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Kensley Panthers #2
Guarded
Jameson Bates
I have a secret. We all have secrets. I’m nothing special.
It just so happens, however, that my sworn enemy also knows my secret.
He’s the absolute worst person to know this, and there’s nothing I can do about it.
What he does with this information is totally out of my hands and completely in his.
This is why I’ve never let anyone in. I don’t trust easily. I keep to myself.
I’m closed off. Angry.
Guarded.
Garrison Dixon
I shouldn’t have seen what I did.
I shouldn’t know what I do.
But how Bates can think I would ever say anything is beyond me.
Everyone thinks I’m just a big, dumb football player with nothing more to him.
The truth is I’ll never say a word about what I witnessed. I don’t care about it the way he thinks I do. I wouldn’t hurt him.
And I’d let him know that—all of it—if he wasn’t so damn . . .
Guarded.
I have a secret. We all have secrets. I’m nothing special.
It just so happens, however, that my sworn enemy also knows my secret.
He’s the absolute worst person to know this, and there’s nothing I can do about it.
What he does with this information is totally out of my hands and completely in his.
This is why I’ve never let anyone in. I don’t trust easily. I keep to myself.
I’m closed off. Angry.
Guarded.
Garrison Dixon
I shouldn’t have seen what I did.
I shouldn’t know what I do.
But how Bates can think I would ever say anything is beyond me.
Everyone thinks I’m just a big, dumb football player with nothing more to him.
The truth is I’ll never say a word about what I witnessed. I don’t care about it the way he thinks I do. I wouldn’t hurt him.
And I’d let him know that—all of it—if he wasn’t so damn . . .
Guarded.
221 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 4, 2023
243 people are currently reading
1386 people want to read
About the author
Nicole Dykes
95 books2,534 followersNicole Dykes is a wife and a professional assistant/mom to two gorgeous girls. Currently residing in Kansas, she’s a lover of coffee, Kansas City Chiefs, and all things romance.
She's found her passion in writing M/M romance because love is love is love. Some popular works include Hostile, The Spark of Hope Series, and The Kensley Panthers Series!
Email at nicoledykes_author@yahoo.com
Or visit my website at Www.authornicoledykes.com
She's found her passion in writing M/M romance because love is love is love. Some popular works include Hostile, The Spark of Hope Series, and The Kensley Panthers Series!
Email at nicoledykes_author@yahoo.com
Or visit my website at Www.authornicoledykes.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 468 reviews
January 9, 2023
4.5 stars⭐️
this was so undeniably sweet and wonderful to read omg. it left me feeling so happy and giddy, i was smiling so big while also left feeling pretty emotional and fulfilled. the perfect read to start my year<3
we follow Jameson Bates and Garrison Dixon, two teammates on their small town’s high school football team... with a lot of hostility between them. we see them in book one literally beating the shit out of each other in the locker room. anyone who knows me well knows i am a whore for that shit (hello Levi and Asher my loves).
it hits every time for me like i can’t explain the visceral joy that blossoms throughout my body when i see two guys in a mm romance get into a physical fight. the tension is unmatched🤌🏻
i really enjoyed the beginning of their dynamic and how they start off as... not enemies nor rivals, but two people who can’t help but push the other’s buttons to their breaking point while simultaneously doing everything in their power to not understand each other. i feel like you got a solid sense of them as individual characters and the nature of their dynamic was set out really well, so it was easy to get a grasp of who they were to each other.
Jameson Bates is the loml<3 i immediately adored him and connected with him a lot. i felt his exhaustion and frustration, his pain and his longing. he was just a delight to read! while Garrison i was unsure of at first— the easygoing jock type who can be a lil cocky are pretty hit for miss for me but before long it was easy to see he was a big golden retriever sweetheart and it was so easy to fall in love with him too!
the story was so damn sweet but also had a melancholy undertone that i really enjoyed, capturing the realism of Garrison and Jameson’s situation. it definitely grounds the story and adds an extra layer to it, making it more than the cute, fun and fluffy read it is at its core. i think the dichotomy was written beautifully!
the conversations surrounding bigotry, homophobia, coming out in a small town, everything that encompassed these issues were handled with such nuance and grace but didn’t overwhelm the story which i liked a lot. it doesn’t bring down the soft and beautiful atmosphere set through Jameson and Garrison, but it just added an edge that heightened the complexity. Nicole took the opportunity to make a small commentary but still kept everything light and sweet. i cried at the heart aching moments and the sweet ones, both hurt my heart a lot.
ultimately, this was a simple story but it was incredibly effective. at its core, it’s a character driven story focusing on the tumultuous relationship of Garrison and Jameson alongside their very real life problems. i think it was the perfect balance honestly! i can’t gush about how wonderful this was!
and im so damn happy the next couple is who i was hoping it would be!!🥺🦋
thank you to Nicole Dykes for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!
“I don’t want easy, Jameson.” I turn my head to look at him. “I want you.”
this was so undeniably sweet and wonderful to read omg. it left me feeling so happy and giddy, i was smiling so big while also left feeling pretty emotional and fulfilled. the perfect read to start my year<3
we follow Jameson Bates and Garrison Dixon, two teammates on their small town’s high school football team... with a lot of hostility between them. we see them in book one literally beating the shit out of each other in the locker room. anyone who knows me well knows i am a whore for that shit (hello Levi and Asher my loves).
it hits every time for me like i can’t explain the visceral joy that blossoms throughout my body when i see two guys in a mm romance get into a physical fight. the tension is unmatched🤌🏻
”I’m scared,” he says, and I lean forward, pressing a kiss against his mouth. “I’m never scared, but I’m scared now. I don’t want you to resent me.”
i really enjoyed the beginning of their dynamic and how they start off as... not enemies nor rivals, but two people who can’t help but push the other’s buttons to their breaking point while simultaneously doing everything in their power to not understand each other. i feel like you got a solid sense of them as individual characters and the nature of their dynamic was set out really well, so it was easy to get a grasp of who they were to each other.
Jameson Bates is the loml<3 i immediately adored him and connected with him a lot. i felt his exhaustion and frustration, his pain and his longing. he was just a delight to read! while Garrison i was unsure of at first— the easygoing jock type who can be a lil cocky are pretty hit for miss for me but before long it was easy to see he was a big golden retriever sweetheart and it was so easy to fall in love with him too!
the story was so damn sweet but also had a melancholy undertone that i really enjoyed, capturing the realism of Garrison and Jameson’s situation. it definitely grounds the story and adds an extra layer to it, making it more than the cute, fun and fluffy read it is at its core. i think the dichotomy was written beautifully!
the conversations surrounding bigotry, homophobia, coming out in a small town, everything that encompassed these issues were handled with such nuance and grace but didn’t overwhelm the story which i liked a lot. it doesn’t bring down the soft and beautiful atmosphere set through Jameson and Garrison, but it just added an edge that heightened the complexity. Nicole took the opportunity to make a small commentary but still kept everything light and sweet. i cried at the heart aching moments and the sweet ones, both hurt my heart a lot.
”I want one damn thing for me. One.”
“And Dixon is that one thing?”
I think about Dixon’s shaggy blond hair and goofy grin. His cluelessness that’s only more endearing every damn day. And those sinful lips that keep me up at night, thinking about them.
“Yes.”
ultimately, this was a simple story but it was incredibly effective. at its core, it’s a character driven story focusing on the tumultuous relationship of Garrison and Jameson alongside their very real life problems. i think it was the perfect balance honestly! i can’t gush about how wonderful this was!
and im so damn happy the next couple is who i was hoping it would be!!🥺🦋
thank you to Nicole Dykes for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!
January 9, 2023
“Are you my boyfriend?” I blurt out and feel his entire body tense too. Fucking stupid, Dixon. Jesus Christ. Keep your mouth shut for once. “Never mind. That was stupid.” I quickly try to backpedal, but then I see the grin on his face. “Holy shit. I think I am.” My eyes light up. “Yeah?” He nods. “Yeah.” I like the sound of that more than I should. “Who fucking knew?”
-enemies to lovers
-grumpy x sunshine
-possessiveness & jealousy
-super lovable himbo…Dixon has my whole fucking heart!!!💙
-extremely engaging and I was hooked the whole time. I didn’t want to put the book down once.
-Nicole really nailed small town American life. So so so well written and with such compassion, heart and empathy.
-I have zero complaints. I loved these two to pieces and I think if Hostile worked for you, I’m almost 90% sure this one would too!
-enemies to lovers
-grumpy x sunshine
-possessiveness & jealousy
-super lovable himbo…Dixon has my whole fucking heart!!!💙
-extremely engaging and I was hooked the whole time. I didn’t want to put the book down once.
-Nicole really nailed small town American life. So so so well written and with such compassion, heart and empathy.
-I have zero complaints. I loved these two to pieces and I think if Hostile worked for you, I’m almost 90% sure this one would too!
April 19, 2023
4.5 Stars
I should be able to just have fun. To let it be what it is, but then he goes and makes me smile. I hate that. I hate that I don’t hate that.
Oh Garrison Dixon! You are such a sweetheart. You were giving me some Kingston vibes and I loved it. I also just adore enemies-to-lovers and this book totally fit the bill. I loved how grumpy Jameson was in this book. It made it so much more satisfying when he finally started to let his guard down.
“Okay, so can I see you again?” See me? Like it was a date or something? Jesus Christ. “You see me right now.” His mouth kicks up into an even more obnoxious grin now. “I want to see a hell of a lot more of you.” Shit. There’s that hot feeling again creeping all over me.
The sexy times in this book were so hot! I loved watching these two explore each other and experience all these firsts together. They may not have known what they were doing all the time, but they just went for it and didn't hold back.
“I’m not a toy,” he says seriously, swiveling his head to look at me. “I know.” I drag my hand over his cum-covered abs, mixing our combined releases in small circles. “But you are really fun.”
The way these two had to deal with their families and coming out. They did it with such confidence and wouldn't let anyone put them down or convince them to change their minds. I'm so happy and relieved that their parents came around, especially Jameson's dad.
“I want one damn thing for me. One.” “And Dixon is that one thing?” I think about Dixon’s shaggy blond hair and goofy grin. His cluelessness that’s only more endearing every damn day. And those sinful lips that keep me up at night, thinking about them. “Yes.”
And while they knew they wanted to be together, I really appreciated that they had to work for it a little bit. It wasn't just some easy solution. It made the ending that much more satisfying to me.
“I don’t want easy, Jameson.” I turn my head to look at him. “I want you.”
*** I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest opinion. ***
I should be able to just have fun. To let it be what it is, but then he goes and makes me smile. I hate that. I hate that I don’t hate that.
Oh Garrison Dixon! You are such a sweetheart. You were giving me some Kingston vibes and I loved it. I also just adore enemies-to-lovers and this book totally fit the bill. I loved how grumpy Jameson was in this book. It made it so much more satisfying when he finally started to let his guard down.
“Okay, so can I see you again?” See me? Like it was a date or something? Jesus Christ. “You see me right now.” His mouth kicks up into an even more obnoxious grin now. “I want to see a hell of a lot more of you.” Shit. There’s that hot feeling again creeping all over me.
The sexy times in this book were so hot! I loved watching these two explore each other and experience all these firsts together. They may not have known what they were doing all the time, but they just went for it and didn't hold back.
“I’m not a toy,” he says seriously, swiveling his head to look at me. “I know.” I drag my hand over his cum-covered abs, mixing our combined releases in small circles. “But you are really fun.”
The way these two had to deal with their families and coming out. They did it with such confidence and wouldn't let anyone put them down or convince them to change their minds. I'm so happy and relieved that their parents came around, especially Jameson's dad.
“I want one damn thing for me. One.” “And Dixon is that one thing?” I think about Dixon’s shaggy blond hair and goofy grin. His cluelessness that’s only more endearing every damn day. And those sinful lips that keep me up at night, thinking about them. “Yes.”
And while they knew they wanted to be together, I really appreciated that they had to work for it a little bit. It wasn't just some easy solution. It made the ending that much more satisfying to me.
“I don’t want easy, Jameson.” I turn my head to look at him. “I want you.”
*** I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest opinion. ***
November 10, 2024
Adorei a história de Jameson e Garison 🫦❤️🔥
September 10, 2023
Guarded is a wonderfully sweet low-angst entry in the Kensley Panthers series. Bates and Dixon are an adorable grumpy/sunshine pair who are so much fun. They are teammates who are enemies and over the course of their senior year become something more.
Guarded is the newest entry in this series that follows Bates and Dixon throughout their senior year. They are teammates who "tolerate" one another. Bates despises Dixon, who is completely oblivious as to why. As tensions rise, their dynamic is forcibly changed, making for one intense moment.
Overall, I enjoyed how much growth and change Dixon and Bates had throughout this story. Their relationship was anything but smooth sailing and seeing how their relationship evolved into something so sincere and genuine was great to see. I loved seeing how smitten and protective Dixon and Bates are for one another. Their story was very moving at times and left me so excited for the next entry!!!
Guarded is the newest entry in this series that follows Bates and Dixon throughout their senior year. They are teammates who "tolerate" one another. Bates despises Dixon, who is completely oblivious as to why. As tensions rise, their dynamic is forcibly changed, making for one intense moment.
Overall, I enjoyed how much growth and change Dixon and Bates had throughout this story. Their relationship was anything but smooth sailing and seeing how their relationship evolved into something so sincere and genuine was great to see. I loved seeing how smitten and protective Dixon and Bates are for one another. Their story was very moving at times and left me so excited for the next entry!!!
December 30, 2022
This is the second book in this series I couldn’t wait up read it and I devoured it! I was looking forward to these twos story, as I loved Camden and Kingston in book one.
I loved that it went back to the same time frame as Camden and Kingston when they were just working out their story, these two were just realising theirs but we just didn’t see it till now!
Jameson (Bates) works hard on his fathers farm, working towards finishing school and taking over his legacy, but deep down he knows it’s not what what wants, inside he’s drowning. He wants something different and to be himself, but when he’s caught doing something by his team mate, he thinks his world about to come crashing down around him.
Garrison (Dixon) is a loud mouthed jock who most people think is just a dumb football player. He likes to party with friends and that’s where he come across someone else who don’t think much of him, his team mate who hates him, he now has to convince him that he can kept a secret.
Ahhh these two! I was routing for them! This is another great book by Nicole and care was taken in this story as it is based on a homophobic town. And I know we all hate that it’s still around today, small towns, small minds and slurs that are uncalled for but it’s the reality. But I loved the confidence these two drew out of each other to be who they were and true to themselves that’s the true win in this story.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Edit for this is on my instagram emmareads40
This book has
⭐️Small town
⭐️Not friends to lovers
⭐️Golden retriever
⭐️Coming out
⭐️Hurt comfort
⭐️Team mates
⭐️Homophobic town folk
I loved that it went back to the same time frame as Camden and Kingston when they were just working out their story, these two were just realising theirs but we just didn’t see it till now!
Jameson (Bates) works hard on his fathers farm, working towards finishing school and taking over his legacy, but deep down he knows it’s not what what wants, inside he’s drowning. He wants something different and to be himself, but when he’s caught doing something by his team mate, he thinks his world about to come crashing down around him.
Garrison (Dixon) is a loud mouthed jock who most people think is just a dumb football player. He likes to party with friends and that’s where he come across someone else who don’t think much of him, his team mate who hates him, he now has to convince him that he can kept a secret.
Ahhh these two! I was routing for them! This is another great book by Nicole and care was taken in this story as it is based on a homophobic town. And I know we all hate that it’s still around today, small towns, small minds and slurs that are uncalled for but it’s the reality. But I loved the confidence these two drew out of each other to be who they were and true to themselves that’s the true win in this story.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Edit for this is on my instagram emmareads40
This book has
⭐️Small town
⭐️Not friends to lovers
⭐️Golden retriever
⭐️Coming out
⭐️Hurt comfort
⭐️Team mates
⭐️Homophobic town folk
![Profile Image for Lilly [Hiatus due to School] .](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fi.gr-assets.com%2Fimages%2FS%2Fcompressed.photo.goodreads.com%2Fusers%2F1663899589i%2F10381707._UX200_CR0%2C0%2C200%2C200_.jpg&w=128&q=75)
December 31, 2022
In Guarded, we have Bates, the son of a farmer, posed to inherit a farm and land that he does not want as the firstborn child. His future is laid out. Then we have Garrison, larger than life loud mouth jock with a secret. They start as enemies (all over a glue stick in kindergarten) on the same high school football team, but as they enter their senior year, Bates learns that there is more to Garrison than he thought, and his feelings shift.
This was another great addition to the series. I enjoyed seeing their relationship grow. They go from in-lust to love, and while it was fast-paced, it worked well. I loved how Garrison did not back away from Bates! I also enjoyed seeing how Garrison’s bravery caused Bates to stand up to his father and choose his own path. Growing up in a homophobic and traditional small town is terrifying, and the topic of it was well handled as well by the author!
The moments of intimacy and sex between the boys were well written! It was sad that they could not be out together during their senior year, but happy that they could be more open as they grew older.
As always, Nicole Dykes writes wonderful, emotionally deep characters and stories, and this book was no different. Guarded was another great addition to the series! I can’t wait to see what is next; maybe Zach and Adam, maybe Oakley and Travis??
Overall, if you enjoy small-town romances, opposites attract, NA, and sweet hard-earned HEA, I recommend Guarded!
This was another great addition to the series. I enjoyed seeing their relationship grow. They go from in-lust to love, and while it was fast-paced, it worked well. I loved how Garrison did not back away from Bates! I also enjoyed seeing how Garrison’s bravery caused Bates to stand up to his father and choose his own path. Growing up in a homophobic and traditional small town is terrifying, and the topic of it was well handled as well by the author!
The moments of intimacy and sex between the boys were well written! It was sad that they could not be out together during their senior year, but happy that they could be more open as they grew older.
As always, Nicole Dykes writes wonderful, emotionally deep characters and stories, and this book was no different. Guarded was another great addition to the series! I can’t wait to see what is next; maybe Zach and Adam, maybe Oakley and Travis??
Overall, if you enjoy small-town romances, opposites attract, NA, and sweet hard-earned HEA, I recommend Guarded!
January 13, 2023
3.75**** stars
Mhm, now look at that: I liked this way more than I anticipated after realising this isn’t a series of college romances but high school —and it was actually really sweet. ♡
I liked the tune of it, the setting and the way the story was told.
Apart from this, tho. This shit kinda always breaks me:
I could’ve imagined another ending for Garrison & Jameson but what they got in the end is okay, I guess. These boys were really brave as hell and they are happy now. And that’s all that matters in the end, right?
I'm generally curious about how the series will continue. There are a few characters who scream for their own pairing to get recognized, but not all are still in high school. Let's see.
*********
Kensley Panthers Series:
Book 1 - Keeper
Book 2 - Guarded - 4 stars
Book 3 - Defender - release 04/23
Book 4 - Rivaled - release 08/23
Book 5 - Protector - release 11/23
Not afraid of anything. Brave as hell. And he rocked my entire world. How could I not fall in love with him?
Mhm, now look at that: I liked this way more than I anticipated after realising this isn’t a series of college romances but high school —and it was actually really sweet. ♡
I liked the tune of it, the setting and the way the story was told.
Apart from this, tho. This shit kinda always breaks me:
“I just want this. I want something for me. You know how that is.”
“You’re going to get out of this town, and I can’t wait for you to have that. But me?” […] “You know this is all I have. When I graduate, I’m going to be expected to work full-time at the farm. To meet a nice girl and settle down.”
“You don’t have to do that.”
“But I will,” […] “This is my time. This is all I have.”
I could’ve imagined another ending for Garrison & Jameson but what they got in the end is okay, I guess. These boys were really brave as hell and they are happy now. And that’s all that matters in the end, right?
I'm generally curious about how the series will continue. There are a few characters who scream for their own pairing to get recognized, but not all are still in high school. Let's see.
*********
Kensley Panthers Series:
Book 1 - Keeper
Book 2 - Guarded - 4 stars
Book 3 - Defender - release 04/23
Book 4 - Rivaled - release 08/23
Book 5 - Protector - release 11/23
January 6, 2023
"I hate that he might not be as awful as I thought."
Star Rating: 5/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
POV: Dual
HEA: Yes
Spice Rating: 3/5 🌶️🌶️🌶️
ARC provided in exchange for an honest review
Overall Opinion
Gah, Nicole has managed to pull off another masterpiece and boy could I not put it down! She has the most magical way at creating characters that tug at your heartstrings and leave you praying they get a happy ending. Guarded is the second book in the series, and just as amazing, if not better, as the first one, and is based around Jameson and Garrison. The character development is done perfectly, with a great build up to each individuals life story, weaving a tale between two beautiful souls overcoming a number of challenges. Garrison is the sweetest most lovable guy who everyone sees as dumb and surface level, but he has so much to offer; Jameson is the grumpy stoic hard worker who is trying to accept he has no future outside his fathers expectations. The plot to Guarded was so real and heart wrenching and everything you could possibly want from a low-angst, enemies to lovers! Overall I felt this was Nicole's strongest book and it rendered me speechless at the end; emotion-driven and heartwarming, this book will be a favourite to many, myself included.
Read if you like:
❣️ M/M Romance
❣️ Enemies to Lovers
❣️ Small Town
❣️ Hurt/Comfort
❣️ High School
❣️ Football
Star Rating: 5/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
POV: Dual
HEA: Yes
Spice Rating: 3/5 🌶️🌶️🌶️
ARC provided in exchange for an honest review
Overall Opinion
Gah, Nicole has managed to pull off another masterpiece and boy could I not put it down! She has the most magical way at creating characters that tug at your heartstrings and leave you praying they get a happy ending. Guarded is the second book in the series, and just as amazing, if not better, as the first one, and is based around Jameson and Garrison. The character development is done perfectly, with a great build up to each individuals life story, weaving a tale between two beautiful souls overcoming a number of challenges. Garrison is the sweetest most lovable guy who everyone sees as dumb and surface level, but he has so much to offer; Jameson is the grumpy stoic hard worker who is trying to accept he has no future outside his fathers expectations. The plot to Guarded was so real and heart wrenching and everything you could possibly want from a low-angst, enemies to lovers! Overall I felt this was Nicole's strongest book and it rendered me speechless at the end; emotion-driven and heartwarming, this book will be a favourite to many, myself included.
Read if you like:
❣️ M/M Romance
❣️ Enemies to Lovers
❣️ Small Town
❣️ Hurt/Comfort
❣️ High School
❣️ Football
January 15, 2023
Cute. Dixon was adorable! 😍
January 10, 2023
I enjoyed this but the names were giving me a headache! Both boys had really similar first names that could be surnames, then they're referred to throughout by both their surname and first name. I started relying on them being referred to by their surname which made it easier to differentiate, but then got to the point where I couldn't remember which name belonged to which boy when the first names came back in 😂.
Other than that I liked the low angst although I was hoping for a bit more, and I liked the boys together, but I prefer Keeper as I felt the boys in that book just had a stronger connection and went through more turmoil both individually and together.
Other than that I liked the low angst although I was hoping for a bit more, and I liked the boys together, but I prefer Keeper as I felt the boys in that book just had a stronger connection and went through more turmoil both individually and together.
January 8, 2023
“I’m serious, Bates.” He puts the other hand next to my head, trapping me in, then leaning in close. My heart pounds erratically in my chest, knowing this is stupid. Anyone could walk in, and that would not be good. “I. Don’t. Share.”
Guarded is book 2 in the Kensley Panthers series by Nicole Dykes. The series comprises linked MM standalones set around a high school football team in a small town. This is Jameson and Garrison's story.
I loved book 1 in the series, Keeper, which was a friends to lovers story and Guarded was a great read too, with an enemies to lovers lean (my fave). This is basically a low angst love story (but do note the author's warnings) with a HEA.
Definitely recommended if you love:
❣️enemies to lovers
❣️sports romance
❣️first times
❣️bi-awakening
❣️small town
❣️opposites attract
❣️cute but steamy
4.5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Guarded is book 2 in the Kensley Panthers series by Nicole Dykes. The series comprises linked MM standalones set around a high school football team in a small town. This is Jameson and Garrison's story.
I loved book 1 in the series, Keeper, which was a friends to lovers story and Guarded was a great read too, with an enemies to lovers lean (my fave). This is basically a low angst love story (but do note the author's warnings) with a HEA.
Definitely recommended if you love:
❣️enemies to lovers
❣️sports romance
❣️first times
❣️bi-awakening
❣️small town
❣️opposites attract
❣️cute but steamy
4.5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐
December 5, 2023
✰ 2.5 stars ✰
"Everything about this feels right.
And to me, that can never be wrong."
This is my second time around reading a book by Nicole Dykes, and after rating Guarded the way that I did, I can confidently say that "it's not me, it's the writing." *sighs* And I'm really going to try to be kind in my review, but there's only so much I can enjoy, without realizing the fact that I'm just not connecting with any of the characters' personalities or the challenges that they're facing, even if they are visibly present.
Jameson Bates has loathed Garrison Dixon since his kindergarten days when he innocently used his glue stick and didn't return it to him. Now, in their senior year and teammates on their school football team, Kensley Panthers, their rivalry is at it's peak. To make matters worse, Garrison catches him in a compromising position, which Jameson fears he might reveal at any moment. But, he soon learns that the image of Garrison he had all his life was not at all what he had - that underneath the bravado of the big campus jock is the heart of someone who may have a lot more in common with him than he realized.
This was an okay read for me - a quick simple story that was easy to get through - not too heavy on the angst, very light in the sex and banter - with a happily ever after, easily deserved. But, that's all it was - one minute, Garrison and Jameson were hashing it out, the next instant, Garrison kisses him and the gloves are off! Just so fast and quick that you don't even have time to process! From enemies to frenemies with benefits, Garrison easily convinces Jameson to just take a chance with him, enemies with benefits, experimenting and exploring and all, and somehow, develop heartfelt feelings for each other along with the way.
I do appreciate that there was some focus on homophobia and being a small-town it would be hard for anyone to come out as gay. This was an issue that was addressed nicely and I particularly loved that Garrison didn't shy away from openly admitting that he was gay and not caring about anyone's reactions, because he loved Jameson. Yes, they really did love each other - I was as surprised as Jameson. 😅
"What if they’re in love and happy? Why should that matter to anyone else? Why is it their business? And then I thought about the fact that I’m in love with you, and I want to someday be able to tell everyone. Maybe.”
Fortunately, Jameson did love him back, which convinced him to admit to his father about himself - luckily, his father understood that his dreams and heart lay elsewhere, away from the farm life he had been raised to take care of and marry someone who loved him just the way he was. 💖💖
So shouldn't I be happy that these two precious boys got their HEA? That they had such understanding parents - that their futures were perfectly set up for them - I should be, but I can't. Everything just fell into place so readily well and conveniently so, I just couldn't find it in my heart to care. 😭 And I hate that feeling! I feel like I'm doing a disservice to the author's efforts!
But, sometimes these stories just get so tediously repetitive. Enemies to lovers, followed by bi-awakening, jump right into insta-love, fear of coming out, topping off with a HEA. I do sound like I'm being bitter and too cynical but, these constant stream of 'Rinse, recycle, repeat' - I've read so many stories like this, and I guess, I probably will read a lot more like this in the future.
But as cute and endearingly sweet some scenes were, it still lacked the deep connection, the heartfelt intimacy that I hope to see. I get that it's supposed to be light on the angst and still be full of feels that will make the audience cheer them on in their happiness, but if the writing doesn't successfully convey those emotions for me, then I just can't appreciate it.
Nicole Dykes definitely has a fanbase - I just don't think I am one of them. I do enjoy reading M/M romance, I just want something more meaningful to come out of these stories; and I don't think I'm having much luck here. 😢😢
"Everything about this feels right.
And to me, that can never be wrong."
This is my second time around reading a book by Nicole Dykes, and after rating Guarded the way that I did, I can confidently say that "it's not me, it's the writing." *sighs* And I'm really going to try to be kind in my review, but there's only so much I can enjoy, without realizing the fact that I'm just not connecting with any of the characters' personalities or the challenges that they're facing, even if they are visibly present.
Jameson Bates has loathed Garrison Dixon since his kindergarten days when he innocently used his glue stick and didn't return it to him. Now, in their senior year and teammates on their school football team, Kensley Panthers, their rivalry is at it's peak. To make matters worse, Garrison catches him in a compromising position, which Jameson fears he might reveal at any moment. But, he soon learns that the image of Garrison he had all his life was not at all what he had - that underneath the bravado of the big campus jock is the heart of someone who may have a lot more in common with him than he realized.
This was an okay read for me - a quick simple story that was easy to get through - not too heavy on the angst, very light in the sex and banter - with a happily ever after, easily deserved. But, that's all it was - one minute, Garrison and Jameson were hashing it out, the next instant, Garrison kisses him and the gloves are off! Just so fast and quick that you don't even have time to process! From enemies to frenemies with benefits, Garrison easily convinces Jameson to just take a chance with him, enemies with benefits, experimenting and exploring and all, and somehow, develop heartfelt feelings for each other along with the way.
I do appreciate that there was some focus on homophobia and being a small-town it would be hard for anyone to come out as gay. This was an issue that was addressed nicely and I particularly loved that Garrison didn't shy away from openly admitting that he was gay and not caring about anyone's reactions, because he loved Jameson. Yes, they really did love each other - I was as surprised as Jameson. 😅
"What if they’re in love and happy? Why should that matter to anyone else? Why is it their business? And then I thought about the fact that I’m in love with you, and I want to someday be able to tell everyone. Maybe.”
Fortunately, Jameson did love him back, which convinced him to admit to his father about himself - luckily, his father understood that his dreams and heart lay elsewhere, away from the farm life he had been raised to take care of and marry someone who loved him just the way he was. 💖💖
So shouldn't I be happy that these two precious boys got their HEA? That they had such understanding parents - that their futures were perfectly set up for them - I should be, but I can't. Everything just fell into place so readily well and conveniently so, I just couldn't find it in my heart to care. 😭 And I hate that feeling! I feel like I'm doing a disservice to the author's efforts!
But, sometimes these stories just get so tediously repetitive. Enemies to lovers, followed by bi-awakening, jump right into insta-love, fear of coming out, topping off with a HEA. I do sound like I'm being bitter and too cynical but, these constant stream of 'Rinse, recycle, repeat' - I've read so many stories like this, and I guess, I probably will read a lot more like this in the future.
But as cute and endearingly sweet some scenes were, it still lacked the deep connection, the heartfelt intimacy that I hope to see. I get that it's supposed to be light on the angst and still be full of feels that will make the audience cheer them on in their happiness, but if the writing doesn't successfully convey those emotions for me, then I just can't appreciate it.
Nicole Dykes definitely has a fanbase - I just don't think I am one of them. I do enjoy reading M/M romance, I just want something more meaningful to come out of these stories; and I don't think I'm having much luck here. 😢😢
January 1, 2023
Who doesn't love a little enemies with lovers sprinkled into their romance? Guarded starts off with our MCs Jameson and Garrison quite at odds with one another. Jameson has never liked Garrison even though they both play football on the same high school team. He thinks he's dumb and a big mouth. He doesn't take life seriously, when serious is the only way Jameson has ever been. When Garrison happens upon him in a rather compromising situation, well lets just say this does not go over well. Jameson is terrified his teammate is going to open his big mouth and tell the world. However, weeks go by and no matter how hostile Jameson is towards Garrison, he never hears a peep about what happened. You see, Garrison has a secret of his own, and now that he knows Jameson's he's ready to explore too - with Jameson being his target.
"In this moment, it's just a kiss. A deep, unfiltered, uninhibited kiss that I feel everywhere. My first kiss with a guy. The first kiss that ever felt right in ways I never let myself even think about."
I really enjoyed how this started off as just a hot hookup until Jameson started to get to know the real Garrison. He was nothing like he believed. Garrison puts on a great front, always smiling and laughing. In truth he is a happy guy, but he's also hurting because he has been hiding his truth for so long it's begun to take it's toll. On the other hand, Jameson is utterly terrified of anyone finding out he enjoys men. His father has made it very clear that his life is planned out. Take over the family farm, marry a woman, and produce the next heir to the farm. None of this is something Jameson wants, especially when it becomes clear how much he loves the boy he always thought he hated.
The major angst of the story comes from the fact that these MCs live in a small town that isn't exactly known for its openness towards the queer community. We also have the fact that both Garrison and Jameson have fathers who they are certain aren't going to take the news well. I felt like that part of the story was very realistic and done well. I also loved the friendship between Garrison and Oakley. It was such a dudebro relationship, but Oakley showed his true colors when he had his friends back all the way. I'm unbelievably ecstatic that the UST I thought I felt between him and a certain other side character is going to play out in book 3. I have a feeling he's not going to know what hit him and I can't wait!
"In this moment, it's just a kiss. A deep, unfiltered, uninhibited kiss that I feel everywhere. My first kiss with a guy. The first kiss that ever felt right in ways I never let myself even think about."
I really enjoyed how this started off as just a hot hookup until Jameson started to get to know the real Garrison. He was nothing like he believed. Garrison puts on a great front, always smiling and laughing. In truth he is a happy guy, but he's also hurting because he has been hiding his truth for so long it's begun to take it's toll. On the other hand, Jameson is utterly terrified of anyone finding out he enjoys men. His father has made it very clear that his life is planned out. Take over the family farm, marry a woman, and produce the next heir to the farm. None of this is something Jameson wants, especially when it becomes clear how much he loves the boy he always thought he hated.
The major angst of the story comes from the fact that these MCs live in a small town that isn't exactly known for its openness towards the queer community. We also have the fact that both Garrison and Jameson have fathers who they are certain aren't going to take the news well. I felt like that part of the story was very realistic and done well. I also loved the friendship between Garrison and Oakley. It was such a dudebro relationship, but Oakley showed his true colors when he had his friends back all the way. I'm unbelievably ecstatic that the UST I thought I felt between him and a certain other side character is going to play out in book 3. I have a feeling he's not going to know what hit him and I can't wait!
April 2, 2023
i basically had my heart in my throat for the whole book.
i loved garrison and jameson (even though we could’ve been more creative with the names but whatever). i could really feel the animosity between them and how it transitioned to love.
garrison is now one of my favorite himbos. so sweet, so cute and always doing what’s right.
i loved seeing how jameson gathered the courage to finally be himself. it wasn’t easy and it was definitely well deserved.
another thing that i liked is how the author handled the homophobia. it’s definitely not how it usually goes in a small town, but i very much prefer my books this way.
Now, the only thing that i didn’t like is that the last part felt way too similar to the first book in this series. i really wanted something a little different.
i am so excited for the next one, i’m so excited about the next couple! i can’t wait!
i loved garrison and jameson (even though we could’ve been more creative with the names but whatever). i could really feel the animosity between them and how it transitioned to love.
garrison is now one of my favorite himbos. so sweet, so cute and always doing what’s right.
i loved seeing how jameson gathered the courage to finally be himself. it wasn’t easy and it was definitely well deserved.
another thing that i liked is how the author handled the homophobia. it’s definitely not how it usually goes in a small town, but i very much prefer my books this way.
Now, the only thing that i didn’t like is that the last part felt way too similar to the first book in this series. i really wanted something a little different.
i am so excited for the next one, i’m so excited about the next couple! i can’t wait!
April 6, 2023
Didn’t love it, didn’t hate it. Alicia’s 3⭐️ review explains it perfectly but I’ll just add that it’s one of my biggest pet peeves especially in gay romance for the main characters to have similar sounding names. We have Garrison and Jamison and it switches between first and last names as well so I was forever confused by who was talking or being talked about.
I’ll also say that the ends of each chapter had a sort of closing thought in italics and I haven’t read enough of Nicole’s work to know if that’s a stylistic thing but it really didn’t work for me. Especially with the repeated use of the word “guarded” it felt clunky.
I did enjoy this but it’s missing a fair bit for me.
I’ll also say that the ends of each chapter had a sort of closing thought in italics and I haven’t read enough of Nicole’s work to know if that’s a stylistic thing but it really didn’t work for me. Especially with the repeated use of the word “guarded” it felt clunky.
I did enjoy this but it’s missing a fair bit for me.
April 12, 2023
3.5 ⭐️
- high school football
- hate to love
- grumpy x sunshine
Lifelong enemies after a squabble in kindergarten, Bates and Dixon have been antagonizing each other for years.
Things come to a head when Dixon drunkenly stumbles upon something he shouldn’t have, it piques his curiosity but it unleashes a whole new level of rage in Bates.
Despite the animosity Bates feels towards him, Dixon would never out him, and after cornering Bates the two talk it out… Dixon explains Bates’s secret is safe because he has his own, and the pair share a life altering kiss.
I feel like Bates and Dixon’s story was a bit rushed, but I really liked their dynamic and the chemistry between them.
- high school football
- hate to love
- grumpy x sunshine
Lifelong enemies after a squabble in kindergarten, Bates and Dixon have been antagonizing each other for years.
Things come to a head when Dixon drunkenly stumbles upon something he shouldn’t have, it piques his curiosity but it unleashes a whole new level of rage in Bates.
Despite the animosity Bates feels towards him, Dixon would never out him, and after cornering Bates the two talk it out… Dixon explains Bates’s secret is safe because he has his own, and the pair share a life altering kiss.
I feel like Bates and Dixon’s story was a bit rushed, but I really liked their dynamic and the chemistry between them.
January 3, 2023
I definitely enjoyed Garrison and Jameson. Nicole seriously writes some of the most likable boys! I enjoyed getting a little more angst in this book. Nicole also writes young men who actually read young - not overly adult or juvenile. It’s also believable.
The setting of a small town in Kansas serves as such a good back drop for the struggles of these two young men. They want more but not necessarily a big city - just a new place without everyone knowing them. I think that is relatable for so many of us. There’s freedom in anonymity.
The struggle with who everyone thought Garrison and Jameson were was a big challenge for them. They were both hiding their truth and it was bound to blow up. They knew the struggle they faced and they tried to protect themselves. It’s always sad when parents are a deterrent but it’s something so many people face.
The lust and passion between the boys was both wild and sweet. They were so enamored with each other and it was so cute when they both admitted to their feelings.
The setting of a small town in Kansas serves as such a good back drop for the struggles of these two young men. They want more but not necessarily a big city - just a new place without everyone knowing them. I think that is relatable for so many of us. There’s freedom in anonymity.
The struggle with who everyone thought Garrison and Jameson were was a big challenge for them. They were both hiding their truth and it was bound to blow up. They knew the struggle they faced and they tried to protect themselves. It’s always sad when parents are a deterrent but it’s something so many people face.
The lust and passion between the boys was both wild and sweet. They were so enamored with each other and it was so cute when they both admitted to their feelings.
January 5, 2023
Absolutely loved this enemies to lovers, small town, biawakening, sports romance. This one had it all!!!
Dixon and Bates were the perfect enemies to lovers, they hated each other so much that they had no chance of not falling in love.
I absolutely loved the way even with insecurities amd small town bigots Dixon knew existed when he had enough of it and knew exactly who he wanted. Bates was written with such care that my heart hurt for him for a little while. I was so relieved when these guys got the HEA they definitely deserved!!!
Looking forward to the next one!!!
Dixon and Bates were the perfect enemies to lovers, they hated each other so much that they had no chance of not falling in love.
I absolutely loved the way even with insecurities amd small town bigots Dixon knew existed when he had enough of it and knew exactly who he wanted. Bates was written with such care that my heart hurt for him for a little while. I was so relieved when these guys got the HEA they definitely deserved!!!
Looking forward to the next one!!!
January 11, 2023
Między nienawiścią, a miłością istnieje cienka granica.
Jak oni się pięknie nienawidzili, ale kochali się jeszcze mocniej.
Małe miasteczko, fajni bohaterowie, świetnie się to czyta.
Super seria. Zdecydowanie polecam!!!
Jak oni się pięknie nienawidzili, ale kochali się jeszcze mocniej.
Małe miasteczko, fajni bohaterowie, świetnie się to czyta.
Super seria. Zdecydowanie polecam!!!
January 4, 2023
Thank you to GRR for providing an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
I don't know what Nicole Dykes is putting in these books but it's straight up sugar in my veins. Jameson and Garrison were so damn sweet. I mean... not at first. At first they were straight up coming to blows in the locker room. And I guess later they were coming to blows too... but a different kind. ;D
The way that Garrison was able to get Jameson to open up and learn to trust was so sweet. I just loved the relationship between them. And both books in this series DO NOT HAVE A THIRD ACT BREAK-UP! I usually love a break up in my books because I feel ALLLL the emotions. But these two books didn't have a break-up and it still worked so well.
I can't wait for the third book. You know I'm salivating and dying to get my hands on it.
I don't know what Nicole Dykes is putting in these books but it's straight up sugar in my veins. Jameson and Garrison were so damn sweet. I mean... not at first. At first they were straight up coming to blows in the locker room. And I guess later they were coming to blows too... but a different kind. ;D
The way that Garrison was able to get Jameson to open up and learn to trust was so sweet. I just loved the relationship between them. And both books in this series DO NOT HAVE A THIRD ACT BREAK-UP! I usually love a break up in my books because I feel ALLLL the emotions. But these two books didn't have a break-up and it still worked so well.
I can't wait for the third book. You know I'm salivating and dying to get my hands on it.
January 10, 2023
“𝓘 𝔀𝓪𝓼 𝓶𝓪𝓭 𝓪𝓽 𝓽𝓱𝓮 𝔀𝓸𝓻𝓵𝓭 𝓯𝓸𝓻 𝓷𝓸𝓽 𝓫𝓮𝓲𝓷𝓰 𝓪𝓫𝓵𝓮 𝓽𝓸 𝓼𝓹𝓮𝓪𝓴 𝓶𝔂 𝓽𝓻𝓾𝓽𝓱, 𝓪𝓷𝓭 𝓽𝓱𝓮𝓷 𝓓𝓲𝔁𝓸𝓷 𝓬𝓪𝓶𝓮 𝓲𝓷. 𝓝𝓸𝓽 𝓪𝓯𝓻𝓪𝓲𝓭 𝓸𝓯 𝓪𝓷𝔂𝓽𝓱𝓲𝓷𝓰. 𝓑𝓻𝓪𝓿𝓮 𝓪𝓼 𝓱𝓮𝓵𝓵. 𝓐𝓷𝓭 𝓱𝓮 𝓻𝓸𝓬𝓴𝓮𝓭 𝓶𝔂 𝓮𝓷𝓽𝓲𝓻𝓮 𝔀𝓸𝓻𝓵𝓭.”
If I ever needed confirmation as to why Nicole Dykes remains one of my fave authors, Guarded is it. I ADORED THIS BOOK!! I'm going to give Y'all a tidbit of information about myself that absolutely nobody asked for... I Love Friday Nights Lights TV show. Like honestly it's a guilty pleasure of mine and I've watched it since I was a teenager. Guarded has all those small town vibes where the community lives & breathes American football. I really felt all the anguish & oppression that our main characters felt. Jameson and Garrison's story was so beautiful! it was definitely an emotional trip this story. These two little love birds were absolutely consumed by one another and definitely couldn't keep their hands off eachother. We all come for the steam and Nicole always delivers. Guarded was a really inspiring story about living & speaking ones truth and standing up for change. It was really beautifully written as always. The pace of book was perfect i never once felt bored or like there was a dull in the story. Nicole's world building was so good. I've never been to America but I felt completely immersed in the American football culture that I've loved so much from afar. I can't wait for the next book. I know who I'm dying to have as the next couple.
If I ever needed confirmation as to why Nicole Dykes remains one of my fave authors, Guarded is it. I ADORED THIS BOOK!! I'm going to give Y'all a tidbit of information about myself that absolutely nobody asked for... I Love Friday Nights Lights TV show. Like honestly it's a guilty pleasure of mine and I've watched it since I was a teenager. Guarded has all those small town vibes where the community lives & breathes American football. I really felt all the anguish & oppression that our main characters felt. Jameson and Garrison's story was so beautiful! it was definitely an emotional trip this story. These two little love birds were absolutely consumed by one another and definitely couldn't keep their hands off eachother. We all come for the steam and Nicole always delivers. Guarded was a really inspiring story about living & speaking ones truth and standing up for change. It was really beautifully written as always. The pace of book was perfect i never once felt bored or like there was a dull in the story. Nicole's world building was so good. I've never been to America but I felt completely immersed in the American football culture that I've loved so much from afar. I can't wait for the next book. I know who I'm dying to have as the next couple.
February 1, 2023
"I don’t care who you’re fucking or who you’re attracted to. It doesn’t change how I look at you, and it shouldn’t. But you know Kensley. And you know Dad.”
- Adam Bates
I loved Jameson and Garrison's story!
This MM Romance is set in Kensley, a small town consisting of working class/ farming families, many of whom hold very traditionalist views.
***********
Introducing our 2 MC'S:
Jameson Bates - 17/18yrs student, football player, bisexual, grumpy, hot, toes the line when it comes to family expectations, expected to take over running of the farm find a sweet girl and you can guess the rest....
Garrison Dixon - 17/18yrs student, football player, Mr Sunshine, hot,
often thought of as the dumb, loudmouth, Obnoxious big jock.
Fierce, brave, loyal, sweetheart.
*********
Both are fantastic characters, loved the flow of the story and relationship development. There is plenty of steam. (Vers) Highly Recommend reading.
OW / OM Drama: No
Cheating / Sharing: No
Standalone: Yes
Epilogue: Yes (3yrs later)
I loved Jameson and Garrison's story!
This MM Romance is set in Kensley, a small town consisting of working class/ farming families, many of whom hold very traditionalist views.
***********
Introducing our 2 MC'S:
Jameson Bates - 17/18yrs student, football player, bisexual, grumpy, hot, toes the line when it comes to family expectations, expected to take over running of the farm find a sweet girl and you can guess the rest....
Garrison Dixon - 17/18yrs student, football player, Mr Sunshine, hot,
often thought of as the dumb, loudmouth, Obnoxious big jock.
Fierce, brave, loyal, sweetheart.
*********
Both are fantastic characters, loved the flow of the story and relationship development. There is plenty of steam. (Vers) Highly Recommend reading.
OW / OM Drama: No
Cheating / Sharing: No
Standalone: Yes
Epilogue: Yes (3yrs later)
January 10, 2023
❝I want one damn thing for me. One.❞
❝And Dixon is that one thing?❞
I think about Dixon’s shaggy blond hair and goofy grin. His cluelessness that’s only more endearing every damn day. And those sinful lips that keep me up at night, thinking about them. ❝Yes.❞
I'm a bit bummed …. 😞
I went into Guarded with somewhat high expectations, which, ugh … I probably jinxed myself, I just know it.
But - gah - what's so frustrating is, Keeper was actually a bit of a surprise hit for me. I thought Dykes absolutely nailed the friends-to-lovers dynamic between Kingston and Cam. The story flowed really well and I finished the book with a cheesy smile on my face.
That … did not happen this time around. I don't know if it's because I've been feeling a little tired today, or what, but … Guarded didn't fully work for me. Garrison and Jameson's relationship did nothing for me. The ending felt rushed and I was more excited for Oakley and Travis's story, if I'm being honest.
Personally, I wish Dykes would've let the relationship between Jameson and Garrison evolve at a natural pace. This book felt rushed. Which, ugh … I went in expecting DominicMason vibes. Which, come to think of it … I really did set myself up for failure.
All that being said, I still think Guarded is worth picking up. A lot of people seem to be loving it and I honestly feel like such a party pooper right now …
April 11, 2023
bUENO, tal vez no me gustó tanto como el primero, pero si que me hizo sufrir y estaba al borde de la desesperación por saber cómo acababa todo.
jameson y garrison son dos polos opuestos que no soportan estar en la misma habitación que el otro pero sorprendentemente terminaron encontrando la manera de enamorarse y acabaron viviendo felices por siempre. bien por ellos!
ahora bien… ¿la próxima pareja de esta serie? estoy intrigada porque genuinamente no sé cómo la autora va a hacer para que esos dos tengan sentido.
jameson y garrison son dos polos opuestos que no soportan estar en la misma habitación que el otro pero sorprendentemente terminaron encontrando la manera de enamorarse y acabaron viviendo felices por siempre. bien por ellos!
ahora bien… ¿la próxima pareja de esta serie? estoy intrigada porque genuinamente no sé cómo la autora va a hacer para que esos dos tengan sentido.
January 13, 2024
If you play a sport and you're gay or bi, this book will ring true. The courage to come out to your team in a locker room, no less, will resound. So if you're tempted to put this one down BEFORE you reach that locker room scene, do yourself a big favor: Stick it out. Likewise with the family graduation party scenes.
Bates and Dixon are two jocks who have hated each other since kindergarten. Well, you know what they say about hate, don't you? The fact that the second half love story is as veritable as the first half tale of hate speaks to the skill of this author to capture both sides of the same coin.
Bates and Dixon are two jocks who have hated each other since kindergarten. Well, you know what they say about hate, don't you? The fact that the second half love story is as veritable as the first half tale of hate speaks to the skill of this author to capture both sides of the same coin.
Read
February 13, 2024I tried my best but I just don’t feel this book at all so I thought it’s the best to DNF it before I push myself through something that I don’t really enjoy.
September 29, 2024
2.5⭐️
3🌶️
Honestly Guys, This Book Was Good But The Enemies To Lovers Was Really Meh But I Really Am Interested In The Other Characters In This Series So I Will Continue But This One Is So Far My Least Fav But I Like How Short It Was And The Audiobook Was Pretty Good.🫶💕
3🌶️
Honestly Guys, This Book Was Good But The Enemies To Lovers Was Really Meh But I Really Am Interested In The Other Characters In This Series So I Will Continue But This One Is So Far My Least Fav But I Like How Short It Was And The Audiobook Was Pretty Good.🫶💕
January 8, 2023
Guarded takes us back to the small town of Kensley, Kansas, the year after BFFs Kingston and Camden graduated. I grew up in a small town in Texas, so I get the whole bit about high school football being a religion and players being royalty. The setting felt familiar, as did the characters.
I did have a bit of a rough go for the first part of the book because the chapter headings use first names, but because they're football players, four out of five times one of the MCs was addressed by someone else, or thought about the other MC, they used the last name. With those first names being Jameson and Garrison, I stayed confused for a while, trying to differentiate between the characters enough to know who was Bates and who was Dixon. It kept me from connecting with them as much in the beginning as I would like to have. Maybe it was the cold medicine, too, I don't know.
At any rate, once I connected with them, I enjoyed the progression of their relationship, which included furtive but hot scenes in which these young men explored each other and discovered themselves.
Will they make it together in the long run? Who knows, but I enjoyed the journey to where they ended up for now.
For me, the most compelling character was Jameson's younger brother Adam. He seems like he's got a story to tell, too, and if so, I'll definitely read it.
I did have a bit of a rough go for the first part of the book because the chapter headings use first names, but because they're football players, four out of five times one of the MCs was addressed by someone else, or thought about the other MC, they used the last name. With those first names being Jameson and Garrison, I stayed confused for a while, trying to differentiate between the characters enough to know who was Bates and who was Dixon. It kept me from connecting with them as much in the beginning as I would like to have. Maybe it was the cold medicine, too, I don't know.
At any rate, once I connected with them, I enjoyed the progression of their relationship, which included furtive but hot scenes in which these young men explored each other and discovered themselves.
Will they make it together in the long run? Who knows, but I enjoyed the journey to where they ended up for now.
For me, the most compelling character was Jameson's younger brother Adam. He seems like he's got a story to tell, too, and if so, I'll definitely read it.
January 16, 2023
Sweet High school read, loved it and couldn’t put it down.
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