parts of the story.
What really stood out to me was how much Caelyx loved Aspen exactly as he is. He loved his emo boy! He was patient, understanding, and always respectful of Aspen’s boundaries, which gives Aspen the space to feel safe in a way he hasn’t before. Seeing that trust build and turn into something deeper was really sweet. I also loved their friend group—the mix of personalities added a lot of charm to the story.
The trans representation was handled thoughtfully, and I appreciated the insight into Aspen’s journey as a trans man. It added meaningful depth to his character and helped explain some of his guardedness, which made his growth throughout the story even more impactful.
The subplot involving Caelyx’s father and Aspen didn’t feel as fully developed as it could have been, but I did like how things ultimately resolved, especially with Aspen’s mom getting the help she needed and Aspen finally being able to breathe a little easier.
Overall, this was such a sweet love story. If you’re into grumpy/sunshine dynamics, low angst, found family, and great banter, this is definitely one to pick up!
May 7, 2026
Fine Line is another great book by L.A. Lambert! I loved the first part in this series, Dire Straights, and part two is no different. The feelings Caelyx has for Aspen really pop off the pages. If everybody had a guy who loves as intensely as Caelyx does, the world would look very different. And Aspen deserves it. This trans man never had anyone love him like that before, with such devotion and acceptance. And even though he dreamt of it, he never seriously expected it to happen to him, especially not from a popular, rich boy like Caelyx. That’s just one of the reasons he wants nothing to do with Caelyx at first. Luckly, Caelyx doesn’t give up so easily—or at all. 😊
I love how in this story, Aspen slowly opens up to Caelyx, giving him more and more of his ‘firsts’. These two are total opposites, but somehow, they fit together perfectly. Aspen suffers from anxiety and panic attacks, and before Caelyx, nobody could help him deal with those. He was on his own in that front. It’s amazing to see how easily Caelyx calms him down, using his words or body. Caelyx fully accepts Aspen and adores him, and I loved the way L.A. Lambert showed that. These characters are absolutely made for each other.
This book was full of exciting surprises, like a sudden road trip in a Porsche to Aspen’s family home, and Caelyx’ father is really something. . . With their genuine moments of connection and acceptance, Aspen and Caelyx warm my heart. There are also unexpected (and very welcome!) kinks and toys in the sex scenes,
In this second part of the series, L.A. Lambert has given us a little glimpse of who the next book could be about. I wonder what we can expect next in this series!
If you haven’t started this series yet, I definitely recommend reading it now! 😄
I love how in this story, Aspen slowly opens up to Caelyx, giving him more and more of his ‘firsts’. These two are total opposites, but somehow, they fit together perfectly. Aspen suffers from anxiety and panic attacks, and before Caelyx, nobody could help him deal with those. He was on his own in that front. It’s amazing to see how easily Caelyx calms him down, using his words or body. Caelyx fully accepts Aspen and adores him, and I loved the way L.A. Lambert showed that. These characters are absolutely made for each other.
This book was full of exciting surprises, like a sudden road trip in a Porsche to Aspen’s family home, and Caelyx’ father is really something. . . With their genuine moments of connection and acceptance, Aspen and Caelyx warm my heart. There are also unexpected (and very welcome!) kinks and toys in the sex scenes,
In this second part of the series, L.A. Lambert has given us a little glimpse of who the next book could be about. I wonder what we can expect next in this series!
If you haven’t started this series yet, I definitely recommend reading it now! 😄
April 28, 2026
This was an interesting book. I had not read book 1 before reading this one but I will now go back and read it.
Caelyx's father is a businessman and a billionaire. Caelyx is a college student doing what college student's do. For that reason his father has cut him off and will not allow him to live off the family riches until he has his degree. Luckily Caelyx has friends that give him a glowing review and he was able to get a job even without ever working before. This is huge for him and very eye opening. However the job gives him more than spending money...
Aspen is a very hard working college student who is on full scholarship but is working to be able to help his mom and his sister. His mom is not healthy and has a lot of issues. But she loves Aspen and for the most part accepts Aspen and the changes they made. Aspen also needs money for their own health issues. Now Caelyx is everywhere Aspen is, they have classes together, they work together, and they have most of the same friends. Aspen gives rides to Caelyx rides to and from work and back to his place so the group of friends can watch movies together. Aspen (and everyone) also knows Caelyx has a huge crush on Aspen but Aspen can think it is real.
Will Caelyx realize things are different between him and Aspen than Aspen and any other person they have been with? Does Aspen decide to open up and let Caelyx in? What happens to Aspen's mom? Does Caelyx know things are not right with his father? Will Caelyx get what he has always wanted?
Great moving story
Caelyx's father is a businessman and a billionaire. Caelyx is a college student doing what college student's do. For that reason his father has cut him off and will not allow him to live off the family riches until he has his degree. Luckily Caelyx has friends that give him a glowing review and he was able to get a job even without ever working before. This is huge for him and very eye opening. However the job gives him more than spending money...
Aspen is a very hard working college student who is on full scholarship but is working to be able to help his mom and his sister. His mom is not healthy and has a lot of issues. But she loves Aspen and for the most part accepts Aspen and the changes they made. Aspen also needs money for their own health issues. Now Caelyx is everywhere Aspen is, they have classes together, they work together, and they have most of the same friends. Aspen gives rides to Caelyx rides to and from work and back to his place so the group of friends can watch movies together. Aspen (and everyone) also knows Caelyx has a huge crush on Aspen but Aspen can think it is real.
Will Caelyx realize things are different between him and Aspen than Aspen and any other person they have been with? Does Aspen decide to open up and let Caelyx in? What happens to Aspen's mom? Does Caelyx know things are not right with his father? Will Caelyx get what he has always wanted?
Great moving story
May 1, 2026
MY OPINION: This is the second book in this series, and it was pretty different than the first. Much less interaction with college life throughout, but we do get a healthy dose of the friend group, which includes Maddox and Ren from book one.
There are a few tropes here, but the overall feeling is grumpy / sunshine. These MCs are unique in their own way, but Caelyx is a typical spoiled rich college kid who had been cut off by his father so he could learn to be independent.
Through his roommates, he met Aspen and became obsessed. Low-key, almost stalker obsessed. After a lot of patience and the fact that they were kind of forced together through the friend group, Aspen finally let him into his orbit. Even hooked up with him. That one hookup grows to be more.
Since Aspen was transgender, there is some dysmorphia and insecurity when it came to more than something casual. The story itself allows us to see the struggles, then the acceptance that you can find when someone likes you, regardless of what you see as your flaws.
Aspen and Caelyx are a fun couple who have plenty of spicy moments. Caelyx has total golden retriever vibes, where Aspen always feels like he wants to stab you in the neck. Together, they are fun. We get to see a lot of interaction with the friend group.
The story is charming with two great guys. We get an inside look at some of the struggles Aspen goes through as a transgender man. What a wonderful love story it turns out to be.
There are a few tropes here, but the overall feeling is grumpy / sunshine. These MCs are unique in their own way, but Caelyx is a typical spoiled rich college kid who had been cut off by his father so he could learn to be independent.
Through his roommates, he met Aspen and became obsessed. Low-key, almost stalker obsessed. After a lot of patience and the fact that they were kind of forced together through the friend group, Aspen finally let him into his orbit. Even hooked up with him. That one hookup grows to be more.
Since Aspen was transgender, there is some dysmorphia and insecurity when it came to more than something casual. The story itself allows us to see the struggles, then the acceptance that you can find when someone likes you, regardless of what you see as your flaws.
Aspen and Caelyx are a fun couple who have plenty of spicy moments. Caelyx has total golden retriever vibes, where Aspen always feels like he wants to stab you in the neck. Together, they are fun. We get to see a lot of interaction with the friend group.
The story is charming with two great guys. We get an inside look at some of the struggles Aspen goes through as a transgender man. What a wonderful love story it turns out to be.
Review of advance copy
A sweet college romance with a hint of billionaire, a trans rep, and a whole lot of black cat and golden retriever vibes.
I've read quite a few books with a trans rep now and I think this book is the most genuine and sensitive that I've read. I absolutely loved how top surgery was just mentioned, then not for ages, then came up again. It was mentioned the same way as a knee surgery and resulting scar may be, and it was so nice to see! This is how it should be - the story of two men falling in love.
This relationship is genuine, really honest, and I adore the open communication. Caelyx is already infatuated with Aspen, when we meet them. He is a sunshiny golden retriever chasing after his grumpy back cat, and both characters are equally interesting and likeable. The angst is very low, focusing on parental stressors, rather than problems between the couple, and the HEA is guaranteed.
Having started the series here, at book two, there were initially quite a few names mentioned with the large friend group that took me a minute to commit to memory. I had worried I'd miss out, having not had the back story behind characters who were already together, however that wasn't the case here. This was genuinely readable as a stand alone and I loved it so much, I'm going back to read book one.
I've read quite a few books with a trans rep now and I think this book is the most genuine and sensitive that I've read. I absolutely loved how top surgery was just mentioned, then not for ages, then came up again. It was mentioned the same way as a knee surgery and resulting scar may be, and it was so nice to see! This is how it should be - the story of two men falling in love.
This relationship is genuine, really honest, and I adore the open communication. Caelyx is already infatuated with Aspen, when we meet them. He is a sunshiny golden retriever chasing after his grumpy back cat, and both characters are equally interesting and likeable. The angst is very low, focusing on parental stressors, rather than problems between the couple, and the HEA is guaranteed.
Having started the series here, at book two, there were initially quite a few names mentioned with the large friend group that took me a minute to commit to memory. I had worried I'd miss out, having not had the back story behind characters who were already together, however that wasn't the case here. This was genuinely readable as a stand alone and I loved it so much, I'm going back to read book one.
May 3, 2026
4.5 stars
This is book two in the author’s Boys of BBU series and features Aspen, a grumpy trans college student and Caelyx, the estranged son of a billionaire. It started off with a new take on the whole “dad tries to buy off the romantic partner” storyline and I have to say, I loved this new version of that plot much better.
While I loved both MCs, I think Caelyx, was my favorite character in the book; he was all sweet and clingy and everything while Aspen was more reserved and stand offish.
Not only was the dad thing new, the way Aspen, as trans, was portrayed was different from the way the few other books on the subject I’ve read were but I still enjoyed it nonetheless.
The entire book was pretty satisfying and a good read. Enough so that it made me want to go back and read Maddox and Ren’s book, Dire Straights, but this can easily be read as a standalone.
This was a solid 4.5 star book for me but, due to rounding up that would require it to be a 5, I have to rate it at 4.25 since it wasn’t quite a 5 star read. I really wish more review sites allowed you to apply fractions in star reviews; I think it would more accurately reflect the way reviewers felt about a book but it is what it is, I guess. Anyway, check it out!
I received a copy of this book for free but am voluntarily leaving a review.
This is book two in the author’s Boys of BBU series and features Aspen, a grumpy trans college student and Caelyx, the estranged son of a billionaire. It started off with a new take on the whole “dad tries to buy off the romantic partner” storyline and I have to say, I loved this new version of that plot much better.
While I loved both MCs, I think Caelyx, was my favorite character in the book; he was all sweet and clingy and everything while Aspen was more reserved and stand offish.
Not only was the dad thing new, the way Aspen, as trans, was portrayed was different from the way the few other books on the subject I’ve read were but I still enjoyed it nonetheless.
The entire book was pretty satisfying and a good read. Enough so that it made me want to go back and read Maddox and Ren’s book, Dire Straights, but this can easily be read as a standalone.
This was a solid 4.5 star book for me but, due to rounding up that would require it to be a 5, I have to rate it at 4.25 since it wasn’t quite a 5 star read. I really wish more review sites allowed you to apply fractions in star reviews; I think it would more accurately reflect the way reviewers felt about a book but it is what it is, I guess. Anyway, check it out!
I received a copy of this book for free but am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 30, 2026
This was such a fun, sweet read and I had the best time with this one.
We already met Aspen and Caelyx in book one, and I love how much Caelyx grew here. He’s still impulsive and flirty, but his feelings for Aspen really push him to be better. And the way he’s completely gone for Aspen? Obsessed. Loyal. All in.
Their dynamic was so good. Aspen is guarded and a little prickly (for very valid reasons), and Caelyx is full sunshine chaos just trying to get a reaction out of him. The banter and back and forth between them was honestly one of my favourite parts.
I loved how their relationship developed. Caelyx being all clingy and soft for Aspen, and Aspen slowly letting his walls down… it just worked. You could really feel the trust building between them.
There’s also a lot more going on under the surface...family struggles, identity, feeling like you’re not enough, and I liked how those heavier moments were balanced with the lighter, fun ones.
And the friend group?? Elite. The found family vibes, the chaos, the banter...I need more of all of them.
Overall, this one had me smiling, laughing, and fully invested. Such a sweet, slightly chaotic romance and I’m already excited for more from this group.
We already met Aspen and Caelyx in book one, and I love how much Caelyx grew here. He’s still impulsive and flirty, but his feelings for Aspen really push him to be better. And the way he’s completely gone for Aspen? Obsessed. Loyal. All in.
Their dynamic was so good. Aspen is guarded and a little prickly (for very valid reasons), and Caelyx is full sunshine chaos just trying to get a reaction out of him. The banter and back and forth between them was honestly one of my favourite parts.
I loved how their relationship developed. Caelyx being all clingy and soft for Aspen, and Aspen slowly letting his walls down… it just worked. You could really feel the trust building between them.
There’s also a lot more going on under the surface...family struggles, identity, feeling like you’re not enough, and I liked how those heavier moments were balanced with the lighter, fun ones.
And the friend group?? Elite. The found family vibes, the chaos, the banter...I need more of all of them.
Overall, this one had me smiling, laughing, and fully invested. Such a sweet, slightly chaotic romance and I’m already excited for more from this group.
May 7, 2026
Opposites Attract Done SO well!
Fine Line, L.A. Lambert
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌶️🌶️🌶️
📔MM, Trans MC, Golden Retriever/Black Cat, Grumpy/Sunshine, College Romance, Rich/Poor, Obsessed MC, Reformed Player MC, Opposites Attract, Found Family, HEA.
I didn’t think L.A. could top Dire Straits, but Fine Line is officially my favorite book of 2026, and locked them in as an instant auto-buy author for me. A genius at writing opposites attract, L.A. took a prickly black cat and gave them one hell of a reformed f*ck boy golden retriever to obsess over them.
Our sunshine, Caelyx, just got kicked to the curb by his billionaire father and is forced to get a job working with our grumpy Aspen at a local coffee shop. Add in college life, forced proximity, and a lovable friend group full of sharp banter, and I was sold!
Watching Caelyx fall in love for the right reasons, and watching Aspen show the cracks to Caelyx was one of the most intimate and genuinely well-written one-sided enemies-to-lovers stories I have ever read. The tension, the vulnerability, the obsession! Consider me SAT for the rest of this series.
(Fine Line is book 2 of Boys of BBU series, can be read as a standalone.)
Fine Line, L.A. Lambert
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌶️🌶️🌶️
📔MM, Trans MC, Golden Retriever/Black Cat, Grumpy/Sunshine, College Romance, Rich/Poor, Obsessed MC, Reformed Player MC, Opposites Attract, Found Family, HEA.
I didn’t think L.A. could top Dire Straits, but Fine Line is officially my favorite book of 2026, and locked them in as an instant auto-buy author for me. A genius at writing opposites attract, L.A. took a prickly black cat and gave them one hell of a reformed f*ck boy golden retriever to obsess over them.
Our sunshine, Caelyx, just got kicked to the curb by his billionaire father and is forced to get a job working with our grumpy Aspen at a local coffee shop. Add in college life, forced proximity, and a lovable friend group full of sharp banter, and I was sold!
Watching Caelyx fall in love for the right reasons, and watching Aspen show the cracks to Caelyx was one of the most intimate and genuinely well-written one-sided enemies-to-lovers stories I have ever read. The tension, the vulnerability, the obsession! Consider me SAT for the rest of this series.
(Fine Line is book 2 of Boys of BBU series, can be read as a standalone.)
April 30, 2026
I’m absolutely enjoying Boys of BBU series so far. For this main couple Aspen with the black cat energy and Caelyx with golden retriever energy. I love the fact that they are very much opposite of each other. One is very open about his emotions and the other is closed off. And I like the fact that they are able to have such a trustworthy friendship/relationship. Because of their intimate relationship. Now for Aspen’s character, I like the fact that he’s able to be comfortable in his body to get what he desires. And that he starts to open up and actually revealed himself more to his friends and his partner. Caelyx is a very open and honest person. I like the fact that he changed and his working and doing things for himself and not relying on his father so much. And that he is able to tell when something is wrong with Aspen. There relationship with their parents approve throughout the story. One of the things that I like the most about this series is the friend group they have. And with that being said, you got to introduce to a new character and then there’s a mystery character. I cannot wait to learn more about them.
April 30, 2026
So many things to like about this story. Caelyx is in the midst of learning a life lesson. His dad has closed the purse and set a challenge for him. Earn a degree and take care of yourself for a while before you come back home. So he is working at the coffee shop and learning some important life lessons while he is there. He is also crushing on his classmate and co-worker Aspen, but Aspen is keeping him at Bay. Aspen is working hard to keep his grades up and Caelyx at arms distance. He has his reasons. Aspen is wary of the rich kid learning a lesson so takes a bit longer to thaw to the thought that something can happen between them. Caelyx is persistent and eventually time and proximity works in his favor. When they do, Aspen comes to realize that there is more to Caelyx than assumed. Things between them evolve into a sweet and spicy courtship. Loved their friend group and how supportive and at times intrusive they were, but in a good way. Hoping to read about more of them
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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