What do you think?
Off Sides
Blurb coming soon....Jonah and Calvin
- GenresM M Romance
Unknown Binding
About the author
Nicole Dykes
91 books2,636 followersNicole Dykes is a wife and a professional assistant/mom to two gorgeous girls. Currently residing in Kansas, she’s a lover of coffee, Kansas City Chiefs, and all things romance.
She's found her passion in writing M/M romance because love is love is love. Some popular works include Hostile, The Spark of Hope Series, and The Kensley Panthers Series!
Email at nicoledykes_author@yahoo.com
Or visit my website at Www.authornicoledykes.com
She's found her passion in writing M/M romance because love is love is love. Some popular works include Hostile, The Spark of Hope Series, and The Kensley Panthers Series!
Email at nicoledykes_author@yahoo.com
Or visit my website at Www.authornicoledykes.com
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
September 30, 2026
You can’t go wrong with a Nicole Dykes book, she delivers a great story every time. I really enjoyed Jonah and Calvin’s book and I’m already hyped for the next one!
October 1, 2026
4🌟 | 3🌶️
Give me two teammates who slowly become each other’s person and I’m invested.
Jonah and Calvin had such an easy connection once they let their guards down, and I liked that their friendship had time to grow before the romance took over. Jonah’s patience and steady presence made him such a good match for Calvin.
Calvin’s journey was definitely the part that got to me most. He has spent so long hiding pieces of himself and expecting rejection, so watching him slowly realize he could have love, friendship, and acceptance was really meaningful. Jonah never rushed him, and his family made such a difference too. Seeing Calvin experience that kind of unconditional support was probably my favorite part.
Being back in Big Bend was such a comfort, especially with the football setting and all the found-family warmth. There was plenty of angst, but so much sweetness woven through it too. Jonah and Calvin’s relationship felt earned by the end.
I finished this one really happy with where their story landed.
~~~~
A sincere thank you to Nicole Dykes and Chaotic Creatives for the ARC! 🥰📚
I’m so grateful for the early read. As always, all thoughts and opinions are completely my own. ✨
Give me two teammates who slowly become each other’s person and I’m invested.
Jonah and Calvin had such an easy connection once they let their guards down, and I liked that their friendship had time to grow before the romance took over. Jonah’s patience and steady presence made him such a good match for Calvin.
Calvin’s journey was definitely the part that got to me most. He has spent so long hiding pieces of himself and expecting rejection, so watching him slowly realize he could have love, friendship, and acceptance was really meaningful. Jonah never rushed him, and his family made such a difference too. Seeing Calvin experience that kind of unconditional support was probably my favorite part.
Being back in Big Bend was such a comfort, especially with the football setting and all the found-family warmth. There was plenty of angst, but so much sweetness woven through it too. Jonah and Calvin’s relationship felt earned by the end.
I finished this one really happy with where their story landed.
~~~~
A sincere thank you to Nicole Dykes and Chaotic Creatives for the ARC! 🥰📚
I’m so grateful for the early read. As always, all thoughts and opinions are completely my own. ✨
Review of advance copy
ARC Review
*mild spoilers ahead*
I love a good redemption arc. Also, I love Nicole Dykes.
Put the two together, and I was sold from the start.
The Kensley–Big Bend universe keeps delivering heartfelt stories, and Off Sides is no exception.
Calvin’s journey is heartbreaking at times, but it’s also incredibly tender. He’s been shaped by painful family relationships and a deep sense of self-hatred, and those wounds have affected the way he relates to the people around him. After seeing how badly he treated Austin in the previous book, I appreciated finally understanding what got him there. That context doesn’t excuse him, but it does make his struggle feel more human.
And then there’s Jonah, sweet, caring Jonah. He carries the pain of his own family’s rejection, and that history remains an important part of who he is. Still, he becomes someone Calvin can trust. He never feels like he exists only to fix him though, Jonah has his own healing to do too.
At its heart, this is a beautiful story about self-discovery and choosing yourself. Calvin has to believe he is worthy of love before he can fully let someone else in, while Jonah has to let go of the future he once imagined and embrace the one unfolding in front of him. Their growth feels personal but also shared, which gives the romance more emotional weight and makes their happy ever after so earned.
This book has everything I love about Nicole Dykes’s stories: small-town vibes, a found family that genuinely matters to the plot, relatable characters, and a love story full of tenderness. It gets emotional, but the heavier moments are balanced by so much hope.
I couldn’t recommend it more, and I’m already super excited to see what she gives us next.
*mild spoilers ahead*
I love a good redemption arc. Also, I love Nicole Dykes.
Put the two together, and I was sold from the start.
The Kensley–Big Bend universe keeps delivering heartfelt stories, and Off Sides is no exception.
Calvin’s journey is heartbreaking at times, but it’s also incredibly tender. He’s been shaped by painful family relationships and a deep sense of self-hatred, and those wounds have affected the way he relates to the people around him. After seeing how badly he treated Austin in the previous book, I appreciated finally understanding what got him there. That context doesn’t excuse him, but it does make his struggle feel more human.
And then there’s Jonah, sweet, caring Jonah. He carries the pain of his own family’s rejection, and that history remains an important part of who he is. Still, he becomes someone Calvin can trust. He never feels like he exists only to fix him though, Jonah has his own healing to do too.
At its heart, this is a beautiful story about self-discovery and choosing yourself. Calvin has to believe he is worthy of love before he can fully let someone else in, while Jonah has to let go of the future he once imagined and embrace the one unfolding in front of him. Their growth feels personal but also shared, which gives the romance more emotional weight and makes their happy ever after so earned.
This book has everything I love about Nicole Dykes’s stories: small-town vibes, a found family that genuinely matters to the plot, relatable characters, and a love story full of tenderness. It gets emotional, but the heavier moments are balanced by so much hope.
I couldn’t recommend it more, and I’m already super excited to see what she gives us next.
September 29, 2026
Big Bend Bears are back!!! I have absolutely loved all the books in this series, and Nicole brought all the love and sweetness in this book.
Both Jonah and Calvin were lovable from the start, and I was so invested in their relationship. Calvin’s journey of coming to terms with who he was and what he wanted was beautiful. I’m so glad he found his strength through loving Jonah.
What a gorgeous, wonderful man Jonah was. He was everything Calvin deserved. And what an incredible family Jonah had in his brother and sister-in-law. They were such amazing, accepting people.
Nicole is definitely my comfort-read author.
Both Jonah and Calvin were lovable from the start, and I was so invested in their relationship. Calvin’s journey of coming to terms with who he was and what he wanted was beautiful. I’m so glad he found his strength through loving Jonah.
What a gorgeous, wonderful man Jonah was. He was everything Calvin deserved. And what an incredible family Jonah had in his brother and sister-in-law. They were such amazing, accepting people.
Nicole is definitely my comfort-read author.
September 24, 2026
Off Side by Nicole Dykes was such an emotional MM sports romance! 🏈❤️ I went into this expecting football, romance and a little drama, but I ended up getting so invested in Jonah and Calvin and especially in Calvin's journey of figuring out who he really is.
Right from the beginning, there is tension between these two. Jonah suddenly becomes the starting quarterback, even though Calvin and the rest of the team believed that position was supposed to go to someone else. And because Jonah is Coach Micah's little brother, Calvin immediately feels like the whole situation is unfair.
But what I really loved was watching Jonah refuse to just let Calvin disappear. He makes the effort to get him back, and slowly, the relationship between these two changes from tension and frustration into genuine friendship.
And THEN the feelings start creeping in. 👀❤️
Jonah telling Calvin that he's gay was such an important moment because it showed just how much trust had developed between them. Jonah is comfortable enough with himself to be honest, while Calvin is nowhere near that point. And watching Calvin struggle with his feelings made his character so much more emotional for me.
Because Calvin isn't simply scared of admitting that he's attracted to Jonah.
He's terrified of what coming out would mean.
His family is incredibly homophobic, so Calvin has spent so much of his life believing that the safest thing he can do is hide who he really is. He convinces himself that pretending to be straight will protect him, even though it means denying his own feelings.
The kiss between Jonah and Calvin changes everything. You can feel how much Calvin wants Jonah, but at the same time, you can see him fighting against himself. Jonah represents the possibility of actually being honest and living as himself, while Calvin is still trapped in fear of rejection.
Jonah is openly gay, while Calvin is desperately trying not to be. That gives their relationship so much emotional tension because they aren't starting from the same place. Jonah can acknowledge what he feels. Calvin can't even allow himself to admit it.
And Jonah… I absolutely adored him. 🥹 He's patient, caring and persistent without making Calvin's journey about himself. He understands that Calvin is scared, even when Calvin's actions hurt him. Their friendship becoming something deeper felt so natural, and I loved seeing how much they began to rely on each other.
Calvin was definitely the character who broke my heart the most, though. Watching him try to convince himself that he doesn't feel what he clearly feels was painful. You just want to grab him and tell him that he deserves to be happy and that he shouldn't have to hide himself for anyone.
Micah and Jenna are such great supporting characters. Not only do they support Jonah when he was kicked out prior to the book by his dad, they support Calvin when he comes out and decides to be himself and free.
Jonah and Calvin completely stole my heart. ❤️
Looking forward to the last book in the series 💕
Right from the beginning, there is tension between these two. Jonah suddenly becomes the starting quarterback, even though Calvin and the rest of the team believed that position was supposed to go to someone else. And because Jonah is Coach Micah's little brother, Calvin immediately feels like the whole situation is unfair.
But what I really loved was watching Jonah refuse to just let Calvin disappear. He makes the effort to get him back, and slowly, the relationship between these two changes from tension and frustration into genuine friendship.
And THEN the feelings start creeping in. 👀❤️
Jonah telling Calvin that he's gay was such an important moment because it showed just how much trust had developed between them. Jonah is comfortable enough with himself to be honest, while Calvin is nowhere near that point. And watching Calvin struggle with his feelings made his character so much more emotional for me.
Because Calvin isn't simply scared of admitting that he's attracted to Jonah.
He's terrified of what coming out would mean.
His family is incredibly homophobic, so Calvin has spent so much of his life believing that the safest thing he can do is hide who he really is. He convinces himself that pretending to be straight will protect him, even though it means denying his own feelings.
The kiss between Jonah and Calvin changes everything. You can feel how much Calvin wants Jonah, but at the same time, you can see him fighting against himself. Jonah represents the possibility of actually being honest and living as himself, while Calvin is still trapped in fear of rejection.
Jonah is openly gay, while Calvin is desperately trying not to be. That gives their relationship so much emotional tension because they aren't starting from the same place. Jonah can acknowledge what he feels. Calvin can't even allow himself to admit it.
And Jonah… I absolutely adored him. 🥹 He's patient, caring and persistent without making Calvin's journey about himself. He understands that Calvin is scared, even when Calvin's actions hurt him. Their friendship becoming something deeper felt so natural, and I loved seeing how much they began to rely on each other.
Calvin was definitely the character who broke my heart the most, though. Watching him try to convince himself that he doesn't feel what he clearly feels was painful. You just want to grab him and tell him that he deserves to be happy and that he shouldn't have to hide himself for anyone.
Micah and Jenna are such great supporting characters. Not only do they support Jonah when he was kicked out prior to the book by his dad, they support Calvin when he comes out and decides to be himself and free.
Jonah and Calvin completely stole my heart. ❤️
Looking forward to the last book in the series 💕
Review of advance copy
Back in Big Bend with Friday night lights and small town football, and best of all an angsty romance between two hot guys. 🥰 I was locked in and loved the turmoil, the budding relationship, the best found family, and everything else that comes with a Nicole Dykes MM romance that always makes a book feel like coming home.
Jonah Zimmerman is the little brother of the football coach for the Big Bend Bears. Jonah is starting his senior year of school in Big Bend, which is hard enough for any teenager, but he's also stepping into the QB1 spot without the team thinking he's earned it. To some of his teammates it looks nepotism. However, Jonah has the chops to prove it isn't and his talent shuts up the naysayers, but in the meantime it does cause waves, one of which is with Calvin Duke. A teammate who is already getting picked on, a fact that troubles Jonah even when he doesn't know him. Yet. That is the keyword because Jonah makes it his mission to find out why Calvin, a good looking football player is constantly getting ridiculed.
Calvin just wants to finish his senior year and move on with his monotonous, unfulfilled life. Yeah, he isn't thrilled when a new kid starts off as the new quarterback, and yes his bubbling anger may have grown at the most inappropriate time so he walked off the field which was basically quitting, but at least he won't have to play with him, or so he thought. Call Calvin surprised when said QB shows up at his doorstep and flips his entire world upside down.
Jonah is nothing if not persistent and he senses there is more to Calvin than him just being the new kid. I had to give Jonah so much credit for his continual stubborn persistence because he was the rock, the very foundation that Calvin needed in his life. They both needed a friend, yes, but they also needed a safe space to be that friend and Jonah gave that to Calvin by the tenfold. And it wasn't just Jonah, but also his family. It was lovely to see Calvin trust and learn that love doesn't come with conditions. That's the best feeling ever. ❤️
Calvin was like a baby bird who had fallen out of his nest and Jonah was nursing him back to health, emotionally. Calvin was touch starved, emotionally starved, friendship starved, you name it Calvin's soul needed it. 😭Needless to say, reading Calvin's journey nearly tore me in two, but from the start where he began in the depths of his loneliness to where he came out basking in the sunlight it was worth the tear filled ride.👌 I loved seeing him thrive by the end and Jonah and his family were top notch amazing. 😍
Jonah Zimmerman is the little brother of the football coach for the Big Bend Bears. Jonah is starting his senior year of school in Big Bend, which is hard enough for any teenager, but he's also stepping into the QB1 spot without the team thinking he's earned it. To some of his teammates it looks nepotism. However, Jonah has the chops to prove it isn't and his talent shuts up the naysayers, but in the meantime it does cause waves, one of which is with Calvin Duke. A teammate who is already getting picked on, a fact that troubles Jonah even when he doesn't know him. Yet. That is the keyword because Jonah makes it his mission to find out why Calvin, a good looking football player is constantly getting ridiculed.
Calvin just wants to finish his senior year and move on with his monotonous, unfulfilled life. Yeah, he isn't thrilled when a new kid starts off as the new quarterback, and yes his bubbling anger may have grown at the most inappropriate time so he walked off the field which was basically quitting, but at least he won't have to play with him, or so he thought. Call Calvin surprised when said QB shows up at his doorstep and flips his entire world upside down.
Jonah is nothing if not persistent and he senses there is more to Calvin than him just being the new kid. I had to give Jonah so much credit for his continual stubborn persistence because he was the rock, the very foundation that Calvin needed in his life. They both needed a friend, yes, but they also needed a safe space to be that friend and Jonah gave that to Calvin by the tenfold. And it wasn't just Jonah, but also his family. It was lovely to see Calvin trust and learn that love doesn't come with conditions. That's the best feeling ever. ❤️
Calvin was like a baby bird who had fallen out of his nest and Jonah was nursing him back to health, emotionally. Calvin was touch starved, emotionally starved, friendship starved, you name it Calvin's soul needed it. 😭Needless to say, reading Calvin's journey nearly tore me in two, but from the start where he began in the depths of his loneliness to where he came out basking in the sunlight it was worth the tear filled ride.👌 I loved seeing him thrive by the end and Jonah and his family were top notch amazing. 😍
September 23, 2026
✨May contain spoilers✨
I had the pleasure of being one of Nicole’s beta readers. I think this might be one of my top favorites by Nicole. I mean, there hasn’t been a hook I haven’t liked and this one just hit all the good spots for me.
I felt for Calvin so much because if he isn’t being picked on at school, you would think he would get all the love and support from his family, but it’s the complete opposite. His family are just god awful people that don’t really care about him. Then, enters Jonah.
Micah is the coach of the football team and Jonah comes to live with him, his wife and his adorable nieces. Micah gives the spot of QB to his brother and Jonah feels utter betrayed because it was the one thing he was looking forward to.
When Jonah and Calvin get close, it’s freaking everything for me. Calvin gets to see what it feels like to be loved because Jonah’s family pretty much adopts him.
If you’re looking to get into Nicole’s books, this whole series is swoon worthy. I’m a lover for emotional stories that draw me in from the first page. Also, when there is a good found family that makes me feel like I’m watching everything unfold, I’m going to only want more.
And lastly, Ruby and Hannah had my heart from the moment we meet them. Their first time meeting Calvin was so freaking cute.
I was so happy to see Calvin and Jonah get there happily ever after.
I am sad to see this series end with the final book but I cannot wait to see what else is in store.
I received a copy of this book and this is my honest review.
I had the pleasure of being one of Nicole’s beta readers. I think this might be one of my top favorites by Nicole. I mean, there hasn’t been a hook I haven’t liked and this one just hit all the good spots for me.
I felt for Calvin so much because if he isn’t being picked on at school, you would think he would get all the love and support from his family, but it’s the complete opposite. His family are just god awful people that don’t really care about him. Then, enters Jonah.
Micah is the coach of the football team and Jonah comes to live with him, his wife and his adorable nieces. Micah gives the spot of QB to his brother and Jonah feels utter betrayed because it was the one thing he was looking forward to.
When Jonah and Calvin get close, it’s freaking everything for me. Calvin gets to see what it feels like to be loved because Jonah’s family pretty much adopts him.
If you’re looking to get into Nicole’s books, this whole series is swoon worthy. I’m a lover for emotional stories that draw me in from the first page. Also, when there is a good found family that makes me feel like I’m watching everything unfold, I’m going to only want more.
And lastly, Ruby and Hannah had my heart from the moment we meet them. Their first time meeting Calvin was so freaking cute.
I was so happy to see Calvin and Jonah get there happily ever after.
I am sad to see this series end with the final book but I cannot wait to see what else is in store.
I received a copy of this book and this is my honest review.
Review of advance copy
Fourth in series (Big Bend Bears), but can be read as a standalone. Small town. Teammates. Found family. Slow burn. Dual POV. Heed content warnings.
Kicked out by his father, Jonah is living with his brother, and he sets his sights on another football player that he feels protective towards. Calvin is deep in the closet, being bullied for kissing a boy last year and still denying it, until meeting Jonah who wants to be close but Calvin can’t let his family find out.
I did enjoy being back in Big Bend, even though the small town hate gives me the chills and stresses me out. Jonah is such a fabulous character, someone young but confident in himself and having such a strong pull of attraction but full of compassion for Calvin. The found/real family here is so supportive and important and I was so happy to read about Calvin and Jonah being together and would have really loved to see them years further into the future. Two jocks, a gentle giant with a golden retriever type, this was a fun read. 4.25
Kicked out by his father, Jonah is living with his brother, and he sets his sights on another football player that he feels protective towards. Calvin is deep in the closet, being bullied for kissing a boy last year and still denying it, until meeting Jonah who wants to be close but Calvin can’t let his family find out.
I did enjoy being back in Big Bend, even though the small town hate gives me the chills and stresses me out. Jonah is such a fabulous character, someone young but confident in himself and having such a strong pull of attraction but full of compassion for Calvin. The found/real family here is so supportive and important and I was so happy to read about Calvin and Jonah being together and would have really loved to see them years further into the future. Two jocks, a gentle giant with a golden retriever type, this was a fun read. 4.25
September 25, 2026
Yes! Another addition to this series! Absolutely, yes!
This one features a touch of the hurt/comfort trope. Our dear, closeted Calvin is facing relentless bullying during his final year of high school due to the mistakes he made last year. Jonah, on the other hand, has been kicked out of his home for refusing to hide his sexuality. He moves in with the one person who truly loves him and accepts him for who he is.
Jonah is determined to protect Calvin from the bullies; he wants to be there for him and be his support.
I completely adored this book, especially the happy ending, and I’m genuinely curious if there will be another installment in this series!
Thank you for this amazing opportunity to read the eARC, and I am happy to provide my honest review in return.
This one features a touch of the hurt/comfort trope. Our dear, closeted Calvin is facing relentless bullying during his final year of high school due to the mistakes he made last year. Jonah, on the other hand, has been kicked out of his home for refusing to hide his sexuality. He moves in with the one person who truly loves him and accepts him for who he is.
Jonah is determined to protect Calvin from the bullies; he wants to be there for him and be his support.
I completely adored this book, especially the happy ending, and I’m genuinely curious if there will be another installment in this series!
Thank you for this amazing opportunity to read the eARC, and I am happy to provide my honest review in return.
September 25, 2026
4.5⭐️
This is the 4th book in the Big Bend Bears series and it follows Jonah & Calvin. If you’ve read false start you’ve already met and disliked Calvin for what an a** he is to Austin😂. This is a super quick read, fast passed, keeps you interested the entire way. I love Jonah’s family dynamic with his brother, sister in law and nieces. I love how they welcome Calvin as well as his family are terrible people. I look forward to reading the next and final book! I’m only missing one book in this series - which I own so I gotta get on that soon 😅😂I want to thank Nicole for the opportunity to read and review this book!
This is the 4th book in the Big Bend Bears series and it follows Jonah & Calvin. If you’ve read false start you’ve already met and disliked Calvin for what an a** he is to Austin😂. This is a super quick read, fast passed, keeps you interested the entire way. I love Jonah’s family dynamic with his brother, sister in law and nieces. I love how they welcome Calvin as well as his family are terrible people. I look forward to reading the next and final book! I’m only missing one book in this series - which I own so I gotta get on that soon 😅😂I want to thank Nicole for the opportunity to read and review this book!
October 1, 2026
Awww, Calvin gets his HEA. I can’t imagine being Queer in a small town that’s not exactly accepting. And though Calvin matches the ideal small-town sports straight guy, enough of his secret is out there, and the jerks of the world are making sure it’s not forgotten.
And then in walks Jonah. By outward appearances, he swans onto the football team thanks to his coach brother, but the truth is so much more.
Like all great romances, peeling back the layers of a person brings them closer together. And ultimately, they are fiercely supportive of the other and their romance.
Love how great Jonah’s brother/coach is, but that he’s not perfect and is cool when he gets called out for it.
And then in walks Jonah. By outward appearances, he swans onto the football team thanks to his coach brother, but the truth is so much more.
Like all great romances, peeling back the layers of a person brings them closer together. And ultimately, they are fiercely supportive of the other and their romance.
Love how great Jonah’s brother/coach is, but that he’s not perfect and is cool when he gets called out for it.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Off Sides is book four of the Big Bend Bears Series.
Jonah was a sweet individual. He knows himself and doesn't want to hide who he truly is. Calvin's family has a specific path they want him to follow and this causes him anxiety as he has different views on himself and his future. We see Calvin go through a lot of anxious and troublesome moments. I was glad he met Jonah, who was able to help him acknowledge certain things and work through what he was feeling. The love we see between these two characters was very pure and you could tell they were destined for each other.
Jonah was a sweet individual. He knows himself and doesn't want to hide who he truly is. Calvin's family has a specific path they want him to follow and this causes him anxiety as he has different views on himself and his future. We see Calvin go through a lot of anxious and troublesome moments. I was glad he met Jonah, who was able to help him acknowledge certain things and work through what he was feeling. The love we see between these two characters was very pure and you could tell they were destined for each other.
September 30, 2026
4.25 ⭐️
It was so good to be back in Big Bend! I just love Nicole's books and this is no exception. It was a quick read with a good mix of emotions, spice, some fun moments and a bit of angst. I loved Jonah's character and I'm so glad he was able to make Calvin accept himself and stand up to his family. A good redemption story after False Start. I can't wait for Ty and Billy's book next and then the new Manhattan City series!
*Safety info (potential spoilers)*
- No OP drama
- No third act breakup but they do have a a fight in the second act after their first kiss
- HEA
It was so good to be back in Big Bend! I just love Nicole's books and this is no exception. It was a quick read with a good mix of emotions, spice, some fun moments and a bit of angst. I loved Jonah's character and I'm so glad he was able to make Calvin accept himself and stand up to his family. A good redemption story after False Start. I can't wait for Ty and Billy's book next and then the new Manhattan City series!
*Safety info (potential spoilers)*
- No OP drama
- No third act breakup but they do have a a fight in the second act after their first kiss
- HEA
September 24, 2026
Always enjoy a Nicole Dykes small town romance. Was fun being back in Big Bend with Calvin and Jonah. Sad to see it coming to an end with the next book but excited for any future books in the Big Bend/Kensley world.
October 1, 2026
Nicole Dykes always delivers a wonderful story! Jonah and Calvin were perfect together and I’m looking forward to the next one!
September 26, 2026
I loved being back with this crew again! This book was definitely longer than the previous books in this series but for good reason! Be prepared for a slowwww burn with these two! You’re in it for the long haul 🥺 full RTC!
I always love taking a trip back to Big Bend. It’s been a little while, so this one was really enjoyable and definitely brought back all the small town feels and vibes that I really enjoy!
Jonah is finishing up his last year of high school as the QB of a new team.. that his brother happens to be the coach of. Calvin’s one and only job is to protect him on the field. But Jonah is the one who does most of the protecting here.
If you’ve read this series, you know Calvin made a bit of a mistake with the MMC of the last book.. so is this is redemption arc? I mean, quite possibly! But now, Calvin is the one being bullied and picked on because of what happened, and what everyone now knows.
These two really just become best friends.. over everything. They really work on their friendship and getting to know one another before they take anything farther. Calvin is firmly in the closet, and Jonah is determined to just take things at Calvin’s pace and let him set the tone.
I would have liked to see a bit more spice, but I understand why it wasn’t as spicy as what I’m used to for Nicole. These two had to be careful! And quiet! And they managed to get it on as much as possible in the time and space they had 🤣
I’m excited for the next book in this series, and then for the series to come after!
🏈 Quarterback + Left Tackle
🩵 Closeted MC
🏈 Camping 🏕️
🩵 First Times
🏈 Protective MC
🩵 Frotting
I always love taking a trip back to Big Bend. It’s been a little while, so this one was really enjoyable and definitely brought back all the small town feels and vibes that I really enjoy!
Jonah is finishing up his last year of high school as the QB of a new team.. that his brother happens to be the coach of. Calvin’s one and only job is to protect him on the field. But Jonah is the one who does most of the protecting here.
If you’ve read this series, you know Calvin made a bit of a mistake with the MMC of the last book.. so is this is redemption arc? I mean, quite possibly! But now, Calvin is the one being bullied and picked on because of what happened, and what everyone now knows.
These two really just become best friends.. over everything. They really work on their friendship and getting to know one another before they take anything farther. Calvin is firmly in the closet, and Jonah is determined to just take things at Calvin’s pace and let him set the tone.
I would have liked to see a bit more spice, but I understand why it wasn’t as spicy as what I’m used to for Nicole. These two had to be careful! And quiet! And they managed to get it on as much as possible in the time and space they had 🤣
I’m excited for the next book in this series, and then for the series to come after!
🏈 Quarterback + Left Tackle
🩵 Closeted MC
🏈 Camping 🏕️
🩵 First Times
🏈 Protective MC
🩵 Frotting
September 29, 2026
Jonah Zimmerman is going to be the starting quarterback for his high school team in Big Bend. He is met with animosity, due to the fact his brother, Micah is the coach. Living with his brother and sister in law, Jenna and their two girls, Jonah feels a sense of belonging after being disowned by their parents for being gay.
Calvin Duke has been an outcast among the team for a while. When Calvin shows his dissatisfaction at Jonah being picked, he walks off the team. Jonah doesn’t let it lie and wants to know more about Calvin.
As Calvin and Jonah get to know each other and learn about things they have in common, such as their awful families, they more they like and respect each other. With Calvin deep in the closet and Jonah being out, can they make their love work?
This is the fourth book in Nicole Dykes wonderful Big Bend world. As with anything that Nicole writes, I just knew I would love it. The writing flows with ease and the gorgeous story shines through.
I loved Calvin and how strong he was to overcome his awful family. Jonah was such a caring partner, and what Calvin needed. I loved the side characters of Micah and Jenna, who showed love to both main characters.
If there is another story in this series, I will be reading it.
Calvin Duke has been an outcast among the team for a while. When Calvin shows his dissatisfaction at Jonah being picked, he walks off the team. Jonah doesn’t let it lie and wants to know more about Calvin.
As Calvin and Jonah get to know each other and learn about things they have in common, such as their awful families, they more they like and respect each other. With Calvin deep in the closet and Jonah being out, can they make their love work?
This is the fourth book in Nicole Dykes wonderful Big Bend world. As with anything that Nicole writes, I just knew I would love it. The writing flows with ease and the gorgeous story shines through.
I loved Calvin and how strong he was to overcome his awful family. Jonah was such a caring partner, and what Calvin needed. I loved the side characters of Micah and Jenna, who showed love to both main characters.
If there is another story in this series, I will be reading it.
October 1, 2026
This is the 4th book in the Big Bend Bears series and it follows Jonah & Calvin. If you've read false start you've already met Calvin and probably took a bit of disliking to him for how he treated Austin. I really enjoyed this one as I do with all Nicole’s books, she is one of my favourite authors.
I flew through this one it is a great quick read, keeping you engrossed in the story from start to finish. It has everything we love from Nicoles books, small town romance, hurt/comfort, found family, self discovery and acceptance.
I love Jonah and his detention to befriend and help Calvin seeing something in him, he was just drawn to Calvin seeing deeper than others have, seeing the broken lost boy who needed help and acceptance and knowing what is like to have parents that are the worst. I also love how Jonah’s family welcome Calvin and just wanted to protect him and show him what a real family and unconditional love looks like as his family are terrible. He deserved so much better than the card he was dealt and with the help of Jonah and his family he gets that.
It was great to seem some old faces also.
I can’t wait for the next one in the series.
Thank you for the opportunity to read an ARC of this great book.
I flew through this one it is a great quick read, keeping you engrossed in the story from start to finish. It has everything we love from Nicoles books, small town romance, hurt/comfort, found family, self discovery and acceptance.
I love Jonah and his detention to befriend and help Calvin seeing something in him, he was just drawn to Calvin seeing deeper than others have, seeing the broken lost boy who needed help and acceptance and knowing what is like to have parents that are the worst. I also love how Jonah’s family welcome Calvin and just wanted to protect him and show him what a real family and unconditional love looks like as his family are terrible. He deserved so much better than the card he was dealt and with the help of Jonah and his family he gets that.
It was great to seem some old faces also.
I can’t wait for the next one in the series.
Thank you for the opportunity to read an ARC of this great book.
Review of advance copy
𝙾𝚏𝚏 𝚂𝚒𝚍𝚎𝚜
𝙰𝚁𝙲 𝚁𝚎𝚟𝚒𝚎𝚠
4.5/5 ⭐️
↓↓
Gah the tension, the emotions, this one will take you through it.
I loved these two so damn much. Both a little broken but both full of love, ready to share it with someone special.
I was crying for Calvin and how he was processing things and what he had to deal with. It is such a real sad thing that small towns like in this book are so narrow minded still.
Jonah was so patient and sweet and kind. He never pushed and he was always right there for him when he needed him the most.
I loved watching them work through their feelings and form the bond that they did. It was perfect for them. Knowing that they also get to go to the same college and still be together makes me so happy too.
Micah and Jenna and the girls, I love the love and support they gave to not only Jonah but also Calvin. It melted my heart
I am sad to see the series come to an end with the next book but I can not wait for Billy and Ty.
𝚆𝙷𝙰𝚃 𝚃𝙾 𝙴𝚇𝙿𝙴𝙲𝚃
Grumpy x Sunshine
Small Town
Football
Coach's Little Brother
𝙰𝚁𝙲 𝚁𝚎𝚟𝚒𝚎𝚠
4.5/5 ⭐️
↓↓
Gah the tension, the emotions, this one will take you through it.
I loved these two so damn much. Both a little broken but both full of love, ready to share it with someone special.
I was crying for Calvin and how he was processing things and what he had to deal with. It is such a real sad thing that small towns like in this book are so narrow minded still.
Jonah was so patient and sweet and kind. He never pushed and he was always right there for him when he needed him the most.
I loved watching them work through their feelings and form the bond that they did. It was perfect for them. Knowing that they also get to go to the same college and still be together makes me so happy too.
Micah and Jenna and the girls, I love the love and support they gave to not only Jonah but also Calvin. It melted my heart
I am sad to see the series come to an end with the next book but I can not wait for Billy and Ty.
𝚆𝙷𝙰𝚃 𝚃𝙾 𝙴𝚇𝙿𝙴𝙲𝚃
Grumpy x Sunshine
Small Town
Football
Coach's Little Brother
September 26, 2026
ARC 📖 review
MC’s: 🏈 Calvin & Jonah 🏕️
Overall: 5/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🏈😡☺️🛻 🫂🏕️📺☺️❤️🔥🌶️🫠🫣❤️
I've thoroughly enjoyed this series and the adjacent Kensley books, and this installment is officially one of my favorites. Calvin is a complex, broken character who allows others to mistreat him for his past mistakes. Jonah has also been hurt, but unlike Calvin, he has a strong support system. Jonah’s determination to connect with Calvin, alongside the emotional journey they take together, was moving. This an absolutely wonderful read — totally recommend it.
Tropes:
🏈 MM Sports Romance
🏕️ 🍑🍆 Awakening
🏈 Small Town Bigotry
🏕️Found Family
🏈 Coming Of Age
Please note, I did receive this advanced copy ahead of publication; I am writing this honest review voluntarily and appreciate the opportunity provided by the author to review this book.
MC’s: 🏈 Calvin & Jonah 🏕️
Overall: 5/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🏈😡☺️🛻 🫂🏕️📺☺️❤️🔥🌶️🫠🫣❤️
I've thoroughly enjoyed this series and the adjacent Kensley books, and this installment is officially one of my favorites. Calvin is a complex, broken character who allows others to mistreat him for his past mistakes. Jonah has also been hurt, but unlike Calvin, he has a strong support system. Jonah’s determination to connect with Calvin, alongside the emotional journey they take together, was moving. This an absolutely wonderful read — totally recommend it.
Tropes:
🏈 MM Sports Romance
🏕️ 🍑🍆 Awakening
🏈 Small Town Bigotry
🏕️Found Family
🏈 Coming Of Age
Please note, I did receive this advanced copy ahead of publication; I am writing this honest review voluntarily and appreciate the opportunity provided by the author to review this book.
October 1, 2026
I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC of this book. This is the 4th book in the Big Bend Bears series. Each book in this MM series can be read as a standalone.
After his parents kicked him out, Jonah moves in with his brother, who happens to be the high school football coach. When he is given the starting QB position everyone on the team thinks he's just getting special treatment.
Calvin has been getting bullied by his teammates since this summer. Keeping his head down and being quiet he's hoping senior year will fly by. But the new kid has other ideas and is determind to be his friend.
Nicole is one of my go to authors. I don't even read the synopsis because you can never go wrong with one of her books. Can't wait for the next book in the series.
After his parents kicked him out, Jonah moves in with his brother, who happens to be the high school football coach. When he is given the starting QB position everyone on the team thinks he's just getting special treatment.
Calvin has been getting bullied by his teammates since this summer. Keeping his head down and being quiet he's hoping senior year will fly by. But the new kid has other ideas and is determind to be his friend.
Nicole is one of my go to authors. I don't even read the synopsis because you can never go wrong with one of her books. Can't wait for the next book in the series.
October 1, 2026
I love how Jonah recognized that Calvin needed that supporting shoulder. He was there to lend it to him. Despite him feeling an attraction and wanting to act on it right away; he knew Calvin was not ready. He allowed him to make a move on his terms. This made me like Jonah even more because of this. Calvin and Jonah did end up having what Patrick and David have from Schitt's Creek. Love this show by the way.
Nicole knows how to write characters where you are fully and emotionally invested in their arc story. This is one hundred percent the case with this book. I was trying to read this book as slowly as I could to savor every moment. Nicole scores a touchdown with this book!
Nicole knows how to write characters where you are fully and emotionally invested in their arc story. This is one hundred percent the case with this book. I was trying to read this book as slowly as I could to savor every moment. Nicole scores a touchdown with this book!
Read
October 1, 2026We're back in Big Bend! I do like the way this book started with some animosity and morphed into friends and then lovers... As always, these young men had an up hill battle with balancing their sexuality with the inherent small town homophobia and Calvin's family's expectations, which added a dimension to the book and created some outside tension and angst. I enjoyed the characters, their slow build and also watching them blossom despite the prejudice around them.
September 23, 2026
I had the privilege of beta reading this amazing book and I just finished it today! It was absolutely fantastic! I am sad that the series is coming to an end with the next Big Bend book but excited to see what comes next! All of Nicole’s books are always a fun and interesting read and this one is no exception!
October 1, 2026
Jonah + Calvin
-mm small town
-football romance
-grumpy x sunshine
-teammates to lovers
-coach’s baby brother
-secret relationship
ohhhh these boys were everything!! idk what it is about nicoles writing but she can really get you deeply connected & invested in characters QUICKLY & all in like 200 pages? IMPRESSIVE! my sweet baby calvin!! i love him so much!!
-mm small town
-football romance
-grumpy x sunshine
-teammates to lovers
-coach’s baby brother
-secret relationship
ohhhh these boys were everything!! idk what it is about nicoles writing but she can really get you deeply connected & invested in characters QUICKLY & all in like 200 pages? IMPRESSIVE! my sweet baby calvin!! i love him so much!!
October 2, 2026
Off Sides is the fourth book in the Big Bend Bears series and can be read as a standalone. This is a slow burn, found family, friends to lovers, teammates, hurt/comfort read about Jonah and Calvin. Another great book by Nicole Dykes, I loved being back in Big Bend and the team. I would love to read more from this series.
October 2, 2026
🌟🌟🌟🌟.5
ARC REVIEW
Off Sides was so good!!! Nicole always manages to pack so much heart into such a small book. Calvin is so broken and Jonah is just the person to help heal him with his sunshine personality and take no sh#t attitude.
There is a touch of hurt/comfort and found family which I love and I am looking forward to reading the next book in the series!!
ARC REVIEW
Off Sides was so good!!! Nicole always manages to pack so much heart into such a small book. Calvin is so broken and Jonah is just the person to help heal him with his sunshine personality and take no sh#t attitude.
There is a touch of hurt/comfort and found family which I love and I am looking forward to reading the next book in the series!!
October 1, 2026
Calvin and Jonah were so cute together. I was very excited to see Calvin get his happily ever after. Jonah’s family dynamic with his brother and sister-in-law was excellent, and they quickly welcome Calvin into their home. Can’t wait to see what’s next!
September 30, 2026
4.5 RTC
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