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Just Watch Me
My idea of an adventure is logging into my favorite game and meeting up with my online friends from the safety of my couch. I’m happy in my boring and predictable life. I certainly don’t need a gorgeous man moving into my building to mix things up.
When my neighbor brings home a fresh hookup, I mean to close the blinds. I really do! It’s just that he has a tattoo and shows all that skin, and well, I’m ashamed to say I get busted. It’s not my fault he never closes his blinds and our studio apartments stare right into each other’s. I try to ignore my shame until, one day, my neighbor puts on a show, and like the magic of my favorite video games—I forget how to be boring.
Just Watch Me is a 38,000-word low-angst, sweet, and steamy gay romance about a tech geek who tumbles out of his comfort zone thanks to his gorgeous temporary neighbor. This book is for fans of ridiculous T-shirts, secret geeks, all the cheese, neighbors who become lovers, and a homebody falling for someone always on the move.
When my neighbor brings home a fresh hookup, I mean to close the blinds. I really do! It’s just that he has a tattoo and shows all that skin, and well, I’m ashamed to say I get busted. It’s not my fault he never closes his blinds and our studio apartments stare right into each other’s. I try to ignore my shame until, one day, my neighbor puts on a show, and like the magic of my favorite video games—I forget how to be boring.
Just Watch Me is a 38,000-word low-angst, sweet, and steamy gay romance about a tech geek who tumbles out of his comfort zone thanks to his gorgeous temporary neighbor. This book is for fans of ridiculous T-shirts, secret geeks, all the cheese, neighbors who become lovers, and a homebody falling for someone always on the move.
135 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 21, 2022
47 people are currently reading
191 people want to read
About the author
Lee Blair
20 books169 followersLee Blair is a queer author from Oregon who writes low angst, funny, M/M contemporary romance. She's constantly amused by the antics of her two ginger cats, considers daydreaming about future trips to Scotland a part-time job, and is obsessed with Schitt's Creek to an alarming degree.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 135 reviews
February 1, 2022
What began with a usual cliché, guy see hot neighbour and then he appear at his work, became so much more...
A sweet and steamy story between the two of them.
Just loved it 🥰
A sweet and steamy story between the two of them.
Just loved it 🥰
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December 14, 2022
MM Romance
Voyeur Neighbors To Lovers
4 Stars ⭐️
A To Z Book Title Challenge: J
Well, ‘J’ proved to be the hardest one yet as I just could not find a book starting with this letter that I wanted to read. I scoured my TBR lists and a lot of my GR friends shelves and eventually found this gem. This book is why I’m doing this challenge to begin with because this is a book I never would have picked up otherwise. It’s this author’s debut novella from a year or so ago, it’s not on any of the Amazon or GR top lists, it’s not a topic I gravitate to, I only had one friend that reviewed it, basically, it was nowhere on my radar but because of this challenge I found it and I really, really enjoyed it. It was worth the time it took to find it.
This is Skylar and Jesse’s story and it was so much more than I expected based on the blurb. I thought this was going to be a cliché smut fest but it was super cute and I loved how they got together. These two are neighbors in an apartment building in Portland, Oregon. Their units see inside each other’s so one night Jesse is chilling and accidentally catches his neighbor having sex on the couch. He knows he shouldn’t watch but it’s just so hot that he can’t resist. This is how everything starts hence why I was expecting a smutty time but this turned into a friends to lovers work romance and I was here for it.
For a novella, I really felt their connection and I absolutely adored their friendship. Jesse was timid by nature having grown up as an only child with parents who constantly sheltered and pointed out every terrible thing that could happen. His rebellion was going to a school an hour from his childhood home and then staying there after he graduated to work in game design much to his parent’s dismay. He lived a very quiet, stuck in a box kind of lifestyle but was too afraid to try new things and preferred staying home gaming with his online friends instead of meeting people in person. Skylar was the complete opposite in that he was outgoing and sure of himself, always on the move because of his job and loved to travel but he didn’t have a home base and life on the road made it hard to develop any real friendships. Both were lonely and found what they needed in each other and it was just a lovely read.
This takes place in only Jesse’s POV but there’s a bonus scene for download from Skylar’s. I usually don’t like being in only one POV but I didn’t mind it in this. I would also love to read more by this author because this book really worked for me and I want to see how they grow as an author.
& I LOVED all The Goonies places they visited. It brought me back to my childhood watching that movie over and over and over again, wanting to go on an adventure like that and I had no idea you could still visit the places it was filmed. I live about 8 hours from there and I’d love to go! 🏴☠️
Voyeur Neighbors To Lovers
4 Stars ⭐️
A To Z Book Title Challenge: J
Well, ‘J’ proved to be the hardest one yet as I just could not find a book starting with this letter that I wanted to read. I scoured my TBR lists and a lot of my GR friends shelves and eventually found this gem. This book is why I’m doing this challenge to begin with because this is a book I never would have picked up otherwise. It’s this author’s debut novella from a year or so ago, it’s not on any of the Amazon or GR top lists, it’s not a topic I gravitate to, I only had one friend that reviewed it, basically, it was nowhere on my radar but because of this challenge I found it and I really, really enjoyed it. It was worth the time it took to find it.
This is Skylar and Jesse’s story and it was so much more than I expected based on the blurb. I thought this was going to be a cliché smut fest but it was super cute and I loved how they got together. These two are neighbors in an apartment building in Portland, Oregon. Their units see inside each other’s so one night Jesse is chilling and accidentally catches his neighbor having sex on the couch. He knows he shouldn’t watch but it’s just so hot that he can’t resist. This is how everything starts hence why I was expecting a smutty time but this turned into a friends to lovers work romance and I was here for it.
For a novella, I really felt their connection and I absolutely adored their friendship. Jesse was timid by nature having grown up as an only child with parents who constantly sheltered and pointed out every terrible thing that could happen. His rebellion was going to a school an hour from his childhood home and then staying there after he graduated to work in game design much to his parent’s dismay. He lived a very quiet, stuck in a box kind of lifestyle but was too afraid to try new things and preferred staying home gaming with his online friends instead of meeting people in person. Skylar was the complete opposite in that he was outgoing and sure of himself, always on the move because of his job and loved to travel but he didn’t have a home base and life on the road made it hard to develop any real friendships. Both were lonely and found what they needed in each other and it was just a lovely read.
This takes place in only Jesse’s POV but there’s a bonus scene for download from Skylar’s. I usually don’t like being in only one POV but I didn’t mind it in this. I would also love to read more by this author because this book really worked for me and I want to see how they grow as an author.
& I LOVED all The Goonies places they visited. It brought me back to my childhood watching that movie over and over and over again, wanting to go on an adventure like that and I had no idea you could still visit the places it was filmed. I live about 8 hours from there and I’d love to go! 🏴☠️
Read
September 27, 2022DNF @ 47% - slumping
February 23, 2025
This book was on my tbr for a while now but I never really wanted it to pick up but damn I‘m glad I did! E enjoyed it so much!
It was insanely hot, with the perfect mix of tension, build-up, and steam. The voyeur neighbor trope was done so well and made every moment between Jesse and Sky even more intense.
The chemistry between them was beautiful and the slow but deliberate build-up made every interaction sizzle. Jesse, despite his initial shyness, can’t resist Sky’s playful confidence, and Sky?
He’s the perfect mix of bold and sweet, knowing exactly how to push Jesse out of his comfort zone. I also loved that their dynamic felt so natural, it was both sexy and surprisingly tender.
Beyond the heat, I adored how their relationship developed. Jesse slowly comes out of his shell, and Sky, despite his flirty exterior, genuinely sees him in a way that feels so real.
It was definitely worth reading it!!
It was insanely hot, with the perfect mix of tension, build-up, and steam. The voyeur neighbor trope was done so well and made every moment between Jesse and Sky even more intense.
The chemistry between them was beautiful and the slow but deliberate build-up made every interaction sizzle. Jesse, despite his initial shyness, can’t resist Sky’s playful confidence, and Sky?
He’s the perfect mix of bold and sweet, knowing exactly how to push Jesse out of his comfort zone. I also loved that their dynamic felt so natural, it was both sexy and surprisingly tender.
Beyond the heat, I adored how their relationship developed. Jesse slowly comes out of his shell, and Sky, despite his flirty exterior, genuinely sees him in a way that feels so real.
It was definitely worth reading it!!
January 17, 2022
4.25
Oh the cuteness 😍
So when I got the opportunity to read Just Watch Me, I took it without even reading the blurb.
That title called me: I love a bit of voyeurism/exhibitionism in a story!!
I expected a steamy read i could have enjoyed for a couple of hours. But I got so much more... 😍
The sweetness of these two characters made me smile like a fool for the whole time.
And I fell for them 😍😍
Jesse is a nerd, a geek, who is afraid of everything.
He never feel comfortable with anyone. So he kinda envy his new neighbor.
Skylar is built, hot, and no shy at all with the men he take at his apartment 😏😏😏
And Jesse knows that because their apartments faces each other, and he may have seen to much from his window 🔥🔥
But as Jesse get the chance to know Skylar better, he find himself falling hard.
Lee Blair wrote a beautiful love story.
I found many similarities between me and Jesse so I connect with him immediately. And I loved the way he grow up through the book.
Skylar, despite his facade, is a nice guy who wants love. But he is lonely.
He is understanding, and patience with Jesse. A positive presence in his life.
So it bother me there wasn't his pov.
I would have loved to read his thoughts and feelings from time to time.
But i'm glad the author wrote at least a bonus chapter from his point of view.
And let me tell it is hot 😏🔥
It's definitely a good start for Lee Blair and i'm surely gonna keep an eye on her next works.
Oh the cuteness 😍
So when I got the opportunity to read Just Watch Me, I took it without even reading the blurb.
That title called me: I love a bit of voyeurism/exhibitionism in a story!!
I expected a steamy read i could have enjoyed for a couple of hours. But I got so much more... 😍
The sweetness of these two characters made me smile like a fool for the whole time.
And I fell for them 😍😍
Jesse is a nerd, a geek, who is afraid of everything.
He never feel comfortable with anyone. So he kinda envy his new neighbor.
Skylar is built, hot, and no shy at all with the men he take at his apartment 😏😏😏
And Jesse knows that because their apartments faces each other, and he may have seen to much from his window 🔥🔥
But as Jesse get the chance to know Skylar better, he find himself falling hard.
Lee Blair wrote a beautiful love story.
I found many similarities between me and Jesse so I connect with him immediately. And I loved the way he grow up through the book.
Skylar, despite his facade, is a nice guy who wants love. But he is lonely.
He is understanding, and patience with Jesse. A positive presence in his life.
So it bother me there wasn't his pov.
I would have loved to read his thoughts and feelings from time to time.
But i'm glad the author wrote at least a bonus chapter from his point of view.
And let me tell it is hot 😏🔥
It's definitely a good start for Lee Blair and i'm surely gonna keep an eye on her next works.
January 15, 2022
ARC reviewed ....Release date : January 27, 2022
Sweet. Low Angst. Hot.
Just Watch Me is an entertaining , steamy , low drama, low angst, sweet and easy to read short story.
I liked Skyler and Jesse, the heroes. We get to know them while they get to know each other , it felt very organic and natural. Their friendship and then relationship and growth was a beauty to "see". I appreciate the care the author took in building their interesting background stories , it helped as it made me sympathize and relate with them very fast .
Lee Blair did a great job in her/his debut book.
Sweet. Low Angst. Hot.
Just Watch Me is an entertaining , steamy , low drama, low angst, sweet and easy to read short story.
I liked Skyler and Jesse, the heroes. We get to know them while they get to know each other , it felt very organic and natural. Their friendship and then relationship and growth was a beauty to "see". I appreciate the care the author took in building their interesting background stories , it helped as it made me sympathize and relate with them very fast .
Lee Blair did a great job in her/his debut book.
January 28, 2022
4.5
First of all - ignore the cover. You would assume by the image that you are getting something a little darker and angsty. You aren't. This is actually really cute once the neighbours meet. Perfectly matched personalities and a lot of sweetness.
It obviously starts with a voyeur/exhibitionist thing which was pretty hot and some second hand embarrassment but I loved every moment of this novella.
The .5 off is because really I just wanted more. More steam on page instead of being told. I wanted to spend that week with them together because I fell in love with Jesse and Skylar as a couple
First of all - ignore the cover. You would assume by the image that you are getting something a little darker and angsty. You aren't. This is actually really cute once the neighbours meet. Perfectly matched personalities and a lot of sweetness.
It obviously starts with a voyeur/exhibitionist thing which was pretty hot and some second hand embarrassment but I loved every moment of this novella.
The .5 off is because really I just wanted more. More steam on page instead of being told. I wanted to spend that week with them together because I fell in love with Jesse and Skylar as a couple
January 31, 2022
RTC this one was super sweet and I really appreciated the relationship between the main character. I just thought that it would be more focused on sex because of the blurb and I found that to be missing a little. The story was super sweet but it wasn’t what I was expecting to be.
I received an ARC of this book and this is my honest review
I received an ARC of this book and this is my honest review
November 2, 2022
i relate so much with Jesse it's not even funny💀.
January 24, 2022
*4.25
Jesse the tech geek lives his life in a bubble (thanks overprotective parents!). He doesn’t realize how much he dreams of actually living life, and not just going through the motions...
Until he encounters his sexy neighbour who leaves his blinds open during a hookup.
‘If only I’d learned the etiquette for navigating being caught jerking off when I’d learned other important things like which fork to use”
Together, in the safety of feeling seen by the other, they discover how to let loose, be free, and go after the good things. Through city-wide adventures (is there such a thing as too much cheese), home-cooked meals, and some steamy nights (even if they aren’t in the same room), they find friendship and love that gives you all the feels!
This is a low-angst book from the singular POV of Jesse and for a short story (135 pages), that works really well. I truly smiled throughout the whole book (and giggled more than a few times!), and I definitely fell in love with the characters.
It was a wonderful story that kept me engaged the whole way through. I look forward to reading more from this author.
< ARC provided by GRR and this is my honest review >
Jesse the tech geek lives his life in a bubble (thanks overprotective parents!). He doesn’t realize how much he dreams of actually living life, and not just going through the motions...
Until he encounters his sexy neighbour who leaves his blinds open during a hookup.
‘If only I’d learned the etiquette for navigating being caught jerking off when I’d learned other important things like which fork to use”
Together, in the safety of feeling seen by the other, they discover how to let loose, be free, and go after the good things. Through city-wide adventures (is there such a thing as too much cheese), home-cooked meals, and some steamy nights (even if they aren’t in the same room), they find friendship and love that gives you all the feels!
This is a low-angst book from the singular POV of Jesse and for a short story (135 pages), that works really well. I truly smiled throughout the whole book (and giggled more than a few times!), and I definitely fell in love with the characters.
It was a wonderful story that kept me engaged the whole way through. I look forward to reading more from this author.
< ARC provided by GRR and this is my honest review >
January 28, 2022
A Joyfully Jay review.
4 stars
I’ll admit that based on the blurb for this book, I was expecting sort of a sex-filled romp, something porny and fun, but maybe not with a whole lot of story. And I was totally fine with that. But I was even more pleased to find that Just Watch Me not only has all the fun, sexy, voyeurism/exhibitionism the blurb promises, but also some nicely developed characters and an engaging story. So first, the high heat side. The story opens up with Jesse accidentally spotting Skylar having sex with some guy he brought home and even as he knows he shouldn’t watch, he can’t help himself. The twist here is that Skylar sees him watching, and Jesse is mortified. As the guys get to know one another, Jesse is hesitant about moving forward too fast and getting his heart involved, given that he knows that Skylar is leaving town. So instead, the guys have a few more sexual experiences while watching one another/performing for each other through the windows of their apartments. So this is a sexy story and a fun bit of play between the two men.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
4 stars
I’ll admit that based on the blurb for this book, I was expecting sort of a sex-filled romp, something porny and fun, but maybe not with a whole lot of story. And I was totally fine with that. But I was even more pleased to find that Just Watch Me not only has all the fun, sexy, voyeurism/exhibitionism the blurb promises, but also some nicely developed characters and an engaging story. So first, the high heat side. The story opens up with Jesse accidentally spotting Skylar having sex with some guy he brought home and even as he knows he shouldn’t watch, he can’t help himself. The twist here is that Skylar sees him watching, and Jesse is mortified. As the guys get to know one another, Jesse is hesitant about moving forward too fast and getting his heart involved, given that he knows that Skylar is leaving town. So instead, the guys have a few more sexual experiences while watching one another/performing for each other through the windows of their apartments. So this is a sexy story and a fun bit of play between the two men.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
January 21, 2022
Just Watch Me was an adorable quick read that delivered on the premise and then a bit more. Reading through the blurb, I was expecting some cute voyeuristic thing with maybe a little bit of interaction. Instead, I got an adorable loves tory between Jesse and Skylar, a story about two men finding a middle ground in their own lives and bringing out the best in one another.
And they did that. Skylar travelled a lot, but found a sense of belonging he often lacked his entire life with Jesse. Jessse was sheltered and risk averse but found safety to explore in Skylar. They had enough common interests to ground the friendship and make it make sense. I liked the way that Jesse's anxiety about so much just kind of radiated off of the page. It made his feelings feel very real.
While I enjoyed getting to know Skylar as Jesse did, I do wish that this had been a dual POV, because I would've loved to see Jesse through Skylar's eyes. I would've loved to see his point of view of some of their through the window interactions. I also think his perspective would've given us some insight into some of his flaws, because Jesse's narration made it seem like he didn't have any - which made it slightly harder to connect to the book and characters.
But all in all, Just Watch Me was an obscenely sweet book with the right amount of steam. There is little to no angst between the MCs with all conflict coming as personal conflict in Jesse's life as he navigates his parents and career. This book was so much cuter than I anticipated and I would highly recommend to anyone who just wants something short and sweet.
** ARC PROVIDED BY GRR AND THIS IS MY HONEST REVIEW **
And they did that. Skylar travelled a lot, but found a sense of belonging he often lacked his entire life with Jesse. Jessse was sheltered and risk averse but found safety to explore in Skylar. They had enough common interests to ground the friendship and make it make sense. I liked the way that Jesse's anxiety about so much just kind of radiated off of the page. It made his feelings feel very real.
While I enjoyed getting to know Skylar as Jesse did, I do wish that this had been a dual POV, because I would've loved to see Jesse through Skylar's eyes. I would've loved to see his point of view of some of their through the window interactions. I also think his perspective would've given us some insight into some of his flaws, because Jesse's narration made it seem like he didn't have any - which made it slightly harder to connect to the book and characters.
But all in all, Just Watch Me was an obscenely sweet book with the right amount of steam. There is little to no angst between the MCs with all conflict coming as personal conflict in Jesse's life as he navigates his parents and career. This book was so much cuter than I anticipated and I would highly recommend to anyone who just wants something short and sweet.
** ARC PROVIDED BY GRR AND THIS IS MY HONEST REVIEW **
January 30, 2022
This was a quick fun read with super sweet MCs. The first book that I have read by this author. Honestly the moment it talked about voyeurism/exhibitionism and nerds I clicked yes, please! I really thought it would be a little more angsty/mostly all sex but it wasn't there was an actual plot and it worked. There was a little conflict with one of the MCs and his work but it was resolved quickly. Jesse and Skylar were so cute together and I loved watching Jesse come out of his shell with Skylar's help. Definitely recommend this book!
January 28, 2022
It's not often that you call a book built on voyeurism sweet and romantic, but Lee Blair has found the right characters to bring just those adjectives to the table.
Jesse, the shy, nervous and sheltered programmer sees Skylar, the adventurous, nomadic and sex positive neighbour through his window... and watches, not knowing that they'll soon meet up in real life... it's got a sweetness that you just don't expect from looking at the cover...
The pacing, the character growth and the plot were all on point and I really enjoyed Just Watch Me.
Jesse, the shy, nervous and sheltered programmer sees Skylar, the adventurous, nomadic and sex positive neighbour through his window... and watches, not knowing that they'll soon meet up in real life... it's got a sweetness that you just don't expect from looking at the cover...
The pacing, the character growth and the plot were all on point and I really enjoyed Just Watch Me.
January 13, 2022
Edited
A sweet steamy office romance. Also a very low angst. However, the beginning of this story reminds me of one of the book I read awhile ago (forgot the title and author). I still trying to get the name.
The writing is good, I think. And enjoyable. Both Jesse and Skylar are likeable characters.
PS. Found it! The Guy in the Window by Cara Dee.
A sweet steamy office romance. Also a very low angst. However, the beginning of this story reminds me of one of the book I read awhile ago (forgot the title and author). I still trying to get the name.
The writing is good, I think. And enjoyable. Both Jesse and Skylar are likeable characters.
PS. Found it! The Guy in the Window by Cara Dee.
January 15, 2022
This book was great fun , a total delight to read.
This is a new to me author and I wasn’t sure what to expect but they definitely ticked all the boxes for me.
The story is told from Jesse’s POV. He’s living a somewhat isolated and anxiety induced life in his studio apartment, his main interactions consist of his job and online gaming.
One day he looks across to the neighbouring apartment and sees some excellent sexy times happening between his new neighbour and his hook up.
Naturally, instead of closing the curtains, he continues to watch…and he likes to what he sees! Cue some awkward and erotic times ahead.
Whilst this book starts of with sexual elements, the story is actually very sweet and both MCs have adorable chemistry and quality time together.
Low Angst, some steam, romance and fun. What more can you ask for ?
This is a new to me author and I wasn’t sure what to expect but they definitely ticked all the boxes for me.
The story is told from Jesse’s POV. He’s living a somewhat isolated and anxiety induced life in his studio apartment, his main interactions consist of his job and online gaming.
One day he looks across to the neighbouring apartment and sees some excellent sexy times happening between his new neighbour and his hook up.
Naturally, instead of closing the curtains, he continues to watch…and he likes to what he sees! Cue some awkward and erotic times ahead.
Whilst this book starts of with sexual elements, the story is actually very sweet and both MCs have adorable chemistry and quality time together.
Low Angst, some steam, romance and fun. What more can you ask for ?
January 13, 2022
I must admit, I thought I was getting into something kinky when I read the blurb for this book – the idea of watching your neighbour putting on a show was most entertaining. The manner in which it starts definitely matched my thoughts – one MC watches the other with another man and gets off on it.
It took a turn towards the sweeter end of thingss after that and became a much sweeter story about two men falling in love, finding someone who made them a better person and gave them a chance for a fuller life. It was exactly as described – low angst, very sweet with a side order of steam as they got to know each other and fell in love.
It was a nice, easy and enjoyable read, and I liked how respectful and supportive they were of each other. A very solid 3.75/5, rounded up to 4. I’ll have to look elsewhere for a full on kink-read!
I received an ARC from Gay Romance Reviews.
It took a turn towards the sweeter end of thingss after that and became a much sweeter story about two men falling in love, finding someone who made them a better person and gave them a chance for a fuller life. It was exactly as described – low angst, very sweet with a side order of steam as they got to know each other and fell in love.
It was a nice, easy and enjoyable read, and I liked how respectful and supportive they were of each other. A very solid 3.75/5, rounded up to 4. I’ll have to look elsewhere for a full on kink-read!
I received an ARC from Gay Romance Reviews.
January 11, 2022
This book certainly has its steamy moments, even if the MCs aren’t in the same room! I can relate to Jesse (shy and awkward geeky introverts have to stick together.) Once he starts getting to know his neighbor pretty much through forced proximity, he realizes Skylar is just as geeky as he is. Sky just adapts to situations better. This is a good story. Skylar helps Jesse build some confidence, enough to stand up for himself and not just take stuff that happens with a bad boss. I enjoyed the characters and would recommend this story for anyone looking for one a little outside the ordinary meet cute.
January 29, 2022
***4 stars, 5 for those who are looking for low-angst and don’t mind a bit of false advertising.***
Just Watch Me is, ultimately, kind of adorable. Jesse and Skylar are sweet together and it was nice to see their romance grow from friendship to something deeper. Jesse, due to his parents’ own issues, is incredibly risk adverse and doesn’t feel like he can be more than he already is. Skylar has what might seem like a very exciting job that allows him travels extensively, to the point that he is groundless and a bit lonely. Jesse helps Sky find a home, while Sky allows Jesse to dream bigger.
So why only 4 stars? Because the premise and beginning of the book promised a different kind of book.
Look. I was led to believe this would be super steamy with a side of voyeurism, but it’s really not. The disconnect between the blurb and beginning of the book, to where it then goes, is jarring. This story could have had a meet-cute instead of a meet-porn and I would have been perfectly happy! It just feels like the story is full speed ahead and then it suddenly is brought to a halt. A low angst, sweet halt that I don’t regret reading, but a halt nonetheless. It throws the pacing off in a way that I didn’t find necessary. It almost feels like the author was writing a different story but fell in love with her characters so much that I had to give them the sweet love story she meant for another book.
That aside, I did like this! Jesse’s insecurities from having overprotective parents was interesting and not something I usually see. It hinders him in his relationships and his career, keeping him from feeling like he can achieve more. It’s good commentary on how parents can hurt our children even by doing what seems to be the right thing, and it felt realistic and relatable.
I didn’t feel like I knew Skylar as well as I did Jesse, which is slightly expected in a single POV. I honestly prefer single POV because it often makes communication issues seems more plausible and allows the reader to see things in the other M’s actions that the main MC cannot. Here, though, I just didn’t feel I got Skylar’s emotions and motivations as well as I did Jesse.
(Sidenote: Skylar said he went to 13 high schools. I’m sorry, I call bullshit. I’m military and families can move around a lot, but not 13 high schools. Even 13 schools over an entire educational career is probably too much. The logistics of moving a family like that are ridiculous, if someone’s specialty required them to move that much, they wouldn’t bring their family every time.)
Overall, this is a sweet, low-angst story that I did enjoy, even if it wasn’t what I was expecting. 4 stars for me, but easily 4+ for others. I’m looking forward to the author’s future works!
***I received this book as an ARC and this is my honest review***
Just Watch Me is, ultimately, kind of adorable. Jesse and Skylar are sweet together and it was nice to see their romance grow from friendship to something deeper. Jesse, due to his parents’ own issues, is incredibly risk adverse and doesn’t feel like he can be more than he already is. Skylar has what might seem like a very exciting job that allows him travels extensively, to the point that he is groundless and a bit lonely. Jesse helps Sky find a home, while Sky allows Jesse to dream bigger.
So why only 4 stars? Because the premise and beginning of the book promised a different kind of book.
Look. I was led to believe this would be super steamy with a side of voyeurism, but it’s really not. The disconnect between the blurb and beginning of the book, to where it then goes, is jarring. This story could have had a meet-cute instead of a meet-porn and I would have been perfectly happy! It just feels like the story is full speed ahead and then it suddenly is brought to a halt. A low angst, sweet halt that I don’t regret reading, but a halt nonetheless. It throws the pacing off in a way that I didn’t find necessary. It almost feels like the author was writing a different story but fell in love with her characters so much that I had to give them the sweet love story she meant for another book.
That aside, I did like this! Jesse’s insecurities from having overprotective parents was interesting and not something I usually see. It hinders him in his relationships and his career, keeping him from feeling like he can achieve more. It’s good commentary on how parents can hurt our children even by doing what seems to be the right thing, and it felt realistic and relatable.
I didn’t feel like I knew Skylar as well as I did Jesse, which is slightly expected in a single POV. I honestly prefer single POV because it often makes communication issues seems more plausible and allows the reader to see things in the other M’s actions that the main MC cannot. Here, though, I just didn’t feel I got Skylar’s emotions and motivations as well as I did Jesse.
(Sidenote: Skylar said he went to 13 high schools. I’m sorry, I call bullshit. I’m military and families can move around a lot, but not 13 high schools. Even 13 schools over an entire educational career is probably too much. The logistics of moving a family like that are ridiculous, if someone’s specialty required them to move that much, they wouldn’t bring their family every time.)
Overall, this is a sweet, low-angst story that I did enjoy, even if it wasn’t what I was expecting. 4 stars for me, but easily 4+ for others. I’m looking forward to the author’s future works!
***I received this book as an ARC and this is my honest review***
November 17, 2023
That had to be a one-off, a fevered moment where I wasn’t myself. I was supposed to be boring, bland, Jesse—a guy who didn’t do stuff like that. A voice deep inside me said, But what if I want to?
Jesse is content with his careful, boring life. Sure, he dreams of a more adventurous existence but when it comes down to it, he always errs on the side of predictability. Then a sexy guy moves into the apartment across the courtyard from him and happens to leave his blinds open when bringing home a hookup. Jesse knows he shouldn’t watch but can’t bring himself to close his own blinds and is mortified when his neighbor catches him watching. Jesse promises himself he won’t watch again but then one day his sexy neighbor begins to put on a show for Jesse’s eyes only and when he joins in, Jesse quickly learns how much fun it is to step outside of his comfort zone. Will opening himself up to this stranger in a way he’s never been brave enough to do be the start of his life’s greatest adventure?
“You’re so weird.” He looked absolutely charmed.
That’s the first time someone has called me weird in a way that sounded like they were calling me beautiful. I wanted him to do it again.
I can’t even remember how I came across this book but I’m so glad I did because I loved it! It’s more of a novella length but it felt like a fully developed story with characters I absolutely loved. The story is told solely from Jesse’s POV and I loved being in his head. He’s introverted, risk-averse, and wants to be the type of person to put himself out there more but is scared to make it happen - honestly, I saw a lot of myself in him. We even have similar jobs as computer programmers. A lot of the things happening at his job hit very close to home for me!
I LOVED seeing him open himself up when he meets Skylar, though. Skylar was such a great guy. In many ways, he was the opposite of Jesse in that he lived for adventure and was always moving around but they had a lot of things in common too. It was great seeing them bond over their similarities while broadening each other’s horizons with their differences. They really were perfect for one another.
The blurb and the cover may make it seem like you’re only going to get a sexy story (don’t worry there’s plenty of spice!) but this book was so much more than that. It was sweet and very low-angst and such a feel-good story. I even shed a few happy tears near the end! I’m so glad I came across it and I immediately went and added Lee Blair’s other books to my TBR as soon as I was finished!
“And you showed me I can have a home no matter where I am, that home can be a person, that I can explore and still be safe. Be okay.”
January 30, 2022
Jesse is very good at his job but he has been taught by overprotective parents to be a bit afraid of straying outside the lines and enjoying life. So he is stuck in a job that does not fully utilize his talents or imagination by an opportunistic supervisor who uses his talent but does not encourage or reward his effort. One Friday he is lamenting his boring life when he looks across the courtyard and sees his hot neighbor with the guy he brought home. Unlike what he usually does he watches and enjoys himself though he feels guilty when he realizes his neighbor knew he was watching. The company he is working for is about to start a big new project and has called in consultants and just his luck one of them is Skylar the guy from across the courtyard. This is when the story takes a turn and gets good. When they get home that night Sky approaches him and they work through the awkwardness and arrive at a let's be friends place that works out for both of them. This is where a flirty, natural courtship that is enough of a slow burn begins that allows them time to not only get to know one another but see one another. That is important as in a lot of ways they both need that. Jesse starts coming out of his shell and Sky starts thinking about not just adjusting to being what is needed in each place where he consults but to be himself. They are a good match and that helps each of them to fall for one another while figuring out how to bring that person they are growing into into a healthy relationship that can last. This started steamy and there is lots of steam along the way. But it is also supportive and sweet because they communicate and fall in love as friends, not just in lust. I read this in a day and was so glad there was a bonus epilogue that I could click a link to download.
I received an ARC from GRR for an honest review.
I received an ARC from GRR for an honest review.
March 26, 2022
Encounters steamy and staid
A very steamy and then unexpectedly sweet story that let love grow and give wings to the two lead characters.
Jesse hasn't had many great relationships, always told that he is too boring and safe. His new neighbour is sexy but his past experience makes him too afraid to make a move. When that neighbour leaves his curtains open during a hookup and Jesse finds himself watching the two form a connection. When they meet again in regular life the chance to explore something grows.
Both Jesse and Skylar had things that complimented each other and their relationship just felt natural as it grew. With Skylar's lack of feeling of home and Jesse's fear of leaving home, they test each other just a bit qnd also give new options and hope for a future. It was great how neither pushed in the relationship, allowing each to have their comforts and move forward when ready and not before. They came together as friends, so as the friendship grew so did the attraction, and it was impossible not to root for them. The way it all ended up had so much hope and great ways that they found more of themselves while still staying the same people as when they met. As sweet and steamy story that was a great easy read!
A very steamy and then unexpectedly sweet story that let love grow and give wings to the two lead characters.
Jesse hasn't had many great relationships, always told that he is too boring and safe. His new neighbour is sexy but his past experience makes him too afraid to make a move. When that neighbour leaves his curtains open during a hookup and Jesse finds himself watching the two form a connection. When they meet again in regular life the chance to explore something grows.
Both Jesse and Skylar had things that complimented each other and their relationship just felt natural as it grew. With Skylar's lack of feeling of home and Jesse's fear of leaving home, they test each other just a bit qnd also give new options and hope for a future. It was great how neither pushed in the relationship, allowing each to have their comforts and move forward when ready and not before. They came together as friends, so as the friendship grew so did the attraction, and it was impossible not to root for them. The way it all ended up had so much hope and great ways that they found more of themselves while still staying the same people as when they met. As sweet and steamy story that was a great easy read!
January 31, 2022
Very enjoyable. It was like reading a how to for a successful relationship. This had the meet cute in a very dirty way. Skylar was written as way hot as was the initial voyeur scene. Jesse was thoughtfully written and came off like a real person. His shyness and hangups made for some charming scenes with Skylar as they got to know each other. The voyeur sex between them was a plot line I don’t think I’ve seen too often, if at all. It was very sexy. These MCs had depth in their internal monologues and their actions towards each other. I really liked when the slow burn turned into fireworks. The entire scene was hot and well written. I loved Sky’s mad dash from his apartment to Jesse’s. The side characters were good and I am glad that the author kept them out of the growing relationship. The story read like it was just Jesse and Skylar, even while surrounded by people. Their bubble of love! The epilogue was great. It was like being on the trip, too, and I enjoyed learning about the locale.
January 30, 2022
When I read the blurb, I expected a story focused on quick and dirty sexual encounters, from which the relationship between the two characters would develop.
I was right, but it was also much more than that.
I did not expect how sweet Jesse and Sky would be with each other, after meeting in other circumstances other than being neighbours. I admit I thought they’d be focused on all the ways to get off with each other but as the story went on, we got to discover two lonely souls who were looking for their person, and for Jesse, the guts to stand for his ideas in his workplace.
I was really delighted to follow the build of their low angst love story: it was more about pushing boundaries with a bit of kink than a full on voyeurism romance.
Overall, it was lovely, I loved them both, 5/5 would recommend!
I received an ARC for an honest review.
I was right, but it was also much more than that.
I did not expect how sweet Jesse and Sky would be with each other, after meeting in other circumstances other than being neighbours. I admit I thought they’d be focused on all the ways to get off with each other but as the story went on, we got to discover two lonely souls who were looking for their person, and for Jesse, the guts to stand for his ideas in his workplace.
I was really delighted to follow the build of their low angst love story: it was more about pushing boundaries with a bit of kink than a full on voyeurism romance.
Overall, it was lovely, I loved them both, 5/5 would recommend!
I received an ARC for an honest review.
January 31, 2022
Just Watch Me is a complete m/m standalone.
Jessie is shy and reserved and skylar is far more outgoing and not shy at all, in any way!! But maybe that’s makes them kind of perfect and compliment each other.
Jessie doesn’t travel, he’s in a job he doesn’t quite want and too timid to go out and meet anyone.
Skylar has moved in across the street and they have a perfect view of each other’s apartments. Jessie notices that Skylar brings home lots of men and isn’t shy in his actions. Jessie finds himself watching and then Skylar notices and likes it. Putting on more of a show!!
As it turns out they now work at the same place. Awkward….. maybe?!?!
They become friends however and things develop from there. But Skylar is more of a free spirit and likes to travel and Jessie does not.
This is a great story, that’s steamy, heartwarming and courageous. Would definitely recommend.
Jessie is shy and reserved and skylar is far more outgoing and not shy at all, in any way!! But maybe that’s makes them kind of perfect and compliment each other.
Jessie doesn’t travel, he’s in a job he doesn’t quite want and too timid to go out and meet anyone.
Skylar has moved in across the street and they have a perfect view of each other’s apartments. Jessie notices that Skylar brings home lots of men and isn’t shy in his actions. Jessie finds himself watching and then Skylar notices and likes it. Putting on more of a show!!
As it turns out they now work at the same place. Awkward….. maybe?!?!
They become friends however and things develop from there. But Skylar is more of a free spirit and likes to travel and Jessie does not.
This is a great story, that’s steamy, heartwarming and courageous. Would definitely recommend.
January 28, 2022
4 Stars - I loved Jesse and Skylar. Skylar is totally swoonworthy and Jesse is a sweet nerd you can't help but like and cheer for. This book has tons of steam and it starts right off the bat. The actual physical relationship between Jesse and Skylar is a nice slow build that ends in an explosion. I really enjoyed watching their relationship develop. Their chemistry was really well written and I loved the flirty banter. The fact that they were trying to hold back on a physical relationship added another layer to the tension.
The one thing I really did not like about this book was all the negative self thoughts from Jesse. He has some major self esteem issues, and while that does play a role in the plot of the book, I think it was way over done and even bordered on being triggering at times.
Overall this was a quick steamy read with loveable characters. I had some issues with the negative self thoughts in the first person POV, but that may not be an issue for everyone.
I received an ARC of this book from Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest opinion.
The one thing I really did not like about this book was all the negative self thoughts from Jesse. He has some major self esteem issues, and while that does play a role in the plot of the book, I think it was way over done and even bordered on being triggering at times.
Overall this was a quick steamy read with loveable characters. I had some issues with the negative self thoughts in the first person POV, but that may not be an issue for everyone.
I received an ARC of this book from Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest opinion.
January 28, 2022
Such a great book. I loved it. Very entertaining and steamy. Jesse has a solitary, lonely, boring life. That is until the hot, handsome Skylar moved in directly across from Jesse. Jesse has seen Skylar bring home several men since he moved in. On one such occasion Skylar leaves his blinds open with a clear view for Jesse to watch a steamy encounter. Jesse can't keep from watching the scene unfolding before his eyes and becomes excited himself. When the mutually satisfying encounter for all parties involved, Jesse looks and finds Skylar watching him as well. This becomes the first of several encounters where they watch each other. They become more personal, just between the two of them as an attraction grows. One day at work who should show up as a consultant but Skylar. Things become very personal indeed. Can the two men survive this latest development and become more? A wild and crazy ride. Very steamy. I highly recommend.
August 2, 2025
4.5 STARS | STEAMY and ROMANTIC, this M/M ROMANCE between a game designer and a business man who happened to be neighbors, is the perfect quick book to read! I loved the connection of Jesse & Skylar! I also loved the references of THE GOONIES! The story follows Jesse watches his hot neighbor putting on a show next door. Skylar might have a bad habit of not closing the curtains, but he’s gorgeous and sophisticated. He wants to spend time with Jesse, and soon, he’ll become more important than his routine and his devilish ways. Would recommend if you want spice, love, and a few laughs!
February 7, 2022
4 Stars
This was short, sweet and cute. I really enjoyed it. Even though it was short I felt the connection between the couple. I didn’t even feel like it was insta-love. I felt like they actually had something important going on.
Jesse and Skylar were so cute. I really liked reading about them. This was Lee Blair's debut novel and she did amazing. I definitely recommend reading her book.
This was short, sweet and cute. I really enjoyed it. Even though it was short I felt the connection between the couple. I didn’t even feel like it was insta-love. I felt like they actually had something important going on.
Jesse and Skylar were so cute. I really liked reading about them. This was Lee Blair's debut novel and she did amazing. I definitely recommend reading her book.
January 26, 2022
Jesse is a shy computer programmer who spends most of his time either at work or at home and the majority of his friends are virtual ones. When a hot new guy moves in to the apartment opposite, Jesse has a front row seat to what goes on inside.
I loved the concept of this one but when I started reading I did have a few concerns over where this was going to go but I soon realised I had nothing to worry about. I loved how Skylar really helped Jesse develop and come out of his shell without being overbearing or demanding. The two were so different but these differences were approached really tastefully and respectfully. I also loved that even though this was a fairly short story, you got a real feel for Jesse's background and why he is the way he is. I really enjoyed this one.
I loved the concept of this one but when I started reading I did have a few concerns over where this was going to go but I soon realised I had nothing to worry about. I loved how Skylar really helped Jesse develop and come out of his shell without being overbearing or demanding. The two were so different but these differences were approached really tastefully and respectfully. I also loved that even though this was a fairly short story, you got a real feel for Jesse's background and why he is the way he is. I really enjoyed this one.
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