What do you think?
Rate this book
Benny from the Block
The past doesn't define us. But love does...
When high school principal, William Garrison, steps in to help a bullied freshman boy, he is surprised to learn that fifteen-year-old Ben is the son of his former high school nemesis, Benito "Benny" Vega.
William has mixed feelings about seeing Benny again, considering Benny was the one who used to torment and pick on William for being different. But Benny is a changed man, in more ways than one, and he wants the chance to prove to both his son and William that he's not the same guy he once was.
Can William be the bigger man and let go of his unresolved feelings toward Benny or will their shared personal history get in the way of helping Ben?
After all, love always wins, right?
This is a standalone book in the Blockers Series, a MM romance.
When high school principal, William Garrison, steps in to help a bullied freshman boy, he is surprised to learn that fifteen-year-old Ben is the son of his former high school nemesis, Benito "Benny" Vega.
William has mixed feelings about seeing Benny again, considering Benny was the one who used to torment and pick on William for being different. But Benny is a changed man, in more ways than one, and he wants the chance to prove to both his son and William that he's not the same guy he once was.
Can William be the bigger man and let go of his unresolved feelings toward Benny or will their shared personal history get in the way of helping Ben?
After all, love always wins, right?
This is a standalone book in the Blockers Series, a MM romance.
- GenresM M RomanceLGBT
210 pages, Paperback
Published November 27, 2021
5 people are currently reading
73 people want to read
About the author
K.C. Kassidy
5 books145 followersK.C. Kassidy is the LGBTQ pen name for Sierra Hill, an award-winning author of 30+ books.
K.C. Kassidy loves a good romance where the most unlikely characters will have their meet-cute and end up with HEA's, regardless of their gender or sexual orientation.
K.C.'s favorite LGBTQ authors are Annabeth Albert, Marley Valentine, A.M. Johnson, Sarina Bowen, Eden Finley, Garrett Leigh and Christina Lee and Riley Hart.
K.C. Kassidy loves a good romance where the most unlikely characters will have their meet-cute and end up with HEA's, regardless of their gender or sexual orientation.
K.C.'s favorite LGBTQ authors are Annabeth Albert, Marley Valentine, A.M. Johnson, Sarina Bowen, Eden Finley, Garrett Leigh and Christina Lee and Riley Hart.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 75 reviews
December 6, 2021
I liked the title.. Other than that..let’s see :
We have the caveman Mc-the thug. He’s rude, selfish and a bully…just gross 🤢
We have the spineless Mc- the one who gets an instant boner in his bully’s proximity and he even admires the bully.
And we have… Nope, nothing else.
But I did like the title, I swear.
We have the caveman Mc-the thug. He’s rude, selfish and a bully…just gross 🤢
We have the spineless Mc- the one who gets an instant boner in his bully’s proximity and he even admires the bully.
And we have… Nope, nothing else.
But I did like the title, I swear.
December 11, 2021
Having picked up the first Blockers book i've been looking forward to picking up more of Ms.Kassidy's work! As soon as this second installment was announced i knew i had to pick it up next! The synopsis got my attention and so did this story. I enjoyed it!
William and Benny's journey pulled me in! I wasn't sure how everything was going to go once these two characters were reunited which got me into their story even more. I really enjoyed how i felt many things throughout with these characters!
With Benny From The Block, Ms.Kassidy has created a good read! I'm looking forward to reading what she comes up with next!
*I volunteered to read and review a copy of this book from WordSmith Publicity / the author*
William and Benny's journey pulled me in! I wasn't sure how everything was going to go once these two characters were reunited which got me into their story even more. I really enjoyed how i felt many things throughout with these characters!
With Benny From The Block, Ms.Kassidy has created a good read! I'm looking forward to reading what she comes up with next!
*I volunteered to read and review a copy of this book from WordSmith Publicity / the author*
December 11, 2021
Going to the Principal's Office
3.5 stars - I liked this book but I didn't connect with it like I usually do with K.C. Kassidy novels. (Yes, this is only the second under this pen name but I've read several more under Sierra Hill.)
The subject matter that brings William and Benny together is bullying. The topic isn't always easy but I think that K.C. Kassidy did a good job with it. The attraction that's been building is what keeps them coming back for more. I liked the realism of the situation including the struggle Benny was going through, the hatred that William continues to experience (although, that was also tough to read), the nonplussed / untroubled reaction of some, and the secret lives of teenagers.
The prologue and flashbacks being in the third person while the rest of the book was in the first person was a little odd. It definitely leaves you no doubt where you are but it felt a little disconnected from the rest of the story.
The chemistry between William and Benny may be confusing but it's also hot, especially when their swords connect! 🔥
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
3.5 stars - I liked this book but I didn't connect with it like I usually do with K.C. Kassidy novels. (Yes, this is only the second under this pen name but I've read several more under Sierra Hill.)
The subject matter that brings William and Benny together is bullying. The topic isn't always easy but I think that K.C. Kassidy did a good job with it. The attraction that's been building is what keeps them coming back for more. I liked the realism of the situation including the struggle Benny was going through, the hatred that William continues to experience (although, that was also tough to read), the nonplussed / untroubled reaction of some, and the secret lives of teenagers.
The prologue and flashbacks being in the third person while the rest of the book was in the first person was a little odd. It definitely leaves you no doubt where you are but it felt a little disconnected from the rest of the story.
The chemistry between William and Benny may be confusing but it's also hot, especially when their swords connect! 🔥
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
December 5, 2021
Mixed feelings… read this in one sitting and it started great. My interest immediately piqued. Both William and Benny were well drawn and I did feel invested in how things would develop.
This is a previous bully story… there are flash backs to 15 years prior that show William was taunted and brutalized in high school and Benny was part of it even if not the ring leader. Benny as a teen is explained as being misunderstood, a rough life, and poor choices.
Benny and William are reintroduced as now single father to bullied teen son and High School principal respectively. There was character development for both men that stated each had grown since their teenage years but I was still waiting for some remorse by Benny and for William to not dismiss it so quickly. Can’t lie… I wanted well warranted groveling. And I really wanted William to not be such a martyr… he never stood up for himself.
But we didn’t get there… there was no conversation or mea culpa, no action around the teen persecution. No reconciliation… it was just all swept under the rug of how much Benny changed?
It became more about William’s physical attraction to Benny and Benny’s bi-curious repression…. Then more about Benny’s machismo and all the back and forth while he figured it out. William also tolerated Benny’s hot and cold. William deserved better but he settled for whatever he was given.
So this started strong and did hold my interest…but in my opinion there were missed opportunities. In the end, this was an opposite attract, bi-awakening with a nice HFN
This is a previous bully story… there are flash backs to 15 years prior that show William was taunted and brutalized in high school and Benny was part of it even if not the ring leader. Benny as a teen is explained as being misunderstood, a rough life, and poor choices.
Benny and William are reintroduced as now single father to bullied teen son and High School principal respectively. There was character development for both men that stated each had grown since their teenage years but I was still waiting for some remorse by Benny and for William to not dismiss it so quickly. Can’t lie… I wanted well warranted groveling. And I really wanted William to not be such a martyr… he never stood up for himself.
But we didn’t get there… there was no conversation or mea culpa, no action around the teen persecution. No reconciliation… it was just all swept under the rug of how much Benny changed?
It became more about William’s physical attraction to Benny and Benny’s bi-curious repression…. Then more about Benny’s machismo and all the back and forth while he figured it out. William also tolerated Benny’s hot and cold. William deserved better but he settled for whatever he was given.
So this started strong and did hold my interest…but in my opinion there were missed opportunities. In the end, this was an opposite attract, bi-awakening with a nice HFN
December 5, 2021
While this was a really good story I can not say that I absolutely LOVED it! I really did love the premise.... bullied gay kind from school is the principal for his tormentor's teenage son. No longer a tormentor the bully finds he also likes men and starts to change..... but then falls back into old ways (because they always do). The only issue that I had was that with this kind of story, with a lot of emotion involved for so many different people, I just didn't feel that emotion. I was prepared to feel gutted for William, and confused for Benny..... but that just didn't come out for me that much. The sexy times were super spicy, but the other emotions just didn't hit me. They were there, in th writing, but not in a way that grabbed me.
Story 🌟🌟🌟
Spice 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Swoon 😍
Angst 💔
Story 🌟🌟🌟
Spice 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Swoon 😍
Angst 💔
December 5, 2021
Content warnings for homophobia and physical assault.
William helps Ben after discovering the boy is being bullied and meets Ben's father, Benny, who used to bully him.
There's a lot to like about this redemption and coming out story. There is a decent connection between William and Benny, though I would say that William is too forgiving and Benny never really apologises.
The end was rather abrupt for me but they were sweet together and I really liked Ben
William helps Ben after discovering the boy is being bullied and meets Ben's father, Benny, who used to bully him.
There's a lot to like about this redemption and coming out story. There is a decent connection between William and Benny, though I would say that William is too forgiving and Benny never really apologises.
The end was rather abrupt for me but they were sweet together and I really liked Ben
December 7, 2021
Internalized homophobia is a tough thing to write well and I think that K.C. Kassidy is able to bring Benny's struggle to life very well in Benny From the Block.
Read my full review here:
http://www.mmromancereviewed.com/2021...
Read my full review here:
http://www.mmromancereviewed.com/2021...
January 6, 2022
Benny from the Block is a story of overcoming barriers and of being more than others expect. K.C. Kassidy brings us a standalone Blockers series journey of self-discovery in this confronting tale, full of lust and a fair dose of angst.
There is much to admire in the determination and strength shown by William as he overcomes harsh bullying to return to his hometown as the high school principal. He has much to offer the students, not only in furthering their education but also in supporting their wellbeing, particularly for LGBTQIA+ students.
Benny learnt the hard way to try to keep his nose clean. He works hard at both his auto shop and at the boxing gym he has set up with his cousin, while trying to raise his son the best way he knows how. But when his son starts acting strangely and the school principal asks to meet, Benny’s history starts to catch up with him and he is forced to face some uncomfortable truths.
This story treads a very fine line between cowardice and bravery, patience and exploitation, allowing the characters to develop through the journey with a few ups and downs along the way. The writing is captivating and the dialogue sharp, so that this reader stayed on edge to find what came next!
I feel that K.C. Kassidy managed to write an emotional story with some challenging themes, while keeping a simmering heat throughout Benny from the Block. As long as readers take note of the content warnings, many will enjoy the rollercoaster ride of tension and lust that lead to a spectacular climax.
There is much to admire in the determination and strength shown by William as he overcomes harsh bullying to return to his hometown as the high school principal. He has much to offer the students, not only in furthering their education but also in supporting their wellbeing, particularly for LGBTQIA+ students.
Benny learnt the hard way to try to keep his nose clean. He works hard at both his auto shop and at the boxing gym he has set up with his cousin, while trying to raise his son the best way he knows how. But when his son starts acting strangely and the school principal asks to meet, Benny’s history starts to catch up with him and he is forced to face some uncomfortable truths.
This story treads a very fine line between cowardice and bravery, patience and exploitation, allowing the characters to develop through the journey with a few ups and downs along the way. The writing is captivating and the dialogue sharp, so that this reader stayed on edge to find what came next!
I feel that K.C. Kassidy managed to write an emotional story with some challenging themes, while keeping a simmering heat throughout Benny from the Block. As long as readers take note of the content warnings, many will enjoy the rollercoaster ride of tension and lust that lead to a spectacular climax.
December 5, 2021
What a fun and fantastic book! Benny from the Block really was amazing!
William and Benny knew each other as kids. William was bullied for being gay and Benny was one of the boys who bullied him. Fast forward years later and William is the principal at Benny’s son’s high school. When the two have a meeting over the younger Ben and realize who each other is, mixed feelings arise. William is attracted to Benny but remembers how he was treated. Benny isn’t gay but he’s attracted to William. Will these two get together?
Although they are very different personality wise, I adored both of these men. William is caring and tenderhearted. Good with kids. Giving. Benny is tough and rough around the edges. He’s trying his best as a single dad. And when these two come together it’s magic. They have some obstacles along the way but I was so happy to see them get their happy ending.
This was a quick read for me and I enjoyed every minute. Go one click!
An arc was provided for an honest review.
William and Benny knew each other as kids. William was bullied for being gay and Benny was one of the boys who bullied him. Fast forward years later and William is the principal at Benny’s son’s high school. When the two have a meeting over the younger Ben and realize who each other is, mixed feelings arise. William is attracted to Benny but remembers how he was treated. Benny isn’t gay but he’s attracted to William. Will these two get together?
Although they are very different personality wise, I adored both of these men. William is caring and tenderhearted. Good with kids. Giving. Benny is tough and rough around the edges. He’s trying his best as a single dad. And when these two come together it’s magic. They have some obstacles along the way but I was so happy to see them get their happy ending.
This was a quick read for me and I enjoyed every minute. Go one click!
An arc was provided for an honest review.
December 5, 2021
I wasn’t sure what to expect with this book, as I knew it was going to be different to the first one in the series and after giving this a read I have to say that I do think that KC Kassidy (Sierra Hill) has done a good job, I thought the story was interesting and that it was an eye opener to how some communities and cultures can be even if we’re adults, but it’s how we choose to embrace things is what makes the difference. I loved that KC went ahead and carried on trying to teach us lessons but also made sure that it was told in a heart-breaking but gripping way, and I do think that with each book she writes that her writing is growing so much.
I loved how William was himself and didn’t want to change who he was just to fit in with everyone, as he knew that wasn’t going to make life any different for him. But he also used his experiences as a way to push on and get through everything he was dealing through when he was struggling in school. I found him to be such a likeable character and he was very well respected in the community as he was older, okay there was still going to be people out there that wasn’t willing to accept who he was or what he represented, but he did his best to just power through and considering the position that he’s in now, he has done well for himself. One of my favourite things about him is that he doesn’t want any child going through what he did when he was younger, so he goes out of his way to show the children that he genuinely cares and that if they feel that they can’t talk to their parents then he is there for them and that he’ll do his best to actually help them and stop anything that isn’t sitting right with them.
Benny, I wasn’t exactly sure what to make of him on the other hand, I get that he was trying to process a few things and that he fell in with the wrong crowd at times, but still he couldn’t work out why exactly William never just hid who he was and just tried to blend in so that he didn’t paint a target for himself. I do think he growed as a character later on in the book, but in terms of me liking him, I’m still deciding that as I couldn’t get a good read on him.
Overall, I do think that KC did a good job at creating this story, yet there was just one thing that for me didn’t work and that was the chapter where it’s from Benny’s POV and we’re back to when he was in school and the scene of him helping William. It just seemed like the chapter doesn’t fit, the contents of the chapter works but it’s just how it’s in third person. Had this just been written in the 1st person like the rest of the book I honestly think it would have flowed a lot better and wouldn’t have stood out as much as it had.
Other than that, I enjoyed the story and am excited to see what happens next in this series.
William has always been one of those people who wanted to just embrace who he was and whilst he struggled when he was younger due to being bullied for who he was, he never let them stop him being himself. Knowing that he only had a little while longer to deal with everything thrown his way, he pushes on and allows everything that happens to him help him grow as a person.
Now years later, he’s happy, he’s got a great job, went after his dream and is now looking after children in the school and showing them that they can open up to him and he’ll help them. However, after one student gets brought into the office, William’s life is about to change and not only does he help get through to this kid, his parent is not who he’s expecting. Benny…. Benny from the block, the one kid who tried to help him when he was younger, but also did hurt him in some ways and then vanished. He honestly can’t believe his eyes when Benny walks through the office door.
Will Benny be the same guy as he was all those years ago and still hurt William or has he grown up a lot and is willing to make amends for what happened years ago??
With William’s crush back in full force on Benny will William make a move or will this be his secret for good??
Will Benny figure out the reason as to why he can’t keep away from William or will he just be in denial and not change his ways of things???
I loved how William was himself and didn’t want to change who he was just to fit in with everyone, as he knew that wasn’t going to make life any different for him. But he also used his experiences as a way to push on and get through everything he was dealing through when he was struggling in school. I found him to be such a likeable character and he was very well respected in the community as he was older, okay there was still going to be people out there that wasn’t willing to accept who he was or what he represented, but he did his best to just power through and considering the position that he’s in now, he has done well for himself. One of my favourite things about him is that he doesn’t want any child going through what he did when he was younger, so he goes out of his way to show the children that he genuinely cares and that if they feel that they can’t talk to their parents then he is there for them and that he’ll do his best to actually help them and stop anything that isn’t sitting right with them.
Benny, I wasn’t exactly sure what to make of him on the other hand, I get that he was trying to process a few things and that he fell in with the wrong crowd at times, but still he couldn’t work out why exactly William never just hid who he was and just tried to blend in so that he didn’t paint a target for himself. I do think he growed as a character later on in the book, but in terms of me liking him, I’m still deciding that as I couldn’t get a good read on him.
Overall, I do think that KC did a good job at creating this story, yet there was just one thing that for me didn’t work and that was the chapter where it’s from Benny’s POV and we’re back to when he was in school and the scene of him helping William. It just seemed like the chapter doesn’t fit, the contents of the chapter works but it’s just how it’s in third person. Had this just been written in the 1st person like the rest of the book I honestly think it would have flowed a lot better and wouldn’t have stood out as much as it had.
Other than that, I enjoyed the story and am excited to see what happens next in this series.
William has always been one of those people who wanted to just embrace who he was and whilst he struggled when he was younger due to being bullied for who he was, he never let them stop him being himself. Knowing that he only had a little while longer to deal with everything thrown his way, he pushes on and allows everything that happens to him help him grow as a person.
Now years later, he’s happy, he’s got a great job, went after his dream and is now looking after children in the school and showing them that they can open up to him and he’ll help them. However, after one student gets brought into the office, William’s life is about to change and not only does he help get through to this kid, his parent is not who he’s expecting. Benny…. Benny from the block, the one kid who tried to help him when he was younger, but also did hurt him in some ways and then vanished. He honestly can’t believe his eyes when Benny walks through the office door.
Will Benny be the same guy as he was all those years ago and still hurt William or has he grown up a lot and is willing to make amends for what happened years ago??
With William’s crush back in full force on Benny will William make a move or will this be his secret for good??
Will Benny figure out the reason as to why he can’t keep away from William or will he just be in denial and not change his ways of things???
November 28, 2021
This is a new to me author and when I was asked if I would read an ARC of this book I didn’t know what to expect.
What I got was a very enjoyable read which I devoured in almost one sitting. The theme interested me, William a vulnerable 15 year old, different, gay but proud of who he is and convinced he will go on to better things, is tormented and bullied daily by a gang of boys in his year led by Benny from the Block. Although Benny is his tormentor there are instances were Benny steps in to protect William, confusing them both and although William hates him there is something about Benny he secretly finds hot!
Roll on 15 years and the young lad standing in Principal William’s office, angry, wet and obviously bullied refuses to name his bullies. William asks to see the boys father - enter Benny from the Block!
It seems Benny has been hiding a secret, even from himself, he has feelings for William, even when William was 15 the emotions he stirred in Benny made him bully William more. How can the hard as nails tough guy be bisexual, how would that go down at the construction company and boxing gym he owns and with his strict catholic Puerto Rican mother and family. As William says all bullies are cowards!
William and Benny were both likeable characters and the story flowed. It took them a while to acknowledge their feelings, which felt right, but when Benny did he was all in and they were good together.
What I got was a very enjoyable read which I devoured in almost one sitting. The theme interested me, William a vulnerable 15 year old, different, gay but proud of who he is and convinced he will go on to better things, is tormented and bullied daily by a gang of boys in his year led by Benny from the Block. Although Benny is his tormentor there are instances were Benny steps in to protect William, confusing them both and although William hates him there is something about Benny he secretly finds hot!
Roll on 15 years and the young lad standing in Principal William’s office, angry, wet and obviously bullied refuses to name his bullies. William asks to see the boys father - enter Benny from the Block!
It seems Benny has been hiding a secret, even from himself, he has feelings for William, even when William was 15 the emotions he stirred in Benny made him bully William more. How can the hard as nails tough guy be bisexual, how would that go down at the construction company and boxing gym he owns and with his strict catholic Puerto Rican mother and family. As William says all bullies are cowards!
William and Benny were both likeable characters and the story flowed. It took them a while to acknowledge their feelings, which felt right, but when Benny did he was all in and they were good together.
December 23, 2021
William is a high school principal who is working with a student that he suspects is being bullied. When he meets with the dad, he find that he is one of William’s former bullies from high school. It had a good story of William helping Ben gain his confidence and with William and Benny getting to know each other. While Benny was in the closet and really struggling with his sexuality, I didn’t like how he treated William at times. I’m glad it all worked out, but I hated poor William just accepting being pushed aside. I wish the epilogue was a little beefier or that there was a little more to them being together since most of the book was about Benny’s denial.
3.5 stars
3.5 stars
December 13, 2021
The promise of this book really intrigued me and I liked the first few chapters. Then William met Benny and everything fell apart. Both men were intensely attracted to each other, which translated into two scenes with William on his knees and Benny pushing him away immediately after. Not to mention an on page scene of gay bashing ( trigger warning) that I felt completely unnecessary to the overall storyline. And, all of the sudden, the I-love-yous, with no built-up emotional connection to back them up.
So, I'm a bit disappointed with this story. It's rushed and unfulfilling, when with a few more pages, a better character development and relationship buildup, it could have been amazing.
So, I'm a bit disappointed with this story. It's rushed and unfulfilling, when with a few more pages, a better character development and relationship buildup, it could have been amazing.
November 25, 2021
"There's no way" is what I said to myself through this whole book. I just could not believe there could be a happy ending in this story! But the author shocked me and this was one of the happiest endings I've ever read! I was thrilled to receive an advanced copy, but even more thrilled to love this book!
November 28, 2021
A sublime five-star read. This is number two in the Blockers series but they can be read as stand-alone, I really wish my principle was like William Garrison his passion for the children at his school shines through. But Benny, Benny from the block he stole that scene creating show. This was a great story, one that had my heart in my throat at so many points that I was all over the place, my emotions didn’t know what to do at any one point, until the end then they knew, they knew to be happy. My goodness this has it all, and Ben just adds something extra to the story, another layer that I really hope we get more from.
Merged review:
A sublime five-star read. This is number two in the Blockers series but they can be read as stand-alone, I really wish my principle was like William Garrison his passion for the children at his school shines through. But Benny, Benny from the block he stole that scene creating show. This was a great story, one that had my heart in my throat at so many points that I was all over the place, my emotions didn’t know what to do at any one point, until the end then they knew, they knew to be happy. My goodness this has it all, and Ben just adds something extra to the story, another layer that I really hope we get more from.
Merged review:
A sublime five-star read. This is number two in the Blockers series but they can be read as stand-alone, I really wish my principle was like William Garrison his passion for the children at his school shines through. But Benny, Benny from the block he stole that scene creating show. This was a great story, one that had my heart in my throat at so many points that I was all over the place, my emotions didn’t know what to do at any one point, until the end then they knew, they knew to be happy. My goodness this has it all, and Ben just adds something extra to the story, another layer that I really hope we get more from.
January 6, 2022
Benny from the Block (Blockers, Book 2) by K.C. Kassidy
4 Maple Leafs
MM, opposites attract, forbidden romance
"William, I'm sorry for treating you with anything less than the respect you deserve. You were right about me. I was a coward. But you showed me how to be brave and to live the life I want to live. And to have the love I deserve."
⏤
William and Benny's story is one of redemption and second chances at proving that time and perseverance can change a person.
William helps Ben, one of the students at his school, who is being bullied. William requests that Ben bring his father to meet him and the last person he expected to walk through his door was Benny from the Block, his high school bully.
I enjoyed William and Benny's story. William and Benny both did a fair amount of growing in their story. The chemistry and connection between them when they were together was hot. I feel the book could have done with maybe a few extra chapters. A trigger warning against homophobia and assault.
Benny from the Block was my first K.C. Kassidy book and I am looking forward to reading more from her in the future.
*advanced copy requested, kindly provided, and honestly reviewed on behalf of Canadian Girl Book Blog*
🍁 Facebook 🍁 Instagram 🍁 Twitter 🍁 TikTok 🍁 Blog 🍁
4 Maple Leafs
MM, opposites attract, forbidden romance
"William, I'm sorry for treating you with anything less than the respect you deserve. You were right about me. I was a coward. But you showed me how to be brave and to live the life I want to live. And to have the love I deserve."
⏤
William and Benny's story is one of redemption and second chances at proving that time and perseverance can change a person.
William helps Ben, one of the students at his school, who is being bullied. William requests that Ben bring his father to meet him and the last person he expected to walk through his door was Benny from the Block, his high school bully.
I enjoyed William and Benny's story. William and Benny both did a fair amount of growing in their story. The chemistry and connection between them when they were together was hot. I feel the book could have done with maybe a few extra chapters. A trigger warning against homophobia and assault.
Benny from the Block was my first K.C. Kassidy book and I am looking forward to reading more from her in the future.
*advanced copy requested, kindly provided, and honestly reviewed on behalf of Canadian Girl Book Blog*
🍁 Facebook 🍁 Instagram 🍁 Twitter 🍁 TikTok 🍁 Blog 🍁
December 2, 2021
This book is absolutely stunning, it was a beautiful and wonderful journey to be part of.
What a wonderful Principle William is , he works for the students and his zest for the drama club is amazing, to have a Principal like that with his ideas would be perfect.
William , knows who he is , he was bullied when younger but now through extremely hard work mentally and academically he is the High School Principle , William Garrison.
In comes Benny from the block , he was a bully ………
Benito Vega ~~~~~~~
Tough and loud .
Benny is a marvellous father to Ben .
Ben has joined the drama club~~~~~
I won’t say anymore but this is such a wonderful m/m book , my emotions were everywhere I loved every word written, the storyline is incredible.
I cannot praise this book enough.
What a wonderful Principle William is , he works for the students and his zest for the drama club is amazing, to have a Principal like that with his ideas would be perfect.
William , knows who he is , he was bullied when younger but now through extremely hard work mentally and academically he is the High School Principle , William Garrison.
In comes Benny from the block , he was a bully ………
Benito Vega ~~~~~~~
Tough and loud .
Benny is a marvellous father to Ben .
Ben has joined the drama club~~~~~
I won’t say anymore but this is such a wonderful m/m book , my emotions were everywhere I loved every word written, the storyline is incredible.
I cannot praise this book enough.
November 29, 2021
This is what I love about this author. This story, unafraid to dig into the pain caused by others when they don't understand, nor do they want to. William has always lived his life on his own terms, even when it meant he'd be bullied, pushed around and sometimes physically attacked. Even knowing that it would just be easier to tow the line...he was who he was. Benny has his issues as well. His inability to truly know himself caused him problems as a teen and now he must come face to face with what his hostility with the world created. Their two worlds will collide and both must come to terms with the past, present and future. Well written, motivating read.
December 9, 2021
Benny From the is a wonderful story of redemption, as William falls for his former bully, Benny.
I am delighted with the way Benny is redeemed to William, as well as the reader.
Benny is the classic example of someone who struggled with repressed homophobia. I appreciate that he had more problems in his past that formed his personality and led to his behavior. Now he has to deal with the fact that his son is struggling with being bullied. His son Ben is everything he didn't want for his son and brings him around to facing his own treatment of William.
William, as a principle, is fabulous. It's not an easy job, but he excels in caring about his students and trying to help them.
I enjoy all of this story. The redemption. The romance. The Ben issues. All of it is written with heart and care, making for a multi-layered, and ultimately sweet story.
This is a story with bullying, expectations, homophobia, parenting issues, school issues, and heritage issues. Benny's family has a history and expectations that come with their upbringing. To go off course isn't an easy step.
Written with some glimpses into the past, the author allows the author an understanding of Benny and why he is the way he is. I am thrilled to have understood Benny early on and to be able to sympathize with him throughout.
This is the story of Benny and his progression, as he deals with accepting himself and learning to grab on to love.
Benny From the Block is a fabulous story. KC Cassidy packs a lot of layers and emotions into this former bully romance. And I love every minute of it!
I am delighted with the way Benny is redeemed to William, as well as the reader.
Benny is the classic example of someone who struggled with repressed homophobia. I appreciate that he had more problems in his past that formed his personality and led to his behavior. Now he has to deal with the fact that his son is struggling with being bullied. His son Ben is everything he didn't want for his son and brings him around to facing his own treatment of William.
William, as a principle, is fabulous. It's not an easy job, but he excels in caring about his students and trying to help them.
I enjoy all of this story. The redemption. The romance. The Ben issues. All of it is written with heart and care, making for a multi-layered, and ultimately sweet story.
This is a story with bullying, expectations, homophobia, parenting issues, school issues, and heritage issues. Benny's family has a history and expectations that come with their upbringing. To go off course isn't an easy step.
Written with some glimpses into the past, the author allows the author an understanding of Benny and why he is the way he is. I am thrilled to have understood Benny early on and to be able to sympathize with him throughout.
This is the story of Benny and his progression, as he deals with accepting himself and learning to grab on to love.
Benny From the Block is a fabulous story. KC Cassidy packs a lot of layers and emotions into this former bully romance. And I love every minute of it!
December 9, 2021
I loved how William used his childhood issues to become an educator in hometown to help kids who are struggling. Ben wasn't exactly like William, but they had much in common. It also gave William a chance to reunite with his bully/savior/Ben's dad Benny. I loved that there was a friendship with a twist, but I also liked that while Benny was confused, that there wasn't exactly a label put on what he was. Sometimes love is just love. Benny didn't always act the best, and I felt for William, but I liked that William didn't give Ben a pass. This was a heartbreaking story, but also very sweet.
December 17, 2021
**4 stars**
I almost did not request this ARC because bully and former bully romances can be tough to write well, and tough to read even if it IS written well. They usually deal with internalized homophobia and can be painful at best, and callous at worst. Oddly enough, I would say that Benny from the Block falls in the latter category, but barely. This is one of the rare cases when I think the author didn’t go far enough and the book suffered a bit from it.
So, the good: Overall, this is really an engaging book and I was initially really invested in not only Benny and William, but in Benny’s son Ben. The scenes at school rang true to me and William was an excellent educator. He is dedicated to making the school environment better for kids than it had been for him, and we are given small glimpses of him talking to other students and showing how he truly cared about them. I was also impressed with Benny as a dad. He was a young single father and struggled, but managed to raise a smart and thoughtful son, which was lovely.
Overall, I think the bullying was dealt with in a good way—not overly graphic or more inappropriate than the situation warranted. I’ve been burned by books just putting a character through the wringer when much less torture and pain would suffice, so I appreciated the restraint here. (Can, “You weren’t as mean to the characters as you could have been,” and “you didn’t go overboard with the homophobia,” be considered compliments? I mean them as compliments…)
The not so great: The romance between Benny and William was nice, but not stellar. I wanted more, but their relationship felt so rushed. William was attracted to Benny from the get-go and let that dictate his feelings, so much that he then let Benny blow hot and cold with him. There was no real acknowledgment of the damage Benny did to William in the past, even if he wasn’t the worst of the bullies. Considering that Benny is now a father, he knows now more than ever the kind of trauma he inflicted on William. And then he kept doing it as he dealt with his own internalized homophobia.
Even then, I was with the story, right up until the last chapters
Also: They also hooked up on campus and I cannot how William would go not only go along with that, but initiate it! Ain’t nobody’s dick worth risking your career for.
I gave this 4 stars because it is good, but it could have been so much better. William was bullied but seems to not have suffered much from it, so much so that he doesn’t need his former bully to show growth. I think what bothered me is that, in a way, William was still being hurt by Benny and, just like when they were kids, Benny got away with it. Considering his work with kids and his dedication to keeping them from suffering as he did, I cannot see why William let himself be hurt all over again. Benny deserved the room to wrestle with his sexuality, but not at William’s expense.
***I received this as an ARC and this is my honest review.***
I almost did not request this ARC because bully and former bully romances can be tough to write well, and tough to read even if it IS written well. They usually deal with internalized homophobia and can be painful at best, and callous at worst. Oddly enough, I would say that Benny from the Block falls in the latter category, but barely. This is one of the rare cases when I think the author didn’t go far enough and the book suffered a bit from it.
So, the good: Overall, this is really an engaging book and I was initially really invested in not only Benny and William, but in Benny’s son Ben. The scenes at school rang true to me and William was an excellent educator. He is dedicated to making the school environment better for kids than it had been for him, and we are given small glimpses of him talking to other students and showing how he truly cared about them. I was also impressed with Benny as a dad. He was a young single father and struggled, but managed to raise a smart and thoughtful son, which was lovely.
Overall, I think the bullying was dealt with in a good way—not overly graphic or more inappropriate than the situation warranted. I’ve been burned by books just putting a character through the wringer when much less torture and pain would suffice, so I appreciated the restraint here. (Can, “You weren’t as mean to the characters as you could have been,” and “you didn’t go overboard with the homophobia,” be considered compliments? I mean them as compliments…)
The not so great: The romance between Benny and William was nice, but not stellar. I wanted more, but their relationship felt so rushed. William was attracted to Benny from the get-go and let that dictate his feelings, so much that he then let Benny blow hot and cold with him. There was no real acknowledgment of the damage Benny did to William in the past, even if he wasn’t the worst of the bullies. Considering that Benny is now a father, he knows now more than ever the kind of trauma he inflicted on William. And then he kept doing it as he dealt with his own internalized homophobia.
Even then, I was with the story, right up until the last chapters
Also: They also hooked up on campus and I cannot how William would go not only go along with that, but initiate it! Ain’t nobody’s dick worth risking your career for.
I gave this 4 stars because it is good, but it could have been so much better. William was bullied but seems to not have suffered much from it, so much so that he doesn’t need his former bully to show growth. I think what bothered me is that, in a way, William was still being hurt by Benny and, just like when they were kids, Benny got away with it. Considering his work with kids and his dedication to keeping them from suffering as he did, I cannot see why William let himself be hurt all over again. Benny deserved the room to wrestle with his sexuality, but not at William’s expense.
***I received this as an ARC and this is my honest review.***
December 11, 2021
Good story but not enough redemption
William was bullied in school and is now a principal at his old school. He is a kind, caring, sensitive man who is dedicated to helping all his pupils become the best versions of themselves, so he strives to create an environment where all pupils can thrive.
Into this mix comes one of his childhood bullies, Benny Vega. Truthfully, Benny was not the worst of his tormentors and has turned his life around since William last saw him. He is a single father to Ben, trying his best while running his construction company, and helping out at the gym he owns with his cousin.
Meeting for the first time in fifteen years is a shock for both men, as they both secretly had feelings for each other way back when. The attraction is still there but 'completely straight' Benny is in denial of his feelings towards William.
The storyline was good, with William and Benny working together on a school project that gives them time to explore their attraction, but I couldn't get past the lack of discussion of their history. At no point did Benny apologise to William for the past and he continued to hurt him in the present. I understand that he was confused but he kept pushing William away, literally at one point, behaving badly and then slinking back to William when he couldn't stay away any longer.
I wanted William to hold Benny to account for the past and the present but there was no reckoning at all. William just let him get away with everything and that drove me nuts. William was worth so much more than that, and part of me wanted him to tell Benny to take a running jump.
I didn't feel more than the physical attraction between them because all they did was hook up really. There was no time spent just getting to know each other properly, so their connection, and William's easy acceptance of Benny, didn't seem realistic. The ending did feel a bit rushed though the epilogue was nice.
I did like K.C.'s writing style so I'm going to read the first book in the series now, and will definitely read from her.
William was bullied in school and is now a principal at his old school. He is a kind, caring, sensitive man who is dedicated to helping all his pupils become the best versions of themselves, so he strives to create an environment where all pupils can thrive.
Into this mix comes one of his childhood bullies, Benny Vega. Truthfully, Benny was not the worst of his tormentors and has turned his life around since William last saw him. He is a single father to Ben, trying his best while running his construction company, and helping out at the gym he owns with his cousin.
Meeting for the first time in fifteen years is a shock for both men, as they both secretly had feelings for each other way back when. The attraction is still there but 'completely straight' Benny is in denial of his feelings towards William.
The storyline was good, with William and Benny working together on a school project that gives them time to explore their attraction, but I couldn't get past the lack of discussion of their history. At no point did Benny apologise to William for the past and he continued to hurt him in the present. I understand that he was confused but he kept pushing William away, literally at one point, behaving badly and then slinking back to William when he couldn't stay away any longer.
I wanted William to hold Benny to account for the past and the present but there was no reckoning at all. William just let him get away with everything and that drove me nuts. William was worth so much more than that, and part of me wanted him to tell Benny to take a running jump.
I didn't feel more than the physical attraction between them because all they did was hook up really. There was no time spent just getting to know each other properly, so their connection, and William's easy acceptance of Benny, didn't seem realistic. The ending did feel a bit rushed though the epilogue was nice.
I did like K.C.'s writing style so I'm going to read the first book in the series now, and will definitely read from her.
December 20, 2021
It’s like the sky opened and a rainbow illuminated the atmosphere the moment Willie began to sing. Like the piercing sting of a tattoo needle sinking into his flesh. That’s what Willie’s voice did to him. Carved an indelible mark in Benny’s soul.
it's so long since i was able to finish a book in just one sitting, which makes me truly grateful for William and Benny's story. it was a good, quick, and quite an emotional read (i definitely teared up with each of the ugly homophobic episodes towards William, those moments shattered my heart). i think the former-bully-to-lover was credible and well done, i had fun with the author writing style—meanwhile i'm also part of the club of those who missed Benito (aka Benny, but i love his full name) apologizing for his actions in the past, i was anxiously expecting the emotional redemption moment that kind of never came 🥺 i think this was like the missing cherry on top of his character growth. he also frustrated me a bit with his refuses of his sexuality and his relationship with William. i got so mad when he literally pushed William away from him. Benny well deserved being called a coward.
i liked William more. he was an awesome man who didn't deserve any of the hurt he had to go through. his mentoring and projects for helping with the kids' were wholesome too. i just wished he could have stood up more for himself, the way Benny treated him wasn't fair 😔 the final chapters were a bit rushed to me because of that, he forgave Benny too quickly. the epilogue was so sweet though (i loved that Benny has a sister called Gianna 💅)
: ̗̀➛ tags/triggers: slow burn, former bully to lover, bi awakening, opposites attract, single dad, second chance, homophobia, physical assault
December 11, 2021
This is the second book in the Blockers series and is a former enemies-to-lovers romance between William, a high school principal who was the victim of bullying and homophobia as a teen, and Benny, a confused former tormentor of Williams and father to a child in Williams school. I was really looking forward to this book despite not being a fan of bully romances but I was a little disappointed with the overall resolution of past events with the present status of the main characters' relationship. There were several times that I felt like the events of William's past were just glossed over without any real discussion or resolution between William and Benny, especially regarding Benny's role in William's past trauma. Also, there were a few times in the book where something major would happen to William and I felt like there was no real impact on the development of their relationship or how Benny and William viewed the other. The last third of the story felt a little bit rushed to me and I would have loved to see more development of the characters relationships and personal growth before they find their HEA. Despite those issues, this was an interesting story with some great supporting characters. I really like Benny's son Ben and it was great to see him flourish as he started to discover his passions. Overall, Benny from the Block was a great character driven story that just needed a little more character growth to get it to the next level. Can't wait to see what comes next in this series! I received an ARC for an honest and fair review.
December 17, 2021
Benny from the Block is the second book in the Blockers Book series. It's a story of William, who was bullied as a kid and finds a way to make it better for kids like him as a principal at the same high school where he was tormented. Benito "Benny" was one of his tormentors, but now that he's an adult he realized he needs to be a better person and dad for his son, Ben. When Ben comes home one day and tells Benny that his principal wants to see, Benny doesn't realize he's going to come face to face with not only the man he tormented, but the one and only man he's ever had feelings for. The shock is evident on William's face when they come face to face after several years, especially when they never expected to see each other again.
When William asks Benny to help him on the school production Ben has a part in, Benny agrees. The more time they spend together, the more their feelings grow and develop. The one thing Benny can't get past is the fact he's falling for a man and doesn't know how to deal with it. He's not sure how his family will react if he tells them he's not straight after all. When Ben catches them together, can they get past the hurt Benny sees in William's eyes at his reaction to Ben seeing them? Can they find their way together?
This was a very well written story. I do think there was some chemistry, but not enough to give me the feels. The characters were well developed and the plot was good, but I would have liked a little more chemistry.
I received this ARC for my honest review from GRR.
When William asks Benny to help him on the school production Ben has a part in, Benny agrees. The more time they spend together, the more their feelings grow and develop. The one thing Benny can't get past is the fact he's falling for a man and doesn't know how to deal with it. He's not sure how his family will react if he tells them he's not straight after all. When Ben catches them together, can they get past the hurt Benny sees in William's eyes at his reaction to Ben seeing them? Can they find their way together?
This was a very well written story. I do think there was some chemistry, but not enough to give me the feels. The characters were well developed and the plot was good, but I would have liked a little more chemistry.
I received this ARC for my honest review from GRR.
December 17, 2021
My favorite sub-genre of M/M romance: gay for him or first-times...this was so good!
Second in series, M/M book by Kassidy which is the nom de plume of a well-established author of straight romance. I so enjoyed the first and second books that I already plan on reading the next one in this series of standalone stories!
William Garrison has been “different” for as long as he can remember and HS is no place to be different! He gets bullied daily, beaten up some and ridiculed lots. One of his tormenters is Benito “Benny” Vega who showed his soft side one time to William thus leaving a lasting impression. Fast forward to today and we find William is the well-liked Principal Garrison at his old HS. He is suspicious of the reason a boy is brought to his office only to find out that the boy is Ben the son of his former tormenter and crush!
Whoa! Benny is so insecure in his sexuality that he is struck dumb by his seeming interest in his 15yo son’s principal, formerly “Little Willie.” There are some OMG moments for Benny: THE kiss, the boxing lesson and others. There may be a dark hallway involved;-) He’s still torn until one moment of clarity. Loved this book like the last. Can’t wait for the next.
I volunteered to review an ARC of this book and praise it. For those who enjoy M/M romance with a bit of angst, some explicitness and lots of passion, read this book.
Second in series, M/M book by Kassidy which is the nom de plume of a well-established author of straight romance. I so enjoyed the first and second books that I already plan on reading the next one in this series of standalone stories!
William Garrison has been “different” for as long as he can remember and HS is no place to be different! He gets bullied daily, beaten up some and ridiculed lots. One of his tormenters is Benito “Benny” Vega who showed his soft side one time to William thus leaving a lasting impression. Fast forward to today and we find William is the well-liked Principal Garrison at his old HS. He is suspicious of the reason a boy is brought to his office only to find out that the boy is Ben the son of his former tormenter and crush!
Whoa! Benny is so insecure in his sexuality that he is struck dumb by his seeming interest in his 15yo son’s principal, formerly “Little Willie.” There are some OMG moments for Benny: THE kiss, the boxing lesson and others. There may be a dark hallway involved;-) He’s still torn until one moment of clarity. Loved this book like the last. Can’t wait for the next.
I volunteered to review an ARC of this book and praise it. For those who enjoy M/M romance with a bit of angst, some explicitness and lots of passion, read this book.
December 10, 2021
Benny from the Block is a good enemies to lovers, bi awakening story. Benny was one of William's bullies back in highschool, though definitely not the worst, and now he's back in his life as the parent of one of the kids at the same school where William is now principal.
Their reunion is quite combative as it's a parent's evening where Benny finds out what's actually been going on with son at school. I enjoyed how the two men came back together, something clearly most unexpected by both. They've both changed from their highschool selves and so it's interesting to read how they communicate and get along now. Though there's attraction there on both sides, even if somewhat unwilllingly for Benny, I didn't really feel the connection they share until well into the book/very near to the end. It's also a bit of a slow burner as well as Benny takes the time he needs to fight/argue/accept how he feels regarding William. Also love Ben, Benny's son. He really grows into his character across the story, even bringing a surprise of his own at one point and Benny shows himself to be a very good parent.
A short and sweet romance between two very different men who you never would have thought together at highschool now take their second chance.
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review.
Their reunion is quite combative as it's a parent's evening where Benny finds out what's actually been going on with son at school. I enjoyed how the two men came back together, something clearly most unexpected by both. They've both changed from their highschool selves and so it's interesting to read how they communicate and get along now. Though there's attraction there on both sides, even if somewhat unwilllingly for Benny, I didn't really feel the connection they share until well into the book/very near to the end. It's also a bit of a slow burner as well as Benny takes the time he needs to fight/argue/accept how he feels regarding William. Also love Ben, Benny's son. He really grows into his character across the story, even bringing a surprise of his own at one point and Benny shows himself to be a very good parent.
A short and sweet romance between two very different men who you never would have thought together at highschool now take their second chance.
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review.
December 1, 2021
I love William Garrison and his positive outlook on life in K.C. Kassidy’s new book “Benny From the Block.” He is a dedicated and hard working high school principal who always has time for his students. He advocates for the safety of all students and has an open door policy if anyone needs his help. This is how he came to meet Ben Vega. William knew all too well that Ben was a victim of bullying and vowed to put an end to this behavior immediately. Along the way he realized that Ben’s father Benny, was his antagonist from high school. What a small and confusing world!
William was shocked when Benny walked into his office for the parent/student meeting. Benny was even more rugged and handsome as an adult and William was caught off guard as to how he was feeling about seeing him again. Benny had the same feelings about William which made him extremely uncomfortable and confused. William would never overstep when it came to how he truly felt and Benny was conflicted as to what to do about the thoughts running through his mind. The main concern for both men was that Ben had put the bullying incident behind him and had found his voice as a member of the drama club.
William and Benny’s past had bonded them together forever and now that they had reconnected, would their unresolved feelings for each other come to the surface and if so, how would they react? Would William be hurt once again by Benny’s behavior or will love prevail for this star crossed couple?
William was shocked when Benny walked into his office for the parent/student meeting. Benny was even more rugged and handsome as an adult and William was caught off guard as to how he was feeling about seeing him again. Benny had the same feelings about William which made him extremely uncomfortable and confused. William would never overstep when it came to how he truly felt and Benny was conflicted as to what to do about the thoughts running through his mind. The main concern for both men was that Ben had put the bullying incident behind him and had found his voice as a member of the drama club.
William and Benny’s past had bonded them together forever and now that they had reconnected, would their unresolved feelings for each other come to the surface and if so, how would they react? Would William be hurt once again by Benny’s behavior or will love prevail for this star crossed couple?
December 15, 2021
I completely forgot I read the first one in this book, but I did! Both books were quite enjoyable. While I didn’t like the title for the first book because it wasn’t befitting the actual story, the title for this one made sense. It was also a cute title. I did have some issues with the pacing though because it felt like more could have been added to the story where Benny was able to be more fleshed out in his self realization instead of it being as abrupt as it felt. The way it played out made me feel like there was more to the story that could have given a chance of more character development
—dare I say—for Benny.
I enjoyed the writing, but at times I could tell that the author was perhaps not a Spanish speaker, or perhaps not a fluent one, because it felt like basic Spanish via a Google translate was used. It detracted from the authenticity of Benny’s character for me a bit as well. That’s just me nitpicking though.
Im intrigued for the continuation of the series, and I will definitely track this author. I do quite enjoy their style of writing.
*ARC provided by Gay Romance Review, and I have given my honest and voluntary review.*
—dare I say—for Benny.
I enjoyed the writing, but at times I could tell that the author was perhaps not a Spanish speaker, or perhaps not a fluent one, because it felt like basic Spanish via a Google translate was used. It detracted from the authenticity of Benny’s character for me a bit as well. That’s just me nitpicking though.
Im intrigued for the continuation of the series, and I will definitely track this author. I do quite enjoy their style of writing.
*ARC provided by Gay Romance Review, and I have given my honest and voluntary review.*
December 5, 2021
Benny from the block est un peu la petite romance à laquelle je ne m’attendais pas. Je l’ai un peu demandée sur un coup de tête quand j’ai reçu la proposition de SP de Gay Romance Reviews. J’ai deux kink dans la vie, les rouquins et les latinos, alors rien qu’avec la couverture et le titre, je me suis dit ola mama je veux lire ce bouquin.
Et je ne le regrette pas du tout. J’ai pris beaucoup de plaisir à le lire et à découvrir la plume de l’auteure que je ne connaissais pas. Sa plume est très fluide et on enchaîne les pages hyper facilement. Je n’avais pas spécialement d’une romance très très hot, et l’auteure a mis la juste dose de piments et de descriptions qu’il fallait.
J’ai beaucoup aimé cette histoire sur la rédemption, la découverte et l’acception de soit quand on vient d’un milieu si je puis dire pas très tolèrent. Benny a un passé de voyou et même s’il est rangé maintenant afin de donner la meilleure éducation possible à son fils de 15 ans, il est sérieusement dans le placard depuis toujours à luter contre l’ambivalence de ses attractions sexuelles. J’ai aimé le personnage, pas seulement car il est portoricain et fait donc s’envoler ma licorne. Non j’ai aimé son parcours et la certaine sensibilité qu’il dégage.
Franchement, c’est un titre que je peux recommander. Y a quasi pas de drama et pourtant à la fin y aurait eu matière. Mais l’auteure n’a pas voulu gâcher le parcours de ces personnages par des conflits inutiles. Se découvrir et s’accepter étant un challenge en soit. Alors merci à l’auteure de ne pas en avoir rajouter. Pour le coup, je pense m’intéresser à ses autres écrits en commençant par le tome 1 de cette série.
Et je ne le regrette pas du tout. J’ai pris beaucoup de plaisir à le lire et à découvrir la plume de l’auteure que je ne connaissais pas. Sa plume est très fluide et on enchaîne les pages hyper facilement. Je n’avais pas spécialement d’une romance très très hot, et l’auteure a mis la juste dose de piments et de descriptions qu’il fallait.
J’ai beaucoup aimé cette histoire sur la rédemption, la découverte et l’acception de soit quand on vient d’un milieu si je puis dire pas très tolèrent. Benny a un passé de voyou et même s’il est rangé maintenant afin de donner la meilleure éducation possible à son fils de 15 ans, il est sérieusement dans le placard depuis toujours à luter contre l’ambivalence de ses attractions sexuelles. J’ai aimé le personnage, pas seulement car il est portoricain et fait donc s’envoler ma licorne. Non j’ai aimé son parcours et la certaine sensibilité qu’il dégage.
Franchement, c’est un titre que je peux recommander. Y a quasi pas de drama et pourtant à la fin y aurait eu matière. Mais l’auteure n’a pas voulu gâcher le parcours de ces personnages par des conflits inutiles. Se découvrir et s’accepter étant un challenge en soit. Alors merci à l’auteure de ne pas en avoir rajouter. Pour le coup, je pense m’intéresser à ses autres écrits en commençant par le tome 1 de cette série.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 75 reviews