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Nothing Serious #1
Fling
Our time together has an expiration date.
HAYDEN: I don't remember a time when I didn't love him.
The only guy I've ever wanted sees me as nothing more than the kid next door and his younger sister's best friend. But when Dean comes home after college graduation, things are different. I've grown up, and the way his golden-brown gaze scorches a path over my body tells me he's noticed. When he makes me an offer I should refuse, I'm caught between my feelings for him and logic screaming that this idea is doomed to end in heartbreak.
DEAN: I'm not interested in anything serious but I need to have him.
I plan on spending a few months at home relaxing before beginning my dream internship. What I don't count on is my little sister's best friend sending me for a loop. He should be off-limits, but the pull I feel toward him is too strong to ignore. When I come up with a solution to spend the summer together in secret, I'm sure I have it all figured out. I just need to work him out of my system.
It’s supposed to be free of complications…a fling. By the end of summer, it’s anything but simple.
HAYDEN: I don't remember a time when I didn't love him.
The only guy I've ever wanted sees me as nothing more than the kid next door and his younger sister's best friend. But when Dean comes home after college graduation, things are different. I've grown up, and the way his golden-brown gaze scorches a path over my body tells me he's noticed. When he makes me an offer I should refuse, I'm caught between my feelings for him and logic screaming that this idea is doomed to end in heartbreak.
DEAN: I'm not interested in anything serious but I need to have him.
I plan on spending a few months at home relaxing before beginning my dream internship. What I don't count on is my little sister's best friend sending me for a loop. He should be off-limits, but the pull I feel toward him is too strong to ignore. When I come up with a solution to spend the summer together in secret, I'm sure I have it all figured out. I just need to work him out of my system.
It’s supposed to be free of complications…a fling. By the end of summer, it’s anything but simple.
215 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 15, 2018
96 people are currently reading
392 people want to read
About the author
Baylin Crow
21 books578 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.
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Happy Reading! ❤📚
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Happy Reading! ❤📚
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 82 reviews
November 24, 2018
~WRITING - PLOT - PACE~To say I was excited to start this book would be an understatement. I really enjoyed this author's other two books, and this book was no different. Miz Crow has such an easy way to her writing that you can't help to be sucked into the story and fall in love with her characters. The pace was perfect. It was told in a dual POV format. The plot was engaging, and the ending sweet.
That said, this had a couple "personal taste" things that dropped me rating from a 5 to a 4. They were not HUGE issues for me, but rather just small issues that I personally wasn't crazy about. I am not a huge fan of one character being in love with the other and having to watch him be with others. Hayden never saw Dean having sex with anyone or anything like that, but he did see kisses and knew Dean got around. This would have been less of an issue for me had Hayden not been a virgin. I think we all know at this point how much I hate virgins in stories, however, in this case, Hayden being 18 and having just came out the year before made his virginity realistic. Nevertheless, I personally would have liked to have seen him have a little more experience since Dean was pretty much a manwhore. Again, just my personal issues and most readers won't care.
~HEROES~
HAYDEN...I ADORED Hayden. He was sweet. He was geeky. He was a great friend. He wore his heart on his sleeve. He was completely adorkable, and I loved that he didn't just fall right back into Dean's arms and Dean had to work for it a bit.
DEAN...Dean, I liked just a smidge less. He was a bit of a jerk throughout the book. Especially near the end, but I still thought he was a great hero. His reaction near the end was SO over the top, but he made up for it in the end.
~SECONDARY CHARACTERS~
There were some intriguing secondary characters in this one for sure. I wonder if Nico and Levi are going to be an item? I was also intrigued by Cash and was left curious as to what his story is. Of course, I also loved Dean's sister (and Hayden's BFF) Reese, and the Moms were cute as well.
~HEAT LEVEL~
LOW to MEDIUM...This couple doesn't actually do the deed until fairly late in the book, but we get plenty of on page sexual chemistry and other sexual acts that were smokin' hot.
~ANGST LEVEL - SEXUAL HISTORIES~
LOW...I think most of the angst comes in at 75% into the book. I will admit, I might have shed a tear on behalf of Hayden (sniff). Other than that, I felt the book was pretty easy peasy. As I mentioned above Hayden was a virgin, and Dean got around with both women and men. There is a tiny smidge of OW and OM drama. Even calling it "drama" is a bit of stretch. Hayden goes out on a date with Levi and they kiss at the end of it. This is after him and Dean kiss, but Dean tells him it was a mistake and Hayden is determined to give Levi a chance. That said, after the one date Hayden tells Levi he isn't interested, and they remain friends. There is also a chick that Hayden slept with three years prior that comes on to him a few times. He finally gets through to her that he isn't interested. That type of thing usually annoys me, but in this case, it didn't because we get Dean's POV and he clearly isn't interested in her.
~IN THE END~
Did I enjoy it? Completely!
Was it perfect? Pretty much. Like I mentioned above, I had a couple small issues, but overall it was a hit.
Would I recommend it? 100% YES!
Who would enjoy this book? Readers that love sweet M/M books.
April 15, 2022
To start off,
😄 Fuck Reese 😄
😘 Fuck Hayden 😘
🥰 Those two can go choke on their own spite 🥰
Thank you for coming to my Ted talk
Initial reactions
→ This book simultaneously pissed me off and had me unable to tear my eyes away from the screen
In all seriousness, this book was okay, needed more spicy scenes because some scenes could've you know... not been included... like Hayden's date with someone else 😆 amongst many things 😆 and while Reese and Hayden's attitude can go FUCK themselves 🥰 praise the Lord for Dean and his mother.
I dropped this few months ago when I started it and I'm not entirely sure if I regret reading this or not ☺️
Toodles.
😄 Fuck Reese 😄
😘 Fuck Hayden 😘
🥰 Those two can go choke on their own spite 🥰
Thank you for coming to my Ted talk
Initial reactions
→ This book simultaneously pissed me off and had me unable to tear my eyes away from the screen
In all seriousness, this book was okay, needed more spicy scenes because some scenes could've you know... not been included... like Hayden's date with someone else 😆 amongst many things 😆 and while Reese and Hayden's attitude can go FUCK themselves 🥰 praise the Lord for Dean and his mother.
I dropped this few months ago when I started it and I'm not entirely sure if I regret reading this or not ☺️
Toodles.
October 14, 2018
This was just smashing. I do enjoy a good best friend's brother romance and, while this is a young adult one, it never felt like it.
Now, that's not to say the characters read older either, they didn't, and for the vast majority of this book both Dean and Hayden were acting as I'd expect an 18 year-old and a 22 year-old.
Apart from the big conflict, which I must admit, didn't quite work for me only because I don't think enough build up had been given to why Dean reacted as he did. Instead it felt like an overreaction to something which hadn't, imho, been justified by the narrative at that point.
That is my only minor criticism though, the rest of the book is a delightful romance between someone who never expected to fall in love and the guy who had always been in love.
#ARC kindly received from the author in return for an honest and unbiased review.
Now, that's not to say the characters read older either, they didn't, and for the vast majority of this book both Dean and Hayden were acting as I'd expect an 18 year-old and a 22 year-old.
Apart from the big conflict, which I must admit, didn't quite work for me only because I don't think enough build up had been given to why Dean reacted as he did. Instead it felt like an overreaction to something which hadn't, imho, been justified by the narrative at that point.
That is my only minor criticism though, the rest of the book is a delightful romance between someone who never expected to fall in love and the guy who had always been in love.
#ARC kindly received from the author in return for an honest and unbiased review.
January 10, 2019
Me ha costado mucho entender la relación entre ellos, además de que el comportamiento del mayor de los protagonistas me ha parecido chulesca en el peor sentido y muy paternalista.
2.5 estrellas
2.5 estrellas
April 14, 2024
4.5 stars. I had been in the mood for low-angst reads lately and had this on my kindle and thought I’d try it. Sounded like there might be a bit of angst but hopefully not too much. There was actually more than I was expecting but found this actually helped me to get out of my low-angst groove as I want some angst again!!
Hayden and Dean were super hot together. I can get behind some good pining and finally being with the one you wanted for so long! It’s definitely not easy for these two and they do have to fight for it but it worked out so well for them in the end!
If you’re looking for a book with great sexy times, pining, other man drama, sneaking around with some hurt thrown in there too then I highly recommend this story!
Hayden and Dean were super hot together. I can get behind some good pining and finally being with the one you wanted for so long! It’s definitely not easy for these two and they do have to fight for it but it worked out so well for them in the end!
If you’re looking for a book with great sexy times, pining, other man drama, sneaking around with some hurt thrown in there too then I highly recommend this story!
October 24, 2018
4.5 Stars
This book was wonderful, which I am not surprised about because I really liked the first book (Risk) I read by this author previously. So I am thrilled this one was great as well. Even though it’s well over 200 pages, I totally ending up reading this book all at once without taking a break because I liked it so much and I wanted to see where it would lead and end with these characters.
I really do love a best friend's brother, and unrequited love book, especially when you throw a first-time experience into the mix. This book covers quite a bit of ground between the two guys over a summer vacation, where Dean just finished college and Hayden is about to leave for college. There are all kinds of heat and sexy situations these guys get into in this book. The tension-filled lead up to the “no-strings romance” between Dean and Hayden is ridiculous in a super-hot slow burning way. And when they do get together it is off the charts smoking HOT.
Hayden is super cute in an adorably nerdy type way, who has been in love with his best friend’s older brother Dean for years. Dean is kind of a dumbass who swears he will never be in a relationship and will stay single forever. Hahaha. Little does he know that once he sees how grown up and HOT Hayden has become all bets are off. They really can’t get enough of each other and the only people they are fooling with their no-strings arrangement is themselves. Dean's sister was a little annoying to me being all up in their business, but I liked that even though Dean was her brother, she fully had Hayden’s back at all times. Dean's conflicted feelings are a little over the top but when you learn the reasoning behind it, it all starts to make some sense. I would also really like to see Levi and Nico get a book too. Please!! That would be awesome they were both cute secondary characters in this one.
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
This book was wonderful, which I am not surprised about because I really liked the first book (Risk) I read by this author previously. So I am thrilled this one was great as well. Even though it’s well over 200 pages, I totally ending up reading this book all at once without taking a break because I liked it so much and I wanted to see where it would lead and end with these characters.
I really do love a best friend's brother, and unrequited love book, especially when you throw a first-time experience into the mix. This book covers quite a bit of ground between the two guys over a summer vacation, where Dean just finished college and Hayden is about to leave for college. There are all kinds of heat and sexy situations these guys get into in this book. The tension-filled lead up to the “no-strings romance” between Dean and Hayden is ridiculous in a super-hot slow burning way. And when they do get together it is off the charts smoking HOT.
Hayden is super cute in an adorably nerdy type way, who has been in love with his best friend’s older brother Dean for years. Dean is kind of a dumbass who swears he will never be in a relationship and will stay single forever. Hahaha. Little does he know that once he sees how grown up and HOT Hayden has become all bets are off. They really can’t get enough of each other and the only people they are fooling with their no-strings arrangement is themselves. Dean's sister was a little annoying to me being all up in their business, but I liked that even though Dean was her brother, she fully had Hayden’s back at all times. Dean's conflicted feelings are a little over the top but when you learn the reasoning behind it, it all starts to make some sense. I would also really like to see Levi and Nico get a book too. Please!! That would be awesome they were both cute secondary characters in this one.
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
October 18, 2018
It was good until 75% and someone ruined the story by making a stupid move, that I don't think that was necessary.
I mean, come on, I know you guys young, but running away from someone who loved you for so long, just because he loves you, was so wrong. And stupid, and I didn't like it.
I was so sure I'll give this four solid stars and then it went downhill after that. I didn't like Dean from the get go, but I liked Hayden, he's adorable.
Though I didn't really liked some part of the story, this one's actually cute and sweet.
And I'm still hoping that the second book is about Nico and Levi. I'll read it!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 22, 2018
Overall, Fling by Baylin Crow was a decent read, but it wasn't a home run for a couple of reasons.
1. Dean, he just wasn't likable. He came across as selfish and immature.
2. The conflict- caused by Dean. . I think it was OTT and add to that lack of communication. I had to deduct a full star.
Probably just me and my reading preferences. The writing was good, it had dual POVs, and Hayden was just adorable.
3.5 Stars
1. Dean, he just wasn't likable. He came across as selfish and immature.
2. The conflict- caused by Dean. . I think it was OTT and add to that lack of communication. I had to deduct a full star.
Probably just me and my reading preferences. The writing was good, it had dual POVs, and Hayden was just adorable.
3.5 Stars
November 27, 2018
Review to follow
September 20, 2019
Very cute and sexy but the drama at the end was a bit much and unnecessary. Still worth the read.
December 27, 2024
I decided to give it all the 5 [physical stars] because of how truly unputdownable this was ... and also, I found out that these boys will get the last book in the series [when it ends, but I am NOT in a rush for it to end and I hope we get loads more books until then]!! Dean DID tell Hayden he'd marry him ... I want to witness that in another full length book ... I want that full circle :-)!! Now that I know we're going to get it, it's AMAAAAZING <33333!!!
*********
True rating ... 4.5 beautiful, glorious, wonderful stars (even though I am keeping it at 4 physical stars)!! I was going to rate this MUCH high star-wise, but then decided on just leaving it at 4.5 stars in theory but 4 stars in practice, because I wanted a liiiiiiittle more from the ending and from them getting together/making it official (though don't get me wrong, this ended on a very very VERY solid and glorious HEA) ... I just wanted much MORE of these two officially together [I'm greedy for these two beautiful boys] :-D!!! I am thinking there's place for another full length book of these two ... a little bit older ... perhaps after university ... getting married <333!!
Side note: I would have liked to see Dean bottoming too ;-)!!
I HOPE we get more of these two and if we do, if there IS a continuation of these two and we DO get to witness the wedding Dean promised for their future, I'll definitely make the rating higher :-)!!
In the meantime, absolutely wonderful book, fantastically written, I adored EVERYTHING about it, and all I can say is: Highly highly HIGHLY recommended :-) <3333333333!! This author is most definitely an auto-buy author for me now :-)! Though to be frank, I believe she has been [an auto-buy author] since the first book of hers that I've read; you can just tell when an author "has the gift", and this author most definitely does :-)!!
*********
True rating ... 4.5 beautiful, glorious, wonderful stars (even though I am keeping it at 4 physical stars)!! I was going to rate this MUCH high star-wise, but then decided on just leaving it at 4.5 stars in theory but 4 stars in practice, because I wanted a liiiiiiittle more from the ending and from them getting together/making it official (though don't get me wrong, this ended on a very very VERY solid and glorious HEA) ... I just wanted much MORE of these two officially together [I'm greedy for these two beautiful boys] :-D!!! I am thinking there's place for another full length book of these two ... a little bit older ... perhaps after university ... getting married <333!!
Side note: I would have liked to see Dean bottoming too ;-)!!
I HOPE we get more of these two and if we do, if there IS a continuation of these two and we DO get to witness the wedding Dean promised for their future, I'll definitely make the rating higher :-)!!
In the meantime, absolutely wonderful book, fantastically written, I adored EVERYTHING about it, and all I can say is: Highly highly HIGHLY recommended :-) <3333333333!! This author is most definitely an auto-buy author for me now :-)! Though to be frank, I believe she has been [an auto-buy author] since the first book of hers that I've read; you can just tell when an author "has the gift", and this author most definitely does :-)!!
February 11, 2021
so im going to try and write at least small reviews or even reminders about books for the future me.
Dean and Hayden
best friends brother, issues with his dad leaving so has trust issues.
hayden loving dean since young.
they are still young 18 and 21
#starred it 4 but its more of a 3*
Dean and Hayden
best friends brother, issues with his dad leaving so has trust issues.
hayden loving dean since young.
they are still young 18 and 21
#starred it 4 but its more of a 3*
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 16, 2018
3.5 stars.
I'll break this up in the good, the meh, and the bad (and a conclusion):
The good:
- Hayden. He was really cute, and his voice was nice to read. His POV made me tear up a couple of times, which is the greatest compliment I can give a book, personally.
- The unrequited feelings. I really love me some unrequited love!
- The slow burn. I'm glad the story was a slow burn so I could have some more of that unrequited love.
The meh:
- Dean. He was a little bit annoying. He claims to always be upfront with people so they don't expect too much of him, which he does to some extent, but then he still goes and creates The Conflict.
The bad:
- The Conflict. Or should I say The Big Misunderstanding. Or maybe even The Part Where The Characters Assume Instead of Talking to Each Other. I think the conflict was justified, but I also think they (Dean) blew it way out of proportion, and then they stopped communication, and it went downhill from there.
In conclusion: A lot of this was good, Hayden's first sexual explorations as well as his POV was great, but Dean annoyed me a little bit, and the last 25% was The Conflict, so that leaves me with a medium rating.
I'll break this up in the good, the meh, and the bad (and a conclusion):
The good:
- Hayden. He was really cute, and his voice was nice to read. His POV made me tear up a couple of times, which is the greatest compliment I can give a book, personally.
- The unrequited feelings. I really love me some unrequited love!
- The slow burn. I'm glad the story was a slow burn so I could have some more of that unrequited love.
The meh:
- Dean. He was a little bit annoying. He claims to always be upfront with people so they don't expect too much of him, which he does to some extent, but then he still goes and creates The Conflict.
The bad:
- The Conflict. Or should I say The Big Misunderstanding. Or maybe even The Part Where The Characters Assume Instead of Talking to Each Other. I think the conflict was justified, but I also think they (Dean) blew it way out of proportion, and then they stopped communication, and it went downhill from there.
In conclusion: A lot of this was good, Hayden's first sexual explorations as well as his POV was great, but Dean annoyed me a little bit, and the last 25% was The Conflict, so that leaves me with a medium rating.
June 8, 2019
2 stars, maybe 2.5 stars.
This is a nice, light read, but...
-The plot isn't anything original and follows a predictable formula.
-The narrative is 1st person alternating, though there is unfortunately no distinction between the two voices.
-This needs another round of editing. There are a few sentences where there is a word missing. There are a few sentences where there's an extra word. And then there are some sentences out of order, like this one:
The building was cold and it had been so long since I'd been to the movies that I didn't think to bring one. A quick glance revealed that everyone had brought a sweater or jacket except Hayden and me.
The passage is the start of a new paragraph, so when I read the first line, it was unknown what Dean had forgot to bring. A pizza? A condom? A tent?
I probably would have given this 3 stars if not for the editing.
This is a nice, light read, but...
-The plot isn't anything original and follows a predictable formula.
-The narrative is 1st person alternating, though there is unfortunately no distinction between the two voices.
-This needs another round of editing. There are a few sentences where there is a word missing. There are a few sentences where there's an extra word. And then there are some sentences out of order, like this one:
The building was cold and it had been so long since I'd been to the movies that I didn't think to bring one. A quick glance revealed that everyone had brought a sweater or jacket except Hayden and me.
The passage is the start of a new paragraph, so when I read the first line, it was unknown what Dean had forgot to bring. A pizza? A condom? A tent?
I probably would have given this 3 stars if not for the editing.
January 2, 2020
WHAT A FANTASTIC STORY!!
This is my first book by this Author. BAYLIN CROW is a new favorite of mine. This book is written around two young men, one who just graduated college Dean. Hayden that is just beginning college. They are next door neighbors but Hayden is Dean's younger sister Reese's best friend. Last Hayden knew Dean is straight and gets around a lot. With every girl in their small town. The last time Dean saw Hayden, he was a skinny little nerd, who hung out with his sister all the time. Boy, they were both in store for a very surprising summer. This was five inferno flames of hotness. Baylin Crow crafted a story that is smooth and has great flow. These characters absolutely wrap you around their little fingers. This is a great story that will leave you with good feelings to the end. I really ENJOYED this. I HIGHLY, HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS BOOK!!!!!
This is my first book by this Author. BAYLIN CROW is a new favorite of mine. This book is written around two young men, one who just graduated college Dean. Hayden that is just beginning college. They are next door neighbors but Hayden is Dean's younger sister Reese's best friend. Last Hayden knew Dean is straight and gets around a lot. With every girl in their small town. The last time Dean saw Hayden, he was a skinny little nerd, who hung out with his sister all the time. Boy, they were both in store for a very surprising summer. This was five inferno flames of hotness. Baylin Crow crafted a story that is smooth and has great flow. These characters absolutely wrap you around their little fingers. This is a great story that will leave you with good feelings to the end. I really ENJOYED this. I HIGHLY, HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS BOOK!!!!!
October 23, 2018
Hayden has always been in lust/love with his best friend Reese's older brother Dean. When Dean starts coming onto him and offers a no strings attached fun time Hayden accepts. Can they keep to a no strings attached or will their true feelings finally come out?
Great story and great secondary characters.
March 31, 2025
Oh my gosh cheat explosion after chest explosion. Between all the sneaking around and the dirty talk I could barely breathe! These two were so adorable! It was a great mix of plot and spice and I couldn’t put it down I finished it one afternoon
January 29, 2021
I was struggling at first to focus on this book. But once the 2 mc’s make their arrangement the story took off. A great full emotional read.
October 10, 2018
3.5 Stars
This book was love and hope and an added bonus of sweet.
Hayden is spending the summer between high school and college at home, living next door to the only man he's ever wanted. But Dean is his best friend's older brother. And Reese would never want them together.
Dean is home for the summer after he's graduated from college and awaiting word on an internship. He's a total player, relationships aren't for him. After his father left them when he was little, he's sure he's happy moving from one person to the next. But when he sees Hayden at his house with Reese, he can't help but really see him in another light.
Alternating POV's is probably my favorite writing style, especially when it's done well and there is a definite shift in language and state of mind. Ms. Crow did an excellent job of writing Hayden as a nerdy, humble, Star Wars loving dork who was very true to himself. I really, really loved him as well as Dean, who was more of a jock, but had so much appreciation for a little nerdiness and I absolutely loved his love of Hayden's glasses.
I was somewhat confused by some of the other characters in the story, mainly Dean's friends and Levi. They were introduced and appeared throughout the story, but there was a lot of mystery around them and how they tied into this relationship. I'm assuming that there will be other books in the series that will unravel that in time.
Overall, the story kept up it's pace and the MC's were both loveable and I was cheering them on by the end. Well written and a good HEA.
This book was love and hope and an added bonus of sweet.
Hayden is spending the summer between high school and college at home, living next door to the only man he's ever wanted. But Dean is his best friend's older brother. And Reese would never want them together.
Dean is home for the summer after he's graduated from college and awaiting word on an internship. He's a total player, relationships aren't for him. After his father left them when he was little, he's sure he's happy moving from one person to the next. But when he sees Hayden at his house with Reese, he can't help but really see him in another light.
Alternating POV's is probably my favorite writing style, especially when it's done well and there is a definite shift in language and state of mind. Ms. Crow did an excellent job of writing Hayden as a nerdy, humble, Star Wars loving dork who was very true to himself. I really, really loved him as well as Dean, who was more of a jock, but had so much appreciation for a little nerdiness and I absolutely loved his love of Hayden's glasses.
I was somewhat confused by some of the other characters in the story, mainly Dean's friends and Levi. They were introduced and appeared throughout the story, but there was a lot of mystery around them and how they tied into this relationship. I'm assuming that there will be other books in the series that will unravel that in time.
Overall, the story kept up it's pace and the MC's were both loveable and I was cheering them on by the end. Well written and a good HEA.
February 28, 2021
I read the The Faker Rulebook a couple of weeks ago and mostly enjoyed it. I believe this is the author's first book, and it feels it. Way too dramatic third act stuff, best friend’s brother which only sometimes works for me. And having the 18 and 22 year old MCs declare their undying forever love just seemed . . . pshyeah right.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 5, 2018
This features one of my favorite tropes. The mc falls in love with his best friend's brother (also mc falls in love with brother's best friend, same trope) who is also his next door neighbor.
Hayden has been infatuated with Dean (a playboy with severe commitment issues) for awhile. Years of seeing Dean get with any boy or girl that crossed his path, made him understandably upset. Unrequited crushes rarely have good endings.
I am glad to see that this one did though. Dean grew up and learned how his actions could and has hurt the people he has been involved with. He did not intend to become serious with anyone, since he has a dream internship opportunity in Chicago. However, he did not take into account that Hayden would have grown into someone who could no longer ignore. The attraction is there and they both think that a little fling would not hurt anyone. Poor naive men. The heart wants what the heart wants. Dean and Hayden learn to fight for what they want and to be mature enough to accept that dreams can change.
I loved this one and look forward to reading more from Baylin Crow.
Hayden has been infatuated with Dean (a playboy with severe commitment issues) for awhile. Years of seeing Dean get with any boy or girl that crossed his path, made him understandably upset. Unrequited crushes rarely have good endings.
I am glad to see that this one did though. Dean grew up and learned how his actions could and has hurt the people he has been involved with. He did not intend to become serious with anyone, since he has a dream internship opportunity in Chicago. However, he did not take into account that Hayden would have grown into someone who could no longer ignore. The attraction is there and they both think that a little fling would not hurt anyone. Poor naive men. The heart wants what the heart wants. Dean and Hayden learn to fight for what they want and to be mature enough to accept that dreams can change.
I loved this one and look forward to reading more from Baylin Crow.
October 10, 2018
A summer fling ✅
A fling with your life-long crush ✅
A fling with your best friends brother ✅
When the chance to experience things he has never done before, Hayden jumps at the chance, but while he has many first experience ms with Dean, he needs to protect his heart.
Dean doesn’t do relationships. But when he can’t get one mind blowing kiss out of his mind, what better way to get Hayden out of his system than to have a chance at some summer lovin’!
But when things cross the line, hidden feelings revealed, can Dean get over his issues?
This story was told in both POV. And I love getting to know them both that way!
I loved both MC’s! Hayden is the adorable nerd boy and so easy to love! Dean is the one everyone wants, but when his heart goes all in, it was beautiful to read!
We meet lots of characters in the story, each bringing their own to the group. And I wonder if they will get their own story?
But it was a sweet read and a fab HEA!
❤️3.5-4 Stars❤️
A fling with your life-long crush ✅
A fling with your best friends brother ✅
When the chance to experience things he has never done before, Hayden jumps at the chance, but while he has many first experience ms with Dean, he needs to protect his heart.
Dean doesn’t do relationships. But when he can’t get one mind blowing kiss out of his mind, what better way to get Hayden out of his system than to have a chance at some summer lovin’!
But when things cross the line, hidden feelings revealed, can Dean get over his issues?
This story was told in both POV. And I love getting to know them both that way!
I loved both MC’s! Hayden is the adorable nerd boy and so easy to love! Dean is the one everyone wants, but when his heart goes all in, it was beautiful to read!
We meet lots of characters in the story, each bringing their own to the group. And I wonder if they will get their own story?
But it was a sweet read and a fab HEA!
❤️3.5-4 Stars❤️
April 20, 2022
4.5 stars
"...just showing up and saying you’re sorry isn’t enough. He’s healing from a broken heart. It’s a hell of a risk to give someone the power to break it again.”
This book was just as good the second time around! I've been craving a reread of this book for so long and finally got around to it.
Some of Baylin Crow's books have been rather hit or miss for me, but this was the first book of hers that I read and I really enjoyed it!
You've got the typical guy next door crush PLUS the best friend's brother crush. Seeing the older guy get possessive and jealous? Swoon. Having a semi break-up scene? Not so swoon. But having a really good make up scene? GIMME. I love me a good make-up scene.
"...just showing up and saying you’re sorry isn’t enough. He’s healing from a broken heart. It’s a hell of a risk to give someone the power to break it again.”
This book was just as good the second time around! I've been craving a reread of this book for so long and finally got around to it.
Some of Baylin Crow's books have been rather hit or miss for me, but this was the first book of hers that I read and I really enjoyed it!
You've got the typical guy next door crush PLUS the best friend's brother crush. Seeing the older guy get possessive and jealous? Swoon. Having a semi break-up scene? Not so swoon. But having a really good make up scene? GIMME. I love me a good make-up scene.
October 27, 2018
2.5 stars An Okay story. Yah not a fan of Dean he was a complete ass to Hayden forcing him to sneak around. I was enjoying the story but suddenly at the 78% i had to say WTF just happened and it lost me from then onward. The ending was just NOPE it needed different ending to what it had especially for there young ages. I usually love Baylin's stories but this one is a miss.
At 15 Hayden knew he was gay and had a huge crush on his friends brother, Dean for a awhile.
Skip forward 3 years..Dean's 21 yrs home from graduating from college and Bi. Hayden's still friends with Reese and gay although still a virgin.
At 15 Hayden knew he was gay and had a huge crush on his friends brother, Dean for a awhile.
Skip forward 3 years..Dean's 21 yrs home from graduating from college and Bi. Hayden's still friends with Reese and gay although still a virgin.
October 29, 2018
When lust becomes love it takes courage to look beyond your fears and fight for the future you want. Dean is afraid of becoming just like his father so he avoids any and all strings. It't only when he sees his little sister's best friend all grown up and hot that he gives in and starts something he's hoping doesn't turn into more, until it does. Hayden has always loved Dean but after learning Dean isn't as straight as he thought he was he gives into their chemistry hoping he can hide how his childhood crush is turning into a deeper love than he expected. When truths are revealed Dean's fear might ruin his chance at keeping Hayden for more than just a fling.
Hayden had all kinds of teenage romantic angst going for him. The subtle pining, hiding his feelings, sorting through their complicated chemistry, and discovering that love isn't simple or easy...his romantic evolution is complete from childhood to adulthood, even though he's still very young when he gets a shot at a happily ever after. I enjoyed him and the way he was sifting through feelings, trying to decide if moving on was more important, the way he was trying to come to grips with settling versus reaching, and how he did his best to be considerate when his forays into moving on weren't working for him or his potential partner. He handled Dean's back and forth pretty well despite the emotional toll. I felt that he was the more mature of the pair and I genuinely liked him.
As for Dean, though, I had a harder time connecting to him. He was immature, arrogant, and inconsiderate. I could understand where his fear was coming from but it doesn't really excuse his epic blowup because it didn't really make sense. The truth he discovered not only gave hope for his own, but it was in the opposite direction of the truth that caused his original fear in the first place. I know that sounds convoluted, my apologies, but to be more specific would pretty much be a spoiler for something we don't learn about him until about half-way through the story.
Overall I felt the reconciliation was appropriate. It required work from Dean, a wake-up call that he can't just show up with a simple apology and expect that everything will be okay for him. Their confessions were honest and heartfelt and I believed that they could really last despite their young age. This was a sweet story with a lot of steam that enhanced their story rather than detracted from it.
Hayden had all kinds of teenage romantic angst going for him. The subtle pining, hiding his feelings, sorting through their complicated chemistry, and discovering that love isn't simple or easy...his romantic evolution is complete from childhood to adulthood, even though he's still very young when he gets a shot at a happily ever after. I enjoyed him and the way he was sifting through feelings, trying to decide if moving on was more important, the way he was trying to come to grips with settling versus reaching, and how he did his best to be considerate when his forays into moving on weren't working for him or his potential partner. He handled Dean's back and forth pretty well despite the emotional toll. I felt that he was the more mature of the pair and I genuinely liked him.
As for Dean, though, I had a harder time connecting to him. He was immature, arrogant, and inconsiderate. I could understand where his fear was coming from but it doesn't really excuse his epic blowup because it didn't really make sense. The truth he discovered not only gave hope for his own, but it was in the opposite direction of the truth that caused his original fear in the first place. I know that sounds convoluted, my apologies, but to be more specific would pretty much be a spoiler for something we don't learn about him until about half-way through the story.
Overall I felt the reconciliation was appropriate. It required work from Dean, a wake-up call that he can't just show up with a simple apology and expect that everything will be okay for him. Their confessions were honest and heartfelt and I believed that they could really last despite their young age. This was a sweet story with a lot of steam that enhanced their story rather than detracted from it.
May 30, 2024
old post reposted
I apologize for the lack of updates. And I also apologize for the post/review spam about to come your way.
Casual hook ups leading so more than. Childhood crush turned first love (childhood crush being your bestie's older brother). Summer fun. What more can you ask for? Fireworks?? Because Baylin Crow's "Fling" (a Nothing Serious series book) is all of that and more.
["Our time together has an expiration date.
HAYDEN: I don't remember a time when I didn't love him.
The only guy I've ever wanted sees me as nothing more than the kid next door and his younger sister's best friend. But when Dean comes home after college graduation, things are different. I've grown up, and the way his golden-brown gaze scorches a path over my body tells me he's noticed. When he makes me an offer I should refuse, I'm caught between my feelings for him and logic screaming that this idea is doomed to end in heartbreak.
DEAN: I'm not interested in anything serious but I need to have him.
I plan on spending a few months at home relaxing before beginning my dream internship. What I don't count on is my little sister's best friend sending me for a loop. He should be off-limits, but the pull I feel toward him is too strong to ignore. When I come up with a solution to spend the summer together in secret, I'm sure I have it all figured out. I just need to work him out of my system.
It’s supposed to be free of complications…a fling. By the end of summer, it’s anything but simple."]
I might have cried. Or bawled. Who's really keeping score though?
I read this one in record time. And like when I mean record time, I mean record time.
I know I said that X is my favorite trope, but this book really had a shit ton of my favorite tropes.
And just the obvious love but obliviousness of the characters was just like *chef's kiss*.
((And not to compare this Dean to Dean Winchester, but both of them have A. some fatherly issues to work on, B. a sexual identity/love crisis, C. a cute little nerd who's been in love with them for years but too embarassed to say anything until its practically/almost too late (still haven't seen the last season of #Supernatural, still avoiding it because of the queer-baiting and queer-punishing that still has me boiling))).
#fling #nothingserious #anothingseriousseries #baylincrow #books #queerbooks #queererotica #bodicerippers #bookstagram #bookphotography #ilovebooks
I apologize for the lack of updates. And I also apologize for the post/review spam about to come your way.
Casual hook ups leading so more than. Childhood crush turned first love (childhood crush being your bestie's older brother). Summer fun. What more can you ask for? Fireworks?? Because Baylin Crow's "Fling" (a Nothing Serious series book) is all of that and more.
["Our time together has an expiration date.
HAYDEN: I don't remember a time when I didn't love him.
The only guy I've ever wanted sees me as nothing more than the kid next door and his younger sister's best friend. But when Dean comes home after college graduation, things are different. I've grown up, and the way his golden-brown gaze scorches a path over my body tells me he's noticed. When he makes me an offer I should refuse, I'm caught between my feelings for him and logic screaming that this idea is doomed to end in heartbreak.
DEAN: I'm not interested in anything serious but I need to have him.
I plan on spending a few months at home relaxing before beginning my dream internship. What I don't count on is my little sister's best friend sending me for a loop. He should be off-limits, but the pull I feel toward him is too strong to ignore. When I come up with a solution to spend the summer together in secret, I'm sure I have it all figured out. I just need to work him out of my system.
It’s supposed to be free of complications…a fling. By the end of summer, it’s anything but simple."]
I might have cried. Or bawled. Who's really keeping score though?
I read this one in record time. And like when I mean record time, I mean record time.
I know I said that X is my favorite trope, but this book really had a shit ton of my favorite tropes.
And just the obvious love but obliviousness of the characters was just like *chef's kiss*.
((And not to compare this Dean to Dean Winchester, but both of them have A. some fatherly issues to work on, B. a sexual identity/love crisis, C. a cute little nerd who's been in love with them for years but too embarassed to say anything until its practically/almost too late (still haven't seen the last season of #Supernatural, still avoiding it because of the queer-baiting and queer-punishing that still has me boiling))).
#fling #nothingserious #anothingseriousseries #baylincrow #books #queerbooks #queererotica #bodicerippers #bookstagram #bookphotography #ilovebooks
October 19, 2018
I do love a good best friend’s brother story, and when I read the synopsis for this book and saw it was from an author I hadn’t read yet I put it right on my need-to-read list. It’s a bit of sweet, followed by a bit of heat, a touch of frustrating main character behavior, and an epilogue that really hits the spot.
Hayden is such a wonderful character. I loved his innocence, and that we get to see some of his firsts when things start with Dean. He’s someone with whom it was easy for me to identify, and I liked the kind of nerdy thing he had going on. Someone else who liked that was Dean, Hayden’s best friend’s brother. Dean was mostly likable…but he was also the source of that touch of frustration I had. I liked that things between the two of them weren’t rushed, and that Dean was willing to go at whatever pace Hayden wanted since this was all new for him. The two of them fit very well together, and their physical chemistry was pretty darn hot considering Hayden had never been with anyone else before in any way.
There are some interesting supporting characters, especially Hayden’s best friend—Dean’s sister Reese. She and Hayden are as close as best friends can be without being actual family, and she is incredibly loyal to him, and protective of him as well. We also are introduced to some of Hayden and Dean’s friends, and my curiosity has been piqued by several of them so I can’t wait for more books in the series to learn their stories.
Since both Hayden and Dean agreed to a no-strings summer “arrangement”—with each of them thinking they could get the other out of their systems—serious feeling make for an unexpected point of contention between them. When that inevitable conflict arises, I understood the reasons behind why Dean felt the way he did, thought I was frustrated with his response since to me it felt out of proportion, a bit too much. I did feel a bit better about things by the end though, and the epilogue went even further to put the smile back on my face.
Fling was a 4-star read for me, and I would recommend this book to any M/M romance fan—especially if you enjoy the best friend’s brother trope. This story is meant for readers 18+ for adult language and sexual content.
Hayden is such a wonderful character. I loved his innocence, and that we get to see some of his firsts when things start with Dean. He’s someone with whom it was easy for me to identify, and I liked the kind of nerdy thing he had going on. Someone else who liked that was Dean, Hayden’s best friend’s brother. Dean was mostly likable…but he was also the source of that touch of frustration I had. I liked that things between the two of them weren’t rushed, and that Dean was willing to go at whatever pace Hayden wanted since this was all new for him. The two of them fit very well together, and their physical chemistry was pretty darn hot considering Hayden had never been with anyone else before in any way.
There are some interesting supporting characters, especially Hayden’s best friend—Dean’s sister Reese. She and Hayden are as close as best friends can be without being actual family, and she is incredibly loyal to him, and protective of him as well. We also are introduced to some of Hayden and Dean’s friends, and my curiosity has been piqued by several of them so I can’t wait for more books in the series to learn their stories.
Since both Hayden and Dean agreed to a no-strings summer “arrangement”—with each of them thinking they could get the other out of their systems—serious feeling make for an unexpected point of contention between them. When that inevitable conflict arises, I understood the reasons behind why Dean felt the way he did, thought I was frustrated with his response since to me it felt out of proportion, a bit too much. I did feel a bit better about things by the end though, and the epilogue went even further to put the smile back on my face.
Fling was a 4-star read for me, and I would recommend this book to any M/M romance fan—especially if you enjoy the best friend’s brother trope. This story is meant for readers 18+ for adult language and sexual content.
January 2, 2019
****4.5 stars****
Disclaimer: I received a free copy of the book from the author in exchange for an honest review. My opinions and thoughts are honest, and my own. Now, to the review!
This book was so sweet, but sizzling hot at the same time. I've read many romances where the hero falls for his best friend's little sister, but I think this is the first book where one of the heros falls in love with his best friend's older brother. I saw the blurb, read that it was a M/M romance, and I was so ready for this book! And I was blown away by how much I loved this book and every character included. Even Levi, a minor character but whom I loved in this book.
The plot was similar to other plots I've read in the past, but I appreciate how the author took this storyline and made a captivating and fun. It was a popular storyline, but unique in its own way with different elements I haven't seen used before.
A bit about what I liked about the characters in this book. Dean was so cool, calm, and most of the time collected, but when he allowed himself to feel, he was so sweet. Not to mention, I love me an alpha male! I usually dislike jealous characters, but Dean had a good heart and was so funny with his tactics.
Now, Hayden made this book what is was. Nerdy, sweet, thoughtful, and abso-freakin-lutey adorable! I can't even stand how freakin' adorable he was, so let me sit down and relax a minute because he made my heart swell with how much I loved his character. My inner nerd found a friend in this book and ugh!! I can't even explain how much his character rocked in this book.
I highly recommend! A new favorite of mine!
Disclaimer: I received a free copy of the book from the author in exchange for an honest review. My opinions and thoughts are honest, and my own. Now, to the review!
This book was so sweet, but sizzling hot at the same time. I've read many romances where the hero falls for his best friend's little sister, but I think this is the first book where one of the heros falls in love with his best friend's older brother. I saw the blurb, read that it was a M/M romance, and I was so ready for this book! And I was blown away by how much I loved this book and every character included. Even Levi, a minor character but whom I loved in this book.
The plot was similar to other plots I've read in the past, but I appreciate how the author took this storyline and made a captivating and fun. It was a popular storyline, but unique in its own way with different elements I haven't seen used before.
A bit about what I liked about the characters in this book. Dean was so cool, calm, and most of the time collected, but when he allowed himself to feel, he was so sweet. Not to mention, I love me an alpha male! I usually dislike jealous characters, but Dean had a good heart and was so funny with his tactics.
Now, Hayden made this book what is was. Nerdy, sweet, thoughtful, and abso-freakin-lutey adorable! I can't even stand how freakin' adorable he was, so let me sit down and relax a minute because he made my heart swell with how much I loved his character. My inner nerd found a friend in this book and ugh!! I can't even explain how much his character rocked in this book.
I highly recommend! A new favorite of mine!
October 31, 2018
A Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words Review An Alisa Review:
Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
I liked this story, though it took me a bit to even kind of like Dean. Dean has never actually had a relationship and makes it clear up front to his partners that it will never go anywhere but when he comes home from college he is starting to see how no matter how clear he is it isn’t always as simple. Hayden keeps to himself and has never had the urge to try and find a boyfriend, hoping once college starts his opportunities will expand but he can’t help but think about Dean, who he has admired from afar forever.
You could see them both struggle in different ways with their arrangement, Hayden knows he is going to be hurt in the end while Dean becomes more and more possessive and territorial. It hurt to see them both in pain or confused about how to go forward.
I loved Hayden and thought he was adorable in all his innocence. He was quite mature and has a great head on his shoulders. Dean had to redeem himself for me and how he really found that what he always thought he wanted wasn’t the right thing he makes big changes with the main reason being that he can’t live within Hayden. It was nice to see Dean finally take that next step to grow up and both of them find happiness. I am hoping that the next book in the series focuses on one or two of their friends from this book.
The cover art by Baylin Crow is great and I love the visual of Hayden.
Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
I liked this story, though it took me a bit to even kind of like Dean. Dean has never actually had a relationship and makes it clear up front to his partners that it will never go anywhere but when he comes home from college he is starting to see how no matter how clear he is it isn’t always as simple. Hayden keeps to himself and has never had the urge to try and find a boyfriend, hoping once college starts his opportunities will expand but he can’t help but think about Dean, who he has admired from afar forever.
You could see them both struggle in different ways with their arrangement, Hayden knows he is going to be hurt in the end while Dean becomes more and more possessive and territorial. It hurt to see them both in pain or confused about how to go forward.
I loved Hayden and thought he was adorable in all his innocence. He was quite mature and has a great head on his shoulders. Dean had to redeem himself for me and how he really found that what he always thought he wanted wasn’t the right thing he makes big changes with the main reason being that he can’t live within Hayden. It was nice to see Dean finally take that next step to grow up and both of them find happiness. I am hoping that the next book in the series focuses on one or two of their friends from this book.
The cover art by Baylin Crow is great and I love the visual of Hayden.
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