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Crimes of the Heart #3
The Boyfriend Gambit: Contemporary Gay Romance
Charley would never sleep with his ex again, right?
And he certainly wouldn’t fall back in love with him.
Charley is a committed fake boyfriend, helping out those who need a man by their side. A client approaches him for a museum gala date and Charley can’t resist even though he knows it’s risky. His ex, Simon Ellison with likely be there.
A treacherous bait and switch occurs and the client turns out to be his ex, will Charley flee or fight?
Fight of course.
And he certainly wouldn’t fall back in love with him.
Charley is a committed fake boyfriend, helping out those who need a man by their side. A client approaches him for a museum gala date and Charley can’t resist even though he knows it’s risky. His ex, Simon Ellison with likely be there.
A treacherous bait and switch occurs and the client turns out to be his ex, will Charley flee or fight?
Fight of course.
210 pages, Paperback
First published December 30, 2021
About the author
Elle Keaton
56 books553 followersElle Keaton is a writer, avid reader, and amateur cat-wrangler. Her love of romance novels has led her to a life of creating her own happy ever afters. She is the author of the best selling series' Shielded Hearts and Veiled Intentions. Keaton hails from the Pacific Northwest, where she lives with her husband and cats.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 83 reviews
March 2, 2023
Charley was unceremoniously dumped without an explanation, by Simon when he was younger. As a result, he walked away from the path set for him by his father...who is a rich first-class creep and becomes an escort. He leaves that "career" behind him and reenters the art world. At his first show, with a little push from his friend Arnie, Simon shows up and stakes his claim to Charley...or at least hopes Charley will see it that way. The two guys start to build a new life together that at times we are almost sure is going to collapse before it has a chance. I felt sorry for Charley and the parents that he had. Money IS NOT everything, especially if it's thrown out there without an ounce of love. Charley had learned from a young age that love only hurts and wasn't sure that he wanted to trust Simon again with his heart. Some of the best parts of this story is Charley’s "found" family in his best friend Tobias and his fiancé Arnie, and his friends Duff and Jacob, especially Jacob’s grandparents, and his Uncle Michael...all which have appeared in the first two books. The books can be read as standalones, but they are better if you follow these characters in the order that they appear.
February 17, 2022
3.5 stars
Charley and Simon were once together years ago but Simon abruptly ended the relationship. Charley never understood why. They were both good together so Simon leaving him left his mark.
Simon did have his reasons but as he got older he realized maybe they were not the best. Now he will do anything in his power to win Charley back.
Overall a solid read. It does say this book is a standalone but I think, if you are like me, it would probably add lot more to the story if the previous books were read. There are a lot of characters in this one from the other two books. Knowing their backgrounds and how they all got together is something I believe would help understand the dynamic between the friend group. Especially since the group is so meddlesome when it comes to the relationship in this one. I did like the group of friends which is what makes me want to go back and read from book 1. Honestly, this book was close to 4 stars but the whole thing with Charley's dad was just a little too OTT for me. But still an enjoyable steamy read.
*ARC provided by GRR, this is my honest review.*
Charley and Simon were once together years ago but Simon abruptly ended the relationship. Charley never understood why. They were both good together so Simon leaving him left his mark.
Simon did have his reasons but as he got older he realized maybe they were not the best. Now he will do anything in his power to win Charley back.
Overall a solid read. It does say this book is a standalone but I think, if you are like me, it would probably add lot more to the story if the previous books were read. There are a lot of characters in this one from the other two books. Knowing their backgrounds and how they all got together is something I believe would help understand the dynamic between the friend group. Especially since the group is so meddlesome when it comes to the relationship in this one. I did like the group of friends which is what makes me want to go back and read from book 1. Honestly, this book was close to 4 stars but the whole thing with Charley's dad was just a little too OTT for me. But still an enjoyable steamy read.
*ARC provided by GRR, this is my honest review.*
February 10, 2022
Second chance romance with a forced proximity trope? Absolutely, yes please.
The story was great, well written with a host of great characters. I got a little confused at first because names were thrown about, but I quickly remembered the other books and got up to speed.
I would say that I think reading the other books first would be useful.
Charley and Simon kind of do everything backwards - they are physical before sorting out the emotional side of their relationship and there were times I wished they talked more. However, I'm a sucker for meddling friends and found family and the cute ending was worth it
The story was great, well written with a host of great characters. I got a little confused at first because names were thrown about, but I quickly remembered the other books and got up to speed.
I would say that I think reading the other books first would be useful.
Charley and Simon kind of do everything backwards - they are physical before sorting out the emotional side of their relationship and there were times I wished they talked more. However, I'm a sucker for meddling friends and found family and the cute ending was worth it
March 1, 2022
RTC but I liked this one, it was super sweet and fun and I had a good time reading it. It was just a littke too dramatic for me and that prevented me from really getting into the book.
I received an ARC of this book and this is my honest opinion
I received an ARC of this book and this is my honest opinion
February 23, 2022
Big gestures and real actions
Wrapping things up for this trilogy, Charley finally gets his story as we learn about him and Simon and whether or not they have a future.
It's always been clear that Simon is the biggest relationship loss for Charley, but as we get to meet Simon it turns out it is the same for him. There is a major part between the two men and there are still feelings there, but not all of them good. Charley is hurt by how everything ended and Simon knows that is his fault. However, as revelations from the last book connect Charley even more to this newly found family, it turns out there is more to the past with Simon than anyone knew. New information is brought to light and with the maturity and changes the years apart have brought these two must now see if this makes a difference for them.
This was a great story! It was really interconnected with the past two books as there are reveals that relate to all of the past characters. It was a book of second chances, but it also showed how sometimes things happen because they weren't ready at the time. While it is terrible how Simon and Charley ended, there is the fact that neither was ready for a truly serious relationship at that time. With new friends and supports, new job opportunities, and fresh eyes on the past, they have a better opportunity to be together than they did in the first place. It really brings things full circle and does a great job of wrapping up stories of these men from different walks of life in Seattle!
Wrapping things up for this trilogy, Charley finally gets his story as we learn about him and Simon and whether or not they have a future.
It's always been clear that Simon is the biggest relationship loss for Charley, but as we get to meet Simon it turns out it is the same for him. There is a major part between the two men and there are still feelings there, but not all of them good. Charley is hurt by how everything ended and Simon knows that is his fault. However, as revelations from the last book connect Charley even more to this newly found family, it turns out there is more to the past with Simon than anyone knew. New information is brought to light and with the maturity and changes the years apart have brought these two must now see if this makes a difference for them.
This was a great story! It was really interconnected with the past two books as there are reveals that relate to all of the past characters. It was a book of second chances, but it also showed how sometimes things happen because they weren't ready at the time. While it is terrible how Simon and Charley ended, there is the fact that neither was ready for a truly serious relationship at that time. With new friends and supports, new job opportunities, and fresh eyes on the past, they have a better opportunity to be together than they did in the first place. It really brings things full circle and does a great job of wrapping up stories of these men from different walks of life in Seattle!
January 4, 2022
The Boyfriend Gambit is an enjoyable second-chance romance with a beloved trope – getting caught in a snowstorm and shacking up in a cabin (villa). There’s more than one bed this time – five, in fact – but they only need one and make the most of it.
Simon and Charley were a couple until Simon broke Charley's heart nearly five years ago. Now Simon's trying to win him back but they both carry a plane load of emotional baggage. Charley is afraid to commit. He’s learned from his past with Simon and his screwed up family that love isn’t worth the pain. As much as he longs for Simon, he’s too afraid of being hurt again. Simon has been scarred by the few loved ones in his life dying and leaving him alone in the world. The men had vastly different upbringings, both troubling in their own ways.
In the years they’ve been apart, Simon has become an associate professor while Charley has given up his work as a no-sex escort for a position in an art museum. With the exception of his sister, Charley chooses to spend as little time as possible with his family. Instead, he embraces a found family consisting of his best friend, Tobias, and his fiancé Arnie, friends Jacob and Duff, Jacob’s warm and fabulous grandparents, and Charley's Uncle Michael.
Arnie takes it upon himself to orchestrate a way for Simon to win back Charley in grand fashion. When Simon shows up at Charley's black-tie art show opening in a red plaid flannel shirt, jeans, and hiking boots, he certainly makes a statement. It’s not a sparkling success, so Arnie's next bit of advice is for Simon to woo Charley. Charley doesn’t easily trust Simon, though, and doesn’t know if he should give him a second chance. He doesn’t know why Simon broke up with him and ghosted him five years earlier, and thus doesn’t know why he’s back now. But then when Simon accompanies Charley on a work-related day trip, they get snowed in and things really heat up. All the while, Charley's sure something bad is going to happen to ruin their new found happiness. And it does, in the form of Charley's manipulative, controlling father.
I really liked this book even though I began it quite grumpy because the first two books in the Crimes of the Heart series came out so long ago – fifteen months and nine months prior – and I can't remember much. I get cranky when authors publish several series simultaneously (in this case three), resulting in all of them getting strung out. The MCs in the previous books have significant roles in this book but I can’t remember much more than their names. More problematic, I know Charley was featured before so I worry I might have forgotten some of his backstory. I have no idea if Simon was included in the other books.
That aside, this is a solid romance. Simon and Charley are likable characters you’ll root for. The plot is interesting, and the side characters are great. Found family is always one of my favorite themes. The best part of the book, though, is the fabulous epilogue which will satisfy even the most romantic of us.
ARC kindly provided to Love Bytes Reviews in exchange for an honest review.
Simon and Charley were a couple until Simon broke Charley's heart nearly five years ago. Now Simon's trying to win him back but they both carry a plane load of emotional baggage. Charley is afraid to commit. He’s learned from his past with Simon and his screwed up family that love isn’t worth the pain. As much as he longs for Simon, he’s too afraid of being hurt again. Simon has been scarred by the few loved ones in his life dying and leaving him alone in the world. The men had vastly different upbringings, both troubling in their own ways.
In the years they’ve been apart, Simon has become an associate professor while Charley has given up his work as a no-sex escort for a position in an art museum. With the exception of his sister, Charley chooses to spend as little time as possible with his family. Instead, he embraces a found family consisting of his best friend, Tobias, and his fiancé Arnie, friends Jacob and Duff, Jacob’s warm and fabulous grandparents, and Charley's Uncle Michael.
Arnie takes it upon himself to orchestrate a way for Simon to win back Charley in grand fashion. When Simon shows up at Charley's black-tie art show opening in a red plaid flannel shirt, jeans, and hiking boots, he certainly makes a statement. It’s not a sparkling success, so Arnie's next bit of advice is for Simon to woo Charley. Charley doesn’t easily trust Simon, though, and doesn’t know if he should give him a second chance. He doesn’t know why Simon broke up with him and ghosted him five years earlier, and thus doesn’t know why he’s back now. But then when Simon accompanies Charley on a work-related day trip, they get snowed in and things really heat up. All the while, Charley's sure something bad is going to happen to ruin their new found happiness. And it does, in the form of Charley's manipulative, controlling father.
I really liked this book even though I began it quite grumpy because the first two books in the Crimes of the Heart series came out so long ago – fifteen months and nine months prior – and I can't remember much. I get cranky when authors publish several series simultaneously (in this case three), resulting in all of them getting strung out. The MCs in the previous books have significant roles in this book but I can’t remember much more than their names. More problematic, I know Charley was featured before so I worry I might have forgotten some of his backstory. I have no idea if Simon was included in the other books.
That aside, this is a solid romance. Simon and Charley are likable characters you’ll root for. The plot is interesting, and the side characters are great. Found family is always one of my favorite themes. The best part of the book, though, is the fabulous epilogue which will satisfy even the most romantic of us.
ARC kindly provided to Love Bytes Reviews in exchange for an honest review.
December 30, 2021
I love second chance romances, and this one checks a lot of boxes: it keeps the flashbacks to a minimum, which I appreciated– I get it, the before times were good, but it’s the angsty/hopeful now I really care about– it also has plenty of chemistry, physically and emotionally, and a great cast of supporting characters. The one thing it doesn’t have is anyone who knows how to communicate. This book takes the “misunderstandings only made possible by inexplicable choices made by protagonists” to a whole new level. If there is a completely obvious, avoidable mistake to make, Simon is going to make it. Launch his campaign to get Charley back by kissing him and then walking away, totally setting up an ambiguous hookup scenario instead of honest and much needed dialog? He’s on that. When finally, FINALLY deciding to tell the truth, leave out the most important detail, again for no explicable, rational reason? Yep, he’s on that too. He’s a 32 year old man with zero common sense and worse communication skills. Tons of good intentions, and nice to look at, but like, “cannot survive in the wild” levels of emotional incompetence. It makes for great drama, but you definitely need some hardcore willing suspension of disbelief to think real humans would act like this ever. I was, it turns out, willing to suspend that disbelief, and I’m glad I did. I wish them both well, and may they one day master the art of using words to convey necessary information in a timely fashion.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 3, 2022
Simon and Charley's Second Chance . . .
Simon walked away and broke Charley’s heart four years ago. But he never stopped loving him. Charley thinks he’s fine now and over that experience. Then Simon bumps into him, kisses him, and just walks away again! But this time, Charley turns it back on him by pulling him into a steamy encounter that he is now able to walk away from.
While all of their feelings start bubbling up again, Simon wants Charley back in his life. He knows what a mistake he made 4 years ago. But Charley wants to keep feelings out it. How can Simon repair the harm he did? Can he ever get Charley’s forgiveness? Or has his past behavior done too much damage to ever heal their hearts?
We know the magic word for a successful relationship: communication. So many times, the lack of it is what is destroying the relationship and slowing down progress to reconcile. Too many secrets are also a major culprit for destructive behavior, but again, the root cause for secrets is also lack of communication. Will these two master that skill? Will they get a second chance? Grab your copy and see if their love is strong enough to overcome the mistakes.
Simon walked away and broke Charley’s heart four years ago. But he never stopped loving him. Charley thinks he’s fine now and over that experience. Then Simon bumps into him, kisses him, and just walks away again! But this time, Charley turns it back on him by pulling him into a steamy encounter that he is now able to walk away from.
While all of their feelings start bubbling up again, Simon wants Charley back in his life. He knows what a mistake he made 4 years ago. But Charley wants to keep feelings out it. How can Simon repair the harm he did? Can he ever get Charley’s forgiveness? Or has his past behavior done too much damage to ever heal their hearts?
We know the magic word for a successful relationship: communication. So many times, the lack of it is what is destroying the relationship and slowing down progress to reconcile. Too many secrets are also a major culprit for destructive behavior, but again, the root cause for secrets is also lack of communication. Will these two master that skill? Will they get a second chance? Grab your copy and see if their love is strong enough to overcome the mistakes.
March 12, 2022
The long awaited story of Charley and Simon!
Honestly, not what I expected. I did know Simon would try to get Charley back and that there was some drama in their past, but the tie in of Michael and Duff was unexpected. Nonetheless, those two were adorable. Charley seems like such a grump! but he actually has a soft center only few are privileged to see. Simon is actually quite similar, so they are great together. While I expected something different in their story, it was still good. I would say 3.5 stars.
**I was provided an ARC of this book from the GRR for an honest review**
Honestly, not what I expected. I did know Simon would try to get Charley back and that there was some drama in their past, but the tie in of Michael and Duff was unexpected. Nonetheless, those two were adorable. Charley seems like such a grump! but he actually has a soft center only few are privileged to see. Simon is actually quite similar, so they are great together. While I expected something different in their story, it was still good. I would say 3.5 stars.
**I was provided an ARC of this book from the GRR for an honest review**
January 1, 2022
This is the third book in Elle Keaton's spot on fabulous series, Crimes Of The Heart. Ms. Keaton is by far one of the best writers in the LGBTQ-etc. romance genre which is most certainly reflected in this novel. This is the story of Simon, who broke the heart of Charley many years earlier. It is a story of secrets and self-doubt, second chances and choices and all the cool stuff that make a romance novel worth reading. Ms. Keaton always gives us great characters with fabulous backstories and there is always an HEA. I would love for this series to continue but am satisfied if it ends with this novel which actually has some surprises at the end. Kudos again to the author.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 26, 2021
This is a second chance romance between Simon and Charley. It's a story of forgiveness,love and trust as Simon tries to repair what he ruined with Charley. The author brings all the feels with their up and down relationship and does a great job painting her scenes and moving the story fluidly. I enjoyed reading their story.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and freely given.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and freely given.
February 20, 2022
Finally we get to know why Charly and Simon broke up... I have to say the reason is slightly predictable.... but so well written.
I adored Simon. He knew he was wrong and was trying to workout how to fix things. Charly... I understand why he was hurt, why he pushed back. Why hes struggled with trust issues.
I loved seeing the returning cast of prebious stories, nonno and nonna being the fav alongside Arnie.
I adored Simon. He knew he was wrong and was trying to workout how to fix things. Charly... I understand why he was hurt, why he pushed back. Why hes struggled with trust issues.
I loved seeing the returning cast of prebious stories, nonno and nonna being the fav alongside Arnie.
December 29, 2021
This was a fun book to read, Simon and Charley get a second chance. This book is easy to read, book 3 of the series, but can be read as a standalone, still it is more fun to read the first 2 books. This is really recommended.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 31, 2021
I have to start by saying I am a big fan of Keaton’s writing and world building. She creates series peopled with characters that I feel like I could go to the Pacific Northwest and look up and I’d find them as entertaining as I do on these pages. This book is no exception.
This is the third book in the Crimes of the Heart series and while the story does stand alone it makes much more of an impact and is more enjoyable if you’ve read the read the first two books, Tobias and Arnie’s story in book one and Jacob and Duff’s story in book two first as those characters play prominent roles in this book.
This is a second chance romance. Charley and Simon were involved four years ago before Simon behaved stupidly and broke up with Charley. He recognized his mistake immediately but it isn’t until now that he’s contemplating trying to get Charley back. Enter Arnie who wants to help Simon get Charley back.
Of course there is much more to the story of the breakup and anyone who is a regular reader of romances will figure out what happened. The story uses the lack of communication/not telling the whole story trope as well so we also know what the big crisis moment is going to be. Neither of those facts interfere with the enjoyment of the journey to get there.
I really loved both of these MCs right away and wanted them to get their HEA. The cast of secondary characters is fantastic and they play vital roles in the story’s advancement and I always love that. Nonna and Nonno are awesome and I love this growing chosen family. I hope some of the secondary characters we meet here get their HEA books too, including Rowan. And you’ll do a big “awwwww” when you meet Outlaw and Josey.
Keaton does a great job of letting us see into Charley and Simon’s heads and allowing us to really understand them and their behaviors. Charley could have so easily turned into a poor little rich boy caricature but the author deftly rides that line. We can feel Simon’s guilt and longing in our own guts…that’s how well Keaton gets the emotions across.
I look forward to reading more of Keaton’s work. She has never disappointed me.
**I voluntarily read an arc and this is my unbiased opinion.**
This is the third book in the Crimes of the Heart series and while the story does stand alone it makes much more of an impact and is more enjoyable if you’ve read the read the first two books, Tobias and Arnie’s story in book one and Jacob and Duff’s story in book two first as those characters play prominent roles in this book.
This is a second chance romance. Charley and Simon were involved four years ago before Simon behaved stupidly and broke up with Charley. He recognized his mistake immediately but it isn’t until now that he’s contemplating trying to get Charley back. Enter Arnie who wants to help Simon get Charley back.
Of course there is much more to the story of the breakup and anyone who is a regular reader of romances will figure out what happened. The story uses the lack of communication/not telling the whole story trope as well so we also know what the big crisis moment is going to be. Neither of those facts interfere with the enjoyment of the journey to get there.
I really loved both of these MCs right away and wanted them to get their HEA. The cast of secondary characters is fantastic and they play vital roles in the story’s advancement and I always love that. Nonna and Nonno are awesome and I love this growing chosen family. I hope some of the secondary characters we meet here get their HEA books too, including Rowan. And you’ll do a big “awwwww” when you meet Outlaw and Josey.
Keaton does a great job of letting us see into Charley and Simon’s heads and allowing us to really understand them and their behaviors. Charley could have so easily turned into a poor little rich boy caricature but the author deftly rides that line. We can feel Simon’s guilt and longing in our own guts…that’s how well Keaton gets the emotions across.
I look forward to reading more of Keaton’s work. She has never disappointed me.
**I voluntarily read an arc and this is my unbiased opinion.**
February 16, 2022
I decided to review Heart Heist, book 2 in this series, and The Boyfriend Gambit together.
Their tropes are different and they can be read as standalone but they felt like an ongoing series.
This is one of those series that the characters from all the books are really involved in each story.
Everything started with Arnie Ferguson and Tobias Barrington (I cannot stop reading this name over and over. It sounds like it belongs to a fluffy, entitled and snob cat. The real Tobias is sweet and quiet.) in Feinted Love, book 1 in the series. I admit I haven't read this book. But I feel I don't have to because Arnie and Tobias, especially Arnie, are front and center in books 2 & 3.
We have to think of Arnie as the instigator and the fairy matchmaker of our couples, Duff & Jacob, Charley & Simon.
Heart Heist is Duff & Jacob's story. An opposites-attract story and somehow a hurt-comfort story. There is insta-lust but not insta-love. At least from Duff's side. Their story spans several months and this is something that I liked. You are never sure when they will finally connect for real and decide this is IT for them.
The Boyfriend Gambit is a second chance story and a love like ours will never die (is this a trope?! I wonder). Charley and Simon are soooo hot together that I just can't.
The common trope in these stories is Found Family. Even though some of the characters are related the love and support that go around are not exclusive to blood relatives.
I enjoyed reading both books. They were cute and somehow fairytalish. What does that mean you ask? All our MCs are nice and even though they make bad decisions you cannot hate them. They are kind and offer their love unconditionally.
Thank you @gayromancereviews for the ARCs!
Their tropes are different and they can be read as standalone but they felt like an ongoing series.
This is one of those series that the characters from all the books are really involved in each story.
Everything started with Arnie Ferguson and Tobias Barrington (I cannot stop reading this name over and over. It sounds like it belongs to a fluffy, entitled and snob cat. The real Tobias is sweet and quiet.) in Feinted Love, book 1 in the series. I admit I haven't read this book. But I feel I don't have to because Arnie and Tobias, especially Arnie, are front and center in books 2 & 3.
We have to think of Arnie as the instigator and the fairy matchmaker of our couples, Duff & Jacob, Charley & Simon.
Heart Heist is Duff & Jacob's story. An opposites-attract story and somehow a hurt-comfort story. There is insta-lust but not insta-love. At least from Duff's side. Their story spans several months and this is something that I liked. You are never sure when they will finally connect for real and decide this is IT for them.
The Boyfriend Gambit is a second chance story and a love like ours will never die (is this a trope?! I wonder). Charley and Simon are soooo hot together that I just can't.
The common trope in these stories is Found Family. Even though some of the characters are related the love and support that go around are not exclusive to blood relatives.
I enjoyed reading both books. They were cute and somehow fairytalish. What does that mean you ask? All our MCs are nice and even though they make bad decisions you cannot hate them. They are kind and offer their love unconditionally.
Thank you @gayromancereviews for the ARCs!
December 31, 2021
I loved Simon and Charley.
I’ve really been enjoying this series. Simon and Charley were in love but broke up four years ago. It’s pretty far into the book before we learn everything that happened and caused their breakup. I liked how Elle gave us hints along the way but didn’t tell us everything right away.
I don’t think I’ve read many books with hate sex (maybe this is the first one?) and I wasn’t sure how I felt about it at first but it seemed to work for Simon and Charley and it definitely added some heat to the story.
While you can read this as a standalone, I enjoyed that the characters from the first two book played fairly important roles in this story. You absolutely don’t need to know their love stories to enjoy The Boyfriend Gambit but reading them first might enhance your reading experience of this story.
First person POV hasn’t really been a favorite of mine but I’m getting used to it since it seems to be getting more popular. I loved that The Boyfriend Gambit alternates between Simon and Charles. I like getting to learn both characters feelings. There are a couple of places where this book does a time shift but those are clearly marked and I think they enhanced the story.
This series is a nice change of pace from Elle’s others that are focused as much on the mystery/suspense as they are on the romance. Her romantic suspense books will probably always be my favorites but I love these books, too.
A copy of this book was provided to me at my request but my review was voluntary and not influenced by the author.
***Reviewed for Xtreme-Delusions dot com***
I’ve really been enjoying this series. Simon and Charley were in love but broke up four years ago. It’s pretty far into the book before we learn everything that happened and caused their breakup. I liked how Elle gave us hints along the way but didn’t tell us everything right away.
I don’t think I’ve read many books with hate sex (maybe this is the first one?) and I wasn’t sure how I felt about it at first but it seemed to work for Simon and Charley and it definitely added some heat to the story.
While you can read this as a standalone, I enjoyed that the characters from the first two book played fairly important roles in this story. You absolutely don’t need to know their love stories to enjoy The Boyfriend Gambit but reading them first might enhance your reading experience of this story.
First person POV hasn’t really been a favorite of mine but I’m getting used to it since it seems to be getting more popular. I loved that The Boyfriend Gambit alternates between Simon and Charles. I like getting to learn both characters feelings. There are a couple of places where this book does a time shift but those are clearly marked and I think they enhanced the story.
This series is a nice change of pace from Elle’s others that are focused as much on the mystery/suspense as they are on the romance. Her romantic suspense books will probably always be my favorites but I love these books, too.
A copy of this book was provided to me at my request but my review was voluntary and not influenced by the author.
***Reviewed for Xtreme-Delusions dot com***
January 4, 2022
I love this contemporary romance series, with its quirky characters. Although this second chance romance is Simon and Charley’s story, all their friends come together to help ensure their HEA. I loved catching up with everyone with the added bonus of the confirmation that this series takes place in the same world as the author’s other books.
Charley and Simon are both good guys who are great together, and need to work through mistakes in their past to get back together. Both their pasts are very much about dysfunctional families so it was great to get the flip side with their found family of friends. I enjoyed reading about them reconnecting, and both realising they needed to fix the mistakes they’d made. I got caught up in their story quickly, and needed to keep reading to make sure they got their HEA.
I love Arnie. He and Nonna working together are a force to be reckoned with. I liked the way Duff’s story impacted this one. Family plays a huge part too, and not aways in a good way. Charley’s father is a total piece of work. I figured out early on he was behind a lot of the grief in this story, but not just how low he’d stood to keep Simon and Charley apart. I’m impressed that Charley and Rowan have turned out to be likable, decent, people considering their upbringing, parents, and grandparents.
I liked Martin, Simon’s work friend, and loved their conversations about students’ excuses for not handing in assignments. I hope there’s more in this series as Martin totally needs to meet Simons friends.
The epilogue was wonderful, and very much brought home how much of a family all these characters are.
Charley and Simon are both good guys who are great together, and need to work through mistakes in their past to get back together. Both their pasts are very much about dysfunctional families so it was great to get the flip side with their found family of friends. I enjoyed reading about them reconnecting, and both realising they needed to fix the mistakes they’d made. I got caught up in their story quickly, and needed to keep reading to make sure they got their HEA.
I love Arnie. He and Nonna working together are a force to be reckoned with. I liked the way Duff’s story impacted this one. Family plays a huge part too, and not aways in a good way. Charley’s father is a total piece of work. I figured out early on he was behind a lot of the grief in this story, but not just how low he’d stood to keep Simon and Charley apart. I’m impressed that Charley and Rowan have turned out to be likable, decent, people considering their upbringing, parents, and grandparents.
I liked Martin, Simon’s work friend, and loved their conversations about students’ excuses for not handing in assignments. I hope there’s more in this series as Martin totally needs to meet Simons friends.
The epilogue was wonderful, and very much brought home how much of a family all these characters are.
February 13, 2022
The Boyfriend Gambit is a forced proximity, second-chance romance that’s sweet and enjoyable if not particularly novel. Simon and Charley get caught in a snowstorm, taking refuge in a cabin/villa. Five years ago, Simon and Charley broke up but Simon now sees the error of his ways and wants to win Charley back. Easier said than done, of course, since they both have a lot of personal issues on top of the hurt from their estrangement.
One of the best parts of this story is Charley’s found family in his best friend Tobias and his fiancé Arnie, his friends Duff and Jacob, Jacob’s grandparents, and Charley’s Uncle Michael. Arnie plays matchmaker here, trying to help these two men get back together. Through a confluence of events involving, in part, Arnie’s guidance, Simon ends up accompanying Charley on a work trip, which is when the inevitable snowstorm hits, trapping them together with their issues to work through.
The book is an easy read with likable characters, and the epilogue is fantastic. One note: The previous books in this series were published awhile ago (like almost a year and a half since book two), so I really didn’t remember the prior books. You don’t have to read those books to read this one, but the backstory on significant characters are in those books so you might want to read them, or refresh your memory about them, before reading The Boyfriend Gambit.
One of the best parts of this story is Charley’s found family in his best friend Tobias and his fiancé Arnie, his friends Duff and Jacob, Jacob’s grandparents, and Charley’s Uncle Michael. Arnie plays matchmaker here, trying to help these two men get back together. Through a confluence of events involving, in part, Arnie’s guidance, Simon ends up accompanying Charley on a work trip, which is when the inevitable snowstorm hits, trapping them together with their issues to work through.
The book is an easy read with likable characters, and the epilogue is fantastic. One note: The previous books in this series were published awhile ago (like almost a year and a half since book two), so I really didn’t remember the prior books. You don’t have to read those books to read this one, but the backstory on significant characters are in those books so you might want to read them, or refresh your memory about them, before reading The Boyfriend Gambit.
November 8, 2025
Unnecessary conflicts, 3.5 stars (spoilers)
Arnie still has an ugly name and he’s still a nuisance. He gets worse every book. The situation with Duff, Charley and Michael was interesting. Also, even though Michael & Duff’s mom were young when she got pregnant, it didn’t seem like she got any smarter as she got older, but that’s just an inconsequential opinion. Rowan’s accident was really completely unnecessary. It made no sense and added nothing to the story, really. And there was no resolution: their dad would arrest Simon for kissing Charley but make no noise about tracking down the person who nearly killed his child? I know he didn’t really care about his kids but rich people who like pushing their weight around do it in all things.
The major issue I had with the plot was that when Charley found out why Simon left, he forgave him. But when he found out there was money involved, he wanted to rescind his forgiveness. What difference does it make? He still left and it was still due to Charley’s dad interference. This was just another case of a writer inserting unnecessary conflict. Also, there were a lot of typos in this book. Only a few in the 2 previous but this one seemed to have not gone through editing at all. Simon getting 2 pets also made no sense but it was cute.
Arnie still has an ugly name and he’s still a nuisance. He gets worse every book. The situation with Duff, Charley and Michael was interesting. Also, even though Michael & Duff’s mom were young when she got pregnant, it didn’t seem like she got any smarter as she got older, but that’s just an inconsequential opinion. Rowan’s accident was really completely unnecessary. It made no sense and added nothing to the story, really. And there was no resolution: their dad would arrest Simon for kissing Charley but make no noise about tracking down the person who nearly killed his child? I know he didn’t really care about his kids but rich people who like pushing their weight around do it in all things.
The major issue I had with the plot was that when Charley found out why Simon left, he forgave him. But when he found out there was money involved, he wanted to rescind his forgiveness. What difference does it make? He still left and it was still due to Charley’s dad interference. This was just another case of a writer inserting unnecessary conflict. Also, there were a lot of typos in this book. Only a few in the 2 previous but this one seemed to have not gone through editing at all. Simon getting 2 pets also made no sense but it was cute.
January 3, 2022
Another excellent book in this Crimes of the Heart series. It can be read as a stand alone but you will enjoy it more if you read the first two books first. This is the story of Simon and Charley. Simon is working at the museum and trying to work his way up. Charley is a professor of geology at the university. The two had met 5 years earlier and fallen madly in love. Then suddenly Simon broke it off. He didn't explain why but he thought that Charley would be better off without him. Turns out he was wrong. They are both still apart and both miserable. When Simon realized his mistake and reached out to Charley, it was too late. Charley already had his walls in place and cut off all contact. Fast forward 5 years and Charley's friends decide to do something to try and bring both Simon and Charley back together. For their own good of course. This is a love story that has quite a few bumps in the road. As well as some emotional baggage and parental interference. This is their story. It is well written and easy to read. I read it from cover to cover in one sitting. Once you start, it just grabs you and keeps you reading.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 13, 2022
Possible spoilers ahead. Maybe? I'd rather be safe than sorry, though...
The Boyfriend Gambit, third in the Crimes Of The Heart series (can stand alone but I'd recommend reading in order), finally brings us closure in Charley's ongoing bemoaning of his ex, Simon. So, we have a great second chance romance with some delicious forced proximity thrown in for good measure.
This book came so close to being absolutely brilliant for me, apart from the very end. Things seemed to have been sorted out: Simon explained why he's broken both their hearts 4 years before and revealed who the (not all that surprising) bad guy was, [Here comes the spoiler] so Charley's overreaction at the further revelation and ghosting Simon annoyed me, especially right on the back of the previous revelation. That made me feel like there wasn't quite the right balance when the men reconcile again...Charley realises his mistake but his big gesture and apology don't feel all that big, whilst Simon's been angsting all over the place and expressing his remorse for not revealing the full extent of the bad guy's d-baggery all in one go.
Don't get me wrong, I thoroughly enjoyed The Boyfriend Gambit. Apart from that one issue, for me, it's a great example of lovers-to-enemies-to-lovers. I love the way both MCs have remained in each other's orbit even whilst apart and finding their way in life. I adore the found family vibes with the side characters from the previous two books playing well-intentioned meddlers and chief cheerleaders. I love that Simon drops everything for the mission of mercy that leads to them being snowed in at the villa. I even had a soft spot for the unlikely scenario with Charley's uncle. And the heat level's pretty good, too. Like I said, to me it's almost brilliant. I'm going to go with a very enjoyable 4*, though.
An ARC was provided by GRR. This is my honest review.
The Boyfriend Gambit, third in the Crimes Of The Heart series (can stand alone but I'd recommend reading in order), finally brings us closure in Charley's ongoing bemoaning of his ex, Simon. So, we have a great second chance romance with some delicious forced proximity thrown in for good measure.
This book came so close to being absolutely brilliant for me, apart from the very end. Things seemed to have been sorted out: Simon explained why he's broken both their hearts 4 years before and revealed who the (not all that surprising) bad guy was, [Here comes the spoiler] so Charley's overreaction at the further revelation and ghosting Simon annoyed me, especially right on the back of the previous revelation. That made me feel like there wasn't quite the right balance when the men reconcile again...Charley realises his mistake but his big gesture and apology don't feel all that big, whilst Simon's been angsting all over the place and expressing his remorse for not revealing the full extent of the bad guy's d-baggery all in one go.
Don't get me wrong, I thoroughly enjoyed The Boyfriend Gambit. Apart from that one issue, for me, it's a great example of lovers-to-enemies-to-lovers. I love the way both MCs have remained in each other's orbit even whilst apart and finding their way in life. I adore the found family vibes with the side characters from the previous two books playing well-intentioned meddlers and chief cheerleaders. I love that Simon drops everything for the mission of mercy that leads to them being snowed in at the villa. I even had a soft spot for the unlikely scenario with Charley's uncle. And the heat level's pretty good, too. Like I said, to me it's almost brilliant. I'm going to go with a very enjoyable 4*, though.
An ARC was provided by GRR. This is my honest review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 10, 2022
3.5 Stars
From the start of the series I was intrigued by Charley’s character. Can’t help it—love a character with a sarcastic and witty manner. From what was told of Simon though, I was expecting someone different. However, I was pleasantly surprised by Simon and Charley’s relationship. The only drawback is the meddling from the other secondary and side characters. I found it difficult to like Arnie in the first book, and I’m sorry to say I was actively annoyed by his presence here—more so even.
At times it felt like Arnie’s meddling came off as crossing boundaries. It could be because he is genuinely a very nosey person. Additionally, I knew Nonna’s character was meant to be charming, but when paired with Arnie, it was like nails on a chalk board. Whenever they appeared in the story, it felt like that the focus was taken off the main characters at the expense of needless and meddlesome drama.
I do wonder if Yuri will be featured in a book because it was implied that Nonna’s scheme—I mean matchmaking, wasn’t done yet. However, I am also hoping that Duff’s father gets his own story if that is in the cards.
*ARC provided by Gay Romance Reviews, and I have given my honest and voluntary review.*
From the start of the series I was intrigued by Charley’s character. Can’t help it—love a character with a sarcastic and witty manner. From what was told of Simon though, I was expecting someone different. However, I was pleasantly surprised by Simon and Charley’s relationship. The only drawback is the meddling from the other secondary and side characters. I found it difficult to like Arnie in the first book, and I’m sorry to say I was actively annoyed by his presence here—more so even.
At times it felt like Arnie’s meddling came off as crossing boundaries. It could be because he is genuinely a very nosey person. Additionally, I knew Nonna’s character was meant to be charming, but when paired with Arnie, it was like nails on a chalk board. Whenever they appeared in the story, it felt like that the focus was taken off the main characters at the expense of needless and meddlesome drama.
I do wonder if Yuri will be featured in a book because it was implied that Nonna’s scheme—I mean matchmaking, wasn’t done yet. However, I am also hoping that Duff’s father gets his own story if that is in the cards.
*ARC provided by Gay Romance Reviews, and I have given my honest and voluntary review.*
February 21, 2022
Can a Mistake in the Past, Turn into the Perfect Future? We have met Charley in the previous two books in Elle Keaton’s Crimes of the Heart Series but he finally gets his own story in The Boyfriend Gambit. Simon made the biggest mistake in his life when he walked away from Charley. With the help of Charley’s found family he works to try to get him back in his life. Charley has learned from a young age that love only hurts, and this was compounded when Simon ended their relationship. Will he ever be able to open himself up that way again? As more information behind their story emerges, along with some unplanned incidents we get to see as Charley and Simon rediscover the feelings for each other that never really resolved.
I love the author's writing style. I find it to be very uplifting. The characters' feelings and actions are set in reality as we can all imagine that we would have the same responses to actions that her characters do. I also loved how we got a bit more background on other characters' stories and how the author tied them all together. Sidenote for fans of the series: If the author is looking for a short story idea, PLEASE give us a story where Nonna finally finds Yuri the Yoga Instructor a match!
I love the author's writing style. I find it to be very uplifting. The characters' feelings and actions are set in reality as we can all imagine that we would have the same responses to actions that her characters do. I also loved how we got a bit more background on other characters' stories and how the author tied them all together. Sidenote for fans of the series: If the author is looking for a short story idea, PLEASE give us a story where Nonna finally finds Yuri the Yoga Instructor a match!
December 30, 2021
This was very good! Honestly this series has just gotten progressively better. I absolutely love found family and Nonno and Nonna were just completely the perfect addition. I liked both Simon and Charley. I thought that Simon was a really interesting character who wasn’t perfect but was willing to be honest with himself about why and work past it. I liked charley too I thought that Elle did a good job making his snarky personality shine through in the banter between him and Simon.
I liked the plot in this one better and I thought the steam was better too though it got a tad repetitive. I wasn’t expecting the little twist in there which always ups my enjoyment of a story!
My only real complaint is that I felt like the transition between “I’ll never talk to you again” and “let’s have some hate time in bed” was a bit abrupt as was the hate to opening up again. Charley spent two books avoiding even looking at Simon so it seems out of place to just let it go without something more happening/ being revealed or more time.
Overall though a really solid read that I really enjoyed!!
I liked the plot in this one better and I thought the steam was better too though it got a tad repetitive. I wasn’t expecting the little twist in there which always ups my enjoyment of a story!
My only real complaint is that I felt like the transition between “I’ll never talk to you again” and “let’s have some hate time in bed” was a bit abrupt as was the hate to opening up again. Charley spent two books avoiding even looking at Simon so it seems out of place to just let it go without something more happening/ being revealed or more time.
Overall though a really solid read that I really enjoyed!!
February 27, 2022
I have been looking forward to this book from the first time Charley was introduced! He is such an interesting character and you could always tell there was something more under the surface with him and we finally learn just what that is. While Simon is mentioned only in passing as Charley's ex in the first two books, we finally learn who he is and just what happened between him and Charley all those years ago to drive them apart. It is funny and heart warming to see these two struggle to deal with just how much they want the other while also not letting the other know how badly they want them. After all they have been through, I was so happy to see them find their way back to each other! One of the best scenes in the book is the huge Thanksgiving celebration at the De Rossi's house with Nonna and Nonni! So much drama but I love their huge found family with all the characters from this series! Wonderful writing with the best characters! You cannot go wrong with an Elle Keaton book! I received an ARC for an honest and fair review.
August 31, 2024
The Boyfriend Gambit is the last book in the Crimes of the Heart series. From the previous books we know that Charley is still hung up on his ex-boyfriend Simon, although Charley would never admit it. As it turns out Simon is still hung up on Charley as well. With a push from book one MC Arnie, Simon puts a plan in motion to win Charley back. It will be an uphill battle. Charley is prickly and has emotional scars from growing up in a truly awful family. Simon has some skeletons in his own family closet and a few secrets regarding his former relationship with Charley. Like the other books in this series there is a strong theme of found family. All of the beloved characters from books one and two are present. Both Charley and Simon desperately needed this loving and meddlesome group in their lives. I love that Elle Keaton is able to write an emotional book without being overly dramatic or oppressive. I highly recommend this book and series. Although the book technically could be read as a standalone, I recommend you read them in order since all of the characters return in each book.
January 11, 2022
3.5 stars
This was an ok read that was on the shorter length. Even though I really didn’t like the first book and I haven’t read the 2nd book, I was looking forward to reading this one. The blurb sounded intriguing and I love 2nd chance romances. Unfortunately this fell short of my expectations but I didn’t hate it.
There is alot to unpack in the plot and it moves at a fast pace and it just felt really rushed to me. Miscommunication as a main theme kind of drives me crazy. The blurb claims 4+ heat and there were tons of scenes but they are all super rushed and glossed over. I would actually call this low heat like a level 1 or 2. So that too is disappointing. I did enjoy the main characters and thought they were a great couple and had great chemistry. I just wasn't feeling this story overall and it could just be me. I did really enjoy the side characters and world though so I may go back and read book 2.
This was an ok read that was on the shorter length. Even though I really didn’t like the first book and I haven’t read the 2nd book, I was looking forward to reading this one. The blurb sounded intriguing and I love 2nd chance romances. Unfortunately this fell short of my expectations but I didn’t hate it.
There is alot to unpack in the plot and it moves at a fast pace and it just felt really rushed to me. Miscommunication as a main theme kind of drives me crazy. The blurb claims 4+ heat and there were tons of scenes but they are all super rushed and glossed over. I would actually call this low heat like a level 1 or 2. So that too is disappointing. I did enjoy the main characters and thought they were a great couple and had great chemistry. I just wasn't feeling this story overall and it could just be me. I did really enjoy the side characters and world though so I may go back and read book 2.
January 3, 2022
Two people who met, loved, and walked away from one another yet still loved one another fast forward four years later and they run into each other, and old feelings come rushing back this is Simon and Charley’s story and it starts when Simon runs into Charley walking up to him giving him a sexy hot kiss to something to remember and walks away. So, Charley decides to do the same but much hotter and walking away seems to be their thing but whatever it is it works talk about sexiness wrapped into these two and the best part is they bring us along on their journey of rediscovery even through the not fighting the attraction pull fate usually wins will fate win again, will they grab hold to the second chance fat has given them and will it end with happiness this time around?
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 3, 2022
This is the third book in 'The Crimes of the Heart' series, it will give you more depth if you have read the previous books, but is not a must. For me it was a plus that the story is set in an area I can visualize through prior visits and as an added bonus the on the side mentioned dynamics at a university. Charley and Simon where in a relationship four years ago, but due to an interfering dad on Charley his side, the relationship broke down. Now four years later Simon find that enough is enough and want to win Charley back for their second chance. Read how he and Charley both with the help of found family and friends find their hea in this very steamy romance.
Triggers: mentioning of parential killing, child neglect and mental abuse from father to his children and of spouse.
I received an arc through Booksprout
Triggers: mentioning of parential killing, child neglect and mental abuse from father to his children and of spouse.
I received an arc through Booksprout
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 5, 2022
This isn’t so much a redemption story as it is an “overcoming the odds stacked against us” story. And I love a good redemption or second chance book. Simon broke Charley’s heart but he felt like he was left with no choice. He has regretted it pretty much ever since but he has assumed he had no chance at ever fixing it because the breakup was pretty spectacular. But both Charley and Simon had to grow up; and Charley had to get away from his toxic parents. This author’s characters have a way of reaching in and wrapping around your heartstrings. I loved this book! Both characters have made mistakes but they are able to grow and move past them with the help of some amazing and meddling friends…and grandparents. Nonna and Nonno are still two of my favorite supporting characters ever. This book is so definitely worth a read, but make sure you have read the other two first!
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