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Worthless Boys #1
Cruel and Careless
Cruel and Careless is a new adult MM romance with an HEA, and can be read as a standalone. Please read the content warning before beginning as there are dark themes that may be triggering to some readers.
Ben
Wake up. Smoke. Get drunk. Sleep. Repeat.
I’m about to start my senior year of high school, and I don’t see that cycle changing any time soon. I’ve spent most of my life just trying to make it one more day, a precarious war in my head—one I was barely winning. But then he forced his way in and showed me what I was missing. A boy I’ve always looked at a little bit too long. He’s no better than me, though— He’s barely hanging on.
Damon
I’m careless and I probably shouldn’t have gone out of my way to hook-up with a very pretty, very straight, boy. He wants more than I have to offer. He may not even realize it, but it’s written all over his face. His bright eyes drill into me in a desperate attempt to rip me apart and dive inside, but what he doesn’t know is that would be the worst decision of his life. I’m no one’s savior.
Ben
Wake up. Smoke. Get drunk. Sleep. Repeat.
I’m about to start my senior year of high school, and I don’t see that cycle changing any time soon. I’ve spent most of my life just trying to make it one more day, a precarious war in my head—one I was barely winning. But then he forced his way in and showed me what I was missing. A boy I’ve always looked at a little bit too long. He’s no better than me, though— He’s barely hanging on.
Damon
I’m careless and I probably shouldn’t have gone out of my way to hook-up with a very pretty, very straight, boy. He wants more than I have to offer. He may not even realize it, but it’s written all over his face. His bright eyes drill into me in a desperate attempt to rip me apart and dive inside, but what he doesn’t know is that would be the worst decision of his life. I’m no one’s savior.
267 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 23, 2021
273 people are currently reading
2023 people want to read
About the author
Bailey Nicole
12 books455 followersBailey is an author who loves writing LGBTQ+ romance books.
They’d much rather write about fictional worlds and characters than themself, but they love interacting with their readers!
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They’d much rather write about fictional worlds and characters than themself, but they love interacting with their readers!
You can stalk Bailey here:
Instagram: @authorbaileynicole
https://www.instagram.com/authorbaile...
Facebook: Bailey Nicole
https://www.facebook.com/bailey.nicol...
Pinterest: @baileynicolereads
https://pin.it/uIJkzbv
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 304 reviews
August 2, 2022
A frustrating story between two horny boys who send each other mixed signals the entire time.
THE GOOD
The friendship and family dynamics in this were the only things I enjoyed. Ben, in particular, doesn’t have a close relationship with his father like he used to, and the distance they share negatively impacts him. He feels afraid to come out to him and admit that he likes guys, but when he does, his father is nothing but supportive. He reassures him that he loves him and that nothing will ever change that, not his sexual orientation and not the change in their relationship. I loved seeing this because not only did it take away the unnecessary drama, but it felt like one of the only good things in Ben’s life. Adding on to that, Ben’s friendship with his group, Liam, Antonio, and Teddy, carried the entire story for me. I wished there were even more interactions between them all, and I was glad they were also supportive of his sexual orientation, reassuring him that nothing between them changes because Ben likes guys. I loved the moments they shared with each other because they were all close and trustworthy, and it showed the beauty of platonic love.
Also, shoutout to the author for making both Ben and Damon metal heads. Almost all of the bands mentioned are bands I listen to so it was just really cool seeing these metal songs get some attention. (Bands like The Plot In You, Bad Omens, Bring Me The Horizon, Asking Alexandria, and more).
THE OKAY
The theme of drugs, mental health, and violence make an important role in the book, yet I felt emotionless with them. While I was anticipating feeling quite emotional with this (considering there was a content warning for dark themes (those being adult language, graphic descriptions of drug use and drug addiction, and the effects that can have on a person, domestic violence in the past and in the present, depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts and actions), which I appreciated the author adding), I was waiting for those themes to make me feel some type of way. While I understood the sadness, I felt nothing, yet I appreciated (somewhat) how they were depicted.
Drug use and addiction are present throughout the entire book, but it isn’t towards the end where all the drama unfolds and shows the reality of what drug addiction can do. Damon, especially, is addicted to cocaine and Xanax, although he doesn’t accept it until his treatment in a rehab center starts. His addiction really affects his relationship with Ben, which sometimes causes him to act out of impulse, be violent, have second thoughts, struggle to trust, and forget about reality. Although I myself have never struggled with addiction like Damon or with any drugs, I have friends who are addicted to things such as acid and nicotine, as well as weed and cigarettes. They tell me it isn’t something they can easily give up, even if they know the long-term effects of them and how dangerous it is. It’s something many of them use to cope, and it’s very similar to Damon and how his entire life revolves around this. It’s difficult for him to leave it, and instead of understanding how the drugs are eating him alive, he projects his emotions and feelings onto others.
THE BAD
Everything else. In all honesty, nothing happened until around 70%. Before that, the relationship between Damon and Ben revolves around them being horny teenagers who cannot get enough of each other. While they started opening up to each other a little, nothing between them felt real and realistic because right from the beginning, their relationship starts off as purely sexual. They became boyfriends out of nowhere after having sex. If I’m being honest, they never even held a real conversation unless it was about them feeling each other up. Throughout their relationship, there is nothing but lust, sex, jealousy, abusive behavior, violence, manipulation, lies, miscommunication, and misunderstandings. I would even describe their relationship as toxic. That’s actually fine with me. Admittedly, I can root for a toxic relationship between two characters, but the one between Ben and Damon was difficult to root for because there was nothing to root for. It doesn’t develop until 92%. At 92% there is rushed character development and the happy ending we were guaranteed. Before that, everything was a mess.
Let me just elaborate.
13%: “What’s going on between you and Teddy?” My eyes widen in shock, and I jerk myself back out of his grip.
“What are you talking about? He’s one of my closest friends. Seems like y’all have gotten pretty friendly, too.” It's only the beginning, and he's already jealous. The two aren't even friends (never have been friends, even though both have apparently noticed each other at school). Teddy is one of Ben’s best friends and there is nothing going on between them. Even if there were, it isn’t Damon’s business, especially when the two aren’t even close.
17%: His thumb pulls on my lower lip as he whispers, “I want these perfect lips wrapped around my dick. Do you want that, pretty boy?” For someone who is apparently super straight, I expected Ben’s pansexual awakening to be explored more. His reaction felt unrealistic and boring. Not only that, but it had been less than 20% and the two already had intercourse. Although we know from the blurb that they hook up for one night, I didn't think it would have been that quick.
35%: “Changed my mind. I don’t want you to be with anyone else, baby. I want you all to myself,” he murmurs softly. In which Damon asks Ben if he “fucked anyone else like he wanted to” and then decides for Ben that he wants him to himself even though not even a little before, he told him that “nothing’s going on here,” and “feel free to fuck whoever you want.”
37%: We spend the rest of the day like this, alternating between watching the best show ever and feeling each other up. They really can’t go a single moment without having to feel each other up and just talking.
56%: Logically, I know there’s nothing romantic or sexual between them. But, it just fucking makes too much sense to completely disregard. Why wouldn’t they hook up? They’re already close friends, and Ben’s the most beautiful man I’ve ever seen. It’s easy to imagine. It’s been more than half of the book and the two have spent doing nothing but doing drugs, blowing each other out, swallowing their spit, grinding their erections, and sending mixed signals. Also, a week has passed since the party, and Damon still brings Teddy up, thinking they are together as if platonic relationships between two guys can’t exist. All he thinks about is sex.
60%: A boyfriend. I actually have one of those now. That’s another thing I’ll add to the list of shit I didn’t see coming this year. I should’ve known we would end up like this. This came out of nowhere.
60%: All of this started about a month ago and I’ve already given him numerous reasons to not trust me. I want to change that. One month and all they know is their name and dick size.
62%: “Take my dick out, baby.” He grabs my chin and pulls me into a soft kiss. A small noise escapes me as I work his slacks open. His dick is so heavy and hot in my palm. Our lips and teeth clash together as I stroke him. I’m telling you, these boys haven’t had an actual conversation about anything else except their bodies.
63%: “Didn’t know you had a therapist,” he says, quirking a brow at me. This is what Damon tells Ben when he says he needs to go home and meet with his therapist, and it’s like, of course you wouldn’t. You two have never actually talked about anything even though it’s been a month since everything started.
70%: He’s shared little bits about his life with me. From what I’ve gathered, his mom is a drug addict like mine, except she’s addicted to painkillers and heroin, not crack. His dad is just a depressed man. Ben still doesn’t actually know where his spends all of his time away from the house, but he thinks his dad’s doing drugs again. 70% in and they finally had “a date.”
72%: His sweet little whimpers are quickly becoming my favorite sound. I close my eyes and bury my nose in his hair, inhaling his scent. Ben literally was having a breakdown over his mom (who just OD’d) and he decides to kiss him, pull his lip between his teeth, and starts thinking sexually about him. He can’t stop for a moment and show some sort of reaction except arousal.
83%: “You really should start going back to therapy,” Damon says. You should really take your own words into consideration.
88%: I don’t even see it coming when he wraps his hand around my throat and shoves me against the concrete wall, knocking my head painfully against it. His grip tightens until he’s nearly crushing my windpipe.
“I fucking love you,” he roars, spittle flying. The baritone in his voice is enough to make my knees weak with fear. “Guess it’s not good enough for you. Guess I’m not fucking good enough for anyone. I never will be. I fucking told you this would happen!” Gotta get those anger issues in check.
95%: “What I really want to know is…” I take a steadying breath. “Will you give me another chance? Will you give us a chance? A real one this time.” At 92%, Damon has “fixed himself” by being at a rehab center for 60 days. This happened because he overdosed and was luckily found by Jasper. What really pissed me off here was that Ben gave him a chance so easily, as if nothing happened. I also wish they became friends first instead and started growing that way. While I’m happy that Damon finally got the help and treatment he deserved (because even though I didn’t like him, that doesn’t mean I wished the worst for him and wished he lost his life to addiction), I didn’t think he deserved Ben’s second chance that easily. Not to mention this was just too rushed.
98%: Ben graduates high school. The two get their happy ever after. The end.
All I have to say is that I am very excited for the next book because it's about Teddy (and possibly Liam, one of Ben's other best friends) so I smell a potential friends to lovers.
Buddy read with Charee, who made this reading experience much more fun and enjoyable.
THE GOOD
The friendship and family dynamics in this were the only things I enjoyed. Ben, in particular, doesn’t have a close relationship with his father like he used to, and the distance they share negatively impacts him. He feels afraid to come out to him and admit that he likes guys, but when he does, his father is nothing but supportive. He reassures him that he loves him and that nothing will ever change that, not his sexual orientation and not the change in their relationship. I loved seeing this because not only did it take away the unnecessary drama, but it felt like one of the only good things in Ben’s life. Adding on to that, Ben’s friendship with his group, Liam, Antonio, and Teddy, carried the entire story for me. I wished there were even more interactions between them all, and I was glad they were also supportive of his sexual orientation, reassuring him that nothing between them changes because Ben likes guys. I loved the moments they shared with each other because they were all close and trustworthy, and it showed the beauty of platonic love.
“It doesn’t matter to me, who or what you like. I’ll always support you and love you the same. My parents never did that for me, but I’ll always do it for you.”
Also, shoutout to the author for making both Ben and Damon metal heads. Almost all of the bands mentioned are bands I listen to so it was just really cool seeing these metal songs get some attention. (Bands like The Plot In You, Bad Omens, Bring Me The Horizon, Asking Alexandria, and more).
THE OKAY
The theme of drugs, mental health, and violence make an important role in the book, yet I felt emotionless with them. While I was anticipating feeling quite emotional with this (considering there was a content warning for dark themes (those being adult language, graphic descriptions of drug use and drug addiction, and the effects that can have on a person, domestic violence in the past and in the present, depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts and actions), which I appreciated the author adding), I was waiting for those themes to make me feel some type of way. While I understood the sadness, I felt nothing, yet I appreciated (somewhat) how they were depicted.
Drug use and addiction are present throughout the entire book, but it isn’t towards the end where all the drama unfolds and shows the reality of what drug addiction can do. Damon, especially, is addicted to cocaine and Xanax, although he doesn’t accept it until his treatment in a rehab center starts. His addiction really affects his relationship with Ben, which sometimes causes him to act out of impulse, be violent, have second thoughts, struggle to trust, and forget about reality. Although I myself have never struggled with addiction like Damon or with any drugs, I have friends who are addicted to things such as acid and nicotine, as well as weed and cigarettes. They tell me it isn’t something they can easily give up, even if they know the long-term effects of them and how dangerous it is. It’s something many of them use to cope, and it’s very similar to Damon and how his entire life revolves around this. It’s difficult for him to leave it, and instead of understanding how the drugs are eating him alive, he projects his emotions and feelings onto others.
“Do you ever feel like we’ll never be a part of that world? Kids like us don’t make it that far. We spend our days chasing whatever it takes to get a temporary feeling of happiness with no regard for the future. We put off the inevitable. Hell, most of us never had a chance to begin with.”
THE BAD
Everything else. In all honesty, nothing happened until around 70%. Before that, the relationship between Damon and Ben revolves around them being horny teenagers who cannot get enough of each other. While they started opening up to each other a little, nothing between them felt real and realistic because right from the beginning, their relationship starts off as purely sexual. They became boyfriends out of nowhere after having sex. If I’m being honest, they never even held a real conversation unless it was about them feeling each other up. Throughout their relationship, there is nothing but lust, sex, jealousy, abusive behavior, violence, manipulation, lies, miscommunication, and misunderstandings. I would even describe their relationship as toxic. That’s actually fine with me. Admittedly, I can root for a toxic relationship between two characters, but the one between Ben and Damon was difficult to root for because there was nothing to root for. It doesn’t develop until 92%. At 92% there is rushed character development and the happy ending we were guaranteed. Before that, everything was a mess.
Let me just elaborate.
13%: “What’s going on between you and Teddy?” My eyes widen in shock, and I jerk myself back out of his grip.
“What are you talking about? He’s one of my closest friends. Seems like y’all have gotten pretty friendly, too.” It's only the beginning, and he's already jealous. The two aren't even friends (never have been friends, even though both have apparently noticed each other at school). Teddy is one of Ben’s best friends and there is nothing going on between them. Even if there were, it isn’t Damon’s business, especially when the two aren’t even close.
17%: His thumb pulls on my lower lip as he whispers, “I want these perfect lips wrapped around my dick. Do you want that, pretty boy?” For someone who is apparently super straight, I expected Ben’s pansexual awakening to be explored more. His reaction felt unrealistic and boring. Not only that, but it had been less than 20% and the two already had intercourse. Although we know from the blurb that they hook up for one night, I didn't think it would have been that quick.
35%: “Changed my mind. I don’t want you to be with anyone else, baby. I want you all to myself,” he murmurs softly. In which Damon asks Ben if he “fucked anyone else like he wanted to” and then decides for Ben that he wants him to himself even though not even a little before, he told him that “nothing’s going on here,” and “feel free to fuck whoever you want.”
37%: We spend the rest of the day like this, alternating between watching the best show ever and feeling each other up. They really can’t go a single moment without having to feel each other up and just talking.
56%: Logically, I know there’s nothing romantic or sexual between them. But, it just fucking makes too much sense to completely disregard. Why wouldn’t they hook up? They’re already close friends, and Ben’s the most beautiful man I’ve ever seen. It’s easy to imagine. It’s been more than half of the book and the two have spent doing nothing but doing drugs, blowing each other out, swallowing their spit, grinding their erections, and sending mixed signals. Also, a week has passed since the party, and Damon still brings Teddy up, thinking they are together as if platonic relationships between two guys can’t exist. All he thinks about is sex.
60%: A boyfriend. I actually have one of those now. That’s another thing I’ll add to the list of shit I didn’t see coming this year. I should’ve known we would end up like this. This came out of nowhere.
60%: All of this started about a month ago and I’ve already given him numerous reasons to not trust me. I want to change that. One month and all they know is their name and dick size.
62%: “Take my dick out, baby.” He grabs my chin and pulls me into a soft kiss. A small noise escapes me as I work his slacks open. His dick is so heavy and hot in my palm. Our lips and teeth clash together as I stroke him. I’m telling you, these boys haven’t had an actual conversation about anything else except their bodies.
63%: “Didn’t know you had a therapist,” he says, quirking a brow at me. This is what Damon tells Ben when he says he needs to go home and meet with his therapist, and it’s like, of course you wouldn’t. You two have never actually talked about anything even though it’s been a month since everything started.
70%: He’s shared little bits about his life with me. From what I’ve gathered, his mom is a drug addict like mine, except she’s addicted to painkillers and heroin, not crack. His dad is just a depressed man. Ben still doesn’t actually know where his spends all of his time away from the house, but he thinks his dad’s doing drugs again. 70% in and they finally had “a date.”
72%: His sweet little whimpers are quickly becoming my favorite sound. I close my eyes and bury my nose in his hair, inhaling his scent. Ben literally was having a breakdown over his mom (who just OD’d) and he decides to kiss him, pull his lip between his teeth, and starts thinking sexually about him. He can’t stop for a moment and show some sort of reaction except arousal.
83%: “You really should start going back to therapy,” Damon says. You should really take your own words into consideration.
88%: I don’t even see it coming when he wraps his hand around my throat and shoves me against the concrete wall, knocking my head painfully against it. His grip tightens until he’s nearly crushing my windpipe.
“I fucking love you,” he roars, spittle flying. The baritone in his voice is enough to make my knees weak with fear. “Guess it’s not good enough for you. Guess I’m not fucking good enough for anyone. I never will be. I fucking told you this would happen!” Gotta get those anger issues in check.
95%: “What I really want to know is…” I take a steadying breath. “Will you give me another chance? Will you give us a chance? A real one this time.” At 92%, Damon has “fixed himself” by being at a rehab center for 60 days. This happened because he overdosed and was luckily found by Jasper. What really pissed me off here was that Ben gave him a chance so easily, as if nothing happened. I also wish they became friends first instead and started growing that way. While I’m happy that Damon finally got the help and treatment he deserved (because even though I didn’t like him, that doesn’t mean I wished the worst for him and wished he lost his life to addiction), I didn’t think he deserved Ben’s second chance that easily. Not to mention this was just too rushed.
98%: Ben graduates high school. The two get their happy ever after. The end.
All I have to say is that I am very excited for the next book because it's about Teddy (and possibly Liam, one of Ben's other best friends) so I smell a potential friends to lovers.
Buddy read with Charee, who made this reading experience much more fun and enjoyable.
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March 6, 2025
|| 4.0 stars ||
This series is about a group of boys, born on the wrong side of the tracks, who just try to make it day by day with nothing other than each other’s friendship, non-stop parties and lots of drugs. It’s toxic, it’s depressing, it’s gritty, it’s heady.
The romance is extremely intense and all-consuming with a constant push-and-pull between them. It has lots of angst, drama and obsession.
One of the two, Ben, suffers from depression and parental neglect while the other, Damon, is a spiraling addict. Yet, above all, they love each other and would do anything to make it work between them. Even in moments when they might be better apart.
All in all, this book completely enraptured me and I was so into it. I enjoyed it much more than I expected to.
However, I do know for certain that this book will not be for everyone, so be aware of that before you give it a try.
'Worthless Boys' series:
1. Cruel and Careless - 4.0 stars
2. High and Hopeless - 3.0 stars
3. Lone and Lifeless - 1.0 star
Other Bailey Nicole books:
His Revelry - 2.5 stars
Consumed - 2.5 stars
This series is about a group of boys, born on the wrong side of the tracks, who just try to make it day by day with nothing other than each other’s friendship, non-stop parties and lots of drugs. It’s toxic, it’s depressing, it’s gritty, it’s heady.
The romance is extremely intense and all-consuming with a constant push-and-pull between them. It has lots of angst, drama and obsession.
One of the two, Ben, suffers from depression and parental neglect while the other, Damon, is a spiraling addict. Yet, above all, they love each other and would do anything to make it work between them. Even in moments when they might be better apart.
I know I can be overbearing, but he’s got me all fucked up. One look at his big blue eyes, framed by those thick lashes, and I knew I’ll do anything for him. Give him anything. He has total control over me, and he doesn’t even realize it. I’m rearranging my whole life around him.
He looks at me like I’m perfect—like he’d forgive me for anything. It’s a heady feeling.
All in all, this book completely enraptured me and I was so into it. I enjoyed it much more than I expected to.
However, I do know for certain that this book will not be for everyone, so be aware of that before you give it a try.
'Worthless Boys' series:
1. Cruel and Careless - 4.0 stars
2. High and Hopeless - 3.0 stars
3. Lone and Lifeless - 1.0 star
Other Bailey Nicole books:
His Revelry - 2.5 stars
Consumed - 2.5 stars
July 27, 2021
I know I can be overbearing, but he's got me all fucked up. One look at this big blue eyes, framed by those thick lashes, and I knew I'll do anything for him. Give him anything. He has total control over me, and he doesn't even realize it.
critically, this story is 3 stars for me. like my mind pushes this agenda but unfortunately i'm a person, a reader to be exact, ruled by his emotions. 4 stars! don't judge. god, are we even surprised at this point? the overall story, despite my issues, are highly enjoyable. my eyes were glued from start to finish in this. from the blurb, i was expecting a trainwreck with our characters, ben and damon. and i definitely got that. on one hand, we got ben, a high school senior, barely hanging in his life with his depression and the fucked up things that happened to his family. he skips school, parties a lot, and just roll some weed joints to get high. on the other hand, we have damon who is 2 years ahead of ben and at the same time a cocaine dealer.
I never think so far ahead. All I can do is try to make it through today.
why 4 stars? honestly for ben and damon and their friends. i love how these two characters consider one another as their own salvation, their beacon of light. they latched into one another hoping they won't eventually fall. also, i was swimming in angst and tension here. the way damon dominates and possess his boyfriend? *chef's kiss* imagine a story about a mentally depressed teen trying to save his boyfriend from cocaine addiction? i was just pulled in. said boyfriends get volatile and handsy whenever he gets high. do you try to stay or let go? this book may not be my favorite but it was so damn close. i know i will forever remember this book. a stand out.
God, he makes me so fucking weak. I might as well be on my knees begging him. I would. I would do that for him-kneel at his feet until the end of time.
my only problem here was *drumroll* the pacing. definitely rushed. a lot of telling rather than showing especially in the end. i feel like the author opened so many heavy topics in this that needed more exploration; that needed to be stretched out. i wish there was more discussion when it comes to mental health, addiction, their own family problems etc etc. honestly, if this book ended in a cliffhanger and if the author choose to expand their story more in the next book, i would definitely loved this as a whole. overall, i'm impressed with how this book is a debut from bailey nicole. the fact that i devoured this book in one seating, that got me so fucking invested deserve that rating alone.
July 16, 2021
Wow, Just Wow!!!! The blurb is what got me hooked on this book. First and most certainly not my last from this author. Such a phenomenal debut novel. Bailey Nicole's writing is top-notch. After I read a book, I wait several hours and collect my thoughts on a book. I am not doing that this time so I may be all over the place.
As Cruel and Carless is a fictional book indeed, in reality, people have lived this story or some version of it; I did. So it's much more personal for me. Read the triggers; not a dark book but does have some dark undertones. My review may be vague as I don't want to give away any spoilers.
My heart and soul go out to my sweet Ben, wakes up gets drunk, smokes weed, sleep and repeat. He was just trying to make it day to day. Trust me. He has his reasons. After visiting his mother’s, he meets up with his friends and is reunited with Damon, who always sparked his interest. Damon is the resident bad boy who almost shares the same story as Ben. Both hurting with demons. Sparks fly, and one thing leads to another.
As much as I love Damon, he also pissed me off. You have just read and wait for it to happen. He is the life of the party, always with a mask on, hiding his genuine emotions. God, he is sexy as hell too. I could light a match and watch my kindle explode with their sexual chemistry.
The author did her research and left no detail overturned. I am very thankful for that aspect. You can’t help but have a bleeding heart for both characters. They left their mark on me, and I am so grateful they did. Will, I reread this book? Yes, Yes, I would. Overall I very much enjoyed this book and Adored Damon and Ben. I can’t wait for the next book.
As Cruel and Carless is a fictional book indeed, in reality, people have lived this story or some version of it; I did. So it's much more personal for me. Read the triggers; not a dark book but does have some dark undertones. My review may be vague as I don't want to give away any spoilers.
My heart and soul go out to my sweet Ben, wakes up gets drunk, smokes weed, sleep and repeat. He was just trying to make it day to day. Trust me. He has his reasons. After visiting his mother’s, he meets up with his friends and is reunited with Damon, who always sparked his interest. Damon is the resident bad boy who almost shares the same story as Ben. Both hurting with demons. Sparks fly, and one thing leads to another.
As much as I love Damon, he also pissed me off. You have just read and wait for it to happen. He is the life of the party, always with a mask on, hiding his genuine emotions. God, he is sexy as hell too. I could light a match and watch my kindle explode with their sexual chemistry.
The author did her research and left no detail overturned. I am very thankful for that aspect. You can’t help but have a bleeding heart for both characters. They left their mark on me, and I am so grateful they did. Will, I reread this book? Yes, Yes, I would. Overall I very much enjoyed this book and Adored Damon and Ben. I can’t wait for the next book.
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July 25, 2021
2 stars ☆
“We do what we have to do to get by,” I interrupt. “If chasing the next thrill keeps us going, then we should keep at it. Because if we don’t, then we’ll truly have nothing. Life is unbearable, and it doesn’t cater to us. My friends are thicker than my family, and I’ll stick with them through whatever path they take. We’re our own family. There’s no time to think about the next five years; we’re just trying to make it to tomorrow.”
it’s the way i felt nothing towards both Hs (welll ok there were a few times i felt for Ben, but it was honestly hard for me to feel anything for Damon) or their romance bc it was more physical > emotional majority of the book and, once the development finally starts, it was too late for me to feel invested in their story. :/ the only times i felt excited was during the friendship scenes between Ben’s friend group and i loved seeing Ben and his dad trying to mend their relationship!! alsoo, i’m excited for a certain character’s story. 👀
thank you to my lovely friend, Elena, for doing this BR with me! it was definitely a much more fun, entertaining read bc i was able to rant with you. <3
sidenote: feel free to check out her review bc she explains it better on how we both felt about this book. :)
“We do what we have to do to get by,” I interrupt. “If chasing the next thrill keeps us going, then we should keep at it. Because if we don’t, then we’ll truly have nothing. Life is unbearable, and it doesn’t cater to us. My friends are thicker than my family, and I’ll stick with them through whatever path they take. We’re our own family. There’s no time to think about the next five years; we’re just trying to make it to tomorrow.”
it’s the way i felt nothing towards both Hs (welll ok there were a few times i felt for Ben, but it was honestly hard for me to feel anything for Damon) or their romance bc it was more physical > emotional majority of the book and, once the development finally starts, it was too late for me to feel invested in their story. :/ the only times i felt excited was during the friendship scenes between Ben’s friend group and i loved seeing Ben and his dad trying to mend their relationship!! alsoo, i’m excited for a certain character’s story. 👀
thank you to my lovely friend, Elena, for doing this BR with me! it was definitely a much more fun, entertaining read bc i was able to rant with you. <3
sidenote: feel free to check out her review bc she explains it better on how we both felt about this book. :)
December 27, 2021
**** 3.5 stars ****
I am a sucker for toxic relationships. Add that to a realistic YA drama and I am a goner!
I found this story gripping and it got me fully invested until the end.
The MCs had great chemistry and were super hot, which always helps to balance an angsty read.
My favourite was Ben. Such a darling! On the other hand, Damon was a bit hard to relate to. He was the possessive type though, so... there is that, brownie points here. 🙈🙊🙉
I loved the friendship portrayed here and even the shitty family representation. The author managed to create a solid bond between Ben and his Dad despite their issues
B Nicole is a new author to me and I'll definitely read the next book!
Available on KU at the moment.
I am a sucker for toxic relationships. Add that to a realistic YA drama and I am a goner!
I found this story gripping and it got me fully invested until the end.
The MCs had great chemistry and were super hot, which always helps to balance an angsty read.
My favourite was Ben. Such a darling! On the other hand, Damon was a bit hard to relate to. He was the possessive type though, so... there is that, brownie points here. 🙈🙊🙉
I loved the friendship portrayed here and even the shitty family representation. The author managed to create a solid bond between Ben and his Dad despite their issues
B Nicole is a new author to me and I'll definitely read the next book!
Available on KU at the moment.
September 1, 2022
Audio - 5 Stars
Story - 4.5 Stars
Story - 4.5 Stars
July 16, 2021
*** I received an eArc from the author in exchange for an honest review.***
This was a fantastic debut by Bailey Nicole!!! This story was an absolutely epic journey where I was immersed in the lives of both main characters. I was so consumed with their story and all its angst that I needed to discover how they will achieve their HEA, which did not disappoint.
This complex story features Ben and Damon who develop intense feelings for one another while dealing with their own addiction struggles, which the author does not shy away from the dark urges and realism within addiction.
I loved how this story shows an honest and realistic depiction of addiction without any judgment and in the end displays an earnest love that contains support and understanding between both main characters.
Overall this is a beautiful story that shows the messiness within love and how anything worth fighting for will never be easy. I love both Ben and Damon, I fell so hard for both and enjoyed reading their story.
This was a fantastic debut by Bailey Nicole!!! This story was an absolutely epic journey where I was immersed in the lives of both main characters. I was so consumed with their story and all its angst that I needed to discover how they will achieve their HEA, which did not disappoint.
This complex story features Ben and Damon who develop intense feelings for one another while dealing with their own addiction struggles, which the author does not shy away from the dark urges and realism within addiction.
I loved how this story shows an honest and realistic depiction of addiction without any judgment and in the end displays an earnest love that contains support and understanding between both main characters.
Overall this is a beautiful story that shows the messiness within love and how anything worth fighting for will never be easy. I love both Ben and Damon, I fell so hard for both and enjoyed reading their story.
July 24, 2021
"He’s a fire wrapping around me, short circuiting my senses."
🖤OMG🖤SO🖤MUCH🖤ANGST🖤
Don't be put off by the high school element here. It's new adult, no taboo elements and totally hot AF 🔥. But Cruel and Careless isn't a smut read. Nor is it a fluffy romance. There are some dark themes and triggers. It deals with real issues and real problems, so have your tissues handy.
Cruel and Careless is an amazing debut novel by Bailey Nicole. This is book 1 in the #worthlessboys series but can be read as a standalone, as each book (so far) follows a different couple from the friendship group. It does have a HEA but be warned, it's a long, hard road to get there.
"We're our own family. There's no time to think about the next five years; we're just trying to make it to tomorrow".
Essentially, this is a story about love, loss and addiction - to each other, and to drugs.
Damon is out and proud, extremely popular and a real social animal, but he's hiding some deep-rooted pain from his past which he manages with drugs. Lots of drugs.
Ben has had it tough, with an addict mother and a depressive father, he's basically had to look after himself. Just turning 18, he has previously identified as straight but has always been aware of Damon, a year or two above him at school. He wants all his firsts and lasts with Damon. But wanting him may not be enough.
Ben and Damon are drawn to each other, like moths to a flame💕. But someone always gets burnt.
Totally loved this 🖤🖤🖤.
Highly recommended.
5 star read ✨✨✨✨✨
🖤OMG🖤SO🖤MUCH🖤ANGST🖤
Don't be put off by the high school element here. It's new adult, no taboo elements and totally hot AF 🔥. But Cruel and Careless isn't a smut read. Nor is it a fluffy romance. There are some dark themes and triggers. It deals with real issues and real problems, so have your tissues handy.
Cruel and Careless is an amazing debut novel by Bailey Nicole. This is book 1 in the #worthlessboys series but can be read as a standalone, as each book (so far) follows a different couple from the friendship group. It does have a HEA but be warned, it's a long, hard road to get there.
"We're our own family. There's no time to think about the next five years; we're just trying to make it to tomorrow".
Essentially, this is a story about love, loss and addiction - to each other, and to drugs.
Damon is out and proud, extremely popular and a real social animal, but he's hiding some deep-rooted pain from his past which he manages with drugs. Lots of drugs.
Ben has had it tough, with an addict mother and a depressive father, he's basically had to look after himself. Just turning 18, he has previously identified as straight but has always been aware of Damon, a year or two above him at school. He wants all his firsts and lasts with Damon. But wanting him may not be enough.
Ben and Damon are drawn to each other, like moths to a flame💕. But someone always gets burnt.
Totally loved this 🖤🖤🖤.
Highly recommended.
5 star read ✨✨✨✨✨
did-not-finish
January 28, 2022 DNF @ 51%
😪 I got bored
🥱 Characters were dull AF
😵 Writing was 😬 All tell-y and boring and stagnant
🤩 Read @elena's review
😪 I got bored
🥱 Characters were dull AF
😵 Writing was 😬 All tell-y and boring and stagnant
🤩 Read @elena's review
July 31, 2023
✰ 2.75 stars ✰
“How can I make this right?
How can I fucking fix this?
My head feels like it might catch on fire if I don’t stop. I’ve been careless and cruel, fucking over the only people who matter. I need to stop, I have to.”
'So blessed, so moved, so grateful,' that I read Cruel and Careless AFTER I had read the next two books, because I would have definitely skipped out in continuing this series if I had. But, as I don't want to leave any series I have started in media res incomplete, and I did want to reacquaint myself with Bailey Nicole's writing before I read her newest release, here I am.
“He’s completely different than he was last night. Right now, he’s a needy mess, and it’s the hottest fucking thing ever.
Because he’s needy for me.
---
I still want more; I want everything he’ll give me, and it's terrifying.”
Is it insta-love, if you've already been attracted to someone before - just never worked up the nerve to admit it? Ben and Damon reunite after Ben returns home from spending a summer with his mother, and instantly sparks flare up between the two - hotter than the drugs they consume on a regular basis. Ben has always been eying Damon, a year his senior in school, from the sidelines - just never thought he would be worth the attention of someone as hawt as him. 😮💨 But, life can surprise you and one heated kiss can quickly and inevitably lead to a tumble into the sheets - one that they can't keep themselves away from - no matter how hard Ben did resist at first (surprisingly! 😅) - exploring each other's bodies in more ways than one, and indulging in one questionable kink that made me raise my eyebrows higher than I ever have. 🤨 But hey, who am I to judge in what works in people's relationships?! 🙂
It's overwhelming - it's all-consuming - it's possessive - it's all about them 24/7 - it's all Ben could have ever dreamed to have - even if they never really did talk about much else. 🤔 But, life can't be all about how life-altering the sex is, or how much you crave the other's attention and presence. Sometimes, there are real-life issues, personal concerns that outweigh all that - sometimes, it's chasing a high that even someone you care about isn't enough to let yourself go. 😔
“This is the ultimate feeling. The best therapy money can buy. A quick detachment from reality is sometimes what I need, because I can’t cope with it all.”
Ben and Damon have their own personal struggles - it'd be hard to ignore them. And at times - more often than not - it's the thrill of an addiction - the heady rush of that intoxication that appeases the soul - more than anything else - that gives them the slight reprieve to forget about them. It was slightly unnerving to see how much constant intake there was of drugs and alcohol - almost, like it was second nature to them; but, there's always a price to pay. 🥺🥺
And to see when it eventually blew up in their faces - when Damon is violently careless with his actions, because he has been so cruel to himself for trying to drown away his pain - the two of them finally have to take a step back in their relationship, because if you really love someone, you have to go the distance to be worthy of their love. ❤️🩹❤️🩹 It's a shame it was glossed over so quickly, though - I would have liked to have seen a little bit into their recovery days, rather than immediately picking off where they left off.
“We do what we have to do to get by,” I interrupt. “If chasing the next thrill keeps us going, then we should keep at it. Because if we don’t, then we’ll truly have nothing.
Life is unbearable, and it doesn’t cater to us. My friends are thicker than my family, and I’ll stick with them through whatever path they take. We’re our own family. There’s no time to think about the next five years; we’re just trying to make it to tomorrow.”
The highlight and joy of this book was the beautiful bond, Ben had with Ant and Teddy - no contest, no question. A friendship like theirs - one that even when they weren't high - they genuinely cared for each other - dropping everything at a second's notice to be there for one another - and truly understood one another - because they're all in the same boat, in their own way. 🥹 🥹 Trying to get by in life, the only way they know how. Life is too fleeting for them, too tremulous and uncertain for them to know for sure just how it's going to end up - but the one thing that they'll never have to doubt is their love for each other. 🫂🫂
It softened my heart when they allowed themselves to be emotional and honest with their feelings, even if it embarrassed them, to no end. And that the many words of wisdom they shared with Ben were enough for him to always remember and never forget that they have each other's backs - forever. And of course, Jasper - you may not have been in it enough, but you shined, when you were most needed - for that, you have my gratitude. 🤍🤍
“Sometimes all a person needs to pull them from their lowest is the unconditional love they crave the most.”
Knowing how each of these precious worthless boys truly got their well-deserved happily ever afters - that in the end, they made it out of the backstreets of Florida - made revisiting this series totally worth it. 🙏🏼🙏🏼
“How can I make this right?
How can I fucking fix this?
My head feels like it might catch on fire if I don’t stop. I’ve been careless and cruel, fucking over the only people who matter. I need to stop, I have to.”
'So blessed, so moved, so grateful,' that I read Cruel and Careless AFTER I had read the next two books, because I would have definitely skipped out in continuing this series if I had. But, as I don't want to leave any series I have started in media res incomplete, and I did want to reacquaint myself with Bailey Nicole's writing before I read her newest release, here I am.
“He’s completely different than he was last night. Right now, he’s a needy mess, and it’s the hottest fucking thing ever.
Because he’s needy for me.
---
I still want more; I want everything he’ll give me, and it's terrifying.”
Is it insta-love, if you've already been attracted to someone before - just never worked up the nerve to admit it? Ben and Damon reunite after Ben returns home from spending a summer with his mother, and instantly sparks flare up between the two - hotter than the drugs they consume on a regular basis. Ben has always been eying Damon, a year his senior in school, from the sidelines - just never thought he would be worth the attention of someone as hawt as him. 😮💨 But, life can surprise you and one heated kiss can quickly and inevitably lead to a tumble into the sheets - one that they can't keep themselves away from - no matter how hard Ben did resist at first (surprisingly! 😅) - exploring each other's bodies in more ways than one, and indulging in one questionable kink that made me raise my eyebrows higher than I ever have. 🤨 But hey, who am I to judge in what works in people's relationships?! 🙂
It's overwhelming - it's all-consuming - it's possessive - it's all about them 24/7 - it's all Ben could have ever dreamed to have - even if they never really did talk about much else. 🤔 But, life can't be all about how life-altering the sex is, or how much you crave the other's attention and presence. Sometimes, there are real-life issues, personal concerns that outweigh all that - sometimes, it's chasing a high that even someone you care about isn't enough to let yourself go. 😔
“This is the ultimate feeling. The best therapy money can buy. A quick detachment from reality is sometimes what I need, because I can’t cope with it all.”
Ben and Damon have their own personal struggles - it'd be hard to ignore them. And at times - more often than not - it's the thrill of an addiction - the heady rush of that intoxication that appeases the soul - more than anything else - that gives them the slight reprieve to forget about them. It was slightly unnerving to see how much constant intake there was of drugs and alcohol - almost, like it was second nature to them; but, there's always a price to pay. 🥺🥺
And to see when it eventually blew up in their faces - when Damon is violently careless with his actions, because he has been so cruel to himself for trying to drown away his pain - the two of them finally have to take a step back in their relationship, because if you really love someone, you have to go the distance to be worthy of their love. ❤️🩹❤️🩹 It's a shame it was glossed over so quickly, though - I would have liked to have seen a little bit into their recovery days, rather than immediately picking off where they left off.
“We do what we have to do to get by,” I interrupt. “If chasing the next thrill keeps us going, then we should keep at it. Because if we don’t, then we’ll truly have nothing.
Life is unbearable, and it doesn’t cater to us. My friends are thicker than my family, and I’ll stick with them through whatever path they take. We’re our own family. There’s no time to think about the next five years; we’re just trying to make it to tomorrow.”
The highlight and joy of this book was the beautiful bond, Ben had with Ant and Teddy - no contest, no question. A friendship like theirs - one that even when they weren't high - they genuinely cared for each other - dropping everything at a second's notice to be there for one another - and truly understood one another - because they're all in the same boat, in their own way. 🥹 🥹 Trying to get by in life, the only way they know how. Life is too fleeting for them, too tremulous and uncertain for them to know for sure just how it's going to end up - but the one thing that they'll never have to doubt is their love for each other. 🫂🫂
It softened my heart when they allowed themselves to be emotional and honest with their feelings, even if it embarrassed them, to no end. And that the many words of wisdom they shared with Ben were enough for him to always remember and never forget that they have each other's backs - forever. And of course, Jasper - you may not have been in it enough, but you shined, when you were most needed - for that, you have my gratitude. 🤍🤍
“Sometimes all a person needs to pull them from their lowest is the unconditional love they crave the most.”
Knowing how each of these precious worthless boys truly got their well-deserved happily ever afters - that in the end, they made it out of the backstreets of Florida - made revisiting this series totally worth it. 🙏🏼🙏🏼
![Profile Image for ♡Gabi♡ [life & work is chaotic hiatus].](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fi.gr-assets.com%2Fimages%2FS%2Fcompressed.photo.goodreads.com%2Fusers%2F1764457886i%2F137459201._UX200_CR0%2C0%2C200%2C200_.jpg&w=128&q=75)
April 22, 2023
I felt like one second Ben and Damon are having a one night stand and the next they are living together and boyfriends and I was just like wait a damn second what just happened. 😧🫨
This book deals with substance use disorder, depression, anxiety, amongst other difficult topics, and how Damon and Ben deal with the effects and ramifications personally and as a couple. I felt the pacing of the story was rushed and not explored enough and I just didn’t feel that deep and emotional connection between Damon and Ben and wasn’t really invested in their relationship.
Definitely still interested to keep reading the rest of the series though!
This book deals with substance use disorder, depression, anxiety, amongst other difficult topics, and how Damon and Ben deal with the effects and ramifications personally and as a couple. I felt the pacing of the story was rushed and not explored enough and I just didn’t feel that deep and emotional connection between Damon and Ben and wasn’t really invested in their relationship.
Definitely still interested to keep reading the rest of the series though!
December 15, 2021
3.5
I wouldn’t call this book enjoyable, per se, but it was interesting. Mainly, it was very depressing, though. I hated that Ben put up with so much of Damon’s shit for so long! Their HFN was believable, if a bit rushed.
Not sure I’m ready for another dose of these fucked-up teenagers and their toxic relationships right now… but Teddy was such a sweetheart here, and I just want him to get his man already. 🙈 Pining for his ‘straight’ bff? Yes, please. I want that angst.
TW for copious drug use, nonfatal overdose, unhealthy relationships, and other destructive behaviors.
I wouldn’t call this book enjoyable, per se, but it was interesting. Mainly, it was very depressing, though. I hated that Ben put up with so much of Damon’s shit for so long! Their HFN was believable, if a bit rushed.
Not sure I’m ready for another dose of these fucked-up teenagers and their toxic relationships right now… but Teddy was such a sweetheart here, and I just want him to get his man already. 🙈 Pining for his ‘straight’ bff? Yes, please. I want that angst.
TW for copious drug use, nonfatal overdose, unhealthy relationships, and other destructive behaviors.
October 5, 2022
What is a toxic relationship? Beginner's guide right here. It does eventually become a normal healthy one though so there's that.
May 27, 2025
no sleep. bus. club. 'nother club. 'nother club. 'nother club. next place. no sleep.
that is literally how i would describe this book. just these broken boys doing the same thing over and over with some trauma mixed in. i started off with the audio (which i regret tremendously). damon was supposed to have a deep voice, so hearing the narrator come in with this high, squeaky tone kinda pissed me off. i can't tell who specifically narrated Damon, so I won't point any fingers (for now).
aside from that, ben and damon had potential as a couple. i really think i would've rated this higher if the audio didn't ruin half the book. I eventually switched to my kindle, but before i knew it, i had gotten to the end and didn't feel very satisfied. these two were toxic and i LOVE that shit, but i can't get past the audio. for now tho, this gets three stars.
that is literally how i would describe this book. just these broken boys doing the same thing over and over with some trauma mixed in. i started off with the audio (which i regret tremendously). damon was supposed to have a deep voice, so hearing the narrator come in with this high, squeaky tone kinda pissed me off. i can't tell who specifically narrated Damon, so I won't point any fingers (for now).
aside from that, ben and damon had potential as a couple. i really think i would've rated this higher if the audio didn't ruin half the book. I eventually switched to my kindle, but before i knew it, i had gotten to the end and didn't feel very satisfied. these two were toxic and i LOVE that shit, but i can't get past the audio. for now tho, this gets three stars.
December 18, 2021
Step one to enjoying a book: expect to not like it at all.
After reading some reviews for this I honestly didn’t think I’d like it that much. I was just reading it so I had a better background of the characters in book two. But I actually really liked it? It wasn’t half as bad as what I’d imagined. There was definitely some angst but it wasn’t the annoying kind so I enjoyed it. Ben felt like the main character of this story even though we get both his and Damon’s pov’s, but Ben has a lot more chapters and imo is the most likeable of the two.
There’s a ton of drug usage in this book and the relationship isn’t the most healthiest at times so if this isn’t your thing I would recommend avoiding it.
After reading some reviews for this I honestly didn’t think I’d like it that much. I was just reading it so I had a better background of the characters in book two. But I actually really liked it? It wasn’t half as bad as what I’d imagined. There was definitely some angst but it wasn’t the annoying kind so I enjoyed it. Ben felt like the main character of this story even though we get both his and Damon’s pov’s, but Ben has a lot more chapters and imo is the most likeable of the two.
There’s a ton of drug usage in this book and the relationship isn’t the most healthiest at times so if this isn’t your thing I would recommend avoiding it.
August 31, 2022
5 stars audio
4 stars story
4 stars story
April 12, 2022
No amount of words will do this book justice. I literally can't find words to describe it. That's why I'll just put some quotes that will speak for it. Trust me when I say: it's better not to read them if you haven't read the book and just go into it without spoilers. But keep in mind that this book will definitely not be for everyone!
I asked myself, in the beginning, will this book break my heart? Huh, jokes one me because I didn't imagine half of the feelings this book will make me experience while I was reading it. I understand why some of my friends didn't like this book but to me it is amazing and it has a deeper meaning. (one of the reasons I can't seem to find words to describe it)
⚠️ Quotes from the book: ⚠️
P.S. This book wrecked me but the end left me with a soft, sincere smile. One I could feel in my whole body. And thank you, Gloria, for listening to me rambling about how much I love this book, and actually, because of you, I found this book sooo THANK YOU AGAIN!!! YOU'RE THE BEST!!!
I asked myself, in the beginning, will this book break my heart? Huh, jokes one me because I didn't imagine half of the feelings this book will make me experience while I was reading it. I understand why some of my friends didn't like this book but to me it is amazing and it has a deeper meaning. (one of the reasons I can't seem to find words to describe it)
⚠️ Quotes from the book: ⚠️
As it turns out, the only way to protect yourself is to not give a fuck. How's that for a lesson in maturity?
Whenever I'm in social situations like this, my mind races with things I want to say, but I usually keep quiet.
I'm just trying to make it to tomorrow.
A week may not seem long or impactful in the grand scheme of things, but it is for me. I need to take life one day at a time.
"Look at me. I'll rip them apart. Do I look like I give a fuck about making a scene? I'm crazy as hell, baby."
He'll bottle up all his shit until he explodes. I study him closely. I have a feeling his explosion won't be like mine. Mine is always self-destructive, throwing all my cares to the wind. No more trying to make it to tomorrow. His will probably be a violent, uncontrollable rage.
Addicts never do. They always replace it with some other substance, whether it's legal like coffee or cigarettes, or not.
P.S. This book wrecked me but the end left me with a soft, sincere smile. One I could feel in my whole body. And thank you, Gloria, for listening to me rambling about how much I love this book, and actually, because of you, I found this book sooo THANK YOU AGAIN!!! YOU'RE THE BEST!!!
![Profile Image for Lilly [Hiatus due to School] .](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fi.gr-assets.com%2Fimages%2FS%2Fcompressed.photo.goodreads.com%2Fusers%2F1663899589i%2F10381707._UX200_CR0%2C0%2C200%2C200_.jpg&w=128&q=75)
September 6, 2022
This was my first book from Bailey Nicole. I initially planned first to read The Weight of Your Wishes, but sometimes a book chooses you. Ben and Damon's story deals with addiction, neglect of children/teens, and abuse in a realistic way. It is very raw. It shows how generational abuse continues and the aftermath when children are forced to grow up in such environments. Ben is trying to survive, making the most of his situation while trying to overcome the hand he is dealt in life. Damon, however, is lost, filled with repressed anger and resentment. They both look towards substances and each other as a refugee. I really enjoyed how their romance grew and, in a way, became addictive. This was a story that kept me on a ride as if I was on my own trip, and I am so glad they get they very deserved happily ever after. Overall I enjoyed it and looked forward to Teddy and Liam's story.
February 23, 2022
4 Stars
I was actually really excited to read this book. And look, I really really liked it. I loved Ben and Damon. Their romance was toxic but at the same time pure. It was filled with vibes, and, healing and I enjoyed reading about them a lot.
One of the things I loved the most about the book was the friend group. Everyone was so cool. I wish I had a friend group like that 😪 jeje.
I really liked this book. Damon was messed and Ben was too. But Ben was my lil cinnamon roll. I just wanted to hug him, Damon too.
I liked how, despite everything, they made each other better. They made each other want to live, and not just for tomorrow, but together and forever.
I really liked this one and I can’t wait to start Teddy's and Liam's book. I completely recommend! Toodles!
I was actually really excited to read this book. And look, I really really liked it. I loved Ben and Damon. Their romance was toxic but at the same time pure. It was filled with vibes, and, healing and I enjoyed reading about them a lot.
One of the things I loved the most about the book was the friend group. Everyone was so cool. I wish I had a friend group like that 😪 jeje.
I really liked this book. Damon was messed and Ben was too. But Ben was my lil cinnamon roll. I just wanted to hug him, Damon too.
I liked how, despite everything, they made each other better. They made each other want to live, and not just for tomorrow, but together and forever.
I really liked this one and I can’t wait to start Teddy's and Liam's book. I completely recommend! Toodles!
November 24, 2023
Tropes: none
Feels: 2/5
Steam*: 3/5
Kinks: spitting, felching
Angst: high
Triggers/potential icks: bad parents, addiction, drugs, suicide attempt, cheating, driving under the influence, domestic violence
I didn't enjoy this. They both had rough lives with abusive and addicted parents. Ben's in his last year of high school and he's at risk of failing out. His mom is an addict who he's cut off contact with very very recently. Ben's dad disappears for long periods of time and leaves him without food and the water gets turned off. Damon's a little older out of high school living on his own. Damon's casual use of drugs has been slipping into full on addiction.
They knew each other vaguely in high school though they never interacted. They meet again at a party and they start hooking up. Damon cheats on Ben when they have a bit of a fight over his drug use. They get back together and commit as boyfriends and they live together. They drag each other down. Damon gets really bad in his addiction. Damon regularly drives under the influence with no consequences, with no one calling him out on it. Ben gets hopeless with his mental health struggles and being in a relationship with an addict after witnessing both his parents being addicts. Damon loses his job, lies about things, does drugs after he promised he wouldn't. Ben is done. They argue and Damon starts choking Ben until he almost passes out. One of Damon's friends pulls Damon away from then. Ben stands up for himself and fully breaks up with Damon.
Damon tries to get back with Ben and Ben isn't having it. Ben's nice about it he wishes Damon well and hopes he'll get healthy but he can't be with an addict. Damon attempts suicide with pills. He's not successful, a friend finds him and gets him medical help. Damon goes to rehab for 60 days and he takes it seriously, this was a wake-up call for him, he realizes his addiction torpedoed his life and lost him Ben. The moment he gets out of rehab, he seeks out Ben to talk, to apologize and to ask for another chance. Ben says yes but he put some rules on it saying they have to take things slow. Which is admirable. But then also congratulates Damon on beating his addiction. But that's not believable, addiction is a lifelong struggle. Damon's winning today but it's not going to be that easy. We flash forward a couple months and Damon's sobriety is lasting and Ben is supporting him and doing sober living as well. They seem to be making it work. Ben's pulled things together a bit because his dad is showing up for him more. Ben graduates. Damon gets a better job.
It's hard to find a story like this romantic and enjoyable. It's hard to root for these characters when they are so toxic together and apart. I have sympathy cuz they both been through shit. But I don't enjoy their story. I have occasionally enjoyed dark stories before that had addiction themes, but this one didn't make me feel anything. I kind of wished Ben could have fell for Teddy instead. I feel like this story kind of glamorized bad behaviors. There wasn't enough consequences for the bad behaviors. Things like driving under the influence and domestic violence between main characters is hard to forgive unless there's real work put in.
A couple positives. I found Ben's anxiety sweet at the beginning. He had a cute nervous habit of biting his lip. Those little moments showed his vulnerability and pulled me into him a bit. I liked Damon's possessiveness towards Ben. But 95% of this book was Damon at his worst and he wasn't making good choices, he was hurting himself and Ben.
Some notable moments:
"“Next time, you’re chewing on your lip, you’ll remember the way I did it for you," he rasps out in a low steady rumble. “And if you’re feeling so nervous you need to mangle your perfect lip like that, come find me, and I’ll do it for you again.”"
"I’m feeling too drunk to drive right now after all the shots and beer, so I pull out my blow to take a few bumps; it’ll sober me up enough to get home.”
"“You’re mine now,” I growl. “My d*** is the first you’ve ever felt, and it’s the only one you’ll ever need,” I punctuate each word with a thrust. His eyes are barely focused on mine. “No one else gets to have you ever again.” He yelps as I hit his prostate."
"I can’t suck in breaths anymore. I grab at his hand, trying to remove it from my throat, but it won’t budge. I hear the door slam open at the same moment blackness starts to cloud my vision. Tears are streaming down my face. And in this moment, I want the blackness to just take me. In a split second, Damon’s hand is ripped from my throat and Jasper’s fist collides with his jaw. I hear a splitting crack and the heavy sound of him knocking out cold on the ground."
*FYI, I rate steam based on a combination of quality & quantity. I note kink separate from steam because I don't want to underrate steamy reads that don't have much kink.
Feels: 2/5
Steam*: 3/5
Kinks: spitting, felching
Angst: high
Triggers/potential icks: bad parents, addiction, drugs, suicide attempt, cheating, driving under the influence, domestic violence
I didn't enjoy this. They both had rough lives with abusive and addicted parents. Ben's in his last year of high school and he's at risk of failing out. His mom is an addict who he's cut off contact with very very recently. Ben's dad disappears for long periods of time and leaves him without food and the water gets turned off. Damon's a little older out of high school living on his own. Damon's casual use of drugs has been slipping into full on addiction.
They knew each other vaguely in high school though they never interacted. They meet again at a party and they start hooking up. Damon cheats on Ben when they have a bit of a fight over his drug use. They get back together and commit as boyfriends and they live together. They drag each other down. Damon gets really bad in his addiction. Damon regularly drives under the influence with no consequences, with no one calling him out on it. Ben gets hopeless with his mental health struggles and being in a relationship with an addict after witnessing both his parents being addicts. Damon loses his job, lies about things, does drugs after he promised he wouldn't. Ben is done. They argue and Damon starts choking Ben until he almost passes out. One of Damon's friends pulls Damon away from then. Ben stands up for himself and fully breaks up with Damon.
Damon tries to get back with Ben and Ben isn't having it. Ben's nice about it he wishes Damon well and hopes he'll get healthy but he can't be with an addict. Damon attempts suicide with pills. He's not successful, a friend finds him and gets him medical help. Damon goes to rehab for 60 days and he takes it seriously, this was a wake-up call for him, he realizes his addiction torpedoed his life and lost him Ben. The moment he gets out of rehab, he seeks out Ben to talk, to apologize and to ask for another chance. Ben says yes but he put some rules on it saying they have to take things slow. Which is admirable. But then also congratulates Damon on beating his addiction. But that's not believable, addiction is a lifelong struggle. Damon's winning today but it's not going to be that easy. We flash forward a couple months and Damon's sobriety is lasting and Ben is supporting him and doing sober living as well. They seem to be making it work. Ben's pulled things together a bit because his dad is showing up for him more. Ben graduates. Damon gets a better job.
It's hard to find a story like this romantic and enjoyable. It's hard to root for these characters when they are so toxic together and apart. I have sympathy cuz they both been through shit. But I don't enjoy their story. I have occasionally enjoyed dark stories before that had addiction themes, but this one didn't make me feel anything. I kind of wished Ben could have fell for Teddy instead. I feel like this story kind of glamorized bad behaviors. There wasn't enough consequences for the bad behaviors. Things like driving under the influence and domestic violence between main characters is hard to forgive unless there's real work put in.
A couple positives. I found Ben's anxiety sweet at the beginning. He had a cute nervous habit of biting his lip. Those little moments showed his vulnerability and pulled me into him a bit. I liked Damon's possessiveness towards Ben. But 95% of this book was Damon at his worst and he wasn't making good choices, he was hurting himself and Ben.
Some notable moments:
"“Next time, you’re chewing on your lip, you’ll remember the way I did it for you," he rasps out in a low steady rumble. “And if you’re feeling so nervous you need to mangle your perfect lip like that, come find me, and I’ll do it for you again.”"
"I’m feeling too drunk to drive right now after all the shots and beer, so I pull out my blow to take a few bumps; it’ll sober me up enough to get home.”
"“You’re mine now,” I growl. “My d*** is the first you’ve ever felt, and it’s the only one you’ll ever need,” I punctuate each word with a thrust. His eyes are barely focused on mine. “No one else gets to have you ever again.” He yelps as I hit his prostate."
"I can’t suck in breaths anymore. I grab at his hand, trying to remove it from my throat, but it won’t budge. I hear the door slam open at the same moment blackness starts to cloud my vision. Tears are streaming down my face. And in this moment, I want the blackness to just take me. In a split second, Damon’s hand is ripped from my throat and Jasper’s fist collides with his jaw. I hear a splitting crack and the heavy sound of him knocking out cold on the ground."
*FYI, I rate steam based on a combination of quality & quantity. I note kink separate from steam because I don't want to underrate steamy reads that don't have much kink.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 12, 2022
“𝘞𝘩𝘦𝘯 𝘩𝘦 𝘭𝘰𝘰𝘬𝘴 𝘢𝘵 𝘮𝘦, 𝘩𝘦 𝘨𝘦𝘵𝘴 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘤𝘳𝘢𝘻𝘦𝘥 𝘭𝘰𝘰𝘬 𝘪𝘯 𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘦𝘺𝘦𝘴, 𝘭𝘪𝘬𝘦 𝘩𝘦 𝘸𝘢𝘯𝘵𝘴 𝘵𝘰 𝘥𝘦𝘷𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘮𝘦 𝘸𝘩𝘰𝘭𝘦. 𝘐’𝘥 𝘭𝘦𝘵 𝘩𝘪𝘮. 𝘐 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘬 𝘐’𝘥 𝘭𝘦𝘵 𝘩𝘪𝘮 𝘥𝘰 𝘢𝘯𝘺𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘵𝘰 𝘮𝘦."
✨
Okay so Bailey has BROKE me with this book. This book which is their DEBUT! I’m sorry but what?! It’s been quite a while since I’ve read a book in a day but I just couldn’t leave Ben and Damon when their lives felt so familiar.
Ben is honestly the sweetest, he has lived day by day with absent parents and found family with his best friends. Ben is the kinda guy who sits quiet in big crowds but will honestly do anything for those he loves. We all need a Ben in our lives for real.
Damon is the character that made me cry basically through this entire book. Damon is that kinda character who is the life of a party, the heart of a friendship group. People revolve around him and, well, he’s an asshole. A loveable asshole, trust me. But underneath Damon’s “cool” exterior there’s a dark secret he keeps.
Ben always stole glances at Damon when they were in the same school, but when Damon graduated Ben thought that’d be it. Until Damon came back after a summer away and captured his attention once more. Through honest friendships and heavy parties, the two are trying to survive day by day in a world where people can go under the radar and it’s easier to get drugs than it is to get good mental health support.
This book focuses on addiction, what addiction can do to the people you love and as I’ve already said to Bailey, this book has it all; the impact from addiction in the family, addiction in the friendship group and addiction in a relationship.
This book hits so close to home and the similarities I see in Damon and myself made every moment of this book very real, and very very true. It made me grateful for the people I have around me and a reminder that surviving is an option.
Thank you Bailey for perfectly encapsulating the imperfection of love and addiction with all the spicy MM scenes you know I adore. I love and appreciate you 🤍
Book Release Date : 23/7/21
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
✨
Okay so Bailey has BROKE me with this book. This book which is their DEBUT! I’m sorry but what?! It’s been quite a while since I’ve read a book in a day but I just couldn’t leave Ben and Damon when their lives felt so familiar.
Ben is honestly the sweetest, he has lived day by day with absent parents and found family with his best friends. Ben is the kinda guy who sits quiet in big crowds but will honestly do anything for those he loves. We all need a Ben in our lives for real.
Damon is the character that made me cry basically through this entire book. Damon is that kinda character who is the life of a party, the heart of a friendship group. People revolve around him and, well, he’s an asshole. A loveable asshole, trust me. But underneath Damon’s “cool” exterior there’s a dark secret he keeps.
Ben always stole glances at Damon when they were in the same school, but when Damon graduated Ben thought that’d be it. Until Damon came back after a summer away and captured his attention once more. Through honest friendships and heavy parties, the two are trying to survive day by day in a world where people can go under the radar and it’s easier to get drugs than it is to get good mental health support.
This book focuses on addiction, what addiction can do to the people you love and as I’ve already said to Bailey, this book has it all; the impact from addiction in the family, addiction in the friendship group and addiction in a relationship.
This book hits so close to home and the similarities I see in Damon and myself made every moment of this book very real, and very very true. It made me grateful for the people I have around me and a reminder that surviving is an option.
Thank you Bailey for perfectly encapsulating the imperfection of love and addiction with all the spicy MM scenes you know I adore. I love and appreciate you 🤍
Book Release Date : 23/7/21
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
July 27, 2021
I don't think I can write a review that justifies or expresses how fantastic this debut novel is. This was one of my most anticipated reads ever since the author announced it! I just knew it was going to be good but I didn't expect to be so blown away!! The fact that this is a debut novel just WOWWW
Pertaining to the book itself, this is an intense, fast-paced, all consuming, crashing, relapsing, rehab-ing, then redeeming story of young love. The story itself parallels one of the main themes in the story: Drug Addiction. Absolute genius! We get Ben and Damon who have known of each other in the past but they finally get to interact because Damon becomes a part of Ben's friend group. And that begins a tale that is so memorable that I am in need of another read ASAP!
I really cannot do this book justice with my review, that's why you have to read it for yourself! And there's a second book!!! Bailey Nicole has quickly become a one-click author to me. Already counting down the minutes until we get to really know Teddy in book 2!
Pertaining to the book itself, this is an intense, fast-paced, all consuming, crashing, relapsing, rehab-ing, then redeeming story of young love. The story itself parallels one of the main themes in the story: Drug Addiction. Absolute genius! We get Ben and Damon who have known of each other in the past but they finally get to interact because Damon becomes a part of Ben's friend group. And that begins a tale that is so memorable that I am in need of another read ASAP!
I really cannot do this book justice with my review, that's why you have to read it for yourself! And there's a second book!!! Bailey Nicole has quickly become a one-click author to me. Already counting down the minutes until we get to really know Teddy in book 2!
July 26, 2021
There is just something about books that have romance and drug addiction. While I haven’t read many (maybe three or four) They are almost always five stars for me.
Damon and Ben had such a cute, kinda tragic, hot, yet hurtful story. I love that their family disfunction wasn’t glossed over and we actually get scenes that show us why they are so fucked up.
Is it weird that I loved their slightly toxic relationship. With all the parties and drugs, I wasn’t sure if I wanted it to break my heart and end happily. From the cute scenes where they watch GoT to the scenes where they’re are high and fighting— I just loved all of it.
(spoiler ahead)
Earlier in the book when Damon first stops doing cocaine I did not believe he was really clean. Of course I was proved wrong when he relapsed and hurt Ben. That’s really when the book started to pull at my emotions. Like… I just want the best for the boys and they were both spiraling.
I must admit, when Damon overdosed I thought he was gonna DIE! I thought it was all over and we were just gonna follow Ben and how he deals with the lost his first love. But I was so happy to see he was in rehab. The end was really cute and I was happy to see Damon and Ben work everything out.
(Spoilers over)
The only thing I was left wanting was more information on Ant. He’s seems to be such a great best friend and is always there when Ben needed him. We learn bits and pieces about him and while I’m excited for Teddy’s story. I need more Ant in my life too.
Damon and Ben had such a cute, kinda tragic, hot, yet hurtful story. I love that their family disfunction wasn’t glossed over and we actually get scenes that show us why they are so fucked up.
Is it weird that I loved their slightly toxic relationship. With all the parties and drugs, I wasn’t sure if I wanted it to break my heart and end happily. From the cute scenes where they watch GoT to the scenes where they’re are high and fighting— I just loved all of it.
(spoiler ahead)
Earlier in the book when Damon first stops doing cocaine I did not believe he was really clean. Of course I was proved wrong when he relapsed and hurt Ben. That’s really when the book started to pull at my emotions. Like… I just want the best for the boys and they were both spiraling.
I must admit, when Damon overdosed I thought he was gonna DIE! I thought it was all over and we were just gonna follow Ben and how he deals with the lost his first love. But I was so happy to see he was in rehab. The end was really cute and I was happy to see Damon and Ben work everything out.
(Spoilers over)
The only thing I was left wanting was more information on Ant. He’s seems to be such a great best friend and is always there when Ben needed him. We learn bits and pieces about him and while I’m excited for Teddy’s story. I need more Ant in my life too.
May 2, 2023
Y'all, I'm going to be really honest here...I wasn't expecting to like this book. But kids, I flipping loved it. It hit me in all the feels. It was overwrought with drugs and depression BUT there was so much emotion. And I devoured it!!
Damon and Ben were kids - I know they were technically adults but 17/18 and 19 are still kids (well in my opinion as I sit here typing at nearly 43.) They were both dealt completely shitty hands and came from people who all had varying degrees of addiction and mental illness. They almost didn't stand a chance. They both wanted to be important to at least someone but they also didn't want to feel anything because everything hurt so much.
One of the things that really broke my heart was how accepting Ben's father was but how deep his own demons were taking him. Ben was severely neglected. Malnourished and even without water at times. His father loved him but love wasn't ever enough.
Damon had one person, his grandmother, but she'd died and he was left alone. He was listless and lost. He had no one fighting for him. His tendency to take drugs recreationally became a full on addiction. He wouldn't listen to reason but he also didn't think he was worth anything.
These boys did find support and love in each other but again - love wouldn't solve their problems. Their passion jumped off the page. In typical teen fashion, they were super horny. But they also loved being around each other, just loved touching each other. While it definitely became toxic, there was so much hope by the end.
Damon and Ben were kids - I know they were technically adults but 17/18 and 19 are still kids (well in my opinion as I sit here typing at nearly 43.) They were both dealt completely shitty hands and came from people who all had varying degrees of addiction and mental illness. They almost didn't stand a chance. They both wanted to be important to at least someone but they also didn't want to feel anything because everything hurt so much.
One of the things that really broke my heart was how accepting Ben's father was but how deep his own demons were taking him. Ben was severely neglected. Malnourished and even without water at times. His father loved him but love wasn't ever enough.
Damon had one person, his grandmother, but she'd died and he was left alone. He was listless and lost. He had no one fighting for him. His tendency to take drugs recreationally became a full on addiction. He wouldn't listen to reason but he also didn't think he was worth anything.
These boys did find support and love in each other but again - love wouldn't solve their problems. Their passion jumped off the page. In typical teen fashion, they were super horny. But they also loved being around each other, just loved touching each other. While it definitely became toxic, there was so much hope by the end.
July 18, 2021
"I don’t want to deal with feelings, it’s too complicated. But all I can do is feel when it comes to him."
I had the pleasure of beta reading cruel and careless for Bailey and then rereading an ARC of it and it has been such a great experience to work with her and watch her grow as a writer from draft 1 to the final manuscript.
Cruel and Careless is not an easy story. It’s full of drug use, poverty and teenagers who have been neglected by their parents. It’s the story of Ben, a high school senior who is just trying to make it to tomorrow. Spending time with friends, getting drunk and avoiding the lonely place he calls home. He’s always noticed Damon Masters, an outgoing gay man who doesn’t hide who he is. One day he notices Ben and everything changes from here.
“Do you see the way I marked your neck? Every single person at this party already knows you belong to me. And if they don’t, they will now,”
Ben and Damon have a toxic, yet beautiful love. They’re able to be themselves with each other, yet they hide so many secrets. Damon is suffering in silence with addiction and it takes a toll on their relationship. It’s an emotional, messy love story but it’s so worth it in the end. If you are ok with type of emotional, drug filled book I really recommend giving Ben and Damon a shot!
I think Bailey did an excellent job on this book for a debut novel, and man is it a hot one!! Get ready for some steamy MM scenes and maybe some spitting…
I just love these boys as well the side characters. Next up we will be getting Teddy’s book and if you read C&C I guarantee you will fall in love with Teddy.
*
*
*
CW: spitting, explicit sex, heavy drug and alcohol use, mentions of child abuse and child neglect, physical violence, suicide.
I had the pleasure of beta reading cruel and careless for Bailey and then rereading an ARC of it and it has been such a great experience to work with her and watch her grow as a writer from draft 1 to the final manuscript.
Cruel and Careless is not an easy story. It’s full of drug use, poverty and teenagers who have been neglected by their parents. It’s the story of Ben, a high school senior who is just trying to make it to tomorrow. Spending time with friends, getting drunk and avoiding the lonely place he calls home. He’s always noticed Damon Masters, an outgoing gay man who doesn’t hide who he is. One day he notices Ben and everything changes from here.
“Do you see the way I marked your neck? Every single person at this party already knows you belong to me. And if they don’t, they will now,”
Ben and Damon have a toxic, yet beautiful love. They’re able to be themselves with each other, yet they hide so many secrets. Damon is suffering in silence with addiction and it takes a toll on their relationship. It’s an emotional, messy love story but it’s so worth it in the end. If you are ok with type of emotional, drug filled book I really recommend giving Ben and Damon a shot!
I think Bailey did an excellent job on this book for a debut novel, and man is it a hot one!! Get ready for some steamy MM scenes and maybe some spitting…
I just love these boys as well the side characters. Next up we will be getting Teddy’s book and if you read C&C I guarantee you will fall in love with Teddy.
*
*
*
CW: spitting, explicit sex, heavy drug and alcohol use, mentions of child abuse and child neglect, physical violence, suicide.
July 15, 2021
My goodness… I read the TW in the front of the book, and I thought, hmm, that is worded strangely, but now I get it. It’s not a dark romance, but my heart is a little more battered for having gone on the journey with these two. I have to say it is a credit to the author that I became so immersed in their world, but to those that aren’t prepared to see the darker side of their lives, the unpretty side, I would say proceed with caution. Ben and Damon might seem like a catastrophe on paper, they may even seem tragically codependent on the surface at times, but I also found their relationship to have that fragile hope and transparent love born of youth. There was something about each of them that made me want to wrap them in cotton and protect them, and simultaneously follow their lead without care for the future. Ultimately there is beauty in the real love that exists not only between the two of them, but within the friend group. I can’t wait to see more from the Worthless Boys and follow their growth.
July 23, 2021
This book is a take on adolescence, both Ben and Damon have to find themselves in their own way. A lot is through numbing life with drugs, booze, and sex. I think that’s what makes Ben and Damon so relatable. We as people tend to dive into things and create bandaids for bigger problems. Whether you do in a healthy way that’s your own choice. There is still beauty in just being broken and wanting to numb the “noise.” Ben and Damon have scars and battle their own demons, at some points I just felt like screaming because I just wanted them to break down the walls. But of course being guarded and jaded gives more to the story. The sexual chemistry was so hot, there is a lot of spit, which wasn’t my absolute fave, but if you like it I love it. I want more of this friend group as I read I couldn’t help but think about further stories.
If you like friend groups, toxic love, friends to lovers, insta love romances take a chance on Ben and Damon.
If you like friend groups, toxic love, friends to lovers, insta love romances take a chance on Ben and Damon.
July 23, 2021
This book is so good 😭
Bailey swept me into a world I didn’t have much experience with but I felt like I had been there my whole life. The pain and toxicity and desperation of the boys’ existence wraps you up as you read and you’ll find yourself relating to emotions and decisions you never thought you would. This book is a master class in empathy and addiction and it hurts so good.
Aside from all that amazing depth and pain, it’s extreme hot. Bailey has always been the queen of MM recs so I’m 0% surprised that she writes MM that will make you blush and wish you were living the scenes on the page.
Pleeeeease read this because it’s a really good book and also it’s hot as fuck. Can’t wait to see what happens with the rest of the worthless boys 🤍💚💙
5 stars💥💥💥💥💥
Bailey swept me into a world I didn’t have much experience with but I felt like I had been there my whole life. The pain and toxicity and desperation of the boys’ existence wraps you up as you read and you’ll find yourself relating to emotions and decisions you never thought you would. This book is a master class in empathy and addiction and it hurts so good.
Aside from all that amazing depth and pain, it’s extreme hot. Bailey has always been the queen of MM recs so I’m 0% surprised that she writes MM that will make you blush and wish you were living the scenes on the page.
Pleeeeease read this because it’s a really good book and also it’s hot as fuck. Can’t wait to see what happens with the rest of the worthless boys 🤍💚💙
5 stars💥💥💥💥💥
May 5, 2023
My god, this was such a mess.
2⭐, because I'm not a monster and I still care about what happens to these guys 🤨
I can't believe I've stayed up until 2am yet again to read about a bunch of high school friends who get high all the time.
Like all the time .
🟪 Wanna read high about school kids getting high? You're in the right place.
🟥 An unconvincing love story
🟧 I'm still wondering what was the point of all this, the story is underdeveloped and makes you wonder, a lot
🟦 The whole book is one big journey into a diary of a high school teen guy named Ben, who lives with his dad in a worn down house and likes to hang out with his bros and get high every minute of every day .
On every page of this book - these guys are either smoking pot, popping pills or having really strange lives, but since it's Florida, I guess I'll just go ahead and believe it.
Ben and his friends Ant, Teddy and Liam all go to the same school and most of these guys live on the poorer part of town, most have junkies for parents and they party every weekend, with what money I have no idea, since they can't afford decent clothes or regular food.
🟩 Ben meets Damon, an ex student of their high school, an openly gay guy who we know nothing about, only that he sells coke and he also gets high all the time, pot, coke, Xanax, you name it.
Oh yeah, you're gonna read about that in detail.
They get involved with Ben's bi-awakening being quickly done with and they move in together.
Oh, but the best is yet to come. 😐
At 86% Damon, completely stoned, tries to strangle Ben.
Now, Ben tried to make Damon stop sniffing that coke and he was really supportive, but it feels really weird him being so obsessed with Damon's drug problems, when he's got them too and they ain't small!
🌶️ There was some spice and a very insta love story that didn't work for me at all, this couple was a hot mess and they made no sense.
🟨 The story was, at least for me, ridiculous, or meant for a really young audience, like teens, nothing more.
Everyone in the pot posse gets their own book in this series, so absolutely read the series in order.
I've started at the beginning, because I want to work my way up to Ant's book.
My god, it better be worth it.
If I'm going to read about Liam and Teddy getting high all the time too, I'm gonna lose it!
2⭐, because I'm not a monster and I still care about what happens to these guys 🤨
I can't believe I've stayed up until 2am yet again to read about a bunch of high school friends who get high all the time.
Like all the time .
🟪 Wanna read high about school kids getting high? You're in the right place.
🟥 An unconvincing love story
🟧 I'm still wondering what was the point of all this, the story is underdeveloped and makes you wonder, a lot
🟦 The whole book is one big journey into a diary of a high school teen guy named Ben, who lives with his dad in a worn down house and likes to hang out with his bros and get high every minute of every day .
On every page of this book - these guys are either smoking pot, popping pills or having really strange lives, but since it's Florida, I guess I'll just go ahead and believe it.
Ben and his friends Ant, Teddy and Liam all go to the same school and most of these guys live on the poorer part of town, most have junkies for parents and they party every weekend, with what money I have no idea, since they can't afford decent clothes or regular food.
🟩 Ben meets Damon, an ex student of their high school, an openly gay guy who we know nothing about, only that he sells coke and he also gets high all the time, pot, coke, Xanax, you name it.
Oh yeah, you're gonna read about that in detail.
They get involved with Ben's bi-awakening being quickly done with and they move in together.
Oh, but the best is yet to come. 😐
At 86% Damon, completely stoned, tries to strangle Ben.
Now, Ben tried to make Damon stop sniffing that coke and he was really supportive, but it feels really weird him being so obsessed with Damon's drug problems, when he's got them too and they ain't small!
🌶️ There was some spice and a very insta love story that didn't work for me at all, this couple was a hot mess and they made no sense.
🟨 The story was, at least for me, ridiculous, or meant for a really young audience, like teens, nothing more.
Everyone in the pot posse gets their own book in this series, so absolutely read the series in order.
I've started at the beginning, because I want to work my way up to Ant's book.
My god, it better be worth it.
If I'm going to read about Liam and Teddy getting high all the time too, I'm gonna lose it!
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