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If Only He Knew
Addy
I have been in love with Beau since I was sixteen. The trouble is Beau is my best friend and straight. Finally, I've decided to move on. I can no longer pine for someone who is never going to love me back. But why is he suddenly acting so strange. Then something happens one night that changes everything.
Do I have the strength to tell him how I feel and risk losing his friendship forever.
Beau
Addy is my best friend. I've been in love with him for as long as I can remember, but Addy thinks I'm straight. For years I've living a lie, to scared to tell him the truth. Too frightened that once I've told him, I will lose him forever. Yet now I find myself at a crossroads.
Do I stay and fight, tell him the truth, ot finally let him go?
I have been in love with Beau since I was sixteen. The trouble is Beau is my best friend and straight. Finally, I've decided to move on. I can no longer pine for someone who is never going to love me back. But why is he suddenly acting so strange. Then something happens one night that changes everything.
Do I have the strength to tell him how I feel and risk losing his friendship forever.
Beau
Addy is my best friend. I've been in love with him for as long as I can remember, but Addy thinks I'm straight. For years I've living a lie, to scared to tell him the truth. Too frightened that once I've told him, I will lose him forever. Yet now I find myself at a crossroads.
Do I stay and fight, tell him the truth, ot finally let him go?
333 pages, ebook
First published January 31, 2023
39 people are currently reading
128 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews
January 27, 2023
*** I reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.***
If Only He Knew is a complicated love story. Addy and Beau have been best friends for over ten years, since they were sixteen, and have both been secretly in love with each other. The issue is that neither knows about the other's true feelings. Their Unrequited love doesn't even begin to cover the longing each has had for the other, thus creating major conflict now as adults.
In the present day neither knows about the other's true feelings, therefore tensions begin to arise due to many misunderstandings regarding both Addy and Beau's love lives. Addy feels left out and ignored meanwhile Beau is heartbroken at the thought of losing the love of his life to another.
I thought this story was fascinating in how it used the Dual POV's to radically shift your perception and understanding of the situation. Because of this main conflict both Addy and Beau's interpretation is severely different because they are missing this vital piece of information. This can get frustrating over time as the reader because it does go on for a while.
Overall I enjoyed this story, even though it was a bit dramatic and over the top. Beau and Addy have great chemistry and you can tell their bond is very sincere and genuine.
If Only He Knew is a complicated love story. Addy and Beau have been best friends for over ten years, since they were sixteen, and have both been secretly in love with each other. The issue is that neither knows about the other's true feelings. Their Unrequited love doesn't even begin to cover the longing each has had for the other, thus creating major conflict now as adults.
In the present day neither knows about the other's true feelings, therefore tensions begin to arise due to many misunderstandings regarding both Addy and Beau's love lives. Addy feels left out and ignored meanwhile Beau is heartbroken at the thought of losing the love of his life to another.
I thought this story was fascinating in how it used the Dual POV's to radically shift your perception and understanding of the situation. Because of this main conflict both Addy and Beau's interpretation is severely different because they are missing this vital piece of information. This can get frustrating over time as the reader because it does go on for a while.
Overall I enjoyed this story, even though it was a bit dramatic and over the top. Beau and Addy have great chemistry and you can tell their bond is very sincere and genuine.
December 5, 2023
✰ 3 stars ✰
“Home is so much more than walls and a roof. A home is a place where you can be yourself. Be free. That’s what Beau gives me. He gives me his unconditional love.”
If Only He Knew is a book that featured one of my favorite tropes 'best friends to lovers'. Throw in in some misdirected miscommunication, some unrequited pining, unwarranted jealousy to the prospect of a new lover, first kiss fireworks and long-awaited spicy times, and an unsupportive family homophobic to their very soul, then you have the complete ingredients to define the plot. Not to say that I didn't enjoy it - it's just that it was nothing new for me to walk away with after reading this simple but cute and sweet story.
Best friends, Addy and Beau have been roommates for more than a decade, best friends even longer than that. And for as long as their friendship has lasted, Addy has harbored a fierce unrequited love for his straight best friend - never once thinking that they have the possibility of being something more. 😔 Little does he know, that perhaps the sentiment may be returned - that it would only take a new stranger to arrive in his life and show interest in another for the jealousy wheels in Beau's heart to stir to life. 🩷🩷 That perhaps, all this time when he wanted to be the one by Addy's side, was simply that he wanted to be the only one by his side.
“Husband.” It sounds nice on my lips, but this is something I’ve never even thought about. But maybe it’s time. Time to forget about something that is never going to happen, and time to try to start moving on with my own personal life. If tonight has shown me anything, it's that we might already be drifting apart.
It was frustrating and still rather sweet to see Beau and Addy were misreading each other's actions, the avoidance, the reluctance to admit that there's something more between them, opting to choose rather to stay apart from the other in order to grow up. It was also very cheeky to see how much of their small town community, the old ladies especially, were rooting for them, from day one, already insisting that they were the embodiment of the perfect married old couple. 😆 It was important, imo, to show how much the townspeople accepted them, embraced them in their sexuality and their appreciated their love.
It was a stark contrast to how homophobic and religious Addy's own family was - after his father's death, his mother and brother did not shy away from calling him out on how much damnation he would face, resorting so far so as to insist upon conversion therapy and rallying the entire neighborhood to champion their train of mind. Ugh, they really were portrayed in the most awful way - prejudiced, narrow-minded, and simply disrespectful of Addy for everything he did. Good riddance! 😤 I loved even that Beau didn't take any crap from Addy's good-for-nothing brother - rather openly voicing how much he loved Addy, how they were together and would always be together as a couple. 🤜🏻🤛🏻
It was only with the love of Beau's own welcoming and loving parents and James, that handsome lawyer stranger who propelled Beau's own realization to his feelings for his best friend, that they were compelled to back off. Honestly, James was the real MVP of this story - he knew when to back off when sparks didn't fly, he was a perfect friend and gentleman to Addy, when he needed his encouragement and advice in how to grab Beau by the lapels and just make his intentions known! 🥰🥰
“It may have taken us a long time to get here, but Beau has given me everything I ever wanted. Beau gave me a home, a family, but more importantly, he gave me his heart.”
As much as the trajectory of the story was predictable, I still enjoyed this light-hearted, well, aside from the pains of Addy's ridiculous family, it was light-hearted on the angst and sweet on the spice department, too. Because when there are two best friends who you just know are meant to be, then the conclusion is all that more enjoyable in the end, no matter what. 😊😊
“Home is so much more than walls and a roof. A home is a place where you can be yourself. Be free. That’s what Beau gives me. He gives me his unconditional love.”
If Only He Knew is a book that featured one of my favorite tropes 'best friends to lovers'. Throw in in some misdirected miscommunication, some unrequited pining, unwarranted jealousy to the prospect of a new lover, first kiss fireworks and long-awaited spicy times, and an unsupportive family homophobic to their very soul, then you have the complete ingredients to define the plot. Not to say that I didn't enjoy it - it's just that it was nothing new for me to walk away with after reading this simple but cute and sweet story.
Best friends, Addy and Beau have been roommates for more than a decade, best friends even longer than that. And for as long as their friendship has lasted, Addy has harbored a fierce unrequited love for his straight best friend - never once thinking that they have the possibility of being something more. 😔 Little does he know, that perhaps the sentiment may be returned - that it would only take a new stranger to arrive in his life and show interest in another for the jealousy wheels in Beau's heart to stir to life. 🩷🩷 That perhaps, all this time when he wanted to be the one by Addy's side, was simply that he wanted to be the only one by his side.
“Husband.” It sounds nice on my lips, but this is something I’ve never even thought about. But maybe it’s time. Time to forget about something that is never going to happen, and time to try to start moving on with my own personal life. If tonight has shown me anything, it's that we might already be drifting apart.
It was frustrating and still rather sweet to see Beau and Addy were misreading each other's actions, the avoidance, the reluctance to admit that there's something more between them, opting to choose rather to stay apart from the other in order to grow up. It was also very cheeky to see how much of their small town community, the old ladies especially, were rooting for them, from day one, already insisting that they were the embodiment of the perfect married old couple. 😆 It was important, imo, to show how much the townspeople accepted them, embraced them in their sexuality and their appreciated their love.
It was a stark contrast to how homophobic and religious Addy's own family was - after his father's death, his mother and brother did not shy away from calling him out on how much damnation he would face, resorting so far so as to insist upon conversion therapy and rallying the entire neighborhood to champion their train of mind. Ugh, they really were portrayed in the most awful way - prejudiced, narrow-minded, and simply disrespectful of Addy for everything he did. Good riddance! 😤 I loved even that Beau didn't take any crap from Addy's good-for-nothing brother - rather openly voicing how much he loved Addy, how they were together and would always be together as a couple. 🤜🏻🤛🏻
It was only with the love of Beau's own welcoming and loving parents and James, that handsome lawyer stranger who propelled Beau's own realization to his feelings for his best friend, that they were compelled to back off. Honestly, James was the real MVP of this story - he knew when to back off when sparks didn't fly, he was a perfect friend and gentleman to Addy, when he needed his encouragement and advice in how to grab Beau by the lapels and just make his intentions known! 🥰🥰
“It may have taken us a long time to get here, but Beau has given me everything I ever wanted. Beau gave me a home, a family, but more importantly, he gave me his heart.”
As much as the trajectory of the story was predictable, I still enjoyed this light-hearted, well, aside from the pains of Addy's ridiculous family, it was light-hearted on the angst and sweet on the spice department, too. Because when there are two best friends who you just know are meant to be, then the conclusion is all that more enjoyable in the end, no matter what. 😊😊
January 27, 2023
3.5 stars
I loved Beau and Addy, their friendshp, their connection, their will to give up everything to make the other happy. I loved how they were there for each other during the hardest times of their lives, how they support each other through everything.
But there was no communication between them, they were too overwhelmed by their feelings and kept avoiding each other, making all the wrong assumptions. And while I can understand they didn't want to ruin their friendship, I cannot deal with the fact that Beau hid his sexuality from his best friend for over a decade.
Too much angst, but still a beautiful love story (and the ladies of the gossip tree are adorable).
I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest review
I loved Beau and Addy, their friendshp, their connection, their will to give up everything to make the other happy. I loved how they were there for each other during the hardest times of their lives, how they support each other through everything.
But there was no communication between them, they were too overwhelmed by their feelings and kept avoiding each other, making all the wrong assumptions. And while I can understand they didn't want to ruin their friendship, I cannot deal with the fact that Beau hid his sexuality from his best friend for over a decade.
Too much angst, but still a beautiful love story (and the ladies of the gossip tree are adorable).
I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest review
January 26, 2023
Addy and Beau..childhood friends who over the years are secretly in love with one another, completely unaware the feelings are mutual.
This is very angsty with the emotional whiplash of “should I tell him” then something getting in the the way and jealousy. I quite like that in books where they work for it. It did however come across very immature considering how old these guys are but again, it worked for them.
However, I just felt the story wasn’t consistently flowing, it would go off in a different direction suddenly to do with Addy’s homophobic family and I never really felt that part of the story had it’s time to be fully told for it to have an impact. I would’ve liked more scenes with his mother and brother in more detail.
I did like the 2 MCs and the gossip tree ladies and the whole small town concept. Overall, it was an enjoyable read and I’m sure will be popular.
This is very angsty with the emotional whiplash of “should I tell him” then something getting in the the way and jealousy. I quite like that in books where they work for it. It did however come across very immature considering how old these guys are but again, it worked for them.
However, I just felt the story wasn’t consistently flowing, it would go off in a different direction suddenly to do with Addy’s homophobic family and I never really felt that part of the story had it’s time to be fully told for it to have an impact. I would’ve liked more scenes with his mother and brother in more detail.
I did like the 2 MCs and the gossip tree ladies and the whole small town concept. Overall, it was an enjoyable read and I’m sure will be popular.
February 2, 2023
Such a feel good romance with some spice sprinkled in and angst that you feel in your gut. Beau and Addy are freaking adorable. Addys family however can go burn, the amount of rage that they stir up in me is not measurable. I just…that his own mother and Chase his brother are literally the most hate filled venomous horrible people is bad enough but it truly enrages me that there are still people in our society that think and act just like them. I probably would have thrown my kindle out the window if it weren’t for Addy being the sweet little marshmallow and Beau’s heart of gold. Beau’s family are literally the sweetest and the gossip tree ladies well we all need a found family like them. The fact that this is based around real friends makes my heart so happy. Even Jamie was a cool dude and good friend. But those little old ladies really have my heart.
February 7, 2023
Wow!!!
This is what I want when it comes to friends to lovers. My favorite is best friends to lovers and this was exactly that. Best friends for years and neither told the other how they felt. So many feels. And the town is amazing. I hope we see this town again. I especially want to know how things are going for a couple side characters.
This is what I want when it comes to friends to lovers. My favorite is best friends to lovers and this was exactly that. Best friends for years and neither told the other how they felt. So many feels. And the town is amazing. I hope we see this town again. I especially want to know how things are going for a couple side characters.
February 9, 2023
Addy and Beau have been in love with one another for years.But neither of them have wanted to risk their friendship by taking the next step.Now, there's lots to like about these two lead characters and the gradual build of their relationship. However, I did want to knock their heads together at times! While I appreciate that people have stuff they have to work out in their heads, continually describing their thoughts and anxieties, took up so much of the story, I just wished that they would've communicated more. I found the lack of it infuriating at times. However, I liked the small town setting with well meaning local gossips supporting budding romances. I also loved the cute ending, where Beau really showed how much he loved Addy.
February 5, 2023
4.5 Stars
Kelsey Hodge’s take on best friends-to-lovers is well-written, full of deep emotions from the MCs and is not a straight shot from friends to bedmates. It involves Addy, he of the religiously homophobic, conversion therapy family, trying to get over his years-long crush on his straight best friend and Beau, he of the parents who assume that the best friends, roommates and attached-at-the-hip young men are already dating and have been for quite some time. Addy attempts dating another man and uses the time leading up to that date to put some much-needed space between him and Beau. After a few misunderstandings, kiss witnesses and general unhappiness with their crumbling, formerly rock-solid friendship, Beau decides to move out.
Readers are taken on a journey of Beau’s internal struggle with coming out to his best friend, who has been out for years and assumes Beau is straight, and Addy’s internal struggle on keeping his best friend close by, but being unable to continue handling wanting what he thinks he can never have. In addition to their personal struggles, Beau is subjected to being asked to go to conversion therapy by Addy’s heinously homophobic brother, hearing how Addy must transmitted his sexuality onto Beau, the former football star whose big NFL dreams were ended after an injury in college, and how he was worth saving. Addy, on the other hand, is repeatedly asked by his brother and mother to leave their small town because, unlike Beau he isn’t worth saving, and won’t be missed by anyone in town. Spoiler alert: His brother is an idiot.
While our characters get their happy ending, it isn’t as easy as 1-2-3 and their journey is beautiful, emotional and worth the time to read and get to know them.
I received a complimentary copy of this book and, as always, my review is unpaid and honest.
If Only He Knew
Kelsey Hodge
Kelsey Hodge’s take on best friends-to-lovers is well-written, full of deep emotions from the MCs and is not a straight shot from friends to bedmates. It involves Addy, he of the religiously homophobic, conversion therapy family, trying to get over his years-long crush on his straight best friend and Beau, he of the parents who assume that the best friends, roommates and attached-at-the-hip young men are already dating and have been for quite some time. Addy attempts dating another man and uses the time leading up to that date to put some much-needed space between him and Beau. After a few misunderstandings, kiss witnesses and general unhappiness with their crumbling, formerly rock-solid friendship, Beau decides to move out.
Readers are taken on a journey of Beau’s internal struggle with coming out to his best friend, who has been out for years and assumes Beau is straight, and Addy’s internal struggle on keeping his best friend close by, but being unable to continue handling wanting what he thinks he can never have. In addition to their personal struggles, Beau is subjected to being asked to go to conversion therapy by Addy’s heinously homophobic brother, hearing how Addy must transmitted his sexuality onto Beau, the former football star whose big NFL dreams were ended after an injury in college, and how he was worth saving. Addy, on the other hand, is repeatedly asked by his brother and mother to leave their small town because, unlike Beau he isn’t worth saving, and won’t be missed by anyone in town. Spoiler alert: His brother is an idiot.
While our characters get their happy ending, it isn’t as easy as 1-2-3 and their journey is beautiful, emotional and worth the time to read and get to know them.
I received a complimentary copy of this book and, as always, my review is unpaid and honest.
If Only He Knew
Kelsey Hodge
February 1, 2023
This story is heartbreaking. Beau and Addy have been bff’s through school and bad situations always supporting each other. Their friendship is special and both are afraid of loosing it. There is a strong presence of the secondary characters in this story that fill in all the spaces intervention is needed. There is a more than strong presence of both families of these guys. Addy’s mom and brother have done so many hurtful things and yet he keeps trying to have a relationship with them. Beau has a great family who not only support him but also sort of adopts Addy. As time and life goes on with these two both have issues that force them to examine their relationship. Beau all this time has led people to believe he is straight. Addy gay is out and proud of who he is. Both are afraid to admit to their love of the other for fear of loosing what they have and then there is the little issue of what Beau really is. When Addy becomes interested in someone else, both have to make up their mind what they want for their future. Addy’s treatment by his mom and brother tore at my heart. It is unbelievable a mother could feel this way. The small town’s support of both Addy and Beau made me feel hope there are people who have heart toward each other. I loved the characters in this story. I enjoyed the friendship between the two guys and the everyday happenings that made this story so believable.
January 31, 2023
Emotional! Amazing! Must read!!
Have you ever had a crush on your best friend or loved your best friend and couldn't say anything for fear of losing your friendship? That's Addy and Beau. Addy has a family that doesn't treat him so well. Often through the book, I wanted to shake some sense into him and say Addy!! Look at how they treat you, quit putting yourself through that turmoil. I loved how Beau has always been there for Addy. Through all the ups and downs. But just like in real life, things are not always as they seem. Even best friends keep secrets from one another. If Only He Knew is the perfect title to this book. The way Kelsey wrote their story felt as if I was there. As if I was experiencing what they were going through. It's emotional at times. You'll laugh at times. You'll get angry and frustrated at times. But that just goes to show you how well a book is written. It's a page turner and pulls you in from the very first page. I HIGHLY recommend Addy and Beau's story. You'll fall in love with them just like I did. This book deserves way more than five stars. Congrats, Kelsey, on another phenomenal book! ❤️
Have you ever had a crush on your best friend or loved your best friend and couldn't say anything for fear of losing your friendship? That's Addy and Beau. Addy has a family that doesn't treat him so well. Often through the book, I wanted to shake some sense into him and say Addy!! Look at how they treat you, quit putting yourself through that turmoil. I loved how Beau has always been there for Addy. Through all the ups and downs. But just like in real life, things are not always as they seem. Even best friends keep secrets from one another. If Only He Knew is the perfect title to this book. The way Kelsey wrote their story felt as if I was there. As if I was experiencing what they were going through. It's emotional at times. You'll laugh at times. You'll get angry and frustrated at times. But that just goes to show you how well a book is written. It's a page turner and pulls you in from the very first page. I HIGHLY recommend Addy and Beau's story. You'll fall in love with them just like I did. This book deserves way more than five stars. Congrats, Kelsey, on another phenomenal book! ❤️
February 9, 2023
A Joyfully Jay review.
2.75 stars
When I see a best friends-to-lovers book, I will usually select to read it and that was the case here as well. Addy and Beau are best friends, but much of this book didn’t work for me. When we meet Addy and Beau, they are out of college, have their careers, and are roommates in the small town where they grew up. We get POVs from both men and we do learn a lot about each of them. However, there was no new ground covered here and what was covered wasn’t all that enticing for me. Addy came out to his mother and brother after his father died, and they were cruel and unsupportive. His family members were not well developed characters and they were stereotypical religious caricatures that Addy kept trying to have a relationship with for years. Beau has been fully supportive of Addy, but it got maddening that he never told Addy who he really was or shared his feelings and in a sense left Addy on his own.
Read Michelle's review in its entirety here.
2.75 stars
When I see a best friends-to-lovers book, I will usually select to read it and that was the case here as well. Addy and Beau are best friends, but much of this book didn’t work for me. When we meet Addy and Beau, they are out of college, have their careers, and are roommates in the small town where they grew up. We get POVs from both men and we do learn a lot about each of them. However, there was no new ground covered here and what was covered wasn’t all that enticing for me. Addy came out to his mother and brother after his father died, and they were cruel and unsupportive. His family members were not well developed characters and they were stereotypical religious caricatures that Addy kept trying to have a relationship with for years. Beau has been fully supportive of Addy, but it got maddening that he never told Addy who he really was or shared his feelings and in a sense left Addy on his own.
Read Michelle's review in its entirety here.
February 10, 2023
If Only He Knew is my first read from Kelsey Hodge, and it's a friends-to-lovers romance, which is one of my favorite romance tropes. Beau and Addy have been best friends for what feels like forever--and it feels like they've been keeping quite a few secrets for just as long, the biggest one being how much they're in love with each other. Now, part of what makes for a great friends-to-lovers story for me is the revelation--basically when the characters admit their feelings. As the reader, we know how they feel, and while I love me some slow burn, there is such a thing as too much of a good thing. It took, for lack of a better word, forever for these two to 'fess up. And gah, the lack of communication killed me... These two were thirty, not teenagers, yet there were all these secrets, and not just the one regarding being in love. But I admit that there was something about Beau and Addy that made me want to continue cheering them on from start to finish, even when the frustration and impatience amped up on my end. And as for Addy's mother and brother? Good riddance to bad rubbish. Three stars.
January 25, 2023
This story of best friends to lovers is similar to others but one difference is that both MC's are absolutely adorable. You can't help feeling such fondness for them. This adds validity to both of their secret predicaments. The story is written in duel POV which is my favourite because I know what both characters are thinking. There is a lot of homophobia addressed in this book, which always always grounds me and reminds me that it is still so current. Addy and Beau bring this story to life the author made Addy into such a sunshine character and his relationship with the older ladies is brilliant. Beau is such a patient and kind character; his relationship with his parents was fantastic. There is angst in terms of the homophobia and also when Addy and Beau have problems with their friendship. We were introduced to several secondary characters; I would definitely welcome future follow on books from this author. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
February 8, 2023
Addy and Beau have been best friends for a very long time. They are truly there for one another through thick and thin. Addy has been in love with Beau for years. But he always felt fortunate that his straight friend would stick by him. But Beau is not so straight and he too has been in love with Addy. Both are afraid to speak to the other to find out if the feelings are mutual. But the level of caring that they give one another should have been a tip-off of some kind to each of them. The issues that they deal with after having spent ten years together, many of them pining for one another could have been resolved if one of them would have said something. I thought it was adorable that when they finally got together, many of the people in their community assumed that they were already together, just letting other people know about them and they were being encouraged to put a ring on it. If only one of them spoke up earlier and saved them both the angst. Good story.
I received an ARC from GRR and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received an ARC from GRR and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 14, 2023
Addy and Beau have been best friends forever, but Addy has been secretly in love with him, but it makes no sense to pine after a straight man. But what Addy doesn’t know is that Beau is not straight, and he has been secretly in love with him for years. Crushing on your best friend is hard, especially if they do not reciprocate your feelings. In this case, both best friends are in love with the other. It is difficult to put yourself out there because rejection is harsh, but sometimes, it takes bravery and a little recklessness to own up to your feelings and to take a chance on love.
I really liked this book. It was emotional and moving. Seeing the two friends together, you could tell they really cared about each other, and they have a beautiful friendship. When they finally get together, they make such a sweet, loving couple. I am really glad they took the chance, and they went after a relationship. I love that they get their HEA. Well written and well developed characters make this a great book.
I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I really liked this book. It was emotional and moving. Seeing the two friends together, you could tell they really cared about each other, and they have a beautiful friendship. When they finally get together, they make such a sweet, loving couple. I am really glad they took the chance, and they went after a relationship. I love that they get their HEA. Well written and well developed characters make this a great book.
I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 26, 2023
Addy has been in love with Beau since they were young teens but the words have never left his mouth. Beau has been in love with Addy for the same amount of time but he has kept the words buried deep.
I’ve read a lot of sweet stories lately but this one was particularly memorable. Actually my only complaint was that it took them too long to admit their feelings.
Having grown up in small towns I realize that gossip can be devastating. The ladies of the “gossip tree” are awesome and the way I wish all gossip could be. Most of the characters were enjoyable, but…It’s hard to remember that in the enlightened society we (should?) live in that homophobia is so rampant. I truly believe that Addy did the only thing he could do to get closure and move on with his life.
I have loved watching this authors growth. They have improved with every book and I get so much enjoyment from their books. It just makes me happy.
I received an arc of this book.
I’ve read a lot of sweet stories lately but this one was particularly memorable. Actually my only complaint was that it took them too long to admit their feelings.
Having grown up in small towns I realize that gossip can be devastating. The ladies of the “gossip tree” are awesome and the way I wish all gossip could be. Most of the characters were enjoyable, but…It’s hard to remember that in the enlightened society we (should?) live in that homophobia is so rampant. I truly believe that Addy did the only thing he could do to get closure and move on with his life.
I have loved watching this authors growth. They have improved with every book and I get so much enjoyment from their books. It just makes me happy.
I received an arc of this book.
January 31, 2023
Absolutely phenomenal!
I loved this book! This is the first book I’ve read by Kelsey but it definitely will not be the last! The story of Addy and Beau is filled with friendship and love but also some sadness and hurt and it is a story that is well worth reading. Friends forever, neither has the courage to tell the other their true feelings. This will lead to a bit of an emotional rollercoaster as they navigate not only their relationship but the possibility of one of them finding someone else. Addy will bravely deal with the rejection he receives from those who should love him the most and it is heartwarming to see Beau’s defense of him. The “gossip tree” of ladies in the town are an absolute hoot and Beau’s parents are amazing. Add this all together and you get an emotional but wonderful heartfelt story of two friends who find love in the arms of each other and I highly recommend it!
I read an ARC copy of this book and am volunteering my honest review.
I loved this book! This is the first book I’ve read by Kelsey but it definitely will not be the last! The story of Addy and Beau is filled with friendship and love but also some sadness and hurt and it is a story that is well worth reading. Friends forever, neither has the courage to tell the other their true feelings. This will lead to a bit of an emotional rollercoaster as they navigate not only their relationship but the possibility of one of them finding someone else. Addy will bravely deal with the rejection he receives from those who should love him the most and it is heartwarming to see Beau’s defense of him. The “gossip tree” of ladies in the town are an absolute hoot and Beau’s parents are amazing. Add this all together and you get an emotional but wonderful heartfelt story of two friends who find love in the arms of each other and I highly recommend it!
I read an ARC copy of this book and am volunteering my honest review.
February 2, 2023
If Only He Knew is a beautifully written best friends to lovers story with all the feels about Addy and Beau. I really enjoyed this book from the very beginning. Addy and Beau are so relatable and so is life in their small town. I love Beau's courage. Sometimes it takes an outside force to make us admit things we hold close to our hearts to the outside world. I can relate to Addy wanting to be involved with his family even though he's better off away from that toxic environment. Family is so much more than blood. I love the way Addy trusts Beau. They are so sweet together as friends and even more so as more than friends. I just love the gossip tree ladies. They seem like a fun bunch. It took them awhile, but Addy and Beau got their happy ending and made a new friend in the process. I definitely recommend this book, it's one I will enjoy again and again.
I voluntarily reviewed an arc of this book.
I voluntarily reviewed an arc of this book.
February 3, 2023
Wonderful story
This was a wonderful story about best friends who finally reveal their true feelings for each other after nearly losing everything. Addy and Beau are best friend goals having been there for each other through loss and a life changing injury. But after pining for Beau since he was 16, Addy decided it's time to finally try and move on. Enter a new handsome gay man in town (who definitely should get his own book). Seeing Addy start to get a little distant makes Beau realize he needs to step up and tell Addy that he is also gay and is madly in love with him. There was a lot of miscommunication, jealousy, and family drama that almost separated these two forever. Thanks to the gossip group (loved them!) and a less than sizzling kiss, Addy and Beau get their much deserved HEA.
This was a wonderful story about best friends who finally reveal their true feelings for each other after nearly losing everything. Addy and Beau are best friend goals having been there for each other through loss and a life changing injury. But after pining for Beau since he was 16, Addy decided it's time to finally try and move on. Enter a new handsome gay man in town (who definitely should get his own book). Seeing Addy start to get a little distant makes Beau realize he needs to step up and tell Addy that he is also gay and is madly in love with him. There was a lot of miscommunication, jealousy, and family drama that almost separated these two forever. Thanks to the gossip group (loved them!) and a less than sizzling kiss, Addy and Beau get their much deserved HEA.
February 7, 2023
If Only He Knew is a sweet best friends to lovers mm romance.
Addy and Beau are so clueless but sweet too. They live together, do pretty much everything together but never told each other how they feel.
Equally Beau has never told addy that he's not straight, which makes things even more awkward.
Addy has the worst family too. Very religious and has made it clear how they feel and how everyone should feel. They are very in your face and you just want to scream and shout at them.
When things get too much and Beau moves out without telling Addy because he now is seeing someone, my heart broke for him. But when they finally come together and he confesses its heartbreaking and great all at the same time.
A perfect read with best friends that are fiercely loyal and would do anything for the other.
Addy and Beau are so clueless but sweet too. They live together, do pretty much everything together but never told each other how they feel.
Equally Beau has never told addy that he's not straight, which makes things even more awkward.
Addy has the worst family too. Very religious and has made it clear how they feel and how everyone should feel. They are very in your face and you just want to scream and shout at them.
When things get too much and Beau moves out without telling Addy because he now is seeing someone, my heart broke for him. But when they finally come together and he confesses its heartbreaking and great all at the same time.
A perfect read with best friends that are fiercely loyal and would do anything for the other.
January 26, 2023
Wow, this book was a bit of a rollercoaster but I absolutely adored it! Addy and Beau are such a great couple.
Don’t get me wrong, I love a good friends to lovers story and so going into this one I thought I knew what to expect but this story has so much more depth and angst to it than I was expecting and I absolutely adored it!
I loved how Beau and Addy were so willing to drop everything when the other needed them and how they were so integral to each others lives that they each didn’t know how to cope without the other. I also adored the ladies of the gossip tree and they had me giggling away at times.
An outstanding book and while it is the first I think I have read from this author, it definitely won’t be the last!
Don’t get me wrong, I love a good friends to lovers story and so going into this one I thought I knew what to expect but this story has so much more depth and angst to it than I was expecting and I absolutely adored it!
I loved how Beau and Addy were so willing to drop everything when the other needed them and how they were so integral to each others lives that they each didn’t know how to cope without the other. I also adored the ladies of the gossip tree and they had me giggling away at times.
An outstanding book and while it is the first I think I have read from this author, it definitely won’t be the last!
January 31, 2023
Ohhh Beau & Addie..
This was a true friends to lovers slow burn. I was quite frustrated with the both of them at times. Then I thought about it in realistic terms and gathered that it was probably closer to an in real life scenario than my idealistic quick on the draw wishes. It did make for good plot & suspense building, and made me more adamant for them to get their hea.
*Kinda Spoiler Alert*
Addie's family situation both saddened & pissed me off, namely because people actually experience this. He tried so hard and my heart went out to him, and by extension everyone else he represents.
All in all this I enjoyed their story. Shout out to the gossip tree, those little old ladies were a riot!
This was a true friends to lovers slow burn. I was quite frustrated with the both of them at times. Then I thought about it in realistic terms and gathered that it was probably closer to an in real life scenario than my idealistic quick on the draw wishes. It did make for good plot & suspense building, and made me more adamant for them to get their hea.
*Kinda Spoiler Alert*
Addie's family situation both saddened & pissed me off, namely because people actually experience this. He tried so hard and my heart went out to him, and by extension everyone else he represents.
All in all this I enjoyed their story. Shout out to the gossip tree, those little old ladies were a riot!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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February 1, 2023I loved this book! It tugged at my heart, made me believe in love, and had me rooting for Addy and Beau. Both secretly in love with one another, yet neither willing to share their feelings as it is simply too risky and both are afraid of losing their friendship. These lifelong friends always have one another's back and it was fun to see them not live a secret and become more than friends. This book is beautifully written, generated so many emotions for me in ways I was not expecting. Give into the slow burn nature of this book, go along with the ride. It is about the relationship not the steam, chemistry or passion, it is about developing a beautiful relationship. I did receive an ARC and leave this honest review.
February 3, 2023
Beau and Addy ❤️
Ok, so I really liked this book however I have to say that I have never been so damn frustrated at the pining and lost opportunities between 2 MC's...Ever!! At the 72% mark of the book, I literally threw my hands up and said "come on guys get it together". With that being said, this book was a really endearing story about two best friends that have loved each other since they were teens and remained each other's constant throughout good times and some terrible times. It took some time, a trio of sweet & funny old ladies and a whole lot of miscommunications to realize that they've been in a relationship all along, the ending was worth the wait!!! I'd recommend this book after all.
* I received an ARC from GRR, this is my open and honest review *
Ok, so I really liked this book however I have to say that I have never been so damn frustrated at the pining and lost opportunities between 2 MC's...Ever!! At the 72% mark of the book, I literally threw my hands up and said "come on guys get it together". With that being said, this book was a really endearing story about two best friends that have loved each other since they were teens and remained each other's constant throughout good times and some terrible times. It took some time, a trio of sweet & funny old ladies and a whole lot of miscommunications to realize that they've been in a relationship all along, the ending was worth the wait!!! I'd recommend this book after all.
* I received an ARC from GRR, this is my open and honest review *
February 6, 2023
SLOW BURN BEDT FRIENDS TO LOVERS!
This is the first book from this author that I have read and it most certainly won’t be the last!
A slow burn that will leave you as reader frustrated at the naive misconception regarding their friendship status that these two souls has been living since high school!
Both were crushing bad on the other but was too afraid to ruin the beautiful bond that they formed but now ten years later one of them finally wakes up and smells the coffee that has been brewing for years and finally gets with the program!
A sweet slow burn romance about realising who your true family is and where your true home is!
I voluntarily received an ARC from GRR for my honest opinion of this book.
This is the first book from this author that I have read and it most certainly won’t be the last!
A slow burn that will leave you as reader frustrated at the naive misconception regarding their friendship status that these two souls has been living since high school!
Both were crushing bad on the other but was too afraid to ruin the beautiful bond that they formed but now ten years later one of them finally wakes up and smells the coffee that has been brewing for years and finally gets with the program!
A sweet slow burn romance about realising who your true family is and where your true home is!
I voluntarily received an ARC from GRR for my honest opinion of this book.
February 15, 2023
If Only He Knew by Kelsey Hodge is about a poor boy and a rich boy who falls in love. But I loved the heat and the connection these two have. I really loved that this story is told in a dual POV. I liked being in both characters’ minds. It really helped me to understand them better.
Beau and Addy: Addy is the hottest mechanic in town. Beau and he are best friends. When Beau came out gay it was Addy who accepted him no matter what. Addy had always been the nerd and Beau the popular guy. These two are the other halves of each other.
I loved this story. I love best friends falling in love. I really recommend this book to the romantic at heart.
Five Shooting Stars
Beau and Addy: Addy is the hottest mechanic in town. Beau and he are best friends. When Beau came out gay it was Addy who accepted him no matter what. Addy had always been the nerd and Beau the popular guy. These two are the other halves of each other.
I loved this story. I love best friends falling in love. I really recommend this book to the romantic at heart.
Five Shooting Stars
January 26, 2023
This book was absolutely amazing. It has everything a friends to lovers romance needs and then some.
Addy and Beau had my heart from the very first page and then did mean things to it before putting it back together in a nice neat package.
I loved Addy so much and how strong he was with all the things his family kept throwing at him and I loved how Beau was there every step of the way.
Such a great read.
I received an ARC of this book from Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest opinion.
Addy and Beau had my heart from the very first page and then did mean things to it before putting it back together in a nice neat package.
I loved Addy so much and how strong he was with all the things his family kept throwing at him and I loved how Beau was there every step of the way.
Such a great read.
I received an ARC of this book from Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest opinion.
January 31, 2023
This was a frustratingly slow burn but I still felt like it was worth it to get to the end!
If you’re looking for high heat, this book isn’t it. Beau and Addy have been friends since forever, even going so far as living together for the last ten years since attending college together. They have seen each other at their worst and picked each other back up. But there’s just one issue. They are both in love with each other and deathly afraid to tell the other. With a little more communication they probably could have worked things out sooner, but I’m glad they finally did!
If you’re looking for high heat, this book isn’t it. Beau and Addy have been friends since forever, even going so far as living together for the last ten years since attending college together. They have seen each other at their worst and picked each other back up. But there’s just one issue. They are both in love with each other and deathly afraid to tell the other. With a little more communication they probably could have worked things out sooner, but I’m glad they finally did!
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February 3, 2023This is a first time author for me. this was a good book and I enjoyed reading but I found that the plot was slow. There was more character development but they didn't quite seem to connect, that they were too involved in their own issues to see that they belonged together. Addy's family was a turn off, I got tired of them and their attitude early on and wished that they just dropped off the page. But it was good that they found each other in the end and it made for a nice ending. I received this as a review copy and am giving my honest opinion.
February 6, 2023
Such a great book. I loved it. Sweet and steamy. Very entertaining. Best friends Addy and Beau are both hiding their attraction to each other. One is afraid of losing his best friend. The other too afraid to tell his best friend. Once Addy decides it's time to let go of his unrequited feelings for Beau, all of a sudden Beau decides to stop hiding how he feels. He's afraid of missing his chance with Addy. Can the two finally reveal their feelings for each other and have a chance at love? I highly recommend.
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