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Do you believe in hate at first sight?
Dixon
If I had to choose one word to describe my new cocky costar, it’d be exasperating. Nikolas Adamos may look like a Greek god—and he certainly struts around like he knows it—but unlike everyone else, I refuse to fall prey to his charms.
Unfortunately for me, Niko and I get paired to do a series of lovey-dovey boyfriend videos for our employers at Elite 8 Studios. And when you film the sort of scenes we do, up close and personal takes on a whole new meaning.
I may have to play nice while the cameras are rolling, but off set, it’s another matter entirely. So what if our chemistry is off the charts? That doesn’t mean a thing. Nor does the tender look in Niko’s eye when we’re together under the lights.
Because I know the truth. Nikolas Adamos revels in riling me up. And even though my pesky friends think I need fireworks after a string of fizzled relationships, I have no doubt if I allow myself to get any closer to my new fake boyfriend, I’ll only end up burned.
Dix is a grumpy/sunshine, one-sided enemies-to-lovers romance with hate at first sight, forced proximity for two costars who work between the sheets, banter and snark galore, plenty of industrial-sized lube, and one very HEA. It’s book 1 in the Elite 8 Studios series, featuring characters that were introduced in Virgin Hearts (Plum Valley Cowboys Book 2), but can be read as a standalone.
Dixon
If I had to choose one word to describe my new cocky costar, it’d be exasperating. Nikolas Adamos may look like a Greek god—and he certainly struts around like he knows it—but unlike everyone else, I refuse to fall prey to his charms.
Unfortunately for me, Niko and I get paired to do a series of lovey-dovey boyfriend videos for our employers at Elite 8 Studios. And when you film the sort of scenes we do, up close and personal takes on a whole new meaning.
I may have to play nice while the cameras are rolling, but off set, it’s another matter entirely. So what if our chemistry is off the charts? That doesn’t mean a thing. Nor does the tender look in Niko’s eye when we’re together under the lights.
Because I know the truth. Nikolas Adamos revels in riling me up. And even though my pesky friends think I need fireworks after a string of fizzled relationships, I have no doubt if I allow myself to get any closer to my new fake boyfriend, I’ll only end up burned.
Dix is a grumpy/sunshine, one-sided enemies-to-lovers romance with hate at first sight, forced proximity for two costars who work between the sheets, banter and snark galore, plenty of industrial-sized lube, and one very HEA. It’s book 1 in the Elite 8 Studios series, featuring characters that were introduced in Virgin Hearts (Plum Valley Cowboys Book 2), but can be read as a standalone.
285 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 1, 2022
353 people are currently reading
1752 people want to read
About the author
Emmy Sanders
25 books1,699 followersEmmy Sanders, author of sweet, steamy, swoony MM romance, would describe herself as a lover of love. She's obsessed with both reading and writing romance and believes everyone deserves their happy ending. Queer herself, Emmy has a soft spot for LGBTQ+ fiction, but MM is where her heart lies. Her debut novel, Fool Hearts, released in 2022.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 446 reviews
August 22, 2022
The first 50% I would give 4 stars and the second 50% I would give 2 or 3 stars so I’m settling at 3. I was smitten and swooning in the beginning. It was sweet, hot and funny and then it dragged and dragged. Dear God did it drag. I was looking at how much time I had left on my kindle every 30 seconds in hopes it would somehow be less lmao.🙃 More conflict was needed, more emotional talks and opening up between the leads were needed, SOMETHING was needed! I feel like we didn’t really get to see them fall for each other’s personalities. They’re attracted to each other and talk about how different sex feels with each other than with previous partners and there’s pages and pages of that but it feels like their emotional connection was never established. I probably liked the beginning more because I wasn’t tired of it being all about how good they are together sexually yet plus it was funnier too. I don’t feel like we got to see much of Dix not being grumpy. I totally get that is part of his personality and this is a grump x sunshine romance but in said romance I need the grump to at one point melt for the sunshine and be a lil tiny bit less of a grump but idk…. I don’t feel like we ever truly got to see him melt or if we did it was so fast I blinked and I missed it. Or it happened off page lol. I’m bummed, I was so excited for this! I hope that Fool Hearts doesn’t end up being the only book by Emmy that I love because this the third three star book in a row I’ve had from her. I adore her writing so fingers crossed for success with her future books.🤞🏻
December 8, 2023
4****
A book with a porn studio set-up? Sign me up, girl!
Two porn stars —I was laughing so hard when someone referred to them as 🌽⭐️s to not write the words —anyway… these two don’t start off on the bestest of terms but the studio gave them a boyfriend arc to maintain on screen for several videos.
So yeah, this was fun. I had a good time. And I loved the whole bunch of side characters, esp at the studio.
************
Elite 8 Studios Series
Book 1 - Dix - 4.0 stars
Book 2 - Malibu - 4.5 stars
Book 3 - Tink - 3.5 stars
Book 4 - Himbo
Book 5 - Teddy - release 05/24
A book with a porn studio set-up? Sign me up, girl!
Two porn stars —I was laughing so hard when someone referred to them as 🌽⭐️s to not write the words —anyway… these two don’t start off on the bestest of terms but the studio gave them a boyfriend arc to maintain on screen for several videos.
So yeah, this was fun. I had a good time. And I loved the whole bunch of side characters, esp at the studio.
************
Elite 8 Studios Series
Book 1 - Dix - 4.0 stars
Book 2 - Malibu - 4.5 stars
Book 3 - Tink - 3.5 stars
Book 4 - Himbo
Book 5 - Teddy - release 05/24
September 3, 2022
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
BR with my girl Cass.
It’s said at one point that Dixon and Niko’s relationship went backwards and I can definitely see that.
It started with animosity but let’s face it, it’s a very thin line between love and hate. Although jeez, Dixon took his sweet ass time blurring that line but it was well worth the wait.
Plus I can’t be mad at the grumpy bear, he may very well be my favorite cinnamon roll of all time.
And Niko? Yeah he knew how to tug all my strings too. I love that he’s equally sweet as he is snarky, glad he gave as good as he got.
And these two together? Even when it’s was riddled with animosity these two were a total smoke show together. I’m sure it wasn’t a surprise to anyone when their porn scenes didn’t remain 100% professional, when those pesky feelings got in the way. And omg when Dixon called him Niki in that last scene it was over for all of us.
I’m such a sucker for abandoned characters finding a new family it was no surprise when the love fest that followed Dixon’s first meeting with Niko’s family that I cried like the happiest baby.
After the ‘ghost-Ed’ moment I was absolutely ridiculous with how sappy and giddy I became. It was disgusting, thank god I could wallow in my own little sparkly bubble.
I hated to see it end but I am very excited for Malibu’s book. Pretty sure that man already has my heart, I’d love nothing more than to offer him all the nurturing cuddles.
BR with my girl Cass.
It’s said at one point that Dixon and Niko’s relationship went backwards and I can definitely see that.
It started with animosity but let’s face it, it’s a very thin line between love and hate. Although jeez, Dixon took his sweet ass time blurring that line but it was well worth the wait.
Plus I can’t be mad at the grumpy bear, he may very well be my favorite cinnamon roll of all time.
And Niko? Yeah he knew how to tug all my strings too. I love that he’s equally sweet as he is snarky, glad he gave as good as he got.
And these two together? Even when it’s was riddled with animosity these two were a total smoke show together. I’m sure it wasn’t a surprise to anyone when their porn scenes didn’t remain 100% professional, when those pesky feelings got in the way. And omg when Dixon called him Niki in that last scene it was over for all of us.
I’m such a sucker for abandoned characters finding a new family it was no surprise when the love fest that followed Dixon’s first meeting with Niko’s family that I cried like the happiest baby.
After the ‘ghost-Ed’ moment I was absolutely ridiculous with how sappy and giddy I became. It was disgusting, thank god I could wallow in my own little sparkly bubble.
I hated to see it end but I am very excited for Malibu’s book. Pretty sure that man already has my heart, I’d love nothing more than to offer him all the nurturing cuddles.
November 26, 2023
Slow burn grumpy/sunshine romance between porn stars.
Now that I’ve read it, I can say for sure: I’m not a huge fan of porn star romances. The idea of “my” MCs seeing sex as “business” is weird for my good old fashioned romantic heart.
That being said: ofc I knew beforehand what I was about to read. And the plot is new and fresh: 2 porn stars, both working in the same studio, get paired together to film a “boyfriend series”. And after having sex numerous times for the camera, they fall in in love.
It’s a grumpy/sunshine pairing: Dixon aka Dix, the silent grump, and Niko aka Adonis, the new addition to the Elite8 team, personified sunshine coming from a welcoming, warm and loud Greek family.
I always love seeing how the sunshine wears the grump down, and the relationship build was done really well - both Niko and Dixon have a warmth to them that WILL seep into your heart, too.
Still - that porn star setting isn’t for me, even if it’s portrayed in a way that’s very professional and as far from seedy as it gets.
Bonus points for Mateo and Hawthorne’s cameos, and for all the interesting side characters that are being set up for upcoming books.
Not sure if I’ll be reading Malibu’s book right away, but I will at some point because I really need to see him have his HEA, too.
Now that I’ve read it, I can say for sure: I’m not a huge fan of porn star romances. The idea of “my” MCs seeing sex as “business” is weird for my good old fashioned romantic heart.
That being said: ofc I knew beforehand what I was about to read. And the plot is new and fresh: 2 porn stars, both working in the same studio, get paired together to film a “boyfriend series”. And after having sex numerous times for the camera, they fall in in love.
It’s a grumpy/sunshine pairing: Dixon aka Dix, the silent grump, and Niko aka Adonis, the new addition to the Elite8 team, personified sunshine coming from a welcoming, warm and loud Greek family.
I always love seeing how the sunshine wears the grump down, and the relationship build was done really well - both Niko and Dixon have a warmth to them that WILL seep into your heart, too.
Still - that porn star setting isn’t for me, even if it’s portrayed in a way that’s very professional and as far from seedy as it gets.
Bonus points for Mateo and Hawthorne’s cameos, and for all the interesting side characters that are being set up for upcoming books.
Not sure if I’ll be reading Malibu’s book right away, but I will at some point because I really need to see him have his HEA, too.
October 4, 2022
This was so cute!! I love the whole premise - porn stars having to pretend to be boyfriends on camera. I already adore fake boyfriends, but the inversion of it where the sexual intimacy is what has to be faked rather than negotiating PDA levels is always so fun!
Dix and Niko were so adorable, separately and together. It's one sided enemies to lovers, but not like real enemies obviously, or even trying to be real hate. More like Dixon is judgey and unhappy and Niko is a lot for him to handle so he gets mad about it. Normal dislike levels, but it made for some great emotional thawing and growth between them! I have no idea if that made sense.
The Malibu arc had me so stressed!! That brought in a nice secondary plot, since the porn plot couldn't support an entire book on its own, but it was also worked in seamlessly, and it showed Dix's caretaking side which was so cute.
I also loved the found family of porn stars - so sweet! I guess Mateo was part of it, left in a separate book some other series? Idk i didn't care about him, but everyone else was nice. I would love to read more about this group.
Ok idk why I'm writing so much, but I also enjoyed seeing Dix get along and get accepted by Niko's big family. So wholesome!!
Overall, this was just too cute. I loved it. So much sweetness and emotion and funny moments woven together, plus a found family and an accepting biological family too.
Read more reviews on my blog:
https://horsetalkreviews.blogspot.com/
Dix and Niko were so adorable, separately and together. It's one sided enemies to lovers, but not like real enemies obviously, or even trying to be real hate. More like Dixon is judgey and unhappy and Niko is a lot for him to handle so he gets mad about it. Normal dislike levels, but it made for some great emotional thawing and growth between them! I have no idea if that made sense.
The Malibu arc had me so stressed!! That brought in a nice secondary plot, since the porn plot couldn't support an entire book on its own, but it was also worked in seamlessly, and it showed Dix's caretaking side which was so cute.
I also loved the found family of porn stars - so sweet! I guess Mateo was part of it, left in a separate book some other series? Idk i didn't care about him, but everyone else was nice. I would love to read more about this group.
Ok idk why I'm writing so much, but I also enjoyed seeing Dix get along and get accepted by Niko's big family. So wholesome!!
Overall, this was just too cute. I loved it. So much sweetness and emotion and funny moments woven together, plus a found family and an accepting biological family too.
Read more reviews on my blog:
https://horsetalkreviews.blogspot.com/
August 8, 2023
✰3.75-4 stars✰
This was a lot of fun! Niko and Dixon had such a fun chemistry right from the beginning and I think the ‘fake boyfriends for a porn series’ really worked for these characters. It gave them an intimacy right away that you don’t always get with this trope right out of the gate, so I thought this take on it was very clever and exciting!
I will say the beginning part of the book gets a bit higher of a rating from me than the latter half. I did enjoy the latter half of the book and there are some super sweet moments, but for whatever reason I just clicked with the beginning more.
Despite that being the case, I loved these characters all the way through and how Dixon was definitely a teddy bear at heart to everyone he cares about.
I am excited to read the next few in the series and I need to know what happens with Malibu in the next one because that boy is making me anxious!
Do you believe in hate at first sight? Neither did I, until Niko fucking Adamos strides into Studio 1 like he owns the goddamn place.
This was a lot of fun! Niko and Dixon had such a fun chemistry right from the beginning and I think the ‘fake boyfriends for a porn series’ really worked for these characters. It gave them an intimacy right away that you don’t always get with this trope right out of the gate, so I thought this take on it was very clever and exciting!
I will say the beginning part of the book gets a bit higher of a rating from me than the latter half. I did enjoy the latter half of the book and there are some super sweet moments, but for whatever reason I just clicked with the beginning more.
Despite that being the case, I loved these characters all the way through and how Dixon was definitely a teddy bear at heart to everyone he cares about.
I haven’t been serious about much in my life, but I’m serious about Dixon.
I am excited to read the next few in the series and I need to know what happens with Malibu in the next one because that boy is making me anxious!
April 15, 2024
Loooove this. I didn't know what to expect with the characters being porn stars, but I knew Emmy wouldn't disappoint. The positive way it is portrayed was refreshing and, as always, found family FTW. Dix is so grumpy but also such a caring person. Niki (if you don't swoon over the nickname, you have no heart) isn't just sunshine, he is positive and nice, and quite sassy. I loved their scenes together. The way Dix constantly reneged of his attraction to Niko was fun to read . And the way Niko pushed Dix's buttons was hilarious. Their scenes together were scorching hot and their dates were so wholesome. I love their slow burn love.
January 26, 2023
dix is the biggest soft grump ever. to say that i love him isn’t enough. and the way niko simply accepts him for who he is is wonderful. he finally got the kind of love that he deserves.
this is a slow burn, but it doesn’t feel like that at all. i actually realized very late that they weren’t actually together and i was, in fact, reading a slow burn (but maybe that’s just because i’m dumb).
i need malibu’s book right now because i have a feeling that it will have my favorite thing ever but i can’t wait till february.
this is a slow burn, but it doesn’t feel like that at all. i actually realized very late that they weren’t actually together and i was, in fact, reading a slow burn (but maybe that’s just because i’m dumb).
i need malibu’s book right now because i have a feeling that it will have my favorite thing ever but i can’t wait till february.
August 8, 2022
Thank you to Gay Romance Reviews for providing an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Emmy Sanders is one of my newest one-click authors. After reading about Mateo and Hawthorne, I knew that she was coming out with a series based around the porn stars that work at Elite 8, and Dix is the first book in that new series.
This book was light, fluffy, and had little to no angst at all. It got me out of a slump where I had DNFed three books in a row. It was exactly what I needed. We got a glimpse of Dix in Virgin Hearts and it was actually a great idea to start this new series with him. While I did kind of miss the emotional angst (because I'm a sucker for being hurt, y'know how it is LOL), I did appreciate the understanding that Dixon and Niko had with one another. And there was no 80% break-up, which I loved! These two men are grown ass adults who were able to work through their problems and talk to each other. THANK. YOU.
Sanders teased us with future books. I'm hoping for Malibu next because I am INTRIGUED and I love Alex more than anything (#bossybottom) and I cannot wait for his book, too. A friend mentioned that he might be paired with a character who's introduced to us in this book and I have to say I wouldn't be mad if they ended up together!
This was a great novel to introduce us to the cast of Elite 8 and I can't wait to see what comes next in the series!
Emmy Sanders is one of my newest one-click authors. After reading about Mateo and Hawthorne, I knew that she was coming out with a series based around the porn stars that work at Elite 8, and Dix is the first book in that new series.
This book was light, fluffy, and had little to no angst at all. It got me out of a slump where I had DNFed three books in a row. It was exactly what I needed. We got a glimpse of Dix in Virgin Hearts and it was actually a great idea to start this new series with him. While I did kind of miss the emotional angst (because I'm a sucker for being hurt, y'know how it is LOL), I did appreciate the understanding that Dixon and Niko had with one another. And there was no 80% break-up, which I loved! These two men are grown ass adults who were able to work through their problems and talk to each other. THANK. YOU.
Sanders teased us with future books. I'm hoping for Malibu next because I am INTRIGUED and I love Alex more than anything (#bossybottom) and I cannot wait for his book, too. A friend mentioned that he might be paired with a character who's introduced to us in this book and I have to say I wouldn't be mad if they ended up together!
This was a great novel to introduce us to the cast of Elite 8 and I can't wait to see what comes next in the series!
July 3, 2025
This was a solid mid book. Not the most amazing thing you’ll ever read, but definitely not the worst either. The writing is actually decent, which helped, but the whole “I hate you for no reason” vibe from Dix? That angle didn’t land for me.
Sure, he later explains that he was just so taken by Nikki that he overcompensated by being a jerk—but that doesn’t make his early behavior any more likable. And Nikki? Tried way too hard. I get that he likes a challenge and saw winning Dix over as one, but it came off a little desperate at times.
That said, they did manage to keep me entertained and turning pages, so it wasn’t a total miss.
3 stars!
Sure, he later explains that he was just so taken by Nikki that he overcompensated by being a jerk—but that doesn’t make his early behavior any more likable. And Nikki? Tried way too hard. I get that he likes a challenge and saw winning Dix over as one, but it came off a little desperate at times.
That said, they did manage to keep me entertained and turning pages, so it wasn’t a total miss.
3 stars!
November 8, 2022
I liked this more than I thought I would! This story about two porn stars having to film a series of "boyfriend"-type scenes while not getting on IRL ended up being way sweeter than I expected. I've been having trouble finishing books lately, but I read this in one sitting. I really felt the emotional connection between the two MCs and it gave me the "Aww", swoony type of feels I've been missing lately.
I was impressed by the writing and how the whole "porn stars" thing was handled. I thought the premise called for some OTT plot gimmicks, but the result was more refined and subtle than that. During the filming of the sex scenes, the focus is really on the characters and not on the technical, behind-the-scene aspect. Is it realistic that the actors would forget everything around them and that the scene would go on with almost no stoppage or cues? Probably not, but it's way less cringy to me this way, and I just love the ~drama~ of those two just zoning out because they're so into each other. Those scenes were long and on the vanilla side, but I was never bored. The author made the tension between them so believable, I could really believe they were falling in love while dicking each other down in front of the cameras. The fake Christmas scene in particular even made me a little emotional.
One of the strong aspects of this book is the characters. I loved Dixon, the big grumpy bear, who's really the most loyal and attentive friend one could ask for. Niko is his opposite, outgoing and flirty, and loves to tease Dix. This might seem like a dynamic we've read over and over again, and I'm not saying it isn't. But I loved how their chemistry wasn't reduced to antagonistic banter and how their interactions with each other made them both self-reflect. Especially, I appreciated the moment Niko turned down his teasing in an effort to respect Dixon's boundaries. How often do you see that?
There are so many little things I appreciated in this. Dixon's nicknames, the "only one bed" situation, Niko's wooing and "Ghost"-ing, the not-dates dates, all the little tender moments between them, how soft they ended up being with each other one they got together, how they communicated about their issues. I liked that there's no 80% breakup, no pushing each other away. It never goes full angst either, which may make things drag a little in the middle, but I was attached enough to the characters that I didn't found it too boring. I only wished there was a couple more scenes of them talking/not boning each other in the first half, to show more of their emotional connection early on. The fluffy moments of the latter half did make up for that, I only wanted the pacing of it to be more balanced!
The "enemies-to-lovers" aspect is pretty light, for those who care about that, it's more of a one-sided dislike on Dixon's part, and he wasn't too much of an ass about it. He was mostly being overtly defensive, which makes sense to me. I hate when people are rude and petty to each other with the only reason being "well, this is an enemies-to-lovers romance". I could have done without all their friends and families calling them out on their feelings for each other from the first chapter though! Why are people so perspective about their friend's romantic feelings in romance novels?
With that said, I still loved the supporting cast in this. Niko's family, Dixon's friends, the whole Elite 8 gang. I appreciated that Dixon cut his homophobic family off in the past and that's that, there's no forgiving storyline, no last-second appearances. The queer found family theme is very present in this without being too in your face.
I will definitely read more in this series as I'm very curious about what is going to happen to the Elite 8 gang. I know Malibu is the next one (and his arc was set up well in this one), but I also want to see more of Alex! While waiting for the next book, I will definitely check out Mateo and Hawthorne's story.
I received a free copy of this book and am providing my honest review voluntarily.
Read this review and more on my blog: https://horsetalkreviews.blogspot.com/
I was impressed by the writing and how the whole "porn stars" thing was handled. I thought the premise called for some OTT plot gimmicks, but the result was more refined and subtle than that. During the filming of the sex scenes, the focus is really on the characters and not on the technical, behind-the-scene aspect. Is it realistic that the actors would forget everything around them and that the scene would go on with almost no stoppage or cues? Probably not, but it's way less cringy to me this way, and I just love the ~drama~ of those two just zoning out because they're so into each other. Those scenes were long and on the vanilla side, but I was never bored. The author made the tension between them so believable, I could really believe they were falling in love while dicking each other down in front of the cameras. The fake Christmas scene in particular even made me a little emotional.
One of the strong aspects of this book is the characters. I loved Dixon, the big grumpy bear, who's really the most loyal and attentive friend one could ask for. Niko is his opposite, outgoing and flirty, and loves to tease Dix. This might seem like a dynamic we've read over and over again, and I'm not saying it isn't. But I loved how their chemistry wasn't reduced to antagonistic banter and how their interactions with each other made them both self-reflect. Especially, I appreciated the moment Niko turned down his teasing in an effort to respect Dixon's boundaries. How often do you see that?
There are so many little things I appreciated in this. Dixon's nicknames, the "only one bed" situation, Niko's wooing and "Ghost"-ing, the not-dates dates, all the little tender moments between them, how soft they ended up being with each other one they got together, how they communicated about their issues. I liked that there's no 80% breakup, no pushing each other away. It never goes full angst either, which may make things drag a little in the middle, but I was attached enough to the characters that I didn't found it too boring. I only wished there was a couple more scenes of them talking/not boning each other in the first half, to show more of their emotional connection early on. The fluffy moments of the latter half did make up for that, I only wanted the pacing of it to be more balanced!
The "enemies-to-lovers" aspect is pretty light, for those who care about that, it's more of a one-sided dislike on Dixon's part, and he wasn't too much of an ass about it. He was mostly being overtly defensive, which makes sense to me. I hate when people are rude and petty to each other with the only reason being "well, this is an enemies-to-lovers romance". I could have done without all their friends and families calling them out on their feelings for each other from the first chapter though! Why are people so perspective about their friend's romantic feelings in romance novels?
With that said, I still loved the supporting cast in this. Niko's family, Dixon's friends, the whole Elite 8 gang. I appreciated that Dixon cut his homophobic family off in the past and that's that, there's no forgiving storyline, no last-second appearances. The queer found family theme is very present in this without being too in your face.
I will definitely read more in this series as I'm very curious about what is going to happen to the Elite 8 gang. I know Malibu is the next one (and his arc was set up well in this one), but I also want to see more of Alex! While waiting for the next book, I will definitely check out Mateo and Hawthorne's story.
I received a free copy of this book and am providing my honest review voluntarily.
Read this review and more on my blog: https://horsetalkreviews.blogspot.com/
August 29, 2022
*3.5 stars*
This is why I rarely DNF books. I despised it at first but it grew on me as I read. Greek rep was OK although I had to laugh hard when the Greek mom didn't only let, but asked a newcomer to help her in the kitchen.
This is why I rarely DNF books. I despised it at first but it grew on me as I read. Greek rep was OK although I had to laugh hard when the Greek mom didn't only let, but asked a newcomer to help her in the kitchen.
April 19, 2023
I ended up not enjoying this story as much as I thought I would. I liked Niko and Dixon as MCs but, if I'm being totally honest, it didnt feel like there was much depth to their characters and, even if I'm wrong about that, their connection to each other definitely felt off; lacking in some way. It's true that they were physically attracted to each other and had great sexual chemistry, but I didn't see any real emotional connection. It's like the entire relationship was built upon the fact that sex with each other felt different. They didn't have any meaningful conversations or spend a lot of time with each outside of their workplace.
Also, the story seemed to drag too much. Once I reached the 60% mark, I started skimming, focusing on dialogue. The spicy scenes weren't as spicy as I thought they'd be (though, given the "boyfriend" parameters they were given for their scenes that can be excused) and their eventual getting together in the final quarter of the story was anticlimactic as hell. I felt nothing. I just wanted to hurry up and finish the story. 🫤 2 stars
Also, the story seemed to drag too much. Once I reached the 60% mark, I started skimming, focusing on dialogue. The spicy scenes weren't as spicy as I thought they'd be (though, given the "boyfriend" parameters they were given for their scenes that can be excused) and their eventual getting together in the final quarter of the story was anticlimactic as hell. I felt nothing. I just wanted to hurry up and finish the story. 🫤 2 stars
July 7, 2024
I swear romcoms restore the soul. It’s been a hot minute since I’ve read something so sweet and slutty, and I basically smiled like an idiot the entire time.
THE PREMISE: sweet, grumpy Dixon the corn star has to be fake boyfriends with annoying new guy Niko for an arc at work. Only none of it is feeling particularly fake …
TROPES & VIBES:
- MM romcom
- Fake dating, but make it porn stars
- Had no business being so sweet
- Immaculate found family
- Grumpy x sunshine
3.75⭐️ 3-3.5🌶️
THE PREMISE: sweet, grumpy Dixon the corn star has to be fake boyfriends with annoying new guy Niko for an arc at work. Only none of it is feeling particularly fake …
TROPES & VIBES:
- MM romcom
- Fake dating, but make it porn stars
- Had no business being so sweet
- Immaculate found family
- Grumpy x sunshine
3.75⭐️ 3-3.5🌶️
December 29, 2024
Audio: 5 stars for Nick J Russo! And Malibu comes out next month which is a score!!
Book: 3.5-4 stars
Something about these two and the way this book was written I just couldn’t put it down! I do think this series will be better for me than her other cowboy series. That one has too many second chance and unnecessary angst, while this one everyone seems to be new haha and not have that already knowing their love interest.
I liked how Niko didn’t let Dixon’s grumpy facade get in the way of trying to get him to like him. It was a cute and fast story! I would say that I would have preferred them getting to that friends/relationship sooner than 60% or 70% because that doesn’t leave much for the development.
But overall a good read and would recommend to those who are on the fence, at least pick it up with the audio because Nick J Russo helps bring the story to life!
I can’t wait to read/listen to Malibu’s story next month!
Book: 3.5-4 stars
Something about these two and the way this book was written I just couldn’t put it down! I do think this series will be better for me than her other cowboy series. That one has too many second chance and unnecessary angst, while this one everyone seems to be new haha and not have that already knowing their love interest.
I liked how Niko didn’t let Dixon’s grumpy facade get in the way of trying to get him to like him. It was a cute and fast story! I would say that I would have preferred them getting to that friends/relationship sooner than 60% or 70% because that doesn’t leave much for the development.
But overall a good read and would recommend to those who are on the fence, at least pick it up with the audio because Nick J Russo helps bring the story to life!
I can’t wait to read/listen to Malibu’s story next month!
August 21, 2022
5 Rom-com with feels stars! ✨ Honestly this Grumpy/Sunshine goodness is a cross between Contemporary MM romance & sexy Romantic comedy 😏. Devoured this story in around 6hrs, yum.
I loved Niko, our lovable charming snarky & stubborn gay sweetheart, Dix our adorable bisexual grumpy bear who's a softie & romantic at heart. Sexy porn stars! Niko's the newbie at 27, Dix the veteran at 30.
Their story started unconventional, with plenty of fun snark & heat (the good kind!). But their progress felt natural.
They started off on wrong foot. Dix was determined to NOT like Niko, wary of the intense feelings he awoke. Niko was determined to make the grump like him. But when they actually got to know each other, they definitely liked what they saw *smirk*. Throw in some meddling friends & Niko's fun family. A recipe for quite the ride!
Their chemistry in the sheets is hot, & playing boyfriends - It wasn't all acting. A puzzle they were for eachother. Feelings just inevitable. I loved the overall low angst of this story. It took time BUT Once in, All in. I'm a sucker for that. I was a bit worried due to their profession, but damn, these two handled that well too. My sweeties!
No one tried seeing beneath Dix's muscular exterior, other than his friends. None of his partners accepted him fully, until Niko.
This book wasn't sad. Yet I got emotional in the lovey dovey scenes & when Dix shared about his past to Niko. I loved that 1 drag, their dates & club scenes! These two mesh well together and were a good start for this series.
And also I thought Dix didn't bottom, but color me & Niko surprise towards the end when they're officially dating to find D does switch. Hehe, pleasant surprise. I love me a switch couple 🥳🔥.
Plus, Niko's a reader & made Dix one too *cheer*.
And the nicknames *chef's kiss*. Dix gives his loved ones adorable nicknames!
Last chapters all made me so warm & fuzzy, specially the holiday celebrations. Great HEA & epilogue!
This was my 1st book by Emmy & I'm glad to have found this while scrolling new releases! Definitely gonna read more, especially curious about Mat's book. And Malibu's book, 2nd in this series! Next year is so far & I'm ready for more of this gang!
I loved Niko, our lovable charming snarky & stubborn gay sweetheart, Dix our adorable bisexual grumpy bear who's a softie & romantic at heart. Sexy porn stars! Niko's the newbie at 27, Dix the veteran at 30.
Their story started unconventional, with plenty of fun snark & heat (the good kind!). But their progress felt natural.
They started off on wrong foot. Dix was determined to NOT like Niko, wary of the intense feelings he awoke. Niko was determined to make the grump like him. But when they actually got to know each other, they definitely liked what they saw *smirk*. Throw in some meddling friends & Niko's fun family. A recipe for quite the ride!
Their chemistry in the sheets is hot, & playing boyfriends - It wasn't all acting. A puzzle they were for eachother. Feelings just inevitable. I loved the overall low angst of this story. It took time BUT Once in, All in. I'm a sucker for that. I was a bit worried due to their profession, but damn, these two handled that well too. My sweeties!
No one tried seeing beneath Dix's muscular exterior, other than his friends. None of his partners accepted him fully, until Niko.
This book wasn't sad. Yet I got emotional in the lovey dovey scenes & when Dix shared about his past to Niko. I loved that 1 drag, their dates & club scenes! These two mesh well together and were a good start for this series.
And also I thought Dix didn't bottom, but color me & Niko surprise towards the end when they're officially dating to find D does switch. Hehe, pleasant surprise. I love me a switch couple 🥳🔥.
Plus, Niko's a reader & made Dix one too *cheer*.
And the nicknames *chef's kiss*. Dix gives his loved ones adorable nicknames!
Last chapters all made me so warm & fuzzy, specially the holiday celebrations. Great HEA & epilogue!
This was my 1st book by Emmy & I'm glad to have found this while scrolling new releases! Definitely gonna read more, especially curious about Mat's book. And Malibu's book, 2nd in this series! Next year is so far & I'm ready for more of this gang!
October 28, 2022
This series is a spin-off from the Plum Valley Cowboys series - a new series about the stars from Elite 8, where we'll read about men being adult film stars, like Mateo was before he fell in love with Hawthorne. This first book evolves around Dix, Mateo's former roommate and friend. Dix used to be one of Elite 8's top stars, but to make his video's more interesting and meet the public's needs, he's going to do a series of video's in which he has a boyfriend (to have hot and steamy sex with, of course).
Niko is casted as his fake video boyfriend and from the moment he meets him, Dix dislikes him. He's too sunshiny, too bright, too...everything. All things Dix is not. I would not call this an enemies-to-lovers, but it's definitely a grumpy-sunshine. There's a lot of banter between these two men and the sexy times they have on video are certainly hot!
From the moment they discover there's a certain chemistry between them, despite the hostility coming from Dix, things between them grow in a more positive direction, and there's one of my little niggles: it went too fast for my likes. And it became a bit too sweet and fluffy after that too. I missed a bit of angst to give me a more rewarding hea.
All in all, this book is a good start to a new series, that I'll definitely be reading, because in a very short time Emmy Sanders has become a one-click author to me. I really click with her writing, and, let's be honest, not all books work like a 5 star read, not even from the most loved authors. So I'm rating this 3 stars, which means it was a good, solid read, but not outstanding.
I'd love to see which characters we'll see in the second book!
I kindly received an ARC from the author and this is my honest, unbiased opinion
Niko is casted as his fake video boyfriend and from the moment he meets him, Dix dislikes him. He's too sunshiny, too bright, too...everything. All things Dix is not. I would not call this an enemies-to-lovers, but it's definitely a grumpy-sunshine. There's a lot of banter between these two men and the sexy times they have on video are certainly hot!
From the moment they discover there's a certain chemistry between them, despite the hostility coming from Dix, things between them grow in a more positive direction, and there's one of my little niggles: it went too fast for my likes. And it became a bit too sweet and fluffy after that too. I missed a bit of angst to give me a more rewarding hea.
All in all, this book is a good start to a new series, that I'll definitely be reading, because in a very short time Emmy Sanders has become a one-click author to me. I really click with her writing, and, let's be honest, not all books work like a 5 star read, not even from the most loved authors. So I'm rating this 3 stars, which means it was a good, solid read, but not outstanding.
I'd love to see which characters we'll see in the second book!
I kindly received an ARC from the author and this is my honest, unbiased opinion
August 8, 2022
Rating - 3.5 rounded up
I was super excited to read this first book in Emmy’s newest “Elite 8” series - in which we are following adult film stars (which is always a fun time!). We got a glimpse of Dixon in Virgin Hearts and I just loved his friendship with Mateo so I was really anticipating him getting his own book.
Dix is a bit of a grumpy bear, he is closed-off and tries to maintain as much professional distance as he can from his coworkers. Niko, the newest actor at Elite 8 is paired up with Dix to do a “boyfriend series” of films, in which they are meant to be acting more lovey-dovey on set. Niko is fun, flirty, confident and instantly gets under Dix’s skin. I would say this isn’t so much enemies-to-lovers but more so one-sided dislike. There is some snarky banter but overall the animosity is pretty low.
I loved seeing how even though they were “acting” during their scenes you could feel the chemistry between these two. Their connection was intense and they both would actually zone out all of the surrounding crew members and get lost in one another 🔥🔥🔥
Some things I really loved here:
- Niko’s family was amazing & I loved all the supporting women in his life
- Dix’s protectiveness over his friends (in particular Malibu) what a loyal, amazing man
- we didn’t have to see these men “in scenes” with any of the other coworkers which was nice
- Dix’s soft spot for his best friends Alex & Mateo (the cutesy nicknames he gives them 🥰)
- the nicknames Dix and Niko gave each other
- the epilogue was both adorably sweet and had me laughing out loud (IYKYK)
- the pacing was great and I actually flew through this book
I will say that there was a good balance of detailed sex scenes and some that were quickly summarized - following characters in this line of work can tend towards tedious if every scene is detailed for pages and pages. My one real niggle was that I would have preferred more sex scenes AFTER they got together vs. while they were acting - even though all the scenes were done really well.
Overall this was a light, funny, low-angst read. If you’re looking for something fluffy and easy to get immersed in I would give this one a go! And I can’t wait to read more about the rest of the men of Elite 8 (in particular Malibu & Alex).
I was super excited to read this first book in Emmy’s newest “Elite 8” series - in which we are following adult film stars (which is always a fun time!). We got a glimpse of Dixon in Virgin Hearts and I just loved his friendship with Mateo so I was really anticipating him getting his own book.
Dix is a bit of a grumpy bear, he is closed-off and tries to maintain as much professional distance as he can from his coworkers. Niko, the newest actor at Elite 8 is paired up with Dix to do a “boyfriend series” of films, in which they are meant to be acting more lovey-dovey on set. Niko is fun, flirty, confident and instantly gets under Dix’s skin. I would say this isn’t so much enemies-to-lovers but more so one-sided dislike. There is some snarky banter but overall the animosity is pretty low.
I loved seeing how even though they were “acting” during their scenes you could feel the chemistry between these two. Their connection was intense and they both would actually zone out all of the surrounding crew members and get lost in one another 🔥🔥🔥
Some things I really loved here:
- Niko’s family was amazing & I loved all the supporting women in his life
- Dix’s protectiveness over his friends (in particular Malibu) what a loyal, amazing man
- we didn’t have to see these men “in scenes” with any of the other coworkers which was nice
- Dix’s soft spot for his best friends Alex & Mateo (the cutesy nicknames he gives them 🥰)
- the nicknames Dix and Niko gave each other
- the epilogue was both adorably sweet and had me laughing out loud (IYKYK)
- the pacing was great and I actually flew through this book
I will say that there was a good balance of detailed sex scenes and some that were quickly summarized - following characters in this line of work can tend towards tedious if every scene is detailed for pages and pages. My one real niggle was that I would have preferred more sex scenes AFTER they got together vs. while they were acting - even though all the scenes were done really well.
Overall this was a light, funny, low-angst read. If you’re looking for something fluffy and easy to get immersed in I would give this one a go! And I can’t wait to read more about the rest of the men of Elite 8 (in particular Malibu & Alex).
September 5, 2022
4 Porn Stars
I always have such high hopes going into a book with porn stars than to be utterly disappointed. I am glad to report Dix does not fall under that radar.
The book started with a sold five stars. Hate, lust, and Greek God; OH My! For some reason, Dixon can't figure out why Nickolas gets under his skin. He hates Nicoklas for it. Now he has to film a series of boyfriend scenes with him.
Nikolas is fresh to the Elite 8 Studios. He is the heart of gold, a friendly, Fun loving guy. He is far from boring and does like to shake things up a little—everyone like Nikolas except for Dixon. Nikolas is the least bit discouraged, as grumpy hot men are his type.
Dix started with five sold five stars and steamy. I enjoyed reading and love this book. My only constructive criticism is a few missed opportunities. A little over fifty percent into the book, I felt a shift in the book. Not necessarily a bad thing. Some parts see the couple back-stepped a little into their relationship, and the spicy scenes seem to lack more detail.
Overall it was a great read, and I recommend it to MM fans.
September 11, 2022
My first read from Emmy Sanders and it won't be my last!! *squeals*
Dix was a version of Tank from K.M. Neuhold that I enjoyed throughly, I'm not saying they are the same, they just have similarities.
So we have the big bear that will destroy you with his *ahem* dick *ahem* and then we got the more layback dude who makes it all fun.
It was hate at first sight and then they had sex and bum!!! Hate/attraction and then they got to spend time together so the love grew.
I loved it!! Can't wait for the next one gah!
I leave with this quote:
“All right. Are you sweet or salty?”
Niko’s face stretches into a slow, sly grin. “I’m everyone’s flavor, baby. Maybe you should try me sometime.”
PERGNANT!!! Do I need to say more? *drop mic*
Dix was a version of Tank from K.M. Neuhold that I enjoyed throughly, I'm not saying they are the same, they just have similarities.
So we have the big bear that will destroy you with his *ahem* dick *ahem* and then we got the more layback dude who makes it all fun.
It was hate at first sight and then they had sex and bum!!! Hate/attraction and then they got to spend time together so the love grew.
I loved it!! Can't wait for the next one gah!
I leave with this quote:
“All right. Are you sweet or salty?”
Niko’s face stretches into a slow, sly grin. “I’m everyone’s flavor, baby. Maybe you should try me sometime.”
PERGNANT!!! Do I need to say more? *drop mic*
September 1, 2022
Niko and Dixon stole my heart , I was very surprised by this new book by the author since it is very different from what I have read before from her, I want to highlight the MCs Niko and Dixon they felt too real, I loved being in their heads and love every part of their love story, despite the fact that they are both Corn actors they read as characters with a fairly great depth and full of feelings, Dixon is a real grumpy and I came to identify a lot with his personality, on the other hand Niko is a ray of sunshine and I adore him with all my heart, I am quite excited about this new series from the author and I already want to read the next books.
thanks to GRR for My ARC.
Niko y Dixon se robaron mi corazon por completo , me sorprendio mucho este nuevo libro de la autora ya que es muy diferente a lo que he leido anteriormente de ella, quiero resaltar los MCs y es que Niko Y dixon se sentian demasiado reales, ame estar en sus cabezas y ame cada parte de su historia de amor , a pesar de que ambos son actores P"rno se leen como peronajes con una profundidad bastante grandes y llenos de sentimientos , Dixon es un grumpy por excelencia y me llegue a identificar mucho con su personalidad , por el otro lado Niko es una rayo de sol y lo adoro con todo mi corazon , estoy bastante emocionada por esta nueva serie de la autora y ya quiero leer los siguientes libros.
thanks to GRR for My ARC.
Niko y Dixon se robaron mi corazon por completo , me sorprendio mucho este nuevo libro de la autora ya que es muy diferente a lo que he leido anteriormente de ella, quiero resaltar los MCs y es que Niko Y dixon se sentian demasiado reales, ame estar en sus cabezas y ame cada parte de su historia de amor , a pesar de que ambos son actores P"rno se leen como peronajes con una profundidad bastante grandes y llenos de sentimientos , Dixon es un grumpy por excelencia y me llegue a identificar mucho con su personalidad , por el otro lado Niko es una rayo de sol y lo adoro con todo mi corazon , estoy bastante emocionada por esta nueva serie de la autora y ya quiero leer los siguientes libros.
August 19, 2025
«Cuando miro al futuro, veo a Dixon. Cada momento de mi vida quiero que incluya a este hombre porque es mío. Y aunque él aún no lo sepa, yo soy suyo.»✨
June 13, 2024
Oh, Emmy. I owe you an apology for not reading this series in order. I didn’t know what I was missing until I read Dix by Emmy Sanders. I have loved every book I’ve read by you. Emmy you are a true master and an artist when you are writing.
I started the Elite 8 Studios series at book four. Not sure why but I’m so happy to be backtracking and reading the rest of these amazing books, in order this time.
The chemistry and the passion between Dixon and Niko is off the charts. I love how Dix tries to fight it and deny it for so long. I loved when Niko starts to realize his plan of winning Dixon over might’ve been too much and changes tactics to woo him instead.
Dixon got the good kind of ghosted and it was such a wholesome moment for these two. I love them together.
I loved getting so much Mateo, I miss him. Also, the visit from him and Hawthorne, was one of my favorite moments.
The Elite 8 studio books are full of spice and have the steamiest moments. Hats off to Emmy for writing these amazing books.
I’m so excited to start Malibu next 🩵
I started the Elite 8 Studios series at book four. Not sure why but I’m so happy to be backtracking and reading the rest of these amazing books, in order this time.
The chemistry and the passion between Dixon and Niko is off the charts. I love how Dix tries to fight it and deny it for so long. I loved when Niko starts to realize his plan of winning Dixon over might’ve been too much and changes tactics to woo him instead.
Dixon got the good kind of ghosted and it was such a wholesome moment for these two. I love them together.
I loved getting so much Mateo, I miss him. Also, the visit from him and Hawthorne, was one of my favorite moments.
The Elite 8 studio books are full of spice and have the steamiest moments. Hats off to Emmy for writing these amazing books.
I’m so excited to start Malibu next 🩵
July 30, 2025
I struggled to love this story, but to be honest it was much easier to feel warmer towards it by the end.
I'll start with the negatives....
I think its predictability and pretty much no plot made this a difficult read for most of it. I enjoyed the premise - two porn stars playing fake boyfriends for the camera. But the whole "hate at first sight" just didn't stand. There seemed to be no creditable reason for Dixon to hate Nico, and then his soon following protestations for being attracted to him just seemed unrealistic with no basis.
And predictability???
Dixon "I don't bottom"
Yeah. Sure you don't. 😅
There was something very clinical reading them have sex, knowing this wasn't their choice, but scripted for the cameras. The heat just wasn't believable.
And then the plot was paper thin - most of the drama came from Mal, who gets his own story in book 2. Nothing else really happened between these two. Boy meets boy. Boys fuck. Boys fall in love. The end.
But...
Towards the end I began to change my mind.
This book gave me what I've longed for, for ages. Staying with the MC's once they've become committed. Who doesn't want to luxuriate in all the warmth and glow post-declarations bring? 😍 And their first 'proper' kiss? The one that was just for them? Okay, this won me back.
Brownie points added for a cute af moment with a perfectly timed drag show. And maybe one deducted for the perhaps the corniest of ending lines ever!
But overall 🌟🌟🌟
I'll start with the negatives....
I think its predictability and pretty much no plot made this a difficult read for most of it. I enjoyed the premise - two porn stars playing fake boyfriends for the camera. But the whole "hate at first sight" just didn't stand. There seemed to be no creditable reason for Dixon to hate Nico, and then his soon following protestations for being attracted to him just seemed unrealistic with no basis.
And predictability???
Dixon "I don't bottom"
Yeah. Sure you don't. 😅
There was something very clinical reading them have sex, knowing this wasn't their choice, but scripted for the cameras. The heat just wasn't believable.
And then the plot was paper thin - most of the drama came from Mal, who gets his own story in book 2. Nothing else really happened between these two. Boy meets boy. Boys fuck. Boys fall in love. The end.
But...
Towards the end I began to change my mind.
This book gave me what I've longed for, for ages. Staying with the MC's once they've become committed. Who doesn't want to luxuriate in all the warmth and glow post-declarations bring? 😍 And their first 'proper' kiss? The one that was just for them? Okay, this won me back.
Brownie points added for a cute af moment with a perfectly timed drag show. And maybe one deducted for the perhaps the corniest of ending lines ever!
But overall 🌟🌟🌟
March 15, 2023
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.25 stars
This is a tender romance between Niko and Dixon. Dix is a bisexual man with a complex about his own bisexuality. He’s tired of being told he’s too grumpy, and wishes someone could love his curmudgeonly self, as-is. He never expected that Niko, who could be Apollo for all the sunshine he exudes, would have the exact temperament necessary to withstand Dix’s coolness. Dix considers himself to be socially lacking and Niko’s love for him as he is helps him see that his connections with people aren’t as sterile as he’d imagined. I, too, loved me this reserved and routine-oriented “grumpy” bear.
Read Veronica’s review in its entirety here.
4.25 stars
This is a tender romance between Niko and Dixon. Dix is a bisexual man with a complex about his own bisexuality. He’s tired of being told he’s too grumpy, and wishes someone could love his curmudgeonly self, as-is. He never expected that Niko, who could be Apollo for all the sunshine he exudes, would have the exact temperament necessary to withstand Dix’s coolness. Dix considers himself to be socially lacking and Niko’s love for him as he is helps him see that his connections with people aren’t as sterile as he’d imagined. I, too, loved me this reserved and routine-oriented “grumpy” bear.
Read Veronica’s review in its entirety here.
August 9, 2022
co mi się podobało
rodzina Nika
przyjaciele
Mateo , no ten facet jest cudowny
historia gbura i słoneczka w świecie porna, o którym lubię czytać , nie znoszę oglądać .
Ale dlaczego 4 gwiazdki, za mało było Nika i Dixa , jak już zdecydowali się być razem.
Emmy wie jak pisać książki, które poprawiają Ci humor i nikt nie potrafi tak fantastycznie opisywać rodziny i przyjaciół. Czy warto ... zdecydowanie.
Nie mogę się już doczekać następnej książki , no i Alexa - mój Ci on :)
rodzina Nika
przyjaciele
Mateo , no ten facet jest cudowny
historia gbura i słoneczka w świecie porna, o którym lubię czytać , nie znoszę oglądać .
Ale dlaczego 4 gwiazdki, za mało było Nika i Dixa , jak już zdecydowali się być razem.
Emmy wie jak pisać książki, które poprawiają Ci humor i nikt nie potrafi tak fantastycznie opisywać rodziny i przyjaciół. Czy warto ... zdecydowanie.
Nie mogę się już doczekać następnej książki , no i Alexa - mój Ci on :)
November 12, 2023
3.5 stars
This was cute and all, but the premise is 2 pornstars doing boyfriend scenes and then realising they're in love. So once they actually fell in love, it got a little.... boring? They'd already done all the things you wait for in a romance by the 60% mark, so it definitely started to feel drawn out. They were sweet. It was just a little forgettable for me.
This was cute and all, but the premise is 2 pornstars doing boyfriend scenes and then realising they're in love. So once they actually fell in love, it got a little.... boring? They'd already done all the things you wait for in a romance by the 60% mark, so it definitely started to feel drawn out. They were sweet. It was just a little forgettable for me.
March 7, 2023
This was an alright book, there wasn't anything I particularly disliked about it but I didn't love it either. The first part of the book was fun, but I felt that the last third dragged a lot. There were a lot of interesting side characters, particularly Malibu who caught my interest more than Niko and Dix. But Niko and Dix were fun too, I was glad that Dixon could be grumpy without being an asshole (except for sometimes, but at least he owns up to it) and that Niko was self-aware when it came to his teasing and that sometimes it was better to tone things down than to keep riling Dix up.
August 12, 2022
Il me tardait de démarrer la nouvelle série de Emmy Sanders, plutôt spin-off de la saga "Plum Valley Cowboys". Cette nouvelle série est centrée sur la boite de production "Studio 8" de films pornographiques. Studio 8 ne nous est pas inconnu car nous la découvrons en même temps que Mateo, alias Silver, star bien connue, dans le tome 3 de "Plum Valley Cowboys", tome qui lui est d'ailleurs consacré. C'est dans ce même tome que nous découvrons Dix, un collègue et ami de Mat, et dont nous faisons plus ample connaissance ici.
Dix fait partie des acteurs emblématiques du Studio 8. C'est un homme qu'on ne peut que remarquer vu son charisme et sa carrure. Le producteur veut cette fois tenter une petite série d'épisodes centrée sur la relation entre deux petits-amis. Pour Dix, cela ne pose pas de problème...jusqu'à ce qu'il voit qui sera son futur petit-ami : Nikolas Adamos, nouveau venu dans l'équipe... et cerise sur le gâteau, il ne peut pas l'encadrer.
J'ai bien aimé me plonger dans l'univers du Studio 8 et rencontrer plus en détail les personnages qui y gravitent. Il me tardait de faire plus ample connaissance avec Dix, un personnage qui m'avait tapé dans l'oeil dans "Virgin Hearts". Dixon, c'est un homme imposant, comme je le disais, et ici, on le voit en mode plutôt grognon aux côtés de Niko. C'est un peu le géant grincheux de la bande, mais j'ai aimé son caractère posé, réfléchi. Il faut dire qu'il ne manque pas d'humour aussi ! J'ai aimé aussi son côté protecteur, en particulier envers Malibu. C'est un homme loyal sur lequel on peut compter, je ne pouvais que craquer un peu plus pour lui.
Nikolas est un personnage très lumineux, drôle et plutôt taquin envers Dix. J'ai bien aimé les voir évoluer ensemble, voir aussi Niko changer de tactique dans l'optique de se faire apprécier de Dix, s'acclimater à lui.
Seulement, les choses ne vont pas se passer comme prévu, car rapidement, on comprend que leur jeu de petit-ami est assez ambigu. L'intimité va faire qu'au moment des prises, les deux hommes vont se toucher mutuellement, au sens propre bien sûr mais aussi au figuré. On voit bien dès le départ que la frontière est très fine entre le jeu d'acteur et l'expression réelle des sentiments de Dix et Niki.
J'ai beaucoup aimé leur romance. A côté de leurs petites chamailleries, elle se développe au final, du moins s'exprime, dans leurs scènes intimes, très joliment écrites, sensuelles, scènes qui mettent en valeur leur connexion. On ressent vraiment leur alchimie. Comme je le disais, la frontière entre la comédie et la réalité est très fine, cependant j'aurais pourtant voulu voir un peu plus de "frein" du côté de Dix, qui s'adoucit un peu trop rapidement à mon goût. J'aurais souhaité voir un peu plus d'eux deux après justement s'être mis en couple aussi.
Niveaux personnages secondaires, j'ai beaucoup apprécié Alex, mais aussi Mal, dont il me tarde de pouvoir lire leur propre tome. Reste à savoir s'ils formeront un couple, pourquoi pas ^^
J'ai aimé la présence bienveillante de la famille de Niko, avec laquelle il est très proche.
J'ai aimé ma lecture, c'est sexy, sensuel, léger aussi même si l'auteur met l'accent sur certains sujets par l'intermédiaire de Mal. On ressent vraiment la complicité de toute cette bande d'amis qui se sont créés, une famille bien à eux. Les petits surnoms donnés d'ailleurs par Dix à ses amis, notamment Alex et Mateo, me faisaient sourire. J'ai tellement aimé d'ailleurs revoir Mat, aka Silver, cet homme est un concentré de douceur et de bonne humeur qui illumine tout sur son passage, il ne pouvait que me donner la banane.
Une jolie introduction dans l'univers de Studio 8 donc avec ce premier tome, qui se termine avec un joli épilogue tout mignon. Il me tarde de lire la suite, mais aussi de poursuivre dans la saga "Plum Valley Cowboys" !
Dix fait partie des acteurs emblématiques du Studio 8. C'est un homme qu'on ne peut que remarquer vu son charisme et sa carrure. Le producteur veut cette fois tenter une petite série d'épisodes centrée sur la relation entre deux petits-amis. Pour Dix, cela ne pose pas de problème...jusqu'à ce qu'il voit qui sera son futur petit-ami : Nikolas Adamos, nouveau venu dans l'équipe... et cerise sur le gâteau, il ne peut pas l'encadrer.
J'ai bien aimé me plonger dans l'univers du Studio 8 et rencontrer plus en détail les personnages qui y gravitent. Il me tardait de faire plus ample connaissance avec Dix, un personnage qui m'avait tapé dans l'oeil dans "Virgin Hearts". Dixon, c'est un homme imposant, comme je le disais, et ici, on le voit en mode plutôt grognon aux côtés de Niko. C'est un peu le géant grincheux de la bande, mais j'ai aimé son caractère posé, réfléchi. Il faut dire qu'il ne manque pas d'humour aussi ! J'ai aimé aussi son côté protecteur, en particulier envers Malibu. C'est un homme loyal sur lequel on peut compter, je ne pouvais que craquer un peu plus pour lui.
Nikolas est un personnage très lumineux, drôle et plutôt taquin envers Dix. J'ai bien aimé les voir évoluer ensemble, voir aussi Niko changer de tactique dans l'optique de se faire apprécier de Dix, s'acclimater à lui.
Seulement, les choses ne vont pas se passer comme prévu, car rapidement, on comprend que leur jeu de petit-ami est assez ambigu. L'intimité va faire qu'au moment des prises, les deux hommes vont se toucher mutuellement, au sens propre bien sûr mais aussi au figuré. On voit bien dès le départ que la frontière est très fine entre le jeu d'acteur et l'expression réelle des sentiments de Dix et Niki.
J'ai beaucoup aimé leur romance. A côté de leurs petites chamailleries, elle se développe au final, du moins s'exprime, dans leurs scènes intimes, très joliment écrites, sensuelles, scènes qui mettent en valeur leur connexion. On ressent vraiment leur alchimie. Comme je le disais, la frontière entre la comédie et la réalité est très fine, cependant j'aurais pourtant voulu voir un peu plus de "frein" du côté de Dix, qui s'adoucit un peu trop rapidement à mon goût. J'aurais souhaité voir un peu plus d'eux deux après justement s'être mis en couple aussi.
Niveaux personnages secondaires, j'ai beaucoup apprécié Alex, mais aussi Mal, dont il me tarde de pouvoir lire leur propre tome. Reste à savoir s'ils formeront un couple, pourquoi pas ^^
J'ai aimé la présence bienveillante de la famille de Niko, avec laquelle il est très proche.
J'ai aimé ma lecture, c'est sexy, sensuel, léger aussi même si l'auteur met l'accent sur certains sujets par l'intermédiaire de Mal. On ressent vraiment la complicité de toute cette bande d'amis qui se sont créés, une famille bien à eux. Les petits surnoms donnés d'ailleurs par Dix à ses amis, notamment Alex et Mateo, me faisaient sourire. J'ai tellement aimé d'ailleurs revoir Mat, aka Silver, cet homme est un concentré de douceur et de bonne humeur qui illumine tout sur son passage, il ne pouvait que me donner la banane.
Une jolie introduction dans l'univers de Studio 8 donc avec ce premier tome, qui se termine avec un joli épilogue tout mignon. Il me tarde de lire la suite, mais aussi de poursuivre dans la saga "Plum Valley Cowboys" !
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