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Southern Boys #3

Desire & Denial

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Jon has yearned for a man’s touch for as long as he can remember.
Now two younger men are about to bring his fantasies to life.

Jon Walters is a mess.
He’s thirty-eight. His roommates are eighteen and twenty. It’s never gonna work. But Lord, he wants it to.

He’s spent years hiding his sexuality. Denying his desires. Guys don’t come out at my age - do they? How does he tell Del, his brother? That’s a conversation Jon is dreading. Del is the only family Jon has left, and he’s going to be hurt. Angry.

And then there’s Chaz and Kendis. Wasn’t falling for one guy enough of a challenge? I had to fall for both of them? And what the hell do they see in me? Because they’re not making it easy for him to say no.

Whichever way he looks at it, Jon’s life just went way beyond It’s Complicated

* first time
* Out-For-You
* age gap
* Menage

328 pages, Kindle Edition

First published June 2, 2020

95 people are currently reading
209 people want to read

About the author

K.C. Wells

172 books1,858 followers
K.C. Wells lives on an island off the south coast of the UK, surrounded by natural beauty. She writes about men who love men, and can’t even contemplate a life that doesn’t include writing.
The rainbow rose tattoo on her back with the words 'Love is Love' and 'Love Wins' is her way of hoisting a flag. She plans to be writing about men in love - be it sweet and slow, hot or kinky - for a long while to come.

If you want to follow her exploits, you can sign up for her monthly newsletter: http://eepurl.com/cNKHlT

You can stalk – er, find – her in the following places:

E-mail: k.c.wells@btinternet.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KCWellsWorld
Twitter: @K_C_Wells
Website: https://www.kcwellswrites.com
Instagram: www.instagram.com/k.c.wells
BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/k-c-w...


And for those who like things a little hotter?
There's KC's alter ego, Tantalus, who writes gay erotica.

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5 stars
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 64 reviews
Profile Image for Cadiva.
3,995 reviews437 followers
June 7, 2020
Oh I do love this series from K.C.

With the third book she gives us Del's brother Jon and it's a super sweet and seriously sexy menage.

Jon's been a bit of an enigma in the series so far and this book explains why. His shyness has made him feel less than his brother and somewhat of a failure.

And, when it eventually comes out why he's never had a relationship before, it almost broke my heart.

Luckily for Jon, he has two younger men who aren't afraid to go after what they want and I loved how open and honest Chaz and Kendis were.

Everything about this relationship just worked for me, it felt organic, like a smooth journey into being a throuple.

While this is the last full length story, I believe there will be short stories catching up with all three couples and I can't wait for more!
Profile Image for Zane Kage.
3,368 reviews31 followers
June 14, 2020
4.5 stars

I do love a good M/M/M story, and I've read quite a few, and K.C. Wells took a bit of a different route on this one - this is, I'll say, not your usual triad. But it was believable, real, and honest. In a world full of people who know exactly what they want, there are always a few that struggle to find their way. And here, those are John, Kendis, and Chaz. I fell in like and then in love with them, rooted for them the whole way.

In so many ways they were the same, yet different, and all three pulled at my heartstrings. I ached for them to find their path to each other, for them to come into their own, and to find their way together, though it seemed Kendis and Chaz had a better handle on that than John. I fell hardest for Chaz, who was sweet, lovable and so unexpectedly funny (so many giggles).

There were some rough/hard/emotional moments that were handled well, though without 100% resolution (as happens in life). The book ends with a wide-open future and much for them to learn and room to grow, but leaving no doubt as to their love and happiness.

I love the Southern Boys series, love the MCs and the stories, and though it has the same overall feel (it's set in the same world), this is hands down, my favorite book in this series. Such sexy fun, a great balance of humor, romance, and everyday life injected, I read this in one sitting and was really sad to reach the end. I truly hope there is more to this series, as I’ve fallen in love with this world.
Profile Image for Carol.
3,765 reviews137 followers
May 10, 2024
Possible Triggers: Racism & Homophobia
All three of the books in this series thus far have had several themes in common...bigotry, racism, coming out, family drama...but also love and romance. I've read K.C. Wells for a long, long time and I own most of her books in one form or another. I have to say that even though I have liked them all.... sometimes for different reasons and on different levels...I have NEVER been disappointed. I listened to the first book in this series on audio and John Solo did his usual excellent job. The first book [Truth & Betrayal] could easily stand alone, but if you read all three books, I recommend reading them in order as the characters from [Pride & Protection] book 2. and [Desire & Denial], book 3, overlap.

I really liked Del in the second novel, but his brother Jon was somewhat of a mystery. He was closed off and a bit grumpy. Jon’s story is quite moving, and we get all his details in this book, [Desire & Denial]. Jon’s partners Chaz and Kendis have good stories also, and the way these three men help and love one another is very well done. There’s overwhelming chemistry between each as a pair, and all three together.

Jon had no idea how falling in love with these two young men would change his life. They also brought some big changes to this small Tennessee town. I found this part of the story a bit questionable. I was born and raised in the south, and I can tell you that their dynamic would not then, nor even now in some places, be that easily overlooked or accepted. Times are changing but they aren't there yet...especially in the "deep south" where this novel was set. However, I agree that the messages that this trilogy includes about tolerance and acceptance are poignant, timeless, and necessary and simply can’t be repeated often enough.

Still there will be some that are going to be offended, angry and upset about the topics portrayed in this book.... enough so that I went back and included possible triggers. I even considered not reviewing it at all...but this author's work deserves to be recognized and everyone can decide to read or not to read.
Profile Image for Meep.
2,170 reviews229 followers
October 12, 2021
the writing was ok, there was slightly less weird snickering than in the previous books here sometimes there was a chuckle, at least one guffaw and several smirks.

Jon is sweet, he's got a lot of trauma and self doubt bottled up but is so protective and kind. He's 38, although he had his bike on his 30th birthday which was 18yrs ago! And he looks a decade older than the bad maths in the cover pic!

The other two are so young. 18 and 20 years. I liked them getting together and experiencing things but then they turned their attentions on Jon. They went from gentle exploring to sudden porn stars, Chaz suddenly spending all his time watching porn. They go from two young men who have been through a lot to puppy eager kids. They made the move on Jon, and he's far from preditory, but it felt wrong to me. More living out fantasies than relationship. As the book progressed they, especially Chaz read ever younger.

Kendis's momma went from super protective to moving county without seeing where her son was going to live, if she met Jon or Chaz in person it was offpage.

Big brother Del gives words of wisdom and it shone a spotlight on the relationship, made it seem impulsive. The phone call was squirmy which might be my own hangups but seemed disrespecting to Jon's boundaries.

On the whole I'd have liked to read Jon meet someone supportive, and the two kids get together under Jon's care, rather than the three get together.

The teddy bear scene just weirded me out.
Profile Image for Kaje Harper.
Author 91 books2,728 followers
June 10, 2020
This story manages a lovely contrast and balance between the main characters - Chaz at 18 the one most sure of himself, the one willing to leap and drag the others with him. Kendis is slightly more mature, quieter, more empathic, shadowed by the low-key but pervasive racism he and his family have faced in that town. And Jon, a man whose past experience led him to shut down and hide a big part of himself for decades, is protective and yet shy and very uncertain of his own worth.

I liked what all three men brought into the relationship and the development felt believably organic. I did wish there was more fumbling and difficulty with the sex - none of them had experience and Chaz was getting his ideas from porn. I would've expected that to result in false starts, miscommunications and times when things just didn't work out. The uncomplicated ease and satisfaction in the sex scenes was the one thing that dented the realism of this triad finding their way forward together.

Jon's relationship with his brother Del is another plus to the story - this could easily be read as a stand-alone, but reading at least the second book in the series will give you more background on those characters.
Profile Image for Trio.
3,611 reviews206 followers
October 10, 2021
K.C. Wells is offering her The Southern Boys Trilogy free Monday October 11, 12:00 AM PDT - Tuesday October 12, 11:59 PM PDT

books2read.com/SouthernBoysTrilogy

While each of the books in K.C. Wells’ Southern Boys series has a different flavor, they’ve got several themes in common. Ms. Wells deals with bigotry and racism, coming out, family drama, and (of course) love and romance. Not sure if it goes without saying, so I’m just going to say it: K.C. Wells writes some of the all-time hottest erotica on the planet! And with the whole series performed in audio by the marvelous John Solo, you are in for a treat!

The first book Truth & Betrayal stands alone, but I recommend reading the three books in order as the characters from Pride & Protection and Desire & Denial overlap.

Okay, so I really liked Del in the second novel, but his younger brother Jon was a mystery. He seemed closed off and a bit of a grump. Turns out Jon’s story is quite moving, and we get all the details in Desire & Denial.

Jon’s partners Chaz and Kendis have good stories too, and the way these three men heal each other is well done. There’s great chemistry between each pair, and when all three come together, oh yes, it’s smokin’ hot. Jon had no idea how taking up with these young guys would change his life!

And speaking about changes, I really like thinking about the changes this diverse group of characters brings to the small Tennessee town. The messages K.C. Wells includes about tolerance and acceptance are poignant and timeless, and simply can’t be repeated often enough.

thank you to the author for the audiobook copy of Desire & Denial, all opinions are my own
Profile Image for Bronwyn.
1,464 reviews37 followers
October 22, 2021
I can’t seem to get past 3 stars for the books in this series. Not that this had any bearing on my rating, but I’m not very fond of the cover. Jon looks much older than he is in the book. He is Del’s younger brother and the picture of Del on the cover of book 2 looks much younger than Jon on this cover. (I have no idea if that sentence makes sense. LOL)

In this book we eventually get a triad relationship between Chaz (18), Kendis (20), and Jon (38). Jon has had some past trauma that prevents him from coming out as a gay man. Even his brother doesn’t know. Chaz and Kendis are both out and start a relationship together. They’re both hot for Jon and things…happen. Eventually.

I liked they way Kendis and Chaz drew Jon out of his shell. Jon is extremely shy but has a very big heart. It just felt like once it happened and they all came together, all of a sudden the book was over. It left me wanting to know more.

Details didn’t line up with the previous book. In book 2 it was Monday, December 10, in this book it was Monday, December 11. I get it that many people probably would never pick up on this, but I tend to notice when details don’t line up. Much like the ages of the characters from book to book that didn’t line up. That stuff bothers me.

While this was an enjoyable story, I would have liked to see more relationship development between the three guys. Everything happened within the confines of Jon’s house. There wasn’t a lot of outside interaction or conflict.
Profile Image for Anabela.M..
959 reviews15 followers
June 4, 2020
* beware, this review contains spoilers



4.5 Stars

Fact about the main characters in this story: Chaz's 18 years of age + Kendis's 20 = Jon's 38 years. That would be incredible per se, but the mindblowing thing? ALL three were virgins. I gotta say, I don't think I ever encountered this particular situation in any book I've read before.

You find it hard to believe that Jon got to 38 and still be inexperienced? Honestly, I did too. But, if you'll pick this book you'll understand the reasons for his peculiar predicament. Getting to know about his past experiences made me wanna jump into the book and hug him... if it weren't for the fact that he was already surrounded on all sides by Chaz and Kendis lol.

I don't think the author planned this book as a comedy, but I spent a lot of the time reading it snickering, if not outright laughing. Chaz and Kendis were acting like two overexcited puppies, thrilled about all new sensual experiences. They seemed intended to act on each and every one of their sexual fantasies... with incredibly steamy results. But the most entertaining part of the book? Watching the two young 'uns corrupt Jon. Yes, you got that right! Chaz and Kendis were the instigators and pursuers. After they talked between themselves and decided they both wanted Jon, there were no holds barred from seducing him, and the poor guy never stood a chance resisting them. Not that he put too much of a fight, of course, when they offered precisely what he's always dreamed of. A double serving of it, too 😉

Sexual charge aside, because they had that more than covered, regarding their emotional connection, I think the ending left it slightly still in the making. I mean, it did build up enough during the story and it was there, more than obvious that Jon, Chaz and Kendis clicked amazingly together and cared deeply about each other. But, the author made it more believable by leaving space for growth and adjustments in the future, for them to work their way towards the perfect blending of personalities and a steadfast relationship.

The three virgins didn't convince you to read Desire & Denial? Then maybe some shameless flirting would entice you, or the possibility of a sweet romance. Just don't miss out on this great book, I promise you'll love it.
Profile Image for Barb ~rede-2-read~.
3,749 reviews113 followers
June 13, 2020
I liked this story but there were multiple points of WTF moments and though the author did a great job making Jon a sweet ol' bear, his inability to share his situation with anyone, including his brother, was a stretch.

I liked both young boys characters, like the three bears, they were just right (for their age). But and this is a big but, I just couldn't picture the men on the cover matched to the men in the story. Kendis, yes, the character looks just as I'd expect, and Chaz could be like the young man in the lower left, but the placement on the page makes him look set apart from the others and a little too thin, young, and effeminate for the character. Jon is supposed to be in his late thirties and is the least dominant person you'd ever want to meet in the pages of a book. But Jon on the cover looks at least 50 to me and dominates the shot as if he's a big ol' bear Dom. And that's far from the plot.

So all in all, I liked the story but I believe I'd have enjoyed it more if those men on the cover weren't so imprinted on my mind. Sometimes my own imagination suits me fine.
Profile Image for Sunne.
Author 4 books24 followers
June 11, 2020
Okay, I never thought I was going to say that about a K.C. Wells book but this one was soooo stinkin cute, seriously.
She takes three very different character with very different backgrounds and creates an organic get together to a trouple. Very well done. And also extra points for taking a different route than usual in these constallations.
I had so much fun reading how Chaz (the youngest guy in the whole bunch) actually is the driving force. Kendis is the sensitive opposite pole. And Jon, sweet Jon, is so not the Daddy Bear you expect. The only small point of criticism would be how super easy and super great all the sex between the three of them works immediately...considering certain circumstances I don't want to give away. But that didn't diminish the enjoyment I got out of reading about those three coming together. Very well done. Also nice to see how Jon and Del finally had a talk.

So - I think it's K.C.'s cutest book ever - yep, my opinion.
472 reviews17 followers
June 16, 2020
It's more like a 2.5 stars for me but I'm willing to be generous here. The characters were cute and there were a couple of good jokes and hot scenes, but the pace of the plot was really slow and the relationship dynamic pretty awkward. Overall, pretty standard menage romance.
Profile Image for Amy Dufera - Amy's MM Romance Reviews.
2,698 reviews138 followers
June 8, 2020
Desire & Denial, the third book in the Southern Boys series is a great menage romance by KC Wells. Having not read the previous books in the Southern Boys series, I struggled a little bit at the beginning. But, it quickly became easy to catch up.

This book checked all my boxes. It's a fun and flirty romance, full of hesitation, seduction, and some yummy first times. Chaz and Kendis are both inexperienced gays. The older Jon is someone everybody thinks is straight, but he has a secret.

I seriously love this book. It's a story of ever-growing feelings between three men. The slow dance between the men, which includes seduction is a lot of fun. The storyline is riveting, as well as compelling. The characters are all loveable. The conflict is realistic, and never forced.

Their story includes racism as well, as Kendis is black and experienced with being judged for the color of his skin. I definitely appreciate his mother and her contribution to the story.

The emotions are all over the place with this tale, with sad moments, tender moments, and beautiful moments. As well, there are plenty of sweet moments, including Jon's faith in Kendis, as he steps up to help him from the start. Good god, Jon endeared himself to me from that moment on. As for Jon's past, it's well illustrated why he's in the closet. I was almost tears reading his backstory.

Something I found exciting is that this is a menage romance with all three men exploring first times. This is not typical of a romance, and it upped the fun.

Desire & Denial is a nice mix of age gap, boss/employee, roommates, and more. There is something for everyone in this book, including an 18th birthday, a jock strap, and some hot dreaming. Having not read the first two books in this KC Wells series, I am excited to go back and read them.
Profile Image for Xanthe.
2,528 reviews46 followers
June 6, 2020
Such a wonderful addition to the Southern Boys series, KC Wells brings us yet more men so deserving of love, care and a HEA.
Chaz and Kendis are so sweet and innocent, both in their first relationship and sharing their all of their firsts together. Jon has a secret and he's been struggling for so many years alone. Seeing his brother, Del, so happy with his partner is tough for Jon and makes him think about what he wants from life, especially with his attraction to both Chaz and Kendis.
I really love how time is taken for the characters to get to know each other and build/develop their relationships, not rushing into anything. Though the physical aspect, once started, gathers pace and heat pretty damn fast. It's definitely helped by Chaz who seemingly has sex on the brain all the live long day!
The possibility of the three men together is actually quite a ways into the book as it's first Chaz and Kendis together before a secret desire is shared and Jon becomes a part of their relationship. Jon's reluctance is understandable as his past has greatly affected him and his reasons for staying in the closet. His hesitancy is balanced by Chaz and Kendis's overwhelming compassion and patience. I was surprised by how quickly the three men, once in a physical relationship, went onto more with how fearful Jon was to begin with. The three men truly balance each other out with Chaz being outgoing and confident, Kendis being thoughtful and levelheaded whilst Jon is an over thinker and is surprisingly shy.
I love the characters and the friendship and romantic relationship that develops between them all. This can be read as a stand alone but I would recommend reading book two to get Chaz's history along with how the brother's came to open their shop, Rainbow Racers in LaFollette. Definitely another recommended KC Wells book for me.
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review.
998 reviews36 followers
June 8, 2020
Jon has hidden his sexuality away all his life. When the latest tension threaten to bring him down a saving grace comes from a place he never thought to look. When Jon helps to save Chaz all the hiding begins to take his toll and when Kendis enters the picture Jon moves closer to his breaking point. Will the two young men be just what Jon needs to find peace or will he find himself losing everything?

Jon’s story is a beautiful read about finding yourself and letting love in. Jon has always watched his brother find his way with confidence, but Jon does not have what Del does and he has turned everything inward. Now his emotions are brought to the forefront and he must make some hard choices and accept the help that is offered. Chaz and Kendis are good men they have gone through so much in their lives already and have survived. They see a kindred soul in Jon and are ready to fight for him. I enjoyed watching the two find their own way and band together to get what they want. Each of these three men have their own demons to fight and together they learn to lean on each other for support. I enjoyed seeing their relationship evolve into something so deep and strong. The three are good together and the love that they have shines throughout their story. I was quickly pulled into the story as each man endeared themselves and fought for their heart. The author does a wonderful job of bringing you into this world and giving your heart a strong pull as these men find their way to love.
1,034 reviews20 followers
June 3, 2020
I love this series, so I was overjoyed when I found out about this newest addition! Especially once I read it was about Jon … and Chaz … and Kendis. Didn’t see that coming in the previous books! Talk about a lovely surprise. There’s something to be said for a shy guy, and an adorable, shy bear like Jon finding love not once but twice? Well, that turned out to be a perfect recipe for a heartwarming romance, filled with sweet, funny, and moving moments, and some naughty ones too, of course ;-) I was also incredibly pleased to see more of Chaz and Kendis, who both more than deserve a chance at love and happiness.
This is a beautifully crafted love story and the author takes her time to let all the connections build between the three main characters, so definitely more on the slow-burn side. I liked how three-dimensional all three of them were, their personalities and character growth very well-written throughout the book. Romance and rose-colored glasses are all very nice, but realism and authenticity also need their moment in this story, which I found added depth to the bond between Jon, Kendis and Chaz.
I’d have liked to have seen more of them as they actually make the relationship work once the honeymoon phase is over, but luckily the author added an epilogue so we do get a glimpse of their future. Even though I still would like some more… Please?
I also really loved the scenes with Del and Taylor, and the tiny sneak peek at Jake and Liam. I would definitely not say no to more stories where we can catch up with all of them.
779 reviews6 followers
June 5, 2020
Jon's been hiding secrets for years from his brother and everyone else that knows him, but he finds himself in a tough situation when his roommate Chaz starts showing interest in him. It only gets worse when Chaz starts dating Kendis and they all get to know each other better.

I wasn't surprised by the lack of confidence that Jon seemed to have, but I was happy that Kendis and Chaz were able to break through his walls and let him see that he could be himself and have love as well. I really felt for Jon when he explained his past as well as when he really clears the air with Del, his brother. I loved that Chaz and Kendis were able to talk about Jon and make a decision to pursue him together and they really went full throttle to get Jon. I loved that they talked about being honest with each other and working out how they wanted their relationship to go. When these three finally get together, it's smoking hot.

I enjoyed reading about Jon and his boys. I was really curious about Jon after reading Pride & Protection, the second book in this series, which centered on Del, Jon's brother. I don't think you need to read that one to enjoy Desire & Denial; however, it would help explain how Jon, Chaz, and Kendis know each other.

*I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.*
47 reviews1 follower
June 6, 2020
I love this series and Kc has added yet another amazing story of discovery with Jon,Chaz and Kendis. After Chaz was beaten and thrown out of his home for being gay Jon takes him. Jon after a bad experience when he was young is deep in the closet. Kendis who is a young black gay man in a southern town where racism and bigotry are well and truly entrenched in this town. Kendis goes to the bike shop in hopes of getting a job as a mechanic which is where this intriguing,beautiful story starts. What I love about this story is the two younger ones know what they want and they set out to get it. Jon does not stand a chance of staying in his comfortable closet with these two. It really is a fantastic story and I highly recommend reading this one as well as the other two books in the series.
Profile Image for Rachel .
2,250 reviews1 follower
June 7, 2020
Great add to the series. Jon, Chaz and Kendis are fantastic. I haven't read the others in the series but was able to enjoy this one on it's own; I want to go back and read the first two now though! These 3 men together just works, each bringing something new to the table and deal with their struggles together. Great mix of sweet, sexy and kinky! I enjoyed the slowness of this and it fit the characters well and with each chapter you fall for them all even more. Great side characters too weaved in and I can't wait for the next. I voluntarily reviewed an 'Advance Author’s Copy' of this book.
Profile Image for Lesley.
350 reviews5 followers
June 3, 2020
This is a mmm interracial love story.
I only only mention it's interracial because the race of one of the characters is important to the story and I write this review as the #BlackLivesMatter Protests are occurring across the USA. This story gives hope , it shows people are people no matter their skin colour and to quote Del's sign Love is Love.I
This book continues on nicely from Pride and Protection. Whilst you could read this as a standalone I think it will make more sense if you understand Del and Jon a bit more.
The characters are developed nicely and you get to care about them . Oh and P.S. There are some smoking hot scenes in here.
Profile Image for Stephanie.
1,957 reviews16 followers
June 6, 2020
OMG another absolutely amazing story by KC Wells! I just love Jon, Chaz Nd Kendis's together. I just can't enough of the slow burn between these three. It just made the story so enjoyable as I see how they grow their relationship. I have been hoping that might to get Jon's story and I am definitely not disappointed. I just love this story so much!
Profile Image for Kashonna Shaw.
493 reviews4 followers
June 8, 2020
Perfect ending

This was a great send off. I've been dying to read the next chapter in this series and it didn't disappoint.
328 reviews5 followers
June 3, 2020
A true southern depiction of love with a twist...mmm, May-December, first time(s) and interracial ...need I go on?

I have to say, I’m partial to this series and these guys but it may just be my favorite book of the three. We’ve watched Jon nurture and love from afar so it was his time!

But wrangling not one but two...yes...I’m gonna say it...TWINKS...all I can say is Jon is the man!

Highly recommended.
1,125 reviews1 follower
June 8, 2020
I adored this series. Was a great way to end it. These 3 guys compliment each other beautifully.
Profile Image for Jeanine Beaulieu St Pierre.
1,208 reviews2 followers
June 3, 2020
Triad

I love a good romance but when you add 3 virgins in a mix and two close to the same age and one in close to 40 ‘s we’ll love for everyone,,,,,some have good experiences there first time and some have a trauma involved so it is different,These three make it work between them ,the author did a wonderful job writing this book
Profile Image for Laina Gruver.
1,255 reviews59 followers
June 22, 2020
4.25-4.5 stars

Another fabulous edition to the Southern Boys series!
There are so many wonderful things happening in this book.

Multi-racial
Age gap
‘Out for you’
Ménage
2 twinks one bear
Virgins
HFN

Sooo well written! I just absolutely love this series!

*****
POV... third person

Standalone or series... book 3 in series CAN be read as standalone

Hangover... slight

Recommend... Yes

Reread.... yes

****
Jon/bear
Chaz/twink
Kendis/twink
Profile Image for Becca.
3,213 reviews47 followers
June 7, 2020
Man what a story!! When I read book 2 and met Kendis and Chaz, I really wanted them together. But I wanted to know more about Jon too. He's always so quiet about himself and in general. He's the sweetest man, always thinking of others and always willing to lend a hand. But my heart always broke for him, because you could tell he felt so below his brother. Like he would never measure up to his big brother. Like he was never good enough. And when I started reading this story and really seeing his side to things, my heart ached for him. Because no one really knew anything. He felt he had to hide himself for so long and I now know why. And it broke me even further. But this is where I think I love Chaz and Kendis even more. For being so young, these boys aren't stupid. They have had to go through some things in their lives that have shaped them into good young men. And while Chaz is a good man, he still think with his little head a bit much, so he doesn't often catch things that need to be seen. And that's not a fault either, because he's also that jumps in with both feet and knows what he wants. And has no problems going to get it. But Kendis, because of how he's had to grow up, has had to reflect and watch things carefully. Which has been a blessing and a curse for Jon. Because Jon can't hide a thing from him. And I'm actually glad for that. Because it finally got Jon to where he needed to be. He finally go to unload his burdens a little at a time and finally be free with his brother and these two men. He finally got what he wanted most out of life. And because of Kendis, he got balance he needed when his life was being upended.
They are perfect for each other. Honestly. Kendis is the balance, Jon has the age and a bit of wisdom, and Chaz has no fear. They give each other something they all need. They support each other and are learning things and how they need to be. And I know for Jon it was hard because he had to come out of the honeymoon phase for a bit and really reflect on something Del told him, but because of it, it made everything more secure and truly what it needed to be in order to survive.
I was so happy for Chaz and Kendis, but even happier when Jon finally got to have his dreams and be who he was meant to be all along.
It's a funny story in a lot of ways, but it's a very serious one as well. Because there are issues at stake that could hurt more than help. But because they talked, they support and have support and things are changing. Sometimes it takes a while, but little by little, one step at a time, we can make change. And these guys are making waves.
I love this story so much and am so happy that it turned out the way it did.
Profile Image for ButtonsMom2003.
3,771 reviews41 followers
December 28, 2020
I love this series so much!

Desire & Denial is the third book in the Southern Boys series. While it can be read as a standalone, you will better understand the characters if you read book two first. The whole series is so good that I really recommend reading all three books in order for best enjoyment.

Jon is the older man in this MMM story and he is deep in the closet; his older gay brother doesn't even know that Jon is also gay. Jon, 38, took Chaz, 18, into his home after he was beaten and thrown out of his house for being gay. They also work together at the bike shop that Jon co-owns with his brother Del.

Chaz has been flirting with Jon, which drives Jon crazy but Chaz doesn't know that. Chaz has been crushing on Jon but he knows nothing will ever come of it because Jon is straight. When Kendis, 20, comes to the bike shop hoping to get some advice from Del about looking for work, Jon becomes determined to help him find work.

If that sounds complicated, it is for a bit. Chaz and Kendis, being of a similar age, form a friendship that quickly turns into more. At first they don't tell each other that they find Jon attractive. They eventually suspect that Jon isn't a straight as they both thought and kind of set a trap for him and then things really take off.

This is one hot story with two very horny young virgins and one older virgin who gets lured into their web and never wants to get out. I think the chemistry between Jon, Chaz and Kendis is off the charts. Jon has a lot to think about because he's been keeping secrets and he knows that coming out of the closet won't be easy – especially to his brother whom he should have told a long time ago.

Chaz, Kendis and Jon get a HFN but it's one that left me feeling confident that their relationship will last. I'm really sorry to see this series come to an end but K.C. Wells promises that we haven't heard the last of the characters in these stories and I'm looking forward to whatever else she writes for them.

A copy of this book was provided to me but my review was voluntary and not influenced by the author.

***Reviewed for Xtreme-Delusions dot com***
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