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All American Boy
Not a Boy
Henry should have kept on walking by when he spotted the younger man sitting alone on the beach. He should never have stopped, never sat down, and certainly never kissed him. Because now Henry is experiencing feelings. And he doesn’t like it one bit.
Things happen for a reason, even random hook-ups. Ben was supposed to get off work early that night. It was no accident the sexy stranger stumbled on his beach hiding spot. The Kiss was destined, as well as what happened afterward. It wasn’t as if Ben believed in love at first sight, but this was damn close.
It’s a good thing Henry lives three-thousand miles away or he might do something stupid, like ask for Ben’s phone number.
Ben’s hometown boss begs him to return and he agrees, only regretting not being able to say goodbye to his snarky divorce lawyer. But all the wanting in the universe isn’t going to bring them together again, he doesn’t even know Henry’s last name. Besides, home is on the west coast, not Maine.
Sometimes the universe is a funny place.
#foundfamily #agegap #acceptance #oppositesattract #boynextdoorisnotaboy
All American Boy Series: Semi-Sweet MM Romance
Things happen for a reason, even random hook-ups. Ben was supposed to get off work early that night. It was no accident the sexy stranger stumbled on his beach hiding spot. The Kiss was destined, as well as what happened afterward. It wasn’t as if Ben believed in love at first sight, but this was damn close.
It’s a good thing Henry lives three-thousand miles away or he might do something stupid, like ask for Ben’s phone number.
Ben’s hometown boss begs him to return and he agrees, only regretting not being able to say goodbye to his snarky divorce lawyer. But all the wanting in the universe isn’t going to bring them together again, he doesn’t even know Henry’s last name. Besides, home is on the west coast, not Maine.
Sometimes the universe is a funny place.
#foundfamily #agegap #acceptance #oppositesattract #boynextdoorisnotaboy
All American Boy Series: Semi-Sweet MM Romance
116 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 15, 2022
28 people are currently reading
99 people want to read
About the author
Elle Keaton
52 books547 followersElle Keaton is a writer, avid reader, and amateur cat-wrangler. Her love of romance novels has led her to a life of creating her own happy ever afters. She is the author of the best selling series' Shielded Hearts and Veiled Intentions. Keaton hails from the Pacific Northwest, where she lives with her husband and cats.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 117 reviews
April 10, 2022
This is a solid novella that covers a great many events and emotions over the course of a year. Which isn’t always easy in such a short time, but Elle pulls it off. Leaves you feeling like you’ve known them for a long while and you’re totally rooting for their happy ending.
The two men come together for an epic one-night stand in Maine, yet both are left wanting more but without any way to contact each other and neither living in Maine. When fate brings them back together, it’s up to them to not let go. With a little help from some eccentric friends and family. Ben is wonderful and I love how he’s so patient but determined to not let go. The ending is also super sweet and satisfying.
< ARC provided by GRR and this is my honest review >
The two men come together for an epic one-night stand in Maine, yet both are left wanting more but without any way to contact each other and neither living in Maine. When fate brings them back together, it’s up to them to not let go. With a little help from some eccentric friends and family. Ben is wonderful and I love how he’s so patient but determined to not let go. The ending is also super sweet and satisfying.
< ARC provided by GRR and this is my honest review >
April 6, 2022
This was a short, sweet and sometimes sexy little book. Ben was just the best in this.
It all starts with a chance meeting that leads to a night together. They go their separate ways only to unexpectedly reunite 6 weeks later. I loved that they got a second chance. Ben knew exactly what he wanted when he saw Henry again and he went for it.
Ben was so fun and bold. He really had no trouble telling Henry what he wanted. Henry, being a divorce lawyer, is skeptical about love and marriage. I loved that he was willing to take a chance on Ben.
For being on the shorter side, this book packed a lot in and it didn’t seem rushed or forced in any way. I felt like the relationship developed naturally and was just right for both of them. I really liked this one.
*I received an ARC of this book and this is my honest review.
It all starts with a chance meeting that leads to a night together. They go their separate ways only to unexpectedly reunite 6 weeks later. I loved that they got a second chance. Ben knew exactly what he wanted when he saw Henry again and he went for it.
Ben was so fun and bold. He really had no trouble telling Henry what he wanted. Henry, being a divorce lawyer, is skeptical about love and marriage. I loved that he was willing to take a chance on Ben.
For being on the shorter side, this book packed a lot in and it didn’t seem rushed or forced in any way. I felt like the relationship developed naturally and was just right for both of them. I really liked this one.
*I received an ARC of this book and this is my honest review.
April 18, 2022
This book had me in the feels. The characters were sweet, the story was comforting and believable. A definite recommended read.
March 26, 2022
Ah, I loved this story. It was just what I needed to read. It was fairly short but it grabbed me from the start. It was sweet, tender and full of chemistry and there was a hint of love at first sight. I liked both characters. They meet by chance on the beach and have a steamy night and they both think of each other over the next weeks. They then meet again and they still feel the strong connection. I really enjoyed reading this story 💜
April 19, 2022
I absolutely love everything about this book! While you could easily read this book as a standalone, it is so much better when you have read the other books by Elle set on Piedras Island (and there are a lot😁)! Henry is a character that is introduced in Elle's new Piedras Island series, West Coast Forensics, and I love that we got to see him finally find his person. Ben was such an amazing character and I love that he was finally able to find his own happiness away from his horrible father. There is a little bit of an insta-love storyline between Ben and Henry but it feels so genuine and real between these two. I loved getting to see some of my favorite characters from other books set on Piedras, including Shay and Ryder! After seeing Henry struggle so much with accepting love and a relationship, the epilogue was all the more amazing because you can finally see just how far Ben and Henry have come as a couple. I hope we will eventually get Cody and Wade's story because those two need Elle to sort things out for them! Wonderful writing, excellent characters, and truly touching storylines...all the things you know to expect from an Elle Keaton book!
April 27, 2022
Not A Boy by Elle Keaton.
This is totally a wonderful read. It's one of those books where I felt as if I belonged, the feels were gorgeous.
Ben met Henry by chance for one night, the next morning Ben has been called away, Henry is devastated but life goes on, even though it hurts .
From the first meeting together, there was a connection and a huge temptation to have more.
All this time they had each other on their minds, completely smitten with the thought of seeing each other again but knowing probably wouldn’t be possible.
When a second chance meeting occurs, they can’t believe it!
Their feelings for each other have grown stronger and trying to leave each other alone isn’t possible.
A defence lawyer, an independent guy who knows what he wants, an angry father / work partner plus an age difference which didn’t matter at all.
I adored the story , the writing flowed , wonderful characters that made everything real .
This is totally a wonderful read. It's one of those books where I felt as if I belonged, the feels were gorgeous.
Ben met Henry by chance for one night, the next morning Ben has been called away, Henry is devastated but life goes on, even though it hurts .
From the first meeting together, there was a connection and a huge temptation to have more.
All this time they had each other on their minds, completely smitten with the thought of seeing each other again but knowing probably wouldn’t be possible.
When a second chance meeting occurs, they can’t believe it!
Their feelings for each other have grown stronger and trying to leave each other alone isn’t possible.
A defence lawyer, an independent guy who knows what he wants, an angry father / work partner plus an age difference which didn’t matter at all.
I adored the story , the writing flowed , wonderful characters that made everything real .
Read
April 15, 2022this was fine. I don't have a ton of thoughts on it to be completely honest. It's a decent romance novel but nothing especially great. It has an age gap and strangers to lovers. They meet by chance in Maine then when one MC has to suddenly leave to his home on the west coast, he leaves without getting a chance to get the other MCs name or number. They by chance meet again at the MCs dad's wedding which is also a business partner of the other MC. It's fast but also not. They pine for each other for a few weeks until they meet again. Overall a middle of the road for me.
April 16, 2022
4 Stars 🌟
Henry and Ben ❤️
I kind of adored this one, Henry and Ben were perfect together...a skeptical divorce lawyer meets his match in a free spirited sweetheart with dreams of owning a B&B one day...the only thing I didn't like about this story was that it ended way to soon. it was funny, it was sweet and it had a touch of fate mixed with love and a swoon worthy HEA. I recommend this one if your looking for a short but really sweet story.
* I received an ARC from GRR, this is my open and honest review *
Henry and Ben ❤️
I kind of adored this one, Henry and Ben were perfect together...a skeptical divorce lawyer meets his match in a free spirited sweetheart with dreams of owning a B&B one day...the only thing I didn't like about this story was that it ended way to soon. it was funny, it was sweet and it had a touch of fate mixed with love and a swoon worthy HEA. I recommend this one if your looking for a short but really sweet story.
* I received an ARC from GRR, this is my open and honest review *
March 24, 2022
Henry goes to Maine to scatter his parents’ ashes, and meets Ben on the beach. So begins a fated match. Their one night stands ends with Ben going home to help Cody at the hotel he works at before his Dad’s wedding.
Henry also shows up for his colleague’s wedding, and they immediately both want to pick up their relationship.
They work through Ben’s Dad’s anger, their age difference, which neither cares about, and Henry’s worry about not achieving a loving lifelong relationship. Him being a divorce lawyer doesn’t help.
A good story, but as novellas often are, too fast paced for me. But, Keaton is a favourite author, so I read all I can find of her works. I love Marigold, Ben’s Mom, the best, she could do with a book of her own.
I received this ARC for free, and am pleased to provide an honest review in appreciation for the book.
Henry also shows up for his colleague’s wedding, and they immediately both want to pick up their relationship.
They work through Ben’s Dad’s anger, their age difference, which neither cares about, and Henry’s worry about not achieving a loving lifelong relationship. Him being a divorce lawyer doesn’t help.
A good story, but as novellas often are, too fast paced for me. But, Keaton is a favourite author, so I read all I can find of her works. I love Marigold, Ben’s Mom, the best, she could do with a book of her own.
I received this ARC for free, and am pleased to provide an honest review in appreciation for the book.
May 4, 2022
Underwhelming and underdeveloped. Characters, dialogue, plot all lacked depth. Romance betw MCs was way too insta. And I always find it weird when someone refers to their parent by their first name. I get it if you don’t get along w the parent but Ben and his mom had a solid relationship.
December 20, 2023
Clever, sweet and Uber sexy quick read about Ben and Henry who meet on the beach in Maine. Henry is in Maine to spread his parents' ashes. Ben is there to intern as a sommelier at a B&B. They have one of those hot and heavy one night stands with plans to meet later the day after but don't. Neither knows the other's last name so no way to reconnect. But they do, clear across the country. Really liked the crisp writing, great characters, especially Marigold, and the beautiful setting. Easy to read as a standalone. Romantic ending. Swoonny.
March 31, 2022
3.5 stars
Ben and Henry have a chance meeting while Ben is working at a resort for the summer and Henry is in the same town of Maine, to spread his parents ashes at what was their favorite vacation spot. It’s instant attraction between the two and it doesn’t take our protagonists long to fall into bed, but when Ben is suddenly summoned back home due to a work emergency, the fling comes to an abrupt end. Will Ben and Henry get a second chance?
This was a quick and easy read. I liked both Henry and Ben, they had great chemistry and were sexy together.
While the story is on the shorter side, it still felt like a complete read. Love at first sight doesn’t always work in stories, but here it did.
This was an enjoyable read I’d have no problem recommending!
* Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. *
Ben and Henry have a chance meeting while Ben is working at a resort for the summer and Henry is in the same town of Maine, to spread his parents ashes at what was their favorite vacation spot. It’s instant attraction between the two and it doesn’t take our protagonists long to fall into bed, but when Ben is suddenly summoned back home due to a work emergency, the fling comes to an abrupt end. Will Ben and Henry get a second chance?
This was a quick and easy read. I liked both Henry and Ben, they had great chemistry and were sexy together.
While the story is on the shorter side, it still felt like a complete read. Love at first sight doesn’t always work in stories, but here it did.
This was an enjoyable read I’d have no problem recommending!
* Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. *
May 3, 2022
I’m not exactly sure why, but this one took my totally by surprise. I adored both Ben and Henry. They were both a little lost and a little bit broken and they found each other at just the right time, even though neither one of them knew they were looking.
My heart broke a little bit for Henry in the beginning. He had no idea that Ben had the same regrets about how short that their time was together.
Age gap romances can go either way for me, but in Not a Boy, it was hardly noticeable and really a non-issue. The real issue, once they found each other again, was the jaded view on finding a lasting love that Henry had.
This was a short sweet story about the crazy turns that fate can take to bring two people together that were definitely meant to be. My only regret about Not a Boy is that I would have loved to have been able to spend more time with Ben and Henry.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of Not a Boy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
My heart broke a little bit for Henry in the beginning. He had no idea that Ben had the same regrets about how short that their time was together.
Age gap romances can go either way for me, but in Not a Boy, it was hardly noticeable and really a non-issue. The real issue, once they found each other again, was the jaded view on finding a lasting love that Henry had.
This was a short sweet story about the crazy turns that fate can take to bring two people together that were definitely meant to be. My only regret about Not a Boy is that I would have loved to have been able to spend more time with Ben and Henry.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of Not a Boy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
May 14, 2022
Ben and Henry have a chance, fated meeting along the beach at night. They have a wonderful night together and then Ben leaves for home, expecting to never see Henry again. Low and behold, Henry shows up at Ben's work weeks later.
This was super cute and very low drama, even though Ben left without a word to Henry. I loved how Ben just went for it when Henry "found" him again.
This was super cute and very low drama, even though Ben left without a word to Henry. I loved how Ben just went for it when Henry "found" him again.
April 7, 2022
I was fully on board the Ben and Henry train from their first meeting: a beach, some questionable cuisine, some solidly witty banter and tons of chemistry…their potential is real. I liked, for the most part, watching that chemistry develop into real feelings. While both guys unintentionally do their part to create obstacles for themselves in different ways, either emotionally or geographically, ultimately, with the help of well-intentioned (if ridiculously pushy) friends and family and something kind of like ( or maybe exactly like) fate, they get the HEA they deserve. Fans of the author’s other works will see familiar faces here, and it’s an added bonus to see them again. The supporting characters, whether familiar from previous works or new, are, with the exception of one bridezilla and one obnoxious sperm donor, lovely and interesting and add their own unique, often slightly off-beat charm to the story. Overall, an enjoyable read.
*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
January 24, 2023
Part of a multi author series, of which I've read one other, this is a lovely age gap romance that includes a couple of characters from others in this series but it doesn't spoil the story, it's totally a stand alone and a gorgeous read.
April 9, 2022
4.5 stars…I really enjoyed this story set in the Piedras Island universe. While these MCs are new they come into the universe via Henry being best friends with Shay Delacomb and Ben working at the inn owned by Cody.
Henry and Ben meet when they are both in Maine, neither knowing much about the other before they are separated. When they see each other again on Piedras each is understandably shocked. They pick up where they left off and click completely. However Henry’s attitude towards love and relationships threatens everything they appear to be building.
The novella is a quick read and that actually kind of bummed me out because I’d like to have gotten to know both of these characters a lot better. I didn’t feel like I got in depth understanding of either character. It also felt like there were elements introduced that were kind of left hanging and as a result seemed to not add to the narrative. I’d have liked more about Ben’s mother and the tarot cards and some further background on Shay and Ryder for those who haven’t read the West Coast Forensics series would probably be helpful. Same thing with the whole Code/Wade storyline. It seems pointless here because there’s not enough information.
Having said all that I do realize it’s a novella not a full length book. I only dinged the rating a little due to that but nevertheless I did feel at the end like there were holes and I was missing something.
Henry and Ben are great and I rooted for their HEA. I hope we’ll see more of them in future books in the Piedras universe.
**I voluntarily read an arc and this is my unbiased opinion.**
Henry and Ben meet when they are both in Maine, neither knowing much about the other before they are separated. When they see each other again on Piedras each is understandably shocked. They pick up where they left off and click completely. However Henry’s attitude towards love and relationships threatens everything they appear to be building.
The novella is a quick read and that actually kind of bummed me out because I’d like to have gotten to know both of these characters a lot better. I didn’t feel like I got in depth understanding of either character. It also felt like there were elements introduced that were kind of left hanging and as a result seemed to not add to the narrative. I’d have liked more about Ben’s mother and the tarot cards and some further background on Shay and Ryder for those who haven’t read the West Coast Forensics series would probably be helpful. Same thing with the whole Code/Wade storyline. It seems pointless here because there’s not enough information.
Having said all that I do realize it’s a novella not a full length book. I only dinged the rating a little due to that but nevertheless I did feel at the end like there were holes and I was missing something.
Henry and Ben are great and I rooted for their HEA. I hope we’ll see more of them in future books in the Piedras universe.
**I voluntarily read an arc and this is my unbiased opinion.**
April 17, 2022
Title - Not A Boy
Author - Elle Keaton
Genre - MM Romance
Published - April 2022
Pages - 116 Pages
When Ben finishes work early one night and decides to head to the beach to watch the sunset he doesn't expect to run into a sexy stranger, he finds himself inviting the man to join him. One thing leads to another and they end up spending the night with each other. They make plans to see each other again the next evening. When Henry shows up the next evening at the arranged meeting spot, Ben is a no show.
Henry feels let down and disheartened, leading him convinced he was right all along there's no such thing as love and all marriages end in divorce. So why can't he get Ben off his mind? When Henry goes to a work colleague's wedding the last person he expects to see is Ben, is fate at play here?
I did enjoy this book, however, I felt like I was missing huge chunks of the story, this book although part of a series says can be read as a stand-alone for me personally, it didn't read like one. The strange thing is the series this is part of isn't what was missing from the book, the spin-off series is what was missing.
I also felt like this book had huge potential to be a really steamy book but the steamy scenes were fade to black which was disappointing.
I liked the characters, although Henry annoyed me a little. I felt like this book had lots of potential but it just fell short in the end.
I also felt like the ending was a bit rushed, I really wanted to give this book more stars, I even ended up thinking on it overnight before submitting my final review but after taking into account all my pros and cons with this book I ended up deciding on two stars.
Author - Elle Keaton
Genre - MM Romance
Published - April 2022
Pages - 116 Pages
When Ben finishes work early one night and decides to head to the beach to watch the sunset he doesn't expect to run into a sexy stranger, he finds himself inviting the man to join him. One thing leads to another and they end up spending the night with each other. They make plans to see each other again the next evening. When Henry shows up the next evening at the arranged meeting spot, Ben is a no show.
Henry feels let down and disheartened, leading him convinced he was right all along there's no such thing as love and all marriages end in divorce. So why can't he get Ben off his mind? When Henry goes to a work colleague's wedding the last person he expects to see is Ben, is fate at play here?
I did enjoy this book, however, I felt like I was missing huge chunks of the story, this book although part of a series says can be read as a stand-alone for me personally, it didn't read like one. The strange thing is the series this is part of isn't what was missing from the book, the spin-off series is what was missing.
I also felt like this book had huge potential to be a really steamy book but the steamy scenes were fade to black which was disappointing.
I liked the characters, although Henry annoyed me a little. I felt like this book had lots of potential but it just fell short in the end.
I also felt like the ending was a bit rushed, I really wanted to give this book more stars, I even ended up thinking on it overnight before submitting my final review but after taking into account all my pros and cons with this book I ended up deciding on two stars.
May 2, 2022
This author simply never disappoints. This novella from the American Boy Series was so dang adorable, but not in an overly sugary way. It’s a gift to get a reader invested quickly in a shorter novel, and I was immediately pulled in.
We are introduced to Ben, who is learning the ropes at a local Bed and Breakfast. He bumps into Henry on the beach, who came to Maine to say goodbye to his parents by visiting the place they loved most. The two have a lightning connection, and the jaded Henry, who happens to be a divorce lawyer, is surprisingly smitten. Unfortunately, a lack of communication returns Henry to his old view that being alone is for the best.
Heading to my favorite locale of Piedras Island, Henry stays with his good friend Shay and his fiance Ryder. Please check out Ms. Keaton’s West Coast Forensic books to learn more about his friends. Ironically, Ben and Henry find themselves together again when they realize they’re both in the same wedding party. Ben and Henry are just too cute together, and even with the adorable factor, they feel like a genuine couple.
The wedding features Bridezilla and Ben’s jerk of a father, which provides moments of levity. The two men realized their attraction was morphing into something tangible, and the festivities became a backdrop to their budding relationship. Throw in Ben’s amazing and quirky mother, Marigold Rainbow, and the story just glitters.
A beautifully fun romance that I highly recommend and hope you enjoy. Happy reading!
* * * Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure. A review wasn’t a requirement * * *
We are introduced to Ben, who is learning the ropes at a local Bed and Breakfast. He bumps into Henry on the beach, who came to Maine to say goodbye to his parents by visiting the place they loved most. The two have a lightning connection, and the jaded Henry, who happens to be a divorce lawyer, is surprisingly smitten. Unfortunately, a lack of communication returns Henry to his old view that being alone is for the best.
Heading to my favorite locale of Piedras Island, Henry stays with his good friend Shay and his fiance Ryder. Please check out Ms. Keaton’s West Coast Forensic books to learn more about his friends. Ironically, Ben and Henry find themselves together again when they realize they’re both in the same wedding party. Ben and Henry are just too cute together, and even with the adorable factor, they feel like a genuine couple.
The wedding features Bridezilla and Ben’s jerk of a father, which provides moments of levity. The two men realized their attraction was morphing into something tangible, and the festivities became a backdrop to their budding relationship. Throw in Ben’s amazing and quirky mother, Marigold Rainbow, and the story just glitters.
A beautifully fun romance that I highly recommend and hope you enjoy. Happy reading!
* * * Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure. A review wasn’t a requirement * * *
April 4, 2022
A short, cute read.
The story of Henry and Ben is a classical one: they meet in summer, there is insta-lust and one hot night, they both go their own ways again, can't get the other one out of their heads, and miraculously meet again somewhere else.
Throw in a wedding of someone they both don't like very much, some nice friends and family, and even the classical miscommunication.
I was so grateful the miscommunication wasn't blown out of proportion and even had a fun twist. Go Ben!
I found it a bit hard to get through the first chapter. The writing was a bit jumbled and a side character got referred to by 3 different names. I had the read the first few pages 3 times to figure out they were the same person and how this person was related to Ben, whose wedding was coming up, and that Ben's current job was only temporary. Because I read an ARC, it is possible the finished story has a clearer first chapter.
As soon as Henry rolled around in chapter 2, the story and writing picked up and I found myself more engaged. Their meet-cute was really cute and Ben and Henry seemed to suit each other well.
This story is sweet, sexy, pretty much insta-love, and low on the angst.
It wasn't, however, anything new. I've read many a novella with the same story line and Not a Boy didn't stand out. Moreover, the situation with Ben's dad felt a bit unresolved, especially since the title Not a Boy refers to Ben's relationship with his father. Personally I think a different title would have worked better.
The story of Henry and Ben is a classical one: they meet in summer, there is insta-lust and one hot night, they both go their own ways again, can't get the other one out of their heads, and miraculously meet again somewhere else.
Throw in a wedding of someone they both don't like very much, some nice friends and family, and even the classical miscommunication.
I was so grateful the miscommunication wasn't blown out of proportion and even had a fun twist. Go Ben!
I found it a bit hard to get through the first chapter. The writing was a bit jumbled and a side character got referred to by 3 different names. I had the read the first few pages 3 times to figure out they were the same person and how this person was related to Ben, whose wedding was coming up, and that Ben's current job was only temporary. Because I read an ARC, it is possible the finished story has a clearer first chapter.
As soon as Henry rolled around in chapter 2, the story and writing picked up and I found myself more engaged. Their meet-cute was really cute and Ben and Henry seemed to suit each other well.
This story is sweet, sexy, pretty much insta-love, and low on the angst.
It wasn't, however, anything new. I've read many a novella with the same story line and Not a Boy didn't stand out. Moreover, the situation with Ben's dad felt a bit unresolved, especially since the title Not a Boy refers to Ben's relationship with his father. Personally I think a different title would have worked better.
April 26, 2022
Ben and Henry forever!
I have read nearly every book that Elle Keaton has published and have never been disappointed by any of them; Not a Boy is no exception. I love how this is a standalone story but also ties in to her other series set on Piedras Island. I enjoyed getting to revisit a few of my favorite characters.
This novella length story really packed a punch. Not all authors can write such a complete story as Not a Boy was within the limitations of a novella length book. I admit to being a bit distracted when I first started reading this story and I was frustrated that I couldn’t just sit and enjoy it in one sitting. I’m sure that accounts for why it started off a little slow for me; fortunately, that didn’t last long at all. Once I was able to concentrate only on the story I was captivated. When I started reading this I truly didn’t know that Elle was going to have part of this book take place back on Piedras so it was a wonderful surprise for me.
Ben and Henry got off to a hot as fire 🔥🔥🔥 start then Ben had to leave suddenly and they hadn’t exchanged contact information. I’m not going to give any details about how they meet again; I’ll just say that it was very unexpected and I love how it all played out.
Not a Boy was a really wonderful story with a perfect HEA. 💗
A copy of this book was provided to me at my request but my review was voluntary and not influenced by the author.
***Reviewed for Xtreme-Delusions dot com on April 27, 2022***
I have read nearly every book that Elle Keaton has published and have never been disappointed by any of them; Not a Boy is no exception. I love how this is a standalone story but also ties in to her other series set on Piedras Island. I enjoyed getting to revisit a few of my favorite characters.
This novella length story really packed a punch. Not all authors can write such a complete story as Not a Boy was within the limitations of a novella length book. I admit to being a bit distracted when I first started reading this story and I was frustrated that I couldn’t just sit and enjoy it in one sitting. I’m sure that accounts for why it started off a little slow for me; fortunately, that didn’t last long at all. Once I was able to concentrate only on the story I was captivated. When I started reading this I truly didn’t know that Elle was going to have part of this book take place back on Piedras so it was a wonderful surprise for me.
Ben and Henry got off to a hot as fire 🔥🔥🔥 start then Ben had to leave suddenly and they hadn’t exchanged contact information. I’m not going to give any details about how they meet again; I’ll just say that it was very unexpected and I love how it all played out.
Not a Boy was a really wonderful story with a perfect HEA. 💗
A copy of this book was provided to me at my request but my review was voluntary and not influenced by the author.
***Reviewed for Xtreme-Delusions dot com on April 27, 2022***
May 10, 2022
I’m already a huge fan of this author’s books, and an added bonus of this story is how it fits nicely within the shared world of her series, with appearances from Shay, Ryder, and Cody on Piedras Island. I loved Henry and Ben’s story, couldn’t put it down, and read it in one sitting. I hope to see glimpses of them in other books.
I started reading this story late at night, thinking I’d read a couple of chapters, then finish it the next evening. I ended up sitting up very late as I had to make sure Henry and Ben got their HEA. Although this is an opposites attract story, they have a lot of common ground, interests, and people in common. Their first meeting is sweet and sexy, and very much has a sense of meant to be.
I loved how they fit in with the wider Piedras community, and I enjoyed Henry’s friendship with Shay and Ryder. The supporting cast enrich the story with their quirks and friendships. I loved the two ladies who run the B&B, and Ben’s mother is wonderful. His father, on the other hand, really isn’t. I was very pleased Ben had Henry in his corner, and that neither of them put up with his rubbish.
Ben and Henry’s scenes together are sweet, especially the pillow talk as they get to know each other. Cody and Shay doing what they can to keep these two together is great. I love the banter, and especially how Shay comes right out and tells Henry he’s an idiot. Although I could understand why Henry said what he did, Shay is totally right.
The epilogue is perfect. I need a story with Cody and Wade finally growing a clue now.
I started reading this story late at night, thinking I’d read a couple of chapters, then finish it the next evening. I ended up sitting up very late as I had to make sure Henry and Ben got their HEA. Although this is an opposites attract story, they have a lot of common ground, interests, and people in common. Their first meeting is sweet and sexy, and very much has a sense of meant to be.
I loved how they fit in with the wider Piedras community, and I enjoyed Henry’s friendship with Shay and Ryder. The supporting cast enrich the story with their quirks and friendships. I loved the two ladies who run the B&B, and Ben’s mother is wonderful. His father, on the other hand, really isn’t. I was very pleased Ben had Henry in his corner, and that neither of them put up with his rubbish.
Ben and Henry’s scenes together are sweet, especially the pillow talk as they get to know each other. Cody and Shay doing what they can to keep these two together is great. I love the banter, and especially how Shay comes right out and tells Henry he’s an idiot. Although I could understand why Henry said what he did, Shay is totally right.
The epilogue is perfect. I need a story with Cody and Wade finally growing a clue now.
May 2, 2022
Check out our full post for NOT A BOY on Wicked Reads, which includes an excerpt.
Reviews by the Wicked Reads Review Team
Veronica – ☆☆☆☆
Ben and Henry meet for the first time on a beach in Maine and for the second time on Piedras Island, Washington, where the author has set several other series. Ben is working in Maine when he meets Henry, who is more than 10 years his senior. I like that the age gap isn’t really a big deal and that the guys fit really well together.
NOT A BOY is a quick, easy read and it is a mix of sweet and sexy, with only a dash of angst. I really liked that the men acted on their attraction with no hesitation because it added to the lightness and the fun of the story. I really enjoyed NOT A BOY.
Reviewers received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.
April 17, 2022
4 Stars!
Not a Boy is sort of connected to Boy Overboard, since we met Ben there and it's also connected to Ms. Keaton's Piedras universe because Henry is friends with Shay and Ryder (who featured in Real Danger) and Ben works for Cody (who we met in Real Trouble and Real Danger).
Henry and Ben meet and are instantly attracted to one another, after a passionate night together, Ben has to return to Piedras Island before he can contact Henry again. Fate steps in when Henry comes to Piedras Island to stay with his friend Shay and his boyfriend Ryder for his coworker's wedding, who turns out to be Ben's poor excuse for a father. However, while Ben is ready to go all-in, Henry is a cynic divorce lawyer who doesn't believe in happily ever after.
I loved Ben, he was more patient than I would've been in his position, LOL. I liked Henry, but I wanted to throttle him a few times with his I don't believe in relationships or love spiel, especially after he hurt Ben and didn't even notice until Shay and Ryder pointed it out. They had great chemistry and were super hot together, and once Shay got his head out of his shapely behind, they were really good for each other.
Overall, a good addition to both the Piedras universe and the All American Boy series. Recommendable!
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
Not a Boy is sort of connected to Boy Overboard, since we met Ben there and it's also connected to Ms. Keaton's Piedras universe because Henry is friends with Shay and Ryder (who featured in Real Danger) and Ben works for Cody (who we met in Real Trouble and Real Danger).
Henry and Ben meet and are instantly attracted to one another, after a passionate night together, Ben has to return to Piedras Island before he can contact Henry again. Fate steps in when Henry comes to Piedras Island to stay with his friend Shay and his boyfriend Ryder for his coworker's wedding, who turns out to be Ben's poor excuse for a father. However, while Ben is ready to go all-in, Henry is a cynic divorce lawyer who doesn't believe in happily ever after.
I loved Ben, he was more patient than I would've been in his position, LOL. I liked Henry, but I wanted to throttle him a few times with his I don't believe in relationships or love spiel, especially after he hurt Ben and didn't even notice until Shay and Ryder pointed it out. They had great chemistry and were super hot together, and once Shay got his head out of his shapely behind, they were really good for each other.
Overall, a good addition to both the Piedras universe and the All American Boy series. Recommendable!
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
April 13, 2022
Independent reviewer for Gay Romance Reviews, I was gifted my copy of this book.
Ben meets Henry, Ben has to leave, Ben reconnects with Henry and they all live happy ever after.
And that, my dear followers, is EXACTLY what I needed to read, right at this point in time, and I loved it! It was just too short for me, and that's the only reason I gave it 4 and not 5 stars. I wanted MORE of Henry and Ben, I really did. Yes I knew it was only a short book, but sometimes short books are enough for me in their shortness. But I loved Ben and Henry so much, I just wanted so much more.
I loved that there was an instant connection between Ben and Henry. I loved that, since he is a divorce laywer, Henry is sceptical about such things as love, and soul mates, but Ben, with his mother and her beliefs, believes in all things mystical. Polar opposites, but opposites attract!
Its sweet and smexy, its so much with the warm and fuzzies! I can't see that I've read any of Keaton's work before, my reading list just got a few books bigger!
4 warm and fuzzies stars
*same worded review will appear elsewhere
Ben meets Henry, Ben has to leave, Ben reconnects with Henry and they all live happy ever after.
And that, my dear followers, is EXACTLY what I needed to read, right at this point in time, and I loved it! It was just too short for me, and that's the only reason I gave it 4 and not 5 stars. I wanted MORE of Henry and Ben, I really did. Yes I knew it was only a short book, but sometimes short books are enough for me in their shortness. But I loved Ben and Henry so much, I just wanted so much more.
I loved that there was an instant connection between Ben and Henry. I loved that, since he is a divorce laywer, Henry is sceptical about such things as love, and soul mates, but Ben, with his mother and her beliefs, believes in all things mystical. Polar opposites, but opposites attract!
Its sweet and smexy, its so much with the warm and fuzzies! I can't see that I've read any of Keaton's work before, my reading list just got a few books bigger!
4 warm and fuzzies stars
*same worded review will appear elsewhere
April 15, 2022
Do you believe that there are just some people you meet that were meant to be in your life? I do. That is the story of Henry and Ben in Not A Boy. After a totally random meeting on a beach, Henry and Ben spend a whirlwind 24 hrs together . When Ben suddenly has to leave without being able to contact Henry both men think it was just a fling. Neither man is able to forget the other and regrets not getting any contact information. Flash forward a few weeks and they discover a random connection that brings them both back into each other's worlds. I have to say I really loved this book. It just made me smile through the whole thing watching these two men fall in love. We get the usual communications glitch that we do in most romance books, but I really enjoyed how, for the most part, Ben said what he meant and wanted in his life and was direct with his communication. I truly believe that there are some people that you just meet and have an instant connection with, be it romantic or platonic. They were meant to be in our lives and this book just reinforces that belief for me. Highly recommend picking it up!
April 16, 2022
Ben and Henry meet on the beach at Stoney Brook during the Tall Ship Festival. Henry is there to spread his parents ashes and Ben is in the hospitality area. When they meet there is an instant connection and plenty of chemistry. Ben receives an emergency phone call from home. He is needed to help his friend with his B&B. So off he goes regretting he didn’t get Henry’s info.
Fast forward, Henry is off to a wedding on Piedras island. The wedding is for a coworker and isn’t real happy to attend. He’s totally blindsided by the appearance of Ben. Lo and behold, Ben is the son of the groom. Henry is absolutely overjoyed to see Ben and the connection they shared is still there. So what do they do? They embark on a torrid affair that literally pisses of his father. Don’t get me with, his father is a POS. They are both lovely individuals who are looking for a special person and they find it in each other. I enjoyed this story. It was well written with characters who were real. Their chemistry was off the charts hot and I loved them together. I enjoyed this story so much, I’m reading the rest in this series.
Fast forward, Henry is off to a wedding on Piedras island. The wedding is for a coworker and isn’t real happy to attend. He’s totally blindsided by the appearance of Ben. Lo and behold, Ben is the son of the groom. Henry is absolutely overjoyed to see Ben and the connection they shared is still there. So what do they do? They embark on a torrid affair that literally pisses of his father. Don’t get me with, his father is a POS. They are both lovely individuals who are looking for a special person and they find it in each other. I enjoyed this story. It was well written with characters who were real. Their chemistry was off the charts hot and I loved them together. I enjoyed this story so much, I’m reading the rest in this series.
May 10, 2022
This sweet story is the first one I have read from this All American Boy Series that is written by various authors. Ben is a hard worker, learning everything he can about hospitality and the hotel industry. While working at a resort in Maine, he has a moment of relaxation and goes to the beach for some downtime. There he meets Henry, a divorce lawyer who is in town scattering his parents ashes. They have a one night, hot as blazes time, but never exchange last names, planning on spending time together while Henry is in town. But unexpectedly Ben has to hurry back home and help out at his old resort, and being in his dad's wedding. Henry actually works with Ben's dad and is participating in the wedding. Imagine both of their surprises when they see each other at the hotel! The sparks are still hot and they only fly in the ice cream is that Henry doesn't believe in love that lasts and is ok with being with someone for a short haul.
I love just about everything from Elle Keaton and this isn't any different! I highly recommend her books. I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I love just about everything from Elle Keaton and this isn't any different! I highly recommend her books. I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 12, 2022
Another short and sweet novella in the All American Boy series
I have read a couple of other books in this MM series of All American Boy and they have all been the same - light and easy reads about charming people who meet unexpectedly in the town of Stoney Brook and find their forever.
Ben and Henry have an instant spark but after one electric night, circumstances mean that was all they had. With no surname and no contact information, each returns home and pines over the other. But Fate has other plans for them and they meet up again, thousands of miles and weeks away from their Stoney Brook liaison.
I loved how Henry was jaded from his job but Ben was just what he needed, if he could get out of his own way. Ben was positive and wasn't going to back down and let his man slip away again. Their chemistry was evident and the ending lovely.
I understand that other characters in this story have already appeared in other books of Elle's but I didn't feel as though I was missing out. If anything, it made me more motivated to read more of her work.
I have read a couple of other books in this MM series of All American Boy and they have all been the same - light and easy reads about charming people who meet unexpectedly in the town of Stoney Brook and find their forever.
Ben and Henry have an instant spark but after one electric night, circumstances mean that was all they had. With no surname and no contact information, each returns home and pines over the other. But Fate has other plans for them and they meet up again, thousands of miles and weeks away from their Stoney Brook liaison.
I loved how Henry was jaded from his job but Ben was just what he needed, if he could get out of his own way. Ben was positive and wasn't going to back down and let his man slip away again. Their chemistry was evident and the ending lovely.
I understand that other characters in this story have already appeared in other books of Elle's but I didn't feel as though I was missing out. If anything, it made me more motivated to read more of her work.
April 30, 2022
Story: 3.5 Stars
This quick and easy read was a pleasant story with likeable characters and enough plot to root for their sweet HEA. Given the many fairly fleshed out secondary characters, I expect several will get their own HEA stories as well, if they haven't already.
Ben (26) and Henry (42) meet by chance on a Maine beach, share a memorable summer night together, and want more but part ways never expecting to see each other again. Some longing and a surprise second chance meeting on the other side of the country months later, their essentially angst-free HEA reunion unfolds quickly. Overall, their romance is fairly low on on-page steam and higher on insta-feels.
The title of this story is what initially piqued my interest. In case you're wondering, "not a boy" is a sentiment Ben utters a couple of times with regard to his age and how his father doesn't treat him like an adult. I received an advance reading e-copy of this book and have left this honest review voluntarily. (Also read in KU.)
This quick and easy read was a pleasant story with likeable characters and enough plot to root for their sweet HEA. Given the many fairly fleshed out secondary characters, I expect several will get their own HEA stories as well, if they haven't already.
Ben (26) and Henry (42) meet by chance on a Maine beach, share a memorable summer night together, and want more but part ways never expecting to see each other again. Some longing and a surprise second chance meeting on the other side of the country months later, their essentially angst-free HEA reunion unfolds quickly. Overall, their romance is fairly low on on-page steam and higher on insta-feels.
The title of this story is what initially piqued my interest. In case you're wondering, "not a boy" is a sentiment Ben utters a couple of times with regard to his age and how his father doesn't treat him like an adult. I received an advance reading e-copy of this book and have left this honest review voluntarily. (Also read in KU.)
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