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#Love Wins #3
Straight as a Cucumber
There's a couple of reasons I shouldn't crush on Zach Stauff.
1) He's my big brother's best friend.
2) He's my roommate.
3) He's straight.
None of those things matter when I'm around him and my heart starts beating like crazy. He's been the star of my wet dreams since forever, but to him I'm just the kid who used to eat mudcakes. That is, until he walks in on me playing with a cucumber--without my clothes on. Worse, I was on camera streaming to an online audience when he witnessed the 'cucumber incident.'
Now he's probably got a very different image of me.
My subscribers say we should make out. They say they'd pay good money for the show.
I can't ask Zach to do that.
But what if this is my best chance to touch something that isn't a vegetable?
Straight as a Cucumber is a ~70,000 word Romantic Comedy novel with little angst, lots of laughter, silly animals and sillier men. Knowledge of prior books in the series is not at all necessary to enjoy this one. Buy now if you need a reason to smile today!
1) He's my big brother's best friend.
2) He's my roommate.
3) He's straight.
None of those things matter when I'm around him and my heart starts beating like crazy. He's been the star of my wet dreams since forever, but to him I'm just the kid who used to eat mudcakes. That is, until he walks in on me playing with a cucumber--without my clothes on. Worse, I was on camera streaming to an online audience when he witnessed the 'cucumber incident.'
Now he's probably got a very different image of me.
My subscribers say we should make out. They say they'd pay good money for the show.
I can't ask Zach to do that.
But what if this is my best chance to touch something that isn't a vegetable?
Straight as a Cucumber is a ~70,000 word Romantic Comedy novel with little angst, lots of laughter, silly animals and sillier men. Knowledge of prior books in the series is not at all necessary to enjoy this one. Buy now if you need a reason to smile today!
295 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 8, 2021
131 people are currently reading
209 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 78 reviews
April 19, 2021
Oh my gosh, I've no idea if Ana Byrde is a nom de plume, but darn this author can write! What a perfectly crafted plot. They totally pull off the difficult to sell GFY theme, the characters are so likeable, the pacing is fast, and there are so many funny moments!
I see this is the third book in the series, but it's my first book by Ana Byrde, so obviously I had no trouble enjoying Straight as a Cucumber as a standalone... and you can bet I'm going to be looking for more, now that I've found this author.
I listened to Straight as a Cucumber in audio, and John Solo does a fantastic job. He's a great choice for these college age characters, their youth and playfulness really comes through, and it's easy to see he's having a blast performing this one.
Grab yourself a copy of Straight as a Cucumber, and prepare to laugh out loud!
an audiobook copy of Straight as a Cucumber was provided to me for the purpose of my honest review
I see this is the third book in the series, but it's my first book by Ana Byrde, so obviously I had no trouble enjoying Straight as a Cucumber as a standalone... and you can bet I'm going to be looking for more, now that I've found this author.
I listened to Straight as a Cucumber in audio, and John Solo does a fantastic job. He's a great choice for these college age characters, their youth and playfulness really comes through, and it's easy to see he's having a blast performing this one.
Grab yourself a copy of Straight as a Cucumber, and prepare to laugh out loud!
an audiobook copy of Straight as a Cucumber was provided to me for the purpose of my honest review
January 30, 2022
DNF at 21%
This ended up a bit ranty, though the points still stand.
1. Aggressive, unsubtle GFY
There's really no tension or reasonable development for Straight Boy to go gay for Gay Boy here. He just totally flips immediately. "Why do I have jealous feelings? Why am I watching his porn videos? Why am I hard??" Come on.
2. Underwhelming camming
I guess I expected more heat from the cucumber show, or literally any of the camming details...but it was very bland and kind of skated over. I don't expect high steam from every book, but this felt almost passionless for someone who carved a cucumber into a dildo to fuck on camera. Also...how long has Emerson been camming?? Isn't he like barely 18???
3. Blah one dimensional characters
Zach: overprotective for some reason, "but Emmy was bebe I cannot possibly see him any other way but snot nosed brat, except I am also strangely jealous and am going to watch his cam videos"
Emerson: "I'm an ADULT mom!!!!" I mean, this really hit the head on the needing to be seen as an adult at that age, but I'm not sure that was the intent. He comes off as childish with this endless mantra (which again, reasonable age for that but it's not having the effect I think it's meant to)
4. What on earth is this plot
Okay: is Emerson like 18, going to first year of college, but somehow living off campus and lying about college? And then who the fuck let him adopt some ill dog and a fucking bird?? And leave him alone to pay for critical surgeries for said dog?? Where are his parents??? Why is everyone so overprotective of him and yet he's handling these ridiculous things????
5. Too repetitive
Their internal monologues got repetitive by 21%, so I can't imagine it'll get much better. Emerson "I will moon relentlessly over Zach" and Zach "why boner over bebe Emmy because I can't even be assed to remember his preferred name"
Overall...I think I had these exact same problems with the first book, but gave this a try anyway. Oh well. I like silly plots, but this had so much ???? going on and no redeeming features. And underwhelming cucumbers.
This ended up a bit ranty, though the points still stand.
1. Aggressive, unsubtle GFY
There's really no tension or reasonable development for Straight Boy to go gay for Gay Boy here. He just totally flips immediately. "Why do I have jealous feelings? Why am I watching his porn videos? Why am I hard??" Come on.
2. Underwhelming camming
I guess I expected more heat from the cucumber show, or literally any of the camming details...but it was very bland and kind of skated over. I don't expect high steam from every book, but this felt almost passionless for someone who carved a cucumber into a dildo to fuck on camera. Also...how long has Emerson been camming?? Isn't he like barely 18???
3. Blah one dimensional characters
Zach: overprotective for some reason, "but Emmy was bebe I cannot possibly see him any other way but snot nosed brat, except I am also strangely jealous and am going to watch his cam videos"
Emerson: "I'm an ADULT mom!!!!" I mean, this really hit the head on the needing to be seen as an adult at that age, but I'm not sure that was the intent. He comes off as childish with this endless mantra (which again, reasonable age for that but it's not having the effect I think it's meant to)
4. What on earth is this plot
Okay: is Emerson like 18, going to first year of college, but somehow living off campus and lying about college? And then who the fuck let him adopt some ill dog and a fucking bird?? And leave him alone to pay for critical surgeries for said dog?? Where are his parents??? Why is everyone so overprotective of him and yet he's handling these ridiculous things????
5. Too repetitive
Their internal monologues got repetitive by 21%, so I can't imagine it'll get much better. Emerson "I will moon relentlessly over Zach" and Zach "why boner over bebe Emmy because I can't even be assed to remember his preferred name"
Overall...I think I had these exact same problems with the first book, but gave this a try anyway. Oh well. I like silly plots, but this had so much ???? going on and no redeeming features. And underwhelming cucumbers.
August 6, 2023
Cute and funny! 😊
3.5 stars
3.5 stars
April 8, 2021
Straight as a Cucumber is my first book by Ana Byrde, and it certainly won’t be my last. I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I made the mistake of starting it at bedtime and by 2am it was only the thought of how unimpressed my boss would be if I had another book hangover that made me put it down! As it was, I couldn’t wait until my lunch hour so I could finish it.
This book is simply a joy to read. It’s a straightforward story that’s light, but not superficial, with only a little angst, and many laughs. Further, Emmerson’s not always successfully carried out profession is the source of a few incidences of second hand embarrassment.
Emmerson and Zach are well developed characters that you can’t help but like and become invested. The surrounding cast are similarly well developed, and I wasn’t even halfway through the book before I was checking to see if Wes and Ollie had a book of their own – they do!!
There were only a few moments of drama, but these instances were understandable and resolved quickly.
I loved my first experience with a book by Ana Byrde, and if her other books are as good as Straight as a Cucumber, I may have found another favourite author.
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April 17, 2021
This was another really good story. Emmy keeps trying to tell himself to get over Zach but Zach keeps making it hard. I hated seeing either of them struggle but I was glad that Zach didn't make it into a huge existential crisis and wanted to keep Emmy in his life and not hurt him. I loved that Zach was able to fully accept Emmy and allow him to be himself in all ways.
I received a copy of this book and am giving an honest review
May 5, 2025
Zach's way of apoligizing being to shove a Cucumber in his ass is one of the funniest things I have ever read. Truly iconic.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 14, 2021
So much fun!
I was drawn to this book after seeing a promo graphic that involved what looked like a hilarious incident with spicy lube, and the blurb intrigued me too. I enjoyed it a lot—relatively low angst and lighthearted with some great steamy scenes. I’m glad I took the chance on it!
I was drawn to this book after seeing a promo graphic that involved what looked like a hilarious incident with spicy lube, and the blurb intrigued me too. I enjoyed it a lot—relatively low angst and lighthearted with some great steamy scenes. I’m glad I took the chance on it!
April 11, 2021
Sappy and not entirely realistic.
April 14, 2021
If I could give it zero I would.
This is not my sort of read at all, enjoyed the first two books in the series and I liked Zach but this was horrible but what I suppose people are doing these days. Filming themselves naked in front of a camera for the world to see. But then want a relationship to work and even expect your partner to be in the videos. No you cannot care for someone that much. Nothing about this story was good. Not even Zach and I forget other guys name relationship, it was one sided the whole way there was no connection. No not for me at all, skipped most of it, even the end was not good.
This is not my sort of read at all, enjoyed the first two books in the series and I liked Zach but this was horrible but what I suppose people are doing these days. Filming themselves naked in front of a camera for the world to see. But then want a relationship to work and even expect your partner to be in the videos. No you cannot care for someone that much. Nothing about this story was good. Not even Zach and I forget other guys name relationship, it was one sided the whole way there was no connection. No not for me at all, skipped most of it, even the end was not good.
April 27, 2021
Didn't work for me
This one just wasn't working for me. Besides it being pretty unbelievable, I didn't like Emmy at all. For all his talk (and there was a lot of it!) about being an adult, he behaves like an immature child. Zach is the bright spot of the book but he spends most the book giving in to Emmy and not sticking with his original feelings on issues. Like if you don't like your boyfriend doing live shows on the internet, you shouldn't change your mind just because you don't want them to break up with you or whatever. It's not a relationship compromise like where to go for dinner; that's a huge make or break issue. I think this is the last book I will read from this author. The series started out good and then just declined from there.
This one just wasn't working for me. Besides it being pretty unbelievable, I didn't like Emmy at all. For all his talk (and there was a lot of it!) about being an adult, he behaves like an immature child. Zach is the bright spot of the book but he spends most the book giving in to Emmy and not sticking with his original feelings on issues. Like if you don't like your boyfriend doing live shows on the internet, you shouldn't change your mind just because you don't want them to break up with you or whatever. It's not a relationship compromise like where to go for dinner; that's a huge make or break issue. I think this is the last book I will read from this author. The series started out good and then just declined from there.
April 8, 2021
This book is so cute and funny !!! Emerson and Zach story is a fantastic romance comedy, little angst, silly pets, super steamy hot scenes and Bi-sexual awakening!!!
Emerson is Lex’s older brother and Zach’s best friend, Emmy just move into Zach’s apartment and he has a crush in him since he was a teenager. Emerson is supposed to be there for college but he “works” streaming, every time he is alone he goes live and in one occasion he is discover by Zach naked and in a compromise position with a cucumber lol.... this two were so fun to read.
Zach is still in college and is working at the pool he is a swimmer, he thinks he is straight but Emerson stir something in him, he can’t stop thinking about the time he catch Emmy and he don’t understand why do what he does, so he subscribe to Emerson’s page so he can watch his videos, he can’t stop watch him and also he can’t help his body reaction.
Everything start when Emmy ask Zach to help him with a video for his subscribers, they ask for him and he can make more money if Zach is there to help him, they decided to go streaming and Emerson will introduce Zach and later kiss, it’s just a kiss but it’s definitely more for both of them.
Since then Zach is going through a self discovery he can’t stop thinking about Emerson and is definitely on board to help him doing more videos, but he is also jealous of the people watching Emmy and Emerson loves what he does and he is definitely enjoying of the situation he never thought he could have him. This is a super fun read and their time together is so sweet and later super hot, their have a great chemistry, Emerson’s pets are also adorable! I have a great time reading this book! Overall this was a lovely read, well written and fun, you definitely need to read this.
I received a copy of this book and I’m giving an honest review.
Emerson is Lex’s older brother and Zach’s best friend, Emmy just move into Zach’s apartment and he has a crush in him since he was a teenager. Emerson is supposed to be there for college but he “works” streaming, every time he is alone he goes live and in one occasion he is discover by Zach naked and in a compromise position with a cucumber lol.... this two were so fun to read.
Zach is still in college and is working at the pool he is a swimmer, he thinks he is straight but Emerson stir something in him, he can’t stop thinking about the time he catch Emmy and he don’t understand why do what he does, so he subscribe to Emerson’s page so he can watch his videos, he can’t stop watch him and also he can’t help his body reaction.
Everything start when Emmy ask Zach to help him with a video for his subscribers, they ask for him and he can make more money if Zach is there to help him, they decided to go streaming and Emerson will introduce Zach and later kiss, it’s just a kiss but it’s definitely more for both of them.
Since then Zach is going through a self discovery he can’t stop thinking about Emerson and is definitely on board to help him doing more videos, but he is also jealous of the people watching Emmy and Emerson loves what he does and he is definitely enjoying of the situation he never thought he could have him. This is a super fun read and their time together is so sweet and later super hot, their have a great chemistry, Emerson’s pets are also adorable! I have a great time reading this book! Overall this was a lovely read, well written and fun, you definitely need to read this.
I received a copy of this book and I’m giving an honest review.
May 31, 2024
old post reposted
Random scrolling and recommendations have sent me here. To Ana Byrde's #Love Wins series. To "Straight As A Cucumber".
["There's a couple of reasons I shouldn't crush on Zach Stauff.
1) He's my big brother's best friend.
2) He's my roommate.
3) He's straight.
None of those things matter when I'm around him and my heart starts beating like crazy. He's been the star of my wet dreams since forever, but to him I'm just the kid who used to eat mudcakes. That is, until he walks in on me playing with a cucumber--without my clothes on. Worse, I was on camera streaming to an online audience when he witnessed the 'cucumber incident.'
Now he's probably got a very different image of me.
My subscribers say we should make out. They say they'd pay good money for the show.
I can't ask Zach to do that.
But what if this is my best chance to touch something that isn't a vegetable?"]
Like the first book, there wasn't a lot of anxiety. At least on Zach's end. He's just like, yeah, okay. But there is some angst. On both ends. And at some surprisingly different ends as well.
Also, they're just so cute. I wanted more domestic fluff. Just for the hell of it. Just because they were so damn adorable.
#fakethedate #hooklineandsinker #straightasacucumber #lovewins #lovewinsseries #anabyrde #books #queerbooks #queererotica #bodicerippers #bookstagram #bookphotography #ilovebooks
Random scrolling and recommendations have sent me here. To Ana Byrde's #Love Wins series. To "Straight As A Cucumber".
["There's a couple of reasons I shouldn't crush on Zach Stauff.
1) He's my big brother's best friend.
2) He's my roommate.
3) He's straight.
None of those things matter when I'm around him and my heart starts beating like crazy. He's been the star of my wet dreams since forever, but to him I'm just the kid who used to eat mudcakes. That is, until he walks in on me playing with a cucumber--without my clothes on. Worse, I was on camera streaming to an online audience when he witnessed the 'cucumber incident.'
Now he's probably got a very different image of me.
My subscribers say we should make out. They say they'd pay good money for the show.
I can't ask Zach to do that.
But what if this is my best chance to touch something that isn't a vegetable?"]
Like the first book, there wasn't a lot of anxiety. At least on Zach's end. He's just like, yeah, okay. But there is some angst. On both ends. And at some surprisingly different ends as well.
Also, they're just so cute. I wanted more domestic fluff. Just for the hell of it. Just because they were so damn adorable.
#fakethedate #hooklineandsinker #straightasacucumber #lovewins #lovewinsseries #anabyrde #books #queerbooks #queererotica #bodicerippers #bookstagram #bookphotography #ilovebooks
April 17, 2021
Outstanding Story & Narration🎧 A Delightful RomCom!
Straight as a Cucumber
#Love Wins, Book 3
By: Ana Byrde
Narrated by: John Solo
Wow, this book is awesome, the story and characters are fun and entertaining, guaranteed to put a smile on your face. Ana Byrde is a gifted author with a brilliant mind, I enjoy her writing style and her way with words, you not help but to love her witty humor and comedic timing. I adored both lead characters, Emerson “Emmy” Lobb and Zach Stauff, they are easy to relate to and connect with. Zach is Emmy’s brother’s best friend, Emmy is starting college and since Zach’s roommate moved out he offered the room to Emmy who gladly took it. Emmy has always crushed on Zach even though he knew it would never go anywhere since Zach was straight. Emmy moves in with dog Beggles and his bird Soda. The shenanigans from his pets were hilarious, as were Aunt Rosy’s, who is a real hoot. Emmy’s side business, shooting entertaining videos of himself, but Zach accidentally finds out about it after hearing ruckus in Emmy’s room, he was left speechless with what he found, lets say you will never look at another cucumber with that scene coming to mind. I loved how everything plays out in this wonderful RomCom, the story is cleverly plotted with the perfect balance of romance and comedy, it is light on angst and heavy on humor, with some drama and heartfelt and emotional moments too. Ana Byrde, thank you for the wonderful story and the laughs, I am looking forward to what comes next in this amazing series.
🎧📚🎧 And for the fabulous wonderful narration, John Solo is an entertaining storyteller and versatile voice artist, his talent has no bounds. He continues to bring these characters to life, humanizing them, giving each their own voice and personality. His portrayal of the characters is spent on, he understands each of their personas then takes the role and makes it his own, sounding believable and just as I picture them to sound. He sets the perfect tone for the story, captures the characters emotions and projects them into his performances. He handles to witty dialogue with ease and lands the humor effortlessly. Thank you for another awesome listen🎧
Straight as a Cucumber
#Love Wins, Book 3
By: Ana Byrde
Narrated by: John Solo
Wow, this book is awesome, the story and characters are fun and entertaining, guaranteed to put a smile on your face. Ana Byrde is a gifted author with a brilliant mind, I enjoy her writing style and her way with words, you not help but to love her witty humor and comedic timing. I adored both lead characters, Emerson “Emmy” Lobb and Zach Stauff, they are easy to relate to and connect with. Zach is Emmy’s brother’s best friend, Emmy is starting college and since Zach’s roommate moved out he offered the room to Emmy who gladly took it. Emmy has always crushed on Zach even though he knew it would never go anywhere since Zach was straight. Emmy moves in with dog Beggles and his bird Soda. The shenanigans from his pets were hilarious, as were Aunt Rosy’s, who is a real hoot. Emmy’s side business, shooting entertaining videos of himself, but Zach accidentally finds out about it after hearing ruckus in Emmy’s room, he was left speechless with what he found, lets say you will never look at another cucumber with that scene coming to mind. I loved how everything plays out in this wonderful RomCom, the story is cleverly plotted with the perfect balance of romance and comedy, it is light on angst and heavy on humor, with some drama and heartfelt and emotional moments too. Ana Byrde, thank you for the wonderful story and the laughs, I am looking forward to what comes next in this amazing series.
🎧📚🎧 And for the fabulous wonderful narration, John Solo is an entertaining storyteller and versatile voice artist, his talent has no bounds. He continues to bring these characters to life, humanizing them, giving each their own voice and personality. His portrayal of the characters is spent on, he understands each of their personas then takes the role and makes it his own, sounding believable and just as I picture them to sound. He sets the perfect tone for the story, captures the characters emotions and projects them into his performances. He handles to witty dialogue with ease and lands the humor effortlessly. Thank you for another awesome listen🎧
April 9, 2021
4.5 Stars - Emmy moves in with his big brother’s best friend, and his childhood crush, when he starts college. Instead of going to class, Emmy spends his time streaming sexy videos. During one of his streams, Zach comes home unexpectedly and walks in on Emmy in a compromising position with a cucumber. Emmy’s fans love him, and request to see Zach in future videos. Zach agrees, but only because he thinks Emmy is only streaming for money to pay for vet bills and he will stop when he has enough. As Zach reacts to filming with Emmy, and watching Emmy’s previous videos, he questions his sexuality and his relationships.
This is my favorite book so far in the #Love Wins series. I finished it in one go, and pretty sure I woke up my poor dog several times because I was laughing so hard. Emmy and Zach are so adorable together. There are lots of awkward but sweet moments, and plenty of sexy time. Emmy’s pets added a lot of comedy to the story as well and Soda makes me want a parrot!. The plot had some angst to it. I think it was a good amount to keep the story progressing and entertaining without becoming overwhelming. Overall, this book was super sweet with amazing characters and lots of heat. I’m hoping we get more books in this series!
(I received a free ARC of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving a review.)
This is my favorite book so far in the #Love Wins series. I finished it in one go, and pretty sure I woke up my poor dog several times because I was laughing so hard. Emmy and Zach are so adorable together. There are lots of awkward but sweet moments, and plenty of sexy time. Emmy’s pets added a lot of comedy to the story as well and Soda makes me want a parrot!. The plot had some angst to it. I think it was a good amount to keep the story progressing and entertaining without becoming overwhelming. Overall, this book was super sweet with amazing characters and lots of heat. I’m hoping we get more books in this series!
(I received a free ARC of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving a review.)
January 1, 2022
I’ve thoroughly enjoyed this series so far, but not this book. Ana Byrde often writes grumpy, feisty male characters and I know the series is comedic with larger-than-life characters, but Emerson was a bridge too far for me. Throughout the book, I felt like I was watching a self-centred man-child stamp his foot and yell, “I AM an adult!”, over and over. It crushed the comedy and any goodwill I had for the character. Having won scholarships to study medicine, Emerson is ditching all his classes to stream himself doing solo porn, which he sees as a viable alternative career. He hides his activities from everyone, including his brother’s straight best friend, Zach, with whom he shares a flat, until Zach catches him in the act. Zach, who’s never entertained feelings for another man, suddenly falls for the prickly Emerson. Zach’s instalove, same-sex conversion, and willingness to appear on camera were so utterly unbelievable, as was the logic of this story - way too many plot holes. Audio narrator John Solo’s comedic stylings really suit this series, but even he couldn’t make up for such a repellent character.
April 20, 2021
It's review time 🎧
Warning ⚠️: mm romance, part of a series, standalone, comedy, camera boy, roommates, gay for you, a lazy dog, and a feisty little bird, cucumbers (please don't put cucumbers and other vegetables in to your * hall... It is very dangerous, things has happened, (my best friend is a nurse, I should know) you can carve it into any shape you want 😉 , but leave your
Chrysanthemum alone use toys and real d* )
Narrator score🎧 ; lol John Solo did an outstanding job with this book! I laughed so much in this book... I can't even.
Level of steam🔥: even the sex was funny! It was hilarious abd fun, and full of spices (literally 😈😈😈)
Level of anxiety and sadness0😱😢: the book wasn't sad at all! It was full of light like the whole series until now was... it was fun and cute and hilarious as hell.
The book itself📖:wow this book was good! It was funny, sassy, and everything I needed. Like really... you had so much in one book... it was a sweet story with so much fun time in it. It was pure joy.
Warning ⚠️: mm romance, part of a series, standalone, comedy, camera boy, roommates, gay for you, a lazy dog, and a feisty little bird, cucumbers (please don't put cucumbers and other vegetables in to your * hall... It is very dangerous, things has happened, (my best friend is a nurse, I should know) you can carve it into any shape you want 😉 , but leave your
Chrysanthemum alone use toys and real d* )
Narrator score🎧 ; lol John Solo did an outstanding job with this book! I laughed so much in this book... I can't even.
Level of steam🔥: even the sex was funny! It was hilarious abd fun, and full of spices (literally 😈😈😈)
Level of anxiety and sadness0😱😢: the book wasn't sad at all! It was full of light like the whole series until now was... it was fun and cute and hilarious as hell.
The book itself📖:wow this book was good! It was funny, sassy, and everything I needed. Like really... you had so much in one book... it was a sweet story with so much fun time in it. It was pure joy.
May 16, 2021
This is the third book in the #LoveWins series, and although it can be read as a standalone, I highly suggest reading at least the second book first (although this series is best when all the books are read in order). I loved every one of these books, but I think this one might be my favorite out of the series. There’s forbidden (kind of) love, a secret job, and a busybody pet bird who kept cracking me up with his antics. There were so many laugh-out-loud moments in this book, and my face hurt from grinning. There was both silliness and steaminess, but also a dash of angst and drama to spice the story up. The characters were wonderful and I fell in love with Zach and Emmy immediately.
John Solo narrated the audiobook and did a wonderful job with it. He voiced all the characters wonderfully, and really made the book feel dynamic and alive. I loved the energy of the performance—it was right on point. The audiobook production was well done and made this a very enjoyable book to listen to.
John Solo narrated the audiobook and did a wonderful job with it. He voiced all the characters wonderfully, and really made the book feel dynamic and alive. I loved the energy of the performance—it was right on point. The audiobook production was well done and made this a very enjoyable book to listen to.
April 25, 2021
This was my first book by this author, but it won't be my last. Emerson is a college student, who moves in with his brother's best friend, Zach, the straight guy he's been crushing on since he was 12. What he doesn't tell his family, or Zach, is that he's not really going to classes, he needs "space" to grow his pay for porn sight. Not exactly pre-med as his parent's think. Emmy "Don't call me Emmy!" wants to ramp up viewers and subscribers, because his adorable dog needs an operation. He's also the proud owner of a very territorial bird. Things take a turn when Zach walks in on him , live streaming, and pleasuring himself with a cucumber. Viewers want to see more of "the hot roommate", and Emmy talks Zack into an onscreen kiss, and more. This is a sweet, low angst, college age, straight to bi, relationship. It's also a sweet story of learning to be who you want to be, and not what other people want you to be.
April 8, 2021
I want a subscription to Lobsterboy's site!!! As a diligent reader I feel it is my duty to issue a warning to those about to embark on this hilarious journey: Do not drink effervescent liquids while reading this!!! I personally spat diet Pepsi all over my kindle numerous times and gave my sinuses the flushing of their lives no less than 4 times to the point that I saw stars and had tears streaming down my cheeks along with the Pepsi. I don't advise either of these experiences, but I do recommend this book whole heartedly. I loved seeing past friends from this series drop in. It feels like a reunion. Aunt Rosy never fails to add sass and sparks with her generosity and pearls of wisdom. Lol. I was totally and utterly dead after Zach tried the spiced lube, and his comeback from his faux pax was spectacular. Another precious gem to be devoured and savored. A must read.
April 17, 2021
I have to admit, I usually avoid books that are pitched as "funny" or "humorous" because I don't usually find them so. I've heard Ana Byrd on John Solo's Facebook group, however, and in person she is an uninhibited, outspoken, delight so I decided to give this book a try and see if her personality came through on the page with these characters. Oh, man, did it! I'm a fan for life. Emerson's and Jack's "meet cute" actually is hysterical (although you can also feel the depth of Emerson's embarrassment and pain) and his subscribers' push to get their relationship going is great. There is a perfect mix of light and serious in this one and if you're a bit Grinchy like me but feel the need for a change of tone grab this one. You won't be disappointed and I guarantee you'll feel lighter when you finish it.
April 19, 2021
This story focuses on Zach from the previous book and Emerson. Zach our relationship advisor finds himself in need of a new roommate since Wes moved out and he has decided to have his best friends' little brother to live with him. Emerson has been in love with Zach for years so this arrangement will be difficult for him. As they settle in with each other, we learn some shocking things about Emerson. Such as how he earns his money. When Zach catches him in a compromising situation, hilarity insues.
I loved this story. It was full of humor and drama. We get the family drama, school drama and love life drama. Both Emmy and Zach have issues they must work through before they get their HEA. It was enjoyable to read.
I recommend reading this book, if you love bisexual awakenings, cute pets and cam boy situations. You don't need to read the previous ones to enjoy this one.
I loved this story. It was full of humor and drama. We get the family drama, school drama and love life drama. Both Emmy and Zach have issues they must work through before they get their HEA. It was enjoyable to read.
I recommend reading this book, if you love bisexual awakenings, cute pets and cam boy situations. You don't need to read the previous ones to enjoy this one.
May 1, 2021
This was a cute and easy read.
Emerson moves in with his brothers best friend under the guise of going to college, but that not what he's doing. He's costing instead to embark on a career on an adult streaming site. Zach walks in on him with a cucumber and the story kind of takes off from there.
Zach ultimately gets involved with Emerson's stream despite being "straight" and discovers his feelings for his best friends little brother.
Emerson has some struggles along the way with exposing all of who he is, despite being openly gay, he's afraid to tell his family that college/ school just wasn't for him and that he likes wearing makeup. He even struggles to tell Zach.
Zach is so supportive and understanding, although he hates the streaming. They ultimately come to an understanding about that as well.
Overall this was a cute story about understanding and acceptance.
Emerson moves in with his brothers best friend under the guise of going to college, but that not what he's doing. He's costing instead to embark on a career on an adult streaming site. Zach walks in on him with a cucumber and the story kind of takes off from there.
Zach ultimately gets involved with Emerson's stream despite being "straight" and discovers his feelings for his best friends little brother.
Emerson has some struggles along the way with exposing all of who he is, despite being openly gay, he's afraid to tell his family that college/ school just wasn't for him and that he likes wearing makeup. He even struggles to tell Zach.
Zach is so supportive and understanding, although he hates the streaming. They ultimately come to an understanding about that as well.
Overall this was a cute story about understanding and acceptance.
April 11, 2021
Straight as a Cucumber, #Love Wins book 3. My first book by this author. And not my last!
Emerson, aka Emmy, is starting college and needs a place to stay, so he moves in with his brother's best friend, Zach.
It's a sweet and hot romance story, filled with hilarious pets and very, very hot bedroom activities!!
So many mentions of 'I'm not a child anymore' and 'I'm a grown-up ' and so on, it is mentioned at least in every other page..and that gets old. Fast!
"I was starting to understand that it wasn't my body limiting what I could wear. It was other people and their expectations of me bases on my body."
Emerson, aka Emmy, is starting college and needs a place to stay, so he moves in with his brother's best friend, Zach.
It's a sweet and hot romance story, filled with hilarious pets and very, very hot bedroom activities!!
So many mentions of 'I'm not a child anymore' and 'I'm a grown-up ' and so on, it is mentioned at least in every other page..and that gets old. Fast!
"I was starting to understand that it wasn't my body limiting what I could wear. It was other people and their expectations of me bases on my body."
April 17, 2021
Sometimes you just need a good laugh... Zach and Emerson have an unconventional relationship. They've known each other for a long time, but sharing an apartment puts everything in a new perspective. Best friend's baby brother vs lifelong crush... Zach and Emerson have to figure out how to come to a new understanding of what they mean to each other. And if a few cucumbers get sacrificed in the process - all the better. Crazy funny at times - and yes, sometimes you'll ask, "What were they thinking?!" But it's a little dish of sunshine and a great way to spend some time away from the craziness of the world around us.
April 29, 2024
I finished out the #LoveWins series by Ana Byrde and I enjoyed this series more than I expected too. The characters were all very likeable and it was a fun read.
Straight as a Cucumber was a fun story about a straight college guy who takes in his best friends little brother as a roommate. The little brother is gay and has secretly crushed on him for years. In the end he realizes he’s not as straight as he seems and he comes to build a relationship with his friend’s brother and faces several challenges along the way.
★★★★★ I would recommend this series. Each book is always carefree and has a good ending. It does not disappoint.
Straight as a Cucumber was a fun story about a straight college guy who takes in his best friends little brother as a roommate. The little brother is gay and has secretly crushed on him for years. In the end he realizes he’s not as straight as he seems and he comes to build a relationship with his friend’s brother and faces several challenges along the way.
★★★★★ I would recommend this series. Each book is always carefree and has a good ending. It does not disappoint.
April 20, 2021
I love books about crushes on brother's best friend so I was really prepared to love this but it fell a little short for me. It wasn't the author's fault, the writing was good and the plot was fine, but I just didn't connect with Emmy at all. I found Emmy really kind of annoying and couldn't really see him with Zack. I feel bad about that because I have read and really enjoyed the first two books in the series but there was something missing for me with this one. This author is a favorite of mine however and i will definitely give the next book in the series a try.
April 25, 2021
A beautiful humorous story!
Age is nothing but a number. Emmy, oh my goodness, his sexy soul , turned Zach out! Zach had no other choice but to surrender. Their story was filled with so much passion. And Emmy' s dog Beggles and his bird Soda brought funny drama into the mix. I laughed my butt off throughout the reading of this story. The narrator did an outstanding job. If you love pets, drama, and humor, this is the story for you. Oh, I can't forget the sex was off the charts. I highly recommend! Enjoy!
Age is nothing but a number. Emmy, oh my goodness, his sexy soul , turned Zach out! Zach had no other choice but to surrender. Their story was filled with so much passion. And Emmy' s dog Beggles and his bird Soda brought funny drama into the mix. I laughed my butt off throughout the reading of this story. The narrator did an outstanding job. If you love pets, drama, and humor, this is the story for you. Oh, I can't forget the sex was off the charts. I highly recommend! Enjoy!
May 23, 2021
Is It a Cute Meet When You've Already Met and a Cucumber is Involved?
Yeah, it kinda is. Because Emerson - don't call him Emmy anymore - is earning his living streaming live while playing his own songs on his guitar, singing, and, oh yeah, enjoying the occasional cucumber. No, not eating it. Yeah, now you get the picture, like Zach did. Why didn't Emmy, uh, Emerson's roommate slash brother's best friend just knock? Then again, it's gonna be a great story to tell. Eventually. If Soda the bird doesn't do Zach in first.
Yeah, it kinda is. Because Emerson - don't call him Emmy anymore - is earning his living streaming live while playing his own songs on his guitar, singing, and, oh yeah, enjoying the occasional cucumber. No, not eating it. Yeah, now you get the picture, like Zach did. Why didn't Emmy, uh, Emerson's roommate slash brother's best friend just knock? Then again, it's gonna be a great story to tell. Eventually. If Soda the bird doesn't do Zach in first.
August 29, 2021
I love the humor that is found throughout this series. And the latest book is no different. Soda the parrot has some control issues. This story has some of the most fun storylines like long time crush, brother's best friend, straight roommate, and a little side of "porn". I really appreciated the building relationships and the fact that Zack has to work through all of his feels. There were a couple of interesting twist to the story as well.
I listened to the audio version and it just added to the fun.
I listened to the audio version and it just added to the fun.
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