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RIDE
Bentley Williams never thought he’d hit rock bottom at 19-years-old. From top-rated college running back to homeless, girlfriend-less, UCLA dropout, Bentley can’t help but wonder if he’s making the right decision. Pursuing a career as a BMX rider likely means a life of struggling to afford groceries, but he can’t imagine doing anything else. The sport’s in his blood. After a visit to his uncle’s shop involves him flirting with the green-eyed new guy instead of looking for a new bike, Bentley ends up questioning himself even more. Kit Edwards was used to being treated like a leper in his small hometown of Junction, Ohio. After foolishly getting involved with the closeted high school quarterback, he decides to move as far away for school as possible. UCLA is perfect – the weather is beautiful, his roommate isn’t crazy, and people couldn’t care less about his orientation. People care so little that Kit finds himself in a flirting match with the unfairly attractive guy that wanders into the bike shop where he works. But, Kit refuses to go down that road again. Popular athletes were a no, and straight guys were a definite no. Bentley doesn’t seem interested in going away, and as a friendship forms, Kit promises himself he won’t make the same mistake twice. Right?
439 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 28, 2017
86 people are currently reading
502 people want to read
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June 29, 2022
4.5 stars ☆
"Let me guess," Kit said with a smirk. "You like my smile and my eyes, right? Real smooth—"
"I like the way my pendant looks around your neck. I like the way you chew on your bottom lip when you're in deep thought, even though all I can think about when you're doing it is pressing my lips against yours. I like the way your eyes light up when you're looking at an article of clothing you want, and the way the first part of your laugh is completely silent until you catch your breath." Bentley looked away from the stunned expression on Kit's face and down at the table. "I like the way it feels when you're holding my hand, and yeah. I guess your eyes aren't so bad, either." He stopped speaking when he realized Kit was looking at him like he was speaking in an unknown language. After licking his lips, Bentley leaned back in the booth. "I just like you, I guess."
an accurate representation of how i felt reading about Bentley and Kit's romance/banters:
me during their moments in the photo booth:
me during THE CUDDLES, or whenever Bentley would hug Kit:
if we're talking about the romance alone, it was honestly close to perfect for me (despite the one issue i had with ), but the sport aspect (BMX riding) bored me to tears at times that i ended up skimming those scenes since the romance, and the way it was developing, intrigued me more. Bentley and Kit had such a precious relationship and i loved how Bentley never gave up showing Kit how serious he was in wanting him that Kit couldn't help but eventually give in. their banters were everything to me. i loved the side characters as well and the roles they played in both mcs' lives (the bond between Matthew, Kit's dad, and Bentley was so cute!!). 🥺
"Let me guess," Kit said with a smirk. "You like my smile and my eyes, right? Real smooth—"
"I like the way my pendant looks around your neck. I like the way you chew on your bottom lip when you're in deep thought, even though all I can think about when you're doing it is pressing my lips against yours. I like the way your eyes light up when you're looking at an article of clothing you want, and the way the first part of your laugh is completely silent until you catch your breath." Bentley looked away from the stunned expression on Kit's face and down at the table. "I like the way it feels when you're holding my hand, and yeah. I guess your eyes aren't so bad, either." He stopped speaking when he realized Kit was looking at him like he was speaking in an unknown language. After licking his lips, Bentley leaned back in the booth. "I just like you, I guess."
an accurate representation of how i felt reading about Bentley and Kit's romance/banters:
me during their moments in the photo booth:
me during THE CUDDLES, or whenever Bentley would hug Kit:
if we're talking about the romance alone, it was honestly close to perfect for me (despite the one issue i had with ), but the sport aspect (BMX riding) bored me to tears at times that i ended up skimming those scenes since the romance, and the way it was developing, intrigued me more. Bentley and Kit had such a precious relationship and i loved how Bentley never gave up showing Kit how serious he was in wanting him that Kit couldn't help but eventually give in. their banters were everything to me. i loved the side characters as well and the roles they played in both mcs' lives (the bond between Matthew, Kit's dad, and Bentley was so cute!!). 🥺
February 12, 2023
O Bentley é aquele tipo de personagem cheio de si mas de um jeito bom, sem ser arrogante mas é confiante na medida certa. A interação de Bentley e Kit foi tão natural e interessante de acompanhar. O desenvolvimento foi o melhor, sem pressa e cheio de química. Foi um livro simples sem grandes coisas mas com ótimos personagens e dois protagonistas delicinhas 😘 Queria mais momentos dos dois 💕
August 7, 2023
I was really excited to read a BMX book and this one wasnt bad - just moved a bit too slow for me at times.
Also I think Bentley was so immature I never really warmed up to him much. I cannot imagine a professional athlete saying such immature/unprofessional things to the media or posting them on social media.
I skimmed a bit, but it definitely wasn't bad. I would really like to read more BMX books now though, that was my favorite part.
Also I think Bentley was so immature I never really warmed up to him much. I cannot imagine a professional athlete saying such immature/unprofessional things to the media or posting them on social media.
I skimmed a bit, but it definitely wasn't bad. I would really like to read more BMX books now though, that was my favorite part.
October 29, 2022
5 full ⭐️ upon re-read (previously 4.5)
Despite the wordiness and the slow start, I absolutely love this book. Every character feels like a real person.
This book has:
- GFY/BFY
- opposites attract (athlete/fashion major)
- low/no angst
- college campus setting (UCLA)
- hot smirking boys!
- supportive friends and family
- flirty banter done so so well
- long but cute conversations
- unique sport to MM books (BMX riding)
- medium steam 🔥
- slow burn
Possible negative:
A lot of day to day activities to disperse cute vignette scenes which probably makes the book unnecessarily long. Might not be everyone’s cup of tea. Best to be read when you are just looking for something lazy/cozy to read and don’t need exciting forward paced action.
Despite the wordiness and the slow start, I absolutely love this book. Every character feels like a real person.
This book has:
- GFY/BFY
- opposites attract (athlete/fashion major)
- low/no angst
- college campus setting (UCLA)
- hot smirking boys!
- supportive friends and family
- flirty banter done so so well
- long but cute conversations
- unique sport to MM books (BMX riding)
- medium steam 🔥
- slow burn
Possible negative:
A lot of day to day activities to disperse cute vignette scenes which probably makes the book unnecessarily long. Might not be everyone’s cup of tea. Best to be read when you are just looking for something lazy/cozy to read and don’t need exciting forward paced action.
March 20, 2024
The way this book was so long but then I get to the end I was "That's it?. I NEED MORE!!" I need the epilogue but there was so much little moments and occasions being set just for it to end like that.
This was such a cute story, slow burn, but you won't even realize it, it's so easy going, especially if you like the characters I know I did, especially our main characters.
Everything was too good to be true, there were a few obstacles and problems but it was just like a hitch in the moment that could've been easily solved and I kinda like that. Everything was so good that it's kinda unrealistic but whatever I still like it anyway.
I love Bentley personality he was so straight forward, blunt and also flirtatious I just don't understand why he couldn't get a media training when he speaks like that but honestly that part makes me like him even more.
Kit is so understanding and supportive (honestly both of them are) he seems shy at first but there was a hidden confidence when it comes to Bentley and fashion of course. Everyone especially their friends and family just so well written thats why I said it felt too good to be true, because there's barely any bad characters some of them just show up briefly.
This was such a cute story, slow burn, but you won't even realize it, it's so easy going, especially if you like the characters I know I did, especially our main characters.
Everything was too good to be true, there were a few obstacles and problems but it was just like a hitch in the moment that could've been easily solved and I kinda like that. Everything was so good that it's kinda unrealistic but whatever I still like it anyway.
I love Bentley personality he was so straight forward, blunt and also flirtatious I just don't understand why he couldn't get a media training when he speaks like that but honestly that part makes me like him even more.
Kit is so understanding and supportive (honestly both of them are) he seems shy at first but there was a hidden confidence when it comes to Bentley and fashion of course. Everyone especially their friends and family just so well written thats why I said it felt too good to be true, because there's barely any bad characters some of them just show up briefly.
September 13, 2020
These two were cute and successfully pulled me out of a painful book slump, so it was pretty easy to forgive the editing issues, the occasional head-hopping and the length. The length didn't really bother me -- beyond creating more opportunities for the head-hopping and editing issues! 😂 -- there's just no need for it. This is a simple (though enjoyable) romance, and the author's not really trying to say anything with it, so 400+ pages seems a little much considering the whole thing takes place in less than 3 months. It clearly needs a polishing from an editor, but that would also be a relatively easy job.
It was nice to see two college kids with big dreams putting in the hard work to go after those dreams and succeeding. Very little angst here, though there was a thing toward the end that felt manufactured since it was glaringly out of character.
Also, NOT a slow-burn. Which I don't think would have bothered me at all if I hadn't gone into it expecting one. Or...maybe some readers define "slow" by the number of pages/% of book read before the MCs get together? I've noticed this before and always wonder if it actually skews their perspective of how much time has passed or it we're just defining it differently! The MCs also take a little time to establish a romantic connection before going very far physically, so maybe that's how they're defining it? I define it based on the amount of time between the MCs meeting and starting (or sometimes acknowledging) a romantic relationship, and these two don't qualify as a slow-burn, but they're not in insta- territory either, so I'm good with it.
It was nice to see two college kids with big dreams putting in the hard work to go after those dreams and succeeding. Very little angst here, though there was a thing toward the end that felt manufactured since it was glaringly out of character.
Also, NOT a slow-burn. Which I don't think would have bothered me at all if I hadn't gone into it expecting one. Or...maybe some readers define "slow" by the number of pages/% of book read before the MCs get together? I've noticed this before and always wonder if it actually skews their perspective of how much time has passed or it we're just defining it differently! The MCs also take a little time to establish a romantic connection before going very far physically, so maybe that's how they're defining it? I define it based on the amount of time between the MCs meeting and starting (or sometimes acknowledging) a romantic relationship, and these two don't qualify as a slow-burn, but they're not in insta- territory either, so I'm good with it.
July 29, 2022
It was a 3,5 roundup. I love Benny! He quickly became one of my favorite character 💜 the story was sweet with very low heat ( after my last smut fest book it worked) so fluffy read with collage age boys, bi awakening and very good dialogues. Sometimes a bit dragged but overall an enjoyable read.
April 22, 2019
2nd read 22/04/2019
I realized this book is not as perfect as I thought. Quite a few typos, but with a long book like this, it can be ignored IMO. Also, around the middle when Kit and Bentley went on an actual date... I found their behavior and the dialogue a bit high school-ish for my liking. But I can accept that I guess, given that Kit never had a relationship, and Bentley had never been with a boy. It was just a little bit mushy.
The main characters only meet well into the book, after several chapters, so we get their background stories, which is awesome if you ask me. :)
Even before they met, both boys tries to decide what to do with their lives, what career to pursue. Are they willing to give up a promising career in order to do what their heart truly desires?
There's lots to love about this book. Bentley's constant flirting with Kit, even though he's not gay. It's just a friendly teasing. He's not afraid to tell Kit how sexy he is, he's very open about it. I guess growing up in Los Angeles thought him not to hide his feelings. The chemistry between them is so natural. They're just friends, until Bentley decides to really go after Kit.
If you like slow burn, you're gonna love this. They take things slowly, though it's not really a conscious decision on their part, but rather a natural progression.
The secondary characters are great. Their friends and family are really supportive. Kit's dad is really awesome in how he treats Bentley. Love the good-natured ribbing they give each other.
Reading about the sport itself was not overwhelming for me, it wasn't that detailed. It was enough however to show Bentley's love for the sport clearly.
Overall, I enjoyed this book just as much as the first time, even though I probably wouldn't give 5 stars, but I do recommend it.
--------------
1st read 18/11/2017
It ended rather abruptly. But damn what a RIDE it was. It's a new adult story, a looong story at that, but I wanted even more. It was THAT good. It is slow-burning, and there's not much sexy scenes. What I enjoyed most was the beginning, when Kit and Bentley met. There was so much banter between them, the chemistry was so good.
Maybe we're gonna hear about Paulie too later on? :)
I realized this book is not as perfect as I thought. Quite a few typos, but with a long book like this, it can be ignored IMO. Also, around the middle when Kit and Bentley went on an actual date... I found their behavior and the dialogue a bit high school-ish for my liking. But I can accept that I guess, given that Kit never had a relationship, and Bentley had never been with a boy. It was just a little bit mushy.
The main characters only meet well into the book, after several chapters, so we get their background stories, which is awesome if you ask me. :)
Even before they met, both boys tries to decide what to do with their lives, what career to pursue. Are they willing to give up a promising career in order to do what their heart truly desires?
There's lots to love about this book. Bentley's constant flirting with Kit, even though he's not gay. It's just a friendly teasing. He's not afraid to tell Kit how sexy he is, he's very open about it. I guess growing up in Los Angeles thought him not to hide his feelings. The chemistry between them is so natural. They're just friends, until Bentley decides to really go after Kit.
If you like slow burn, you're gonna love this. They take things slowly, though it's not really a conscious decision on their part, but rather a natural progression.
The secondary characters are great. Their friends and family are really supportive. Kit's dad is really awesome in how he treats Bentley. Love the good-natured ribbing they give each other.
Reading about the sport itself was not overwhelming for me, it wasn't that detailed. It was enough however to show Bentley's love for the sport clearly.
Overall, I enjoyed this book just as much as the first time, even though I probably wouldn't give 5 stars, but I do recommend it.
--------------
1st read 18/11/2017
It ended rather abruptly. But damn what a RIDE it was. It's a new adult story, a looong story at that, but I wanted even more. It was THAT good. It is slow-burning, and there's not much sexy scenes. What I enjoyed most was the beginning, when Kit and Bentley met. There was so much banter between them, the chemistry was so good.
Maybe we're gonna hear about Paulie too later on? :)
January 2, 2018
4.5 stars
I am usually not a fan of young MC, they tend to make stupid decisions and speak in a language that's too cool for me to understand or care about...but for my first book of the New Year I thought I'd take a chance. I loved the blurb but I'd held off because of the sheer amount of high ratings, not believing they could be true...but I'm pretty sure they are, because I loved this.
Bentley is flirty and friendly and charismatic, he's also at a turning point in his life. When he meets Kit his world as he knows it is turned on its head, but to his credit, he runs with it, wholeheartedly. And Kit is strong and independent and proud. He's attracted to Bentley but he's been down the "straight" guy road before...it didn't end well. So, they start off as friends.
There are sparks coming off the page between these two for most of this book. Their banter was OTT adorable, their conversations had me grinning. They kept a smile on my face for hours, and with every stumbling block they encountered they kept on surprising me, in good ways. They also had some of the sweetest relationship "moments" I've ever read.
I liked how the author introduced the characters. It took several chapters for them to even meet, but it allowed the reader to experience a significant part of their lives, rather than just being told about it. And though I was expecting a heavy amount of BMX, it was mostly in he background and took a backseat to the relationship. I also liked how these guys weren't perfect.
Overall, this was sweet and fun and low angst, all wrapped up in a solid HFN bow. I liked these guys, I'd love to read more.
I am usually not a fan of young MC, they tend to make stupid decisions and speak in a language that's too cool for me to understand or care about...but for my first book of the New Year I thought I'd take a chance. I loved the blurb but I'd held off because of the sheer amount of high ratings, not believing they could be true...but I'm pretty sure they are, because I loved this.
Bentley is flirty and friendly and charismatic, he's also at a turning point in his life. When he meets Kit his world as he knows it is turned on its head, but to his credit, he runs with it, wholeheartedly. And Kit is strong and independent and proud. He's attracted to Bentley but he's been down the "straight" guy road before...it didn't end well. So, they start off as friends.
There are sparks coming off the page between these two for most of this book. Their banter was OTT adorable, their conversations had me grinning. They kept a smile on my face for hours, and with every stumbling block they encountered they kept on surprising me, in good ways. They also had some of the sweetest relationship "moments" I've ever read.
I liked how the author introduced the characters. It took several chapters for them to even meet, but it allowed the reader to experience a significant part of their lives, rather than just being told about it. And though I was expecting a heavy amount of BMX, it was mostly in he background and took a backseat to the relationship. I also liked how these guys weren't perfect.
Overall, this was sweet and fun and low angst, all wrapped up in a solid HFN bow. I liked these guys, I'd love to read more.
dnf
October 8, 2022DNF at 15%, no rating
Not really feeling in the mood for this age group I don't think.
A few notes to self, in case i return later:
very slow start
suspicious ignoring of bisexuality by kit
bentley is a jerk to his ex girlfriend who is being totally reasonable
eh ¯\_(ツ)_/¯
Not really feeling in the mood for this age group I don't think.
A few notes to self, in case i return later:
very slow start
suspicious ignoring of bisexuality by kit
bentley is a jerk to his ex girlfriend who is being totally reasonable
eh ¯\_(ツ)_/¯
November 12, 2017
4.5 Stars
This is my first book by this author, but I’ll tell you now, it won’t be my last. I absolutely loved this book and I adored Bentley and Kit. They were both sweet, nurturing and caring guys and they fit together perfectly. The chemistry between them was amazing and the progression of their relationship from friends to lovers felt natural. I especially loved the ease with which Benny comes to terms with and accepts his attraction to Kit, since he’s always thought of himself as straight.
The story was really long, but it’s well-written and interesting. The flow was a little slow at times, but the author held my attention with this story that was filled with sweetness, romance, laugh out loud moments and a touch of angst.
I not only loved Kit and Benny, who kept me in stitches with their witty banter, but I loved the secondary characters as well, and I know of one in particular who I’m hoping the author will revisit and give a story. The secondary characters of Benny and Kit’s family and friends were awesome and amazingly supportive of them.
This was an enjoyable and very recommendable story!
*copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie by the author/publisher*
This is my first book by this author, but I’ll tell you now, it won’t be my last. I absolutely loved this book and I adored Bentley and Kit. They were both sweet, nurturing and caring guys and they fit together perfectly. The chemistry between them was amazing and the progression of their relationship from friends to lovers felt natural. I especially loved the ease with which Benny comes to terms with and accepts his attraction to Kit, since he’s always thought of himself as straight.
The story was really long, but it’s well-written and interesting. The flow was a little slow at times, but the author held my attention with this story that was filled with sweetness, romance, laugh out loud moments and a touch of angst.
I not only loved Kit and Benny, who kept me in stitches with their witty banter, but I loved the secondary characters as well, and I know of one in particular who I’m hoping the author will revisit and give a story. The secondary characters of Benny and Kit’s family and friends were awesome and amazingly supportive of them.
This was an enjoyable and very recommendable story!
*copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie by the author/publisher*
Read
August 2, 2022At about one week and only 50% into this one it was a DNF for me. So it may have been COVID that contributed to it being so difficult to get through, however it felt redundant, slow and a bit immature for my reading preferences. I mean 50% and still really nothing much happened
dnf
March 15, 2025I can see myself returning to this book one day but for right now I’m going to call it quits at 53%.
October 14, 2021
I had so much fun reading this book. It features very real, wholesome, and the most adorable main characters ever. We meet Kit and Bentley who have this instant connection, and their story just made me smile throughout! I don't care how long this book was, I could live in this world forever. I lived for every. single. banter between the two, and their chemistry was just *chef's kiss*
If you like a good palette cleanser story with low angst, that is friends-to-lovers, GFY/OFY, has the best, most supportive secondary characters, lots of Laugh Out Loud moments, unique banter, and of course some spicy scenes, then I highly recommend this gem!
Thanks to Ivy whose review sold me on this!! 🖤🖤
If you like a good palette cleanser story with low angst, that is friends-to-lovers, GFY/OFY, has the best, most supportive secondary characters, lots of Laugh Out Loud moments, unique banter, and of course some spicy scenes, then I highly recommend this gem!
Thanks to Ivy whose review sold me on this!! 🖤🖤
January 31, 2022
This was dragged out without any semblance of anything interesting happening. And the whole overprotective dad just because son is gay freaked me out. That is not normal ppl. Jeez.
And the shitty female representation. Maybe it's because this is an older book?
And the shitty female representation. Maybe it's because this is an older book?
January 14, 2023
3.5 stars, but I am rounding down because I'm not sure why this book was >400 pages long. So the essence of this book is college romance, gay-for-you, jock/twink vibes. It's about a pretty emotionally mature kid from small town Ohio who comes to UCLA for school and meets an up-and-coming (straight) BMX rider college drop-out, and they have mad chemistry despite the heterosexuality and then embark on a very sweet, low-angst romance. It's a plotless book, just kind of capturing the start of Kit and Bentley's romance and the rise of Bentley's BMX career. I liked the MCs and most of the secondary characters, I liked that it showcased a non-mainstream, non-team sport (16yo me with the Vans would have killed to read a BMX-themed romance), and I liked that there was a slow-burn element. Lots of things happen, and we're just kind of along for the ride. I didn't mind this so much, and I enjoyed it up to a point. I think it lost me somewhere around the last quarter - it just became really trite and cheesy and as the book dragged on, my investment in the relationship waned quite a lot, I was skimming at the end. With some tighter editing, I would have enjoyed this book a lot more. But that said, it was still an entertaining read.
December 4, 2022
This was a really cute read. The banter and flirting were top notch. If you read for fast spice, just a heads up- this was a super slow burn! The first kiss and love confession were really well done. I enjoyed this book!
March 17, 2024
Lo más remarcable de esta historia es que por fin vemos a un joven como muchos de hoy en día para los que la sexualidad no está llena de etiquetas sino que de emociones.
Lo demás sin pena ni gloria, demasiadas páginas para no contar mucho y poco deporte para el título que tiene.
Lo demás sin pena ni gloria, demasiadas páginas para no contar mucho y poco deporte para el título que tiene.
May 20, 2018
Sexy-Sweet Fun
So I will admit that, at first, I thought these guys were so darned cute I wanted to reach into my phone app and pinch their imaginary cheeks (on their faces! Don't be pervy!). I was a little concerned that this was going to be one of those reads where I was a little skeeved by the ages of the MCs because, let's face it, I've got kids at or near college-age and that's a little ... ugh sometimes when reading romance about that demographic.
Thankfully, that concern was blasted away pretty much from the beginning because Bentley's character description was fantastically sexy. (So my type ten *cough*—okay, fine! Twenty—years ago). It also didn't hurt that the humor was quirky, slightly over-the-top (intentionally) and nothing but fun. We didn't get beat about the head and shoulders with 'too young' pop-culture references and the oh-my-god-is-that-even-english slingo was kept to a minimum.
I fell in love with the MCs when they started their crazy text exchanges. I was already leaning that way, though, because they were just that lovable. Both of them. Each in their own, very different ways, but still. Lovable. Point in fact, one such text message from Bentley to Kit.
Okay. Yeah. My idiot little sappy brain went, "Awwwww!" And after that, I was done. After that, the story just got more and more "Awwww!" inspiring. After that, I was infatuated and enthralled. Don't get me wrong, there was some low-level angst, and growing pains, and a few OMFG eyeroll moments but only because they were young. There was nothing that didn't feel real about their relationship, their reactions, their dialogue, their ... well, their anything.
I loved it. I hope this is the beginning of the story for these two. I thought I saw some foreshadowing in there, especially about a specific problem I think Bentley has tendencies for. Barring that particular in-my-fantasies plot-potential scenario, this story has legs. Period. I love that there is definitely enough of a foundation for another story as the real world and real life starts to put pressure on these guys' relationship. I hope we get to see it, even if I dread the potential pitfalls.
So is this the end for Kit and Benny? I don't know. I hope not. This story can and does stand alone very, very well so maybe I'm just not ready to let them go. If there is another one forthcoming, I am absolutely all there ... with bells on.
4.5 Hearts rounded down to 4 GR Stars
Review crossposted at:
More reviews by NeRdyWYRM can be found on Goodreads here.
Images (when present) may be subject to copyright.
An ARC copy of this title was provided for an honest review.
So I will admit that, at first, I thought these guys were so darned cute I wanted to reach into my phone app and pinch their imaginary cheeks (on their faces! Don't be pervy!). I was a little concerned that this was going to be one of those reads where I was a little skeeved by the ages of the MCs because, let's face it, I've got kids at or near college-age and that's a little ... ugh sometimes when reading romance about that demographic.
Thankfully, that concern was blasted away pretty much from the beginning because Bentley's character description was fantastically sexy. (So my type ten *cough*—okay, fine! Twenty—years ago). It also didn't hurt that the humor was quirky, slightly over-the-top (intentionally) and nothing but fun. We didn't get beat about the head and shoulders with 'too young' pop-culture references and the oh-my-god-is-that-even-english slingo was kept to a minimum.
I fell in love with the MCs when they started their crazy text exchanges. I was already leaning that way, though, because they were just that lovable. Both of them. Each in their own, very different ways, but still. Lovable. Point in fact, one such text message from Bentley to Kit.
"[...] I'm just messaging you to say that I haven't been thinking about you at all today. Not one bit. And I don't even miss you. That's all. Later, Kitten."
Okay. Yeah. My idiot little sappy brain went, "Awwwww!" And after that, I was done. After that, the story just got more and more "Awwww!" inspiring. After that, I was infatuated and enthralled. Don't get me wrong, there was some low-level angst, and growing pains, and a few OMFG eyeroll moments but only because they were young. There was nothing that didn't feel real about their relationship, their reactions, their dialogue, their ... well, their anything.
I loved it. I hope this is the beginning of the story for these two. I thought I saw some foreshadowing in there, especially about a specific problem I think Bentley has tendencies for. Barring that particular in-my-fantasies plot-potential scenario, this story has legs. Period. I love that there is definitely enough of a foundation for another story as the real world and real life starts to put pressure on these guys' relationship. I hope we get to see it, even if I dread the potential pitfalls.
So is this the end for Kit and Benny? I don't know. I hope not. This story can and does stand alone very, very well so maybe I'm just not ready to let them go. If there is another one forthcoming, I am absolutely all there ... with bells on.
4.5 Hearts rounded down to 4 GR Stars
Review crossposted at:
More reviews by NeRdyWYRM can be found on Goodreads here.
Images (when present) may be subject to copyright.
An ARC copy of this title was provided for an honest review.
January 24, 2018
This book was soo cute and sweet. Both boys were adorable, so different but so complimentary to each other.
This is the story of Kit, a boy starting college in Cali after being out and proud in a small town in Ohio. There, he suffered the bigotry of the town small-minded people and was subject to bullying and heartbreak. He is so optimistic, talented and such a beautiful soul despite it all.
And it is the story of Bentley, open minded, jock of all trades Bentley who decides to drop his full ride in UCLA to pursue his BMX dreams.
All of Bentley’s straightness goes down the toilet with a single look at Kit. Both teens are flashed with the other and a beautiful friends-who-flirt-like-crazy relationship start till both of them realize that what they feel is much more than friendship.
I loved the banter between Kit and Bentley. I loved how they both accepted and loved each other for what they were, no conditions attached. But most of all, loved how Bentley didn’t even question his feelings for Kit. He was clear that, even if he hadn’t liked any other guys before, Kit was it for him.
I didn’t like that the book dragged at parts and then the end felt abrupt. I’d have loved an epilogue...
Overall a good book.
This is the story of Kit, a boy starting college in Cali after being out and proud in a small town in Ohio. There, he suffered the bigotry of the town small-minded people and was subject to bullying and heartbreak. He is so optimistic, talented and such a beautiful soul despite it all.
And it is the story of Bentley, open minded, jock of all trades Bentley who decides to drop his full ride in UCLA to pursue his BMX dreams.
All of Bentley’s straightness goes down the toilet with a single look at Kit. Both teens are flashed with the other and a beautiful friends-who-flirt-like-crazy relationship start till both of them realize that what they feel is much more than friendship.
I loved the banter between Kit and Bentley. I loved how they both accepted and loved each other for what they were, no conditions attached. But most of all, loved how Bentley didn’t even question his feelings for Kit. He was clear that, even if he hadn’t liked any other guys before, Kit was it for him.
I didn’t like that the book dragged at parts and then the end felt abrupt. I’d have loved an epilogue...
Overall a good book.
February 23, 2025
The first half of the book felt close to 4 stars, while the second half was more of a 2 star read, so I met in the middle and gave Ride 3 stars.
I enjoyed Bentley and Kit’s getting to know each other, build up to getting together phase, but once it actually happened I grew bored and struggled to finish the last ~40% or so of the book. It felt quite young at times (which made sense since they were 18 and 19), but it grew a bit tiresome there near the last third.
I struggled with Bentley’s immaturity regarding his spending habits and his overall cockiness. These are not traits that typically appeal to me and did not make for a character that I could relate to or really enjoy. I took to Kit easier, as his nature was more similar to my own and he felt like the voice of reason between the two. Bentley and Kit did somehow work as a couple, though, and were really sweet together.
I enjoyed Bentley and Kit’s getting to know each other, build up to getting together phase, but once it actually happened I grew bored and struggled to finish the last ~40% or so of the book. It felt quite young at times (which made sense since they were 18 and 19), but it grew a bit tiresome there near the last third.
I struggled with Bentley’s immaturity regarding his spending habits and his overall cockiness. These are not traits that typically appeal to me and did not make for a character that I could relate to or really enjoy. I took to Kit easier, as his nature was more similar to my own and he felt like the voice of reason between the two. Bentley and Kit did somehow work as a couple, though, and were really sweet together.
November 17, 2017
wow. that's all that comes to mind at the end of this book. I was a bit afraid to not get along with the story having reading the first one of it, but after the fifth chapter, I was completely in love with these two love birds. I can't wait to read it all over again. Well done Nellie.
October 5, 2022
I did not care for Kit.
November 22, 2017
This is a really good read. There are so many things that you could say his book was about. Like finding your true self. Or pursuing a dream despite what others think. Also it could be described as a book about learning to love ones self as well as others despite what others think of you.
Kit knows first hand what it is like to fall for a closeted athlete. He had his heart broken by one and now the last thing he wants is too get involved with another athlete. Especially one that has never been attracted to a man before. So when Kit meets Bentley and they spend time together, it is hard to ignore that even though Bentley is everything that Kit does not want, he is also everything that he does want at the exact same time.
Bentley takes the fact that he is attracted to a man at stride. The fact that he is as amazing as Kit is makes it that much easier for Bentley to accept. The problem is getting Kit to give them a try after the things he went through. Not only that but extreme sports may or may not be accepting of he fact that Bentley is with a guy. So the options really need to weighed and decided carefully.
Once these two men finally get on the same page and decide to give it a go, now it is a matter of being able to stay together. Can they do it or is it going to be just too hard?
This was a really good read. I enjoyed all the ups and downs and I really respected the fact that Bentley accepted his feelings for Kit so easily. It is a true statement as too his own self confidence and self worth that he was able to accept that he is in the least bisexual. This book is one that kept me enthralled through the whole read and definitely on my list of must read for others. I look forward to more books by Nellie in the future.
Was given this galley copy for free for an open and honest review
Kit knows first hand what it is like to fall for a closeted athlete. He had his heart broken by one and now the last thing he wants is too get involved with another athlete. Especially one that has never been attracted to a man before. So when Kit meets Bentley and they spend time together, it is hard to ignore that even though Bentley is everything that Kit does not want, he is also everything that he does want at the exact same time.
Bentley takes the fact that he is attracted to a man at stride. The fact that he is as amazing as Kit is makes it that much easier for Bentley to accept. The problem is getting Kit to give them a try after the things he went through. Not only that but extreme sports may or may not be accepting of he fact that Bentley is with a guy. So the options really need to weighed and decided carefully.
Once these two men finally get on the same page and decide to give it a go, now it is a matter of being able to stay together. Can they do it or is it going to be just too hard?
This was a really good read. I enjoyed all the ups and downs and I really respected the fact that Bentley accepted his feelings for Kit so easily. It is a true statement as too his own self confidence and self worth that he was able to accept that he is in the least bisexual. This book is one that kept me enthralled through the whole read and definitely on my list of must read for others. I look forward to more books by Nellie in the future.
Was given this galley copy for free for an open and honest review
November 7, 2017
Wow. I’m in love with the story. It was so different to the one I read but so enjoyable. Will definitely read it again! Great job, Nellie! ❤️
October 21, 2020
This book was much sweeter and more romantic than I anticipated. The MCs are young, so some of the dialogue could be a bit juvenile, but their relationship was actually great. It also gets steamier towards the end, and the sex scenes were really well done. I will definitely be reading more by Nellie Christine.
June 5, 2022
"Do you know how easy it’d be to compare myself to a hot girl? I don’t have what girls do. I know you can just as easily be attracted to them as you are to me, but we’re together and I have to trust you. I do.”
Bentley looked at him and smiled. “Yeah. But they don’t have your soul and that’s what I am most attracted to.”
screaming and jumping off the wall. this was good, but it was so long without needing to be. if the story was tighter with less editing issues, then it could've been easy 4-5 stars. i almost gave it 4 stars just for the bmx rep, but i thought about the few things that bothered me in this book, so i had to round down.
i loved kit and bentley. they acted their age and their banter was so cute. i thought bentley was super flirty with kit from the beginning, so it wasn't too believable that he was straight. i loved the supportive friend group as well. this was just a chill, slice of life book, and it worked for me by reading a bit everyday.
i didn't like how paulie or zoey (why are all annoying girls called zoey?) kept on popping up though. i felt like that should've been done and over with after kit and bentley got together, so i could just enjoy them as a couple instead of hoping those two would not be mentioned anymore. i could also do without the manufactured conflict near the end as well. i didn't need anything else to detract from kit and bentley's relationship. it was already slow burn enough (well not really in terms of the story timeline), but due to the book length being so long, i just wanted more of kit and bentley without all the other random stuff.
Bentley breathed him in and closed his eyes as Kit kissed his neck. This was it. This was what he wanted for the rest of his life, and though he imagined people would tell him he’s too young to know for sure, he knew that Kit was who he needed.
now we need some motocross or motorcycle racing books please.
August 20, 2022
This is definitely a hidden gem. I really enjoyed Bentley and Kit's story!
I would classify this as a slow burn, and the spice level is really low.
They have their moments but that's not really what the story revolves around.
The characters are young (18/19) so I felt like the author did a really good job of staying true to their age.
Bentley has dropped out of college, gave up his scholarship, to pursue the BMX circuit.
Kit is just starting his college career in LA (which is very different from his hometown in Ohio).
When Bentley and Kit meet they share an instant connection. Bentley is charismatic, confident, and flirty. He is comfortable in his own skin and doesn't care what other people think. Although, he's never been with a guy - he's not at all ashamed or perplexed about his attraction to Kit. He just went with it, and I loved this about him. He had his work cut out for him in the beginning. It wasn't easy convincing Kit that he was seriously into him.
Kit had a bad relationship experience in his hometown. This experience left him wary of getting involved with someone who previously identified as being straight. He didn't want to be another experiment. I loved how persistent Bentley was in proving to Kit that he was all in and not at all ashamed of loving him out loud.
I loved all the secondary characters. They were all really supportive throughout this story. I loved the relationship that developed between Bentley and Kit's dad.
There is a little twist that explains Kit and Bentley's connection further (but I don't want to give too much away). - Just know my heart melted as this piece came to light.
Definitely an enjoyable read!
I would classify this as a slow burn, and the spice level is really low.
They have their moments but that's not really what the story revolves around.
The characters are young (18/19) so I felt like the author did a really good job of staying true to their age.
Bentley has dropped out of college, gave up his scholarship, to pursue the BMX circuit.
Kit is just starting his college career in LA (which is very different from his hometown in Ohio).
When Bentley and Kit meet they share an instant connection. Bentley is charismatic, confident, and flirty. He is comfortable in his own skin and doesn't care what other people think. Although, he's never been with a guy - he's not at all ashamed or perplexed about his attraction to Kit. He just went with it, and I loved this about him. He had his work cut out for him in the beginning. It wasn't easy convincing Kit that he was seriously into him.
Kit had a bad relationship experience in his hometown. This experience left him wary of getting involved with someone who previously identified as being straight. He didn't want to be another experiment. I loved how persistent Bentley was in proving to Kit that he was all in and not at all ashamed of loving him out loud.
I loved all the secondary characters. They were all really supportive throughout this story. I loved the relationship that developed between Bentley and Kit's dad.
There is a little twist that explains Kit and Bentley's connection further (but I don't want to give too much away). - Just know my heart melted as this piece came to light.
Definitely an enjoyable read!
February 16, 2018
A BMX rider loves the wind flowing through their helmet.
Just reading this book makes you reach for your hair as the words whiz past your ears and the tire bumps rattle them around inside your head. This will make a great audiobook, but it is worth reading for the love of life, bicycles, and between Kit and Bentley. This book has characters that ARE real, not just want to bes.
Even minor characters perform major functions in developing other characters and situations so that the love theme can entangle everyone as BMX riding replaces football for Bentley and Bentley riding replaces Kit's growing up gay pains, A perfect blend of love and respect has it's difficulties in development, but as serendipity blends love of life and each other into the fulfilled magic they find together through fashioning their love together while enjoying the thrill of BMXoXoXo forever.
Just reading this book makes you reach for your hair as the words whiz past your ears and the tire bumps rattle them around inside your head. This will make a great audiobook, but it is worth reading for the love of life, bicycles, and between Kit and Bentley. This book has characters that ARE real, not just want to bes.
Even minor characters perform major functions in developing other characters and situations so that the love theme can entangle everyone as BMX riding replaces football for Bentley and Bentley riding replaces Kit's growing up gay pains, A perfect blend of love and respect has it's difficulties in development, but as serendipity blends love of life and each other into the fulfilled magic they find together through fashioning their love together while enjoying the thrill of BMXoXoXo forever.
November 4, 2017
Very enjoyable read. Good story. Well told.
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