What do you think?
Rate this book
Rebel Hearts #3
My Irresistible Enemy
Baking with the enemy shouldn’t feel so good…
Aiden: In my defense, I didn’t expect to be cast on a reality baking show when I started my cam boy account. I’m just crossing my fingers no one from A Piece of Cake discovers my salacious side hustle—but I never counted on fellow contestant Nolan McAllister…
Quiet, self-possessed, and infuriatingly attractive, Nolan would be perfect—if he weren’t also aloof, stuck-up, and judgmental. The worst part? He accidentally walked in on me filming a very compromising video for my fans, and now he holds my future in his hands.
But when Nolan and I find out we’re both about to get cut from the show, we have to work together to stay. My solution? We pretend to fall for each other. There’s nothing America loves more than a co-star romance.
The only problem is that the more time I spend with Nolan, the more I realize he’s not what he seems. And as things get steamy in the kitchen, it gets harder and harder to keep my hands—and other body parts—off of him.
Fake dating my biggest rival wasn’t supposed to involve real feelings, but I’m starting to realize the real prize might not be fame or money—it might just be Nolan’s heart.
My Irresistible Enemy is Book 3 in the Rebel Hearts series set in steamy southern Georgia. Each book is snarky, swoony, and full of heat. They can be read on their own, but are even more fun together. My Irresistible Enemy is a 100,000 word m/m romance with a cheeky cam boy, a guarded chef, a TV baking show, and fake dating and enemies to lovers themes. HEA guaranteed.
Aiden: In my defense, I didn’t expect to be cast on a reality baking show when I started my cam boy account. I’m just crossing my fingers no one from A Piece of Cake discovers my salacious side hustle—but I never counted on fellow contestant Nolan McAllister…
Quiet, self-possessed, and infuriatingly attractive, Nolan would be perfect—if he weren’t also aloof, stuck-up, and judgmental. The worst part? He accidentally walked in on me filming a very compromising video for my fans, and now he holds my future in his hands.
But when Nolan and I find out we’re both about to get cut from the show, we have to work together to stay. My solution? We pretend to fall for each other. There’s nothing America loves more than a co-star romance.
The only problem is that the more time I spend with Nolan, the more I realize he’s not what he seems. And as things get steamy in the kitchen, it gets harder and harder to keep my hands—and other body parts—off of him.
Fake dating my biggest rival wasn’t supposed to involve real feelings, but I’m starting to realize the real prize might not be fame or money—it might just be Nolan’s heart.
My Irresistible Enemy is Book 3 in the Rebel Hearts series set in steamy southern Georgia. Each book is snarky, swoony, and full of heat. They can be read on their own, but are even more fun together. My Irresistible Enemy is a 100,000 word m/m romance with a cheeky cam boy, a guarded chef, a TV baking show, and fake dating and enemies to lovers themes. HEA guaranteed.
333 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 18, 2021
99 people are currently reading
153 people want to read
About the author
Spencer Spears
44 books442 followersSpencer Spears writes LGBTQ+ stories that are snarky, sweet, and will break your heart in all the best ways. Spencer believes we all deserve to write our own happy endings. When not at the computer, Spencer can be found gardening, knitting, or curled up with a good book. Visit www.spencerspears.com for free books, updates, and more.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews
August 23, 2021
What a fantastic book!
I love it, I love it. What characters... Aiden... Aiden is my favorite from the start
Unfiltered but his generosity was perceived in the previous book
A baking contest with 2 arch enemies who end up with a fake relationship for none of them to be removed from the contest
And the rest is history and to read from beginning to end
Unfortunately I can't give more than 5 stars...
I voluntarily reviewed an arc of this book.
I love it, I love it. What characters... Aiden... Aiden is my favorite from the start
Unfiltered but his generosity was perceived in the previous book
A baking contest with 2 arch enemies who end up with a fake relationship for none of them to be removed from the contest
And the rest is history and to read from beginning to end
Unfortunately I can't give more than 5 stars...
I voluntarily reviewed an arc of this book.
did-not-finish
August 29, 2024DNF @ 11%. No rating.
I knew within a few pages that this wasn't the enemies-to-lovers rival pastry chefs compete on cooking show romance that I was looking for.
1. The book is over 300 pages and obviously it's that length because the plot moves at a glacial pace with tons and tons of pointless filler padding it out. The first chapter consisted of a detailed description of Aiden having a bad travel experience coming to Georgia and chit-chatting with his 'onlyfans' subscribers along the way. Every tiny detail is described and I didn't care about any of it. The second chapter consisted of a very long conversation between Nolan and his sick mom, which included info-dumping about the family's history and other pointless information. The story should have started with Nolan interrupting Aiden's masturbation session and everything else should have been woven into the story later.
+ Both Nolan and Aiden have an interaction with an old homophobic man who acts so absurdly OTT that it wasn't realistic. So the guy chooses to sits right next to Aiden on a bench (which strangers normally don't do), then he proceeds to lean close enough to Aiden to be able to read every word that Aiden is texting on his phone (which again isn't a thing strangers do) and even once he notices that Aiden is writing extremely graphic gay smut content (a daddy kink scene where he role plays as the stepson and talks about what he wants his 'stepfather' to do to him), the guy doesn't get up and walk away and he doesn't even stop reading. He just keeps mumbling homophobic stuff but he stays on the bench, squished up against Aiden and keeps reading his texts. People don't act like this in real life and I couldn't take it seriously. The author never states that the dude is sitting right up against Aiden but please - how else can the dude read every single word that Aiden is typing in his massive essay, in the daylight, on his phone? Everything about this interaction told me this author's work isn't for me.
+ The summary explains that Nolan walked in on Aiden 'filming a very compromising video' for his fans but what the summary doesn't mention is that Aiden is filming this scene in a dirty public bathroom. He's standing on the filthy floor in his socks with his foot on the nasty sink and he's fucking himself with fingers that haven't been cleaned presumably all day and he's filming all this for his fans. The fact that the guy thought this was a good place to film a video like this is mind blowing to me for many reasons. 1) It's nasty; 2) It's keeping the only bathroom in the ferry terminal unavailable for much longer than necessary; and 3) I know the bathroom was already filthy but I'm pretty sure Aiden was going to ejaculate all over the place and not bother cleaning it up because that's what kind of a person this dude is. Everything about this scene told me this book won't be for me.
+ Asides from having an immediate dislike of Aiden, the other reason my interest in the story fizzled quickly is because I misunderstood the summary. I assumed that both Aiden and Nolan are professional pastry chefs and that would make the competition a battleground between them. The cooking aspect paired with the romance was what I was interested in so when we find out that neither Aiden nor Nolan know anything about baking and they were just hired to checkmark the 'gay dudes' section of the show's diversity checklist following an LGBT scandal, I lost all interest.
+ It wouldn't have prevented me from reading the book, but when you have a topic that's so visually distinct (competitors at a pastry competition), why on earth would you choose a generic cover model, wearing generic clothes with a generic landscape background for your cover art? It reeks of low effort and makes me even more hesitant to ever look at this author's work again.
I knew within a few pages that this wasn't the enemies-to-lovers rival pastry chefs compete on cooking show romance that I was looking for.
1. The book is over 300 pages and obviously it's that length because the plot moves at a glacial pace with tons and tons of pointless filler padding it out. The first chapter consisted of a detailed description of Aiden having a bad travel experience coming to Georgia and chit-chatting with his 'onlyfans' subscribers along the way. Every tiny detail is described and I didn't care about any of it. The second chapter consisted of a very long conversation between Nolan and his sick mom, which included info-dumping about the family's history and other pointless information. The story should have started with Nolan interrupting Aiden's masturbation session and everything else should have been woven into the story later.
+ Both Nolan and Aiden have an interaction with an old homophobic man who acts so absurdly OTT that it wasn't realistic. So the guy chooses to sits right next to Aiden on a bench (which strangers normally don't do), then he proceeds to lean close enough to Aiden to be able to read every word that Aiden is texting on his phone (which again isn't a thing strangers do) and even once he notices that Aiden is writing extremely graphic gay smut content (a daddy kink scene where he role plays as the stepson and talks about what he wants his 'stepfather' to do to him), the guy doesn't get up and walk away and he doesn't even stop reading. He just keeps mumbling homophobic stuff but he stays on the bench, squished up against Aiden and keeps reading his texts. People don't act like this in real life and I couldn't take it seriously. The author never states that the dude is sitting right up against Aiden but please - how else can the dude read every single word that Aiden is typing in his massive essay, in the daylight, on his phone? Everything about this interaction told me this author's work isn't for me.
+ The summary explains that Nolan walked in on Aiden 'filming a very compromising video' for his fans but what the summary doesn't mention is that Aiden is filming this scene in a dirty public bathroom. He's standing on the filthy floor in his socks with his foot on the nasty sink and he's fucking himself with fingers that haven't been cleaned presumably all day and he's filming all this for his fans. The fact that the guy thought this was a good place to film a video like this is mind blowing to me for many reasons. 1) It's nasty; 2) It's keeping the only bathroom in the ferry terminal unavailable for much longer than necessary; and 3) I know the bathroom was already filthy but I'm pretty sure Aiden was going to ejaculate all over the place and not bother cleaning it up because that's what kind of a person this dude is. Everything about this scene told me this book won't be for me.
+ Asides from having an immediate dislike of Aiden, the other reason my interest in the story fizzled quickly is because I misunderstood the summary. I assumed that both Aiden and Nolan are professional pastry chefs and that would make the competition a battleground between them. The cooking aspect paired with the romance was what I was interested in so when we find out that neither Aiden nor Nolan know anything about baking and they were just hired to checkmark the 'gay dudes' section of the show's diversity checklist following an LGBT scandal, I lost all interest.
+ It wouldn't have prevented me from reading the book, but when you have a topic that's so visually distinct (competitors at a pastry competition), why on earth would you choose a generic cover model, wearing generic clothes with a generic landscape background for your cover art? It reeks of low effort and makes me even more hesitant to ever look at this author's work again.
October 20, 2021
I liked My Irresistible Enemy by Spencer Spears. It's the third book in the Rebel Hearts series. I liked Aiden and Nolan. They definitely got off on the wrong foot when they first met. Still, the characteristics that they found annoying in each other became the loveable quirks as they really got to know each other while filming the baking show and pretending to be a couple to stay on the show. Overall, I enjoyed the story. I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book.
March 24, 2025
This was amazing. You really get to know and love these guys. Only one thing I want to know and that is what happens to the bad guy. Plus. Wonder who that older jerk was at the beginning.
August 22, 2021
Everytime I read I Spencer Spears book I am so happy to have found this author. Within a few pages I can always dive right into the story, I really looove the writing style.
Aiden and Nolan - so different and so very loveable - their story made my heart beat faster, made me smile and tear up and just root for these two broken guys to find a way to help each other heal.
But he was kissing me again before I could finish, and I could barely breathe, let alone speak. He had no right to make me this dizzy, no right to make me feel like I was falling and flying at the same time, with nothing but his lips and tongue. Well, his hands, too, which were kneading the top of my ass. It wasn’t fair. He was such a dick, but around him, my body just started to melt.
Enemies, frenemies, fake friends, lovers, soul mates - exactly my type of book to get lost in ❤️
ARC in exchange for an honest review
Aiden and Nolan - so different and so very loveable - their story made my heart beat faster, made me smile and tear up and just root for these two broken guys to find a way to help each other heal.
But he was kissing me again before I could finish, and I could barely breathe, let alone speak. He had no right to make me this dizzy, no right to make me feel like I was falling and flying at the same time, with nothing but his lips and tongue. Well, his hands, too, which were kneading the top of my ass. It wasn’t fair. He was such a dick, but around him, my body just started to melt.
Enemies, frenemies, fake friends, lovers, soul mates - exactly my type of book to get lost in ❤️
ARC in exchange for an honest review
September 28, 2021
Solid 3 stars.
This was a fun read. I found Aidan to be really annoying, I'm personally not a fan of 'snark' and he came across as too flighty, immature, and self absorbed to be likeable for me. He did have growth, but overall his lack of responsibility really irked me, I didn't really believe that Nolan would fall for someone as irresponsible and immature as him.
This was a fun read. I found Aidan to be really annoying, I'm personally not a fan of 'snark' and he came across as too flighty, immature, and self absorbed to be likeable for me. He did have growth, but overall his lack of responsibility really irked me, I didn't really believe that Nolan would fall for someone as irresponsible and immature as him.
Read
June 15, 2022DNF @ 11% because Aiden is a C R I N G E character who just made an absolute ass of himself (no pun intended) and I don't see myself rooting for his happiness.
Bummer. Since this has some diagnosed anxiety rep that would've been interesting to explore.
Bummer. Since this has some diagnosed anxiety rep that would've been interesting to explore.
August 29, 2021
Sorry, but the biphobia at the beginning was a deal breaker for me.
Read
November 11, 2021DNF, not for me
July 7, 2024
'My Irresistible Enemy' ('Rebel Hearts', Book Three), by Spencer Spears
First of all, I want to mention that I really like Spencer Spears' writing style and creativity, as there's always more than one plot-line twisted together, keeping things interesting! (I've read a lot of their books)
Character confusion? I had mixed feelings about this particular storyline because both of the main characters personalities, especially Nolan, came across differently from how they were portrayed in the other books prior to this one.
I liked the previous books in this series more, although this one held my interest, too, as I really wanted to find out what happened next!
And what's up with that whole Tanner situation? I had difficulty understanding how much control Tanner wielded over the baking competition.
(Note: Tanner is also a key player in the 1st and 2nd books in this series, so you might want to read those first)
Why didn't anyone report his perverse creepiness and stalking? Surely there have been enough boys & young men that he's 'bothered' over the years for SOMEONE to complain about his behavior? Maybe...they did? And no one really listened to them, or did anything about it? Maybe they were too scared to report him and didn't?
It was also hard to believe that any of these other people involved in this type of show's productions were letting Tanner run rough-shod over everyone else...but sometimes, "Money Talks", often buying certain people immunity, a way out of a look-the-other-way and don't-talk type situation, unfortunately!
(not to down-play anyone else's experiences because it can be a difficult and often dangerous situation to speak up ... yeah, it happens to guys, too, and it's usually not the perps who get fired, it's the whistle-blowers!)
Given the state of IRL similar types of harassments just coming to light publicly, several years after they've occurred, I guess that premise isn't so hard to believe, after all, sadly.
(I guess I just answered my own question, as to why not reported)
The way both main characters slowly start to get to know each other, and start to look out for each other (in between the angry outbursts & kinky sexual encounters) was kinda sweet, although I did NOT like some of the ways in which Aiden treated Nolan, at least some of the time!
《SPOILER》
Lots of action happening, including the ongoing stalking (online and in person) and harassment of one of the MCs, Aiden, and an attempted "roofie-ing" (drugging a drink) of him at a huge outdoor beach party.
Anyway, where was I? Oh yeah... this storyline was well written, with some funny, sassy snarky dialogue (that I might have snort-laughed at a few times), lots of action, with a long build-up to an explosive conclusion!
(oh, and...um, yeah... make sure you guys triple-clean those kitchen counters & cooking utensils, when you're done ...um... 'baking', lol!)
Anyway, I'd definitely read this book again, even with the odd personality changes of both MC's from previous books!
Liked this series! It was cool seeing cameos by the Murphy Brothers, and Nolan's friend Mal, and other tie-ins to the whole 'Murphy Brothers' series.
(read those books, too, they're really good! And no, they didn't pay me to say that, lol)
So yeah, I'd recommend this whole series!
( I keep the Murphy Brothers, and the Rebel Hearts series on my "keep to re-read" shelf)
First of all, I want to mention that I really like Spencer Spears' writing style and creativity, as there's always more than one plot-line twisted together, keeping things interesting! (I've read a lot of their books)
Character confusion? I had mixed feelings about this particular storyline because both of the main characters personalities, especially Nolan, came across differently from how they were portrayed in the other books prior to this one.
I liked the previous books in this series more, although this one held my interest, too, as I really wanted to find out what happened next!
And what's up with that whole Tanner situation? I had difficulty understanding how much control Tanner wielded over the baking competition.
(Note: Tanner is also a key player in the 1st and 2nd books in this series, so you might want to read those first)
Why didn't anyone report his perverse creepiness and stalking? Surely there have been enough boys & young men that he's 'bothered' over the years for SOMEONE to complain about his behavior? Maybe...they did? And no one really listened to them, or did anything about it? Maybe they were too scared to report him and didn't?
It was also hard to believe that any of these other people involved in this type of show's productions were letting Tanner run rough-shod over everyone else...but sometimes, "Money Talks", often buying certain people immunity, a way out of a look-the-other-way and don't-talk type situation, unfortunately!
(not to down-play anyone else's experiences because it can be a difficult and often dangerous situation to speak up ... yeah, it happens to guys, too, and it's usually not the perps who get fired, it's the whistle-blowers!)
Given the state of IRL similar types of harassments just coming to light publicly, several years after they've occurred, I guess that premise isn't so hard to believe, after all, sadly.
(I guess I just answered my own question, as to why not reported)
The way both main characters slowly start to get to know each other, and start to look out for each other (in between the angry outbursts & kinky sexual encounters) was kinda sweet, although I did NOT like some of the ways in which Aiden treated Nolan, at least some of the time!
《SPOILER》
Lots of action happening, including the ongoing stalking (online and in person) and harassment of one of the MCs, Aiden, and an attempted "roofie-ing" (drugging a drink) of him at a huge outdoor beach party.
Anyway, where was I? Oh yeah... this storyline was well written, with some funny, sassy snarky dialogue (that I might have snort-laughed at a few times), lots of action, with a long build-up to an explosive conclusion!
(oh, and...um, yeah... make sure you guys triple-clean those kitchen counters & cooking utensils, when you're done ...um... 'baking', lol!)
Anyway, I'd definitely read this book again, even with the odd personality changes of both MC's from previous books!
Liked this series! It was cool seeing cameos by the Murphy Brothers, and Nolan's friend Mal, and other tie-ins to the whole 'Murphy Brothers' series.
(read those books, too, they're really good! And no, they didn't pay me to say that, lol)
So yeah, I'd recommend this whole series!
( I keep the Murphy Brothers, and the Rebel Hearts series on my "keep to re-read" shelf)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 22, 2021
*4.5*
My Irresistible Enemy is full of snark, bad baking and emotional turmoil.
Nolan has joined A Piece of Cake to win and use the money to pay his medical bills. Aiden has joined to raise his profile in the media as he's had very little luck as an actor in L.A. and is currently making money through a CamFans site, sharing pictures and videos of himself with subscribers. Two very different reasons for being on the show that is shooting in Summersea, two very different men but both have very tough exteriors hiding a lot of pain from their last and current lives.
Not the best first impressions, let's be honest and things don't get worse but they stay just as tense between the MC's for pretty much the whole book. Always bickering, trying to one up each other with the come back and Aiden is more than happy taking innuendo to a whole other level, even on a family friendly baking show. Then working together to last longer doesn't really bring them closer either. It's not until a couple of events make each man more numbers that they show their soft side and it's so sweet seeing them finally give in to that bit of comfort that they need. There is undeniable chemistry between them though Nolan, especially, isn't willing to admit that or what he would actually want from Aiden. He's got some tough topics from his last so be sure to read the trigger warnings at the beginning of the book with something also happening on page to him, as well as a separate incident for Aiden. Both are stubborn and clash but it brings entertainment to the show and the story. My heart broke for both as they slowly reveal their back stories but I think more so with Nolan with how much guilt he's taken on for events when he was a child.
A lot of tension between the two but it slowly evolves to friendship as they have to spend time together. Feelings sneak up on them both, completely unexpectedly. At least they knew what to do about their attraction....mostly.
An entertaining read and I'm so happy that these two can favourite characters have got their own HEA. It's great being back in Summersea and interacting with previous characters. Highly recommended for those who are a fan of the series and if you enjoy a tensions filled enemies to lovers, fake relationship with hurt/comfort and strong emotions.
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review.
My Irresistible Enemy is full of snark, bad baking and emotional turmoil.
Nolan has joined A Piece of Cake to win and use the money to pay his medical bills. Aiden has joined to raise his profile in the media as he's had very little luck as an actor in L.A. and is currently making money through a CamFans site, sharing pictures and videos of himself with subscribers. Two very different reasons for being on the show that is shooting in Summersea, two very different men but both have very tough exteriors hiding a lot of pain from their last and current lives.
Not the best first impressions, let's be honest and things don't get worse but they stay just as tense between the MC's for pretty much the whole book. Always bickering, trying to one up each other with the come back and Aiden is more than happy taking innuendo to a whole other level, even on a family friendly baking show. Then working together to last longer doesn't really bring them closer either. It's not until a couple of events make each man more numbers that they show their soft side and it's so sweet seeing them finally give in to that bit of comfort that they need. There is undeniable chemistry between them though Nolan, especially, isn't willing to admit that or what he would actually want from Aiden. He's got some tough topics from his last so be sure to read the trigger warnings at the beginning of the book with something also happening on page to him, as well as a separate incident for Aiden. Both are stubborn and clash but it brings entertainment to the show and the story. My heart broke for both as they slowly reveal their back stories but I think more so with Nolan with how much guilt he's taken on for events when he was a child.
A lot of tension between the two but it slowly evolves to friendship as they have to spend time together. Feelings sneak up on them both, completely unexpectedly. At least they knew what to do about their attraction....mostly.
An entertaining read and I'm so happy that these two can favourite characters have got their own HEA. It's great being back in Summersea and interacting with previous characters. Highly recommended for those who are a fan of the series and if you enjoy a tensions filled enemies to lovers, fake relationship with hurt/comfort and strong emotions.
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review.
August 25, 2021
This series fascinated me. The fact that the first two stories were written previously and then revised and updated to be set in Georgia and on Summersea Island and then bringing in two characters I really like to finish it all off...that's just fantastic. My Irresistible Enemy rounds out the Rebel Heart series with Nolan and Aiden. We revisit Summersea and the Murphy Brothers -- and really who could ever get enough of them? We're randomly participating in a baking reality show so what is not to love about that and it felt like what I would imagine the production of a reality show like that would be like. The exciting climax wasn't necessarily a surprise the way it had been set up, but I was still engrossed and couldn't put the book down. The characters felt realistic and their responses felt authentic. I did think maybe we didn't really see enough of Gabe considering that he is Aiden's brother and in book two they seemed much closer so it was a little odd that he wasn't more prominently featured during their time on Summersea but overall the story, characters, and relationships bring all the feels. I loved how Aiden was just quietly dyslexic though we never actually truly spelled that out and how that impacted both their relationship and really his whole life. What I thought was really well done however was how Nolan and Aiden's relationship unfolded by playing at a pretend relationship. Honestly, with how much trauma both main characters have had, I think that's likely the only way those two would truly have stuck together long enough to develop a relationship or friendship so I really found myself rooting for them. I also found myself wishing for a worse fate for Tanner (if you read it, you'll know what I'm talking about) and I couldn't help but making up my own endings for him. Overall I give this 4.5 stars, but am rounding up because you can't give half a star. I was really looking forward to this one so I'm excited that I received an arc for an honest review.
August 26, 2021
4.5 Stars
Irresistible Enemy is the third book in the Rebel Hearts series. This Spencer Spears book can easily be read as a standalone, although reading the previous books will add to the fun.
Damn! Once again, Spencer left me in awe of one of his books. This one started off slow-ish to me, and took me a while to fully appreciate the characters. But, damn, Aiden and Nolan are amazingly complex and their story is so wonderfully multi-layered.
Basically, there is way more to each man than appears to the eye. Or to the public eye, as they're on a baking competition reality show.
Aidan's lack of self esteem is heartbreaking. I just wanted to hug the man and tell him that yes, he is indeed worthy.
And then there's Nolan. He's super serious and cautious, but he certainly has good reasons. He's trying to win money to help his sick mother, but doesn't want anyone to know about her issues. And after learning about his past, I am impressed by what a forgiving, wonderful son he is.
As for the thing that leaves him cautious, well damn, that just made me so mad. Poor man.
One of my favorite aspects is when Nolan learns to trust and let loose with Aidan. It isn't easy for him, but god, I love when he truly gets there.
There's a lot going on in the story, with plenty of twists and turns. Nothing was a surprise to me, as I was assuming the correct things early on, but that didn't distract me from enjoying it.
This is a story with a baker who doesn't know how to bake, a fake relationship that slowly turns real, a cam boy and his stalker, and more.
Their storyline is riveting, with a fabulous ending. I love this story. By the end, I was left in love with these men and all they went through.
Irresistible Enemy is another remarkable romance by Spencer Spears. This is one of those books you will stay up late into the night reading. I love Summersea and all the wonderful people in this town.
Irresistible Enemy is the third book in the Rebel Hearts series. This Spencer Spears book can easily be read as a standalone, although reading the previous books will add to the fun.
Damn! Once again, Spencer left me in awe of one of his books. This one started off slow-ish to me, and took me a while to fully appreciate the characters. But, damn, Aiden and Nolan are amazingly complex and their story is so wonderfully multi-layered.
Basically, there is way more to each man than appears to the eye. Or to the public eye, as they're on a baking competition reality show.
Aidan's lack of self esteem is heartbreaking. I just wanted to hug the man and tell him that yes, he is indeed worthy.
And then there's Nolan. He's super serious and cautious, but he certainly has good reasons. He's trying to win money to help his sick mother, but doesn't want anyone to know about her issues. And after learning about his past, I am impressed by what a forgiving, wonderful son he is.
As for the thing that leaves him cautious, well damn, that just made me so mad. Poor man.
One of my favorite aspects is when Nolan learns to trust and let loose with Aidan. It isn't easy for him, but god, I love when he truly gets there.
There's a lot going on in the story, with plenty of twists and turns. Nothing was a surprise to me, as I was assuming the correct things early on, but that didn't distract me from enjoying it.
This is a story with a baker who doesn't know how to bake, a fake relationship that slowly turns real, a cam boy and his stalker, and more.
Their storyline is riveting, with a fabulous ending. I love this story. By the end, I was left in love with these men and all they went through.
Irresistible Enemy is another remarkable romance by Spencer Spears. This is one of those books you will stay up late into the night reading. I love Summersea and all the wonderful people in this town.
August 21, 2021
🍰Baking with flair & frustration!😋
4-4.5🌟 stars
This was a good, steamy story with some suspense, danger, good dialogue and interesting lead characters. It definitely kept my interest high beginning to end.
While I wasn't convinced about the reality of the workings of the baking challenge show where OTT Aiden and tightly controlled Nolan meet (but, hey, what do I know about the way a competition show is run?!), I really liked the interplay between the two leads. They constantly get on each other's nerves and the way Spencer Spears developed their character traits and back stories, it's totally believable.
The baking competition is not the main focus, their morphing relationship is, and I really liked that Spears limited the nitty gritty show details to zone in on Aiden and Nolan, mostly off the show set.
It took me awhile to like Aiden and I never succeeded in getting used to his proclivity to make every comment into a suggestive reference. But his lust (😉!) for life leads to some very steamy scenes throughout the novel and he's really a good guy beneath all his snark and bravado.
Nolan's secret trauma was hinted at and eventually revealed when he fears for Aiden's safety. I thought this part of the plot was done particularly well since victims often blame themselves and keep silent.
Overall, a really good opposites attract romance with plenty of emotion and heaps of hotness🔥🔥.
I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest opinion.
4-4.5🌟 stars
This was a good, steamy story with some suspense, danger, good dialogue and interesting lead characters. It definitely kept my interest high beginning to end.
While I wasn't convinced about the reality of the workings of the baking challenge show where OTT Aiden and tightly controlled Nolan meet (but, hey, what do I know about the way a competition show is run?!), I really liked the interplay between the two leads. They constantly get on each other's nerves and the way Spencer Spears developed their character traits and back stories, it's totally believable.
The baking competition is not the main focus, their morphing relationship is, and I really liked that Spears limited the nitty gritty show details to zone in on Aiden and Nolan, mostly off the show set.
It took me awhile to like Aiden and I never succeeded in getting used to his proclivity to make every comment into a suggestive reference. But his lust (😉!) for life leads to some very steamy scenes throughout the novel and he's really a good guy beneath all his snark and bravado.
Nolan's secret trauma was hinted at and eventually revealed when he fears for Aiden's safety. I thought this part of the plot was done particularly well since victims often blame themselves and keep silent.
Overall, a really good opposites attract romance with plenty of emotion and heaps of hotness🔥🔥.
I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest opinion.
January 8, 2025
We are back on Summersea Island, this time with Aiden, Gabe's younger brother. He's here to be in a new baking reality show competition called A Piece of a Cake. He can't bake, but the show is being produced and judged by Jesse's douche of an ex boyfriend, Tanner, who wants more LGBTQ men on the show.
Aiden is also a CamFans creator, which is definitely this world's version of OnlyFans. He shoots solo content and fulfills fantasies for his subscribers...and what better place to shoot a video than on the ferry to the island?
But he forgets to lock the bathroom door, and he is walked in on...by Nolan. Remember Nolan, Mal's best friend? Well he's also on the show, and he actually can bake. He's also trying to win the prize money to pay for his mom's cancer treatments.
But of course, when he walks in on this young, hot guy pleasuring himself in a public restroom, he's shocked. Aiden misinterprets his shock as disgust and accuses him of being a homophobe.
So they're off on the wrong foot immediately, and they're at each other's throats. But they also learn that they each have strengths the other one doesn't possess: Nolan has the baking skills and Aiden has the charisma to get fan votes. Aiden suggests they join forces, but Nolan doesn't know how that will be possible since they're constantly fighting. But the animosity comes with a healthy helping of attraction, and that's even harder to ignore.
This one was fun. Aiden was such a goofy idiot but he also had a heart of gold. And Nolan has been around for so long it was great to see him get his HEA.
Rating 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Aiden is also a CamFans creator, which is definitely this world's version of OnlyFans. He shoots solo content and fulfills fantasies for his subscribers...and what better place to shoot a video than on the ferry to the island?
But he forgets to lock the bathroom door, and he is walked in on...by Nolan. Remember Nolan, Mal's best friend? Well he's also on the show, and he actually can bake. He's also trying to win the prize money to pay for his mom's cancer treatments.
But of course, when he walks in on this young, hot guy pleasuring himself in a public restroom, he's shocked. Aiden misinterprets his shock as disgust and accuses him of being a homophobe.
So they're off on the wrong foot immediately, and they're at each other's throats. But they also learn that they each have strengths the other one doesn't possess: Nolan has the baking skills and Aiden has the charisma to get fan votes. Aiden suggests they join forces, but Nolan doesn't know how that will be possible since they're constantly fighting. But the animosity comes with a healthy helping of attraction, and that's even harder to ignore.
This one was fun. Aiden was such a goofy idiot but he also had a heart of gold. And Nolan has been around for so long it was great to see him get his HEA.
Rating 🔥🔥🔥🔥
August 21, 2021
I couldn't wait for Aiden's story and Spencer has not disappointed.
There is so much to Aiden beyond his flakey self. He hides so much of how feels behind sarcasm. He drove me nuts a few times but I adore his character so much. The poor guy just wants to catch a break and hopefully somewhere along the way make people proud of him even though they really shouldn't matter. Instead of catching his break he catches someone equally as special.
I absolutely adored sweet Nolan and wow can he not stand Aiden and who can blame him. But when he learns he probably isn't going to make it far during the competition Aiden thinks faking a relationship will help them both out. Without any other options Nolan decides to go for it. There's a fine line between love and hate and when these two cross the lines of fake or not they burn together. I loved them together. Although I did feel their could've been a tad bit more relationship development between them it was still a great read.
There is so much to Aiden beyond his flakey self. He hides so much of how feels behind sarcasm. He drove me nuts a few times but I adore his character so much. The poor guy just wants to catch a break and hopefully somewhere along the way make people proud of him even though they really shouldn't matter. Instead of catching his break he catches someone equally as special.
I absolutely adored sweet Nolan and wow can he not stand Aiden and who can blame him. But when he learns he probably isn't going to make it far during the competition Aiden thinks faking a relationship will help them both out. Without any other options Nolan decides to go for it. There's a fine line between love and hate and when these two cross the lines of fake or not they burn together. I loved them together. Although I did feel their could've been a tad bit more relationship development between them it was still a great read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 21, 2021
Omg. I started this book and was halfway through it before I even realized. I was just drawn into the story of Aiden and Nolan, and read the entire book in one sitting. They were two very different characters, but they easily slipped together. I liked their bickering and their differences, and it totally worked for them. I loved the baking show that they were both part of. I was thrilled that it was taking place on Summersea and that we'd get to have a few scenes with favorite past characters. Also, those characters were never overflowing the new story, so this book would be easily read as a stand-alone.
Spencer Spears is a favorite author of mine and I recommend their backlist. And, although this book has ties to the Summersea series of books, I'd even recommend starting with this one. It was just such an easy and fun read. Oh, and did I forget to mention the steam factor? This book is steaming hot, too!
Spencer Spears is a favorite author of mine and I recommend their backlist. And, although this book has ties to the Summersea series of books, I'd even recommend starting with this one. It was just such an easy and fun read. Oh, and did I forget to mention the steam factor? This book is steaming hot, too!
February 25, 2024
2.5 stars.
The only thing that save the book was the humor. The pacing and continuality was way off. Them faking to like each other, even being in a relationship was not believable. Even the grand finale of realizing the feelings were real was off kilter. To many time jumps and not enough plot or character development.
The porn account was a cool plot to help the sexuality and spice level since there wasn't a lot of that for specific and righteousness reasons.
Tanner is a creep. I'll leave it at that.
Trigger warning: a plot of consent and sexual assault that is not graphically detailed but is mildly described and left to your imagination.
Other characters from past book in this series and another series I have not read appear. Because I have not gotten to know these new characters, im gonna suffer through and read their origin stories, because I'm not a quitter and don't half-ass/DNF rarly anything.
The only thing that save the book was the humor. The pacing and continuality was way off. Them faking to like each other, even being in a relationship was not believable. Even the grand finale of realizing the feelings were real was off kilter. To many time jumps and not enough plot or character development.
The porn account was a cool plot to help the sexuality and spice level since there wasn't a lot of that for specific and righteousness reasons.
Tanner is a creep. I'll leave it at that.
Trigger warning: a plot of consent and sexual assault that is not graphically detailed but is mildly described and left to your imagination.
Other characters from past book in this series and another series I have not read appear. Because I have not gotten to know these new characters, im gonna suffer through and read their origin stories, because I'm not a quitter and don't half-ass/DNF rarly anything.
June 30, 2024
4.5 ⭐️
It’s been a long ass time since I’ve stayed up this late reading a book. I can’t pinpoint what it was about this one, but it was so well written, with such great characters and fun banter, I could not stop reading it even when I tried. I loved it, despite it being a bit predictable (I’m looking at you, obvious villain character who shall not be named).
I also absolutely loved the characterization in this one. Aiden was such a hot mess and I loved how genuine he was. There was a lot of traumatic backstory shit going on too, but I kind of enjoyed the drama and angst that brought. Gah I’m bummed this one’s over. I do wish there was more to the GBBO themed competition (yeahhh I’m still on a food competition kick) - most of it happened off page unless it included Aiden and Nolan bickering and/or bantering. I think Under the Knife by Laurin Kelly really spoiled me for on-page cooking competitions.
It’s been a long ass time since I’ve stayed up this late reading a book. I can’t pinpoint what it was about this one, but it was so well written, with such great characters and fun banter, I could not stop reading it even when I tried. I loved it, despite it being a bit predictable (I’m looking at you, obvious villain character who shall not be named).
I also absolutely loved the characterization in this one. Aiden was such a hot mess and I loved how genuine he was. There was a lot of traumatic backstory shit going on too, but I kind of enjoyed the drama and angst that brought. Gah I’m bummed this one’s over. I do wish there was more to the GBBO themed competition (yeahhh I’m still on a food competition kick) - most of it happened off page unless it included Aiden and Nolan bickering and/or bantering. I think Under the Knife by Laurin Kelly really spoiled me for on-page cooking competitions.
August 20, 2021
I’ve been waiting for Nolan or Aiden to get their own stories, so I was excited to read My Irresistible Enemy. Two of my favorite side characters competing against each other on a baking show?!? Of course I read it in one sitting. It has all of the humor, heat, and heart of a Spencer Spears book, but I was a little disappointed with this one. I had a really hard time liking Aiden! I can totally see why Nolan would find him obnoxious and annoying for most of the book. He grew on me as the story progressed, and I eventually liked the two of them together. There are scenes that made me laugh out loud, and I loved that we get to check in on some of our other favorite Spears characters. Overall, it was a lot of fun.
August 22, 2021
This is a lighthearted, steamy story, with engaging characters, great banter, and a satisfying HEA. I enjoyed the baking show setting, and how it forced Aiden and Nolan to come together in more ways than one. Their interactions are filled with snark, lust-driven agitation, and eventually, an honest vulnerability between the two once they admit to feeling all the feelings. The only thing that hindered my enjoyment of this book a little was Aiden’s character himself. There is more to him than meets the eye, I just think it was hard to get past his annoying and often obnoxious attitude. Overall, still a highly engaging romance between two great side characters in the Rebel Hearts series!
August 22, 2021
My Irresistible Enemy by Spencer Spears is Book 3 in the Rebel Hearts series. The story is set on Summer Sea Island where a number of previous stories by Spencer have been set. The scenario is a TV baking competition where the producers have chosen 2 contenders who are gay. Being gay is their only similarity. Nolan is there to win some cash for his ill mother’s medical treatment while Aiden is there to be noticed to further his desire to be a movie star!
The two clash until they don’t! There is material in this book which is racier then I have encountered in the 18 previous books by Spencer that I have read. Another enjoyable read.
The two clash until they don’t! There is material in this book which is racier then I have encountered in the 18 previous books by Spencer that I have read. Another enjoyable read.
December 15, 2021
Fave of the series
This was my favorite of the series. Aiden and Nolan were more complex and deep characters than the prior MCs. I really enjoyed those as well, but these guys just got to me on a deeper level. My favorite part is Aiden. His character was just so fun and entertaining. Snarky, sassy, flirty, and dirty. But also with an extremely vulnerable side. I wanted to wrap him up and keep him safe. I loved Aiden and Nolan together too. Polar opposites, but perfect for each other.
Some of the subject matter in this book may be triggering, but the author handled with care in my opinion.
Well done and I would recommend this book.
This was my favorite of the series. Aiden and Nolan were more complex and deep characters than the prior MCs. I really enjoyed those as well, but these guys just got to me on a deeper level. My favorite part is Aiden. His character was just so fun and entertaining. Snarky, sassy, flirty, and dirty. But also with an extremely vulnerable side. I wanted to wrap him up and keep him safe. I loved Aiden and Nolan together too. Polar opposites, but perfect for each other.
Some of the subject matter in this book may be triggering, but the author handled with care in my opinion.
Well done and I would recommend this book.
February 17, 2022
shocking, heartfelt and a good story
This is the 3rd book in a series, read it in order or it will ruin the surprise of the others. This one comes with a trigger warning but I had no idea of what that would mean; it brought out a lot of emotions for me but the author wrote it all very well. I only wish I could read exactly how it concluded (I don’t want to ruin the plot points by saying the exact details I wish to know but just don’t want you to skip the book, we need more rounded stories in the LGBTQ genre). I’m glad this author took a risk and I think you should too; read it, the whole series!
This is the 3rd book in a series, read it in order or it will ruin the surprise of the others. This one comes with a trigger warning but I had no idea of what that would mean; it brought out a lot of emotions for me but the author wrote it all very well. I only wish I could read exactly how it concluded (I don’t want to ruin the plot points by saying the exact details I wish to know but just don’t want you to skip the book, we need more rounded stories in the LGBTQ genre). I’m glad this author took a risk and I think you should too; read it, the whole series!
August 20, 2021
Stories about men who irritate each other into acting crazy, which turns into inevitable burning attraction? Sign me up! Once again we get brought back to Summersea where some of my favorite men live and love. Aiden and Nolan, cast on a reality show, each have very different views on life, must find a way to work together. Does it end up in some very steamy, yet hilarious, sex scenes? Do they frustrated each other to distraction and eventually fall in love? It wouldn't be a Spencer Spears book without some of those things happening. Loved this story and hope to read more Summersea live soon.
August 20, 2021
While it took me awhile to get into this book, especially when you get thrown into Aiden's life as a cam boy and some of the people who message him. You also wonder why he's chosen for a baking show when he doesn't have experience. Nolan is a bit easier to connect with, although he is very by the book and doesn't bend or compromise. When they work together, something sparks between them and they get to know each other behind the masks they hide behind. I enjoyed how the relationship developed between the two and by the time they got their HEA, I warmed up to both men.
September 7, 2021
I Wanted To Hate Aiden, but...
Okay, he did drive me crazy. And there was a moment or two where I just wanted to pop him upside the head. But by the end of the book? I'm pretty sure the only person who could love him more is Nolan. If you want to find out why, you NEED to read this! However, I highly recommend that you start from the beginning of this series so you can be properly introduced to all the fabulously awkward and adorkable menfolk (and other amazing characters) who you'll meet in on Summersea Island!
Okay, he did drive me crazy. And there was a moment or two where I just wanted to pop him upside the head. But by the end of the book? I'm pretty sure the only person who could love him more is Nolan. If you want to find out why, you NEED to read this! However, I highly recommend that you start from the beginning of this series so you can be properly introduced to all the fabulously awkward and adorkable menfolk (and other amazing characters) who you'll meet in on Summersea Island!
August 20, 2021
This book was so good, I couldn't put it down. I absolutely loved Aiden & Nolan; they were perfect for each other. This is the 3rd book on this series, but can be read as a standalone. I recommend reading the first two books, though. Not only are they just as good, but you get a little more insight into one of the secondary characters in this one. Either way, the book is a must read!
I received an advanced copy and voluntarily gave my honest review.
I received an advanced copy and voluntarily gave my honest review.
August 20, 2021
I must say it's been a while since I encountered MCs I struggled to like as much as I did with Aiden and Nolan. Their meeting ang the following interactions are a total mess of contradicting emotions, pigheaded behavior and so much more! They definitely are an acquired taste and after reading the whole book, I am still a bit on the fence.
I must admit though that it's a piece of really good emotional writing with an interesting plot line idea!
I must admit though that it's a piece of really good emotional writing with an interesting plot line idea!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews