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Worth It #1
Worth the Wait
Growing up together meant life should have been easy, but it wasn’t.
Shane was confident and proud, but couldn’t figure out why a relationship just wouldn’t stick. There had been very few constants in his life. These were limited to his best friend Christopher and his younger brother Michael.
Shane and Michael had always shared a special bond, but when Shane decides to figure out why he can’t keep a stable relationship, Michael can’t keep his secret any longer. There had always been something there, but he lacked Shane’s confidence.
Can they work past their struggles and prove their relationship was always Worth The Wait?
Worth The Wait is a small-town romance that follows what happens when you fall for your brother's best friend. It's a sweet story with plenty of heat!
Shane was confident and proud, but couldn’t figure out why a relationship just wouldn’t stick. There had been very few constants in his life. These were limited to his best friend Christopher and his younger brother Michael.
Shane and Michael had always shared a special bond, but when Shane decides to figure out why he can’t keep a stable relationship, Michael can’t keep his secret any longer. There had always been something there, but he lacked Shane’s confidence.
Can they work past their struggles and prove their relationship was always Worth The Wait?
Worth The Wait is a small-town romance that follows what happens when you fall for your brother's best friend. It's a sweet story with plenty of heat!
186 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 25, 2021
About the author
Joelle Lynne
22 books226 followersJoelle Lynne is a M/M Romance author who is a total nerd at heart. She loves her romance sweet but on the spicy side.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 77 reviews
November 22, 2021
This was… okay ish. I thought the blurb was a little confusing but was still excited because I love a best friends brother romance! Unfortunately this just didn’t work for me. First of all, I would be surprised if this was professionally edited because it has a lot of issues and the writing felt unpolished. For example I am not a fan of using “cum” as a verb instead of “come” which is just my opinion but it does seem to be the norm in the genre. Also the lack of dialogue and the shear number of times a phrase was used in one paragraph sometimes was off putting. I also noticed a lot of times where one character would say something like “I need to go to the store to get a few things” then a few sentences later would be at the store and say “I just need a few things” which I already knew and felt repetitive and unneeded. Most of the issues were super common things that happen when people write, but should have been caught by an editor.
I did think the prologue was better than the whole rest of the book which was good because it got me really interested in the story but ultimately just set me up for disappointment.
Apart from the writing/editing choices, I didn’t think either main character, or Christopher for that matter, had much personality at all and I struggled to get invested in any of them as individuals let alone their relationship. I was generally confused by the dynamic with the author telling a us how close they are and then having Michael run away from Shane after very little interaction between them in literally every scene before they got together.
The steam was meh and I skimmed and skipped over most of their encounters after the first few. It also felt like the characters were constantly saying “I feel sad” or “I feel excited” but it was never shown in any way other than the author just telling us that’s how they felt. There was little to no tension, body language, and/or description just a lot of this is how everyone feels.
I did finish this because I was hoping it would get better after I did enjoy the prologue but it just never did. The central conflict made no sense to me. Without spoiling things, how hard would it have been to just make the drive to the city and do what needed to be done rather then having to move there? No one even mentioned that he could just drive 90 minutes to do what he needed to do then come home and go back to visit if it worked out??
I wanted to love this but ultimately was disappointed. The overall idea for the story could have been great but it just wasn’t there for me.
I did think the prologue was better than the whole rest of the book which was good because it got me really interested in the story but ultimately just set me up for disappointment.
Apart from the writing/editing choices, I didn’t think either main character, or Christopher for that matter, had much personality at all and I struggled to get invested in any of them as individuals let alone their relationship. I was generally confused by the dynamic with the author telling a us how close they are and then having Michael run away from Shane after very little interaction between them in literally every scene before they got together.
The steam was meh and I skimmed and skipped over most of their encounters after the first few. It also felt like the characters were constantly saying “I feel sad” or “I feel excited” but it was never shown in any way other than the author just telling us that’s how they felt. There was little to no tension, body language, and/or description just a lot of this is how everyone feels.
I did finish this because I was hoping it would get better after I did enjoy the prologue but it just never did. The central conflict made no sense to me. Without spoiling things, how hard would it have been to just make the drive to the city and do what needed to be done rather then having to move there? No one even mentioned that he could just drive 90 minutes to do what he needed to do then come home and go back to visit if it worked out??
I wanted to love this but ultimately was disappointed. The overall idea for the story could have been great but it just wasn’t there for me.
November 24, 2022
This was a disappointment.
And awkward.
And awkward.
November 26, 2021
3.5 rounded up to 4 sweet stars.
I love reading new authors and this was no exception. Shane and Michael were extra sugary sweet in this. After secretly pining away for one another for years and years, it’s not until Shane decides to make a big move in his life that Michael decides to confront his feelings for Shane. I related to this aspect since it usually takes something giving us a swift kick in the butt to make us take action.
I will say this though, half of the book was prologues from earlier in their lives and the big lead up to Michael’s reveal. While I wouldn’t call this a slow burn, I did feel that there was a lot of telling about how Shane and Michael related to one another growing up and not a ton of showing. Still, even the reflective time spent in this book was sweet and full of longing feelings.
There was plenty of spice to go around once Michael and Shane gave things a go and I found that to be right up my alley. I like my books extra spicy.
Overall, this was an enjoyable debut book. Shane and Michael were both very likable, if a little self sacrificing. Definitely worth the read and I am looking forward to more from this author.
*I received an ARC of this book and this is my honest review.
I love reading new authors and this was no exception. Shane and Michael were extra sugary sweet in this. After secretly pining away for one another for years and years, it’s not until Shane decides to make a big move in his life that Michael decides to confront his feelings for Shane. I related to this aspect since it usually takes something giving us a swift kick in the butt to make us take action.
I will say this though, half of the book was prologues from earlier in their lives and the big lead up to Michael’s reveal. While I wouldn’t call this a slow burn, I did feel that there was a lot of telling about how Shane and Michael related to one another growing up and not a ton of showing. Still, even the reflective time spent in this book was sweet and full of longing feelings.
There was plenty of spice to go around once Michael and Shane gave things a go and I found that to be right up my alley. I like my books extra spicy.
Overall, this was an enjoyable debut book. Shane and Michael were both very likable, if a little self sacrificing. Definitely worth the read and I am looking forward to more from this author.
*I received an ARC of this book and this is my honest review.
December 13, 2021
The vibe was awkward throughout, and the third-act conflict made literally no sense. Even when it was explained (multiple times) it still felt like it didn't work for the characters as we knew them up to that point and it was only there because the author wanted to introduce someone new. Also, aren't we done with rabidly homophobic parents as a plot point in romance? Especially when they're more like a side note, not in the story from the start/in any way relevant to the development of the romance itself or with the ending? We're here to have a good time, and it just felt like gratuitous angst for angst's sake. I suspect it will be relevant to the next book in the series, but it could've been done better and less abruptly.
December 6, 2021
Worth The Wait is an emotionally charged m/m romance. ~ a brothers best friend that’s truly original.
This book has everything you could want. There so much heart and soul been poured into this and it really shows.
Shane has been best friends with Michael’s brother for a long time now and has always been there for Michael too.
Michael has always been extremely shy, closed off, a bit of a loner, has anxiety. The only people he’s ever been close to is his brother and Shane.
Shane’s always made an effort with him and included him.
I really felt Michaels pain reading this and my heart broke for him several times. I found myself routing for him and hoping he would be able to open up a bit more and express how he feels.
Shane has come from a broken background caused by his father. It’s heartbreaking but he’s such a strong character too.
There was one particular part in the book I had got to and my iPad went flat. I messaged the author straight away. My heart was breaking and there’s no way I would have been able to sleep without knowing what came next so in the end I stayed up all night!
This new author really know how to put pen to paper and breathe so much life and feelings into such an incredibly well written story.
I’ve got so much love for this book and can’t wait to see what comes next. The paperback will definitely be going on my shelf.
Praise to such an incredible author. Highly, highly recommend. You won’t be disappointed. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️😍
This book has everything you could want. There so much heart and soul been poured into this and it really shows.
Shane has been best friends with Michael’s brother for a long time now and has always been there for Michael too.
Michael has always been extremely shy, closed off, a bit of a loner, has anxiety. The only people he’s ever been close to is his brother and Shane.
Shane’s always made an effort with him and included him.
I really felt Michaels pain reading this and my heart broke for him several times. I found myself routing for him and hoping he would be able to open up a bit more and express how he feels.
Shane has come from a broken background caused by his father. It’s heartbreaking but he’s such a strong character too.
There was one particular part in the book I had got to and my iPad went flat. I messaged the author straight away. My heart was breaking and there’s no way I would have been able to sleep without knowing what came next so in the end I stayed up all night!
This new author really know how to put pen to paper and breathe so much life and feelings into such an incredibly well written story.
I’ve got so much love for this book and can’t wait to see what comes next. The paperback will definitely be going on my shelf.
Praise to such an incredible author. Highly, highly recommend. You won’t be disappointed. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️😍
November 23, 2022
A very sweet friends to lovers small town romance with a lot of feeling.
This first in the Worth It series, is an MM romance full of heart and soul. You can practically feel it. The love the author poured into writing this. It shines through the pages as you turn them. And, perhaps because of that, it leaves you with that lovely feel good vibe in the end, wanting more. More of all that feeling, longing and love.
The writing is simple and nicely flowing, while the story is easy to follow and the characters nicely drawn. Low on angst and high on insecurities and longing, this is one love story that could belong to any teenager out there. Neither full of edge of the seat action or drama, nor full of unpredictable twists, but sweet and gentle and feel good all around.
Not perfect and yet... just perfect for anyone looking for a feel-good read.
This first in the Worth It series, is an MM romance full of heart and soul. You can practically feel it. The love the author poured into writing this. It shines through the pages as you turn them. And, perhaps because of that, it leaves you with that lovely feel good vibe in the end, wanting more. More of all that feeling, longing and love.
The writing is simple and nicely flowing, while the story is easy to follow and the characters nicely drawn. Low on angst and high on insecurities and longing, this is one love story that could belong to any teenager out there. Neither full of edge of the seat action or drama, nor full of unpredictable twists, but sweet and gentle and feel good all around.
Not perfect and yet... just perfect for anyone looking for a feel-good read.
November 16, 2021
Worth the Wait is a brother's best friend romance. And not just brother's best friend - lifelong friends.
It's Joelle Lynne's first novel, and a solid, sweet, lovely debut it is, with interesting characters, and almost no angst.
The MCs are 21 and 19, not frat boys or college kids, just normal guys in a small town, living their sweet, small-town lives and banging like bunnies. There is a small amount of homophobic talk, but it's brief. There's no cheating, and a HEA that sets up what will undoubtedly be a sequel.
If you're looking for a low-key read that will make you smile, give this new author a try. I'm eager to see what her next offering will include!
It's Joelle Lynne's first novel, and a solid, sweet, lovely debut it is, with interesting characters, and almost no angst.
The MCs are 21 and 19, not frat boys or college kids, just normal guys in a small town, living their sweet, small-town lives and banging like bunnies. There is a small amount of homophobic talk, but it's brief. There's no cheating, and a HEA that sets up what will undoubtedly be a sequel.
If you're looking for a low-key read that will make you smile, give this new author a try. I'm eager to see what her next offering will include!
December 15, 2021
Worth the Wait ❤️ 3 Stars 🌟
Brother's best friend ❤️ Shane and Michael= sweet and spicy. This was a really cute book, I loved how their relationship was slowly built over time.... these two had been dancing around their feeling for several years...they fell into such an easy relationship filled with lots of love...I also liked Christopher's reaction to their feelings...(I can't wait to see what he's been up to at the end 😉 next book please)..... it was a bit angsty at times but the end result was adorable. I'd recommend this one.
* I received an ARC from GRR, this is my open and honest review *
Brother's best friend ❤️ Shane and Michael= sweet and spicy. This was a really cute book, I loved how their relationship was slowly built over time.... these two had been dancing around their feeling for several years...they fell into such an easy relationship filled with lots of love...I also liked Christopher's reaction to their feelings...(I can't wait to see what he's been up to at the end 😉 next book please)..... it was a bit angsty at times but the end result was adorable. I'd recommend this one.
* I received an ARC from GRR, this is my open and honest review *
January 15, 2022
What a sweet book! I can hardly wait to read about Christopher, Michael's brother and Shane's best friend. For years they them have been friends with Michael in the background. Shane had always watched out for Michael and thought at first it was because he didn't have any siblings. Once he realized it was more, he didn't want to jeopardize their friendship, thought there could never be more between them, and decided to move to the city. Upon hearing that, Michael fainted! The shock was more than he could stand, but he gathered his courage and told Shane how he felt. The scenes between each character was very well written. You'll have to read the book to get the rest of the story. It's low angst, for the reader, sweet, hot love and support from family members book. Come on Joelle! Bring on Christopher's book!
I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 13, 2021
Great best friend’s brother romance! Shane and Michael have unknowingly danced around their attraction to each other for years. When things finally come to a head, it gets heated! Loved their dynamic!
June 26, 2023
The characters were cute and I loved the snippets into their past, but the conflict was a poorly done miscommunication trope that was about something that should’ve been a non-issue.
So the conflict of the book is regarding Shane wanting to meet his bio dad and get closure about why he was abandoned. His dad lives an hour and a half away, but for some reason that is never explained, Shane feels the need to MOVE to the city his dad lives in permanently, abandoning his job, breaking his lease, and leaving behind his only friends.
So then Michael finally tells Shane how he feels (in the most vague way possible, not sure how Shane immediately knew what he was talking about but okay), Shane decides not to leave after all, and he stays with Michael while figuring out how to get his job back. Michael feels guilty for holding Shane back from connecting with his dad and breaks up with him after a month.
here’s what I don’t get. There is NO reason Shane can’t go see his dad while being together with Michael, he lives an hour and a half away. Like it’s a day trip, or get a hotel for the weekend to visit. I don’t understand why he has to move there permanently to see his dad?? And wouldn’t it be nice to have some moral support in a boyfriend while going through that? But the only way it’s framed is Michael vs dad, Michael is “in the way” of Shane reconnecting with his dad. And it causes a very short fight where they breakup for like 24 hours.
Shane even says afterward that he never would have reached out to his dad if Michael hadn’t broken up with him. But also says it could’ve been a day trip. I don’t get it.
Also the “Michael” on the cover has brown eyes but in the book he has blue?? This is just a pet peeve of mine.
So the conflict of the book is regarding Shane wanting to meet his bio dad and get closure about why he was abandoned. His dad lives an hour and a half away, but for some reason that is never explained, Shane feels the need to MOVE to the city his dad lives in permanently, abandoning his job, breaking his lease, and leaving behind his only friends.
So then Michael finally tells Shane how he feels (in the most vague way possible, not sure how Shane immediately knew what he was talking about but okay), Shane decides not to leave after all, and he stays with Michael while figuring out how to get his job back. Michael feels guilty for holding Shane back from connecting with his dad and breaks up with him after a month.
here’s what I don’t get. There is NO reason Shane can’t go see his dad while being together with Michael, he lives an hour and a half away. Like it’s a day trip, or get a hotel for the weekend to visit. I don’t understand why he has to move there permanently to see his dad?? And wouldn’t it be nice to have some moral support in a boyfriend while going through that? But the only way it’s framed is Michael vs dad, Michael is “in the way” of Shane reconnecting with his dad. And it causes a very short fight where they breakup for like 24 hours.
Shane even says afterward that he never would have reached out to his dad if Michael hadn’t broken up with him. But also says it could’ve been a day trip. I don’t get it.
Also the “Michael” on the cover has brown eyes but in the book he has blue?? This is just a pet peeve of mine.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 7, 2022
Did a re-read today, I loved it the first time round and even more this time 🥰
December 9, 2021
Joelle Lynne's debut novel, Worth the Wait, is an easy read with a sweet best-friend's-brother romance. Unlike other best friend's brothers that I've read though, Michael and Shane have a relationship independent of Christopher long before they get together. Its a relationship that we got to see in prologues, the early chapters, and a few flashbacks and references throughout the novel, and that helped make the relationship feel more real.
Which was needed, because there were several times early in the relationship when we'd get a reference to a week, two weeks, a month passing without seeing much of it. Its a personal preference, but I deeply enjoy reading those first weeks in a new relationship as they learn to navigate what they're building together. I felt like there were a lot of chances for development of their dynamic, something that would make the end drama and the HEA both feel like there were more stakes and more rewards.
But again, that's a personal preference.
All in all, this book was well written. Michael and Shane were adorable together and Christopher was sweet as the best friend and long suffering older brother. The fact that there's also a Found Family vibe with Shane and the boys and their family only sweetens the pot for me, because I LOVE a good Found Family vibe. And the friendship between Shane and Christopher was adorable, so much so that I found myself wanting more of that friendship on page than we got.
There is a small content warning for some homophobic language in the book, but there's not a lot and its a very short scene. However if you're sensitive to that kind of thing, please beware before going into the book.
All in all, Worth the Wait was well written and enjoyable. I will be reading future Joelle Lynne books and I'm looking forward to it.
** ARC PROVIDED BY AUTHOR FOR HONEST REVIEW **
Which was needed, because there were several times early in the relationship when we'd get a reference to a week, two weeks, a month passing without seeing much of it. Its a personal preference, but I deeply enjoy reading those first weeks in a new relationship as they learn to navigate what they're building together. I felt like there were a lot of chances for development of their dynamic, something that would make the end drama and the HEA both feel like there were more stakes and more rewards.
But again, that's a personal preference.
All in all, this book was well written. Michael and Shane were adorable together and Christopher was sweet as the best friend and long suffering older brother. The fact that there's also a Found Family vibe with Shane and the boys and their family only sweetens the pot for me, because I LOVE a good Found Family vibe. And the friendship between Shane and Christopher was adorable, so much so that I found myself wanting more of that friendship on page than we got.
There is a small content warning for some homophobic language in the book, but there's not a lot and its a very short scene. However if you're sensitive to that kind of thing, please beware before going into the book.
All in all, Worth the Wait was well written and enjoyable. I will be reading future Joelle Lynne books and I'm looking forward to it.
** ARC PROVIDED BY AUTHOR FOR HONEST REVIEW **
December 14, 2021
This book was well worth the wait!!!
Firstly let me say that I got this book off gay romance reviews and now I am choosing to leave my honest review.
This is the first book I’ve read by Joelle Lynne I must say I was extremely impressed. This book grab me straight from the beginning.
Shane and Christopher met at school when they were six years old. Christopher was asked to be his buddy for the day to show him around school and that never change. Maybe came the best of friends and spent all of their time together. Christopher’s younger brother by two years Michael was always hanging around them. When Shane was 16 he came out as being gay to his friends And although Christopher excepted it straight away when Shane came upon him for lunch with his boyfriend Cooper, Michael didn’t seem to take it well. The thing is what Shane doesn’t know is that Michael has had a crush on him since he could remember. Over the years Michael has had to watch Shane with many boyfriends while hiding his own sexuality.
At the age of 21 and after many disastrous relationships Shane makes a big decision. Michael doesn’t take it well and ends up telling Shane that it’s always been him for Michael. How will Shane react to this??
This book was a real slow burn but it had me hooked from the very very first beginning and I just couldn’t put it down and read it well into the night. I really like Shane and Michael. I liked that although Shane knew his feelings for Michael he gave him time to come round to his own decision. My heart hurt for Michael when he had to watch him with other men it must’ve been really hard to stay silent. And let’s just say that communication skills have never been their best. A really really good read and I cannot wait for the second book to find out what is going on with Christopher. I think it’s going to be exciting
Firstly let me say that I got this book off gay romance reviews and now I am choosing to leave my honest review.
This is the first book I’ve read by Joelle Lynne I must say I was extremely impressed. This book grab me straight from the beginning.
Shane and Christopher met at school when they were six years old. Christopher was asked to be his buddy for the day to show him around school and that never change. Maybe came the best of friends and spent all of their time together. Christopher’s younger brother by two years Michael was always hanging around them. When Shane was 16 he came out as being gay to his friends And although Christopher excepted it straight away when Shane came upon him for lunch with his boyfriend Cooper, Michael didn’t seem to take it well. The thing is what Shane doesn’t know is that Michael has had a crush on him since he could remember. Over the years Michael has had to watch Shane with many boyfriends while hiding his own sexuality.
At the age of 21 and after many disastrous relationships Shane makes a big decision. Michael doesn’t take it well and ends up telling Shane that it’s always been him for Michael. How will Shane react to this??
This book was a real slow burn but it had me hooked from the very very first beginning and I just couldn’t put it down and read it well into the night. I really like Shane and Michael. I liked that although Shane knew his feelings for Michael he gave him time to come round to his own decision. My heart hurt for Michael when he had to watch him with other men it must’ve been really hard to stay silent. And let’s just say that communication skills have never been their best. A really really good read and I cannot wait for the second book to find out what is going on with Christopher. I think it’s going to be exciting
April 3, 2022
This is a sweet, easy story. I am still not sure I understand the reasoning behind the big conflict, but in the end there is a HAE, so maybe I am not meant to understand it. The writing is simple, the story is easy and there is a surprisingly open communication between side characters and main characters. Not so much between both main characters, but there are plenty of side explanations, sort of like notes, that detail what and why. It is a simple, easy read with a lot of steam in it. I wish the author didn't use so many variations of "head trashing from side to side" or "back and forth", because I have never honestly seen anyone do it during sex so I don't get where so many authors get that impression. It sounds weird and I would think it looks even weirder. Head trashing from side to side is a generally a movement of "no" so it seems an odd thing to do during consensual sex or some sort of a nervous tick, but what do I know. Maybe it is actually a real thing and not just something romance authors think is a must in their books for whatever reason. Aside from that, the writing is simple, but good. There is a bit of fumbling, but there are plenty explanations afterwards. It is sweet, simple, easy read.
**I was provided an ARC of this book from the GRR for an honest review**
**I was provided an ARC of this book from the GRR for an honest review**
January 5, 2023
Great friends to lovers but wordy
I love the friends to lovers/brother’s best friend troupe. Shane and Michael were great characters for this. The story focuses on the relationship between Shane, Michael and his brother Christopher and how Shane and Michael became lovers. Shane and Christopher had been best friends and Michael was always a part of that friendship. Things happened over the years and things happened.
Anyway… as much as I liked the premise of the book there were a few things that almost made me DNF.
I love romance books… I especially love MM romance books. What I don’t love is adding spice for the sake of adding spice. There were times when communication should have happened but it turned into bodies trying to communicate and it just didn’t always work.
The inner monologue was a bit much at times. The wordiness was a huge part for me. I love details in a story as it sets the scene… but too many details are distracting.
Some of the angst wasn’t needed… again… it felt like it was added so it could be there.
I know it doesn’t sound like I liked the book but I actually did! There were just some elements that weren’t my jam.
I love the friends to lovers/brother’s best friend troupe. Shane and Michael were great characters for this. The story focuses on the relationship between Shane, Michael and his brother Christopher and how Shane and Michael became lovers. Shane and Christopher had been best friends and Michael was always a part of that friendship. Things happened over the years and things happened.
Anyway… as much as I liked the premise of the book there were a few things that almost made me DNF.
I love romance books… I especially love MM romance books. What I don’t love is adding spice for the sake of adding spice. There were times when communication should have happened but it turned into bodies trying to communicate and it just didn’t always work.
The inner monologue was a bit much at times. The wordiness was a huge part for me. I love details in a story as it sets the scene… but too many details are distracting.
Some of the angst wasn’t needed… again… it felt like it was added so it could be there.
I know it doesn’t sound like I liked the book but I actually did! There were just some elements that weren’t my jam.
December 14, 2021
Worth the Wait is a best friend's brother romance by Joelle Lynne. I quickly feel in love with these men and couldn't put this story down.
I love this book. It's a wonderful brother's best friend story that's sweet and tender.
Shane and Michael have been longing for each other, but even if they can admit their feelings, things won't go seamlessly.
Of course, Michael has his insecurities that leads to some light angst. It all makes sense though and never feels forced.
I appreciate that Michael's brother isn't upset about his best friend being with his brother. It's a nice change from the usual forbidden relationship.
Written in alternating first person pov, the characters fully come alive, with every emotion being felt by the reader. And damn, the author brings plenty of heat, including some hot rimming.
Worth the Wait is a fantastic best friend's brother romance. This Joelle Lynne tale had me happy throughout. I'm thrilled to have gotten to read this book and am adding it to my re-read list.
I love this book. It's a wonderful brother's best friend story that's sweet and tender.
Shane and Michael have been longing for each other, but even if they can admit their feelings, things won't go seamlessly.
Of course, Michael has his insecurities that leads to some light angst. It all makes sense though and never feels forced.
I appreciate that Michael's brother isn't upset about his best friend being with his brother. It's a nice change from the usual forbidden relationship.
Written in alternating first person pov, the characters fully come alive, with every emotion being felt by the reader. And damn, the author brings plenty of heat, including some hot rimming.
Worth the Wait is a fantastic best friend's brother romance. This Joelle Lynne tale had me happy throughout. I'm thrilled to have gotten to read this book and am adding it to my re-read list.
June 21, 2022
This was a best friend's brother romance. It starts out as three best friends growing up. I love reading about kids and how they grow into adults, discovering relationships, and bonding friendships. This was no different. I was especially drawn to Michael, a sweet, shy boy who secretly loves Shane, his brother's best friend. He was endearing. The romance was sweet, and not overly complex, which is what sweet romances are about.
I liked that Shane sought after his father after years when he left his family. It made sense by the fact that Shane had always struggled with relationships, blaming it on his estranged father.
It was a short and enjoyable read with sweet men. I do wish there was a bit more complexity in their personalities as their characters are developed, but it made me so happy that Michael got his HEA over his life-long crush on Shane. I like that Joelle didn't make it like a creepy pining, but more of a wishing for something that he felt he couldn't have.
I liked that Shane sought after his father after years when he left his family. It made sense by the fact that Shane had always struggled with relationships, blaming it on his estranged father.
It was a short and enjoyable read with sweet men. I do wish there was a bit more complexity in their personalities as their characters are developed, but it made me so happy that Michael got his HEA over his life-long crush on Shane. I like that Joelle didn't make it like a creepy pining, but more of a wishing for something that he felt he couldn't have.
December 1, 2021
3.5 Stars
I first want to say that I know the blurb can sound a bit co fusing so I want to clarify that Shane is Christopher’s best friend, and Micheal is Christopher’s little brother (NOT Shane’s brother)
Shane and Christopher met when they were five and have been best friends since then. Shane has had a crush on Christopher’s brother Micheal for a long time but never said anything. As luck would have it, Micheal has also had feelings for Shane.
I loved reading about their relationship and how they went from friends to boyfriends. This was a mostly low angst story about two people who were meant to be together. If you like sweet stories, I think you’ll really enjoy this. The ending also set the foundation for a sequel about another character and I am looking forward to that.
I did receive a free ARC of this book but that did not influence my review.
I first want to say that I know the blurb can sound a bit co fusing so I want to clarify that Shane is Christopher’s best friend, and Micheal is Christopher’s little brother (NOT Shane’s brother)
Shane and Christopher met when they were five and have been best friends since then. Shane has had a crush on Christopher’s brother Micheal for a long time but never said anything. As luck would have it, Micheal has also had feelings for Shane.
I loved reading about their relationship and how they went from friends to boyfriends. This was a mostly low angst story about two people who were meant to be together. If you like sweet stories, I think you’ll really enjoy this. The ending also set the foundation for a sequel about another character and I am looking forward to that.
I did receive a free ARC of this book but that did not influence my review.
June 15, 2022
Decent read in brother’s best friend trope
I love a good brother’s best friend story, and I also love a shorter read, so I had high hopes going into this read after seeing it quite a bit on TikTok. My favourite character here is actually the brother because I really liked his reaction to the relationship between his brother and his friend.
But for me, the relationship between the two main characters was just a little flat. I liked the one (Shane) significantly more than the other (Michael) which made it hard to get invested into their relationship. Then, when the tension is brought into their relationship, I was left feeling frustrated with both of them. However, it still did it’s job of entertaining me with a sweet and spicy gay romance with the HEA I look for, hence the 3-star rating.
I love a good brother’s best friend story, and I also love a shorter read, so I had high hopes going into this read after seeing it quite a bit on TikTok. My favourite character here is actually the brother because I really liked his reaction to the relationship between his brother and his friend.
But for me, the relationship between the two main characters was just a little flat. I liked the one (Shane) significantly more than the other (Michael) which made it hard to get invested into their relationship. Then, when the tension is brought into their relationship, I was left feeling frustrated with both of them. However, it still did it’s job of entertaining me with a sweet and spicy gay romance with the HEA I look for, hence the 3-star rating.
June 16, 2022
Shane has had a hard time keeping relationships. One after the other has left him because he's so close to his best friend, Christopher, and his best friend's little brother, Michael. Michael has been in love with Shane for years. He's watched every guy leave Shane and can't stand it any longer. Will Christopher accept Shane and Michael getting together?
Shane has been screwed over so many times. Just because you're dating someone doesn't mean you neglect your friends. When Michael sees Shane with his boyfriend he shuts down was painful. Michael fainting was scary. Michaels confession was so sweet. Being shy and trying to communicate pretty much anything is hard. Christopher is such a good man. The conflict was what I expected but what happened because of the conflict was precious. This was a cute story.
Shane has been screwed over so many times. Just because you're dating someone doesn't mean you neglect your friends. When Michael sees Shane with his boyfriend he shuts down was painful. Michael fainting was scary. Michaels confession was so sweet. Being shy and trying to communicate pretty much anything is hard. Christopher is such a good man. The conflict was what I expected but what happened because of the conflict was precious. This was a cute story.
November 16, 2021
I enjoyed reading this well written fast paced romance by a new author me, my first but definitely not my last. For Shane moving to the country was an adventure except for his father leaving. Meeting Christopher who is his best his best friend and his younger brother Michael was one of the best things that ever happened while he was growing up, but Shane and Michael were keeping secrets about how they felt about each other for a long time. After another ruined romance Shane decides it's time to find out about why his father left by moving back to the city and finding him. When he finds out it forces Michael to open up about how he feels about Shane and has him wondering if Michael is the love he's been searchimg for.
December 3, 2021
Oh my gosh, this book was soo Worth the Wait. I really loved seeing Michael and Shane finally get together, it was so sweet, but then the heat cranked up, whew.
I really love that in this brother's best friend romance that the brother didn't get in the way. I loved that we got to see glimpses of Shene, Michael, and Christopher growing up. Loved Christopher's easy acceptance of his best friend, Shane, coming out in high school and that he was completely supportive of his friend and his brother getting together.
Shane has some difficult things that he has to deal with, but I love how Michael was there for him through it.
And Michael, such a sweetheart, pining for Shane for years, and then finally getting to be with him. Gah, my heart exploded.
I definitely recommend this book
I really love that in this brother's best friend romance that the brother didn't get in the way. I loved that we got to see glimpses of Shene, Michael, and Christopher growing up. Loved Christopher's easy acceptance of his best friend, Shane, coming out in high school and that he was completely supportive of his friend and his brother getting together.
Shane has some difficult things that he has to deal with, but I love how Michael was there for him through it.
And Michael, such a sweetheart, pining for Shane for years, and then finally getting to be with him. Gah, my heart exploded.
I definitely recommend this book
December 11, 2021
Worth the Wait was a bit of a conundrum for me...on one hand, starting at their first meeting and working their way through high school and beyond worked in a sweet way, but I felt like it was missing something that would have made it sparkle... that being said, Michael and Shane were adorable together and the story worked well... I love that the story focused on the friendship and found family between Shane and Christopher as well as the building relationship between Shane and Michael.
Worth The Wait was a sweet read and had good pacing and world building. It was just missing a little bit of unexpected magic for me. I'd recommend this for anyone who loves a good New Adult/Coming of Age story.
Worth The Wait was a sweet read and had good pacing and world building. It was just missing a little bit of unexpected magic for me. I'd recommend this for anyone who loves a good New Adult/Coming of Age story.
December 14, 2021
Three and a half stars. As I was reading along in this story, though it had some entertaining dialogue, some engaging times, it didn’t have a lot of depth. If you’re looking for a light reading with a happy ending this is it. If you’re looking for something deeper, something that supplies the depth of a romantic relationship this may not be that. A few things left hanging for me but that’s okay. I’m a close all the windows and doors kind of person but that’s just me. I liked Michael more than Shane, he seemed a bit flighty. Leaving off with some unanswered questions about Christopher was interesting, makes you wonder what his secrets are. Maybe something to look forward to. I voluntarily reviewed an arc of this book.
December 14, 2021
This was a huge disappointment. It started good for like the first 15% and then went downhill fast. In the end considering the story only took me a little over 2 hours to read, it left me mentally exhausted.
I liked the premise. Best friends brother is usually a great read and like I say, I like how the story opened up and the characters were introduced. I'll even say that the characters were likeable and they had great chemistry and there were some hot scenes but that's about it.
The characters and the relationship were not developed enough. The plot was all over the place and didn't work and the writing was excruciating awkward. I don't see how this could have been beta read. The drama at the end made zero sense.
I would not recommend this and I'm not gonna read this author again.
I liked the premise. Best friends brother is usually a great read and like I say, I like how the story opened up and the characters were introduced. I'll even say that the characters were likeable and they had great chemistry and there were some hot scenes but that's about it.
The characters and the relationship were not developed enough. The plot was all over the place and didn't work and the writing was excruciating awkward. I don't see how this could have been beta read. The drama at the end made zero sense.
I would not recommend this and I'm not gonna read this author again.
December 19, 2021
Silence is not always golden. Shane and Christopher were best friends. Michael was Chris' younger brother. Shane always noticed Michael and included him as much as he could. Shane's relationships never lasted and he couldn't figure out, why not. Michael, had a crush on Shane when he realized the concept of liking another person. They were each on their own paths, even thought they peaked at each other through side eyes. We got to learn of them through flash backs and inner monologues. Will they speak up in time? Will they miss all opportunities and step on a new path? Who is brave enough to go first? It was good watching them grow up and morph into men. Nicely done. I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 30, 2022
Sweet best friend's little brother romance
This is the first book I've read by this author and I really enjoyed it. It's not deeply complicated and there's not much angst - it's just a sweet realizing that what you've been looking for has been in front of you the whole time. I liked the dynamic of the three guys and how Christopher is so accepting of his best friend and younger brother getting together. I thought the introduction of Ryan was a nice touch and I have to hope that things work out for him. I'd love to read his story and maybe that will be in future books. Also, I kind of have an idea as to what is going on with Christopher at the end - I'll just have to see if I'm right in the next book. Definitely an author I'll be keeping an eye on.
This is the first book I've read by this author and I really enjoyed it. It's not deeply complicated and there's not much angst - it's just a sweet realizing that what you've been looking for has been in front of you the whole time. I liked the dynamic of the three guys and how Christopher is so accepting of his best friend and younger brother getting together. I thought the introduction of Ryan was a nice touch and I have to hope that things work out for him. I'd love to read his story and maybe that will be in future books. Also, I kind of have an idea as to what is going on with Christopher at the end - I'll just have to see if I'm right in the next book. Definitely an author I'll be keeping an eye on.
November 28, 2021
A totally different style of writing to what I have become used to over the last few years. Although the chapters are headed with a character name, I found that the story was "told" mostly by Shane and I loved it.
The three main characters Shane, Christopher and Michael met 15 years ago and practically grew up together.
The steamy scenes were just that and very alluring. No it is not MMM.
Joelle Lynne need have no fears that her characters and her books will lack fans. I definitely want to know more about friends and family found.
I was fortunate to see a request to obtain an ARC copy and so glad I could review.
The three main characters Shane, Christopher and Michael met 15 years ago and practically grew up together.
The steamy scenes were just that and very alluring. No it is not MMM.
Joelle Lynne need have no fears that her characters and her books will lack fans. I definitely want to know more about friends and family found.
I was fortunate to see a request to obtain an ARC copy and so glad I could review.
November 29, 2021
Great first book!
I was offered the chance to read this book prior to publication. It came on the recommendation of an author that I really trust. And I'm very grateful that I jumped at the chance!
Shane, Michael, and Christopher have such an amazing friendship. And when the friendship between Shane and Michael turns into something more, it's so much fun to go along for the ride! Just as much fun as learning about Shane and Michael is reading about Christopher's reaction to the change in their relationship.
This was a really good book by a first-time author. I would definitely recommend it! And I can't wait to read the next book.
I was offered the chance to read this book prior to publication. It came on the recommendation of an author that I really trust. And I'm very grateful that I jumped at the chance!
Shane, Michael, and Christopher have such an amazing friendship. And when the friendship between Shane and Michael turns into something more, it's so much fun to go along for the ride! Just as much fun as learning about Shane and Michael is reading about Christopher's reaction to the change in their relationship.
This was a really good book by a first-time author. I would definitely recommend it! And I can't wait to read the next book.
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