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Stumbling into Love #3
Messy Love
Danny
I’m not a guy who’s looking for a serious relationship. I love the chase, and the one time I thought I wanted more, the guy bailed. When my buddy Will mentions his recently out, older brother is looking for a place to stay, I offer the spare room in my apartment. It’s clear Jonathan’s past did a number on him, and he’s locked up tight. I make it my mission to show him how to have a little fun. What I don’t expect is to start to like him…or get jealous when he goes on a date…and hooking up with him is a terrible idea…right?
Jonathan
When Dad caught me kissing a boy as a teenager, he made it clear such behavior was unacceptable, and I’ve been messed up about it ever since. I’m over thirty, yet from Danny’s viewpoint, I’m a baby gay, which should be more annoying than it is. He’s got me playing on a queer baseball team, making friends, and wanting things I never thought I’d want, like pursuing my art—and him. I definitely want him.
Problem is, I can’t get rid of the unwanted voices in my head, my relationship with most of my family is a disaster, and every time Danny touches me, I come apart, finding myself wanting more. Danny doesn’t do relationships, he’s my brother’s friend, and I have a slew of hang-ups. All of this makes things…messy.
So then why can’t we keep our hands off each other? Why is he taking me on dates and looking at me like we could have more? To get there, we’ll need to put our pasts away for good, and have a lot of trust, not just in ourselves, but each other.
I’m not a guy who’s looking for a serious relationship. I love the chase, and the one time I thought I wanted more, the guy bailed. When my buddy Will mentions his recently out, older brother is looking for a place to stay, I offer the spare room in my apartment. It’s clear Jonathan’s past did a number on him, and he’s locked up tight. I make it my mission to show him how to have a little fun. What I don’t expect is to start to like him…or get jealous when he goes on a date…and hooking up with him is a terrible idea…right?
Jonathan
When Dad caught me kissing a boy as a teenager, he made it clear such behavior was unacceptable, and I’ve been messed up about it ever since. I’m over thirty, yet from Danny’s viewpoint, I’m a baby gay, which should be more annoying than it is. He’s got me playing on a queer baseball team, making friends, and wanting things I never thought I’d want, like pursuing my art—and him. I definitely want him.
Problem is, I can’t get rid of the unwanted voices in my head, my relationship with most of my family is a disaster, and every time Danny touches me, I come apart, finding myself wanting more. Danny doesn’t do relationships, he’s my brother’s friend, and I have a slew of hang-ups. All of this makes things…messy.
So then why can’t we keep our hands off each other? Why is he taking me on dates and looking at me like we could have more? To get there, we’ll need to put our pasts away for good, and have a lot of trust, not just in ourselves, but each other.
342 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 3, 2021
143 people are currently reading
460 people want to read
About the author
Riley Hart
114 books7,155 followersRiley Hart is the girl who wears her heart on her sleeve. She's a hopeless romantic. A lover of sexy stories, passionate men, and writing about all the trouble they can get into together. If she's not writing, you'll probably find her reading.
Riley lives in California with her awesome family, who she is thankful for everyday.
Riley lives in California with her awesome family, who she is thankful for everyday.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 98 reviews
June 16, 2021
~4.5~
I absolutely adored this third (and most likely final) installment of Riley Hart's Stumbling into Love series.
This book is STEAMY. It's true to life. There's no drama, but there are real-life family dynamics that aren't easy to navigate.
Both MCs are so damn lovable. I loved Danny's positivity, the love he had for his heritage and family, and his cute attempts at getting Jonathan to live a little.
But I honestly loved Jonathan just as much. He's a better person than me to forgive his father who emotionally abused him his entire life by forcing him to live a lie. Despite that, Jonathan is such a good guy: hard working and kind.
The relationship begins as a roommates/friends situation, but these guys lust after each other from day one, and it's incredibly sexy when Jonathan gives himself to Danny.
The epilogue is also the best, bringing closure to all three couples of the series.
Messy Love is not that messy. The men don't waste too much time being afraid. Once you find your person, you know.
I absolutely adored this third (and most likely final) installment of Riley Hart's Stumbling into Love series.
This book is STEAMY. It's true to life. There's no drama, but there are real-life family dynamics that aren't easy to navigate.
Both MCs are so damn lovable. I loved Danny's positivity, the love he had for his heritage and family, and his cute attempts at getting Jonathan to live a little.
But I honestly loved Jonathan just as much. He's a better person than me to forgive his father who emotionally abused him his entire life by forcing him to live a lie. Despite that, Jonathan is such a good guy: hard working and kind.
The relationship begins as a roommates/friends situation, but these guys lust after each other from day one, and it's incredibly sexy when Jonathan gives himself to Danny.
The epilogue is also the best, bringing closure to all three couples of the series.
Messy Love is not that messy. The men don't waste too much time being afraid. Once you find your person, you know.
June 20, 2021
What I loved most about this book was the way these guys communicated! So refreshing. I wish more authors went this way with their characters.
For example, they had a fight, but Danny explained why it hurt that Jonathan called him his roommate and not his boyfriend, and then they talked about it. No drama added to make things more ‘interesting’. I loved that.
These guys start out as roommates, and develop a very close friendship. The way they went from friendship to lovers to boyfriends felt very natural.
There was no angst in this whatsoever. Even though I was afraid how things would play out with Jonathan and the issues he had with his family, or if he would suddenly fall back into internalized homophobic asshole behavior since that’s what his father taught him. But no, even though he was struggling, he tried to be as honest about who he was as possible.
Such a great feel good book.
For example, they had a fight, but Danny explained why it hurt that Jonathan called him his roommate and not his boyfriend, and then they talked about it. No drama added to make things more ‘interesting’. I loved that.
These guys start out as roommates, and develop a very close friendship. The way they went from friendship to lovers to boyfriends felt very natural.
There was no angst in this whatsoever. Even though I was afraid how things would play out with Jonathan and the issues he had with his family, or if he would suddenly fall back into internalized homophobic asshole behavior since that’s what his father taught him. But no, even though he was struggling, he tried to be as honest about who he was as possible.
Such a great feel good book.
June 11, 2021
I have to say, while I've loved all the books in the Stumbling Into Love series, Messy Love is my favorite now.
Jonathan's desire to find himself and let go of old hurts.
Danny's big heart and caring nature made me love him more and as the story went.
Their sizzling chemistry.
The words just flowed, the story had a seamless pace.
What a wonderful love story.
5 Stars!
June 10, 2021
4.5. This was great! What an amazing end to a great series! I really liked Jonathan and loved Danny even though he was different from what I remember from book 1. I really loved the found family which is why even though it can be read as a standalone it is better to read the previous two to see how the found family was formed. It is a slow burn and it was delicious, they were made for each other for sure. My only niggle would be that Jonathan's relationship with his family was solved too neatly and easily, especially his relationship with Will. Also . I wanted to get to know Danny a bit more, not that he was not well rounded but I wanted more. I would highly recommend.
June 23, 2021
I finished this whole series and I really loved the third book (messy love), the couple was honest and sweet and real mature working through their stuff. Great story ♥️♥️♥️
December 6, 2022
My favorite type of contemporary romance - lovable and relatable MCs, organic relationships development, engaging family and friends dynamics.
Jonathan journey of self discovery and self acceptance wasn't easy with mild angst related to his past and relationships with his brothers. However, there was no angst between Jonathan and Danny. From roommates to friends and then to lovers was a smooth transition, full of laughter, adorable nicknames, sweet and steamy moments.
The book is a joy to read and a perfect conclusion to the series.
Jonathan journey of self discovery and self acceptance wasn't easy with mild angst related to his past and relationships with his brothers. However, there was no angst between Jonathan and Danny. From roommates to friends and then to lovers was a smooth transition, full of laughter, adorable nicknames, sweet and steamy moments.
The book is a joy to read and a perfect conclusion to the series.
March 11, 2023
This books wasn't as dramatic as I thought it would be. After learning about Jonathan's sad past at the end of the previous book I was afraid that this book would be a bit heavier than the other two books. Thankfully that's not the case. This book does not linger on the past but much more on the future. Sure Jonathan has some problems to deal with and overcome, but that's just the same as for all the other protagonists in this series. The epilogue tells us all about Jonathan's past and it's basically everything we already know, just a little bit more detailed. From there it's only just up. It's not a steep curve, but things slowly get better.
I liked Jonathan's story and the way it was written a lot lighter than expected. Most of the book is actually about him. I wished it was a little more about Danny, too. He's on the book cover after all.
I also liked the lack of a big third act drama. Instead it was more of third act “they fuck like rabbits”. I don't know it's any better this way… just kidding.
Overall this book was an light and easy read and a worthy conclusion of this little trilogy.
I liked Jonathan's story and the way it was written a lot lighter than expected. Most of the book is actually about him. I wished it was a little more about Danny, too. He's on the book cover after all.
I also liked the lack of a big third act drama. Instead it was more of third act “they fuck like rabbits”. I don't know it's any better this way… just kidding.
Overall this book was an light and easy read and a worthy conclusion of this little trilogy.
September 19, 2022
4-4.5 stars
This was I think my favorite from the three books. I do wish we had more with the families since this was about how each guys family kinda messed them up in away (Danny’s dad leaving and Jonathan’s dad not being accepting of him)
I also thought Danny and Jonathan fit so well together they seamlessly went from roommates to friends to lovers and I loved that.
So happy I picked up this series!
This was I think my favorite from the three books. I do wish we had more with the families since this was about how each guys family kinda messed them up in away (Danny’s dad leaving and Jonathan’s dad not being accepting of him)
I also thought Danny and Jonathan fit so well together they seamlessly went from roommates to friends to lovers and I loved that.
So happy I picked up this series!
June 11, 2021
Love
I’ve said once and I’ll say it again this author does dialog driven stories the right way. I get so wrapped up in her stories because of the way the characters interact with each other. It’s like I’m a part of the conversation. Or I’m ease dropping? This book was no different there are times where I don’t want to put the book down because I need to finish the conversation.
We met both of these characters in past books and I’m so glad they got their story. We met D in the first book as Eli’s best friend and we met J in the second book as Will’s brother. It was nice to see the truth and the fear behind J. I didn’t like J in the when we first met him and none of the story excuses his behavior with Will but it’s nice to understand the whys. It was cool watching these two Characters fall for each other. I love how they talked things out and how there wasn’t a big break up scene.
The writing was amazing, this author can write, tell a good story and do dialog better that any one. Which I love. Long inner thoughts make me lose interest. The smexy was HAWT! and the side characters were Amazing. This is a standalone book, and can be read as one, but to truly get the history of the characters reading the two previous books would help but defiantly Will’s story.
I’ve said once and I’ll say it again this author does dialog driven stories the right way. I get so wrapped up in her stories because of the way the characters interact with each other. It’s like I’m a part of the conversation. Or I’m ease dropping? This book was no different there are times where I don’t want to put the book down because I need to finish the conversation.
We met both of these characters in past books and I’m so glad they got their story. We met D in the first book as Eli’s best friend and we met J in the second book as Will’s brother. It was nice to see the truth and the fear behind J. I didn’t like J in the when we first met him and none of the story excuses his behavior with Will but it’s nice to understand the whys. It was cool watching these two Characters fall for each other. I love how they talked things out and how there wasn’t a big break up scene.
The writing was amazing, this author can write, tell a good story and do dialog better that any one. Which I love. Long inner thoughts make me lose interest. The smexy was HAWT! and the side characters were Amazing. This is a standalone book, and can be read as one, but to truly get the history of the characters reading the two previous books would help but defiantly Will’s story.
July 21, 2021
That's three out of three from Riley Hart. I don't think I've ever given a whole series a five star rating before, but every single book in this series have been so darn sweet. Seriously. So sweet.
I've been so excited about reading Jonathan's book since we first met him. Knowing that his story would be something else. And it was. He and Danny just fit. The way they were there and supported each other. It was the sweetest.
This could've been much more angsty. Having both Jonathan and Danny's backgrounds dealing with repression and abandonment and knowing they way this author writes. But she handled it perfectly and it was right up there with the other two books in the series. Just a really sweet, lighthearted, fluffy read. I'm so happy Jonathan finally got his much deserved HEA.
I've been so excited about reading Jonathan's book since we first met him. Knowing that his story would be something else. And it was. He and Danny just fit. The way they were there and supported each other. It was the sweetest.
This could've been much more angsty. Having both Jonathan and Danny's backgrounds dealing with repression and abandonment and knowing they way this author writes. But she handled it perfectly and it was right up there with the other two books in the series. Just a really sweet, lighthearted, fluffy read. I'm so happy Jonathan finally got his much deserved HEA.
November 17, 2021
[4.5] you can rest assured that Danny and Jonathan’s love story isn’t as messy as the title may lead you to think! as they naturally progress from roommates to friends to lovers, Jonathan’s journey of self-acceptance and their open and honest communication shined through and were done phenomenally 🥺
shame on me for sleeping on this series for so long but we finally did it!!
shame on me for sleeping on this series for so long but we finally did it!!
June 11, 2021
4.5 stars
June 12, 2021
My favourite of the series, and well done Riley Hart for the way you handled both Jonathan's coming out, and subsequent getting back together with his family after the way they'd treated him. Danny I absolutely loved 🥰🥰🥰...he'd been hurt by a guy in Stupid Love, and had retreated into his shell a little BUT all bets were off with Jonathan and they made such a great couple. Great catch-ups with Elijah and Shaw, Will and Jameson, Kira and Ali and even some wedding bells on the horizon...also loved the queer baseball league - which reminded me a little of Tom, Mike and Kris from Hush. 4.5 stars rounded up, great friends to lovers read and quite steamy too with both MC's liking dirty talk 🔥🔥🔥🔥.
June 3, 2021
Oh happy sigh...I adored this book, this whole series was just so great! This is Jonathan (Will's brother from book 2) and Danny's story (Elijah's BFF from book 1 ). Jonathan, who has recently come out in his thirties and is coming to terms with his new life, decides he needs a change and moves to Atlanta. He ends up roommates with Danny and they immediately hit it off and become friends. I just loved Danny--so confident, open and honest, caring and compassionate--he was wonderful! He was exactly what Johnathan needed to let some of his walls down and find his true self.
I flew through this book. The character connections were so strong between the 2 MCs and all the friends and family we've met in the previous books. I loved the camaraderie between everyone, the found family feel, the love between them all. Danny and Jonathan made me swoon, they made me smile, they made me feel so happy! The build up to their first kiss was fantastic and the first time they got together gave me all the butterflies! And once they took their relationship to the next level boy did they heat up the sheets! The dirty talk was smoking hot!
While I am sad to see the series end, I was so happy where everyone left off and really enjoyed spending time in their world!
I flew through this book. The character connections were so strong between the 2 MCs and all the friends and family we've met in the previous books. I loved the camaraderie between everyone, the found family feel, the love between them all. Danny and Jonathan made me swoon, they made me smile, they made me feel so happy! The build up to their first kiss was fantastic and the first time they got together gave me all the butterflies! And once they took their relationship to the next level boy did they heat up the sheets! The dirty talk was smoking hot!
While I am sad to see the series end, I was so happy where everyone left off and really enjoyed spending time in their world!
June 5, 2021
Steamy and sweet with delightfully vulnerable characters who burrow into your heart like your next favourite book boyfriends, Messy Love is a slow burn journey of discovery that will have you swooning from beginning to end! Hard to put down and with that sweet and emotional edge we love from Riley Hart, this is sure to be a reader favourite!
Can completely be read as a standalone but is book 3 in her Stumbling into Love Series
Can completely be read as a standalone but is book 3 in her Stumbling into Love Series
June 13, 2021
Hard fought love story
Jonathan’s backstory is hard to read at times. An emotional abusive father made for a closet seeking Jonathan. Danny befriended him. Their relationship is super sweet snd sexy. I am glad Danny was there for Jonathan. I’m sad this series is over tbh. I really enjoyed all 3 books. This was a great way to cap off the series. Emotional read but I highly recommend it.
Jonathan’s backstory is hard to read at times. An emotional abusive father made for a closet seeking Jonathan. Danny befriended him. Their relationship is super sweet snd sexy. I am glad Danny was there for Jonathan. I’m sad this series is over tbh. I really enjoyed all 3 books. This was a great way to cap off the series. Emotional read but I highly recommend it.
June 9, 2021
Best of the series
Easily my favorite of the series. I was intrigued by Jonathan after having read Will’s book and he seemed in need of a little bit of redemption. So cute how Danny helped him to break free and be himself. I really enjoyed everything about their relationship. And unlike the first two books in this series, nothing in this one made me cringe!
Easily my favorite of the series. I was intrigued by Jonathan after having read Will’s book and he seemed in need of a little bit of redemption. So cute how Danny helped him to break free and be himself. I really enjoyed everything about their relationship. And unlike the first two books in this series, nothing in this one made me cringe!
June 17, 2021
Just loved this. My heart felt for poor Jonathan, his dad's attitude was the worse. I can't imagine not being allowed to live your life as you are meant to be. I've been reading Ms Hart since she began writing, I like how her work has evolved. It's always, been good, but it flows so well now. The build up to Jonathan and Danny's coming together is spot on. It happens so naturally, resulting in a story with little angst, lots of personal growth and lots of love. Jonathan's acceptance by the others was quite moving. It was great to meet people from previous books in the series, they're such a sweet bunch. If you're looking for a happy place, this is it. I'd love Zachary's story, hint hint, just saying 😉
July 3, 2021
Waiting for love
This book blew me away. It captivated me and drew me into a romance of acceptance , caring and love.Jonathan always knew he was gay, but trying to please his Dad he stayed silent until his death. Danny is on of Will's friends who wanted a roommate.
Of course they hit off by becoming fast friends. The chemistry of friendship helped Jonathan work through his issues about his feelings with family and friends.
Danny was a good listener and he found himself saying things to him, that he would not repeat to anyone .
This helped the relationship move forward. You could not deny being invested in where it was going. The more you read the more you wanted them to be together.
There were parts, where you had to laugh out loud and others where a year or two was shed.
Would recommend you read the other books as they appeared a lot in this story.
As usual the writing and story line is excellent and captivating.
Well worth the read.
This book blew me away. It captivated me and drew me into a romance of acceptance , caring and love.Jonathan always knew he was gay, but trying to please his Dad he stayed silent until his death. Danny is on of Will's friends who wanted a roommate.
Of course they hit off by becoming fast friends. The chemistry of friendship helped Jonathan work through his issues about his feelings with family and friends.
Danny was a good listener and he found himself saying things to him, that he would not repeat to anyone .
This helped the relationship move forward. You could not deny being invested in where it was going. The more you read the more you wanted them to be together.
There were parts, where you had to laugh out loud and others where a year or two was shed.
Would recommend you read the other books as they appeared a lot in this story.
As usual the writing and story line is excellent and captivating.
Well worth the read.
February 25, 2022
This was a great series but this was probably my least favourite of the three. While it was still really good, I liked books one and two way more.
With this book I absolutely inhaled the first 40% but then the rest had parts that definitely dragged. A lot of the parts about Jonathan’s family really bugged me.
Very much worth reading though. Danny and Jonathan were adorable together and Danny was so patient with Jonathan. Danny in this book is definitely different from Danny in book one.
I also want to give a special shout-out to Danny and Jonathan’s small discussion about how wrong it is that men expect women to do all the housework.
I especially liked how this was low-angst and had fantastic communication.
With this book I absolutely inhaled the first 40% but then the rest had parts that definitely dragged. A lot of the parts about Jonathan’s family really bugged me.
Very much worth reading though. Danny and Jonathan were adorable together and Danny was so patient with Jonathan. Danny in this book is definitely different from Danny in book one.
I also want to give a special shout-out to Danny and Jonathan’s small discussion about how wrong it is that men expect women to do all the housework.
I especially liked how this was low-angst and had fantastic communication.
May 30, 2022
Messy, but so beautiful
I just don’t have words for how much I loved Danny and Jonathan’s book! Danny takes Jonathan under his wing and the end up best friends. From there the attraction between them builds in a slow burn of tension and chemistry that was so much fun to read. When the tension exploded I wasn’t ready for it. These two were so steamy! I loved the dynamic of their relationship, both strong yet vulnerable with and for each other. They both have some long standing daddy issues, but they continued to work together and help and love each other. It wasn’t perfect, it was a bit messy, but it was beautiful. I highly recommend this series.
I just don’t have words for how much I loved Danny and Jonathan’s book! Danny takes Jonathan under his wing and the end up best friends. From there the attraction between them builds in a slow burn of tension and chemistry that was so much fun to read. When the tension exploded I wasn’t ready for it. These two were so steamy! I loved the dynamic of their relationship, both strong yet vulnerable with and for each other. They both have some long standing daddy issues, but they continued to work together and help and love each other. It wasn’t perfect, it was a bit messy, but it was beautiful. I highly recommend this series.
June 4, 2021
A sweet addition to a sweet series. We come into this book knowing Danny and having a set up for Jonathan from the end of the last book. The reader comes into it knowing this is going to be a tough road for Jonathan, having been closeted due to a intolerant father and a heavy dose of internalized homophobia.
What I didn’t expect was how positively sweet the evolution of Jonathan and Danny’s relationship was. I expected tons of angst, and while Jonathan had a lot of heavy to deal with on his own, their connection is relatively angst free and refreshing. With our supportive side characters from previous books filling in the cracks, this book was a perfectly rounded simple and lovely love story. And a very well deserved HEA, especially for Jonathan.
What I didn’t expect was how positively sweet the evolution of Jonathan and Danny’s relationship was. I expected tons of angst, and while Jonathan had a lot of heavy to deal with on his own, their connection is relatively angst free and refreshing. With our supportive side characters from previous books filling in the cracks, this book was a perfectly rounded simple and lovely love story. And a very well deserved HEA, especially for Jonathan.
June 19, 2021
If anyone cares, Danny has sex with OM while Jonathan is in the other room. It was before they got together but they were already roommates.
August 16, 2022
Messy Love- (Stumbling Into Love Book 3) MM
Two guys, Jonathan and Danny, both with big issues regarding their relationship, or lack thereof, with their fathers.
Jonathan 32, is the eldest of 4 brothers, his father’s expectations was for him to be the typical all American boy, tough, manly, sportsman, and take over the family construction business. He idolised his Dad and wanted to be the son he could be proud of.
At 14, Jonathan’s had a best friend, Bill who came over regularly and they hung out in the treehouse. One day Bill reached out and kissed him and his Dad caught them. He dismantled the treehouse and banned Bill forever from their home and Jonathan. He banned Jonathan from doing Art which he loved as he regarded it as being for sissies. He father kept watch on everything his eldest son did right up to his 20’s. Jonathan knew he was gay but suppressed his identity to please his father.
Will was the youngest son, who is out and bi, but the father ignored that fact, and let him to his own devices. The other 2 brothers gave Will a hard time. He left home as soon as he could. They did the same to Jonathan because their father seemed to favour him to take over the business and be a sport star at college.
The father dies when Jonathan is in his mid 20’s. Slowly he comes out, but many of his friends drop him. He has some hook ups but realises that he wants more. He decides to leave the family business with his two brothers and go live in the city.
Danny 24 works as a Lab Technician in a hospital, when he was 12 he and his two sisters were raised alone by their mother when his father just walked out one day and never came back. (Danny is a friend of Will and both of them featured in Book 1 of this series with Elijah and Shaw). Danny is a fun loving, confident gay man, who doesn’t expect forever relationships, as he has trust issues dues to his father deserting the family.
Jonathan contacts his brother Will when he gets to the city hoping he’ll help him find accommodation and he introduces him to Danny who has a spare room in his apartment.
So there you have it, two guys, two bedrooms, under one roof. One an outgoing, kind, fun guy who loves his family, the other a loner, no friends, doesn’t talk much, doesn’t get on with his family, let’s no one get close.
Is there a chance these two guys would have anything in common to make house sharing bearable?
Two guys, Jonathan and Danny, both with big issues regarding their relationship, or lack thereof, with their fathers.
Jonathan 32, is the eldest of 4 brothers, his father’s expectations was for him to be the typical all American boy, tough, manly, sportsman, and take over the family construction business. He idolised his Dad and wanted to be the son he could be proud of.
At 14, Jonathan’s had a best friend, Bill who came over regularly and they hung out in the treehouse. One day Bill reached out and kissed him and his Dad caught them. He dismantled the treehouse and banned Bill forever from their home and Jonathan. He banned Jonathan from doing Art which he loved as he regarded it as being for sissies. He father kept watch on everything his eldest son did right up to his 20’s. Jonathan knew he was gay but suppressed his identity to please his father.
Will was the youngest son, who is out and bi, but the father ignored that fact, and let him to his own devices. The other 2 brothers gave Will a hard time. He left home as soon as he could. They did the same to Jonathan because their father seemed to favour him to take over the business and be a sport star at college.
The father dies when Jonathan is in his mid 20’s. Slowly he comes out, but many of his friends drop him. He has some hook ups but realises that he wants more. He decides to leave the family business with his two brothers and go live in the city.
Danny 24 works as a Lab Technician in a hospital, when he was 12 he and his two sisters were raised alone by their mother when his father just walked out one day and never came back. (Danny is a friend of Will and both of them featured in Book 1 of this series with Elijah and Shaw). Danny is a fun loving, confident gay man, who doesn’t expect forever relationships, as he has trust issues dues to his father deserting the family.
Jonathan contacts his brother Will when he gets to the city hoping he’ll help him find accommodation and he introduces him to Danny who has a spare room in his apartment.
So there you have it, two guys, two bedrooms, under one roof. One an outgoing, kind, fun guy who loves his family, the other a loner, no friends, doesn’t talk much, doesn’t get on with his family, let’s no one get close.
Is there a chance these two guys would have anything in common to make house sharing bearable?
September 25, 2022
A fun, refreshing read with some angst, but not an overabundance, thankfully. A good-looking "baby gay" in Jonathan who was caught kissing a guy as a teen and needed to stuff his attraction deeply over the next decade and a half. Now his dad has passed away, he's feeling the strain of having announced he's gay to his remaining family, including brothers, and he needs to get away to find his true self. BTW, Will from Awkward Love is his younger brother.
Danny, BFF to Elijah Stupid Love, is a great character. He is out and proud, loves his family and friends, plays around and never looks back, and is free to be himself. When he hears about Jameson needing an apartment in Atlanta, he offers to rent his spare room. They become friends and then more as Jameson explores not only his sexuality, but his whole life. The freedom to be the man he wants to be and then, finally, the freedom to fall in love with a man takes him to new heights.
There were crisis moments in this story, but mostly internalized. Those from outside forces were only a crisis due to Jameson's reactions. I loved the way the author unfolded this story which not only showed Jameson's sexual awakening, but in a way, Danny's as well. Danny learned what it was like to care about someone so much that their happiness was most important. And as the son of a man who abandoned his family, Danny's most important lesson was that he is worthy of love. He's a keeper.
And this book is that as well. Though the title is "messy" there's nothing messy about the story at all. It's heartwarming, sweet, and fun and I most definitely recommend it to those looking for that elusive warm and fuzzy feeling that comes at the end of reading a good book.
Danny, BFF to Elijah Stupid Love, is a great character. He is out and proud, loves his family and friends, plays around and never looks back, and is free to be himself. When he hears about Jameson needing an apartment in Atlanta, he offers to rent his spare room. They become friends and then more as Jameson explores not only his sexuality, but his whole life. The freedom to be the man he wants to be and then, finally, the freedom to fall in love with a man takes him to new heights.
There were crisis moments in this story, but mostly internalized. Those from outside forces were only a crisis due to Jameson's reactions. I loved the way the author unfolded this story which not only showed Jameson's sexual awakening, but in a way, Danny's as well. Danny learned what it was like to care about someone so much that their happiness was most important. And as the son of a man who abandoned his family, Danny's most important lesson was that he is worthy of love. He's a keeper.
And this book is that as well. Though the title is "messy" there's nothing messy about the story at all. It's heartwarming, sweet, and fun and I most definitely recommend it to those looking for that elusive warm and fuzzy feeling that comes at the end of reading a good book.
June 11, 2021
It has been awhile since I've read the first two books in this series, but I have been excited to read Jonathon and Danny's story and it definitely didn't disappoint. Although this can be read as a standalone, I think it would be better to read the series to really grasp all the connections and found family--especially with Jonathon and Will's family history. The beginning completely hit me in the feels and grabbed me and it didn't let up the whole time. This was such a good read.
Jonathon is 32 and recently out and trying to figure himself out. He's lived his life in the closet, hiding his troubled relationship with his father from his family and vowing to be who his father always wanted him to be. He moved to Atlanta to start fresh and live an out life, moving in with Danny, Elijah's best friend (book one). Instantly the chemistry and connection between these two is popping off the pages. Danny is open and fun, brining out the grumpy and somewhat closed off Jonathon out of his shell. Danny was so patient and caring with Jonathon. It was so perfect and sweet. They both suited each other so so well and I loved every minute of it. It was a slow burn that allowed the two of them to get to know each other and they both were able to fill in voids left by their past.
Only issue with this is the drama with Jonathon's family was dealt with quickly and a bit too neatly. I wish more time throughout the book was spent giving pieces here and there to repairing and understanding what Jonathon has struggled with since he was a teen and that his family took the time to wade through everything. Tear it all down and then rebuild a better foundation together. Other than that, this was a great read and great way to end the series. It made me want to go back and read the other two.
Jonathon is 32 and recently out and trying to figure himself out. He's lived his life in the closet, hiding his troubled relationship with his father from his family and vowing to be who his father always wanted him to be. He moved to Atlanta to start fresh and live an out life, moving in with Danny, Elijah's best friend (book one). Instantly the chemistry and connection between these two is popping off the pages. Danny is open and fun, brining out the grumpy and somewhat closed off Jonathon out of his shell. Danny was so patient and caring with Jonathon. It was so perfect and sweet. They both suited each other so so well and I loved every minute of it. It was a slow burn that allowed the two of them to get to know each other and they both were able to fill in voids left by their past.
Only issue with this is the drama with Jonathon's family was dealt with quickly and a bit too neatly. I wish more time throughout the book was spent giving pieces here and there to repairing and understanding what Jonathon has struggled with since he was a teen and that his family took the time to wade through everything. Tear it all down and then rebuild a better foundation together. Other than that, this was a great read and great way to end the series. It made me want to go back and read the other two.
June 8, 2021
Wonderful love story—humor, romance and emotion in perfect balance. I thoroughly enjoyed the emotional depth of the MC’s journey and the nuanced, insightful writing. Danny and Jonathan become friends first, then lovers, and I really liked how naturally they progressed from one to the other.
Danny is awesome; he’s such a great guy! The way he is there for Jonathan, luring him out of his shell and into new experiences and self-acceptance, is so amazing. He brings such joy and warmth to the story. He’s been there from the beginning of the series and I couldn’t have been happier that he finally got his own story. And with Will’s newly-out older brother, no less.
Jonathan’s past is heartbreaking. His pain and self-hatred and his desperate need for his father’s love and acceptance… He is the kind of character that you want to have all the love and joy imaginable.
Apart from the romance, I was also quite invested in the storyline about Jonathan and his brothers. Will and Jonathan grow a lot closer, which was incredibly heartwarming to read, but I also loved that Brad and Nolan continued to reach out to Jonathan when he distanced himself. They are not the most sensitive or enlightened, but they love their brothers and come through for them in the end. Jonathan’s mom is also a wonderful, loving character and my heart ached for her when she learned about her husband’s treatment of her eldest son.
Danny is awesome; he’s such a great guy! The way he is there for Jonathan, luring him out of his shell and into new experiences and self-acceptance, is so amazing. He brings such joy and warmth to the story. He’s been there from the beginning of the series and I couldn’t have been happier that he finally got his own story. And with Will’s newly-out older brother, no less.
Jonathan’s past is heartbreaking. His pain and self-hatred and his desperate need for his father’s love and acceptance… He is the kind of character that you want to have all the love and joy imaginable.
Apart from the romance, I was also quite invested in the storyline about Jonathan and his brothers. Will and Jonathan grow a lot closer, which was incredibly heartwarming to read, but I also loved that Brad and Nolan continued to reach out to Jonathan when he distanced himself. They are not the most sensitive or enlightened, but they love their brothers and come through for them in the end. Jonathan’s mom is also a wonderful, loving character and my heart ached for her when she learned about her husband’s treatment of her eldest son.
September 26, 2023
The last book in the trilogy and honestly I think this was a 50/50 for me. Will’s big brother, Jonathan, came out of the closet and now with their father dead, he needs a big change to learn what he wants from life. He needs to explore his sexuality and what it means to be a gay man, surrounded by fellow queers and just feeling safe around people who actually like him.
Danny, a pal of his brother Will, accepts him as his roomie and teaches him to have fun, to go on these new adventures (like joining a queer baseball team!) and he helps him rediscover his love for art.
They’re cute together despite the age gap I’m not always a fan of (I believe Danny’s 23 and Jonathan 32) and though they have own some issues to solve, they’re trying enjoy their time together.
What didn’t work for me was the fact that most of the times, when they needed a serious talk, they got into sex first. And I get it, my queen Riley knows how to write steamy sex scenes, but it’s not the only way you can be vulnerable with each other. To me there were at least 3 scenes which could have been written out.
Aside from that, I think this is a nice romance but surely, the main focus is on Jonathan’s journey, how he learns to be himself and reshaping his way of seeing and experiencing life being a gay man.
PREVIEWS REVIEWS:
Stupid Love | Awkward Love
Danny, a pal of his brother Will, accepts him as his roomie and teaches him to have fun, to go on these new adventures (like joining a queer baseball team!) and he helps him rediscover his love for art.
They’re cute together despite the age gap I’m not always a fan of (I believe Danny’s 23 and Jonathan 32) and though they have own some issues to solve, they’re trying enjoy their time together.
What didn’t work for me was the fact that most of the times, when they needed a serious talk, they got into sex first. And I get it, my queen Riley knows how to write steamy sex scenes, but it’s not the only way you can be vulnerable with each other. To me there were at least 3 scenes which could have been written out.
Aside from that, I think this is a nice romance but surely, the main focus is on Jonathan’s journey, how he learns to be himself and reshaping his way of seeing and experiencing life being a gay man.
PREVIEWS REVIEWS:
Stupid Love | Awkward Love
June 7, 2021
I loved Jonathan and Danny’s story. It was a very sweet, slow burn roommates to lovers story that kept me turning the pages for more. I loved seeing Jonathan find himself and his place within the queer community. He overcame some self doubts and learn to find his own authenticity. His move to Atlanta to be near his brother Will, who we met in book 2 of the series. He found himself with the opportunity to be roommates with Danny, who we met in book 1 as Elijah’s BFF. They hit it off immediately and Danny became Jonathan’s biggest champion! I loved the way that Danny helped to gently nudge Jonathan out of his comfort zone. He got him to try new things in the community and met new people. Danny He fun, outgoing, and helped Jonathan open up. I loved the friendship they developed and could immediately sense their chemistry. It was a fantastic slow burn that led to some seriously hot first times. These two just clicked and helped fill the gaps they each had in their hearts with each other. It was wonderful! The found family these friends built together was one of my favorite parts about this series! I loved getting more glimpses of all of the friends we’ve met along the way! This was a great story to wrap the end of a wonderful series!
June 14, 2021
Messy Love is a wonderful romance by Riley Hart. Everything about this story is ultimately sweet and emotional. The third book in the Stumbling Into Love series, it's easily read as a standalone.
Jonathon and Danny are beautiful together. Both are multi-layered men with messy pasts and a lot of baggage.
I love how well they compliment one another, as well as the way Danny helps Jonathon to be who he wants to be, exploring the world of gay men. I adore the way their relationship develops and the undeniable connection between them.
They are just perfect together, in and out of bed. Good god, the author knows how to write a sex scene!
This is a story with family expectations and many family issues. If you enjoy stories where the main character learns to be who they want to be, you will love this book.
The writing is stellar, with complex characters who are vulnerable and deep. Their pasts are well developed, fully bringing the reader into the reasons for their pain and hesitations.
Messy Love is everything I could ask for. Riley Hart impresses and entertains throughout this slow burn romance. It's a fabulous blend of serious and sexy, first times and swoony. I love it all.
Jonathon and Danny are beautiful together. Both are multi-layered men with messy pasts and a lot of baggage.
I love how well they compliment one another, as well as the way Danny helps Jonathon to be who he wants to be, exploring the world of gay men. I adore the way their relationship develops and the undeniable connection between them.
They are just perfect together, in and out of bed. Good god, the author knows how to write a sex scene!
This is a story with family expectations and many family issues. If you enjoy stories where the main character learns to be who they want to be, you will love this book.
The writing is stellar, with complex characters who are vulnerable and deep. Their pasts are well developed, fully bringing the reader into the reasons for their pain and hesitations.
Messy Love is everything I could ask for. Riley Hart impresses and entertains throughout this slow burn romance. It's a fabulous blend of serious and sexy, first times and swoony. I love it all.
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