What do you think?
Rate this book
Chase
Chase was never part of my plan.
Chase is a forthcoming standalone MM romance about two guys who don’t make any sense together, but they’re pulled to each other in a magnetic, obsessive way.
Chase is a forthcoming standalone MM romance about two guys who don’t make any sense together, but they’re pulled to each other in a magnetic, obsessive way.
352 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 23, 2026
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 128 reviews
July 10, 2026
This was a smooth, easy read with great dialogue flow.
I really loved Chase and his dominant, touch obsessed, needy self. Logan was also an interesting character, dealing with his mental health struggles and his new fame. While I connected with them more in the second half, the romantic chemistry stayed a bit surface level for me, so I didn't feel the deeper emotional pull I was hoping for with this type of story.
This book was well written enough that I would be open to reading other books by this author.
I really loved Chase and his dominant, touch obsessed, needy self. Logan was also an interesting character, dealing with his mental health struggles and his new fame. While I connected with them more in the second half, the romantic chemistry stayed a bit surface level for me, so I didn't feel the deeper emotional pull I was hoping for with this type of story.
This book was well written enough that I would be open to reading other books by this author.
July 23, 2026
"When I look down, Logan’s eyes are closed. I stare at his lashes for a while, realizing he’s fully asleep. I can’t stop rubbing the top of his back in slow, steady circles. I don’t have a single clue if I’d feel comfortable touching other guys… but having Logan resting on me like this feels good. Like he’s keeping me from drifting away, up into the air like a loosened balloon."
I've been inhaling Raleigh Ruebins's Crimson College series but I think their current standalone Chase is my new fave!
This is Chase and Logan's story and they are such opposites that they make for the perfect chaotic combination. There are some dark themes and toxic behaviours, but the journey for both men makes the ending that much sweeter for the reader.
What To Expect:
🖤MM romance
🖤Hurt/comfort
🖤Opposites attract
🖤All the spicy first times
🖤Bi-awakening
🖤Age gap (8 years)
🖤Toxic, obsessive traits
🖤Dark themes
🖤HEA
Loved it!
4.5 stars
I've been inhaling Raleigh Ruebins's Crimson College series but I think their current standalone Chase is my new fave!
This is Chase and Logan's story and they are such opposites that they make for the perfect chaotic combination. There are some dark themes and toxic behaviours, but the journey for both men makes the ending that much sweeter for the reader.
What To Expect:
🖤MM romance
🖤Hurt/comfort
🖤Opposites attract
🖤All the spicy first times
🖤Bi-awakening
🖤Age gap (8 years)
🖤Toxic, obsessive traits
🖤Dark themes
🖤HEA
Loved it!
4.5 stars
July 15, 2026
6 fucking stars. Damn, this was good. I loved Chase and Logan from the moment they laid eyes on each other. Their chemistry was off the charts!
⚠️ Probably some tiny spoilers past this point. Read at your own risk ⚠️
Their relationship is toxic in the beginning. They were SO GOOD for each other while being SO VERY BAD for each other. They were both living on the edge of their feelings. No one was saying things that needed to be said. It was heartbreaking. They relied on their sexual attraction to keep them coming back to each other while drowning out the rest of the world with alcohol.
Logan Stone is a big time TV star with the lead role in a massive production. Everyone knows him, fans and paparazzi follow him, tabloids print lies about him. He’s experiencing all this while dealing with past traumas. He has a hard rime dealing with being famous. He’s sad and lonely and a little bit broken. He’s trying to put on the perfect face for everyone while crumbling inside.
Then comes Chase Cameron… the “straight” bartender/artist from the hotel Logan is briefly staying at. He craves connection with someone. He’s touch starved/obsesses. He’s needy and clingy. And he’s just… lost. He has so much going on in his head all the time. And Logan spends so much time wanting to protect himself AND Chase from his lifestyle that he pushes him away. The moment they realized they would ruin each other if they kept going the way they were going BROKE MY FUCKING HEART. When they parted ways without ever even having kissed, it broke me.
But, Logan and Chase taking that year apart to find themselves and realize what they lost made them coming back together so much more impactful. Their journey back to eachother is emotional. Their lives are a struggle. The character’s growth through their journey was beautifully written. The vulnerability between them was top notch. I was an emotional wreck through most of this book. It hit me hard and I loved every second of it. Their HEA was well deserved.
Chase’s bi awakening was fucking beautiful. The way he experienced things with Logan was intense. It had me on the edge of my seat. All through the first arc of their story, I was clinging to every little moment between them in the hotel room.
Thank you Gay Romance Reviews for the opportunity to read an ARC of this beautiful fucking book.
⚠️ Probably some tiny spoilers past this point. Read at your own risk ⚠️
Their relationship is toxic in the beginning. They were SO GOOD for each other while being SO VERY BAD for each other. They were both living on the edge of their feelings. No one was saying things that needed to be said. It was heartbreaking. They relied on their sexual attraction to keep them coming back to each other while drowning out the rest of the world with alcohol.
Logan Stone is a big time TV star with the lead role in a massive production. Everyone knows him, fans and paparazzi follow him, tabloids print lies about him. He’s experiencing all this while dealing with past traumas. He has a hard rime dealing with being famous. He’s sad and lonely and a little bit broken. He’s trying to put on the perfect face for everyone while crumbling inside.
Then comes Chase Cameron… the “straight” bartender/artist from the hotel Logan is briefly staying at. He craves connection with someone. He’s touch starved/obsesses. He’s needy and clingy. And he’s just… lost. He has so much going on in his head all the time. And Logan spends so much time wanting to protect himself AND Chase from his lifestyle that he pushes him away. The moment they realized they would ruin each other if they kept going the way they were going BROKE MY FUCKING HEART. When they parted ways without ever even having kissed, it broke me.
But, Logan and Chase taking that year apart to find themselves and realize what they lost made them coming back together so much more impactful. Their journey back to eachother is emotional. Their lives are a struggle. The character’s growth through their journey was beautifully written. The vulnerability between them was top notch. I was an emotional wreck through most of this book. It hit me hard and I loved every second of it. Their HEA was well deserved.
Chase’s bi awakening was fucking beautiful. The way he experienced things with Logan was intense. It had me on the edge of my seat. All through the first arc of their story, I was clinging to every little moment between them in the hotel room.
Thank you Gay Romance Reviews for the opportunity to read an ARC of this beautiful fucking book.
July 27, 2026
Rating: 4.5
Steam: 4
PoV: dual, 1st person
Genre: contemporary romance, MM
Tropes / tags: age gap, opposites attract, hookup to more
I wasn’t sure what to expect from this one, but I ended up loving Chase and Logan's story!
These two were… intense but also a bit of a slow burn. Neither of them were in a good place when they first met, and things moved quickly between them. While they were good for each other, they were initially also very bad for each other. Both of them were struggling with their mental health, and things felt a bit toxic at first. It was a case of the right person at the wrong time.
Chase and Logan were very different, Chase was chaotic and obsessive, while Logan more introspective. Logan wasn't dealing well with being famous, and Chase wasn't dealing well with life in general. They both had their flaws, Chase more than Logan, but it also made their characters feel real and genuine. I loved how clingy and touch-dependent Chase was at first, and the characters together with their fast paced feelings and chemistry truly had me hooked.
The bit of second chance romance worked well here, with Chase and Logan reuniting a year after they initially met. Neither of them had been able to move on from their intense weeks together, and they were both in much better headspaces. I loved the banter and how easy going things felt between them, and I really enjoyed the way their dynamic and relationship developed.
Chase ended up being an emotional read, with memorable characters and a storyline that didn't really remind me of anything I've ever read before. I loved the sense of second chance romance, with the whole meeting the right person at the wrong time, and how they found their way back to each other. It was a fantastic story, and I highly recommend checking it out!
-
I received a complimentary copy of this book, and these are my honest thoughts and opinions.
Steam: 4
PoV: dual, 1st person
Genre: contemporary romance, MM
Tropes / tags: age gap, opposites attract, hookup to more
I wasn’t sure what to expect from this one, but I ended up loving Chase and Logan's story!
These two were… intense but also a bit of a slow burn. Neither of them were in a good place when they first met, and things moved quickly between them. While they were good for each other, they were initially also very bad for each other. Both of them were struggling with their mental health, and things felt a bit toxic at first. It was a case of the right person at the wrong time.
Chase and Logan were very different, Chase was chaotic and obsessive, while Logan more introspective. Logan wasn't dealing well with being famous, and Chase wasn't dealing well with life in general. They both had their flaws, Chase more than Logan, but it also made their characters feel real and genuine. I loved how clingy and touch-dependent Chase was at first, and the characters together with their fast paced feelings and chemistry truly had me hooked.
The bit of second chance romance worked well here, with Chase and Logan reuniting a year after they initially met. Neither of them had been able to move on from their intense weeks together, and they were both in much better headspaces. I loved the banter and how easy going things felt between them, and I really enjoyed the way their dynamic and relationship developed.
Chase ended up being an emotional read, with memorable characters and a storyline that didn't really remind me of anything I've ever read before. I loved the sense of second chance romance, with the whole meeting the right person at the wrong time, and how they found their way back to each other. It was a fantastic story, and I highly recommend checking it out!
-
I received a complimentary copy of this book, and these are my honest thoughts and opinions.
July 30, 2026
Its an opposite sides of the spectrum kinda story between a celebrity and insanely sexy artist cum bartending commoner. Chase has an obsessed fan in a scotch-drinking Logan.
Logan has trust issues and a traumatic past. He suppresses it with alcohol and solitude.
Chase is straight and pushy. He breaks logan's walls and rules.
I liked the premise of the story, the plot and the meet-cute part, but it went nowhere . Very straightforward flow and shallow sentiments. I missed the connection or chemistry. But that's just me.
Good palate cleanser if youre looking for one
“4 stars for scotch & tequila pairing”
Follow me on:
Email🌻 Bookbub 🌻 Twitter🌻 Instagram🌻 Blog🌻 Facebook🌻 Amazon 🌻 TikTok 🌻 StoryGraph 🌻 YouTube 🌻
Logan has trust issues and a traumatic past. He suppresses it with alcohol and solitude.
Chase is straight and pushy. He breaks logan's walls and rules.
I liked the premise of the story, the plot and the meet-cute part, but it went nowhere . Very straightforward flow and shallow sentiments. I missed the connection or chemistry. But that's just me.
Good palate cleanser if youre looking for one
“4 stars for scotch & tequila pairing”
Follow me on:
Email🌻 Bookbub 🌻 Twitter🌻 Instagram🌻 Blog🌻 Facebook🌻 Amazon 🌻 TikTok 🌻 StoryGraph 🌻 YouTube 🌻
Did Not Finish
July 17, 2026I just wanted to say I’m disappointed
I saw the tropes and and the cover I was intrigued it sounded good in theory
It didn’t connect with me. I didn’t feel it connecting in my brain and it just left me feeling underwhelmed.
I got to 17% and I just had to stop I just couldn’t do it. I wish I could suck it up and see where the story goes but I don’t know if I’ll like it enough to keep going. Especially if it’s not connecting.
“It’s like you’re trying to milk my cum from me” I also get cringed out when something like this is mentioned like I just can’t
However even though it wasn’t for me, it might be for you
I saw the tropes and and the cover I was intrigued it sounded good in theory
It didn’t connect with me. I didn’t feel it connecting in my brain and it just left me feeling underwhelmed.
I got to 17% and I just had to stop I just couldn’t do it. I wish I could suck it up and see where the story goes but I don’t know if I’ll like it enough to keep going. Especially if it’s not connecting.
“It’s like you’re trying to milk my cum from me” I also get cringed out when something like this is mentioned like I just can’t
However even though it wasn’t for me, it might be for you
July 25, 2026
4.5 stars!
I really enjoyed this despite it having a troupe that I don’t care for! It would’ve been a five star if the epilogue had been further out
I really enjoyed this despite it having a troupe that I don’t care for! It would’ve been a five star if the epilogue had been further out
July 24, 2026
ARC REVIEW
I adored this book ❤️❤️❤️!
When Logan and Chase first meet, Logan has just been catapulted into fame and is struggling to handle everything that comes with it. Chase isn’t in a great place either, drinking far too much and trying to escape his own problems.
They meet at the hotel bar where Chase works, and Logan is immediately captivated because Chase doesn’t recognize him. After being followed by paparazzi and fans everywhere he goes, it’s a breath of fresh air to just be… Logan.
They spend a whirlwind few weeks together and form such a deep connection. But when Logan returns to LA, they both realize that, at that point in their lives, their obsessions with eachother aren’t healthy for either of them.
Fast forward a year…
(Yes, I know I usually hate time jumps too! 😂 But this one worked so well. You simply turn the page, there’s no unnecessary drama, and the time apart was exactly what they needed to grow.)
Logan returns to the hotel where Chase works, and they naturally gravitate back toward each other.
They’ve both grown so much. Logan has gone to therapy and learned to cope with his fame in a healthier way, while Chase is a year sober and focused on his art and on himself.
They are so perfect for each other that it genuinely made my heart sing.
I loved how Chase always needed to touch Logan. What first feels like an obsession slowly reveals itself to be something much more beautiful 💕
You’ll definitely find yourself thinking,
May this kind of love find me, please.
One of my favorite things was that there wasn’t a third-act breakup. Their biggest challenge wasn’t fighting each other it was becoming the best versions of themselves for each other.
And when news of their relationship breaks, Logan stands by Chase like a rock.
Read this if you like:
✨ An actor MMC falling in love with a chaotic artist.
✨ A famous actor who is hilariously bad at internet stalking his crush without getting caught.
✨ Being too much and being loved for it
✨ A bi awakening.
✨ A needy touch-starved MMC who can’t stop reaching for the person he loves.
✨ An ADHD-coded love language
I adored this book ❤️❤️❤️!
When Logan and Chase first meet, Logan has just been catapulted into fame and is struggling to handle everything that comes with it. Chase isn’t in a great place either, drinking far too much and trying to escape his own problems.
They meet at the hotel bar where Chase works, and Logan is immediately captivated because Chase doesn’t recognize him. After being followed by paparazzi and fans everywhere he goes, it’s a breath of fresh air to just be… Logan.
They spend a whirlwind few weeks together and form such a deep connection. But when Logan returns to LA, they both realize that, at that point in their lives, their obsessions with eachother aren’t healthy for either of them.
Fast forward a year…
(Yes, I know I usually hate time jumps too! 😂 But this one worked so well. You simply turn the page, there’s no unnecessary drama, and the time apart was exactly what they needed to grow.)
Logan returns to the hotel where Chase works, and they naturally gravitate back toward each other.
They’ve both grown so much. Logan has gone to therapy and learned to cope with his fame in a healthier way, while Chase is a year sober and focused on his art and on himself.
They are so perfect for each other that it genuinely made my heart sing.
I loved how Chase always needed to touch Logan. What first feels like an obsession slowly reveals itself to be something much more beautiful 💕
You’ll definitely find yourself thinking,
May this kind of love find me, please.
One of my favorite things was that there wasn’t a third-act breakup. Their biggest challenge wasn’t fighting each other it was becoming the best versions of themselves for each other.
And when news of their relationship breaks, Logan stands by Chase like a rock.
Read this if you like:
✨ An actor MMC falling in love with a chaotic artist.
✨ A famous actor who is hilariously bad at internet stalking his crush without getting caught.
✨ Being too much and being loved for it
✨ A bi awakening.
✨ A needy touch-starved MMC who can’t stop reaching for the person he loves.
✨ An ADHD-coded love language
July 26, 2026
The chemistry between Logan and Chase is off the charts from the very first page. I loved the spark that started from an accidental meeting between a movie star and a bartender, which sets the tone for an intensely magnetic connection. I am always a fan of a good bi-awakening trope because the initial tension is so strong!
What makes this book stand out is how deeply human and flawed the characters are. I really enjoyed reading their back stories. Chase is vibrant, artistic, and entirely chaotic, while Logan is navigating the overwhelming weight of sudden television fame alongside a quiet grief. I also really appreciated the ADHD representation, which I thought was done exceptionally well.
Watching them navigate their emotional baggage, the hurdles of a messy first attempt, a necessary period of personal growth apart, and a second chance made this such an addictive read. It’s hard to do that all in one book and better yet it was done so well. It’s angsty, steamy, and tender, handling themes of healing and self discovery with a lot of care. I thoroughly enjoyed watching the characters grow both individually and as a couple. An absolute must read for fans of emotional contemporary romance!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
What makes this book stand out is how deeply human and flawed the characters are. I really enjoyed reading their back stories. Chase is vibrant, artistic, and entirely chaotic, while Logan is navigating the overwhelming weight of sudden television fame alongside a quiet grief. I also really appreciated the ADHD representation, which I thought was done exceptionally well.
Watching them navigate their emotional baggage, the hurdles of a messy first attempt, a necessary period of personal growth apart, and a second chance made this such an addictive read. It’s hard to do that all in one book and better yet it was done so well. It’s angsty, steamy, and tender, handling themes of healing and self discovery with a lot of care. I thoroughly enjoyed watching the characters grow both individually and as a couple. An absolute must read for fans of emotional contemporary romance!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
July 26, 2026
This book was so so good. It's a story about two people from totally different worlds who meet by accident and end up realizing they were always meant to find each other, no matter how much time or distance comes between them.
Logan is an actor dealing with the ugly side of sudden fame, and Chase is an artist working at the hotel bar where Logan's staying for a shoot. They both end up hiding on the rooftop one day and that's where it all starts.
What I loved most is that Chase has no idea who Logan really is at first, and that anonymity is exactly what draws Logan to him.
Both of these characters are carrying real weight. They've each been through things that shaped how they see themselves and how they let people in, and watching them slowly choose each other again and again, without needing to say much at all, was so quietly powerful.
There's no drama for the sake of drama here. No secrets, no games. Just two people who fit.
And the dom/sub dynamic between them added a layer of intensity that made every scene between them spicier.
This one's going to stay with me for a while. Full 5 stars, easily.
Logan is an actor dealing with the ugly side of sudden fame, and Chase is an artist working at the hotel bar where Logan's staying for a shoot. They both end up hiding on the rooftop one day and that's where it all starts.
What I loved most is that Chase has no idea who Logan really is at first, and that anonymity is exactly what draws Logan to him.
Both of these characters are carrying real weight. They've each been through things that shaped how they see themselves and how they let people in, and watching them slowly choose each other again and again, without needing to say much at all, was so quietly powerful.
There's no drama for the sake of drama here. No secrets, no games. Just two people who fit.
And the dom/sub dynamic between them added a layer of intensity that made every scene between them spicier.
This one's going to stay with me for a while. Full 5 stars, easily.
July 24, 2026
This was less dark than Raleigh’s usual work and I absolutely loved it! It still had some dark topics that can be triggering for some people but the story itself was just beautiful.
Chase was a bartender in one of NYC’s most prestigious hotels, it is there that he first meets Logan Stone. Unbeknownst to him, Logan is an up and coming actor who skyrocketed to fame in the blink of an eye.
Throughout the night, Logan won’t stop staring at Chase as if he wanted to swallow him whole. Chase isn’t interested in men yet something about Logan is intriguing. Maybe it was the way he looked at him like he was the only person in the room or maybe because he was just beautiful. Regardless of the matter, Chase couldn’t help but notice him.
Logan thought he was ready for fame, but he wasn’t. Becoming so famous overnight only increased his fear of what fame can do. After all, he knows first hand how easy it is to lose yourself to it and how high the stakes are. But when Chase has no idea of who he is, he feels like he can finally be himself.
What begins as a casual conversation, quickly turns into something hotter. And even though Chase has never been into men, he can’t keep his hands off Logan. A whole new world of possibilities and excitement opens up and Chase finds himself wanting to explore it with Logan.
But there’s too much baggage between them. Chase has his own ghosts to exorcise and Logan can’t let go of his fear of losing himself. They both have destructive tendencies as coping mechanisms that are slowly destroying them. They’re not good for each other because they’re both somewhat broken.
They both know that what they have won’t last long because of who they are. Logan has a career to focus on and Chase needs to get his life in order. However, that doesn’t make their goodbye any less painful.
After some time apart, Logan comes back into Chase’s life but this time things are different. They’re different. They both worked hard on becoming the best versions of themselves.
The time apart was supposed to have quenched their thirst for each other but it only made them want more. Chase’s feelings for Logan only got stronger as time went on and seeing Logan again just reinforced how deee those feelings were.
Logan never really got over the little time he had with Chase and seeing him again brought it all back. He wasn’t the same scared man from the first they met, now he wasn’t as afraid as he was then.
Chase was everything he didn’t know he needed. He taught him how to let go of the pain he’d been carrying for so long and to give himself the chance to be happy.
“𝑰 𝒍𝒐𝒗𝒆 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒔𝒐 𝒎𝒖𝒄𝒉. 𝒀𝒐𝒖 𝒅𝒐𝒏’𝒕 𝒉𝒂𝒗𝒆 𝒕𝒐 𝒔𝒂𝒚 𝒊𝒕 𝒃𝒂𝒄𝒌 𝒚𝒆𝒕, 𝒃𝒖𝒕 𝒅𝒂𝒎𝒏, 𝑰 𝒋𝒖𝒔𝒕 𝒉𝒂𝒗𝒆 𝒕𝒐 𝒈𝒆𝒕 𝒊𝒕 𝒐𝒖𝒕 𝒐𝒇 𝒎𝒆. 𝒀𝒐𝒖’𝒗𝒆 𝒇𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒌𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒄𝒉𝒂𝒏𝒈𝒆𝒅 𝒎𝒚 𝒍𝒊𝒇𝒆, 𝑪𝒉𝒂𝒔𝒆. 𝑰 𝒍𝒐𝒗𝒆 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒔𝒐 𝒎𝒖𝒄𝒉 𝑰 𝒄𝒂𝒏’𝒕 𝒔𝒕𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒊𝒕.”
Chase knew that being with Logan would bring scrutiny to his life but he never expect it to be so gut wrenching. Dragging the worst time of his life for all to see would have been devastating for him in the past. He would have reverted back to all habits that would probably have landed him in the hospital. Instead, this time he handled it with strength and determination without spiraling.
But even if he had spiraled, Logan would have been there to pick him up. He would always be there whenever Chase needs him because now that he had him, he wouldn’t let him go.
”𝒀𝒐𝒖 𝒂𝒓𝒆𝒏'𝒕 𝒈𝒐𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒕𝒐 𝒔𝒄𝒂𝒓𝒆 𝒎𝒆 𝒂𝒘𝒂𝒚," 𝑰 𝒕𝒆𝒍𝒍 𝒉𝒊𝒎. "𝑲𝒆𝒆𝒑 𝒕𝒓𝒚𝒊𝒏𝒈, 𝒊𝒇 𝒚𝒐𝒖'𝒅 𝒍𝒊𝒌𝒆 𝒕𝒐. 𝑰𝒕 𝒘𝒐𝒏'𝒕 𝒘𝒐𝒓𝒌. 𝑻𝒆𝒍𝒍 𝒎𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒘𝒐𝒓𝒔𝒕 𝒐𝒇 𝒚𝒐𝒖, 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝑰'𝒍𝒍 𝒔𝒕𝒊𝒍𝒍 𝒃𝒆 𝒓𝒊𝒈𝒉𝒕 𝒉𝒆𝒓𝒆.”
Such a beautiful story. Logan and Chase had to deal with some serious issues but in the end, they found their way back to each other 🥰
Chase was a bartender in one of NYC’s most prestigious hotels, it is there that he first meets Logan Stone. Unbeknownst to him, Logan is an up and coming actor who skyrocketed to fame in the blink of an eye.
Throughout the night, Logan won’t stop staring at Chase as if he wanted to swallow him whole. Chase isn’t interested in men yet something about Logan is intriguing. Maybe it was the way he looked at him like he was the only person in the room or maybe because he was just beautiful. Regardless of the matter, Chase couldn’t help but notice him.
Logan thought he was ready for fame, but he wasn’t. Becoming so famous overnight only increased his fear of what fame can do. After all, he knows first hand how easy it is to lose yourself to it and how high the stakes are. But when Chase has no idea of who he is, he feels like he can finally be himself.
What begins as a casual conversation, quickly turns into something hotter. And even though Chase has never been into men, he can’t keep his hands off Logan. A whole new world of possibilities and excitement opens up and Chase finds himself wanting to explore it with Logan.
But there’s too much baggage between them. Chase has his own ghosts to exorcise and Logan can’t let go of his fear of losing himself. They both have destructive tendencies as coping mechanisms that are slowly destroying them. They’re not good for each other because they’re both somewhat broken.
They both know that what they have won’t last long because of who they are. Logan has a career to focus on and Chase needs to get his life in order. However, that doesn’t make their goodbye any less painful.
After some time apart, Logan comes back into Chase’s life but this time things are different. They’re different. They both worked hard on becoming the best versions of themselves.
The time apart was supposed to have quenched their thirst for each other but it only made them want more. Chase’s feelings for Logan only got stronger as time went on and seeing Logan again just reinforced how deee those feelings were.
Logan never really got over the little time he had with Chase and seeing him again brought it all back. He wasn’t the same scared man from the first they met, now he wasn’t as afraid as he was then.
Chase was everything he didn’t know he needed. He taught him how to let go of the pain he’d been carrying for so long and to give himself the chance to be happy.
“𝑰 𝒍𝒐𝒗𝒆 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒔𝒐 𝒎𝒖𝒄𝒉. 𝒀𝒐𝒖 𝒅𝒐𝒏’𝒕 𝒉𝒂𝒗𝒆 𝒕𝒐 𝒔𝒂𝒚 𝒊𝒕 𝒃𝒂𝒄𝒌 𝒚𝒆𝒕, 𝒃𝒖𝒕 𝒅𝒂𝒎𝒏, 𝑰 𝒋𝒖𝒔𝒕 𝒉𝒂𝒗𝒆 𝒕𝒐 𝒈𝒆𝒕 𝒊𝒕 𝒐𝒖𝒕 𝒐𝒇 𝒎𝒆. 𝒀𝒐𝒖’𝒗𝒆 𝒇𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒌𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒄𝒉𝒂𝒏𝒈𝒆𝒅 𝒎𝒚 𝒍𝒊𝒇𝒆, 𝑪𝒉𝒂𝒔𝒆. 𝑰 𝒍𝒐𝒗𝒆 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒔𝒐 𝒎𝒖𝒄𝒉 𝑰 𝒄𝒂𝒏’𝒕 𝒔𝒕𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒊𝒕.”
Chase knew that being with Logan would bring scrutiny to his life but he never expect it to be so gut wrenching. Dragging the worst time of his life for all to see would have been devastating for him in the past. He would have reverted back to all habits that would probably have landed him in the hospital. Instead, this time he handled it with strength and determination without spiraling.
But even if he had spiraled, Logan would have been there to pick him up. He would always be there whenever Chase needs him because now that he had him, he wouldn’t let him go.
”𝒀𝒐𝒖 𝒂𝒓𝒆𝒏'𝒕 𝒈𝒐𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒕𝒐 𝒔𝒄𝒂𝒓𝒆 𝒎𝒆 𝒂𝒘𝒂𝒚," 𝑰 𝒕𝒆𝒍𝒍 𝒉𝒊𝒎. "𝑲𝒆𝒆𝒑 𝒕𝒓𝒚𝒊𝒏𝒈, 𝒊𝒇 𝒚𝒐𝒖'𝒅 𝒍𝒊𝒌𝒆 𝒕𝒐. 𝑰𝒕 𝒘𝒐𝒏'𝒕 𝒘𝒐𝒓𝒌. 𝑻𝒆𝒍𝒍 𝒎𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒘𝒐𝒓𝒔𝒕 𝒐𝒇 𝒚𝒐𝒖, 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝑰'𝒍𝒍 𝒔𝒕𝒊𝒍𝒍 𝒃𝒆 𝒓𝒊𝒈𝒉𝒕 𝒉𝒆𝒓𝒆.”
Such a beautiful story. Logan and Chase had to deal with some serious issues but in the end, they found their way back to each other 🥰
July 26, 2026
This story was amazing. It pulled me right in and kept me invested the entire time. Logan and Chase were so utterly toxic to one another. Both dealing with things in life that had them all messed up on their heads. Logan is dealing with fame that he’s having a tough time with. Smiles on the outside, while slowly crumbling on the inside. Turning to alcohol to numb everything. And Chase the bartender that’s “straight” but he craves touch like no other. He’s so needy all the time. Together, they’re no good for one another. It was sexual and not much more. But once they started getting control of themselves, things started to change. They were there for one another in a healthier and more loving way. I absolutely fell in move with these two and this story. It was phenomenal
July 20, 2026
4.5⭐️
I LOVED this! Adding Raleigh to my go to authors now 😉
I freaking loved Logan’s and Chases chemistry. Logan is an actor thrust into fame, but his past makes him absolutely terrified of that fame. Chase is a bartender/artist working at the hotel Logan is staying at. Logan is immediately taken with chase but, he’s straight. But even chase can’t deny the chemistry.
Ahhhh these two 🤩 thanks for the ARC Raleigh!
🎥 MM Romance | bi awakening | strangers to lovers | hurt/comfort
I LOVED this! Adding Raleigh to my go to authors now 😉
I freaking loved Logan’s and Chases chemistry. Logan is an actor thrust into fame, but his past makes him absolutely terrified of that fame. Chase is a bartender/artist working at the hotel Logan is staying at. Logan is immediately taken with chase but, he’s straight. But even chase can’t deny the chemistry.
Ahhhh these two 🤩 thanks for the ARC Raleigh!
🎥 MM Romance | bi awakening | strangers to lovers | hurt/comfort
July 24, 2026
This was insanely good. I wasn’t sure what to expect with this but I fell in love with Logan and Chase. Hard. I’ve been reading a lot of books with the hurt/comfort aspect lately. These guys have really been through it and when they find each other it isn’t simple. Not clear cut. But somehow it works.
There is mention of substance abuse. Self harm. Depression. Done with care. This was just well written.
Pretty spicy. 3.5🌶️
There is mention of substance abuse. Self harm. Depression. Done with care. This was just well written.
Pretty spicy. 3.5🌶️
Did Not Finish
July 26, 2026No rating.
Not for me.
Not for me.
July 30, 2026
OMG!! I love Chase so much. He's so imperfectly perfect and so credible.
Logan is the perfect superstar and they are so hot together
I cried sometimes through the end but a HEA is there in the end
Logan is the perfect superstar and they are so hot together
I cried sometimes through the end but a HEA is there in the end
Review of advance copy
Logan Stone has a type- he likes them messy, complicated, and straight.
When Logan meets Chase, he's a rising star in the first season of a hit TV show. His life has changed overnight and the fame is overwhelming. He's coping by consuming too much alcohol and attempting to seduce the hot bartender at his hotel. Chase is straight, but he's also a sucker for undivided attention and gets off on how much Logan craves him.
The two start a secret relationship- kept out of the public eye due to Logan's unease with his own fame, and his terror of forcing Chase into the pressures that come with the public eye. They recognize that they aren't good together and so when circumstances take Logan away from New York, they break things off. The brief but explosive time they spent together leaves an impression on them though- well beyond what either of them expected. The hope of being together is so motivating that they both clean up and start living clean.
Sometimes I think Raleigh looks inside my brain and picks out my favourite things: Logan has major Connor Storrie vibes- blond waves, freckles and muscles for days looking like a Greek god... and then we have Chase who's angry and a bit messed up, with touch hyperfixation. 🚨 WE HAVE A SUPER HANDSY, INCREDIBLY BOSSY STRAIGHT GUY WITH A GIANT DICK hooking up with Ilya from Heated Rivalry 🚨. Are you kidding me 😮💨🤤. They both have issues, are scared to really admit how they feel, and on top of that there's some slutty little glasses and art and a nude photoshoot and so much more!
Chase is a very character driven book, and in my opinion is the best book Raleigh Ruebins has written to date. The bond and sheer chemistry between Logan and Chase is everything. Their relationship works because of their pasts, not in spite of them.
I wish we'd gotten a bit of the time the two spent apart, because skipping that time trivialized their hard work and made it look easier than it should've been. I think this book was about an inch away from being something truly spectacular. I hope more characters pop up in Raleigh's head and refuse to go away, because I'm gonna need more exactly like this. I really enjoyed it and put it in my top reads of 2026 list!!
Rating: 4.5 stars, rounded up
Angst: 3.5/5
Steam: 4/5
I received an advance copy of this book and this is my honest review.
You are completely and entirely a craving I can’t control. It's terrifying when I know I would willingly ruin my life for you. And maybe ruin yours, too.”
When Logan meets Chase, he's a rising star in the first season of a hit TV show. His life has changed overnight and the fame is overwhelming. He's coping by consuming too much alcohol and attempting to seduce the hot bartender at his hotel. Chase is straight, but he's also a sucker for undivided attention and gets off on how much Logan craves him.
I know the effect my cock can have on people, and honestly, it was just as flattering to have a guy be that hungry for it again that quickly.
The two start a secret relationship- kept out of the public eye due to Logan's unease with his own fame, and his terror of forcing Chase into the pressures that come with the public eye. They recognize that they aren't good together and so when circumstances take Logan away from New York, they break things off. The brief but explosive time they spent together leaves an impression on them though- well beyond what either of them expected. The hope of being together is so motivating that they both clean up and start living clean.
I don’t have a single clue if I’d feel comfortable touching other guys… but having Logan resting on me like this feels good. Like he’s keeping me from drifting away, up into the air like a loosened balloon.
Sometimes I think Raleigh looks inside my brain and picks out my favourite things: Logan has major Connor Storrie vibes- blond waves, freckles and muscles for days looking like a Greek god... and then we have Chase who's angry and a bit messed up, with touch hyperfixation. 🚨 WE HAVE A SUPER HANDSY, INCREDIBLY BOSSY STRAIGHT GUY WITH A GIANT DICK hooking up with Ilya from Heated Rivalry 🚨. Are you kidding me 😮💨🤤. They both have issues, are scared to really admit how they feel, and on top of that there's some slutty little glasses and art and a nude photoshoot and so much more!
I don’t think he’s a mess at all, because calling him a mess would be like saying a great painting is a mess of color. It’s supposed to be that way. The chaos is what makes it beautiful.
Chase is a very character driven book, and in my opinion is the best book Raleigh Ruebins has written to date. The bond and sheer chemistry between Logan and Chase is everything. Their relationship works because of their pasts, not in spite of them.
He’s given up all pretense of pretending he’s not completely in my control, right now, and he’s looking at me like I have his entire world within my palm.
I wish we'd gotten a bit of the time the two spent apart, because skipping that time trivialized their hard work and made it look easier than it should've been. I think this book was about an inch away from being something truly spectacular. I hope more characters pop up in Raleigh's head and refuse to go away, because I'm gonna need more exactly like this. I really enjoyed it and put it in my top reads of 2026 list!!
“You’re mine, Logan,” I tell him plainly. “You’re mine. You have been since the first time you saw me, because you couldn’t look away, and I couldn’t, either.”
Rating: 4.5 stars, rounded up
Angst: 3.5/5
Steam: 4/5
I received an advance copy of this book and this is my honest review.
July 29, 2026
DNF @ 65%
Having Chase want Logan's attention was interesting. Giving Chase a desire for attention that he wasn't getting from other people was a good reason for having Chase acknowledge Logan's crush on him despite Chase thinking he wasn't attracted to men.
Was there an inconsistency here? Chase asks Logah how he was able to give him such a good BJ and Logan says it comes from experience, but Logan also said that his only experience with a man was with Daniel ten years ago. Unless I misread that, then the implication is that Logan was able to retain that experience despite never having put those skills to use in a decade?
The sex was hot, but the romance lacking. There was good justification for why Logan and Chase started hooking up, but there wasn't really very much non-sexual sentimental connection between them. I needed more moments where both of them showed that they cared for and wanted to get to know one another without the need for sex to be involved. It was so weird on page 112 for Chase to say "we stop talking about how our days went, or sharing little stories, or doing anything other than calling into mutual physical need" because the story acts like it's established some non-sexual rapport between them that's suddenly only devolved into pure sex, but it's never been NOT sexual.
It was a little weird how little fanfare the first kiss got considering how it was one of the things Logan seemed to hold sacred (because he and Daniel never did it).
Unlike my usual DNFs, I didn't find issue with anything in particular, I just couldn't really feel the romance between Chase and Logan because I feel like they developed too strong sentimental feelings for one another too quickly, so there wasn't really any romantic tension to keep things interesting. Three weeks of hooking up does not really equal "I've desperately wanted to kiss you for the past year" level of pining imo. It doesn't help that, besides a few conversations about their life troubles, we didn't see much of anything other than sex in the three weeks. The start of their relationship fell into the trap of sex = romance (which it definitely isn't) and that didn't quite work as a foundation for a 350 page novel. I'd probably have finished if it was shorter.
TL;DR: A bit long for how quickly Logan and Chase developed sentimental feelings. Could've used more tension and actual romancing imo. 2 stars.
Having Chase want Logan's attention was interesting. Giving Chase a desire for attention that he wasn't getting from other people was a good reason for having Chase acknowledge Logan's crush on him despite Chase thinking he wasn't attracted to men.
Was there an inconsistency here? Chase asks Logah how he was able to give him such a good BJ and Logan says it comes from experience, but Logan also said that his only experience with a man was with Daniel ten years ago. Unless I misread that, then the implication is that Logan was able to retain that experience despite never having put those skills to use in a decade?
The sex was hot, but the romance lacking. There was good justification for why Logan and Chase started hooking up, but there wasn't really very much non-sexual sentimental connection between them. I needed more moments where both of them showed that they cared for and wanted to get to know one another without the need for sex to be involved. It was so weird on page 112 for Chase to say "we stop talking about how our days went, or sharing little stories, or doing anything other than calling into mutual physical need" because the story acts like it's established some non-sexual rapport between them that's suddenly only devolved into pure sex, but it's never been NOT sexual.
It was a little weird how little fanfare the first kiss got considering how it was one of the things Logan seemed to hold sacred (because he and Daniel never did it).
Unlike my usual DNFs, I didn't find issue with anything in particular, I just couldn't really feel the romance between Chase and Logan because I feel like they developed too strong sentimental feelings for one another too quickly, so there wasn't really any romantic tension to keep things interesting. Three weeks of hooking up does not really equal "I've desperately wanted to kiss you for the past year" level of pining imo. It doesn't help that, besides a few conversations about their life troubles, we didn't see much of anything other than sex in the three weeks. The start of their relationship fell into the trap of sex = romance (which it definitely isn't) and that didn't quite work as a foundation for a 350 page novel. I'd probably have finished if it was shorter.
TL;DR: A bit long for how quickly Logan and Chase developed sentimental feelings. Could've used more tension and actual romancing imo. 2 stars.
July 29, 2026
I received an ARC in return for my honest review.
I LOVED THIS BOOK. Like... where do I even start?! This completely stole my heart, and I already know it's going to live rent-free in my head for a long time.
Chase and Logan are messy, obsessive, a little toxic at first, and so incredibly human. Their relationship isn't perfect from the beginning, but that's exactly what made me fall in love with them. Watching them grow together and learn how to love each other in a healthier way was everything.
I absolutely adored Chase. His ADHD felt so authentic, and I honestly saw a lot of myself in him. His brain is constantly going a mile a minute, and underneath all of that, he's just someone who's touch-starved and desperate to feel loved and wanted. My heart broke for him over and over again.
And Logan... this poor man is drowning in the chaos of sudden fame. He's trying to survive the paparazzi, the pressure, and a life that doesn't even feel like his anymore. Then he meets Chase, who has absolutely no clue he's a famous actor, and it was SO refreshing. Logan finally gets to be seen as just... Logan. Not the celebrity. Not the movie star. Just a person. I loved that so much.
Their rooftop meeting was the perfect beginning, and from there I was completely hooked. They come from two totally different worlds, yet somehow fit together so perfectly. Even when life pulls them apart, you just know they're always going to find their way back to each other.
The emotional depth in this book caught me completely off guard. Both of them carry so much hurt, and watching them slowly let each other in had me smiling one minute and wanting to cry the next.
And can we PLEASE talk about the chemistry?! 🥵 The dom/sub dynamic added so much trust, vulnerability, and intensity to their relationship. Every spicy scene had me kicking my feet, but what I loved most was that it never overshadowed the emotional connection between them. It made every moment together feel even more meaningful.
I also appreciated that the conflict felt real. There wasn't pointless drama or ridiculous miscommunication just to create tension. The obstacles came from who they were and what they'd been through, which made every emotional moment hit even harder.
This book made me laugh, swoon, ache, and smile like an idiot. I didn't want it to end, and now I'm sitting here wondering what I'm supposed to do with my life after finishing it.
An absolute, no-question, EASY five stars. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
I LOVED THIS BOOK. Like... where do I even start?! This completely stole my heart, and I already know it's going to live rent-free in my head for a long time.
Chase and Logan are messy, obsessive, a little toxic at first, and so incredibly human. Their relationship isn't perfect from the beginning, but that's exactly what made me fall in love with them. Watching them grow together and learn how to love each other in a healthier way was everything.
I absolutely adored Chase. His ADHD felt so authentic, and I honestly saw a lot of myself in him. His brain is constantly going a mile a minute, and underneath all of that, he's just someone who's touch-starved and desperate to feel loved and wanted. My heart broke for him over and over again.
And Logan... this poor man is drowning in the chaos of sudden fame. He's trying to survive the paparazzi, the pressure, and a life that doesn't even feel like his anymore. Then he meets Chase, who has absolutely no clue he's a famous actor, and it was SO refreshing. Logan finally gets to be seen as just... Logan. Not the celebrity. Not the movie star. Just a person. I loved that so much.
Their rooftop meeting was the perfect beginning, and from there I was completely hooked. They come from two totally different worlds, yet somehow fit together so perfectly. Even when life pulls them apart, you just know they're always going to find their way back to each other.
The emotional depth in this book caught me completely off guard. Both of them carry so much hurt, and watching them slowly let each other in had me smiling one minute and wanting to cry the next.
And can we PLEASE talk about the chemistry?! 🥵 The dom/sub dynamic added so much trust, vulnerability, and intensity to their relationship. Every spicy scene had me kicking my feet, but what I loved most was that it never overshadowed the emotional connection between them. It made every moment together feel even more meaningful.
I also appreciated that the conflict felt real. There wasn't pointless drama or ridiculous miscommunication just to create tension. The obstacles came from who they were and what they'd been through, which made every emotional moment hit even harder.
This book made me laugh, swoon, ache, and smile like an idiot. I didn't want it to end, and now I'm sitting here wondering what I'm supposed to do with my life after finishing it.
An absolute, no-question, EASY five stars. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
July 27, 2026
4.25 stars
Chase, on the other hand, is a hot mess of his own. He’s a starving photographer/artist who has a past of alcohol/drug abuse, working in the hotel bar and restaurant where Logan stays while in New York. They meet on a rooftop while both trying to escape their lives. Chase has no clue who Logan is, which is the initial draw for Logan for a number of reasons. Chase hasn’t ever been with a guy but he is willing to try. This opens a door when the chemistry between these two takes over.
Logan and Chase are on a bit of fragile ground for a while. Their fling lasts while Logan is filing in New York, but cools down for what they both believe is the best for both of them when Logan returns to LA. Upon his return to NY though, they are drawn right back to each other. Eventually, they each open up a little more with each other and their bond grows. I really enjoyed how this all developed and played out.
My immediate thought when starting this story was how it reminded me of Connor Storrie of Heated Rivalry fame. I really couldn’t help but draw the similarities with the immediate stardom and resultant fallout from the young star playing a sport and having a relationship with a teammate. People treat them in real life as though they are the characters, almost believing they are in an actual relationship and taking issue when real life shows them they are not. People can truly be crazy rabid fans, that’s for sure. Having seen that, this aspect of the story seemed much more believable.
This was my first book by this author, and I really enjoyed the writing style and flow. I will definitely be looking out for more in the future.
Review written for Love Bytes Reviews.
July 13, 2026
4.5 stars! I really really enjoyed this!
This is the story of Logan who’s a bisexual actor who’s adjusting to the fame and Chase who’s straight and works at the hotel Logan is staying!
When logan sees Chase working at the bar he’s immediately attracted but Chase is straight he’s always been
They both have heavy issues they are working through
Logan is adjusting to fame being haunted by the memory of his first love and best friend Daniel who died after being overcome with the fame and drugs
Chase is drinking too much partying too much
When Logan goes up to the roof and finds Chase there they have an encounter Chase dares logan to get down on his knees in a commanding way and he does in his thousands of dollars pants!
They start a situation ship no one knows Logan is bi and he’s terrified of someone else getting hurt because of the spotlight so they just keep it at hooking up
Chase is someone who needs touch and he explains that to Logan so he doesn’t get overwhelmed
Logan very quickly realizes he would do anything Chase wants they continue being together until Logan has to leave New York to being filming and they just keep it casual even though neither of them want that
A year later Logan is back
He’s doing better with fame he’s not drinking he’s better
Chase is also better no drinking no smoking and he’s painting more
What they both can’t deny is the pull towards each other but this time around they communicate!!!
Chase let’s Logan know about his childhood and how his dad treated him and Logan tells him all about Daniel
One of the hottest scenes is the photoshoot Logan does with Chase what I didn’t like was the breakdown after I felt so bad for Chase for people saying stuff to him because of his past but that post breakdown scene when Logan asks him to be his boyfriend was top tier!
I really enjoyed their story truly it took them a lot of get there they both had obstacles they needed to overcome and they both had to heal before they could truly be one
Whenever Logan claimed him as his boyfriend it was just the best thing!
This is the story of Logan who’s a bisexual actor who’s adjusting to the fame and Chase who’s straight and works at the hotel Logan is staying!
When logan sees Chase working at the bar he’s immediately attracted but Chase is straight he’s always been
They both have heavy issues they are working through
Logan is adjusting to fame being haunted by the memory of his first love and best friend Daniel who died after being overcome with the fame and drugs
Chase is drinking too much partying too much
When Logan goes up to the roof and finds Chase there they have an encounter Chase dares logan to get down on his knees in a commanding way and he does in his thousands of dollars pants!
They start a situation ship no one knows Logan is bi and he’s terrified of someone else getting hurt because of the spotlight so they just keep it at hooking up
Chase is someone who needs touch and he explains that to Logan so he doesn’t get overwhelmed
Logan very quickly realizes he would do anything Chase wants they continue being together until Logan has to leave New York to being filming and they just keep it casual even though neither of them want that
A year later Logan is back
He’s doing better with fame he’s not drinking he’s better
Chase is also better no drinking no smoking and he’s painting more
What they both can’t deny is the pull towards each other but this time around they communicate!!!
Chase let’s Logan know about his childhood and how his dad treated him and Logan tells him all about Daniel
One of the hottest scenes is the photoshoot Logan does with Chase what I didn’t like was the breakdown after I felt so bad for Chase for people saying stuff to him because of his past but that post breakdown scene when Logan asks him to be his boyfriend was top tier!
I really enjoyed their story truly it took them a lot of get there they both had obstacles they needed to overcome and they both had to heal before they could truly be one
Whenever Logan claimed him as his boyfriend it was just the best thing!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
5/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 5/5 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Disclosure: I received a complimentary eARC of Chase by Raleigh Ruebins in exchange for an honest review.
Chase, a standalone MM romance by Raleigh Ruebins, is a stunning surprise of a book. It follows Logan Stone, a golden-haired television star battling imposter syndrome and the lingering grief of a lost friend, and Chase Cameron, a wild, impulsive artist wrapped in a red-flag bow of ADHD, touch fixation, and intense creative energy.
When Logan intercepts a young, impulsive Chase on a stormy hotel rooftop, their paths intertwine in a way that defies logic. Despite Chase being straight and Logan living under the microscope of fame, an immediate, obsessive pull draws them together. What begins as a reckless impulse quickly spirals into a deep, magnetic connection that alters both of their lives.
Raleigh Ruebins has crafted something truly special here. The representation of Chase’s ADHD and his restless energy is handled with brilliant authenticity, channeling that chaos into his neon art and vivid photography. Meanwhile, Logan’s internal struggles—his constant need to care for others and his deep-seated loneliness—are mirrored by a profound, mutual hunger for touch.
The character dynamics are phenomenal; instead of becoming each other's downfall, Logan serves as the anchor that helps Chase choose sobriety, while Chase provides a safe space where Logan finally doesn't have to pretend to be okay. The pacing of their emotional and physical intimacy is electric, delivering a mouth watering spice level that matches the emotional stakes.
Chase is a breathtaking, obsessive, and ultimately healing romance about two people who make no sense on paper, yet fit together like they were made for each other. If you love intense emotional depth, high heat, and unforgettable characters, this is an absolute must-read.
Disclosure: I received a complimentary eARC of Chase by Raleigh Ruebins in exchange for an honest review.
Chase, a standalone MM romance by Raleigh Ruebins, is a stunning surprise of a book. It follows Logan Stone, a golden-haired television star battling imposter syndrome and the lingering grief of a lost friend, and Chase Cameron, a wild, impulsive artist wrapped in a red-flag bow of ADHD, touch fixation, and intense creative energy.
When Logan intercepts a young, impulsive Chase on a stormy hotel rooftop, their paths intertwine in a way that defies logic. Despite Chase being straight and Logan living under the microscope of fame, an immediate, obsessive pull draws them together. What begins as a reckless impulse quickly spirals into a deep, magnetic connection that alters both of their lives.
Raleigh Ruebins has crafted something truly special here. The representation of Chase’s ADHD and his restless energy is handled with brilliant authenticity, channeling that chaos into his neon art and vivid photography. Meanwhile, Logan’s internal struggles—his constant need to care for others and his deep-seated loneliness—are mirrored by a profound, mutual hunger for touch.
The character dynamics are phenomenal; instead of becoming each other's downfall, Logan serves as the anchor that helps Chase choose sobriety, while Chase provides a safe space where Logan finally doesn't have to pretend to be okay. The pacing of their emotional and physical intimacy is electric, delivering a mouth watering spice level that matches the emotional stakes.
Chase is a breathtaking, obsessive, and ultimately healing romance about two people who make no sense on paper, yet fit together like they were made for each other. If you love intense emotional depth, high heat, and unforgettable characters, this is an absolute must-read.
July 24, 2026
From toxic to the best parts of life
I absolutely loved this story and the characters. Their story starts at a time where neither is coping well with life and they feed each others toxicity while also leaving room for hope.
The beginning was like playing chicken. Two men who needed companionship. One bi and one "straight". One struggling with becoming famous overnight while not dealing with past trauma in a healthy way. One firmer addict and struggling artist who got cheated on. A moment on the roof that presents a challenge but may be exactly what they need.
I loved all the touchy feely vibes. I am super tactical and need touch just like these guys. Knowing the arrangement is temporary but wishing it wasn't.
I loved how both men not only realized they needed to be better they took the time to act on it. So when they are reunited they are different people who are both in a better place.
I loved the photo shoot scene. It was sensual, sexual, and beautifully done. I loved how this was used to help both men continue the narrative they wanted shown.
These two went through a good deal of pining, self doubt, criticism, and healing in thus story. I loved that they reunited after individually choosing different paths that ultimately brought them back together so much stronger.
This was such a beautiful story. The intimacy went from desperation to pure love. The connection these two had was so sweet. They both saw beyond what was shown to the world. They found that the vulnerability between them was a strength.
One rooftop rendezvous leads to nights spent together exploring. Chase's biawakening was beautiful to watch. Each night in the hotel built an undeniable connection and ultimately let them choose themselves before ever choosing each other.
I absolutely loved this story and the characters. Their story starts at a time where neither is coping well with life and they feed each others toxicity while also leaving room for hope.
The beginning was like playing chicken. Two men who needed companionship. One bi and one "straight". One struggling with becoming famous overnight while not dealing with past trauma in a healthy way. One firmer addict and struggling artist who got cheated on. A moment on the roof that presents a challenge but may be exactly what they need.
I loved all the touchy feely vibes. I am super tactical and need touch just like these guys. Knowing the arrangement is temporary but wishing it wasn't.
I loved how both men not only realized they needed to be better they took the time to act on it. So when they are reunited they are different people who are both in a better place.
I loved the photo shoot scene. It was sensual, sexual, and beautifully done. I loved how this was used to help both men continue the narrative they wanted shown.
These two went through a good deal of pining, self doubt, criticism, and healing in thus story. I loved that they reunited after individually choosing different paths that ultimately brought them back together so much stronger.
This was such a beautiful story. The intimacy went from desperation to pure love. The connection these two had was so sweet. They both saw beyond what was shown to the world. They found that the vulnerability between them was a strength.
One rooftop rendezvous leads to nights spent together exploring. Chase's biawakening was beautiful to watch. Each night in the hotel built an undeniable connection and ultimately let them choose themselves before ever choosing each other.
July 30, 2026
Chase was such a beautiful surprise. It's definitely lighter than some of Raleigh Ruebins' other books, but it still delivers plenty of emotional depth. The heavier themes are handled with care, creating a story that's both heartbreaking and incredibly hopeful.
Logan and Chase completely stole my heart. Logan is a rising actor struggling under the weight of sudden fame, while Chase is a bartender quietly battling his own demons. Their first meeting is unforgettable, with Logan immediately drawn to the one person who has no idea who he is. Their connection is instant, intense, and impossible to ignore.
What I loved most was that this wasn't a story where love magically fixed everything. Both men needed time apart to heal, grow, and become healthier versions of themselves before they could truly be together. The time jump worked so well because it allowed them to do exactly that, and their reunion felt even more meaningful because of it.
Watching Chase embrace his sobriety while Logan learned to navigate fame and prioritise his mental health made their relationship feel incredibly authentic. Their biggest obstacle wasn't each other, it was learning how to love themselves enough to build something lasting together.
I also adored the little details that made their relationship so special. Chase constantly reaching for Logan, always needing that physical connection, became one of my favourite expressions of love. And when their relationship was finally tested, Logan never wavered. He stood beside Chase without hesitation, and I loved him for it.
This is a beautifully written story about healing, second chances, and finding someone who loves every part of you, even the messy ones.
💙 Celebrity Romance
💙 Bi Awakening
💙 Hurt/Comfort
💙 Second Chance
💙 Mental Health Representation
💙 Recovery & Healing
💙 Touch-Starved MMC
💙 No Third-Act Breakup
This was an emotional, heartfelt romance that completely won me over. Logan and Chase are the kind of couple you can't help but root for, and by the end I was left hoping everyone gets to experience a love like theirs.
Logan and Chase completely stole my heart. Logan is a rising actor struggling under the weight of sudden fame, while Chase is a bartender quietly battling his own demons. Their first meeting is unforgettable, with Logan immediately drawn to the one person who has no idea who he is. Their connection is instant, intense, and impossible to ignore.
What I loved most was that this wasn't a story where love magically fixed everything. Both men needed time apart to heal, grow, and become healthier versions of themselves before they could truly be together. The time jump worked so well because it allowed them to do exactly that, and their reunion felt even more meaningful because of it.
Watching Chase embrace his sobriety while Logan learned to navigate fame and prioritise his mental health made their relationship feel incredibly authentic. Their biggest obstacle wasn't each other, it was learning how to love themselves enough to build something lasting together.
I also adored the little details that made their relationship so special. Chase constantly reaching for Logan, always needing that physical connection, became one of my favourite expressions of love. And when their relationship was finally tested, Logan never wavered. He stood beside Chase without hesitation, and I loved him for it.
This is a beautifully written story about healing, second chances, and finding someone who loves every part of you, even the messy ones.
💙 Celebrity Romance
💙 Bi Awakening
💙 Hurt/Comfort
💙 Second Chance
💙 Mental Health Representation
💙 Recovery & Healing
💙 Touch-Starved MMC
💙 No Third-Act Breakup
This was an emotional, heartfelt romance that completely won me over. Logan and Chase are the kind of couple you can't help but root for, and by the end I was left hoping everyone gets to experience a love like theirs.
August 2, 2026
MY OPINION: I am a Raleigh Ruebins fan. Their writing style and story development are always on point as far as I am concerned. Chase was certainly another one that hits all those needs I have in a romance book.
Chase has struggled, and he still struggles, when he meets Logan. Both men are battling demons, and falling into each other’s arms soothes those rough spots. This book gave me anxiety for most of it. We spend the entire time on a razor’s edge, not knowing if they will ever make something more of their situation. They walk away once they could do it again, and neither is willing to let go even if their hearts already decided.
They come from two different worlds, but there is a crossover, and they eventually find themselves seeing how they could be together. There are many interesting twists worth noting. There is a certain dominance that Chase brings to the table that Logan leans heavily into. Chase is touch-starved, and there is something refreshing about how it is addressed in the story.
I genuinely like both men and wanted them to be together, but we were privy to how they struggled and why the whole thing seemed genuinely impossible. When there is enough need, enough want, and enough love, you can figure out how to put the pieces together.
There is an appropriate amount of open-door spice; the men have an amazing connection. There are only a few supporting characters, and none of them hold much focus. Generally, we travel through a path of push and pull with the MCs. I thought about what would happen next when I put the book down. In the end, I came to a full stop and was satisfied with the ending. They could now move on with their lives, and it would be fine. Pick this one up; you will enjoy it.
Chase has struggled, and he still struggles, when he meets Logan. Both men are battling demons, and falling into each other’s arms soothes those rough spots. This book gave me anxiety for most of it. We spend the entire time on a razor’s edge, not knowing if they will ever make something more of their situation. They walk away once they could do it again, and neither is willing to let go even if their hearts already decided.
They come from two different worlds, but there is a crossover, and they eventually find themselves seeing how they could be together. There are many interesting twists worth noting. There is a certain dominance that Chase brings to the table that Logan leans heavily into. Chase is touch-starved, and there is something refreshing about how it is addressed in the story.
I genuinely like both men and wanted them to be together, but we were privy to how they struggled and why the whole thing seemed genuinely impossible. When there is enough need, enough want, and enough love, you can figure out how to put the pieces together.
There is an appropriate amount of open-door spice; the men have an amazing connection. There are only a few supporting characters, and none of them hold much focus. Generally, we travel through a path of push and pull with the MCs. I thought about what would happen next when I put the book down. In the end, I came to a full stop and was satisfied with the ending. They could now move on with their lives, and it would be fine. Pick this one up; you will enjoy it.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This was a really sweet story. I didn’t expect it to be very emotional, but somehow it was, in a good way. It is also an interesting trope idea, we have a movie star celebrity who has a hard time dealing with fame and an artist who is trying to find himself, an 8-year age gap and a kind of second chance romance.
I loved that both Logan and Chase’s characters were really interesting. They are not very typical MCs; Logan feels everything very deeply, while Chase was chaotic and unpredictable and I enjoyed his awakening a lot, it was unexpectedly easy, but it made sense because it was very Chase 🩵
“The thing about Chase is that he doesn’t just wear his heart on his sleeve, though.
He wears it all over his whole fucking being.”
Their dynamics was interesting too, both in sexual way and in the way their relationship unfolded. I can’t really pinpoint why, but it read to me differently than the usual plotlines, their behaviour with each other was far from clichés.
The only thing that bothered me is that I wasn’t 100% in it with their romantic connection.. The chemistry between them was obvious, and the pull was definitely there from the beginning, it’s just that I really believed in THE love more towards the end. But maybe it’s a me problem 🙃
“You sure I’m not too much?”
“You are too much.
And I want you to keep being too much, because I want all of it.”
I loved them both and both of them managed to break my heart, make me shed a tear, but put it back together in the end 🩵
I am very thankful for this ARC and the thoughts are my own ❣️
I loved that both Logan and Chase’s characters were really interesting. They are not very typical MCs; Logan feels everything very deeply, while Chase was chaotic and unpredictable and I enjoyed his awakening a lot, it was unexpectedly easy, but it made sense because it was very Chase 🩵
“The thing about Chase is that he doesn’t just wear his heart on his sleeve, though.
He wears it all over his whole fucking being.”
Their dynamics was interesting too, both in sexual way and in the way their relationship unfolded. I can’t really pinpoint why, but it read to me differently than the usual plotlines, their behaviour with each other was far from clichés.
The only thing that bothered me is that I wasn’t 100% in it with their romantic connection.. The chemistry between them was obvious, and the pull was definitely there from the beginning, it’s just that I really believed in THE love more towards the end. But maybe it’s a me problem 🙃
“You sure I’m not too much?”
“You are too much.
And I want you to keep being too much, because I want all of it.”
I loved them both and both of them managed to break my heart, make me shed a tear, but put it back together in the end 🩵
I am very thankful for this ARC and the thoughts are my own ❣️
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC Review of Chase by Raleigh Ruebins. This is a 5 star read for me. I loved this book. This book had my heart from the first page. This is Chase and Logan’s story. They are total opposites but balance each other out. I love them together. I love the spicy scenes this is a high heat romance. Chase and Logan’s pasts break my heart and what they each have gone through. This is a slow burn, very spicy, hurt/comfort, actor mmc x artist mmc, tattooed mmc, ADHD rep, hurt/comfort, bi-awakening, touch fixation, 8 year age gap, MM romance. Logan is 29 and is a newly famous TV star who doesn’t know how to handle the newfound fame. Chase is 21 and is a bartender at a hotel bar but he wants to be an artist. Logan and Chase meet when Logan comes into the bar of the hotel he’s staying at where Chase works. Logan is attracted to Chase instantly and likes the fact that he doesn’t seem to recognize him. Chase is straight but is attracted to Logan too and is now curious. Chase starts exploring his sexuality with Logan and soon they are together almost every night until Logan has to go back to LA. Chase and Logan both have traumatic pasts that effect how they are with each other. While navigating how they feel for each other and where they go next they have to deal with time apart, emotional healing, and finding their way back to each other. It makes me sad the time Logan and Chase spent apart but I love seeing them grow individually and then coming back to each other and really getting to know each other. I love seeing Logan navigate fame, fans, his career, and love. I love how they support each other. I love their HEA. I definitely recommend this book.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Ohhh this book was SO TENDER. 🥹🖤 The kind of story that sneaks up on you while you're expecting chaos and suddenly you're sitting there feeling ALL the feelings.
✨ MM Romance
🖤 Famous actor x starving bartender
🔥 Straight... allegedly 😂
🖤 Touch-starved men
🔥 Obsessive attraction
🖤 Healing & found family
Two damaged men in NYC who make absolutely NO sense together... and yet somehow fit in the most perfect way. Logan is the famous, golden-haired film star struggling with fame and being seen for who he actually is. Chase is pure chaos wrapped in a red-flag bow, ADHD, touch fixation, partying, and a whole lot of "I'm totally straight!" energy. 😏
And then these two become friends. 🥹. That friendship becomes the foundation for something so much deeper, and I loved watching them slowly become the safe place the other didn't know they needed. Chase is such a pleaser, and watching him learn that someone can believe in him, his art, and his future? My heart. 😭🖤
Chase is battling drugs, partying, not belonging, and living entirely in the moment. Logan is dealing with the loneliness and pressure that comes with being famous. Together, they start to figure out what it means to build something real instead of just surviving day to day.
There are hints of dom/sub dynamics and a strong desire to please that added some delicious tension. 😮💨🔥 And Chase's whole "I'm straight" journey while he literally cannot stop touching, kissing, and wanting Logan had me laughing and fanning myself at the same time.
"Guess I'm a little bit gay... huh?" 😂🔥. YES, CHASE. I THINK YOU MIGHT BE and THANK YOU FOR IT.
✨ MM Romance
🖤 Famous actor x starving bartender
🔥 Straight... allegedly 😂
🖤 Touch-starved men
🔥 Obsessive attraction
🖤 Healing & found family
Two damaged men in NYC who make absolutely NO sense together... and yet somehow fit in the most perfect way. Logan is the famous, golden-haired film star struggling with fame and being seen for who he actually is. Chase is pure chaos wrapped in a red-flag bow, ADHD, touch fixation, partying, and a whole lot of "I'm totally straight!" energy. 😏
And then these two become friends. 🥹. That friendship becomes the foundation for something so much deeper, and I loved watching them slowly become the safe place the other didn't know they needed. Chase is such a pleaser, and watching him learn that someone can believe in him, his art, and his future? My heart. 😭🖤
Chase is battling drugs, partying, not belonging, and living entirely in the moment. Logan is dealing with the loneliness and pressure that comes with being famous. Together, they start to figure out what it means to build something real instead of just surviving day to day.
There are hints of dom/sub dynamics and a strong desire to please that added some delicious tension. 😮💨🔥 And Chase's whole "I'm straight" journey while he literally cannot stop touching, kissing, and wanting Logan had me laughing and fanning myself at the same time.
"Guess I'm a little bit gay... huh?" 😂🔥. YES, CHASE. I THINK YOU MIGHT BE and THANK YOU FOR IT.
July 21, 2026
Chase
by Raleigh Ruebins
Chase is a standalone MM romance about two men who meet by chance and find themselves drawn to each other when neither of them is truly ready for a relationship.
Chase is a bartender and artist who is struggling with his sobriety, while Logan is a rising TV star trying to navigate his newfound fame while carrying the weight of grief and his past. Even though Chase has always considered himself straight, he can’t deny the connection he feels with Logan, and the two begin a secret, casual situationship.
It quickly becomes clear that they’re both carrying a lot of emotional baggage, and while their attraction is undeniable, their relationship isn’t healthy. When Logan returns home to Los Angeles, they decide to end things. During the year they’re apart, they both put in the work to heal, face their personal struggles, and grow into healthier versions of themselves.
When Logan comes back to New York a year later, the difference in both of them is obvious. Their chemistry is still as strong as ever, but this time it’s paired with maturity, trust, and genuine support for one another. I really loved seeing how much they had grown and how they were finally able to build the relationship they both deserved.
This was such a beautiful, emotional story that kept me invested from beginning to end. The character growth was one of my favorite parts, and I loved that the romance wasn’t just about finding each other—it was about finding themselves first. If you enjoy emotional romances with second chances, healing, and plenty of heartfelt moments, I’d definitely recommend giving Chase a try.
by Raleigh Ruebins
Chase is a standalone MM romance about two men who meet by chance and find themselves drawn to each other when neither of them is truly ready for a relationship.
Chase is a bartender and artist who is struggling with his sobriety, while Logan is a rising TV star trying to navigate his newfound fame while carrying the weight of grief and his past. Even though Chase has always considered himself straight, he can’t deny the connection he feels with Logan, and the two begin a secret, casual situationship.
It quickly becomes clear that they’re both carrying a lot of emotional baggage, and while their attraction is undeniable, their relationship isn’t healthy. When Logan returns home to Los Angeles, they decide to end things. During the year they’re apart, they both put in the work to heal, face their personal struggles, and grow into healthier versions of themselves.
When Logan comes back to New York a year later, the difference in both of them is obvious. Their chemistry is still as strong as ever, but this time it’s paired with maturity, trust, and genuine support for one another. I really loved seeing how much they had grown and how they were finally able to build the relationship they both deserved.
This was such a beautiful, emotional story that kept me invested from beginning to end. The character growth was one of my favorite parts, and I loved that the romance wasn’t just about finding each other—it was about finding themselves first. If you enjoy emotional romances with second chances, healing, and plenty of heartfelt moments, I’d definitely recommend giving Chase a try.
July 28, 2026
Chase and Logan drew me in and kept me engaged the whole time. Their encounter on the roof was kind of freaky (had me cringing with a fear of heights), I wasn’t quite sure what Chase would do. Logan couldn’t just leave, and it started a crazy few weeks together, both damaged and struggling in their own way, but finding something in each other to make it more bearable in the time they had together before Logan had to leave.. Fast forward a year and both had worked on themselves to be in a better place, the connection was still there with the sexual tension along with the friendship that was developing as they got to know each other even better than before. Each continued to support the other emotionally and physically, continuing to grow their feelings for each other. Logan’s desire to help an actress friend led to a life-changing event for both, one with long lasting effects on both their lives. I loved the way they gave each other emotional support through touch, it made such a difference for Chase, but Logan as well. These two could get totally lost in each other but Logan’s assistant Em and Chase’s brother Julian help to keep them grounded, and the changes made over the last year put them in a good place for a lasting relationship. I felt they really were in a place to move forward as they faced their future together, confident in themselves and their relationship, knowing what they wanted from life individually and together. Both Logan and Chase were realistic and relatable, having me invested in them getting to the place each needed to be for their future to work together. I was very satisfied with where they were at the end.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 128 reviews