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Hampton Hearts #2
Mr. Brightside
Playboy. Jokester. Uncle Jakey. Bro.
Living in this small town my whole life means everyone knows my name. The one title I never expected to take on?
Husband.
My father’s will is clear: the only way I’ll ever see my inheritance is if I get married. I never cared about the money. I cringe at the thought of letting him manipulate me from the grave.
But now I’m short on time, out of options, and desperate for cash.
Cue the wedding bells.
The only reason I’m moving forward with this crazy idea is because I’ve figured out a way to unlock my inheritance while also raising the middle finger to my father’s legacy.
See, there’s something Joe Whitely’s narrow-minded bigotry never counted on: times have changed. Laws have changed. Getting married doesn’t mean I have to find a wife like he so desperately wanted.
In fact, I’m determined to do the opposite.
I just have to find myself a man, convince him to marry me, and pop my relationship cherry.
Because that’s the catch: I’ve been with plenty of men. And women. But I’ve never been in a committed relationship.
Husband.
I guess I better get used to hearing it, saying it, and figuring out what the hell it means if this plan is going to work.
Mr. Brightside is a full-length standalone MM romance featuring Jake Whitely from the Hampton Hearts Series. It contains content some may find triggering, including offensive language and discussion of attempted SA. It is a dual POV story featuring characters in their mid to late twenties. It ends with an HEA.
Living in this small town my whole life means everyone knows my name. The one title I never expected to take on?
Husband.
My father’s will is clear: the only way I’ll ever see my inheritance is if I get married. I never cared about the money. I cringe at the thought of letting him manipulate me from the grave.
But now I’m short on time, out of options, and desperate for cash.
Cue the wedding bells.
The only reason I’m moving forward with this crazy idea is because I’ve figured out a way to unlock my inheritance while also raising the middle finger to my father’s legacy.
See, there’s something Joe Whitely’s narrow-minded bigotry never counted on: times have changed. Laws have changed. Getting married doesn’t mean I have to find a wife like he so desperately wanted.
In fact, I’m determined to do the opposite.
I just have to find myself a man, convince him to marry me, and pop my relationship cherry.
Because that’s the catch: I’ve been with plenty of men. And women. But I’ve never been in a committed relationship.
Husband.
I guess I better get used to hearing it, saying it, and figuring out what the hell it means if this plan is going to work.
Mr. Brightside is a full-length standalone MM romance featuring Jake Whitely from the Hampton Hearts Series. It contains content some may find triggering, including offensive language and discussion of attempted SA. It is a dual POV story featuring characters in their mid to late twenties. It ends with an HEA.
ebook
First published May 5, 2022
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1063 people want to read
About the author
Abby Millsaps
23 books1,040 followersAbby Millsaps is an author and storyteller who's been obsessed with writing romance since middle school. In eighth grade, she failed to qualify for the Power of the Pen State Championships because all her submissions contained the same theme: young people falling in love. #LookAtHerNow
She's best known for writing unapologetically angsty romance that causes emotional damage for her readers. Abby prides herself in writing authentic characters while weaving mental health, chronic illness, and neurodiverse representation into the fabric of her stories.
Abby met her husband at a house party the summer before her freshman year of college. He had a secret pizza stashed in the trunk of his car that he was saving for a midnight snack—how was she supposed to resist that level of golden retriever energy and preparedness? When Abby isn't writing, she's reading, traveling, and raising her three daughters.
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Website: www.authorabbymillsaps.com
Instagram: @abbymillsaps
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Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/authorabbymi...
She's best known for writing unapologetically angsty romance that causes emotional damage for her readers. Abby prides herself in writing authentic characters while weaving mental health, chronic illness, and neurodiverse representation into the fabric of her stories.
Abby met her husband at a house party the summer before her freshman year of college. He had a secret pizza stashed in the trunk of his car that he was saving for a midnight snack—how was she supposed to resist that level of golden retriever energy and preparedness? When Abby isn't writing, she's reading, traveling, and raising her three daughters.
Newsletter sign up: https://authorabbymillsaps.myflodesk....
Website: www.authorabbymillsaps.com
Instagram: @abbymillsaps
Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/AbbyMillsaps
TikTok: @authorabbymillsaps
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/authorabbymi...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 92 reviews
May 10, 2022
Yikes, I forgot to keep notes for a review on this.
I love Jake, the MC though! ♥️
I recommend reading Rowdy Boy before you read Mr. Brightside.
I love Jake, the MC though! ♥️
I recommend reading Rowdy Boy before you read Mr. Brightside.
May 17, 2022
DNF at 51%, got bored.
The beginning was really interesting, I thought that this was going to be a good take on the fake marriage trope but nope!!
We had a guy who doesn't do commitments (or he was described that way anyways), basically fall in love the minute they start the arrangement. Say whut???
And we have a serious guy who has been hurt in the past by the other dude, fall into this arrangement quickly and fall in love so quickly it made me cringe.
Where is the awkwardness, where is the: I'm not sure what to do to make this work, where are the other people that are gonna ask for stupid kisses because they look cute or to make one of them sit on the other's lap because there is no room and it makes sense?
WHERE IS THE MAGIC OF THIS TROPE?!!!
Maybe it appears later, but I was just bore and didn't want to continue.
The end...
The beginning was really interesting, I thought that this was going to be a good take on the fake marriage trope but nope!!
We had a guy who doesn't do commitments (or he was described that way anyways), basically fall in love the minute they start the arrangement. Say whut???
And we have a serious guy who has been hurt in the past by the other dude, fall into this arrangement quickly and fall in love so quickly it made me cringe.
Where is the awkwardness, where is the: I'm not sure what to do to make this work, where are the other people that are gonna ask for stupid kisses because they look cute or to make one of them sit on the other's lap because there is no room and it makes sense?
WHERE IS THE MAGIC OF THIS TROPE?!!!
Maybe it appears later, but I was just bore and didn't want to continue.
The end...
May 9, 2022
4 stars
Jake needs to get married to get his inheritence. And he chooses to marry his friend Cory. But they end up falling in love.
I really really enjoyed this book. This was just so sweet and so romantic and it really worked for me. This book was just such a joy to read and it made me swoon so much. I just had tge best time reading this book.
I loved Cory so much. He was just so strong and great. And also, he is pretty much my spirit animal. I just adored everything he thought about and what he stood for. He just was the perfect character to me. And I loved Jake too. I loved how he shattered his entire playboy persona to be with Cory and how sweet he was to Cory even if he had never been in a relationship before. And I adored how great they were together, they complimented each other super well and were a lovely couple.
Jake had never been in a relationship before, and I loved how committed he was to being a good husband to Cory. I just adored how much effort he put into making Cory happy, that just really worked for me.
I loved how possessive Cory and Jark were of each other. I love possessive characters in books so that really worked for me.
I just had such a good time reading this book and it was an absolutely lovely reading experience for me.
I received an ARC of this book, and this is my honest opinion.
Jake needs to get married to get his inheritence. And he chooses to marry his friend Cory. But they end up falling in love.
I really really enjoyed this book. This was just so sweet and so romantic and it really worked for me. This book was just such a joy to read and it made me swoon so much. I just had tge best time reading this book.
I loved Cory so much. He was just so strong and great. And also, he is pretty much my spirit animal. I just adored everything he thought about and what he stood for. He just was the perfect character to me. And I loved Jake too. I loved how he shattered his entire playboy persona to be with Cory and how sweet he was to Cory even if he had never been in a relationship before. And I adored how great they were together, they complimented each other super well and were a lovely couple.
Jake had never been in a relationship before, and I loved how committed he was to being a good husband to Cory. I just adored how much effort he put into making Cory happy, that just really worked for me.
I loved how possessive Cory and Jark were of each other. I love possessive characters in books so that really worked for me.
I just had such a good time reading this book and it was an absolutely lovely reading experience for me.
I received an ARC of this book, and this is my honest opinion.
May 5, 2022
*ARC received from author in exchange for my honest review. *
I knew after reading Rowdy Boy Jakes prequel novella that Mr. Brightside was going to give us a side to Jake that we had never seen before. We've seen him be Rhett's best friend, we've seen him be by Tori's side through hospital appointments and her own heartbreak, but we've never gotten to see Jake vulnerable. Seeing him completely open and bare to the one person he never saw coming. Jake's walls were shattered by Cory before he even realized what was happening and it was one of the most heartwarming things I have ever read.
Even though I knew what I was getting into with Jake he completely took over my heart. For a relationship virgin he was so attentive to Cory and his needs even when they were as simple as his iced coffee order. Having him be so attuned to Cory really helped cement their relationship as "real" in my mind. Those small little touches we sometimes don't get in books, and we need more of them. They are so impactful.
How could I have been so oblivious to Cory before this book? He was always there as a friend for Tori, but this was his time to shine and baby he did! Cory was this force that Jake was undeniably drawn to from almost the very start of their agreement and that pull just grew. He was always there to help Jake see that he was worthy and that he mattered. Especially that one scene, let me tell you when I got to that one scene, I was an emotional teabag. Absorbing all those feels.
I've already made this review longer than I said I was going to, but I’ve got to mention the electricity of Jake & Cory. If you have read Abby's books you know the girl can do spice, but she outdid herself with this one. Especially that liquor cage scene, holy lawd! I was not prepared.
If you have read the Hampton Hearts series, you are going to love Jake even more but if you haven't then you will fall head over heels for Jake and Cory. Their love was just as undeniable and epic as Tori & Rhett's. YES, I SAID THAT!!
I knew after reading Rowdy Boy Jakes prequel novella that Mr. Brightside was going to give us a side to Jake that we had never seen before. We've seen him be Rhett's best friend, we've seen him be by Tori's side through hospital appointments and her own heartbreak, but we've never gotten to see Jake vulnerable. Seeing him completely open and bare to the one person he never saw coming. Jake's walls were shattered by Cory before he even realized what was happening and it was one of the most heartwarming things I have ever read.
Even though I knew what I was getting into with Jake he completely took over my heart. For a relationship virgin he was so attentive to Cory and his needs even when they were as simple as his iced coffee order. Having him be so attuned to Cory really helped cement their relationship as "real" in my mind. Those small little touches we sometimes don't get in books, and we need more of them. They are so impactful.
How could I have been so oblivious to Cory before this book? He was always there as a friend for Tori, but this was his time to shine and baby he did! Cory was this force that Jake was undeniably drawn to from almost the very start of their agreement and that pull just grew. He was always there to help Jake see that he was worthy and that he mattered. Especially that one scene, let me tell you when I got to that one scene, I was an emotional teabag. Absorbing all those feels.
I've already made this review longer than I said I was going to, but I’ve got to mention the electricity of Jake & Cory. If you have read Abby's books you know the girl can do spice, but she outdid herself with this one. Especially that liquor cage scene, holy lawd! I was not prepared.
If you have read the Hampton Hearts series, you are going to love Jake even more but if you haven't then you will fall head over heels for Jake and Cory. Their love was just as undeniable and epic as Tori & Rhett's. YES, I SAID THAT!!
August 13, 2022
4.5 Holy Moly, Mother of God stars
Mr. Brightside is technically standalone. However, Jake has a prequel Rowdy Boy; I suggest reading first. You will have more of an understanding of Jake’s backstory with his family, and you will instantly fall in love with him. Let me say this, hands down, a fantastic book.
Jake is a bisexual Notorious playboy. In need of his inheritance, his father left him. But he has to marry someone. As a big F.U. to his father, he decides he will marry a man. Cory, ex-hook up and co-worker. After all, they have insane chemistry.
Cory agrees as he needs money to help pay for schooling. Both try and keep the walls up. Jake believes he doesn’t deserve love. While Cory is more of a relationship guy, afraid he will fall for Jake and get hurt in the long run.
As much as I think they two are perfect together and I love them. Jake stole my heart. He has layers you must peel one at a time; as soon as you do, he is a pleasant surprise. It was a pleasure to read about his character growth.
Their story is beautiful, complex, and steamy. I always need that grey and complex characters. Jake is that and more. These two kept my kindle smoking a few times
Someone asked me while reading this book if it kept my attention. Yes, it is. So much so that I stayed up late to finish the book. Very addicting.
June 20, 2022
Not a fan of arranged marriage trope, but this one is good
January 31, 2024
Great read.
This was such a good story. I loved Jake and really admired they way he dealt with most of the things in his life., I loved his tenacity and the way he went after what he wanted and wouldn't give up on Cory.
This was such a good story. I loved Jake and really admired they way he dealt with most of the things in his life., I loved his tenacity and the way he went after what he wanted and wouldn't give up on Cory.
September 5, 2022
Couldn't put this down!
Definitely recommend reading the prequel to understand Jake's history, and there's also a certain amount of having to suspend reality.
Not all the characters were well rounded but it actually didn't bother me for once 😂 was just nice to see Jake get his HEA 🥰
Definitely recommend reading the prequel to understand Jake's history, and there's also a certain amount of having to suspend reality.
Not all the characters were well rounded but it actually didn't bother me for once 😂 was just nice to see Jake get his HEA 🥰
September 29, 2022
The good
+ Jake taking Cory's position in their arrangement very seriously, and doing anything to make it worth it
+ Jake's attentiveness and how he gets all these little gifts for Cory
+ Cory trusting Jake's feelings instead of constant skepticism
+ Jake giving his all for this relationship
+ Brutal honesty from both sides, right from the beginning
+ Jake's bond with his nieces
+ Jake giddily showing everyone his wedding band
The neutral
o I would recommend not reading the prequel (Rowdy Boy) before you read this, because the prequel shows a completely different person to the Jake portrayed in this book
o This book has two epilogues
The bad
- The reader got to see exactly zero reactions of people finding out about their marriage
- Sometimes it felt like chapters were cut off mid-scene, and then a time jump happened to the start of the next chapter. A lot of important events were glossed over this way
- Lia was a bad friend and did not deserve to get away with her behavior so easily
- Jake did not grovel nearly enough to make up for his mistake. In fact, I think Cory apologized more during that conversation than Jake did
- Cory was a very jealous person, and I don't like jealous characters. Especially when Jake had never done anything to inspire jealousy and, more importantly, distrust during their marriage
- Jake had broken Cory's heart in the past, but they never even discussed it. Jake prides himself on his ability to read people, but he sure didn't read Cory well back then at all and a conversation about everything that had transpired could really have cleared the air
- Jake was said to feel unlovable, but also believed Rhett and Tori loved him fiercely, and trusted Cory's feelings (even before Cory spoke them!)
- The second epilogue needs a warning, because damn, I was not prepared for [CW: slight spoiler, content warning that should have been included in book]
Quotes
x "It's real. Every breath. Every moment. Every day. I love for you, baby. I wake up thinking about you. I fall asleep with you in my arms, and it still doesn't feel close enough. I ache for you when we're apart."
I really liked where this was going in the beginning. I liked their strong connection and their complete honesty. But their 80% breakup (yep...) really ruined a lot for me. They had been nothing but honest with each other and communicated really well, and still managed to make such a big (and very predictable) mess. I don't know if I'd recommend this book. Probably yes to the first half, and no to the second.
+ Jake taking Cory's position in their arrangement very seriously, and doing anything to make it worth it
+ Jake's attentiveness and how he gets all these little gifts for Cory
+ Cory trusting Jake's feelings instead of constant skepticism
+ Jake giving his all for this relationship
+ Brutal honesty from both sides, right from the beginning
+ Jake's bond with his nieces
+ Jake giddily showing everyone his wedding band
The neutral
o I would recommend not reading the prequel (Rowdy Boy) before you read this, because the prequel shows a completely different person to the Jake portrayed in this book
o This book has two epilogues
The bad
- The reader got to see exactly zero reactions of people finding out about their marriage
- Sometimes it felt like chapters were cut off mid-scene, and then a time jump happened to the start of the next chapter. A lot of important events were glossed over this way
- Lia was a bad friend and did not deserve to get away with her behavior so easily
- Jake did not grovel nearly enough to make up for his mistake. In fact, I think Cory apologized more during that conversation than Jake did
- Cory was a very jealous person, and I don't like jealous characters. Especially when Jake had never done anything to inspire jealousy and, more importantly, distrust during their marriage
- Jake had broken Cory's heart in the past, but they never even discussed it. Jake prides himself on his ability to read people, but he sure didn't read Cory well back then at all and a conversation about everything that had transpired could really have cleared the air
- Jake was said to feel unlovable, but also believed Rhett and Tori loved him fiercely, and trusted Cory's feelings (even before Cory spoke them!)
- The second epilogue needs a warning, because damn, I was not prepared for [CW: slight spoiler, content warning that should have been included in book]
Quotes
x "It's real. Every breath. Every moment. Every day. I love for you, baby. I wake up thinking about you. I fall asleep with you in my arms, and it still doesn't feel close enough. I ache for you when we're apart."
I really liked where this was going in the beginning. I liked their strong connection and their complete honesty. But their 80% breakup (yep...) really ruined a lot for me. They had been nothing but honest with each other and communicated really well, and still managed to make such a big (and very predictable) mess. I don't know if I'd recommend this book. Probably yes to the first half, and no to the second.
February 13, 2023
Sometimes, you just want
high heat, low angst, fake marriage,
MF-y trash. This worked.
high heat, low angst, fake marriage,
MF-y trash. This worked.
May 12, 2022
I think it may be my lack of experience with MM relationships and also some of the background of this ‘series’ (I know this is a standalone but I felt a little lost with some of the characters and dialogue and read that reading previous novels may have helped this situation). Overall, the writing is beautiful and plot was good, but I’m not too keen on super fast burns either, so the book went by in sort of a blur for me. Like I say, I feel like I’m lacking, but based on this experience, I will definitely be revisiting this author and all her works because the writing and spice? Chefs kiss.
May 6, 2022
Sexy Feel-Good MM Romance
Jake Whitely, my book boyfriend for life finally meets his match in the most unconventional of ways. He needs to get married to unlock his inheritance from his horrid father so he can buy the businesses that have become his sanity and hopefully his legacy.
What starts as a marriage of convenience quickly turns this proud relationship virgin into Husband Of The Year. In-Training. Luckily he found the sweetest dirty talker out there to show him the ropes. Cory Varga has been crushing on Jake for years. They hooked up for a short while but for important reasons at the time, they drifted apart. Cory is Mr. Relationship and even though they haven’t always worked out for him, when Jake proposed his “marriage with benefits” plan he couldn’t find real reasons to say no. It would be all too “convenient” to call Jake his husband, to hopefully satisfy his crazy attraction to Jake and get himself a real opportunity to pursue the career he wants after finishing grad school. No more waiting and planning and hoping for a future he’s only dreamed of.
Cory and Jake together is phenomenally satisfying. Their attraction from the past flares back to life along with a deep emotional connection. They’re in this together and they’re playing all out for as long as they have. Abby pulls you in with all the feels and one of the most loveable couples out there. They’re spicy as hell, they bare their vulnerabilities and eventually learn how to be what the other person needs. They’re not perfect but it’s real and so addictive that I was re-reading chapters before I even finished the book. Or maybe I just didn’t want it to end.
If you’ve followed Jake from Abby’s Hampton Hearts series where he was the bestest best friend and bisexual backup husband to his chosen family, Rhett and Tori then this book will be incredibly full circle. As in, cue all the happy tears.
Don’t miss out on this uplifting and heartwarming read that’s full of spice and smiles!
Jake Whitely, my book boyfriend for life finally meets his match in the most unconventional of ways. He needs to get married to unlock his inheritance from his horrid father so he can buy the businesses that have become his sanity and hopefully his legacy.
What starts as a marriage of convenience quickly turns this proud relationship virgin into Husband Of The Year. In-Training. Luckily he found the sweetest dirty talker out there to show him the ropes. Cory Varga has been crushing on Jake for years. They hooked up for a short while but for important reasons at the time, they drifted apart. Cory is Mr. Relationship and even though they haven’t always worked out for him, when Jake proposed his “marriage with benefits” plan he couldn’t find real reasons to say no. It would be all too “convenient” to call Jake his husband, to hopefully satisfy his crazy attraction to Jake and get himself a real opportunity to pursue the career he wants after finishing grad school. No more waiting and planning and hoping for a future he’s only dreamed of.
Cory and Jake together is phenomenally satisfying. Their attraction from the past flares back to life along with a deep emotional connection. They’re in this together and they’re playing all out for as long as they have. Abby pulls you in with all the feels and one of the most loveable couples out there. They’re spicy as hell, they bare their vulnerabilities and eventually learn how to be what the other person needs. They’re not perfect but it’s real and so addictive that I was re-reading chapters before I even finished the book. Or maybe I just didn’t want it to end.
If you’ve followed Jake from Abby’s Hampton Hearts series where he was the bestest best friend and bisexual backup husband to his chosen family, Rhett and Tori then this book will be incredibly full circle. As in, cue all the happy tears.
Don’t miss out on this uplifting and heartwarming read that’s full of spice and smiles!
May 5, 2022
Do you believe in fate?…
Jake has not had an easy life even though he is considered a rich playboy. Jake has worked hard for what he has and where he works.
When the owner of the bar and diner must sell quickly, Jake knows he wants to buy him out. He just needs to figure out how to get to enough money to do so. Jake’s deceased father left him an inheritance and the only stipulation is that Jake must be married to receive it. Jakes dad disapproved of his life style and Jake believes his dad wrote his will that way to hurt him. His dad probably never thought that same sex marriage would be legal in the state of Ohio(♥️). Jake never planned on touching that money until now.
Now he needs to find someone to marry.
Cory is a struggling student and just found out his funding is being canceled. He works with Jake and he tells him about it. Jake instantly gets the idea of asking Cory and invites him to his house after work.
It seems fate has stepped in to help these two guys. What they both thought would be a minimal 2 year marriage agreement has changed and grown into so much more then they could ever imagine.
These two will struggle at first but once they step out of each other’s ways and learn to love each other that’s when great things happen.
And they lived HEA.
I really enjoyed this book. The plot kept you turning the page. You just had to know what was going to happen next! Jake’s character growth made you start rooting for this couple pretty early on in the relationship.
Jake has not had an easy life even though he is considered a rich playboy. Jake has worked hard for what he has and where he works.
When the owner of the bar and diner must sell quickly, Jake knows he wants to buy him out. He just needs to figure out how to get to enough money to do so. Jake’s deceased father left him an inheritance and the only stipulation is that Jake must be married to receive it. Jakes dad disapproved of his life style and Jake believes his dad wrote his will that way to hurt him. His dad probably never thought that same sex marriage would be legal in the state of Ohio(♥️). Jake never planned on touching that money until now.
Now he needs to find someone to marry.
Cory is a struggling student and just found out his funding is being canceled. He works with Jake and he tells him about it. Jake instantly gets the idea of asking Cory and invites him to his house after work.
It seems fate has stepped in to help these two guys. What they both thought would be a minimal 2 year marriage agreement has changed and grown into so much more then they could ever imagine.
These two will struggle at first but once they step out of each other’s ways and learn to love each other that’s when great things happen.
And they lived HEA.
I really enjoyed this book. The plot kept you turning the page. You just had to know what was going to happen next! Jake’s character growth made you start rooting for this couple pretty early on in the relationship.
May 4, 2022
He’s everything I never knew I needed. He’s more than I ever thought I deserved. - Jake
ALL THE DAMN FEELS. Abby captured my heart with her Hampton Hearts series and apparently has no intention of ever letting it go.
This is the 2nd book of her Then and Now Duet. Rowdy Boy showed us what Jake had to overcome to be the charismatic and charming man we find in Mr. Brightside. After always being there for his friends it's time to put himself first, and it's an emotional journey I'll gladly take again and again. I loved watching Jake and Cory navigate their highs and lows, especially with Jake being a relationship virgin and Cory in love with being in love.
The chemistry between these boys is insane, they seriously can't keep their hands off each other. MM romances are one of my favorites because of the physicality the characters are able to have with each each other, and this is no exception. The liquor cage scene will live rent free in my mind forever. And naturally it wouldn't be an Abby Millsaps without a spicy water encounter, which Jake managed to make sweet as well as sexy.
Of course seeing Rhett and Tori again made me happy. Them being there for Jake and Cory was very kismet. And the extended epilogue?? I can't even deal. Silent tears streaming down my face. An absolutely beautiful full circle ending.
Is it cheating on your book boyfriend if you love his best friend's book slightly more than his? (Asking for a friend of course!)
ALL THE DAMN FEELS. Abby captured my heart with her Hampton Hearts series and apparently has no intention of ever letting it go.
This is the 2nd book of her Then and Now Duet. Rowdy Boy showed us what Jake had to overcome to be the charismatic and charming man we find in Mr. Brightside. After always being there for his friends it's time to put himself first, and it's an emotional journey I'll gladly take again and again. I loved watching Jake and Cory navigate their highs and lows, especially with Jake being a relationship virgin and Cory in love with being in love.
The chemistry between these boys is insane, they seriously can't keep their hands off each other. MM romances are one of my favorites because of the physicality the characters are able to have with each each other, and this is no exception. The liquor cage scene will live rent free in my mind forever. And naturally it wouldn't be an Abby Millsaps without a spicy water encounter, which Jake managed to make sweet as well as sexy.
Of course seeing Rhett and Tori again made me happy. Them being there for Jake and Cory was very kismet. And the extended epilogue?? I can't even deal. Silent tears streaming down my face. An absolutely beautiful full circle ending.
Is it cheating on your book boyfriend if you love his best friend's book slightly more than his? (Asking for a friend of course!)
May 8, 2022
My first five star rating in the last three years I have been reading mmromance books. And I have reasons I’m going to list below.
It was a good premise but I skipped the prologue because it was a little bit of a bore. I’d never read any of this author’s books before either so I was going into the first chapter blind.
I found the first chapter a little bit of a bore too so I skipped it until the real story began on chapter3 and I was instantly hooked.
I was curious and I lived that I knew something the primary MC didn’t. From the sound of it he was a hit and run sort of guy that stopped to wonder why his hook up stopped taking his calls. Hmm, delicious.
Then as promised they got into a shody marriage but lol that wasn’t the case at all. Their physical, emotional and psychological connection just didn’t cooperate in keeping it casual.
Anyway I don’t want to spoil anything for new readers but I’m really desperate for this book to land on everyone’s shelves because it’s just that good. The plot is well thought out to the point where are zero gaps. ZERO! The MC’s chemistry that will sizzle in your skin and straight into your heart.
I really really hope to get more books from this author that are of mmromance nature. Because no matter how well she/he/they writes. I’m still an exclusive mmromance reader.
It was a good premise but I skipped the prologue because it was a little bit of a bore. I’d never read any of this author’s books before either so I was going into the first chapter blind.
I found the first chapter a little bit of a bore too so I skipped it until the real story began on chapter3 and I was instantly hooked.
I was curious and I lived that I knew something the primary MC didn’t. From the sound of it he was a hit and run sort of guy that stopped to wonder why his hook up stopped taking his calls. Hmm, delicious.
Then as promised they got into a shody marriage but lol that wasn’t the case at all. Their physical, emotional and psychological connection just didn’t cooperate in keeping it casual.
Anyway I don’t want to spoil anything for new readers but I’m really desperate for this book to land on everyone’s shelves because it’s just that good. The plot is well thought out to the point where are zero gaps. ZERO! The MC’s chemistry that will sizzle in your skin and straight into your heart.
I really really hope to get more books from this author that are of mmromance nature. Because no matter how well she/he/they writes. I’m still an exclusive mmromance reader.
May 10, 2022
Oh, Jake!! I absolutely ADORE this man with my whole heart. I fell in love with him in Abby’s Hampton Hearts series and Rowdy Boy and this book made me fall so much harder.♥️
Marriage of convenience is one of my favourite tropes, so when I found out Jake's full-length novel was going to be that, I laughed to myself because how could it not? How else would Jake get married!?
Abby wrote this story beautifully, as she always does. Rowdy Boy absolutely broke my heart, I hurt so much for Jake, and Mr. Brightside put it back together again, just with a few tears along the way. (A lot of tears were happy ones). 🥲
I loved watching Jake learn how to be in a relationship. He had the absolute best husband to teach him in Cory, who is a lover of love. I love him for Jake.
I have only read a few MM romances, but this one is right up there above the rest—it was everything I wanted for Jake. For him to learn how to love, and most of all, to be loved back. He, more than any character I’ve read in a long, long time, deserves it.
The spice was OFF THE CHARTS! Cory may be a lover of love, but wow, does he have a dirty mouth. Truly delicious!! The liquor cage scene - IYKYK!! 🔥
I loved getting to see Rhett and Tori again. Those two will always hold a special place in my heart (Abby knows why♥️).
Thank you, Abby, for another absolute triumph!♥️
Marriage of convenience is one of my favourite tropes, so when I found out Jake's full-length novel was going to be that, I laughed to myself because how could it not? How else would Jake get married!?
Abby wrote this story beautifully, as she always does. Rowdy Boy absolutely broke my heart, I hurt so much for Jake, and Mr. Brightside put it back together again, just with a few tears along the way. (A lot of tears were happy ones). 🥲
I loved watching Jake learn how to be in a relationship. He had the absolute best husband to teach him in Cory, who is a lover of love. I love him for Jake.
I have only read a few MM romances, but this one is right up there above the rest—it was everything I wanted for Jake. For him to learn how to love, and most of all, to be loved back. He, more than any character I’ve read in a long, long time, deserves it.
The spice was OFF THE CHARTS! Cory may be a lover of love, but wow, does he have a dirty mouth. Truly delicious!! The liquor cage scene - IYKYK!! 🔥
I loved getting to see Rhett and Tori again. Those two will always hold a special place in my heart (Abby knows why♥️).
Thank you, Abby, for another absolute triumph!♥️
May 24, 2022
I entered to win this book via a Goodreads giveaway because I thought it sounded so cute. Then when I won, I had an "oh crap!" moment when I realized that this book was part of a series (I haven't read the other books). However, this book is completely standalone! Despite there being several books in the series, I had no problem getting quickly introduced to all of the characters and their stories. I really liked Jake and Cory and their "fake" relationship and I thought Jake's nieces were the cutest. Overall, I thought this was a fun, quick read and it was surprisingly much more steamy than I anticipated going into it. At times, the intimate dialogue was a little awkward for me, but I still enjoyed this book overall.
May 10, 2022
i seriously hated both MCs. also, they were terrible together. i almost started hoping that they would not end up together at the end.
each one is awful in his own way and i will not waste my time describing why i dislike them.
let’s just say that if you want to use the miscommunication trope, go ahead, but please, for the love of all that is holy, do not use the same exact thing twice in the same book.
it was terrible the first time, but the second? i felt personally attacked.
big no.
each one is awful in his own way and i will not waste my time describing why i dislike them.
let’s just say that if you want to use the miscommunication trope, go ahead, but please, for the love of all that is holy, do not use the same exact thing twice in the same book.
it was terrible the first time, but the second? i felt personally attacked.
big no.
August 22, 2022
I love Jake Whitely SO much and after reading Rowdy Boy Jake DESERVED the happiest ever after and OH MY WORD did Abby deliver!
Jake is one of my top favorite characters of all time and watching?....reading?.....the images Abby's words created in my head of Jake and Cory falling for each other.....it was brilliant.
I was happy at the end of the book but then that epilogue came and just punched me right in all my happy feelings. I LOVED IT SO MUCH!
This book was emotional and SPICY and perfect 💕
Jake is one of my top favorite characters of all time and watching?....reading?.....the images Abby's words created in my head of Jake and Cory falling for each other.....it was brilliant.
I was happy at the end of the book but then that epilogue came and just punched me right in all my happy feelings. I LOVED IT SO MUCH!
This book was emotional and SPICY and perfect 💕
May 4, 2022
If I could give this book an unlimited number of stars I would. Jake Whitely has been on my mind since book one of the Hampton Heart series. He is a playboy, a relationship virgin and a man that has not had the easiest of lives. Abby really teased us with his novella, Rowdy Boy and thankfully she did not keep us waiting for Mr. Brightside.
Jake loves working at The Oak and Clinton's but his life was about to change. When Mike, the owner says that he has to sell both places, Jake knows that he has to buy them, but how? Well this is where his life takes a turn and it is life-changing, well at least for him it is. All he has to do is get married and all the money is his, but to who? In walks his answer, Cory. Yes, he is an employee at Clinton's. Yes, they have hooked up in the past. Yes, Cory needs money but will he go along with the plan? The only problem is that Jake doesn't do relationships and Cory wants one with him. Will this marriage of convenience turn out to be something more? Will the chemistry that they share just get stronger and hotter? The interactions and intimacy between the two of them were bloody hot; the liquor change, oh my.
Cory's only family is his abuela and their relationship is priceless. The closeness that they have and the laughs that they have together were fantastic. His relationship with Tori has always been there but it was more in the background in previous books. Jake's extended family, Rhett and Tori give him unconditional love ad support. Jake has a brother but without giving too much away, let's say the relationship is strained and he is closer to his sister-in-law. He also has two nieces that mean the world to him and he would do anything for them.
To see Jake so vulnerable was eye-opening. He always seemed so together and know what he wanted but we see that life isn't always what it seems. To see him finally 0pen up to Cory about his past and to allow him to help him heal. Cory was just the person that Jake needed.
Cory and Jake were beautiful together. When things go beyond what they both expected, feelings get involved and Jake's outlook on life and relationships changes. Their road to happiness was not an easy one. Yes, there were heartbreaks, trust issues and finally forgiveness. The two of them will take you on a rollercoaster ride of emotions from laughs and crying to having my heart ripped out, but in the end, there was love and my heart was healed.
Abby has a way with words that has you unable to put her books down and Mr. Brightside was definitely one for me. It was beautifully written with such detail and emotion that you fall in love with her characters even if you want to yell at them and give them a piece of your mind.
Jake loves working at The Oak and Clinton's but his life was about to change. When Mike, the owner says that he has to sell both places, Jake knows that he has to buy them, but how? Well this is where his life takes a turn and it is life-changing, well at least for him it is. All he has to do is get married and all the money is his, but to who? In walks his answer, Cory. Yes, he is an employee at Clinton's. Yes, they have hooked up in the past. Yes, Cory needs money but will he go along with the plan? The only problem is that Jake doesn't do relationships and Cory wants one with him. Will this marriage of convenience turn out to be something more? Will the chemistry that they share just get stronger and hotter? The interactions and intimacy between the two of them were bloody hot; the liquor change, oh my.
Cory's only family is his abuela and their relationship is priceless. The closeness that they have and the laughs that they have together were fantastic. His relationship with Tori has always been there but it was more in the background in previous books. Jake's extended family, Rhett and Tori give him unconditional love ad support. Jake has a brother but without giving too much away, let's say the relationship is strained and he is closer to his sister-in-law. He also has two nieces that mean the world to him and he would do anything for them.
To see Jake so vulnerable was eye-opening. He always seemed so together and know what he wanted but we see that life isn't always what it seems. To see him finally 0pen up to Cory about his past and to allow him to help him heal. Cory was just the person that Jake needed.
Cory and Jake were beautiful together. When things go beyond what they both expected, feelings get involved and Jake's outlook on life and relationships changes. Their road to happiness was not an easy one. Yes, there were heartbreaks, trust issues and finally forgiveness. The two of them will take you on a rollercoaster ride of emotions from laughs and crying to having my heart ripped out, but in the end, there was love and my heart was healed.
Abby has a way with words that has you unable to put her books down and Mr. Brightside was definitely one for me. It was beautifully written with such detail and emotion that you fall in love with her characters even if you want to yell at them and give them a piece of your mind.
April 29, 2022
𝘔𝘳. 𝘉𝘳𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵𝘴𝘪𝘥𝘦 𝘪𝘴 𝘉𝘰𝘰𝘬 2 𝘪𝘯 𝘑𝘢𝘬𝘦 𝘞𝘩𝘪𝘵𝘦𝘭𝘺’𝘴 𝘥𝘶𝘦𝘵. 𝘑𝘢𝘬𝘦’𝘴 𝘱𝘳𝘦𝘲𝘶𝘦𝘭 𝘯𝘰𝘷𝘦𝘭𝘭𝘢, 𝘙𝘰𝘸𝘥𝘺 𝘉𝘰𝘺 is available on Amazon.
I have been anxiously awaiting the release of this book ever since author Abby Millsaps teased that Jake Whitely would get his own story. Mr. Brightside is a very different vibe than we’ve gotten from Abby before, in a wonderful way. Jake had me laughing from the first chapter and Cory’s relationship with his abuela made me smile. This marriage of convenience for relationship-virgin Jake is a means to an end for everyone involved; at first.
The electricity between them is palpable and you’ll be on the edge of your seat waiting for the moment when they finally connect. And when they finally connect…🥵 The spice between Jake and Cory is fantastic. The give and take, the demands, the dirty talk - all of it. (That liquor cage scene…) It becomes almost reverent and I loved reading every word of how they come to worship each other.
There are some heavy content warnings and some struggles that can turn knots in your stomach, so just know that going in. (Transparency is huge for me) There is a happily ever after for Jake, but it’s not all easygoing to get there.
What did it for me was the emotion. Once again, Abby pens the most real and raw feelings in such an honest way. You get to see Jake and Cory go from crazy chemistry and physical attraction to genuinely falling in love. As much heaviness as there is with Jake’s background (which seeps into the narrative here), this book feels lighter. It’s a certain kind of hopeful, genuinely watching someone fall in love. I think anyone who has unexpectedly fallen in love will feel this story in their soul. The chemistry is one thing, but when things happen in a relationship and you realize that the dynamic is changing, how you feel is changing, and before you can put your finger on it you feel compelled to be with someone, next to them, breathing them in. When someone starts to feel like home, instead of someplace…and you get to witness it all in Mr. Brightside.
I cannot recommend this book enough.
I have been anxiously awaiting the release of this book ever since author Abby Millsaps teased that Jake Whitely would get his own story. Mr. Brightside is a very different vibe than we’ve gotten from Abby before, in a wonderful way. Jake had me laughing from the first chapter and Cory’s relationship with his abuela made me smile. This marriage of convenience for relationship-virgin Jake is a means to an end for everyone involved; at first.
The electricity between them is palpable and you’ll be on the edge of your seat waiting for the moment when they finally connect. And when they finally connect…🥵 The spice between Jake and Cory is fantastic. The give and take, the demands, the dirty talk - all of it. (That liquor cage scene…) It becomes almost reverent and I loved reading every word of how they come to worship each other.
There are some heavy content warnings and some struggles that can turn knots in your stomach, so just know that going in. (Transparency is huge for me) There is a happily ever after for Jake, but it’s not all easygoing to get there.
What did it for me was the emotion. Once again, Abby pens the most real and raw feelings in such an honest way. You get to see Jake and Cory go from crazy chemistry and physical attraction to genuinely falling in love. As much heaviness as there is with Jake’s background (which seeps into the narrative here), this book feels lighter. It’s a certain kind of hopeful, genuinely watching someone fall in love. I think anyone who has unexpectedly fallen in love will feel this story in their soul. The chemistry is one thing, but when things happen in a relationship and you realize that the dynamic is changing, how you feel is changing, and before you can put your finger on it you feel compelled to be with someone, next to them, breathing them in. When someone starts to feel like home, instead of someplace…and you get to witness it all in Mr. Brightside.
I cannot recommend this book enough.
May 3, 2022
This is book two in The Then and Now Series and it continues Jake's story and omg it is definitely a must read. Wow this book takes you on a roller coaster ride of emotions, I laughed, cried, my heart broke and then mended back together. I have been waiting patiently for this book after reading Rowdy Boy and I have to say that this book was absolutely amazing, raw and gave you a side of Jake that we knew deep down was in there but is now out in the open. Jake has been through so much at the hands of someone who should have loved him for who he was and he there for him but that wasn't the case and he is also the best friend that anyone could ever ask for and we all need a Name in our lives and by our side. When Jake's father tells him that the only way that he will get his inheritance is to get married Jake decides to stick his fingers up to his father and that is when Jake's plan starts to take shape because that he when he decides to go for a marriage of convenience and that is when Cory enters the mix. Jake and Cory are absolutely perfect for each other and the chemistry between them is off the charts hot but life doesn't always go as planned or as smoothly but it was a beautiful thing to watch them grow into there relationship and go from fake to falling in love and getting the happy ending that they both deserve. Abby has written this story in a way that makes you feel all the raw emotions as if you are there going through it with them and the story takes you in right from the first page and keeps your attention throughout until the last page and I couldn't put this book down as it was a real page turner and so addictive and I definitely recommend you read this book and other's by Abby Millsaps as she is an amazing author and writer and she certainly knows how to keep her reader's attention and on the edge of their seats and I can't wait to read the next book that she writes as I know it will be as amazing as all her other book's.
I Voluntarily Reviewed a Copy of This Book.
I Voluntarily Reviewed a Copy of This Book.
May 2, 2022
“I see constellations form and universes burst into existence as he hypnotizes me with his mouth.”
I have been patiently waiting for Jake’s book and Abby did not disappoint at all. I mean I loved this Jeep loving boy while he was Tori backup bisexual husband and I fell in more love with him while reading Mr. Brightside.
Life wasn’t easy for Jake, though you would think having money would have made it simpler. To make his dreams come true he needs a marriage of convenience, and it needs to happen quickly. Enter Cory. Jake had an immediate connection to Cory that latest well past when they went separate ways, though Jake still doesn’t know why. When Cory needs something, Jake is willing to help me out if he agrees to his one question.
Cory knows that getting involved with Jake will lead to heartache. He isn’t known as Hampton’s playboy for any other reason then he played the field and played it well. According to Cory, Jake has “more game and swagger than anyone I’ve ever met.” But Cory is about to graduate and needs Jake just as much as Jake needs him.
We know that there is nothing easy about relationships, no matter how they start and this is no different. Jake and Cory both have feelings for each other in the beginning and there is past feelings as well (walk in cooler anyone?). I love the connection Cory has to Tori and am disappointed in myself for not picking up on him coming into play for Jake. You can feel like when these four get together that there are so many stories and love shared that sleep won’t happen. You know the kind that typically are called a girls night, well this would be a friends night. I had tears while reading this book. But it wouldn’t be something written by Abby that doesn’t pull those emotions from me. I truly believe she knows how to write them to exactly pull me apart and then put me together. The tears were of laughter, love and yes some sadness, but you know life isn’t going to be smooth sailing.
I have been patiently waiting for Jake’s book and Abby did not disappoint at all. I mean I loved this Jeep loving boy while he was Tori backup bisexual husband and I fell in more love with him while reading Mr. Brightside.
Life wasn’t easy for Jake, though you would think having money would have made it simpler. To make his dreams come true he needs a marriage of convenience, and it needs to happen quickly. Enter Cory. Jake had an immediate connection to Cory that latest well past when they went separate ways, though Jake still doesn’t know why. When Cory needs something, Jake is willing to help me out if he agrees to his one question.
Cory knows that getting involved with Jake will lead to heartache. He isn’t known as Hampton’s playboy for any other reason then he played the field and played it well. According to Cory, Jake has “more game and swagger than anyone I’ve ever met.” But Cory is about to graduate and needs Jake just as much as Jake needs him.
We know that there is nothing easy about relationships, no matter how they start and this is no different. Jake and Cory both have feelings for each other in the beginning and there is past feelings as well (walk in cooler anyone?). I love the connection Cory has to Tori and am disappointed in myself for not picking up on him coming into play for Jake. You can feel like when these four get together that there are so many stories and love shared that sleep won’t happen. You know the kind that typically are called a girls night, well this would be a friends night. I had tears while reading this book. But it wouldn’t be something written by Abby that doesn’t pull those emotions from me. I truly believe she knows how to write them to exactly pull me apart and then put me together. The tears were of laughter, love and yes some sadness, but you know life isn’t going to be smooth sailing.
May 2, 2022
Jake loves his job as the Manager at The Oak. So when owner Mike tells him that he’s going to have to sell Clinton’s and The Oak, Jake knows that he has to be the one to buy both from him. The only thing is, he doesn’t have enough money right now. Jake has an inheritance from his dad that could help him, but he never wanted to rely on his dad for help and never planned on using the money. But before he can even get his inheritance, his dad wants him to get married. With no one to ask, Jake turns to Cory. Someone who he’s hooked up with in the past and someone who also needs money right now.
Cory is in his final years in his Masters program, but due to budget cuts the school is getting rid of his graduate assistantship that helps him with his tuition. With no one to turn to and no other ideas on how to come up with the money, he sees no other option but to agree to Jake’s proposal of a marriage of convenience.
Ahhh!!! Jake Whitely!!! I wish I had a Jake for myself in real life because when Jake loves, he loves hard and that is what I love most about this book!! Even though their marriage was a marriage of convenience and was only supposed to last for 2 years. Jake went into it with everything he had. He wanted Cory to feel important and to have everything he needed from a husband from the get go. They both have their own issues when it comes to relationships and I love that they both knew right away how much they both meant to each other regardless of their past. Even though they both instantly fell in love, they also had issues that they had to work through together as a couple. I loved that they were both willing to admit that they weren’t perfect and willing to work hard to change for each other. I already loved Jake in the Hampton Hearts series and this book just made me fall in love with him even more!
Cory is in his final years in his Masters program, but due to budget cuts the school is getting rid of his graduate assistantship that helps him with his tuition. With no one to turn to and no other ideas on how to come up with the money, he sees no other option but to agree to Jake’s proposal of a marriage of convenience.
Ahhh!!! Jake Whitely!!! I wish I had a Jake for myself in real life because when Jake loves, he loves hard and that is what I love most about this book!! Even though their marriage was a marriage of convenience and was only supposed to last for 2 years. Jake went into it with everything he had. He wanted Cory to feel important and to have everything he needed from a husband from the get go. They both have their own issues when it comes to relationships and I love that they both knew right away how much they both meant to each other regardless of their past. Even though they both instantly fell in love, they also had issues that they had to work through together as a couple. I loved that they were both willing to admit that they weren’t perfect and willing to work hard to change for each other. I already loved Jake in the Hampton Hearts series and this book just made me fall in love with him even more!
May 2, 2022
We are first introduced to Jake Whitely in the Hampton Heart Series as a side character. I have not read this series yet (definitely on my TBR), so it’s not necessary to read it before diving into Jake’s books. Abby does an excellent job of giving us just enough when prior events are mentioned – you don’t feel like you’re missing anything.
We then get a sneak peek of Jake in his Prequel Novella – Rowdy Boy (Available on Kindle Unlimited). Which actually takes place 6 years prior to the Hampton Heart Series and provides us with Jake’s backstory and events that contribute to Jake’s personality and overall outlook on life.
Mr. Brightside is Jake’s Full-length Novel – and I absolutely fell in love with him! This story was so refreshing. It contains a Marriage of Convenience or Marriage with Benefits – as Jake calls it. There were some angsty moments, but they were resolved pretty quickly. We were able to just really enjoy Jake and Cory through out this book without waiting for the other shoe to drop.
Jake is fun, caring, selfless and has a genuine need to make those in his circle happy. When he commits to something – he is all in! And it’s so evident in every action he takes through out this story. Cory is the perfect partner for Jake. He is a little insecure due to prior relationship experiences and he sometimes forgets that Jake has zero relationship experience – but I love how they work through it. I love how when they come together the communication just flows – even though opening up is not something Jake finds easy to do. I loved watching Jake grow into emotional maturity through out this story.
There were so many heart-warming moments in this book and it was just such a fun read! I would like to know where I can find myself a Jake Whitely……
We then get a sneak peek of Jake in his Prequel Novella – Rowdy Boy (Available on Kindle Unlimited). Which actually takes place 6 years prior to the Hampton Heart Series and provides us with Jake’s backstory and events that contribute to Jake’s personality and overall outlook on life.
Mr. Brightside is Jake’s Full-length Novel – and I absolutely fell in love with him! This story was so refreshing. It contains a Marriage of Convenience or Marriage with Benefits – as Jake calls it. There were some angsty moments, but they were resolved pretty quickly. We were able to just really enjoy Jake and Cory through out this book without waiting for the other shoe to drop.
Jake is fun, caring, selfless and has a genuine need to make those in his circle happy. When he commits to something – he is all in! And it’s so evident in every action he takes through out this story. Cory is the perfect partner for Jake. He is a little insecure due to prior relationship experiences and he sometimes forgets that Jake has zero relationship experience – but I love how they work through it. I love how when they come together the communication just flows – even though opening up is not something Jake finds easy to do. I loved watching Jake grow into emotional maturity through out this story.
There were so many heart-warming moments in this book and it was just such a fun read! I would like to know where I can find myself a Jake Whitely……
May 6, 2022
I want to start by saying prior to reading this, I was already SO INVESTED in Jake’s story. Having loved his character in Abby’s Hampton Hearts series (which you do not have to read to read this!) and then Rowdy Boy? I couldn’t help but be already obsessed with reading about his happily ever after.
Jake finds himself in a situation… a situation that requires a unique solution. A marriage proposal. A husband. And, QUICKLY.
I could not get enough of Jake and Cory! I loved their honesty, their chemistry ( 🔥 🔥 🔥 🔥 🔥), and their flirty banter. The dirty mouth on the both of them, GEESH!!!! Honestly though, I cannot even count how many times I found myself going “aww, I love them!”. That’s not to say there wasn’t a little bump or two but, I am in love with their love and the journey they went through to get there. I love seeing different sides to Jake that I’ve not seen before, like “relationship Jake” and “husband Jake”. Knowing his past and how much of himself he has put into helping those he cares deeply about; it was a bit of a different perspective to see him do something for just him.
I feel like I could go on for quite a while, so I will just say this: Mr. Brightside is full of the feel-good type of love moments; the heartwarming moments; the moments of doubt; the moments of security; the SUPER STEAMY moments; the moments of OH MY GOODNESS I just want to hug them! And, I just enjoyed every second of it!
(I used love in this review A LOT. It was just how I was feeling after finishing this book.)
❤️🔥Quick Notes❤️🔥
HEA
Possible triggers, check the TWs
MM Romance
Multiple POV
Rowdy Boy is the Prequel to this book
❤️🔥Rating❤️🔥
💗💗💗💗💗
🌶️🌶️🌶️ 🌶️
Jake finds himself in a situation… a situation that requires a unique solution. A marriage proposal. A husband. And, QUICKLY.
I could not get enough of Jake and Cory! I loved their honesty, their chemistry ( 🔥 🔥 🔥 🔥 🔥), and their flirty banter. The dirty mouth on the both of them, GEESH!!!! Honestly though, I cannot even count how many times I found myself going “aww, I love them!”. That’s not to say there wasn’t a little bump or two but, I am in love with their love and the journey they went through to get there. I love seeing different sides to Jake that I’ve not seen before, like “relationship Jake” and “husband Jake”. Knowing his past and how much of himself he has put into helping those he cares deeply about; it was a bit of a different perspective to see him do something for just him.
I feel like I could go on for quite a while, so I will just say this: Mr. Brightside is full of the feel-good type of love moments; the heartwarming moments; the moments of doubt; the moments of security; the SUPER STEAMY moments; the moments of OH MY GOODNESS I just want to hug them! And, I just enjoyed every second of it!
(I used love in this review A LOT. It was just how I was feeling after finishing this book.)
❤️🔥Quick Notes❤️🔥
HEA
Possible triggers, check the TWs
MM Romance
Multiple POV
Rowdy Boy is the Prequel to this book
❤️🔥Rating❤️🔥
💗💗💗💗💗
🌶️🌶️🌶️ 🌶️
May 4, 2022
This story easily rates in my top three for the year so far. The writing was flawless in this emotional and sweet story. It reads smooth and easy between the dual POVs and provides the perfect depth of details. The characters are well defined with a strong connection and steamy chemistry which made it hard to put down.
After reading Rowdy Boy, the short prequel, I just wanted to give Jake a hug of comfort and congratulate him. I love how the story wasn’t a straightforward step by step easy transition to this arrangement. He made mistakes along his journey with Cory which made the story more realistic and believable. Rhett and Tori are such good friends to him, I’m glad they never gave up on him as they played a large part in his successes.
Cory was strong yet he also had a vulnerable side, which was at times hard to read since he also needed to feel comforted and supported as he tried to find his place in Jake’s life. I think in the beginning he didn’t understand the depths of Jake’s emotional trauma, so I was happy he finally told him. I cried so many times during this story and most of them were the moments when Cory was speaking so tenderly to Jake supporting him; just loving him. These two are perfect for each other and it is so heartwarming to read their story.
I haven’t read the Hampton Hearts series, so I wasn’t familiar with Jake until I read Rowdy Boy. I didn’t have any problems getting to know the other support characters from that series or felt like I was missing anything. However, I really want to go back and read that series now. I love Rhett and Tori so I’m looking forward to starting at the beginning.
After reading Rowdy Boy, the short prequel, I just wanted to give Jake a hug of comfort and congratulate him. I love how the story wasn’t a straightforward step by step easy transition to this arrangement. He made mistakes along his journey with Cory which made the story more realistic and believable. Rhett and Tori are such good friends to him, I’m glad they never gave up on him as they played a large part in his successes.
Cory was strong yet he also had a vulnerable side, which was at times hard to read since he also needed to feel comforted and supported as he tried to find his place in Jake’s life. I think in the beginning he didn’t understand the depths of Jake’s emotional trauma, so I was happy he finally told him. I cried so many times during this story and most of them were the moments when Cory was speaking so tenderly to Jake supporting him; just loving him. These two are perfect for each other and it is so heartwarming to read their story.
I haven’t read the Hampton Hearts series, so I wasn’t familiar with Jake until I read Rowdy Boy. I didn’t have any problems getting to know the other support characters from that series or felt like I was missing anything. However, I really want to go back and read that series now. I love Rhett and Tori so I’m looking forward to starting at the beginning.
May 15, 2022
After reading Rowdy boy, you not expect Jake to have the personality that he had. His youth was less than stellar. I was expecting a dark person with a lot of hang ups. He was sweet, caring and confident. However, there is a part of him that does not think her deserves to be loved. His dad did a number in him. He is not close with his family except his sister in law and his nieces. Uncle Jakey was adored. He is a bit of a playboy and does not believe in relationships.
Cory, on the other hand, had an exceptionally well rounded family that supported him. His issues came with his choice if partners. He believes in love and is a bit of a romantic. He has been hurt in the past. Unknowingly, Jake was on of those who hurt him.
Now they both need financial help. When Jake suggests a MOC, Corey agrees because he still is crushing on Jake.
What starts out as a convenience with a time limit, quickly morphs into something neither expected. Jake surprised both Cory and himself with how well he eager he was to be a good husband. He did most things so well
that Cory and the reader swooned. They did have adjustment issues and Jake had to learn how to love Cory the way he needed/wanted to be loved.
Cory showed Jake that he was worthy of love from others outside of his nieces and best friends.
You will fall in love with both Jake and Cory. Watching the love grow is a page turner. A lot of sweet moments and a couple that will choke you up. Cory and Jake’s romance gives everything. And the extra epilogue adds even more moments of greatness.
Cory, on the other hand, had an exceptionally well rounded family that supported him. His issues came with his choice if partners. He believes in love and is a bit of a romantic. He has been hurt in the past. Unknowingly, Jake was on of those who hurt him.
Now they both need financial help. When Jake suggests a MOC, Corey agrees because he still is crushing on Jake.
What starts out as a convenience with a time limit, quickly morphs into something neither expected. Jake surprised both Cory and himself with how well he eager he was to be a good husband. He did most things so well
that Cory and the reader swooned. They did have adjustment issues and Jake had to learn how to love Cory the way he needed/wanted to be loved.
Cory showed Jake that he was worthy of love from others outside of his nieces and best friends.
You will fall in love with both Jake and Cory. Watching the love grow is a page turner. A lot of sweet moments and a couple that will choke you up. Cory and Jake’s romance gives everything. And the extra epilogue adds even more moments of greatness.
May 18, 2022
Praise kink satisfied! Cuddling! Super affectionate and emotionally vulnerable men! The hottest sex ever - ooh honey!!! Me obsessed…naturally!
Rowdy Boy (the prequel novella you need to read!) was super emotional and hard to read at times. Jake’s story was like a male version of Cinderella. Only he didn’t have the luxury of not being related to his evil father and two wicked brothers. Jake was definitely a wild boy with no direction. The way his family treated him was traumatic and without any rationale.
The passion and intense love we didn’t get in the novella was made up for in Mr. Brightside tenfold! I have never read a MM marriage of convenience plot before or, hell, even an amicable marriage for anything other than love! This was devine and I want more!!!
It certainly wasn’t without some drama and heartache but it made Jake and Cory’s connection so much stronger. Cory was the perfect match for Jake. He was kind, loving, supportive and he demanded that Jake be more trusting, open and basically grow up. Cory never allowed Jake to get away without owning up to his mistakes. He pushed Jake to believe he was worthy of love and happiness.
I’m swooning over these boys! I ‘ship them hard! I think their name should be “Cake” cause they so sweet! Let’s go into full sugar shock and say that once Jake was all in with Cory, he went from fuckboy into lovestruckboy and I am here for it!!
Rowdy Boy (the prequel novella you need to read!) was super emotional and hard to read at times. Jake’s story was like a male version of Cinderella. Only he didn’t have the luxury of not being related to his evil father and two wicked brothers. Jake was definitely a wild boy with no direction. The way his family treated him was traumatic and without any rationale.
The passion and intense love we didn’t get in the novella was made up for in Mr. Brightside tenfold! I have never read a MM marriage of convenience plot before or, hell, even an amicable marriage for anything other than love! This was devine and I want more!!!
It certainly wasn’t without some drama and heartache but it made Jake and Cory’s connection so much stronger. Cory was the perfect match for Jake. He was kind, loving, supportive and he demanded that Jake be more trusting, open and basically grow up. Cory never allowed Jake to get away without owning up to his mistakes. He pushed Jake to believe he was worthy of love and happiness.
I’m swooning over these boys! I ‘ship them hard! I think their name should be “Cake” cause they so sweet! Let’s go into full sugar shock and say that once Jake was all in with Cory, he went from fuckboy into lovestruckboy and I am here for it!!
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