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Rebels and Nerds #3
Clark's Bully
Friends. Enemies. Lovers.
For these bad boys and geeks, the fire gets a second chance to burn.
Clark
I thought I was finally ready for my first boyfriend. I was twenty-four years old, and I dreamed about something sweet and easy with a fellow geek. But somehow, I ended up on a date with Mars instead.
He was a total playboy. Sure, he loved science-fiction as much as I did, but he had tattoos up his arms and no interest in a boyfriend. I wanted to run away, but every time he smiled, I ended up sticking around.
The real problem was, Mars didn’t move to Seattle alone. He moved with his best friend and occasional hookup buddy, a guy just as rough and tumble as Mars was, but with a mean glare, too. A glare that was seared into my memory many years ago.
Back when Mars’s badass, sexy roommate was my high school bully.
Not only was Rip Cirillo back in Seattle, but now, he was an out gay man, too. I was still the awkward geek with no dating experience, but Rip had seduced more men and broken more hearts than I could begin to imagine.
A love triangle with my high school bully? Not exactly the first love I was looking for.
Clark’s Bully is an M/M/M romance, and the third book in the Rebels and Nerds series. It can be appreciated alone or in order with the rest of the series. This steamy romance offers a second chance for geeky fun on the way to a HEA for all three characters. Although sweeter than most bully romances, make sure to check out the content note at the front of the novel before you read!
For these bad boys and geeks, the fire gets a second chance to burn.
Clark
I thought I was finally ready for my first boyfriend. I was twenty-four years old, and I dreamed about something sweet and easy with a fellow geek. But somehow, I ended up on a date with Mars instead.
He was a total playboy. Sure, he loved science-fiction as much as I did, but he had tattoos up his arms and no interest in a boyfriend. I wanted to run away, but every time he smiled, I ended up sticking around.
The real problem was, Mars didn’t move to Seattle alone. He moved with his best friend and occasional hookup buddy, a guy just as rough and tumble as Mars was, but with a mean glare, too. A glare that was seared into my memory many years ago.
Back when Mars’s badass, sexy roommate was my high school bully.
Not only was Rip Cirillo back in Seattle, but now, he was an out gay man, too. I was still the awkward geek with no dating experience, but Rip had seduced more men and broken more hearts than I could begin to imagine.
A love triangle with my high school bully? Not exactly the first love I was looking for.
Clark’s Bully is an M/M/M romance, and the third book in the Rebels and Nerds series. It can be appreciated alone or in order with the rest of the series. This steamy romance offers a second chance for geeky fun on the way to a HEA for all three characters. Although sweeter than most bully romances, make sure to check out the content note at the front of the novel before you read!
256 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 12, 2019
74 people are currently reading
110 people want to read
About the author
R. Cayden
38 books311 followersR. Cayden writes steamy M/M romance and sweet, easy reads.
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You can also send along an email. I love hearing from readers, and knowing what you think of the stories!
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
November 26, 2019
Clark isn't the same boy he was in high school. When the tattooed hottie starts flirting with him, he knows he's ready to put himself out there. But that tattooed hottie comes with baggage in the form of one of Clark's tormentors from high school. Except Rip isn't the same boy he was in high school, either. Rip too has changed from the angry young man who hurt Clark so badly. He's a new man, one who can't believe Clark is back in his life. His hookup Mars seems glad too. Can the three make a relationship work?
Clark's Bully is so heartfelt and sweet, and I loved these three men together. Rip especially, stood out as such a great character. He had changed so much, overcome so many demons. I love how sweet he was with the person he used to torment. Altogether, I thought this was a fabulous story with heart and passion and three wonderful men.
ARC via LesCourt ARC Team for an honest review.
Review: Live Through Books Blog.
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December 12, 2019
This book is a great example of the 'it's me, not you' thing.
I will start with the things I like in this book. The 'enemies-to-lovers' trope will never get old for me, truly my favorite. The chemistry - absolutely on point, I was able to feel it. The unresolved past between two of the MCs gave the story the intense and angsty feeling I always search in a book. The immediate connection between the main characters was believable and very emotional. The story itself was very interesting and the characters were deep and likable. The writing was also good.
So far, so good.
I want to bold and underline the next sentence. It's not the author's fault that I just can't understand and feel a relationship between three people. I know, I know, the synopsis said it. But I just can't refuse an 'enemies-to-lovers' story even though there are three people involved. I couldn't shake the feeling that the third guy was unnecessary while I was reading the book.
I'm sorry.
I will start with the things I like in this book. The 'enemies-to-lovers' trope will never get old for me, truly my favorite. The chemistry - absolutely on point, I was able to feel it. The unresolved past between two of the MCs gave the story the intense and angsty feeling I always search in a book. The immediate connection between the main characters was believable and very emotional. The story itself was very interesting and the characters were deep and likable. The writing was also good.
So far, so good.
I want to bold and underline the next sentence. It's not the author's fault that I just can't understand and feel a relationship between three people. I know, I know, the synopsis said it. But I just can't refuse an 'enemies-to-lovers' story even though there are three people involved. I couldn't shake the feeling that the third guy was unnecessary while I was reading the book.
I'm sorry.
October 7, 2020
Clark is the coworker and friend of Ezra, one of Brick’s geeks who we met in Book 1. Clark is a sweet young thing who had a bit of a late start in life. He was bullied all throughout school which resulted in panic attacks, anxiety and much needed therapy. But, he now has his life more in order and, with the encouragement of his friends, Ezra and Valeria, feels he is ready to start dating.
In walks Mars, who recently moved to the area and immediately sets his flirting sights on Clark. Mars is up front about not looking for a committed relationship, but Clark decides the chemistry is there and Mars might be just the guy to help him get through the initial sexual jitters. Mars is awesome. Even though he is a total player up until this point, he never pushes Clark and even goes along with playing things slow while their friendship grows. All is going well until the both realize that Mars’ best friend with benefits and roommate is none other than the guy who had bullied Clark all those years ago.
Rip is not the same person he was back when he was closeted and dealing with abuse of his own at home. Lashing out at others was his way of coping with it all. But he has tried to make up for it since being on his own and has done well, for the most part. That is the person Mars knows.
There are a number of things taking place here aside from the reunion of Clark and Rip. Mars and Rip also have issues to face regarding their own relationship/feelings for one another, and once that is squared away, they both turn their sights on Clark who just seems a perfect fit for both of them. I really enjoyed this installment with the different elements. It’s a solid addition to this series and, as always, it’s great to see previous characters and how their relationships are doing. If you are a fan of geeky guys finding love, be sure to give this series a try.
Review written for Love Bytes Reviews.
November 23, 2019
Clark is a shy, geeky virgin looking for love but not able to find it.
Mars is Rip's best friend and fuck buddy. Rip is the guy who, with his friends, tormented Clark so badly in high school that he ended up leaving.
Clark and Mars develop a friendship and complications arise when Clark realises who Mars' best friend is.
I quite enjoyed this story of the inexperienced Clark finding his way. I liked how the relationships evolved between all of these men.
A story of growth, trust, forgiveness and love
Mars is Rip's best friend and fuck buddy. Rip is the guy who, with his friends, tormented Clark so badly in high school that he ended up leaving.
Clark and Mars develop a friendship and complications arise when Clark realises who Mars' best friend is.
I quite enjoyed this story of the inexperienced Clark finding his way. I liked how the relationships evolved between all of these men.
A story of growth, trust, forgiveness and love
November 30, 2019
Clark dealt with a bully in his early teenage years. It really affected him, and even now, years later, he has a hard time getting out and meeting people. Then he meets Mars, who is hot like fire, and a playboy, but who still wants to see Clark. The one drawback is that Mars' buddy is a flashback.
I really like seeing Rip's backstory. It shows why he did some of the things that he did. It also showed how he changed and grew. It also shows who Mars is and why they are so tight and connected.
I think this is the best one in the series.
I really like seeing Rip's backstory. It shows why he did some of the things that he did. It also showed how he changed and grew. It also shows who Mars is and why they are so tight and connected.
I think this is the best one in the series.
Read
December 11, 2019DNF 64%
Don't even know how I got that far honestly. I just felt.......uninvolved??? I liked Rip, I liked his aunt & even liked the friendship between Rip & Mars and am sure I would've loved them in a relationship but for some reason I just didn't like Clark. I felt no chemistry between him & Mars and all I know is I kept being reminded how much of a nerd he is because he wears glasses & likes comics.
Also how he went from seizing up & going into full panic mode in the presence of Rip one minute to kissing him the next is beyond me. And I get trying to connect all three characters but I feel like the moment Mars meets Clark the relationship between Mars & Rip took a backseat.
I just didn't like it......
Don't even know how I got that far honestly. I just felt.......uninvolved??? I liked Rip, I liked his aunt & even liked the friendship between Rip & Mars and am sure I would've loved them in a relationship but for some reason I just didn't like Clark. I felt no chemistry between him & Mars and all I know is I kept being reminded how much of a nerd he is because he wears glasses & likes comics.
Also how he went from seizing up & going into full panic mode in the presence of Rip one minute to kissing him the next is beyond me. And I get trying to connect all three characters but I feel like the moment Mars meets Clark the relationship between Mars & Rip took a backseat.
I just didn't like it......
November 19, 2019
No future without the past
This was a very good MMM book that did a great job building up the connection and romance between these three unlikely men. It had plenty of moments of sweetness but it was tempered with the complications of fear, anxiety, and hurt as the past comes back to haunt and the future seems unattainable.
Clark had a rough go in high school, so badly bullied he had to leave and go to a new school after a few years. Since then he has slowly reclaimed his life and is now finally ready to date. Mars has just moved to town and starts flirting with Clark at work. Clark is hesitant, the tattooed muscle man nothing that he imagined, but their chemistry is instant. When it turns out Mars moved to Seattle with his closest friend (with benefits), Rip, the man who made Clark's life hell, everything is thrown into chaos.
Rip is not the man he once used to be, but that doesn't keep the past away. After a rough childhood Rip forged his own path, through plenty of personal hardship and pain, protecting other LGBTQ youth and building a life he could love. He is caring and gentle, moving to Seattle to look after his remaining family, his aunt. None of this seems like the angry boy who mocked and hurt Clark. While Rip wants to move on from that it is going to take time and forgiveness that Clark may not be able to give.
Clark has taken painstaking time to rebuild himself after high school. Slow to open up after that it was hard for him to come out and try anything with another. Having Rip come back in his life has Clark worried at first, but he is determined not to have to rebuild again. Clark is going to keep his life, whether that means standing strong against his old bully, or letting him in.
Mars is a sweet guy but a player. He has never had a long term relationship because he his childhood showed him no one ever stays. Only Rip is the constant in his life, but that is as a friend and nothing more. When Clark's past brings to question not only what he has always thought of Rio, but what Rip means to him, it is a terrifying new realization as it could change everything he has always known.
These three men have a lot of pain and hurt to work through, but there is love and kindness there as well. It was a layered story with a good build between them as they figure out what the part will mean when it comes to the future they want. Excellent!
This was a very good MMM book that did a great job building up the connection and romance between these three unlikely men. It had plenty of moments of sweetness but it was tempered with the complications of fear, anxiety, and hurt as the past comes back to haunt and the future seems unattainable.
Clark had a rough go in high school, so badly bullied he had to leave and go to a new school after a few years. Since then he has slowly reclaimed his life and is now finally ready to date. Mars has just moved to town and starts flirting with Clark at work. Clark is hesitant, the tattooed muscle man nothing that he imagined, but their chemistry is instant. When it turns out Mars moved to Seattle with his closest friend (with benefits), Rip, the man who made Clark's life hell, everything is thrown into chaos.
Rip is not the man he once used to be, but that doesn't keep the past away. After a rough childhood Rip forged his own path, through plenty of personal hardship and pain, protecting other LGBTQ youth and building a life he could love. He is caring and gentle, moving to Seattle to look after his remaining family, his aunt. None of this seems like the angry boy who mocked and hurt Clark. While Rip wants to move on from that it is going to take time and forgiveness that Clark may not be able to give.
Clark has taken painstaking time to rebuild himself after high school. Slow to open up after that it was hard for him to come out and try anything with another. Having Rip come back in his life has Clark worried at first, but he is determined not to have to rebuild again. Clark is going to keep his life, whether that means standing strong against his old bully, or letting him in.
Mars is a sweet guy but a player. He has never had a long term relationship because he his childhood showed him no one ever stays. Only Rip is the constant in his life, but that is as a friend and nothing more. When Clark's past brings to question not only what he has always thought of Rio, but what Rip means to him, it is a terrifying new realization as it could change everything he has always known.
These three men have a lot of pain and hurt to work through, but there is love and kindness there as well. It was a layered story with a good build between them as they figure out what the part will mean when it comes to the future they want. Excellent!
November 26, 2019
Wowzers. This had some HEAT! Rip and Mars are best friends. They've been through a lot together and have shared many "benefits" over the years. Mars isn't the type to settle down, though, so they've never become more than friends. After moving to Seattle to help Rip's aunt, Mars meets nerdy, inexperienced Clark. There is something about him and despite not really thinking of it, they begin dating. Of course, the drama slightly ramps up when Clark realizes that Mars' best friend is the bully who caused Clark a lot of trauma in high school.
I liked that the past wasn't brushed off. The book acknowledged and helped Clark work through his issues with Rip. Rip was remorseful and I thought this was well written. When it finally came time for the 3 guys to get together, I thought the pacing was perfect and made total sense. They were so great together and I really enjoyed this. I was rooting for them all the way.
I am voluntarily reviewing an ARC provided by LesCourt Author Services
I liked that the past wasn't brushed off. The book acknowledged and helped Clark work through his issues with Rip. Rip was remorseful and I thought this was well written. When it finally came time for the 3 guys to get together, I thought the pacing was perfect and made total sense. They were so great together and I really enjoyed this. I was rooting for them all the way.
I am voluntarily reviewing an ARC provided by LesCourt Author Services
November 26, 2019
The plot was not very plausible , and some elements were borrowed from previous books in the series Nevertheless, the book works. The characters were intriguing; despite their stunning good looks and bedroom prowess, they were complex and flawed; hence, they could change and develop on page. The cast of side characters from previous books in the series didn't hurt either, as well as some hot sex scenes. Put in some humor and Sci-Fi references and you get a satisfying read, if not perfect.
BTW, and I apologize for being petty, the guy on the cover is not a convincing geek. Not every model with glasses is a convincing geek. "Malcolm" of book 2 was. This guy, not really.
BTW, and I apologize for being petty, the guy on the cover is not a convincing geek. Not every model with glasses is a convincing geek. "Malcolm" of book 2 was. This guy, not really.
November 22, 2019
There are a couple tropes thrown together here. You have Mars and Rip who have been friends for years and how their casual relationship really is more than really casual. Then you have Clark and Rip who are definitely not friends - Rip is Clark's enemy to the core. So enemies and friends to lovers these three come together to make for a sweet story. Similar to other books in this series this book does a great job of taking three different characters and bringing them together while promoting the differences between them. I did think some of the past hurts were a little easier to over come than I would have expected. There was still the explanation of how they could move forward. Another great MMM story.
November 14, 2019
Love this series, Rip and Clark enemies since school as Rip and friends bullied Clark, Rip had a terrible childhood, not that’s an excuse for what he did, didn’t like him back then. Rip and Mars move to Seattle to help out Rips aunt Grace the one person Rip could trust. Through Rips friend Mars they come together, naturally lots of angst but with time comes the healing and learning to love them. This was a sexy, hot, steamy menage with sinfully hot intimate scenes.
I voluntarily reviewed an arc of this book for my honest opinions of which I’m under no obligation to do so. I definitely recommend this book.
I voluntarily reviewed an arc of this book for my honest opinions of which I’m under no obligation to do so. I definitely recommend this book.
November 15, 2019
Sweet and sexy
Well that escalated quickly. This book was really good and not quite what I was expecting. First of all I'm obsessed with nerdy characters second of all I'm also pretty excited by tattooed bad boys, so this book checks all the boxes. Throw in a little drama and you've got the perfect mix of sweet and serious. I really loved the way Clark had the most supportive group of friends and it made me happy to actually see some of the struggles he went through and how his friends helped him. There's also a friends to lovers element in this book which I really enjoyed too. I definitely recommend this book
Well that escalated quickly. This book was really good and not quite what I was expecting. First of all I'm obsessed with nerdy characters second of all I'm also pretty excited by tattooed bad boys, so this book checks all the boxes. Throw in a little drama and you've got the perfect mix of sweet and serious. I really loved the way Clark had the most supportive group of friends and it made me happy to actually see some of the struggles he went through and how his friends helped him. There's also a friends to lovers element in this book which I really enjoyed too. I definitely recommend this book
February 16, 2020
Clark was bully by Rip in high school and is left with some emotionnal issue with dating!
Rip was bullying Clark in high school and felt like he was too weak to stand up for them so he left town, end up in the street and became the out, pride and stand up together is the most important thing in the world! He love is friend but he know that could never happen if he want him in his life!
Mars was rescue in the street by Rip! He put the man on a piedestal where he can be out and proud but he had more problem with that but rip and him become best friend and always stood together but just friend with a sex on the side! Mars always chasing different guys most night, no relationship! But when Rip and him move to seattle in Rip home town, he fell in love Clark.... and learn the thruth abour Rip.... will they have a good ending? Read it!!
Rip was bullying Clark in high school and felt like he was too weak to stand up for them so he left town, end up in the street and became the out, pride and stand up together is the most important thing in the world! He love is friend but he know that could never happen if he want him in his life!
Mars was rescue in the street by Rip! He put the man on a piedestal where he can be out and proud but he had more problem with that but rip and him become best friend and always stood together but just friend with a sex on the side! Mars always chasing different guys most night, no relationship! But when Rip and him move to seattle in Rip home town, he fell in love Clark.... and learn the thruth abour Rip.... will they have a good ending? Read it!!
November 19, 2019
R Cayden is an expert in M/M/M stories and this 3rd book in Rebels and Nerds series just confirm this statement. I loved the way he uses the words and the story to make you feel the emotions of his characters so deeply that immersed you in their world. You can feel Clark despair and sadness, Rip shame and Mars reluctance, and finally how they fell in love with each other. How forgiving yourself is always the first step for redemption and to find love. Amazing reading!
I received this book as an ARC and this is my honest opinion.
I received this book as an ARC and this is my honest opinion.
November 21, 2019
So good!
Clark is such a cutie with hidden passions. Rip and Mars scream edgy raw sexiness. All three together about set my kindle on fire. I am impressed with how the author redeemed Rip. I didn't think it would be believable but it worked. They ending was perfect. Just because someone maybe be wrong on a lot of things doesn't mean there aren't any hidden truths. Though if what Clark thinks of doing does happen part of the year's communication needs to include safety. Mentioning that just in case the author ever writes that.
Clark is such a cutie with hidden passions. Rip and Mars scream edgy raw sexiness. All three together about set my kindle on fire. I am impressed with how the author redeemed Rip. I didn't think it would be believable but it worked. They ending was perfect. Just because someone maybe be wrong on a lot of things doesn't mean there aren't any hidden truths. Though if what Clark thinks of doing does happen part of the year's communication needs to include safety. Mentioning that just in case the author ever writes that.
November 23, 2019
Fears, hope, love, friendship and more. That's what you get when you read these books in this series. This book is no exception. We meet Clark the comic book geek and Mars and Rip. Mars and Rip are two tattooed guys.
These three guys plus the rest of previous characters makes this story so great. I am just going to say that I love this authors writing, and I am not going to tell you what is happening. You better go grab your own copy of the book.
I did however connect well with the three guys, and they took me on a special ride and wow..yeah a great read for me.
These three guys plus the rest of previous characters makes this story so great. I am just going to say that I love this authors writing, and I am not going to tell you what is happening. You better go grab your own copy of the book.
I did however connect well with the three guys, and they took me on a special ride and wow..yeah a great read for me.
November 23, 2019
What a great, emotionally fraught story.
Clark, Mars and Rip have all had horrible experiences in their past.
Their pasts are also connected and when Clark and Mars begin acting on their attraction to one another, it pulls Rip into their flirtations and there's heavy fallout over it due to his responsibility in hurting Clark.
These men were beautiful in their shared vulnerability.
I really enjoy how the secondary characters are an integral part of the series.
Clark, Mars and Rip have all had horrible experiences in their past.
Their pasts are also connected and when Clark and Mars begin acting on their attraction to one another, it pulls Rip into their flirtations and there's heavy fallout over it due to his responsibility in hurting Clark.
These men were beautiful in their shared vulnerability.
I really enjoy how the secondary characters are an integral part of the series.
November 24, 2019
I absolutely LOVED this fantastic, grab-you-by-the-feels, poignant, raw, intense, gritty, emotionally charged, five alarm flaming hot, amazing, beautiful, engaging, heartbreaking yet hopeful, totally awesome, and completely unexpected story. I was pulled in from the very first page, and I just could NOT put it down. If you're looking for a great MMM read that's definitely different from your usual PWOP, then get this gem immediately.
November 27, 2019
I enjoyed this book. There was alot of heat and great chemistry. I loved the storyline with the high school bully that's an hot, proud, and out. But I dont understand why Gunner made an appearance when he did, and in the way the he did. That's why I didn't give this book 5 stars. It was well written with great characters, but that one thing kinda made me wonder.
I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest review.
I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest review.
November 14, 2019
Clark's Bully is the third book in the Rebels and Nerds series by R. Cayden. It is a contemporary MMM romance with a second chance slant. Steamy, fun, sweet with a good mix of angst. Clark, Mars and RIP are fantastic characters and I truly enjoyed their love story.
I received an advanced reader's copy of the book and I am voluntarily leaving my honest review and recommendation.
I received an advanced reader's copy of the book and I am voluntarily leaving my honest review and recommendation.
November 23, 2019
Love this book. The book touches on what is happening today and how it affects someone even after they finish school. The characters are wonderful and the book is easy to read. Clark, Rip, and Mars are sexy and hot together. Clark's Bully is sweet, romantic, a lot of angst, and the sexy times are hot.
February 24, 2020
This was an enemy to lover kind of book, and normal I hate this kind of genre and this kind of book, but I really loved this book. It was easy to read and cute. I loved the relationship between them. I loved how they communicate with each other, and I really love the slow tempo in it. Often I feel like it in books like this the one who got bully goes from hate to love in 2 sec, where here I feel like they took more time and it didn't just happen overnight. I really loved the book, and it was a bit hot.
February 29, 2024
Loved this trio
The thing I really liked about this book was how different all the relationships were. One kinda easy one with some angst. Best of both worlds. Good and spicy, which I like as well. You should give it a read
The thing I really liked about this book was how different all the relationships were. One kinda easy one with some angst. Best of both worlds. Good and spicy, which I like as well. You should give it a read
January 20, 2020
Review to come!
January 26, 2020
Love this series
Another great Rebels and Needs book. If you like the geek/ bad boy trope,then this is for you. Even better, this is an MMM story... Yum!
Another great Rebels and Needs book. If you like the geek/ bad boy trope,then this is for you. Even better, this is an MMM story... Yum!
January 18, 2021
Wow
Nice read...good story line couldn’t stop reading. The character development was unexpected in a good way. Can’t wait to read more
Nice read...good story line couldn’t stop reading. The character development was unexpected in a good way. Can’t wait to read more
February 25, 2021
So much fun
I'm really enjoying this series, I think this one most of all. There was more heartache to move through but the three guys are so livable, you're cheering for them!
I'm really enjoying this series, I think this one most of all. There was more heartache to move through but the three guys are so livable, you're cheering for them!
December 6, 2020
Great emotional story. Enemies to lovers. You want to hate Rip and feel for Clark but in the end you just love them all. Definitely worth a read. New Author to me. Can't wait to check out the other books.
Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews