What do you think?
Rate this book
Caldwell Brothers #3
Love Lessons
A fake relationship can't fix a broken heart … right?
I’ve been in love with my best friend, Eli, forever, and I was all set to confess my feelings … until he showed up at my birthday party with someone else. I would have died on the spot if Rome hadn’t pulled me close, kissed me, and told everyone we’d secretly been dating for months. Except we’re not boyfriends. And until that night we’d never even kissed.
When my family finds out about our supposed relationship, we have to play along. Spending time with Rome is easy and fun. And our fake kisses are hot enough to set my body on fire.
Could it be real with Rome? I don’t want to screw up our friendship, but his touch makes me want more. I waited too long before, and I can’t risk losing Rome. Not when what I feel is so much stronger than I ever expected.
So how can we make this fake relationship real? And how do we make it last forever?
I’ve been in love with my best friend, Eli, forever, and I was all set to confess my feelings … until he showed up at my birthday party with someone else. I would have died on the spot if Rome hadn’t pulled me close, kissed me, and told everyone we’d secretly been dating for months. Except we’re not boyfriends. And until that night we’d never even kissed.
When my family finds out about our supposed relationship, we have to play along. Spending time with Rome is easy and fun. And our fake kisses are hot enough to set my body on fire.
Could it be real with Rome? I don’t want to screw up our friendship, but his touch makes me want more. I waited too long before, and I can’t risk losing Rome. Not when what I feel is so much stronger than I ever expected.
So how can we make this fake relationship real? And how do we make it last forever?
219 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 3, 2020
193 people are currently reading
190 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 110 reviews
April 15, 2020
Grady and Rome
In short, Grady wants to tell Eli he is it for him when Eli introduces his fiancé Benji.
To save Grady for humiliation Rome kisses Grady before the eyes of many friends and family and asks him if it’s a good time to announce their relationship.
A fake relationship turns into a real one.
Jealousy, hurt, lies, distrust and a lot of other emotions are passing the revue.
I wish I liked this story more. While it should be about Grady and Rome, every time there was the very annoying Eli with a lot of noise.
I had trouble with the character Eli. It wasn’t a convincing one. The situations were awkward and out of proportion. He had a too big role in this story, it was incoherent and he didn’t even deserve that.
Because of the way Eli stood in this story I didn’t get involved how I like to be.
The hurt comfort pieces between Grady and Rome were well done. I loved those parts.
In short, Grady wants to tell Eli he is it for him when Eli introduces his fiancé Benji.
To save Grady for humiliation Rome kisses Grady before the eyes of many friends and family and asks him if it’s a good time to announce their relationship.
A fake relationship turns into a real one.
Jealousy, hurt, lies, distrust and a lot of other emotions are passing the revue.
I wish I liked this story more. While it should be about Grady and Rome, every time there was the very annoying Eli with a lot of noise.
I had trouble with the character Eli. It wasn’t a convincing one. The situations were awkward and out of proportion. He had a too big role in this story, it was incoherent and he didn’t even deserve that.
Because of the way Eli stood in this story I didn’t get involved how I like to be.
The hurt comfort pieces between Grady and Rome were well done. I loved those parts.
March 3, 2022
While I really enjoyed this, it wasn't as much of a standout read as I thought it might be. Can't bring myself to rate this any lower than 4 stars though.
May 14, 2020
Big yikes. Everyone in this story was a caricature of themselves. It was almost comically bad. The good guy. The doormat. The asshole. There was basically no plot at all as everything that did occur was just glossed over in a few lines. The drama at the end was completely OTT and dramatic - I was actually laughing during Rome and Grady’s “breakup”.
Then they try to redeem Eli in about a page of writing and I’m just like...??? He behaved like a selfish, manipulative, lying, needlessly cruel twat the entire story and now he’s suddenly had an epiphany that he sucks? Sure, Jan. 🙄
I only finished because it was so short and I wanted to make sure I had the full picture before I reviewed.
Then they try to redeem Eli in about a page of writing and I’m just like...??? He behaved like a selfish, manipulative, lying, needlessly cruel twat the entire story and now he’s suddenly had an epiphany that he sucks? Sure, Jan. 🙄
I only finished because it was so short and I wanted to make sure I had the full picture before I reviewed.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 17, 2020
*Received A Copy To Review From The Author*
Honestly did not love this one, it wasn't bad but I just didn't connect with the characters enough and then the angst towards the end really made me mad. I didn't mind them, they were nice and decent, likable. But I struggled to not find Grady a tad pathetic. But for some reason, even though they both pined for 20 years for someone, I didn't have that problem with Rome. I don't know why. Maybe because Rome didn't (at least on page) seem like such a sad sack over it. But this leads to why I really didn't like where this went. The big Angst honestly made me so mad and annoyed. I thought it was ridiculous that Grady got to be so outraged that Rome would doubt him with for TWENTY years he's seen Grady accept any crumb from Eli and always trail after him. I really wish we could've had a scene where one of Grady's brothers talks some sense into him and makes him understand Rome's side, instead of just having Rome have to grovel when he didn't really do anything wrong. Even if he had been in the wrong, it still would've been understandable to me. They weren't his secrets to tell, and it wasn't his place. It felt like Grady was just looking for an excuse to be mad and try to make Rome and Eli "the same" which he even says. Ugh. I hated that scene and he never apologizes. He just gets to play injured party and have a grand gesture (which I generally always hate any way) apology/take me back. Bleh. It really soured this book for me. Didn't like. But maybe other people will see it different than I do.
Honestly did not love this one, it wasn't bad but I just didn't connect with the characters enough and then the angst towards the end really made me mad. I didn't mind them, they were nice and decent, likable. But I struggled to not find Grady a tad pathetic. But for some reason, even though they both pined for 20 years for someone, I didn't have that problem with Rome. I don't know why. Maybe because Rome didn't (at least on page) seem like such a sad sack over it. But this leads to why I really didn't like where this went. The big Angst honestly made me so mad and annoyed. I thought it was ridiculous that Grady got to be so outraged that Rome would doubt him with for TWENTY years he's seen Grady accept any crumb from Eli and always trail after him. I really wish we could've had a scene where one of Grady's brothers talks some sense into him and makes him understand Rome's side, instead of just having Rome have to grovel when he didn't really do anything wrong. Even if he had been in the wrong, it still would've been understandable to me. They weren't his secrets to tell, and it wasn't his place. It felt like Grady was just looking for an excuse to be mad and try to make Rome and Eli "the same" which he even says. Ugh. I hated that scene and he never apologizes. He just gets to play injured party and have a grand gesture (which I generally always hate any way) apology/take me back. Bleh. It really soured this book for me. Didn't like. But maybe other people will see it different than I do.
May 3, 2024
I am obsessed with this series. The OTPs are amazing
October 11, 2020
My 4 stars are for the story. I have been enjoying this series a lot.
I only wish someone had gone through and edited it better. The misspelled words and errors were enough to pull me out of the story. I completely understand a few but this was more. One example is switching the Sunday dinners that have been mentioned through the whole series (as well as this book) to Friday night family dinners close to the end of the book.
I only wish someone had gone through and edited it better. The misspelled words and errors were enough to pull me out of the story. I completely understand a few but this was more. One example is switching the Sunday dinners that have been mentioned through the whole series (as well as this book) to Friday night family dinners close to the end of the book.
April 7, 2020
This is a wonderful romance novel. It starts out with Grady Caldwell, who has had a crush on his best friend Eli since prep school. Eli has never had romantic feelings for Grady, this was because Eli was a master of manipulations and could easily turn around anything Grady said to make it Grady’s fault or Grady being selfish; though Grady was in love with Eli and Eli could do no wrong.
At Grady’s thirty-second birthday party, he anxiously waited for Eli to open the door to Hot Toddy’s. Grady never knew all his friends knew he had a crush on Eli and the guy had strung Grady along for years, but Grady could never see it, only a wonderful, gorgeous man he loved and he was going to finally tell Eli he loved him.
But when Eli finally shows, he’s with another man and introduces him as his fiancé. Wow, sucker-punched, but Grady fought not to show his broken heart and gave cheers of congratulations. Grady’s other solid, sane best friend, Rome worked at Hayes Financial as a CEO; his father’s business but now deceased. Rome’s a stunning, gorgeous man who also went to the same boarding school as Grady and has had a crush on Grady every since. But Grady only had eyes for Eli and nothing romantic ever happened.
He also has protected Gray as much as he could and he couldn’t stand the disappointment and heartache he saw on Grady’s face when Eli made his announcement, of course, it had to be on Grady’s special day, as Eli loved to shock Grady, ruin his good time and gave him that smug smile of his. Then Rome, without thinking, jumped right in to save Grady stating he and Grady are boyfriends. That was so cool because Eli hated that Grady had found someone else other than him.
Throughout the novel, Eli tries to destroy Grady’s and Rome’s new relationship and let me tell you, it was a very bumpy road and roller coaster endeavor for the two. I wanted to wallop Eli so many times and kick Grady’s ass to wake up and see the light. And there was poor Rome who had to go through all his hate for Eli; fight for his relationship he so desperately wanted and loved, it had me in tears.
Even with the angst between the three men, this book was so worth reading. There are so many emotions in the characters it felt so real. It solidly hit home for me, as I have a pathological liar/manipulator for a sibling and it’s very difficult to be around. The thought and writing put into this novel by Aiden and Jill made the story read smoothly.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
At Grady’s thirty-second birthday party, he anxiously waited for Eli to open the door to Hot Toddy’s. Grady never knew all his friends knew he had a crush on Eli and the guy had strung Grady along for years, but Grady could never see it, only a wonderful, gorgeous man he loved and he was going to finally tell Eli he loved him.
But when Eli finally shows, he’s with another man and introduces him as his fiancé. Wow, sucker-punched, but Grady fought not to show his broken heart and gave cheers of congratulations. Grady’s other solid, sane best friend, Rome worked at Hayes Financial as a CEO; his father’s business but now deceased. Rome’s a stunning, gorgeous man who also went to the same boarding school as Grady and has had a crush on Grady every since. But Grady only had eyes for Eli and nothing romantic ever happened.
He also has protected Gray as much as he could and he couldn’t stand the disappointment and heartache he saw on Grady’s face when Eli made his announcement, of course, it had to be on Grady’s special day, as Eli loved to shock Grady, ruin his good time and gave him that smug smile of his. Then Rome, without thinking, jumped right in to save Grady stating he and Grady are boyfriends. That was so cool because Eli hated that Grady had found someone else other than him.
Throughout the novel, Eli tries to destroy Grady’s and Rome’s new relationship and let me tell you, it was a very bumpy road and roller coaster endeavor for the two. I wanted to wallop Eli so many times and kick Grady’s ass to wake up and see the light. And there was poor Rome who had to go through all his hate for Eli; fight for his relationship he so desperately wanted and loved, it had me in tears.
Even with the angst between the three men, this book was so worth reading. There are so many emotions in the characters it felt so real. It solidly hit home for me, as I have a pathological liar/manipulator for a sibling and it’s very difficult to be around. The thought and writing put into this novel by Aiden and Jill made the story read smoothly.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 22, 2020
Grady has been in love with his best friend for years and he’s finally going to tell him. Excepts now he can’t and when he thinks he might just die right there on the spot -- Rome comes swooshing in like his own personal knight in shining armor.
I love a good fake relationship book and Love Lessons was a pretty decent one. I absolutely adored Rome from the start. He was quick to dive in and rescue Grady from a very embarrassing moment -- and considering Grady seemed very much in love with Eli..Rome put himself on the line a lot. I loved watching them navigate this new relationship..especially when the fake started to become very much real.
This is a sweet romance book with just a little bit of drama but a guaranteed HEA. It is book three in the series but can be read as a standalone.
3.5 stars
♡ arc given in exchange for an honest review ♡
I love a good fake relationship book and Love Lessons was a pretty decent one. I absolutely adored Rome from the start. He was quick to dive in and rescue Grady from a very embarrassing moment -- and considering Grady seemed very much in love with Eli..Rome put himself on the line a lot. I loved watching them navigate this new relationship..especially when the fake started to become very much real.
This is a sweet romance book with just a little bit of drama but a guaranteed HEA. It is book three in the series but can be read as a standalone.
3.5 stars
♡ arc given in exchange for an honest review ♡
April 17, 2020
Grady loves Eli, Rome loves Grady. Rome and Grady would do anything for the one they love, the difference is Eli doesn’t deserve Gradys love and affection. These three men have know each other for a long time, and while the two couplings are best friends, Rome and Eli can’t really stand each other. Tolerate, yes.
In the past two books I’ll have to say I was hoping Eli and Grady were going to be an awesome friends to lovers but Lord help me, I wanted to beat Eli down. Hated him. Loathed him.
But Rome....ahh man. I loved him and the way he loved Grady!
In the past two books I’ll have to say I was hoping Eli and Grady were going to be an awesome friends to lovers but Lord help me, I wanted to beat Eli down. Hated him. Loathed him.
But Rome....ahh man. I loved him and the way he loved Grady!
April 26, 2020
This was a friends to lovers, fake relationship love story between long-time friends Grady and Rome. While Rome always had secret feelings for Grady, it took Grady a bit longer to realize his feelings for Rome were true and real and that he wanted a future with him. These two men did get their happily ever after with a nice lead way to the next book in the series.
April 10, 2020
so cute and sweet.. interesting and funny. made me laugh and smile. plus in some spots i about threw my kindle across the room haha. i like this series so much
April 13, 2020
Sweet story
This was a very tale of friends to lovers and fake boyfriend.
I liked both Grady and Rome. They were so sweet and hot together.
I loved how their story evolved and that the drama was somewhat external.
Very nice story with a great ending
This was a very tale of friends to lovers and fake boyfriend.
I liked both Grady and Rome. They were so sweet and hot together.
I loved how their story evolved and that the drama was somewhat external.
Very nice story with a great ending
May 18, 2020
2 Stars. This book started out okay and then went to hell around 94% or so. That silly fight the authors inserted at the end was so ridiculous and unnecessary. Grady was ridiculous & silly, WTH was that????
February 17, 2021
This is the third book in the series and focuses on Roman and Grady.
Grady was such a sweet heart and for the life of me, I couldn’t figure out why he had feelings for Eli. Eli was selfish, self absorbed and I couldn’t stand him. Eli’s behaviour towards Grady was inexcusable and as time went on, his apologies were meaningless, just like the man himself, who was a waste of space.
Roman and Grady were beautiful together. These two had the type of connection and chemistry that people dream about. Watching Grady fall in love and losing his heart to Roman warmed my heart. These two were perfect for each other.
Roman’s love for Grady shined fiercely throughout the pages. Every time, he put Eli in his place, I was cheering him on. Roman encouraged and supported Grady at every turn, boosting Grady’s confidence and self worth along the way.
I’ve enjoyed every single book in this series and this one was no exception.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Audio review: 17/2/21
Grady was a sweet guy but I never understood what he saw in Eli. Eli got on my nerves and the way he treated Grady - well suffice to say, I was calling him every name under the sun.
Roman was sexy and romantic. He went out of his way to show Grady how special he was.
Narrator’s performance was fantastic as always.
Grady was such a sweet heart and for the life of me, I couldn’t figure out why he had feelings for Eli. Eli was selfish, self absorbed and I couldn’t stand him. Eli’s behaviour towards Grady was inexcusable and as time went on, his apologies were meaningless, just like the man himself, who was a waste of space.
Roman and Grady were beautiful together. These two had the type of connection and chemistry that people dream about. Watching Grady fall in love and losing his heart to Roman warmed my heart. These two were perfect for each other.
Roman’s love for Grady shined fiercely throughout the pages. Every time, he put Eli in his place, I was cheering him on. Roman encouraged and supported Grady at every turn, boosting Grady’s confidence and self worth along the way.
I’ve enjoyed every single book in this series and this one was no exception.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Audio review: 17/2/21
Grady was a sweet guy but I never understood what he saw in Eli. Eli got on my nerves and the way he treated Grady - well suffice to say, I was calling him every name under the sun.
Roman was sexy and romantic. He went out of his way to show Grady how special he was.
Narrator’s performance was fantastic as always.
April 16, 2020
The premise of this book was great. There were hot spots and some serious boring spots but most of all this book irritated me.
Grady is working as an elementary school teacher waiting for his big break to teach at the University level. He is best friends with Eli (dickwad). Grady has had a crush on Eli since high school. He thinks he's hiding it but everyone including Eli knows it.
Eli (did I mention he is a dickwad) is supposedly his best friend but treats him like dirt. He is all about himself and there is nothing that he won't do or say to further his own ambitions. He shows up at Grady's birthday party to announce an engagement that he knows is going to crush Grady.
Rome went to school with both of them. He has had a crush on Grady since they met in college. Because Grady couldn't see past Eli Rome decided to become friends with Grady just so he could stay in his orbit.
Grady and Rome start out as fake and then things take a turn for the better. However, Grady vacillates on all things relationship, allows Eli to become a part of that relationship, and starts laying blame. First he's hot, then he's cold, he's in, he's out. He listens to Eli (knowing how Eli can twist a lie), he throws blame. Too wishy washy for a man who is 32 years old! Enough already!
They eventually get there but it was hard going for me to finish.
Grady is working as an elementary school teacher waiting for his big break to teach at the University level. He is best friends with Eli (dickwad). Grady has had a crush on Eli since high school. He thinks he's hiding it but everyone including Eli knows it.
Eli (did I mention he is a dickwad) is supposedly his best friend but treats him like dirt. He is all about himself and there is nothing that he won't do or say to further his own ambitions. He shows up at Grady's birthday party to announce an engagement that he knows is going to crush Grady.
Rome went to school with both of them. He has had a crush on Grady since they met in college. Because Grady couldn't see past Eli Rome decided to become friends with Grady just so he could stay in his orbit.
Grady and Rome start out as fake and then things take a turn for the better. However, Grady vacillates on all things relationship, allows Eli to become a part of that relationship, and starts laying blame. First he's hot, then he's cold, he's in, he's out. He listens to Eli (knowing how Eli can twist a lie), he throws blame. Too wishy washy for a man who is 32 years old! Enough already!
They eventually get there but it was hard going for me to finish.
October 8, 2021
3.5 stars
March 27, 2021
Here we go:
Plot: 4 stars -- I read these as one cluster (all the brothers together), and the plots are very similar in a couple of ways: 1) they all start out with a conflict of some sort, and 2) they all end with another conflict of some sort. So far, I like the original conflicts and find them realistic and nicely resolved (for the most part). But for the 2nd ... not so much. In this case, the main conflict was strong enough that I could overlook the absolute ridiculousness of the second one. Grady has been in love with Eli for years; his other good friend, Rome, has been in love with Grady for just as long. At Grady's birthday party (32), Eli shows up with a fiance, and Rome steps in to keep Eli from 'winning' (yes, Eli knows that Grady has a crush on him) by pretending he and Grady are together. It's an interesting (and soap-opera-y) set-up, and it worked for me. The second conflict was just silly (
Plot: 4 stars -- I read these as one cluster (all the brothers together), and the plots are very similar in a couple of ways: 1) they all start out with a conflict of some sort, and 2) they all end with another conflict of some sort. So far, I like the original conflicts and find them realistic and nicely resolved (for the most part). But for the 2nd ... not so much. In this case, the main conflict was strong enough that I could overlook the absolute ridiculousness of the second one. Grady has been in love with Eli for years; his other good friend, Rome, has been in love with Grady for just as long. At Grady's birthday party (32), Eli shows up with a fiance, and Rome steps in to keep Eli from 'winning' (yes, Eli knows that Grady has a crush on him) by pretending he and Grady are together. It's an interesting (and soap-opera-y) set-up, and it worked for me. The second conflict was just silly (
May 18, 2021
❊ Blog | Instagram | Twitter | Facebook ❊
This was such a disappointment and it looked so good from the second book's preview!!
Here we have Grady, who's been forever in love with his best friend Eli. He's turning 32 and decides it's time to confess... But then Eli appears with a guy he introduces as nothing more than his fiance!! What can Grady do to save face? Worry not, he has another hot friend that comes to his rescue and feigns being in a relationship with him.
This is, literally, the first chapter, and then things start to become a mess and everything is all over the place.
For starters Eli is horrible. Not only the worst friend ever, but a bad human being. I don't mind how the authors try to redeem him towards the end, he's just plain evil. And he's so different from now Grady sees him at first I can't believe they have been friends forever. Ok, I can buy Grady being a little blinde whenever Eli's concerned... But this was a whole new level.
Let's continue with the romance. So shallow and uninteresting. It's not believable!! Rome have been in love with Grady but didn't confess because he knew how the guy felt towards Eli. Ok, I can accept that too. What I can't accept is that they say they have been friends since university and it looks like Gray starts meeting him once they feign dating.
Also, for Gray to be soooo in love with Eli, he starts feeling warm for Rome far too soon. It's not even the second day of fake dating and he already starts thinking about his growing feeling for Rome.
And last but no least... What kind of cr4ppy breakup was that? One of the things I liked least about the previous books was the ending drama... How every relationship went through some kind of stupid breakup that made no sense at all. But this one was the winner. Why force a breakup when the story doesn't call for it? And why fix it so easily?
In short, this was unexpectedly not for me. It has all the points and topics to be for my liking, but it so wasn't. I enjoyed the previous ones (even if not as much as the author's other series), but this was terrific and I wish I hadn't read it. I'm not sure I will keep reading the next books because as I said, all these three had the same exact outline with different tropes and characters.
This was such a disappointment and it looked so good from the second book's preview!!
Here we have Grady, who's been forever in love with his best friend Eli. He's turning 32 and decides it's time to confess... But then Eli appears with a guy he introduces as nothing more than his fiance!! What can Grady do to save face? Worry not, he has another hot friend that comes to his rescue and feigns being in a relationship with him.
This is, literally, the first chapter, and then things start to become a mess and everything is all over the place.
For starters Eli is horrible. Not only the worst friend ever, but a bad human being. I don't mind how the authors try to redeem him towards the end, he's just plain evil. And he's so different from now Grady sees him at first I can't believe they have been friends forever. Ok, I can buy Grady being a little blinde whenever Eli's concerned... But this was a whole new level.
Let's continue with the romance. So shallow and uninteresting. It's not believable!! Rome have been in love with Grady but didn't confess because he knew how the guy felt towards Eli. Ok, I can accept that too. What I can't accept is that they say they have been friends since university and it looks like Gray starts meeting him once they feign dating.
Also, for Gray to be soooo in love with Eli, he starts feeling warm for Rome far too soon. It's not even the second day of fake dating and he already starts thinking about his growing feeling for Rome.
And last but no least... What kind of cr4ppy breakup was that? One of the things I liked least about the previous books was the ending drama... How every relationship went through some kind of stupid breakup that made no sense at all. But this one was the winner. Why force a breakup when the story doesn't call for it? And why fix it so easily?
In short, this was unexpectedly not for me. It has all the points and topics to be for my liking, but it so wasn't. I enjoyed the previous ones (even if not as much as the author's other series), but this was terrific and I wish I hadn't read it. I'm not sure I will keep reading the next books because as I said, all these three had the same exact outline with different tropes and characters.
April 7, 2020
Gray is having a birthday party and he has decided that now is the time to confess to Eli that he's in love with him but that goes out the window when Eli shows up and announces he's engaged to Bengi who is Bengi know one even new Eli was dating what a jerk. But Gray's other bestfriend Rome who is the best guy ever helps Gray out by saying that they have been dating for awhile and now there going to have and keep up the charade but it's not all lies Rome has been keeping his own secrets hes in love with Gray and has been since they meet in boarding school.
Eli is self centered and a jerk who uses people and his fiance is a crazy person. But after more then one bad encounter with the duo Gray has finally had enough things are going well with him and Rome they decide to make there relationship real and there perfect for each other if only Eli would stop interfering.
Rome hes wealthy and runs his father's company hes handsome and a nice person and really seems to care for Gray but he still fears that Eli will come between them let's just say Rome finds out about what the engagement is really all about with Eli and that it confirms his worst fears about loosing Gray. These two will need to work threw issues they need to trust each other and everything will work out.
This is only the second book I have read about Gray and his siblings and so far this is my favorite I wonder what's going to happen with Andrew the youngest one things for sure it's going to put Rome in a terrible situation with Gray and there no secrets rule. So this book ends in not really a cliffhanger but more of a Happy for now kind of thing I'm pretty sure it will get all tied up when Andrew's book comes out cant wait to see what happens next.
I was allowed to read and advance copy of this book via Booksprout and this is my honest review.
Eli is self centered and a jerk who uses people and his fiance is a crazy person. But after more then one bad encounter with the duo Gray has finally had enough things are going well with him and Rome they decide to make there relationship real and there perfect for each other if only Eli would stop interfering.
Rome hes wealthy and runs his father's company hes handsome and a nice person and really seems to care for Gray but he still fears that Eli will come between them let's just say Rome finds out about what the engagement is really all about with Eli and that it confirms his worst fears about loosing Gray. These two will need to work threw issues they need to trust each other and everything will work out.
This is only the second book I have read about Gray and his siblings and so far this is my favorite I wonder what's going to happen with Andrew the youngest one things for sure it's going to put Rome in a terrible situation with Gray and there no secrets rule. So this book ends in not really a cliffhanger but more of a Happy for now kind of thing I'm pretty sure it will get all tied up when Andrew's book comes out cant wait to see what happens next.
I was allowed to read and advance copy of this book via Booksprout and this is my honest review.
March 4, 2021
Best-friends-to-lovers books are some of my all-time favorites, and I thought Grady and Rome's story was particularly sweet! Austin Jay was the perfect narrator to bring these men's story to life--his engaging voice and passionate delivery made it hard to put this audio down. Every time Eli did something jerkish and annoying, Rome was right there trying to keep Grady in good spirits. As a third-party observer, it was incredibly obvious what a bad friend Eli was, but he and Grady had such a long-lasting friendship that I also understood how hard it was for him to see it. Whatever Eli's deal was, it was Rome who had me swooning left and right with his adorable flirting and sweet thoughtfulness. As he and Grady started to explore how they could take their friendship to the next level, it was all the little interactions they shared that convinced me of their growing affection. Whether it was Rome delivering sweet treats to Grady's work or Grady making sure Rome had a healthy meal after a long day, these two had a wonderful companionship that translated into fiery hot chemistry. Listening to Rome and Grady build each other up was the only thing that kept my annoyance with Eli at bay, and when Grady finally stood up for himself I wanted to cheer out loud. I didn't really understand the miscommunication that led to their one and only fight, but thankfully these two didn't keep me in suspense for long. After finishing their delightful love story, there's no doubt in my mind that Grady and Rome have what it takes to make each other happy for life.
**I voluntarily listened to a free copy of this book. This review expresses my honest thoughts and opinions.
**I voluntarily listened to a free copy of this book. This review expresses my honest thoughts and opinions.
April 7, 2020
Grady is a really nice guy. He’s having a birthday party celebration with his friends and the important people in his life. He has finally worked up the courage to tell Eli how he feels – until Eli walks in holding hands with someone else, whom he introduces as his fiancé! That moment when you want the floor to open up and swallow you to avoid the horrible embarrassment of the situation comes over Grady. But before he can react, with all eyes on him, Rome comes up behind him and kisses him as if they had already been in a relationship and Eli’s presence didn’t mean a thing.
Grady decides to let the pretense continue while he thinks about what to do. But he didn’t realize that for Rome, this is real. He does care and always has Grady’s back, unlike the selfish Eli. Will Rome tell Grady how he feels, or will he show him by being there and being wonderful?
I am really impressed by the authors as I read these amazing stories they write of love, respect, caring, and support. The reader will feel honest emotions shared with the reader from the characters, making them very real. The story line is well-paced, and you’ll find some amazing qualities in the people you meet (of course, not Eli). Grab your copy and enjoy the way good people can make things right. It takes some introspection at times, but standing back and taking an honest look can clear up some misconceptions -- especially when the one who is really right for you is standing beside you, even though the hard times.
Grady decides to let the pretense continue while he thinks about what to do. But he didn’t realize that for Rome, this is real. He does care and always has Grady’s back, unlike the selfish Eli. Will Rome tell Grady how he feels, or will he show him by being there and being wonderful?
I am really impressed by the authors as I read these amazing stories they write of love, respect, caring, and support. The reader will feel honest emotions shared with the reader from the characters, making them very real. The story line is well-paced, and you’ll find some amazing qualities in the people you meet (of course, not Eli). Grab your copy and enjoy the way good people can make things right. It takes some introspection at times, but standing back and taking an honest look can clear up some misconceptions -- especially when the one who is really right for you is standing beside you, even though the hard times.
April 8, 2020
OMG I LOVE THIS TWO A FANTASTIC READ
I am so glad that Grady has Rome. I pumped my fist in the air and shouted yessssssssssssssssssssssssssss!!!!!!!!!
Its Grady's birthday and he is having a small party to celebrate with friends and his loved ones around him and all he wants is for his best friend to show up. Grady has been in love with Eli for years but he never wanted to ruin his friendship with him so he never said anything to Eli but that's going to change tonight. Grady has got the courage to talk to him at the party when Eli finally walks in with a man holding his hand. And when Eli tells him its his fiancée Benji. Grady has to act fast not to show the hurt on his face. Then before he knows it he feels a man come up to him and hold him. Its Rome and he has just told Eli they have been dating, Grady catches on quickly. Eli doesn't look impressed. But He said it loud enough that some people heard him so they decided to pretend to be boyfriend boyfriend for a while longer but what Grady doesn't know is that Rome has been in love with him even longer.
That's all I'm saying because I dont want to ruin it for you but its just a wonderful read. Rome is such a sweetheart that will do anything to protect Grady and their little dinner dates are of things that will make your heart sing. Its just a brilliant read that makes you believe that when its your time to find love it will light up your life. I'm blown away with this book.
And I cant wait for Adrian's book it looks so good already. Poor Rome to be put in the position but im sure it will work out just fine lol.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I am so glad that Grady has Rome. I pumped my fist in the air and shouted yessssssssssssssssssssssssssss!!!!!!!!!
Its Grady's birthday and he is having a small party to celebrate with friends and his loved ones around him and all he wants is for his best friend to show up. Grady has been in love with Eli for years but he never wanted to ruin his friendship with him so he never said anything to Eli but that's going to change tonight. Grady has got the courage to talk to him at the party when Eli finally walks in with a man holding his hand. And when Eli tells him its his fiancée Benji. Grady has to act fast not to show the hurt on his face. Then before he knows it he feels a man come up to him and hold him. Its Rome and he has just told Eli they have been dating, Grady catches on quickly. Eli doesn't look impressed. But He said it loud enough that some people heard him so they decided to pretend to be boyfriend boyfriend for a while longer but what Grady doesn't know is that Rome has been in love with him even longer.
That's all I'm saying because I dont want to ruin it for you but its just a wonderful read. Rome is such a sweetheart that will do anything to protect Grady and their little dinner dates are of things that will make your heart sing. Its just a brilliant read that makes you believe that when its your time to find love it will light up your life. I'm blown away with this book.
And I cant wait for Adrian's book it looks so good already. Poor Rome to be put in the position but im sure it will work out just fine lol.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 8, 2020
Step out of your comfort zone and see what's in front of your eyes. Celebrating Grady's32nd birthday. He was on pause waiting for his best friend and secret crush, Eli to show up. He knew Eli since they were in Prep school. He loved him, since forever and decided to tell him how he felt during his birthday celebration. Jamie and Nico and Saint and Braxton were still going strong. Grady was a teacher and idly entertaning the thought that he might do better at Saint's law firm which seemed like a matchmaking outfit. Rome, CEO of Hayes Financial came to the party. He was a bit older than Grady. Rome took Grady under his wing and protected him, while they were at school. He has also loved him for 20 years. Eli brought his fiance, Benji whom he never told Grady about. Everyone knew how Grady felt about Eli. Grady didn't know everyone knew. Rome stepped up in a big way to save Gray embarrassment. Mom, Vanessa witnessed the event and was happy! What did Eli think about Rome and Gray? What did the brothes think? Can Gray carry it off? How long can Rome sustain the subterferge? Will they confess? Will Gray finally see Rome as other than his friend, his ex room mate? Great story! The family and friends are amazing! Gray is an absolutely nice guy and Rome is a gem! Great series, I hope there are some foster brothers laying around waiting for a shot. I received an ARC from Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 20, 2020
Love Lessons by authors Aiden Bates and Ali Lyda is the third book in the Brotherly Love series. This book is written in dual POV and it really works for this storyline. You do not have to read any other books in this series to get this storyline at all. I loved that since this is my first book in this series.
Grady has the nick name of Gray. He is a kind, sensitive soul. He wears his heart on his sleeve. He doesn’t know that everyone knows he has a crush on his best friend Eli, but they do. When Eli comes to Gray’s birthday engaged to another man, Gray is crushed.
Rome is protective, strong, and willing to do anything for those he loves. He sees the pain his best friend Gray is in. He doesn’t hesitate he pretends they are dating to save Gray. Rome is a powerful man; he is a CEO and knows how to play with the big boys. All he has ever wanted was Gray to see him, to really see that he loves him.
The more time they spend together the more the natural chemistry these two has shone through. I loved them as a couple. They just need to learn to trust each other. I loved watching their love bloom and I cannot wait for more from this series in the future.
Five Shooting Stars
Grady has the nick name of Gray. He is a kind, sensitive soul. He wears his heart on his sleeve. He doesn’t know that everyone knows he has a crush on his best friend Eli, but they do. When Eli comes to Gray’s birthday engaged to another man, Gray is crushed.
Rome is protective, strong, and willing to do anything for those he loves. He sees the pain his best friend Gray is in. He doesn’t hesitate he pretends they are dating to save Gray. Rome is a powerful man; he is a CEO and knows how to play with the big boys. All he has ever wanted was Gray to see him, to really see that he loves him.
The more time they spend together the more the natural chemistry these two has shone through. I loved them as a couple. They just need to learn to trust each other. I loved watching their love bloom and I cannot wait for more from this series in the future.
Five Shooting Stars
April 22, 2020
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
3.5 stars
I haven't read the first two books in the series, but this held up well as a stand-alone. There is some mention of things that happened in the previous books, but not enough to leave the reader feeling lost (or feeling like the story was retold).
I liked Rome, he's a good friend and his actions towards Grady showed both his friendship and his love. Grady (or Gray* as he's called half the time) was really blind both towards Eli (absolute jerk!) and Rome. I get that people can be blind when they like someone (especially when they have such a long history), but I'm a bit surprised his brothers didn't stage an intervention at some point. I'm not sure if we're supposed to see Eli as redeemable by the end, but he was such a jerk throughout the book and his manipulations were just way too over the top to be even remotely likable towards the end. He really was a self-absorbed jerk. Rome was really the best part of the book, but seeing Grady finally realize how toxic Eli could be was nice.
*I'll admit it drove me nuts that they kept switching between Gray and Grady for the character. If it was more consistent it wouldn't have been as bad, but it just too back and forth for me.
3.5 stars
I haven't read the first two books in the series, but this held up well as a stand-alone. There is some mention of things that happened in the previous books, but not enough to leave the reader feeling lost (or feeling like the story was retold).
I liked Rome, he's a good friend and his actions towards Grady showed both his friendship and his love. Grady (or Gray* as he's called half the time) was really blind both towards Eli (absolute jerk!) and Rome. I get that people can be blind when they like someone (especially when they have such a long history), but I'm a bit surprised his brothers didn't stage an intervention at some point. I'm not sure if we're supposed to see Eli as redeemable by the end, but he was such a jerk throughout the book and his manipulations were just way too over the top to be even remotely likable towards the end. He really was a self-absorbed jerk. Rome was really the best part of the book, but seeing Grady finally realize how toxic Eli could be was nice.
*I'll admit it drove me nuts that they kept switching between Gray and Grady for the character. If it was more consistent it wouldn't have been as bad, but it just too back and forth for me.
February 20, 2021
Ali Lyda is the new name for me to look for! I've had the privilege of reviewing a half-dozen books: motorcycle clubs, the mob, tattoo parlors--all books I would never consider reading and never for one moment thought I would enjoy! But Ali Lyda alone or paired is simply magical! The Caldwell Brothers series is what I would call 'real-life' M/M romance. No urban fantasy, paranormal adventure, shifter, magical stuff I normally go for. But it didn't make this story less interesting! I couldn't believe how fast I got drawn into the story of Grady and Rome--two long-term friends who are in a beautifully awful love-triangle. The writers Aiden Bates and Ali Lyda did an awesome job not drawing out the agony as it were. They allowed the characters to move forward at a place without too much frustration on the part of the reader! They didn't rely on the common tricks some writers employ to lengthen the story by generating more angst. They were a couple of points in the book that the character spent time considering an action that would be bad but managed to make a good decision anyway. The truly frustrating behavior he engaged in was what took place in the past and not part of the current story. Well done!
March 4, 2021
I was given a free audio copy from the author and the GRR arc team for review.
4.5 stars
First of all I am not a fan of the cover. It almost made me pass on this story cause to me it gives off an ominous vibe which is completely irrelavent to this books trope.
Grady has been in love with Eli secretly since school. He wants to finally confess his love at his birthday party. Eli unfortunately chooses that time to abnounce he's engaged leaving Grady shocked and heartbroken. So to save face Rome kisses him and tells his family and friends they have been dating for months. Rome has been secretly in love with Grady for 20 years and hopes maybe now he can win him over.
This can be read as a standalone. I have only read book 6 before this one. I enjoyed that one but this one was alot better.
This was a sweet read that I will definitely listen to again and definitely recommend. I'll be sure to read the rest of the series.
Narrator 4 stars
Narrator had a pleasant reading voice. He did a great performance and expressed the emotions well. I did have to speed up the pace a little and I do wish the voices were a little more distinct among the characters but overall I enjoyed it.
4.5 stars
First of all I am not a fan of the cover. It almost made me pass on this story cause to me it gives off an ominous vibe which is completely irrelavent to this books trope.
Grady has been in love with Eli secretly since school. He wants to finally confess his love at his birthday party. Eli unfortunately chooses that time to abnounce he's engaged leaving Grady shocked and heartbroken. So to save face Rome kisses him and tells his family and friends they have been dating for months. Rome has been secretly in love with Grady for 20 years and hopes maybe now he can win him over.
This can be read as a standalone. I have only read book 6 before this one. I enjoyed that one but this one was alot better.
This was a sweet read that I will definitely listen to again and definitely recommend. I'll be sure to read the rest of the series.
Narrator 4 stars
Narrator had a pleasant reading voice. He did a great performance and expressed the emotions well. I did have to speed up the pace a little and I do wish the voices were a little more distinct among the characters but overall I enjoyed it.
April 7, 2020
So, I've read the previous two book in this series (which you should read if you haven't) and the ending of the last book, I assumed Grady's love story would be with Eli. Wow, was I wrong! It seemed that the previous book set up the friends-to-lovers trope between the two men, but it didn't mention Rome. Oh Rome. Rome is my favorite character of the whole series. He is selfless, trustworthy, quick to defend and is so protective of Grady. Rome and Grady are also best friends and when Eli comes to Grady's birthday with his surprise fiance in-toe, Rome steps in quick to save the day; informing them that he and Grady have been secretly dating for months. Ughh I love it!! <3 The angst and the love between Rome and Grady was so pure, and everything Rome does is to protect Grady. Eli stinks, he is definitely one of my least favorite characters of the series and I really wanted to give him a piece of my mind. But regardless this is a great story about the love of a couple and the love of best friends and who you can really depend on in a time of need. I highly recommend reading this book, you will fall in love with Rome and Grady just like I did!
April 7, 2020
I am absolutely loving this series featuring the Caldwell Brothers. This one in the series is featuring Grady. Grady has two best friends...one he's been in love with and the other one he can depend on. unfortunately the one he is in love with keeps letting him down and now is getting married to another guy. The dependable one, Rome comes to his rescue and helps Grady save face by being in a fake relationship. Rome has been hiding his feelings for Grady for along time and now he sees this as an opportunity to show Grady how much he really cares about him. While this fake relationship is playing out, Grady is coming to realize that Rome is the real deal and what he felt for Eli is incomparable what he is feeling for Rome. Not everything is perfect...of course a little angst and drama got to be thrown in there to make the story a page turner. This little misunderstanding puts a hold on their future but with a some help from the Caldwell clan everything becomes wonderful and the guys have a bright future ahead of them. I really enjoyed this book and cant wait to read Adrian's story.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 7, 2020
This book takes place right after the last book ended. Eli telling Grady that he's getting married. And it just so happens to be Grady's birthday.
It has been awhile since a book has made me angry at a character. I think maybe it's because this book is true to life and brought up emotions in myself that I thought were long forgotten.
This isn't a love triangle but more like a tug of war with Grady in the middle. There were times I wanted to just put this book down, but I knew I couldn't. I needed to see it through to the end and I'm glad I did. Sometimes we see people as we want them to be, they can do no wrong and we'd do anything to keep them happy and not mad at us. This was how it was for Grady when it came to Eli, until Rome stepped in and help show him the light about Eli. Grady and Rome are so good for each other. I loved watching Rome be brave when it came to Grady. I cried happy tears at the end for them.
I highly recommend this book and I can't wait for the next one.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
It has been awhile since a book has made me angry at a character. I think maybe it's because this book is true to life and brought up emotions in myself that I thought were long forgotten.
This isn't a love triangle but more like a tug of war with Grady in the middle. There were times I wanted to just put this book down, but I knew I couldn't. I needed to see it through to the end and I'm glad I did. Sometimes we see people as we want them to be, they can do no wrong and we'd do anything to keep them happy and not mad at us. This was how it was for Grady when it came to Eli, until Rome stepped in and help show him the light about Eli. Grady and Rome are so good for each other. I loved watching Rome be brave when it came to Grady. I cried happy tears at the end for them.
I highly recommend this book and I can't wait for the next one.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 110 reviews