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Diamond Dreams #1
Catching Kalen
The call never came.
So, I did what any major league hopeful reject would do: I went to the bar to escape my reality.
When I locked gazes with a pair of gorgeous blue eyes, I knew the night was going to be anything but normal.
Especially since I’d never been with a man.
One night of passion left me questioning everything. It was supposed to be a random hookup but when I walked into my summer school course there he was, standing at the front of the room.
My professor.
Will Monroe catch me, or will he strike out?
Catching Kalen is a contemporary standalone full-length gay romance. Contains adult situations and language. There are brief scenes and references to parental/spousal physical and emotional abuse.
So, I did what any major league hopeful reject would do: I went to the bar to escape my reality.
When I locked gazes with a pair of gorgeous blue eyes, I knew the night was going to be anything but normal.
Especially since I’d never been with a man.
One night of passion left me questioning everything. It was supposed to be a random hookup but when I walked into my summer school course there he was, standing at the front of the room.
My professor.
Will Monroe catch me, or will he strike out?
Catching Kalen is a contemporary standalone full-length gay romance. Contains adult situations and language. There are brief scenes and references to parental/spousal physical and emotional abuse.
227 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 28, 2021
130 people are currently reading
1198 people want to read
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Maya Nicole
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June 8, 2021DNF at 14%
If you know me, you know I am not one to DNF a book, I always try finish a book, even if i’m hating it. But I have better things to do with my free time (like watching paint dry) than reading about two MC’s that get together because one is way too pushy and forces the other into a relationship.
This one is probably on me, I don’t like over the top drama, very pushy and forceful men, and when the one MC kinda feels forced into a relationship. But sadly all of this was present in this book. But hey, if you love DRAMA, than you’ll love this book.
This book is student and teacher, with a basebal player and his summer class teacher. Which should have been perfect for me because I love a good student and teacher book.
I appreciate consent in my books but I can do none consent if the book shows me that it’s toxic and not right. But this book was trying to sell me that one of the character not consenting and not wanting to be with the other and the other one chasing him down until he says yes was romantic and an ideal. Which it’s not. We call that sexual assault. I just cannot continue reading a book when it romanticizes being pushy and forcing yourself on someone that said no.
Brief summary
Kalen had a shit week and he’s at a bar with his baseball team, his team leaves and he stays to get drunk. Monroe buys him a drink and then comes unto him and they have sex.
Monroe came unto Kalen really strongly, which was disturbing to me because Kalen was pretty fucking drunk, but it didn’t stop Monroe from making a move on him. Do. Not. Make. Moves. On. Drunk. People. It’s. Not. Right. And they cannot consent because they are drunk. Also Monroe had no idea if Kalen was even into guys but Monroe kept saying how he had to have Kalen, which felt strange to me.
Here is a quote Monroe says when Kelan tells him no to having sex with him the first time they meet:
He was playing hard to get, was he? Maybe he'd never done this before, but it was painfully obvious he wanted to. He just needed a little more coaxing.
Coaxing someone into having sex with you is sexual assault, basically this entire sentence is just sexual assault, thats all I have to say on the matter.
The first sex scene was pretty hot but I could not enjoy it because I was too busy remembering that Kelan was drunk and was in no position to consent to having sex and how he didn’t seem to want to be having sex.
Their entire relationship felt so predatory to me. Kelan left Monroe after they had sex, making it clear that he didn’t want a repeat. But Monroe chases him down and basically forces Kelan into sleeping with him again. Kelan kept telling him how he can’t be with him (which means no, by the way) and Monroe just kept trying to convince him that they’re meant to be. If someone really wanted you, you shouldn’t have to convince them to sleep with you.
Here is a quote Monroe says about Kelan tells him no to a date:
We'll see about that. Kalen Bishop was mine, but if I wanted a shot with him, I would have to do things his way. For now.
Also, when Monroe learns that Kelan is in his class, he tells Kelan to drop his class so that Monroe can fuck him.
All of this is just so predatory and not at all romantic.
Hopefully this book works for you more than it worked for me, but I need consent in my contemporary romance books and I already disliked Monroe so much that I knew I would never appreciate him. I could not stick around any longer.
I received an ARC of this book, and this is my honest review.
If you know me, you know I am not one to DNF a book, I always try finish a book, even if i’m hating it. But I have better things to do with my free time (like watching paint dry) than reading about two MC’s that get together because one is way too pushy and forces the other into a relationship.
This one is probably on me, I don’t like over the top drama, very pushy and forceful men, and when the one MC kinda feels forced into a relationship. But sadly all of this was present in this book. But hey, if you love DRAMA, than you’ll love this book.
This book is student and teacher, with a basebal player and his summer class teacher. Which should have been perfect for me because I love a good student and teacher book.
I appreciate consent in my books but I can do none consent if the book shows me that it’s toxic and not right. But this book was trying to sell me that one of the character not consenting and not wanting to be with the other and the other one chasing him down until he says yes was romantic and an ideal. Which it’s not. We call that sexual assault. I just cannot continue reading a book when it romanticizes being pushy and forcing yourself on someone that said no.
Brief summary
Kalen had a shit week and he’s at a bar with his baseball team, his team leaves and he stays to get drunk. Monroe buys him a drink and then comes unto him and they have sex.
Monroe came unto Kalen really strongly, which was disturbing to me because Kalen was pretty fucking drunk, but it didn’t stop Monroe from making a move on him. Do. Not. Make. Moves. On. Drunk. People. It’s. Not. Right. And they cannot consent because they are drunk. Also Monroe had no idea if Kalen was even into guys but Monroe kept saying how he had to have Kalen, which felt strange to me.
Here is a quote Monroe says when Kelan tells him no to having sex with him the first time they meet:
He was playing hard to get, was he? Maybe he'd never done this before, but it was painfully obvious he wanted to. He just needed a little more coaxing.
Coaxing someone into having sex with you is sexual assault, basically this entire sentence is just sexual assault, thats all I have to say on the matter.
The first sex scene was pretty hot but I could not enjoy it because I was too busy remembering that Kelan was drunk and was in no position to consent to having sex and how he didn’t seem to want to be having sex.
Their entire relationship felt so predatory to me. Kelan left Monroe after they had sex, making it clear that he didn’t want a repeat. But Monroe chases him down and basically forces Kelan into sleeping with him again. Kelan kept telling him how he can’t be with him (which means no, by the way) and Monroe just kept trying to convince him that they’re meant to be. If someone really wanted you, you shouldn’t have to convince them to sleep with you.
Here is a quote Monroe says about Kelan tells him no to a date:
We'll see about that. Kalen Bishop was mine, but if I wanted a shot with him, I would have to do things his way. For now.
Also, when Monroe learns that Kelan is in his class, he tells Kelan to drop his class so that Monroe can fuck him.
All of this is just so predatory and not at all romantic.
Hopefully this book works for you more than it worked for me, but I need consent in my contemporary romance books and I already disliked Monroe so much that I knew I would never appreciate him. I could not stick around any longer.
I received an ARC of this book, and this is my honest review.
July 1, 2021
Catching Kalen is the first book I have read from both authors and will not my last. Such a phenomenal book. Catching Kalen has several of my favorite tropes, MM, Professor/student, age gap and sports romance.
Kalen is the all-star baseball player for his college team. Upset because he was not drafted to MLB, he went out with his friends to a local bar. Depressed and tired of the meaningless hookups. He runs into Monroe and is instantly attracted to him. Confused by his attraction since he has never been attracted to a male before, he gives in to his desire. Only later to find out Monroe is his professor.
"I just, this... I've never been with a guy before. Shit, I didn't even realize this was something that I'd ever consider doing..."
Kalen is the all-star baseball player for his college team. Upset because he was not drafted to MLB, he went out with his friends to a local bar. Depressed and tired of the meaningless hookups. He runs into Monroe and is instantly attracted to him. Confused by his attraction since he has never been attracted to a male before, he gives in to his desire. Only later to find out Monroe is his professor.
"I just, this... I've never been with a guy before. Shit, I didn't even realize this was something that I'd ever consider doing..."
The heat and passion between these two are undeniable. It just oozes off the pages. The authors can’t write some steamy scenes. Kalen who is confused about his sexuality and afraid what will people think. Mason is openly gay , who normally doesn’t do relationships. However he wants this relationship and pursues Kalen. Their love affair, is beautiful, messy,intense and emotional.
"You said when you find something that makes your heart pound, to not let go. Well, I found it."
I sat and read this book in one sitting. Some parts I laughed so hard I was crying, Tom the turkey scene, hilarious. Not only was I laughing but I was also crying. Some parts I want to smack some sense Into both of them. Let’s not forget the rage towards one character. Then there is everyone’s fan favorite, Baker. He is such a great best friend. I can’t wait for his book.
June 28, 2021
"You said when you find something that makes your heart pound, to not let go. Well, I found it."
Loved this one from two new-to-me authors.
Some angst, bi-awakening, student/teacher (college based, so no underage), first times and general yumminess 🔥🔥🔥.
Highly recommended.
4.5 ✨✨✨✨
Loved this one from two new-to-me authors.
Some angst, bi-awakening, student/teacher (college based, so no underage), first times and general yumminess 🔥🔥🔥.
Highly recommended.
4.5 ✨✨✨✨
May 22, 2021
I absolutely loved this book!
I'm not usually one for M/M but this was just an amazing read.
Kalen and Monroe meet at a bar, Kalen not realising he likes guys until this moment. They end up back at Monroe's place. Neither knowing that they would be student and professor. Therefore they had an forbidden romance. They face many challenges throughout the book and its put me through so many emotions!
I loved the fact that it was written from both point of views.
Overall an amazingly hot read!
I'm not usually one for M/M but this was just an amazing read.
Kalen and Monroe meet at a bar, Kalen not realising he likes guys until this moment. They end up back at Monroe's place. Neither knowing that they would be student and professor. Therefore they had an forbidden romance. They face many challenges throughout the book and its put me through so many emotions!
I loved the fact that it was written from both point of views.
Overall an amazingly hot read!
May 28, 2021
A Highly enjoyable MM read, loved it!
I absolutely loved this book from the minute I opened it, even the dedication is heart felt and spoke volumes about the way the authors wrote this story.
I don't usually read MM and I have never read a sports romance so I don't have a comparison but to me this is just how all good romance books should be written, with so much love and full of heart.
Kalen is your typical college guy, his life revolves around baseball and his friends until he finds someone he never knew he needed, who brings a happiness and balance to his life he never expected and who makes everything worthwhile.
Monroe, I liked him so much he knew what he wanted from the moment he met Kalen and I loved how their relationship developed.
Of course nothing is one hundred percent plain sailing. There's always got to be a little drama in books but my gosh what they threw in here made my heart ache. I went through an array of emotions in this book, maybe shed a tear or two but ultimately it left me happy. I felt a lot of joy reading this.
Baker is my MVP in this book and I was so happy when I saw he was getting a book...I may have done a little jig!
Overall a lovely stand alone romance book that deals with important real life issues along the way.
I absolutely loved this book from the minute I opened it, even the dedication is heart felt and spoke volumes about the way the authors wrote this story.
I don't usually read MM and I have never read a sports romance so I don't have a comparison but to me this is just how all good romance books should be written, with so much love and full of heart.
Kalen is your typical college guy, his life revolves around baseball and his friends until he finds someone he never knew he needed, who brings a happiness and balance to his life he never expected and who makes everything worthwhile.
Monroe, I liked him so much he knew what he wanted from the moment he met Kalen and I loved how their relationship developed.
Of course nothing is one hundred percent plain sailing. There's always got to be a little drama in books but my gosh what they threw in here made my heart ache. I went through an array of emotions in this book, maybe shed a tear or two but ultimately it left me happy. I felt a lot of joy reading this.
Baker is my MVP in this book and I was so happy when I saw he was getting a book...I may have done a little jig!
Overall a lovely stand alone romance book that deals with important real life issues along the way.
June 12, 2021
"Love isn't just in the words you say but the actions you take."This was a sweet, spicy, teacher-student MM romance.
I really liked this one! It had the standard formula for most sport romances with the added tension of the taboo student/teacher relationship. Kalen is a college baseball catcher and has only been attracted to women.
My mind was at war with itself. I had never even thought about a man in a remotely intimate way.I would have liked to see this part move a bit slower, it was like one kiss and Kalen was on board. Monroe and Kalen were developed well overall, and the side characters were awesome. 10/10 for Baker and Nikki, we'd all be so lucky to have friends like them. Kalen's father was the typical "homophobe dad" so there was zero growth there.
"I won't lie to you and say that there won't be people who call you names or make you feel like a pile of dog shit. It happens and it hurts so deeply that it feels like your entire world has been smashed to pieces. But what hurts even more deeply is not being who you are or being with who you want to be with."The main issue I had was the academic probation/issue. It's highly unlikely that even a college in California would let a faculty member admit he had a sexual relationship with a student in his class and would get such a tiny slap on the wrist.
This is a fun, lighter romance with some heat and fun dirty talk.
Monrow as fuckin' packing. I mean, I'd felt it against me, but the beast was unleashed now, and fucking hell.
May 20, 2021
Catching Kalen is a sexy and sweet MM romance that will give you all the feels!
Kalen is an all-star college baseball player who falls for his professor, Monroe. Kalen and Monroe are explosive together and have an insane amount of chemistry, right from the start. 10% into the book and I was already fanning myself. Holy hotness!
In addition to tons of steam, Britt and Maya give us a really beautiful romance with characters that you can’t help rooting for. Throw in some drama, laughs, and an emotional ugly cry, and you have an absolute masterpiece that had me blowing off all of my responsibilities for the day so I could keep turning the pages!
I was thrilled to see that Baker, one of the side characters, will be getting his own book. I’m already in love with this world and these characters and can’t wait for more!
Kalen is an all-star college baseball player who falls for his professor, Monroe. Kalen and Monroe are explosive together and have an insane amount of chemistry, right from the start. 10% into the book and I was already fanning myself. Holy hotness!
In addition to tons of steam, Britt and Maya give us a really beautiful romance with characters that you can’t help rooting for. Throw in some drama, laughs, and an emotional ugly cry, and you have an absolute masterpiece that had me blowing off all of my responsibilities for the day so I could keep turning the pages!
I was thrilled to see that Baker, one of the side characters, will be getting his own book. I’m already in love with this world and these characters and can’t wait for more!
May 21, 2021
Catching Kalen was absolutely everything!!! The raw and real emotions that you feel while reading and watching Kalen question who he is and what is going on and then accepting it all was beautiful. The relationship building between these two characters was fantastic. Kalen’s inner monologue was a great addition to the story and being able to go through all his feeling and motions with him was a treat. This story touches on lots of issues that gay men and men in general go through. Having a young gay son and knowing what he has gone through coming out these authors did an amazing job in describing the issues. We see their struggles, their insecurities and most importantly there love for one another. Even though things happen that causes them both pain their love for one another never wavered. ***SWOON** Kalen and Monroe’s chemistry from the get go was off the charts HOT AF and let you begging for more all the while you rooting for them to WIN! This book was a non-stop page turner for me and I could not put it down until I was finished and then I already needed more… There were some fantastic secondary characters especially Baker…. I am seriously looking forward to Baker’s book!!! If you love MM Romance this baby right here will be your jam!!!! Throw in some sports and teacher tropes and you have one EPIC story!!!!
May 24, 2021
Um yes please! I absolutely loved Kalen and Monroe. This book gave me everything I wanted- steam, sweetness, angst and laughter. I knew going in that with Britt Andrews behind the writing it was going to be hot 🥵 and I was not disappointed! This is my first book by Maya Nicole and she has a new fan now!
It’s teacher/student- MM/ sports. I love how Kalen comes to terms with who he is and how supportive his friends are. Monroe is amazing the their chemistry is off the charts! And as much as I love some smexy times in my books, there was a great story with this and I was near tears at the end. I love when authors give me all the feels. The side characters are great and I’m so happy we will be getting a friend’s story next. I highly recommend and cannot wait to get the next book!
It’s teacher/student- MM/ sports. I love how Kalen comes to terms with who he is and how supportive his friends are. Monroe is amazing the their chemistry is off the charts! And as much as I love some smexy times in my books, there was a great story with this and I was near tears at the end. I love when authors give me all the feels. The side characters are great and I’m so happy we will be getting a friend’s story next. I highly recommend and cannot wait to get the next book!
May 24, 2021
I loved this book from the start. I was hooked with just the blurb. Catching Kalen is a hot, sexy M/M. So if that's not what you're looking for then keep scrolling. It doesn't start out with the steamy scenes, but trust me there's plenty to come.
Catching Kalen is a story about a young athletes (Kalen) journey to find his sexuality and he just so happens to do that with a sexy Stanger he met in a bar (Monroe). Turns out Monroe is more than just a stranger.
During their journey they meet some obstacles, like any couple, but these made me bawl like a baby! I should've know this was coming just from reading Britt Andrews other books.
I cant wait for the next installment of Maya and Britts newest series.
Catching Kalen is a story about a young athletes (Kalen) journey to find his sexuality and he just so happens to do that with a sexy Stanger he met in a bar (Monroe). Turns out Monroe is more than just a stranger.
During their journey they meet some obstacles, like any couple, but these made me bawl like a baby! I should've know this was coming just from reading Britt Andrews other books.
I cant wait for the next installment of Maya and Britts newest series.
May 22, 2021
Catching Kalen was better than I could have ever anticipated. When I first heard about it, I thought the blurb sounded very interesting, and I thought it would be good to try and venture out of my typical genre preference. I am so glad I did!
After reading almost all of Maya's other books, the relationships between the guys are always very well done and have good relationship building. Kalen and Monroe blew all of those out of the water. This co-write with Britt Andrews was so emotional and touching, while offering such an intense connection that it was impossible not to love them!
Kalen deals with the disappointment of not getting drafted to the Major Leagues, but as one door in life often closes, sometimes you find the window. It is not easy to go against the status quo, and it is beautifully portrayed in Kalen's struggles about finding himself.
"Our hearts were magnets; our love was a bond that couldn't be broken."
This was the first book I read by Britt Andrews, but I am dying to read her books, and look forward to more collaborations between these two fabulous authors!
After reading almost all of Maya's other books, the relationships between the guys are always very well done and have good relationship building. Kalen and Monroe blew all of those out of the water. This co-write with Britt Andrews was so emotional and touching, while offering such an intense connection that it was impossible not to love them!
Kalen deals with the disappointment of not getting drafted to the Major Leagues, but as one door in life often closes, sometimes you find the window. It is not easy to go against the status quo, and it is beautifully portrayed in Kalen's struggles about finding himself.
"Our hearts were magnets; our love was a bond that couldn't be broken."
This was the first book I read by Britt Andrews, but I am dying to read her books, and look forward to more collaborations between these two fabulous authors!
May 23, 2021
I Absolutely love Kalen and Monroes story!! I was hooked from the very first and once I started I couldn't put it down. I'm in awe of this book!!I recommend everyone should read this because it will give you all the feels!!
June 4, 2021
This is my first time reading a MM romance, and let me just say “give me more”. It was a nice little break from my normal reads, and was definitely what I didn’t know I needed, and then some. Especially since I typically don’t like sports romances. But let me just say that Maya and Britt knocked it out of the park.
I definitely took a tour of every emotion while reading this book, this story of Kalen and Monroe finding love, losing it, and gaining it back was certainly a rollercoaster I enjoyed greatly.
There was a lot of issues that gay men (and men in general) go through on a daily basis, and I believe that this book really hit the nail on the head with conveying these issues. Especially with accepting who you are as a person, but being comfortable with letting those around you know.
(I apologize if what I’m trying to say isn’t coming out right, I’m still trying to wrap my head around how wonderfully this book was written and words are escaping me)
I definitely took a tour of every emotion while reading this book, this story of Kalen and Monroe finding love, losing it, and gaining it back was certainly a rollercoaster I enjoyed greatly.
There was a lot of issues that gay men (and men in general) go through on a daily basis, and I believe that this book really hit the nail on the head with conveying these issues. Especially with accepting who you are as a person, but being comfortable with letting those around you know.
(I apologize if what I’m trying to say isn’t coming out right, I’m still trying to wrap my head around how wonderfully this book was written and words are escaping me)
May 20, 2021
Guys, it takes a lot for me to get super emotional reading a book, I felt like my little black heart exploded all over the place and my eyes were leaking... I had tears, actual tears! This book, its amazing, it's emotional, it's a story of finding your true self, it's everything. Everything I imagined and more.
Kalen is your typical college athlete, looking at the majors, and Monroe is a new professor at the university. Kalen being down on himself, meets Monroe, and starts to question everything.
I love their magnetism and I was rooting for them from page one. Let me tell you about the spice, this book is full of it and it is raw and emotional.
These two have created a masterpiece with Catching Kalen. I cannot wait to see what they do with future Diamond Dreams books. Great job! You guys are amazing!! 🖤🖤
Kalen is your typical college athlete, looking at the majors, and Monroe is a new professor at the university. Kalen being down on himself, meets Monroe, and starts to question everything.
I love their magnetism and I was rooting for them from page one. Let me tell you about the spice, this book is full of it and it is raw and emotional.
These two have created a masterpiece with Catching Kalen. I cannot wait to see what they do with future Diamond Dreams books. Great job! You guys are amazing!! 🖤🖤
May 29, 2021
DNF @58%
stereotypical, fast love without emotions and connection, and my biggest problem: it's NOT teacher/student romance at all!
The bi-awakening is ridiculous too, and the deep throat for the first time... yeah like in real life, no gag reflex, no freak out on giving head forthe first time. (And no prep at first time too...)
It's just unrealistic.
stereotypical, fast love without emotions and connection, and my biggest problem: it's NOT teacher/student romance at all!
The bi-awakening is ridiculous too, and the deep throat for the first time... yeah like in real life, no gag reflex, no freak out on giving head forthe first time. (And no prep at first time too...)
It's just unrealistic.
May 20, 2021
This was one of the best books I have ever read! My heart is ridiculously full and my smile is beaming. I laughed like a crazy person, I smiled like a love sick puppy, I cried like my heart had been broken, and I swooned hardcore. My emotions were everywhere and I wouldn’t have wanted it any other way.
The passion and chemistry between Kalen and Monroe was completely out of this world. But even more so, their love was absolutely raw, authentic and real to its core. The happiness they brought each other shown like a beacon in the darkest of storms. Like they knew that at the end of the day, no matter how difficult, the other would be standing right by their side.
This was such a beautiful story of acceptance, of embracing your full authentic self, and loving who you love no matter. As well as following your passions! Monroe and Kalen have completely captured my heart! Through love and laughs, true happiness was found.
Trust me when I say, this is a book everyone should read <3
The passion and chemistry between Kalen and Monroe was completely out of this world. But even more so, their love was absolutely raw, authentic and real to its core. The happiness they brought each other shown like a beacon in the darkest of storms. Like they knew that at the end of the day, no matter how difficult, the other would be standing right by their side.
This was such a beautiful story of acceptance, of embracing your full authentic self, and loving who you love no matter. As well as following your passions! Monroe and Kalen have completely captured my heart! Through love and laughs, true happiness was found.
Trust me when I say, this is a book everyone should read <3
May 23, 2021
Kalen and Monroe are 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Kalen is a college baseball player who ends up not getting drafted and now has to finish out his college career in hopes for next year, drowning his sorrows in a bar he meets delicious Monroe and they have a little fun 😉 Come to find out Monroe is a new to town college professor- Kalen's professor to be exact. Man oh man, the sparks flying between these two 🥵 Did I forget to mention it was Kalen's first time with a man 🤭
Their chemistry was off the charts, their love was absolutely breath taking, and the emotional turmoil that happens just breaks your heart and also have some rage.
I absolutely devoured this book and cannot wait to see the next book with one of the support characters from this book. Maya and Britt really knocked this one out of the park! (cue drum)
Kalen is a college baseball player who ends up not getting drafted and now has to finish out his college career in hopes for next year, drowning his sorrows in a bar he meets delicious Monroe and they have a little fun 😉 Come to find out Monroe is a new to town college professor- Kalen's professor to be exact. Man oh man, the sparks flying between these two 🥵 Did I forget to mention it was Kalen's first time with a man 🤭
Their chemistry was off the charts, their love was absolutely breath taking, and the emotional turmoil that happens just breaks your heart and also have some rage.
I absolutely devoured this book and cannot wait to see the next book with one of the support characters from this book. Maya and Britt really knocked this one out of the park! (cue drum)
May 24, 2021
Be still my heart.
Monroe Jackson was just a man in a bar. Kalen Bishop was looking to drown his sorrows after not getting the call to be drafted. After what was supposed to be a one night stand, Kalen walks into class on Monday to see the man in the bar, was actually his professor.
Their story took me through all my emotions, from laughing at their antics and teasing, to swooning at the romance, to tears and back again. Kalen and Monroe’s story was so emotionally gripping. The authors take you through a course of conflicting emotions and exploring ones sexuality. If MM is your jam, you’ll love this book. It was highly anticipated, and it DID NOT disappoint. The steamy scenes was 🔥. Round of applause to these two amazing authors.
Monroe Jackson was just a man in a bar. Kalen Bishop was looking to drown his sorrows after not getting the call to be drafted. After what was supposed to be a one night stand, Kalen walks into class on Monday to see the man in the bar, was actually his professor.
Their story took me through all my emotions, from laughing at their antics and teasing, to swooning at the romance, to tears and back again. Kalen and Monroe’s story was so emotionally gripping. The authors take you through a course of conflicting emotions and exploring ones sexuality. If MM is your jam, you’ll love this book. It was highly anticipated, and it DID NOT disappoint. The steamy scenes was 🔥. Round of applause to these two amazing authors.
June 1, 2021
This was bad , I mean it was just ridiculous. So I had been waiting for this book for a long time, the blurb had me hooked, I mean sport romance , GFY/Bi awakening and student/teacher romance ??? It was like you would have rolled all my favorite tropes into one single book. However the execution of the book did not live up to the hype to say the least.
Everything was melodramatic , completely ridiculous from the way the hook the first time,to the out of the blue relationship. If you are like me and love the slow burn of a bi awakening, then stay clear of this book , it was insta lust , insta love to the 100th degree.
I hadn’t read this author before , but I’ll think I’ll stay clear from her future publications.
Everything was melodramatic , completely ridiculous from the way the hook the first time,to the out of the blue relationship. If you are like me and love the slow burn of a bi awakening, then stay clear of this book , it was insta lust , insta love to the 100th degree.
I hadn’t read this author before , but I’ll think I’ll stay clear from her future publications.
May 21, 2021
Be still my baseball loving heart! If you don’t fall in love with these characters from the beginning you might be broken because they have to be two of the most lovable guys I have ever read. I love stories that make you feel and this story got me! Seriously the love, the heat, the angst, the turmoil was all done perfectly! And that weird giggle inducing thing Britt has going on pops up in the form of turkeys in this co-written novel. I freaking love this book!
May 23, 2021
Can Kalen and Monroe be my book boyfriends please. I be honest I wasn't too sure about this book but I gave it a shot and was not dissapointed, the only thing I am dissapointed by is there isn't a book 2. I loved this story from the very first page. Karen and Monroe was made for each other.
May 24, 2021
This was amazing, the dynamic was great to read and the storyline just flowed beautifully. I can't wait to see where these characters end up.
June 1, 2021
Holy Heck, I wasn't prepared for Kalen and Monroe's story. All the feels! I laughed, I cried and I'd do it all over again.
I don't read M/M romance often and not because I don't enjoy it but because it's been badly written in the past, this book is absolutely the complete opposite. Well written and not like anything I've read before.
Tasteful yet uberly spicy.
Big fan of sport romance and this has definitely made it into my top 3!!
The relationship between a student and teacher wasn't as in your face as in previous books I've read of the same genre which was refreshing.
Baker and Nikki were amazing. Excited to see that Baker will be getting his own book. Feel like we just scratched the surface with him.
The turkeys!! 🙈 I've always known that birds are evil and this just confirmed it! Poor Monroe!!
This was definitely a book that grabbed you, made you fall in love, gutted you and then left you feeling giddy and complete.
Can't wait to see what both the authors do with the next book!!!
I don't read M/M romance often and not because I don't enjoy it but because it's been badly written in the past, this book is absolutely the complete opposite. Well written and not like anything I've read before.
Tasteful yet uberly spicy.
Big fan of sport romance and this has definitely made it into my top 3!!
The relationship between a student and teacher wasn't as in your face as in previous books I've read of the same genre which was refreshing.
Baker and Nikki were amazing. Excited to see that Baker will be getting his own book. Feel like we just scratched the surface with him.
The turkeys!! 🙈 I've always known that birds are evil and this just confirmed it! Poor Monroe!!
This was definitely a book that grabbed you, made you fall in love, gutted you and then left you feeling giddy and complete.
Can't wait to see what both the authors do with the next book!!!
May 20, 2021
Man, that was hot!!
That was the most excellent view of M/M, the Dynamics of it was most excellent. The relationship of the guys wasn’t like any typical M/M. Loved it!!!
That was the most excellent view of M/M, the Dynamics of it was most excellent. The relationship of the guys wasn’t like any typical M/M. Loved it!!!
November 12, 2021
⭐ 5 Stars ⭐
I'm such a sucker for forbidden romances, especially if it's a professor-student romance. Okay, so I know many people are against this and think it's gross, but honestly, it's a book, purely fantasy, and it's not like I support these types of relationships in reality. So yes, I really enjoyed this!
I liked the fact that it was written as a dual POV, so we got to see the thoughts and feelings of both Kalen and Monroe. I must admit though, I kinda liked Monroe's chapters a little more and enjoyed the interactions he had with other characters. This is not to say I disliked Kalen. Still, some of his actions and behaviour was not acceptable. Like when he practically forced his lesbian best friend to pretend to be his girlfriend for his own benefit. But, he did have some character growth so it wasn't too bad.
I adored the development of the relationship and all the problems that they faced along the way. The two mains had fantastic chemistry, and it was impossible not to fall in love with them and root for a happy ending. While Kalen did do a few questionable things, it didn't impact the overall enjoyment of the relationship or the actual book.
All the characters were charming, besides one or two that I only felt complete rage towards, but I will not mention them. One of the characters that stood out to me was Baker. He was so caring and a wonderful friend that I wish I'd had. And I'm so excited he's getting his own book which I will 100% be reading!
While this book did contain a fair bit of smut, it was also such a rollercoaster of emotions with a great story that had you laughing one moment and crying the next. If you like M/M romance with a bit of taboo, then check this book out!
I'm such a sucker for forbidden romances, especially if it's a professor-student romance. Okay, so I know many people are against this and think it's gross, but honestly, it's a book, purely fantasy, and it's not like I support these types of relationships in reality. So yes, I really enjoyed this!
I liked the fact that it was written as a dual POV, so we got to see the thoughts and feelings of both Kalen and Monroe. I must admit though, I kinda liked Monroe's chapters a little more and enjoyed the interactions he had with other characters. This is not to say I disliked Kalen. Still, some of his actions and behaviour was not acceptable. Like when he practically forced his lesbian best friend to pretend to be his girlfriend for his own benefit. But, he did have some character growth so it wasn't too bad.
I adored the development of the relationship and all the problems that they faced along the way. The two mains had fantastic chemistry, and it was impossible not to fall in love with them and root for a happy ending. While Kalen did do a few questionable things, it didn't impact the overall enjoyment of the relationship or the actual book.
All the characters were charming, besides one or two that I only felt complete rage towards, but I will not mention them. One of the characters that stood out to me was Baker. He was so caring and a wonderful friend that I wish I'd had. And I'm so excited he's getting his own book which I will 100% be reading!
While this book did contain a fair bit of smut, it was also such a rollercoaster of emotions with a great story that had you laughing one moment and crying the next. If you like M/M romance with a bit of taboo, then check this book out!
May 24, 2021
I was absolutely blown away by Catching Kalen! I loved Kalen and Monroe's connection. It was steamy, emotional, and relatable to things people genuinely live through. I went through bouts of laughing, crying, and swooning. Sometimes at the same time. I'm beyond excited to get Baker's story next!
May 24, 2021
Catching Kalen is book 1 in Maya Nicole and Britt Andrews brand new co-written series Diamond Dreams. This is my first strictly MM book and the first time I have read Maya Nicole. I have read 2 of Britt Andrews’ books, so I had a general idea about her writing style. I knew going into the book that it wouldn’t be one of my standard dark romance reads. I’m not sure exactly what I was expecting from this book, but it far exceeded my expectations.
The chemistry between Kalen and Monroe was off the charts explosive💥 from the very first meeting. The smexy scenes had me needing to take a cold shower, that’s how hot these scenes were🥵 and don’t get me started on the laugh out loud moments😂 This book didn’t only have those few things I mentioned, it also gave me all the feels. I cried at 2 points in this story, one of those was “awwww” tears. I have never in my 35 years of reading, cried happy awww tears! I could feel the intimacy between both characters. I felt every emotion as they felt it. To me, that’s the best kind of book.
If your on the fence about reading this book, let me give you a piece of advice. DON’T WALK, FREAKING RUN 🏃🏻♀️ and get your copy ASAP
If you know, you know....🦃🧻⚾️🧇🍅
The chemistry between Kalen and Monroe was off the charts explosive💥 from the very first meeting. The smexy scenes had me needing to take a cold shower, that’s how hot these scenes were🥵 and don’t get me started on the laugh out loud moments😂 This book didn’t only have those few things I mentioned, it also gave me all the feels. I cried at 2 points in this story, one of those was “awwww” tears. I have never in my 35 years of reading, cried happy awww tears! I could feel the intimacy between both characters. I felt every emotion as they felt it. To me, that’s the best kind of book.
If your on the fence about reading this book, let me give you a piece of advice. DON’T WALK, FREAKING RUN 🏃🏻♀️ and get your copy ASAP
If you know, you know....🦃🧻⚾️🧇🍅
May 20, 2021
So I may have stayed up until 1am to finish reading this book. That is probably the biggest compliment I could give a book, I just couldn’t put it down. It was absolutely amazing! I am not a huge MM romance reader, but this one has officially made it to the top of my favorite list for MM.
Monroe & Kalen have a forbidden romance, after all, having a relationship with your student tends to be frowned upon. These two go through so many challenges together & I loved how their romance developed. Monroe is absolutely amazing with Kalen, who is just discovering his true self. These two are also incredibly hot together, so yummy. I loved getting the dual POV with chapters from bit Kalen & Monroe.
This book is definitely a must read!
Monroe & Kalen have a forbidden romance, after all, having a relationship with your student tends to be frowned upon. These two go through so many challenges together & I loved how their romance developed. Monroe is absolutely amazing with Kalen, who is just discovering his true self. These two are also incredibly hot together, so yummy. I loved getting the dual POV with chapters from bit Kalen & Monroe.
This book is definitely a must read!
May 20, 2021
Diamonds aren’t the only dreams this girl is having!
My heart is so full of emotions over this book.
Kalen and Monroe have such explosive chemistry, then coming together is inevitable.
Kalen is younger and still piecing together his life as he strives for the major leagues.
Monroe is happy with molding the younger minds for the future in his position as a professor.
One chance meeting at a bar changed everything for them.
I was along for the ride and rooting for them so much but then....... BRITT AND MAYA JUST HAD TO HIT ME WITH THE TEAR JERKER FROM HELL.
This book is so much more than any other MM read. It puts you in these characters shoes and has you swooning, laughing, and crying along with them.
Not only is this book so well written, it’s become my favorite for sure with its perfect blend of emotions.
May 24, 2021
This was my first MM, I love me some Britt Andrews so I knew I had to read it! I wasn’t sure if I’d like it because it would be hard to relate, but it was the complete opposite. And I loved it! The steam and passion felt throughout the book had me in my feels the entire time. There’s also the reality of what it may be like for a male athlete coming out, showing that not everyone has the rosy, picture perfect family. The way the relationship blossoms between Monroe and Kalen is sweet and sexy. There were some sad tears and then some happy tears. Such a great read!
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