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Playing it Straight #1
Beauty and the Bro
Ghosted by his long-term girlfriend, Dylan needs a roommate, and this Riley chick seems like the perfect candidate. If only Riley hadn’t turned out to be a guy. A guy who is so obviously gay.
Done with his ex-boyfriend’s jealousy, Riley is looking for a fresh start. But when his new roommate proves to be less tolerant than Riley had hoped, he finds himself slipping into old patterns. It doesn’t help that the guy is a bit of a man-child either.
Neither is the obvious choice for the other, yet somewhere along the line of navigating their toxic exes, movie nights, and reviving Riley’s old dream of running a makeup channel, sparks begin to fly.
But can this thing they have exist beyond the four walls of Dylan’s condo?
Beauty and the Bro is book one in the Playing It Straight series. Each book follows a couple on their journey to their happily ever after.
Done with his ex-boyfriend’s jealousy, Riley is looking for a fresh start. But when his new roommate proves to be less tolerant than Riley had hoped, he finds himself slipping into old patterns. It doesn’t help that the guy is a bit of a man-child either.
Neither is the obvious choice for the other, yet somewhere along the line of navigating their toxic exes, movie nights, and reviving Riley’s old dream of running a makeup channel, sparks begin to fly.
But can this thing they have exist beyond the four walls of Dylan’s condo?
Beauty and the Bro is book one in the Playing It Straight series. Each book follows a couple on their journey to their happily ever after.
222 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 7, 2021
66 people are currently reading
375 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 152 reviews
June 14, 2021
I'm gunshy when it comes to new authors, but the overall positive reviews from my friends convinced me to give this one a chance. And I'm glad I did.
Beauty and the Bro contains a blend of sweet and angsty. When straight bro Dylan discovers that his new roommate, Riley, is a man, not a woman as he originally assumed, he's not thrilled.
Riley is just so swishy and pretty, and Dylan finds himself sneaking peeks at his gorgeous roommate, even though he's never been attracted to a man before.
Riley just left a controlling and emotionally abusive boyfriend and is determined not to fall for the dude bro with whom he shares a condo.
But Dylan pushes him into starting a YouTube makeup tutorial channel, something that's been a dream of Riley's forever, and Riley begins to see Dylan in a different light.
The major conflict in the story is Dylan being ashamed of having a boyfriend and cringing every time his friends are around Riley. I hated Dylan and his friends' casual homophobia. They threw around homophobic slurs like candy.
To his credit, Dylan sees how cruel these words are, but he still doesn't stand up for Riley or come out as bisexual (a label he's not sure fits him, as he's not attracted to guys, just Riley).
This is a very sexy story with just enough relationship angst to keep things interesting. I adored most of the secondary characters, especially Riley's friend Leo who is bubbly and very supportive.
The exception is Riley's ex Jeff, who can take a long walk off a short pier. He really destroyed Riley's self-esteem, and I wanted to destroy him.
Kudos to Riley for not taking the easy way out and falling back into the closet just to be with Dylan. Riley isn't magically cured of his insecurities. It takes introspection, a separation (don't despair; it all works out!), and honest to god communication for the relationship to arrive at a healthy place.
The ending is a beautiful HEA that had me grinning from ear to ear.
P.S. The author mentions in the afterward that one of Dylan's friends is getting a story, and this particular dude was the biggest jackass homophobe of them all, so that should be interesting.
Beauty and the Bro contains a blend of sweet and angsty. When straight bro Dylan discovers that his new roommate, Riley, is a man, not a woman as he originally assumed, he's not thrilled.
Riley is just so swishy and pretty, and Dylan finds himself sneaking peeks at his gorgeous roommate, even though he's never been attracted to a man before.
Riley just left a controlling and emotionally abusive boyfriend and is determined not to fall for the dude bro with whom he shares a condo.
But Dylan pushes him into starting a YouTube makeup tutorial channel, something that's been a dream of Riley's forever, and Riley begins to see Dylan in a different light.
The major conflict in the story is Dylan being ashamed of having a boyfriend and cringing every time his friends are around Riley. I hated Dylan and his friends' casual homophobia. They threw around homophobic slurs like candy.
To his credit, Dylan sees how cruel these words are, but he still doesn't stand up for Riley or come out as bisexual (a label he's not sure fits him, as he's not attracted to guys, just Riley).
This is a very sexy story with just enough relationship angst to keep things interesting. I adored most of the secondary characters, especially Riley's friend Leo who is bubbly and very supportive.
The exception is Riley's ex Jeff, who can take a long walk off a short pier. He really destroyed Riley's self-esteem, and I wanted to destroy him.
Kudos to Riley for not taking the easy way out and falling back into the closet just to be with Dylan. Riley isn't magically cured of his insecurities. It takes introspection, a separation (don't despair; it all works out!), and honest to god communication for the relationship to arrive at a healthy place.
The ending is a beautiful HEA that had me grinning from ear to ear.
P.S. The author mentions in the afterward that one of Dylan's friends is getting a story, and this particular dude was the biggest jackass homophobe of them all, so that should be interesting.
July 10, 2021
Work has been a bitch!! Ugh!! But it's time to rate this one... If I find the words to do it. 😑🥲
I think that it was an ok read for me, it was fun and fluffy on the surface, but sometimes when you really pay attention to the content, there is a lot of insulting stuff being said, homophobic slurs and a lot of jabs to women too.
1. "The bro" was "straight", so he was apprehensive at first of the "beauty", internally he said a lot of bullshit and he also went this route: he didn't come out at first because he was scared of what his friends would think, because some of his friends are the kind of people who use words like fag and pussy, but hey, they don't mean it. 🤷🏻♀️🤷🏻♀️
So that's where the male lead lost me. 🤭🤭
2. The "beauty" was a femme, he was bullied for liking feminine stuff all his life, but he still tried to own it. So when he said the stuff about crying (even though it was a bully comment that he internalized), it hurt. 🤷🏻♀️🤷🏻♀️ I do respect that he got out of the relationship with the "Bro" when it became toxic. Applause my love! 👏🏻👏🏻💜
It was cute, short and it's a first time for this author. I say it was a good job! ❤
I think that it was an ok read for me, it was fun and fluffy on the surface, but sometimes when you really pay attention to the content, there is a lot of insulting stuff being said, homophobic slurs and a lot of jabs to women too.
1. "The bro" was "straight", so he was apprehensive at first of the "beauty", internally he said a lot of bullshit and he also went this route: he didn't come out at first because he was scared of what his friends would think, because some of his friends are the kind of people who use words like fag and pussy, but hey, they don't mean it. 🤷🏻♀️🤷🏻♀️
So that's where the male lead lost me. 🤭🤭
2. The "beauty" was a femme, he was bullied for liking feminine stuff all his life, but he still tried to own it. So when he said the stuff about crying (even though it was a bully comment that he internalized), it hurt. 🤷🏻♀️🤷🏻♀️ I do respect that he got out of the relationship with the "Bro" when it became toxic. Applause my love! 👏🏻👏🏻💜
It was cute, short and it's a first time for this author. I say it was a good job! ❤
July 4, 2021
❗️❣️Fab new author alert ❣️❗️
The premise isn't something new or particularly unique; roommates to lovers and bi-awakening but the execution was wonderful. It kept my attention the whole way and I was really rooting for the couple. I really enjoyed the author's writing style and Riley was such a likeable character.
One issue was that Zach's coming out was a central part of the story but it felt like the impact and effects of his decision were brushed by very quickly in the end. I also wanted more accountability from Zach's friends for their homophobia, especially Travis who was the biggest homophobe and douche to Riley. I kept waiting for the apology scene but it sadly never came. The author's note hints that Travis will be the MC in book 2 so I feel like maybe the author wanted to save his atonement and character growth for the next book.
Nonetheless, I'm excited to see how Travis' second chance will go! Looking forward to more books by Norah Belle 💜
The premise isn't something new or particularly unique; roommates to lovers and bi-awakening but the execution was wonderful. It kept my attention the whole way and I was really rooting for the couple. I really enjoyed the author's writing style and Riley was such a likeable character.
One issue was that Zach's coming out was a central part of the story but it felt like the impact and effects of his decision were brushed by very quickly in the end. I also wanted more accountability from Zach's friends for their homophobia, especially Travis who was the biggest homophobe and douche to Riley. I kept waiting for the apology scene but it sadly never came. The author's note hints that Travis will be the MC in book 2 so I feel like maybe the author wanted to save his atonement and character growth for the next book.
Nonetheless, I'm excited to see how Travis' second chance will go! Looking forward to more books by Norah Belle 💜
October 10, 2021
***I received an eArc from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.***
I loved this sweet roommate to lovers story. I enjoyed the relationship that felt unique to each main character and not forced. It was a gradual progression of feelings between the two main characters that did not appear stereotypical in any way. The emotions displayed in particular, devotion was well done.
Overall I loved reading this light-hearted story that offered many surprises in its emotional depths, that I was not anticipating.
I loved this sweet roommate to lovers story. I enjoyed the relationship that felt unique to each main character and not forced. It was a gradual progression of feelings between the two main characters that did not appear stereotypical in any way. The emotions displayed in particular, devotion was well done.
Overall I loved reading this light-hearted story that offered many surprises in its emotional depths, that I was not anticipating.
July 12, 2021
this was pretty cute for the most part but nothing special. i got bored multiple times. all the casual homophobia that just got brushed off like it was nothing also really ticked me off.
July 9, 2021
This was a cute and sweet "straight guy" falls for femme boy story. I really liked seeing them fall for each other and the beginning of their relationship.
It was nothing special or memorable, but it was fun and entertaining. Until it got sappy and cringy, with drama and grand gestures.
The other thing that bothered me was the casual homophobia throughout the book. The constant use of slurs was horrifying, but it was brushed off as bros being bros. No. Girl. It's 2021. Cut that shit.
So 2.5 stars. Rounded up.
It was nothing special or memorable, but it was fun and entertaining. Until it got sappy and cringy, with drama and grand gestures.
The other thing that bothered me was the casual homophobia throughout the book. The constant use of slurs was horrifying, but it was brushed off as bros being bros. No. Girl. It's 2021. Cut that shit.
So 2.5 stars. Rounded up.
July 6, 2021
5 ++++++ stars story!!!
I can't wait for book 2. And if it is as awesome as this book was Norah Belle is getting shelved as a favorite author.
I can't wait for book 2. And if it is as awesome as this book was Norah Belle is getting shelved as a favorite author.
June 9, 2021
So I have big trouble rating this story. On one side I read this story in almost one sit and enjoyed the content where a straight guy falls for his gay roommate, looking back and more detailed I see a cliché, with stereotypes and a lot of painful homophobic slurs and thoughts. It made me flinch more than once.
July 7, 2021
Two absolute sweethearts falling in love, finding themselves, playing with makeup, and a low angst bisexual awakening.
This book was unexpectedly adorable and I couldn’t stop smiling. I wasn’t sure how I would feel because I read there was some homophobia (and that can totally ruin a story), but I thought this was well done. I’m all for my characters learning and growing.
I loved both MCs, but can I talk about Riley? I want to squeeze him and tell him he’s perfect. He’s been hurt and he’s still so amazing. I’ve struggled with insecurity and his feelings just read so real to me. I hate that he was hurt, but damn do I love seeing him fight for himself.
This book also did an excellent job with the last few chapters and the epilogue. Some books can totally lose their momentum and I was really happy to just keep smiling more and more. It was super fluffy goodness.
This book was unexpectedly adorable and I couldn’t stop smiling. I wasn’t sure how I would feel because I read there was some homophobia (and that can totally ruin a story), but I thought this was well done. I’m all for my characters learning and growing.
I loved both MCs, but can I talk about Riley? I want to squeeze him and tell him he’s perfect. He’s been hurt and he’s still so amazing. I’ve struggled with insecurity and his feelings just read so real to me. I hate that he was hurt, but damn do I love seeing him fight for himself.
This book also did an excellent job with the last few chapters and the epilogue. Some books can totally lose their momentum and I was really happy to just keep smiling more and more. It was super fluffy goodness.
May 24, 2022
First of all, there needs to be a trigger warning not hidden in the legal/copyright jargon. The author should have put it on the page right before the first chapter so no one can miss it. The extreme homophobic language can be extremely triggering to the LGBTQAI+ community.
I’m really torn about how to rate this book. I’m not sure I’ve read a plot where a dude was straight up homophobic to sucking d*ck in like, a week. It could have been more believable if there was more of an internal struggle before he jumped in.
Homophobic dude and his homophobic friends aside, there were things I really enjoyed about this book. Technically it was well written which is always refreshing from a new author. Riley was sweet as heck and I just felt sorry for him through most of it.
The last quarter of the book was really sweet and I think that was one of the cutest proposals I’ve ever read. But what I liked got buried in the cliches/stereotypes/casual acceptance of homophobia.
I’m really torn about how to rate this book. I’m not sure I’ve read a plot where a dude was straight up homophobic to sucking d*ck in like, a week. It could have been more believable if there was more of an internal struggle before he jumped in.
Homophobic dude and his homophobic friends aside, there were things I really enjoyed about this book. Technically it was well written which is always refreshing from a new author. Riley was sweet as heck and I just felt sorry for him through most of it.
The last quarter of the book was really sweet and I think that was one of the cutest proposals I’ve ever read. But what I liked got buried in the cliches/stereotypes/casual acceptance of homophobia.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 11, 2021
I waffled, not gonna lie, but I have to say I 3.75-4 star liked it.
In the beginning my perception of Dylan was a bit dull, but that could be spun as a bit of fridge brilliance on the author’s part, because he became more interesting as he started to grow a bit.
Riley is not my usual M/M protagonist, and that’s kind of refreshing. I had concerns that this would be an M/F romance with the pronouns changed since some authors write that way, but I didn’t feel that Riley was a stand-in for a female lead. I ended up liking him quite a bit, and his voice was distinct from Dylan’s.
Some of the characters’ behaviors made me a little uncomfortable, but a lot of the M/M I read is idealized or sanitized: people don’t say and do the callous, awful things they sometimes do in the real world, so the touch of ugliness is actually kind of authentic.
In the end this is a sweet romance that serves up a fair helping of gayngst, references some toxic and abusive relationships, and alludes to the importance of mental health and communication. We also have an interesting line drawn to the next book in the series, and I’ll check it out when it’s available.
In the beginning my perception of Dylan was a bit dull, but that could be spun as a bit of fridge brilliance on the author’s part, because he became more interesting as he started to grow a bit.
Riley is not my usual M/M protagonist, and that’s kind of refreshing. I had concerns that this would be an M/F romance with the pronouns changed since some authors write that way, but I didn’t feel that Riley was a stand-in for a female lead. I ended up liking him quite a bit, and his voice was distinct from Dylan’s.
Some of the characters’ behaviors made me a little uncomfortable, but a lot of the M/M I read is idealized or sanitized: people don’t say and do the callous, awful things they sometimes do in the real world, so the touch of ugliness is actually kind of authentic.
In the end this is a sweet romance that serves up a fair helping of gayngst, references some toxic and abusive relationships, and alludes to the importance of mental health and communication. We also have an interesting line drawn to the next book in the series, and I’ll check it out when it’s available.
June 18, 2021
4.5 stars
December 27, 2022
I read this book just recently, when it was recommended in a FB group, where we were talking about that reddit post that went viral (about two roommates falling in love), so this was one of the recs that caught my eye.
Turns out, it's a new author and it's her debut book.
💚Bi - awakening (more like gfy)
🤍Medium angst (you may be triggered with Dylan and his lack of balls, it made me super anxious - and pissed)
👄One mc is a femme boy, other is a typical frat homophobic guy (but both nearing their 30's and working already)
❗Some physical violence (not between the mc's)
🌶️Spice is relatively good
❤️A nice hea and epilogue
What can I say?
I really liked this book. I liked all the characters, both MC's were wonderful, especially Riley, maybe I wasn't as invested in Dylan, because I would definitely have to know more about him. But other than that, this is a solid 4⭐ book.
Dylan is a straight guy in his late 20's that had a bad breakup and is left without a roommate. His sister, Chloe, finds Riley, an openly gay femme guy, to move in and Riley really turns Dylan's world upside down. Not only is he a homebody, he upgrades Dylan's apartment with his wonderful sense of style and he loves to cook. He's a sweet, wonderful guy that has really bad experiences in love, so he doesn't think anything could happen between him and Dylan, but it does and when it does, it's amazing.
The spice was quite good, but when Riley and Dylan started hooking up, I missed those days after the first time, the author just fast-forwarded a week and I didn't get to read about it, and it seemed quite important, since it was happening with Dylan, who wasn't really gay, right? I just thought we could read more about their intimate moments, not only sex, but everything they shared after that defining moment.
The author mentioned their sex during the book but as a memory of where and what happened, she didn't take us there to experience it, which was disappointing, because it seemed they were having a really good time.
I also thought the book neeeded more back stories of basically everyone, not only Dylan and Riley. I wondered about both of them growing up, about Dylan's friend group, what happened when he finally introduced Riley to his parents? It was all left out. So I was a bit disappointed there, s lot of things were missing to make it full circle, so it felt like the book needed another kick to be that wonderful 5* read (for me).
I'm hoping Trevor's story is more telling, I'm really invested, I liked his character; he's the ultimate bully/homophobe bad boy and yeah, he's gonna go down the gay brick road. Can't wait!
Turns out, it's a new author and it's her debut book.
💚Bi - awakening (more like gfy)
🤍Medium angst (you may be triggered with Dylan and his lack of balls, it made me super anxious - and pissed)
👄One mc is a femme boy, other is a typical frat homophobic guy (but both nearing their 30's and working already)
❗Some physical violence (not between the mc's)
🌶️Spice is relatively good
❤️A nice hea and epilogue
What can I say?
I really liked this book. I liked all the characters, both MC's were wonderful, especially Riley, maybe I wasn't as invested in Dylan, because I would definitely have to know more about him. But other than that, this is a solid 4⭐ book.
Dylan is a straight guy in his late 20's that had a bad breakup and is left without a roommate. His sister, Chloe, finds Riley, an openly gay femme guy, to move in and Riley really turns Dylan's world upside down. Not only is he a homebody, he upgrades Dylan's apartment with his wonderful sense of style and he loves to cook. He's a sweet, wonderful guy that has really bad experiences in love, so he doesn't think anything could happen between him and Dylan, but it does and when it does, it's amazing.
The spice was quite good, but when Riley and Dylan started hooking up, I missed those days after the first time, the author just fast-forwarded a week and I didn't get to read about it, and it seemed quite important, since it was happening with Dylan, who wasn't really gay, right? I just thought we could read more about their intimate moments, not only sex, but everything they shared after that defining moment.
The author mentioned their sex during the book but as a memory of where and what happened, she didn't take us there to experience it, which was disappointing, because it seemed they were having a really good time.
I also thought the book neeeded more back stories of basically everyone, not only Dylan and Riley. I wondered about both of them growing up, about Dylan's friend group, what happened when he finally introduced Riley to his parents? It was all left out. So I was a bit disappointed there, s lot of things were missing to make it full circle, so it felt like the book needed another kick to be that wonderful 5* read (for me).
I'm hoping Trevor's story is more telling, I'm really invested, I liked his character; he's the ultimate bully/homophobe bad boy and yeah, he's gonna go down the gay brick road. Can't wait!
June 4, 2021
At its heart, this book is an easy to read combination of a lot of tropes – jock and nerd, bisexual awakening, friends to lovers, roommate to lover; however, the author does a good job of adding some more depth to the characters to not make it feel like “just another one of those books.”
There’s nothing hugely unique about the book, but the writing is on point and it will evoke responses from you, appropriate to the scene.
Dylan is straight and, while not a hater, isn’t very sensitive to anyone different from him. When his sister arranges for him to have a roommate to help pay the bills, he just assumes “Riley” is a girl. His reaction, when he gets home from his business trip, is less than excited. Your first reaction to Dylan isn’t favorable, but his slow growth and ultimate acceptance of Riley, their situation, and eventually, his feelings definitely will improve your opinion of him.
Riley is effeminate, loves make-up, is unabashedly gay, and just escaped a controlling, emotionally abusive ex. He’s sweet, charming, a great cook, a great decorator, and gives 110% to everything, including the crush he develops on his new roommate.
The two men go through some challenges, separately and together, and it takes one final event to make them both see they’re made for each other.
Again, it’s a casual read, but it’s a good one.
There’s nothing hugely unique about the book, but the writing is on point and it will evoke responses from you, appropriate to the scene.
Dylan is straight and, while not a hater, isn’t very sensitive to anyone different from him. When his sister arranges for him to have a roommate to help pay the bills, he just assumes “Riley” is a girl. His reaction, when he gets home from his business trip, is less than excited. Your first reaction to Dylan isn’t favorable, but his slow growth and ultimate acceptance of Riley, their situation, and eventually, his feelings definitely will improve your opinion of him.
Riley is effeminate, loves make-up, is unabashedly gay, and just escaped a controlling, emotionally abusive ex. He’s sweet, charming, a great cook, a great decorator, and gives 110% to everything, including the crush he develops on his new roommate.
The two men go through some challenges, separately and together, and it takes one final event to make them both see they’re made for each other.
Again, it’s a casual read, but it’s a good one.
June 9, 2021
Beauty and the Bro is a fabulously sweet sexual awakening romance. The first book in the Playing it Straight series, this is an impressive debut from Norah Belle.
Every single thing about this romance works for me. I love the characters. I love their story. And I love all the emotions.
This is a roommates to lovers tale that has all the sweetness one could ask for. It's wonderful the way they slowly develop into more than friends. Everything happens naturally and in a realistic manner.
I easily felt the connection between the men and love the way things evolve for them.
This is a bisexual awakening journey that is fabulously done. The two get off to a funny start, and everything that follows has Dylan reevaluating his sexuality.
And oh how I love Riley. He's a makeup wearing, unapologetically femme man. He's a breathe of fresh air for sure. Adding to his layers though is the abusive relationship he just escaped. I am mesmerized by the way Dylan helps him heal and feel loved.
Beauty and the Bro is a stellar debut by Norah Belle. I am thrilled with this sweet tale and can't wait to see what comes next in this series.
Every single thing about this romance works for me. I love the characters. I love their story. And I love all the emotions.
This is a roommates to lovers tale that has all the sweetness one could ask for. It's wonderful the way they slowly develop into more than friends. Everything happens naturally and in a realistic manner.
I easily felt the connection between the men and love the way things evolve for them.
This is a bisexual awakening journey that is fabulously done. The two get off to a funny start, and everything that follows has Dylan reevaluating his sexuality.
And oh how I love Riley. He's a makeup wearing, unapologetically femme man. He's a breathe of fresh air for sure. Adding to his layers though is the abusive relationship he just escaped. I am mesmerized by the way Dylan helps him heal and feel loved.
Beauty and the Bro is a stellar debut by Norah Belle. I am thrilled with this sweet tale and can't wait to see what comes next in this series.
October 28, 2024
3.5 stars
This book has quite a lot going for it but didn't quite stick the landing.
Dylan needs a roommate after being ghosted by his girlfriend, his sister organises it, and Dylan signs off on Riley who he assumes is a woman based on an email. When he realises Riley is a gay man who enjoys makeup he's not exactly thrilled, nor is Riley when he sees that Dylan is homophobic.
And there's quite a lot of homophobia in this, including lots of slurs. It's part of the character arc so wasn't unexpected, and though it's taxing to read at times I think the author did a good job showing that Dylan is a good person at heart who needs to unlearn a lot of toxic masculinity and bad behaviours.
They fairly quickly become friends, then something more, and I enjoyed them as a couple and liked the domestic scenes together. There's a scene where Dylan slings his arm around Riley while they're watching a movie that was just the cutest thing ever.
I'm not typically a fan of the evil-ex trope, but found that the emotionally manipulative and abusive ex boyfriend plotline contributed to understandable and relevant hang-ups for Riley, and also allowed Dylan to show his support for him.
Where this didn't quite work for me, is that so much of the soul-searching happens off page after a - completely reasonable for once - .
We don't properly get to see Dylan . The author mentions the would be shown in a future book, which I think is bullshit, and also that was 3 years ago so, yeah.
I also felt that was glossed over and didn't really have the emotional impact that it should have. and it didn't work for me.
This book has quite a lot going for it but didn't quite stick the landing.
Dylan needs a roommate after being ghosted by his girlfriend, his sister organises it, and Dylan signs off on Riley who he assumes is a woman based on an email. When he realises Riley is a gay man who enjoys makeup he's not exactly thrilled, nor is Riley when he sees that Dylan is homophobic.
And there's quite a lot of homophobia in this, including lots of slurs. It's part of the character arc so wasn't unexpected, and though it's taxing to read at times I think the author did a good job showing that Dylan is a good person at heart who needs to unlearn a lot of toxic masculinity and bad behaviours.
They fairly quickly become friends, then something more, and I enjoyed them as a couple and liked the domestic scenes together. There's a scene where Dylan slings his arm around Riley while they're watching a movie that was just the cutest thing ever.
I'm not typically a fan of the evil-ex trope, but found that the emotionally manipulative and abusive ex boyfriend plotline contributed to understandable and relevant hang-ups for Riley, and also allowed Dylan to show his support for him.
Where this didn't quite work for me, is that so much of the soul-searching happens off page after a - completely reasonable for once - .
We don't properly get to see Dylan . The author mentions the would be shown in a future book, which I think is bullshit, and also that was 3 years ago so, yeah.
I also felt that was glossed over and didn't really have the emotional impact that it should have. and it didn't work for me.
June 10, 2021
So cute
This was such a cute book. It got four out of five stars as I didn't like the "you know what" scene. It was a bit abrupt and the time period was skipped to far with nothing in between. For me anyway. But I enjoyed the read... fished in a few hours
This was such a cute book. It got four out of five stars as I didn't like the "you know what" scene. It was a bit abrupt and the time period was skipped to far with nothing in between. For me anyway. But I enjoyed the read... fished in a few hours
June 15, 2021
A great roommate romance
this is my first story from Norah Belle and I'll definitely be looking out for more from them in the future.
I enjoyed the characters and the development of their relationship. Riley has a lot going on with an ex that just won't lead him alone and is 100% not what Dylan was expecting when he meets his new roommate, different gender for one. Dylan has also just had a bad breakup and isn't living the best life with pretty much work and sleep filling his time. Riley brings warmth and happiness to their flat and soon they become friends that quickly evolves as neither can deny their attraction, even Dylan who has never been with a man before.
Both men tug on the heartstrings for different reasons and they work so well together as a couple. Along the way there's drama dotted to keep the story interesting and readers should be aware of occasional homophobic language. I liked how things turned out for the two of them and hope that there are some of their friends who get their own HEA in the future.
this is my first story from Norah Belle and I'll definitely be looking out for more from them in the future.
I enjoyed the characters and the development of their relationship. Riley has a lot going on with an ex that just won't lead him alone and is 100% not what Dylan was expecting when he meets his new roommate, different gender for one. Dylan has also just had a bad breakup and isn't living the best life with pretty much work and sleep filling his time. Riley brings warmth and happiness to their flat and soon they become friends that quickly evolves as neither can deny their attraction, even Dylan who has never been with a man before.
Both men tug on the heartstrings for different reasons and they work so well together as a couple. Along the way there's drama dotted to keep the story interesting and readers should be aware of occasional homophobic language. I liked how things turned out for the two of them and hope that there are some of their friends who get their own HEA in the future.
June 2, 2023
4.5 stars
Omg I ate this up so fast. It was so adorable and cute and I was so invested in Riley and Dylan’s journey as people and characters. And the way Dylan’s character developed from confused to finding himself so drawn to Riley 🥺🥺 my heart
I need more from them and this author!! Does anyone know when more books will be released?? The authors note mentioned Trevor’s story too and I gotta say I’m intrigued. Sadly no more books from this author so far and it’s been two years 🥲 I hope all is good with them
Omg I ate this up so fast. It was so adorable and cute and I was so invested in Riley and Dylan’s journey as people and characters. And the way Dylan’s character developed from confused to finding himself so drawn to Riley 🥺🥺 my heart
I need more from them and this author!! Does anyone know when more books will be released?? The authors note mentioned Trevor’s story too and I gotta say I’m intrigued. Sadly no more books from this author so far and it’s been two years 🥲 I hope all is good with them
May 31, 2021
I really enjoyed this book! I love love loved Riley. Dylan took a bit for mostly because of his willful ignorance, but when his eyes finally opened it was beautiful. Riley was strong and resilient and I truly enjoyed his character.
June 7, 2021
Nora Belle took some well-used tropes and made them fresh, in my opinion. A slow-burn demi/bisexual awakening paired with forced proximity/roommates, complicated by the fear of coming out. There is some homophobic language, and perhaps the trigger warning could have been put in a more visible place, but I didn't find it to be gratuitous, nor at all unrealistic.
I enjoyed following along as Dylan and Riley's relationship grew, and cheered for them the whole way through.
I enjoyed following along as Dylan and Riley's relationship grew, and cheered for them the whole way through.
June 10, 2021
Beauty and the bro.
Really enjoyed this book. Saw it posted on fb, read the blurb and immediately started reading it. I’m a sucker for GFY/OFY. Dylan’s girlfriend leaves him so he needs a new roommate. Riley just left his controlling ex and needs a room to rent. They become friends de and things take off from there. Loved it, hooked from the beguiling and couldn’t set it down. This was cute, fun, sexy with little angst. I can not wait for Trevors story.
Really enjoyed this book. Saw it posted on fb, read the blurb and immediately started reading it. I’m a sucker for GFY/OFY. Dylan’s girlfriend leaves him so he needs a new roommate. Riley just left his controlling ex and needs a room to rent. They become friends de and things take off from there. Loved it, hooked from the beguiling and couldn’t set it down. This was cute, fun, sexy with little angst. I can not wait for Trevors story.
June 17, 2021
3.5 stars, rounded up.
On the surface, I quite enjoyed this. The writing was done well, the characters were interesting. It wasn't the deepest story I ever read, but I wasn't looking for that... I just wanted something nice and easy.
But, if you go below the surface, I did have an issue with how many minor conflicts there were. When you have a novel of this length and decide to have so many little things going on, it makes it had to properly resolve any of them. I could have done without the Ashleigh drama and just dealt with the homophobia in Dylan's life (his own internal & external, his friends, his family), and Riley's ex and definitely more focus on the biphobia that is literally just mentioned once and dropped.
I didn't like how much focus was put on Trevor at the end. The author says in the afterword that he gets his own book, which was obvious, so I don't think there needed to be as much focus on him as there was.
I wasn't crazy over the epilogue, because when am I ever crazy over an epilogue.
I do plan on continuing with the series, as this was a solid enough read even with the issues I took with it.
On the surface, I quite enjoyed this. The writing was done well, the characters were interesting. It wasn't the deepest story I ever read, but I wasn't looking for that... I just wanted something nice and easy.
But, if you go below the surface, I did have an issue with how many minor conflicts there were. When you have a novel of this length and decide to have so many little things going on, it makes it had to properly resolve any of them. I could have done without the Ashleigh drama and just dealt with the homophobia in Dylan's life (his own internal & external, his friends, his family), and Riley's ex and definitely more focus on the biphobia that is literally just mentioned once and dropped.
I didn't like how much focus was put on Trevor at the end. The author says in the afterword that he gets his own book, which was obvious, so I don't think there needed to be as much focus on him as there was.
I wasn't crazy over the epilogue, because when am I ever crazy over an epilogue.
I do plan on continuing with the series, as this was a solid enough read even with the issues I took with it.
June 30, 2021
Love for a bro!
First of all I have to say that the young man on the cover is absolutely gorgeous! Okay, now about the book. Riley is a super kind hearted young man that just so happens to like wearing makeup and having pretty nails. Dylan is a typical bro that has matured slightly from college frat days. Both are dealing with breakups and are trying to stay out of each others way. But when Riley comes face to face with his high school bully, Dylan steps in to be a friend. Well things move quickly on from there but Dylan can't come to terms with himself now being bisexual after believing he was straight his entire life. It takes a big shakeup to their lives for Dylan to see his family and friends will support him if he will just let go and be happy. These two were very sweet with each other and I enjoyed their story. I believe everyone should have a friend like Leo/MS. Ana in their life too! I wouldn't mind reading a story about Leo and Frank because they sound like a riot. Now I just have to wait to get my fix of the Trevor story. This one should be a wild one with all the issues he has.
First of all I have to say that the young man on the cover is absolutely gorgeous! Okay, now about the book. Riley is a super kind hearted young man that just so happens to like wearing makeup and having pretty nails. Dylan is a typical bro that has matured slightly from college frat days. Both are dealing with breakups and are trying to stay out of each others way. But when Riley comes face to face with his high school bully, Dylan steps in to be a friend. Well things move quickly on from there but Dylan can't come to terms with himself now being bisexual after believing he was straight his entire life. It takes a big shakeup to their lives for Dylan to see his family and friends will support him if he will just let go and be happy. These two were very sweet with each other and I enjoyed their story. I believe everyone should have a friend like Leo/MS. Ana in their life too! I wouldn't mind reading a story about Leo and Frank because they sound like a riot. Now I just have to wait to get my fix of the Trevor story. This one should be a wild one with all the issues he has.
February 17, 2023
I'm torn with this one. I liked so much about this book - I thought the chemistry between the MCs was great, I loved watching their strangers to roommies to lovers to navigating relationship happened, and it felt realistic in the sense of I could totally see this happen in real life to people I knew in college, lol.
I liked getting to the point where one MC worked through his own internalized homophobia and biphobia and came out. I loved that there weren't any ultimatums of forcing him to come out or label himself. The big grovel scene was excellent, I thought it was a fun way of including additional people who also needed to grovel as well.
However, I was exhausted with the ex-drama. We had a toxic ex-girlfriend and abusive + toxic ex-boyfriend action happening. We also had a lot of slurs, homophobia, and transphobia included. I know that it's included to a character arc and growth, but dang it was a lot for me heart to take. Even knowing so going in. This is more of a me problem than the books problem.
I do hope that this author writes a book for the friend, since he got a lot of page time near the end. I think he could have a good character redemption arc happen!
I liked getting to the point where one MC worked through his own internalized homophobia and biphobia and came out. I loved that there weren't any ultimatums of forcing him to come out or label himself. The big grovel scene was excellent, I thought it was a fun way of including additional people who also needed to grovel as well.
However, I was exhausted with the ex-drama. We had a toxic ex-girlfriend and abusive + toxic ex-boyfriend action happening. We also had a lot of slurs, homophobia, and transphobia included. I know that it's included to a character arc and growth, but dang it was a lot for me heart to take. Even knowing so going in. This is more of a me problem than the books problem.
I do hope that this author writes a book for the friend, since he got a lot of page time near the end. I think he could have a good character redemption arc happen!
October 20, 2022
Wild to DNF something at 96% but I just can’t muster the effort to swipe through even a few more Kindle pages. This was passable - some good stuff, some not great stuff - but then the characters were rushed into their HEA at like 85% just so a transphobic, homophobic character could be set up for his sequel? Where we presumably learn that his bigotry was just because he hadn’t processed his own feelings etc etc even guys like him deserve a second chance? 🤮 I’m going to pass on that, thanks.
June 7, 2021
This novel (and perhaps this entire series) seems to follow that most common of M/M romance tropes, “gay for you.” This is always a fun fantasy to explore and it’s set up perfectly here… Sweet but straight man-child Dylan has been dumped by his girlfriend and Sis locates him a roommate named Riley who he agrees to sight unseen. Of course Dylan assumes that Riley is a girl’s name but when he meets his new gay room-mate he has to re-examine many of his preconceptions.
Both characters have some problems in their past but both are basically likable, good hearted guys that we’re soon pulling for. Some things do go wrong and the book does use (but never completely surrenders) to any of the standard drama building devices. Altogether it’s a fun little bit of fantasy fulfillment that’s enjoyable from start to finish.
There is sex here and it’s NOT of the fade to black variety. It includes a few firsts for the boys, and a few somewhat graphic bits (particularly in the darkened corner of a gay bar) but what would you expect when the main gay character’s best bud is a Drag Queen named Ana Lingus? Oddly though, despite all of those elements being there, this is more of a love story than erotic fiction.
This would be a perfect beach read.
*** Note: I received a free copy of this in hopes of an unbiased review ***
Both characters have some problems in their past but both are basically likable, good hearted guys that we’re soon pulling for. Some things do go wrong and the book does use (but never completely surrenders) to any of the standard drama building devices. Altogether it’s a fun little bit of fantasy fulfillment that’s enjoyable from start to finish.
There is sex here and it’s NOT of the fade to black variety. It includes a few firsts for the boys, and a few somewhat graphic bits (particularly in the darkened corner of a gay bar) but what would you expect when the main gay character’s best bud is a Drag Queen named Ana Lingus? Oddly though, despite all of those elements being there, this is more of a love story than erotic fiction.
This would be a perfect beach read.
*** Note: I received a free copy of this in hopes of an unbiased review ***
June 8, 2021
3.5*
A sweet easy reading romance.
A sweet easy reading romance.
October 10, 2022
4.5 stars
This is a new author to me and I'm so glad I have discovered Norah Belle. This book is a little gem. A soon as I started reading I knew I would be inhaling every page. I don't usually enjoy duel POV but the MC are so very different, I knew exactly who's view I was reading from. There is plenty of drama going on, which I love and just enough sex scenes to keep the chemistry between the MC interesting. I'll definitely be reading the next book, which I hope is Trevor.
This is a new author to me and I'm so glad I have discovered Norah Belle. This book is a little gem. A soon as I started reading I knew I would be inhaling every page. I don't usually enjoy duel POV but the MC are so very different, I knew exactly who's view I was reading from. There is plenty of drama going on, which I love and just enough sex scenes to keep the chemistry between the MC interesting. I'll definitely be reading the next book, which I hope is Trevor.
June 7, 2021
Both Dylan and Riley just came from a broken relationship and due to needs from both of their sides - Dylan needing someone to share the rent of his place and Riley finding somewhere he can stay in temporarily, they have become roommates thanks to Dylan's sister. Living together and in close proximity, Dylan and Riley learns and discover more about the other and themselves.
The first in the series, Beauty and the Bro is a very light and enjoyable read. The book plays on the GFY trope to its advantage in telling an endearing and warm story. It has such a wonderful set of characters and the main leads Dylan and Riley are quite likeable.
Through their journey of self-discovery we see that Dylan is more than just the typical jock that likes video games, pizza, insensitive to others, sloppy kind of dude. We see a softer and caring side to him. He can be a bit obtuse at times but he has a good heart and is willing to learn and change parts of himself for the better because of his love for Riley. We see Dylan's fear and confusion about his sexuality, the reluctance to speak out at times and to openly embrace the fact that he might be bisexual. It was hard and he needed a push and help from other people but he was able to get there.
Riley is the total opposite of of the jock that is Dylan. He is geeky and very much gay and out. He loves make-up and is effeminate. Having just escaped from an emotionally abusive and controlling boyfriend, his idea of self-worth is at a low point when the story starts. Soon enough as the tale progresses, we see the charming, talented and utterly sweet side of Riley as well as the gentle but fierce soul living inside him.
Both had to face challenges together and individually. Their growth as characters is well executed and the happily ever after is IMO earned. The witty banter and dialogue between Dylan and Riley is quite enjoyable. There are some really steamy and sexy scenes in the book but overall I think those are just icing on the cake so to speak.
The plot is a bit predictable and some of the last section felt rushed and a bit glossed over but those things didn't prevent this from being a good read overall.
Beauty and the Bro is a fun, romantic and sexy read. It is filled with stereotypes and clichés that can be cringe-worthy but works for the story overall. If you are planning to read this please be advised that the book contains homophobic slur and abusive, controlling behaviors being depicted.
Overall, I recommend this book and give it 4.5 out of 5 stars.
I received an arc copy of this book via GRR and I have chosen to publish my fair and honest review.
The first in the series, Beauty and the Bro is a very light and enjoyable read. The book plays on the GFY trope to its advantage in telling an endearing and warm story. It has such a wonderful set of characters and the main leads Dylan and Riley are quite likeable.
Through their journey of self-discovery we see that Dylan is more than just the typical jock that likes video games, pizza, insensitive to others, sloppy kind of dude. We see a softer and caring side to him. He can be a bit obtuse at times but he has a good heart and is willing to learn and change parts of himself for the better because of his love for Riley. We see Dylan's fear and confusion about his sexuality, the reluctance to speak out at times and to openly embrace the fact that he might be bisexual. It was hard and he needed a push and help from other people but he was able to get there.
Riley is the total opposite of of the jock that is Dylan. He is geeky and very much gay and out. He loves make-up and is effeminate. Having just escaped from an emotionally abusive and controlling boyfriend, his idea of self-worth is at a low point when the story starts. Soon enough as the tale progresses, we see the charming, talented and utterly sweet side of Riley as well as the gentle but fierce soul living inside him.
Both had to face challenges together and individually. Their growth as characters is well executed and the happily ever after is IMO earned. The witty banter and dialogue between Dylan and Riley is quite enjoyable. There are some really steamy and sexy scenes in the book but overall I think those are just icing on the cake so to speak.
The plot is a bit predictable and some of the last section felt rushed and a bit glossed over but those things didn't prevent this from being a good read overall.
Beauty and the Bro is a fun, romantic and sexy read. It is filled with stereotypes and clichés that can be cringe-worthy but works for the story overall. If you are planning to read this please be advised that the book contains homophobic slur and abusive, controlling behaviors being depicted.
Overall, I recommend this book and give it 4.5 out of 5 stars.
I received an arc copy of this book via GRR and I have chosen to publish my fair and honest review.
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