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A New Paradigm #2
Paralyze
This is everything I’ve ever wanted, exactly what I’ve spent the last thirteen years denying myself of, and it’s happening in a filthy alley with the kid I swore I’d never touch.
Carey—twenty-one, flirtatious and sun-kissed, chasing a place that feels like home. His latest bright idea? Fly halfway across the world to a town he hardly remembers, to crash for the holidays with his estranged older brother who he's scarcely seen in the past sixteen years. Only to arrive on his doorstep to find that brother AWOL and the entire contents of his apartment strewn across the front lawn of the apartment building.
Tek—thirty-four, exhausted, and barely holding it together. Deserted by his best friend and business partner, he's left to carry the weight of a tattoo shop in the aftermath of an affair that sent staff numbers from four to one in the space of a single afternoon. He keeps his world small, and his hookups controlled on purpose. Then Carey walks in like a damn storm, making Tek question everything he ever knew about himself. Including why he can't stop thinking about the golden tan of another man's stomach.
Tek turns Carey away but desperation rewards his persistence with a job offer, and boundaries start to blur. Tek knows better. He's spent the last decade with the world at arms length with iron clad rules that he breaks for no one, especially not the sunshine-smiling younger brother of his runaway best friend. But the more Tek resists, the more Carey leans in, and the line between right and wrong starts to look too appealing not to cross.
Abandonment may have brought them together, but loneliness is what keeps them close. And the one thing Tek swore he'd never reach for again might just give him the extra strength he's always needed.
Paralyze is a slow burn, male/male romance full of angst, pining, and a whole lot of tension. It stars a brooding and grumpy tattoo artist with the world on his shoulders, and a surfer boy with a sunshine smile that makes him question everything. This is opposites attract; a true black cat/golden retriever romance at its finest. There are also a backstory of trauma, so please check the TWs.
🛹 Forbidden MM romance - Best friend's younger brother
🛹 Age Gap (21/34)
🛹 Bi awakening
🛹 Grumpy/Sunshine
🛹 Tattoo artist X Surfer boy
🛹 Hurt/Comfort
🛹 Found Family
🛹 Forced proximity
Carey—twenty-one, flirtatious and sun-kissed, chasing a place that feels like home. His latest bright idea? Fly halfway across the world to a town he hardly remembers, to crash for the holidays with his estranged older brother who he's scarcely seen in the past sixteen years. Only to arrive on his doorstep to find that brother AWOL and the entire contents of his apartment strewn across the front lawn of the apartment building.
Tek—thirty-four, exhausted, and barely holding it together. Deserted by his best friend and business partner, he's left to carry the weight of a tattoo shop in the aftermath of an affair that sent staff numbers from four to one in the space of a single afternoon. He keeps his world small, and his hookups controlled on purpose. Then Carey walks in like a damn storm, making Tek question everything he ever knew about himself. Including why he can't stop thinking about the golden tan of another man's stomach.
Tek turns Carey away but desperation rewards his persistence with a job offer, and boundaries start to blur. Tek knows better. He's spent the last decade with the world at arms length with iron clad rules that he breaks for no one, especially not the sunshine-smiling younger brother of his runaway best friend. But the more Tek resists, the more Carey leans in, and the line between right and wrong starts to look too appealing not to cross.
Abandonment may have brought them together, but loneliness is what keeps them close. And the one thing Tek swore he'd never reach for again might just give him the extra strength he's always needed.
Paralyze is a slow burn, male/male romance full of angst, pining, and a whole lot of tension. It stars a brooding and grumpy tattoo artist with the world on his shoulders, and a surfer boy with a sunshine smile that makes him question everything. This is opposites attract; a true black cat/golden retriever romance at its finest. There are also a backstory of trauma, so please check the TWs.
🛹 Forbidden MM romance - Best friend's younger brother
🛹 Age Gap (21/34)
🛹 Bi awakening
🛹 Grumpy/Sunshine
🛹 Tattoo artist X Surfer boy
🛹 Hurt/Comfort
🛹 Found Family
🛹 Forced proximity
486 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 13, 2026
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July 15, 2026
Paralyze is a romance between two lonely men whose lives have become defined by absences. Carey arrives in Washington hoping to reconnect with the older brother he barely knows, only to discover he has disappeared without explanation. Wootek, meanwhile, has spent years constructing a life built almost entirely around responsibility. Their relationship begins because a shared abandonment throws them together. It succeeds because each offers the other what has been missing for years.
The novel's emotional centre belongs to Wootek. His burden extends well beyond keeping the tattoo shop financially afloat after losing three staff members in a single day. As the eldest son in a Korean-American family, he carries deeply ingrained expectations about duty, respect and responsibility that shape almost every aspect of his life. His parents' disappointment over his decision to leave medical school for tattooing has long since settled into an uneasy truce, yet the underlying expectation remains that Wootek should always be dependable, composed and self-sacrificing. His understanding of family is also clearly informed by the Korean concept of Hyo , filial piety, and by jangyuyuseo , the Confucian principle that elders should be afforded deference by virtue of age. Wootek knows he is unhappy, with that unhappiness being the price of fulfilling the expectations placed on him.
Carey immediately disrupts that carefully ordered existence. Their dynamic is often described as grumpy / sunshine, but that shorthand misses what makes it so satisfying. Carey is not merely cheerful, he refuses to accept the structures Wootek has built around himself. He speaks back. He teases him. He ignores instructions. Most significantly, he refuses to believe that respect is something automatically inherited through hierarchy. Wootek repeatedly reminds Carey that he should defer to his elders, while Carey approaches respect as something earned through actions rather than age. Their disagreements therefore become about far more than personality. Carey is inadvertently challenging one of the central assumptions upon which Wootek has organised his entire adult life.
Carey never does this through grand romantic gestures, he simply starts removing burdens. He works the shop’s reception without being asked. He brings Wootek food when work prevents him from eating. He notices the weight Wootek is carrying and quietly begins taking pieces of it away. At the same time, Wootek gives Carey something equally important. Beneath Carey's relentless optimism lies a loneliness the novel hints is considerably darker than he ever allows himself to articulate. Arriving in an almost empty apartment in an unfamiliar town, abandoned by the brother he travelled across the world to see, there are moments where his internal monologue feels uncomfortably adjacent to genuine self-destruction. Asher never fully interrogates those feelings, perhaps because they recede once Carey finds companionship, purpose and eventually family through Wootek. Nevertheless, that quiet sadness gives his sunshine persona unexpected depth.
This reciprocity also explains why the novel's dominant/submissive dynamic works so remarkably well. Rather than existing as an isolated sexual preference, it emerges naturally from characterisation. Wootek has spent years making decisions, solving problems and carrying everyone’s expectations. Submission therefore becomes relief. Outside the bedroom, Carey repeatedly assumes control during moments when Wootek becomes emotionally overwhelmed, offering direct instructions that temporarily free him from the exhausting necessity of remaining composed. Inside the bedroom, that same emotional logic becomes physical. Wootek's submission is the only place where he is finally permitted to stop carrying everything.
The explicit scenes are equally thoughtful. Asher writes Carey as an authoritative, commanding dominant, but his control is grounded less in intimidation than attentiveness. He instinctively recognises when Wootek needs firmness, and when taking control is itself an act of care. The scenes are undeniably erotic, but what makes them memorable is how inseparable they are from character. One of the novel's strongest encounters takes place beneath Wootek's parents' dinner table, where Carey's quietly dismantles Wootek's carefully maintained composure while the conversation above obliquely references their secret relationship to his parents. Another sees Carey refusing to let Wootek erase the visible traces of their climaxes, insisting he sleep still marked by him. Neither scene is memorable purely because of its eroticism. Both dismantle Wootek's instinct to conceal and remain perpetually in control. Even the degradation serves that larger purpose. It does not ask Wootek to become less than he is, it frees him from the expectation that he must always be perfect.
Asher also cleverly subverts many of the assumptions readers may bring to the romance. The older, larger, tattooed business owner initially appears to embody every stereotype associated with dominance, while Carey seems destined to occupy the more submissive role. The novel dismantles those expectations completely. Similarly, the potentially uncomfortable employer-employee dynamic is largely neutralised by Carey's refusal to defer to Wootek's authority in either professional, personal, or sexual contexts. Even their age gap functions less as an internal relationship problem than as another external reason Wootek believes he should deny himself happiness.
The novel's treatment of Wootek's family is similarly nuanced. Neither parent is reduced to stereotype. His omma is deeply loving but intensely concerned with appearances and preserving familial harmony, while his appa initially appears emotionally distant before gradually revealing himself to be far more perceptive than anyone gives him credit for. The novel never presents Korean cultural expectations themselves as solely responsible for Wootek’s unhappiness. Instead, it explores the way Wootek has internalised responsibility to the point of displacing everything else.
The title ultimately proves beautifully chosen. Wootek begins the novel paralysed not simply by grief, but by obligation. He has mistaken responsibility for identity, becoming so accustomed to carrying everything that he no longer knows how to live without the weight. Carey does not rescue him from that life or ask him to abandon the people he loves. He simply becomes the first person to show Wootek that happiness and responsibility can exist alongside each other.
The novel's emotional centre belongs to Wootek. His burden extends well beyond keeping the tattoo shop financially afloat after losing three staff members in a single day. As the eldest son in a Korean-American family, he carries deeply ingrained expectations about duty, respect and responsibility that shape almost every aspect of his life. His parents' disappointment over his decision to leave medical school for tattooing has long since settled into an uneasy truce, yet the underlying expectation remains that Wootek should always be dependable, composed and self-sacrificing. His understanding of family is also clearly informed by the Korean concept of Hyo , filial piety, and by jangyuyuseo , the Confucian principle that elders should be afforded deference by virtue of age. Wootek knows he is unhappy, with that unhappiness being the price of fulfilling the expectations placed on him.
Carey immediately disrupts that carefully ordered existence. Their dynamic is often described as grumpy / sunshine, but that shorthand misses what makes it so satisfying. Carey is not merely cheerful, he refuses to accept the structures Wootek has built around himself. He speaks back. He teases him. He ignores instructions. Most significantly, he refuses to believe that respect is something automatically inherited through hierarchy. Wootek repeatedly reminds Carey that he should defer to his elders, while Carey approaches respect as something earned through actions rather than age. Their disagreements therefore become about far more than personality. Carey is inadvertently challenging one of the central assumptions upon which Wootek has organised his entire adult life.
Carey never does this through grand romantic gestures, he simply starts removing burdens. He works the shop’s reception without being asked. He brings Wootek food when work prevents him from eating. He notices the weight Wootek is carrying and quietly begins taking pieces of it away. At the same time, Wootek gives Carey something equally important. Beneath Carey's relentless optimism lies a loneliness the novel hints is considerably darker than he ever allows himself to articulate. Arriving in an almost empty apartment in an unfamiliar town, abandoned by the brother he travelled across the world to see, there are moments where his internal monologue feels uncomfortably adjacent to genuine self-destruction. Asher never fully interrogates those feelings, perhaps because they recede once Carey finds companionship, purpose and eventually family through Wootek. Nevertheless, that quiet sadness gives his sunshine persona unexpected depth.
This reciprocity also explains why the novel's dominant/submissive dynamic works so remarkably well. Rather than existing as an isolated sexual preference, it emerges naturally from characterisation. Wootek has spent years making decisions, solving problems and carrying everyone’s expectations. Submission therefore becomes relief. Outside the bedroom, Carey repeatedly assumes control during moments when Wootek becomes emotionally overwhelmed, offering direct instructions that temporarily free him from the exhausting necessity of remaining composed. Inside the bedroom, that same emotional logic becomes physical. Wootek's submission is the only place where he is finally permitted to stop carrying everything.
The explicit scenes are equally thoughtful. Asher writes Carey as an authoritative, commanding dominant, but his control is grounded less in intimidation than attentiveness. He instinctively recognises when Wootek needs firmness, and when taking control is itself an act of care. The scenes are undeniably erotic, but what makes them memorable is how inseparable they are from character. One of the novel's strongest encounters takes place beneath Wootek's parents' dinner table, where Carey's quietly dismantles Wootek's carefully maintained composure while the conversation above obliquely references their secret relationship to his parents. Another sees Carey refusing to let Wootek erase the visible traces of their climaxes, insisting he sleep still marked by him. Neither scene is memorable purely because of its eroticism. Both dismantle Wootek's instinct to conceal and remain perpetually in control. Even the degradation serves that larger purpose. It does not ask Wootek to become less than he is, it frees him from the expectation that he must always be perfect.
Asher also cleverly subverts many of the assumptions readers may bring to the romance. The older, larger, tattooed business owner initially appears to embody every stereotype associated with dominance, while Carey seems destined to occupy the more submissive role. The novel dismantles those expectations completely. Similarly, the potentially uncomfortable employer-employee dynamic is largely neutralised by Carey's refusal to defer to Wootek's authority in either professional, personal, or sexual contexts. Even their age gap functions less as an internal relationship problem than as another external reason Wootek believes he should deny himself happiness.
The novel's treatment of Wootek's family is similarly nuanced. Neither parent is reduced to stereotype. His omma is deeply loving but intensely concerned with appearances and preserving familial harmony, while his appa initially appears emotionally distant before gradually revealing himself to be far more perceptive than anyone gives him credit for. The novel never presents Korean cultural expectations themselves as solely responsible for Wootek’s unhappiness. Instead, it explores the way Wootek has internalised responsibility to the point of displacing everything else.
The title ultimately proves beautifully chosen. Wootek begins the novel paralysed not simply by grief, but by obligation. He has mistaken responsibility for identity, becoming so accustomed to carrying everything that he no longer knows how to live without the weight. Carey does not rescue him from that life or ask him to abandon the people he loves. He simply becomes the first person to show Wootek that happiness and responsibility can exist alongside each other.
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July 7, 2026
Wow, this series is definitely something, I can’t even express the range of emotions I went through while reading this. I picked up the first book randomly as an arc because I was intrigued by the premise and I’m so happy it brought this series into my life. The first one was an easy 5 stars and I’m delighted to say that this one is as well (and this year has been very low on 5 star reads for me so this book is a godsend).
This is exactly what I want in a tense, forbidden, emotional read. The characters struggled a lot with their own baggage and their relationship but none of it felt like gratuitous angst for the sake of angst. I actually enjoyed the drama and the way it was resolved was SO satisfying.
This book is spicy as hell and takes its degradation trope extremely seriously - as always, I’d recommend checking the TWs before deciding this is for you. I pretty much read spicy books as a rule so it doesn’t really matter to me how much it’s tied into the plot but I thought I’d mention that this book did that very well. It felt integral to the character development and very necessary. JJ Asher is a great writer.
This book is rough and emotional but really felt like a drop in the ocean after what the first one put me through (and I of course would highly recommend that one, it’s worth the trauma and makes this one even better).
Great series, an easy 5 stars from me. Thank you so much for this arc.
⭐ 5/5
This is exactly what I want in a tense, forbidden, emotional read. The characters struggled a lot with their own baggage and their relationship but none of it felt like gratuitous angst for the sake of angst. I actually enjoyed the drama and the way it was resolved was SO satisfying.
This book is spicy as hell and takes its degradation trope extremely seriously - as always, I’d recommend checking the TWs before deciding this is for you. I pretty much read spicy books as a rule so it doesn’t really matter to me how much it’s tied into the plot but I thought I’d mention that this book did that very well. It felt integral to the character development and very necessary. JJ Asher is a great writer.
This book is rough and emotional but really felt like a drop in the ocean after what the first one put me through (and I of course would highly recommend that one, it’s worth the trauma and makes this one even better).
Great series, an easy 5 stars from me. Thank you so much for this arc.
⭐ 5/5
July 7, 2026
I'm happy to say that this book is already much more fleshed out than the first book in the series. I was immediately able to connect with plot in this one.
I absolutely love these two. Wootek, at 33, is the backbone holding everyone else together while quietly drowning in his own emotional trauma and grief. He never puts himself first, and is just silently always pushing through no matter what. Then, Carey is the 21-year-old who seems carefree but is just searching for his place in the world. Together, they are perfect. I am absolutely living for Carey in a crop top bringing out Wootek's bratty side and dominating him. The degradation and humiliation kink goes hard 🥵
Just one critique, it's that the book felt a little lengthy in the middle. I think the pacing could have been tighter and a few pages trimmed without losing any of the story's impact. That said, I still thoroughly enjoyed the ride, and I already can’t wait until the next book is written for this series.
I absolutely love these two. Wootek, at 33, is the backbone holding everyone else together while quietly drowning in his own emotional trauma and grief. He never puts himself first, and is just silently always pushing through no matter what. Then, Carey is the 21-year-old who seems carefree but is just searching for his place in the world. Together, they are perfect. I am absolutely living for Carey in a crop top bringing out Wootek's bratty side and dominating him. The degradation and humiliation kink goes hard 🥵
Just one critique, it's that the book felt a little lengthy in the middle. I think the pacing could have been tighter and a few pages trimmed without losing any of the story's impact. That said, I still thoroughly enjoyed the ride, and I already can’t wait until the next book is written for this series.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Paralyze — A New Paradigm Book 2 by JJ Asher
Let me just say… I absolutely DEVOURED this book. I finished it and immediately wanted to read it all over again 😂
I adored Paradox and will always have a soft spot for Eden and Jintae, but Tek and Carey completely stole my heart. I am OBSESSED with them.
JJ Asher is seriously underrated. The way she tells a story pulls you into every emotion so effortlessly. I laughed, blushed, swooned, and felt completely consumed by these characters.
Paralyze follows Tek and Carey, the siblings of the two MMCs from Paradox, and somehow this story hit me even harder than book one. Their dynamic was written so beautifully, and I loved that their story unfolded alongside the timeline of Paradox because it made everything feel even more connected and emotional.
Tek’s backstory absolutely broke my heart, which made watching him slowly open up to Carey so meaningful. And Carey… my sweet boy 😭 He had me laughing constantly, but he was also so thoughtful and caring throughout the entire book. I loved how he became a safe place for Tek — someone who could finally help him breathe and let go of the weight he carried.
And the slow burn??? PERFECT. The tension, the buildup, the payoff… JJ Asher did it flawlessly. And the spice? SO good. I was blushing the entire time.
Overall, this was such an incredible read, and I genuinely cannot recommend this series enough.
Please, please go read it. You won’t regret it 🧡
Let me just say… I absolutely DEVOURED this book. I finished it and immediately wanted to read it all over again 😂
I adored Paradox and will always have a soft spot for Eden and Jintae, but Tek and Carey completely stole my heart. I am OBSESSED with them.
JJ Asher is seriously underrated. The way she tells a story pulls you into every emotion so effortlessly. I laughed, blushed, swooned, and felt completely consumed by these characters.
Paralyze follows Tek and Carey, the siblings of the two MMCs from Paradox, and somehow this story hit me even harder than book one. Their dynamic was written so beautifully, and I loved that their story unfolded alongside the timeline of Paradox because it made everything feel even more connected and emotional.
Tek’s backstory absolutely broke my heart, which made watching him slowly open up to Carey so meaningful. And Carey… my sweet boy 😭 He had me laughing constantly, but he was also so thoughtful and caring throughout the entire book. I loved how he became a safe place for Tek — someone who could finally help him breathe and let go of the weight he carried.
And the slow burn??? PERFECT. The tension, the buildup, the payoff… JJ Asher did it flawlessly. And the spice? SO good. I was blushing the entire time.
Overall, this was such an incredible read, and I genuinely cannot recommend this series enough.
Please, please go read it. You won’t regret it 🧡
Review of advance copy received from Author
"I love you so much," he whispers in my ear. "You're my family. You make me complete. You're the exact thing I was searching the whole world for."
I have never read this author before and also, did not read book 1 in the series. However, I requested an ARC of it because I liked the premise/tropes noted and it did not disappoint. I really enjoyed this book and I like Asher's writing. This is definitely a tough story to swallow, as the trauma runs deep for both but I loved seeing Wootek and Carey find their way to each other and Wootek letting his guard down.
I want to go back in read Paradox since it involves both their brother's but I'm nervous as the ratings aren't as good but I need to know how Eden and Jin found each other.
Received an ARC in an exchange for my honest review.
I have never read this author before and also, did not read book 1 in the series. However, I requested an ARC of it because I liked the premise/tropes noted and it did not disappoint. I really enjoyed this book and I like Asher's writing. This is definitely a tough story to swallow, as the trauma runs deep for both but I loved seeing Wootek and Carey find their way to each other and Wootek letting his guard down.
I want to go back in read Paradox since it involves both their brother's but I'm nervous as the ratings aren't as good but I need to know how Eden and Jin found each other.
Received an ARC in an exchange for my honest review.
July 3, 2026
Wootek + Carey
-mm forbidden romance
-best friend's younger brother
-tattoo artist x surfer boy
-forced proximity
-grumpy x sunshine
-hurt/comfort
-found family
-age gap
i absolutely lovedddd this whole story & how it was happening like the WHOLEEE TIMEEE during paradox! haha like both of the besties fucking each others brothers then getting mad about it hahaha great!! but also tek being such a sub?? HALLELUJAH!! it was EVERYTHINGGGG yesss!!
-mm forbidden romance
-best friend's younger brother
-tattoo artist x surfer boy
-forced proximity
-grumpy x sunshine
-hurt/comfort
-found family
-age gap
i absolutely lovedddd this whole story & how it was happening like the WHOLEEE TIMEEE during paradox! haha like both of the besties fucking each others brothers then getting mad about it hahaha great!! but also tek being such a sub?? HALLELUJAH!! it was EVERYTHINGGGG yesss!!
July 14, 2026
In exchange for an Honest review i got to read the ARC of Paralyze by JJ Asher and The author Agency by the author
When Carey flies half the world to live with his brother at his house he gets and underwhelming and the surpice of his life when he finds his brothers Ex-girlfriend and his ex friend that have recently cheated on Careys brother taking all of furniture out of the house leaving it completly empty uncept a futon that he can use with his brother on the run after he got hurt by the cheating ex carey is left on his own to make do with the little left to use after his brother have run away from all comitments he had even leaving his best friend and business partner Tek a Korean man all alone with the Tattoo studio dealing with all the customers he have to rebook and cancel on as Tek tries to pick up the pieces that is left in the wake of his sudden dissapearance, When on a phone call Carey speaks with his brother and he is told to help Tek for him he first does not want to but ends up going there to help out, but Tek arent as willing to have his former best friends little brother as a staff in his tatto studio as he have lost all trust in his former best friend and see Carey as just as bad as his brother making it unpleasant to work with.
This is an Age-gap MM romance about two broken down people that is lost as they have to stand on their own feet to try to find their way after friendships have collapsed and the dust has settled but then forced to work together as feelings that should not be allowed starts to bloom as they navigate life as they try to stable some sense of life back on its feet again even tho the relationship they form is a forbidden one with both having complicated family histories and and trauma in their past.
This is a sad story in many ways but also a story worth reading becuse a second chance story like this one that is beautifully writen with some really amazing spicy scenes that will be hard to forget! Highly recommended!
Lastly I want to say Thank You to JJ Asher and the Author Agency's for letting me read the ARC Version of this book! I read it out of order but will deffently read book one soon!
When Carey flies half the world to live with his brother at his house he gets and underwhelming and the surpice of his life when he finds his brothers Ex-girlfriend and his ex friend that have recently cheated on Careys brother taking all of furniture out of the house leaving it completly empty uncept a futon that he can use with his brother on the run after he got hurt by the cheating ex carey is left on his own to make do with the little left to use after his brother have run away from all comitments he had even leaving his best friend and business partner Tek a Korean man all alone with the Tattoo studio dealing with all the customers he have to rebook and cancel on as Tek tries to pick up the pieces that is left in the wake of his sudden dissapearance, When on a phone call Carey speaks with his brother and he is told to help Tek for him he first does not want to but ends up going there to help out, but Tek arent as willing to have his former best friends little brother as a staff in his tatto studio as he have lost all trust in his former best friend and see Carey as just as bad as his brother making it unpleasant to work with.
This is an Age-gap MM romance about two broken down people that is lost as they have to stand on their own feet to try to find their way after friendships have collapsed and the dust has settled but then forced to work together as feelings that should not be allowed starts to bloom as they navigate life as they try to stable some sense of life back on its feet again even tho the relationship they form is a forbidden one with both having complicated family histories and and trauma in their past.
This is a sad story in many ways but also a story worth reading becuse a second chance story like this one that is beautifully writen with some really amazing spicy scenes that will be hard to forget! Highly recommended!
Lastly I want to say Thank You to JJ Asher and the Author Agency's for letting me read the ARC Version of this book! I read it out of order but will deffently read book one soon!
July 13, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Tek + Carey ❤️
•Tattoo Artist x Surfer
•Best Friend’s Brother
•Grumpy x Sunshine
•Age Gap
•Forced Proximity
•Slow Burn
This book was SO good. I was hooked from the start! I devoured this book!
I loved how the book has the meanings of the Korean words in the beginning. I’m a person who always has to look up what different dialogues in other languages mean and that was so helpful! You could really tell that the author took their time to make sure the readers knew completely what the words and phrases meant.
The dynamic of these two was beautiful. I’m not one for slow burn but this book was a chef’s kiss to slow burn romance. I didn’t feel it dragged on. It completely fit the situation and how Tek was feeling. The push and pull that he had with his feelings for Carey was done amazingly. The slow burn, tension, and the build up of it all was completely worth it. Once they were together , 🥵 🌶️. I loved their dynamic.
Tek’s past had my heart breaking. I did love the flashbacks of everything because it put everything into perspective. Carey was so patient with him throughout the book and I loved that aspect.
JJ Asher is truly so underrated. I cannot express how much I loved this book. I had all the feels and loved how Carey liked to push Tek’s buttons. I HIGHLY recommend this book!
Releases July 13!
Tek + Carey ❤️
•Tattoo Artist x Surfer
•Best Friend’s Brother
•Grumpy x Sunshine
•Age Gap
•Forced Proximity
•Slow Burn
This book was SO good. I was hooked from the start! I devoured this book!
I loved how the book has the meanings of the Korean words in the beginning. I’m a person who always has to look up what different dialogues in other languages mean and that was so helpful! You could really tell that the author took their time to make sure the readers knew completely what the words and phrases meant.
The dynamic of these two was beautiful. I’m not one for slow burn but this book was a chef’s kiss to slow burn romance. I didn’t feel it dragged on. It completely fit the situation and how Tek was feeling. The push and pull that he had with his feelings for Carey was done amazingly. The slow burn, tension, and the build up of it all was completely worth it. Once they were together , 🥵 🌶️. I loved their dynamic.
Tek’s past had my heart breaking. I did love the flashbacks of everything because it put everything into perspective. Carey was so patient with him throughout the book and I loved that aspect.
JJ Asher is truly so underrated. I cannot express how much I loved this book. I had all the feels and loved how Carey liked to push Tek’s buttons. I HIGHLY recommend this book!
Releases July 13!
July 15, 2026
Just like Paradox this book is a best friend's brother romance. Just like the first book the older MC, in this case Tek, is a grump and as Carey says they're "cut from the same cloth". But very clearly as you go through the first few chapters, you see just how different this story and MCs are.
"It’s actually quite entertaining how similar to Eden he is. They’re like two halves of the same brick wall. Or maybe more accurately, it’s like someone took one personality, cracked it down the middle, and poured it into two different bodies."
Carey is only 21 but he knows exactly how to handle Tek. he has his own baggage he tries to keep under wraps. He came to Broadrock because his brother wanted him to visit. He struggles with feeling like he's wanted as a person. From his parents, now his brother and at first Tek. He's travelled and surfed around but never stuck anywhere to make deeper connections. Almost as if he's been searching and unable to find what he needs.
Tek is left to pick up the pieces after his life implodes and he ends up feeling abandoned and alone. His bestie friend and business partner ran away from his problems leaving Tek to deal with the bills, the appointments, the gossip, working himself into the grave to do Eden's appointments on top of his own brother disappearing and not answering his phone.
"He was always there. Always stable when I needed him to be. But the man's a runner, he's just never run away from me before. Though he's never walked in on his girlfriend with another man's dick in her mouth, either, I suppose."
Even thought this is like a forced proximity type thing because of work, it's entirely different than Eden and Jintae who are both isolated in a cabin with no outside distractions or interference. Tek is a "grumpy old man" like Eden but he's better at controlling his emotions and not acting out violently. He also craves giving up control and that's where Carey comes in. Having someone else in control makes Teks mind blank and be in the moment instead of thinking/remembering.
Theres 2 favorite things about Thanksgiving at Teks parents house. First is when they talk about Eden and Jintae both disappearing and Carey makes a joke that ends up to be more true than anyone could've predicted
"It's kind of crazy, huh?" I say scratching my head. "Them both leaving at the same time. It's almost like they ran away together." If a record was playing it would have scratched the second I finished speaking. Two sets of dark eyes glare at me. I wish the floor would open up and swallow me whole. "Shut your fucking mouth."
and the Second is a teeny little continuity that I absolutely loved. It's a detail so small that people might not have caught. Especially since at first I was preoccupied with the "[women aren't supposed to have flat stomach]" part
* Me: I like stomachs. Her: Can't say I've ever met a stomach guy before. Me: I've never been one to follow the crowd. Her: What if mine isn't flat? Me: You're a woman. It's not meant to be.
But then we get to Thanksgiving or Chuseok and we learn that no matter the gender, Tek likes stomach and if they're pierced then ☠️😍
*and this time his shirt rides up so high I see his entire stomach; lean and cut. And just above his navel there's a glint of metal. At first my brain doesn't compute, then— He's got a fucking belly bar.
As the book goes on we see Tek's walls and boundaries melt for Carey. We see Carey being there for Tek and taking care of him in a way no one else has before. They get to a point where Carey doesn't want to be hidden and Tek doesn't want to hide him but doesn't do well with making confrontations or decisions about himself. We see multiple times how Tek thoughts always flash to the "I was so and so did this so [I] wouldn't have to and everyone would know"
Knowing about the scene in Paradox where Carey and Tek show up at the cabin after a phone call with Eden reveals that Jintae has been at the cabin this whole time, makes me find Teks guilt to be silly but I also enjoyed the parallels and differences between Eden and Tek and how they deal with being in love with their best friends brother.
When I got time to sit down and read this book, I got sucked in and read huge chunks in one sitting, unfortunately real life got in the way and I kept having to stop. Carey and Tek never strayed from my mind though. As much as I love a bully romance with more violent enemies to lovers feelings, These two are just so perfect for each other that I definitely enjoyed them the teeniest tiniest bit more.
"It’s actually quite entertaining how similar to Eden he is. They’re like two halves of the same brick wall. Or maybe more accurately, it’s like someone took one personality, cracked it down the middle, and poured it into two different bodies."
Carey is only 21 but he knows exactly how to handle Tek. he has his own baggage he tries to keep under wraps. He came to Broadrock because his brother wanted him to visit. He struggles with feeling like he's wanted as a person. From his parents, now his brother and at first Tek. He's travelled and surfed around but never stuck anywhere to make deeper connections. Almost as if he's been searching and unable to find what he needs.
Tek is left to pick up the pieces after his life implodes and he ends up feeling abandoned and alone. His bestie friend and business partner ran away from his problems leaving Tek to deal with the bills, the appointments, the gossip, working himself into the grave to do Eden's appointments on top of his own brother disappearing and not answering his phone.
"He was always there. Always stable when I needed him to be. But the man's a runner, he's just never run away from me before. Though he's never walked in on his girlfriend with another man's dick in her mouth, either, I suppose."
Even thought this is like a forced proximity type thing because of work, it's entirely different than Eden and Jintae who are both isolated in a cabin with no outside distractions or interference. Tek is a "grumpy old man" like Eden but he's better at controlling his emotions and not acting out violently. He also craves giving up control and that's where Carey comes in. Having someone else in control makes Teks mind blank and be in the moment instead of thinking/remembering.
Theres 2 favorite things about Thanksgiving at Teks parents house. First is when they talk about Eden and Jintae both disappearing and Carey makes a joke that ends up to be more true than anyone could've predicted
"It's kind of crazy, huh?" I say scratching my head. "Them both leaving at the same time. It's almost like they ran away together." If a record was playing it would have scratched the second I finished speaking. Two sets of dark eyes glare at me. I wish the floor would open up and swallow me whole. "Shut your fucking mouth."
and the Second is a teeny little continuity that I absolutely loved. It's a detail so small that people might not have caught. Especially since at first I was preoccupied with the "[women aren't supposed to have flat stomach]" part
* Me: I like stomachs. Her: Can't say I've ever met a stomach guy before. Me: I've never been one to follow the crowd. Her: What if mine isn't flat? Me: You're a woman. It's not meant to be.
But then we get to Thanksgiving or Chuseok and we learn that no matter the gender, Tek likes stomach and if they're pierced then ☠️😍
*and this time his shirt rides up so high I see his entire stomach; lean and cut. And just above his navel there's a glint of metal. At first my brain doesn't compute, then— He's got a fucking belly bar.
As the book goes on we see Tek's walls and boundaries melt for Carey. We see Carey being there for Tek and taking care of him in a way no one else has before. They get to a point where Carey doesn't want to be hidden and Tek doesn't want to hide him but doesn't do well with making confrontations or decisions about himself. We see multiple times how Tek thoughts always flash to the "I was so and so did this so [I] wouldn't have to and everyone would know"
Knowing about the scene in Paradox where Carey and Tek show up at the cabin after a phone call with Eden reveals that Jintae has been at the cabin this whole time, makes me find Teks guilt to be silly but I also enjoyed the parallels and differences between Eden and Tek and how they deal with being in love with their best friends brother.
When I got time to sit down and read this book, I got sucked in and read huge chunks in one sitting, unfortunately real life got in the way and I kept having to stop. Carey and Tek never strayed from my mind though. As much as I love a bully romance with more violent enemies to lovers feelings, These two are just so perfect for each other that I definitely enjoyed them the teeniest tiniest bit more.
July 16, 2026
Paralyze is an emotionally gripping and fulfilling story!
The banter and rising tension literally kept me on my toes. That back and forth between wanting to be the one on top of the dynamic only to have the insecurity slip past your protective walls and have you retreat.
It felt so satisfying and frustrating at the same time in the best ways because it felt real. You as the reader could relate to both sides and that was what brought the ultimate satisfaction to me as a reader. You feel their vulnerability in this new situation, this forbidden attraction. It’s harsh, mean, soft, understanding and wild all at the same time.
Learning to trust not only another person but yourself as well when you come from a difficult background is a battle you have to win step by step. Some days you lose ground and others are hard earned victories.
I appreciated how immersive the whole setting was. A tattoo shop were you get to see the daily routine. You have tattooed, pierced MCs, grumpy vs sunshine, one more serious, the other a bohemian surfer type, age gap, power reversal play/fantasies and a whole lot of new experiences!
Of course I really enjoyed the steamy passion because how can you not with Tek and Carey being such flirts.😮💨 Their dialogues were pure delight and I ate it up like a starved woman.😌
But what truly touched me is the intimate moments, the confessions, the little looks and attentions and man you will be served in that area!
I honestly think Tek and Carey were deeply touching characters and they will stay with me because they made me feel so much. The emotional rollercoaster hit perfectly!
I can wholeheartedly recommend Paralyze!
Thank you J.J. Asher and The Author Agency for this beautiful ARC.🥺💕
The banter and rising tension literally kept me on my toes. That back and forth between wanting to be the one on top of the dynamic only to have the insecurity slip past your protective walls and have you retreat.
It felt so satisfying and frustrating at the same time in the best ways because it felt real. You as the reader could relate to both sides and that was what brought the ultimate satisfaction to me as a reader. You feel their vulnerability in this new situation, this forbidden attraction. It’s harsh, mean, soft, understanding and wild all at the same time.
Learning to trust not only another person but yourself as well when you come from a difficult background is a battle you have to win step by step. Some days you lose ground and others are hard earned victories.
I appreciated how immersive the whole setting was. A tattoo shop were you get to see the daily routine. You have tattooed, pierced MCs, grumpy vs sunshine, one more serious, the other a bohemian surfer type, age gap, power reversal play/fantasies and a whole lot of new experiences!
Of course I really enjoyed the steamy passion because how can you not with Tek and Carey being such flirts.😮💨 Their dialogues were pure delight and I ate it up like a starved woman.😌
But what truly touched me is the intimate moments, the confessions, the little looks and attentions and man you will be served in that area!
I honestly think Tek and Carey were deeply touching characters and they will stay with me because they made me feel so much. The emotional rollercoaster hit perfectly!
I can wholeheartedly recommend Paralyze!
Thank you J.J. Asher and The Author Agency for this beautiful ARC.🥺💕
July 15, 2026
Overall rating
Story ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (this is a borderline 2026 best read for me, I have to give it more thought)
Spice 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Full disclosure, I didn't read Paradox, A New Paradigm book 1, before reading this book. If that book contains any hints about this one, I didn't get them.
I spent the first 30% of this book thinking everyone is awful except for Carey (excluding side characters). Wootek was not a good person in the beginning. You need to accept it and wait for his redemption arc and backstory because they are 100% worth it. But if you have the urge to slam some characters through the book like I did. I'd say that's a natural reaction to reading about deeply flawed characters. There were a couple times I said to myself, "Wootek, if you don't become a better person soon, I'm gonna be real mad at you!" I don't think its a spoiler to say that he does, its just a real long process and he doesn't exactly have a personality change to make that happen either.
Also, this is a SLOW BURN. If you typically DNF a book because the spice doesn't hit by that 30% mark, you either need to have patience or pass on this book. But I'll tell you, once it hits, IT HITS. Whew!!! I wasn't expecting the chemistry between Carey and Wootek to play out the way that it did but I'm here for it.
I loved the character introspection in the story. It is so well written and engaging. You really learn and understand Carey and Wootek’s personality layers. I highlighted so many things that were just beautifully well written but I don't want to spoil any part of the story by sharing them with you.
Please give Paralyze a read. I guarantee it’ll be a top read for the year.
Story ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (this is a borderline 2026 best read for me, I have to give it more thought)
Spice 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Full disclosure, I didn't read Paradox, A New Paradigm book 1, before reading this book. If that book contains any hints about this one, I didn't get them.
I spent the first 30% of this book thinking everyone is awful except for Carey (excluding side characters). Wootek was not a good person in the beginning. You need to accept it and wait for his redemption arc and backstory because they are 100% worth it. But if you have the urge to slam some characters through the book like I did. I'd say that's a natural reaction to reading about deeply flawed characters. There were a couple times I said to myself, "Wootek, if you don't become a better person soon, I'm gonna be real mad at you!" I don't think its a spoiler to say that he does, its just a real long process and he doesn't exactly have a personality change to make that happen either.
Also, this is a SLOW BURN. If you typically DNF a book because the spice doesn't hit by that 30% mark, you either need to have patience or pass on this book. But I'll tell you, once it hits, IT HITS. Whew!!! I wasn't expecting the chemistry between Carey and Wootek to play out the way that it did but I'm here for it.
I loved the character introspection in the story. It is so well written and engaging. You really learn and understand Carey and Wootek’s personality layers. I highlighted so many things that were just beautifully well written but I don't want to spoil any part of the story by sharing them with you.
Please give Paralyze a read. I guarantee it’ll be a top read for the year.
July 14, 2026
Tek and Carey‘s story was the one I anticipated the most this year… Those two are completely different but still so much the same - both hurt, lonely and wounded each in their own ways.
Carey is one of a kind… so is Tek… but much alike me with book 1, apparently there is a „villain“ to hate for me… big time… even if it’s short lived. Tek is such a big a**hole in the beginning… covering up all his hurt and growing affection…Stupid!
I wanted to protect Carey no matter what…. Who knew I didn’t need to bother because he can stand his ground completely on his own… and it is sooo h0t and s3xy!!!!
So, this book made me feel all of it…
I was frustrated like h3ll, crying like a baby not only once or twice… screaming, debating, begging…. Oh and of course faning myself more than once!
Because dang baby it‘s hot!!!
I made it to the other side - to their HEA - into blissful happiness and it’s so rewarding and I feel content.
This book is sad and funny, kinky and lovely, everything and more… All of these guys (clearly also Eden & Jin from book one) have me in a tight hook… I am theirs so completely… YAP - I am totally gone for them 💗💗💗
What did I love most?
The banter between Tek and Carey and all the interactions with Tek‘s friends. Also, seeing Carey jealous was one of the best things I got to see lately. I also love, that I grew very fond of Tek after reading half of the book… I want to squeeze hug all the love into him…
Carey is one of a kind… so is Tek… but much alike me with book 1, apparently there is a „villain“ to hate for me… big time… even if it’s short lived. Tek is such a big a**hole in the beginning… covering up all his hurt and growing affection…Stupid!
I wanted to protect Carey no matter what…. Who knew I didn’t need to bother because he can stand his ground completely on his own… and it is sooo h0t and s3xy!!!!
So, this book made me feel all of it…
I was frustrated like h3ll, crying like a baby not only once or twice… screaming, debating, begging…. Oh and of course faning myself more than once!
Because dang baby it‘s hot!!!
I made it to the other side - to their HEA - into blissful happiness and it’s so rewarding and I feel content.
This book is sad and funny, kinky and lovely, everything and more… All of these guys (clearly also Eden & Jin from book one) have me in a tight hook… I am theirs so completely… YAP - I am totally gone for them 💗💗💗
What did I love most?
The banter between Tek and Carey and all the interactions with Tek‘s friends. Also, seeing Carey jealous was one of the best things I got to see lately. I also love, that I grew very fond of Tek after reading half of the book… I want to squeeze hug all the love into him…
July 13, 2026
✨ ARC Review ✨
This is the fourth book I've read by Asher and each time, they completely blow me away with how raw and real their romances are. These characters are flawed, they are mean, they are selfish, and yet they are truly beautiful 🥹.
Tek & Carey are two lost souls, floating through life wondering where they belong until they ultimately come crashing together. They both have their own difficulties and traumas, and yet they slowly heal one another and give each other the power to WANT to be better, which is such a lovely thing 😍. There are times you'll want to scream at them (looking at you Tek 👀), and definitely rage against the world alongside them. But there's also such sweet, accepting and judgment free moments between these two that'll have you swooning and your heart expanding with every word between them 💯.
This book will also make you want to rage at Eden all over again, and if you haven't read the first book, well here's your reminder because it is 🔥 and definitely sets the scene for Tek and Carey's love.
Ultimately, I love this little found family, and how they all accept one another, even throughout the heartache, the stubbornness, the mean and sometimes cruel actions and words thrown about, and isn't that the beauty of being human? We can be so very flawed, we can do things to keep others away due to walls and traumas and still there will be people who understand, and love us.. you've just got to be patient like Tek & Carey and find that person 💜.
And let me tell you when these two come crashing together? It is 🥵🔥.. I mean it took me places I didn't even think we were going to go, but I happily went along the ride because oh boy! What a journey 😈.
This book had me on lock, the minute I picked it up! It was honestly spectacular and I can't wait to see what else JJ Asher has in store for us 🫶.
This is the fourth book I've read by Asher and each time, they completely blow me away with how raw and real their romances are. These characters are flawed, they are mean, they are selfish, and yet they are truly beautiful 🥹.
Tek & Carey are two lost souls, floating through life wondering where they belong until they ultimately come crashing together. They both have their own difficulties and traumas, and yet they slowly heal one another and give each other the power to WANT to be better, which is such a lovely thing 😍. There are times you'll want to scream at them (looking at you Tek 👀), and definitely rage against the world alongside them. But there's also such sweet, accepting and judgment free moments between these two that'll have you swooning and your heart expanding with every word between them 💯.
This book will also make you want to rage at Eden all over again, and if you haven't read the first book, well here's your reminder because it is 🔥 and definitely sets the scene for Tek and Carey's love.
Ultimately, I love this little found family, and how they all accept one another, even throughout the heartache, the stubbornness, the mean and sometimes cruel actions and words thrown about, and isn't that the beauty of being human? We can be so very flawed, we can do things to keep others away due to walls and traumas and still there will be people who understand, and love us.. you've just got to be patient like Tek & Carey and find that person 💜.
And let me tell you when these two come crashing together? It is 🥵🔥.. I mean it took me places I didn't even think we were going to go, but I happily went along the ride because oh boy! What a journey 😈.
This book had me on lock, the minute I picked it up! It was honestly spectacular and I can't wait to see what else JJ Asher has in store for us 🫶.
July 14, 2026
Choosing to leave the darkness
Wow! I will say I have not read book 1 but I absolutely will. Since the two books happen simultaneously I do not feel like anything is spoiled.
I absolutely love the way Tek and Carey came together. From everything crashing around them they find the light and joy.
I will say I am not usually a fan of slow burn stories but this one really worked. The story built around their past, family drama, and the whole issue of what will Eden think.
Tek's story absolutely broke my heart and it definitely explains all the walls he has built. Casual is safe and doesn't ever put him in a position like that again.
Carey is this sunny guy who came to see his brother only he wasn't there when he arrived. His situation when he arrived was so bleak but he made the most of what he had.
I loved the way Carey took charge when Tek just needed someone to lead. He was so worn down by life and needed to let go.
When they finally broke it was so freaking hot. Seriously the smexy scenes in this are filled with perfect degradation and praise. The begging is perfect and I just wanted more.
The healing for both men is not easy or pretty. It's brutal with more breaking and accepting what they can't control. It's letting someone love you through the dark until you see that light again.
Wow! I will say I have not read book 1 but I absolutely will. Since the two books happen simultaneously I do not feel like anything is spoiled.
I absolutely love the way Tek and Carey came together. From everything crashing around them they find the light and joy.
I will say I am not usually a fan of slow burn stories but this one really worked. The story built around their past, family drama, and the whole issue of what will Eden think.
Tek's story absolutely broke my heart and it definitely explains all the walls he has built. Casual is safe and doesn't ever put him in a position like that again.
Carey is this sunny guy who came to see his brother only he wasn't there when he arrived. His situation when he arrived was so bleak but he made the most of what he had.
I loved the way Carey took charge when Tek just needed someone to lead. He was so worn down by life and needed to let go.
When they finally broke it was so freaking hot. Seriously the smexy scenes in this are filled with perfect degradation and praise. The begging is perfect and I just wanted more.
The healing for both men is not easy or pretty. It's brutal with more breaking and accepting what they can't control. It's letting someone love you through the dark until you see that light again.
July 17, 2026
Awww, my babies. *squeeeee*
Wootek and Carey, where do I begin!? I just adore them so much. Their story had me immediately invested. The slow-burn build-up was perfection. The age-gap and sexual awekening were written so well. These opposites really do attract Carey is this ball of surfer sunshine and Tek is such a grumpy, cloudy tattoo artist, but they are just perfect together. I loved their dynamic so much. The banter had me laughing out loud and kicking my feet. The tension and yearning had me on the edge-of-my-seat. Their story is emotional and heartwarming.
I haven't read book one Paradox. From what I understand, it runs parallel to this story, and I can't wait to dive back into this world and read Jintae and Eden's whole story. This world and these characters are amazing and so easy to love. I can't wait for more by JJ Asher.
Tropes:
Opposites attract
Grumpy + Sunshine
Forbidden love
Slow-burn
Workplace
Bi-awakening
Forced proximity
Found Family
Hurt/Comfort
Kink
Age-gap 21/34
Brother's best friend
Dual POV
Check TW
Thank you, TAA and JJ Asher, for the opportunity to read this book.
Wootek and Carey, where do I begin!? I just adore them so much. Their story had me immediately invested. The slow-burn build-up was perfection. The age-gap and sexual awekening were written so well. These opposites really do attract Carey is this ball of surfer sunshine and Tek is such a grumpy, cloudy tattoo artist, but they are just perfect together. I loved their dynamic so much. The banter had me laughing out loud and kicking my feet. The tension and yearning had me on the edge-of-my-seat. Their story is emotional and heartwarming.
I haven't read book one Paradox. From what I understand, it runs parallel to this story, and I can't wait to dive back into this world and read Jintae and Eden's whole story. This world and these characters are amazing and so easy to love. I can't wait for more by JJ Asher.
Tropes:
Opposites attract
Grumpy + Sunshine
Forbidden love
Slow-burn
Workplace
Bi-awakening
Forced proximity
Found Family
Hurt/Comfort
Kink
Age-gap 21/34
Brother's best friend
Dual POV
Check TW
Thank you, TAA and JJ Asher, for the opportunity to read this book.
July 13, 2026
I absolutely inhaled this one... Carey and Tek will have my heart FOREVERRR. Eden and Jin will always have the coziest little nook in my heart, but these two completely and utterly stole the show for me. quietly begging the book gods to erase my mind just so I can experience this one all over again!!
first of all - Carey is my spirit animal personified. this man does. not. QUIT. and I LOVEEE IT!! there is not a single mean bone in this ball of sunshines body. he's bright, endlessly optimistic, and somehow manages to be absolutely perfect all of the time. I will fight people over him - I do not care…
and then there's Tek... sweet baby Tek. every glimpse into his past made me want to sob. he deserves the world, and Carey grabbed the earth, the stars, the whole damn universe to show him that he could have it - that he deserved happiness.
the slow burn had me PACINGGG but it was so unbelievably worth it. the banter? perfect. their dynamic? everythinggg. and don't even get me started on the spice because I myself was gagged... the degradation kink?!?! NEED I SAY MORE?! I truly don't know what JJ put in this book but I am itching for more of these two in every way possible.
I also have a personal vendetta against Shawna, but Anaise + Liv - literal angels!!
seeing everyone find their place with one another made my heart so unbelievably happy. I am SO seated for book 3 in this series and cannot wait to see more of these guys.
first of all - Carey is my spirit animal personified. this man does. not. QUIT. and I LOVEEE IT!! there is not a single mean bone in this ball of sunshines body. he's bright, endlessly optimistic, and somehow manages to be absolutely perfect all of the time. I will fight people over him - I do not care…
and then there's Tek... sweet baby Tek. every glimpse into his past made me want to sob. he deserves the world, and Carey grabbed the earth, the stars, the whole damn universe to show him that he could have it - that he deserved happiness.
the slow burn had me PACINGGG but it was so unbelievably worth it. the banter? perfect. their dynamic? everythinggg. and don't even get me started on the spice because I myself was gagged... the degradation kink?!?! NEED I SAY MORE?! I truly don't know what JJ put in this book but I am itching for more of these two in every way possible.
I also have a personal vendetta against Shawna, but Anaise + Liv - literal angels!!
seeing everyone find their place with one another made my heart so unbelievably happy. I am SO seated for book 3 in this series and cannot wait to see more of these guys.
July 11, 2026
This was a smash hit in every possible way. Wootek and Carey had the most amazing tension. I loved that Carey didn’t back down whenever Tek was being, let’s say uncooperative, and the way he pushed back at his attitude whenever it popped up (which was frequently). Tek bringing Carey to his parents’ house for holidays was honestly so cute and oftentimes extra hot. The spice in this was extremely spicy and there was a surprising bit of d€gr@d@t¡0n play at work that I was LIVING FOR. It was fun to get more context about how terrible of a human being Shawn is from the first book and Brooklynn was also horrible. Austin, Anaise, and Liv were amazing and I loved what they brought to the story. Tek had a really horrible thing happen in his past and it was so beautiful to see him healing from that after all that time. I didn’t think I could love a couple more than Jintae and Eden, but I fear they’ve been replaced. This was absolutely amazing and I can’t wait to see who book three is about.
July 11, 2026
Rating ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Tek is in the middle of a break up that has nothing to do with him. His best friend and business partner partners life blew up and he left town. Leaving Tek to clean up the mess. He is exhausted overwhelmed and over it.
Then Carey shows up, his brother. He shows up and helps,even when Tek is being a d!ck. tek soon realizes he is attracted to Care and he has no idea what to do about it.
Carey expected to hang with his brother but his brother disappeared and left him hanging. He might as well help at the shop. Tek is a surprise and soon Carey wants to take care of him. And to his surprise he knows exactly what Tek needs, and Tek seems to need it just as much and Carey wants to give it. But will Carey be Tek’s secret? And how will they tell his brother?
#paralyze #jjasherauthor #risareads221reviews
Tek is in the middle of a break up that has nothing to do with him. His best friend and business partner partners life blew up and he left town. Leaving Tek to clean up the mess. He is exhausted overwhelmed and over it.
Then Carey shows up, his brother. He shows up and helps,even when Tek is being a d!ck. tek soon realizes he is attracted to Care and he has no idea what to do about it.
Carey expected to hang with his brother but his brother disappeared and left him hanging. He might as well help at the shop. Tek is a surprise and soon Carey wants to take care of him. And to his surprise he knows exactly what Tek needs, and Tek seems to need it just as much and Carey wants to give it. But will Carey be Tek’s secret? And how will they tell his brother?
#paralyze #jjasherauthor #risareads221reviews
July 13, 2026
A Joyfully Jay review.
3.75 stars
Paralyze is a contemporary, age-gap, get-together story, featuring a grumpy older character (Tek) and a sunshine-y younger one (Carey). The story incorporates a lot of heavy themes, including family conflict, found family, betrayal, emotional abandonment, and PTSD. One of the central drivers of conflict in the story is how Tek was and is sublimating his American-raised identity to the expectations of his Korean-raised parents and it’s exacerbated by Tek’s little brother’s disappearing act. And once Tek and Carey begin building their relationship, a whole different world of sexual exploration shown through the lens of sexual power dynamics starts to take center stage. An interesting mix, to be sure.
If you like opposites attract stories and especially ones where the big, broody partner is the submissive sex kitten in bed, then by all means, jump in.
Read Camille’s review in its entirety here.
3.75 stars
Paralyze is a contemporary, age-gap, get-together story, featuring a grumpy older character (Tek) and a sunshine-y younger one (Carey). The story incorporates a lot of heavy themes, including family conflict, found family, betrayal, emotional abandonment, and PTSD. One of the central drivers of conflict in the story is how Tek was and is sublimating his American-raised identity to the expectations of his Korean-raised parents and it’s exacerbated by Tek’s little brother’s disappearing act. And once Tek and Carey begin building their relationship, a whole different world of sexual exploration shown through the lens of sexual power dynamics starts to take center stage. An interesting mix, to be sure.
If you like opposites attract stories and especially ones where the big, broody partner is the submissive sex kitten in bed, then by all means, jump in.
Read Camille’s review in its entirety here.
July 14, 2026
This is a new author to me. And let me tell you, this hit the ground running for me. Both Tek and Carey were so well written. A depth that that made them feel relatable and you just couldn’t help but love them. Two men really going through the wringer, finding comfort and love in one another when it was the last thing either of them were looking for. They were literally just trying to get through life. This story pulled me in and kept me turning the pages. I was completely obsessed with these two, and can’t wait to read more from Asher..
July 16, 2026
5000 stars no notes 🙌🙌
July 20, 2026
Review of advanced reader copy
Wow this was emotional I laughed, cried and completely fell in love with Tek and Carey they were everything. The dynamic between the two was
Tek’s story broke my heart the way he started slowly opening up to Carey and the degradation hottt.
Carey was everything he was so sweet, funny thoughtful and caring how he helped Tek start living again and gave him a safety he had never had even when he was going through his own issues.
This was my first read by J J and definitely not my last Paradox here I come.
Wow this was emotional I laughed, cried and completely fell in love with Tek and Carey they were everything. The dynamic between the two was
Tek’s story broke my heart the way he started slowly opening up to Carey and the degradation hottt.
Carey was everything he was so sweet, funny thoughtful and caring how he helped Tek start living again and gave him a safety he had never had even when he was going through his own issues.
This was my first read by J J and definitely not my last Paradox here I come.
July 7, 2026
***ARC Review***
“I’m the snow that’s been falling all week, and he’s the sunshine trying to break through.”
Paralyze is an mm “best friends brother” romance novel by JJ Asher. It follows Tek, a 34 year old tattoo artist with a traumatic past, and his best friends brother, Carey. Carey is 21 years old and has recently come back to his hometown.
It is implied that Paralyze takes place in the same time frame as book 1 which I have not read due to some of the content warnings.
This book was so good! You could really feel Tek’s internal conflict throughout. The emotions were written so beautifully and felt so real coming off the page. I loved that the two MCs had such different personalities. The writing was superb.
And do yourself a favor, download the bonus epilogue at the end!
“I’m the snow that’s been falling all week, and he’s the sunshine trying to break through.”
Paralyze is an mm “best friends brother” romance novel by JJ Asher. It follows Tek, a 34 year old tattoo artist with a traumatic past, and his best friends brother, Carey. Carey is 21 years old and has recently come back to his hometown.
It is implied that Paralyze takes place in the same time frame as book 1 which I have not read due to some of the content warnings.
This book was so good! You could really feel Tek’s internal conflict throughout. The emotions were written so beautifully and felt so real coming off the page. I loved that the two MCs had such different personalities. The writing was superb.
And do yourself a favor, download the bonus epilogue at the end!
July 26, 2026
DNF page 272/482 (57%).
In the nicest way possible, boredom doesn't even begin to cover how I feel.
I had this on my "want to read" for last 2 months now? Ever since I saw the author post on Facebook the tropes and stuff.
But this? This was boring. It's such a drag and it's not living up to my expectations.
Oh and Tek, I get he's upset cos his pregnant girlfriend died 13 years ago but he's a miserable asshole. His character just somehow makes Carey seem a little annoying at the same time.
In the nicest way possible, boredom doesn't even begin to cover how I feel.
I had this on my "want to read" for last 2 months now? Ever since I saw the author post on Facebook the tropes and stuff.
But this? This was boring. It's such a drag and it's not living up to my expectations.
Oh and Tek, I get he's upset cos his pregnant girlfriend died 13 years ago but he's a miserable asshole. His character just somehow makes Carey seem a little annoying at the same time.
August 7, 2026
God this was amazing. This author knows how to write brooding, pining, hot and highly intense stories. You can literally feel it in your heart every time.
Tek and Carey, my two sweet babies SUFFERED sm because of guilt!! 🥹 Carey is Tek's best friend little brother but above all that they're lovers.
Carey basically travels halfway across the world to spend the holidays with his estranged older brother whom he barely knows anymore tbh. Except when he gets there… BOOM his brother is fucking gone. 😭 His apartment has practically been emptied out and Carey is left stranded with nowhere to really go. MY SHAYLAAA 😭
Well Tek isn't any better. He is having the WORST fucking week imaginable. his best friend (who happens to be Carey’s older brother) and business partner has disappeared after his life gets fucked up.. leaving Tek to deal with the aftermath at their tattoo shop. That boy is exhausted, grieving, angry and basically running the entire business by himself yall. I wanted to kill Eden for leaving Tek behind alone to carry all this.
Tek knows exactly who Carey is okay? his best friend's MUCH younger brother. So Carey is OFF LIMITS. Huh.. except Carey is this bratty sunshine who basically looks at Tek's miserable existence and is like my guy you need help. Tek's immediate answer is no but Carey's like too bad bitch you're going to get it anywayzzz. 💀
And they eventually end up working at the tattoo shop, which means they're suddenly around each other ALL THE FUCKING TIME.
I'm obsessed with these boys and I love this author's writing sm! I think tension is definitely her thing and she does it so perfectly in every story of hers. I loved every second of this book. And now I wait for the next one. 😭
▪︎
Heads up: Paralyze is book 2 in this series and as a story it runs alongside the events of Paradox (book 1 which is Eden’s story) so you also get another perspective on what was happening in the first book. And tbh i highly recommend reading these books in order.
▪︎
What to expect:
🎨 Small town
🎨 Forced proximity
🎨 Boss x employee
🎨 Grumpy x sunshine
🎨 Age gap (13 years)
🎨 Tek desperately trying to avoid his attraction for Carey
Tek and Carey, my two sweet babies SUFFERED sm because of guilt!! 🥹 Carey is Tek's best friend little brother but above all that they're lovers.
Carey basically travels halfway across the world to spend the holidays with his estranged older brother whom he barely knows anymore tbh. Except when he gets there… BOOM his brother is fucking gone. 😭 His apartment has practically been emptied out and Carey is left stranded with nowhere to really go. MY SHAYLAAA 😭
Well Tek isn't any better. He is having the WORST fucking week imaginable. his best friend (who happens to be Carey’s older brother) and business partner has disappeared after his life gets fucked up.. leaving Tek to deal with the aftermath at their tattoo shop. That boy is exhausted, grieving, angry and basically running the entire business by himself yall. I wanted to kill Eden for leaving Tek behind alone to carry all this.
Tek knows exactly who Carey is okay? his best friend's MUCH younger brother. So Carey is OFF LIMITS. Huh.. except Carey is this bratty sunshine who basically looks at Tek's miserable existence and is like my guy you need help. Tek's immediate answer is no but Carey's like too bad bitch you're going to get it anywayzzz. 💀
And they eventually end up working at the tattoo shop, which means they're suddenly around each other ALL THE FUCKING TIME.
I'm obsessed with these boys and I love this author's writing sm! I think tension is definitely her thing and she does it so perfectly in every story of hers. I loved every second of this book. And now I wait for the next one. 😭
▪︎
Heads up: Paralyze is book 2 in this series and as a story it runs alongside the events of Paradox (book 1 which is Eden’s story) so you also get another perspective on what was happening in the first book. And tbh i highly recommend reading these books in order.
▪︎
What to expect:
🎨 Small town
🎨 Forced proximity
🎨 Boss x employee
🎨 Grumpy x sunshine
🎨 Age gap (13 years)
🎨 Tek desperately trying to avoid his attraction for Carey
July 15, 2026
This one completely wrecked me in the best way. This book is about love, loss, trauma, and guilt, and it does not hold back on any of it.
Tek is running a tattoo shop alone after his best friend Eden loses it and disappears, leaving behind a mess nobody asked for. Tek is already carrying so much: the guilt of losing his girlfriend years ago, an unsupportive family, and now a missing brother on top of it all. He's tough on the outside but so tired underneath.
Then Carrey, Eden's younger brother, shows up to help. Carrey's had a rough life too, mostly on his own since he was a teenager, and he just wants a place to belong. Watching him slowly become the person Tek didn't know he needed was so satisfying. I loved how Tek, who's so strong and guarded everywhere else, lets himself be soft and open with Carrey. It felt earned, not rushed.
The side characters (Liv, Anaise, Austin) added so much warmth and humor to balance out the heavier stuff.
And the spice? Fire, no notes.
If you love emotionally heavy MM romance with a grumpy/soft dynamic and a found-family feel, this one's for you.
Tek is running a tattoo shop alone after his best friend Eden loses it and disappears, leaving behind a mess nobody asked for. Tek is already carrying so much: the guilt of losing his girlfriend years ago, an unsupportive family, and now a missing brother on top of it all. He's tough on the outside but so tired underneath.
Then Carrey, Eden's younger brother, shows up to help. Carrey's had a rough life too, mostly on his own since he was a teenager, and he just wants a place to belong. Watching him slowly become the person Tek didn't know he needed was so satisfying. I loved how Tek, who's so strong and guarded everywhere else, lets himself be soft and open with Carrey. It felt earned, not rushed.
The side characters (Liv, Anaise, Austin) added so much warmth and humor to balance out the heavier stuff.
And the spice? Fire, no notes.
If you love emotionally heavy MM romance with a grumpy/soft dynamic and a found-family feel, this one's for you.
July 14, 2026
This is my first time reading this author’s work and I was not disappointed.
MM romance is my weakness and this had everything age gap, grumpy/sunshine, cultural differences, best friends little brother, bi awakening.
What made this book for me was the switch up in having the younger MMC being the dominant character and the level of humiliation he put his partner through and he willing he took it, no needed it.
This wasn’t just a story of falling for his best friend’s little brother this was finding acceptance from family and friends, embracing their feelings, healing and understanding. When Tek’s dad told him he was proud of him, that hit the emotions 🥹🥹
MM romance is my weakness and this had everything age gap, grumpy/sunshine, cultural differences, best friends little brother, bi awakening.
What made this book for me was the switch up in having the younger MMC being the dominant character and the level of humiliation he put his partner through and he willing he took it, no needed it.
This wasn’t just a story of falling for his best friend’s little brother this was finding acceptance from family and friends, embracing their feelings, healing and understanding. When Tek’s dad told him he was proud of him, that hit the emotions 🥹🥹
July 22, 2026
this was definitely better than the first one
July 14, 2026
enjoyed this so much! i loved their dynamic. i think i prefer this over the first one
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