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San Francisco Sex Gods #2
Brighter Than The Sun
402 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 12, 2026
About the author
Kit Erikson
6 books22 followersCelebrating love between men with sweet and steamy stories where true love wins in the end!
Begin reading for free! Subscribe to my newsletter for your copy of “The Icing On The Cake…And Each Other”: https://kiterikson.com/free-story/
Although Kit’s been writing stories since he was a teenager, it wasn’t until 2020 that he stumbled upon the world of M/M romance. Obsessed with the love story between David and Patrick on Schitt’s Creek, he longed to experience more stories about relatable men in healthy, loving, same-sex relationships. Imagine his delight when he discovered that M/M romance is a thriving niche!
Kit loves crafting sexy, funny, and heart-warming stories about men that feel like they could be your best friends (or boyfriends). His debut novel "Better Than Sex" won a silver medal for LGBT Fiction in the 2024 Global Book Awards.
He’s a tailor by trade – and yes, someday he will write a romance about a tailor – and lives in Portland, Oregon. When he’s not reading or writing, he’s watching scary movies, putting together miniature kits, or listening to episodes of The Why Files on YouTube while he sews.
Begin reading for free! Subscribe to my newsletter for your copy of “The Icing On The Cake…And Each Other”: https://kiterikson.com/free-story/
Although Kit’s been writing stories since he was a teenager, it wasn’t until 2020 that he stumbled upon the world of M/M romance. Obsessed with the love story between David and Patrick on Schitt’s Creek, he longed to experience more stories about relatable men in healthy, loving, same-sex relationships. Imagine his delight when he discovered that M/M romance is a thriving niche!
Kit loves crafting sexy, funny, and heart-warming stories about men that feel like they could be your best friends (or boyfriends). His debut novel "Better Than Sex" won a silver medal for LGBT Fiction in the 2024 Global Book Awards.
He’s a tailor by trade – and yes, someday he will write a romance about a tailor – and lives in Portland, Oregon. When he’s not reading or writing, he’s watching scary movies, putting together miniature kits, or listening to episodes of The Why Files on YouTube while he sews.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
June 18, 2026
Brighter Than the Sun by Kit Erikson is a steamy, big-hearted MM romance about Blake Larsen, a performer with a lifelong dream of being seen as more than a body, and Ethan, a business student and diner server who’s still figuring out how to trust his own wants. Blake’s childhood declaration, “I’m going to be a star!” sets the emotional tone for the book. This is a story about ambition, sex work, queer community, and the messy process of building something real with someone who scares you in all the right ways.
Blake is the book’s brightest presence, but he’s written with enough insecurity and weariness to keep him from feeling untouchable. He dances, cams, takes adult work seriously, sews costumes, cares for his friends, and dreams of opening a club where performance can be art, celebration, and livelihood all at once. His dyslexia is also woven into the story with care, especially in how it shapes his relationship with reading, texting, and business ownership without making it his whole personality.
Ethan brings a different kind of tension to the romance. He’s drawn to Blake from the start, but his comfort zone is much smaller than Blake’s world. Watching him move from curiosity to desire to fear to something steadier gives the relationship a satisfying push and pull. The book doesn’t rush past the discomfort that comes from shame, family expectations, and assumptions about sex work. Instead, it lets Ethan stumble, learn, and choose Blake with more honesty each time.
The club storyline gives the romance a strong backbone. The transformation from The Firehouse into Siren makes the book feel like it’s about a whole community, not just one couple. Friends, dancers, performers, bartenders, and chosen family all help create the sense that Blake’s dream is bigger than one spotlight. By the time the group cheers “Siren!” together, the word feels earned, like a promise they’ve all decided to keep.
This is an explicit, affectionate romance with plenty of heat, humor, and backstage chaos, but what lingers most is its belief in being seen clearly. Blake wants applause for his talent, Ethan wants a life that actually fits him, and together they build a space where desire and dignity can exist in the same room. Brighter Than the Sun is tender and full of people trying their best to become braver than they were yesterday.
Blake is the book’s brightest presence, but he’s written with enough insecurity and weariness to keep him from feeling untouchable. He dances, cams, takes adult work seriously, sews costumes, cares for his friends, and dreams of opening a club where performance can be art, celebration, and livelihood all at once. His dyslexia is also woven into the story with care, especially in how it shapes his relationship with reading, texting, and business ownership without making it his whole personality.
Ethan brings a different kind of tension to the romance. He’s drawn to Blake from the start, but his comfort zone is much smaller than Blake’s world. Watching him move from curiosity to desire to fear to something steadier gives the relationship a satisfying push and pull. The book doesn’t rush past the discomfort that comes from shame, family expectations, and assumptions about sex work. Instead, it lets Ethan stumble, learn, and choose Blake with more honesty each time.
The club storyline gives the romance a strong backbone. The transformation from The Firehouse into Siren makes the book feel like it’s about a whole community, not just one couple. Friends, dancers, performers, bartenders, and chosen family all help create the sense that Blake’s dream is bigger than one spotlight. By the time the group cheers “Siren!” together, the word feels earned, like a promise they’ve all decided to keep.
This is an explicit, affectionate romance with plenty of heat, humor, and backstage chaos, but what lingers most is its belief in being seen clearly. Blake wants applause for his talent, Ethan wants a life that actually fits him, and together they build a space where desire and dignity can exist in the same room. Brighter Than the Sun is tender and full of people trying their best to become braver than they were yesterday.
May 16, 2026
BEAUTIFUL, POETIC AND POIGNANTLY SWEET!💕
Gah I am still wiping away the tears as I write about these two amazing characters created by the talented Kit Erikson!
“I’m going to be like Rihanna. I’m going to be a star!”
We get a deeper insight into of one of the San Fransisco Sex Gods and Zander’s bestie- Exotic dancer, bartender and porn star- Blake Larson aka Dick Locum…
A Sunday brunch at their local Sunday hangout The Hayday Diner changed Blake Larson’s life for the better when he crossed paths with one of their waiters- business student Ethan Whett…
“I’m not like you. You’re so smart. You shine.”
“Oh, Blake. You shine. You shine brighter than the sun.”
These two just gripped me from the beginning of their relationship as they saw so much in each other below the surface and it resonated so much with them that it influenced their perspective on how they navigated a fragile friendship, omitted truths that lead to being business partners, lovers, friends and then each other’s perfect person!
“Don’t mention it. Sex gods stick together. I’m here for you, whatever it takes.”
The support of their respective friends who became their found family of dancers and sex gods was so beautifully depicted with emotional and funny moments that will forever linger…
“For a moment, he was that little boy in his mother’s living room again, dancing barefoot in pajamas, dreaming of bright lights and adoration.”
The culmination of Blake’s dream was so poignant and beautiful but be forewarned- have tissues at the ready- their HEA is hard earned and be prepared it’s going to be a bumpy ride!
I voluntarily received an ARC from GRR for an honest non biased review.
Gah I am still wiping away the tears as I write about these two amazing characters created by the talented Kit Erikson!
“I’m going to be like Rihanna. I’m going to be a star!”
We get a deeper insight into of one of the San Fransisco Sex Gods and Zander’s bestie- Exotic dancer, bartender and porn star- Blake Larson aka Dick Locum…
A Sunday brunch at their local Sunday hangout The Hayday Diner changed Blake Larson’s life for the better when he crossed paths with one of their waiters- business student Ethan Whett…
“I’m not like you. You’re so smart. You shine.”
“Oh, Blake. You shine. You shine brighter than the sun.”
These two just gripped me from the beginning of their relationship as they saw so much in each other below the surface and it resonated so much with them that it influenced their perspective on how they navigated a fragile friendship, omitted truths that lead to being business partners, lovers, friends and then each other’s perfect person!
“Don’t mention it. Sex gods stick together. I’m here for you, whatever it takes.”
The support of their respective friends who became their found family of dancers and sex gods was so beautifully depicted with emotional and funny moments that will forever linger…
“For a moment, he was that little boy in his mother’s living room again, dancing barefoot in pajamas, dreaming of bright lights and adoration.”
The culmination of Blake’s dream was so poignant and beautiful but be forewarned- have tissues at the ready- their HEA is hard earned and be prepared it’s going to be a bumpy ride!
I voluntarily received an ARC from GRR for an honest non biased review.
Review of advance copy
This book is #2 in a series, but you don't have to read the first book to understand the story. In fact, in some ways this felt like a complete standalone with some appearances by other characters from book 1. That's not a bad thing.
Blake's backstory was of the adult entertainment variety. Having done porn and strip, Blake has a plethora of experience with sexual pleasure. But he was missing love and authenticity of it, and he didn't realize it until he met Ethan.
Ethan built his life around pleasing his dad. With the pleasure to "not be that kind of gay", he isolated his life away from promiscuity and anything that reflects that, including porn. So when he meets Blake, he knows he is attractive. What he doesn't know is that Blake's body has been used for the very things Ethan's dad warned him about.
Secrets, lies and discovery in more than one way are themes in this story. Plus some great additional supporting characters that I am hoping to get books of their own (looking at you Zane & Tenny). I couldn't put this book down. The time lapse were perfect, and the ending was brilliant. I can't wait to go back to this world.
I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
Blake's backstory was of the adult entertainment variety. Having done porn and strip, Blake has a plethora of experience with sexual pleasure. But he was missing love and authenticity of it, and he didn't realize it until he met Ethan.
Ethan built his life around pleasing his dad. With the pleasure to "not be that kind of gay", he isolated his life away from promiscuity and anything that reflects that, including porn. So when he meets Blake, he knows he is attractive. What he doesn't know is that Blake's body has been used for the very things Ethan's dad warned him about.
Secrets, lies and discovery in more than one way are themes in this story. Plus some great additional supporting characters that I am hoping to get books of their own (looking at you Zane & Tenny). I couldn't put this book down. The time lapse were perfect, and the ending was brilliant. I can't wait to go back to this world.
I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received an ARC copy via the author and I’m voluntarily leaving this review. I’d written a review in 01/05/26 but it seems to have disappeared into the ether. However, lucky me, I’d scribbled down a few notes on a pad so make of them what you will below.
There were a several very memorable moments in ‘Brighter Than The Sun’ a big bonus was the way Blake’s friends and fellow performers rallied round to support him in achieving his dream, as well as comforting him when Ethan stepped back from their relationship.
Another bittersweet moment was the discovery of a photograph provided by a relative of two young Firefighters from 1906, who may be the ghost upstairs at The Firehouse, who, on occasion scares the bejaysus out of Blake.
I was surprised that I ended up liking this story so much, because I was a bit iffy in the beginning given the description of the intimate performances between the guys at The Firehouse. It didn’t seem conducive to maintaining a real romantic relationship outside their job. But author manages to keep a very strong, warm family feeling between Blake and his friends outside of their performance characters, and what a great bunch of guys, showing up when they were really needed.
It took Blake’s friend Xander and Zane, Ethan’s friend to give Ethan the kick in the pants that he needed to shift his a**e and go get his man, before someone else did.
I cried at the surprise finale which I did not see coming.
There were a several very memorable moments in ‘Brighter Than The Sun’ a big bonus was the way Blake’s friends and fellow performers rallied round to support him in achieving his dream, as well as comforting him when Ethan stepped back from their relationship.
Another bittersweet moment was the discovery of a photograph provided by a relative of two young Firefighters from 1906, who may be the ghost upstairs at The Firehouse, who, on occasion scares the bejaysus out of Blake.
I was surprised that I ended up liking this story so much, because I was a bit iffy in the beginning given the description of the intimate performances between the guys at The Firehouse. It didn’t seem conducive to maintaining a real romantic relationship outside their job. But author manages to keep a very strong, warm family feeling between Blake and his friends outside of their performance characters, and what a great bunch of guys, showing up when they were really needed.
It took Blake’s friend Xander and Zane, Ethan’s friend to give Ethan the kick in the pants that he needed to shift his a**e and go get his man, before someone else did.
I cried at the surprise finale which I did not see coming.
Review of advance copy
If you haven't read book 1 in the series, don't worry about it, because you really don't need the background. This book had a bit of an unconventional plot structure as they had more of a second act breakup than a third one, and then they spent most of the third act sort of slowly moving back together. It was a different reading experience than the usual, so it stood out to me. I really liked the character of Blake, the famous porn star who is realizing that he's wanting something deeper. However I found it a little tough to connect to Ethan. I wasn't crazy about how much he was willing to subvert his own life and dreams and desires to chase a relationship with his withholding father. And then the resolution to the issues with his father just happened really fast in the third act and it didn't quite feel realistic. Overall, I did really enjoy this story, but I feel like it could have maybe been served by some tightening up of the storylines.
***
I was provided with an ARC from Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest review.
***
I was provided with an ARC from Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest review.
May 16, 2026
Review of ARC received from the author.
This was a really lovely story. Sweet and steamy, with a plot that really worked. There was so much more to this than Ethan and Blake's romance - not that the romance was not wonderful, just that everything else was also wonderful. Blake is just the sweetest guy, with ambitions to be a star (like Rhianna). He becomes an adult entertainer under the name Dirk Slocum and... well, he enjoys that life. For a while. Then his dance club is on the verge of closing down, but he wants to buy it. Only he needs some business help. Enter business student Ethan, who is a lot more sedate than Blake. There is a lot to deal with, from getting The Firehouse (Blake's club) preserved historically to Ethan figuring out he can't be who his father wants, he has to be himself, and the two of them falling in love. Oh, and the sweet moments about the romance of two firefighters in the past who couldn't be themselves but might be the ghosts Blake hears in the club. The spice is also delicious. Wonderful!
This was a really lovely story. Sweet and steamy, with a plot that really worked. There was so much more to this than Ethan and Blake's romance - not that the romance was not wonderful, just that everything else was also wonderful. Blake is just the sweetest guy, with ambitions to be a star (like Rhianna). He becomes an adult entertainer under the name Dirk Slocum and... well, he enjoys that life. For a while. Then his dance club is on the verge of closing down, but he wants to buy it. Only he needs some business help. Enter business student Ethan, who is a lot more sedate than Blake. There is a lot to deal with, from getting The Firehouse (Blake's club) preserved historically to Ethan figuring out he can't be who his father wants, he has to be himself, and the two of them falling in love. Oh, and the sweet moments about the romance of two firefighters in the past who couldn't be themselves but might be the ghosts Blake hears in the club. The spice is also delicious. Wonderful!
May 26, 2026
Brighter Than The Sun was such a lovely read. Sweet, steamy, emotional, and surprisingly layered.
Blake and Ethan were wonderful together. Blake has spent years working in adult entertainment and being desired physically, but never really feeling truly loved or seen. Ethan, meanwhile, has spent most of his life trying to fit into the version of “acceptable” his father expected from him. Watching both of them slowly break down those walls and fall for each other was really beautifully done.
I loved how much depth there was outside of the romance too. The Firehouse club felt so alive, and the historical subplot surrounding the two firefighters added such a bittersweet touch to the story.
Their chemistry was fantastic, but it was the softer moments and emotional growth that really made this stand out for me. Blake was such a sweetheart underneath all the confidence, and Ethan’s journey toward accepting himself felt genuine and heartfelt.
This worked really well as a standalone, and now I definitely want more books in this world — especially for Zane and Tenny.
Blake and Ethan were wonderful together. Blake has spent years working in adult entertainment and being desired physically, but never really feeling truly loved or seen. Ethan, meanwhile, has spent most of his life trying to fit into the version of “acceptable” his father expected from him. Watching both of them slowly break down those walls and fall for each other was really beautifully done.
I loved how much depth there was outside of the romance too. The Firehouse club felt so alive, and the historical subplot surrounding the two firefighters added such a bittersweet touch to the story.
Their chemistry was fantastic, but it was the softer moments and emotional growth that really made this stand out for me. Blake was such a sweetheart underneath all the confidence, and Ethan’s journey toward accepting himself felt genuine and heartfelt.
This worked really well as a standalone, and now I definitely want more books in this world — especially for Zane and Tenny.
Review of advance copy
Loved this charming story of a porn star and a student finding each other, and all the relevant challenges -- Blake's exotic dancing, his insecurity about his "stupidity", Ethan's troubled relationship with his father, and his anti-porn conditioning to be "respectable" -- they face as potential boyfriends and business partners. I'm glad this book was so long, as I could spend more time with them, and their growing relationship could develop in what felt like realistic fashion. I wish I could visit the burlesque club described in the book! It sounds like lots of fun.
I found this a much better read than the first book in the series, and you don't need to know anything beyond "Blake has a group of friends who get together for brunch weekly and talk about sex." There's no fake angst, but believable challenges that develop and resolve naturally with communication and growth. (I received a free digital ARC for review.)
I found this a much better read than the first book in the series, and you don't need to know anything beyond "Blake has a group of friends who get together for brunch weekly and talk about sex." There's no fake angst, but believable challenges that develop and resolve naturally with communication and growth. (I received a free digital ARC for review.)
Review of advance copy received from Author
I absolutely loved the second book in this series. Blake and Ethan are well-developed characters—far from perfect—and you find yourself feeling moved, suffering, and loving alongside them. If, like me, you have a soft spot for stories about opposites attracting, Blake and Ethan are a wonderful example of that. I love seeing Blake and Ethan grow in their relationship and their plans; their story is full of obstacles and has its share of bumps, but they learn from them, and love always wins in the end!
I love the world the author has created, this group of friends called the “Gods of Sex” who get together for lunch every Sunday morning. I can’t wait to read the next book
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J'ai adoré le deuxième tome de cette série. Blake et Ethan sont bien écrits, loin d'être parfait, on s'émeut, on souffre et on aime avec eux. Si comme moi vous avez un gros faible pour les histoires d'opposés qui s'attirent: Blake et Ethan en sont un magnifique exemple. J'aime voir Blake et Ethan évoluer dans leur relation et dans leur projet, leur histoire est semé d'embûches et connaît quelques cahots, mais ils apprenent et l'amour gagne toujours !
J'aime l'univers créé par l'auteur, ce groupe d'ami qui se nomme "Dieux du sexe" et qui se retrouve autour d'un lunch tous les dimanche matins. J'ai hâte découvrir le prochain tome !
I received an advance copy, and this is my honest review.
I love the world the author has created, this group of friends called the “Gods of Sex” who get together for lunch every Sunday morning. I can’t wait to read the next book
----
J'ai adoré le deuxième tome de cette série. Blake et Ethan sont bien écrits, loin d'être parfait, on s'émeut, on souffre et on aime avec eux. Si comme moi vous avez un gros faible pour les histoires d'opposés qui s'attirent: Blake et Ethan en sont un magnifique exemple. J'aime voir Blake et Ethan évoluer dans leur relation et dans leur projet, leur histoire est semé d'embûches et connaît quelques cahots, mais ils apprenent et l'amour gagne toujours !
J'aime l'univers créé par l'auteur, ce groupe d'ami qui se nomme "Dieux du sexe" et qui se retrouve autour d'un lunch tous les dimanche matins. J'ai hâte découvrir le prochain tome !
I received an advance copy, and this is my honest review.
May 18, 2026
Secrets and lies
I enjoyed the first book and was looking forward to this one, but it just didn't resonate with me in the same way. I loved Blake before and I liked Ethan here and they did make a good couple, but the secret Blake kept was massive, especially in the context of the story and Ethan's upbringing.
There's nothing wrong with sex work, no shame, but at the very least, any potential partner should be able to make up their own mind if that's something they are comfortable with. Blake keeping that from Ethan was not right and was especially hypocritical of him, considering his attitude about Ethan lying to his father. It soured the story for me, not least because of how long he kept his secrets too.
I also wanted Ethan to grow a backbone and get out from under his father's controlling influence, although it was a bit of a damp squib when it did finally happen, over so quickly you'd miss it if you blinked.
I'm hoping that Xander is next and his story is better.
I enjoyed the first book and was looking forward to this one, but it just didn't resonate with me in the same way. I loved Blake before and I liked Ethan here and they did make a good couple, but the secret Blake kept was massive, especially in the context of the story and Ethan's upbringing.
There's nothing wrong with sex work, no shame, but at the very least, any potential partner should be able to make up their own mind if that's something they are comfortable with. Blake keeping that from Ethan was not right and was especially hypocritical of him, considering his attitude about Ethan lying to his father. It soured the story for me, not least because of how long he kept his secrets too.
I also wanted Ethan to grow a backbone and get out from under his father's controlling influence, although it was a bit of a damp squib when it did finally happen, over so quickly you'd miss it if you blinked.
I'm hoping that Xander is next and his story is better.
May 18, 2026
I absolutely adored book 1 in this series, so I was excited to get to this book, and it didn't disappoint one bit. Kit Erikson just has a way of writing that's fun and easy to read with characters that are so cute and lovable and a story that kept me entertained from beginning to end.
Blake and Ethan are such amazingly written characters with so much emotional depth that had me turning pages eagerly rooting for their HEA. Their opposite personalities just worked so well together. They gave me all the butterflies with how cute and hot they were together. Their story was pretty low angst, and I liked how their relationship developed.
San Francisco Sex Gods Book 2 can ve read as a standalone.
Tropes:
Opposites attract
Found Family
Boy next door + Porn Star
Size difference
Spicy
Dual 3rd person POV
Check TW
Thank you, GRR and Kit Erikson, for the opportunity to read this book.
Blake and Ethan are such amazingly written characters with so much emotional depth that had me turning pages eagerly rooting for their HEA. Their opposite personalities just worked so well together. They gave me all the butterflies with how cute and hot they were together. Their story was pretty low angst, and I liked how their relationship developed.
San Francisco Sex Gods Book 2 can ve read as a standalone.
Tropes:
Opposites attract
Found Family
Boy next door + Porn Star
Size difference
Spicy
Dual 3rd person POV
Check TW
Thank you, GRR and Kit Erikson, for the opportunity to read this book.
June 2, 2026
I've always enjoyed romance stories where two characters come together while trying to save or start a business/restaurant/farm/dream, etc. and fall in love in the process. So I was really looking forward to this story, and love the dynamic between the sexy character and the brainy character. I loved Blake from his very first chapter dancing for his mom as a kid. Ending up a porn star and dancing at a club wasn't the dream he had as a kid, but I did like his new one as an adult to open his own burlesque club. I thought he was so sweet. I liked Ethan, who was Blake's opposite, but just as hardworking. Both men had their insecurities, and both had their confidences raised by the other over the course of the story. This was a more emotional read than I expected and I was completely hooked.
I also loved the supporting characters- especially from Blake's side, and it was fun seeing him interacting with a number of them, especially in the earlier scenes. 5 stars
I also loved the supporting characters- especially from Blake's side, and it was fun seeing him interacting with a number of them, especially in the earlier scenes. 5 stars
May 18, 2026
Yanked the Heart Strings
I’ve read other work by the author and this newest book did not disappoint. Standalone but characters from other stories were sprinkled here and there. High heat, amazing chemistry between the mc’s. Really enjoyed the ebb and flow in their relationship. Sometimes I can get annoyed with the “I want you/I can’t have you” but this played out in a believable way, as Ethan struggled to accept himself and his relationship with his family as well as reconciling his feelings for Blake. The setting for the story added nuance that enhanced the plot/character development. The revamp of the club, fighting for historical designation vs modernized gloss. The quirky characters, found family, establishing community all contributed to the warmth of a satisfying HEA. An easy read, but plenty of depth.
I’ve read other work by the author and this newest book did not disappoint. Standalone but characters from other stories were sprinkled here and there. High heat, amazing chemistry between the mc’s. Really enjoyed the ebb and flow in their relationship. Sometimes I can get annoyed with the “I want you/I can’t have you” but this played out in a believable way, as Ethan struggled to accept himself and his relationship with his family as well as reconciling his feelings for Blake. The setting for the story added nuance that enhanced the plot/character development. The revamp of the club, fighting for historical designation vs modernized gloss. The quirky characters, found family, establishing community all contributed to the warmth of a satisfying HEA. An easy read, but plenty of depth.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This is a story about a porn star (Blake) who meets a guy he really really likes (Ethan) and decides to quit filming so he can open a burlesque club instead. Enjoyed this a lot.
Lots and lots of spice, plenty of found family, and an on again/off again romance (because Ehtan doesn't find out about Blake's real job until they've been dating awhile – and Ethan is NOT happy about it). There's plenty of 'real' family too – both of them having issues with their fathers.
The non-romance part of the plot revolves around setting up and opening the club, and that's pretty interesting. The romance involves Ethan finally seeing his way to accepting and understanding Blake for who he is and deciding that's what he wants.
Lots and lots of spice, plenty of found family, and an on again/off again romance (because Ehtan doesn't find out about Blake's real job until they've been dating awhile – and Ethan is NOT happy about it). There's plenty of 'real' family too – both of them having issues with their fathers.
The non-romance part of the plot revolves around setting up and opening the club, and that's pretty interesting. The romance involves Ethan finally seeing his way to accepting and understanding Blake for who he is and deciding that's what he wants.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book completely surprised me in the best way. Beneath the glamour, performances, and spice, this was such a heartfelt story about learning to believe you deserve to be loved for who you truly are.
Blake and Ethan balanced each other so well. Blake spends so much of the story convinced people only see the surface of him, while Ethan is quietly struggling with expectations from his family and the future they want for him. Watching them slowly become a safe place for each other felt really natural and emotional.
I also loved the found family atmosphere around The Firehouse and Blake’s determination to protect something that meant so much to him. The romance itself was sweet, supportive, and genuinely tender alongside the steamier moments.
A really lovely opposites-attract romance with plenty of heart and two characters who deserved their happy ending.
I received a free arc copy and this is my honest review
Blake and Ethan balanced each other so well. Blake spends so much of the story convinced people only see the surface of him, while Ethan is quietly struggling with expectations from his family and the future they want for him. Watching them slowly become a safe place for each other felt really natural and emotional.
I also loved the found family atmosphere around The Firehouse and Blake’s determination to protect something that meant so much to him. The romance itself was sweet, supportive, and genuinely tender alongside the steamier moments.
A really lovely opposites-attract romance with plenty of heart and two characters who deserved their happy ending.
I received a free arc copy and this is my honest review
May 14, 2026
Brighter Than the Sun by Kit Erickson is book 2 in the San Francisco Sex Gods series. While I liked this book better than book 1, it still did not click with me. Ethan and Blake were sweet and I liked their relationship up until the porn revelation. I thought it was ironic that Blake was upset that Ethan lied to his dad when he was hiding this huge secret. I didn’t like how long Blake hid it. It seemed a little unfair for Ethan to not be able to make an informed decision. His dad was a dick, and it did annoy me how Ethan put him on a pedestal. I don’t know. It just left me wanting more. I just don’t think this is the series for me.
I received an ARC from GRR for my honest review.
I received an ARC from GRR for my honest review.
May 18, 2026
Normally I don't like sex workers in books, because I have a hard time believing that porn and prostitution don't diminish people, but I tried to leave my prejudices aside and ended enjoying the tale.
Ethan parents are the real evil in this book, his devalues his dreams, and tells him again and again how he is living wrong, to me that's one of the most hurtfuls things to do to a son.
Thanks to Blake, Ethan is able to break free of his family's expectations and starts to live on his own terms.
Blake is very strong, he really finds his groove and builds something amazing based on his dreams.
Together they are unstoppable.
This was a new author for me and I really enjoyed his writing.
I recommend It!
Ethan parents are the real evil in this book, his devalues his dreams, and tells him again and again how he is living wrong, to me that's one of the most hurtfuls things to do to a son.
Thanks to Blake, Ethan is able to break free of his family's expectations and starts to live on his own terms.
Blake is very strong, he really finds his groove and builds something amazing based on his dreams.
Together they are unstoppable.
This was a new author for me and I really enjoyed his writing.
I recommend It!
Review of advance copy received from Author
💝Kit Erikson has done it. I wasn't familiar with his books yet, but this book ensures he goes on my list of favorite authors.
What a beautiful love story. Blake and Ethan are made for each other.
Blake is insecure about who he is. Although he is not ashamed of his profession, he doubts that he deserves someone who puts him first and accepts him for who he is.
Ethan holds back who he is because he wants to please his father.
Fortunately, after some ups and downs, they come together and can both be who they are.
Fully and completely themselves.
💞Thank you to the Author for the opportunity to read and review this ARC💖
What a beautiful love story. Blake and Ethan are made for each other.
Blake is insecure about who he is. Although he is not ashamed of his profession, he doubts that he deserves someone who puts him first and accepts him for who he is.
Ethan holds back who he is because he wants to please his father.
Fortunately, after some ups and downs, they come together and can both be who they are.
Fully and completely themselves.
💞Thank you to the Author for the opportunity to read and review this ARC💖
May 9, 2026
I enjoyed reading the story development between Blake and Ethan. I would be lying if I said I didn’t get upset or want to stop reading but that was because the author did such a great job of building those emotions and developing the characters, flaws and all!
I went through a range of emotions as I read through this. But one thing that was consistent was the love I felt throughout the book from just about all the characters.
This was also the perfect level of spice. It didn’t take away from the story, it felt like it added to the story and was placed just right.
I recommend adding this to your TBR.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I went through a range of emotions as I read through this. But one thing that was consistent was the love I felt throughout the book from just about all the characters.
This was also the perfect level of spice. It didn’t take away from the story, it felt like it added to the story and was placed just right.
I recommend adding this to your TBR.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 13, 2026
Book two in this series raised the game for me. I loved it. As part of the San Francisco Sex Gid series I was hooked from page one. Blake the bartender also has secret life as exotic dancer (Dirk). When the club he works is threatened he decides to buy and run it despite having no clue about running a business. That is where business student Ethan comes in. Of course Ethan likes slow romance with lots of cuddles which is not Blake’s style. These two opposites are perfect as Blake worries about the impact of his secret being discovered. Perfect blend of romance and spice and boys overcoming secrets to find love.
May 14, 2026
This is a wonderful story featuring the “Sex Gods” and many other characters you will fall in love with. Blake Larsen/Dirk Slocum is an exotic dancer/porn star/ bartender at the Firehouse. His dream was to be a pop star when he grew up. Ethan Whet is a waiter at the Heyday diner and business student. They meet at the diner the Sex Gods have brunch at on Sundays. Ethan doesn’t know what Blake does and Blake is afraid to tell him everything. When the manager of the Firehouse decides to retire Blake wants to take over. This is a love story with plenty of ups, downs, insecurities and found family. Highly recommend.
May 21, 2026
Adventure! Blake, works as an exotic dancer and hides behind the shield of being a bartender. He works at The Firehouse and wants to save the business by taking it over. Ethan, is a business student who wants to help Blake with his business while helping Blake with his personal life. Both men, are dragging heavy weights of not owning their truths and take on new opportunities, new lifestyle which calls for openness, honesty, flexibility and owning needs of self and an openness to new lifestyles. Hot cover art, good story, excellent character development, nicely done! I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
4,25 stars
This was such a heartwarming story about finding and loving yourself. There’s a strong theme of family and found family.
Blake is an adult entertainer, Ethan has been taught to be a right kind of gay. The two have insane attraction but life isn’t easy when people around you tell you how you should be perceived.
Blake and Ethan help each other find themselves, and come to terms with what they assume are misgivings. Blake feels he’s dumb, and Ethan feels physically too normal and boring.
I really hope we get Xander’s book next, since he needs some love.
This was such a heartwarming story about finding and loving yourself. There’s a strong theme of family and found family.
Blake is an adult entertainer, Ethan has been taught to be a right kind of gay. The two have insane attraction but life isn’t easy when people around you tell you how you should be perceived.
Blake and Ethan help each other find themselves, and come to terms with what they assume are misgivings. Blake feels he’s dumb, and Ethan feels physically too normal and boring.
I really hope we get Xander’s book next, since he needs some love.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Brighter Than The Sun is about Blake and Ethan. Blake has career in adult entertainment as a stripper and porn star, Ethan is a student who works at restaurant. They meet at the restaurant where Ethan is working, Ethan doesn't know at firsts what Blake do.
This was a very good story, I liked how they work together. I loved their found family.
This is the second book of the San Francisco Sex Gods series, but can read as a standalone. I haven't read the first one but I enjoyed this.
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I received an ARC of this book, and this is my honest review.
This was a very good story, I liked how they work together. I loved their found family.
This is the second book of the San Francisco Sex Gods series, but can read as a standalone. I haven't read the first one but I enjoyed this.
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I received an ARC of this book, and this is my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I LOVED Ethan and Blake’s story! Even more than the first book.
This was such a great story of acceptance. Loving yourself. Wanting more for yourself and going for it. Having someone on your corner to support and love you.
Blake is in the adult entertainment industry and Ethan works in The diner where he and his friends have brunch every week. Sparks immediately fly.
What I love the most about this is how soft and sweet and vulnerable these guys are with each other. I can’t wait til the next book.
Spice is 3🌶️🥵🥵
This was such a great story of acceptance. Loving yourself. Wanting more for yourself and going for it. Having someone on your corner to support and love you.
Blake is in the adult entertainment industry and Ethan works in The diner where he and his friends have brunch every week. Sparks immediately fly.
What I love the most about this is how soft and sweet and vulnerable these guys are with each other. I can’t wait til the next book.
Spice is 3🌶️🥵🥵
May 14, 2026
This was a really interesting story. Here we have Blake, the famous porn star, and Ethan, the waiter/ student, these two are so cute together. It's like oil and water but it works. Obviously, a lot of the story goes how one would expect with the innocent Ethan struggling with his boyfriends career but a good percentage of the story focused on the start up of Blake's new night club which I found to be really fascinating. The writing was really descriptive so you can visualize a lot of the coreo that these artists are doing.
Funnily enough, this book feels almost like a spin off from the s3x gods series since we spent so little time with them in book 2.
Overall, this book is for anyone who likes raunchy and sweet stories.
Funnily enough, this book feels almost like a spin off from the s3x gods series since we spent so little time with them in book 2.
Overall, this book is for anyone who likes raunchy and sweet stories.
May 12, 2026
3.5 stars. I loved Blake. He was just the sweetest character and I loved seeing him get his HEA. Ethan frustrated me, probably because I’m older and don’t worry much about what other people think about me or my decisions anymore. And I loved Blake so it made me mad when Ethan hurt him, haha. When there are lots of moving parts in a book, I tend to get overwhelmed, so I struggled a bit with the depth that this book went into. Overall, it really was a good story between the two main characters. Low angst, medium heat, HEA.
This is my honest review of an advanced reader copy.
This is my honest review of an advanced reader copy.
May 13, 2026
Blake is a dancer fired from his adult film job unjustly. Ethan works at a diner with a gay history while attending college and writing. When Ethan serves Blake, he boldly gives him his number. But Blake keeps his vocations from Ethan as they date, knowing Ethan does not believe in promiscuous encounters. Ethan is innocent and it's going to hurt - you can see it coming. The angst is going to hit hard with a relationship being built on lies of omission. Well written, very emotional, very stressful when it's all Blake has ever known. I received a copy of this and this is my voluntary opinion.
May 16, 2026
Blake knows how to perform. He has been at it most of his life. He knows how to go after what he wants with energy and sizzle. As he works to save the Firehouse, the club that he performs at, he is working with Ethan, a waiter and business student who is helping him with the business part of his plans. These two live very different lives and the journey to one another does not come without bumps and bruises. Still it is good when they are able to work their way through those complications to find the love that they each wanted.
I received an ARC from GRR and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received an ARC from GRR and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 13, 2026
Blake and Ethan both needed so much from the opposite direction. For me I was instantly all in for Blake our dancer to find that real intimacy and love connection he has been missing. I wanted all the love happiness for Ethan as well, but his wavering and family worries put a big wedge in their blossoming relationship. I was completely invested to see these two find themselves with the help of each other. And some true friends.
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