What do you think?
Rate this book
Scar
Alternate cover edition can be found here.
Beard
I just wanted to be left alone. After the disastrous turn my life took four years ago, I swore that I’d never let my guard down for anyone ever again. I left everything I knew behind and started over again. Things were going just fine until nearly six feet of pure temptation walked through the doors of my bar. It’s been a year and I’ve done a pretty good job of avoiding him. Things change when his friends get him drunk and leave him stranded on his birthday. I shouldn’t have given him a place to crash because now I can’t shake him.
Soccer
He intrigued me from the moment we met, and I haven’t exactly been subtle about wanting him. The green-eyed bartender seems to want nothing to do with me, but I don’t miss the way he watches me when he thinks no one will notice. I’ve let him pretend long enough, and it’s definitely time to make my move. On the field, I face tough competitors every week, but this one will make me work harder than I ever have before. If I want to win, I’m going to have to up my game because he is a pro at pushing me away.
This is a standalone novella with no cliffhanger.
Beard
I just wanted to be left alone. After the disastrous turn my life took four years ago, I swore that I’d never let my guard down for anyone ever again. I left everything I knew behind and started over again. Things were going just fine until nearly six feet of pure temptation walked through the doors of my bar. It’s been a year and I’ve done a pretty good job of avoiding him. Things change when his friends get him drunk and leave him stranded on his birthday. I shouldn’t have given him a place to crash because now I can’t shake him.
Soccer
He intrigued me from the moment we met, and I haven’t exactly been subtle about wanting him. The green-eyed bartender seems to want nothing to do with me, but I don’t miss the way he watches me when he thinks no one will notice. I’ve let him pretend long enough, and it’s definitely time to make my move. On the field, I face tough competitors every week, but this one will make me work harder than I ever have before. If I want to win, I’m going to have to up my game because he is a pro at pushing me away.
This is a standalone novella with no cliffhanger.
155 pages, ebook
First published December 19, 2016
62 people are currently reading
241 people want to read
About the author
Baylin Crow
21 books580 followersBaylin writes gay romance stories full of sweetness and steam. She's best known for her Sugar Land Saints series that follows a college football team set in Texas, which she also calls home. Whether writing books or reading them, Baylin spends the majority of her time tucked into the pages of stories about men who love other men. She has two amazing children, a spoiled cat, a hyperactive dog, and a heavy addiction to caffeine.
To be alerted by email when I release a book, please follow me on BookBub or sign up for my newsletter through my website.
Happy Reading! ❤📚
To be alerted by email when I release a book, please follow me on BookBub or sign up for my newsletter through my website.
Happy Reading! ❤📚
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 76 reviews
May 13, 2017
Sexy? Check
HEA? Yes
Relationship development? MIA
Characters development? Nope
Editing? *cringes*
I see all the great reviews from friends and feel like I'm on the wrong train, because this book really fell flat for me.
The characters were one-dimensional, and there was almost no relationship development. The Insta Love gave me whiplash.
The entire premise of the names annoyed the shit out of me. One MC is Soccer because he plays . . . WAIT FOR IT . . . soccer; the other is Beard because he has a . . . WHAT DOES HE HAVE FOR $400, ALEX . . . beard.
I understand silly nicknames, sure, but to NEVER use the other person's name? To introduce them with the nickname? That's just SO childish and contrived. The whole thing got old fast.
The author throws in some angst with Beard's backstory and his homophobic parents without really exploring the consequences or emotions.
It's also dramarama central with Beard running away and Soccer pushing (to the point of almost being predatory). For an entire YEAR (!) this goes on, and Soccer never dates or sleeps with anyone else because he's pining for the bartender who ignores him. Riiiight.
There were other things I just didn't buy, like Beard owning a bar and opening another bar at the age of 24. There's a lot that goes into running a business, and a significant amount of capital that goes into opening a new business. It was just so easy, TOO easy.
Plus the editing was truly abysmal; so many typos and awkward sentences.
I can't recommend this one, but I seem to be in the minority.
HEA? Yes
Relationship development? MIA
Characters development? Nope
Editing? *cringes*
I see all the great reviews from friends and feel like I'm on the wrong train, because this book really fell flat for me.
The characters were one-dimensional, and there was almost no relationship development. The Insta Love gave me whiplash.
The entire premise of the names annoyed the shit out of me. One MC is Soccer because he plays . . . WAIT FOR IT . . . soccer; the other is Beard because he has a . . . WHAT DOES HE HAVE FOR $400, ALEX . . . beard.
I understand silly nicknames, sure, but to NEVER use the other person's name? To introduce them with the nickname? That's just SO childish and contrived. The whole thing got old fast.
The author throws in some angst with Beard's backstory and his homophobic parents without really exploring the consequences or emotions.
It's also dramarama central with Beard running away and Soccer pushing (to the point of almost being predatory). For an entire YEAR (!) this goes on, and Soccer never dates or sleeps with anyone else because he's pining for the bartender who ignores him. Riiiight.
There were other things I just didn't buy, like Beard owning a bar and opening another bar at the age of 24. There's a lot that goes into running a business, and a significant amount of capital that goes into opening a new business. It was just so easy, TOO easy.
Plus the editing was truly abysmal; so many typos and awkward sentences.
I can't recommend this one, but I seem to be in the minority.
April 22, 2017
I was happy to see this book has gotten a new cover. This one is a MUCH better representation of the story. It has great composition as well.
What a delightful little novella this turned out to be. It was sweet. It was well written and nicely paced. It had two extremely likable main characters. It had a great cast of secondary characters. It had smokin' hot sex scenes. No OW/OM drama. Very little angst. All wrapped up in a nice epilogue. Two thumbs up from yours truly.
February 2, 2018
***3.5 stars***
January 31, 2018
Reread January 2018
Originally read April 2017
Soccer has been visiting Beard's bar for a year now hoping to catch his attention. After his friends leave him drunk at the bar, Beard has no choice but to take him home with him. Finally Soccer has his in with Beard.
This was a super sweet novella. Both Beard and Soccer were great characters. There's a little push/pull from Beard but given his past, it's understandable.
I believe this is a debut by this author. The writing was great IMO and I look forward to more. My only complaint would be I wish Beard's parents would have gotten some sort of comeuppance for how they treated him. The whole thing with the grandfather's house pissed me off.
Originally read April 2017
Soccer has been visiting Beard's bar for a year now hoping to catch his attention. After his friends leave him drunk at the bar, Beard has no choice but to take him home with him. Finally Soccer has his in with Beard.
This was a super sweet novella. Both Beard and Soccer were great characters. There's a little push/pull from Beard but given his past, it's understandable.
I believe this is a debut by this author. The writing was great IMO and I look forward to more. My only complaint would be I wish Beard's parents would have gotten some sort of comeuppance for how they treated him. The whole thing with the grandfather's house pissed me off.
September 5, 2019
The cover and the title feel really wrong for this book. This book is sweet, while the cover is kind of harsh. And while I get why the title was chosen, the story didn’t revolve around ‘the scar’. Too bad, because this book was really enjoyable and I know it would attract a lot more readers with a different cover and title.
Beard is the 24 year old owner of a bar he inherited from his grandfather. He got his nickname Beard from one of his regular customers, who Beard calls Soccer in return. Beard of course has a beard and Soccer is called that because he always enters the pub with his college soccer team.
Soccer and Beard have been circling around each for a year. Soccer is a cheerful guy, who has no trouble letting Beard know he is interested in him. But Beard is a gruff, moody man, who won’t even admit he likes Soccer, or men in general.
But when Soccer’s team mates leave Soccer stranded in the bar without a ride one night, Beard has no choice but to take care of the drunken college student.
After Soccer sleeps off his drinks in Beard’s bed (with Beard on the couch), there are no declarations of love. Beard acts gruffer than usual and makes it clear there is nothing between them worth pursuing.
But Soccer doesn’t give up that easily. The two keep bumping into each other at the bar and that finally leads to a hot kiss. But Beard is still afraid to just go for it, since he had a terrible thing happen to him in college which hurt him physically and mentally…
I loved how these guys were called Beard and Soccer for entire book. Only on the last page did we learn their real names.
Beard was broody, but also adorably shy and inexperienced. Soccer was so incredibly happy and positive, I just loved him. And he was so good for Beard, he wouldn’t let Beard brush him off because Beard was scared.
There is not a lot of relationship angst here. When Beard finally explained why he was so hesitant to start a relationship or to come out, the slight push and pull was over.
If you like short stories about characters who have been circling around each other for some time and finally give in, try this. It’s very sweet (but not sugary). Oh, and great sexy times too.
Beard is the 24 year old owner of a bar he inherited from his grandfather. He got his nickname Beard from one of his regular customers, who Beard calls Soccer in return. Beard of course has a beard and Soccer is called that because he always enters the pub with his college soccer team.
Soccer and Beard have been circling around each for a year. Soccer is a cheerful guy, who has no trouble letting Beard know he is interested in him. But Beard is a gruff, moody man, who won’t even admit he likes Soccer, or men in general.
But when Soccer’s team mates leave Soccer stranded in the bar without a ride one night, Beard has no choice but to take care of the drunken college student.
After Soccer sleeps off his drinks in Beard’s bed (with Beard on the couch), there are no declarations of love. Beard acts gruffer than usual and makes it clear there is nothing between them worth pursuing.
But Soccer doesn’t give up that easily. The two keep bumping into each other at the bar and that finally leads to a hot kiss. But Beard is still afraid to just go for it, since he had a terrible thing happen to him in college which hurt him physically and mentally…
I loved how these guys were called Beard and Soccer for entire book. Only on the last page did we learn their real names.
Beard was broody, but also adorably shy and inexperienced. Soccer was so incredibly happy and positive, I just loved him. And he was so good for Beard, he wouldn’t let Beard brush him off because Beard was scared.
There is not a lot of relationship angst here. When Beard finally explained why he was so hesitant to start a relationship or to come out, the slight push and pull was over.
If you like short stories about characters who have been circling around each other for some time and finally give in, try this. It’s very sweet (but not sugary). Oh, and great sexy times too.
April 18, 2017
A big thanks to my dear friend JustJen for recommending this little gem to me! It's like a little slice of sunshine and great sex.
Warm/fuzzy winner!
This review is also posted at Gay Book Reviews
Warm/fuzzy winner!
This review is also posted at Gay Book Reviews
May 14, 2017
4 Stars
I stumbled across this book today, who doesn't love a good sports themed story..throw in a drop dead soccer player falling for the broody bartender who won't give him the time of day...yep right up my alley. This did not dissapoint.
Beard and Soccer were such a fun pair to get to spend some time with. Soccer, with is easy smile, affable personality and always such a charmer, you couldn't help but fall for him. Beard his total opposite when we meet him, so closed off and downright broody...yet he too had me rooting for him almost from the start.
Soccer knew what he wanted and wasn't going to be dissuaded, he had seen the way Beard looked at him when he thought no one was looking.
For such a short story, you really get a full picture of who they are, how they got to be who they were and what they wanted. The question was, did they want it badly enough to face their fears.
I stumbled across this book today, who doesn't love a good sports themed story..throw in a drop dead soccer player falling for the broody bartender who won't give him the time of day...yep right up my alley. This did not dissapoint.
Beard and Soccer were such a fun pair to get to spend some time with. Soccer, with is easy smile, affable personality and always such a charmer, you couldn't help but fall for him. Beard his total opposite when we meet him, so closed off and downright broody...yet he too had me rooting for him almost from the start.
Soccer knew what he wanted and wasn't going to be dissuaded, he had seen the way Beard looked at him when he thought no one was looking.
For such a short story, you really get a full picture of who they are, how they got to be who they were and what they wanted. The question was, did they want it badly enough to face their fears.
April 4, 2017
Scar was a huge surprise for me!
Once again I have to say how much I adore this place. I never would have found this little hidden treasure without coming across a friend’s review here on goodreads. Once I heard a bit more about Scar, I couldn’t resist pressing that big ‘ole BUY button. I can never resist an “I’m trying so hard to deny the heat of attraction” tale. And this one has it all — sweetness, laughs, heart, and heat.
Beard owns and works the bar where all the locals come in. Including one tall, brown eyed soccer player he can’t keep his eyes off of no matter how hard he tries. Soccer comes in after almost every game to hang with his teammates and ogle and flirt with the bartender—who he named Beard. Both guys refuse to use their real names, which comes off as surprisingly sweet and super sexy at times. Watching Beard get all growly and possessive when someone else calls Soccer “Soccer” is pretty damn hot and hilarious. The man is trying to ignore Soccer’s smiles, charm, and damn dimple for goodness sakes! Needless to say, he’s failing. How can you resist that dimple?
But Beard has a painful story and past. A scar he’s trying hard to forget. But maybe it’s time Beard learns to open up his heart again and trust someone. He doesn’t want to hurt Soccer or get him hurt though. Can Beard continue to deny his needs and Soccer’s flirting? Will Soccer finally get his man?
Simply put…I liked these guys. And I loved the chase! I just wanted to see them happy. This quick, two points of view read has quite a few errors and typos on the page, but overall it didn’t distract me from rooting these guys on. Strong likeable side characters added an extra layer of fun into the mix as well.
Check this one out! Beard and Soccer will make your night. Every goofy grin and eye-fucking gaze thrown over the bar will make you smile.
I’ll be on the lookout for more from Baylin Crow for sure.
March 28, 2017
Scar by Baylin Crow is the story of a closeted bar owner and an out and proud college soccer player. Beard, the bar owner, has done all that he can to avoid Soccer. He's still dealing with a traumatic experience from his past that makes him afraid to get involved with anyone. Soccer is pretty relentless- he feels the connection between them and continues to pursue Beard despite his objections.
My thoughts...
There was lots of good here.
-The characters
-Character growth
-The premise
-Some banter
-It has steam
-Overall feel good vibe
-And a teensy bit of angst
But- it lacked relationship development. It's hard to develop a relationship realistically in a short number of pages; I get that. Sometimes I can overlook the insta-love if I can feel the connection, but I couldn't buy it 100%. Here's why:
For a year Beard has done all he can to avoid Soccer. He won't even serve him when he comes to the bar. <---This to me means they've never really gotten to know each other. Until this point, it's just lust.
Then Soccer's friends leave him drunk at the bar on his birthday in theirmessed up attempt to hook them up.
They do some push n pull for a short period- we're talking days.
ONE meaningful conversation takes place- boom! From here on feelings grow at an accelerated rate.
All I could think was: Where was the build up? How are your feelings so strong when you've barely talked?
I felt cheated. I love when characters meet, get to know each other, feel the sexual tension building up, and I feel like I didn't get much of that here. There was more telling than showing. I think if this had been longer it would've been executed better.
Would I recommend this novella? Yes. Overall, it was enjoyable.
Baylin Crow is a new to me author and one I would read again. Although this wasn't a home run, I still enjoyed it. This story was sweet, sexy, and if you love hurt/comfort stories, then I think you'll enjoy it. 3.5 Stars.
Copy was kindly provided by the author to Gay Book Reviews for an honest review.
My thoughts...
There was lots of good here.
-The characters
-Character growth
-The premise
-Some banter
-It has steam
-Overall feel good vibe
-And a teensy bit of angst
But- it lacked relationship development. It's hard to develop a relationship realistically in a short number of pages; I get that. Sometimes I can overlook the insta-love if I can feel the connection, but I couldn't buy it 100%. Here's why:
For a year Beard has done all he can to avoid Soccer. He won't even serve him when he comes to the bar. <---This to me means they've never really gotten to know each other. Until this point, it's just lust.
Then Soccer's friends leave him drunk at the bar on his birthday in their
They do some push n pull for a short period- we're talking days.
ONE meaningful conversation takes place- boom! From here on feelings grow at an accelerated rate.
All I could think was: Where was the build up? How are your feelings so strong when you've barely talked?
I felt cheated. I love when characters meet, get to know each other, feel the sexual tension building up, and I feel like I didn't get much of that here. There was more telling than showing. I think if this had been longer it would've been executed better.
Would I recommend this novella? Yes. Overall, it was enjoyable.
Baylin Crow is a new to me author and one I would read again. Although this wasn't a home run, I still enjoyed it. This story was sweet, sexy, and if you love hurt/comfort stories, then I think you'll enjoy it. 3.5 Stars.
Copy was kindly provided by the author to Gay Book Reviews for an honest review.
March 30, 2017
4.5 star review by The Blogger Girls.
Boy am I glad this little gem fell into my lap! Do not let that cover dissuade you from picking this one up. I kept wishing there was a sexy bearded guy to look at, but I had no trouble using my imagination.
Beard is a total sweetheart! He has not had an easy upbringing with his parents caring more about themselves than him. After he finally gave into his feelings in college, he was outed and subsequently attacked, his parents turning a blind eye again. He then turned to his grandfather who took him in without question. His grandfather left Beard the bar he now runs and lives above. He is doing okay, but he has closed himself off to prevent any chance of a recurrence of those events.
Then we have Soccer, who I also loved from the start. He and his teammates frequented Beard’s bar pretty regularly and Soccer had a major crush on the bartender for quite some time and was on a mission to see it through (with the help of his friends as well). Soccer was very confident in everything from his schooling, to playing soccer and what he wanted to do afterwards, to what he wanted from Beard. It took some major persuasion for Beard to give in, but it was totally worth it.
I seriously loved everything about these guys. Soccer brought Beard back to life, and it was beautiful to see the transformation. There were perfect together and my heart just melted each time they took forward steps. We do learn their names at the end, but they will always be Beard and Soccer to me.
It is hard to believe this was a debut book for this author, and I am definitely a fan. The writing was smooth, with just enough detail before the story was again progressing. There was plenty of emotion without too much fluff. The sex was hot and steamy but didn’t take over and become the main focus of the story. I was turning pages and just about read this in one sitting. I definitely recommend it and can’t wait to see what Ms. Crow comes up with next.
Boy am I glad this little gem fell into my lap! Do not let that cover dissuade you from picking this one up. I kept wishing there was a sexy bearded guy to look at, but I had no trouble using my imagination.
Beard is a total sweetheart! He has not had an easy upbringing with his parents caring more about themselves than him. After he finally gave into his feelings in college, he was outed and subsequently attacked, his parents turning a blind eye again. He then turned to his grandfather who took him in without question. His grandfather left Beard the bar he now runs and lives above. He is doing okay, but he has closed himself off to prevent any chance of a recurrence of those events.
Then we have Soccer, who I also loved from the start. He and his teammates frequented Beard’s bar pretty regularly and Soccer had a major crush on the bartender for quite some time and was on a mission to see it through (with the help of his friends as well). Soccer was very confident in everything from his schooling, to playing soccer and what he wanted to do afterwards, to what he wanted from Beard. It took some major persuasion for Beard to give in, but it was totally worth it.
I seriously loved everything about these guys. Soccer brought Beard back to life, and it was beautiful to see the transformation. There were perfect together and my heart just melted each time they took forward steps. We do learn their names at the end, but they will always be Beard and Soccer to me.
It is hard to believe this was a debut book for this author, and I am definitely a fan. The writing was smooth, with just enough detail before the story was again progressing. There was plenty of emotion without too much fluff. The sex was hot and steamy but didn’t take over and become the main focus of the story. I was turning pages and just about read this in one sitting. I definitely recommend it and can’t wait to see what Ms. Crow comes up with next.
April 15, 2017
Una novella muy mona y muy simpática.
April 24, 2017
I loved everything about this story. Both MCs were so adorable and lovable. It had a great cast of secondary characters with a fleshed out plot line for a novella. Along with an awesome epilogue. I had a smile on my face almost the whole way through this book except when reading about Beard's past. My heart broke for him but it all led him to Soccer so it's hard to complain about it. I'm shocked this is the author's debut novel. I didn't realize that while I was reading and I was thinking to myself that after it I'd be checking out her other books. I still will but now it means I have to wait :( Thanks for the rec Eve. You know me well ;)
April 24, 2017
A wonderful gem of a story from a new-to-me author.
Full review to follow.
Full review to follow.
December 27, 2019
3.5 Stars!
I’ve got to say, this went down real nice and easy, with plenty of sweet sexy and minimal relationship angst.
Beard and Soccer (they nicknamed each other) have been circling one another for months. Well… Soccer has been pursuing Beard, making it quite obvious about his feelings and intent, but Beard resists, deflects, ignores, and avoids like nobody’s business. Why?? It’s clear he’s equally drawn to the charismatic Soccer, but he’s hiding a very hurtful past, having cut himself off from any potential relationship.
Well you should know, Soccer only sees that as an excellent challenge, and Beard is only so strong.
Both of these characters were likable, and once they were in, they were all in, and it was sexy, with fabulous anticipation, ending with a truly nice finish. (However, I think the author dropped the ball a bit on the potential for more sexual exploration and amping up the intimacy level, as subsequent scenes were sadly, quasi-fade-to-black. Darn!!) BUT, it’s not always about the sex right? (Though it really is). Rest assured, what we got was quite lovely. So, if you like a bit of hurt comfort, as one guy is not afraid to go after what he wants, and the other accepts love once he realizes that it’s possible, then this unfolds very nicely.
Overall, an impressive debut, and hopefully not the last we’ll see from this author.
Thanks to the author/publisher for a copy in exchange for a honest review
I’ve got to say, this went down real nice and easy, with plenty of sweet sexy and minimal relationship angst.
Beard and Soccer (they nicknamed each other) have been circling one another for months. Well… Soccer has been pursuing Beard, making it quite obvious about his feelings and intent, but Beard resists, deflects, ignores, and avoids like nobody’s business. Why?? It’s clear he’s equally drawn to the charismatic Soccer, but he’s hiding a very hurtful past, having cut himself off from any potential relationship.
Well you should know, Soccer only sees that as an excellent challenge, and Beard is only so strong.
Both of these characters were likable, and once they were in, they were all in, and it was sexy, with fabulous anticipation, ending with a truly nice finish. (However, I think the author dropped the ball a bit on the potential for more sexual exploration and amping up the intimacy level, as subsequent scenes were sadly, quasi-fade-to-black. Darn!!) BUT, it’s not always about the sex right? (Though it really is). Rest assured, what we got was quite lovely. So, if you like a bit of hurt comfort, as one guy is not afraid to go after what he wants, and the other accepts love once he realizes that it’s possible, then this unfolds very nicely.
Overall, an impressive debut, and hopefully not the last we’ll see from this author.
Thanks to the author/publisher for a copy in exchange for a honest review
December 20, 2016
This is one of those m/m books that you will find hard to put down so it's a good thing that it is a short read.Both male characters are really likable & the supporting cast are equally entertaining.
April 21, 2017
*A copy of this book was provided for free by the author in exchange for an honest review.*
I really enjoyed this one. It's a story about overcoming your past and taking a risk with your heart. Beard and Soccer have a great chemistry, we see them from flirtation to commitment and it all flows well. At first I found Beard's refusal to even entertain a relationship tedious and cliche, but as you learn his story it stops being tedious and becomes understandable (even if it stays a bit of a cliche). Soccer was the light-heartedness to Beard's dark & twisty. His story is so opposite Beard's, but it's what makes him able to withstand Beard's walls (though he comes close to stalker with his refusal to listen to "not interested" at first). But they talk and get on the same page before it crosses the line. Beard's parents are not fit to be called human. I liked Soccer's roommates. I just really enjoyed the way the romance developed and how Beard came out of his shell and Soccer supported him.
I really enjoyed this one. It's a story about overcoming your past and taking a risk with your heart. Beard and Soccer have a great chemistry, we see them from flirtation to commitment and it all flows well. At first I found Beard's refusal to even entertain a relationship tedious and cliche, but as you learn his story it stops being tedious and becomes understandable (even if it stays a bit of a cliche). Soccer was the light-heartedness to Beard's dark & twisty. His story is so opposite Beard's, but it's what makes him able to withstand Beard's walls (though he comes close to stalker with his refusal to listen to "not interested" at first). But they talk and get on the same page before it crosses the line. Beard's parents are not fit to be called human. I liked Soccer's roommates. I just really enjoyed the way the romance developed and how Beard came out of his shell and Soccer supported him.
May 2, 2018
I'm sorry to leave a bad rating, but this book didn't work at all for me.
overlooking the lack of editing, I didn't enjoy the plot, nor the characters, nor the plot (or the total lack of any development, I should say) and the whole nickname thing irritated me over everything else.
I wouldn't recommend this book ☹️
overlooking the lack of editing, I didn't enjoy the plot, nor the characters, nor the plot (or the total lack of any development, I should say) and the whole nickname thing irritated me over everything else.
I wouldn't recommend this book ☹️
July 4, 2020
A short, sweet and lighthearted romance that gave me all the feel good comfort I adore. There is light angst, which I actually liked seeing discussed and how it had affected Beard.
It was understandable the impact the situation had on him and his fear especially since similarities with Soccer. I felt for him so much and I adored Soccer for how much he didn't give up on Beard. These two are beautiful together and their chemistry is incredible, there's plenty of heat in this story.
However it also has a wonderful look into acceptance and Beards development especially is wonderful, facing his fears and the scenes at the pitch were great. I liked getting to see the differences in their lives and situations, how important it was for Beard to see that its ok and I love how happy he is by the end.
Soccer and Beards real names are not mentioned until the last page or two, which I actually loved as it seemed so fitting to their story and their happy ending with a wonderful look towards their future together.
It was understandable the impact the situation had on him and his fear especially since similarities with Soccer. I felt for him so much and I adored Soccer for how much he didn't give up on Beard. These two are beautiful together and their chemistry is incredible, there's plenty of heat in this story.
However it also has a wonderful look into acceptance and Beards development especially is wonderful, facing his fears and the scenes at the pitch were great. I liked getting to see the differences in their lives and situations, how important it was for Beard to see that its ok and I love how happy he is by the end.
Soccer and Beards real names are not mentioned until the last page or two, which I actually loved as it seemed so fitting to their story and their happy ending with a wonderful look towards their future together.
April 25, 2017
* a received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review *
This is a pleasurable and easy read. I recommend this to everyone who likes hurt-to-comfort romance with characters that need to come to terms with their past to fully enjoy their lives and possibility of love.
What I liked the most are these little nicknames: Beard and Soccer, it was funny and felt "intimate". I really liked that their real names do not appear until the very last page.I liked both MCs, especially Soccer but also other ppl like Andi or Soccer's friends. They felt real and had real problems.
This is not only a nice love story but also a book about fighting with Your demons and fears, coming out and friendship. There is A LOT of hot sex and some conversations but what I missed is some hanging out together that did not lead to making out or talking about past. I wish there was more actual "being in relationship problems". Mostly we can see Soccer stalking Beard, Beard trying to push him away and then them being together. There is no in between.
The writing style is ok, but somehow I had problems with "getting into the story".
This is a pleasurable and easy read. I recommend this to everyone who likes hurt-to-comfort romance with characters that need to come to terms with their past to fully enjoy their lives and possibility of love.
What I liked the most are these little nicknames: Beard and Soccer, it was funny and felt "intimate". I really liked that their real names do not appear until the very last page.I liked both MCs, especially Soccer but also other ppl like Andi or Soccer's friends. They felt real and had real problems.
This is not only a nice love story but also a book about fighting with Your demons and fears, coming out and friendship. There is A LOT of hot sex and some conversations but what I missed is some hanging out together that did not lead to making out or talking about past. I wish there was more actual "being in relationship problems". Mostly we can see Soccer stalking Beard, Beard trying to push him away and then them being together. There is no in between.
The writing style is ok, but somehow I had problems with "getting into the story".
April 25, 2017
Sweet story. The characters were nicely developed and the flow of the story was very well done. I liked both of the MCs but I would have liked more build up to their relationship. We know Soccer has been coming to the bar for a year and crushing on Beard from the start but it still felt a little too insta-love for me... in other words I would have liked the book to be longer :).
this book was provided for free by the author in exchange for an honest review via the MMRG Don’t Buy My Love Program
this book was provided for free by the author in exchange for an honest review via the MMRG Don’t Buy My Love Program
December 23, 2016
Sometimes you don't know why you like a book, just because it's the right time or the right story. Here it was the case. Thanks for the good times.
April 20, 2017
I was given a copy of this book free by the author in exchange for an unbiased review.
Beard owns a bar that he inherited from his grandfather. A local soccer team often stops in after games to drink, and one of the players always tries to get Beard's attention. Beard has decided to nickname him Soccer instead of calling him by his real name, so Soccer in turn decided to call him Beard for obvious reasons. One day Soccer gets left behind at the bar by his friends and Beard takes care of him. Though Soccer presses for more, Beard tries to push him away.
Honestly I'm not sure what to say about this book. It definitely hit a bunch of my favorite themes/tropes - the grumpy character who's been hurt in the past, a character who is pining over the other, and athletes. I should have loved this book. But there were a few things that just didn't work for me. One was that there were multiple grammatical errors in the book that truly made it hard to read. I'd have to re-read the sentence several times to make sure I understood what it meant. (ETA: I received a copy of the updated/edited story with a new cover and some of the egregious errors I had originally marked have now been fixed. A few were not.) Another was that I didn't feel there was enough relationship build-up, though the characters have "known" each other a while. And last I always have a difficult time when there's a character who says "no" but the other character keeps pushing. Since this story is told in both POVs, I know that Beard was attracted to Soccer even as he said "no", but still it's a touchy issue for me. Overall this story was an easy, straightforward, low-angst read. If you like the themes/tropes I mentioned above, then this may be for you.
Beard owns a bar that he inherited from his grandfather. A local soccer team often stops in after games to drink, and one of the players always tries to get Beard's attention. Beard has decided to nickname him Soccer instead of calling him by his real name, so Soccer in turn decided to call him Beard for obvious reasons. One day Soccer gets left behind at the bar by his friends and Beard takes care of him. Though Soccer presses for more, Beard tries to push him away.
Honestly I'm not sure what to say about this book. It definitely hit a bunch of my favorite themes/tropes - the grumpy character who's been hurt in the past, a character who is pining over the other, and athletes. I should have loved this book. But there were a few things that just didn't work for me. One was that there were multiple grammatical errors in the book that truly made it hard to read. I'd have to re-read the sentence several times to make sure I understood what it meant. (ETA: I received a copy of the updated/edited story with a new cover and some of the egregious errors I had originally marked have now been fixed. A few were not.) Another was that I didn't feel there was enough relationship build-up, though the characters have "known" each other a while. And last I always have a difficult time when there's a character who says "no" but the other character keeps pushing. Since this story is told in both POVs, I know that Beard was attracted to Soccer even as he said "no", but still it's a touchy issue for me. Overall this story was an easy, straightforward, low-angst read. If you like the themes/tropes I mentioned above, then this may be for you.
April 27, 2017
* A free copy of this book was received from the author in exchange for an honest review. *
3.5 Stars rounded up to 4 Stars
This one was a super quick read, only about a hundred pages.
The story follows Beard and Soccer (as they call each other, which I find ridiculously sweet) as they move from barely friends to lovers. Beard is a young bar owner and Soccer is (yup) a Soccer player and college student who frequents the bar owned by Bear with his soccer team. For months he has shown interest in the man behind the bar with no results until his friends pull a move that can either be viewed as genius or pretty idiotic (i choose to think that it's both).
The story wasn't complicated and in certain instances details were glossed over which tends to happen with stories of this length. We didn't get much of a life story for these two, mostly following Beard and the issues which lead to him trying to keep Soccer at arms length in the beginning. My heart was sad for him and what happened but all's well that ends with an HEA.
There were a few grammatical issues and spelling mistakes but not enough to take away from the overall reading experience.
Beard and Soccer gave us a sweet experience, not the kind that has you hugging your book, but one that lingers for a bit after reading. Overall it was a good read and I recommend it to anyone who wants a quick MM fix.
3.5 Stars rounded up to 4 Stars
This one was a super quick read, only about a hundred pages.
The story follows Beard and Soccer (as they call each other, which I find ridiculously sweet) as they move from barely friends to lovers. Beard is a young bar owner and Soccer is (yup) a Soccer player and college student who frequents the bar owned by Bear with his soccer team. For months he has shown interest in the man behind the bar with no results until his friends pull a move that can either be viewed as genius or pretty idiotic (i choose to think that it's both).
The story wasn't complicated and in certain instances details were glossed over which tends to happen with stories of this length. We didn't get much of a life story for these two, mostly following Beard and the issues which lead to him trying to keep Soccer at arms length in the beginning. My heart was sad for him and what happened but all's well that ends with an HEA.
There were a few grammatical issues and spelling mistakes but not enough to take away from the overall reading experience.
Beard and Soccer gave us a sweet experience, not the kind that has you hugging your book, but one that lingers for a bit after reading. Overall it was a good read and I recommend it to anyone who wants a quick MM fix.
March 19, 2019
Beautiful feel good story
This book was such a lovely read. Beard had been hurt badly in the past, both physically and emotionally, so much so that he was scared of letting himself be with a man again. Soccer is adorable with him, chasing him relentlessly despite being knocked back and then holding him safe and secure while he released his fears from the past. Soccer's gentleness, love and understanding gave me such a feel good feeling and watching Beard open up and release his gruffness and step into a place of happiness was beautiful. Two amazing guys that I adored and I loved reading their story.
This book was such a lovely read. Beard had been hurt badly in the past, both physically and emotionally, so much so that he was scared of letting himself be with a man again. Soccer is adorable with him, chasing him relentlessly despite being knocked back and then holding him safe and secure while he released his fears from the past. Soccer's gentleness, love and understanding gave me such a feel good feeling and watching Beard open up and release his gruffness and step into a place of happiness was beautiful. Two amazing guys that I adored and I loved reading their story.
September 4, 2018
Great story, short but fulfilling. This is a lovely story between an intense bar owner and the soccer player who flirts with him every chance he gets. 'Beard' (no relation to being a beard for a straight person in this context) is sort of oblivious but interested and secretly has a crush on 'Soccer'. Soccer tries his best to get his attention. A sweet courtship of sort ensures and we find out why 'Beard' is the way he is, and can I say I love having an inexperienced top, what a nice change! Great ending, great HEA. Very much enjoyed this!
April 25, 2017
3☆
Sweet Story
Sweet Story
June 30, 2017
I loved this book and for a first read for this author I was wowed. A story of Beard yah that's a nickname for him. Owned a Bar that he inherited from his grandfather 18 months ago when a rowdy bunch of soccer players enter for drinks. Except he cant take his eyes of one of the sexy players with his cute dimples.
Soccer as he was also nicknamed as Beard usually teased him was celebrating his 21st birthday party and a win of a match. His team mates thought it would be a good idea to set him up leaving him drunk on the side walk for Beard to find.
Beard couldn't just leave him there could he.. What happens next is a great story of emotions for Beard and his struggling to deal with an event in his past..Thank goodness for Soccer for his persistence. Recommended for your libraries and I'll look forward to the next book.
Soccer as he was also nicknamed as Beard usually teased him was celebrating his 21st birthday party and a win of a match. His team mates thought it would be a good idea to set him up leaving him drunk on the side walk for Beard to find.
Beard couldn't just leave him there could he.. What happens next is a great story of emotions for Beard and his struggling to deal with an event in his past..Thank goodness for Soccer for his persistence. Recommended for your libraries and I'll look forward to the next book.
May 4, 2017
I was given a copy of the=is book free by the author in exchange for an honest review.
Beard and Soccer were perfect for each other when they finally got together.
I will admit not knowing Beard's secret and thus why he didn't want ton get involved with soccer was a little annoying, finding out the issue when Soccer did.
This was a short, sweet story. Soccer never giving up despite the fact that Beard wasn't nice to him in the beginning. I would like to catch up with these guys a few years into the future to see where they are now.
Recommended.
Beard and Soccer were perfect for each other when they finally got together.
I will admit not knowing Beard's secret and thus why he didn't want ton get involved with soccer was a little annoying, finding out the issue when Soccer did.
This was a short, sweet story. Soccer never giving up despite the fact that Beard wasn't nice to him in the beginning. I would like to catch up with these guys a few years into the future to see where they are now.
Recommended.
May 13, 2017
3.5 stars
Biggest pet peeve: it's "assessed" not "accessed". Happened twice.
Biggest pet peeve: it's "assessed" not "accessed". Happened twice.
May 7, 2017
Full review at: https://optimummblog.wordpress.com/20...
As a debut book, this story has set a high standard for the author to meet with future releases. It was a very sweet and incredibly sexy little romance that had me smiling from ear to ear, but also needing a fan to cool down (it’s pretty hot). Written in first person with dual POV, it grabbed my attention from the minute I saw the cover and read the blurb. As soon as I started reading the book, I just couldn’t stop. Football (soccer) is my joint favorite sport, so any book that includes it as part of the storyline then I’m going to read it, and this one definitely didn’t disappoint.
In this story, we have the two main characters, Beard (nicknamed because he has a thick and longish beard and no other reason) and Soccer (because he plays college soccer). The two men gave each other the nicknames because Soccer refused to call Beard by his proper name, even though he knows it. Beard played along with the game, and also refused to call Soccer by his name, now it’s a battle of wills, and they won’t back down or give in. Beard works at and owns a bar that used to belong to his grandfather where Soccer and his friends go mostly after playing their game on match-days. The team have become regulars at the bar, and Beard loves this, yet hates it at the same time.
Beard has quite a brooding and serious personality, and although he’s had a crush on Soccer since they first met, he tries to avoid him as much as he can to try and hide the attraction. He knows and accepts he’s gay, but due to an incident that occurred 4 years before, he’s in the closet and plans on staying that way. Soccer is almost the exact opposite of Beard, he’s happy and outgoing, yet fiercely competitive and determined. He’s also out to everyone he knows and is not shy about trying to get Beards attention. When Soccer’s friends hatch a plan to try and set the two men up, it doesn’t exactly work out as expected, but it ignites the spark of the smouldering feelings and chemistry that Beard and Soccer have. It gives Beard the little wake-up call he’s needed to face up to his past, and to move on with his future.
This was a fantastic little story to read. It was well written, flowed perfectly and there were no loose ends. The characters were well developed with just enough back story to fill you in, but not take over the main plot of the book. This is an author that I will definitely be looking out for from now on, if this book is anything to go by, I’d say we’re in for a real treat.
***I would like to thank the author for the privilege and opportunity of reading this ARC. My review is an honest opinion of the book***
As a debut book, this story has set a high standard for the author to meet with future releases. It was a very sweet and incredibly sexy little romance that had me smiling from ear to ear, but also needing a fan to cool down (it’s pretty hot). Written in first person with dual POV, it grabbed my attention from the minute I saw the cover and read the blurb. As soon as I started reading the book, I just couldn’t stop. Football (soccer) is my joint favorite sport, so any book that includes it as part of the storyline then I’m going to read it, and this one definitely didn’t disappoint.
In this story, we have the two main characters, Beard (nicknamed because he has a thick and longish beard and no other reason) and Soccer (because he plays college soccer). The two men gave each other the nicknames because Soccer refused to call Beard by his proper name, even though he knows it. Beard played along with the game, and also refused to call Soccer by his name, now it’s a battle of wills, and they won’t back down or give in. Beard works at and owns a bar that used to belong to his grandfather where Soccer and his friends go mostly after playing their game on match-days. The team have become regulars at the bar, and Beard loves this, yet hates it at the same time.
Beard has quite a brooding and serious personality, and although he’s had a crush on Soccer since they first met, he tries to avoid him as much as he can to try and hide the attraction. He knows and accepts he’s gay, but due to an incident that occurred 4 years before, he’s in the closet and plans on staying that way. Soccer is almost the exact opposite of Beard, he’s happy and outgoing, yet fiercely competitive and determined. He’s also out to everyone he knows and is not shy about trying to get Beards attention. When Soccer’s friends hatch a plan to try and set the two men up, it doesn’t exactly work out as expected, but it ignites the spark of the smouldering feelings and chemistry that Beard and Soccer have. It gives Beard the little wake-up call he’s needed to face up to his past, and to move on with his future.
This was a fantastic little story to read. It was well written, flowed perfectly and there were no loose ends. The characters were well developed with just enough back story to fill you in, but not take over the main plot of the book. This is an author that I will definitely be looking out for from now on, if this book is anything to go by, I’d say we’re in for a real treat.
***I would like to thank the author for the privilege and opportunity of reading this ARC. My review is an honest opinion of the book***
Displaying 1 - 30 of 76 reviews