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Pretty Broken #2
Pretty Toxic
Saint Vincent
I might be the best-selling solo artist in the world, but my personal life is a disaster. For every number one album, there's a sea of my worsts, all documented in photos.
Bad break-ups. Destroyed hotel rooms. Fights. Drugs. And just as many rumors.
Every headline reaffirms the walls I’ve built around myself. Fame destroys everything it touches and I can’t let anyone close.
The only exception is my best friend— Lowe Wilder.
But I’ve fucked that one up too.
It’s all about him. Every song, every lyric. Every piece of music I’ve ever written. I planned to carry that secret to my grave. He’s straight.
Another break-up, another call to Lowe. I can’t bear to have another scandal splashed across the tabloids. At my absolute worst he’s here to pick up the pieces, and I ruined it all with a kiss.
Lowe Wilder
I’m the least famous member of the most famous band in the world. I’ve sat in the background while we toured the world and tore each other apart.
I wouldn’t have made it through any of this without Saint. He came into my life like a nuclear bomb. Unapologetic and with about as much destruction, but he’s kept me sane from across the world.
Nothing could come between us.
Until he kissed me and shattered my world.
Pretty Toxic can be read on its own or enjoyed part of the Pretty Broken Series.
I might be the best-selling solo artist in the world, but my personal life is a disaster. For every number one album, there's a sea of my worsts, all documented in photos.
Bad break-ups. Destroyed hotel rooms. Fights. Drugs. And just as many rumors.
Every headline reaffirms the walls I’ve built around myself. Fame destroys everything it touches and I can’t let anyone close.
The only exception is my best friend— Lowe Wilder.
But I’ve fucked that one up too.
It’s all about him. Every song, every lyric. Every piece of music I’ve ever written. I planned to carry that secret to my grave. He’s straight.
Another break-up, another call to Lowe. I can’t bear to have another scandal splashed across the tabloids. At my absolute worst he’s here to pick up the pieces, and I ruined it all with a kiss.
Lowe Wilder
I’m the least famous member of the most famous band in the world. I’ve sat in the background while we toured the world and tore each other apart.
I wouldn’t have made it through any of this without Saint. He came into my life like a nuclear bomb. Unapologetic and with about as much destruction, but he’s kept me sane from across the world.
Nothing could come between us.
Until he kissed me and shattered my world.
Pretty Toxic can be read on its own or enjoyed part of the Pretty Broken Series.
246 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 23, 2022
280 people are currently reading
989 people want to read
About the author
J.R. Gray
58 books1,287 followersWhen not staying up all night writing, J.R. Gray can be found at the gym where it's half assumed he is a permanent resident to fulfill his self-inflicted masochism. A dominant and a pilot, Gray finds it hard to be in the passenger seat of any car. He frequently interrupts real life, including normal sleep patterns and conversations, to jot down notes or plot bunnies. Commas are the bane of his existence even though it's been fully acknowledged they are necessary, they continue to baffle and bewilder. If Gray wasn't writing…well, that's not possible. The buildup of untold stories would haunt Gray into an early grave, insanity or both. The idea of haunting has always appealed to him. J.R. Gray is genderqueer and prefers he/him pronouns.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 228 reviews
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March 26, 2022
just another (possible) side couple i was more invested in, wbk. 😩
March 30, 2022
i thought this was gonna be angsty and toxic and smutty but... this felt kinda shallow? Saint and Lowe weren’t fully fleshed out enough for me to really experience all of the feels.
they had the same conversation over and over again. nothing new was ever added or developed, their interactions were constantly on repeat. it had the potential bcos there was some juicy angst-filled moments, but ultimately it was pretty shallow and repetitive for me.
not a bad book by any means... just not what i was hoping for.
it was a step up from book one though since all the weird dialogue was gone. but the inclusion of real celebrities in this was weird af. like Saint on a night out with Ed Sheeran, him apparently having dated Lil Nas X and Yungblud, waving at the Jonas Brothers at a party... it was cringe lmao.
i still need Iris and Cas effective immediately. the angst they’re already serving.
they had the same conversation over and over again. nothing new was ever added or developed, their interactions were constantly on repeat. it had the potential bcos there was some juicy angst-filled moments, but ultimately it was pretty shallow and repetitive for me.
not a bad book by any means... just not what i was hoping for.
it was a step up from book one though since all the weird dialogue was gone. but the inclusion of real celebrities in this was weird af. like Saint on a night out with Ed Sheeran, him apparently having dated Lil Nas X and Yungblud, waving at the Jonas Brothers at a party... it was cringe lmao.
i still need Iris and Cas effective immediately. the angst they’re already serving.
March 27, 2022
Couldn’t figure out if it was Saint or Lowe’s pov half the time
Read
March 25, 2022Dnf
Time of death: I don't remember 😬 I'm just finding it really difficult to connect with these characters, it's probably a me thing though 🥲
Time of death: I don't remember 😬 I'm just finding it really difficult to connect with these characters, it's probably a me thing though 🥲
March 24, 2022
We have possessive
We have needy for touch
We have rockstars
We have bi - awakening
We have no ridiculous drama
Broke my reading slump, so thank you Lowe and Saint. I freakin love you boys.
Looking forward to the next book. Cas and Iris are fascinating.
We have needy for touch
We have rockstars
We have bi - awakening
We have no ridiculous drama
Broke my reading slump, so thank you Lowe and Saint. I freakin love you boys.
Looking forward to the next book. Cas and Iris are fascinating.
February 17, 2023
" You know they are about you. You know every song I've ever written is about you."
Pretty Toxic by J.R. Gray is the second book in the Pretty Broken series about a band of young rock gods. The books can be read as standalones but they are part of a linked series and I would recommend that you read them in order. This is Saint and Lowe's story.
I absolutely loved this one! Pretty Obsessed was my first read by J.R. Gray and I knew I'd be grabbing every book in the series thereafter.
The basic premise here is that Saint is the best-selling solo singer in the world and Lowe is a member of the most famous band in the world. They had collaborated together musically and had become best friends, in a world of fake people, fake relationships and fake lives.
The fact that Saint is gay and Lowe is straight has never been an issue, despite Lowe's protective instincts kicking in every time Saint embarks on yet another toxic relationship. Lowe keeps all his hook-ups on a strictly casual basis and has never been involved with anyone for any length of time. Except Saint.
And then one kiss changes their friendship dynamic completely.
Can they go back to what they had, or has that kiss triggered something in Lowe that he never even realised existed in him.....?
This was such a good read and you will TOTALLY LOVE IT if you're into:
🌶 friends to lovers
🌶 first times
🌶 bi-awakening
🌶 steamy scenes 🔥🔥🔥
🌶 destructive rock god lifestyles
🌶 low angst
🌶 mm romance
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
Steamy 4.5 star read ✨✨✨✨
Pretty Toxic by J.R. Gray is the second book in the Pretty Broken series about a band of young rock gods. The books can be read as standalones but they are part of a linked series and I would recommend that you read them in order. This is Saint and Lowe's story.
I absolutely loved this one! Pretty Obsessed was my first read by J.R. Gray and I knew I'd be grabbing every book in the series thereafter.
The basic premise here is that Saint is the best-selling solo singer in the world and Lowe is a member of the most famous band in the world. They had collaborated together musically and had become best friends, in a world of fake people, fake relationships and fake lives.
The fact that Saint is gay and Lowe is straight has never been an issue, despite Lowe's protective instincts kicking in every time Saint embarks on yet another toxic relationship. Lowe keeps all his hook-ups on a strictly casual basis and has never been involved with anyone for any length of time. Except Saint.
And then one kiss changes their friendship dynamic completely.
Can they go back to what they had, or has that kiss triggered something in Lowe that he never even realised existed in him.....?
This was such a good read and you will TOTALLY LOVE IT if you're into:
🌶 friends to lovers
🌶 first times
🌶 bi-awakening
🌶 steamy scenes 🔥🔥🔥
🌶 destructive rock god lifestyles
🌶 low angst
🌶 mm romance
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
Steamy 4.5 star read ✨✨✨✨
March 28, 2022
★★★★ Four Stars!
I enjoyed Pretty Toxic just as much as I did Pretty Obsessed. I gave both books four stars and will continue on in the series. Unfortunately, not the books fault, but fault of my own, I was thinking this was about one of the other side couples that appears in this series. But it was not. And I’m so desperate for that side couple’s book! I hope their’s is next!
This book may have gotten four stars like the first book but I do find that I enjoyed the first book’s main couple more. I think my problem with this couple is they really didn’t effectively communicate and there was a lot of the miscommunication trope. A lot of the issues they had could have been resolved right then or sooner if they just talked and been more open.
I go back and forth if I found them to be too obsessed with each other. Which is ironic considering the first book was called Pretty Obsessed and I didn’t find that couple to be nearly as obsessed with one another as Saint and Lowe. But the book is called Pretty Toxic and at times their obsession could be toxic so do with that what you will.
I know this review sounds negative but I did really enjoy this book. I don’t ever really feel the need to read all the books in a romance series full of books that can be read as stand-alones but J.R. Gray keeps me coming back for more. Mostly because I want the side couple’s book! Please give it to me J.R. Gray! I don’t know how much longer I can wait.
I enjoyed Pretty Toxic just as much as I did Pretty Obsessed. I gave both books four stars and will continue on in the series. Unfortunately, not the books fault, but fault of my own, I was thinking this was about one of the other side couples that appears in this series. But it was not. And I’m so desperate for that side couple’s book! I hope their’s is next!
This book may have gotten four stars like the first book but I do find that I enjoyed the first book’s main couple more. I think my problem with this couple is they really didn’t effectively communicate and there was a lot of the miscommunication trope. A lot of the issues they had could have been resolved right then or sooner if they just talked and been more open.
I go back and forth if I found them to be too obsessed with each other. Which is ironic considering the first book was called Pretty Obsessed and I didn’t find that couple to be nearly as obsessed with one another as Saint and Lowe. But the book is called Pretty Toxic and at times their obsession could be toxic so do with that what you will.
I know this review sounds negative but I did really enjoy this book. I don’t ever really feel the need to read all the books in a romance series full of books that can be read as stand-alones but J.R. Gray keeps me coming back for more. Mostly because I want the side couple’s book! Please give it to me J.R. Gray! I don’t know how much longer I can wait.
March 24, 2022
“You know they are about you. You know every song I’ve ever written is about you.”
💚💚
A wonderful book, I liked it even more than the first.
Plus they mention some celebrities it's so cool!!!
💚💚
A wonderful book, I liked it even more than the first.
Plus they mention some celebrities it's so cool!!!
February 25, 2023
3.5/5 stars
This was definitely better than Emory and River’s book. Still am waiting for Cas and Iris though.
This was definitely better than Emory and River’s book. Still am waiting for Cas and Iris though.
March 28, 2022
Quick caveat - I gave the first book in this series 4 stars even though it probably didn't deserve it. I'm giving this one 4 stars too because I liked it better than the first book. My rating system is a mess, apparently. I really wish Goodreads would make all of our dreams come true and give us half stars to play with. My decision making skills are horrendous on a good day and I can't ever decide between rounding up or down.
I'm going to make this short and sweet. This was not a perfect book, but Saint and Lowe entertained the f@#k out of me. From best friend cuddles to heated arguments to bathroom sex (this author loves bathroom sex), I was definitely never bored. I absolutely loved the last couple of chapters and smiled like a loon during the radio interview. This was just a really fun way for me to spend a Sunday.
I really hope the author has a good plan for Cas and Iris because the hype is real. There's a part of me that's a little worried that - plot twist! - they won't end up together, but I'm here for it either way. And can we get an HEA for poor Bishop? He seemed like a really nice person.
I'm going to make this short and sweet. This was not a perfect book, but Saint and Lowe entertained the f@#k out of me. From best friend cuddles to heated arguments to bathroom sex (this author loves bathroom sex), I was definitely never bored. I absolutely loved the last couple of chapters and smiled like a loon during the radio interview. This was just a really fun way for me to spend a Sunday.
I really hope the author has a good plan for Cas and Iris because the hype is real. There's a part of me that's a little worried that - plot twist! - they won't end up together, but I'm here for it either way. And can we get an HEA for poor Bishop? He seemed like a really nice person.
March 31, 2022
* 3.5 stars *
Sometimes, when I choose to read a book by this author, it goes something like this: I love the blurb, I'm intrigued by the plot, I'm excited to start reading, but, in the end, I feel underwhelmed and disconnected from the story. That's what happened here as well.
That's not to say that there's anything wrong with the book. Oh, no. The story is exactly what the blurb promises. The characters are perfectly likable, and the side characters compliment the story nicely. The problem is that I just didn't connect well with the writing style.
But anyway, on to the actual story.
Saint and Lowe are best friends, they're both in the music industry, and their careers are going up, up, up. Saint is a solo artist, and Lowe is a member of the Pretty Broken band.
Saint has had feelings for Lowe for pretty much the entire duration of their friendship, but Lowe is straight. Hence, Saint keeps quiet and tries to forget about them by getting into relationships with the wrong men and having his breakups splashed all over the internet.
Lowe, on the other hand, isn't looking for commitment. He prefers to have fun and move on. He has no idea about Saint's feelings, and when he finds out about them, he starts questioning everything and re-thinking what Saint means to him.
This was one of the scenes that didn't work for me. Their first kiss was barely a peck; Lowe freaked out, ran away, and basically went weeks without talking. However, I liked the few confrontational scenes in the story and how jealous they both got. They did talk and managed to avoid big misunderstandings most of the time, but they were quick to make assumptions and act according to them.
There's a candid conversation between them near the end of the book, and I liked seeing Lowe so sure of what he wanted and stating his limits.
I'm looking forward to Cas and Iris's story (I hope they're getting one together). I just know that I'm reading it if these two get a book.
The story was too sweet at times for me, and some of the dialogues felt a bit forced or awkward. Still, all in all, it's a solid story, an enjoyable read, and a great tease for the next book—which, I have to admit, I have no idea who it'll be about, but I'm determined to believe it will be about Cas and Iris. They MUST get their HEA!
~ Copy provided by Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure. A review wasn't a requirement. ~
Sometimes, when I choose to read a book by this author, it goes something like this: I love the blurb, I'm intrigued by the plot, I'm excited to start reading, but, in the end, I feel underwhelmed and disconnected from the story. That's what happened here as well.
That's not to say that there's anything wrong with the book. Oh, no. The story is exactly what the blurb promises. The characters are perfectly likable, and the side characters compliment the story nicely. The problem is that I just didn't connect well with the writing style.
But anyway, on to the actual story.
Saint and Lowe are best friends, they're both in the music industry, and their careers are going up, up, up. Saint is a solo artist, and Lowe is a member of the Pretty Broken band.
Saint has had feelings for Lowe for pretty much the entire duration of their friendship, but Lowe is straight. Hence, Saint keeps quiet and tries to forget about them by getting into relationships with the wrong men and having his breakups splashed all over the internet.
Lowe, on the other hand, isn't looking for commitment. He prefers to have fun and move on. He has no idea about Saint's feelings, and when he finds out about them, he starts questioning everything and re-thinking what Saint means to him.
This was one of the scenes that didn't work for me. Their first kiss was barely a peck; Lowe freaked out, ran away, and basically went weeks without talking. However, I liked the few confrontational scenes in the story and how jealous they both got. They did talk and managed to avoid big misunderstandings most of the time, but they were quick to make assumptions and act according to them.
There's a candid conversation between them near the end of the book, and I liked seeing Lowe so sure of what he wanted and stating his limits.
I'm looking forward to Cas and Iris's story (I hope they're getting one together). I just know that I'm reading it if these two get a book.
The story was too sweet at times for me, and some of the dialogues felt a bit forced or awkward. Still, all in all, it's a solid story, an enjoyable read, and a great tease for the next book—which, I have to admit, I have no idea who it'll be about, but I'm determined to believe it will be about Cas and Iris. They MUST get their HEA!
~ Copy provided by Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure. A review wasn't a requirement. ~
March 21, 2022
"It's about you. All of it. Every song I've ever written. Every note. You're my person. You always have been, even knowing you could never love me back."
Book 2 in the Pretty Broken series is much like the first in that it's chocked full of feels and longing. Saint is in love with Lowe. He has been for years, even knowing his best friend is straight. He pours his heart into his music. His lyrics share his heartbreak with the world, all while never planning on telling Lowe. Saint knows if he doesn't want to lose his best friend in the world that keeping his feelings a secret is his cross to bear.
"Why does it hurt so bad?"
"Because it's real."
Lowe has watched Saint go from one toxic relationship to another. It kills him watching these relationships slowly destroy his best friend. But what can he do? Saint is an adult. He's not his keeper, even if he does wish he could have him all to himself most of the time. When a kiss happens and the truth of Saints feelings come out Lowe is an absolute wreck. He just can't believe all this time his best friend has been hopelessly in love with him. The knowledge changes every one of their memories. It causes Lowe to dissect every touch, every heartfelt conversation they've had over the years. And it all comes back to the kiss he can't get out of his head no matter how much he wishes he could.
I loved the tight friendship Lowe and Saint had before everything hit the fan. They were each other's number one. They fought to make each other a priority even before their relationship turned romantic. And when Lowe finally let go of everything that was holding him back? Their chemistry was even more off the charts.
On another note, while Pretty Obsessed gave us some insight to Iris' feelings about Cas, Pretty Toxic gave us Cas' side of the story. I'll tell you this, the two sides most definitely don't add up. I have a feeling their story is going to be quite the angst fest and an epic showdown is on the horizon. There's only so much more those two can go through before one of them breaks. I have an inkling it's going to be Iris, but Cas isn't far behind. I just hope there's enough left up them to piece back together after the fallout.
Book 2 in the Pretty Broken series is much like the first in that it's chocked full of feels and longing. Saint is in love with Lowe. He has been for years, even knowing his best friend is straight. He pours his heart into his music. His lyrics share his heartbreak with the world, all while never planning on telling Lowe. Saint knows if he doesn't want to lose his best friend in the world that keeping his feelings a secret is his cross to bear.
"Why does it hurt so bad?"
"Because it's real."
Lowe has watched Saint go from one toxic relationship to another. It kills him watching these relationships slowly destroy his best friend. But what can he do? Saint is an adult. He's not his keeper, even if he does wish he could have him all to himself most of the time. When a kiss happens and the truth of Saints feelings come out Lowe is an absolute wreck. He just can't believe all this time his best friend has been hopelessly in love with him. The knowledge changes every one of their memories. It causes Lowe to dissect every touch, every heartfelt conversation they've had over the years. And it all comes back to the kiss he can't get out of his head no matter how much he wishes he could.
I loved the tight friendship Lowe and Saint had before everything hit the fan. They were each other's number one. They fought to make each other a priority even before their relationship turned romantic. And when Lowe finally let go of everything that was holding him back? Their chemistry was even more off the charts.
On another note, while Pretty Obsessed gave us some insight to Iris' feelings about Cas, Pretty Toxic gave us Cas' side of the story. I'll tell you this, the two sides most definitely don't add up. I have a feeling their story is going to be quite the angst fest and an epic showdown is on the horizon. There's only so much more those two can go through before one of them breaks. I have an inkling it's going to be Iris, but Cas isn't far behind. I just hope there's enough left up them to piece back together after the fallout.
November 27, 2022
Ok, so this one was better than the previous one. Still needed to be a little bit toned down on the angst and toned up in the communication department, but everything else was pretty ok, especially Vincent. I loved Saint Vincent! That guy is freaking adorable while also pulling off I-am-a-cool-rockstar theme. Loved him.
Definitely intrigued about the next book if it features the couple that I think it will feature, though I might end up knocking their heads together.
Definitely intrigued about the next book if it features the couple that I think it will feature, though I might end up knocking their heads together.
June 2, 2025
Lowe y Saint son mejores amigos desde el primer show en el que compartieron escenario. Ambos con carreras a la altura, pero en diferentes direcciones. Lowe siempre "recogiendo" los pedazos de cada relación fallida de Saint. Un día, sin embargo, Saint sintió que era el momento de hacerle ver a Lowe de quien realmente estaba enamorado, y ese día cambio su relación para siempre. Pero podrán ambos encontrar un momento para ellos en sus ocupadas agendas? Que pasará con Lowe y su "heterosexualidad"? Será posible que realmente sea amor?
Me llamo mucho la atención que el autor continuara la serie con uno de los integrantes menos conocidos, y apenas mencionados en el libro anterior, pero entendí el porque. Sin embargo, durante mas de la mitad del libro el enfoque no fue en la pareja, sino en la relación Iris-Cas, y como estaban destruyendo la banda. Así que cuando al final se enfocaron realmente en la pareja, y se olvidaron casi por completo de la banda, me hizo pensar que el libro fue escrito por 2 personas diferentes, incluso en dos momentos diferentes.
Pero bueno, la serie esta entretenida, y voy a seguir con ella, a ver como terminan todos los integrantes de la banda emparejados.
Me llamo mucho la atención que el autor continuara la serie con uno de los integrantes menos conocidos, y apenas mencionados en el libro anterior, pero entendí el porque. Sin embargo, durante mas de la mitad del libro el enfoque no fue en la pareja, sino en la relación Iris-Cas, y como estaban destruyendo la banda. Así que cuando al final se enfocaron realmente en la pareja, y se olvidaron casi por completo de la banda, me hizo pensar que el libro fue escrito por 2 personas diferentes, incluso en dos momentos diferentes.
Pero bueno, la serie esta entretenida, y voy a seguir con ella, a ver como terminan todos los integrantes de la banda emparejados.
April 17, 2024
4 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Format: ebook (KU)
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
Tropes:
•MM
•Possessive MC’s
•Friends to Enemies(ish) to lovers
•Rock Star
Oh my heart ♥️ 🎹 I love Lowe and Saint so much. The emotions in this one was on point. I wanted more… more Saint and Lowe…more of their relationship…More of just them. I would have easily given a 5-star however I was left with questions. Maybe they’ll be in answered in the series, maybe not.
This was such a cute, sweet and very quick read.
I will continue with the series. We got to see me more of Cas and his get into his feelings a little bit. Now my heart is beginning to ache for him. I still love Iris… all of these guys will still your heart.
Format: ebook (KU)
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
Tropes:
•MM
•Possessive MC’s
•Friends to Enemies(ish) to lovers
•Rock Star
Oh my heart ♥️ 🎹 I love Lowe and Saint so much. The emotions in this one was on point. I wanted more… more Saint and Lowe…more of their relationship…More of just them. I would have easily given a 5-star however I was left with questions. Maybe they’ll be in answered in the series, maybe not.
This was such a cute, sweet and very quick read.
I will continue with the series. We got to see me more of Cas and his get into his feelings a little bit. Now my heart is beginning to ache for him. I still love Iris… all of these guys will still your heart.
March 23, 2022
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This is achingly beautiful and intoxicating.
You can feel the push and pull of these two in every word. Best friends, who love each other to their core. But they’re famous musicians and their lives play out in tabloids. They have teams of people trying to control and direct their every move. How do you navigate intense emotions, wants, and fears when the world is also watching and your life doesn’t always feel like your own.
The dark side of fame threatens to tear them apart if they aren’t willing to see what’s worth fighting for.
This is one of those books that makes you feel like you are actually there, the emotions are so gripping and consuming.
This definitely won’t be my last JR Gray book.
< ARC provided by GRR and this is my honest review >
This is achingly beautiful and intoxicating.
You can feel the push and pull of these two in every word. Best friends, who love each other to their core. But they’re famous musicians and their lives play out in tabloids. They have teams of people trying to control and direct their every move. How do you navigate intense emotions, wants, and fears when the world is also watching and your life doesn’t always feel like your own.
The dark side of fame threatens to tear them apart if they aren’t willing to see what’s worth fighting for.
This is one of those books that makes you feel like you are actually there, the emotions are so gripping and consuming.
This definitely won’t be my last JR Gray book.
< ARC provided by GRR and this is my honest review >
March 21, 2022
Wow!!
This book blew me away with the angst of two rock stars who were best friends in every way. This is a hard especially in the life they live where everyone is watching. Lowe and Saint had a special bond but that bond was about to be tested. It all stemmed from one kiss.
This is a mm rock romance that captured me from the very beginning and held me until the last page was turned.
This book blew me away with the angst of two rock stars who were best friends in every way. This is a hard especially in the life they live where everyone is watching. Lowe and Saint had a special bond but that bond was about to be tested. It all stemmed from one kiss.
This is a mm rock romance that captured me from the very beginning and held me until the last page was turned.
February 1, 2024
So at first I was thinking, where's the toxicity? This is a clear-cut case of two best friends, one of whom is in love with the other, and one who says they're not gay but they'll end up together, right? Wrong.
Well, in a way, it IS that. But it's also not. Not not that, but more than that.
These two insist nothing is going on then keep meeting up in bathrooms to accuse each other of seeing other people 😂
And not vaguely, in a beating around the bush type of way. Straight up 'How dare you say you're in love with me then be out here with him?!' and 'You said you don't want me but you don't want anyone else to either?!'
The jokes write themselves. Hooray for us.
There's our toxicity. How are you flipping out IN PUBLIC, multiple times, over a PR relationship yet this gives the plausible deniability for your relationship?
Lowe really really was something else entirely(but in a cute, you-silly-goose way, not in an 'I can't stand this mf' way)
Also, the coming out scene was really sweet and in a surprising twist of events, I love that the angst was plenty but not about the aftermath of that decision.
Love, love, love.
Still very curious about Cas and Iris. It may take me a very long while to get to them but I'll get there if it's the last thing I do. (but I hope it's not)
Well, in a way, it IS that. But it's also not. Not not that, but more than that.
These two insist nothing is going on then keep meeting up in bathrooms to accuse each other of seeing other people 😂
And not vaguely, in a beating around the bush type of way. Straight up 'How dare you say you're in love with me then be out here with him?!' and 'You said you don't want me but you don't want anyone else to either?!'
The jokes write themselves. Hooray for us.
There's our toxicity. How are you flipping out IN PUBLIC, multiple times, over a PR relationship yet this gives the plausible deniability for your relationship?
Lowe really really was something else entirely(but in a cute, you-silly-goose way, not in an 'I can't stand this mf' way)
Also, the coming out scene was really sweet and in a surprising twist of events, I love that the angst was plenty but not about the aftermath of that decision.
Love, love, love.
Still very curious about Cas and Iris. It may take me a very long while to get to them but I'll get there if it's the last thing I do. (but I hope it's not)
September 9, 2023
This was a good one. I wish I had read this soon because I had forgotten a lot of Emory and River's story, and I really liked those two.
Saint and Lowe had a great best friends-to-lovers story. It was super angsty, though. Lowe was having some issues after Saint kissed him. It almost felt like he had some past issues with his family where maybe his dad thought he was gay or bi? We didn't really get more on that though and I wish we would've.
Once these two get together, I loved it. There are some challenges they have to work through, but man these two were hot together!
Loved the epilogue! Can't wait to continue the story.
Saint and Lowe had a great best friends-to-lovers story. It was super angsty, though. Lowe was having some issues after Saint kissed him. It almost felt like he had some past issues with his family where maybe his dad thought he was gay or bi? We didn't really get more on that though and I wish we would've.
Once these two get together, I loved it. There are some challenges they have to work through, but man these two were hot together!
Loved the epilogue! Can't wait to continue the story.
March 29, 2022
2.5-3 stars
March 22, 2022
There is nothing hotter than one hot rocker pining for his equally hot rockstar best friend. This best friends to lovers, gay for you, rockstar romance has just enough drama and explosive chemistry. Lowe and Saint are FIRE!
Lowe and Saint clicked from the moment they met. Best friends, co-writers, and possibly more.
Saint knows what he wants. He always had. His feelings haven’t changed over the years. It will always be him.
Lowe loves his best friend. However, when his best friend crosses a line, he’s left questioning everything he ever thought about himself.
This is a story of self-discovery, undeniable love, and acceptance. Public life isn’t easy and this couple will face an uphill climb. Love conquers all once they decided that having one another was more important than anything else.
I love these series and all the beautifully broken characters. These possessive rockstars will find their way. HEA’s don’t come easy, but these guys are up for the challenge.
Lowe and Saint clicked from the moment they met. Best friends, co-writers, and possibly more.
Saint knows what he wants. He always had. His feelings haven’t changed over the years. It will always be him.
Lowe loves his best friend. However, when his best friend crosses a line, he’s left questioning everything he ever thought about himself.
This is a story of self-discovery, undeniable love, and acceptance. Public life isn’t easy and this couple will face an uphill climb. Love conquers all once they decided that having one another was more important than anything else.
I love these series and all the beautifully broken characters. These possessive rockstars will find their way. HEA’s don’t come easy, but these guys are up for the challenge.
Read
July 18, 2024why is everything so over exaggerated🙄 like you're not going to die because your best friend kissed you Lowe.
March 30, 2022
4.25 Stars!
Pretty Toxic is book 2 in the Pretty Broken series, and while it can be read as a standalone, I suggest reading it in order for maximum enjoyment.
Saint has been in love with his straight best friend Lowe ever since they met, however, even if he knows Lowe loves him as his friend, he's aware a romantic type of love is out of the question or is it? After Saint kisses Lowe, Lowe's life is thrown into a tailspin and he will need to decide what is it that he really wants.
I really liked Saint, he wore his heart on his sleeve and it was pretty obvious he fell into loveless relationships with jerks only because he didn't think he could have the only one he really wanted, Lowe. Now, while I liked Lowe, I also wanted to shake him more than a little bit and make him see what some of his actions did to Saint. Still, I really liked them together—once Lowe finally realized how he felt, that is. They were both passionate and possessive, which made for some interesting (and hot) dynamics, LOL. And once they finally talked things out, I really liked that they could combine being best friends and lovers so well.
I'm really interested in Cas and Iris's story, mostly because we've been teased with glimpses of it in the first two books and I'm really curious about how it will play out.
Overall, this was a great read. I liked Saint and Lowe together and while I was somewhat frustrated with Lowe, I wanted them to get their HEA. Recommendable!
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
Pretty Toxic is book 2 in the Pretty Broken series, and while it can be read as a standalone, I suggest reading it in order for maximum enjoyment.
Saint has been in love with his straight best friend Lowe ever since they met, however, even if he knows Lowe loves him as his friend, he's aware a romantic type of love is out of the question or is it? After Saint kisses Lowe, Lowe's life is thrown into a tailspin and he will need to decide what is it that he really wants.
I really liked Saint, he wore his heart on his sleeve and it was pretty obvious he fell into loveless relationships with jerks only because he didn't think he could have the only one he really wanted, Lowe. Now, while I liked Lowe, I also wanted to shake him more than a little bit and make him see what some of his actions did to Saint. Still, I really liked them together—once Lowe finally realized how he felt, that is. They were both passionate and possessive, which made for some interesting (and hot) dynamics, LOL. And once they finally talked things out, I really liked that they could combine being best friends and lovers so well.
I'm really interested in Cas and Iris's story, mostly because we've been teased with glimpses of it in the first two books and I'm really curious about how it will play out.
Overall, this was a great read. I liked Saint and Lowe together and while I was somewhat frustrated with Lowe, I wanted them to get their HEA. Recommendable!
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
March 21, 2022
• bi awakening
• friends-to-lovers
• rockstar romance
I’m not typically a fan of rockstar romances, I usually find them pretty cheesy, but I loved this one!
Saint and Lowe are best friends whose relationship has always made their fans (and the tabloids) question whether they’re toeing the line into something more. After a rough break up and one too many drinks, Saint end up kissing Lowe and everything changes.
Lowe does a lot of soul searching, unsure of his sexuality now but incapable of thinking about anything other than his kiss with Saint. He rethinks everything and realizes his feelings AND THANK GOD because I was so upset that they were fighting while he tried to figure out how he felt.
He and Saint are so freaking cute, even though I spent the first half of this book wanting to smack the absolute shit out of them for being idiots, and I really loved watching their friendship evolve into something more.
Now if I could get Cas and Iris’s book that would be great 🤣
• friends-to-lovers
• rockstar romance
I’m not typically a fan of rockstar romances, I usually find them pretty cheesy, but I loved this one!
Saint and Lowe are best friends whose relationship has always made their fans (and the tabloids) question whether they’re toeing the line into something more. After a rough break up and one too many drinks, Saint end up kissing Lowe and everything changes.
Lowe does a lot of soul searching, unsure of his sexuality now but incapable of thinking about anything other than his kiss with Saint. He rethinks everything and realizes his feelings AND THANK GOD because I was so upset that they were fighting while he tried to figure out how he felt.
He and Saint are so freaking cute, even though I spent the first half of this book wanting to smack the absolute shit out of them for being idiots, and I really loved watching their friendship evolve into something more.
Now if I could get Cas and Iris’s book that would be great 🤣
March 16, 2022
Ooh, this one was a doozy! Lowe and Saint are practically joined at the hip. Platonically. Or at least from Lowe’s side.
And then Saint finally gives in to his feelings and opens a whole can of worms. This book is a mess of emotions and trauma, from the main couple, to the band Pretty Broken, and it was a roller-coaster of a ride from start to finish. Lowe and Saint are a couple in every way apart from sexually, if only Lowe would open his eyes and admit it. And Pretty Broken is living up to it’s name.
I was immersed from the beginning, along for the ride, and suffering alongside both Lowe and Saint. It was a pretty intense look into what life is like for the rich and famous – whether it be living without consequences or in a fish-bowl. Lowe and Saint are two peas in a pod – possessive, nearly obsessive, and almost on a crash course to destroying each other unless they can get their act together and figure out how to be together despite how much time they have to spend apart.
I really enjoyed this one – not as much as I liked Pretty Obsessed, but in a different way. And I am desperate to find out what is going on between Cas and Iris. This was an intense book and very real, and I think this entire series could well become one of my favourites for when I want to ‘suffer’ alongside the main characters. 4.5 rounded up to 5 – I received an ARC from GRR.
And then Saint finally gives in to his feelings and opens a whole can of worms. This book is a mess of emotions and trauma, from the main couple, to the band Pretty Broken, and it was a roller-coaster of a ride from start to finish. Lowe and Saint are a couple in every way apart from sexually, if only Lowe would open his eyes and admit it. And Pretty Broken is living up to it’s name.
I was immersed from the beginning, along for the ride, and suffering alongside both Lowe and Saint. It was a pretty intense look into what life is like for the rich and famous – whether it be living without consequences or in a fish-bowl. Lowe and Saint are two peas in a pod – possessive, nearly obsessive, and almost on a crash course to destroying each other unless they can get their act together and figure out how to be together despite how much time they have to spend apart.
I really enjoyed this one – not as much as I liked Pretty Obsessed, but in a different way. And I am desperate to find out what is going on between Cas and Iris. This was an intense book and very real, and I think this entire series could well become one of my favourites for when I want to ‘suffer’ alongside the main characters. 4.5 rounded up to 5 – I received an ARC from GRR.
March 23, 2022
I didn’t even know how much I needed Saint and Lowe’s story until I started reading it and then I couldn’t get enough. Their unique relationship was their calm in the storm when things in their crazy worlds imploded and they literally made me swoon out loud! I can’t even begin to describe the chemistry and then the angst. There was so much to unpack and figure out between Saint and Lowe and while it was quite the journey it was worth every struggle to get to their hea.
March 16, 2022
I loved this story! A stolen kiss changed EVERYTHING for these best friends. It created just the right amount of angst for me. The way Saint cherishes Lowe is soooo sweet. And when Lowe becomes the aggressor….Holy Hotness!!! Pretty Toxic hits all the right cords of an amazing rockstar romance. Now, I’m dying of curiosity for Cas and Iris’s story!
March 19, 2022
A gay for you, rockstar, best friends to lovers romance!
This is the story of Saint and Lowe, who I was intrigued by when we learn of them in Pretty Obsessed. All of the guys in Pretty Broken are interesting and unique characters, and I love that their story continues with every couple.
Saint and Lowe are best friends, growing extremely close when Saint opened for Lowe’s band. They right together, read together (and write each other notes in the books they share! 💗), and love spending time together. When Saint has a tragic night with his boyfriend that goes way too far, Lowe is the first call he makes. Through trying to comfort Saint, Lowe discovers his feelings may not be all together platonic, but he’s straight. He’s never looked at another man before. But Saint isn’t just another man, he’s Saint!
This book explores many themes: sexuality, being in the public eye, unrequited love, making a relationship work as a celebrity. Saint is every bit as wonderful and I knew he would be, and I totally understand why so many people love him!
This is the story of Saint and Lowe, who I was intrigued by when we learn of them in Pretty Obsessed. All of the guys in Pretty Broken are interesting and unique characters, and I love that their story continues with every couple.
Saint and Lowe are best friends, growing extremely close when Saint opened for Lowe’s band. They right together, read together (and write each other notes in the books they share! 💗), and love spending time together. When Saint has a tragic night with his boyfriend that goes way too far, Lowe is the first call he makes. Through trying to comfort Saint, Lowe discovers his feelings may not be all together platonic, but he’s straight. He’s never looked at another man before. But Saint isn’t just another man, he’s Saint!
This book explores many themes: sexuality, being in the public eye, unrequited love, making a relationship work as a celebrity. Saint is every bit as wonderful and I knew he would be, and I totally understand why so many people love him!
Read
September 11, 2022What does it say about me that this book could have been plenty more toxic...
in general lots I liked but still not reaching that beautiful Alessandra hazard level I love 😅
I did like Saint and Lowe ...don't know how much I'm in the mood for the drama of Iris and Cas
in general lots I liked but still not reaching that beautiful Alessandra hazard level I love 😅
I did like Saint and Lowe ...don't know how much I'm in the mood for the drama of Iris and Cas
March 23, 2022
4-4.5 stars
This is the second in the Pretty Broken series, you could read it as a standalone but I'd highly recommend the first, not only will it give you valuable insight into the world the author has created, it's also pretty great, and while this is a new couple, the supporting cast (particularly Iris and Cas who are important) are all introduced in the first book.
I really, really liked this one. I enjoyed the first book so I was so looking forward to this and I wasn't disappointed at all. Friends to lovers is one of my favourite tropes, done right it's awesome and this was done very right. Saint and Lowe were supporting characters in the first book, but here it's their story. Right off, I liked Saint very much, even though I felt awful that his dick of a boyfriend got away with what he did, that made me so angry on Saint's behalf, although I was happy to see the back of him so quickly and never thought of him again. I liked Lowe too, especially when he stood up and tried to help River with Iris, and tried to be there for his friends and bandmates once he realised he was needed.
Honestly though I just wanted to knock some sense into Lowe, although I get that he'd always thought he was straight and then once he realised he could be open to more, he was all in. Saint wasn't perfect either, he needs to learn to stand up for himself more - which is easier said than done. Once they did get it together though, it was so good. I wouldn't have been averse to a bit more heat but there was enough. I also liked that Lowe was the one brave enough in the end to come out and stand up with Saint, it needed to be him and it was such a rewarding, and happy moment. Sigh.
I loved this, and now I REALLY need Cas and Iris' story. I feel that one is going to break me, though.
I received an ARC from GRR and this is my honest review.
This is the second in the Pretty Broken series, you could read it as a standalone but I'd highly recommend the first, not only will it give you valuable insight into the world the author has created, it's also pretty great, and while this is a new couple, the supporting cast (particularly Iris and Cas who are important) are all introduced in the first book.
I really, really liked this one. I enjoyed the first book so I was so looking forward to this and I wasn't disappointed at all. Friends to lovers is one of my favourite tropes, done right it's awesome and this was done very right. Saint and Lowe were supporting characters in the first book, but here it's their story. Right off, I liked Saint very much, even though I felt awful that his dick of a boyfriend got away with what he did, that made me so angry on Saint's behalf, although I was happy to see the back of him so quickly and never thought of him again. I liked Lowe too, especially when he stood up and tried to help River with Iris, and tried to be there for his friends and bandmates once he realised he was needed.
Honestly though I just wanted to knock some sense into Lowe, although I get that he'd always thought he was straight and then once he realised he could be open to more, he was all in. Saint wasn't perfect either, he needs to learn to stand up for himself more - which is easier said than done. Once they did get it together though, it was so good. I wouldn't have been averse to a bit more heat but there was enough. I also liked that Lowe was the one brave enough in the end to come out and stand up with Saint, it needed to be him and it was such a rewarding, and happy moment. Sigh.
I loved this, and now I REALLY need Cas and Iris' story. I feel that one is going to break me, though.
I received an ARC from GRR and this is my honest review.
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