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Ring Rust
The first book in Val Simons' new series, Hung Boots, which follows the lives of pro wrestlers after they hang up their boots and return to normal life.
Jasper and Ryan have been together nearly fifteen years when Ryan finally retires from his role as top talent for Central Wrestling Authority. It's been years of nonstop touring and too much distance between them, and they've both been waiting for this day to arrive. But while Ryan's been waiting to start the rest of his life with his husband, Jasper's been waiting to start the rest of his life, alone. Now that Ryan's final farewell tour is over, Jasper can finally move on without worrying about Ryan's career.
A marriage-in-crisis, second chance MM Romance. Coming August, 2026!
Jasper and Ryan have been together nearly fifteen years when Ryan finally retires from his role as top talent for Central Wrestling Authority. It's been years of nonstop touring and too much distance between them, and they've both been waiting for this day to arrive. But while Ryan's been waiting to start the rest of his life with his husband, Jasper's been waiting to start the rest of his life, alone. Now that Ryan's final farewell tour is over, Jasper can finally move on without worrying about Ryan's career.
A marriage-in-crisis, second chance MM Romance. Coming August, 2026!
- GenresM M RomanceSecond Chance
340 pages, Paperback
First published August 6, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
August 9, 2026
Unfortunately I found this book tedious to read. The communication between Jasper and Ryan was horrible. They both didn’t respect each others boundaries and I don’t understand how they even made it 15 years together.
This is only my second book by this author and I enjoyed the first one I read and this had a lot of potential. I liked the parts when Jasper and Ryan got along and worked together like when they hosted their nieces but otherwise it was frustrating.
ARC received for review
All thoughts and opinions are my own
This is only my second book by this author and I enjoyed the first one I read and this had a lot of potential. I liked the parts when Jasper and Ryan got along and worked together like when they hosted their nieces but otherwise it was frustrating.
ARC received for review
All thoughts and opinions are my own
August 10, 2026
Love is such a beautiful thing. It's one of the closest things to magic we have in the world and we always think we'll have enough time. But life happens as Jasper and Ryan are about to be hit with reality in the aftermath of Ryan's wrestling career being over after years of sacrifice, patience and love. But sometimes love isn't enough especially for Jasper who stopped believing in that hopeful future they dreamed about. He's already given so much and he doesn't know if he can trust Ryan after being let down. Ryan wants to keep his promises and he can only hope he isn't too late. Love isn't the problem. The problem is everything they lost. The trust. The communication. The essence of what made them THEM after over a decade of devotion to each other. This is their story of a marriage in crisis where they've been put through the ringer and have to see if they can pick up the pieces and be better than they were before. This was a beautiful real story of second chances and fighting for the person you love.
Review of advance copy
Exes with years of history are never beating the allegations lmao because tell me why these two snuck a lil quickie in during a family Christmas party to which one of them had brought someone else?
“Have a good rest of your date.” immediately after fondling that man to the edge of sanity. Diabolical behaviour. I was a big fan.
Fair play to Shawn for noping tf out of that situation expeditiously when he heard Jasper had been with Ryan 15 years and only broken up two months prior.
Another favourite running bit was how petty Ryan was.
"He didn't wash his hands after using the bathroom.”
“Really?” Jasper asked. He thought back, but all he could remember were all the times he was searching for Ryan.
“Yeah, and I wash my hands every time. So that’s just… your choice, but something to think about.”
Like????😂
Okay so first of all this probably wasn't true about the other guy but also Jasper would also maybe prefer the other guy in spite of his non hand washing ways(gasp!) over a mostly absent husband. I'm not even exaggerating, these two had a remote marriage.
Like Ryan would be gone almost 300 days out of every year, and it had gotten to the point where he missed all sorts of things and then threw money and gifts at Jasper.
So I get why Jasper got sick of it when, after what felt like forever waiting for Ryan to retire, he immediately started brainstorming post-retirement work plans that would have him on the road all the time once more.
All Jasper wanted was to be with his man. Can't fault him for that.
What I can fault him for, though? Never saying anything to Ryan about it. I got why he'd think it would be obvious but 14 years later, you really start to wonder why he didn't say something sooner.
Baby, clearly your man is not a mind reader. Would have trouble reading a sign that was printed in neon red letters. Use your words.
Then again, with what I saw about early chapters Ryan, he'd probably have dismissed those concerns regardless. With his 'I do all this for us, possum' spiel.
Enter 'I want a divorce' conversation.
Then a very confusing, albeit highly entertaining swing between snark and sexual tension. On and off for weeks. Months, even.
And a lot of Jasper slowly twisting the knife situations lmao.
To be fair, though, these two are both petty. The kind of petty that comes with years of experience in which specific buttons to push.
I liked that Jasper wasn't a pushover and I liked that Ryan (eventually, but still really early on in the book) puts a lot of effort into winning his man back.
I liked that in spite of eventually being open to it, Jasper couldn't just shut off his fears because he got an apology. I liked that on multiple occasions when he saw previous patterns emerging, he immediately put his walls up. It was so realistic.
Most of all, though, I liked how funny they were, even while being petty as fuck to each other. Unfortunately we don't get flashbacks into how they fell in love the first time but you can absolutely see how much love still exists between them.
And how much they genuinely enjoy each other.
That and the lust😂
Basically it's a couple I felt no qualms about reconciling. Just lost sight of each other a bit, but very much still in love with each other.
Not as much angst as I was expecting but those first few chapters, when Jasper was seething with rage and hurt and bitterness, that was good.
Got a bit mad at his sister for being so intensely #TeamRyan from the start that she never really listened to Jasper's concerns.
Like damn, ask the man if he's okay before you bust out the 'You made a mistake but if you admit it, he'll take you back, I just know it' conversation.
Fuck you and what you know.
Because yes, Ryan provided a great life for Jasper and bought him gifts and all but he wasn't a great husband. He was barely a husband. He was more of a mysterious benefactor.
And I'd have expected Jasper's sister who sat with him through all the missed graduations and celebration dinners and family holidays he had to go through alone to be the first one to validate that hurt.
That probably made it easier to love Ryan for accepting his part in the demise of their marriage, even if he didn't see it at first due to the shock of it all.
Jasper's a better man than I, because I'd have asked sister dearest why she was doing so much twirling for the opposition (ahem, husband), yet even he could admit he'd massively fucked up.
Won't lie, I was very amused that Ryan developed so much PTSD from his limited time on his own that he was very afraid of losing Jasper when he told him of his new post-retirement plans.
A little fear of losing your partner goes a long way. Had that man SHOOK. Literally and figuratively 💀
Jasper runs a strict program.
Even though it took him 14 years to get to it.
Even though he backslides a bit when he sees a sliver of exposed flesh on Ryan(I'll allow it).
Even if he loses all self control when his husband touches him, even if he's sort of on a date at the time.
Okay, fine. Program's not that strict.
But it's strict enough to put the fear of God into Ryan, which is all it needed to accomplish anyway.
“Have a good rest of your date.” immediately after fondling that man to the edge of sanity. Diabolical behaviour. I was a big fan.
Fair play to Shawn for noping tf out of that situation expeditiously when he heard Jasper had been with Ryan 15 years and only broken up two months prior.
Another favourite running bit was how petty Ryan was.
"He didn't wash his hands after using the bathroom.”
“Really?” Jasper asked. He thought back, but all he could remember were all the times he was searching for Ryan.
“Yeah, and I wash my hands every time. So that’s just… your choice, but something to think about.”
Like????😂
Okay so first of all this probably wasn't true about the other guy but also Jasper would also maybe prefer the other guy in spite of his non hand washing ways(gasp!) over a mostly absent husband. I'm not even exaggerating, these two had a remote marriage.
Like Ryan would be gone almost 300 days out of every year, and it had gotten to the point where he missed all sorts of things and then threw money and gifts at Jasper.
So I get why Jasper got sick of it when, after what felt like forever waiting for Ryan to retire, he immediately started brainstorming post-retirement work plans that would have him on the road all the time once more.
All Jasper wanted was to be with his man. Can't fault him for that.
What I can fault him for, though? Never saying anything to Ryan about it. I got why he'd think it would be obvious but 14 years later, you really start to wonder why he didn't say something sooner.
Baby, clearly your man is not a mind reader. Would have trouble reading a sign that was printed in neon red letters. Use your words.
Then again, with what I saw about early chapters Ryan, he'd probably have dismissed those concerns regardless. With his 'I do all this for us, possum' spiel.
Enter 'I want a divorce' conversation.
Then a very confusing, albeit highly entertaining swing between snark and sexual tension. On and off for weeks. Months, even.
And a lot of Jasper slowly twisting the knife situations lmao.
To be fair, though, these two are both petty. The kind of petty that comes with years of experience in which specific buttons to push.
I liked that Jasper wasn't a pushover and I liked that Ryan (eventually, but still really early on in the book) puts a lot of effort into winning his man back.
I liked that in spite of eventually being open to it, Jasper couldn't just shut off his fears because he got an apology. I liked that on multiple occasions when he saw previous patterns emerging, he immediately put his walls up. It was so realistic.
Most of all, though, I liked how funny they were, even while being petty as fuck to each other. Unfortunately we don't get flashbacks into how they fell in love the first time but you can absolutely see how much love still exists between them.
And how much they genuinely enjoy each other.
That and the lust😂
Basically it's a couple I felt no qualms about reconciling. Just lost sight of each other a bit, but very much still in love with each other.
Not as much angst as I was expecting but those first few chapters, when Jasper was seething with rage and hurt and bitterness, that was good.
Got a bit mad at his sister for being so intensely #TeamRyan from the start that she never really listened to Jasper's concerns.
Like damn, ask the man if he's okay before you bust out the 'You made a mistake but if you admit it, he'll take you back, I just know it' conversation.
Fuck you and what you know.
Because yes, Ryan provided a great life for Jasper and bought him gifts and all but he wasn't a great husband. He was barely a husband. He was more of a mysterious benefactor.
And I'd have expected Jasper's sister who sat with him through all the missed graduations and celebration dinners and family holidays he had to go through alone to be the first one to validate that hurt.
That probably made it easier to love Ryan for accepting his part in the demise of their marriage, even if he didn't see it at first due to the shock of it all.
Jasper's a better man than I, because I'd have asked sister dearest why she was doing so much twirling for the opposition (ahem, husband), yet even he could admit he'd massively fucked up.
Won't lie, I was very amused that Ryan developed so much PTSD from his limited time on his own that he was very afraid of losing Jasper when he told him of his new post-retirement plans.
A little fear of losing your partner goes a long way. Had that man SHOOK. Literally and figuratively 💀
Jasper runs a strict program.
Even though it took him 14 years to get to it.
Even though he backslides a bit when he sees a sliver of exposed flesh on Ryan(I'll allow it).
Even if he loses all self control when his husband touches him, even if he's sort of on a date at the time.
Okay, fine. Program's not that strict.
But it's strict enough to put the fear of God into Ryan, which is all it needed to accomplish anyway.
Review of advance copy
4.5 stars!!
This was such a good story! It had about 3/5 on the spice scale but I loved the story
This is the story of Ryan a professional wrestler who’s retiring and his husband Jasper a school principal! Jasper is excited because Ryan is retiring which means he will be home more he has missed some big events but jasper kept that disappointment to himself! So when Ryan was getting excited about things after retirement about doing commentary going on tours basically still not being home Jasper just snapped he realized that Ryan wasn’t going to settle down so he asked for a divorce not a legal one because they weren’t legally married but Ryan wasn’t flabbergasted and thought it was because of breakfast he burnt but Jasper was putting himself first because Ryan’s been gone so long and now he’s planning on doing it again
So it’s a hard transition for them both and they are in each others orbits but not directly what made me laugh was when Ryan wasn’t stalking in the bushes when Jasper was talking to the contractor at the park Logan who was making every mistake under the sun and when he jumped out I laughed so loud
Jasper makes Ryan and Logan work together and it does work because Ryan is very hand and Logan is well Logan!
Here’s comes the Christmas party where 15 years ago Ryan and Jasper met annnnnd Jasper ends up bringing a sorta date and Ryan is devastated! When they get outside to talk it turns spicy but Ryan realizes this is just a one off and Ryan steps away
During their separation they do have some random spicy times especially when Jasper comes home from the party and Ryan is on the couch! That scene was 🔥
They have I cohabitate for 2 weeks looking after their nieces because their sisters are going on a trip and Ryan isn’t going to let this go to waste! He does everything he can to make Jasper see he’s changed he even bribes his nieces to bring the chickens inside to destroy a room so he and Jasper can share one!
So after the two weeks things have changed for Jasper and he wants to give Ryan a chance and he gets dinner and Ryan shows up late he was working on a surprise for Jasper but Jasper sees it as him not keeping his promises again! But they agree to keep it slow and not run into things too quickly!
Ok one part that made me annoyed at Jasper was the recital! Ryan was late and Jasper assumed the worst and I know he had baggage but still! Ryan was at the park with Logan and they were hanging lights on jaspers surprise and he fell off the ladder he sent Ryan so many angry texts but then the hospital called and he regretted every one! Ryan was fine but injured but Jasper came around little moments laughed again when he faked falling so Jasper would come over LOL
I’m so glad they got through their issues because they were such a cute couple! They had to get through some things like Ryan was terrified he was going to mess up!
When Ryan finally showed Jasper his surprise of the carrousel working like in his younger years Jasper had no words! It wa such a sweet surprise and Ryan was worried that Jasper would be mad when he had a idea of being a handyman after his retirement Ryan was terrified that Jasper would think he’s not putting him first
I loved that Jasper explained that all he wanted for them was for Ryan to include him in decisions and not just deciding on his own and apologizing with money! He didn’t want Ryan to be a housewife at home he just wanted him home and have a life together!! Really really good I did love them so much! And pooooor Shawn his “date” waiting on the porch while they dry humped each other outside the Christmas party! LOL
This was such a good story! It had about 3/5 on the spice scale but I loved the story
This is the story of Ryan a professional wrestler who’s retiring and his husband Jasper a school principal! Jasper is excited because Ryan is retiring which means he will be home more he has missed some big events but jasper kept that disappointment to himself! So when Ryan was getting excited about things after retirement about doing commentary going on tours basically still not being home Jasper just snapped he realized that Ryan wasn’t going to settle down so he asked for a divorce not a legal one because they weren’t legally married but Ryan wasn’t flabbergasted and thought it was because of breakfast he burnt but Jasper was putting himself first because Ryan’s been gone so long and now he’s planning on doing it again
So it’s a hard transition for them both and they are in each others orbits but not directly what made me laugh was when Ryan wasn’t stalking in the bushes when Jasper was talking to the contractor at the park Logan who was making every mistake under the sun and when he jumped out I laughed so loud
Jasper makes Ryan and Logan work together and it does work because Ryan is very hand and Logan is well Logan!
Here’s comes the Christmas party where 15 years ago Ryan and Jasper met annnnnd Jasper ends up bringing a sorta date and Ryan is devastated! When they get outside to talk it turns spicy but Ryan realizes this is just a one off and Ryan steps away
During their separation they do have some random spicy times especially when Jasper comes home from the party and Ryan is on the couch! That scene was 🔥
They have I cohabitate for 2 weeks looking after their nieces because their sisters are going on a trip and Ryan isn’t going to let this go to waste! He does everything he can to make Jasper see he’s changed he even bribes his nieces to bring the chickens inside to destroy a room so he and Jasper can share one!
So after the two weeks things have changed for Jasper and he wants to give Ryan a chance and he gets dinner and Ryan shows up late he was working on a surprise for Jasper but Jasper sees it as him not keeping his promises again! But they agree to keep it slow and not run into things too quickly!
Ok one part that made me annoyed at Jasper was the recital! Ryan was late and Jasper assumed the worst and I know he had baggage but still! Ryan was at the park with Logan and they were hanging lights on jaspers surprise and he fell off the ladder he sent Ryan so many angry texts but then the hospital called and he regretted every one! Ryan was fine but injured but Jasper came around little moments laughed again when he faked falling so Jasper would come over LOL
I’m so glad they got through their issues because they were such a cute couple! They had to get through some things like Ryan was terrified he was going to mess up!
When Ryan finally showed Jasper his surprise of the carrousel working like in his younger years Jasper had no words! It wa such a sweet surprise and Ryan was worried that Jasper would be mad when he had a idea of being a handyman after his retirement Ryan was terrified that Jasper would think he’s not putting him first
I loved that Jasper explained that all he wanted for them was for Ryan to include him in decisions and not just deciding on his own and apologizing with money! He didn’t want Ryan to be a housewife at home he just wanted him home and have a life together!! Really really good I did love them so much! And pooooor Shawn his “date” waiting on the porch while they dry humped each other outside the Christmas party! LOL
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This was a 4.5, very close to 5 stars for me. It was a delightful story with characters that felt extremely real and dialogue that was fun and witty. It's my first Val Simons book and it definitely won't be the last.
I loved how messy Jasper and Ryan were. How real their marriage felt. Jasper's resentment was so understandable and my heart hurt for him and for all the times Ryan let him down. Only seeing your husband 50 days out of the year? Having him miss important dates like your promotion dinner? No wonder Jasper was fed up. No wonder he left.
Ryan was the one most at fault here - he put his career first and took Jasper for granted for a lot of their marriage. I think he always expected Jasper to be there, waiting for him. He reminded me of those men who are blindsided when the wife asks for a divorce, despite her expressing her unhappiness several times over the years. The ones who ask "where is this coming from" because they never actually listened to their partner when they brought things up in the past.
I loved so much of this, though: them painting miniatures together, the theme park and the carousel, Ryan having a mullet at 44 lol, how prickly but kind Jasper was. Jasper getting Ryan business cards with a little cartoon hammer and a dumbbell on it. The slow rebuilding of the trust between them. When it finally came together, when Jasper finally realized he wanted to give their marriage a second shot, I was the happiest gal around. It made me so happy to see those two happy 💗
That said, I do have a few nits. There's a point where Ryan goes to their house and comes across a bottle of alcohol and pictures that remind him of all the times he wasn't there for Jasper. He has an epiphany of sorts and does a good amount of self-reflection, finally realizing that he had been an absent husband. The end of the scene even says "Jasper didn't leave him because he'd stopped loving him the day after Ryan's retirement. He left him because he'd already been alone for years." I was like, go Ryan! You finally understand. Now you can go talk to Jasper and acknowledge your past actions and Jasper's feelings and apologize and try to rebuild your marriage.
But he doesn’t do that. By the next chapter he’s back to being flirty with and annoying the hell out of Jasper like he'd been doing the entire book. His epiphany is never mentioned again.
And while the two of them have great banter, they never once actually sit down and talk properly. They really, really needed a heart-to-heart where Jasper aired all his resentment and Ryan acknowledged and recognized it and then laid out the steps he's taking so he doesn't fuck up again. It left me feeling like part of their issues weren't actually resolved by the end of the book, and I honestly don't know if I see the two of them working out forever (although them going to therapy together gives me hope!).
Another thing was how every young guy flirts with Jasper. I was so confused as to why all these 20-year-olds are hitting on a man in his early to mid 40s? I'm sure Jasper is an attractive guy, but it felt a bit unrealistic lol.
Overall, though, this was a really great little book. I love second chance romances, especially when the couple has been together a long time. I think it’s hard to write this kind of dynamic well, and the author here did a really great job and had me fully invested in the characters and the rebuilding of their relationship.
I loved how messy Jasper and Ryan were. How real their marriage felt. Jasper's resentment was so understandable and my heart hurt for him and for all the times Ryan let him down. Only seeing your husband 50 days out of the year? Having him miss important dates like your promotion dinner? No wonder Jasper was fed up. No wonder he left.
Ryan was the one most at fault here - he put his career first and took Jasper for granted for a lot of their marriage. I think he always expected Jasper to be there, waiting for him. He reminded me of those men who are blindsided when the wife asks for a divorce, despite her expressing her unhappiness several times over the years. The ones who ask "where is this coming from" because they never actually listened to their partner when they brought things up in the past.
I loved so much of this, though: them painting miniatures together, the theme park and the carousel, Ryan having a mullet at 44 lol, how prickly but kind Jasper was. Jasper getting Ryan business cards with a little cartoon hammer and a dumbbell on it. The slow rebuilding of the trust between them. When it finally came together, when Jasper finally realized he wanted to give their marriage a second shot, I was the happiest gal around. It made me so happy to see those two happy 💗
That said, I do have a few nits. There's a point where Ryan goes to their house and comes across a bottle of alcohol and pictures that remind him of all the times he wasn't there for Jasper. He has an epiphany of sorts and does a good amount of self-reflection, finally realizing that he had been an absent husband. The end of the scene even says "Jasper didn't leave him because he'd stopped loving him the day after Ryan's retirement. He left him because he'd already been alone for years." I was like, go Ryan! You finally understand. Now you can go talk to Jasper and acknowledge your past actions and Jasper's feelings and apologize and try to rebuild your marriage.
But he doesn’t do that. By the next chapter he’s back to being flirty with and annoying the hell out of Jasper like he'd been doing the entire book. His epiphany is never mentioned again.
And while the two of them have great banter, they never once actually sit down and talk properly. They really, really needed a heart-to-heart where Jasper aired all his resentment and Ryan acknowledged and recognized it and then laid out the steps he's taking so he doesn't fuck up again. It left me feeling like part of their issues weren't actually resolved by the end of the book, and I honestly don't know if I see the two of them working out forever (although them going to therapy together gives me hope!).
Another thing was how every young guy flirts with Jasper. I was so confused as to why all these 20-year-olds are hitting on a man in his early to mid 40s? I'm sure Jasper is an attractive guy, but it felt a bit unrealistic lol.
Overall, though, this was a really great little book. I love second chance romances, especially when the couple has been together a long time. I think it’s hard to write this kind of dynamic well, and the author here did a really great job and had me fully invested in the characters and the rebuilding of their relationship.
Review of advance copy
I took a chance on this book from a new author to me... and I am so happy that I did. The writing was emotionally charged, bringing out everything from the characters: the good, the bad, the ugly and everything in between.
Jasper and Ryan's story starts off sweet, with a stubborn Jasper trying not to take the bate of his sister who wants to set him up. He gets to know Ryan through short tidbits of information and a quick peek at a photo that was shared. But it was during a party that Jasper, not only gets to see Ryan in person, but also gets to know him. Through that meeting, he realizes that this may be the person he spends the rest of his life with.
Fifteen years later, and Jasper and Ryan are still together.... only after 15 year, who they were and who they are now are not the same. But Jasper has high hopes that things may change for the better, now that Ryan has retired as a pro wrestler, giving more time to spend together without the constant traveling schedule that Ryan had while performing. Unfortunately, before they even get home from Ryan's retirement party, Jasper realizes quickly that his plans and Ryan's plans are not the same.
This is where the story really starts. Jasper and Ryan are on two totally different pages, and the rest of the story is how each of them develop after this realization. I don't want to spoil the rest of the story, but I will say that each character does not have it easy. I am really glad I read this book. In many ways, it was relatable. Relationships require work and open mindedness from both people. This book is definitely worth the journey.
I received an ARC from GRR and am leaving an honest review.
Jasper and Ryan's story starts off sweet, with a stubborn Jasper trying not to take the bate of his sister who wants to set him up. He gets to know Ryan through short tidbits of information and a quick peek at a photo that was shared. But it was during a party that Jasper, not only gets to see Ryan in person, but also gets to know him. Through that meeting, he realizes that this may be the person he spends the rest of his life with.
Fifteen years later, and Jasper and Ryan are still together.... only after 15 year, who they were and who they are now are not the same. But Jasper has high hopes that things may change for the better, now that Ryan has retired as a pro wrestler, giving more time to spend together without the constant traveling schedule that Ryan had while performing. Unfortunately, before they even get home from Ryan's retirement party, Jasper realizes quickly that his plans and Ryan's plans are not the same.
This is where the story really starts. Jasper and Ryan are on two totally different pages, and the rest of the story is how each of them develop after this realization. I don't want to spoil the rest of the story, but I will say that each character does not have it easy. I am really glad I read this book. In many ways, it was relatable. Relationships require work and open mindedness from both people. This book is definitely worth the journey.
I received an ARC from GRR and am leaving an honest review.
August 17, 2026
My first book by Val Simons, and I’m so glad I gave this one a try. The writing was emotionally charged, and Jasper and Ryan felt incredibly real—even when they were messy, frustrating and making questionable decisions.
This is a second-chance romance, but with a twist: they’ve already been married for 15 years. Ryan has spent most of their marriage travelling as a professional wrestler, while Jasper has been left feeling like an afterthought. When Ryan finally retires, Jasper hopes things will change, only to realise they’re not looking for the same future.
I really felt for Jasper. His resentment was completely understandable, and my heart hurt for all the times Ryan had let him down. Watching them slowly rebuild their relationship, rediscover each other and figure out what it actually takes to make a marriage work was incredibly satisfying. I especially loved the little things—the miniatures, the theme park and carousel, Jasper’s prickly personality, and Ryan’s ridiculous mullet.
I did wish they’d had one proper heart-to-heart about everything that had gone wrong. There’s a moment where Ryan finally seems to understand just how absent he’s been, but that realisation doesn’t really translate into the conversation I was hoping for. I also found the constant attention Jasper gets from much younger men a little unrealistic.
But overall, I really enjoyed this one. It’s messy, emotional, funny and surprisingly relatable, and I loved watching these two find their way back to each other. Definitely a great first read from a new-to-me author, and I’ll be looking for more from Val Simons.
This is a second-chance romance, but with a twist: they’ve already been married for 15 years. Ryan has spent most of their marriage travelling as a professional wrestler, while Jasper has been left feeling like an afterthought. When Ryan finally retires, Jasper hopes things will change, only to realise they’re not looking for the same future.
I really felt for Jasper. His resentment was completely understandable, and my heart hurt for all the times Ryan had let him down. Watching them slowly rebuild their relationship, rediscover each other and figure out what it actually takes to make a marriage work was incredibly satisfying. I especially loved the little things—the miniatures, the theme park and carousel, Jasper’s prickly personality, and Ryan’s ridiculous mullet.
I did wish they’d had one proper heart-to-heart about everything that had gone wrong. There’s a moment where Ryan finally seems to understand just how absent he’s been, but that realisation doesn’t really translate into the conversation I was hoping for. I also found the constant attention Jasper gets from much younger men a little unrealistic.
But overall, I really enjoyed this one. It’s messy, emotional, funny and surprisingly relatable, and I loved watching these two find their way back to each other. Definitely a great first read from a new-to-me author, and I’ll be looking for more from Val Simons.
Review of advance copy
"I'd like it to be," Ryan said, his gaze shifting to Jasper's. "I've spent a lot of time lately wishing I'd never have to see you again, because I've convinced myself that would make life easier. But I think... that would make life so much worse. If you let me be your friend, I think could be happy again."
"Well, that night, I was brushing my teeth, and I stared at myself in the mirror and said, oh my god. I have to eat overcooked ground beef and mushy elbow macaroni the rest of my fucking live."
This book gave me multiple visceral reactions throughout the whole thing. Experiencing Jasper and Ryan divorce, separate, and slowly come back together was full of ups and downs that had my chest feeling tight, my stomach swoop, and my eyes teary. The deterioration of their marriage wasn't just on one partner but both of them. I'm glad by the end of the novel, Ryan and Jasper were able to see the other person more clearly and made the changes needed to meet each other's needs. Jasper really had Ryan working hard for that reconciliation which I could understand why but also, feel as though Jasper should have been more communicative with his needs/wants.
I feel lucky to be continuing on a streak of good reads. Thanks, Val!
*Also, it was refreshing to read a romance about men in their 40's and navigating these big life adjustments (retirement/divorce/separation).
Received an ARC in an exchange for my honest review.
"Well, that night, I was brushing my teeth, and I stared at myself in the mirror and said, oh my god. I have to eat overcooked ground beef and mushy elbow macaroni the rest of my fucking live."
This book gave me multiple visceral reactions throughout the whole thing. Experiencing Jasper and Ryan divorce, separate, and slowly come back together was full of ups and downs that had my chest feeling tight, my stomach swoop, and my eyes teary. The deterioration of their marriage wasn't just on one partner but both of them. I'm glad by the end of the novel, Ryan and Jasper were able to see the other person more clearly and made the changes needed to meet each other's needs. Jasper really had Ryan working hard for that reconciliation which I could understand why but also, feel as though Jasper should have been more communicative with his needs/wants.
I feel lucky to be continuing on a streak of good reads. Thanks, Val!
*Also, it was refreshing to read a romance about men in their 40's and navigating these big life adjustments (retirement/divorce/separation).
Received an ARC in an exchange for my honest review.
August 6, 2026
I would like to thank GRR for the opportunity to read and review this ARC.
Val Simons is a new-to-me author and I'm giving myself props for this try, because with all the gen-ai lurking in the shadows I haven't been risky in a minute, and this turned out to be really good!
I loved the narrative style, which was immersive and compelling, and weirdly enough felt comfy and familiar. I was hooked on Ryan and Jasper's messy relationship, because it was fairly uncomfortable at times, emotionally complicated, and I didn't think that one was more right than the other. This was important to me, and for whatever reason I was digging my instability.
I knew they'd be alright though!
Because there were a lot of sweet moments hand-in-hand with a lot of "DON'T DO/THINK IT" ones. Ryan was silly with his attempts to win his husband back, and Jasper was a bit of a snarl even though he secretly longed for his man. But I loooooved that there was tons of safety in their stupidity, because of how deeply they still loved each other and weren't shy about SHOWING it, even if saying so out loud wasn't appropriate in their current state of not-togetherness.
I'd ached for them both, and also shouted at them, but the journey was a real one, and I was happy they'd found forever with each other again!
Ring Rust was a great start to what promises to be an awesome series, and I can't wait to see where it goes next!
Val Simons is a new-to-me author and I'm giving myself props for this try, because with all the gen-ai lurking in the shadows I haven't been risky in a minute, and this turned out to be really good!
I loved the narrative style, which was immersive and compelling, and weirdly enough felt comfy and familiar. I was hooked on Ryan and Jasper's messy relationship, because it was fairly uncomfortable at times, emotionally complicated, and I didn't think that one was more right than the other. This was important to me, and for whatever reason I was digging my instability.
I knew they'd be alright though!
Because there were a lot of sweet moments hand-in-hand with a lot of "DON'T DO/THINK IT" ones. Ryan was silly with his attempts to win his husband back, and Jasper was a bit of a snarl even though he secretly longed for his man. But I loooooved that there was tons of safety in their stupidity, because of how deeply they still loved each other and weren't shy about SHOWING it, even if saying so out loud wasn't appropriate in their current state of not-togetherness.
I'd ached for them both, and also shouted at them, but the journey was a real one, and I was happy they'd found forever with each other again!
Ring Rust was a great start to what promises to be an awesome series, and I can't wait to see where it goes next!
August 13, 2026
Review of advance copy
THIS BOOK WAS COZY AS HELL. I hope I'm not aging myself here to refer to this as a warm hug and a little chicken soup for the soul but that's what it was.
I found Jasper and Ryan's different perspectives on their relationship to be very believable and let me tell you I know what it's like to be the black cat in a golden retriever relationship oh my god. They are so pure of heart and mind and soul I just need them to please sit down for five seconds. The author does a great job of making the reader sympathetic to both leads while keeping the story feeling warm and fun.
The petty back and forths were maybe my favorite bit in this book but where this story really shines is in the building back up of the relationship. It is SO wholesome and if you're into depictions of playful and loving family dynamics, this one's for you.
And of COURSE, there was just enough sustained tension to make
There were so many cute moments I thought I highlighted on my e-reader but that is apparently not what happened because I apparently don't understand technology and I'm really sad about it. There are legitimately so many gems in here.
A big thank you to the author and I can't wait for the next one!
THIS BOOK WAS COZY AS HELL. I hope I'm not aging myself here to refer to this as a warm hug and a little chicken soup for the soul but that's what it was.
I found Jasper and Ryan's different perspectives on their relationship to be very believable and let me tell you I know what it's like to be the black cat in a golden retriever relationship oh my god. They are so pure of heart and mind and soul I just need them to please sit down for five seconds. The author does a great job of making the reader sympathetic to both leads while keeping the story feeling warm and fun.
The petty back and forths were maybe my favorite bit in this book but where this story really shines is in the building back up of the relationship. It is SO wholesome and if you're into depictions of playful and loving family dynamics, this one's for you.
And of COURSE, there was just enough sustained tension to make
There were so many cute moments I thought I highlighted on my e-reader but that is apparently not what happened because I apparently don't understand technology and I'm really sad about it. There are legitimately so many gems in here.
A big thank you to the author and I can't wait for the next one!
Review of advance copy received from Author
This might be surprising to those closest to me but I will NEVER say no to a marriage in crisis book. So, when I saw Val’s post, I knew immediately that it was an ARC I would be signing up for.
Ring Rust did not disappoint, I was crying by chapter 2. Jasper puts up with a truly absent spouse for years and when Ryan finally retires, Jasper is hopeful that he will finally be the most important thing to Ryan in his eyes. Ryan though, has no idea that he’s been so absent. Both of them though don’t realize how much the other person does for them though. Throughout the book, Jasper and Ryan rediscover their love for each other and learn about what it actually takes to keep a marriage function with BOTH people involved. Ring Rust will give you all of the emotions. Ryan is so funny when it comes to his jealousy over Jasper and some of the commentary had be giggling while my heart was breaking for these two. I feel like this is such an accurate representation of real struggles that people go through. I loved the way their communication grows throughout the story and you can just feel the love they have.
Ring Rust did not disappoint, I was crying by chapter 2. Jasper puts up with a truly absent spouse for years and when Ryan finally retires, Jasper is hopeful that he will finally be the most important thing to Ryan in his eyes. Ryan though, has no idea that he’s been so absent. Both of them though don’t realize how much the other person does for them though. Throughout the book, Jasper and Ryan rediscover their love for each other and learn about what it actually takes to keep a marriage function with BOTH people involved. Ring Rust will give you all of the emotions. Ryan is so funny when it comes to his jealousy over Jasper and some of the commentary had be giggling while my heart was breaking for these two. I feel like this is such an accurate representation of real struggles that people go through. I loved the way their communication grows throughout the story and you can just feel the love they have.
August 10, 2026
This was such an amazing book I was so blown away by the book it was not even funny. The is the first book in Val Simons' new series, Hung Boots, which follows the lives of pro wrestlers after they hang up their boots and return to normal life.
I book is about Jasper and Ryan. Ryan is finally hanging up his boots as a wrestler and Jasper it's pretty much done. They've been married for a very long time and Jasper's had to just wait constantly. Only having your husband home 50 days a year that's a lot and very stressful in the marriage. Ryan's ready to come home and start his life and retirement where is Jasper's ready to start his life alone. This is a second chance for a minute so you can honestly tell that they figure things out but I will tell you this this was very hard to read because this happens a lot. I really wish that Ryan would have got more of an epiphany and then like oh God I'm a dumbass but it doesn't happen as much as I'd like. I tell you what this is going to be a kick ass series and I'm excited to read more of it.
I book is about Jasper and Ryan. Ryan is finally hanging up his boots as a wrestler and Jasper it's pretty much done. They've been married for a very long time and Jasper's had to just wait constantly. Only having your husband home 50 days a year that's a lot and very stressful in the marriage. Ryan's ready to come home and start his life and retirement where is Jasper's ready to start his life alone. This is a second chance for a minute so you can honestly tell that they figure things out but I will tell you this this was very hard to read because this happens a lot. I really wish that Ryan would have got more of an epiphany and then like oh God I'm a dumbass but it doesn't happen as much as I'd like. I tell you what this is going to be a kick ass series and I'm excited to read more of it.
Review of advance copy
First book by this author and I'm definitely adding them to my list to read more of.
Ring Rust was such a well written story about a marriage that's struggling. Seeing how Jasper has felt alone in the marriage for years and had dealt with that pain until Ryans retirement, and how Ryan had handled that whole situation felt real and you could feel the deviation on both ends while they navigate their their feelings and things weren't handled great during the marriage and even during the separation. These two definitely deserved the happy ending they got.
I do wish we did get to see a little more of them actually in a healthier flow of navigating the marriage in the end vs just the tiny last chapter.
Ring Rust was such a well written story about a marriage that's struggling. Seeing how Jasper has felt alone in the marriage for years and had dealt with that pain until Ryans retirement, and how Ryan had handled that whole situation felt real and you could feel the deviation on both ends while they navigate their their feelings and things weren't handled great during the marriage and even during the separation. These two definitely deserved the happy ending they got.
I do wish we did get to see a little more of them actually in a healthier flow of navigating the marriage in the end vs just the tiny last chapter.
August 10, 2026
Thank you for the book, here is my honest opinion:
This is a new to me author and I couldn’t pass up a pro wrestling related romance. I loved the premise and pro wrestling backdrop, and Ryan and Jasper are engaging characters. I personally was missing some early relationship history to establish the connection between these two. Why was Jasper willing to hang about and wait for Ryan, why is Ryan so surprised that Jasper is ready to call it quits right when he is retiring. I didn’t get enough of a hint on why they should fight for their relationship after like fifteen years of letting it slowly die. So, I loved the premise and the liked Ryan and Jasper together, but would have loved less time with the kind of awful sisters and their kids and more focus on developing the relationship.
This is a new to me author and I couldn’t pass up a pro wrestling related romance. I loved the premise and pro wrestling backdrop, and Ryan and Jasper are engaging characters. I personally was missing some early relationship history to establish the connection between these two. Why was Jasper willing to hang about and wait for Ryan, why is Ryan so surprised that Jasper is ready to call it quits right when he is retiring. I didn’t get enough of a hint on why they should fight for their relationship after like fifteen years of letting it slowly die. So, I loved the premise and the liked Ryan and Jasper together, but would have loved less time with the kind of awful sisters and their kids and more focus on developing the relationship.
August 16, 2026
Lots of things I found interesting here. First, this may be my first book with a wrestling main character. I always enjoy learning anything about a different profession. Second, I thought the author did an excellent job of showing both the regular stresses of any retirement both the hopeful ones and the concerns for Ryan while showing us just how disconnected from each other these two have become over the years. Now, Ryan is suddenly faced with the dissolution of a marriage he didn't see coming. Watching these two try to figure things out and basically get acquainted all over again made for a great story. Also kudos for finding the perfect title with so many interpretations for this book.
August 12, 2026
4.5 stars.
Oh gosh, this book was an emotional gut punch. I cried through the first several chapters as they broke up, and then was healed as they healed. A second chance romance of the best kind.
I enjoyed reading about characters my age (in their 40s). I also enjoyed the wrestling-adjacent setting, not a sport or profession I’ve read much about! Also the old theme park. Just a quirky set of circumstances that somehow work in a really lovely story.
The cover is gorgeous and I love the double meaning of the title. Glad I picked this one up!!
I received an ARC of this book from GRR. This is my honest and voluntary review.
Oh gosh, this book was an emotional gut punch. I cried through the first several chapters as they broke up, and then was healed as they healed. A second chance romance of the best kind.
I enjoyed reading about characters my age (in their 40s). I also enjoyed the wrestling-adjacent setting, not a sport or profession I’ve read much about! Also the old theme park. Just a quirky set of circumstances that somehow work in a really lovely story.
The cover is gorgeous and I love the double meaning of the title. Glad I picked this one up!!
I received an ARC of this book from GRR. This is my honest and voluntary review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
When I first read the blurb I thought that since the book is a second chance romance about a relationship-in-crisis, I wouldn’t get to read about their first meeting. But luckily I was wrong. They meet in chapter one.
The second chapter starts 14 years later. Ryan is taken by surprise when Jasper wants a separation. He doesn't realize that there's a problem with their relationship and that's the problem. Ryan spends the rest of the book trying to win back Jasper's heart.
I loved this book and recommend it!
The second chapter starts 14 years later. Ryan is taken by surprise when Jasper wants a separation. He doesn't realize that there's a problem with their relationship and that's the problem. Ryan spends the rest of the book trying to win back Jasper's heart.
I loved this book and recommend it!
August 8, 2026
I’m a big fan of Val Simons’ wrestling books, and Ring Rust is her best book yet! Ryan and Jasper are complex characters with a ton of love and history between the two of them. There are no good guys or bad guys—just flawed humans trying to navigate who they are and what they need. It’s funny at times and heartbreaking at others as they work out how their relationship can evolve with them as they change and whether love is enough. The supporting characters add a lot of depth to the story and ground it in reality. I really loved this one.
August 10, 2026
This was a really different love story. Almost every romance is about the beginning. This one is about what they think might be the end and how that can be a new sort of beginning. Jasper has been falling out of love with Ryan for many years, at least that's what he thinks. Really he just wants to be put first.
Ryan is caught off guard because he thinks everything he does is for Jasper. It takes time for him to realize all the ground he has to make up. That kickstarts a beautiful slow burn of yearning and passion. And we do get a HFN because that's what's more realistic sometimes.
Ryan is caught off guard because he thinks everything he does is for Jasper. It takes time for him to realize all the ground he has to make up. That kickstarts a beautiful slow burn of yearning and passion. And we do get a HFN because that's what's more realistic sometimes.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received an ARC of this book.
This was a good light read. It marches (satisfyingly) to predictable beats, without getting bogged down in melodrama. It was sweet and there was enough tension to keep me reading to the end, although the characters weren't as detailed as I'd hoped.
I didn't love the streak of slapstick running through the book!
This was a good light read. It marches (satisfyingly) to predictable beats, without getting bogged down in melodrama. It was sweet and there was enough tension to keep me reading to the end, although the characters weren't as detailed as I'd hoped.
I didn't love the streak of slapstick running through the book!
August 6, 2026
Pretty unique in the fact it’s bout a couple who has been together years. I do wish we would have been able to read more about the early good years versus the bad years. I have to say I was pretty frustrated at both Ryan and jasper as some communication could have solved a lot of issues. But overall a good book if you want a read with no angst.
August 9, 2026
Jasper and Ryan are having marriage problems after 15 years and one of them retires. I do love a good marriage in trouble story. However, there wasn't enough to keep my interest, though. I felt like I was just watching their relationship from a distance, rather than really being invested in the outcome.
Thank you to the author and GRR for the copy of this book. Opinions are my own.
Thank you to the author and GRR for the copy of this book. Opinions are my own.
August 12, 2026
*ARC*
I became obsessed with Jasper & Ryan from chapter one. Their relationship and dynamic was complicated but so full of love and I really felt for both of them. The scenes were so well written and my heart literally ached but I was also so frustrated for the lack of real communication between them. I went through a whole rollercoaster of emotions and I loved it! A fantastic read!
I became obsessed with Jasper & Ryan from chapter one. Their relationship and dynamic was complicated but so full of love and I really felt for both of them. The scenes were so well written and my heart literally ached but I was also so frustrated for the lack of real communication between them. I went through a whole rollercoaster of emotions and I loved it! A fantastic read!
Review of advance copy
A good short story about how you can lose each other in a marriage but also find each other again.
How you can feel alone next to someone and how lonely you are in that marriage.
💞Thank you to the Author and GRR for the opportunity to read and review this ARC💖
How you can feel alone next to someone and how lonely you are in that marriage.
💞Thank you to the Author and GRR for the opportunity to read and review this ARC💖
Review of advance copy
Very cute meandering story about a couple that is headed for divorce but are able to rediscover their love. This was a very realistic story about taking a partner for granted. I would have enjoyed a little more tension and character arc but an enjoyable and unique read nonetheless.
August 9, 2026
This book follows two men who are married to each other as his life as a boxer comes to an end. They both have opposite ideas of where the marriage will go after he ends his fighting career. See how it will all go when they tell him they want to be alone
Review of advance copy received from Author
I just didn't love this one, the last 15% I liked alot. Don't let this stop you from reading it though!
August 7, 2026
'Jasper had been at home, sick and soupless'
I really love Val Simons' books and this is no exception. Great dialogue, great humour, great hurt...lovely.
I really love Val Simons' books and this is no exception. Great dialogue, great humour, great hurt...lovely.
August 8, 2026
I enjoyed this read!!!
August 10, 2026
It is a good book and a couple.
I received a free copy of this book via GRR and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via GRR and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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